#and that's in a healthy baby - for those in less than ideal environments it can take the magic longer to develop

[a-world-in-grey]

@raven-6-10

So the thing is. The only Fleurets with magic are the women. It's not a matter of them only training the girls, the boys just straight up don't have magic.

Mind you, the men are still as much 'blood of the Oracle' as their mothers and sisters, and it's not uncommon for their daughters or granddaughters to pop with magic, though it's not exactly common either. Tenebrae keeps as close an eye on their royal bloodline as the Lucis Caelums do, for similar reasons. I hc that only the Oracle/Oracle's Heir get Oracle training, but non-Oracle women of the family still have the magic.

On top of that, Besithia can't full on clone any of his Oracle samples - the chances of someone recognizing the dna 'donor' is too high. That's a political nightmare better avoided. So Besithia is splicing the Oracle dna with his own dna in this au, and cloning the resulting combinations.

There's two ways I can go about this, if I choose to make Prompto a Fleuret.

First, I can keep Prompto male. He won't have magic, but his daughters could potentially have magic, which is a very long way down the road panic attack if no one figures out that he's a Fleuret before that point and tells him. Prompto's still getting photobombed of course, and Pryna will still check up on him, but there's a chance Gentiana never says anything to the Nox Fleurets or to Prompto, because a secret branch of the Oracle Line offers extra security, especially after Niflheim attacking Fenestala Manor.

There's always the possibility of Sylva or Luna recognizing Fleuret traits in Prompto if they ever meet in Insomnia (because I still have no idea where my plot is going in the long run so it's a possibility), which has fun political fallout to deal with, depending on whose dna was used as Prompto's Oracle 'parent' - Sylva's parent, Sylva herself, or Ravus. (Ravus would be hysterical because Prompto would technically be Ravus' child, all of eight years younger than Ravus himself. Especially if Besithia used the X chromosome from Ravus in an effort to get the Oracle magic, therefore making Ravus technically Prompto's maternal genetic donor.)

Second option is I make Prompto a girl. In which case Prompto gets one hell of a surprise when she's in primary school. Her parents are probably partially if not chronically absent at this point, so the only person Prompto has to hide her magic from is her babysitter (which she definitely has because otherwise hello CPS) which likely isn't all that difficult.

Only, Prompto doesn't know she's adopted. Her parents were chosen because they were retired Lucian operatives that regularly operated in Niflheim, due to being able to pass themselves off as Niflheimr, so her mother is blonde while her father has light brown hair, both with pale complexions, light eyes, and somewhat aristocratic features that allowed them to blend into Niflheim's middle to upper middle classes.

Aristocratic features present amongst much of the nobility - Niflheimr and Lucian alike.

Prompto doesn't think she's an Oracle child. She thinks she's a Lucis Caelum.

After all, she's got magic. She's got bright blue eyes - where her parents have grey and green - and a bit of digging on the internet pops up a couple pictures of Queen Vita with a delicate scattering of freckles across her face and shoulders, just like Prompto, and not like Prompto's parents.

Which is really awkward, because the late Queen Aulea would've been barely pregnant with Prince Noctis when King Regis supposedly knocked up her mother, given the two months between Prompto and Noctis' birthdays.

Prompto doesn't say a word of any of this to her parents. She knows her parents used to work for the Crown, if not in what capacity, but she knows they don't anymore. But since they're raising Prompto and not the King, Prompto figures either the King didn't want her, or the King doesn't know. And Prompto has no idea what would happen if she came forward.

Sure, her parents are gone more often than not, but she still loves them! They're her parents. She doesn't want to get them in trouble or lose them.

Prompto resolves to make sure no one ever finds out about her magic, and to stay far away from the King.

A resolve that crumbles in the time it takes for Prompto to meet Noctis for the first time at school and decide to befriend her lonely half-brother.

What is Besithia doing in Spark!Ardyn au? Considering his pet projects got thoroughly torched by an annoyed Astral, along with his lab.

Besithia doesn’t strike me as the type to let an Astral throwing a hissy fit get in the way of his goals. Well, not for long, anyways.

Haven’t played through Episode Ardyn yet and it’s been awhile since I watched a walkthrough, but iirc Besithia books it either when the Royal Guard shows up to have a go at killing Ardyn, or when Ifrit wakes up pissed as fuck. Either way, Besithia is too busy running to avoid getting flambéd to see that Ardyn did not get immolated with the rest of the lab.

So with his lab turned to ash and charred and melted scrap - and assuming Ardyn’s ashes are in there as well - Besithia is back to not square one, but like, square two with his daemon experiments. Only now there’s the issue of Ifrit being awake, and that Astral isn’t known for being fond of humans.

And Besithia doubts he’s on the Astral’s Winter Solstice card list.

First Besithia has to fess up to the Emperor about his colossal fuck up - lost an expensive lab, lost the experiments he’d invested so much money in, and there’s now a pissed off Astral on the loose - and hope Iedolas doesn’t decide to cut his losses where Besithia is concerned. Besithia is in luck. Iedolas isn’t pleased with Besithia, but the Emperor gives Besithia a chance to mitigate his mistake by coming up with a way to counter an Astral.

So begin Besithia’s experiments into countering divine magic. With the added difficulty of finding a source of divine magic to test his results on.

Niflheim can already clone food, surely humans can’t be that much more difficult? Ardyn’s genetic samples all burned up in his lab, so Besithia starts with his own dna to perfect the process.

Once he gets that - the successful subjects are placed under observation to monitor development even as they are placed in various homes - Besithia moves on to acquiring a suitable genetic sample from either the line of the Oracles or Lucis Caelums.

Depending how long it takes Besithia to reach this stage, his options are Sylva’s Fleuret parent, Sylva herself, baby Ravus, Mors, or Regis. At which point Besithia starts trying to clone subjects in the hope of them inheriting magic so he can test countering divine magic on them. Instead of having to test it on a fully aware Oracle or a trial by fire on an angry Astral.

Only, it turns out magic doesn’t really play well with cloning attempts so Besithia’s gonna be at this for awhile.

[ask-hunterxhunter]

Continuation of yandere trio: how would they b like as dads in their yandere state? What would the s/o do if she stsrted to notice that their kid starts to resemble their father's behavior? How would the adult trio react to their kid trying to help their mother escape?

Illumi

The S/O’s reaction would depend on many factors (personality, her state after everything that happened, so on), so it’s not so easy to predict it. As for Illumi’s, well… I can tell you it wouldn’t be pretty. It’s disturbing enough that Illumi would act as if you’re indeed married and happy together (though it is how he sees things), imagine how it would be with a baby.

 Because he doesn’t see anything wrong with his actions, Illumi wouldn’t force you to act as a “happy, loving wife” or bother to hide the circumstances of your relationship from his children (though he might not be so obvious, keeping a few details from them, such as kidnapping for example, especially during the first years of their lives, believing they’re “too young to understand”). It’s not that he would sit down with them at some point and tell that he’s kidnapped you, but he wouldn’t deny it if you told them. He wouldn’t be exactly happy if the child ended up asking “why do you hurt mommy” or “why don’t you love her”, but he wouldn’t go into a fit of rage, at least.

 If/When the child questioned Illumi about your “relationship”, he would give the same responses he gives when you try to explain to him that he is hurting you: Cold, “logical” arguments that completely ignore the matter of free will and the nature of feelings.

 Yes, it would be pretty messed up.

 Perhaps the only good thing we can say about this is that Illumi would never use them against you or vice-versa (such as keeping the baby away if you don’t behave, poisoning the child to hate you, or threatening to hurt them to keep you in line). He might forbid you from seeing them, but only in “extreme” cases as Illumi would have the whole “delusion that you’re a happy family” going on.

 This, however, is the only good thing we can say about Yandere!Illumi as a father. Remember the kind of yandere this guy is? The one likely to believe that you do love him, sees nothing wrong with his actions, and all? This sort of applies to his own child as well, in a sense. He would already want to raise them as he was raised but it would be worse in this case: The child would be more a part of his “ideal” of a family than individuals. Illumi would be a lot more “overprotective”, while also being manipulative, wanting to shape his children to be the “perfect successors” of his bloodline. While you can still argue with him about it, he will listen a lot less (if at all) than in a normal state of mind.

 It’s not that Illumi wouldn’t love them, but if the Zoldyck’s kind of “love” is already twisted normally, well, imagine how it would be in this scenario. He might even mention that he wouldn’t make the same mistakes he made with Killua.

 Actually, his behavior towards Killua is a pretty good indication of how he would be as a father, only worse.

 Thankfully, there is the chance of your influence and the child’s own nature rebelling against Illumi’s teachings, so they wouldn’t be an “Illumi 2.0”.

 Once Illumi realized your child is trying to help you escape (maybe even wanting to leave with you), whether you’re successful or not, he would be angry, confused, and even hurt (as hypocritical as that sounds). He is virtually incapable of understanding you both wanting to leave him. You’re a family, he loves you both, he keeps you safe… Your behavior makes no sense. Why would his wife and children want to go away?

 If you are caught in this attempt, Illumi would punish you both, all while saying that it’s not something he wants to, but he can’t have this bad behavior. He would probably place the child in chains and whip them, or some other “Zoldyck-like” punishment, while keeping you two from seeing each other for a while. If you guys kept trying, he might decide to put needles in the both of you to prevent future attempts.

 Hisoka

Hisoka never cared much for the idea of becoming a father, but once it happens, he accepts it and may surprise those around him by actually becoming excited about it after a while. This is all fine and good, but with him as a Yandere? Well, the excitement still happens and all, but it’s disturbing…

 Don’t try to point out how messed up this situation is, Hisoka will just smile and ask how can you say this? Don’t you see? You’re a family now. Yes, it’s possible that he hopes/believes this may work in his favor, somehow “pushing” you into accepting him. He certainly won’t hesitate to make use of it, often holding you close, whispering that this is “our child”, so on… Really, Hisoka may not be the abusive type of Yandere, but he is the proof that sometimes hell can exist without physical violence.

 It’s not easy to say/imagine how Hisoka would be as a dad because, well, c’mon, it’s Hisoka. However, especially in this situation, we can’t say he would change just because he became a dad (especially in his behavior towards you). It’s just not in his nature. And we can’t forget that this child was born from a person who simply does not love him. About that, it’s unclear whether Hisoka would care to keep the whole “yandere” thing hidden from the child (including that he’s keeping you with him by threat/force/whatever). He believes in living life as he wants, so while this may sound sick, he wouldn’t see why this might be problematic. If you decide to pretend to be an actual couple for the sake of the child, Hisoka may agree but he won’t be pleased about it. Remember, he is the sort of yandere that does want you to love him for real.

 While he wouldn’t completely ignore what you have to say about raising the child (at least not completely), Hisoka would probably want to train them soon, imprinting his values and views of the world on them. It wouldn’t be to Illumi’s level, but it would still be pretty dysfunctional. Not that Hisoka would see it like this, as he genuinely believes in his way of life (let’s be honest, the guy isn’t exactly one that cares too much about “good” and “bad”, is he?).

 It's hard to say whether or not Hisoka would be abusive (though it seems unlikely) despite this particular aspect (or at least it wouldn’t be to Illumi’s level), but that doesn’t mean he would be exactly a good dad. He may want to be, but his mental state simply doesn’t allow it. Even if he treats the child well, c’mon, you’re being kept against your will. There is no chance of this being a healthy environment for a child to grow (and the danger of them turning out like Hisoka is beyond scary). Besides, it’s open for debate how much of the affection Hisoka has for the child is genuine and how much is connected to his obsession for you (which would not tone down after the birth).

 If the child is smart, they would not let Hisoka know they don’t agree with him keeping you with him against your will, regardless of his argument that he does love you. Hisoka would at once start to pay attention to their moves, so escaping would be even harder.

 He would be… “Displeased” to see your child trying to help you escape (even more if you two succeed). Yes, he isn’t delusional like Illumi, but it doesn’t mean he accepts the fact that you don’t love him, and having his child helping you (and probably running away with you, if they know what’s good for them) would feel like a betrayal.

 He wouldn’t take that well at all.

 Hisoka would hunt you two down like a hound from hell, making his decision to kill all the Spiders seem like a walk on the beach. There would be no arguments, no talking, no nothing, he would find you. As much as he could be training the child, it wouldn’t be enough for them to win should they try to engage him in a fight. About that, Hisoka might see that the child doesn’t want to be an insane fighter like this, but he secretly believes that he can change that with time.

 It should be noted that Hisoka wouldn’t kill them, but it would pretty much the same it is with you in a sense: He would simply not let the child go and would resort to whatever means are necessary to keep you both with him.

 Chrollo

 Due to his lifestyle and focus on the Phantom Troupe’s goals, Chrollo never gave much thought about having children (then again, he never gave much thought about getting in a relationship and, well, see where this got you).

 Just like he was not moved by pleas or arguments, he won’t listen should you try to convince him to let you go or at least give the child to adoption (better than to be raised by an insane criminal like Chrollo, not that you would tell him that). In fact, Chrollo will be strangely excited about becoming a father. In his mind, this sort of approaches you two more (even if you’re still clear about your rejections). He would hold you close, whisper how much he loves you, that you’re going to be parents… All while ignoring that you never wanted this in the first place. Beneath this veneer of normality, there will always be that frightening tone of someone who is beyond obsessed.

 About that, it should be noted that Chrollo won’t be above using this in his attempts to manipulate you into thinking you’re better off with him and that you would be better off accepting your new life. Your protests would likely be met with a creepy smile as he points out it’s not as if you have any choice in the matter.

 Would he want to put a façade of you two being happily together for the sake of the child? Maybe (at least during their first years)… Chrollo knows you don’t love him and that he is causing you pain, but while he takes no pleasure out of it, he also doesn’t regret it enough to let you go. Does he know what he is doing is wrong? Likely, but he also knows killing people is “wrong” and does it look like he cares? So chances are, he will keep acting as he always does. He won’t bother to tell the child that he is keeping you with him by force, as it’s not something that crosses his mind.

 Once you tell them (or they realize it on their own), Chrollo will have no apologies to offer, nor will he lie or try to manipulate them. Yes, he can pretend to be all innocent and friendly with his prey but it is not the same with his own family. If the child tries to ask him about it, Chrollo will be honest, while feeding them the same arguments you’d expect from a Yandere: He loves mommy a lot, but mommy needs time to accept his love. He always makes sure mommy is happy, so it’s fine. He wouldn’t consciously manipulate his own child into helping him convince you to give in, but it may end up happening anyway.

 Sometimes, “bad” parents try to keep their children away from their world (drug dealers want their children to never touch drugs, so on). It’s not the case with Chrollo. While the Spider will always be a priority, Chrollo would certainly hope his child would grow up to become the “next head” of the group (hell, some of the Troupe’s members might be in favor of that for all we know). Even if they start to reject his teachings, Chrollo would try to get them to see things his way, but it wouldn’t be quite in the way of a father trying to convince his child to become a doctor like him. It’s not that Chrollo would hurt them, but the child might have glimpses of Chrollo’s true nature anyway.

 Once you two escape, Chrollo would do everything in his power to get you back. It doesn’t matter how. He would be worried, yes (imagine what would happen if the Mafia caught you two?), but he would also be angry, revealing the depths of his obsession with you once he has you back. Will he be relieved that you two are “safe”? Yes. But that doesn’t mean he won’t keep you two chained for a while if that’s what it takes.

 Chrollo loves his children, he does, but in the messed up state of Yandere Mode, he would not accept that they don’t want to have anything to do with the Spiders (let alone that they want nothing to do with him). He would not hesitate to keep them prisoners, like he does with you (though this is not the term he would use), trying to convince them to give in and join the Spider (again, what choice do they have?).

[dissociativedaydream]

Vertani - OC!Species

Appearance

Humanoid race.

Skin

Tones vary though remain similar to the human species

Eyes

Iris colors are usually gold, red, or purple though brown eyes are also seen.

Have a reflective lens behind their cornea which allows them better night vision.

They display signs of photosensitivity around their eyes when in bright environments, less severely their skin when exposed to sunlight for long periods.

Teeth

Canine teeth are the easiest identifier to spot as the top teeth are double-pointed in an inverted V, longer peak to the front of the mouth.

Hair

Generally thick and black, textures vary by home region

Curls are rare but are the ideal native beauty standard

It’s usually kept long regardless of gender

Braids are commonly used to show status or life events

Hair is kept up unless in the presence of immediate family or highly trusted friends

General Biology

Bodies are able to regulate body temperatures very well except when sick

Will become sluggish if too cold but thrives in heat

Skin will dry out easily in dry environments regardless of temperature, oils are frequently used to keep skin healthy

Omnivores - Cannot physically go onto a vegetarian diet but can become strictly cavernous and remain healthy.

Homeworld

Their home planet was destroyed and race enslaved up until approximately 35 BBY during which a number of slaves were released though some remained in servitude as they had no other means of survival in the galaxy.

The name has been forgotten by their species but stories let them know that it had been covered by jungles and swamps. It was mostly a temperate climate, jungle regions could get cooler than their swamp counterparts though still remained rather warm.

Culture

Language

The native Vertani tongue has gone extinct, basic now being their first language though many are multilingual.

