#sometimes the only solution is to gnaw on them :

[waves-against-a-cliff]

Cookies and Brownies - Gaz x Reader

Content Warnings - Fluff with some very, very minor angst.

Series Masterlist

Masterlist

Normally, Gaz did not find leaving his flat so difficult. Usually he was already gnawing at the bit to get back onto the field from his mandatory leave, to get back to doing something instead of lying around. Well now he had a reason to want to stay, for the person next door who also happens to work at his favorite bakery/cafe.

There is something cruel about that, ironically cruel. Gaz has never had any trouble getting people to come home with him, sometimes he didn’t even need to put on any of his charm. But he knows it was because of his looks, charming like a prince in a fairytale. Was it the military lifestyle? Was that why he found it so hard to keep people around him and wanting him? Maybe.

But you, you were different. You didn’t see his return to the military as a goodbye, closing your door on whatever is happening between the two of you. No, you worked out a solution in mere seconds. Gift packages, he’d seen some men he’s worked with before get them. Packages usually from loved ones, like family or partners. Sometimes from friends. Gaz hadn’t gotten one since his early days, back when his grandmother was still around. God rest her soul.

It’s two weeks later, two weeks into being at this base in this fucking desert that the package arrives. His name is called out alongside others and he is handed a package, it has several postmarks slapped onto it with your handwriting on the box for the address.

His stomach twists at the sight of your handwriting, how is that possible? How can he feel that way over handwriting? It’s not just anyone’s handwriting, Gaz thought, it's yours. Distinctly and completely yours. Something no other person could replicate, just you.

Gaz waits until he’s in his tent, empty thankfully, to cut open the package. Inside there is a letter on top of several tins that his mind immediately thinks are sewing supplies until he connects the dots. He opens the letter first, imagining his grandmother slapping the back of his head for being rude and going for the gifts first.

More of your handwriting, his heart pounds as he reads through the letter. He can’t help but rub his thumb over where you wrote his name. Kyle. His real name, not a call sign given to him years ago. Kyle Garrick.

Kyle opens the first tin and finds it filled to the brim with chocolate chip cookies. It dawns on Kyle then that there are four tins, which means lots of baked goods. He licks his lips as he pulls out the other tins and opens them, just to know which one’s hold which.

There is another tin of cookies, white macadamia nut and two tins of brownies. One looks like the classic kind and the other filled with cookie-brownies. He feels like a wolf staring down prey, unguarded sheep ready to be eaten. Before he digs in, he puts the tins away and rips a piece of paper from his notebook and writes.

Dear Kyle,

Hello! I hope the package found you alright and that I had added enough postmarks for it to make the journey. I hope you’re still at base and not somewhere fighting bad guys haha. Things here have seriously slowed down or maybe its because our best customer isn’t currently here. I made some cookies and brownies although they might be stale. If they are, I’m sorry but I’m not sure how to stop that from happening. Do you have any kind of favorite candies? If you send me a letter with your favorites I’ll be sure to include it in the next batch, maybe even bake it into the cookies.

It’s been raining impossibly often but according to Mrs. Thompson its that time of the year. Is that true or is she trying to keep me from rightfully complaining about not seeing the sun in a week? Why is it that when you left the sun decided to hide behind rain clouds? Do you have some kind of deal worked out with the weather? If so, let me in on it, there’s only so much rain a person can handle. Well, I don’t want to hold you up. Enjoy the likely stale cookies and brownies.

[thecrypticshyguy]

Heyyyy

So we all know @t1ckity-t0ck s Political Marriage au right

Welllll

I wrote something for it actually (and drew something for it, it's old so don't mind some flaws and changes in character designs)! A minific if you will- without further adu lemme show it to yall

UnFair

Ludwig bit the bottom of his lip, furrowing his brow as frustration gnawed at him. He was tired and felt terrible. He felt used, worst of all.

Years of preparation, everything was going so well, everything was ready to be handed off to him in a few years tops, but no. It just wasn’t that simple, was it? Some kingdom he's never heard of comes from nowhere, asserting themselves, and now he's forced into a loveless marriage. It made him utterly bitter. It made his cold blood boil that he was being used as a mere pawn for a political marriage he had no ability to object. They could’ve chosen any of his siblings, any that could’ve been better off, but they didn’t. They chose him of all people. He was told it was for a good cause, for resources, for armies, for "peace" so that they didn’t kill each other. He couldn’t care less for that little sky kingdom.

He was supposed to be the ruler of darkland after Bowser retired. He wasn't supposed to be a house husband for some soft little parakoopa.

It wasn’t fair he thought, not fair in the slightest. Years were thrown away in an instant, and he felt utterly robbed of what he could’ve had. But, he couldn’t do anything about it. So in what little retaliation he had, he sulked alone in his study.

And as he sulked about his unfair situation, his hands danced over the keys of a piano, the tune he played being somber as he mulled over the raging storm in his mind.

He made a habit of playing an instrument whenever he was stressed, letting his frustration out by running his fingers down on ivory keys of a piano, pipe organ, or some other. Anything he could get his claws on, it didn't matter if he could play it or not. He played until his claws were sore, or until he felt better, the former usually being the case.

It created melodies he could write down and save for later. Melancholic and discontented melodies that perfectly put together how he felt, even if his mind was far from the music.

Though he used his piano to air out his grievances, it had seen years of wear and tear. Sometimes it comes all boiling over, and every once in a while he can't help himself. In his mind it all crumbles down so quickly that his fingers can't keep up with his thoughts as they fly from one frustration to the next. From what he could do, what he couldn’t do, pinballing him to memories of him and his father’s first meeting, to them practicing magic and the mishaps that went along with it. Such fond and detested memories he held close suddenly all crashed down.

It all builds and builds, becoming one string of notes he knew all too well. He couldn't help but slam his fists into the instrument, creating a familiar sour and deep note to his otherwise masterpiece, and then another, and more until the sound coming from the piano felt more like a cry for help from the poor instrument. It became erratic, mashing together notes both high and low forté until he felt better. But he didn’t, and so his claws curled tighter, banged harder, almost assaulting the poor instrument before he felt sweat drip onto his brow. Only then, out of breath, did he stop.

Hunched over the piano, breathing heavily in ragged and bitter breaths, his claws digging into the ivory. He stayed there, hoping he didn’t break his most prized possession. He thankfully never did when he had these sudden and ridiculous fits. Ludwig knew it was childish, he knew he shouldn’t do this with how mature he portrayed himself to be, but everything felt too much, and this was his only solution. He had made it abundantly clear how he felt about the arrangement, but to show someone how really hurt he was? That's a matter he'll keep in private.

But.. he hated when his thoughts ran rampant like that. He couldn't stop them, couldn't keep a grip on them like he should, like he knew how to. It embarrassed him. It made him feel utterly miserable and bitter. Bitter, angry, frustrated, every other word he could throw at the wall to describe how he felt. He stayed like this for a moment before his eyes turned and he squinted, staring at a dim reflection of himself in the polished dark blue fallboard.

He looked terrible. His dark blue hair was more unruly than usual, mixed with fast movement and sweat had made it look greatly tossed around. His collar had become unbuttoned and falling off his shoulders, and he only just now realized the heart shaped cravat he wore was uncomfortably warm against his scales. He only now noticed the bags under his eyes as well.

He sneered at the sight, fumbling to re-button his collar but giving up shortly after with a tired scoff. Looking down at the piano he cherished, Ludwig felt how sore his claws were from his immature fit.

And yet, he still played. He breathed, pulling himself together, and put his melancholy once again into a somber sonet.

It was all he could do, really. He couldn’t talk his way out of this, no matter how much he argued or fought his father tooth and nail to convince him this was a poor political decision. Marrying some parakoopa he didn't even know, all to satisfy his father's swollen ego, convincing himself it was for a peace they easily could've had as soon as they arrived. Again, it frustrated him.

