#gifting to: cage newman

[alicezhaox]

Merry Christmas, Happy holidays!

@stellylee @xespietamayo @elisequinn @tashamadams @rafaelcb @kennaxsanchez @theobrowningfd @cagenewman @cordeliaeli @joshlane @jcksonfields

Happy holidays everyone! Enjoy a spa day at Azure (and for the couples, a couples massage). And a box of popcorn for a lazy night in! Also tossed into the box is a gift card to Sandcastles for a night on the town.

Much love, Alice

[jmiemagvans]

Merry Christmas everyone!

@narilily, @cagenewman, @chloenwckobia, @brooksienewman, @xsylcuenco, @docolives, @darpow, @ahlandrieu @stellylee

Nari

For our resident plant mama... first some really fun wine glasses! I laughed a little too hard. And the next one is a butterfly puddler, which I felt fitting because gardens and butterflies.

Cage

A backpack for your travels. You're busy and you've got a lot to do! So this is for a future trip somewhere special. And a make-your-own-game kit, something you and Colton can do together, which is pretty cool, I think!

Chloe

Some coloring pencils since we talked a little bit about being creative! Well, you can use these for just doodling or anything you want, really! And I found this plus tamagotchi which I found to be really funny and cute.

Brooksie

I saw these cufflinks that are made of the workings of a watch. They look really snazzy to me, honestly. The bag is something I also thought was pretty cool, something to help your work at the farm and moving stuff around.

Sylvia

To one of my best friends here and anywhere, I think these earrings are really cute, and they go with almost anything, right? And the slippers made me think of you, being stylish and colorful.

Livvy

So I hear you like squishmallows, so here is one that is a cat! Plus you have a cat named Mallow, so that's perfect, right? Next... I hear you like wine... so, a wine slushie kit to use to your heart's content!

Darrius

Okay, these history quotes made me laugh. But I always love chatting with you and talking about your classes! So a cheeky mug and an even cheekier shirt.

Annie

For your shopping adventures, a new tote bag! It's colorful and it's made of recycled materials, which makes it even better. And a make-your-own play dough kit for the kids!

Stelly

I hear you like music, so I found this really cool mechanical music box where you can put bumps in the sheet music to match your favorite tunes, and as you turn the crank, it plays! Next is a sunography kit! You can make pictures in the sun with this special paper.

[lcrcmcrie]

Merry Christmas everyone!

@cagenewman, @alejaalverez, @xespietamayo, @rafaelcb, @joshlane, @ycseniarivera, @dahliadumont

Cage

We've been through a lot this year! And we have our kids to thank for that. First a jacket, because I heard you need one and this one is nice and warm. Next is a mystery puzzle kit for you and Colton to do together. Lily picked that one out.

Aleja

You love the ocean, so I did find some jewelry that's made from seaglass and thought it was perfect. Next is some nail polish for you and Lucia. Enjoy!

Espie

I found this necklace to be quite pretty and really simple. That's kind of the best, mm? Next is something the kids can enjoy together. Lily tells me this game is really fun so get ready to have some family game nights soon!

Rafael

To a man who deserves lots and lots of coffee in the morning. You have a lot of patience, so you deserve a fancy thermos! And a fanny pack, which Lily insisted on because she said that you'll look cool.

Josh

You bring warmth and joy to so many people just doing what you do. I found this neat lamp that is a barometer and will tell you what the air pressure is like outside. Neat, huh? Next is a bag, use it for work, leisure, travel. You deserve something nice!

Yesenia

To a lovely girl who has lots of creativity and wonder in her life! I found these gorgeous air plant holders that I think you'll love. Next is a nice, fuzzy blanket that will keep you warm all through these long winter months.

Dahlia

First of all, I found these earrings really cute and fun. This is something that reminds me of you! And next for the mug, because of the time I spilled your coffee. Hope you enjoy these!

[kennedyxwarren]

merry christmas!

@docolives @cagenewman @mcndyhcrtmcn @narilily @jmiemagvans @tashamadams @kennaxsanchez @stellylee

Merry Christmas, friends! I got you some festive (and hopefully useful) gifts to celebrate, because what else are friends for? First off, I got you all a planner for the upcoming year. Hopefully, it will be useful in the upcoming year when you continue to do amazing things. The next gift was definitely a labor of love, but I crocheted everyone some ornaments for your tree. Hoping it looks nice on your tree in the upcoming year! Next, I got cozy slippers, because who doesn't like festive slippers? And finally, some peppermint bark (also made by me) because everyone needs a sweet treat during the holiday season. Enjoy your Christmas day, and I hope the next year is kind to you!

xx Kennedy

[lucie-newman]

@cagenewman

Happy Birthday, big brother. I can't thank you enough for all the support you have given me. I hope to pay it back to you with dividends one day. Here's to the best year yet.

love always,

Lou (and the little bean)

[cordeliaeli]

For my two favorite guys on Christmas...

You never know how special Christmas is going to be until you get to spend it with people that mean the world to you. These last few years I forgot what the sparkle behind Christmas truly was until you walked back into my life. Now, I know it didn't go off with a perfect hitch, and this is definitely a far better remembered Christmas than last, but you've given Rosalyn and I the most precious gift of all, something that I didn't know I would ever have. Christmas with family and Christmas with those who love us. There are some things I will never be able to repay, verbalize, or thank you enough for giving not only me but my daughter. The way you've opened your home, your life, and your heart to a little girl that isn't yours and shown her what it means to be cared about by someone else. For someone who shows up without question, you've made these last several months some of the best I've had in a long time. You're an incredibly special person, Cage, and I'm so lucky to call you mine.

For you, I know you don't necessarily drink all the time but these topographic glasses just hit me as something you would like. They're different places and landscapes of areas of the US and who knows, maybe you've traveled near some of them, but I figured you could break these out when wanting to have a little special drink. The gloves and jacket are something I've been told everyone needs in their outdoors arsenal. The gloves are all-season wax coated that you can grab a burning log, stick your hand into the snow, or work around without worry of temperature or environment. The jacket is a fleece lined wax trucker jacket that apparently ages like a fine leather over time the more you wear it and beat it up. Figure when you're working outdoor on some of your wooden projects it will keep you warm, save and will give you that gorgeous cowboy look that will become one of a kind that as it is moved, creased, and bent will wear into its own unique pattern. I couldn't resist getting you a little gadget after those long workouts, runs, or practices with Colton to loosen up tight muscles -- when I'm not there to help with that, of course. Lastly, I am fully expecting a full on show with some festive boxer briefs that I couldn't pass up, we'll save them for after the kids go to sleep.

