#is there one for granddaddy issues as well?

[bypatia]

why is my family like succession but without the money?

[harrywavycurly]

Is Dorothy gonna be a trouble maker? I feel like she’s going to want to fight everyone like her mom but be a big softy like Eddie 🥹🥹

Hiii babes!! So I feel like she’s a mixture of both of them as in she’s gonna say what’s on her mind but also really fun to be around😂 I’ll give you some examples!💖

-find all things It Was Just One Night here✨

*in these Dorothy is around 7/8 and the nicknames Reader gives Dotty are ones my mom used for me lol*

“So wanna know what our darling little girl did at school today sweetheart?” “Uh let me guess she…learned something?” “Well…she learned what the inside of the principal’s office looks like.” “Ohh dot…Is it tacky? She strikes me as being very beige.” “Yes mom you’d hate-” “uh excuse me…why don’t you tell your mother why you had to go to the office?” “What’d you do sugar butt? Who’d you make cry today?” “Uhm…well it was…uh…my…teacher.” “Your teacher? You made your teacher cry?” “Not cry but she was…upset but all I asked her to do was look at me when she was talking to me because that’s what you always tell daddy when he’s not listening to you and…she wasn’t listening to what I was saying so I asked her politely…I used my manners and everything…I just asked if she could just please look at me while I’m speaking….” “Well…what did the principal say to you?” “She said that I need to talk to my teachers with respect and be patient with them since there’s twenty of us and only one of her…” “and did you apologize to your teacher?” “No….I didn’t think she deserved an apology since I didn’t do anything wrong and you’ve always said don’t say things you don’t mean…” “right…yeah okay uh…why don’t you go work on your homework while your dad and I talk about this okay?” Okay…” “how the fuck done handle this Eddie? We can’t punish her for asking for her teacher to pay attention to her and she’s right…we do always tell her not to say things she doesn’t mean.” “I say we let this issue slide but if she’s a regular in the principal’s office then we’ve got to be a little more…stern…or…something.” “Right because that’s us…super stern and strict.”

“Uncle Steve is getting married? To someone we don’t know?” “No sugar he’s just going to a wedding.” “With someone we don’t know? What if she’s mean? Or doesn’t have good hair?” “I’m sure she’s nice…now the hair thing I’m not sure anyone is going to live up to your uncle Steve’s fabulous hair.” “Mom be serious…he can’t go with a stranger…we should go with him.” “Sugar he didn’t ask us to go…what if he brings her by so we can meet her would that make you feel better?” “Yes…I’ll go call him.” “Okay…go call him and ask if he’d like to bring her to dinner this week but don’t you dare call her the stranger you hear me? That’s not nice.” “Then what do I call her?” “His girlfriend…just say hey uncle Steve do you and your girlfriend want to come have dinner with us this week? And go from there…” “okay but he’s not coming over on chicken nugget night…”

“Dad can I ask you a question?” “Sure princess what’s up?” “Did you really have your head in your ass?” “Excuse me? Where did you hear that?” “Granddaddy…he said that when you met mom that it took you a while to get your head outta your ass and ask her out…” “I’m gonna kill-” “oh you’re not gonna kill anyone…now sugar no your dad didn’t actually have his head in his ass that’s just a figure of speech…like when someone says it’s hotter than hell outside or when your grandaddy says he’s as full as a tick…does that make sense?” “I thought so…because that’s not physically possible.” “Also you know those are no no words….” “Sorry dad but mom said I’m allowed to say bad words if it’s part of a story or repeating what someone said…” “did she now?” “What? It’s logical…I didn’t know Wayne was gonna go and tell her something like that.” “That’s fine Princess but just don’t say that phrase outside of the house okay?” “Okay dad.”

[racefortheironthrone]

So I know my homoiousios vs. homoousios, and my monophysite vs. dyophysite, and my monothelite vs. dyothelite, and how it all led to the Arab caliphates getting a decent navy and winning the Battle of the Masts.

I don't, and I'd love to! (If you feel like it, obviously.) I'm pretty sure the homoiousios one is about, like, the Trinity or something, but beyond that it's all Greek to me.

(At this point, I feel like I owe @apocrypals royalties or something, but I'm getting a weird kick from doing this on Saint Patrick's Day, so let's do this).

I covered the impact of the monophysite vs. dyophysite split and the Battle of the Masts here, so I'll start from the top.

You are quite correct that the homoiousios vs. homoousios split was, like most of the heresies of the early Church, a Cristological controversy over the nature of Christ and the Trinity. This is perhaps better known as the Arian Heresy, and it's arguably the great-granddaddy of all heresies.

The Arian heresy was the subject of the very first Council of the early Church, the Council of Nicea, convoked by Emperor Constantine the Great in order to end all disputes within the Church forever. (Clearly this worked out well.) In part because the Church hadn't really sat down and attempted to establish orthodoxy before, this debate got very heated. Famously, at one point the future Saint Nicholas supposedly punched Presbyter Arius in the face.

What got a room of men devoted to the "Prince of Peace" heated to the point of physical violence was that Arius argued that, while Christ was the son of God and thus clearly divine, because he was created by God the Father and thus came after the Father, he couldn't be of the same essence (homoousios) as the Father, but rather of similar essence (homoiousios). Eustathias of Antioch and Alexander of Alexandria took the opposing position, which got formulated into the Nicean Creed. As this might suggest, Arius lost both the debate and the succeeding vote that followed, as roughly 298 of 300 bishops attending signed onto the Creed. This got very bad for Arius indeed, because Emperor Constantine enforced the new policy by ordering his writings burned, and Arius and two of his supporters were exiled to Illyricum. Game over, right?

But something odd happened: the dispute kept going, as new followers of Arius popped up and showed themselves to be much better at the Byzantine knife-fighting of Church politics. About ten years later, the ever-unpredictable Constantine turned against Athanasius of Alexandria (who had been Alexander's campaign manager, in essence) and banished him for intruiging against Arius, while Arius was allowed to return to the church (this time in Jerusalem) - although this turned out to be mostly a symbolic victory as Arius died on the journey and didn't live to see his readmission.

....and then it turned out that Constantine the Great's son Constantius II was an Arian and he reversed policy completely, adopting the Arian position and exiling anyone who disagreed with him, up to and including Pope Liberius. While the Niceans eventually triumphed during the reign of Theodosius the Great, Arianism unexpectedly became a major geopolitical issue within the Empire.

See, both during their exile and during their brief period of ascendancy within the Church, one of the major projects of the Arians was to send out missionaries into the west to preach their version of Christianity. Unexpectedly, Arianism proved to be a big hit among the formerly pagan Goths (thanks in no small part to the missionary Ulfilas translating the Bible into Gothic), who were perhaps more familiar with pantheons in which patriarchal gods were considered senior to their sons.

While they weren't particularly given to persecuting Niceans in the West, the Ostrogothic, Visigothic, Burgundian, and Vandal Kings weren't about to let themselves be pushed around by some Roman prick in Constantinople either - which added an interesting religious component to Justinian's attempt to reconquer the West.

[ausetkmt]

Deadline Detroit | Slavery is Detroit's big, bad secret. Why don't we know anything about it?

Metro Detroiters love to celebrate their local history, especially when it involves the noble, magnificent and world-class chapters of the past: The auto industry. Motown Records. The Underground Railroad. Diego Rivera. Coney Islands.

On the other hand, local history has its crazy uncles. Those are chapters that might be fascinating and important, but they are hidden in the back room and rarely talked about. Henry Ford’s anti-Semitism, taking land from the Indians, the Free Press’ 19th Century racism and the auto companies’ early abuse of workers come to mind.

Then there is the granddaddy of all forgotten local history. The subject no one talks about, virtually ever. The most neglected topic of all.

Slavery.

Slavery in Detroit has remained an enormous secret. It is an essential chapter in Detroit’s 311-year story, but it has been pushed back into archives and covered up by decades of neglect and denial. Few people, even well-informed college graduates, know that slavery played a key role in the growth of Detroit, and wealthy Detroiters owned slaves for the first 120 years of the city's  existence. 

When metro Detroiters talk about slavery, they talk about black men and women picking cotton in Georgia and Mississippi because that is what students in southeastern Michigan learn in school.

Yet slavery is very much homegrown. What has been called the “national sin” is also Detroit’s sin. It is the origin of our racial crisis, our peculiar institution, our “necessary evil.” Slavery belongs to Detroit just like slavery belongs to Charleston, Monticello and New Orleans.