So he mindlessly continued. He played until he felt his forearms become sore from use, and his eyes blinking closed. He stopped for a moment and stayed still, breathing heavily and slowly, sleepily even.

The thump of his hands on the keys made a dark tone that rang out for a few seconds. The study brings an ominous echo to the final note of his erratic and ridiculous lament and then there was finally silence.

What seemed like only moments later, a knock came from his door, soft and almost muted, but the echo brought it to his attention.

Ludwig shifted his eyes toward the door, and in the doorway, there she was.

"Oh.. It's you."

[asukiess]

🐑ladywalker, there was only one bed, hurt/comfort

you get kinda sheep and dog because I couldn't summarize the snippet that was coming forth from the aether, and I couldn't get the snippet out of my head! <3

After a long string of battles where Ladybug's deteriorated focus causes one too many close calls, Cat Walker devises a plan to help her get more than an hour of sleep.

(fake fic ask game)

"If you wish, I'll ask the front desk for more pillows, or an extra duvet," he offers from the edge of the bed.

She curls further into the nest of duvets and down pillows piled on and around her, but she still can't help but shiver. The room once designated by the hotel's owner for Ladybug and Chat Noir has been empty for months now, and the pillows tucked neatly away in the closet have grown stuffy and cold.

"I don't think that's necessary," she says, unsure of how to fix this problem. At this rate, she doesn't think tonight will be any different. All it is, is a different bed.

And if she wasn't so exhausted, she'd kick herself for being such an unsolvable problem. All she has to show for the last disastrous few months are dark circles and someone else fretting over her.

And he'd done everything perfectly.

Why wasn't that enough?

"Do you want anything else?"

In the shade of the blankets, Ladybug bites her lip. It's always about what she wants and she doesn't even know the answer herself. She has an idea, but...

"Maybe you could," she starts, her voice so small it breaks, so she clears her throat to try again. "You could join me?"

The blush that blooms feels suffocating. The only noise she hears over the blood pulsing past her ears is the dull hum of the air conditioner, and she's nearly curled into the fetal position now, squeezing her eyes shut because that was so stupid, why would you ask--

"Okay."

She registers him lifting the covers, the dip in the mattress from his weight, and there's no chill from the outside as he slides next to her, just far enough away that it feels impersonal. Opening her eyes, she realizes that her knees are the wedge between them. Unfurling herself, slow enough that she hopes maybe--maybe this time he won't make her say it, can't he just get the hint?

But he doesn't move any closer.

Staring only at his chest, like it's the only solution she can find, she moves closer until her cheek presses against one of the golden paw emblems. She sucks in a breath; it's impossibly cold on her cheek.

Her hands find their way to tangle in the braided cord; his stay at his sides. Both actions and inactions do nothing to quell what's gnawing at her, and she hates how he makes her think so much sometimes. All she wants to do right now is focus on how his chest is rising and falling, how she wishes she could know if his heart beat like hers. Doesn't he wonder that too? Doesn't he--

"Do you want me to...to hold you?"

It's silly how fast tears spring to her eyes. Silently, she nods, and suddenly there's an arm under her head, and one snakes over her, envelopes her, with a hand cradling the back of her head. She lets out a breath she didn't know she was holding, and her heart jumps at how he sighs into the crown of her head.

His armor is still too thick, separating in ways Chat's didn't, and there's embellishments that keep her locked out. There's a shared heat that's soothing, but it's more like kindling than a fire.

"Is this what you want?" he whispers.

She nods, burying her face in his chest, because all that's left for her is this bed.

[supernovafeather]

A Loving Couple

Leto Atreides x F!Reader

Summary : Leto and his wife enjoy some alone time in their quarters.

Content : fluff, slight angst (nightmare), fluff fluff fluff, sexual innuendo.

Please comment and reblog if you like it !

The moon seemed to levitate high in the skies, left unbothered by the noise of thehundreds of powerful waves that attempted to dig their way up the cliffs. Behind your chambers window, you suddenly felt tiny and insignificant as you remembered the solar system simulations you got to study years before. From there you couldn't feel the powerful wind exploding with rage and affected anything that could get stuck in its grasp from leaves to flags that were too loose in the first place, the Atreides coat of arms flying away into darkness. You narrowed your eyes, a sudden anxiety gnawing you from the inside as your wet palms played with your nightgown. One day this House would disappear, like any other one. Nothing was eternal, no ideology, no name, no civilization. Even the ones you cherished the most, as well as your memories.

"Afraid of the storm," inquired a voice behind you.

Leto had been mostly silent tonight, too tired to even try to start any meaningful conversation. This could have passed for negligence for his spouse but you knew better as you let him embrace you from behind, your gaze still glued to the sudden rain now whipping the land. The way he hold you was firm, reassuring. That was what he did best. A safe and protective soul by your side that appreciated your own safety and protective nature.

"No," you replied with a frown, "it's merely an inconvenience tonight. But I found it quite beautiful when the moonlight bathed the scenery. Now it only looks more sinister. Depressing. This time it feels as if the sun is never to be seen again."

Without much reaction to the butterfly kisses finding their favorite spot on your neck, you stared at the moon. It was magnificent. Sometimes you wished you had nothing to do with all those political affairs. Maybe being a rock floating across the solar system would make more sense but alas you got doomed by mankind's greatest and most horrifying gift : consciousness.

"I know how to distract a Lady upset by those negative thoughts," he mumbled before nibbling your ear. "Of course you do," you chuckled, "you always know. You always have a solution to everything." "I try my best. So please my Lady, how may I put an end to this melancholy of yours? If I may add… do you have any detail coming to your mind? Something we could explore together."

After a long list full of previous marital experiments as well as quite a long time spent at testing them again just to make sure you got it right, slumber found you. Then dawn found you as well and for once you were the one being awake first, in a good mood at the sight of your husband completely lost in his deep sleep. The comical view of his open mouth soon let place to a sour feeling as he closed it, his jaws clenching and his thick beard rubbing against the pillow. You knew that face too well and soon the nervous gestures of his arms muscles showed you how right you were. In silence, you extended your hand to Leto, grazing his temple gently with a sympathetic look. He exhaled sharply before jolting but still asleep he then turned his head the other way, clenched his jaws. Another jolts.

"I love you Leto. I'm here," you whispered.

Your husband calmed down and muttered something under his breath as you wiped the thin layer of sweat now forming on his forehead.

"Not fire not again," he mumbled between undecipherable words. "No there is no fire Leto, I'm here right next to you." "They said you weren't."

Some pride remained in him. He would refuse to acknowledge how damaging it had been for him to hear all the remarks about your marriage. All those insults, rumours, jokes. The sincere worries about their respected Duke about to share his life with a widow accused of being a serial widower. Leto was the love of your life and no question mark would ever appear next to those words. You fell hard for a man that chose you for an arranged marriage after thinking that life had nothing to give you anymore. Life gave you the greatest present it had to offer. And this gift needed reassurance.

"I'm here Leto I love you. I'm listening to you and answering. Everything's fine my beloved Duke." "But the fire…" he argued faintly. "There is no fire. I'm not in there. I'm here, healthy and right by your side." "They didn't burn you," he asked with a confused frown. "I'm safe "

A slight convulsion of his legs then he turned his head towards you as he could feel your hand playing with his beard. His lips looked dry so you stopped touching him to pour some fresh water in the glass waiting on the table right by your side of the bed.

"A river, love it" he mumbled.

You smiled, put the glass down the table before crawling up to Leto, a kiss placed on his forehead as you felt his mind calming down.

"A beautiful river, birds singing and your wife that loves you," you promised.

The sudden and powerful snore coming out of his mouth woke Leto up as violently as you jolted away from him and you watched the way he scratched his beard with closed eyes, his tired face translating the confusion reigning in his mind after this.

"Good morning my lovely liege, I got some water for you." "G'morning," he groaned in a cracked deep voice.

