#work has been stressful and i... may be looking into another part of the store to work in

[incorrectbatfam]

i just read the wayne family adventures chapter that released yesterday and i'm in need of some steph and damian headcanons

They've gotten into the most arguments over who gets to drive the Batmobile

Damian: "I'll drive"

Steph: "You're twelve"

Damian: "And yet I still drive better than you"

Bruce sides with Steph and ten minutes later Damian is gripping for dear life as she goes twenty miles over the speed limit

Steph sends a multiple-paragraph story about her mission abroad with pictures, emojis, and a hundred exclamation points, only for Damian to reply, "k"

Having food around is legitimately stressful because Damian is a growing boy who will eat everything. Steph gets up to grab a drink with her muffin and comes back to a wrapper and crumbs

He offers to pack her lunch when Alfred's hands are too full. Steph takes him up on it, thinking Alfred already made something. She doesn't check her lunchbox until later, when she finds a brick of tofu and Tupperware full of grapes

Steph reminisces about an old TV show and for the rest of the day Damian copies everything she says in an old person voice

Then Damian asks what a Walkman is and it's Steph's turn to pinch his cheeks and talk in a baby voice

Steph: "Robin's the worst"

Goon: "Yeah, he is"

Steph: "You take that back!"

He sold her high school essays online and gave her a 10% cut of the profit

Damian gets a rat and Steph names it Remy, knowing he hasn't seen Ratatouille yet

She uses his head as an armrest

Steph and her friends go out to celebrate finals being over. Damian follows them to the restaurant and keeps sending milk to their table every five minutes

Damian rickrolls her through her AirPods

Steph has a special type of anger set aside for when Damian jams the carnival port-a-potty shut while she's in it

Damian gives her a misshapen rock and says, "It's the egg that hatched you"

Steph: "This is my little brother, Damian"

Damian: "We're not siblings"

Steph: "…As I was saying, this is my little brother, Damian"

She sticks a picture of Damian on the icebox to guarantee it stays cold

*After a big meal* Damian: "I cannot eat another bite"

Steph: "Same. Wanna get ice cream?"

Damian: "I'll drive"

Steph: "Like hell you are"

Damian: "Then I call shotgun"

Steph: "Bold of you to assume we're inviting the others"

Damian has a creative writing assignment for English and Steph offers to look it over, but instead of giving him feedback, she gaslights him into thinking he plagiarized Game of Thrones

However weird the Rogues may be, Damian can guarantee there's something in Steph's camera roll that's even weirder

Jason teaches Damian to swear and Steph un-teaches him by playing the bleeping sound effect every time he does

Steph rents half her storage garage to Damian to store the canoe he found. They're still trying to figure out what to do with it

Damian: "I have to infiltrate a horse ranch and I need you to communicate with your equine brethren"

Damian asks Steph to come to Career Day. She's confused at first because at the time she's a student working a part-time retail job, but shows up anyway. When it's his turn, he brings her up to the front and says, "This is my sister, Stephanie. She doesn't have a degree yet, gets paid minimum wage for a job I can do with my hands tied, and is the only one in my family who doesn't know what she's doing." Steph starts to get annoyed, but then Damian says, "I brought her today because she doesn't let her lack of direction hold her down. She has taught me that it's okay if you don't have a destination and life happens on your own terms, not someone else's."

Steph comes to the Manor one day to find everyone crowded around Damian's door. Dick explains that the person Damian asked to the 8th grade dance ditched him last minute and no one's been able to coax him out—not even Alfred with cookies. Steph goes in and after a while, he tells her about the work he put in (for a middle schooler, aka an ironed shirt and reservations at a place rhyming with Bolive Darden) only for it be a setup to make fun of him. Steph asks when the reservation is and he says it's in twenty minutes. She says she only needs ten and emerges in her old homecoming dress. Then they grab dinner before skipping the dance altogether to go bowling and destroy some unsuspecting 9-year-olds at laser tag.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA for not picking my brothers side against our mother?

Some background information:

My brother (let’s call him Collin) is trans (20m) We come from a relatively Catholic (we aren’t religious but the influence is deffo there) conservative country and have been living in the USA for most of our lives. My mother definitely can’t be considered LGBTQ allies, although they are much more understanding than some of the people here, especially in the south— which is impressive considering where we come from. She is TERRIBLE with using the correct pronouns for Collin, so much so that he doesn’t contact her much anymore. I’ve never tried to get him to do otherwise— it’s his choice, and I still respect him. I can understand it. Shortly before he moved away, he’d rant to me about her. I was pretty good with listening and giving advice/support for the first few years, but towards the end of high school (when the school work stress was piling up, along with other external family issues), it started to weigh on me. I wanted (and still want) to be someone Collin can confide in, but I still love my mother. She has made improvements with her close-mindedness, even if they aren’t huge steps. Whenever I try to give reasons for her behavior or just try to get them to get along, he accused me of siding with her. A lot of his perceptions of her seem warped these days, too. Like a while ago he was talking with me via text about one of his friends/coworkers (who is gay). He told me not to mention to our mother that this friend is gay— this friend, by the way, is fully out and married. A few months later I slipped and mentioned it to my mother (she had suggested that this friend probably likes this woman we know and I said “no mom he’s gay!”). And she didn’t really react? She just bluescreened for a moment (the trademark “confused boomer pause”) and went on with the conversation. I’ve had a lot of talks with her about LGBTQ issues, and I’ve actually managed to get her to consider the fact that homophobia may stem from religion (she is a very science>religion kind of person). She wholeheartedly believes that LGBTQ issues should not be politicized. (Not an ally, not an enemy.)

anyway, all this to say that Collin has a very 2D impression of her. Last year I went to pick him up at the airport, and mom called while we were in the car to remind us to stop by [store] and pick something up. When the call ended, Collin snorted and said something like “the bitch couldn’t have just sent a text?”

I told him, a bit snappishly, to shut up. He looked surprised and I felt bad, but I told him that I didn’t want any in part in the conflict and that he should stop bringing me into it.

I was also kind of pissed at him at the time for posting the story of an argument between our mother and I (my period was a month late, she thought I was pregnant*— not even an argument she was just annoyingly suspicious for a week or two) online. He changed names for privacy, but there were people who knew who he was so it wasn’t that hard to figure out who his “sister” was. Since I never gave him permission to share it with anyone, I asked him to take it down. He did eventually. but I guess that could be for another AITA post.

*I have never dated or shown interest in dating anyone.

Overall, I feel that he has the right to argue/have a bad relationship with our mother. But I also have a right to let it affect me without being labeled as a bad or traitorous sister.

What are these acronyms?

[justmeinadaze]

We're A Family Part 16 (Steddie X You)

A/N: This is very much a Steddie chapter and I love it so much. This is probably going to be one of if not my favorite chapter in this series. I wanted them to really fully embrace that lovers aspect of their relationship and totally be ok loving each other as much as they love the reader.

Warnings: Parent Dads Steddie and Mama Reader, mentions of trying and struggling to get pregnant, SMUT (between the boys <3), lots of fluff, Steve VERY BRIEFLY mentions fears of telling his family they are trying to have another kid. I think that's it. Genuinely just a lot of sweetness in this one.

Word Count: 3116

“Fuck me…”, Steve pants as he throws his arm over his eyes. 

“I just did.”, you giggle as you roll over to face him. 

You and Steve had been spending a lot more time alone in the pursuit of baby number three. Of course, Eddie was still very much involved in sexy time but he insisted if there was a point where he could take the kids out of the house, you three should take the opportunity. 

It had been a few months and still no positive test. The doctor insisted you both were healthy and fine, you just “need to keep trying.” The metalhead did everything he could to help. 

“Eddie, baby, why are you smoking so far away? You can sit next to me on the porch here.”

“I know, sweetheart, but I read online that smoke can affect you when you’re trying to get pregnant.”

