#do stroller fans work

[babycare59]

About this item

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[amathslutsguidetofandom]

"Guess I'm Just Good With Them" - 2

PAIRINGS: James "Bucky" Barnes x SingleMom!Reader

WARNINGS: Slight insecurities about being a single mom, extreme fluffiness

WORD COUNT: 915

*not proof-read*

ENJOY!

Sinking into the couch, you groan. It's been an hour trying to put Leila to sleep. And with consistency, you finally have achieved that goal. You run your hands over your face trying to get the drowsiness to evade your eyes, you need to do some more chores. And you know you won't be able to get to them in the morning, with work and the babysitter coming to sit Leila.

Your phone pings. That's weird, it never pings.

It only does when it's your co-worker asking to cover their shift, or it's when your boss is telling you the unfortunate news of you having to work overtime.

But it is neither of those situations. It's an unknown number.

UNKNOWN: Hey there, this is James from Walmart.

You stare at the electronic brick in your hands. You tap on the notification and see the actual message.

Your jaw drops. He actually texted you. James actually texted you.

Your heart races slightly as your thumbs do that little dance over your screen. Biting your lip, you think about what you should write about.

YOU: Hi James! How are you? :)

You groan and tip your head back, thinking your reply is similar to that of a fourth grader. But, that thought instantly vanishes as you see the texting bubble on his side jump in a pattern. While they do you save his name in your contacts.

JAMES: I'm doing alright. How are you, and Leila? 🙂

You let out a deep breath and type again.

YOU: Oh! We’re doing well, thank you. YOU: Happy to hear that you’re doing well too! :)

What’s with you and that smiley face, you whine in embarrassment and throw your phone to the side. “God, why am I like this?” You whine as you run your hands down your face. You never thought twice about texting.

But when it comes to James, you had to. You don’t know why, but you feel flutters in your belly when your brain strays to think about him. You don’t force your brain to do so, it’s just a second nature, an unconscious habit.

You can’t help but think about his charming smile that was on display the whole time Leila looked at him, the way he let your baby girl play with his metal arm, the way he would coo at her when she became fussy.

Your phone pings. Reaching for your phone, you inhale and open the text.

JAMES: That is great to hear. 🙂

You push out your lips, wondering what to reply with.

YOU: :)

You internally groan at your teenage-like response.

JAMES: I just wanted to know if you and Leila are busy this weekend.

You’re heart races again, is he going to ask you out?

YOU: We're not :). Why?

Ok, you were really bold with that response.

JAMES: There is this thing at the Zoo a friend told me about, thought it would be a good idea for Leila to see it?

You are in shock, he really thought about your daughter when his friend mentioned a Zoo.

YOU: That’s a great idea :)

There’s a smile on your face when you hit send on your reply. The bubbles pop up again on James’ side.

JAMES: What about her mother? 🙂

Your heart does a loop. You re-read the message at least 10 times, repeating the words out loud just to make sure if you read it right. And you did.

He, kind of, asked you out.

YOU: Her mother would be happy :)

-----

The shade really did nothing to cool you off from the summer sun. You adjusted the battery powered fan to face Leila completely on the arm rest of the stroller.

Getting up from your bent position you see James approaching you with a backpack on his shoulders. He gives you that sheepish smile he gave you the first time you met. You raise your hand and wave at him, and he returns a two fingered wave.

“Hey,” he smiles at you again, before squatting and caressing Leila’s cheek with his finger. “Heya, peanut,” he smiles, and Leila giggles and grabs onto James’ finger.

“Ah, Leila. We don’t grab fingers, bubba,” you say slowly at your little girl. Leila slowly lets go of James’ finger but still smiles at him.

“She’s learning to listen,” he chuckles, adjusting the baseball cap on his head. You laugh and respond, “only because you are here, James. Otherwise, it’s a cryfest.” James laughs at your statement, nodding his head.

“Please, call me Bucky. My fri-people who know me do,” he clears his throat, and you nod smiling. “Of course, Bucky,” she smiles, and it immediately is pulled into a frown when Leila starts to whine. You’re quick to pick her up and carry her at your waist.

“She was fussy during nap time this morning, I'm sorry,” you explain, your insecurities of being not a good enough mom started to kick in.

Bucky gives a sympathetic smile and he nods along. He puts his hand on the stroller, “I can push the stroller.”

"Really?" You ask in shock, bouncing Leila in your arms. Bucky chuckles and nods, "yeah, it's not a problem for me."

"Thank you," you give a downward smile, and he smiles back.

“Shall we?” He asks with a small grin, ready to push the stroller.

You smile and nod, this man really is the nicest thing that has happened to you in a while.

💌💌💌

TAGLIST <3: @toffeacademia

Here is the part two lovelies!!!

I will be transferring this to a series, so yay!

(if you wanna be tagged in the series, pls comment here 🤗🤗)

The next thing I'm most gonna be posting is the first chapter of "Infinite Solutions"

Till' then,

Stay Coquette-y,

Anya 🫶🏽🕊️🎀

[lee-laurent]

Done Trying - Luke Hughes

Summary: In which Luke falls for a girl who always seems to be hanging around the Devils, the issue she has a toddler with one of his teammates

There will be more parts!! Next part is the backstory of John and Tori! Part after that is a continuation of this part! Hope you guys enjoy!

content: unplanned pregnancy, fluff, angst, children (is that a warning??), past relationships, self confidence and body image issues, money struggles, oc x ex!john marino (this is throughout the story, but this is a luke fic!! she ends up with luke!!)

WC: 4.8k

notes: this idea came to me the other night while i was watching tiktoks lol, but i thought it would a fun fic to write. the poll i put out showed a pretty clear leader the whole time, but if you guys are interested in me doing any of the other pairings in the poll just let me know!! before writing this i have a feeling it's gonna be a long fic so enjoy!!

Luke Hughes was walking down the street to the cafe that Jack had recommended. He still didn't know many places in Newark, seeing as it was his rookie season, but his brother had been a huge help... for the most part. Jack had told him about his coffee shop that was usually pretty quiet, so he wouldn't have to worry about fans coming up to him. And it had become his safe haven over the last two weeks.

Victoria Wilson was also walking down the street in the direction of the cafe, but she wasn't alone. Her newly turned two-year-old was toddling besides her, having refused to get in his stroller when they were leaving their apartment. "No" was his favourite word at the moment and Tori thought it might drive her crazy. She was dropping him off at his dad's in a couple hours, so she decided that grabbing him a bagel and some juice for breakfast sounded like a great way to get out of the house.

"Riley! Stop!" she screeched, watching as her son started to run down the sidewalk in the direction of a tall boy, looking at his phone. She didn't reach him in time though, the little boy wrapping his arms around the man's legs.

"What the hell?" Luke muttered, staring down at the toddler gripping his leg.

"I am so sorry! He's really big into hugging right now. We're working on learning who we shouldn't hug," Tori rambled, attempting to pull Riley off the man.

"It's fine. Really. No worries. Come on, little dude. Go back with your sister," Luke smiled, making the girl blush.

"I- I'm his mom, but I'll take that as a compliment," she smiled, finally prying Riley away and picking him up. He squirmed her arms, screaming "no" like it was mantra.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have assumed," Luke rubbed the back of his neck.

"It's all good. Let me buy you a coffee. Again, I'm so sorry. Terrible twos," she sighed, reaching into her purse for a pacifier. "Here bubba. Let's go get breakfast."

Riley finally calmed down, happily putting the pacifier in his mouth. Tori had been trying her best to ween him off his "binky" but his dad wasn't, so it wasn't really working all that well.

"You don't have to do that. He's just a kid."

"Please, I'd really like to," she smiled. Luke nodded, opening the door for the woman and her son.

Tori ordered a coffee for herself and Luke, as well as a bagel and apple juice for Riley. They sat at a small table, Riley on her lap and Luke across from her.

"I'm Tori, by the way. And this little devil is Riley."

"It's nice to meet you," Luke grinned, "I'm Luke."

"So, how long have you lived in Jersey?" she smiled, breaking off a bit of bagel for Riley. He had a habit of trying to shove things in his mouth and gagging every time. So Tori always broke his food up into little pieces.

"A month now. I, um, just moved here for my new job."

"That's exciting," she grinned, handing Riley more food.

"What about you?"

"We moved here two years ago. Riley's dad moves a lot for work and I like to be in the same city as him so they can spend time together."

Luke nodded. So she was single. He'd be lying if he said he wasn't admiring her. She was stunning. Pale skin covered in freckles, ginger hair that she'd curled into waves, and the prettiest blue eyes he'd ever seen. She giggled as Riley dropped bagel all over his shirt, attempting to wipe it away as best as a toddler could.

"You said Riley's two?"

"Yes! He just turned two in August!"

"My mom always said that's the hardest age," Luke tried his best to relate to the girl in front of him.

"Ha! She's right. He really likes saying 'no' right now. It's impossible to get him to do anything except play mini sticks."

Luke choked on his coffee, "As in hockey?"

"Oh, yeah. He, uh, we're big hockey fans in my house."

"Devils?"

"No. No offence if you're a Devils fan. But we're proud Penguins fans. Right, Riley?"

"Pen-guin," he giggled, clapping his cream cheese covered hands together.