It took him a few seconds to stop looking around, a smile appearing as the nightmare left his mind slowly but for good. As your husband took long sips you kissed his cheek then his temple, grinning while doing so as you got closer to him, your hands wandering under the blanket to run down his warm thigh flesh. After he finished drinking he raised an eyebrow at you.

"How can you do it more than twice" he asked in disbelief. "I just wanted you to start a new great day with your great wife and her great care. So let's say that three might be good sometimes."

After a few seconds spent at rubbing his thigh you kissed the corner of his lips to push your corruption attempt even further.

"I love you Leto. I hope you know it. You are a wonderful husband. Not only in bed. In general." "I love you too and thank you, wonderful wife but I have the regret to inform you that sadly, this won't be possible right now," he replied with a tired face but mischievous eyes.

Not insisting anymore you still let a trail of kisses on his bare shoulder, appreciating the muscles rolling under his skin. Even when nonsexual the contact of his skin appeased you. This was his power.

"As you wish my Lord, my Duke, my liege," you whispered against his lips.

Leto kissed you deeply with a slight grin that vanished as he interrupted the kiss in an almost authoritative shift, a stern gaze examining your face.

"Why so much eagerness this morning ?" "I don't know. I want my husband to be all mine all the time these days. I love him very much after all." "I'm all yours every day, every second. After all I have other ways to show you, even when I'm tired."

The playful mood erupting on your face got replaced by one of surprise as you fell backwards. The laugh that erupted from your mouth echoed in your ears before getting silenced by a gentle kiss crowned with a smile.

- - - - -

Thank you for reading please comment and reblog if you like it !

@queen-of-elves @qrjung

[quietwingsinthesky]

I mean rn I wish you would write a fic w a description of 11089 so I can draw them 👉👈 :lookingaway:

bold of you to assume i even know what they look like alsjfjgljdksk

things i know about 11089’s appearance (revealed to me as if receiving prophecy):

1) You know those posts about how the ultimate image of androgyny in our society ends up being people who are skinny and hairless and sexless? so there’s our starting point, the horror story of that being forced upon you because it’s more useful for you to be as similar to the rest of the crew as possible because then you can simply be quantified by the amount of resources you can provide versus those you take. because every single time i think about this spaceship, it becomes an even more dystopian situation because how else would they survive when they were underprepared and have no way of getting help.

1a) what i’m saying is there’s a very good reason they’re instantly fascinated by visual modes of self-expression like dyeing hair. (similarly fascinated by other bodily changes, whether natural, like when Donna gets a burst of freckles across her face when she’s been out in the sun, or unnatural, absolutely transfixed by piercings and good for them.)

1b) they are going to be so much better off once they’re living on the TARDIS and can put on some weight and some muscle from running around with aliens and let their hair grow out all fluffy and uneven (and eventually accidentally turn it orange through hair bleach mishaps and keep it that way)

2) related, but they tend to prefer bright colors on other people rather then themself, for the most part. fun sometimes but attention-grabbing in a way that layered shades of gray are less so. so however they dress, it’s with a trend towards darker colors with little splashes of brightness from accessories or such.

3) set in stone for me now is the idea that where this story ends up going is ‘Someone Has To Keep An Eye On Donna And Her Completely Human Friend, John Smith’. If a Donna can’t survive being a human metacrisis or whatever with all the Doctor’s memories in her little human brain, why should Ten 2.0 be any different. Donna gets mindwiped, but Ten Again goes voluntarily to keep living, to stay near her, a measure that will mean if her memory starts itching her about some ‘Doctor’, she’ll associate his face with John instead and stop digging.

Which wraps back around to 11089 because I’m now very attached to Another Ten getting FOB watched and 11089 wearing it on a chain at all times. It’s definitely a totally normal and reasonable burden for them to carry their friends’ lives around their neck. this is very healthy behavior and does NOT show a lack of ability to set boundaries in situations that will end up hurting them or a need to prove that they can be useful that overrides everything else. they’re fine. this will not end up going horribly wrong as the guilt of hiding these things from people they love gnaws at them, and they start looking for any other solution only to find dead end after dead end and get desperate enough to start thinking ‘well, if the doctor couldn’t figure it out, maybe if we had another timelord-’

3a) but that’s not important. what’s important is watch on a chain that they can never ever open.

[jjmichie]

I read an article about Imposter Syndrome yesterday and it's been gnawing at me. I suffer from it, as do many people. And the only advice I ever hear is that I basically need to "change my attitude" and "start believing in myself." But this morning I concluded that's bullshit. Because no matter how many times I try to do that I still conclude that I have imposter syndrome because I AM AN IMPOSTER, I'm GOING TO BE found out. And anyone who compliments me is just doing it out of pity.

But then I realized maybe I need a whole different approach.  Maybe, instead of just sitting there in the vacuum of my bedroom trying to convince myself I’m wonderful as I am and force away any negative thought that seeps in, instead, maybe I should do an honest assessment of myself. Analyze when and why I have these doubts. Take a hard and REAL look at my skills, education, experience, soft skills, performance, and determine if there actually ARE areas where I’m lacking.  

And then do something about it.  

(This is long so if you don't want to read my whole self assessment, skip down to the conclusion at the bottom).

So in doing that, I realized there are areas where I actually AM lacking. No wonder I'm feeling like an imposter . . .

I work in IT but I don't have a degree in technology (mine is in earth science). So yes, I really don't know as much about it as my co-workers. There is a good reason why I feel insecure here

Solution: take some classes! learn more! while I'm probably not going to actually go get a degree, there's no reason I can't read up and learn what I need to know to do my job better. Or, set up some time to talk to knowledgeable people I work with and learn from them.

2. I sometimes miss opportunities to be pro-active. I tend to procrastinate when I don't know what to do or if I have to have a difficult conversation with someone. I know I do this -- I'm not just being hard on myself.  I think it stems from being naturally very shy, and having been in an environment with people who screamed at me for unpredictable and irrational reasons.

Solution:  there is no way to get better at this without some pain.  I need to recognize when I’m procrastinating and if I truly don’t know what to do, then I need to find someone I can ask, or write down a script of what I need to say for the difficult conversation and practice it ahead of time. Work is needed here.  Therapy?

3.  I always feel like I suck at the core skills and responsibilities that I’m supposed to be doing for my job.  And looking back over some examples of when I felt this way, the reality is . . . yes, I often do just wing it and hope for the best, instead of actually taking the time to develop a plan or create reusable templates that will save me time in the long run. 

Solution:  take a day or weekend to get organized.  Put together an arsenal of templates for slide decks, process diagrams, meeting agendas, playbooks, etc. that I can pull out whenever I need them.  Invest in taking a class if I need to. There are other people who grapple with this too, so there are resources out there to help.  

Conclusion: Okay.  I know that was a long post, but going through it made me realize that action is more important than attitude.  It felt good to realize that my Imposter Syndrome wasn’t just me being negative. In my case, there actually ARE reasons that I’m feeling like an imposter, and by acknowledging that, I can take steps to make improvements. Actually do something real and concrete that I can then be proud of and point to and say hey look, I did that.  As opposed to just magically trying to ‘think positive’ without actually doing anything to feel positive about. To me that is a house of cards, it’s totally phony, and history has shown that I can’t fool myself that way.  I want to try actually taking ACTION. Give myself some PROOF that I’m not an imposter. Positive feelings will follow.  Wish me luck.

[pagepainter]

Life can be wonderful. But sometimes, it can also get really tough. Write a letter to offer them comfort, wisdom, and/or strength for the journey. Remind them of some key insights into happiness and suffering that you wish to remember after the course. (Feel free to treat this letter as an actual time capsule.)