Religion

While their language died out, their religion continued. The primary god was a dual deity, one side being a god of death, the other being a goddess of fate. Like with many dual deities its symbol often shows as the sun and moon imagery. While the exact name of the animal species that the deity is associated with but it’s generally accepted that the god of death is a large, ground predator while the goddess of fate is seen as a flight-capable bird.

Occupations

Before enslavement, the Vertani people were a warrior species, many of which native-born of the species were frequently force-sensitive though they were unaware of what that means to Jedi/Sith. Instead, they saw those with gifts as chosen by their deity to lead or teach in their military. As their species intermixes with others, force sensitivity is becoming less common but still probable at a 70%:30% ratio.

During enslavement, their skills were used by their masters to assassinate rivals/work on bounty jobs for them as a means of income. Some continued with that line of work after being given freedom since it’s what they know and easy for most because they don’t have a home planet any longer.

Clothing

Clothing is usually layered with the bottom layer being a tunic and leggings. Metal rings usually hang from their waist to gather skirt layers to allow for easier movement. Some wear armor consisting of a breastplate, vambraces over their lower arms, with guards over their thighs and shins. There’s no distinct difference in male or female clothes.

Common for warriors to wear metal caps over their canines, sometimes they’re decorative but if they’re bounty hunters or mercenaries the caps usually contain poison that the wearer has developed an immunity to. If captured or don’t care if their opponent lives or not, they’ll bite to administer the poison.

Courting

Courting without an arrangement was rare to see but still expected even if marriages were arranged. Gifts are usually exchanged between the two betrothed, Ventari encourages their betrothed young to research their to-be mate’s species to decide what present would be best. Frequently these gifts are handmade.

Marriage/Divorce

Most families stick together in small nomadic tribes, members would only really leave for marriage purposes. Since their freedom, many marriages became strategic in a political sense, often marriages were used to buy the family resources, land, or even protection.

Marriage ceremonies are usually large affairs when they can afford it. The ceremony consists of hand binding and vows afterward there’s a feast/party with music and dancing. Traditionally the two newlyweds will dance together in the middle of the dancefloor with their families dancing around them until one spouse carries the other off to their marriage bed.

Divorce is not permitted in the first 3 years of marriage at that point, if there are no children present, the two spouses can basically just walk away from each other. If children are had during that window, divorce is less common and also more frowned upon by their society.

Reproduction

Birth rates for the Vertani were relatively unaffected by their enslavement, families remaining large but gender ratios were skewed, females outnumbered male births 4:1. Due to this, it was incredibly common for females to commit to each other (whether romantic or platonic) or to marry outside of their species, some earning their freedoms prior to liberation this way.

The Vertani have proven to be compatible with numerous species, their reproductive cycles have shown to adapt to their mate’s needs through their regular reproductive cycle follows the typical heat/rut cycle. Once married, after some time, their cycle timing will match their spouses’ cycle to give the couple an optimal chance of having children (this occurs whether the spouse is the same gender or not the same species).

A standard Vertani pregnancy is 8 months with a fetus able to survive outside the womb by 6 months. But more often than not the pregnancies vary in length depending on the Vertani’s mate’s species. After having a baby if the Vertani is the birth giver, their reproductive cycle will pause for the following 9-12 months.

Misc. Customs

Younger generations greet older family members by taking their hand and touching it to their forehead as a sign of respect.

While families usually eat together for meals, parents will usually feed their children first, making sure they get their fill before they start eating.

Tea is consumed for ceremonies, especially weddings. They will consume alcohol if it’s integral to their spouse’s culture but only when required. Frequently to them, alcohol tastes bitter and they can easily get sick off of it. Despite this alcoholism ends up being a frequent problem.

Facial piercings and tattoos are common (body piercings are less so since there’s less cultural significance and more personal preference). Tattoos usually display life events of the individual as well as significant symbolism to their families.

[alskyllhasarrived]

Okay, so, getting marketed like one of those dogs with no back legs and mange up the wazoo was a bit demeaning, but honestly, I could get used to it.

My "foster owner" was good to me, had poured the money out of their own pocket to get me a wheelchair, proper medication, and a diagnosis, something I'd not even been able to get back home. Getting the human equivalent of kibble and wet food wasn't ideal, but it didn't taste bad, and it was nutritionally complete, so I couldn't complain.

I couldn't even complain about getting picked up and babied constantly. My body typically felt like it wanted to crumble under its own weight at all times, and it was such a relief to be held.

They loved it too. It was the first thing they showed all prospective owners. "This one likes to be picked up! Most humans don't, you'll quite enjoy a lap pet!"

Well, except no one wanted a fucked-up dog. Even well cared for, it didn't change that I was genetically effed. I think they were starting to consider giving up. Someone had offered to adopt me, but they couldn't afford all my medications, and were planning to drop some of the less-necessary.

"C'mere! Want a treat?"

They didn't need to wrap my pills in cheese, I'd take anything that made me feel better, but who was I to pass up a piece of cheese?

They scooped me out of my wheelchair after I'd swallowed the cheese-wrapped pill, gently stroking my head. "Sorry, boy. No one yet."

That didn't sound like a problem. This one was nice. They gave good head scratches, and I felt better than I had in years.

"I'll have to send you back to the shelter if I can't find someone."

Well, shit. I'd been at the shelter for a short while before they'd sent me to be fostered. Something about me not being healthy enough for the shelter environment. I agreed, they couldn't keep up on my medications, and there was no wheelchair there, so I just got to rawdog my disabilities, something I hadn't even done before this.

"Or I could keep you. You can get along with others, right?"

That was the problem. They had to foster others too. If I could get along with other humans, well, they could keep me and foster others, if not, back to the shelter.

I'd never been much of a people person, but if that's what it took, so be it. I rolled over and stretched out on their lap.

They laughed. "How about we run a test? I'll bring my brother's human over for a week, and if you two can get along without fighting, I don't see why I couldn't keep you for myself."

I'd met the brother's human once. Some neurotypical, able-bodied person. It certainly wouldn't be easy, that type liked to pick fights with me. But I'd play nice. Maybe just run over their toes "on accident" if they pissed me off.

If it meant I could stay here, I'd do anything.

You have been kidnapped by an entity above your comprehension, only to find out that you are effectively a rescue animal saved from a very serious disease. Due to how good it all looks, you decide to do everything in your power to be "adopted" into your new forever home.

[threadsketchier]

So I saw the prequels prior to the Originals and it always bothered me how Luke got dumped on a death planet of Tatooine considering the state of that environment and shot that when down in the previous films while Leia got a life of privilege. I was hoping Bail would argue against splitting the twins. I obviously knew why it had to go that route because it had to align and follow up with the Originals. I guess it came off that Luke wasn’t really wanted...?

I already wrote a ficlet somewhat addressing this misconception.

Also, frankly, I’m getting kind of tired of rehashing the same issue - why do people keep assuming that the Larses don’t matter and don’t have a right to be in Luke’s life just because they live on Space Australia?  Why do their feelings not count just because they’re low-to-middle-class moisture farmers who don’t live in a palace on Space Switzerland-Utopia?  Why the fuck do people assume that Luke wasn’t wanted just because the Organas have a personal preference that was obviously previously established before shit hit the fans and they wanted a daughter and Bail, as a senator and Viceroy - essentially co-leader of his planet - is a fucking rational guy who understands the necessity of making hard decisions dictated by logic over emotions?

The twins weren’t just “split up because that’s how the movies have to go,” it does make internal sense within the narrative that it was safer to hide them in vastly separate locations to prevent both of them from being discovered at the same time and thus lost together, or for their latent Force bond to make them a psychic target if they grew up together and established it, acting like a beacon for Vader and Palpatine and any minions of theirs.  It sucks, it’s painful, it has awkward consequences for them later on when Leia’s a bit too loose with her lips, but that’s why these movies have a tragic backstory.  It has to suck real hard before it gets better.

Does it seem crazy that Leia wound up raised in such a screamingly obvious position as daughter of a then-Imperial Senator and princess of a highly prominent Core world being trained to follow in her biological mother’s footsteps and become a senator herself, thus occupying a very exposed role in the Empire, right under the Emperor’s and Vader’s noses?  Yeah.  But also remember that the Superman/Clark Kent illusion can actually work in real life.  Assumption is a powerful thing.  Your average Joe Citizen would assume that someone as otherworldly as Superman, an alien with the ability to fly, strength to bench-press skyscrapers and jumbo jets, heat vision, and other amazing things, would never stoop to living as a normal, humble, inconvenienced human being.  It’s not merely the hiding behind a pair of glasses and hunching over a little with a nerdy tone and habits - it’s the entire idea that a Clark Kent could even exist in the same person of Superman.  They don’t understand that he was raised as a human and actually desires this life, and doesn’t feel the need to lock himself away permanently in his dope Fortress of Solitude and never interact with the very people he wants to save and protect.

Vader was lied to by Palpatine about the nature of Padmé’s death, but there was no disputing that she actually died.  In his crushing despair, Vader accepted with heaps of self-flagellation that his child was dead.  He didn’t even know he had two children.  In his mind, whenever he saw Leia - surely they were in each other’s circles at least at a distance before Rogue One and ANH - even if she reminded him of Padmé six ways from Sunday, he would not assume she was his daughter, because as far as he was concerned his child was dead.  The OT establishes that latent Force-sensitivity also does not automatically make two related Force-sensitives consciously aware of each other until they mutually know one another as being related and Force-sensitive, so not even torturing Leia revealed this to him.

But I’m going off on a tangent.  Let’s break this down:

Tatooine is nothing but a source of anguish for Anakin and his personal loathing for the place made it ideal as a hiding place.  And no, I’m not just haha joking about sand.  He was a slave there and buried his mother there after slaughtering an entire village of natives he knew in his heart that he shouldn’t have.  It holds nothing but misery and failure for him.

Yes, Tatooine is abso-fucking-lutely a galactic cesspit.  It’s ruled by the most vile mob boss in the galaxy, is rife with nasty wildlife that’s out to kill you, and is haunted by the troubles brought about by strife between colonizers and the native population.  It is indisputably a dangerous place.  But it wasn’t Tatooine that killed the Larses.  It was the Empire.  Just because they look like Soft Folks™ doesn’t mean they were - Owen and Beru knew how to take care of themselves, and they certainly knew how to take care of a child in this environment.  They survived to middle age just fine, and would’ve kept going if it wasn’t for those fucking stormtroopers.  Just because they didn’t live a life of luxury also doesn’t mean they were dirt poor either.  When we meet Luke in ANH, he’s a healthy young lad who still has the privilege to fuck off with his buddies around his farm duties.  Life may be tough but it’s not squalor and deprivation for him.

But honestly, even if they WERE dirt poor, they’re still Luke’s family, and they very obviously loved him.  I almost feel like I shouldn’t have to restate it, but I will: Owen and Beru loved Shmi, and upon hearing that Anakin died and left behind a baby son, why wouldn’t they be moved and compelled to take Luke in, and why wouldn’t they deserve to have the chance to raise him in their memory?  Even though they’d be sad that Luke was orphaned, they might even see this as a blessing to be able to raise Shmi’s grandson and Anakin’s son.

As much as he bitched about chores as a teenager, Luke learned damn valuable skills growing up on a Tatooine moisture farm that, coupled with the Force, saved everybody’s asses at the Battle of Yavin, and went on to make him an ideal squadron leader.  Wealth and privilege are not always the best foundation, or at least certainly not the automatic one, for a person to learn good character either.

The Organas are human too.  Faced with a difficult choice, they decided to take this poignant opportunity to fulfill a dream they’d been deferring for some time.  Sometimes parents wish for a specific child, and that’s their prerogative (except IRL they don’t actually get to pick, they get whatever kid they gestate).  If they’d taken Luke and let Obi-Wan take Leia, we’d be having the same argument about Leia growing up on Tatooine.  There was no inequality in this decision.  Bail and Breha wanted a daughter, there was a daughter present among the twins, so they chose her.  This does not mean they valued Luke any less.  Since the twins couldn’t be raised together for their own safety, it might as well have come down to a coin toss.  Bail isn’t evil for exercising a shred of his personal emotions and desires in a situation where he otherwise knew he’d have to restrain himself.  Also, he��d be smart enough to respect the fact that both children had actual family elsewhere in the galaxy and wouldn’t think any less of the Larses just because they live on Tatooine.  The only way his decision would be careless or heinous was if he knew Luke was being taken to people who were abusive or so destitute they couldn’t even care for themselves, much less a third person, and he did nothing about it - but we know this is not that situation.

How do you feel about non-wealthy people living in harsh places here on Earth raising their children?  Would you expect all the rich people in the world to go take those children away from them and adopt them just so they could grow up “privileged” instead?  Think about how that sounds for a moment or two.

Honestly, if Bail had tried to argue about taking both twins because he felt taking Luke to his legal family on Tatooine was “cruel” or “neglectful” because of the planet’s “risky environment and poverty,” I’d hope either Obi-Wan or Yoda would have enough sense to smack him upside the head for being so thoughtless as to insult these people for being seemingly beneath him.

There is more to life than money and power/prestige, and Leia’s upbringing wasn’t all it was cracked up to be.  She was no pampered, air-headed royal spending her days sitting idle being hand-fed space grapes while her “poor” brother ate sand cookies.  She had to undergo intensive academic, political, and physical training from young childhood in order to prepare her to become a covert Rebel agent while she was still a teenager, as if being a child senator wasn’t already stressful and demanding enough.  Sure, she never lacked for anything, but that is an incredible amount of responsibility to saddle on someone who wasn’t even an adult yet (like her bio mother).  Luke was blessed with far more freedom and peace in his childhood than his sister.  And him living on Tatooine with his father’s surname wasn’t nearly as dangerous as Leia existing within the heart of the Empire while actively engaging in Rebel activities that could have cost her her life, even without getting into the whole “daughter of Anakin Skywalker” business.

Also, just because we joke about Tatooine being Space Australia doesn’t mean every single day of Luke’s childhood was THAT eventful.  It was more likely 80% dull farm life and 20% mayhem, and that 20% would be mostly Luke’s fault for being a crazy nut like his parents and getting himself into trouble he could have avoided in most cases.  In other words, growing up there might not have been nearly as “deadly” as we make it out to be.

[daturanerium]

i’m finally all caught up with @thepenumbrapodcast​ ‘s juno steel stories! here are my discordant thoughts on the story and the characters.

(i did this with the magnus archives season one, too! check it out here.)

SPOILERS FOR JUNO STEEL from s1e1 to s3ep2

general plot stuff:

this show. THIS SHOW. is written so well. the characterization is top-notch. the characters are fleshed out and interesting and engaging and they all grow and change and are affected by people and environments and time and events. they’re not static in the slightest.

i haven’t come across a story that deals with depression and suicidal idealization so well. i’m thoroughly impressed with how the writers both portrayed them and how well they have (so far) portrayed the healing process. wowowow.