For Colton, I'm incredibly new to buying for teenagers, so I went the practical route for things he's going to need to be impressing all the boys in his grade and making the girls swoon. Everyone needs their own varsity style jacket, at least until he gets his own varsity jacket in his years to come, this is just giving him a head start to walk around wearing one proudly. I did splurge and get him, hopefully, his first pair of aviator Ray-bans, because who doesn't need a pair of those when the summer comes around. They're something that can grow with him and become a staple to keep around for years to come, I hope. Lastly, I couldn't not get him something fun, and apparently these are all the 'cool' rage right now. An ultra-mini pocket projector that can turn the wall in his room, or the side of the house, or wherever he likes into his own little movie theater, whether to watch Tik Toks, stream/play video games, or watch movies, I figured this is something he can carry around and impress all his friends when they're out and looking for something to do. I apologize now for all the places he'll probably end up trying to use this projector in now but hopefully he will get full use out of it.

To the future Christmas's we'll share together, watching the kids grow and become their own, to spending time with your family and knowing that I'm finally part of something special because you're apart of my life again. Thank you for walking back into my life when I needed you most, not only as a friend, but a partner. And to Christmas late night fun later in those boxer briefs. @cagenewman

All our love always,

Cordelia and Rosalyn

[cagenewman]

WHO: Cage & @lucie-newman

WHERE: Lucie's place

WHEN: August 26, 2024

Although Cage was pretty sure that he should be getting more nervous as the wedding drew closer, he found himself relaxing into it. Yeah, there was a lot to do, but they'd get through it. And besides, it was hard to worry too much about that when he was standing on Lou's door step with a gigantic to-go bag from Paco's in one hand and a margarita bucket in the other. He knew that his sister had a tiny baby to feed, that drinking a bucket of margaritas was probably the kind of thing that would make one of those hoity toity mommy bloggers sigh and roll their eyes, but did he care? Not in the slightest.

Margaritas went hand in hand with celebrations, right? And Cage was hoping they could celebrate. Besides, he missed hanging out with his sister, and maybe wanted to cuddle his nephew, too. "Hey, open up," he called out, lifting one leg to knock at the door with his knee. "Your favorite brother's here with gifts that don't involve weapons or loud instruments, pinky swear."

[merrock]

event: Creek Fest

location: Hideaway Market

ic timeline: September 16 -23

ooc timeline: same dates

Creek Fest is here! It's bigger and better than ever this year, with tons of fun, fall-related things to see and do in the Hideaway Market!

Firstly, don't miss out on the various shop fronts and tents and booths that are set up in the shopping centers of Hideaway Market. In the center of the Market, you can find several food and drink tents, as well as face painting and games set up for the kids -- such as corn hole, the corn pit, a scavenger hunt and much more! There is also a stage set up for live performances (click here)!

There is a 'DIY Station' in the middle of Hideaway Market's center, where you will be able to paint and carve pumpkins, stuff your own scarecrows, make wreaths and floral arrangements, and much more for all of your fall décor needs.

Transportation in the form of hay rides is available to take you to the following places:

Harmony Ranch -- where you can participate in the corn maze (and sunflower maze!) and buy a few good dairy products, as well as end of season farmer's market goodies. petting zoo & pony rides set up, as well (for anyone from kid aged to adults).

Lavender Lane -- grab all the pumpkins, mums and fall flowers that you might need for your decorating seasons! gift cards are available for those who want to pick up at a later time, too.

Black Creek -- visit the creek for staged photos and a nature walk along the trail to enjoy one of our favorite features of Merrock, guided by park rangers.

Sunrise Orchard -- a quick trip to the orchard to grab a ton of apples, so you can make some delicious apple pie!

The Festival will be open from 10AM until 8PM EST every night, so there's plenty of time to get out and enjoy everything that you want to enjoy. Have fun! xx

UNDER THE CUT are posts made by our Merrockites, showcasing their talents, businesses, or what they are offering at Creek Fest!

RYDER ANDERSON (personal) -- ghost / abstract paintings.

RAFAEL BARDALES (Bardales Inc.) -- prize wheel.

JASON BROWNING (Merrock State Park) -- guided trail walks.

THEO BROWNING (Merrock FD) -- family day & fun.

NARI GIM (Lavender Lane) -- mums & pretty fall things.

SHOSHANNA HART (Wild at Hart) -- diy bouquets.

MIRANDA HARTMAN (The Color Wine) -- paintings & giveaways.

OLIVIA HARTMAN (Harmony Healers) -- pony & horse rides.

JAYLA HOPKINS (personal) -- bead jewelry.

DELILAH MORRIS (morris winery) -- tasting specials.

CAGE NEWMAN (Creekside) -- fall decor & furniture.

KELLAN NEWMAN (Newman Family Farm) -- blueberries.

CHLOE NWOKOBIA (personal) -- crochet pieces.

ELISE QUINN (taste) -- yummy drink options.

LEYLA TEHRANI (Mawk Tales) -- delicious drinks.

AMINA ZAIDI (Universal Rocks) -- myo cinnamon brooms.

If you would like to contribute and be involved, please be sure to tag your post with #merrockevent.

[brooksienewman]

To the family rockstar, @lucie-newman

Living with me should be all of the birthday gift you need, what with not paying rent and benefiting from the fact that I can now cook more than mostly burnt grilled cheese. Nonetheless, I am a good brother and you're a pretty lovable little sister. I thought of you when I saw this necklace, it's a bit understated and simple but still has the rockstar edge, plus I don't totally hate when you play guitar (as long as I'm already awake when you start.) The scarf is to get you through the cold Merrock winters- though I promise to always have a fire going and the heat on when I can, I promise I'm not some miser. Please enjoy your birthday and celebrate all week. ps I know I'm your favorite older brother, no matter what Cage or Elliot say. With love, Brooksie

[theperksofbeingbarbie]

Angel of Death

Chapter 3: Living on a Prayer

Chapter One: Dead Things

Chapter Two: Death’s Desire

🚨Warnings🚨: Hospice; Terminal Cancer; Death; Assisted Suicide; Grooming - Pastor Looks at Angel in a sexual manner that makes her uncomfortable and leaves his hands on her back, hands, and face too long; Mention of Bullying; Abuse; Forced Tattooing of a Minor; Mentions of Witchcraft; Language.