Many roads, schools and communities across southeast Michigan carry the names of old, prominent families that owned slaves: Macomb, Campau; Beaubien; McDougall; Abbott; Brush; Cass; Hamtramck; Gouin; Meldrum; Dequindre; Beaufait; Groesbeck; Livernois and Rivard, among many others.

Detroit’s first mayor, John R. Williams, the namesake of two streets in Detroit – John R and Williams – owned slaves. The Catholic Church in Detroit was heavily involved in slavery – priests owned slaves and baptized them, and at least one slave worked on the construction of Ste. Anne’s Church around 1800. The men who funded the Free Press when it was founded in 1831 were ex-slave owners, and the paper supported slavery during the national debate before the Civil War.

The work of slaves helped build Detroit. And just like in the South, slavery in Detroit was reinforced by violence. Slaves worked without any pay for their entire lives, under threat of the lash and death.

Owners used their power over slaves to steal their labor and enrich themselves. Slaves arrived in Detroit stripped of their identity, culture, family and often their name. They were frequently maimed from torture.

Slaves died, often young, and were buried in graveyards that were soon forgotten, and then paved over by later generations of Detroiters, and their bones remain underfoot in America’s blackest big city, and their stories continue to be unknown in a region where race always has been a consuming issue.

Slavery was as much a part of early Detroit as the fur trade. Most residents who could afford slaves owned them during Detroit’s French, British and early American periods, from the city’s founding in 1701 to the second decade of the 19th Century. In 1750, for example, toward the end of the French regime, more than 25 percent of Detroit residents kept slaves.  

“Not surprisingly, Detroit’s slaveholders came from the wealthiest segment of French society and produced a disproportionate amount of the village’s grain and livestock,” writes Brett Rushforth in “Bonds of Alliance,” a new book about slavery in Quebec and the Great lakes area in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Rushforth’s book touches upon the subject of slavery in Detroit, and in so doing he helps raise the veil on the city’s hidden history. Another academic, the University of Michigan’s Tiya Miles, has begun researching the subject, and earlier this year she told NPR’s Michel Martin that slavery “had a multilayered aspect in Detroit.”

There are almost no physical reminders of slavery left in Detroit. But one artifact that remains is a scarred and cracked account book that has yellowed and brittle pages. It sits in storage in the Burton Historical Collection at the Detroit Public Library. The book belonged to William Macomb, the richest person in Detroit when he died in 1796.

Macomb owned Grosse Ile and Belle Isle and several houses and page after page of livestock, tools and furniture. Macomb also owned people. Listed prominently near the front of the book along with things like shovel tongs, saddle bags and goats, are the names of, or references to, 26 human beings: Scipio, Tom, Guy, Charlie… Only one, Jim Girty, had a family name. Together, the slaves’ total value was listed as 1,655 pounds in New York currency.

In his will, Macomb wrote: “I give and bequeath to my loving wife, Mrs. Sarah Macomb, for her own use, all my moveable estate wheresoever…my slaves, cattle, household furniture, books, plates, linen, carriages and my utensils of husbandry.”

I examined that book last week, with a librarian and photographer. It is stark. We acknowledged that it felt strange to look at a simple page with lovely penmanship that represents a national horror involving so much human suffering.

Detroit’s history of slavery is complicated by the fact that African Americans were not the only people held in captivity. Native Americans were also enslaved here, especially during the early decades of the 18th Century when the French ran Detroit.

Indian slavery pre-dated the arrival of Europeans, and it was a very different system than the form of black slavery that Europeans brought to North America. Indians did not consider slaves property, and in native culture slaves possessed symbolic value, and were used as gifts during trade and negotiations, and to take the place of dead warriors.

Eventually, though, Indian slavery mixed with European slavery and produced a hybrid form of bondage that played a major role in relations among Indians and Europeans in Detroit throughout the 18th Century.

Slavery was important, for example, in the interaction between men and women. Traders in Detroit’s early days used female Indian slaves as backcountry wives, both for companionship and as a way to ingratiate themselves with the women’s relatives, which enhanced the traders’ ability to do business with the Indians.

During the British era, one of Detroit’s most successful traders was John Askin, who had three children with an Ottawa woman named Monette, a slave he owned and later freed. Askin was known for his aggressive business tactics, including plying Indians with alcohol. His papers, also preserved at the Burton Collection, show he bought and sold several native and black slaves during his career.

“Rum and sex paved the way for Askin’s success,” wrote historian E.A.S. Demers.

“Sexual violence permeated the slave experience” in the Great Lakes, wrote Rushforth. Many women, he added, like Monette, eventually rose to social acceptance and freedom, but not before a “prolonged submission to what could be defined as serial rape.”

Whether male or female, life was harsh for slaves on the Detroit frontier. They generally slept on the kitchen floors of Detroiters’ homes, and the record is clear that owners did not hesitate to flog their human property when they believed discipline was called for.

Yet in slavery's scale, Detroit was not South Carolina. Detroit’s simple trading economy, small population and modest farms did not require large numbers of slaves, and slaves in Detroit generally lived in closer proximity to their owners than slaves in the south.

Slaves never exceeded 10 percent of the population in Detroit; in the south before the Civil War, slaves made up 33 percent of the population. In Detroit, Macomb was the biggest slave owner, with a couple of dozen slaves; in Virginia, Thomas Jefferson owned some 600 slaves in his lifetime. Jorge Castellanos, a former professor at Marygrove College, once wrote that Detroit was not a “slave society,” but a “society with slaves.”

Forgetting

Grosse Ile, once owned by William Macomb, is the largest island in the Detroit River. Residents have done a lot to keep alive the community’s long history. But no one knew anything about the Macomb family owning slaves until Joel Thurtell, a Detroit Free Press reporter, brought it to their attention while he was doing a story in 2007.

Denise de Beausset, who is Macomb’s great-great-great-great-great granddaughter, told Thurtell: “No, I wasn’t aware of them having slaves at all. That’s funny; you’d think there would have been talk about slaves running the farm. Nobody ever talks about it on our side. I wonder if it was out of embarrassment or it wasn’t politically correct. Nobody ever talked about slaves. I’ll be darned.”  

I have two friends whose roots in Detroit go back to the French period of the early 1700s. When I told them their ancestors had owned slaves, they thought I was joking. One friend, who had researched her family’s history, was flabbergasted when I broke the news.

“NO WAY!” she said. “Wow! Nobody told me anything about that, but I guess they wouldn’t. I am just embarrassed. That’s interesting. Fascinating.”

They are hardly alone in their obliviousness. Students of local history could research Detroit’s past for years before they would stumble across evidence of slavery. Since the early 1970s, slavery in Detroit has been the subject of research by a small number of scholars, who wrote academic articles that were mostly read by other academics and advanced students.

One graduate student, Arthur Kooker, wrote his doctoral dissertation in 1941 at the University of Michigan on abolitionists in Michigan before the Civil War. In his preface, Kooker wrote about his surprise when he discovered slavery itself had existed in Michigan.

“As the work progressed one fact that seemed to require an exploration kept bobbing up,” he wrote. “Rooted deep in Michigan’s past was the very institution which had called the antislavery movement into being.”

Remembering

During the first years of the 21st Century, many Americans discovered the story of slavery in the United States, especially as it existed outside the south. Prodded by activists and historians, a number of institutions and individuals acknowledged their historic ties to slavery and other extreme racist behavior, and in many cases asked for forgiveness.

A partial list of those performing a self-examination, and often issuing an apology or moving for reconciliation, includes President Bill Clinton (on behalf of the United States); Brown University; Yale University; Harvard University; Wilmington, N.C.; New York City; Philadelphia, Miss.; Duluth, Minn.; Birmingham, Ala.; London, England.; various insurance companies; the Southern Baptist Convention; the U. S. Senate; the Hartford Courant, the Raleigh News and Observer; the Lexington, Kentucky, Herald-Leader; J.P. Morgan Chase and several other banks.

Ira Berlin, one of the nation’s foremost historians of slavery, wrote in 2006 that “slavery has a greater presence than at any time since the end of the Civil War.”

Slowly, the curtain has begun to rise across the country on slavery and other forms of historical racism. Most notably, the collective amnesia is disappearing that allowed the north to absolve itself of involvement in slavery while castigating the south. People are realizing that understanding slavery is central to understanding the origins of America itself.

Detroit’s selective memory, however, has remained intact. Almost nothing has been done to seek out the truth about the role of slavery in Detroit’s history. And that seems unfortunate in a region where the theoretical underpinning of slavery – racism – remains a paramount issue.