THE LGBT REPRESENTATION IS OFF THE CHARTS. QUEERS LISTEN TO THIS SHOW. they have a nonbinary politician?? mlm romance and kiss in the first episode???? main character is nb with he/him pronouns??? SO MANY BADASS SAPPHIC SPY/MAFIA COUPLES.....IT TUGS AT MY HEART. the big strong guy is asexual??? i could go on for days but spoilers! just know that genuinely, you will not be disappointed.

this show has two main focuses/themes: trust and the future. it’s been so fantastic to see how juno and the other characters view both themes and how they changed themselves and/or others while encountering those themes in their everyday life.

ramses o’flaherty and the entire plotline that came with him was absolutely top-notch. it blew me away. ramses is a true complicated character, a grey area that makes you question everything you believe in. the storyline tackles politics, morals, and values while keeping it exciting and entertaining. it’s definitely one of my favorite storylines ever.

the writers are truly incredible. i’m really in awe. they inspire me!  i wish i had the energy right now to give them the praise essay that they deserve but i’m really tired and i want to get this posted. someday!

the worldbuilding is the perfect balance between two extremes that a lot of scifi authors really struggle with. juno explains how a (sort of) functioning mars city works in a way that feels natural and easy to understand, and the world he describes is both familiar and fascinating. although the environment is different, the audience is all too familiar with corruption and capitalism and classism. they keep the world relatable while giving it some really new and funky details (do i want a cat with six eyes and a stinger? of course! do i want to step outside for more than five hours and get radiation poisoning? that’s up for interpretation). they also chose a great route in making this story take place in the aftermath of (what seems to be) a galactic war instead of taking the traditional Save The World, End The War scifi route. it’s refreshing, and again, relatable (especially to me: i was born after 9/11 and have lived through the entirety of the war in afghanistan so the underlining feeling that hyperion city has that Something is Going To Go Wrong....i feel that).

there is so much more i want to say but this has been sitting in my drafts for weeks and i want to get it posted!

tl;dr: juno steel is really a fantastic work of art. it’s engaging and relatable and teaches valuable lessons about healing, trusting, and moving on in ways i have never seen another piece of media do so successfully. please give it a listen if you have a chance!

some character/character arc thoughts under the cut :)

juno:

god so dumb. just so fucking stupid. i love him.

i’m going to be honest. s1 and the beginning of s2 Juno was really hard for me to listen to. the way he treated others obviously was, to put it lightly, not the best (the monitor incident with rita comes to mind; i really hated that). it almost got repetitive, and since i’m already not a big fan of the depressed-asshole trope i was kind of hanging by a thread by the time ramses came around.

god am i glad i stuck around. his character growth and maturity within the second half of season two and the beginning of season three has been so satisfying! it hasn’t been perfect, but that’s part of the reason why it’s so good--it’s realistic and believable. he’s realized where his faults lie and is making a physical and mental effort to better himself. he’s even doing it verbally, explaining to people he trusts (rita) that he’s trying to be better and then actually acting on it. too often we see the depressed-asshole say the “i’m trying to be better!” line but don’t see any actions following it that signify that effort--that was my fear going into this. but that’s really, truly not the case here, and it’s such a breath of fresh air. plus, in-canon-wise, i’m so happy for juno he’s come so far!

okay nonbinary king i see you

GET THIS LADY A CAT PLEASE.

that moment during the end of s2 when he found that baby rabbit in the sewers.....god.

juno appreciate rita challenge (accepted!)

his voice......is so soothing. except when he yells but he’s better now we’ve established that

i LOVE how as soon as he figures out that he likes you he sticks to you like glue. that’s super funny and cute and also fits him perfectly

miss dahlia rose if you’re out there.....

his complicated relationship with ramses was so fascinating and important. i loved listening to that storyline.

juno: “there’s no way in hell i’m doing this, fuck off” juno, five minutes later: [is doing it]

that’s pretty much the beginning plot of every episode lol ur so valid juno we love u

he’s ability to make the dumbest decisions continues to astound me. he likes to talk about how mick is always getting himself in trouble but god juno you’re really not one to talk

the fact that, in a world that literally runs on tech, he has no idea how a coms works. that’s so fucking funny. if you ignore the backstory that comes behind it.

did juno ever tell alessandra that he made it out of the desert alive or is she just out there in hyperion city somewhere mourning him with her wife?

i already sort of wrote on juno’s backstory but it’s so good. so good.

he’s so fucking soft. he loves so much!!!! and that scares him!!!! but he’s working on it!!!!!

rita:

is she the love of my life or do i just relate heavily to her? who knows

actually no we’re gonna talk about this

rita penumbrapodcast, queen of adhd. queen of oversharing. queen of tangents. queen of love. queen of excitement. queen of caring for her friends more than herself. queen of incredible intelligence shown in an unconventional way. queen of being underappreciated.

s1 and the beginning of s2 really stung me because i’ve been in rita’s positon--used as a punching bag by someone i care deeply about because it’s better me than someone else, because i’m willing to sacrifice my own health and safety for the sake of giving them an outlet. we put it under the guise of “helping”, but we don’t realize until later that it’s really not; we’re just letting them get away with hurting themselves and hurting us. the monitor incident comes to mind again. i actually had to pause and take a step away after hearing juno yell and the glass break--although my abusive friendships thankfully never got violent, that kind of unbridled anger was all too familiar and i was begging out loud for her to leave. she handles it like a champ, and i honestly can’t say whether or not that’s a good or bad thing: good because she knows he doesn’t mean it or bad because she’s used to it? because it’s later revealed that juno’s treated her poorly from the first day they met. i was really worried that their relationship was going to end up being static, “depressed-asshole bullies quirky female sidekick and she never fights back because she loves him” trope. but, thankfully, they’re not!

towards the end of s2 and the beginning of s3 we didn’t just see growth in juno, we saw growth in rita. she confronts juno through a thetabot down in the sewers, calling him out on his self-destructive tendencies and his habit of doing important things without anyone else’s help (in this case, disappearing for weeks without telling her where he was). she points out that maybe the only way for him to appreciate her is for her to do the same thing--disappear for weeks, forcing him to realize just how much he needs her. thankfully, this is after juno’s Big Realization, and he sincerely apologizes for his treatment of her and assures her that he’s trying to be better. (and, side note, but that apology was a good one. a really good one. he verbally acknowledges his many mistakes, including the one rita specifically mentioned, acknowledges that he does not deserve her forgiveness, tells her what he’s trying to do to be better, and then apologizes and asks for her help. that’s good. take notes, people.) later that season, she takes initiative for what seems to be the first time, coming up with a solid, well-thought-out plan, enacting it on her own, and saving both an entire city and her boss. you could probably hear my cheers from wherever you are on earth, because they were there and they were loud! rita saving the day mixed with juno breaking through the mind control with his overwhelming love and appreciation for her.....god. good stuff.

rita buying juno’s office as a surprise for him.......i Will cry

literally she’s just so wonderful i love her so much

every time she talks i’m like [one billion heart emojis mixed with like forty crying emojis]

RITA SPINOFF WHEN. i come from the critical role community so yall know for a fact i’ll back it on kickstarter

once her and juno’s relationship reaches a healthy balance (and they’re already well on their way which i’m so happy about!) they’re going to be so good together. so powerful. the Ultimate cheery vs broody relationship (although juno is less broody at this point and more....gentle asshole. we love growth). they were unstoppable before, but now? god help the galaxy lol

the fact that rita can just casually hack into literally any system in the galaxy is so.......impressive? hot? yeah.

please get this woman a girlfriend and a cat

rita x franny xoxo

RITA BACKSTORY WHEN. PLEASE KEVIN AND SOPHIE PLEASE AS A RITA STAN I AM POLITELY BEGGING YOU.

rita is now in space, which is an interesting development. i just.....”rita in space” is not something i would have ever guessed at a week ago

wait oh my god.

i was sitting here thinking rita has some sort of trust fund/is secretly rich and that’s how she bought juno’s office and kept it afloat, but with the most recent episode’s developments it’s probably equally if not more likely that she either hacked into the nearest bank to give herself the creds needed or hacked the person she was buying it from to make it seem like she had made the payments. i literally adore her whoops

the little rita episodes make me so happy and i hope we get more of them!

tldr: i love her and she deserves the world and more, i’m glad her relationship with juno has changed into something a lot healthier with juno’s Realization mid-season-two, i hope she realizes the hero she already is in season three

peter:

.........oh how the turntables.

peter, season one: juno come with me so we can be together forever and travel the galaxy! i think i love you! juno: aw babe i wish i could but i’m sad and the city needs me :( peter, season three, when handed the opportunity to travel with a healing juno through the galaxy on a silver platter: actually fuck this lol i have One Job and it is to Only Think About My Current Assignment. this is smart and healthy.

this man.....this man right here officer. stole my fucking heart.

i don’t really have an essay for him because we haven’t seen enough of him to really gauge his character development beyond an obsession with debts and his aging. i’m guessing that will change this season though

the debts....what are they

can rita hack in and pay them off

god wouldn’t that be so funny. he spends his entire life trying to pay off these impossible debts and it’s stressing him out to the point where he feels he can’t focus on anything else. and one day he comes to the fam and explains everything and rita’s like “oh shit that’s easy i’ll take care of that right now!!! why didn’t you say something sooner” and hes like “what” and she’s like “yeah!” and he’s like “holy shit” and then he gets married to juno and they live happily ever after the end.

no but real talk

these debts. there’s a lot about them and the way he talks about them that really worries me. i feel like having them be simple money debt would be too easy, so maybe it’s something medical? that would explain both his obsession with his aging and his uncharacteristically excited reaction to the healing mother prime (i think that’s what it was whoops).

he also mentioned someone else before juno, someone that had some pretty strong romantic undertones. maybe they’re sick? but peter doesn’t seem like the type to throw away a relationship like that so quickly, so it doesn’t really match up that he would have someone sick and waiting for him but he’d still go after juno in season one. hmmm.

this one’s a real mystery lads. you think you have something figured out about peter nureyev but it just gives you more questions.

peter is the one mystery juno can’t solve. god, that’s good.

his voice is so good. i don’t remember who his voice actor is but they’re doing a fantastic job thank you!!!!

i actually don’t picture peter like how he’s portrayed in the official art and fanart? i wish i was an artist so i could draw him the way i see him but alas. (i still really like his official design tho!)

listen. you give me a mysterious thief that doesn’t exist and i am Forced to love him. i have a type.

thankfully peter seemed to come around during the most recent episode (s3e2 the man in glass) so i don’t think we’re going to get a repeat of season one. these debts, whatever they are, are definitely going to cause problems. i can’t wait to see what the writers do with this.

(my only fear is that it will end up fitting the “gay character has a sickness parallel to aids and it is incurable” trope. although the writers have so far done a fantastic job of writing queer characters and worlds as well as turning tropes on their heads, so even if it may seem like that’s the case in the beginning, i’ll most likely stick through it to see where they take it. i trust them).

peter i know you’ve never had a family in your life but. im gonna tell you a secret here. found family is cool and good and you’ll like it if you give it a chance.

i love him and as soon as i cut my hair short i’m gonna cosplay him. fashion king

peter nureyev makes me want to fall in love

watching (listening) to juno grow and mature was already fantastic, but to see it through the eyes of someone who respects him, cares for him, and loves him deeply? good lord.

the way peter talks about juno.....yeah.

and peter as an individual....WOW. master thief, yes wow impressive! but his growth is already focusing so much on trust and it’s been written so well. i can’t wait to see how much he continues to grow and learn to trust this season!!!

i would love to see him continue to narrate s3. i think it’s a really strong change of pace and it also puts some extra emphasis on juno’s growth while focusing on peter’s motivations and inner thoughts. i’m genuinely fine either way tho!

tl;dr: i love u emo boy i love u i love u

[lilmajorshawty]

Neptune Through the Houses. 🌊 (To Sink Or to Swim)

Neptune in the 1st house:

Rae sremmurd - what’s in your heart

Rosemary fairweather - chemicals

The intangible persona.

Neptune in the first house natives are often caught between the need to be hidden in plain sight or being the center of everyone’s universe as if they were the sun itself. They’re delicate but also seem to evaporate the moment too many vibrations are experienced at once. These natives can channel the inner feelings of a crowd, a room, of the sky and the earth in all its light and dark shades like mediums. They feed off the unknown and project a reflection of what is given back to them which is often why they are seen as such an elusive character. Neptune in the first house natives have a profound magntetism and often they’re capable of completely morphing and “switching” on their spark, within moments having the entire room all in a trance like state. In many cases these natives can struggle with developing a healthy identity apart from what they absorb from their surroundings. These natives especially in the younger years can devour the energy of others as a means to create a persona for themlsves but this inturn usually forces them to bid the question of “who am I” one way or another. To say things get better for these natives would be a far cry, the raw and heavy energy of Neptune in this house is very powerful and these natives have the power to move a nation to its knees but the take away being that moving these natives to their knees is practically and impossible task. The emotions are felt universally but can be rather cumbersome when it come to what is individually felt by these natives. The endless sea in these natives albeit a wonderful quality is often something they find themselves sinking in.

Neptune in the 2nd house:

Blood cultures - phospholipid

Black marble - frisk

The Conceptual gaze

Neptune in the 2nd house natives are very much so the free spirits when it comes to the more mundane and grounded aspects of life. Money and security are more of a blurry and less fleshed out concept in this case as often they prefer to feel their way through things. As you can imagine “feeling” things out means that often their moody and somewhat evasive mentality can create financial hiccups every now and then. These natives have a very intuitive nature when it comes to money, often finding it to never come up short especially when they need it most. They can often have a very sensual and glossy atmosphere to them, preferring to hide in the clothing they wear rather than outright be flashy. In most cases these natives hide certain if not most aspects of their bodies-not necessarily out of rejection of themselves but merely to impose a symbolic boundary between them and their own surroundings. These natives love touch and can often be the types to use their fingers and limbs as a second nose in a way! Touch is a huge emotional sense of comfort for them. Simplicity is a huge need in their lives and something they strive for. They are the types to thrift and love bargains, you’d rarely catch them spending big as they often love the more vintage and old school Attire. Neptune in the 2nd house natives have a very pronounced earthy look to them and can always look as if they’re a bit sleepy even when they’re not. Glossy eyes and slightly messy hair is their dead give away. That being said boundary issues is often a big theme and they can get themselves caught in dangerous situations due to their lack of discipline in this area.

Neptune in the 3rd house:

Beach house - Black car

Ruby haunt - destroyer

The sleepover

Neptune in the 3rd house natives are very mentally active, often flashing between moments in time like they were some sort of camera. The past can be of great importance but also the source of the most lament for these natives. They often cling to memories and situations, holding people in their lives to the previous selves in an almost ritual like manner. These natives often idealize moments in time which is often what gravitates them to things like cinema, painting and of course photography. Capturing a moment in time and the endless array of feelings and sensations that came with it is a deep felt desire for these natives. More than most these natives love to dissociate and sort of transfer to their alter egos for a little bit just to escape from it all from time to time. Neptune in the 3rd house natives see the world in vibrant and often overwhelming colors, often experiencing the feelings of others as if they were experiencing the same exact situation. Moments of deja vu, and premonitions or even prophet like dreams are common ground and often I call these natives “gods voice” due to the fact that they can often sense or feel things that many can’t as if someone is directly messaging them or speaking to them on a spiritual level. These natives can smell negative energy and malefic energy swiftly and usually are able to discern someone’s character before they even have time to blink. The emotions tend to cloud their rational mind though and at times it can be so overwhelming that some of these natives rely on drug use as a means to drown out the “sound”

Neptune in the 4th house:

The holydrug couple - if I could find you

Yeule - pocky boy

The deep sea diver

For Neptune in the 4th house natives it’s less about the feeling and more about the experience that accompanies it. There can be an addiction to the more extreme level of emotional expression be it negative, positive, destructive, creative, transformative and so on. They value emotional honesty but in the same context could’ve grown up in an environment where emotional manipulation and emotional dishonesty ran rampant. In most cases the family life was deeply loving no matter the circumstances but there might’ve still been subtle unhealthy co-dependent behavior on the part of the parents. These natives can grow up so pure and gentle no matter the type of upbringing-Neptune here ensures that no matter what they come out of it good in faith and heart. Emotional intensity is a big theme for these natives and learning to focus and utilize their deep receptivity in a way that’s productive and positive can take time as often much of the early life will be spent putting their energy and time into people and situations that don’t benefit them. There is a powerful clarity presented here, these natives just seem to be intune with the universe and it’s workings and usually flow with the waves wherever they happen to be guided. There is a heavy sentimentality and often forgiveness of the home life and these natives no matter the 4th house cusp sign adore quiet and breezy home environments! To much clutter and noise can make them feel antsy and restricted. Recreational drug use can be a thing but normally it’s in a healthy amount unless Neptune is afflicted. Usually these natives can grow having a more blurry sexuality and because of this can struggle defining their wants and needs in their romantic unions. The heart makes the choices for these natives and albeit it gets them in trouble sometimes it’s one of there most endearing traits. Animals love these natives and tend to gravitate towards them! Wounded people and animals in general may feel at ease around these natives and in some cases they could pass in the presence of these natives(this isn’t a bad things as usually these natives soothe their souls and lead them to spiritual peace.) these natives can also bring out emotions in others they’d rather not readily experience so often times these natives may feel as though they can see through they veil people put up.

Neptune in the 5th house:

Pale honey - why do I always feel this way

Toro y moi - labyrinth

The bleeding clouds

For Neptune in the 5th house natives romance and the idea and concept of love can have the least grounded backing supporting it, often leaving these natives in a state of passion or confusion. Here we have the 5th house, our art is here, our expression and our playful side is here, this is how we have fun, the casual dates, the nights out with strangers and the guilty hookup, it’s your future babies via adoption or birds and the bees. Neptune is our spirit, our dreams, it’s the vulnerable side of us and the tears behind the tears. These natives can experience love like one long lasting and never ending crush often to frightened to ever act on their desires. Love is a bit tricky here as it’s often that they attract “vulnerable” types who have an elusive but also deeply tender nature to them-which to most people seems easy but it’s normally just the opposite! The natural playfulness of this house is sort of drowned and extinguished by Neptune’s watery presence so to speak. Often these natives are very picky about who and what they allow to keep them emotionally preoccupied which is for good reason as often some of the romance they attract is of the messy and unhealthy variety and many tend to be drawn to the healing and warm nature of these natives, never truly seeking to settle down, rather to leech and leech off the continued kindness of these natives instead. The art and hobbies of these natives can be endless, many love drawing, singing and even dancing so long as it’s a hobby that allows them to express their own inner love and passions in a creative and emotionally fulfilling way. Casual sex isn’t usually a thing here and often these natives will wait a pretty good while before losing their virginity! Usually they need something consistent and long term for sex to even be in the equation! Romantically they are very fun souls! Wanting to connect and vibe through energy. Their children can be rather sentimental souls with a highly functioning and self aware emotional side! The children can be a bit fragile health wise and might be a bit more harder to handle in the adolcent years and the neptunian energy will make those 18-21 years a more dramtic version of “finding yourself” (don’t worry they’ll get through it!) they can draw a lot of karma in their relationships and the learning of self love and self worth can come toe to toe for these natives! Love is not owed, love shouldn’t come with a price, Love is something that’s should be a naturally felt give and take on both ends.