“You were smoking around me constantly before and we still got Ro.”, you laugh.

“Baby, I can do the dishes. You’ve been at work all day.”

“Y/N, it’s fine. You and Steve just relax, ok? I got this. Wayne said stress sometimes can make it harder for you two to…you know…”

“Hey, princess! I went grocery shopping today so you don’t have to on Friday after work. I also got some more fruit. I read this book at work that was saying it helps with trying to have a baby.”

Steve grins as he turns to face you as well. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I just…I don’t know.”

“Honey, it’s ok. It will happen when it happens.”

“I just feel bad. I feel like Eddie is stressing himself out taking care of us.”

“He has been going a little overboard.”, he chuckles. “Oh, I know that look. Dylan makes that face when he’s planning something. What do you have in mind, baby?”

***

“Mom, this place is amazing.”, Dylan’s jaw drops as he looks around the house the realtor brought you guys to. 

It was a rustic style home that definitely had that country feel. The entryway lead into the kitchen on the right and gigantic living room straight ahead with a gorgeous stone fireplace. The back door was mostly clear glass so you would be able to see outside when the kids were playing. 

“It’s beautiful. It’s not too far from Wayne either and it’s right next to the lake.”, Eddie grins, running his fingers along the countertop in the kitchen. 

“It’s also within your budget and has those five rooms you had originally mentioned, ma’am.”, the man showing you the house guides you around, pointing out the two bedrooms downstairs and the backyard that is much bigger than your current one. 

Steve pats Aurora’s back as she continues to sleep, drooling on the shoulder of his jacket.

“Do you mind if we talk for a minute?”

“No, ma’am. Take all the time you need.”

The four of you lean against the counters in the kitchen as you wait for him to leave. “What do you think, kid?”, Eddie asks.

“I like it a lot especially since it’s by the water.”

“It’s closer to my store but it’s a bit of a drive for the three of you every morning.”

You chew on your nail as you think. “Just an extra 10minutes which isn’t too bad. What do you think, Stevie?”

“I’m fine with the drive. We may need to update some things though like childproofing the locks and stuff. Other than that, I think it’s perfect.”

“Alright, gentlemen. Let’s fill out some applications and pray.”

##############

“Hang on, Ed.” Steve reaches over and grabs Eddie’s arm as he begins to get out of the car. “You guys have fun! “

“Bye dada an daddy.”, Aurora waves.

They wave back with a smile, waiting for you three to get inside before the man drives away. 

“What’s going on?”, the metalhead asks. 

“Y/N and I thought you needed some time away from the kids and the house so we’re going on a date.”

“Did Y/N not want to come? She should have a night out to.”

“Eddie!”, Steve chuckles. “She’s fine, trust me. Let me show you what a date night with Steve Harrington is like.”

“Oh, someone’s cocky. Alright, Harrington. Wine and dine me.”, he grins. 

***

“Mom? Are you okay?”

“Yeah, can you just…hold my hand. I’m so nervous.” Dylan smiles as he sits on the floor beside you and takes your hand in his. “This anticipation is killing me. With you and Ro it was just like ‘Hey, there’s a baby in there.’ I’ve never really had to utilize a pregnancy test like this.”

“With Aurora, you thought you were sick. Did you think the same thing before you found out about me?”

“Naw, with you, I was doing a routine exam and they had to make sure I wasn’t pregnant.”

The timer on your phone beeps and you sigh before reaching onto the bedside table where the test had been sitting. As you read the results, uncontrollable tears begin cascading down your face while Dylan wraps his arms around your neck.

***

“That band was fucking awesome!”, Eddie exclaims as the other man grins at his excitement. 

Steve decided to take the metalhead to new bar just outside of the city limits. He knew how much he loved music, thinking it would make him happy to see some bands play while they drank and talked. 

“It’s been a while since you guys have been on a stage like that. Do you miss it?”

The man shakes his head as he takes a swing of the beer from his glass. “I mean I still play with the guys but that rush that I used to get being on stage…no it’ll sound stupid.”

“No, come on. Tell me.”

“That rush I used to get…I get now with the kids. Dude, seeing Dylan on his first date and watching Ro learn do those vocabulary card things you got her… that makes me happy. I can’t wait to see what this new baby will be like.” Eddie notices Steve’s posture stiffen and he promptly reaches out to rub his shoulder. “Hey, it’ll happen, man.”

“I know. I hate seeing that sad look on her face with every period or failed test.”

“The doctor said everything was good though, right?”

“Yeah, just have to keep trying.”, he sighs before glancing towards Eddie. “I haven’t told my mom yet that Y/N and I are…you know. I’m afraid she’ll tell my dad and I have no idea what he’ll do.”

“Steve, babe, fuck your dad. He can try whatever he wants but he’s not breaking up our family.”

The man exhales a cute, breathy chuckle. “Did you just call me babe?”

The metalhead grins even wider as he leans closer to him. “Depends. Did you like it?”

#######

 The bathroom door to the men’s room hurtles open as Steve pushes Eddie through it with his lips on his and quickly locks it behind him. The metalhead groans, shoving his back against it and begins fumbling with the other boy’s belt before lowering himself to his knees. 

“Fuck.”, Steve mewls as the man below him takes his already leaking cock into his mouth. Eddie knows exactly how his husband likes it, you showed him well, and he revels in the sounds he pulls from him as he takes him deeper till he’s gagging around him. 

It’s not just the action itself but his small, tender touches that have Steve moaning. While Eddie bobs his head, his hands roam the other man’s body, tracing the back of his thighs, up to his stomach. Steve can’t help but wonder how he would react if he spoke to Eddie the same way he talked to you. 

“That’s it, Eddie, baby, fuck. Just like that.” His eyes fluttered closed as he tangled his fingers into his hair, guiding him as the metalhead’s rhythm picked up. Steve couldn’t hold out any longer, he needed him now. 

He tugged on the boy’s hair and he took the hint, rising to his feet and hooking his lips to Steve’s sweet spot on his neck. Growling with desire, he lifted Eddie into his arms and placed him on the counter, aggressively yanking off his jeans. Pulling him to the edge, he lifted his leg over his shoulder and guided his cock into the man’s entrance. 

Eddie’s eyes rolled as Steve slid his hand along his stomach, slowly thrusting his hips as he relished the feeling of the man he loved.

Did he tell him that enough? I’m sure if he asked, Eddie would tell him he’s being silly and of course he does. They had gotten much closer these past few years and became more comfortable sexually but there was a level of intimacy Steve felt they still struggled with. 

“Eddie?” The man responded with a hm as he bit his lip to keep from moaning too loud. “I love you.”

He heard the change in Steve’s tone, promptly opening his eyes to scan him over. Propping himself up on one of his elbows, he reached over to caress his cheek as his thumb glided along his skin. 

“I love you to.”

“No, No. I love you.” 

Eddie blinked a few times before wrapping his hand around the man’s neck and pulling him down till he was hovering over him.

“I love you to. So fucking much, sweetheart. I-I grew up feeling like no one—mmm—no one ever really cared about me. Then I met you and Y/N.” He craned his neck to capture the man’s lips. “Steve, you can talk to me like you talk to her. I like it.”

“Yeah? So, you would like hearing—fuck—hearing me say things about how good you fucking feel, baby, squeezing my cock?”

“Jesus.” Eddie laid back flat against the counter as his hand reached down to stroke his own dick. 

“That’s it, Eddie. Play with yourself while I fuck you. God, you look so fucking sexy right now.”

“Ha-harder, Steve. Please.”, he moans. 

“Is that what you need, honey? I can do that.”

As he rolled his hips into his roughly, the metalhead covered his mouth with his palm, suffocating the urge to scream at the pleasure that ran through his body. His back arched as his abs tensed as rope after rope of spend hit the skin on his stomach. 