Word Count: 3,708

A/N: Here is the full thing finally!! I’m so excited to have it finished so I can move on to the next chapter and working on other ideas and series. I hope it was worth the wait for those who have been waiting a while! 

Do you know what hospice is, Angel?” 

You were more focused on your surroundings than Pastor. The air was stiff in the small bedroom, heavy, like it was going to settle in your lungs and cause you to choke until you couldn’t get a fresh breath. There was barely enough light to see the old man that lay in the bed, or the younger woman who sat on the edge, holding his wrinkly hand as she attempted to hold back tears. The heart monitor behind the woman beeped steadily, another machine on the opposite side of the bed letting out loud sighs as if it were breathing itself through the stifling air. 

“Sweetheart.” Your mother’s kind voice brought your attention back to the man squatting in front of you. You weren’t sure why he drove you and your mother an hour away from home, but you assumed you’d find out soon enough. 

“Do you know what hospice is?” 

You shook your head in lieu of an answer. 

“Hospice is when people are too sick and the doctors know they will never get better. They’re about to pass and they try to make the person comfortable and give their family time to say goodbye.” 

You glanced over to the man in the bed. He was dying, and the crying woman was saying her goodbyes. But why did Pastor bring you here? 

“Mr. Newman is very ill, Angel. His daughter wants him to be able to pass on his own terms, and hopefully go right to Heaven.” 

It was starting to come together in your young mind. It had been months since you stole your best friend’s soul and no matter how hard you tried, you couldn’t find her. Her parents stayed in Angel’s Paradise despite this, even offering you gifts for another chance to see her. You left them in front of her grave instead. 

Everyone was silently afraid that she didn’t go to Heaven, but no one ever mentioned it. They all knew the direction you threw her and that damn necklace and what it was supposed to mean. 

It made you sick to think about for too long. 

“I want you to try, my angel. Take Mr. Newman’s soul and guide him to your Father in Heaven. You would be releasing him of so much pain. Do you want him to be in pain during his final days?” 

Another silent shake of your head. 

“He wants to go. His daughter wants him to go. Only you can help him pass over.” 

Pastor smiled forlornly, offering his hand to you. He guided you to the bed, helping you up beside the machine that was breathing. 

“Focus, my angel.” 

You took a deep breath, glancing at the old man’s daughter who looked at you hopefully. You placed your hand on his chest and closed your eyes, feeling something in him start to pull. You yanked back hard, the rest of his soul separating from his body. You were the only one who could see the soul of the man gasp when he was released from his prison, the screeching of the heart monitor threatening to break your concentration. 

“Do you still have a hold of him, Angel?” 

A nod. 

“Great! Now focus! Send him to your Father!” 

The old man looked at you with a face of pure elation, looking up hopefully before you threw him upward, the soul disappearing into the ceiling. 

The room fell silent and you suddenly felt empty. It was like you were stuck behind a curtain and the real world felt so far away. Mr. Newman’s daughter began to sob and the sound slowly brought you back.

“Thank you! Thank you so much!” 

You just nodded, climbing back off the bed to hide in your mother’s side. Pastor took your place, praying with the woman for a moment. Her ‘amen’ was followed by a stack of cash placed in Pastor’s hand. 

“Have a blessed day. Come along, Angel. Time to go home.” 

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

This little act lasted a few years. Pastor received applications from all over the country, but only accepted ones from Michigan. As long as the family had a large stack of cash waiting for you, Pastor was happy to cart you all around the state to lead Lambs home. He, of course, said he was only doing it out of the kindness of his heart but the new cars, clothes, jewelry, and hot tub didn’t seem to line up with that idea in your mind; you never complained when you got the things you wanted though. You didn’t realize Pastor had new plans for you and Angel’s Paradise to take place for your birthday.

Your thirteenth birthday was in two weeks and set to be the biggest bash Angel’s Paradise had seen yet. You ran through the living quarters of the church to find your mother to share your excitement, stopping short of your mother’s door when you heard her speaking to someone. 

“A tattoo?” 

“It will be symbolic of the Angel she is. And maybe later, we add more. But I want to start with the wings.” 

Pastor wanted to tattoo wings on you? You instinctively reached across your body to clasp your shoulder, imagining what it would look like. Imagine the pain you’ve heard about. 

“One of our new residents is a tattoo artist. He will do a good job, I promise.” 

Your mother didn’t respond, but you could imagine the face of uncertainty she was surely presenting. 

“You know I would never hurt [Y/N]. The last thing I want is to hurt you or her.” 

There was shifting on the bed followed by complete silence. You continued onto your room, wondering if your mom agreed. 

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

Your curiosity was quelled a day later as you were led into a small house you had seen completed just a few weeks earlier. You gave the man a friendly smile, remembering him from his meeting with his son who died overseas. The man and Pastor shared niceties as you followed into what should have been a bedroom, but was made into a makeshift tattoo studio. Drawings and pictures covered the walls like a personalized wallpaper, a desk covered with even more pictures and paintings that looked like the spectre you summoned against the far wall. The man folded up a padded table and shoved it into the corner before pulling out a strange looking chair. You vaguely heard Pastor tell you to take off your shirt and you looked up with a mix of fear and confusion in your eyes. 

“I have something you can wear to cover your front,” the man quickly interjected, pulling a thin cloth robe out of a drawer. You hesitantly took it and held onto it for dear life as the men exited the room to give you some notion of privacy. You sat on the chair and let out a huff before calling out to let them know you were ready.