"That's cool," he nodded, checking his phone. Jack had texted asking if he'd died on the way to get coffee. "I, um, it was really nice meeting you, but my brother's getting worried about me. I should go."

"No worries! It was lovely meeting you too. Say 'bye-bye', Riley."

"Bye-bye!"

"Bye, Riley. Um, I was wondering if I could get your number. We could do this again some time? It's totally fine if not. I just-"

"Of course, Luke. Here," she chuckled, taking his phone from him. Luke walked out of the coffee shop with a smile.

It was the first Family Skate of the season and Luke was happily yapping away with Jack and Nico, seeing as they were all single. Luke had been texting nonstop with Tori for the last two weeks, she was really busy taking care of Riley so they hadn't met up again yet. He had found out she was 24, from Pittsburgh, and had a degree in journalism. He hadn't told her what he did for a living, just saying athletics which she assumed meant personal training. He was laughing at a joke that his brother had made when a flash of red hair caught his eye.

He did a double take. Standing at the bench was Tori, holding an extremely excited looking Riley on her hip, tiny skates on his feet. They were both dressed in Devils jerseys. Tori pointed at someone on the ice and Riley clapped happily. John Marino skated over, grabbing Tori's hand to guide her onto the ice. Maybe she wasn't single like he assumed.

"What're you looking at, Rusty?" Jack knocked his shoulder.

"Huh? Nothing."

"Come on, let's go see Curtis."

Luke followed his brother, keeping an eye on John and the girl now holding his hand. It hurt a little, he really thought they were connecting. And she hadn't mentioned a boyfriend at all.

Tori had yet to notice Luke, smiling widely watching her son and his father interact. Even if she and John had broken up, they still held a mutual respect for each other, maybe even still loved one another.

"Do you like his jersey?" she asked, showing John the '6 Marino' on the back of their son's shirt.

"Wow! You look just like Daddy, bubba!"

"'Ike Dada!" Riley smiled.

"My mom got it for him for his birthday. He was really excited to show you."

"Well, I think it's awesome. Tell your mom 'thank you.'"

"Of course. I-" she stopped. Her eyes locked with a familiar pair across the ice. Luke? She furrowed her brow, handing the toddler over to his dad. "Here. Practice skating with him. I, uh, need to talk to someone."

"Oh, sure! Everything alright?"

"Yeah, yeah. Just fine," she mustered a smile as he pressed a kiss to her temple, skating off with Riley.

"Luke?" she approached him, a confused look on her face. Jack and Nico looked at each other before skating off to see John and Riley.

"Hi, Tori. I, uh, I didn't expect to see you here."

"Yeah. Me neither. You play for the Devils?"

"Um... yeah? It's my rookie season. I just- I didn't want you to like only want to talk to me cause I play in the NHL."

"I gave you those vibes?" she sassed, crossing her arms over her chest.

"No, no. That's not- You don't. I, uh, what're you doing here? I thought you were... single."

"I am. I would've stopped talking to you if I wasn't. Riley's dad also plays for the Devils."

Then it all fell into place for Luke. Moving from Pittsburgh, being Penguins fans, Riley's dad moving around for work, her being here.

"Johnny?"

"Yes. John invited us. I thought it would be fun for Riley."

"I'm sorry. I- I should've told you. Are- is this too weird now?"

"'This?' There isn't really a 'this' yet, Luke. We just met and I have a kid. But if you're asking if I'm going to stop talking to you. Then no. This isn't weird for me."

"Do you- d'you think John will be upset?"

"John? No. He just wants whatever is best for Riley. We broke up over a year ago."

"I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to pry. I-"

"Luke, it's fine. It was nice seeing you, but I should get back to my family."

"Right. See ya, Tori," Luke smiled, ignoring the pain in his chest at her words. John was her family. How was he supposed to beat that?

"You know Luke?" John asked as his ex-girlfriend skated up next to him.

"You remember that guy I met that Riley hugged?"

"The one from the coffee shop? Yeah, you said- oh my god! Was it Luke?"

"Yep," she popped the 'p' at the end of the word, "He didn't tell me he played hockey."

"Are you gonna cut things off?"

"There isn't really a 'thing' to cut off. We just text."

"Right. Well, don't let it stress you out."

"I won't. Don't worry. Anyway, how's Riley doing at skating?"

"Like a newborn deer. But he loves it, so..."

"Are you gonna be just like Dada?" she cooed, kissing her son's chubby cheek.

"'Ike Dada!"

"Yes! Just like Dada!"

Riley joined John in the locker room after, seeing as he was spending the night at his instead of going home with his mom. He sat in John's stall, kicking his feet back and forth. John had changed him into some tennis shoes instead of his skates.

"Hey, Riley!" Nico smiled, raising his hand over a high five.

"Cap!"

"Yes sir! That's gonna be you some day, huh?"

"Cap!"

Nico ruffled the boy's dark curls, walking back over to his stall. Jack also came over to see the little boy, but turned his attention to John after.

"Did ya know that Tori and Luke know each other?" he frowned.

"Huh? No, Tori told me today. Why?"

"Luke had been talking about this girl he met a couple weeks ago, had no idea it was Tori. I would've told him to back off."

"Back off? Tori and I aren't getting back together. That ship has long sailed."

"Really? I thought you still... loved her?"

"Of course I do. She's the mother of my child and for that I'll always love her. But she's made it very clear that we didn't work as more than friends. If she wants to see other people, I'm not going to stop her."

"Even if it's your own teammate?"

"Luke is the only guy on this team I'd let date my ex. Trust me."

"Damn. Maybe I was gonna shoot my shot."

"She'd reject you before you could even say hi," John smirked.

"Hungy! Hungy!" Riley chanted, pulling at John's sleeve.

"Okay, bud. One second, Jack," John reached into his backpack, pulling out a pouch and opening it for Riley. "There you go, bud. Eat slowly."

"O-tay."

"Anyway, Tori wouldn't be interested in you. She only likes guys with curly hair."

"Really?"

"Yes, really. We were together for four years. I know what her type is," he rolled his eyes. "Are we done here? I'd like to take my baby home."

Jack nodded, sulking back over to his stall.

"So... how're things with that Luke boy going?" Tori's best friend, Allison, asked. The two girls were sat on the sofa, an almost empty bottle of red wine in front of them, some horrible reality tv show on in the background.

"About that..."

"Oh no! Did he end up being a dick?"

"No, no. Nothing like that. He, um, he's teammates with John."

"He's what?! You're kidding me!"

"Nope. Saw him at family skate today."

"I thought you said he was an athletic trainer."

"He told me he did athletics. I just assumed he did like training for something. But nope, he's a rookie for the Devils."

"That's insane! Are you cutting him off? I thought you'd sworn off hockey players."

"I-"

"Victoria Jane Wilson! Do NOT tell me you're thinking about getting with this guy!"

"I... I'm not sure. He's really cute, Ally. Like the cutest guy I've seen in a while."

"Cuter than John?"

"Not sure anyone is cuter than John. My son is his carbon copy and he's the cutest ever."

"Speaking of Riley, do you think this Luke kid is ready to deal with a child in addition to you? He's how old? 20?"

"I know... I love Riley, but he's definitely made my dating pool smaller."

"Well, you'll have no way of knowing until you ask him on a date."

"You were just saying no more hockey boys! Make up your mind, Ally!"

"I know... but you haven't been on a date in like what..."

"Seven months."

"Seven months?! Text him right now!"

"Right now?"

"Right now!"

Maybe it was the copious amounts of wine that she'd consumed or the fact that she hadn't been on a date in seven months, but she reached for her phone and typed out a message.

I was wondering if you'd like to go on a proper date some time? Without any children with us

"Done!"

"Yay!!! This calls for more wine!"

The girls clinked their glasses together, giggling as they drank more.

Hey, Tori. I'd love that! Is Riley with John tomorrow? I'm free after 5.

"Oh my God! He said yes!!!"

"I knew he would, girl! You're stunning."

"I-"

"Don't give me that shit about your 'Mummy Tummy.' You carried a baby for 9 months of course you aren't going to look exactly the same as you did before. But trust me, you look fucking stunning. Now text him back!"

Ally was over for the second night in a row, except this time it wasn't girls' night. She was helping Tori get ready for her first date in almost a year.

"You have to wear something lowcut! Show off the goods," Ally smiled, pretending to squeeze some boobs in the air.

"They're not that impressive," Tori rolled her eyes, flicking through her shirts.

"Girl! Be confident! If I had tits like yours, I'd walk around in nothing but a bra!"

"Ally! Don't be crass!"

"What? Just telling the truth! We both know that Riley exists cause John loved your curves a little too much."

"Allison!" Tori gasped, although it was a tad bit dirty, she couldn't help but giggle. She pulled a white, flowy tank top out of her closet, holding it up to her body. "Thoughts?"

"That's the one! You'll look irresistible. Now! Let me do your makeup!" Ally clapped.

Tori did a once over in the mirror, smiling brightly. She wasn't usually very confident in her body, and that only got worse after having Riley. A ring filled the apartment as someone pressed her buzzer in the lobby. She pressed on the intercom button, "Come up!"

"I'll be here the whole time. Call if you need rescuing and I want all the details when you get back!" Ally smiled, plopping down on Tori's bed.