“Fuck me.”, Steve groaned as he pounded into the man faster chasing his high. After a few more rough thrusts, Eddie felt him cum inside of him, look up to watch his eyebrows scrunch together and his neck muscles tighten as he did. 

Gradually, he pulled his softening cock out of him and reached over to grab some napkins to help clean Eddie up.

“I’m sorry if these are rough. They aren’t like our towels at home.”, Steve sighs as he tosses the paper in the trash. As he begins pulling up his pants, Eddie abruptly tackles him into a hug, squeezing tightly as he lays his cheek on his chest. “Is everything ok?”

The metalhead nods. “Y/N does this to us after and now I kind of see why. I feel…closer to you if that’s even fucking possible.”

Steve softly laughs as he wraps his own arms around him, pressing him tighter to his chest with his palm. “Yeah, baby. I know what you mean.”

***

As they walk into the front door of the house, they are surprised to find it completely silent. Steve quietly searches the downstairs, turning off lights while Eddie locks everything down. 

When the enter their bedroom, they grin finding everyone asleep in your bed. Dylan was on his side with you behind him, arm draped over him and Aurora who was snuggled up in her brother’s chest as she sucked her thumb. 

Both men quickly changed out of their cigarette, bar smelling clothes and crawled into bed; Steve behind you and Eddie behind his daughter. 

***

“Daddy.”, Ro coos as she lightly taps her father’s face with her palm. “Daddy. Wake up.”

“Ro. Aurora.”, you whispered as you tapped her side. “Leave daddy alone and let him sleep, sweetie.”

“Mama, no. Daddy wake up.”

Dylan groaned in his sleep as he rolled over to face you. 

“Why? Why do you need daddy to wake up?”

She giggles as she falls to her knees and pushes at his arm. “Daddy, I miss you.”

“Well, that’s adorable.”, Steve sighs.

“Dada help Rara.”

“What do you need help with honey? Waking up daddy?” He lazily lifts his arm towards Eddie, trying to reach him with his hand. “Op, he’s too far. I can’t.”

“Dada!”, she growls and you feel the man smile in your shoulder. Aurora begins pushing at him again until he rolls onto his back and playfully pushes her aside with his hand. 

“I think I chose the wrong side to sleep on.”, he grumbles. 

“Hun-gee.”, she points to her stomach. 

“Aurora Munson- Harrington, you did not just wake him up for that!”, you giggle as she beams at you. 

“Whoosh!”, she exclaims as she pretends to throw something in the air. 

“She wants dad’s pancakes.”, Dylan yawns as he stretches. “Which actually sounds good.”

“Can you take her downstairs and put on a cartoon for her, weirdo? Give them some time to wake up.”

Your son nods as he slides off the bed, coming around to pick up his sister and bring her downstairs. Both men immediately scoot closer to you, pulling you into their embrace. 

“Did you two have fun last night?”

“Mhmm. He took me on a ‘Steve Harrington style date’.”

“Oh, you lucky man.”

“Did you three do anything exciting last night?”, Steve asked. 

“We did. Watched a few movies and ordered a pizza. I did go to the store real quick and bought you guys something. Eddie, baby, can you look into your nightstand and grab the thing on top for me?”

He sleepily nodded as he shifted his body to grab what you were asking for. His eyes suddenly snapped open as he realized what he was holding. 

“Harrington. STEVE!”, Eddie shouted startling the other man as he sat up making you laugh harder. The metalhead handed him the pregnancy test and he promptly sat up straighter. 

“Is this…? Are we…? Is this real? You’re really pregnant?”

Your grin grows as you nod. Steve tackles his arms around you, kissing every part of your face his lips can reach. As soon as you’re free, Eddie does the same much more gently. 

“Oh my god. I’m so happy.” Steve lays back down with a big smile on his face as he exhales. 

“You see what I mean, babe? Same kind of rush but better.”, the metalhead grins as he winks at the other man whose own smile grows. 

“Oh wow.” Both men look at you with confused looks as you smirk. “Ok, I don’t know what you two did last night but that energy is back.”

“Are you drunk? You shouldn’t be drinking if you’re pregnant.”

You giggle as you slap Eddie’s shoulder. “No, no, no. Nothing wrong with it. I kind of missed that…electricity…between the two of you. Maybe you both need a date night more often.”

After kissing them both again, you climb out of bed and head for the bedroom door, pausing as you turn to face them. 

“I hope you know you both can be intimate without me. I genuinely don’t mind. I know you both love me just as much as you love each other.” You flash them one final smile before going down the stairs. 

“We don’t deserve her.”, Steve sighs pleasantly as he watches you leave. 

“Yeah, we do. Charlie didn’t deserve her. Fucking idiot.” Eddie lays back down, scooting closer to the other boy. “I still think about the first time I talked to her on the stairs outside of the apartment. He was making her feel bad about him not coming to see Dylan. When I opened the door to sit outside and smoke, I just wanted to protect her. I wanted to drive to wherever he was and kick his ass.”

Steve slid a little closer to him till the back of his hand was barely touching his. 

“I always think about that night at The Hideout when we surprised her while she was on her date and you played that one AC/DC song for her. When she ran out of that bar…I can’t tell you how happy it made me especially after being away from her for so long. She fucking flew into our arms and I never wanted to let her go.”

“We kind of didn’t.”, he chuckled. 

Their fingers intertwined as they turned to smile at each other. Eddie leaned over and brought his lips to his, both men laughing as they pulled away when they heard loud noises downstairs.

“Hey! Are you trying to make everyone lose their hearing?! Turn the tv down!”, Steve hollered over dramatically as they both entered the area. 

“Told you.”, you sang from the sink as you washed some dishes you knew the metalhead would need.

Eddie wrapped his arms around you from behind, pulling you to his chest as he leaned his head on your shoulder.

“Taking more than her share, had me fighting for air She told me to come, but I was already there 'Cause the walls start shaking, the Earth was quaking My mind was aching and we were making it

And you shook me all night long Yeah, you shook me all night long.”

You grinned at the memory as he sang softly in your ear. Steve turned off the water before circling his arms around you both, kissing the top of your head. The sound of tiny feet slapping into the kitchen had you laughing in his chest. 

“Daddy! Rara and Din hun-gee!”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah ya little butt. Come here.” She giggled as she ran into his arms and he lifted her onto the counter. “You’re going to help me?” Aurora nodded her little head as she waited for instructions. 

Steve lifted you into his arms and carried you to the living room, placing you gently on the sofa. 

“Did you tell them?”

“I did. They’re pretty excited.”

“I am to.”, Dylan smiled. “Did you guys want to play a game while we wait for breakfast? Especially since now she’s distracted.”

“I’m not really good with games.”

“Uh huh. Making excuses already, Steve Harrington. That’s ok. Dylan and I already know you suck.”

He jokingly scowls in your direction as your son hands you both a controller. 

“What are we playing?”

#############

@adequate-superstar @kalinaselennespeaks @strangerfreak

@steddieloverrr @manda-panda-monium @alligator-person

@decadentwombatmiracle @katie-tibo @marsupiooo

@local-stoner-bitch @steamystrangerfics @lunatictardis

@adaydreamaway08 @hazydespair @actuallyspencerreid

@moviefreak1205 @waylandmorgernsternherondal-blog

@kik51199 @strngrlytn @idkidknemore @damon-loves-pie

@k-k0129 @micheledawn1975 @eddie86baby

@justmeandmymeanderingthoughts @3rriberri

@sashaphantomhive @chelebelletx @big-ope-vibes

@munsonzzgf @munsonmoonshine86

[livingintheupsidedown]

why didn’t you call???

Steve Harrington x Reader

[1.2k] - Steve forgets to call you.

Warnings - feeling neglected, steve being a bit of an ass without meaning to,  just all round kinda sad i guess?