“My angel,” Pastor cooed, moving a chair so he could sit in front of you as the other man finished preparing the ink. “The Lord came to me in a dream. He is so proud of the work you’re doing with His gift. Sending his Lambs back home to Him, allowing people to see their loved ones again. You’re doing so well.” He smiled, reaching forward to take your hands. You tried not to shiver from the cold feeling his touch gave you. “He showed me a ceremony we can have for those Lambs here in Angel’s Paradise. That included two raven wings on your back, and certain flowers on your chest. I don’t want to lie to you, my angel, it’s going to hurt. But think about what the Lord wants for you. Think about your mission.” He squeezed your hands and released them so the tattoo artist could lay the stencils on your skin. “Just pray through it, okay? He will help you through.” 

Pastor left you before the needle touched your skin, mumbling something more about praying through the pain. The notion of doing anything to help the pain disappeared from your mind almost instantly. The man tried to talk to you in an attempt to distract you from the pain, but you couldn’t bring yourself to respond. Silent tears just streamed down your face as you mentally begged for relief from the One who wanted you to go through this. Pastor’s voice was all that you could hear, though, telling you to continue praying and that this was what He wanted. You knew he would lament about Jesus being whipped to save us from our sins, and that this was your equivalent. This pain was going to allow you to become a better shepherd for His Lambs. 

 You didn’t want to imagine the kind of pain you would be in if you said no to this and ran off, anyway. 

The man finally stopped dragging the needles over your skin hours later, mumbling apologies as he applied bandages to your back and arms. He gave you privacy once more to get dressed and didn’t seem to mind when you used the time to finally let out a sob instead.

You began your walk home, the cold air threatening to freeze the tears on your cheeks. You didn’t stop to talk to Pastor or your mother when you entered the living quarters, just wanting to be alone as you asked the Lord once more to relieve you of this pain. Your mother came into your room anyway, trying to offer love and support, but was quickly brushed off.

If she truly cared, you wouldn’t have been left alone to endure through the process. 

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

You couldn’t even enjoy your birthday like you had wanted to. It was supposed to be fun, full of laughter and light, but you just felt like a bird in a cage meant to perform tricks for treats. Adults came to you and wished you another happy year, but it was quickly followed by questions of what you were going to do for them. When could they see their loved ones, could they see them for longer periods if they brought you better gifts. The other children just stayed as far away from you as they could possibly be, standing in a circle and whispering amongst each other while looking at you with disgust. 

You didn’t know what you expected from them. This was just what they did. The townsfolk had erected a little schoolhouse near the front of the town as teachers moved into Angel’s Paradise. Pastor didn’t make you go, and you couldn’t care less about the reason, you just didn’t want to go. Your peers already avoided you like a leper, not wanting to make the wrong move or say the wrong thing and end up like your friend from all those years ago. You heard their whispers of ‘freak’ and ‘Reaper’, and you happily accepted the idea of needing a different education if it meant you didn’t have to be stuck in class with people who hated you.

You were in the sanctuary of the church, doing your daily piano lessons. Your tutor was a kind woman who was the nation’s best piano player before her sister died and she became overwhelmed with grief. For a brief meeting with her sister, she took the time out to teach you all that she knew in exchange.

“Carol, I’m going to have to cut the lesson short today. You can speak with Holly at another time.” 

Your piano tutor looked dejected but nodded as she gave you one last note on your playing before excusing herself. Pastor smiled down at you and took Carol’s place on the piano bench. You continued to look forward at the sheet music, focusing on the notes instead of Pastor’s eyes on you. As the years went on, it felt like they wandered further and further down, but he did that to plenty of women. 

“How is your back, my angel?” 

You rolled your shoulders and straightened your back. “Healed, I think.” 

Pastor ran a hand over your back with a smile. “I’m glad. I think you’re ready for the next tattoo the Lord wants you to get.” 

“Another one?” 

“Are you questioning your Father? Angel, he has a plan for you. You have to follow it to the letter,” he snapped.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered, looking down at your lap.

“That’s okay, my angel. Young ladies always have questions.” Pastor gently pushed your hair back, pushing your head just slightly so you would look at him. His gentle smile was back but it felt so empty. “Here. I drew it for you.” 

You took the piece of paper that was handed to you and unfolded it to uncover the design. Your first thought was that it was beautiful. Different flowers arranged in a beautiful bouquet. 

Your second thought was how painful it was going to be. 

“Where?” 

“On your chest.” 

Your hand flew up to the collar of your shirt, your nails gently dragging along the exposed skin as you tried to imagine what it would feel like. How many nights would you cry yourself to sleep from the pain? 

“Do you know what the flowers mean, my angel?” Pastor asked. He began pointing to each flower as he explained their reasoning, “The sunflower, it’s your devotion to God. The calla lily and roses represent beauty; yours as well as His Lambs. Daisies, for your innocence. The dogwood flowers represent eternal life, which is what you give to those Lambs that ask for your help. This is thistle, and it represents earthly sorrow, which is what their loved ones still feel. And laurel, to represent their memory. Do you like it, Angel?” 

You nodded. 

“The Lord wants us to create a ceremony for those that want help going to Him. It will allow people to say goodbye to those they love, and finally go home. I think you’re going to like it. I’m so proud of you, my angel. You’re growing into such a beautiful young woman.”

Pastor kissed your temple and hesitated for much longer than you anticipated. 

“The tattoo artist will come get you in a few moments, okay? Just pray through the pain.” 

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

Pray through the pain. Pray through the discomfort. Pray through the fear. So many prayers and none of them ever calmed the storm inside of you. You wondered if the woman who was being rolled down the aisle in the sanctuary was scared. 

Olive was her name. She was young, much younger than anyone you had visited with Pastor. A bad bout of breast cancer that quickly took over her body that left her with a couple months to live when she should have her whole life ahead of her. 

She had been in Angel’s Paradise for about a month, settling into the “visitor’s apartments” as Pastor called it, with her sister. Olive enjoyed listening to you practice the piano and often helped you with your math homework.

Olive was being pushed by her sister in a wheelchair adorned with flowers and ribbons. Residents of Angel’s Paradise fell over themselves to give her flowers or to lay hands on her from the pews, sending up prayers that she will finally be comfortable and at peace. Her sister helped her from the wheelchair to a bed that was set up on the altar, the stained glass version of you staring down at her, a silent promise it would all be over soon. Olive took the flowers she was given and laid them on her chest, smiling as Pastor began a little sermon about death and eternal life in Heaven. 