Neptune in the 6th house:

Nearly oratorio - occlude

Prolly knot - perennial

The pale window

Neptune in the 6th house natives can be rather somber souls. The daily life is often a fickle one as they can feel as though their is a lack of organization or even grounding In there daily life. On one end the lack of navigation can feel as if they’re directionless but it can also feel a bit freeing, as if their destination is never really set in stone. A certain poetry exist in these natives as they often have such an incrediblely intoxicating aura as if you could be transferred to another space just by hearing them speak. Wisdom and opendmindedness are big traits here and usually these natives approach life without expectation or intent. Often times these natives can be mistaken as being shady or dubious due to their lack of projected “desire.” In reality these natives are passer by’s and aren’t really the types to have an alterior motives as evey choice and desire is something that happens more in the moment if anything. They are often immensely creative in their lives, finding solutions and even bypassing roadblocks that many would be stumped upon. Animals can serve as spritual guides and transformative life lessons for these individuals and in some ways animals help to ground them in this reality. There is a pronounced day dreamer nature to them which causes them to phase in and out quite a bit. Usually these natives need to have music and rhythmic sounds incorporated into there day to day be it listening to music at work or blasting the radio while they are cooking. It’s very, very hard for these natives to let someone do something on there own or even saying no which can cause them issues as they can be taken advantage of. These natives have very perceptive eyes albeit they usually don’t use them that much aha! But the eyes are often piercing in nature despite the watery disposition.

Neptune in the 7th house:

KWAYE - Little ones

James Isaac - can’t u see

The one everyone wanted

Neptune in the 7th house natives much like their sister Neptune in the 1st are enigmas. Neptune in the first deals with the ego whilst Neptune in the 7th deals with a much more hidden influence in our character, the ID. For Neptune in the 7th house natives there is a certain unavailability that shrouds them, both emotionally and physically. In most cases intimacy is sought after but it’s also something that’s fiercely yet unconsciously avoided. Partnership is dreamt about yet it’s never really seldom pursued in the real world. These natives have a very thin grip on their interactions with others which causes them to either give to much or give to little. They often can bring out the softer and even the more vulnerablely pure side of others which in some ways is what makes them so sought after! People fall for these natives rather quickly which can both alarm and fascinate them. Gender, sexuality, background all seem to fade into a blur in their interactions with others and most cases especially in same sex situations their lovers might’ve never been with the same sex until they met these natives. These natives can bring or dependent and even emotional sensitivity from even the coldest hearts. Despite their propensity for attracting everyone like a moth to a flame these natives can still battle depression and loneliness like the Black Plague. Happiness tends to allude them and mainly this is a self inflicted energy that they can’t seem to shake. Blessed with beautiful hearts they are destined to change a great many lives but in the process they might have to recover from more heart brakes than most as often their romances can be described as intense and powerful but deeply wounding. That being said romantically they often are very sacrificing and give their entirety to those they love but forming boundaries between themselves and others is SOOOOO important. These natives tend to change after sex and can absorb parts of the personality of those they sleep with. Love here is never, ever simple. The biggest feature on these natives is that they have very petite butts and very sad faces with deep set eyes. Because of the intense feelings the provoke in others people can often become evasive or ignore these natives(mainly to ignore the emotions and or vulnerability that they feel around he natives).

Neptune in the 8th house:

Lana Del Rey - disco

Lana Del Rey - Black beauty

The devils favorite angel

Spirituality takes a overwhelming flow in these natives. For Neptune in the 8th housers they can feel as if they are walking through this life in a half dead fashion somewhere along the lines of alive with a dirty twist. The world isn’t in simplistic black and white shades for them rather everything is in a rock and sway, back and forth teetering between past and present. These natives can feel distant mainly due to how deeply and often internal the currents of their own feelings swirl within them. Intimacy is often something that comes with its fair share of risk for these natives as they often look for “life” and the concept of “god” through their sexual encounters and through intimacy itself. To the untrained eye they can seem standoffish or even a bit cut throat but rather what you’re seeing is merely a reflection of your own emotions. The 8th house themes of possession, transformation, anger, sadness, our finances and our darker sides all dance around in the neptunian cloud creating someone with an almost angel in raised in the shadows energy but also someone who is drawn to the chaos in others so he or she can bring them out of the flames. The savior and saved mentality can be an unconscious motivation for many of their interactions as in most cases they’re looking for that loss in control, that ever rising high and breathtaking low that comes with it. Neptune in the 8th can attract very dark lovers, very tantric sex and overwhelming spiritual encounters with poltergeist, with darker entities, or even murders and serial rapist. Neptune here creates open door to malefic energy but also opens a door to the divine which is why these natives can seem like both a blessing and an omen. Heaven and hell themes play out in the character of these natives quite a bit and knowing which side you’ll get is often a flip of the coin. The lesson here is that these natives need to learn to channel their unconscious need for a higher love rather than project it to the wrong people as this much like your 2nd house counterpart could lead you into parts of hell you never imagined. These natives usually have beautiful eyes! The eyes can lack shine especially in the light and often in most cases darker hair and features are indicated! The smile is often subtle never a large grin. Sex for them can be a trancendent experience but due to how powerful the emotions are here sex can also if not with the right person can be deeply traumatizing.

Neptune in the 9th house:

Jessie ware - running

James Isaac - beauty

The ones lost in faith

There is a charm with those with Neptune in the 9th. These natives can fly by life with nothing but optimism often expecting things to pan out the way they should with or without intervention. For these natives the faith in the cosmos and something more is both natural and instinctual. In a way these natives are so deeply intertwined with the spirit that they seemingly sense and absorb knowledge far beyond what they’ve been taught. Religion and faith regardless can still be a huge source of confusion for them! In many cases they can have ideals or ideologies that clash with blind faith into the religion they choose. Many struggle with aligning to religion in completion as in most cases they have their own personal beliefs and thoughts that might view things from a different light than what they’ve even been taught. Similar to the 8th house spiritual capability is through the roof and if time is dedicated these natives can truly become spiritual guides and gurus as it comes naturally! That being said much discipline and guidance is needed before they can lead the rest of the world(avatar reference lmao). They have a immense propensity for reading energy of others and can tell when foul play is going on without words being exchanged. In most cases these natives can be extremely flexible and have an easy time navgiagting through various situations and places. The 9th house deals with our traveling and our university life so in most cases these natives can receive immense growth when out of their home, vacationing or even going to religious temples and retreats! In most cases military or university life is very calming and usually serves to expand the spiritual realm. The eyes are expressive and usually the expressions and faces are round and plump.

Neptune in the 10th house:

James Blake - retrograde

James Blake - modern soul

The blurry civilization

Neptune in the 10th house natives are some of the most warm natured souls on this planet. The need to put others before themselves is present among all Neptune placements in their respective houses but especially when in the 10th. These natives tend to have a rather soft approach to their work place and their public life in general. They can seem rather fragile and even emotional out and about, choosing to be rather private and “quiet” when it comes to what they put out there. Gender fluid and even neutral stances on societal issues is common here as they prefer not to have any one definitive standing either way it goes. To many they have a deceptive and rather diluted personality publically which I blame on Neptune’s rather cloudy disposition in an otherwise face value and saturnaian house. They tend to be very emotionally available but also slightly emotionally unrealiable as they often keep everything at a distance especially publically. Since Neptune is the weak spots in ones life, Neptune in this house can show that the natives have a more rigid and tight grip on how and what sensitivities are expressed. These natives usually need to practice expressing their softer emotions without feeling the need to retreat or step back! A common trait is usually soft and or rather domicile/submissive hair!(hair that seems to lay low and doesn’t really fall back into place once you touch it)

Neptune in the 11th house:

Nearly oratorio - devonport

Nearly oratorio - tin

The faces of many

For Neptune in the 11th house natives there can be a rather anonymous aura to them. The need to stay hidden is very apparent here. Friends are often plentiful yet kept at arms reach as in most cases these natives have a strong need for space in any interaction they experience. They often find themselves immersed in their own pursuits be it work, art, be it cinema or acting the talents are often plentiful here. In most cases these natives are attaching worth to what they choose to create which can often make them come across as blunt and rather unapproachable without meaning to. They don’t like to waste time in meaningless affairs as often their emotional side is highly developed allowing them to pick out who and what is worth expending themselves for. These natives tend to reflect Decisions quite a bit often preferring to understand the motives behind what they do and why they do it as a means to present themselves in the list authentic way they can. Realism and integrity are high moral codes that these natives Adhere to which often makes it harder for them to be around groups and or organizations that lack that. These natives are very picky about who and what they choose to support but can also brake out into tears if they know a movement or group can actually make a difference in someone’s life. Despite the outwardly spacey demeanor these natives are tremendously loving. You can always tell when you’re around one when you see there friends! They’re usually very soft and light towards the native!

Neptune in the 12th house:

Young galaxy - stay for real

Sleeping Jesus - alley dream

The last door

Neptune in the 12th house natives are purely vibrations. Emotions are felt like a heavy wave crashing ashore, whilst the thoughts and feelings of others are channeled and soaked up by these natives like a galaxy sponge. Clairvoyance, premonitions and spiritual direction through dreams and day dreams is common for this placement! These natives can often overwhelm themselves easily with how much they pick up in the world and all around them. Taking naps, or even constant lethargy is usually a manifestation and often times these natives can find that they need to recharge quite a bit as they run the risk of emotional depletion. The emotions are usually highly developed and very intricate almost like and endless series of cables and wires over an long extending tunnel. They often process information and body language in ways entirely different from the rest of us. In most cases these natives don’t usually struggle with boundaries from the outside world, rather the real struggle lies in their own psyche. The psyche is often very vulnerable and in some cases these natives can be so overcharged with energy that their mental and brain functions can zone out or stop as a means to catch up and collect themselves. Plenty of care and rest should be occurant to ensure that the body is in top shape! These natives have a very powerful healing capability once they learn to channel their intense neptunian energy but usually this takes time to truly get the hang of! Dreams are often signs and speak on future events or even connections established in real time.

[gg-astrology]

Hello! ❤️ I was wondering if you could please do Pisces-Pisces for your Sun-Moon catalogue? Thank you 💕

Hey there!! ❤️❤️ Oof yes I can!! ❤️❤️ I’ve been waiting for this! ❤️❤️ Thank you for sending it in!! ❤️

[Below Cut: Pisces Sun - Pisces Moon 🐽]

First of all you’re the babiest of babies 

Even when you’re older than other people, those around you will Still Want to Protecc you 

There’s just something so nurturing about how Pisces/Pisces is? They nurture but at the same time, they deserve to be nurtured by others 

(you are So Valid literally the Only Valid person on this earth and you deserve so much more than you get honestly but God are you So Dumb Sometimes)

Laws of Attraction in a way– people intuitively Get into the habit/idea that they have to take care of you, the same way you do to them. 

You make people respond to you without trying, even the densest of dense, the isolated of isolationists, finds themselves subconsciously responding to your sensitive nature. 

It’s amazing….like magic. You’re the living breathing proof that good things DO come to people if they give to others, that a person’s small effort/action can influence those around them by a whole lot (ripple in the pond) 

Even when you’re doing nothing, you have an aura of someone who’s just so kind y know? All the shit about sympathetic/compassionate nature isn’t bull at all. It’s just that you’re kinda….dense…to your own wonderfulness sometimes

Most likely, because of your sensitive nature you tend to absorb energy of your environment/those around you as well. You break your own self because you consciously go after those who are different from you (ugh jupiterians) you try to appease or ‘help’ others so much– always optimistic, think ‘theres a way to save/help them if i just give a little but more time/chance’ that you end up right where you started. Having to pick yourself up again.

With strong Neptunian/Jupiterian energy you do sometimes tend to go overboard– especially in giving to others, promising things you can’t keep (and then skrrt away from it all bc..Pisces) 

You believe/have faith in the future, in yourself in things you can do. Yet at the same time you’re your own worst enemy as well. 

Learn to have a few Capricorn friends with you — or Scorpios/Taurus can be nice too. You need your own cliche/support group. People who can keep your environmentally receptive nature in check and ‘create’ an shield around you, help you ‘do it yourself’ with your own self-nurturing (doesn’t intrude/try to do it for you). People that will stop you from– y know– going into your downward spiral whenever you do (thats why having these thicc intimidating sometimes emotionally dense people around you CAN be good— Aquarius can be good too, but sometimes they can feed your Pisces/enables it paranoia more than keep it away, so just….watch out for yourself and who you keep around you, they are so good and valid just make sure you’re both not hurting each other!)

You’re vulnerable and often highly sensitive– Pisces/Pisces have great sense of perception and analytical ability. Usually for things that others don’t even pick up on, you inspire and aspire at the same time. 

A big learner and thinker, a giver and a merciful person. Your only downfall is your self-sabotage– which I think you know you do this because you just can’t help caring and sacrificing too much of your time/energy into other people. 

Paranoia– when it comes to second-guessing yourself, because your intuition is too strong, you can tend to doubt whether you’re over-stepping boundaries or not (especially through texts like… ‘what does this mean? should I say this? are things going well? I suddenly can’t read people’ ksdnfksjdng pLEASE you’re such a mariah carey sometimes) 

Make sure you’re not Jared, 19. When you get too frantic you deduce/discredit yourself of ALL the good positive traits you have because you doubt everything about you. Try to keep a list of 3 things you know for SURE that you have and others can’t take away from you. 3 things even YOU can’t take away from yourself. 3 Positive Attributes to you. 

Knowing when to have self-affirmation, get second opinions on things can help (though ideally you’ll learn how to do it for you).

Learn how to grow strong/stable in your friend groups too, and not invest so much in those who– truly doesn’t treat you the way you should be treated is crucial for you (friends who are strongly supportive, knows you’re emotional and still encouraging/positive to be around. People who don’t mind helping out, but can affirm you aren’t taking anything away from their time/effort– that you aren’t a burden y know)

I think you know this but you often delude yourself into thinking ‘its ok its normal’  when it’s not?? learning how you treat others, be more aware of what you’re losing —what others gain from you (and NOT be ok with that, you can sometimes be too complacent in what you’ve lost like ‘its ok it happened’— try to take accountability/make sure others know your worth too, if you don’t demand it for yourself then who will?)  

What you’re worth (and using that to add to your own self-confidence/self-worth) will allow you to break free of certain toxic chains. 

Self-esteem is key, and that’s independent of whether or not you’re valuable to others. Make sure you’re most valuable to you– put yourself first, learn how to trust your instinct to say no, and actually say it ( try not to let it drag on for so long– learn how to be more decisive and seek affirmations from those who are actually good for you/can help you manifest your own self-worth)

You’re prone to self-examining, a deep and layered thinker. And can sometimes close yourself off (even when you’re being sympathetic to others) guarding yourself is your defense mechanism– whether you just go whooosh into your own world or if it’s in material comfort/security. 

You don’t realize this type of ‘guarding’ is just less practical/more detrimental to you and doesn’t actually solve the issue of… y know…giving yourself up to other people emotionally/spiritually so completely that you lose yourself anyways? 

The real question is: after knowing all this already, ‘What the hell are you going to do about it?’ 

Self-discipline, right? Because you can sometimes lose focus when you’re supposed to be concentrating on something too (imaginative/vivid) 

I think the best analogy for this is like….if you keep eating what you wanna eat (chocolate etc.) then you’re never going to get the nutrients you need.  

Learn how to foster a healthy balanced diet. How to foster your own self-worth/esteem/healthy independence (let your friends help shield/guide you). 

Don’t eat the things you hate (god please don’t push yourself to do that) – just eat it in moderation. Learn how to moderate, and see yourself grow stronger/more healthy as time goes on.

Keeping yourself on a good healthy diet for your own emotional/mental/physical well-being is important, let yourself feel proud and get affirmation—from yourself or from others. You just gotta be proud of you. Keep track, try journalling little lists of affirmations and positive things you did for yourself daily. Make that your crutch instead of giving away things to people. Lists of things you did for yourself, or you’ve seen and enjoy without expending any of your own energy towards.

And also: make sure you’re forgiving of yourself, that you can make mistakes and not think yourself as a failure just bc of one blip (yoyo diet) 

Keeping a healthy mind-set is the hardest part with the pisces mutable. Don’t be so dragged down or beat yourself up emotionally, you should look to finding a few ‘key phrases’ to stop yourself from hurting your own being. 

Things like ‘you can do this’ or ‘I forgive you’ is the most important when you can say that to yourself (self-love).

Learn how to love yourself, because that’s your end-goal in the end right? 

Ok i think that’s all I have to say for now? ❤️❤️❤️ Aaaaah precious dumbo babies I hope you have the best of everything and take care of yourself!! ❤️❤️❤️Don’t forget to drink water today!! ❤️

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #189

“why are the children all marching into the desert to die?”