(okay, so this is my Happiness and Suffering module (aka Philosophy) for one of my modules I'm taking for this semester, and this is my mid-terms question I've chosen, and I feel like I want to put my thoughts here because it also serves as a good reminder for me to look back at this from time to time. This will be the model version that I hope I can produce for tomorrow's exam, although I can't memorize quotes this long, but I hope I can roughly describe it accurately. Takes a breath okay. I don't want to trauma dump but I'm also 'whatever' at this point, i'm tired lol) ___

"Happiness is all about the little things in life." Those were the words I said when our professor asked each one of us at the beginning of the first lesson. Yet, are the little things in life really sufficient to get you through life? Sometimes, they can be hard to appreciate when there are larger scale events that seem to undermine the efforts of appreciating the little things we have in life, because they seem so insignificant. From Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning, he reminds us that there's always a solution to every problem. Even when things seem pointless and meaningless at one point in life, suicide is never the answer. Things will eventually take a good turn, and who's to say that it will not happen? It will happen, one way or another; it's only a matter of time. Because of this, please remember to remain strong, so you can live to see that day happen, and because of this, even when you've already given up on hope, you're accountable for the life in your hands, so survive. You have to. It will be okay. You will be okay. One day, when you look back, you'll see that all these trials and tribulations have made you stronger. You'll emerge to become the person you want to be, to achieve the ideal version of yourself. These hardships in life all happened for a reason — these experiences will make you realize who you really want to be.

I know that there will be times where pessimistic thoughts gnaw their way into your head and they can eat you from the inside out, but remember the analogy of the stilling of muddy water; life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% of how you react to it. When you learn to still your mind and understand that the circumstances do not define who you are, they will not have the ability to lead you to a downward spiral. Recognize your emotions, but don't invest in them. Like what Matthieu Ricard advises from his book The Dalai Lama — Happiness from Within, you're allowed to feel your emotions, but if you allow yourself to be fed on by those negative emotions, you'd become a slave to them. Moreover, the search for happiness not about looking at life through rose-tinted glasses or intentionally ignore the pain and imperfections of the world, but rather, to train your thoughts to be appreciative of the situations you're experiencing in life, no matter how difficult that sounds. Through this, with the testament of time, you'd be surprised at how you perceive life's difficulties. But with that said, I'm not telling you to gaslight and coerce yourself to not embrace the emotions you had at the time. It's okay to be angry, sad, and bitter, after all, we all humans, and it's okay not to be okay sometimes. It's both a blessing and a curse to feel everything so deeply, but be careful not to allow yourself to drown in these negative afflictions. Like what Lao Tzu said, "your thoughts become your words, and your words become your actions, and your actions become your habits, and your habits become your character, and your character becomes your destiny." So, learn to train your thoughts to appreciate yourself for how far you've come, and the hardship right now is not the end of the world. Things will become better.

I know the amount of worries you have will never go away, and neither will they reduce in quantity. As you grow older, new sets of worries begin to develop, and you'll be having a different perspective of your definition of happiness. By then, remember what Erich Fromm's To Have or To Be has taught you — that the state of being is far more important than the state of having, because the tangible things you own, will eventually lose their value. It's the relationships you form, the experiences you encounter, and the personal growth you seek to develop on yourself will lead you to achieve a level of self-actualization and self-transcendence. Don't ever define your worth through the objectification of the things you own. You will never feel like you have enough, and this will become a neurotic and toxic cycle of pursuing happiness, attaching the concept of happiness to physical assets, instead of finding happiness from within and appreciating what you have. Trust me, human's innate nature of the insatiable desire for more is like a parasite that will devour your mind and prevent you from being in your present state of mind and to be grateful for what you have. Like what Epicurus, said, "nothing is enough for the man to whom enough is too little". So, take things slowly, day by day, be thankful for the small things, because they're the ones that culminate overtime and shape your outlook of life.

[maiji]

Hi Maiji! My Lenormand question: what could I do to spark some creative energy when I feel like I'm running on fumes with all my projects?

Numbers: 8, 32

Thank you for this question, I really feel this in my creative and multitasking soul! Also, I know you're familiar with this deck and its symbols already ❤️ so you may have some thoughts once you see the cards pulled, and again some of these ideas are likely not totally fresh or new. But hopefully there are some ideas that may shine today under a new light, and be helpful in some way!

#8 was The Mice, and #32 drew the Key!

The Mice can represent things, often little things, that eat away at us, steal our resources (energy?), wear us down. Meanwhile, The Key can be a sign of something that needs our attention.

For anyone reading this, this is an example of a case (that can come up quite a bit, to be honest) where the cards drawn don't seem - at first glance - to provide a path to answers as much as they seem to be simply describing the situation or problem you already know. Which can initially be like "Wow! Amazing! Such immediate relevance!" but then the next feeling can be, "OK, that's great that it's obviously reflecting my issue/concern back at me, but what can I do about it?"

In instances like this, I personally find it helpful to remember: the reason it may seem so stunningly relevant in describing the issue at hand is because of ourselves. It's so clear to us because it's what been weighing on our mind, possibly blocking us from seeing solutions. So the next part is where it gets trickier - and funnily enough in the context of this question, calls on us to stretch our creative muscles to dig deeper. To hunt for potential insights, to try to look at things from different angles. Which, as an activity in and of itself, can sometimes be helpful just to get you going in terms of considering something else, and then to start noticing those things and those opportunities as you go throughout your day.

The Key can also represent a key. A solution, or a missing piece to unlock a puzzle. I wonder if we can look again at the symbols and associations of The Mice to find some ideas, or at least something to help us shift our perspective.

The Mice can also represent things that need to be repaired/fixed - something to be taken care of. Maybe the Key is pointing out that if these things can be addressed, that could be a solution - hopefully something more long term than a band-aid. Some other thoughts:

Mice are small but numerous, and sometimes it feels like our problems are that way too, that they keep growing and proliferating and building up.

But is that purely the domain of negative things? Could positive things not do that too?

Is creativity only something that can be done in massive sustained bouts? Is creative energy only something that exists in giant fireworks? Or can our creative sparks and moments and work also be like little mice? A little nibble here, a little nibble there. Letting all the little things build up and gnaw at what may seem like an immense pile over time, and recognizing that there's power in that too.

Maybe they'll hit a tipping point and snowball, but if not could this be workable too?

Perhaps we can look at how we are tackling our projects - not just from the tasks we are doing, but the emotional investment we are pouring into them. Can we ease the power, passion, focus? Not that this means diluting it, but spreading it out and being gentle with ourselves (as the very cute small furry creatures we can imagine ourselves to be), so that we don't burn out?

In my overview document, I note that the meaning of the Mice cards in Lenormand is rooted in a particular perspective. In Chinese culture, rats and mice are seen much more positively. There's a reason the first sign of the Chinese/Eastern zodiac is a rat/mouse! It's a clever creature that can size up the situation and untie tricky knots. Actually, as you may know, the way the rat/mouse got into first position was through a bit of offloading of work. Depending on the version of the story, the approach varies, but usually it tricks or piggybacks off of the efforts of another animal. Not saying that I'm condoning cheating or tricking other people, but I wonder if there are things you could do to "trick" yourself into being able to feel like you're making more progress, to make "work work" feel more creative or support/feed creative labour and be more fun, or assessing the work so that something you're doing could be used for/to further multiple projects.

And the ability of mice to hoard things is also seen as a positive - creating an abundance of wealth, maybe storing up an abundance of ideas that you can return to later. Or just recognizing maybe we need to save for that rainy day when it comes to our creative energy as well. If you need to rest, recognize that too.

Earlier I mentioned the Key can represent a missing piece. If we took that idea literally, and extended it to an actual puzzle - a game - is some kind of diversion in order? Our brains do a lot even when we're not actively thinking about a project. From personal experience, I've definitely had a lot of times where I just took a "vacation" - stopped working on something, let the juices percolate in my subconsciousness and the seeds sprout without me constantly working the soil... and then one day it manifests, and I'm at it again with refreshed insight, inspiration and enthusiasm.