It’s not a happy story. It’s probably not a coincidence that we celebrate the uplifting saga of the Detroit and the Underground Railroad rather than the tremendously sad story of Detroit and human captivity. For a nation – and city -- built on the notion of freedom, to consider the idea that slavery was also a major part of the foundation is difficult and disillusioning.

But telling the truth about our history can be a start on telling the truth about today.

“Slavery is the ground zero of race relations,” Berlin has written. “There is a general, if inchoate, understanding that any attempt to address the question of race in the present must also address slavery in the past.”

► Related: Detroit Landmarks And Roadways, And The Slave Owners They Were Named For

[twistedtummies2]

Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum!

Hee, Hi, Ho, Hum!

I'm a most amazing guy!

A most amazing guy, am I!

Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum!

Hee, Hi, Ho, Hum!

I'm the stuff, I'm tellin' you!

For here's what I can do!

I can change myself into an elf!

Fly up high, like the birdies!

I can disappear into atmosphere...PEEK-A-BOO!

'Cause I know the Magic Wordies...

"Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum," Billy Gilbert.

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

My next image in my “OCs & Inspirations” series for Disney’s 100th Anniversary! This time, I present to you Billy Géant and his inspiration, Willie the Giant from the “Mickey and the Beanstalk” segment of a personal favorite Disney film of mine, “Fun & Fancy Free!” The art here was done by @twisted-brainrot.

Billy came about because I wanted to do something with one of my favorite fairy-tales, “Jack and the Beanstalk,” which is a big part of what I think “activated” the more macro/micro side of my many, MANY kinks and fascinations. My thought process was I could do one of two things: one was create an AU for Twisted Wonderland with some characters as giants and others as “Jacks” (which I eventually did for “My Hero Academia,” and may do again for another couple of anime-ish franchises I love). Two was to create my own OC based on a Disney giant - and I went with Willie for a LOT of reasons - and do something with them. Obviously, that is the choice I went with, and I have not seen a reason to regret it: alongside Nakoda, perhaps even MORE than Nakoda, Billy is my most popular OC for Twisted Wonderland. I think there’s more art and writing for him than any of my other major characters for this universe.

He’s also the closest to his source material. Willie the Giant, in his initial appearance (and most other antagonistic roles he’s had since), is essentially a villain by incidence rather than choice. The film actually states this in black and white: “Willie was a nice giant…he just got too big for his britches.” He’s not really EVIL, he’s basically just a big, dumb kid. He’s selfish and has a bad temper: when he causes trouble, it’s not because he’s trying to actively hurt anybody, but simply because he either doesn’t know or doesn’t care about the consequences of his actions (or both). When you push him the wrong way, he then shows his dangerous side, as he can go from cuddly and silly to a terrifying titan of rage. Billy is the exact same way. As well as having a lot of Willie’s superficial elements as a character, the main takeaway between the two is that inherent childishness, and the dichotomy of danger and sweetness it provides. Billy is a lovable dunderhead who only becomes truly cruel and vicious when someone REALLY presses his buttons, and typically is only an antagonist because circumstance has sort of put him in that position. The big difference between the two is what they seek: Willie’s problem-causing is usually a result of greed or ignorance. Billy, however, is someone with a LOT of personal issues: he’s lived a large portion of his life being neglected, rejected, abandoned, and betrayed. He’s effectively a very lonely person who just wants some affection, some respect, and above all some companionship. Show him those things, and you’ll probably be fine.

As to the art…I asked Twisted-Brainrot to do this one because he’s actually made more art for Billy than anybody else, and because he’s also a big fan of Willie the Giant. I’m not sure, but I think this might have been his first (public) outing with the Disney original, and he did an absolutely MARVELOUS job. Seeing the big guy paired up with Billy is truly a treat, and speaking of Billy, I just love how cute he is. TB always draws him with this really cuddly “extra plush” appearance, and it’s truly beautiful to see him that way with his great-great granddaddy. Good big bois, both of ‘em. <3

[honourablejester]

Research Rabbit Holes & Call of Cthulhu Character Concepts

Okay. So I got the Call of Cthulhu Investigator Handbook, as people may have gathered. And I was browsing the list of occupations, and I found the Diver. Which. I mean. If we’re playing horrifying underwater Lovecraft Mythos horror, that makes sense. But. I went to look up the history of underwater diving a bit, just to get a better feel for where we would have been, technologically, around the 1920s? Not in detail or anything, but just to get a feel. And. Um. You do not need Lovecraftian horrors of any stripe to create terror in this regard?

Continued under cut for anyone who has triggers regarding claustrophobia or underwater anything:

So. One interesting little tidbit I came across while browsing Wikipedia on this issue was that decompression sickness, AKA The Bends, was originally called Caisson Disease. Because it was first observed not in divers, but in caisson workers and miners. And I do not know this word, so I go look up what a caisson is, and therefore what caisson workers are. And, um. It’s a rigid pressurised airlocked workspace that is slowly sunk down to the river/sea bed under large underwater building projects, such as bridge piers, so that workers can get down there to dig out foundations. Inside a tiny airtight concrete box at the bottom of the river.

Jesus Christ. Jesus, humans are fucking terrifying. These are the things we do.

Basically, decompression sickness was first sort of properly documented among people emerging from highly pressurised working environments like caissons and some mineshafts, and they later linked it to the same phenomenon as people coming up too fast from pressurised diving. There is a fantastic-slash-utterly horrific description of caisson work on the Brooklyn Bridge in the 1870s, which was a notable study for caisson disease as there were over a hundred cases during the construction. And it’s just. What a lovely rabbit hole to have wandered down?

But. But. How about that for a character backstory? A diver, a Call of Cthulhu 1920s diver, whose granddad was a caisson worker on the Brooklyn Bridge. One of the ones who survived, maybe with some health issues later down the line. Because this family, it’s a point of pride. That they can survive pressurised hell without a qualm, whether subterranean or submarine. Maybe the family were originally miners, and then caisson workers, and then divers. Granddaddy built the Brooklyn Bridge. Daddy was a navy man. And our character, he works in marine salvage.

I think I’d want their highest score to be Power. They are rock solid. They have calm, and control, and presence of mind, even when 40ft down in the mud and silt of the riverbed in a tiny fucking concrete box, or hanging in black abyss of lightless water waiting for their body to be ready to make it back up. They are relentlessly sane. Until, maybe. Until something supernatural has to come and shake them up. Because it’s a point of pride. Humans do these things on their own. They invent these things and put themselves in these situations all on their own. Willingly. So by god it’s going to take something really unnatural to horrify this man. My great granddaddy was a miner. My granddaddy worked the caissons on the Brooklyn Bridge. My daddy was in the Navy. I’ve dived wrecks along half the east coast. You’re gonna have to pull something big to put the willies up me, you squishy alien sons of bitches!

Because. Because look. Cthulhu is all very well. Great Old Ones, horrors beyond the stars. But humans do this to themselves. We do this to ourselves. We make tiny concrete boxes and sink them under rivers and go down to work in them ourselves.

I honestly sometimes think that there is no horror the universe could wreak on us that we couldn’t (or haven’t already) found a way to willingly wreak on ourselves first.

Why are we like this? God. It’s awesome, don’t get me wrong, but it’s also really terrifying.

[alovelyburn]

I was wondering who your top five favorite Berserk characters are and why you like them? My bad if you’ve gotten this ask before.

Not in a few years! 1-3 are easy for me, it just gets tough after that because at that point there are a lot of characters I like without any of them standing out as particularly more amazing than the others.

...this is very long.

Guts Despite I guess being more of a vocal Griffith advocate, Guts is actually my favorite character not just in Berserk but in Manga as a whole, and arguably in..... fiction. I mean I can't think of anyone I like more offhand, anyway. As for why... I'm generally fond of the kind of character that he is: a complex personality with a lot of heavy issues, rage and emotional struggles. If you look at any media with a Guts-like character I probably like them - Auron, Senji Kiyomasa, Jason Todd, whatever, they're just my kind of thing but Guts is really the granddaddy of that type and he's more nuanced and interesting than any of the other ones I've personally run across. Jason kind of skirts close sometimes but it depends on the writer... and Western franchise comics are just less consistent by nature. There's also the Punisher but he's a homicidal maniac.

So, even though I like this type in general, it's sort of rare that they're the actual protagonist right, like usually the protagonist is some teenager and the broody complicated guy is like the mentor, or a scary guy they have to deal with or, in the case of a romance usually the love interest. That doesn't stop them from being fun characters that I like, but it does tend to limit how much exploration they get.