Your piano tutor played a quiet processional as Pastor began a prayer, asking the Lord to guide your hand and bring his sweet Lamb home. You took a deep breath and started yet another prayer yourself, begging for peace before the large wooden doors opened. The residents gasped at the sight of you. Dressed in a flowing white gown, you looked like a true angel. The neckline covered the flowers on your chest and came up to a thick collar around your neck, leaving the back bare to show the wings you earned. 

You focused on Olive’s kind face, forgetting about all the other eyes glued to you. She looked so happy, so ready to be put out of her suffering. She was silently encouraging you to do what you were put on this earth to do, to realize the Lord’s gift he blessed you with. 

You suddenly didn’t feel as scared as you were, that peace you craved finally washing over you. 

You stood on the opposite side of the bed so the residents could see you as well as Olive. Pastor asked for her last words and you could tell what she said was beautiful, but it didn’t feel like you heard it. That feeling of being stuck behind a curtain, a veil, began to cover you while you prepared yourself. 

“I’m ready,” made it past the veil, Olive smiling up at you with a slight nod. “Take me home, [Y/N].” 

The rest was a blur, hidden behind the veil that felt like it was getting heavier with each soul you sent home. Pastor took your hand and walked you out of the sanctuary, pushing you toward your room to change for the funeral. 

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

You never liked funerals, but who did? Some were more fun than others, more a celebration of the person’s life and not about mourning their death. You hoped Olive’s funeral would be more like the former, but it never really mattered. You had a job to fulfill, a job the Lord gave you and you couldn’t let your Father down. 

You thanked the Pastor’s wife for her help getting you into the grand black ball gown you were to wear for the actual funeral. It was a classic mourning dress, but it did have a lower neckline to feature the flowers on your chest instead of the feathers on your back.

You ran downstairs to try to find the black lace veil you were supposed to wear to cover your face, hoping you left it on Pastor’s desk from when he gave it to you. You stopped short when you heard your mother’s voice. 

“Really, that much?” 

“Maybe we can find a reason to go on a trip. How does Hawaii sound?” 

Your mother just giggled. 

“I’ll get you a little bikini…” 

“Oh stop it!” 

“Fine, something skimpy just for me…” 

You knocked on the door and slowly pushed it open, noticing your mom smoothing out her skirt as she moved away from the desk. 

“I think I left my veil,” you said cautiously. 

“Oh, yes, my angel.” Pastor smiled and walked over to you, carefully pinning the veil into your hair with the utmost care. “Look at you…” Pastor lifted your chin so you would look at him, brushing his fingers against your jaw before finally letting go. “Come, my angel. It’s time to put Sister Olive’s body to rest. You did so good, my angel. The Lord is so proud of you.” 

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

It had been over a week since the Hargreeves brothers had seen [Y/N] last. Klaus went by the jewelry store a few times and that bitch Lisa just angrily told him she hadn’t seen her either and then kicked him out. He went by the thrift shop, the bar, the corner store,and she was nowhere to be found. Klaus had, of course, gone by her apartment at least once a day, knocking on the door until his knuckles started to bruise. 

“I’m gonna try to get through the door.”

“C’mon, Ben,” Klaus groaned, sitting against her door with a cigarette between his lips. “We both know I’m not sober enough for any ghost tricks.” 

“You might not be, but I can feel her,” Ben informed Klaus, jumping up and down like he was going to run a marathon. “[Y/N] just has this… Pull. I think I can do it.” 

Klaus just waved his hand. “Go for it. If you get stuck, it’s not my fault.” 

Ben nodded and ran toward the door in a full sprint, his body hitting the door full force. Who knew a ghost could be in physical pain? He laid on the ground beside Klaus groaning while his brother laughed.

“Shut the fuck up!” 

“I am allowed to laugh. You laugh when I fall down drunk.” 

Another groan from the ghost. “Fuck you, asshole.” He sat up with a huff, staring at the door. Maybe her energy allowed him to be solid, like when she touched him? Either way, he wasn’t getting in the way he planned. “Any ideas?” 

“Why am I always the idea guy?” 

“Because you’re dumb enough to come up with something I can work with.” 

“Maybe I can call Diego to pick the lock.” 

“Can’t you pick locks?” 

“Hm?” 

“We all learned how to pick locks, dumbass!” 

“Then why couldn’t you have suggested that sooner, Ben?!” 

“I don’t know, Klaus, it’s only been over a decade since I’ve done it!” 

“Will you two shut the fuck up if I let you in?!” 

Klaus and Ben looked up to see [Y/N] in the doorway, looking angrier than they had ever seen her. 

She didn’t wait for an answer, pushing herself off the door frame to allow the brothers inside. The apartment looked so much different than the other times they had come by. Where the records and plants were, cork boards with people’s pictures took their place. Scattered on the tables and ground were open books with bookmarks sticking out and writings in the margins. Klaus recognized some of the symbols from that one time he dated the head witch of a coven he joined for the orgies. There was a pentagram painted in the middle of the floor, surrounded by white and black candles where [Y/N] had clearly been working just moments before. 

“What in the Scooby Doo is all this shit?” 

[Y/N] sighed as she looked around what used to be her living room. “So I might be in some trouble.” 

TAG LIST Message or comment to be added! 

@little-squishy-fox @bellas2silly @intoomuchfandoms @sargent-barnes @misspygmypie @mischiefnevermanaged94 @stars-cant-be-broken @scream-kiwi79 @marvelmayo @scarlettglowss @colors-for-the-world-please @demonickittykat @umbrella-battles @nimondrell-nim @minalikethis @rxcklxsslove @knifeboydiego @reblogserpent @slytheringranger @multi-madison

[letterboxd]

Watching John Malkovich.

To understand better why Letterboxd members set out on quests to watch specific actors’ entire filmographies, we invited Tim Rod to describe her dangerous and seductive journey through John Malkovich’s screen history.

For many film lovers, 2020 has been a year of catching up: on franchises, on directors’ filmographies, on historical gaps and top 100s. But for some Letterboxd members, the year indoors has been an opportunity to hyper-focus on a single actor and their work.