Luke rasied his fist, knocking on the wooden door. Tori wiped her hands on her jeans one last time, opening the door to reveal the boy. He was wearing a polo shirt that showed off his arms in the best way and a pair of khaki pants. It looked like he had attempted to tame his curls, but they just looked like they always did but wet.

"Wow, you... you look so pretty, Tori," he stuttered.

"Thank you. You also look really cute," she blushed. "Let me just grab my purse and then we can go. Come in."

Luke entered the apartment, taking in the decor. There was a small table in the corner covered in art supplies and a basket of toys next to it. On the sofa was a stuffed Winnie the Pooh and lots of plastic farm animals. Hanging on the wall was a colourful scribble with Riley's name printed at the bottom. It was clear to him that Riley was the most important thing in her life.

"Sorry, it's a bit messy. I usually clean when he's at John's, but I was... kinda nervous about tonight and forgot."

"You've got no reason to be nervous. I promise," Luke smiled.

God, his smile was cute. It was crooked, almost like a smirk and she wanted to see it every second of every day for the rest of her life.

"Shall we?"

"We shall."

The walk to the restaurant was full of jokes and laughs. Conversation between the two flowed so easily.

"You're joking! There's no way!"

"I'm not! He ripped Quinn's braces out!"

"That's insane!"

"Do you have any siblings?"

"No, no, I don't. Only child."

"How's that?"

"It was a bit lonely when I was a kid. But now I've got Riley so it's impossible to feel lonely."

They sat at a table, deciding to share a very large plate of seafood pasta.

"This is kind of a personal question, so you don't have to answer. But did you always want to be a mom?"

"That's not too personal, in my opinion. But yeah. When I found out I was pregnant though, I was really unsure. I was 22 and wanted to do so much more in my life first. But I can do most of those things even with Riley. And if I can't, John is there to watch him for me."

"That's a good way of looking at things. I, uh, I've never dated anyone with a kid."

Tori giggled, "I'm not surprised, Luke. But I'm not asking you to stay around if you don't want to."

They quickly moved on from talking about Riley, talking about their childhoods, favourite movies, and favourite foods.

"Secretariat? The horse movie?" she laughed.

"Don't laugh! It's a good movie!"

"I've never seen it."

"Well, I know what our next date is going to be," Luke's eyes widened as his brain caught up with his mouth, "If- If you want to go on another date. I, uh, I get if you don't want to. No pressure."

"Luke, I'd love to watch Secretariat with you," she smiled, reaching across the table to hold his hand. She ran her thumb over his knuckles, giving him a reassuring smile.

"I, uh, I'm free tomorrow. If that's not too soon."

"That should work. I just have to pick up Riley at 5, so it'll have to be in the afternoon."

"I'll make sure I'm up then."

"It's okay. I also sleep in on days Riley is with John."

Luke walked Tori up to her apartment, not wanting their night to end. They stood awkwardly in the doorway, looking at each other.

"I had a really good night," she smiled, looking down at her shoes.

"M- Me too. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Mhm."

"Can... Can I kiss you?"

"I don't normally kiss on the first date," she smirked.

"Oh, I'm so sorry."

"I'll make an exception for you."

Tori pushed herself up on her tip-toes, leaning in until their noses brushed. She let Luke take the final step, softly pressing their lips together. His were a bit chapped, but she didn't mind. Maybe her lip balm would rub off and help him out. They smiled, breaking the kiss.

"See you tomorrow," she waved goodbye, closing the door as he walked down the hall to the elevator.

"How was it?!" Ally screeched. Tori jumped, holding her hand to her chest.

"Holy shit! I forgot you were here!"

"Okay? How was it?!"

"So good! He's coming over tomorrow. Oh Lord, I have to clean!"

"He's coming over?! You're getting laid?!"

"No, God. Ally, it's our second date. I'm not sleeping with him."

"Why not?! When was the last time you had sex?"

"Um..."

"When did you and John sleep together?"

"Two months ago."

"I still can't believe you did that."

"He looked really hot playing with Riley. And we both hadn't slept with anyone in months. It was just... a mutual release."

Ally shook her head, "Whatever. Two months. You need some dick. And not your ex's."

"Why not? John's-"

"I don't want to hear about John's dick, Victoria."

"Your favourite person ever wouldn't exist without it," she shrugged.

"Riley's the only good thing that came from John. Anywho..."

"We're not sleeping together tomorrow. We're watching his favourite movie."

"Aww! That's so sweet! Look at you!! Finally moving on from Johnny Boy."

"I've been moved on for a while. I'm not sure the same can be said for him."

"He'll figure it out when he sees how happy you are with Luke!"

Tori giggled, "Time to clean up."

"I'll help... if we open a bottle of wine."

"Deal."

Tori was so nervous that she'd refolded the blanket on the back of the sofa at least six times now. She didn't really have company over except Ally and John. She wanted her apartment to look the best it ever had. All of Riley's toys were back in his toy bin and his room, she'd even cleaned the kitchen counter in case Luke went in there for something.

The intercom buzzed and Luke's voice broke through, "It's Luke. Hughes. Luke Hughes. Except I don't think you're expecting another Luke. But, I'm here."

Tori laughed, pressing the button to let him up. Less than a minute later there was a knock at her door. She took a deep breath, swining it open and smiling widely. Luke was in a Devils hoodie and some track pants. Luckily, she was dressed similarly.

"Welcome! I set up the living room for us."

"Perfect," Luke entered, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. Tori sat on the sofa, Luke boldly sitting right next to her. Their thighs were touching and he had his arm stretched over the back of the leather sofa.

She couldn't help but admire his thighs. That was one thing she loved about hockey boys. Their thighs. It was probably her favourite feature when looking for a guy.

She clicked on Disney+, the app immediately playing Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

"Shit, sorry. Guess that's the last thing we were watching on here."

Luke just laughed, scooting closer to her (if that was possible). She relaxed, cuddling into his side. The movie started and Luke smiled down at her, pressing a kiss to her nose. She blushed, leaning up and connecting their lips in an actual kiss.

"No more kissing. You're going to distract me from the movie," Tori sassed, playfully pushing his face as he went in for another one.

"Fine," he pouted, turning his attention to the movie.

By the time the movie had ended, Tori was practically wrapped around Luke. A loud yawn escaped her.

"Was it that boring? That's my favourite movie we're talking about, Victoria," he feigned anger.

"It was sad. But I liked it. I need a nap though."

"Oh, I can go."

"No, come on. Your comfy," she grabbed his hand, leading him to her bedroom. Luke lay down next to her, allowing her to cuddle into his side, an arm thrown over his chest. She fell asleep almost immediately. He wasn't surprised though. He understood that Riley had been having a sleep regression and it was exhausting for John and Tori. He turned to look at the picture on her bedside table. It was her, Riley, and John at a beach. It looked recent, like it had just been taken over the off season. Tori was holding on of Riley's hands and John was holding the other. They looked like a happy, functional family. And it made Luke's brain run a mile a minute. How come her relationship with John hadn't worked out? Maybe she didn't commitment. Maybe she didn't want something serious. Maybe- A snore cut off his thoughts and he looked down at the sleeping figure in his arms. Why was he worried? She seemed happy. He just needed to not overthink it. Easier said than done.

Luke woke her up at 4:30, shaking her shoulder slightly. She slowly sat up, patting down her messy hair.

"What's up?" she mumbled.

"It's 4:30. I should probably go before John and Riley get here. I don't want to confuse anyone."

"Oh... okay. I, uh, sorry I fell asleep. I haven't had a full night of sleep in what feels like ages."

"You're fine, Tori. You coming to the game on Tuesday?"

"Yeah. I try to bring Riley to most home games. We just never stay long. He gets restless."

"See you then," he kissed her one last time.

"Mama!" Riley ran into Tori's arms.

"Hi, baby! Did you have fun at Dada's?"

"Yes! We 'ockey!"

"You played hockey! That's so fun! Let's get you some dinner!"

"Hungy!"

Tori smiled, standing up to talk to John.

"How was he?"

"You weren't kidding about the sleep. Couldn't get him down until 11 last night. And he was up at 3 and 5."

"Yeah, it's Hell. Did he stay in his cot?"

"Last night he slept in my bed. Night before he slept in his cot until 4."

"Did you use a pacifier?"

"I'm working on not. I know you said you want him to give it up. He used it last night because I could not calm him."

"That's fine. We're coming to the game Tuesday. Can't promise we'll stay after the first period though."

"All good. You wanna stay for dinner?"

"Nah, I'm going to Jack's. See you at the game."

"See you at the game."

John pressed a kiss to her hair, "Come say goodbye to Dada, Riley!"

"Buh-bye, Dada! 'Uv 'oo!"

"I love you too!"

Once the door was closed and locked for the night, Tori put Riley in his booster seat.

"How about mac and cheese?"

"Eese!"

"Let's do it! We're going to go see Dada play hockey in two days! Are you excited?"

"I 'uv 'ockey!"

"I know you do, baby! Mac and cheese time!"

Tori was exhausted Tuesday night as she entered the arena. Riley hadn't slept the last time night for more than 4 hours and was throwing tantrums all day because he was tired. He cried and cried for his dad. Tori eventually had to call John and have him come calm down Riley while she showered. She was on the brink of crying all day Tuesday and the stress of being at the game wasn't helping. But she'd promised John that Riley would be there at least for a little bit. She was chasing him around the family suite, trying to tire the little boy out. He'd started playing with some of the other kids and she finally had a moment to herself.