A/N - i heard this song for the first time the other night and was inspired to write! this is completely based on the song “why didn’t you call???” by Saint Harison, lyrics have been used as a reference and are marked in bold. set in season 4 although the timeline may not be accurate. 

You’d had a pretty stressful week, work was kicking your ass. It had been non-stop, every time you thought you’d get a break another customer would come in with a stupid question, another rude remark. Your manager didn’t like you, which you already knew, but they were especially cruel recently. Picking up on any slight mistake and making you stay late to do things you could have easily done the next day when you just wanted to go home and see your boyfriend. All you needed was to hear his voice, maybe rant to him about your week and have him rant back. The last time you saw him was when you stopped by his work on your day off.

The bell above the door announced your arrival, although Steve already knew you’d be coming, as you stepped through the threshold. You had a love-hate relationship with Family Video. You loved the colours the place had, it gave it a cosy feeling that you adored and obviously the ability to rent out movies was always useful. You hated it for stealing your boyfriend from you. 

You found him behind the counter, along with Robin, Max and Dustin. You didn’t know the kids would be here, but you didn’t mind. You weren’t as close as Steve was to them but you adored them nonetheless. 

You worked your way around the store to the counter to hear them all muttering softly to each other, you peered around Dustin’s head to ask, ���Who’s Rick Lipton?” 

Four heads simultaneously whipped around at the sound of your voice, all wide-eyed and mouth’s parted. You raised an eyebrow in response, clearly taken aback by their expressions. 

“No one!” Three of them shouted at you while Steve stared, no words leaving his mouth while he clearly tried to find something to say. He’d learnt pretty early on that he can’t lie to you, often he finds he just has to keep his mouth shut. 

“Steve come on we gotta go,” Dustin announced while picking up all his things and already making his way back around the front of the counter. Max followed while Robin hesitated slightly, momentarily thinking if they can leave one person to run the store. However, Steve didn’t move. 

He knew this meant he wouldn’t be spending his lunch break with you and he’d probably miss date night on Friday, which he really hoped he wouldn’t, depending on how things with Eddie went. But he also couldn’t tell you the truth, couldn’t get you involved, couldn’t lose you. 

“Now, Steve!” Max shouted which seemed to spur him into action. 

He grabbed his keys before turning to you, “Baby, i’m really sorry and i’ll explain everything later.” He placed a kiss against the swell of your cheek. “I’ll call you, i promise!” He left you there, stunned, as both employees ran out of the store. 

And now here you were, by the phone, still waiting for that same call. 

“Why didn't you call?

Are you away?

Are you okay?

I'm sat by the phone..”

You rested on the floor in your hallway, leaning against the wall. The phone sat in its holder on the wall as you willed it to ring. The soft pitter-patter of the rain outside kept you grounded as you tried to make sense of the situation. You hadn’t seen or heard from Steve in 3 days when he left you standing confused in the video store before Keith came out and insisted on staff only behind the counter. 

You couldn’t help but quietly chuckle to yourself, you imagined you looked pitiful right now. The radio playing softly in the background, candles lit as his dinner sat cold on the table while you ate yours where you were, although you seemed to have greatly lost your appetite. Popcorn and movies upon the coffee table, along with his favourite sweets you’d gone out and got specifically for him. 

Fresh sheets fitted on your bed, the extra blankets you use folded and put away because you knew Steve ran hot, a pair of his sweatpants and old Hawkins High t-shirt sat washed and dried for him to change into. 

Now you wondered if you even should have bothered. 

“Did you get into a car crash? …

God forbid, did somebody die?

There's just no way I slipped your mind”

Steve never missed date night. Unsurprisingly, it was his idea in the first place, and without much convincing, you agreed to do it once a week. “It’ll keep things interesting,” he’d said “and besides, it means i have an excuse to buy you flowers every week.” As you replayed the memory you turned to the kitchen, last week’s flowers sat wilting in a vase on the window sill. Your heart cracked at the sight, knowing you wouldn’t be getting a replacement pair anytime soon.

Your worry has definitely started to set in by now. Was something wrong? Did he need your help? Where the fuck was he? 

Maybe he’s stranded, you thought, broke down and he’s trying to find a way back. That seemed reasonable enough, if he had to walk to your house he’s expected to be a few hours late. Although… Hawkins is considerably small.

Maybe he crashed the car, you keep trying to reason with yourself, maybe he was driving back and someone crashed into him. But as his parents are hardly around you’re his next of kin, if he was hurt and in the hospital, you would’ve heard by now. 

Things just weren’t making sense.

“And you might be asleep

Dreaming of me

I know I'm just guessing”

Steve was exhausted. As soon as one problem began to solve itself another one started. He could feel himself slowly losing it, “barely sleeping for 72 hours will do that to a man,” he thought to himself.

And now, as Lucas agreed to stay awake with Max he could finally shut his eyes, could switch off even if it was just for an hour. His mind wandered to you and to how he felt bad the second he left you, guilt had been settled in his stomach for the past three days.

He thought about how he hadn’t had a chance to call you, how he’d definitely missed date night by now and how he felt like an awful boyfriend. He’d give anything to be wrapped up with you in bed, light snores softly filling the room while he admired you. 

He wanted to tell you how much he loved you, to whisper sweet nothings and promises of what's to come into your ear.

He wanted to feel your hands roaming under his shirt, foreheads touching and lips pressed together while the sound of heavy breaths fill the room.  

He wanted you to tell him that he’s doing the right thing, that this will work and everything’s going to be okay. 

The kids needed him right now, but he needed you. 

“This isn't like you

There's just no way I slipped your mind”

After accepting the call wasn’t coming you went back into the kitchen, pouring the leftovers into a container although you know it probably won't get eaten. 

Steve wasn’t forgetful. In fact, he may be the most organised person you know. How could he just forget about a date night?

“This is ridiculous,” you wondered aloud as your throat started to burn and tears filled your eyes. You realised it wasn’t the date night that he’d forgotten about, it was you. 

Steve had forgotten about you. 

“Why didn't you call?”

[bigenderanne]

Today was the first time I've checked my inbox since I wrote my side of the situation. I'm working on another post in my drafts now that's bringing out more emotions in me so it might take awhile as it goes more into detail my history with transphobia and abuse, but I wanted to write some more quick and to the point (and less triggery) for those of you who are checking in on me, and to answer a few questions that have repeatedly come up in my hundreds of asks.

Most of the asks have been supportive and checking in on my mental health and physical safety. Thank you for that! Obviously my mental health is still a little shaken, and I'm uncomfortable with the fact she knows we've bought a new house, but I believe we are physically safe. That being said, it is part of the restraining order that's she's not allowed to interact with us on the internet in any way, shape, or form, nor is she allowed to use any electronic means of communication to interact with us, either. This is why I have refrained from responding to any of her posts. It would be completely unacceptable for me interact with her with the expectation she cannot reply.

This leads me into restraining orders. No, you cannot get a restraining order on anybody for any reason. You certainly cannot get one "just because you don't like someone's hair color" as one asker put it. We had to provide evidence that it was necessary for our peace of mind and safety. Stalking is incredibly hard to prove, and "professional" stalkers know the laws and how to skirt them. I am lucky that she didn't. I've worked with people who have been stalked, due to the nature of my job, and will say I had it pretty easy in comparison, just due to the fact she was being so blatant.