Jeremiah Lambert is on a Bacon Fest, Naked Airplane has embarked on a wild ride through the works of De Niro, Hackman, Hoffman, Nicholson and Pacino. Joey is preparing for next year’s centennial of The Kid by churning through Charlie Chaplin’s catalog (with David Robinson’s biography Chaplin: His Life and Art in hand). A quick Twitter survey found others churning through a performer selection as wide-ranging as Burt Lancaster, Parker Posey, Maggie Smith, Nicolas Cage, Cary Grant, Kevin Costner, Robin Williams, Adèle Haenel, Alan Arkin, Sam Rockwell and a Seth Rogen thirst project.

It can be a bumpy journey. In one performer’s oeuvre the quality will range widely, the genres too. But the rewards are many in a close study of craft, and there are revelations, whether it’s that Australia’s Miranda Otto deserves more recognition, or it’s “the total acceptance, lack of judgment, and vulnerability with which Alan Arkin has played so many of his flawed and wonderful characters”.

With Christian Bale in ‘Empire of the Sun’ (1987).

In 2020, no fewer than three movies and two television series starring John Malkovich have been released: Arkansas, Valley of the Gods and Ava, as well as The New Pope and Space Force. The legendary actor has kept himself busy, and I know this because I have seen most of his filmography—41 films and two series—in the span of a single month. I adore Malkovich, always have, and I came out of this experience with a deeper admiration for him, and with some thoughts about his unique, remarkable skills as an actor. (And, I had a really good time.)

Allow me to begin by saying that John Malkovich is the best part of every movie he is in. No matter the movie, Malkovich will always steal the spotlight, and he can turn a good movie into a masterpiece, or an average movie that wouldn’t catch anyone’s attention into one worth watching, if only to see him do his thing.

He’s starred in movies that are considered masterpieces by many: Being John Malkovich (1999), The Killing Fields (1984) and Empire of the Sun (1987). Movies that may be considered the opposite of masterpieces, like Supercon (2018), Eragon (2006) and the most recent Ava (2020), and he’s also starred in some gems that I knew nothing about but am glad to have discovered, such as The Convent (1995), Eleni (1985) and The Ogre (1996). Malkovich has brought to life iconic characters including Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Tom Ripley, Hercule Poirot (in BBC’s The ABC Murders), the artist Gustav Klimt, and several of David Lynch’s people, in the short film Psychogenic Fugue (2016).

As Mitch Leary in ‘In the Line of Fire’ (1993).

Malkovich has received two Academy Award nominations, for Places in the Heart (1984), in which he played Edna’s lodger, the solitary yet kind Mr. Will, and for In the Line of Fire (1993), where he played the complete opposite: the psychotic Mitch Leary, determined to kill the President of the United States. Though Malkovich is not a classic action-film actor, his work in that genre is driven by logic, intellect and emotion, and the delicacy that he employs to challenge concepts of masculinity and keep us guessing. His soft and collected voice threatening Clint Eastwood over the phone is scarier and more effective than a deeper one would have been.

That voice. Malkovich has admitted that he hates the sound of it, that he would always avoid listening to it, just like so many actors avoid watching their own films, but I’m bewitched by his voice and I could never get enough of it. It can be tender, sweet and calming, seductive when the role requires it, and terrifying. With that versatility, it’s not surprising that he has done some narrating work as well, for films including Paul Newman’s The Glass Menagerie (1987) and Alive (1993).

Malkovich is at his best when seduction and villainy combine, as they do in Dangerous Liaisons (1988). Vicomte Sébastien de Valmont has been performed by many actors over the years, but I find Malkovich’s take to be the most memorable and exquisite. He captures perfectly the depravity and evilness of Valmont, but also the nuances, his journey from womanizer to man genuinely in love and, ultimately, his tragic redemption. He even brings a comedic aspect to the character that adds more depth and dimension.

With Glenn Close in ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ (1988).

Valmont is an awful human being, a monster even, and yet, every time I watch this movie, I find myself fascinated by his mastery of the deception, his sensuality and complete control of the situation, until the situation is “beyond his control”. In her review of the film, Catherine Stebbins calls John Malkovich “a sexual force of nature”, and I completely agree. If you want to see more of Malkovich’s sensual side, other notable mentions include The Sheltering Sky (1990), The Object of Beauty (1991) and Beyond the Clouds (1995).

And then there’s Being John Malkovich (1999), in which ‘John Horatio Malkovich’ displays so many facets of his craft. The fictionalized Malkovich is possessed by different characters, one of them a woman. Catherine Keener’s character falls in love with a subtly different version of Malkovich, when he is a vessel for Lotte (Cameron Diaz). Even though Lotte doesn’t have full control of Malkovich, he uses his femininity to bring the character-inside-the-character to center stage, delivering a subtle-yet-perfect performance. Even when we don’t see Lotte, we know she’s there.

John Malkovich as John Horatio Malkovich possessed by Lotte, in ‘Being John Malkovich’ (1999).

Not many actors could pull this off as brilliantly as John Malkovich does. To be fair, not many actors have been given the chance that Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman gave Malkovich: a film with his own name in the title.

I’ve discussed some of the most well-known of Malkovich’s performances, but I’d like to mention an overlooked one that I found heartbreaking and noteworthy. I didn’t know of the existence of The Ogre (1996) until I took a closer look at Malkovich’s filmography. It’s not without its flaws, but I found myself absorbed in the fairy-tale story of Abel, a naïve French prisoner of war who is taken to Nazi Germany and used to recruit children for Hitler’s Youth. Once again, the actor’s duality is on display, as Evan writes in his Letterboxd review: “Malkovich is both queasy and endearing as the (ig)noble simp who just wants to save the babies.” The Ogre tells a tragic story, but thanks to Malkovich’s tenderness, we can’t help but have sympathy for his character. At times it reminded me of the innocence of Lennie in Of Mice and Men (1992), another of the actor’s more noteworthy performances.

One of Malkovich’s great contributions to cinema is elevating an average movie just by being in it. One such role is as English conman Alan Conway in the bizarre true story, Colour Me Kubrick (2005). Malkovich admitted in an interview that he thought his performance was good, and I agree. If there’s one reason to watch that film, it’s to see Malkovich playing an eccentric conman who poses as Stanley Kubrick, using different voices and accents. As TajLV writes, “if there were anything to commend this film other than Malkovich, I’d happily rate it higher”.