I appreciate that he's a protagonist who isn't always a nice or admirable person - that he makes mistakes and hates himself for it, that he sees his own monstrousness and struggles to control it and sometimes gives in to it (or even makes use of it). And the coexistence of his sometimes seemingly contradictory traits - his protectiveness vs the way he hurts people, his desire to belong vs his tendency to abandon, his insecurity and his cocky swag, his uncertainty vs his steel will - also makes for a multifaceted personality. Miura said he designed characters with a mind toward what they'd bring out in Guts and as a result, Guts has a lot brought out in him, I guess. Generally speaking the more complicated a character is the more interested I'll be in them anyway. This is something that's going to come up with Griffith as well, but I also have an attraction to moral ambiguity. I genuinely believe he's capable of being just as cruel, just as monstrous, as Griffith ever was (and vice versa) - and in a lot of ways we've already seen him do that - it's just that I guess a lot of people don't register it that way because his specific priorities better align with their sympathies and also he's the protagonist so people will tend to side with him anyway. But that... doesn't change that he's a person who will use a child as monster bait, or that he sexually assaulted a woman he's supposed to be protecting, or that he let the pilgrim camps around the tower of conviction get sucked into hell in order to get his ex back. It doesn't change that he's selfish and cruel sometimes.

Traditionally I also tend to be drawn to characters who kind of defy I guess stereotypical gender...norms? Guts in a lot of ways is a classic masculine type, but I appreciate that he isn't the no-emo badass that, I guess, he gets perceived as by some people. I love that he cries more than most of the characters in the series, or that his primary motivation is heartbreak over Griffith betraying him. That his rage is more cope than anything else.

I always say he'd reconcile with Griffith if he had a chance, as we know, but if you think about it that's kind of a dick move, I mean Griffith did feed the Hawks to demons and rape Casca in front of him. But that doesn't mean I dislike that I feel he'd do it, on the contrary, that just makes his emotional workings more interesting to me because it's a little desperate and sad, and a little selfish and monstrous, and I think he'd... know that it was a dick move and that he's a little pathetic for being willing to do it. And I think he'd struggle with it and hate himself for it. But I still think he'd do it. Which is interesting to me.

I also love that he's not motivated by romance. It's a rare gem of a thing, and I mean I do obviously believe he has romantic feelings for both Casca and Griffith, but even with that being the case I don't think his romantic feelings for either are his true motivators - he's not attached to Casca just because she's the woman he was planning to be with, he's attached to her because she represents the Hawks in his head. And while his feelings for Griffith have a romantic component I do think it's just one color in a massive storm of feelings. I always think Griffith is in love with Guts, whereas Guts loves Griffith which includes also having romantic feelings for him but it's not necessarily the primary driving force in those feelings.

Also, I really love a stone-cold badass. I've never been a person who automatically gloms onto the underdog, I guess; I know a lot of people are inherently turned off by overpowered characters or characters who rarely lose or whatever, but that just doesn't bother me, I love watching a character cut through an army solo, it's just fun for me.

Along the same lines, I love that he's relentless and can't and won't be stopped. This is kind of an interesting one because I feel like for a lot of people a big chunk of his appeal is that he is always kind of struggling against larger forces and he gets fucked up and he takes hits but keeps going. Whereas for me, the part that appeals to me is just... that he keeps going, whether that means fighting and fighting and never taking a hit or taking hits and getting back up is less important to me than the fact that he's always continuing to go.

And I like the way he mouths off to gods and demons.

Griffith Even though Guts is my favorite, I do actually think Griffith is Miura's master creation. The subtlety of his characterization, the ambiguity that sometimes ripples back just enough to reveal the edge of this vast and complicated personality and the way the reader is left to connect the dots is really fascinating to me - though I do wish people were better about connecting the dots instead of drawing over them.

I say this a lot, but Griffith is the one who actually embodies the reasons I love Berserk the work itself, the world, the philosophy behind it, etc. That someone like him can break is evidence that anyone can break. That someone as good as he is can be cruel is evidence that anyone can be cruel. That someone as terrible as he is can be kind is evidence that anyone can be kind. He encompasses the breadth and depth of humanity in Berserk's world, in all its beauty and all its hideousness.

I love every Griffith, though I do think all of them are distinct in their own ways.

During the Hawks Era, there is a certain innocence to him that persists despite the things he sees and does. He is... childish, I mean honestly, when I think about Griffith in the Golden Age this is maybe the main thing that comes to mind? Because he can be the adult in the room, he can be the genius strategist, the brilliant combatant, he can be serious when he needs to but these are all roles, and when his guards are down (mostly around Guts) his reserve melts and he's expressive and silly and playful and ultimately his self-image is literally that of a barefoot child.

That kind of informs a certain earnest purity that comes through in the way he sees the world and the feelings he has about things or people, and the specifics of the ambitions he holds. Even some of the things that people use against him - the piles of corpses you could say - are things that by the standard of the day really aren't anything he needs to feel bad about, but he's tormented by them to the point where guilt ultimately becomes arguably the driving force behind his actions more than the original ambition that created those corpses to begin with.

I think in the end, what drove Hawks Griffith was still a kind of kid looking at the castle kind of idealism - the dream of self-discovery intermingled with the yearning to build the kind of world that wouldn't make people go through the things he did. The issue is that in a more realistic world, as Berserk has tended to be (magic and stuff aside), that is hard to sustain.

You know what he reminds me of? For anyone familiar with Fate/ there's a thing about Artoria/Saber where she became a martyr to her own Kingdom because she ended up living for the country and sacrificing for the country which made her increasingly dehumanized and Gilgamesh, charmer that he is, realizes she's trying to carry the world on her shoulders he basically determines that she's inevitably going to be crushed under the weight of her own self-imposed burden, which he thinks is hot. Aside from the hotness of it, that always reminded me of Hawks Griffith - the way he tried to carry the Hawks on his back and never let them see that he was imperfect, the way he lived to maintain that image so they had something to believe in, and the way it strained the man underneath.

And that! Is! FASCINATING, look as much as I love Guts for being basically made of steel, I also love Griffith for not being as mentally resilient as Guts is - in fact so many of the reasons I glommed onto Griffith are the direct opposite of reasons I love Guts - so much of Griffith's character is driven by his feelings for Guts, especially during the Golden Age, and I find that to be just as fascinating as Guts' romantic ambivalence. In so many ways Griffith seems larger than life and inhumanly perfect - invincible like he can withstand anything, but all that strength can't hold him up when his heart breaks. In the end its his fragile human heart that is his downfall every time. And the breakable interior underneath his epic hero exterior makes for an interesting cocktail.

This is getting too long so I'm going to try to be brief with Neo - obviously he embodies the larger cosmic themes of Berserk even more than Hawks Griffith does - but I also find him fascinating as the fallout from everything that went on with Hawks Griffith. Because Griffith tried so hard to be a person who lived for his dreams and wasn't battered about by his emotions but he couldn't manage it and so when he's remade in the image he desires he becomes the thing he wanted to be, and its beautiful and epic and inspiring but also kind of hollow and sad. Griffith lives in the fallout from making the wish with the consequences he didn't expect, and it's interesting because it's not wholly clear how much he realizes what he's lost - how much he feels it - until the external imposition of factors that bring his emotions back full force for those shreds of time between transformations.

Farnese She's been my third favorite for... ages. That said, she's not Guts or Griffith so I don't have as much to say about her. I just think she's an interesting character - the changes that take place in her as she tries to reinvent herself are really cool to me.

If you line the events we know up chronologically you get a pretty cohesive story about this emotionally abandoned girl who cycles through various forms of trying to locate herself and her place in the world and forming kind of frantic dependencies on various copium flavors until she is ultimately forced to face the lie that her life had been, at which point she has to start over from nothing. I think that's a cool and very human story. Also, it's interesting to me to see this person who, when we first meet her, seems so powerful (in a political sense) and determined have all those masks torn down until you see the terrified lost person inside all the trappings... and then to see her build herself back up, but in the way she chooses and through the means she desires, having finally been untethered from the obligation and demands of her family or the church.

Farnese is kind of a normal person to me, you know? Like Guts and Griffith are Epic Heroes - they're Made Differently in that heroic form. And people like Serpico are kind of skirting the edges between normal and epic - I'd call him kind of a normal hero as opposed to an epic hero and then there's Farnese who is very cool yes, but ultimately also a basically normal person. And watching her grow and adjust in this world that is deeply hostile to normal people - not just the Berserk world as a whole but the specific path that she goes onto by following Guts - is A+ entertainment for me. It also makes her admirable, because she was born to such extreme wealth and could have had such an easy life if she decided to put her tail between her legs and run home, but she didn't.