I'm obviously not going to name names because she may be reading my blog, but if anything I say upsets her she only has herself to blame. Someone involved in the group chat had been lurking, just due to the fact they joined for the fandom and when it devolved into her talking about how much she hated me, they lost interest. However when she started talking about the intervention, they'd gone back and taken well over a hundred screenshots and compiled them into a folder. In these screenshots were also pictures she had taken of us from afar. Mostly pictures of me at clubs, or at arcades, or drinking/vaping, sometimes talking to men (strangers, people I never spoke to before or since, so I don't even recall these men, but I am a very chatty person and strike up conversations with people I don't know often) insisting that I must be having sex with them based on body language. If anybody even tried to say that I was just probably being friendly, she would immediately tell them she was going to kick them from the group. (She started the channel.) She would often post memes she found on the internet with the theme of how extroverts are terrible and simply leave my name as the comment. It seemed to have become a meme itself within the group chat: they'd find a meme about extroverts that was cruel, or even just a meme about how introverts are so much better, and simply respond with my name. This led to them using my face as a meme and simply reposting the extrovert meme texts around my face. The picture used was one she had taken of me sneezing, which looked absolutely ugly because I was sneezing. (To the handful of asks who made comments about me being an extrovert automatically made it ESH and all extroverts are obnoxious: try hard not to stress too much about starting high school in a few weeks. Freshman year is hard on everyone.)

Outside of the groupchat, although the photos she had taken of me without my consent was probably the only evidence really needed, "Mike" did recount the many, many times she would show up to events "coincidentally" or how she was shopping at all the places he shopped at the same time he shopped despite the fact she lived on the other side of the city where there are more stores closer to where she lives. Furthermore, many of our friends corroborated that she would often ask them what we were doing, if we had plans, and would often show up to events they were at but if we were not in attendance she would leave as soon as it was apparent we wouldn't be showing. Since we had all noticed this behavior, and die to my job I am well aware of the warning signs, we had all began writing down and taking pictures of these incidents, such as how her car was parked outside Mike's street (where it was public property) until two am a few times. The people that were in my house, I have come to find out, were minors, so im trying to be forgiving. I have not spoken to any of them since, and frankly I have no desire to ever speak to, or see, them again, but they are young and she absolutely had them convinced I was cheating. I ought to have called about her entering my home without permission, but I didn't. I didn't want to get cops involved.

Also, there has been a few "lesbians uhauling lol" comments that I can only assume are from terfs, so I don't particularly care, but for those who may be worried about the living situation for non terfy reasons: we have known each other for four years and been best friends for at least three of those four years. We got even closer this past year. Also, I was renting and the screaming did piss off my landlord and even though I explained the situation and I wasn't given an eviction notice, I didn't feel safe staying there because I started getting text reminders about noise complaints for, like, doing laundry in the afternoon. I brought up moving in together to his apartment, but we realized both of us were first time home buyers. He has good credit and doesn't have any school payments, so his debt to income ratio was practically nonexistent. I have great credit, although my DTI is higher than his. The mortgage was more than half what either of us were paying for rent. So really it actually made financial sense as well. We had been casually discussing it before we started dating, moving in as friends/roommates.

I feel like I'm doing as okay as I can, considering the circumstances. I'm a private person so I won't be putting my actual blog title nor hers anywhere. I have no desire to attract more attention to my blog, which is honestly just destiel, Good Omens, OFMD, and other ships. It's not a personal blog at all and I'd like to keep it that way.

[foodandfolklore]

Are they related? Food vs Food

How often do you look at foods in the grocery store, back and forth between two items thinking 'This looks exactly the same. Are they exactly the same? How are they not the same?" and no, I'm not talking about the processed repackaged foods and you're looking at 40 different kinds of tomato sauce. I'm talking about the produce lane.

Sure in some cases it's obvious they're not EXACTLY the same. But they must be related. Right? Well, sometimes they are, some times they're not, and some of these may surprise you. I know they surprised me!

Cucumber Vs Zucchini

I think anyone looking at these two would assume they're related. They're both long with dark green skin and light green flesh. When eaten raw and unseasoned, they also have a similar taste. However, these are two completely different foods.

The zucchini is a type of gourd, being more closely related to a Pumpkin. The cucumber is a Melon and is more closely related to the Watermelon. ....alright fine, technically gourds are a type of melon, still making them related; but my point remains! Try eating a cucumber with some sweetener like sugar or honey and it'll taste like watermelon. Won't work with zucchini.

Both cucumbers and zucchini are related to Fidelity, Chastity and general sex and Lust magic. But cucumbers are also associated with youth, beauty, glamor, stress relief, and rejuvenation. There was an old superstition that cucumbers had to be planted by young men in order for the crop to be successful.

Parsley Vs Cilantro

At a glance, these two herbs can easily be mistaken for the same thing. But once eaten, the difference is very clear. Cilantro (Also called Coriander) has a strong, lemon pepper taste; while Parsley is mainly an aromatic with a Lighter earthy taste.

People who love Cilantro might be perplexed by the hate it gets. Sure it's a strong taste but it's not overpowering. Well it turns out Cilantro is related to Fennel. Which is also related to licorice. It turns out, if your DNA is set up one way, these foods taste great. But if your DNA is set up another way, these foods taste TERRIBLE. My partner describes Cilantro as tasting like soap. So we stick with Parsley.

Superstitious farmers used to refuse growing parsley. See, parsley only grows back every other year. So, because of how long it takes to grow, it was believed parsley had to travel to hell and back 7 to 9 times. This was to try and convince the devil to give it permission to grow. And if the devil did not give the parsley permission to grow, the people who planted it would die. Was dubbed The Devil's Oatmeal.

Cilantro is a great protection herb. Protect the home, protect the garden, protect your health, protect your secrets. Parsley is also good for protection, but also has more general uses. Cleansing, Attract love and prosperity, Wisdom, commune with spirits; parsley has a long history in Rome of using to honor the dead and wear to enhance thinking power.

Ginger Vs Turmeric

Both roots, often eaten together as a seasoning. They look very similar; they must be related. Well, you'd be right! They are both part of the Zingiberaceae family. Both have strong anti inflammatory properties and have been used in natural remedies.

They still have very different tastes, however. Ginger will have a fresh, somewhat spicy taste. Turmeric is a bit heavier and earthier. Turmeric is also recognizable for it's bright yellow orange pigment. It's known to stain and dye.

Because they are roots, both Ginger and Turmeric have good Grounding properties. They are also both good for healing, cleansing, purification, prosperity and protection. But then we start to split off. Ginger is great for raising one's personal power, success, new experiences, passion, and general energy. Turmeric is better for communication, family relations, courage, confidence, beauty, memory, and honesty.

Peach vs Nectarine

So what's the deal with these two? They look a lot a like. They smell a lot a like. They taste a lot a like. Are they the same fruit? Well no. But also yes. It's kind of interesting.

A peach is just a fuzzy nectarine. Their genetic composition is structured in a way they they are identical except for one difference that occurred naturally, stopping the fuzz from growing on peaches. Giving us nectarines. They are exactly the same in every other way. Which is hilarious because I remember growing up, I hated nectarines but loved peaches. I think the peaches were just grown local so they tasted better.

I want to be clear, this genetic deviation is a naturally occurring mutation. It was not a result of science or GMOs or any kind of known human interference.

Peaches are a very spiritual fruit. They are linked to wisdom, happiness, harmony, longevity, love and protection. Nectarines....would probably be an acceptable substitute.

[winterspiderpurrs]

So... Rafni and I have been talkin.... and we may be adding more to our little story.... Link above is the last edited chapter. Below is the newest start of a rough draft.

Hopefully this surprise post will help you in feeling better @professional-benaddict

***********************************************************

Things have finally lined out a bit for the Stark Strange Parker house. After a few months of physical therapy, Peter was moving better than ever. He was even working part-time at the same hospital that Stephen worked at. Enough hours to where Peter felt independent enough with his own money. Keeps him busy and for him not to get lonely at the mansion. Tony was fully back in the swing of things, so he wasn't always there.

He still stuck to his morning routine of walking and / or jogging with the dogs. Steve and Bucky switch up on who shadowed him. He even started experimenting some with some of the drugs that Stephen had mixed up. Not in high doses, just minimal and including it in foods. He loves lacing cookies and brownies that he bakes for the house. Taking back up dancing as well. Finding routines online or just freestyle. It's one of the things he does to work off the stress.