As Alan Conway in ‘Colour Me Kubrick’ (2005).

One fun fact: I sometimes forget John Malkovich is American. Maybe it’s because he has starred in many European productions—out of the 41 films I watched, 18 were European. Malkovich is of European descent, has lived in France for a decade and speaks fluent French, which allowed him to star as the mysterious Baron de Charlus in Time Regained (1999), with entirely French dialogue. He also delivers lines in French and Portuguese in A Talking Picture (2003) by Manoel de Oliveira.

You’ve probably heard Malkovich use words, expressions and even entire lines of French dialogue on more than one occasion. He does this often, which gives him a certain European vibe, consistent with his own character, mannerisms and dress sense—elements that he sometimes brings to his characters. Maybe that’s the reason he has played so many intellectuals and artists: professors, scientists, detectives, painters, writers, a scientist and a robot, and even the Pope… It seems there’s nothing John Malkovich can’t do, including directing.

To end my marathon, I watched his directorial debut, The Dancer Upstairs (2002), an assured movie adapted from a novel about the Maoist uprising in Peru in the 1980s, starring Javier Bardem. It was a nice surprise, and a strong start to what could have been a career as a film director, if not for the fact that he doesn’t have the patience to do it again. I recently read an interview where Edgar Wright revealed advice he always gives to directors, which is to make their second movie the one that will define them. I wonder if we will ever see John Malkovich’s second film, but for now, I hope he keeps gifting us with more unforgettable performances. At least we know that in the distant future, along with all the movies he has already appeared in, people will enjoy a never-seen-before performance when Robert Rodríguez’s short 100 years is released in 2115.

If there’s one thing I have learnt after watching most of his filmography, it’s that John Malkovich is one of the best and most versatile actors of our time, with the most unique voice I have heard in cinema, and with a rich filmography that encompasses every genre. And he’s not only a brilliant actor, but also someone I find personally fascinating. I truly find comfort in him. I hope we all get to enjoy his art for years to come, because his talent is limitless and I know he still has so much more to give. John Malkovich deserves all the praise for being a force of nature in the theater and film industry for over 40 years.

Tim is a Letterboxd member based in Spain, who has recently moved on from her John Malkovich marathon to a Sacha Baron Cohen quest.

[artbookdap]

The coolest. 'Synergetic Stew: Explorations in Dymaxion Dining' is a spiral-bound facsimile of the cookbook friends and family of Buckminster Fuller produced for Fuller's 86th birthday in 1982.⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ One of our Top 5 Holiday Gift Books for Food Lovers. (But also perfect for architects, designers and far-out thinkers!)⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ Constructed around 100 achievable recipes, this book is a glimpse into Fuller’s life, as told by his peers. A few of the recipes are a joyful ode to Fuller’s oeuvre, such as Shirley Sharkey’s “GEODESICANDY,” the “Macrobiotic Diet” by John Cage or Amy Edmondson’s “Allspace-Filling Whole Wheat Bread.”⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ In addition to the facsimile, Fuller's grandson, Jamie Snyder, reflects upon often-overlooked facets of Bucky’s character, as revealed through anecdotes of his relationship to food.⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ Contributors include: Bil Baird, Peter Brown, John Cage, Lim Chong Keat, Elizabeth Choy, John Ciardi, John Denver, Amy Edmondson, Ted Ehmann, Werner Erhard, Ronald Feldman, John and Isobel Fistere, Medard Gabel, Eugene Garfield, Neva Goodwin, d'Arcy Hayman, Henry J. Heimlich, Miranda Kaiser, Anne Kordus, Kuyoshi Kuromiya, Mae Lee, Paula Martin, Margaret Mead, Karl Menninger, Yehudi Menuhin, Martin and Margy Meyerson, Ann Mintz, Don Moore, Ed Muskie, Libby Newman, Isamu Noguchi, Gerard K. O'Neill, Steve Parker, Eleanor and George Pavloff, Cedric Price, Kariska Pulchalski, Harrison Salisbury, Shirley and Bill Sharkey, Peter Simoneaux, Hester Stearns, Connie Thelander, Thomas Tse-Kwai Zung, Dennis Tyler, Amei Wallach, Hope Watts and Kathryn Withlow.⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ Read more via linkinbio. ⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ Please order from your favorite independent #bookstorehero.⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ #buckminsterfuller #synergeticstew #cookbook @buckyfullerinst @larsmullerpublishers #holidaygiftbook #holidaygift #buckminsterfullercookbook #dymaxiondining https://www.instagram.com/p/CIOqFJipwCM/?igshid=1v9j2q4gfzc9f

[lcrcmcrie]

@cagenewman @xespietamayo @alejaalverez @joshlane @mcgreyson @rafaelcb @elliot-newman

Happy holidays!

Have a happy holiday, everyone! Please enjoy the basket of snacks to munch on in the new year. And the photo frames for you and yours, your family, your pets, anything. Wishing everyone the best and a happy new year!

-Lara & Lily

[cagenewman]

@brooksienewman, @elliot-newman & @lucie-newman

I've had this sappy idea for a while, and I guess there truly is no better time than sibling day to give your siblings a sibling-themed gift. I made these photo frames for each of you using wood from old fences from around the farm that we've taken down through the years, and included two photos. One is of all of us at Easter this year, and the other is the photo that we took, just the Newman siblings, in front of the house. I wanted something we can each hang in our homes, so that no matter what chapter we're on, we'll always have each other. Love you guys.

xo Cage

[merrock]

CHARACTER INFORMATION

face claim: Lily James

full name: Kacey Newman

nickname(s) / goes by: Kace, Kay, Kiwi

pronouns & gender: she/her & cis woman

sexuality: bisexual

birth date: December 24th, 1990

birth place: Merrock, Maine

arrival to merrock: Local

housing: Downtown

occupation: Photographer

family: siblings - Kellan and Cage (older), Clementine (younger), Husband (separated), Daisy Clarke (daughter)

relationship status: recently separated

PERSONALITY

In contrast to some, Kacey is reserved and practical. Her brand of love is simple and unfiltered, but kept close to her chest. Her reticence isn't built from a lack of confidence though, and she has a deep pride for Merrock, her family, and the farm. She is typically the voice of reason in any conversation, but can be taken in by her passions like anyone else.