"Girl, you need a vacation," Reanne sighed, rubbing her friend's back.

"You're telling me. He's been so poorly behaved recently. I just... I'm considering have John move in until he gets over his sleep regression."

"Really?" Nicole gasped, "Are you sure?"

"I'm not sure what my other options are. Call my mom to come. But she hates flying. I'd ask John's parents, but they don't love me since the break up."

"Luke?"

"We've been on two dates! And he's a rookie. He needs his sleep."

"A nanny?"

"I have no money, girl. Child support is a saving grace at the moment."

"I'm sure John would-"

"I'm not asking my ex for money."

"Are you still working for that online newspaper?"

"Yeah, but the pay isn't the best ever. It works for us, but I can't afford a nanny."

"Well, if you need moral support when you talk to John about it, we're all here," one of the other wives smiled kindly.

After the game, John came over for a bit. Tori had texted him and asked for him to come so they could talk. So, now they were tensely sitting at the kitchen table.

"What's up, Tori?"

"I- I need to ask you something."

"Shoot."

"I, um, I need you to move back in for a bit. This... this isn't me asking to get back together. Please don't take it that way. I- I'm seeing Luke now. But Riley has been a lot to handle on my own right now. And I really need help."

"I- I could pay for a nanny. Or-"

"John. I'm asking you as his father not as my ex-boyfriend."

"Right. Um, yeah. I can do that. For how long?"

"Until he's over this sleep regression. We need to tag team it right now. It's too much for one person."

"Let me go to my place and grab some stuff. I'll be back in an hour. Can you set up the sofa for me?"

"Why? You can sleep in my room. It's closer to Riley's."

"Because we're not together?"

"John, I'm not uncomfortable if you aren't. Your the father of my child. It's not weird for me."

"Then it's fine with me. See you in an hour."

God, she hoped this didn't backfire.

[the-kr8tor]

Hiii! I just wanted to request a Baby's breath and ⭐/❣️ for Simon Ghost Riley for the apothecary. Ghost and the reader could be going on a family trip with their baby to the zoo or aquarium. I'd like to kind of see him stuggle with his past, and wonder why his father couldn't enjoy his time with his kids like he does. I'd also like to see him go to the reader for comfort too.

A Simon req!! Thank you so much for requesting! Hope you like it ❤️❤️❤️

Pairing: Simon 'Ghost' Riley x fem! reader

Word count: 1.3 k

Tags: No use of Y/N, no specific physical description of the reader, dad! Simon, mom! Reader, fluff, hurt/comfort, cw abuse mention, cw panic attack.

Katy's one year celebration 🎉

Perks of wearing a mask at work means that no one recognises you once you're out of it. Another pro, is that no one will bother you at the yearly family day that Price shamelessly told his lieutenant that it's mandatory for the entire 141 to join. Even though Simon knows it technically isn't, he still decided to bring you and his little ones to the zoo just because, A. The entrance is free, and B. He gets to spend time with you, little Tommy and baby Ellie, which is rare these days. A win/win for Simon, as long as nobody recognises him and decides to chat him up while his kids are clinging onto him like peanut butter on bread.

The entire zoo's speakers are blaring with random animal noises that irks Simon. Cows mooing, monkeys screeching, dolphin noises and snakes hissing; he has no idea why a zoo would even play animal noises when the animals themselves are particularly screaming in his ears. The sun is blasting on him, making the back of his neck sweat, and his kids irritable. Baby Ellie gurgles on her stroller, shielded by the folding canopy (and her towering dad) with a portable fan clipped on the handle. She's comfortable and happy enough just staring at the colourful parrots flying around. While Tommy is clutched behind his leg, afraid of the pointed beaks, and sharp claws. He jumps when a bird suddenly flaps its wings too close to him. Even with all the sounds and his kid grappled around him, he truly enjoys their company. He smiles down at Tommy, fingers brushing along the boy's soft curls.

His mind wanders back to his childhood, that his own father never showed the same enjoyment when he's out with his family, enjoying his time more with a bottle of amber liquid in between his crooked fingers instead of spending time with them without a metal hanger in his hand.

Simon pats Tommy atop his head, cowering and hiding his face on Simon's denim. “'s alright, just a bird.”

“I know dad, but they're so scary when they fly. I want mum.” He mumbles back, Simon can feel the tears coming as his son's fingers dig into the denim of his pants.

“Mum’s comin’,” he hears sniffles, and he thinks he's not doing a good job at this. “She's gettin' your drink remember?”

Tommy looks up, big brown eyes filled with tears. “I don't like the birds, dad.”

“Okay, let's move along then. Want to look at the giraffes again?”

Tommy sniffles again, pouting but nodding a quick yes. “Carry?”

Simon sighs with a brief smile, eyes crinkling at the corners, surrendering to the whims of his five year old. “Right, arms up, Tommy.” With one swift move, his son is wrapped around his arm while his free hand pushes the stroller away from the bird enclosure. Wheels squeak, and Ellie is out of the trance signaled by her piercing shriek. “Damnit,” Simon whispers, going around the stroller, he takes his crying daughter in his other arm like a professional. “You're okay, El, what's wrong?” Ellie continues to cry, mouth wobbling, eyes that are similar to yours look at him through tears with her fists wrapped around her dad's shirt.

“Dad, the birds!” Tommy hides behind the crook of his dad's neck, crying in tandem with his sister when he realizes that they haven't gone that far from the scary birds.

“Tommy, they're just birds.” His son wails from his accidental cold words, and in turn, making Ellie sob louder. People stare at him, stopping to give him the stink eye, some even stop to stare at where the ruckus is coming from. It's like he can hear their thoughts, ‘look at that dad who can't handle his own kids.’ or ‘What is that big brute doing to his kids?’ He doesn't care what they think of him, but he doesn't want them to think that they're crying because he hurt them. He'd never do that, he'd never be like him.

All the noises, the heat, the pointed stares, and how Simon's heart pounds at every cry of his children, children that he can't even calm down without your help. It all makes his breathing stagger, muscles tightening, and his palms clammy and tingling. Symptoms that he's awfully too familiar with.

He thinks after having two children he'd be good at this, not great or even amazing, just okay, average at raising his kids so they'd grow up normally and well adjusted. Is he even built for this? Is he capable of loving without leaving teeth marks? Without turning out like his father? Or is he ruining everything?

“Lieutenant, is that you?” A sudden voice calls out, a head of dark hair and bushy beard pops out from his peripheral. Great, someone that recognises him without the mask. Just what he needs.

“No.” Simon answers gruffly above the cries while he uselessly bounce his wailing kids in his arms.

“Nah, I know that's you! I can never forget those terrifying eyes of yours.” The sergeant bounds up to him, he remembers him from the last three missions the man was a part of. Simon regrets lending him his lighter once, now that he's all friendly to him. “That your kids? They're adorable.”

“Sergeant.” No, I stole them, Simon wanted to quip back. The man clearly cannot read the room while his babies are bawling their eyes out. He suddenly wants to punch something. Or just walk away, huffing and puffing. “A bit busy here—”

“They look a lot like you! I never thought you had a face under that skull mask.” If looks could kill, Simon has committed murder in the middle of the zoo. In front of the bird enclosure for that matter. “‘The Ghost’ being a dad,” the sergeant shakes his head in bewilderment. “Sounds weird,” he backtracks quickly, “a g-good kind of weird though.”

Simon's seething, his blood rushing in his ears as everything overwhelms him. From how Tommy's overalls scratches on his side, from how the sweat flows down on his back, snaking along his spine. And the noise, people chatting endlessly, birds squawking, the fucking speakers blaring— he swallows thickly, jaw tightening, eyes darting along the crowd, alert, and pupils blown out. Then, a hand reaches out to his bicep, warm, soft and comfortably familiar over his searing skin. His heartbeat slows down at the mere sight of you.

“Hi,” you smile, eyes roaming around his ‘deer in the headlights’ look. Squeezing once, twice and thrice for good measure, you quickly place the plastic bag full of cold drinks on the stroller. Without missing a beat, you take Tommy in your arms, easing his cries almost immediately. “You must be sergeant Willems, it's nice to meet you but can we take a raincheck on the pleasantries? A bit busy here.” Smiling sweetly, Simon's subordinate nods, giving you and Simon a curt nod and then scampering away.

Simon gazes upon you with softness in his brown eyes, saccharine affection as he slides next to you closer. Hip to hip, he tries hard not to melt into you. Even if you glance at him with the same tenderness.

“Mummy,” Ellie murmurs, tear stained cheeks greeting you. You pat her back as she lays her head down on her father's chest. Lips still frowning, and nose scrunched, she looks like Simon during Tommy's birth. Her cries subsides, a tiny fist wrapped around your finger.

“I'm here, baby.” You coo, fixing your hold on Tommy while you flick your eyes towards Simon, meeting with his own. “I'm right here, Si.” You seem to always know what's going on inside his head, knuckles brushing along his cheek, you wipe away a bead of sweat. He wants to lean into your touch, if not for the numerous eyes roaming around.

He inhales shakily, a restart button for his breathing. Muscles relaxing, forehead pressed on your own briefly and palm spread across the small of your back, he lets his ugly emotions fly away with the wind as you chastely peck his jaw.