Peter loves his job. But his new lifestyle choice? Being the 3rd to a married couple isn't easy. Sure, in private, Tony and Stephen shower him with love and attention. But Peter can't ride with Stephen to work to help protect both their careers.

But it doesn't stop the rumors.

Peter was storing away some injection cap that are used to connect tubing and syringes to your intravenous (IV) catheters. He was in the supply closest in the back hidden behind numerous shelves.

The door opens to the room, and several sets of footsteps are heard.

" I know! Even the best make up can't fully hide that hickey! Can't believe no one told him"

He reaches up and lightly touches the side of his neck. The hickey he just noticed this morning, one that he had to quickly get to Christine to see if she had any make-up he could borrow. They had a good laugh about it. They aren't the same skin tone, but it was better than nothing. This wasn't about him, was it? He has seen others on the staff with hickeys too.

" Who is there to tell him? He is nice and gets a long with everyone but he doesn't really hang out with anyone other the some of the doctors"

" Probably trying to get a new sugar daddy"

" Susan!"

" You know thats what everyone says! He has different guy's dropping him off at work all the time."

" Your the worst! I'm sure there is a good reason that Nurse Parker is... getting dropped off. Maybe its an uber or one of those fancy taxi services"

" yeah well having big buff blonde dropping off lunch sometimes, then tall, dark, and handsome, another isn't helping his case. He's probably cheating on the poor guys with each other. "

The door swings open the the other nurses leave the room. Peter stands there frozen in the back of the supply closet. His eyes filling with tears, he takes a deep breath. Tony's men were dropping him off for protection.

And sometimes he forgets his lunch that the chef makes for him in the car. So Steve or Bucky bring it to him. Even though he was healed from the gun shot, he was still on a bit healthier diet. Figuring he could let loose closer to the holidays.But thats not something he could explain easily.

Maybe he should ask Tony to get an taxi car? That will help dampen the rumors a bit... but if they are willing to talk about it so openly. Nothing would really be able to put the rumors to rest.

" What am I going to do....."

Stephen will be furious when he finds out.

----------

Thank you @madeforstarker for all your comments. You asked us to keep spoiling you with more updates so here you go! First look ;) starting off with dramatics

[save-the-villainous-cat]

Hey, you're from Germany, right? Do you have any tips for writing a German character? Most specifically, a German character studying abroad, and another character placed in Germany working In a office.

Things like relationships (familial, platonic, and romantic), office culture, normal habits, and cultural shocks a German may have would be very appreciated!

Sorry if this ask is tiresome. Thank you so, so much! <3

As always, Germans are like other people. Different personalities, different opinions, different worldviews — every German is different. So, you have a lot of options to build your character with a unique character.

That being said…

Studying abroad/living in Germany

So…I assume studying in ’merica, aye? I have been there when I was a teeny tiny cat but I have also heard stuff from people who have studied abroad. And uhhhh Germans hate Americans lol (though this could also be a European thing, not a German thing).

We make fun of your school system a lot. I don’t wanna be mean but things like education, school safety, your food etc. are often victims of our dark humour. A friend of mine was studying abroad and the people could genuinely not tell what exactly Germany is. Is it a country? A continent? A city?

Adding to that, she was overwhelmed with things like “Do you know Hitler?” or “Are you a Nazi?”

Bro…we spend months and years learning in detail about our country’s history. We visit concentration camps. We watch movies from that time, analyse in detail how the people got manipulated. We read books the victims wrote. Germany still imprisons people who are a hundred years old. Germany is well aware of its past. It’s also aware that something like this cannot happen ever again.

Since that was a bit deep uhhhh let’s go over to food. I dunno about y’all but from what I’ve heard…you’re ordering food for dinner and eat it on paper plates…? Look that’s what I’ve heard and I gotta tell you that most Germans eat bread and Brötchen for dinner (though this is also changing, a lot of people are cooking warm meals for dinner nowadays).

And — can’t stress this enough — Germans love bread. When you go into a supermarket, the first thing you’re gonna see is a bakery.

And inside the supermarket is also a mini bakery.

We love it. Can’t really live without it.

Germans complain (at least here in the East). You go out with friends? Instantly complaining about your stupid neighbours. You go to the club? Instantly complain how lame it is. You went somewhere for a special occasion? Instantly talking about everything that went well and all the things you would’ve loved to be better.

Germans love football (soccer). Personally, I hate it more than anything. But Germans love it. It’s insane to me. They sit in the stadium and scream…definitely has something Romanesque to it.

I’d say most people have a rather difficult relationship with their parents. Generational trauma is a big thing. I mean, Germany being split and being reunited is a big part of my parents’ childhood. And since healthy communication wasn’t really a thing back then, most parents just don’t really know how to communicate with their children. So, I’d rather say it’s kinda messed up? Again, I can’t speak for everyone but that’s just what I’m getting from talking to my friends etc.

It’s not that they don’t love us, it’s just that they cannot always show it when we need it.

I believe it is best if you watch a few TikToks of people who aren’t from Germany experiencing Germany, they can definitely tell you about all the different things way better. For example this one is about “language,” cake, grocery stores, German windows lmao, and this German tiktok icon making fun of Americans.

I hope this is somewhat helpful? I’m not working in an office, so I can’t tell you much about that, unfortunately but maybe someone on Tiktok could help you with that. People documenting their life is a pretty good source of information. (Other than that do not trust TikTok ever!!!)

[hotarutranslations]

Ara Ara Kashiko, Kakuda's Noda Ducks!

Evening

Yesterday, Ara Ara Kashiko aired as well🌸 Thank you very much🌸

Hey, recently on my phone, I'll type thank you, and the next predictive text, is recommending 'so much', So even though I want to type 'thank you very much', It ends up becoming, 'thank you so much', I delete and retype it every time--, If I write it now!! 'so much' isn't appearing, in the predictive text!! What!! lol

I learned……

Ishida Ayumi Goes! ~Kakuda's Noda Ducks~

Everyone nationwide, please wait a bit longer for the stream🪽

But, since there will be a live in Miyagi next weekend, I'll introduce you to the restaurants I visited!

Noda duck is soft, odorless and has a rich fatty flavor

First off, its super delicious It was really, super, delicious..

Since I visited Kakuda, The first shop located in Kakuda, "Family Restaurant Miyoshiya"-san🦆

They have duck soba!

The dipping sauce's duck broth really comes out, Of course eating it with the soba noodles, and eating the soba soup mixed with the broth is delicious That is already a fine item, Eat it with sanshou, Eat it with wasabi, All of the ways I was recommended to eat it were genius🏅

I'm sorry I didn't take any soba photos because I ate it--

On the show!

Another item is, a 10 minute walk from Sendai station, 5 minutes by car, Near Kotodai Park, "Ohashi Futsukamachi"-san🦆

I got duck kushiyaki and duck tataki!

Grilled over charcoal, the kushiyaki was simple and salty, You could feel the flavor of the meat straight away, The tataki is the stores first choice, I was impressed! I had never eaten duck like this! The texture of the meat was good depending on how hot it was cooked, Also, I really liked the peppery sauce🏅 Kakuda's Noda Ducks are delicious, The simple kushiyaki also comes to life, when it seems to be served with the fresh tataki

The atmosphere is from the trailer~~

Sendai Broadcast Ara Ara Kashiko "Ishida Ayumi Goes! ~Kakuda Noda Ducks~"

These Noda ducks are raised with great care

When I helped with taking care of them, I had the image, of avoiding stressing out the ducks… I was trying very hard to be careful but,

But actually looking at myself, they said they could feel the kindness🙇🏻‍♀️

It takes only a little work to make such an impression, I thought, this is probably because I am usually very careful when handling animals

Thank you very much for the valuable experience🏅

Thank you very much for watching the show! Look forward to the stream as well!