WRITTEN BY: Clare (she/her), est.

BIO / BACKGROUND

triggering / sensitive content: parental death

As far as early Christmas gifts go for young boys, Kacey hoped she was ranked somewhere between action figures and lego sets. She arrived at the Newman farm without fuss and into an expanding family. Love was plentiful growing up, as immeasurable as the blueberries they sold during high season. And, while Kacey existed in the middle of it all, she never fully joined the chaos. When she was still very young, her mother passed. What was left were memories blurred at the edges, sepia bleeding over the colors. She grew a little faster and a lot quieter after that day.

In school, Kacey was an excellent student. She received some ribbing from classmates for being a teacher's pet, but nothing that she couldn't shake off. After all, she had two bigger and louder brothers. For her eighth birthday, on the advice of a friend and in the hopes that his 'Kiwi' would open more, Kacey's father bought her a camera. She wasn't an unhappy kid, far from it, but she had the tendency to clam up when things got rough. The silent treatment, paired with a steady glare, could unnerve grown men.

It turned out to be the right move. There was a whole new language between a lense and a subject. Where the girl had been bordering on timid before, she bloomed into the worst kind of tyrant. Her favorite and first subjects were always her siblings and soon enough she wore them thin with requests. A posed shoot in the blueberry fields, or by the coastline, or in front of the post office, or even when they were brushing their teeth. In time, she was fluent in aspect ratios and cases, and had converted half her closet into a makeshift dark room.

In high school, she was the photographer for the school newspaper. It was at a football game that she first connected with Samuel Clarke. He was a trombone player in the marching band. She slipped a photo of him, instrument in hand, between the grates of his locker and the rest was history. Those who didn't know Kacey were were ripe in the belief that she was dispassionate. In truth, she could be as resolute and stubborn as a brick wall. She decided before graduation that Sam was going to be it for her. Even when she got into art school and moved two state lines away, she worked hard to keep her relationship steady.

That resolve placed her at a magazine in Portland straight out of college. It saw her through buying a condo and getting married. Though she lived away from Merrock, Kacey was a constant visitor. When the first blueberries ripened in April, she'd be there to help with the harvest. When Kellan was on the field she'd was there with her camera in hand, when Clem graduated she was in the stands cheering, and when her nephew was born she snapped some of the first photos. Newborn photography would, in time become a staple of her career. But for a while she reveled in being young and married and living in the biggest city in Maine. It was only when Sam and her decided to start a family that things changed. After a decade living elsewhere, Kacey knew there was only one place she wanted to raise her kids.

Her daughter Daisy was born, twenty-nine years later, in the same hospital room as Kacey. Mixed into those happiest of days was the loss of her father. All her life, she'd known him as a lighthouse. Without him there as a guide things started to slip. Motherhood was a slippery thing beyond even her own iron grasp. She felt like a failure when she couldn't soothe her child or understand her tears. She poured more effort into her career and opening her own studio. She started photographing weddings and births and retirement parties. At least in this, the steady click and focus, she had control. She confided in her siblings, leaned on them and in the midst of it all her relationship began to slide.

They held on for years but, not long after a disastrous third birthday party for Daisy, they agreed a trial separation was for the best. Sam moved into an apartment a few blocks away. Thirty-two years on, Kacey finally had to admit she'd bent to the chaos.

[perusingprincesses]

Hot New Releases! ~Mar 2

Grip by Kennedy Ryan

Resisting an irresistible force wears you down and turns you out. I know. I’ve been doing it for years. I may not have a musical gift of my own, but I’ve got a nose for talent and an eye for the extraordinary. And Marlon James – Grip to his fans – is nothing short of extraordinary. Years ago, we strung together a few magical nights, but I keep those memories in a locked drawer and I’ve thrown away the key. All that’s left is friendship and work. He’s on the verge of unimaginable fame, all his dreams poised to come true. I manage his career, but I can’t seem to manage my heart. It’s wild, reckless, disobedient. And it remembers all the things I want to forget.

Grappling for Position (Against the Cage, #4) by Melynda Price (

This battle of wills is about to go below the belt…

Willow Scott is sweet, innocent, and 100% untouchable. She’s the epitome of everything MMA fighter Regan “Rapscallion” Matthews has always wanted, but will never have. A woman like her deserves more than a scrapper from the wrong side of the tracks—the Scott’s charity case. Unfortunately for Regan, his best friend’s little sister is all grown up and she’s tired of playing by the rules. When Willow sees something she wants, she goes after it—damn the consequences—and her sights are set on him. With a shot at the Welterweight title finally within his grasp, Willow Scott is a distraction Regan can’t afford. But this willful woman is determined to make him tap-out. Willow has been in love with Regan Matthews since she was in pigtails and braces. Over the years, she’s all but given up hope of her brother’s friend returning her affection, but a part of her never stopped praying that someday he would see her as more than Kyle Scott’s annoying little sister. If Willow has her way that’s all about to change, and Regan must decide if he’s willing to risk losing his best friend and the Welterweight title for a woman he doesn’t deserve but cannot live without. **All Against the Cage books can be read as stand-alones**

Coldhearted by Brooklyn Taylor

Two years ago, I, Maxwell Newman fell in love and lost it as soon as I recognized it. She disappeared out of my life just like the fires that I smother when called upon as a lieutenant of the Austin Fire Department. I’m a man that has always gotten what he wanted when I wanted it.

But not this time…How was I going to live without the one thing I wanted so badly?

Two years ago, I, Sadie Wilson lost the only man I had ever loved although I didn’t realize it. I push any person away just like I have every other thing in my life that wanted something more from me than a good time. Now, I am scarred by the pain that lives in my heart. I’m successful at everything I do, except love. I’ve never wanted love, until him and now it’s too late.

How is it possible to move on from the one that you love tremendously from every part of your being?

Or can you?

Amazon

  Hot New Releases! ~Mar 2 was originally published on Perusing Princesses