So... yeah I mean I think it's a good arc.

From here the short list was Charlotte, Serpico, Zodd and Rickert.

Charlotte I talked a lot about why I like her so much pretty recently, but to quickly recap... I enjoy watching her develop from a sheltered shy shrinking violet into someone who is, while still very gentle and quiet, far stronger and more resilient than one would have expected. I love that she has these progressive views - I assume she got most of them from her father who was quite progressive as well before he lost his damn mind, but it means she and Griffith are aligned on a lot of political views.The risks she takes to save Griffith, the way she loves him even when he's lost everything and can't talk anymore, the way she's able to fight off the King without assistance and protect herself for the year that follows... it works for me. She's a different type of character than someone like Guts or even someone like Farnese, and of course she doesn't get a lot of screentime since she's a relatively small character, but I've seen a lot of growth in her. I also think she's adorable and her romantic fantasy version of the world is kind of... just. Interesting. It's interesting when one character is in a different genre of story than everyone else, I don't know.

Rickert He stole Zodd's spot. Mostly because I always like that "last of the old Guard" type of character, and I find his emotional struggle where Griffith is concerned really interesting. In a lot of ways it echoes Guts' struggle, albeit without the UST. The bit where he smacked Griffith - that whole scene and everything leading up to and after it, is one of my favorite parts of the series - I love that despite knowing what Griffith has done, he still wavered on the edge of whether to stand with him or not. I also love that he decided not to, and that at the same time he still holds his reverence and love for the Griffith who used to be, even though he can't accept the Griffith who is. Even then after that, he's still reluctant to believe Griffith would have him killed - which I think he's right to doubt, because I'm so sure it was Locus who did that. Anyway, he doesn't do much - rather he does a fair amount but he does it in spurts and then vanishes for years at a time - but I'm always glad to see him when he shows up.

Serpico is still on the edge for me right now, but I've been warming to him more during the current reread, I guess because I had to think about him more than I normally do. So I wouldn't be shocked if he eventually overtook Charlotte or Rickert - not sure which. I just need to see more of him/think more about him to get a sense of where he falls for me.

I also think that if we get the full backstory on Skull Knight and Void there is a high chance that they'll just knock the bottom two off entirely and give me a legitimately solid Top 5 instead of, honestly, a Top 3 + extras.

[mermaidsirennikita]

Any historical romance recommendations for older male leads? I'm floored by the male lead in Midnight Angel 🥵

I haven't read that one yet! Somedaaay

I tried to look up how old he was and all I got is that he has a 12 year old daughter, so I'm assuming 40+? Which is what I went for here, lol.

After Dark with the Duke by Julie Anne Long. Hero is 42, heroine is 25. He's a former war hero and is very uptight and strait-laced, AND he's a widower with a grown son whose own wife becomes pregnant during the course of the novel, so like. Granddaddy. His heroine is very flighty and spirited and scandalous and he's SWEATIN'.

My Dirty Duke by Joanna Shupe. I believe the hero is 43-45, heroine is 18-20. He's her dad's close friend. She's been obsessed for years and he tries a "don't stand so close to me" and it does nOT work.

What I Did for a Duke by Julie Anne Long. He's like, right around 39/40, but it hits harder because she's a fresh 20. He's also a widower with a dead child, so. That adds to the world weariness. It's a ruination revenge plot, my favorite Julie Anne Long (ADWTD is a close second). Super romantic, with a great heroine as well who immediately catches on to his shit.

The Portrait of a Duchess by Scarlett Peckham. Heroine is 38, hero is 52--they've been married for 20 years and estranged for pretty much the entire time, save that one night when they consummated the marriage. She's like this virago, he's a hopeless romantic. Heads up--she is 18 when they marry and have sex the first time. It is her idea, and her logic on it is pretty solid; she wants to avoid an issue with her inheritance that can only be solved by her getting married ASAP. But, you know. Forewarning.

Lord of Darkness by Elizabeth Hoyt. Godric is only 37, I think, but he's a widower (the widower thing always makes them seem older lmao) and he is originally PLAYED as older to his heroine, who I think is around 24 when the action starts. He like, wears glasses and is graying and I think has one of those Ebeneezer Scrooge night cap things??? But you know. He's actually a hot vigilante. Crouching grandpa, hidden daddy.

I am not... sure if Ross Cannon in Lisa Kleypas's Lady Sophia's Lover is over 40? But it FEELS like he is, and he's another widower. It's been a while since I've read it, so I'd need to reread to check for sure.

When I start The Duke's Perfect Wife (by Jennifer Ashley) I know Hart Mackenzie (love his work) has to be around 40ish at the youngest because he's older than Cameron Mackenzie, who's 37 at the time of his own book. Cameron is, by the way, a widower with a 16 year old son and is 10 years older than his heroine, so The Many Sins of Lord Cameron may be worth checking out.

The thing with historicals is that, because the heroines are often quite young, the heroes may FEEL older, but when you do the math they're like, under 35 lol. Like, I thought about the hero from Monica McCarty's The Chief because he's a widower with two kids (who he never sees lmao) who leads a suicide squad but then I realized he's like, 10-12 years older than his heroine, who's like 22 max. Medieval times, man

[reddawnmultimuse]

🔥 hot take on the fandom

[ too much drama, man. like--and this be a spicy take--you gotta lotta writers who haven't matured past their teenage years and it shows with how immature and over-dramatic they are over dumb shit.

also, if one person writes a muse all well-like and is popular, they think they're the only one that can write that muse and/or other people compare you to that person's version if you write the same muse.

i've run into that a lot with deidara. i've written him since 2006. yes, he isn't only canon, talking about art and explosions all the time; yes, he's a temperamental whore with a granddaddy issues and a kid. get over it, please. he's my little meow-meow. ]

[heavyhitterheaux]

You just had to hit me hard with the emotions didn’t you?! Sitting on my bed with tears on my face. I know this scenario all too well! At 54 & 51, my parents went thru pure hell when they started dating in 1985. Their parents didn’t care and welcomed my dad with open arms. But not everyone. The racial slurs, friends that were no longer their friends. Then it got worse. My mom’s uncle tried to run my dad off the road and kill him. Could it get worse? Yes..

My dad was chased by members of the KKK. All the way to my grandparents house. My granddaddy stepped out the door with his shot gun and told them that if they stepped on his land that he would kill them. All of this is between 1985-1990. Does it get worse? Of course!

The death threats my mom got when she became pregnant with me were unbelievable. Those same people that made those threats, said the slurs, and stopped being their friend all want to smile and hug in my face today. At some point me, my sister, and my brother have had to endure that same racism when we dated a white guy. Didn’t matter that we were half white. In their eyes, we were black.

My sister’s husband mom did not come to their wedding because she hated the fact that he was marrying someone half black. That he was helping my sister raise her two kids that have a black father. It hurts. It hurts like hell to be made that you are less than someone because of the color of your skin.

I tend to not let racism faze me much these days. How you feel is your problem and not mine so I’m not losing sleep over it. Even though my son has two biracial parents, it’s still an issue. I don’t want my son, niece, or nephew to go thru the same things. We have a framed photo of us from my sister’s wedding that says “Love endures”. It does! It really does!

I saw this and it took me awhile to answer it because...

Well you already know why.

It breaks my heart every time I hear stories like this because this is seen as a somewhat normal experience for us.

And that shouldn't be a thing

It's sad to say but I know you've heard of the one drop rule and that is forever how people will see you.

That one drop of black blood to them means you're black and they see nothing else.

Remain strong my bby!

No one can break us no matter how hard they try and your family is absolutely beautiful ❤️

[soothingindica]

Exploring the Best Cannabis Indica Strains for Anxiety Relief

Cannabis indica strains are well-regarded for their calming and relaxing effects, making them a popular choice for those seeking relief from anxiety. If you’re looking to find the best cannabis indica strains for managing anxiety, understanding which strains offer the most effective therapeutic benefits is essential. This article will guide you through some top indica strains known for their anxiety-relieving properties, helping you make informed choices for your needs.

Key Points to Consider

1. Granddaddy Purple

Granddaddy Purple is a renowned indica strain famous for its deeply relaxing effects. Known for its sweet, grape-like flavor and calming properties, it helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety by promoting a sense of tranquility and relaxation. The strain’s high THC content combined with its soothing effects makes it a popular choice for those dealing with stress and anxiety.