One last thought - rereading my overview document, I notice I commented that "ancient Chinese keys are pretty utilitarian and mundane looking". It does remind me of my own feelings about how creative work can feel like a slog when you're doing it, and sometimes that is the reality that I cannot escape from. But I also reminds me I can be practical about that - after all, the key is in my own hands. If everything I turn to is becoming 100% a slog, that's probably a sign that this is not sustainable. At the very least, a good nap is probably in order, and perhaps a bigger break or a reset of some sort.

I hope there was something to spark an idea. Sending you a lot of good wishes for creative energy!

---

Thanks for requesting a limited time free reading to celebrate the new edition of the Fortune Lenormand oracle/art deck!

Want to dive deeper?

Fortune Lenormand oracle/art deck - there's a free downloadable overview of card meanings!

humangray.com/lenormand - more info and resources/links!

(Note: these readings are being done with my old card deck from the original printing. There's not much difference with the new edition available in the link above - the biggest one is that the new edition has a custom box ooh ahh!)

[airplanned]

WIP Wednesday

I am working on the last chapter of Soft Science, and I’m sorta working on my Zelink Week offering.  But then this happened.  No worries, those will both get finished.

I’m pretty sure I’m going to take all this and roll it into dialogue later in the chapter.  It’s a little rough, but sometimes you just have to get this stuff down before you can make it better.  Anyway, here’s a big chunk of premise for this new story!

---

Last month Holodrum sent five sheep as a gift and symbol of their mutual support.  Apparently the sheep are from a line that was once, long ago, taken from Hyrule, and Holodrum returning them is a sign of good faith.  This would be a tremendous gesture if there was any record at all of the sheep ever having been taken or of them existing in the first place.  The ambassador suggested that maybe the records were lost when the old castle was destroyed.

The return of the sheep would be a tremendous gesture if the sheep were not clearly possessed with the souls of demons.  They charge anyone who gets close to them.  They beat at their pens until they tear through the fencing and then escape to terrorize the countryside, ravaging the crops in a nearby field and trampling one poor man, who was still recovering in the royal infirmary.  The last time Zelda visited, they stared at her with square-pupiled eyes while chewing on the royal sheep master's shirt, which they had torn from his body and were now devouring at their leisure.  

The five sheep did not all look the same.  They all had fluffy wool of a light gray color, and they were all so round as to fool you into thinking they were cute.  But their horns were all different.  One had horns that curled on the side of its head lie a ram, except they kept curling for three full rounds.  One had two sharp spikes in tight twirls that shot straight back from its head for about three feet.  One for some reason had four horns  that swooped around its head to point at its gnawing teeth.  One had short thick horns to make it look especially demonic.  The last one had great antlers, like a deer, except they curled inward until the beast wore a kind of crown that he wore with all the haughty regalness of a usurper come to destroy her kingdom.

Then there were the symbols on their foreheads, which they at first took to be drawn on by Holodrum for decoration.  No one had yet gotten close enough to scrub at the symbols, but they had managed a high powered hose to wash them from afar, and the symbols had not come off.  In the month they had been in Hyrule, the symbols hadn't faded at all, and it was now understood to be a part of their foreheads.  Looking into the symbols revealed a single legend of beastly horned guardians that lived in the depths of old shrines.  

Where were the shrines?  No one knew.  They were probably a legend.

What were they going to do with the sheep?  No one knew that either.  They couldn't get rid of them without insulting Holodrum, and her advisors strongly opposed her solution to kill and eat them.  Zelda supposed they would have to just keep them and let them eventually kill everyone and eat all their crops.

Ten years after the twilight, Zelda found herself in need of a hero.  Or at least a goat herder. 

She, of corse, had someone in mind.  But her letter to Ordon came back with the polite explanation that they hadn't seen Link in years and had no idea where he'd gone.  Her royal decree spread far and wide across the kingdom that he was to present himself lead to a dozen brazen young men in green sock hats presenting themselves and claiming to be Link.  If she was a more petty person than she was, she would have had them face down one of the horrible sheep.  Instead, she requested they spar with one of her guards, then politely noted that maybe the hero of twilight was out of practice.

She had to find Link.  And in all her searching for him, the only news she'd heard of his roving exploits were in the form of ballads: how he'd defeated a giant scorpion in the desert and a giant octorock off the coast.  How he'd cleared a swarm of spiders from inside a giant tree and collected the shattered pieces of a fairy.  The stories were probably mostly nonsense, but every now and then there was the ring of truth to them.  Some had, indeed killed an octorock.  The story of the scorpion mentioned that he hadn't said a single word.

So here Zelda was, in a a dingy pub on the outskirts of Castletown, her hair covered and one of her advisors practically vibrating beside her, waiting for a bard to begin his set.  When she'd taken the songs most likely to be true and traced them back to their source, they'd all taken her to this man, whose collection was filled with songs of adventure and magic and heroism and loss.  It made her think he knew Link and had convinced him to tell stories of his adventures so the bard could write them down.

[gloryride]

Gin Rickey for all the babies?

Hey ♥♥ thanks for asking for all of them 💗💗

[COCKTAIL OC ASKS]

𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘆 〜 what does your oc consider to be their best feature? alternatively, what’s something they’re most self conscious about?

VANESSA - Her confidence. She's sure of herself, sure of who she is, and she knows the impact she has. She knows how to play it, and how to be to get what she wants. Thanks to this confidence, Vanessa knows that many doors can be opened. On the other hand, she doesn't know how to grieve. She lost two people very dear to her heart, her mother and then Jackie, and it's taking her a long time to heal. While she knows that death is a part of everyday life, she has difficulty assimilating it when it affects those she loves.

VIRGILE - His netrunner skills. He may doubt many things in his personal life, but he has never suspected that he is a gifted netrunner. If NetWatch wanted him when he was just a nomad in the middle of the desert, it's not for nothing. He could be formidable, a ruthless killer with his hacks, but fortunately, he doesn't like gratuitous violence.

But he has a lot of doubts, on a personal level, about his chances of being loved. He feels so worthless that he thinks other people will abandon him. For a long time, he believes that Panam will let him down. It will take a long time for him to realise that he can be loved.

ISAO - His calm. He knows he could be carried away by rage, a war machine consumed by the anger that has always gnawed at him. And no one can guess that under his impassive air, his poker face. He knows how to control himself to the point of pain, but nothing shows.

But this strength is also his own weakness. Being impassive and calm about everything makes him inaccessible, locked up in his own persona, his tower of solitude. But he doesn't know how to open up, he's never learned except from his sister and his former love.

OSCAR - His friendliness. He knows he's jovial and funny, and few people can dislike him because everything flows off him. All that's left is a smile and always a friendly tone. Oscar is a lovely boy, and he knows it, but he doesn't play it up. It's just who he is and how he lives.

It's not intermittent, but sometimes he's afraid of what Pacifica might become. The place is a war zone, dangerous, and VDBs are living targets. Sometimes he wonders what would happen if something happened, whether he should leave or not…

AURORE - Her kindness. She knows how to calm people with her soft voice, gentle posture and gestures. That's why she works as a nurse in Pacifica's small medical centre, helping to heal wounds and heal hearts. Her powers are a source of insecurity. Aurore is a young witch who likes to test things, but sometimes it gets out of hand, to the point of causing problems. That doesn't stop her from practising and trying, but it's not without fear.

ENZO - Already answered here

MIEKO - Her malice. She has always learnt to stay within the rules set by the family, to be the perfect little girl, to succeed … only to have all the fun afterwards. Without being a real rebel, Mieko knows how to play a double game to remain in her parents' esteem while still being able to go out and have fun. This also helps her in her work, helping her to find solutions.

She remains insecure about her future. It's mapped out professionally with Arasaka, but she doesn't know about her personal future. She currently lives with her mother, is a widow, and would like to enjoy her youth a little, but doesn't know how…

ROXANNE - Her temperament. Roxanne is a strong-willed woman who has experienced enough to say fuck off to somebody's face if need be. She's learnt to stand up for herself so she doesn't get eaten up by life, and she still holds on to what she wants.