What does your trick-or-treat bag or pail look like? Pretty sure mine was usually just a plastic orange pumpkin. How old will you turn on your next birthday? 23, wow-ie. What are your plans to celebrate? Dinner with the fam, and I don't think I could possibly pass a birthday without getting a tattoo. :') Which X Factor audition(s) was/were your favorite? Don't watch it. Were you a straight A student in spelling and grammar? Yes. Were you a straight A student in math? No, I got Bs sometimes. Were you abused or do you know anyone who was abused? I know people who were. What is the name of your favorite coffee shop in your town? N/A What is fall weather usually like where you live? Usually warmish and breezy, but sometimes super cold. Do you think you have an accent? Very slightly. Do you use plastic, wooden, or wire hangers? Plastic. What is your favorite shade of yellow? Pastel. Are there any shades of blue that you don’t like? If so, which ones? No. Are you afraid of getting yelled at? YES YES YES YES I WILL CRY PLEASE DON'T Who has the best-decorated house in your town? *shrugs* What is your favorite part of Halloween? Dressing up. Is there a cemetery in your backyard? No. Did you decorate a pumpkin this year? No. ;_; What are some fall activities you would do with your kids? If I actually wanted them, take them on a hay ride (spooky one if they're older and want to), decorate pumpkins together, obviously go trick-or-treating, let 'em play in leaf piles. Have you ever seen a fox? Yes. What color are the squirrels where you live? Brown. Is there anything about Halloween you find offensive? Um no. What do the trees look like where you live? There's basically a shitload of pine trees, some dogwoods in spring (which fucking stink, btw), and then there's other trees idk the name of. Did you like field trips when you were a kid? YESSSSSSSSSSSS Do you find museums boring or interesting? Interesting! What was your school’s rival team’s mascot? Uhhhhh idr. What are three issues you are passionate about? Gay rights, gun control, and immigration. Would you ever wear a shirt with your country’s flag on it? I mean if I had to? What’s a medicine that makes you sleepy? Klonopin, back when I had to take two a day. I was just barely able to function at all on three. Do you like bath bombs? Never used one, but sure. What was your favorite girl group when you were growing up? Pussycat Dolls lmaoooooooo Do you like Disney movies? Only heathens don't. In what type of area was your first sexual encounter? A house. What do you occupy your time with on flights? Listen to my iPod. Do you ever realize how ridiculous you’re being yet continue on anyway? Sometimes in anxiety-type situations. Have you ever seriously vandalized someone else’s property? No. Have you ever been punched? No. What do you usually order from Olive Garden?
 Spicy shrimp fritas oh my gaaaaaaaaaaaah How do you like your steak cooked?
 Medium well. How do you feel about bats? I'm love them. Is anyone in your family artistic? Me. Have you ever suspected anyone of cheating on you? No. Are you emo/gothic/punk? I AM the Thicc Goth GF in my head. I'm just too poor and lazy for the wardrobe. :^) Would you date someone 20 years older than you? Nooooooooooo that's way too big a difference for me. What is your father’s middle name? John. What was the last food you got a random craving for? Sour gummy worms lmao. What is something you enjoy doing, but aren’t good at? Singing, sometimes. Name some healthy foods that you enjoy eating. Strawberries, apples, peaches, corn, cucumbers, green beans, bananas... What is your favorite Studio Ghibli film? Don't think I've watched any. If your best friend was a fictional character, who would he/she be? Why? This requires too much thinking. What was the last song you listened to? Does it mean anything to you? Ninja Sex Party's cover of "Africa" is on now. No. What flavor was the last cupcake you ate? Chocolate. When was the last time you complimented a stranger? Idk. Do you know how to text without looking? Not well. What about typing without looking? Yup. Have you ever thrown rocks at a girl/guy’s window? No. When was the last time you bought a bathing suit? Like, a year back? Do you like eggnog? NOOOOOOOOOOO. How often do you see your mother? Every day. When was the last time your living room furniture was rearranged? Long time ago. When you were little, did you like watching Cartoon Network, Disney or Nickelodeon more? Disney. When is the last time that you experienced rejection–literal or imagined? By no means /serious/ rejection, but I suppose it fits the definition. Asked the tat/piercing parlor I go to about working there at the desk (the place isn't busy and I'm v comfortable there, so I think I easily could), but they let me know they currently didn't need anyone. When you are feeling down are you more likely to cheer yourself up by shopping, eating, or drinking? I've gotten loads better about it, but eating. Do you think there will be a time when our current age of rapid innovation comes to a standstill? What do you think is the limit of human technological advancement? No, honestly. It may stall, but I don't see it stopping any time soon. In hindsight, what was the most misguided/unhelpful assignment you had to do in school or college? Uhhhh idk. On any blogs or social media you may have, do you try to maintain a certain aesthetic or persona? Is this consistent across platforms or just specific to one? Not really. My less-appropriate sense of humor comes out more on Tumblr, and in some areas I type in all lowercase because I find it more aesthetically pleasing. Is there an artist or celebrity whom you admire for their craft but take issue with their personality or politics? Marilyn Manson, very easily. He's talented and unapologetically unique as all hell, but I do noooot like him as a person from what I know. What is the last party or event you were invited to but declined? Why? Are there certain events that you might be invited to which you are likely to decline? An old friend's Thanksgiving-ish friends party. I was tempted, but it was explicitly stated to BYOB and weed and I just didn't want to be in an environment where there was lots of drinking and smoking something that's still illegal in the state. I was already uncomfortable enough last time I went to a party at her house and there was so much smoking. You were also supposed to bring a piece of Thanksgiving food to contribute, but I can't cook and I didn't wanna bother Mom about it. For the last question, it's just about a "never" situation where I'm invited to a real event besides family birthday parties or meet-ups with Dad and his wife. Off the top of my head, I'd never go to a club if I was invited. Imagine your life three years from now as if things have gone perfectly, better than you would typically predict. What do you see? Living with a happy Sara in the mountains, very successful in photography and thus financially stable (or hopefully a bit beyond that), excelling in school, back to my healthy weight, my mental health is great and I'm on way fewer meds, Sara's able to breed snakes and write as a real career, COVER ME IN TATS BITCH, more piercings, a treatment/medication for hypotonia has been discovered, my niece and nephew have met Sara and been taught our relationship is not wrong (I doubt it though :x), I'm happy, it'd be nice to write with more people, I have at least one poem published, Teddy, Venus, Kaiju, Roman, Mitsu (now totally comfortable being held), and Sara's babies are still alive and kickin', Venus and Crowley have had a clutch, Sara's PMDD is under control, Dad's stopped smoking, Mom is in a healthy, fulfilling relationship, both Mom and Sara are at the weights they aim for, Nicole is with a guy she truly loves and he reciprocates properly, Mom has been treated for depression and has forgiven Dad... Man, lots of things. This question really made me look forward to creating this future. What about your personality makes you good at your job? Alternatively, why do you find yourself uniquely suited for or drawn to your ideal career path? No job, so I'll just respond to the second. Photography is pretty surprising as it requires serious communication, which y'all know isn't my forte in the least. However, I'm so passionate about it and feel knowledgeable enough on it to be confident. Plus I just love showing how beautiful the world is capable of being. Do you find it valuable or important to respect those in positions of authority simply because of their position? Does this vary based on what that position is? Nope. I'm not gonna respect an absolute asshole just because you're of a high position. It doesn't vary to me, either. Do you find that you often desire and/or enjoy sex? If not, why not and how do you negotiate those feelings with your partner? If so, what is it that you enjoy about it in particular? I'd say I desire it to a normal degree, and yeah, I enjoy it. Why, #1, it's such a passionate and intimate way to communicate how much you love and trust your partner. Then I mean it feels good so. How many times have you seriously injured yourself? Idk. Seriously... three? When was the last time you were a passenger in a car and sat in the back? In the back, idk. Did you attend Sunday School as a child? Yes. Are/were you in the school band, and if so, what instrument did you play? Yes, flute. What is the best thing you’ve ever bought at a thrift shop? This cool crashed ship lamp! It's beside my bed. Have you ever ordered an unusual drink at a bar? No. What is your favorite thing about summer? Swimming. That's it. When was the last time you went to your local library? Whew, years. Can you do a proper cartwheel? No. Have you ever been pulled aside by security at the airport? No. Are you a fast-thinker or a slow-thinker? Slow. If you were to donate to charity today, what would you donate to? The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or The Trevor Project. What is your favorite card game and when was the last time you played it? Magic: The Gathering and not since my PS3 broke (I had the Duel of the Planeswalkers store game on there and I WANT IT BACK). Who was the last person you cuddled with? Sara. Did you ever go to summer camp when you were younger? No. What is your favorite seasonal candy? (only available at certain times) Gingerbread men!! Are there any television shows you own in entirety on DVD or VHS? Meerkat Manor. How far away from your house is the nearest gas station? Like, two minutes. Do you know anyone who is fluent in a second-tongue? Yeah. What is the scariest movie you’ve ever seen and who did you watch it with? The Rite, but only because the whole "raped and impregnated by a demon" shtick is a fuck to the no from me. Watched it with my younger sis years ago. When was the last time you had a bubble bath? A looooooooong time ago, I don't like baths. What was the last strong scent you smelled? Poop. Good job, Bentley. What did you buy the last time you went shopping for new clothes? A bra, I think? How did you discover your favorite band? Mom's CDs. When I was getting into my rock and metal love, I went through them and listened to albums with cool covers or bands I knew she loved, and the first happened to be Ozzy. :') Does the weather affect your mood? If so, in what ways? Yes. I have a greater tendency to feel down when it's real cloudy and sometimes rainy. If it's really hot, I'm in a worse/cranky mood. When are you most likely to be bored? Late afternoon/evening. What was the last big decision you made? Hmmm. Going back to school, maybe? Where was the last place you traveled to, and what did you do while there? Illinois. Hang out with my bby. :') What is your favorite thing to go shopping for? Clothes at Hot Topic ahhhhh. What was the last thing you received in the mail? Something for VR. What is one of your wildest dreams or ambitions? Become a well-known photographer. When was the last time you performed in front of a group of people? Years ago for dance. Who was the last person to upset you? How about the last person to cheer you up? Mom; Sara. Is there anything or anyone you’re trying to get over or let go of? No. What was the subject of your last phone conversation? Uhhh something short with Ma that I don't remember. How close do you have to be with someone before you’ll consider them a friend? I have to feel decently comfortable around them. How do you feel when a mostly unheard of band (or tv show, movie, etc.) that you love suddenly starts to gain popularity? I'm happy for them! I just hope they don't change. When was the last time you listened to new music? Uhhh recently. Do you think it is strange when a couple says “we are pregnant” rather than “I am pregnant” or “my girlfriend is pregnant”? No, I actually prefer it. You're in that shit together. Do you ever feel like you were born in the wrong era? What decade would you most like to have grown up in? No. I'm good with the '90s. What was your most memorable concert experience? Only been to one. :| But Alice was great. If you have any, are you close with your sibling(s)? Has it always been that way? Not very, and no, at least with my younger sister. We were pretty close. Do you require “closure” after things like break-ups or do you move on easily? I. Need. Closure. How long does it take for someone to earn your trust? Good luck. Do you like peanut butter? Yesssss. Have you ever had to wear a uniform to school? Do/did you prefer wearing it than regular clothes? In middle school. Hell no. What’s the last thing you got really excited over? Going to Sara's. Is there a genre of movie that you just can’t watch? Action-y. What was the last song to give you nostalgia? "Holiday" by Green Day. Do you have a certain color grape you like the most? Purple. What’s your signature thing you do when drinking that will make your friends say, “Alright, they’re drunk”? N/A Have you ever been on a hot air balloon? No. What’s your definition of weird? I try to keep the mindset that "weird" doesn't exist as I'm not one to talk about things being so, yet I'm hypocritical about it and do find some things, ex. fetishes, extremely weird. Do you use shaving cream? For my legs. When was the last time you cleaned your room? Is your room clean? I dusted my whole room a while back. I need to vacuum baaadly, but ours is broken. ;-; Have you ever personally known any girl who shaved their head? Yes. Have you ever known anyone who committed suicide? Sadly. Have you ever tried to commit suicide? Yes. Have you ever coughed up blood? No. How do you wish you could die? Surrounded by family and painless. Do you have any apps on your Facebook? If so, what? No. What kind of mouse pad do you have? Don't have one. What color is your mouse? Pink. Do you know any who might be anorexic? Do you know anyone who has bulimia? Maybe? Did you ever want a pony when you were little? Idr. What’s your favorite dessert food? Ice cream. What is the closest thing to you right now that is alive? My dog. Do you exercise? I'm starting to again. Do you dislike writing school essays? Not if it's a subject I like. Are you a very open-minded person? Yes. Are you modest? I believe I am. Do you skate? No. Are you in a band? No. If you were to make it big with your own band, what would its name be? *shrugs* It depends on the members. Would you rather a friend come over to your house or you go over there? I go over there. Have you ever had rabies? No. Do you know anyone who ever had to get a rabies shot? Idk. Have you ever gone hunting? No, never would. Ever eaten deer? Duck? Squirrel? How about lamb? No. Have you ever received a note in your locker? I think once from Aaron?

[velvet-tread]

Multishipping Bellarke and Becho: a guide

I know I said I wasn’t going to be here, butttttttt things are getting crazy here and apparently I want to cut my followers down to zero so here goes.

Look, guys, ok I know the vast majority of you are on a scale of ambivalent to nuking North Korea when it comes to Becho and *FINE* I understand why. The Bellarke fandom wants Bellarke (not unreasonable!) so one half of your otp in a relationship galls.

But I love Becho even though I am Bellarke af and honestly the view is GREAT from here and I would love to share some of that good feeling around.

Seeing Bellamy and Echo in what is clearly a very happy and content (yet doomed!) relationship, is basically the most beautiful bittersweet thing to happen to me since Jason chose to serve my own heart up to me on a plate  with ai gonplei ste odon atop the satellite tower *sob*.

So I’m going to have a crack at some of the whys and wherefores of Becho and address how it could fit our Bellarke endgame.

My opinions, ok? I’m not trying to convert anyone, just spread some love.

Why put Bellamy in a long-term relationship at all?

Mostly, I think the answer is in the narrative shorthand the show is using to help us navigate the time jump, and the people Bellamy and Clarke are now. And who is that? Well, we don’t know the whole picture yet but one thing is for sure: Bellamy and Clarke have had a relatively content 6 years. They’re OK. Changed, yes, for a variety of reasons, but psychologically sound compared to, say, the people in the bunker.

Sure, there are some things missing from their lives - I’ll get to the nitty gritty of that later on - but I think we’re supposed to believe that they are more or less happy and healthy and whole.

So, I guess the question is, what does happy and whole Bellamy look like? Not only am I Bellarke af, but I am also a Bellamy stan to the core.  In the context of a 6 year time jump, I want nothing for him but contentment, appreciation and nookie on the regular. And it seems that against the odds, this has happened for Bellamy Bradbury Blake.  In the relative safety of space, in the company of his newfound space family, his impulse to slavishly attend to the everyday needs of his sister curtailed, Bellamy has actually, finally, taken 6 years for himself.

At his core Bellamy is an affectionate person, with a deep need for personal connection and intimacy. And, clearly, he’s attracted to girls and sex is high on his list of needs too (do we all need to be reminded of pre-Bree Bellamy and post-Bree Bellamy in s4?) so the idea of him in space for 6 years deprived of that emotional and physical intimacy just makes me sad.  And so, the shot of his and Echo’s quarters with their double bed, the TV in the corner, the punchbag above the bed (*raised eyebrow*) the shelving unit with 68 canteens on (why Becho, why?) is so heartwarming in its mundane domesticity. It shouted to me: BELLAMY IS OKAY.

Indulge my singing emo heart for a hot second. They clearly appreciate each other. He runs his hands up and down her arms.  She strokes his jaw. THEY ARE SO SOFT.  She soothes his Octavia anxiety. His terrible dad jokes make her laugh and ease her tension. These two people who have spent a life time pleasing others are happy making each other happy.

Oh, and he is JAW-DROPPINGLY NAÏVE.

Watching Bellamy in a comfortable space relationship with someone who hurt him so badly in the past deliver this bizarro rose-tinted expectation of his feisty, judgemental sister suggests that in his mind, everything about his life on Earth is hued in gold. This is a Bellamy who, surrounded by his friends and safety, has forgotten the grim realities of survival, of human frailty and human cruelty.

*foghorn* IT DOESN’T MEAN HE’S FORGOTTEN CLARKE OR DOESN’T LOVE HER ANYMORE. *end foghorn*

In fact, Bellamy finding love with Echo is just about the biggest endorsement of everything that Clarke stood for when she gave him her dying words of wisdom.

This Bellamy has absorbed all of Clarke’s glorious idealism, her ability to forgive, her faith in humanity, her faith in her own agency, her faith that whatever the problem is, there’s a solution. This is what head-and-heart Bellamy looks like.

Finally…realtalk time: I may choke on these words as I type them, but the truth about storytelling is that if you have an endgame ship in mind (and I stfg I refuse to be gaslighted on this any longer) and a 6 year time jump in which they believe each other dead, it would be straight up BIZARRE not to have one of them come back in a long-term relationship. No matter what the writers’ room says about Bellarke or love triangles, that is a conflict opportunity that is too delicious to pass up.  It’s what Satan would do.

But whhhhhyyyy does it have to be Echo?