2. Northern Lights

Northern Lights is a classic indica strain celebrated for its ability to induce a peaceful state of mind. This strain features a sweet and spicy aroma and delivers effects that help ease tension and stress. Its sedative qualities make it ideal for nighttime use, providing a sense of calm that can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with anxiety-related sleep issues.

3. Bubba Kush

Bubba Kush is known for its strong sedative effects and earthy, coffee-like flavor. As one of the best cannabis indica strains for anxiety relief, Bubba Kush helps users relax and unwind, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress. Its potent relaxing effects make it suitable for evening use or as a nighttime strain to help with anxiety-related insomnia.

4. Purple Kush

Purple Kush is a potent indica strain with a rich, fruity flavor profile. It is highly regarded for its relaxing effects that can help reduce anxiety and promote overall well-being. Its high THC levels combined with its calming properties make it an excellent choice for those seeking relief from chronic stress and anxiety.

5. Afghan Kush

Afghan Kush is a pure indica strain that has been used for centuries for its calming effects. It offers a heavy, full-body relaxation that helps ease anxiety and stress. With its earthy and slightly sweet flavor, Afghan Kush provides a soothing experience that can help users feel more grounded and relaxed.

When searching for the best cannabis indica strains for anxiety relief, strains like Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, Bubba Kush, Purple Kush, and Afghan Kush stand out for their effectiveness in alleviating stress and promoting relaxation. Each of these strains offers unique benefits and flavors, allowing you to choose the one that best meets your needs for managing anxiety. By understanding the properties of these indica strains, you can make informed decisions to enhance your well-being and find the calm you’re seeking.

[bigcountryrecycling]

The Importance of Iron Recycling

Introduction

In a world where environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial, the importance of recycling cannot be overstated. One key player in the recycling realm is iron – a versatile and widely used metal with immense potential for reclamation. Iron recycling services are at the forefront of environmental conservation efforts, providing an efficient and eco-friendly solution to manage the ever-growing demand for this essential material.

What is Iron?

Iron is a ferrous metal – in fact, it is the granddaddy of all ferrous metals. It is a base metal, meaning it is extracted directly from ore and has no other metals blended into it. It can be used as an ingredient in metal alloys — most commonly, steel. The most well-known features of iron include its natural magnetism and the signature orange rust of iron that’s been exposed to the elements. Iron is the second most commonly occurring metal in the Earth’s crust. China, Australia, and Brazil are among the leading sources of iron ore. Around the world, 3.3 billion tonnes of iron ore were produced in 2018.

Importance Of Iron Recycling

1-Global Environmental Impact:

Iron recycling is a global effort that transcends borders. By participating in recycling initiatives, individuals and industries contribute to a collective effort in preserving the environment, addressing global environmental challenges, and working towards a more sustainable future.

2- Climate Change Mitigation:

Iron recycling aids in mitigating climate change. The reduction in energy consumption during the recycling process results in lower greenhouse gas emissions, helping to combat global warming and its associated environmental impacts.

3- Conservation of Natural Resources:

Iron recycling helps in the conservation of natural resources by reducing the need for new iron ore extraction. This contributes to the preservation of forests, ecosystems, and landscapes that would otherwise be disrupted by mining activities.

4- Resource Security:

As a finite resource, iron ore availability is not guaranteed indefinitely. Iron recycling services contribute to resource security by minimizing dependence on new sources of iron, making industries more resilient to fluctuations in the availability and cost of raw materials.

5- Reduced Pollution:

Iron production from raw materials is a major source of air and water pollution. Recycling iron helps mitigate pollution by decreasing the need for traditional manufacturing processes that release harmful pollutants into the environment. This, in turn, improves air and water quality.

Unlocking the Potential of Iron Recycling

Unlocking the potential of iron recycling is not merely a pragmatic endeavor but a crucial step towards sustainable resource management and environmental conservation. As the global demand for iron continues to rise, harnessing the power of recycling becomes imperative to alleviate the strain on natural ore deposits and mitigate the environmental impact of traditional mining practices. By implementing advanced recycling technologies and fostering a circular economy mindset, we can transform discarded iron products into valuable raw materials, reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with conventional iron production. This paradigm shift not only addresses the pressing issue of resource scarcity but also promotes a more resilient and eco-friendly industrial ecosystem. Embracing the full potential of iron recycling holds the key to creating a more sustainable future, where economic growth harmonizes with environmental stewardship.

use of iron

Iron, a ubiquitous element with a profound impact on our daily lives, manifests its versatility through a myriad of applications. From the robust skeletons of towering skyscrapers to the rhythmic hum of engines propelling us forward, iron stands as the silent backbone of modern infrastructure and transportation. Its magnetic allure extends beyond construction and locomotion, finding expression in the delicate dance of artistic endeavors and the precision of surgical instruments. In the realm of nutrition, iron fortifies our vitality by coursing through our veins, orchestrating the symphony of oxygen transport in our bloodstream. In the crucible of progress, iron emerges not only as a formidable force in shaping the physical world but also as an elemental companion in the narratives of innovation, resilience, and human achievement.

Conclusion

Iron Recycling Services play a vital role in conserving natural resources, reducing waste, and supporting a more sustainable environment. By recycling iron, we can decrease the need for new mining activities, lower energy consumption, and minimize the impact on our landfills. These services not only help in preserving our planet for future generations but also contribute to the economy by creating jobs and promoting efficient use of materials. Embracing iron recycling is a practical and responsible choice that benefits both the environment and society.

Benefit of Choosing Big Country Recycling for Iron recycling services

Choosing Big Country Recycling for Iron Recycling Services offers a myriad of benefits that extend beyond mere waste disposal. Renowned for their commitment to environmental sustainability, Big Country Recycling not only helps businesses and individuals responsibly manage their iron scrap but also contributes significantly to reducing the carbon footprint. With state-of-the-art facilities and a streamlined process, they ensure efficient and eco-friendly iron recycling, promoting the conservation of valuable resources. Clients can rest assured that their materials are handled with the utmost care and in compliance with industry standards. Beyond environmental impact, partnering with Big Country Recycling proves financially advantageous, as they offer competitive rates for iron recycling services. Their dedication to customer satisfaction, coupled with their ethical and transparent approach, makes them a trusted choice for those seeking reliable and responsible iron recycling solutions. Contact them today to learn more about their Iron Recycling Services Or call +1 325-949-5865.

Source: https://bigcountryrecycling.wordpress.com/2024/08/31/the-importance-of-iron-recycling/

[mabith]

Books I read in May (asterisks denote rereads):

Ignition! – John Drury Clark Dark Archives – Megan Rosenbloom I Can Do It – Jiang Zi Bei * Revolution – Peter Ackroyd Wait for Me After School – Jiang Zi Bei Hands of Time – Rebecca Struthers Freddy Goes to the North Pole – Walter R. Brooks * The Moonstone – Wilkie Collins The Ends of the World – Peter Brannen Gentlemen of Uncertain Fortune – Rory Muir Fight Night – Miriam Toews O Ye Jigs and Juleps – Virginia Cary Hudson * The House of Mirth – Edith Wharton Mortal Follies – Alexis Hall The Art Thief – Michael Finkel Design for Living – Noel Coward Bank Shot – Donald E. Westlake * The Great Pearl Heist – Molly Caldwell Crosby Mr. Melancholy Wants to Live a Peaceful Life – Cyan Wings *

Ignition! An Informal History of Liquid Rocket Propellants – John Drury Clark This is quite technical, I've retained little other than knowing what hypergolic and thixotropic mean. It made me think of my granddaddy which was comforting and he gets some good humor in there while over using the phrase 'scared me to death' (though it is justified).

Dark Archives: A Librarian's Investigation into the Science and History of Books Bound in Human Skin – Megan Rosenbloom Interesting but not amazing journey mostly into medical ethics honestly. The writing is good but not particularly compelling.

I Can Do It – Jiang Zi Bei * Sometimes you have to learn things about League of Legends against your will because this is such a funny book with such great characters. My friend had to suffer through me constantly chuckling over this on our train trip.

Revolution: The History of England from the Battle of the Boyne to the Battle of Waterloo – Peter Ackroyd Ackroyd's big histories are A Lot but they're good. This is one of those periods where I know certain bits pretty well but the overall picture not at all, so good for me.

Wait for Me After School – Jiang Zi Bei Fairly typical school romance webnovel but this time the iceberg type character is the pursuer. Lots of humor, broke my heart briefly but ended well because that's a requirement.

Hands of Time: A Watchmaker's History – Rebecca Struthers Part memoir, part wider history, good read. Author is the exact same age as me so I could technically be a master watchmaker by now (I mean, if everything in my life had turned out wildly differently, but still!).