But she knows that all her willpower is useless against the giants of the corpos. Roxy feels trapped by having sold her soul to a corpo for her show, she knows that it's an easy point of attack, a way of making it bend too. And she hates that.

[parcequecestnotreprojeeeet]

And now approaching Le Touquet... I'll be on the road in the next few days, so don't be surprised if the next story won't follow until the weekend. Your strawberry :-)

The house by the sea

It was hard being in a relationship when you rarely saw your partner. It was even more difficult when you were at different stages of life. They would like to meet more often, but their commitments often did not allow this. Also, it was difficult to find a place where they could meet without hurting anyone. For their families, their relationship continued to be a crime. Therefore, they tried to meet secretly. But places were limited. He didn't have much money, but he didn't want to be a financial burden on her either. Only once a year did he accept her invitation to go to the sea with her. She could count the meetings with him on one hand. There had to be a solution he could accept that would give them more time together. And as luck would have it, the solution came naturally.

On a sunny spring day, she visited her mother. After her father's death, she became weaker and weaker. She watched the old woman with concern, wishing she wasn't taken from her too quickly. The death of her beloved father had hit her hard. She didn't want to lose a loved one again. "Summer is just around the corner." Her mother said and the gloomy thoughts vanished. She continued, "I've been thinking. Our house by the sea has been empty since your father died. I know you've always felt comfortable there. You know you'll get it when I die. You could use it now before it expires. Use it with your children or travel there alone to relax. It's not always easy here.” She didn't interrupt her mother, but she was amazed. Her mother never addressed their relationship, so she wasn't sure how she felt about it. But this little speech showed that she must have sensed her dilemma. "Are you sure?" she asked. "Yes, child. You are a happy and fun-loving person. People make it difficult for you and sometimes you are sad. I recognize when your eyes shine with joy or with sadness. When you go away alone and come back, you shine. But after a while it fades, so you should have a place where you can always recharge your batteries and where nobody makes you feel guilty.” Her mother was so clear never voiced. She was touched and hugged her mother tightly. "Thank you, that means a lot to me." "I know, my child," said the old woman.

She was so excited before the next phone call with him that she could hardly stand it. But when he finally called, she was completely calm. That was always so. If she heard his voice, everything was fine. She even managed not to blurt out the news right away. But after they had done the usual greetings, she had to tell him about the house by the sea. "You know my parents have a house by the sea?" she asked him. "Yes," he said. “My mother offered me that I could use it whenever I wanted. Since I'll inherit it anyway, I can take care of it now before it expires,” she continued. She awaited his answer curiously. "That's very generous of her." "Don't you get it?" she asked impatiently. "What am I supposed to understand?" he asked, puzzled. "If I can use the house then we'll have a place to meet." "I seem to be on a long line today," he said, laughing.

"What do you think of that?" she asked. "It solves a problem that gnaws at both of us," he summarizes matter-of-factly. "Do you always have to analyze everything?" she asked him with a smile. "Yes," he admitted. “But I am happy that there will be a place where we can meet without a guilty conscience. That will bring the sparkle back to your eyes,” he added. She had to smile. How well he knew her. Her mother had made a similar claim about her radiance. Only people who really love you can see something like that.

Helloooo, sweet 🍓! ❤️ Oh we are going to miss you but hope you will have fun!

The conversations between Brigitte and her mum. Oh my heart! A mum always knows best and there’s no way to deny it. The way she tells Brigitte everything she needs to hear without even mentioning Emmanuel’s name... Yup, I love the way you found to introduce Le Touquet to the story 😍 Emmanuel not getting it at first and then analyzing the situation hahaha sounds so very much like him!

Thank you and see you soon, Strawberry! ❤️❤️❤️

[jworthingtonreview]

Weathering the Winter: A Guide to Pest Control in Chilly Climates

When the first snowflakes fall and there's a crisp chill in the air, homeowners breathe a sigh of relief, thinking the battle against pests has been won for the season. Little do they know, the war may have just taken a wintry turn. Winter can be a stark reminder of how resilient pests are in their quest for warmth and survival, and it's crucial to keep our guard up. This blog post shares insights on understanding the risks of wintertime pests and offers strategies to prevent infestations, perfect for those drawing up their winter-proofing plans.

The Hidden Perils of Winter for Homeowners

The Misconception of Pest-Free Winters

It's a common misconception that pests go into hibernation in the winter. In reality, most pests become more active in their search for shelter, food, and water amid the cold. Common pests we encounter in winter are rodents like mice and rats, as well as insects such as cockroaches, spiders, and even termites. These creatures might prefer the warm indoors as much as we do, leading to potential infestations.

The Risks of a Pest Infestation

Beyond the ick factor, a pest infestation during winter can lead to health risks like asthma, allergies, and the spread of harmful bacteria. Some pests can even cause structural damage to your home. For instance, rodents are notorious for gnawing through walls, wires, and insulation, which can be a fire hazard, while termites, if unnoticed, can wreak havoc on your home's wooden structures.

Ploys of the Pest Kingdom: How They Penetrate Homes

Entry Points and Inviting Conditions

Pests can enter homes through the tiniest of openings, such as cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, or even through utility pipes. Once inside, they are attracted to warmth and the scent of food, often found in our homes. They are also drawn to areas of clutter or neglect, making a strong argument for keeping a clean and well-maintained household.

The Scent Trail of Survival

Many pests have a keen sense of smell that allows them to locate food and warm environments. This is why keeping leftovers sealed, trash bins tightly closed, and kitchen areas free of crumbs becomes paramount in deterring them from making your home their winter haven.

Battening Down the Hatches: Winter Pest Control Strategies

The Power of Prevention

The best approach to winter pest control is prevention, and this begins with a thorough inspection of your home's exterior for potential entry points. This includes not only filling in cracks and gaps but also ensuring that doors and windows are sealed properly. Installing door sweeps and repairing damaged screens can also be effective measures.

The Role of Housekeeping

Maintaining a clean home, inside and outside, can greatly reduce the risk of a pest infestation. Fewer access points, minimal food sources, and uncluttered living spaces create an inhospitable environment for pests. Regular cleaning and storage practices can help to keep pests at bay.

Professional Pest Control Assistance

Sometimes, the infestation could be beyond your control. In such cases, seeking assistance from a professional pest control service is the most effective solution. Trained professionals can identify the type of pest, the extent of the infestation, and provide customized treatment to eliminate the issue.

Wrapping Up

Winter may be the season of holidays and cozy times indoors, but it’s also a time of vigilance against pests. With the right knowledge and preparation, homeowners can safeguard their homes and families from the uninvited guests that colder weather often brings. Remember, the key to successful pest control is staying informed, diligent, and proactive all year round.

[wheelchair-wizard]

IRISH MYTHOLOGY

VOL 14

The Changeling in 2 parts.

Description & A Short Story.

The Enigma of Changelings: A Dark Tale from the Shadows

In the heart of ancient Europe, where mist-clad forests whispered secrets and moonlight danced upon dew-kissed leaves, there existed a belief—a haunting truth that clung to the fringes of reality. This truth bore the name of changelings.

1. The Abduction: The tale began with the fairies—the elusive beings who flitted between realms. They were neither wholly benevolent nor entirely malevolent. Their capricious nature led them to covet the mortal world, especially its most vulnerable inhabitants: the unbaptized infants. These innocent souls, still untouched by holy water, were like ripe fruit dangling within their grasp.

2. The Substitution: When the moon hung low and the hearth fires flickered, the fairies would descend upon humble cottages. With stealthy hands, they snatched away human babes, leaving behind their own twisted offspring—the changelings. These substitutes were not mere wooden dolls or lifeless replicas; they were creatures crafted from moonbeams and sorrow.