Sidebar - I’m not going to get in too deep with the forgiveness question, because we’ve all been over it many a time. My take on it is that forgiveness is something you do for yourself,  not for someone else and is not the same as justice – especially when both people involved have things to answer for. For what it’s worth, the show’s take on it seems to be similar (hi Jake Griffin), so I see no reason why this is a problem in terms of tone or characterisation.

Anyone who knows me at all knows that I love Echo, and have a gazillion thoughts about what her arc could or should be this season.  But ultimately, this show is about Bellamy and Clarke, so it’s worth looking at this in terms of what this means for Bellamy’s character.

Basically: this is a question of impact. Echo represents the furthest possible point for Bellamy’s character development in the context they’ve given him (7 people in space for 6 years).  Echo hurt him, but she also represents all the terrible things that he has done himself, all of which he’s been grappling with for the past 2 seasons. So for him to be in a place where he forgives her enough to actually like her and then forge an intimate connection with her – that says more about how far he’s come in terms of forgiveness of others and self-forgiveness than, say, a relationship with Raven.

It doesn’t mean he’s ruined (and seriously, is this the 17th century?) or it’s out of character.  It means he’s taken Clarke’s lessons to heart.

How am I supposed to be invested in this relationship if I haven’t seen the start of it?

Well, I’ve been shipping Becho ever since she spat in his face in MW prior to their joint murder so I mayyy be biased but I would say we’ve been watching their relationship evolve for some time. No, we don’t get to see the point where forgiveness tipped into intimacy, but having been watching them forever it’s not a leap for me to headcanon the rest.

I get that it is a stretch for others but here’s the thing: I don’t think the show is asking us to be invested in Bellamy and Echo because they should be together forever.  The show is asking us to be invested in the peace and stability they found in space, literally in a vacuum, of which Becho is a product.

But if they’re going to split up, what’s the point?

Becho is the perfect illustration of the fragility of peace and human co-operation, which is in turn such a core theme of the show imo.  What Bellamy and the rest of the Spacekru achieved was an environment in which even Becho can forgive and flourish, find love and softness. That’s the goal.  But this isn’t that universe.  Bellamy and Echo were at odds on Earth because the reality of life there is messy, complicated and frightening.

Echo, bless her, knows that very few things are permanent, even the love of a good man. She lost Azgeda, why would she trust anything in her life to be constant after that? But this forgiving, idealistic, measured, comfortable, Clarke-like Bellamy is in for a shock.

You’re not expected to be sad about the demise of Becho because Bellamy and Echo lose each other, but because Becho represents an unsustainable level of stability and comfort that just doesn’t play in this universe.  Much like Clarke and Lexa before them, they’ll have to let go of the dream of a world in which their relationship is possible and I for one will ache for them.

I’m going to say here too that I think in contrast to Becho, I think Bellarke could survive in any environment.  It was forged out of crisis – as Eliza says, they’re in each other’s DNA.  They just have to work out what that means.

Why is it good for Bellarke?

Let’s push aside all my Bellarke shipper reasons for wanting a happy and whole Bellarke to be the people they reconnect with and find lasting love. And the fact that Clarke, too, has experienced a doomed love affair and I want my tragedy babies to be on an equal footing and commonality when they finally get their shit together.

Let’s also push aside the angst potential of Bellamy and Clarke reuniting when one of them has a long-term partner, which makes up the tense character-focused storytelling this show is famous for.

Because, narratively speaking, the way this has been set up is just so Bellarke-centric I cannot even. Bellamy’s life – including his relationship with Echo - and Clarke’s life are the missing puzzle pieces for one another. Bellamy is

happy

but there are a few things he misses.  He misses Octavia, who is practically his own child, and he yearns to be back on the ground with her. And like the rest of Spacekru, he misses the variety of living on Earth eating more than just algae. And guess what?  Clarke, who is also

happy

has both of those things.  She has a fulfilling parental relationship with a child.  She has abundance.  But what doesn’t she have? She misses her friends and family, and adult company. I’m going to go ahead and assume she also misses the comfort and intimacy of a physical romantic relationship too, because we’ve seen her enjoy those things before.  Both of which Bellamy has.  When those pieces unite, when Bellarke reunite, the puzzle becomes complete.

[quilt-comfort]

Pregnancy Pillow - Easing Your Pregnancy Journey

Gestation is an exciting and challenging time for expectant mothers. During these nine months, a mother must take great care and attention to keep her baby safe and ensure that she gets all the support and nourishment she needs to thrive. Just as a baby needs nourishment in order to be born and grow healthy, a mother also needs to make sure that the foetus is protected from external harm. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to be in a comfortable, free and safe environment.

For the new age of motherhood, a world full of technological and scientific innovations has brought pregnancy pillows. Pregnancy pillows are specially designed to provide extra support in all areas most affected by your growing baby and bumps.Your pregnant body shape is so unique. Most conventional pillows are not designed to conform to the contours of your pregnant body, resulting in back pain, leg cramps, pelvic stiffness, and ultimately restless nights and insomnia. It becomes easier.

The pregnancy pillow is specifically designed to conform to the contours of your pregnant body, providing support where you need it most. These pillows come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate any sleeping position and help prevent aches and pains.

While not a "need", a pregnancy pillow is not a luxury item: it is something that can help you have more energy, endurance and flexibility when moving during pregnancy. For those with chronic pain during pregnancy, whether it's round ligament pain, sciatica or common low back pain, feeling better in those nine months is worth every penny a pillow. That said, you can definitely build your nest out of the usual pillows you already have instead of buying a specific pillow.

Here are few things you can take a note of while looking for a pregnancy pillow -

Size- Some pregnancy pillows are very large and not everyone is lucky enough to sleep on a large mattress. If you're short on space, with a queen or double bed, the best pregnancy pillows for you are those that don't curl like a wedge.

Shape and Form - Pregnancy pillows come in many different shapes, with the U-shaped being the most popular. There are also C-pillows, which you put under your belly. U-pillows are comfortable on both sides, so your belly and back are supported, but they can take up a lot of space in your bed, as mentioned above. A C-pillow may work better for some expectant mothers, but it may not provide the same back support as a U-shaped pillow.

Material - You can find pregnancy pillows made with memory foam or filled with down or polyester down alternatives.Memory foam provides optimal support, but some moms find it too hot. increase. Feathers and alternative down pillows tend to be cooler and lighter, but may not be as supportive as memory foam.

Price - Some of the best pregnancy pillows are relatively inexpensive, but keep in mind that thin ones won't give you the support you need.

Here are few types of pregnancy pillow you can easily find in store as well as online -

Full Body Maternity Pillows: At 5-6 inches tall, these pillows are perfect for women of all sizes. It is ideal for use during the third trimester of pregnancy as it provides excellent spinal support and relieves hip and back pain.

Maternity Wedge: Perfect for women looking for targeted support. B. Under the stomach or under the back. There are specially shaped pillows that can be tucked between your knees and take up less space than a large pillow.

U Shape: Provides even support for all parts of the body.

Keep your feet and hips parallel. Support your neck and keep it in line with your back

C-shaped pillow: as the name suggests, it is a C-shaped pillow that firmly supports the head, stomach, legs, and back.

[amorehairandbody-blog]

Ultimate Body Rejuvenation Gift Set- With African Black Soap Body Wash, Mocha Coco Coffee Body Scrub, and Whipped Hair and Body Butter- Spa Set

The ultimate body set designed to deep clean and remove all impurities from within the skin. This set turns back the hands of time, giving your body an amazing glow and softness. This set is great for anyone with eczema, sensitive skin, Psoriasis, Rosacea, and other skin conditions. These products are all natural with no chemicals or anything other than naturally grown products from Mother Earth. Pamper yourself while feeding your skin. This set comes with our AFRICAN BLACK SOAP BODY WASH along with MOCHA COCO COFFEE BODY SCRUB and WHIPPED HAIR AND BODY BUTTER.

This set is great as a gift!!

AFRICAN BLACK SOAP is a gentle, all-natural cleanser made only from plant materials. African black soap does more than just keep you clean - the suds are packed with skin-loving benefits, too!

African soap is traditionally made by harvesting and sun-drying palm leaves, cocoa pods and the bark from shea and plantain trees. This material is then roasted in a kettle at a constant temperature and mixed with oils, such as coconut and palm oil. The soap then cures for two weeks before it's ready to use.

The Shea butter moisturizes the skin but doesn't clog pores. Antioxidants found in shea butter can help protect your skin from photoaging. Black soap can help balance your skin's natural oil production without stripping necessary oils or adding excess oil to your skin. Black soap works as a barrier against your skin and the sun. Plantain extract has antibacterial properties that may help treat acne breakouts.

This wash is safe for dry or sensitive skin. It also soothes itchiness and irritation caused by eczema, contact dermatitis, and skin allergies. It may even help clear rashes related to eczema and psoriasis. This soap may fade skin discoloration and dark spots as well. This wash is also safe for Babies and Children, and can even help clear diaper rashes as well as other rashes or irritations that may appear on their very sensitive skin.

Black soap is rich in vitamins A and E which help to reduce stretch marks and other scars. This is helpful for those who have inflammatory conditions like rosacea.

The moisture in African black soap may also help prevent the lumps and bumps that result from razor burn. Use this as a daily beard wash to minimize bumps, itching and irritation, as well as keep your beard shiny and healthy.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), African Black Soap(cocoa butter, shea butter, plantain leaves, cocoa pods, bark, plantain extract, vitamin e, vitamin a), Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Betaine, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Powder, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid

MOCHA COCO COFFEE BODY SCRUB- Coffee has amazing benefits for the skin, it helps reduce redness and soothes skin from breakouts or irritation. It helps energize and nourish skin for an amazing fresh out the shower glow helping to brighten complexion and reduce puffiness. It has collagen which is a protein produced by our cells that helps “hold” the skin together, aiding it in looking younger and supporting firmness and elasticity. Coffee is also one of the greatest combaters to cellulite, it increases circulation and breaks down fatty cells as well as reduces redness and soothes skin from breakouts or irritation. . Coconut oil softens skin and alongside coffee and salt, it breaks down dead skin cells, revealing soft, supple skin. Shea butter deeply moisturizes and replenishes skin with vitamins and essential fatty acids. Sweet almond oil helps prevent acne and removes impurities from within pores.

Rosehip oil treats signs of aging and pigmentation, hydrates skin and repairs damaged skin, while provide a strong protective antioxidant boost–all without the oily feel of a traditional liquid oil like olive oil or coconut oil. The astringent properties in rosehip oil help to tighten your pores and brighten your skin. It also can help your skin regain elasticity.

Directions: For the face scrub, first cleanse face and add a small quarter sized amount to your hands. Rub gently in circular motions on your face making sure to be extra gentle around your eyes. This scrub gets rid of dead skin cells, and built up oils that hide deep in your pores.

For your body, while showering add a dollop onto your wash cloth or hands, and rub in circular motions on your body. Make sure to not scrub too hard! This works great at getting rid of cellulite on your legs arms and belly.

Face Scrub Ingredients: Coffea(Coffee ground), Granulated Sugar, Cocos nucifera(Coconut oil), Prunus dulcis(Sweet almond oil), Fresh lemon juice, Rosa moschata(Rosehip seed oil), γ-tocopherol(Vitamin E), Coconut essential oil,

Body Scrub Ingredients: Coffea(Coffee ground), Sea salt, Cocos nucifera(Coconut oil), Prunus dulcis(Sweet almond oil), Rosa moschata(Rosehip seed oil), γ-tocopherol(Vitamin E), Coconut essential oil

PARABEN FREE...NO SYNTHETICS...NO ARTIFICIAL FRAGRANCES...NO PETROLEUM PRODUCTS...CRUELTY FREE...VEGAN FRIENDLY

This item is great as a gift for her...or him (Gift wrapping is available)

Care: It is recommended to use this scrub within 6 months after purchase. Store in a cool, dry place. Please think of our products as food for your hair and body; Food needs to be refrigerated and so do some of our products! Refrigerating can extend freshness as well as prevent it from molding in hot or steamy environments.

WHIPPED HAIR AND BODY BUTTER- *New and Improved formula now featuring D-panthenol (Vitamin Pro B-5)! Vitamin Pro B-5 acts as a skin moisturizer, helping to keep skin smooth and healthy. It is also an anti-inflammatory and stimulates the skin's healing process. It is extremely hydrating and keeps the skin moist.*

Ultra moisturizing natural, creamy body butter for your hair and body. Use it on hair during straightening, twisting, blowing out, braiding, wash n go’s, and any other style! Use it on your body after a refreshing shower, or even on your face after cleansing. It tackles dry skin on contact and keeps you moisturized for hours without leaving you feeling greasy. Instead of sitting on top of your skin, it absorbs instantly and keeps your skin feeling baby soft. Reduces stretch marks with daily use, as well as smoothes uneven skin. It is also safe for babies, and contains no chemicals. Soothes irritated skin and clears eczema breakouts with use. All of our ingredients are natural, and our products are for every hair and skin type.

-Shea Butter nourishes the skin with Vitamins A, E and F. Vitamins A and E maintain the skin and keep it clear and healthy. They are particularly helpful for sun damaged skin and to help prevent premature wrinkles and facial lines. The Vitamin A in shea butter is important for improving skin conditions, including blemishes, wrinkles, eczema, and dermatitis. Vitamin F acts as a protector and rejuvenator soothing rough dry or chapped skin and helps soften dry or damaged hair. Additionally, shea butter has properties that treat skin allergies, insect bites, sunburn and frostbite.

-Cocoa Butter is rich in polyphenols which are antioxidants. These help in fighting signs of aging, either on external application or as a food ingredient. It helps prevent degeneration of skin, as well as helps in collagen retention and formation. It keeps skin hydrated and improves skin tone and elasticity. Cocoa butter is an anti-oxidant which makes it a good remedy for itchy and dry skin. It locks the natural moisture of the skin and prevents drying. Cocoa butter can also help in curing dermatitis and rashes.

-Cocoa butter makes hair manageable and strong. It rehydrates dry and damaged hair and restores it's sheen. It also moisturizes hair prevents breakage, and adds volume to fine hair.

*Kokum Butter is used traditionally in India, and it tends to be the less known of the butters.*

-Kokum naturally nourishes the skin and protects against dryness and the cruel signs of aging, which speeds up during exposure to the sun and natural toxins. Kokum butter is an emollient that's easily absorbed into the skin while promoting healthy skin cells. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that make it ideal for damaged skin.

-Rich in essential fatty acids and non-comodegenic (non pore-clogging), Kokum Butter is perfect for stimulating the scalp for healthy hair growth. It helps cell oxygenation, making nutrients more readily available for use by scalp/skin tissues - which helps promote hair growth. It also supports and enhances hair elasticity, helping to prevent breakage, and split ends.

Ingredients: Butyrospermum parkii(Shea butter), Theobroma cacao(Cocoa butter), Garcinia indica(Kokum butter), Prunus dulcis(Sweet almond oil), Cocos nucifera(Coconut oil), Olea europaea(Olive oil), Persea americana(Avocado oil), Simmondsia chinensis(Jojoba oil), D-panthenol(Vitamin pro b-5) and γ-tocopherol(Vitamin E), Essential oils

PARABEN FREE...NO SYNTHETICS...NO ARTIFICIAL FRAGRANCES...NO PETROLEUM PRODUCTS...CRUELTY FREE...VEGAN FRIENDLY

This item is great as a gift for her...or him (Gift wrapping is available)

Care: It is recommended to use this butter within 8 months after purchase. Refrigerating can extend freshness as well as prevent it from melting during the summer heat.

[empmoniitor]

WHAT IS REMOTE WORK? WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR BUSINESS?

“It’s a drone nation where everything and everyone is remotely controlled.”

Remote work describes any type of work that doesn’t have to be performed in a traditional company office. Remote workers can do their jobs anywhere in the world. Instead of commuting to an office each day to work from a designated desk, remote employees can execute their projects and surpass their goals wherever they please.

People have the flexibility to design their days so that their professional and personal lives can be experienced to their fullest potential and coexist peacefully. There has been a cultural paradigm shift in what society deems to be an appropriate workplace – and remote work has capitalized off of that newfound freedom.

HOW DO PEOPLE WORK REMOTELY?

There are a variety of ways in which people can work remotely. That’s the beauty of remote work – people can choose to work in a way that makes the most sense for their lives. Others rely on coworking spaces to be the spots where they can get the job done.

Coworking spaces act as hubs of productivity, community, and technology, offering great network connectivity and opportunities to meet others who work in a multitude of industries. They can be utilized by people with full-time jobs, freelance careers, and even entrepreneurs who want to rent out an office space for themselves or their small staff.

You might even say that coworking spaces are a halfway point between a traditional office and a non-traditional workspace, giving you the comfort of working from home and combining it with the professional amenities and networking opportunities that you’d find in a corporate environment.

Whether remote employees choose to take advantage of a coworking space in their home city or obtain a membership with a coworking collective that has locations around the world, they reap the benefits of having location flexibility

EMPMONITOR

DO YOU WANT TO REMOTE WORK AND GET THE MOST BENEFITS OUT OF IT?

Get the most amazing real-time computer monitoring software. Managing and monitoring the work remotely isn’t a tough or hectic job anymore. You can now monitor everything just by the touch on your screen even over a widespread area.