“You're good, Simon.”

[masterdetectivexx]

Hi mtx hope you are doing well

what are your thoughts on last case? who do you think that old woman and who she is focus on is it amuro or conan? and what abt the baby is it possible for him to be KARASUMA ?!!

File 1126-1128 Review

I think this latest case was very refreshing, similar to the Butler shinkansen case, where we revisited classic DC mystery themes and settings that aren't often used. You immediately get a classic kidnapping case with the added trait of a seemingly gory and highstake threat from the start through the reveal of a head in a jar (File 1126).

The twist that the gory atmosphere was ultimately a fakeout is such a callback to the very old Ayumi kidnapping case (File 83), where the head she was stuck with was a prop as well. It was also a neat trick on how to create the illusion of a 3D head out of a 2D paper.

The trick of opening a lock with a mini-explosion using matchsticks (File 1128) was also quite genius and I hadn’t thought of such a way to actually work (as expected of Gosho).

Another revisited theme was Masumi and her protective and watchful gazes against anyone with potentially ill intent towards Conan, which I always love to see more of. Her noticing Amuro's nosiness towards Conan (File 1126) took me immediately back to Yusaku cold case in Bourbon arc (File 814), where she started glaring the same way towards Subaru after he alluded to figuring out Conan's true identity discreetly.

As for whether her eventually revealing to Conan, that Amuro is investigating him (File 1128), is gonna lead to any actions from Conan's side is all up in the air. Since Conan already views Amuro as an ally, he most likely wouldn't be too concerned of it, since unlike his Bourbon worries in File 1009 (after his recent Kudo Shinichi publicity) he has no reason to suspect the BO is onto Edogawa Conan.

One thing I somewhat got right was something I speculated in regards to one of the suspects that Ran and Sonoko found so familiar. I had speculated that Kanamaru was an employee who has worked in Poirot since before Amuro & Masumi intro, based on the clues that were given in File 1127 (Knowledge on behind-the-counter, familarity, etc).

I was convinced, but mainly hopeful, that we were finally getting the reveal of the mysterious never-appearing owner of Café Poirot. It seems however unfortunately that, while the line of thought was correct, it was rather a former employee who covered for the owner when he was hospitalized in the past (File 1128).

It was however cool to learn that Kanamaru had previously appeared as a background Poirot employee in the anime, making his general design and official manga debut pretty cohesive in the DC franchise.

Now... as for the important question of yours, who is the old lady that looked unique in how she appeared as a witness with a mysterious toddler in a stroller and who also appeared once again at the very end...?

She is none other than: Karasuma Renya's mother pushing her shrunken Boss son in a stroller!!!

Jokes aside, she did pretty much catch every other fan's attention the moment she appeared and it was a running joke that the boss has finally made his appearance xD

As for what I really think, I'm not really entertaining the idea that the Boss would have first of all shrunken into a younger age than our main protagonist (a 7-year-old), since it would lose any air of suspending disbelief and start becoming more comical than serious (especially since a toddler boss would be too vulnerable as a threat). The old lady also looked quite generic for a character design, which of course doesn't need to mean she isn't important, but it does ultimately lessen the chance that she is a major player in the story. What I however entertained was the possibility that she could be another named, but unrevealed, old woman character in the story, who has the best timing to appear in this stage of the ongoing plot. I'm talking about Haneda Kohji's mother, Haneda Ichiyo.

Considering that Gosho is very likely already setting up the introduction of Haneda Yasuharu (Kohji's named father in the marriage registration in File 947) through the mystery of Vader (respirator elder), it couldn’t be more fitting to have the also-named wife being setup to get introduced in such a discreet way that once she eventually appears in association with Vader (assuming it's Haneda Yasuharu), it will leave a bigger and better impression on the reader than a simple worthless appearance of a new character.

As for her motives for appearing around Poirot Café, it could be that similar to Vader, who this old lady is actually being watchful of is neither Conan nor Amuro, but rather Sera Masumi. Vader has had his eyes on Masumi and Mary (which again fits with him being Yasuharu) and seemingly realized that Akai Mary has become a middle-schooler (File 1096), so in a similar fashion, this could be Gosho sprinkling in some hidden continuation of that plot thread, but with the twist being that Ichiyo (Kohji's mother) is trying to confirm her husband's (Vader/Yasuharu) crazy findings by borrowing one of her housemaids' baby as a part of her cover as a passerby, rather than glamorously appearing in a vintage/expensive car that shows her status of being from the powerful Haneda family.

The ending of the chapter had a sidenote mentioning that many premonitions were swirling around Café Poirot, which is ultimately enough that it is referring to what Masumi brought up about Conan being investigated by Amuro, but it could also indeed covertly be including the looming old lady literally outside the Café hearing the rom-com commotion inside. What is however the most exciting is that the awaited Osaka Heizuha likely-confession case in Naniwa has been teased even in the to-be-continued note to be the next big 5-chapter case coming in Aug 7. I can't wait to finally see more development of not only the main characters of this stage (Heiji & Kazuha) but also Rum arc's new stars of this subplot that have thoroughly been a joy to follow (Momiji and Muga).

[buriedinthestars-blog]

what are your thoughts on little nifty and alastor? If you’re not a fan, I get it I personally don’t like alastor that much. But if you are, I’d love to hear still!

i’m not a big fan of alastor overall either, but i love his bond with niffty!! here’s some headcannons i have, actually.

Little!Niffty & Caregiver!Alastor Headcannons!

📻 Actually knew/picked up on Niffty’s regression way before she even knew. (Along with Husk.) Promised himself to be there for her whenever it became to much.

🩸 Puts anything and EVERYTHING in her mouth, constantly leaving Alastor to rip pieces of plastic or utensils in her mouth.

📻 Is the best (well, besides Husk,) at dealing with Niffty’s fits. He’s very calm and gentle with her, while Angel and Charlie tend to get more frazzled. (Even baby Niffty can be scary.)

🩸 Likes to go shopping and sit in the baby seat. Stares and grabs at toys she wants while whining to Alastor. It usually works.

📻 Niffty will try to hold off on using her diapers or lie about needing them to not bother Alastor. Though it’s pretty easy to pick up on, and he does his best to help her relax and truly regress.

🩸 Will rest in a stroller as Alastor walks around Cannibal Town, no one really minds or questions it anyway. (May write a fic about this! Will link it here and reblog this if i do!)

📻 Overall, he would do anything for her, loves giving her kisses, hugs, and tickles.

Hope these are okay! May start working on that fic now! Hahaha.

Feel free to send in more, babies!

[callmewrinkles3]

Disney

August 2019

Even if Dan said so himself, this was the best birthday he could have put together for Emmy. His original plan was Disney first, then Vegas, but Michelle and Adam couldn’t get the time off work so they had to get swapped around. Seeing family for her birthday was a good one though.

He’d woken her up with his head between her legs, delighting in the way that she mewled and begged him to keep going before cumming, pulling him for a blistering kiss when she was done. It set the day of fun, her laptop firmly ignored. She’d been working away at night after he went asleep, she deserved to relax on her holiday too.

Isaac had been attached to her the whole time, the pair in matching Mickey ears as Em pointed out all the different characters and rides. She brought him on the Dumbo elephant one and they waved down to the assembled crowd looking at them.

“She’s good with kids.” It was his dad who said it first, watching as she sang the “It’s A Small World” song to Isaac waiting in the queue to get on the ride. He was bouncing on her hip, chattering at her as Em took it all in and treated him like a small adult rather than a child. “Have you talked ab-“

“My life doesn’t exactly make it a good idea, Dad.” He needed to shut that conversation down in its tracks. Blake had half joked that they better not come home married. He’d been all set to propose to Em in Vegas, find a chapel and get married. Until they ran into Charles and he knew he couldn’t do that to Em. Not the media bullshit and the fans and the chaos.

“Just think. Cause it’s clear how much you love each other.” Another thing he hadn’t had the guts to admit to her yet.

But she was radiant, wandering around the park either carrying Isaac or holding his hand. Dan was at her side most of the time with his hand at her lower back. They stood there as everyone else went on the teacups and she leaned into him.

“Thank you.”

“For what?”

“For a really, really good birthday. I’m lucky.”

It wasn’t over. They had a birthday lunch with everyone in the River Belle Terrace, joking and laughing as they ate while they watched the riverboat drift past. After that it was Galaxy’s Edge, Dan taking photos of Em before they went on the rides. He watched her look longingly at a droid and a lightsaber as they passed before convincing her to go back in. She built her droid as Dan watched, laughing as she picked her parts. The lightsaber shop was harder for him to convince her to go into, but once she was in he paid for her to make one. Em’s face when the Kyber crystal lit purple made it entirely worth it.

Isaac waved her off into each store but grabbed back onto her quickly, holding on tightly as he got tired. Michelle and Adam tried to put him in his stroller but he refused, Em bouncing him lightly and holding on. Dan could see how tired she was but she held on no matter what.

Finally it was time for dinner, going to one of the restaurants. This was what he was waiting for, the dinner and show and fireworks. They were crowded around the table as Isaac babbled about what he’d done and everyone else chatted. Em’s strawberry cheesecake came out with a candle on the top, Dan smiling at her blush and the way her nose wrinkled as she grinned and Happy Birthday was sung around the table.