3. The Telltale Signs: How could one discern a changeling? The answer varied across cultures. In Irish legend, a fairy child might appear sickly, refusing to grow like a normal infant. Their physical traits were peculiar: perhaps a beard on a baby’s chin or unnaturally long teeth. But it was their intelligence that set them apart—their eyes held ancient wisdom, and their laughter echoed with secrets.

4. The Unusual Behavior: Changelings, when they thought themselves unobserved, revealed their true nature. They danced in moonlit corners, their feet tapping rhythms unknown to mortals. Some even played ethereal instruments, their melodies haunting and melancholic. But this behavior was unique to Irish and Scottish folklore, a secret language shared only by those who dared to listen.

5. The Desperate Solution: Why did the fairies exchange children? Some say it was malice—a cruel jest played upon human families. Others believed it was practicality. In pre-industrial Europe, survival was a daily battle. Families toiled for sustenance, and a permanent drain on resources threatened their very existence. The changelings’ insatiable hunger became a menace, gnawing at the family’s fragile stability.

6. The Grim Reality: Infanticide, though unspeakable, sometimes became the desperate solution. Parents faced an agonizing choice: sacrifice one for the sake of many. The fairies, cunning and elusive, remained indifferent to mortal suffering. They took not only babes but also newlyweds and nursing mothers. The old fairy folk, weary of their own existence, would occasionally swap places with human infants, seeking comfort in mortal arms.

7. The Echoes of Fear: Belief in changelings persisted until the late 19th century. In 1895, Bridget Cleary met a tragic end at the hands of her husband, who believed her to be a changeling. The myth clung to the collective memory, a dark corner of the mind where fear and folklore intertwined.

STORY

Once upon a time, in the mystical hills of Ireland, there lived a humble farmer named Seamus. Seamus and his wife, Brigid, were blessed with a beautiful baby boy named Liam. Their joy knew no bounds as they cradled their precious child in their arms.

But the fairies who inhabited the nearby woods were mischievous beings. They envied the happiness of mortal families and often meddled in their affairs. One moonlit night, as Seamus and Brigid slept, the fairies crept into their cottage. They whispered ancient incantations and cast a spell upon little Liam.

The next morning, when Brigid went to check on her son, she gasped in horror. The baby lying in the crib was not Liam. His eyes were dark and hollow, devoid of the innocent sparkle they once held. His skin was pale, and he wailed incessantly, unlike the contented Liam they knew.

Brigid’s heart sank. She knew her real son had been stolen away by the fairies, replaced by a changeling—a creature left in exchange for the human child. Desperate to reclaim her son, she sought the advice of the village wise woman, Aoife.

Aoife listened to Brigid’s tearful tale and nodded knowingly. “Fear not,” she said. “To break the fairy spell, you must outwit them. Tonight, leave a bowl of fresh cream by the hearth. When the fairies come, they’ll be drawn to it. But keep your eyes peeled, for they’ll reveal their true intentions.”

Brigid followed Aoife’s instructions. As the moon rose, she sat by the fire, clutching Liam’s tiny shirt. The room grew colder, and the air crackled with magic. Suddenly, the door creaked open, and in floated a group of fairies. Their wings shimmered like moonlight, and their eyes glowed with mischief.

They gathered around the bowl of cream, their laughter echoing through the cottage. But one fairy, with eyes as green as the forest, hesitated. She glanced at the crib where the changeling lay. Brigid held her breath, watching.

The green-eyed fairy leaned over Liam, her fingers brushing his forehead. “He’s ours now,” she whispered. “Your son dances with us in the moonlight, while this changeling suffers in your mortal world.”

Brigid’s resolve hardened. She lunged forward, snatching the changeling from the crib. “Take your creature back!” she cried, thrusting the wailing baby toward the fairies. “Give me my Liam!”

The fairies screeched, their glamour fading. The green-eyed fairy’s wings turned brittle, and she vanished into thin air. The others fled, leaving behind a trail of stardust.

Liam stirred in Brigid’s arms, his eyes clearing. The changeling, now frail and feeble, dissolved into mist. The spell was broken.

From that day on, Liam thrived, and the fairies dared not cross Brigid’s threshold again. But every now and then, on moonlit nights, she would hear faint laughter in the wind—the echo of the green-eyed fairy’s promise.

And so, the legend of the changeling lived on, a reminder that love and determination could defy even the most otherworldly enchantments.

Christy's Electric Wheelchair Fundraiser,

Hi Guy's.I created this Artwork as a way to raise funds for an outdoor Electric Wheelchair for myself.I've been trying to raise funds for 14yrs without success,My story is on the Buy me a coffee Website below.All I ask is if you could Like and Share and to please read my story.

All my ARTWORK is genuinely FREE on BUY ME A COFFEE.You only donate to my Wheelchair if YOU choose to Donate.Artwork is FREE to download immediately.You can download as many images as you wish.No limits.1000's of images on different topics.With more images uploaded every week and new topics added to choose from.

Thank you for reading. Christy.

Patreon is Donation or Sponsor only.They Charge Me even if items are free.Sorry.

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[stuartd744]

Mouse Mayhem: Tackling Rodent Control in Wolverhampton

Introduction

Wolverhampton, a vibrant city in the heart of the West Midlands, is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving community. However, amidst the beauty and charm of Wolverhampton, residents sometimes find themselves facing a common problem: mouse infestations. These small rodents can quickly become a nuisance, invading homes, businesses, and public spaces. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the challenges of dealing with mouse mayhem in Wolverhampton and the effective solutions provided by professional rodent control services.

Understanding Mice

Before we delve into the methods of rodent control, it is crucial to understand the behavior and characteristics of these pesky creatures. Mice are small mammals that belong to the rodent family. They are known for their ability to adapt to various environments and reproduce rapidly. Mice are attracted to food sources and can enter buildings through small openings and cracks.

"Mice control wolverhampton" creatures, meaning they are most active during the night. They have a keen sense of smell and can quickly locate food, making them a common problem in kitchens and pantries. Mice can contaminate food, cause damage to property, and spread diseases through their droppings and urine.

Signs of Mouse Infestation

Detecting a mouse infestation early is crucial for effective rodent control. Here are some common signs to look out for:

Droppings: Mouse droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped. Finding droppings in areas such as kitchens, cupboards, or along baseboards is a clear indication of a mouse infestation.

Gnaw Marks: Mice have a constant need to gnaw on objects to keep their teeth from growing too long. Look for gnaw marks on furniture, walls, electrical wires, or food packaging.

Noises: Mice are agile climbers and can be heard scurrying in walls, ceilings, or attics. Listen for scratching or squeaking sounds, especially during the night.

Nesting Materials: Mice build nests using shredded materials like paper, fabric, or insulation. Discovering shredded materials in hidden corners or inside cabinets suggests a mouse presence.

The Importance of Professional Rodent Control Services

When faced with a mouse infestation, it is essential to call in professional rodent control services in Wolverhampton. Here are some reasons why professional services are crucial:

1. Expert Knowledge and Experience

Professional rodent control technicians have the knowledge and experience to effectively deal with mouse infestations. They understand the behavior and habits of mice, allowing them to implement targeted strategies for eradication. Their expertise ensures a thorough and efficient approach to rodent control.

2. Customized Treatment Plans

Professional rodent control services create customized treatment plans based on the severity of the infestation and the specific needs of the property. They conduct thorough inspections to identify entry points, nesting areas, and food sources. Based on their findings, they develop tailored strategies to eliminate mice and prevent future infestations.

3. Safe and Effective Solutions

Professional rodent control technicians use safe and effective methods to eliminate mice. They have access to specialized products and equipment that are not readily available to the general public. These professionals follow strict safety protocols to protect both the residents and the environment while ensuring the complete eradication of mice.

4. Long-Term Prevention

Professional rodent control services not only eliminate existing mouse infestations but also provide recommendations for long-term prevention. They identify and seal entry points, offer advice on proper waste management, and suggest measures to deter mice from returning. By addressing the root causes of the infestation, they help create a rodent-free environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are mice dangerous to humans?