Freddy Goes to the North Pole – Walter R. Brooks * One of my least favorite Freddy books (otherwise a GREAT series), because it's absolutely fine to have animals talking but putting in Santa Claus as a character is apparently too much for me.

The Moonstone – Wilkie Collins SO good! SO funny! Compelling mystery! I love Victorian novels so fucking much. My first Collins, excited to read more.

The Ends of the World: Volcanic Apocalypses, Lethal Oceans, and Our Quest to Understand Earth's Past Mass Extinctions – Peter Brannen Generally interesting, feels slightly like the author was forced to bring in current climate issues at times. Author is a science journalist, not a scientist, so you know. Pretty well done though.

Gentlemen of Uncertain Fortune: How Younger Sons Made Their Way in Jane Austen's England – Rory Muir I was expecting more humor which I did not get, but an interesting read. Certain areas felt like a little too much, but great if you're a passionate student of the period or writing a regency romance novel.

Fight Night – Miriam Toews I loved this. The audiobook really adds to it (read by the author's daughter) and I think makes it easier to get into. My book club struggled with realism but forgot this is being narrated largely by a child and then a bit by an elderly woman and we're not necessarily supposed to take it all literally.

O Ye Jigs and Juleps – Virginia Cary Hudson * Comfort re-read. Gobsmacked that Wikipedia is taking at face value the idea that the author wrote these as a child in 1904. Growing up we were quite sure this was the author's adult work writing humorously from that perspective or the work of her daughter. But the internet apparently thinks 'well the daughter says the original essays were burned up in a fire right after she copied them and she only has a massive financial interest in this and her mother is already dead so let's not question that.'

The House of Mirth – Edith Wharton My first Wharton. Very good but MY HEART. You can really tell we've moved into the 20th century when this was published. I was so desperate for the main character to make some different choices.

Mortal Follies – Alexis Hall Read to heal myself from House of Mirth. Gloriously fun historical fantasy sapphic romp. Hall's books are everything and this time he avoids his usual 'breakup then get back together in the last 20 pages' thing.

The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession – Michael Finkel Interesting little book, well written. Prolific art thief who doesn't sell anything, just hoards the art to himself.

Design for Living – Noel Coward Watched the movie recently so thought I'd do the play as well. Don't hit me, but I think the movie is better and not only because it has the two loves of my young life as side characters (Edward Everett Horton and Franklin Pangborn)

Bank Shot – Donald E. Westlake * I really need more people to read the first nine Dortmunder books so we can talk about them. He's such a phenomenally good writer and so fucking funny. If you like Pratchett you'll also like Westlake's humor, though they come from very different directions. This was my first introduction to the series and how I found out about swingers parties age 11 (that's a tiny minor detail). Thanks dad.

The Great Pearl Heist: London's Greatest Thief and Scotland Yard's Hunt for the World's Most Valuable Necklace – Molly Caldwell Crosby Who doesn't love a heist! I've liked Crosby's other books, both on illnesses so this is a departure. Interesting but not amazing.

Mr. Melancholy Wants to Live a Peaceful Life – Cyan Wings * This such a fantastic novel. Like it's just well done and funny and well plotted and all but also it's a response to another whole genre of webnovel (quick transmigration). One hallmark of quick transmigration is often a lack of thought to world building or why this is happening and this book says Nah, Let Me Give You Solid Information. Plus seriously it's so funny, Yu Hua is the best character ever.

[apptworadioapps]

Radio Pakistan All Stations FM & AM + Radio Online - (Radio Android Application 🇵🇰📻)

 Sure, here's an article about all radio stations in Pakistan:

Radio has been a staple of the Pakistani media landscape for many years. From the early days of Radio Pakistan to the modern era of digital radio, radio stations in Pakistan have always played an important role in providing news, entertainment, and cultural programming to listeners across the country. Today, there are dozens of radio stations in Pakistan, broadcasting in a variety of languages and formats. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular radio stations in Pakistan and what they have to offer.

Radio Pakistan

Let's start with the granddaddy of them all: Radio Pakistan. Founded in 1947, Radio Pakistan was the first radio station in Pakistan and remains one of the most important media outlets in the country. It broadcasts in a variety of languages, including Urdu, English, Punjabi, Sindhi, and Balochi. Radio Pakistan offers news, current affairs, music, and cultural programming, as well as educational content for children and adults.

FM 101

FM 101 is a popular commercial radio station that broadcasts in a variety of languages, including Urdu, English, and Punjabi. It's known for its lively morning shows, featuring music, news, and talk segments. FM 101 also offers a range of other programming, including interviews with celebrities and politicians, cultural events coverage, and sports updates.

City FM 89

City FM 89 is another popular commercial radio station that broadcasts in English. It's known for its eclectic mix of music, featuring everything from pop and rock to jazz and world music. City FM 89 also offers a range of other programming, including news, interviews, and cultural events coverage.

Radio FM 91

Radio FM 91 is a commercial radio station that broadcasts in Urdu and English. It's known for its mix of news, talk, and music programming, featuring everything from Bollywood hits to Pakistani pop and classical music. Radio FM 91 also offers a range of other programming, including interviews, cultural events coverage, and educational content.

Samaa FM

Samaa FM is a relatively new commercial radio station that broadcasts in Urdu. It's known for its focus on news and current affairs, offering in-depth coverage of political and social issues. Samaa FM also offers a range of other programming, including talk shows, interviews, and cultural events coverage.

Mast FM 103

Mast FM 103 is a commercial radio station that broadcasts in Urdu. It's known for its focus on music, featuring a mix of Pakistani and Bollywood hits. Mast FM 103 also offers a range of other programming, including news and talk shows.

There are many other radio stations in Pakistan, each offering their own unique blend of programming. Whether you're interested in news, music, or talk shows, there's sure to be a radio station in Pakistan that meets your needs. So next time you're in the mood for some quality radio programming, tune in to one of the many great radio stations in Pakistan.

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[haythamelsalhat]

Top 5 Cannabis Strains for Breast Reconstruction

Benefits of Cannabis for Breast Reconstruction

Pain relief: Cannabis has natural pain-relieving powers that help ease pain during reconstruction.

Anxiety reduction: Going through breast reconstruction can be stressful, but cannabis can help. Studies show that cannabis can decrease anxiety and increase relaxation.

Improved sleep: Poor sleep can make the recovery process more difficult. Cannabis can help improve sleep and promote better rest.

Nausea relief: Nausea is a common side effect of the medications used in breast reconstruction. Cannabis can help relieve nausea and improve well-being.

The Risks of Cannabis for Breast Reconstruction

Using cannabis after breast surgery may bring risks.

Interference with healing: Cannabis slows healing and raises the chance of getting an infection. This delays your recovery.

Interaction with medications: Medicines and cannabis may cause bad effects during breast reconstruction.

Impaired judgment: Cannabis makes it hard to think and move well, which can be risky when using heavy machines or doing important tasks.

Dependence: Using cannabis a lot can make you addicted and hurt your health and happiness.

Legal issues: In some places, it’s against the law to use cannabis, even for health reasons. This can get you into legal trouble.

It’s crucial to talk to your doctor about the benefits and dangers of using cannabis for breast reconstruction. This way, you’ll know if it’s safe and good for you.

Top 5 Cannabis Strains for Breast Reconstruction

Harlequin: This hybrid is good for pain relief without a “high” because it has high CBD.

ACDC: ACDC is a strain that helps with pain and does not cause a high because it has a lot of CBD and little THC.

Canna-Tsu: This strain is famous for making you feel relaxed and calm. It is a good choice to ease anxiety and help you sleep.

Granddaddy Purple: This weed strain helps ease pain and make you sleep. It’s good for people who need relief from discomfort and a good night’s sleep.

Strawberry Cough: Strawberry Cough is a popular strain that is made of sativa. People love it because it makes them feel happy and energetic. It’s perfect for when you need to lift your mood and get rid of stress.

How to Consume Cannabis for Breast Reconstruction

Smoking: Smoking is the most traditional method of consuming cannabis. It involves inhaling the smoke produced by burning the flower.

Vaping: Vaping uses heat to release active ingredients from cannabis as a vapor to inhale.

Edibles: Cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabis. They are a great option for those who do not want to inhale smoke or vapor.

Topicals: Cannabis topicals come in creams, balms, or oils. You apply them to the skin. They are a great option for those who need targeted relief from localized pain or discomfort.