The global team works towards taking the legacy and also takes the company forward just by the click of their fingertips. Managing any kind of team can certainly have its challenges. But, when working in a remote team, sometimes those challenges seem to be amplified.

In EMP MONITOR you can view activities as they happen and manage them instantly. This can improve your company’s productivity, business, and overall operation with its various excellent functionalities.

Talking about the best four qualities under the control of a working remote system are: Monitor employees, observe employees, block inside threats and take the productivity graph to the next level.

BENEFITS OF REMOTE WORK:

Freedom & Flexibility:

Freedom & Flexibility is what employees need and this gives them the satisfaction that they would be able to work and handle their home life at the same time and this was only possible if they start working remotely.

No daily commute:

You don’t need to drive anywhere. If you have set up a home office, all you need to do is sit down and start to work.

Wear whatever you would like:

want to do that Zoom meeting in your night suit, as long as you are wearing a decent shirt nobody will be the wiser.

Location:

The benefit of working remotely for employees is that they can work from anywhere. People don’t have to be bound to a city that doesn’t correspond to their standards or preferences, which also helps avoid unnecessary traveling. If a spouse has to be based or allocated in a particular location, remote working allows partners to keep their job, or at least ease the transition period.

Working remotely means it doesn’t matter if you live at the top of a mountain or next to the sea. As long as you have a good internet connection you can work from any location in the world.

Going to work can be expensive but then using these remote services not only saves time but also saves the cost of employees and they can save a little more rather than spending over an endless list. Working remotely, particularly from home, can allow for creative thinking and greater productivity. Remote employees can make their workspace as bright or plain as they wish.

Communication:

When employees start working remotely, they sometimes find it strange. They’re not used to the silence and the absence of office chat. But this can also encourage better communication as people learn to talk to who they need to, when they need to, without wasting time. It can also promote colleagues to get to know each other through messenger apps and chats and find out how they can benefit each other. Communication grows with remote working as it prompts collaboration.

Rather than working together with a team, working alone brings in a lot of focus and also a lot more positivity. Remote work statistics from 2018 show that the majority of people feel there are fewer distractions when working out of the office. Co-workers are a big part of these distractions; 74% of respondents said they work remotely to get away from colleague interruptions. Productivity is essential to the growth of an organization.

According to Calvin Coolidge, “All growth depends upon activity. There is no development physically, or mentally without effort and effort means work “

DISADVANTAGES OF REMOTE WORK:

Distractions:  

Whether it’s a crying baby, a talkative neighbor, or that guy at the co-working spot who takes all his calls on speakerphone. You are bound to face distractions that you might not face in the office. This can make for a less than ideal environment and distract you from getting work done

Burnout:

Remote workers can sometimes forget to block out time for themselves. Since we’re always connected it’s easy to work until the wee hours of the night – but it is not healthy!

Isolation:

Someone who draws their energy from being around other people

Communication issues:

without regular video calls that foster healthy, honest communication, teams can struggle with misunderstanding. Words via email can be taken out of context as well.

Mental health:

Much like medications advertised on television, remote work can have side effects of depression and anxiety. Loneliness and isolation are two major drawbacks often cited by remote workers. Feelings of isolation or loneliness can be made worse by a lack of strong support systems or social groups outside of work. When individuals feel acute isolation, there is a greater risk of developing depression.

WAYS TO STAY PRODUCTIVE WHILE WORKING REMOTELY:

Set boundaries:

Whether it’s with your kids, the UPS driver, or the overly-talkative grandma at the local cafe, you’ve got to set healthy boundaries. Remote working is still a new concept to most people, and they need to understand that when you’re working, you’re working.

Take breaks:

Working alone, it’s possible to dive into the rabbit hole and forget to eat or drink for hours. This isn’t good for you, and it isn’t good for your productivity. Taking regular, scheduled breaks will keep you sharp.

Change locations:

Some people find that their creativity peaks when they change locations. For example, you might work at home in the morning for a bit, then head to a co-working space or a library, and end up in a cafe in the afternoon. Try different locations and see what works best for you.

Track your time

Do you get easily distracted? There’s a whole bunch of time management apps available that will help you track your time and stay focused.

Disconnect for at least a few hours each day

Unless you’re a world leader, you don’t need to be constantly available. The world will keep turning if you go offline for a bit.

CHECK OUR LATEST POSTS:

Here is Why You Should Opt Macro-managing Over Micromanaging Empower Your Management With Employee Productivity Metrics

Working remotely in different areas brings in a lot of opportunities as working towards the development in the coming future. An amazing 99% of respondents said they were satisfied with their current remote work situation and would like to continue working remotely (at least in part) for the remainder of their careers According to the Buffer survey, 22% of respondents confess to having difficulty unplugging from work or establishing firm boundaries between work time and personal time.

The real question (which isn’t answered by the survey) is whether the home is actually the best location to work. Many might still answer “yes,” but for some, getting out of the house might actually be more productive and limit the sense of isolation that can affect remote workers. WFH is what you do when you usually work at an office space but due to current limitations or choices, you prefer to do the same WFH.

It is a common practice for companies around the world to provide their 9-5 employees to offer a work-from-home day or period when the situation calls for it. After the particular day or period is over the employee is expected to return to the usual work hours. So an employee who works from home is quite expected to be present at the onsite office space for the majority of his/her time. Working at home these days has been made quite so easy because of the various tools that are now available.

Perhaps the most indispensable tool is the Internet, which helps people connect instantly and cheaply with their clients, bosses, and other people involved. The home office, which usually consists of a computer and a phone, also makes working at home a breeze by providing the modern conveniences of technology. Other office devices that could greatly make working at home easier would include printers, scanners, webcams, and copiers, among other tools.

Originally Published On: EmpMonitor

[darwinplants]

CRASSULA CAMPFIRE SUCCULENT CARE GUIDE | itsaboutgardening.com

Crassula Campfire is an eye-catching, branched-sprawling succulent with densely compact propeller-shaped leaves. It has fleshy vegetation that can turn from light eco-friendly to bright red when exposed to bright light as well as chilly temperature levels.

This succulent matures to 6 inches (15cm) in elevation and also spreads 3 feet (90cm) broad. It is a low-growing plant that creates a colorful floor covering, and you can utilize it as a small-scale groundcover.

Crassula Campfire begins to grow in summer season with a stalk of white, star-like flowers in clusters as well as some crassula variety.

Crassula Campfire Care Guide

Caring for Crassula Campfire can be easy, as well as it calls for couple of important points to expand healthy and balanced. If you give them conditions comparable to their natural environments, they will expand fast and also show their ideal appearance.

The complying with are the necessary care guides you should recognize in growing Crassula Campfire. These overviews will help you grow your Crassula Campfire from the beginning.

Watering Procedure

If you are a succulent farmer for a long time, you should recognize that succulents need less watering than other houseplants. Hence, Crassula Campfire need less watering.

Crassula Campfire has fleshy fallen leaves that work as the plant's water storage. Therefore, they can endure brief periods of drought. Nonetheless, they can likewise pass away of thirst, especially during the summer season or in areas with warmer climates.

When sprinkling your Crassula Campfire, constantly make certain that the soil is arid before watering once again. You can check the soil's moisture by sticking your finger on the leading inch of the dirt mix. If you are doubting, you can make use of a wetness meter to make certain that the soil or ground is not damp.

The watering process is additionally relying on the period and also environment where you live. In locations with warmer temperature levels as well as throughout the summer season, Crassula Campfire needs frequent watering and much less during the winter and also in places with chillier temperature levels.

Water your Crassula Campfire completely. If grown in containers, let the water goes through the water drainage openings. Make certain to remove the excess water from the drainage plate.

Some garden enthusiasts make use of the bottom watering procedure. It is the procedure by which you put water into the drainage plate or in a container with two inches high of water and also allow the soil to absorb the water for 10-15 mins.

It is an easy way to hydrate your plants without worrying about overwatering that can trigger your plant to root rot.

Overwatered plants also bring in insects and pests that can eliminate your plant. So prevent overwatering your Crassula Campfire to avoid them from passing away.

Soil Requirement

As was claimed above, overwatering can eliminate your succulents. However, the watering procedure in some way depends on the type of dirt you made use of in expanding your succulents.

Succulents' natural environment is arid, drought-prone locations, like deserts. If you want to grow one, like Crassula Campfire, you ought to recreate an atmosphere that simulates their natural habitat. A sandy or rough, airy, well-draining soil is perfect.

Either expanding inside or outdoors, succulents require a special potting mix different from the regular potting mix you used in various other houseplants.

You can make use of a store-bought cactus mix, or you can make one. Integrate one part of normal potting dirt as well as two parts of either perlite, pumice, or rugged sand. The objective of this blend is to give good water drainage. This combination doesn't hold way too much wetness that causes waterlogging and also root rot.

Lighting Conditions

Crassula Campfire has one unique feature, as well as it is its vibrant red shade. Its significant and also impressive color modifications gradually from pale green to brilliant yellow-orange and also eventually bright red if given sufficient bright light. They need to be kept in bright light to attain as well as retain their dazzling color.

Crassula Campfire expands ideal in bright direct light with a little bit of color if grown outdoors. They require at the very least 4 to 6 hrs of sun exposure to expand healthy as well as perfectly.

If grown indoors, area your Crassula Campfire where it obtains bright light. It is best to put it near your windows or on the window sill to supply appropriate sunshine. If you intend to maintain them inside your home but don't belong that gets enough natural light, you can use grow light to offer added light as well as keep them warm.

If suddenly you believed to bring your indoor succulent outdoors, do not overexposed it as soon as possible. Rather, change the illumination problem gradually to avoid distress to your succulent. For example, you can practice a day-to-day progressive boost in sun direct exposure till your succulent adapts to its brand-new atmosphere or climate.

While Crassula Campfire grows happy in bright straight light, outdoor sunlight can also be harsh, especially throughout the summer season and also afternoon sunlight. Direct exposure to extreme sunshine can burn the leaves of your Crassula Campfire. If this happens, move your plant into a dubious location.

Pots

As mentioned above, Crassula Campfire is a low-growing succulent and also often as groundcovers. If you wish to expand this succulent in a container, choose a more comprehensive pot to give room to spread out. It is additionally crucial that the container you are making use of has appropriate drainage.

A succulent planted in a container without proper drainage will definitely pass away.

Temperature

Crassula Campfire is a soft and also tender succulent since it can not deal with frost. It likes locations with a warm atmosphere. If you stay in a chilly climate, it is best to plant your Campfire in a container to bring it inside when the temperature level obtains reduced.

Crassula Campfire can survive at temperature levels not below 30 ° F (-1.1 ° C).<br>

Toxicity

Crassula Campfire can be hazardous to humans and also animals when consumed.

Fertilizer

Feed your Crassula Campfire with a controlled-release plant food at the beginning of the expanding season. Do not feed your Campfire during winter months.

Pruning

Crassula Campfire doesn't require pruning. However, if somehow your succulent becomes etiolated, reduced the leggy stem as well as use it in propagation.

Propagating Crassula Campfire

A lot of succulent enthusiasts enjoy having Crassula Campfire in their garden because of its appealing vivid shade. Additionally, they increase their collection of succulents by circulating.

You can circulate the Crassula Campfire through division, cuttings, as well as offsets. Though it might take some time, you can likewise circulate Crassula Campfire via seeds. You can plant the seeds from the dried out flowers and maintain them in a warm and partial shade.

Through Division

The best time to propagate Crassula Campfire through division is throughout the expanding period, typically in spring.

Remove very carefully the mommy plant using a shovel, then divide it carefully. Finally, plant them back individually right into their brand-new specific pots. Keep in mind to circulate your succulents when the soil is dry.

Through Cuttings

Stem cutting is the easiest method to circulate Crassula Campfire. Select a rosy stem and also cut it with a clean knife or trimming shears. Remove the excess leaves from the base of the stem. Allow to dry the wounds or to be calloused for a couple of days without subjecting it to sunlight. Some garden enthusiasts make use of rooting hormone to make the treatment quicker.

When the cut end is completely dry, it is ready to plant the stem right into the soil. Water lightly after a couple of days or a week to avoid decaying.

You can likewise circulate Crassula Campfire by fallen leave cuttings. Cut healthy fallen leaves from the mommy plant, lay them in a tray or a shallow container with cactus soil mix, and location it in a warm, shaded area.

It will certainly create brand-new origins after a couple of days as well as a special rosette after numerous weeks. You can transplant these child succulents when they reach half an inch tall and when the mommy fallen leave dries. You can use a spray container to mist the baby plants and avoid full watering until it develops.

Through Offsets

Offsets are the pups or babies that you can discovered at the base of the mom plant. You can make use of offsets to propagate and also expand a new succulent.

Utilizing a clean and sterile blade or cutter, cut easily a balanced out from the mother plant. Enable to callous the cut part for a few days prior to growing right into the brand-new soil. Do not water the new plant immediately and also position it in an intense, shaded location or partial filtering system sunlight.

Crassula Capitella Campfire Pests and Problems

Regrettably, like other succulents, Crassula Campfire is vulnerable to parasites as well as bugs such as mealybugs and also aphids. These insects can damage your plant in a snap otherwise treated promptly.

You should regularly scrutinize your succulents every single time you sprinkle them. Both mealybugs and aphids are little that you nearly can't see. They generally conceal under the fallen leaves or in the crevices of the plants. In the Campfire situation, they like concealing in those compact leaves.

Mealybugs are little, white, soft-bodied bugs and also appear with small, white, cottony, weblike compound.

Aphids are small sap-sucking insects in the superfamily Aphodoidea. You can usually see these pests feeding in clusters on new plant growth.

If you suspect the visibility of these pests, the first thing to do is maintain them far from the other plants. Next, clean off your delicious with a solid jet of water while scuffing those visible insects. Allow the plant dry, then spray it with 70% isopropyl alcohol as well as rinse it with water. You can additionally stream your plant making use of neem oil. It is a natural pesticide from the extract of a neem tree.

An additional typical parasite is the creeping plant weevil. It is pretty very easy to identify if your delicious is plagued with creeping plant weevils. There will be notches of chewed plants and also white or brown eggs in the dirt around the base of plants.

Vine weevil is a dark insect, around 1cm long, with jointed antennae as well as pale-brown dots on its backs.

Soaking your succulent soil with vine weevil killer is one of the most efficient means to treat your contaminated plant.

One of the most typical problem in growing succulents is overwatering. It can be fatal to your succulent. If you discover that the leaves are starting to become soft, mushy, as well as brown, it means that your delicious is struggling with overwatering. If this takes place, examine the roots quickly how much damages your succulent is dealing. Initially, reduced the roots or behead your delicious if the roots are starting to rot. Then, allow it dry for a few days as well as plant it right into the new soil.

[justtanninglotion]

{TOP 5} Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

No matter your age, complexion, or skin type, you need to wear sunscreen. The CDC recommends wearing it every day because skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States as well as the most preventable kind. Sunscreen blocks harmful UV rays from the sun and can help keep your skin healthy when you’re out and about. Unfortunately, if you have sensitive skin, sunscreen can be an irritant. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with in depth reviews of the five best sunscreens for sensitive skin. We are going to recommend using a sunscreen with a physical blocker rather than a chemical blocker, as commonly used chemicals are more likely to irritate sensitive skin. However, everyone is different and even products marketed for sensitive skin may cause issues in some people.

Sunscreen Basics

Regardless of skin type, choose a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum coverage. That means it protects against the UVB rays that actually burn as well as the UVA rays that cause lasting skin damage. You want a product of at least 30 SPF, and will need to reapply every two hours if you are out in the sun. Remember that no sunscreen can entirely prevent sunburn and that you should still take breaks in the shade and wear protective clothing, including sunglasses. If you are looking for sunscreen specifically for your face, pay attention to the other ingredients included in different brands. Some have special ingredients aimed at preventing fine lines and wrinkles.

Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, chances are you are already extremely cautious about what you put on your face. Sunscreen can be especially problematic because it is often made with chemical blockers that shield skin from UV rays - and cause burning, irritation, stinging, and redness in the process. So what’s a person with sensitive skin to do? Luckily, there is another option. Some sunscreens work via physical (rather than chemical) blockers. Examples include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are often found in products labeled as baby sunscreen or for folks with sensitive skin. These can also be ideal as sunscreen for acne prone skin. Be sure to read the label of any sunscreen you are considering, as some are hybrid products that include both physical and chemical blockers. These may still irritate your skin.