A: While mice are generally not aggressive towards humans, they can pose health risks. Mice can contaminate food, spread diseases through their droppings and urine, and cause property damage. It is important to address mouse infestations promptly.

Q: Can I get rid of mice on my own?

A: DIY mouse control methods can be effective for minor infestations. However, professional rodent control services have the expertise and resources to handle larger or recurring infestations more effectively.

Q: How long does it take to eliminate a mouse infestation?

A: The time required to eliminate a mouse infestation depends on various factors, including the size of the infestation and the accessibility of nesting areas. Professional rodent control technicians can assess the situation and provide an estimated timeline for complete eradication.

Q: How can I prevent mice from entering my home?

A: To prevent micefrom entering your home, it is important to take preventive measures such as sealing cracks and openings, keeping food stored in airtight containers, maintaining cleanliness, and removing potential nesting materials. Professional rodent control services can provide further guidance on effective prevention methods.

Q: Are there any natural methods to repel mice?

A: While there are some natural methods that may help deter mice, such as using peppermint oil or placing mothballs in infested areas, these methods are often not as effective as professional rodent control. It is recommended to consult with experts for the most reliable and efficient solutions.

Conclusion

Mouse infestations can disrupt the peace and hygiene of any home or business in Wolverhampton. Understanding the signs of infestation and the importance of professional rodent control services is crucial for effective eradication and prevention. By relying on the expertise of trained technicians, residents can ensure a mouse-free environment and protect their health and property. Don't let mouse mayhem take over Wolverhampton - take action today and regain control.

[a3pest]

Pest Control

The War on Pests: Essential Strategies for a Pest-Free Home

From the buzzing nuisance of flies to the creepy crawlies of spiders, pests can transform a peaceful home into a battleground. These unwelcome invaders not only disrupt our comfort but can also pose health risks and cause property damage. Fortunately, we're not defenseless in this war. With the right knowledge and strategies, we can reclaim our havens and live pest-free.

Understanding the Enemy:

The first step to effective pest control is identifying the specific invaders you're facing. Different pests require different approaches, so knowing what you're dealing with is crucial. Common household pests include:

Insects: Cockroaches, ants, termites, mosquitoes, flies, and bed bugs are some of the most frequent insect offenders.

Cockroaches, ants, termites, mosquitoes, flies, and bed bugs

Rodents: Mice and rats can not only spread disease but also cause costly damage by gnawing on wires and furniture.

Mice and rats

Other creatures: Birds, bats, and even squirrels can sometimes find their way into our homes, creating unwanted messes and potential health hazards.

Birds, bats, and squirrels

Prevention is Key:

The old adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" rings true in pest control. Implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infestations and make your home less hospitable to unwanted guests:

Seal entry points: Close up cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and pipes to prevent pests from sneaking in.

Eliminate food sources: Store food properly in airtight containers, clean up spills promptly, and dispose of garbage regularly.

Reduce moisture: Fix leaky faucets and pipes, and address dampness in basements and crawl spaces, as moisture attracts many pests.

Maintain cleanliness: Regular vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping help remove crumbs, debris, and potential pest havens.

Natural Weapons:

Before resorting to harsh chemicals, try some natural pest control methods:

Essential oils: Peppermint, lavender, and citronella oils have repellent properties that can deter certain pests.

Diatomaceous earth: This natural powder dehydrates and kills insects on contact. Be cautious around pets and avoid inhaling.

Traps: Sticky traps, live traps, and bait stations can effectively capture specific pests.

Chemical Warfare:

For severe infestations or persistent pests, chemical insecticides or rodenticides may be necessary. Choose these options cautiously and always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Remember, chemical exposure can harm not only pests but also humans and pets.

Professional Help:

For complex infestations or situations where DIY methods fail, seeking professional pest control services is recommended. Trained exterminators have access to specialized equipment and powerful treatments that can effectively eliminate even the most stubborn pests.

Living in Harmony:

While completely eradicating pests might be an impossible dream, living in harmony with them is achievable. By adopting a combination of preventive measures, natural solutions, and targeted interventions when necessary, we can create a pest-free environment and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing our homes are truly our own.

Remember:

Early detection is key. Regularly inspect your home for signs of pest activity and address them promptly.

Focus on prevention. Making your home less appealing to pests is the most effective long-term strategy.

Choose humane methods whenever possible. Minimize the use of harsh chemicals and opt for natural solutions when feasible.

Seek professional help for complex infestations. Don't hesitate to call in the experts if DIY methods aren't working.

With a proactive approach and a little know-how, you can successfully win the war on pests and reclaim your home as a haven of peace and comfort. So, let's arm ourselves with knowledge, vigilance, and the right strategies, and say goodbye to unwanted guests for good!

[fujinstorm]

....I have another bunch of questions BUT they should be the last large set :D No pressure for these answers, just see what you feel/think at the moment for them? (thank you for your patience with these, I'm chewing on ideas at the moment and these questions really help!)

What kind of relationship does Xiang have with Nat? Was it a friends to lovers deal, or a slow burn yearning, the tug and gnaw of attraction, the draw and fire of passion; or...? 2. How would you describe how Xiang and Nat fit together, as a couple, as partners; has it changed over their relationship so far? 3. What drew Xiang to Nat? What's his favourite thing(s) about her, something that makes him smile/that he holds close to the chest (or does he tell her about it? He seems a little more like someone whose love language is subtler than Nat, who will tease and flirt and say a lot of her feelings. For Xiang, is it actions, maybe? What would you say is his love language?) 4. What drew Nat to Xiang? What's her favourite thing about him? What's a detail she might have noticed and hoarded like a secret, a treasure? 5. Do you have any songs that make you think of Xiang? :D (and a supplementary question - is it music he would to as well haha??) 6. What does Xiang want, most of all? (Besides Nat hahaha - I mean, life wise). What does he think he wants, is there a particular goal he is working towards, or a nebulous thing he wants, someday? (Does he just want to be happy? What does happiness look like?) 7. What does Xiang actual need, you think? To make him happy/fulfilled? Is he aware or unaware of it?

1. He was sure he liked her the moment she walked through the door. He didn't make it really obvious at first, but with every interaction they had, his emotions started to build up. He knew that pursuing a relationship with a vampire is quite intense, but she made him feel so much until it exploded and he couldn't resist anymore.

2. They're like yin and yang. They are the same but so different at the same time. An example is that even though Xiang is not the most social person, he knows how to make people like him, not in a manipulative way lol.

3. Her smile. Sounds too cheesy but it's the truth. He can't get over her smile. His darkest day can be saved by her beautiful smile. Also, being that charming is a plus. Yes, you're right. He's most subtle with his love language (Loves holding hands tho) and I'm not saying he doesn't say 'I love you,' but it's something he doesn't need to say or doesn't see the need to as both of them are aware of it, but he understands that sometimes, you just need to hear it from someone you love. He loves having quality time with her and of course, the teasing. That goes both ways. Being able to be fluffy and funny is something they both really appreciate. He might not show much of it when they're together, even when he's having an emotional rave inside, but he will do anything to prove it to her. Like gifting her things she might want or need, or going with her to some social events he definitely doesn't like.

4. Maybe it was the aura he has, like he can be trusted, or maybe the way he can put her at ease with only his gaze. Something she noticed is when Xiang is lost in thoughts, he usually strokes his chin and starts pacing around. Sometimes he even bumps into things and swears in his language (Spanish and sometimes Chinese). She always giggles and pats him on the shoulder, making him turn around to face her. She takes that time to cup his cheeks and tell him how much she loves him.

5. He usually listens to blues. He wants a bit of relaxation after a long day.

6. He wants to live in a peaceful house next to the ocean. Not only that, but with all the people he loves as neighbors and a workshop where he can craft and sell his art online.

7. A therapist and maybe to chill a bit. He is aware and he might go... Maybe after finding a solution to this new case...

Damn this took longer than I expected hahaha.