On that day of the location shoot, I got to eat a lottttt of delicious things, it was happiness🫶🏻

Also,

There was another day that I went to Miyagi, I also got to eat a lot of delicious things in Miyagi🫶🏻

Yesterday, the 13th (Sat) was Ara Ara Kashiko This week, the 20th (Sat) is our Miyagi performance Next week, the 27th (Sat) there is another delicious show…

.🤤🫶🏻

Its continuing for 3 weeks! I'm looking forward to it!

My Birthday Event DVD is on sale❤️

Applications Here →April 26th 11:59PM Deadline

DVD "Morning Musume '24 Ishida Ayumi Birthday Event DVD"

📺Hello Pro Dance Gakuen Season 11

April 18th 11:30PM~ A Learning From TSUKUSHI-san Adventure🕺

Sendai Broadcast "Ara Ara Kashiko" April 13th (Sat) at 10:25AM~ Ishida Ayumi Goes~!

I appear once a month as part of the AraKashi Family

The previous shows, and makings, are on OX VIDEO STORE!

Thank you for following.. Instagram💙🩵

💿

May 15th Release Morning Musume '23 Concert Tour Fall "Neverending Shine Show ~Seiki~" Fukumura Mizuki Graduation Special YokoAri's 2nd Day With Fukumura-san's Graduation Performance

May 15th Release Morning Musume '23 Concert Tour Fall "Neverending Shine Show" SPECIAL YokoAri's 1st Day With OG Performances

🪩Spring Tour Has Been Decided Morning Musume '24 Concert Tour Spring MOTTO MORNING MUSUME

We'll be going around the country from March 16th!

🪩JAPAN JAM Morning Musume '24 will be performing on May 3rd!

⚾️《LIVE DAYS！～Exciting Big Exhibition Match～》 June 2nd(Sun), after the Hokkaido Ham Fighters vs. Yokohama DeNa Baystars match, Morning Musume '24 will be having a special mini live!

🪩The MusiQuest 2024 July 21st (Sun) PiaArena MM

We're challenging a new festival stage❤️‍🔥 Absolutely, Definitely, Thank you for your support❤️‍🔥

Tickets Advance Reception 🎫→Click April 17th 11:59PM〆

🍉Sanrio Character Grand Prix Thank you very much for supporting Gaokki🍉

📻Morning Musume '24 Morning Jogakuin ~Houkago Meeting~

Airs Every Saturday, On Radio Nihon at 12:00AM~

Past Broadcast Episodes Are Available →Program Details

Yamazaki Mei's Panda-san Daisuki!! ~Expressing Love Towards My Favorite Panda-san♡ ver.~ in Adventure World

Yamazaki Mei's Panda-san Daisuki!! Mei-chan's Holiday. Adventure World with Oda-san and Ishida-san

see you ayumin <3

[truthseeker-blogger]

Just a quick update.

I was going to wait until the weekend, but decided to do an update before we get too busy.

I don't know if I mentioned, we opened a po box, so our mail will be forwarded to somewhere and mail has started to be forwarded.

We are continuing to box up things

There's a ton of things bagged up I need to box and label.

I need to be specific when labeling boxes because I've had to reopen 3 boxes only labeled "kitchen" to find spices. 🤣 It's difficult when you still need things but need to box everything

I need to go through this mess and any document ten years or older, I am planning to burn in the fire pit this weekend. We do not have a paper shredder.

We've sold everything possible and one item didn't sell and I have it listed as free. Several people have inquired, but no one has come to pick it up.

Brought my son's bird back to his place yesterday after being with us for 3 months while my son has been recuperating from his situation.

Brought Justice and Gracie to the vet for shots.

Justice was a big baby about it, Gracie acted like it was no big deal. No sound out of her except for the car ride.

Once we got close to the vets, Justice started to whine. He knew where we were, poor baby, I had to sit with him in the back seat to calm him down before going in.

We got our federal refund on a debit card, but of course, our bank takes out fees to withdraw using the atm, as well as the $230 turbotax fee. Still waiting on our state refund.

The hospital called yesterday and we had to pay a $200 copay in advance for hubby's surgery on the 20th.

Saturday, we can take out some retirement money, but $1700 in federal taxes off the top, doesn't leave much.

Next Wednesday, moving our things into storage, $95 a month.

Where we go next hinges on if we can gather enough money and find a suitable camper and we can't reserve a site until they know the size camper we will have.

We have one possible option of a room, but it hinges on another moving out, but it seems they will need to be evicted and that takes time.

A friend "offered" a room, then wanted a certain amount of money each month, then went up another hundred then another $150, on a room he can't seem to vacate.

I've applied to several part time positions, but that too, is difficult, not knowing what part of the state we will be living in.

It seems the realtor I had started helping last fall seems to have ghosted me or distanced herself from our situation, as have friends and family.

All we can do is what we can, pack up everything and leave.

Where to, we don't know. We still have 2 vehicles and a 6 person tent, that's more than some people have.

I went to the store for some toilet paper and a woman stopped me and told me she was homeless and I blurted out, so will I be, in 3 weeks.

I felt so bad for saying that. I gave her a few ones I had on me, but felt guilty for having more than she did. She was dressed very nicely, looked well kept and well mannered.

You just never know what someone is going through by appearances.

This is going to be so difficult moving after hubby's surgery.

He definitely won't be able to drive his truck, I can only hope he can drive my car.

If we can find a camper, a friend will move it for $100. I'm sure that's a lot cheaper than hiring a tow truck.

Hubby's daughter and fiancé may help us move the large items I can't move or lift on my own. That's only a maybe. They're young, busy, working, planning a wedding next year.

So that's where we are at the moment. I'm just tired, daily driving to my son's and back to help hubby.

Stressed not knowing what's next and knowing there's more ahead

Praying God will keep us safe, no matter where we end up. 🙏

[alstroemeriadissonance]

Given that 10th May is Maid Day in Japan, can we have a Dr Sexy fic to celebrate that?

The Lady and Her Maid

Due to timezone issues this is coming in late, sorry! ^^;

Not really NSFW but still a little steamy because, Dr. Sexy

“Hey, Earth to Rosa,” Kiki snaps her fingers in front of your pensive face that is, once again, lost in thought. “Are you listening?”

You let out a sigh, then apologize to your friend who noticed that you’ve been out of it for the entire day. “Sorry about that,” you murmur as you take another sip of coffee, your small voice rendered almost inaudible by the bustle of activity and excited conversations inside the office pantry. “Just a little stressed out.” 

You manage to crack open a smile for the sake of your worried friend. “But don’t worry, I’m almost done with most of my work for today.”

Kiki’s brows furrow. “You’ve been like this for a week now. Do you even relax at home?”

You are about to tell her the usual white lie, but right now you are just too tired to concoct one on the fly. “Not really, no,” you groan, lips perched onto the rim of your coffee cup. “I still take some work home. But I’m about to finish anyway…I think I’ll spend tonight eating ice cream and just go to sleep.”

“Ehhh. I guess that’s a plan?” Kiki says with a little misgiving, but leaves it at that.

And after you part ways towards your respective work cubicles Kiki pulls out her smartphone, sending a text to someone you don’t know she had been in regular contact with, as part of his pursuit to understand the seedier parts of pop culture.

===

An hour later, as you slump over your work desk you receive a text message from your erstwhile close friend, now elevated to the status of your lover:

And so by six in the evening, the appointed time you seat yourself by the gazebo set right in the middle of Vyn’s prized garden; you choose the wrought iron chair facing the sunset thatis slowly melting into a deep orange all over the low horizon. 

Vyn: Good day, Rosa. Are you free this afternoon?

Rosa: Yeah. I’ve wrapped up most of my work for today. Do you need anything?