“Mr Ricciardo, the Fantasmic show is about to begin.” One of the Disney cast members came over to direct them, Dan leaving a tip on the table and giving a tip to the cast member as she showed them to their private viewing area.

“Dan what-“

“It’s your birthday. Happy birthday, Emmy.” He wanted to kiss her. He wanted to lean in and kiss her and let the world know that for over a year she’d owned his heart. But he couldn’t. He couldn’t make her have to deal with even more media and crap going on, he knew the way people spoke about her as friends. As his girlfriend? Not unless he could protect her.

The show began, songs and characters on the stage as they watched. Isaac climbed onto Em, Adam trying to get his son back but Em waved him away.

“Love you Auntie Emmy.” He could barely hear Isaac but felt Em stiffen as he curled against her half asleep.

“Love you too, Baby. Love you too.” Dan watched as she tried not to cry, cuddling him tightly. Dan put his arm around her and scooched his chair across to hold her a little tighter.

She hadn’t told him much about her family. He knew Michael had been there a couple of weeks before and had nothing nice to say about them. But he wanted to make sure she knew how wanted she was.

They watched the fireworks after, Isaac carefully back in his stroller. It was the first time Dan held her hand around people and he took a joy in it. She was staring at the sky with pure joy on her face as it lit up with the reflection. She was beautiful.

They got through the parks and went through the private entrance back to the hotel, everyone saying goodnight. Dan said he was taking Em for a birthday drink before they went up to their respective rooms. Everyone hugged them goodbye before leaving Dans and Em to sit in the hotel bar, a glass of wine in front of each of them.

“You didn’t have to do that, Dan. You didn’t.”

“Did you enjoy your day?” She lit up again, a wide smile on her face.

“It was amazing. Every minute of it. I’ve never been to Disney before.”

“We should try go to Paris some time. That could be fun, head out there?”

“Yeah.” She drained her glass and stood, pulling her purse out before he stopped her.

“Stop Emmy, I’ve got this. Come back to my room?”

“I’ve got-“

“It’s your birthday, you can take the night off. Cmon. There’s still a couple of hours of your birthday, let me treat you properly.”

“If you insist.”

He took her hand and brought her upstairs, pulling Em into a kiss the second they reached his room. His girl had a good birthday, he wanted to make sure the entire day was perfect for her.

[deliciouskeys]

Am I the asshole socially inept one here?

I have a friend. We’ve been friends since 2005, and have lived in the same city the entire time. We went to grad school together and worked in the same lab for 5-6 years. I wouldn’t necessarily call her a very close friend, but she does know me well, we’ve been trauma bonded, and truth be told I don’t really have anyone much closer at this point in my life who’s not family.

Friend has a 2 year old and a newborn. She still wants to hang out sometimes, but lately it’s been outings where I tag along with her to some children’s venue. I’ve gone to Legoland. I’ve gone to the aquarium. I’ve had to really help out on these trips too. I’ve carried this child or pushed the stroller while she’s carrying the child. We get some conversation in but frankly not that much. I’m also not a huge fan of paying admission to places I’m not actually enjoying. If she asked me to come along as a favor (like a friend would ask with help moving) I would actually do it in a heartbeat. But I’m kind of annoyed that it’s phrased more or less as “are you interested in…?” No one would ask this way if it was a task they were asking for help with.

I don’t have kids of my own. I don’t want to grow distant from every single friend who has kids. What’s the most tactful way to answer a text like this?

It was easier when this kid was tiny and we’d just go on walks and talk, but as the kid gets older she (rightfully) wants more attention.

I don’t want to say outright that I don’t enjoy spending my time this way, but I’ll do it if she really needs the help. That sounds cold. But maybe honesty is best after all?

[captain-krazy]

The before and after of my Monica Geller hoarder room....

If anyone was following my 'cleaning out my Monica Geller horder room' journey from earlier this year I did actually finish the room at the end of June. Everything has since been taken to the dump or donated. I've been meaning to post this for a while and just kept forgetting to.

Not gonna lie, I'm a little embarrassed to post this, but I'm gonna do it anyway 😬😬😬. Maybe it'll keep me from letting it get that bad again...

Before:

This picture is about 2 years old, I forgot to take a recent 'before' pic and found this one in my gallery. I had worked in there a couple times since taking it so it wasn't actually that bad when I started on it this time, but it was still bad!

After:

The stuff on the left is what's staying and the stuff on the right is more of what's being donated (except the backpack on the doorknob, that's staying).

~~

The majority of what's being donated (minus the stepper that you can only see the handlebars of).

8 bags of crap that have already made it to the dump. Along with an un-pictured broken oscillating fan and a stroller I played with as a kid that my Dad randomly brought over from his storage sometime last year.

~~

Now that's it's (mostly) cleaned out I eventually want to get a pull out sofa bed so if I ever want/need to have someone stay over there will be a place for them to sleep other than the couch in the living room.

[eisforeidolon]

Question: Hi, I'm Sarah and I'm from San Luis Obispo, California. So my question for you guys, I'm curious, if you were in the Freaky Friday situation of body swapping with each other, what are some of the first things that you would do? [Jensen points to each of them] Yes, you two.

Jared: Okay, so some people know this, some people don't. Swap Meat - no, was it called Swap Meat? Where I become like Gary? That was initially, there is a treatment for an episode where we body-swapped. It was Sam and Dean. And it was a full on, I think I'm in Dean's body and there is a Saturday Night Fever disco dance contest? It was pretty wacky. And then I think as they started developing it, I think somebody at the network studio was like, 'You know what, this might be jumping the shark.' Even though we had already done an episode called Jumping the Shark?

Jensen: Right. Didn't they change it though? In an effort to, wasn't it like midseason or something and it was in an effort to give us some time off?

Jared: Oh! I don't recall the exact reason.

Jensen: I feel like - I could be wrong - but I feel like that may have been it. If it was Sam and Dean that were swapped then we would be working all day every day -

Jared: Yeah, I see. Oh yeah.

Jensen: both of us would. I think they did it in an effort to split us up, cause that was just - yeah. They usually would make an effort to give us some breaks here and there. And I think that may have been one of the reasons why they were like, 'Ooh, this is a good idea, but they're gonna be working fourteen hours all day every day.'

Jared: Yeah, yeah, that's a good point. I think you're correct. I think - so if Jared was body-swapping with Jensen, there's probably a different answer, but if Sam body-swapped with Dean, he'd probably go to the fridge, throw out all the unhealthy shit and put in salads and fruits -

Jensen: He'd throw out the beer and put kombucha -

Jared: Hey, I like kombucha.

Jensen: I know.

Jared: So I'll go with that for sure.

Jensen: So are you talking about Sam and Dean or are you talking about Jensen and Jared?

Q: I was talking about Jared and Jensen.

Jared: My fault, Sarah, geez. They're pushy in San Luis Obispo. I'm teasing.

Jared: I'd probably get up and play a concert if I was Jensen.

Jensen: I would go get my knee surgery.

Jared: [laughs] You ain't lyin. What would you do [to fan]?

Jensen: And then I would go play any game of pickup basketball there was. I'd just be like [mimes slamming down an imaginary ball, waggles finger] uh-uh-uh-uh.

Jared: I pulled that yesterday!

Jensen: I know! Somebody tried to toss something by Jared and he just slapped the keys down and was like [waggles finger again] not in here.

Jared: It was car keys and I think in the group that I hang out with now, but also grew up with? If anything is thrown within the vicinity of one of the friend members that shit is getting swatted out of the air. Like, don't throw it if it's breakable, don't throw it not near - people are like jumping over children in strollers trying to knock something out of the air.

Jensen: You did it, I remember - I can't remember what it was, but you did it in the middle of a scene. And you didn't even mean to do it, it was just so reactionary. I was tossing Misha something and you just, you were like sad or it was a depressing scene, I was like, 'C'mon Cass let's go' and I tossed something and you just [mimes slapping down object without looking up]. And I remember you immediately regretted it because we had to go again! [both crack up]

Jared: I believe it, yeah. It's like keys falling off a table, you just reach for it without even thinking. Okay, Sarah, turn the tables. If you had to be Jared or Jensen for a day, what would you do?

Audience: Ooooh.

Jared: I like.

Q: Let's see. If I was Jared for a day, I would be able to reach anything on the top shelf, easily.

Jared: Clean the cupboards without a step stool, I like it.

Q: And if I was Jensen for a day, I'd get to look in the mirror.

Jared: What would you [laughs] wearing what? Soldier Boy?

Q: That is the question.

Jared: Shakespeare said it best.

Jensen: Just stare in the mirror! [props face on hand]

Jared: That's gonna be season sixteen of Supernatural. Just Jensen [furiously flutters his eyelashes].

[kata-sans]

Raising Stripe

Chapter 12

Stripe was on the floor playing with his stuffed bear when he saw his blonde caretaker frantically walk into the living room. He was trying to put on his socks and shoes while talking to someone on the phone. “Hank, Cindy just called and said she's out sick. I'm on my way over but I need you to stay 30 minutes after your shift until I get there. I will pay you an extra hour for your trouble. Gha! Thank you.”

Tweek hung up the phone and almost jumped when he heard Stripe shake his bear. “Oh Jeezuz! Stripe I almost forgot about you! I c-can't leave you here, but I don't know anyone that can babysit! Arrg!” Tweek growled in frustration before ultimately making a decision. “You're gonna have to come with me to the shop.”