How to Choose the Right Cannabis Strain

When it comes to choosing the right cannabis strain for breast reconstruction, there are several factors to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the best strain for your needs:

Purpose: Identify the symptoms or conditions you wish to treat with cannabis. For example, are you looking for pain relief, anxiety reduction, improved sleep, or nausea relief?

THC and CBD levels: THC and CBD are two popular compounds found in cannabis. Each strain of cannabis has different levels of THC and CBD. To find the right one for you, pick a strain with the right balance of these compounds.

Genetics: Different types of cannabis have different genes. This affects how cannabis works. Some strains are more relaxing, while others are more energetic. It’s important to choose a strain that matches your desired effects.

Aroma and Flavor: Different strains have different aromas and flavors. Some are sweet and fruity, while others are more earthy or skunky. Choose a strain that you find appealing and that you enjoy inhaling.

Medical recommendation: Always talk to a doctor or healthcare expert before trying any new treatment. They can recommend specific strains based on your individual needs and medical history.

Keep in mind, not all strains work the same for everyone. Be patient and try different strains to find the right one for you. To be safe and get good quality, buy your cannabis only from trustworthy stores or licensed sellers.

Why Cannabis is Effective for Breast Reconstruction

Cannabis helps in breast reconstruction due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits. THC and CBD, compounds found in cannabis, lower swelling and surgery discomfort. This makes it easier for patients to manage post-surgery pain. Cannabis also helps in tissue regeneration, aiding in the healing process after surgery. Cannabis helps with mood and anxiety after breast surgery. Cannabis plays an important part in the healing process after breast reconstruction surgery.

Conclusion

Cannabis helps with pain, anxiety, sleep, and nausea during breast reconstruction. Ask a doctor before using. Pick a strain based on its purpose, THC/CBD levels, and smell/taste.

Cannabis can help with breast reconstruction. But, it’s not a substitute for regular medical treatment. Follow your doctor’s advice and keep getting traditional treatment. Before starting any new treatment, including cannabis, talk to a doctor.

Cannabis can help people who had breast reconstruction. But, use it and follow rules. Buy cannabis from a trusted source and obey the law.

FAQs About Cannabis for Breast Reconstruction

What is cannabis and how does it help with breast reconstruction?

Cannabis is a plant that contains compounds with potential medical benefits. Studies suggest using topical creams or lotions containing these compounds may help reduce pain, swelling, and other symptoms related to breast reconstruction surgery.

Is cannabis safe for use after breast reconstruction surgery?

Cannabis is usually safe but talk to your doctor first. They may suggest the right doses or products used.

How do I use cannabis products for breast reconstruction?

Cannabis products come in many forms, including creams, lotions, and oils. The most effective way to use these products will depend on your individual needs and the severity of your symptoms. You may also want to speak to your doctor about the best way to use these products for your specific situation.

Can I use cannabis products if I’m taking other medications for breast reconstruction?

Tell your doctor about other medications you take before using cannabis products. This is important because some drugs can interact with them.

How soon after surgery can I start using cannabis products for breast reconstruction?

Your doctor will tell you when it’s safe to use cannabis after surgery. This depends on your surgery and how you recover. If you’re getting breast reconstruction, your doctor will give you specific advice on when to start using cannabis.

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Best Cannabis Strains for Fibromyalgia - Does Marijuana Help with Fibromyalgia

Individuals who have fibromyalgia continually live with fatigue and pain in their bodies, as well as a sensation like a fire burning through their skin. This neurological disorder appears suddenly. While an immediate cure does not appear to be possible, cannabis has proven to be an effective companion for those suffering from this difficult condition.

Fibromyalgia is a disease that is still a mystery to a large portion of the medical community, despite the fact that it affects approximately five million American adults, mostly women. Chronic pain is the fundamental symptom of fibromyalgia, along with depression, headaches, and insomnia.

What is Fibromyalgia and What are its Symptoms?

Fibromyalgia is a medical condition where you feel chronic muscle pain. It lessens your personal satisfaction and blocks your capacity to perform fundamental undertakings.

Researchers suspect fibromyalgia is brought about by an imbalanced endocannabinoid system. An endocannabinoid system can become lacking and make you more delicate to pain, sleep, and mood disorders.

There are a few recognizable symptoms of fibromyalgia that include:

Body pain

Headaches and migraines

Sore, tight, and delicate muscles

Mood swings

Chronic weakness

Insomnia

Depression and anxiety

Deadness in the arms and legs

Stomach related issues

Marijuana and Fibromyalgia: Does it Work?

As patients with fibromyalgia know, this disorder is very difficult to treat and difficult to fix. Because of this reality, very few have seen relief from traditional pharmaceuticals for their pain, fretfulness, fatigue, and various other symptoms. Customary treatments incorporate anti-seizure medication, painkillers, and antidepressants.

There isn't much research on cannabis as a treatment for fibromyalgia, yet clinical studies involving integrated THC for symptom management show promising outcomes.

It has additionally been conjectured that fibromyalgia could be brought about by CECD, or Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency. On the off chance that fibromyalgia is brought about by an absence of the body's normal endocannabinoids, cannabis could be compelling for supplementing the body's missing endocannabinoids. Marijuana diminishes patients' symptoms, from chronic pain to depression to insomnia.

Best Cannabis Strains for Fibromyalgia

Some cannabis strains stand apart to help the individuals who experience the ill effects of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Furthermore, we've found that the accompanying marijuana strains have been very useful for fibromyalgia.

Cannatonic

Cannatonic produces a mostly light and smooth high that doesn't last as long as other strains, but it is appealing for precisely that reason. This strain doesn't cause you to feel sluggish but rather permits you to feel tipsy.

This hybrid strain offers a low THC-to-CBD proportion, which some see as supportive for pain management.

THC levels in Cannatonic are typically less than 6%, with CBD levels ranging from 6% to 17%. It is known for its uplifting and relaxing effects and is one of the most popular medical strains as a result of its pain- and anxiety-relieving characteristics.

Not just that, this hybrid medical cannabis causes you to feel loose, cheerful, and sure. Cannatonic permits you to feel roused without experiencing psychoactive effects.

Granddaddy Purple

Since GDP is a classic Indica, it can cause a serious mental high, causing you to calm down and create a new cerebral buzz. Granddaddy Purple is a classic strain with strong painkilling properties and a sweet berry and grape flavor.

For those looking for a significant and relaxing high, Granddaddy Purple offers simply that. It not only helps you unwind and let go of all your stresses, but it also leaves you feeling upbeat.

After smoking Granddaddy Purple, you might experience euphoric giggles and munchies. It's one of the most amazing medical marijuana strains for pain, cramps, muscle spasms, anxiety, and nausea.

Romulan

Romulan is an indica strain that stems from North American Indica and White Rhino. The euphoria of this intense indica can convey a significant body high and could make you couch-locked. In this manner, it's suggested that you take a few puffs and unwind.

Romulan is an ideal relaxant, causing you to feel like you're drifting on mists. In the event that you keep smoking more, it might leave you sluggish, making it the ideal evening smoke.

Romulan can likewise instigate satisfaction and snickers. It will relieve your negative considerations and cause you to feel excited. You will feel as if you have nothing to worry about, prompting you to relax and unwind.

Blue Dream

Sativa-dominant Blue Dream is a notable medical marijuana strain among marijuana users. Smoking it will cause you to unwind and feel empowered, making it the ideal method for beginning your day.

With up to 21% THC and 2% CBD, it can have both medical and recreational advantages. Furthermore, Blue Dream will allow you to associate without fear or anxiety, making it an ideal strain for parties as well.

Numerous patients use it to deal with their chronic illnesses. It can reduce headaches, inflammation, migraines, menstrual spasms, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and stress.

Harlequin

This Sativa-dominant hybrid is an incredible strain for psychological relief. Harlequin is an excellent relaxant with the ability to calm the mind and keep it on track. It will allow you to keep your productivity flowing without causing side effects.

With up to 15% CBD content and 7% THC content, the 2:1 CBD-to-THC proportion is all you really need to feel supported energy without a psychoactive high. That is the reason this bud is so successful with regards to treating pain, inflammation, and depression.

Harlequin is also excellent for treating depression, anxiety, and migraines. Besides, Harlequin is an elevating and happiness-inducing weed.

Ending Note

As we all know, cannabis laws are changing, and this is only the beginning. More fibromyalgia patients will likely turn to medical cannabis to relieve pain and depression.

You can ask the budtender to get you the best medical marijuana strains for your condition. A certified budtender likely has experience assisting different patients with fibromyalgia and may have information on strains that have worked for other people.

Be sure to consult your doctor as well, especially if you are also taking fibromyalgia prescription medications.