Considerations for Use

Following are a few more factors to consider when using your own personal best sunscreen for sensitive skin. About SPF It should be at least 30 SPF, but the SPF categorization system is not easy for consumers to follow. Generally speaking, an SPF 15 sunscreen is capable of blocking about 94% of UVB rays; an SPF 30 product can block 97% of UVB rays; and an SPF 45 sunscreen protects against about 98% of rays. After 45, you don’t gain much, so it’s not necessary to get an SPF 100 sunscreen. However, no matter what SPF you use, after two hours, it is spent and needs to be reapplied. Matching Your Skin Type Sensitive skin can have additional subtypes, namely oily or dry. If your skin is dry, look for a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients included. Examples include hyaluronic acid or ceramides. For oily skin, look for a sunscreen with a matte finish. You might also do well with a lighter gel formulation that will feel less heavy on the skin. Ordering Your Products Most people have some sort of skin care routine, and people with sensitive skin often need multiple products in order to keep their face clear and glowing. It is important to apply your sunscreen in the correct order among other products. Use it after any cleanser or serum, but before moisturizer and makeup. Depending on the texture of your sunscreen, you may find that it replaces the need for moisturizer. Choosing & Applying Wisely In the end, any sunscreen is better than no sunscreen. However, some studies suggest that sunscreens that come in aerosol or stick form offer better protection than creams or gels. That is likely because aerosol and stick sunscreens don’t need to be rubbed into the skin and therefore provide a better barrier. If you prefer gel or cream products, don’t worry. You can improve the coverage by applying two thin layers, letting the first layer dry before adding the second. Now that you know what you’re looking for, let’s explore at your choices in dermatologist recommended sunscreen for sensitive skin. But you don’t have to take the doctor’s word for it – each of these products comes highly reviewed by users as well.

TOP 5 Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

Product Overview Get started with the basic specs on each of our reviewed sunscreens. *PRODUCT REVIEWS: Read on for more details on the best sunscreen for sensitive skin. 1 ​​DRMTLGY Anti Aging Clear Face Sunscreen and Facial Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 45. Oil Free, Zinc Oxide Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin and Acne Prone Skin

Buy it On Amazon.com No matter your skin type – dry, normal, combination, oily, or sensitive, you will love this DRMTLGY product. It is not greasy or oily, has no irritating fragrance, and contains no paraben. Using it will provide solid broad spectrum 45 SPF protection but will not leave behind a white residue. This sunscreen uses zinc oxide as a physical sun blocker rather than a chemical formula. But beyond protection from the sun, you also get better skin out of the deal. This product contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and niacinimade (vitamin B3) to plump up your skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, correct uneven skin tone, reduce pore size, and hydrate the skin. That’s a lot of benefit from one little product. Dermatologists agree that this sunscreen will not clog your pores or cause breakouts while it fights free radical damage caused by ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun. All DRMTLGY products are made in an FDA regulated facility located in Southern California. This sunscreen is certified free of sulfates, paraben, and hormones – plus the entire manufacturing process is cruelty-free (no animal testing). You can try this sunscreen without worry, as the company offers an easy 60-day money back guarantee that you can use with no questions asked. *SPECS - 2 oz. - 45 SPF - Zinc oxide PROS - Moisturizes without feeling greasy - Made cruelty-free in the USA - Absorbs quickly and wears well under makeup CONS - May not be sufficient to entirely replace other moisturizers - No fragrance added so there is a faint smell of zinc oxide - Can leave a whitish residue on brows and around hairline 2 ​​​Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen - Sensitive Sunscreen, SPF 30+ Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection - 8.75 oz. Bottle

Buy it On Amazon.com For daily wear, your sunscreen doesn’t necessarily have to consider its effect on the environment. But when you go swimming in natural bodies of water, this becomes a serious consideration. Conventional sunscreens have been found to damage delicate coral reefs and interfere with the health of marine life. Blue Lizard is reef-safe because it has no oxybenzone or octinoxate, in fact, it has no chemical additives at all. You also won’t find any parabens or fragrances to cause irritation. It uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block 97% of the sun’s rays by reflecting them away from your skin. This product provides 30+ SPF broad spectrum protection. And since you’re swimming, you want a sunscreen that is water resistant. This one can last up to 40 minutes in the water; after that, you’ll need to reapply. Finally, this product has a unique feature that we’ve never seen elsewhere – smart bottle technology. The bottle turns blue under exposure to harmful UV light as a visual reminder to reapply. This can be especially helpful on overcast days when we tend to forget that those rays are still coming through the clouds. *SPECS PROS - Reef safe - Smart bottle technology - Water resistant for up to 40 minutes CONS - Requires soap to remove from skin - Does not contain a moisturizer - Can burn if it runs into eyes 3 ​​​​Alba Botanica Fragrance Free Clear Spray Sensitive SPF 50 Sunscreen, 6 oz.

Buy it On Amazon.com For a product with a truly weightless feel, try Alba Botanica Fragrance Free Clear Spray Sensitive SPF 50 Sunscreen. It is applied in a lightweight, air-powered mist that provides smooth coverage without feeling heavy or greasy. Made with botanical ingredients, it comes in a generous 6 oz. bottle. This sunscreen is also certified safe for reefs. It contains only 100% vegetarian ingredients, with no oxybenzone, octinoxate, synthetic fragrances, or gluten. It is cruelty free and biodegradable for a truly environmentally-friendly choice, as proven by its Leaping Bunny certification. (Leaping Bunny is an internationally recognized symbol for cruelty-free cosmetics.) Alba Botanica sunscreen is also enthusiastically recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. Like other coral reef safe sunscreens, this one is also water resistant for an impressive 80 minutes! You can enjoy broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays while also nourishing your skin with gentle botanicals like chamomile and aloe. That’s a win-win in our books! *SPECS 6 oz. PROS - Light clear sunscreen spray leaves no noticeable residue - Reef safe and entirely cruelty free - Pleasant yet light coconut scent CONS - Skin must be dry for proper application - Contains avobenzone, which can stain clothing - Spray nozzle can become clogged if not periodically cleaned 4 Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion for Children's Sensitive Skin with Broad Spectrum SPF 50, Tear-Free, Sweat- & Water-Resistant, 3 fl. Oz

Buy it On Amazon.com Aveeno offers a specially formulated sunscreen for kids that will be nevertheless enjoyed by the whole family. Aveeno Kids Continuous Protection Sensitive Skin Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 50 comes in a 3-ounce tube and provides superior broad spectrum protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays. It is gentle and safe enough to be used as baby sunscreen, too. It is a mineral sunscreen that locks in moisture upon application without stinging or irritating delicate skin. The formula is guaranteed to be tear-free, non-greasy, hypoallergenic, and free of paraben, phthalate, and fragrance. The active ingredient is zinc oxide, backed with soothing oat. You’ll find this Aveeno sunscreen to be both sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Because it is a mineral product, it tends to be thick and must be rubbed in thoroughly to avoid a whitish cast. Though it is excellent for both children and adults with sensitive skin, it performs best for a day at the pool or beach rather than as a facial sunscreen under makeup. *SPECS - 3 oz. - 50 SPF - Zinc oxide PROS - Long lasting and effective - Contains skin-soothing oat - Tear-free formula CONS - Some people may be bothered by the zinc smell - Thick and time consuming to rub in completely - Doesn’t wear extremely well under makeup 5 ​Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant and Non-Greasy Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 100+, 3 fl. oz.

Buy it On Amazon.com Neutrogena is a brand that dominates the health and beauty arena. This product is an ultra-sheer sunscreen that wears beautifully while providing 100+ SPF protection. It is formulated with Dry-Touch technology that offers a non-greasy matte finish that is undetectable under makeup. It also contains Helioplex for superior defense against broad spectrum rays. Even though it is perfect for daily use, it translates to the pool easily with 80 minutes of water resistance. You can trust this sunscreen to be non-comedogenic and PABA-free, though it does use avobenzone, which can stain clothing and cause an allergic reaction in rare cases. This product comes in both stick and spray versions for ultimate convenience and portability. While it functions well as sunscreen for face or body use, some male users have noted that it tends to clump up on facial hair. *SPECS PROS - A little goes a long way - Water resistant for 80 minutes - Scent-free CONS - Can burn if it runs into eyes - It takes a few minutes to absorb after application - May irritate people sensitive to avobenzone

How to Wear Sunscreen Beautifully

For a day at the pool or beach, a photo ready face with perfect makeup isn’t really feasible or even necessary. But for daily life, including work and socializing, you want to both protect your skin and look your best. Here are a few strategies for pairing sunscreen with your regular beauty regimen. Take a beat Sunscreen should be applied to clean skin before any makeup. But don’t rush through the process. If you wait 10 minutes or so after applying sunscreen before moving on to foundation or powder, the sunscreen will have absorbed/dried, leaving a better surface for makeup. Shine free protection One of the biggest struggles involved in wearing sunscreen under makeup is the shiny or sticky appearance. To counteract this problem, start with an oil-free sunscreen and then top it with loose mineral powder. The powder particles will absorb and hold oil, providing a drier, smoother finish while still offering reliable skin protection. Reapplying Sunscreen does best under makeup, but it also needs to be reapplied every 2 hours during sun exposure or 4-6 hours in mixed conditions. This presents a bit of a challenge, because we rarely have the time or opportunity to remove all makeup and start over that often. A good solution is to purchase some loose powder that contains sunscreen. Whenever you need to control shine with a touch-up, using this powder will impart additional sun protection as well. Alternately, use a sunscreen spray to avoid wiping away or disturbing makeup. After you coat your face carefully, give it several minutes to dry before touching your skin.

Further Sun Protection Strategies

Sunscreen is step one in terms of caring for your skin. Daily use can help keep you looking young and fresh as well as prevent the development of skin cancer. However, applying a good sunscreen is not the only thing you need to do to really protect yourself. Following are further strategies to keep you healthy in the sun. Some may surprise you. Eat your greens Turns out, there is more to sun protection than external coverage. What you eat can make a huge difference, too. Eating foods rich in beta-carotene and lycopene can reduce your risk of getting burned. The best sources of these elements are carrots for beta-carotene and tomatoes for lycopene. The great news is that both of these foods contain a high level of antioxidants that can also heal free radical damage and strengthen the skin’s immune system to boot. Wear skin covering + sunscreen It makes sense that skin covered with fabric receives protection from that clothing. However, not all clothing has the same level of protection. A white cotton t-shirt, for example, only offers an SPF of about 7! So you still need to apply sunscreen to skin that will be covered, especially if it is a lightweight fabric. Hats are an important part of sun protection, too. Read the full article

[nelliievance]

Saving The Planet With Regenerative Agriculture

I recently discussed the concept of regenerative agriculture in my review of the book Sacred Cow. I have been researching this fascinating topic further and am convinced that regenerative agriculture of both plants and animals (or a combination), is a crucial step environmentally. It can drastically reduce carbon emissions and even remove CO2 from the atmosphere and sequester it in the soil.

I also found that the evidence for regenerative grazing discussed in the previous review is more controversial than I thought. I’ll touch on that below. What does seem to be more universally accepted is that regenerative farming of plants, with and without animals integrated into the mix, is much more sound environmentally than current conventional farming practices.

Reversing Man-made Soil Degradation.

In modern agricultural practice, high-yield monoculture crops are grown. This means an entire field is planted with one commodity crop like wheat, corn, soybeans, etc. Not enough organic matter is put back into the soil, but instead this approach relies on ever increasing use of chemicals (fertilizer, pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides). This has led to tremendous loss of topsoil, poorly draining soil, and about half the applied chemicals being wasted as they runoff, polluting waterways. There is now a resulting dead zone near the Mississippi delta in the gulf of Mexico, the size of New Jersey. This has been becoming common practice in modern agriculture since about 1950. On the plus side, it has led to high crop yields, and lauded as “the green revolution”. But it’s starting not to work as well, as crop yields are dropping. All of this can be reversed by regenerative practices like no-till agriculture, and use of diverse crop rotations and cover crops. This is described in detail in the book Growing a Revolution: Bringing Our Soil Back to Life [1] by geologist Dr. David Montgomery. This process does not require the use of grazing animals. For example, “green manure” from legumes plays the same role as animal manure, and a roller-crimper can do some of the work the grazing animals do:

A roller-crimper crushes the stems of a cover crop so it decays faster

These regenerative measures improve the soil health dramatically, reducing or even eliminating the use of chemicals, and making runoff almost nonexistent. After a season or two when the soil as recovered, crop yields meet or exceed those of conventional farms with heavy use of chemicals. In addition, comparisons that claim that conventional practices have a higher yield than regenerative often are for ideal growing conditions, such as a perfect amount of rainfall. In less than ideal conditions, including droughts, which are becoming more common, regenerative farming often out-performs conventional. So it is a myth that we need unstainable conventional agriculture to “feed the world”.

There is a second, more low-tech way that farmland is degraded in much of the developing world: slash and burn agriculture. Brush and even forests are destroyed by burning, after which crops can be grown. But these fields do not remain fertile for long, so the farmers have to move on and repeat the process in a new area. These slash-and-burn fields do not have high crop yields. It is typically small-family farmers following these practices, and they grow, for example, about 80% of the food in Africa. But regenerative agricultural can come to the rescue here also, restoring the previous soil to good health in previously burned fields, and improving crop yields up to a factor of four, as shown conclusively on a wonderful demonstration farm in Ghana. These small family farmers are often too poor to afford grazing animals, but the plant-based regenerative measures (diversity of crop rotations, use of cover crops, etc.) are inexpensive.

Dr. Montgomery’s book conclusively shows how regenerative agriculture can help solve climate change, heal our soil, and feed the planet. And it saves farmers money! I don’t want to be cynical, but we do live in a capitalistic society. It gives me hope when the right thing to do environmentally also happens to be the best financially. There is an anecdote in the book where Dr. Montgomery is driving across Kansas with a guide who is showing him where regenerative agriculture is being practiced. He notices that in some areas the John Deere tractor dealerships seem to be dilapidated, while in others the dealerships seem to be thriving. His guide points out that the thriving dealerships are in areas where there is more regenerative agriculture is, so the farmers are more profitable and can afford new equipment.

Now to the role of animals in soil regeneration. Some regenerative farmers follow a hybrid technique that use the regenerative measure described above but also involves grazing animals. After cash crops are harvested, cattle or other animals graze the fields. This is often done with the cover crops as well. A chapter is devoted to how this is practiced by Gabe Brown on his farm in North Dakota, which inspired me to read the first-hand account in Gabe’s enjoyable book Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agriculture. Gabe shows how the integration of cattle plus diversified crop rotation and cover crops (for about 30 years now) has dramatically improved the soil quality, in. The other interesting practice he follows is letting chickens range free in fields the cows were just in. They do further cleanup, including eating fly larvae. And the chickens can also be fed grain screenings which would otherwise be discarded.

Economics of Farming

The number of American farmers and farmworkers decreased dramatically from 1900 to the present, while the size of the average farm grew much larger. This was an intentional government policy intended to lead to economies of scale and higher yields. Earl Butz, secretary of agriculture under presidents Nixon and Ford,(who we can also thank for bringing high-fructose corn syrup into the mainstream), famously told farmers “go big or get out”.

There are many rural communities that were decimated by this. Agriculture has become more and more “agribusiness”, controlled by large multinational corporations. Farmers are caught in the middle, having to buy increasingly expensive chemicals from a few large corporations, and then selling their crops at commodity prices to large corporations. The farmers are just considered a link in the supply chain, and the objective is minimize the cost of the final product. This makes it appear that growing large fields of single crops is the best solution because it maximizes yield. But this does not consider external costs like the damage caused by runoff of agricultural chemicals, or the medical costs to consumers eating a diet of cheaper but poorer quality food. This is all described in detail in the books below (how it similarly unfolded in the UK is described in [2]). Regenerative agriculture is a way to help reverse this trend, and in addition to Gabe Brown’s operation, other inspiring examples of this are in these books: [1,4,5]. It makes smaller farms more viable and provides more farm jobs. Better for the environment, the economies of local communities, and our health.

The Regenerative Grazing Controversy

There has been some criticism of regenerative grazing because descriptions of it can be oversimplified to “meat can save the planet”, so the concern is that the regenerative grazing argument can be used for marketing that “greenwashes” meat, which vegans and advocates for reduced consumption of animal foods understandably object to. But backlash against it can dismiss the whole idea of regenerative agriculture, which throws the baby out with the bathwater. There is a good balanced discussion here that admits some environmental benefits may have been exaggerated (like the effect of carbon sequestering) but still does not dismiss the major role regenerative agriculture can play, I still believe the bottom line is the best solution for the environment (and our health) is reduced consumption of both junk foods and animal products, combined with better farming techniques. As one author puts it “eat less, but better, meat” [2]. and I think we should generalize that to less but better foods of all types. I’ll cover the ins and outs of this topic in more detail in an upcoming post.

Conclusion: Regenerative Agriculture, With or without Animals, Will Help Feed Humanity And Save The Planet

We can argue over to what extent animals fit in the mix, but regardless of the percentage of animals vs plants in our diets, in my opinion regenerative agriculture is a key step. Current practices of conventional plant and animal farming are not sustainable.

Suggest Reading

David Montgomery, D, Growing a Revolution: Bringing Our Soil Back to Life, W. W. Norton & Company;, 2017.

Brown, G, Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agriculture, Chelsea Green Publishing, 2019

D’Silva, J, Webster, J, The Meat Crisis: Developing more Sustainable and Ethical Production and Consumption, Routledge, 2017.

Quinn, B, Carlisle, L, Grain by Grain: A Quest to Revive Ancient Wheat, Rural Jobs, and Healthy Food, 2019.

Carlisle, L, Lentil Underground: Renegade Farmers and the Future of Food in America, Avery, 2015.

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