He quickly dressed the baby in a new onesie and prepared the diaper bag. He strapped the baby to the car seat stroller with a little resistance, which he quelled with the help of Pooh bear. Soon he was ready and headed out the door to begin his walk to work.

Tweek was glad his husband had been able to find a house within walking distance of the coffee shop. He was not a fan of driving and the couple agreed Craig should use the car to get to work. In ten minutes, Tweek could see the sign to his family's business.

As soon as he walked into the shop, Tweek realized he had overlooked a small detail in his plan. Everyone in the shop was very familiar with Tweek, and everyone's eyes immediately landed on the stroller in his hands.

Soon Tweek found himself surrounded by regular customers all fawning and cooing at the new baby in the shop. They overwhelmed Tweek with questions about the baby's origin and congratulated him on embarking on the journey of parenting. Tweek felt like panicking until he heard Stripe begin to whine.

Stripe always enjoyed having his caretakers’ full attention, but when a crowd of strangers threw themselves in his face he became scared. He didn't like all these strangers looking at him. He squirmed away from their touch and began to whine.

Stripe's fearful whine was the last straw for Tweek. He sternly told the people to step back and proceeded to push the stroller into the back room. He quickly unstrapped the baby from his stroller and held him tightly against his chest. When the baby settled down, he pulled out a bottle he had prepared and decided to feed him and put him down for a nap.

The door to the back opened and in walked one of the shop’s managers, Hank. “Hey is everything alright?”

Tweek sighed, “Yeah everything is okay, Stripe was a little overwhelmed but he's doing fine now. Thank you for staying longer.”

Hank brushed it off, “ No it alright, are you sure you can work while watching over a baby.”

“Yeah it's fine, my parents used to keep me in the back room when I was an infant. As soon as he's asleep I'll keep the door propped open and start working.” Tweek assured Hank.

With the baby sleeping, Tweek proceeded to begin working. He stepped into his job as if it were second nature. He quickly took orders, brewed coffee, and greeted customers with ease. He finished attending the midday rush when he heard the sound of Stripe waking up. Seeing only a few customers left in the shop, Tweek decided to bring out Stripe before starting clean up procedures.

Tweek pulled out the stroller with the baby still rubbing his sleepy eyes. He placed the stroller in a corner of the lobby, where he could keep a close eye on Stripe. Tweek began wiping down all the tables in the lobby. He then grabbed a broom and began to sweep under the tables. Before he could start mopping, a customer walked in.

Tweek returned to the counter, making sure the baby was out of reach of customers. Satisfied, he gave the lady at the counter his full attention. “Good afternoon ma’am. Order whenever you are ready.”

The woman scoffed, “Does your wife not have time to watch your kid?”

Tweek was taken aback, but attempted to be professional, “I apologize,miss, but my Husband is working and I was called in last minute. Would you be interested in our house specials?”

The woman refused to drop the issue and continued to interrogate Tweek. “Does your boss know you brought in your child?” She demanded.

Tweek was flabbergasted. He quickly composed himself and decided to play along. “I don't believe the boss would be concerned with the baby. He will have a problem if you harass the employees. May I take your order?”

“Harassment! I have half a mind to report you to the owner for your lack of professionalism!” The lady shouted.

Tweek almost bursted out laughing. “I'm sorry ma'am let me try again. Good afternoon MA'AM. Welcome to Tweek Bros. Coffee. My name is Tweek, if you are not interested in ordering anything please leave my shop!”

The lady quickly shut her mouth in embarrassment. She turned around and left with a huff. Tweek in Tucker fashion bid her farewell with his middle finger which caused Stripe to giggle at the familiar sight.

Ch11

Ch13

[hazard-and-friends]

Week 1

Socialization

Watching people and dogs politely when they pass (so so atm, a little wary of people and then warms up VERY fast, and over excited of dogs)

Exposure to different surfaces/regular outdoor objects (grass, mud, bark, weird trees, parking lots, storm drains, etc)

Car/truck watching (wary here as well)

Vet visit! Car ride, everything about being at the vet (strangers touching her, being manipulated, doing her new skills in a new location, smells, sounds, things in her mouth ears and ass, being taken back for shots & nasal spray...) etc etc etc

Household noises (garbage disposal, children/adults outdoors, dish washer, oven, microwave, electric kettle, white noise machine, every possible noise from computers, shower fan, etc). Have NOT done the vacuum yet.

Outside of the vet have met a couple people, a nice young man who lives across the hallway, and a woman + two of her kids (aged about 1 and 4) and STROLLER. Big victory all around for K'seil who thought this was all delightful once she thought about it.

Went to the park today and was exposed to LOTS of screamy children, a few strange dogs, adults chatting, playground equipment (visual only), etc etc etc.

In-home skills

Play with Hazard in the morning/afternoon can be largely uninterrupted, he's doing much better at handicapping himself. Evenings are still a struggle. She's not afraid of him at all anymore.

She does need to be supervised when she goes to interact with Penny. She's trying VERY hard to get her to play (play-bows and everything) and Penny is Not Interested.

Potty training is...coming along. We've yet to have a day without accidents. They're no longer entirely my fault (I mean, they are, but not because I'm delaying taking her out). The last couple days they've been more because she was busy and got distracted and peed. She's perfectly happy to pee/poop outside, anywhere as long as it's grass (sure), on leash, etc.

I now have a bucket inside her pen fastened so it's HARDER to tip over, and a "splash proof" bowl outside her pen. This has dramatically reduced the amount of digging behavior in water. I live in hope we'll be able to go back to the regular bowls by the time she's a teen.

She's good about going in/being put in her crate or pen--thus far I haven't put them on cue or gotten a voluntary entry, I'm mostly putting food in and releasing her to go in. Once in, she might fuss a bit (especially in the crate at night) but then passes out. Overnight she only fusses if she has to pee.

Reinforcement skills

Did not come with the ability to find food on the ground (lmao bless, I love babies), now knows how to do that and is getting better at finding treat scatters

Treat scatter will be on "find it" but that's a WIP

Knows both the clicker and "yes", and today was able to distinguish between two clickers (box vs button) and remember which one was 'hers'. Both refer to treat delivery from hand (or if you're FRAGILE and TENDER, on the ground).

Can work a snuffle mat and snoop, will introduce other treat dispensing puzzles next week

Worked out like, half of the kong with canned dog food. I'll try again with kibbles mixed in.

Tug is eh, she'll tug a bit but won't bring it back at all

Fetch is nonexistent 🤣

Can usually follow a tossed treat

Cues

Sit: Hand signal and verbal sometimes. Came preinstalled with sit as a mand behavior

Touch: Sometimes.

K'seil as a focus: MUCH better than it should be for the amount of work we've done tbh!

recall is currently pup-pup-pup-puppy!!! which she's very good at

[cyberdykes]

went back to work after having covid today it was a good day. the three year old had an insane meltdown before school but she was making me laugh this morning. when i went and got her from bed she was covered by her blanket and made me guess what her new pajamas had on them lol. they were halloween themed and i guessed correctly and she was impressed. the baby is in a music class on mondays now and he loves it and has so much fun and i have so much fun and it’s nice! i used to take the big kid to the same kind of music class and she didn’t like it nearly as much as the baby does. i’m glad i had the idea to sign him up for it because i don’t think his parents would’ve thought to. And then he walked half a mile without getting in the stroller or being picked up by me at all and he also said his first two word phrase. Unfortunately no matter how much i try to coach him to be an anti car urbanism fan he still is very interested in cars and trucks. working on transferring this to a deep love for construction vehicles just like his sister. He was slow to start talking but now that he’s doing it he’s really doing it. I love my job so much i love taking care of kids i love watching them grow up 😭

[daisiesonafield-blog]

ATTENTION everyone attending ‘Love on Tour’ residency shows in AUSTIN Sept 25 - Oct 3 2022.

COVID-19 protocol:

There are currently no COVID-19 restrictions

For more details click here.

General admission (pit tickets):

NO CAMPING ALLOWED. Per the policies of The University of Texas at Austin, camping is strictly prohibited on University grounds including anywhere on Moody Center property. You will be kicked out.

7:00am – GA Pit wristband line permitted to form on East Plaza.

9:00am – 11:00am – Sequentially numbered wristband distribution begins for the first 1,000 fans or until 11am (whichever comes first). A GA Pit ticket will need to be presented by each person in line in order to obtain one (1) wristband. Wristbands cannot be picked up for those not present, regardless of having additional tickets on hand.

4:30pm – 5:30pm – Number wristbands allowed to return to Moody Center. GA Pit line permitted to form at the Southwest Entrance ONLY.

5:30pm – GA Pit numbered wristband line closes. Those arriving after 5:30pm with GA Pit numbered wristbands and GA Pit tickets will line up at the back of the line. GA Pit numbered wristband holders will be escorted to the GA Pit Area once doors open.

6:30pm – General doors open

GA PIT NUMBERED WRISTBANDS ARE FOR PRIORITY ACCESS ONLY. GA Pit ticket holders will still be allowed in the pit without a numbered wristband.

PARKING AVAILABLE: EAST CAMPUS GARAGE for morning wristband distribution (see map below). Rates apply.

Door opening times:

You can enter Moody Center at the West Entrance or the East Entrance. GA Pit line permitted to form at the Southwest Entrance ONLY.

Parking: 4pm

Doors open at 6:30pm. 

Opener: 8PM.

Harry: 9pm

Here are important policies:

Recording equipment (aside from smartphones) – for audio, image, or video recording purposes (this includes professional cameras as well as cameras with detachable lenses regardless of length) are prohibited. Permitted: Disposable cameras and cameras without detachable lenses.

Laptops or tablets are not allowed.

Outside food and beverage are not allowed.

Coolers, beverages (in any type of container, empty or full) are not allowed.

Alcohol, cigarettes, tobacco products, vaporizers, and drugs (including but not limited to marijuana and products containing THC) are not allowed.

Weapons (guns, knives, pepper spray, mace, chains, spiked bracelets, brass knuckles, etc.) are not allowed.

Frisbees, balloons, beach balls, inflatables, laser pointers, flashlights, or other projectiles are not allowed.

Costumes and clothing with offensive material or language, or that appropriates or disrespects another culture, is prohibited at Moody Center events. 

Strollers and wagons are not allowed.

Umbrellas are not allowed

There is no reentry

Accessibility info here.

Moody Center is a cashless facility. Apple Pay, Google Pay, and all major credit cards are accepted. 

Parking can be pre-purchased here (ranges from $20-50). Info and map here.

Public transportation and venue map here.

Harry shows venue map here.

DIGITAL TICKETS ONLY. Printouts or screenshots will not be permitted or work with ticket scanners.

This list of prohibited items is not all inclusive and may change without notice and/or at the discretion of venue security.

For a complete list of policies and more details, as well as prohibited items click here

Bag Policy

If necessary, guests are permitted to bring a bag that fits within the following specifications: 

Bags that are clear plastic and do not exceed 14″ x 14″ x 6″. OR

Non-clear clutch bags or wallets must not exceed 5″ x 9″ x 1.5″. OR

One-gallon clear resealable plastic storage bags.

Harry Styles merchandise bags are allowed.

Any and all bags that do not meet the criteria above will NOT be permitted into the building.

For more details click here

Banners, signs and flag policy:

Flags, signs and banners without hardware are permitted.

Be mindful of flag, sign and banner size so as not to interfere with other guests’ enjoyment of the show.

Flagpoles and sticks will not be permitted inside the venue,

nor will flags, signs and banners with obscene or offensive language, logos, images or references.

For more details about signs click here.

Shop early for merch:

SHOW DAYS: Sept, 25-26, 28-29 & Oct. 2-3 stating at 11:00am at the Moody Center.

NON-SHOW DAYS – Waterloo Park- Main Entrance 1401 Trinity St.- 5 blocks south of Moody Center Sept. 27, 30 & Oct. 1 10:00-6:00pm

Contact

For additional questions please call the arena at 512-651-7600. Contact them here. Email them at info@moodycenteratx.com. Check their twitter. You can also access their website. And IG for updates.

[vibekei]

public diary entry essentially, unorganized + unedited thoughts on solanin and the worst person in the world, possibly interesting(?)

hmmm... sometimes i feel less like a human person and more like a floating head designed to gather as much information as possible or to train in as many different disciplines as it can, and find myself frustrated at my inability to do this with the limitations of being a body in a society where my ideal jack-of-all-trades life learning and reskilling into different fields, careers, hobbies and "side-hustles" looks irresponsible and unfocused on a cv, and as such isn't fully viable as a path unless i record it and hit the big time as a youtuber (not happening, but i would probably try were i not allergic to the idea of being a public figure in any real sense)

i recently read solanin and really loved it, much more than i did punpun, though i do think punpun won me over by the end (despite not particularly enjoying the process of reading it as i was doing so, there were quite a few stretches i found overlong, overbearing, and exhausting - which is, like, the point, but whatever. i would probably have a better time on a revisit but i have other things to get through) and is the better/more realized work of the two; the short, intimate, and personally (to me) timely qualities of solanin make it my preferred work, and the one i would actually recommend to other people. (unrelated and a long shot, but if anyone reading this has read dead dead demon's dededede destruction and knows if it's worth reading b4 it gets adapted lmk ok...)

i keep thinking about the epilogue chapter, the one written in 2017, eleven years after solanin's original end, where we get a brief glimpse into meiko's life as a 30-something. [mild spoilers] starting, finishing, and continuing chapters and sub stories of her own narrative, she's still floating much in the same way she was in her early 20s, having once again just quit her job for a new work-from-home career in a totally new field. it's easy to see her as being unfocused, or uncommitted, but she's not; she's grounded by her partner, her pregnancy, and her ability to recognise herself for what she is- someone who will never be able to sit still. she understands herself in relation to the world around her, and she understands that she doesn't quite fit into the expected, rigid norms of japanese work culture, but continues to make the choices she does about her life with full confidence in herself. she does this while paying respect to the people she once was, still is, and never will be again - seeing the band she was briefly essential to play live. and they see her too, they recognise her for who she is, and they acknowledge her. it's a really great ending to the manga, and reminded me a lot of the worst person in the world, which i watched a couple months back (and also loved, for many of the same reasons i loved solanin).

the worst person in the world is a very good movie. it's another story about a young woman fumbling her way through jobs and aspirations and relationships, passing through her twenties without quite landing on who she's "supposed to be", realising that maybe that concept isn't quite for her (or, perhaps, anyone) in the first place. it's also the only joachim trier film i've seen (apologies to oslo trilogy fans. i know, i started from the end - so did everyone else).

i do, once again, keep thinking about its ending. the very final scene of the movie, with julie beginning a career in photography after many other ventures into other fields. i think about when she glances out the window and sees her ex with another woman, pushing a baby stroller, and smiles. i think about all the people we are and could be and how nobody can sit still and everyone is changing, the lives we think we want now are not the lives we will want or have later. she smiles and she acknowledges it, in herself and in him and by extension everyone else. i have more to say but i'm getting bored of writing. i like frances ha too, for the record.

[aestheticvoyage2023]

Day 149: Monday May 29, 2023 - “Memorial Day Mission”

This Memorial Day I had just three things to get done - take a picture with Fredbird, introduce William to the arch, and get our butts home so that I could go to work tomorrow.  Missions all were accomplished.

Mama got us a late check out from our room in the Ballpark Village and I used it to get William an extra nap and I was so glad that he obliged - it would be a long day.  I let him sleep right up until Noon before we cleared out our operation and hit the show downstairs.   As part of the pre-game festivities we walked the bases in the Village together and I got to enjoy a Schlafly.  Life is good in the sunshine on Memorial Day here.  Once inside we found our way to Ford Plaza where William joined the kids club, climbed on some John Deere’s and waited for Fred Bird to arrive.   The best part of this whole day was hearing him laugh so deeply when that funny Fredbird showed up.  Its a framer and I hope I can still hear that special laugh every time I look at that picture.  

Up in our seats above Big Mac Land in left field, we were surrounded by Royals fans, who enjoyed seeing their pitcher, Mayers, take a perfect game into the 7th before Arenado broke it up with a base hit right below us. By that point, I was kind of hoping to see some history - instead we got stuck with a 7-0 Royals blowout/shutout.  It didn’t seem to bother William any.  He enjoyed his popcorn and his mid-game nap, and being at the ballpark with Daddy, all the same.  It felt like he was in my arms all day, other than the few moments Fredbird helped me out.

After the game, we strolled onto the arch grounds where I took off William’s shoes and socks and let him race around on the grass, throwing the baseball and letting him bring it back.   At one point he came and laid down next to me looking up at the Arch that used to reflect my home in the same way the Saguaro cactus now does for him.  I pointed out the windows way up there, and how people could go up there, and how the Arch signals the gateway to the West.   The road has always led west.  I was grateful for the opportunity to bring him back here and play in this “sacred” grass.   He’s to young to understand it - but I know its a special thing to be able to hop on a plane and make the world a smaller place.   I am glad to think that he will grow up with this being as normal as going for a drive in the car.  Oh the places we’ll go.

As the clock struck 5, it was time to start rallying ourselves back to Lambert to close out this ramblin long holiday weekend.  But before we did, I got William to look at me and listen and told him he’d done a very good job and that I was very proud of him. Hes a good little traveller.  And as a reward, now we were going to go ride a train!

It wasn’t a real train of course - just the light rail metrolink but we hopped on at the Stadium and rode it all the way to Lambert Terminal 2 with all our stuff.   And with WIlliam strapped into the stroller, I let him sit right up front behind the driver where he could see down the tracks and he loved every second of it.  No telling him that this wasn’t a real train.   It was a special way to end a special day and I had a really hard time trying to pinpoint what exactly would have been William’s favorite part (odds on favorite was the train) and I suppose thats a good sign that I had done my best.  Sure beats sitting around at home doing the same ole, eh buddy!   Tired and cranky, he’d finally meltdown for the first time all weekend at our gate waiting to board, and I dont know if it was intentional or not, but it scored us our own row in a mostly full flight where I laid him down and let him sleep all the way until we landed in Phoenix.  At one point the fligth attendant came by and asked if I was alright, I looked down at him asleep and gripping his new Fredbird pillow and told her, I’d never had it so good.

Song: Blake Shelton - God’s Country 

Quote: “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” From an Irish headstone” ― Richard Puz