Vyn: I would like to invite you to my place later, to celebrate a small occasion. Is it possible for you to wait for me by the garden at six in the evening? I shall meet you there.

Rosa: Sure! Should I bring anything?

Vyn: No need. Come as you are.

It’s going to be a pleasant evening, you realize, with the cloudless sky and balmy evening air. What a way to wind down and relax. 

Vyn is still nowhere to be found, not that you need to find him; he did say to wait for him there in his garden. In the meantime you while away your time with admiring the beautiful view that surrounds you: roses of myriad colors in full May bloom, bathed in a soft sunset orange glow. 

Everything looks romantic. Your lips curl into a small smile, in anticipation for what Vyn has in store for you.

It seems to be a big coincidence that he invited you over tonight, when your evening is finally cleared of any urgent work and when you are in dire need of relaxation. 

Sometimes, you think as you straighten your skirt, he does seem to be a mind reader. 

You are in the middle of indulging yourself with daydreams of Vyn Richter, the magician, when a gentle, soothing voice speaks behind you, dulcet tones almost caressing your nape:

“Good evening, Madam. Did you wait too long?”

Vyn.

But, “Madam”?

Excited, if not a little perplexed, you turn around to face your lover. Yet your words die in your throat the moment Vyn enters your vision.

The Vyn who greets you is still wearing his usual waistcoat and tie ensemble; yet tied around his waist is a frilly white French maid’s apron, edged with eyelet lace. 

A matching white lace headband with black silken ribbon accents adorn his silver hair.

Balanced expertly on his hand is a silver tray laden with various desserts.

Your mouth opens, yet your brain makes a last-minute decision to revise the words that you want to tell Vyn, and so you are left gaping at him wordlessly.

Grinning, Vyn sets the tray right in front of you, then pulls another wrought iron garden chair next to yours, seating himself beside you. “Heh. Surprised?” He leans forward towards you, planting a peck on your cheek. 

“Um. Ah–” Words still fail you, and you continue staring at him: his eyes twinkling in a soft smile, yet his lips curved in an unmistakably smug grin. 

The lace headpiece, you think despite being initially taken aback, looks really good on him.

“I was told that today is Maid Day elsewhere in the world,” your lover says as he reaches towards the tray for a silver foil packet, his fingers tearing it open. “And so I thought it fit to celebrate, seeing that my beloved Madam needs to unwind after such a long, hard day at work.

You take a deep breath, and bite off one end of the biscuit stick. The chocolate melts on your tongue, filling your sense of taste delightfully with its subtle sweetness.

His elegant, slender fingers take a piece of a chocolate-coated biscuit stick; with his lips he bites one end of the biscuit, leaning forward to proffer to you the other end of the chocolate coated treat.

His lips, curling into a sultry smile as an invitation for you to go ahead, take a bite.

As you start chewing you notice that he isn’t eating it—he intends to feed you the entire thing—and after your first swallow you begin to eat through the stick while Vyn holds it for you with his mouth.

When you’re almost through your lips finally meet, and his tongue gently pushes the last portion through your lips.

As you chew the remaining biscuit his tongue slowly traces the edges of your lips—teasingly, maddeningly—having his way with you while you are preoccupied.

“Do you like it?” comes his question after you swallow the last bit of biscuit. 

A hand creeps up your thigh, his fingers finally settling on your soft flesh covered by your skirt. He absently caresses your inner thigh with his thumb. “Hardly the fanciest, but I was told that this chocolate—”

Acting on a sudden hunch, you blurt out, “The person who told you about this snack—ah,” a small moan slips past your lips, interrupting your words, as Vyn playfully pinches your thigh through your skirt. “Is it the same person who told you about. Um. Maid Day?” 

Because Kiki was telling me all about it earlier in the office pantry, you want to add, but think the better of it.

“Yes,” his answer comes swiftly, and unexpectedly he confirms your suspicions anyway. “Your friend Kiki did. She also helped me procure these items on short notice earlier today.” 

You blink at him. “...but why?” 

Another smile, gentle this time, crosses his face. “Because she was concerned for your well-being,” he murmurs. “Initially she only informed me that my girlfriend is stressed out and may need a little bit of extra attention.” He plants a kiss on the tip of your nose, and continues, “The conversation then turned to how I can make you feel better. Kiki, the font of online debauchery that she is…”

The both of you snicker at his comment.

“...informed me that today is Maid’s Day, and that you have expressed interest over it—”

This time, you have to interrupt him. “Wait, did Kiki really tell you, Dr. Richter, to dress up as a maid? She really did that?”

A lopsided grin. “What if I told you I asked her myself where to procure these effects in short notice?”

Your eyes widen. “You did?”

“Why, should I not be capable of being playful every now and then, especially towards my most cherished Lady?” He chuckles, then in a low voice that sends a jolt of thrill down through your spine he whispers, “I know how much you like seeing me in my uniform, so I am also taking this as a chance to see it that predilection of yours extends to…” 

He winks. “...seeing me in other costumes.”

Oh god. That wink. 

Your hands fly to your face, covering your instant forest fire of a blush, only in futility. “Oh my god.” Your voice comes out tiny, strangled. “I can’t believe I’m hearing all of this from Dr. Vyn Richter.”

“I take it that my effort is successful?” His voice is teasing.

“Yes!”

Thank you, Kiki, you inwardly pray as Vyn gently prises off your hands from your face. I’m going to level up my surprise birthday plans for you. Your prayer of gratitude for your work BFF continues even as your lover gently kisses you fully on the lips. You’ll see. I’ll knock your socks off on your upcoming birthday. Thank you thank you thankyouthankyouthankyou—

“I’m going to bring her something tomorrow,” you whisper as your lips briefly part. “As thanks.”

Another chuckle escapes Vyn’s lips. “I know you are going to say that, so I made a mont blanc for her. Tell her it is a gift from both me and you.

“Well then, Madam.” Vyn straightens his posture, taking a teal-colored macaron from the tray. “Let us not waste the opportunity Kiki gave us.” So saying he holds the macaron with his mouth, wordlessly inviting you to eat it from his lips.

Grinning this time, you lean to take a bite of the delicate meringue confection. 

You still find it in yourself to marvel at the exquisite sweetness of Vyn’s handiwork, despite the alluring heat of the moment: you are torn between taking your time and enjoying the pear-flavored macaron, or devouring it quickly, so you can finally consume that which you want the most: your lover’s delectable, sinful kisses…

And in your haste, numerous crumbs of meringue fall down your chin as your lips and teeth work through eating the macaron, swallowing it bit by bit as you go. 

Eventually you consume the last bite, with Vyn’s tongue helpfully guiding the final morsel of macaron through your lips.

“Mmm.” He hums. “You are quite the messy eater, Madam.” Vyn then bends down to pick out the crumbs clinging to the front of your blouse with his mouth. 

You can only watch with bated breath as the tip of his enticing pink tongue flicks at the crumbs, picking them up one by one. 

It also just so happens that most of them fell onto your bosom, and so Vyn is, effectively, licking your breasts through your blouse.

The longer you watch him cleaning you with his tongue, you eventually realize, the more uncomfortably damp your panties become. 

Your thighs squirm a little bit, and your face becomes flushed. 

Vyn notices this. “Hm? Is Madam already worked up?” Laughing softly he runs the flat of his tongue all over your chin and the corners of your mouth to clean your face of remaining macaron crumbs. 

At this point your breathing is now erratic, and punctuated by small moans. “Vyn, I—”

“Heh. We are not done yet, why are you already starting to…” Vyn makes another teasing pinch on your thigh, “...fall apart?” A wet kiss on your cheek. “Madam?”

“You’re so unfair,” you whimper as he trails kisses across your neck, the silk ribbons of his maid headpiece tickling your cheek. “You know how much you–oh god–affect me…”

Vyn eventually pulls back, a slightly unhinged smile on his face. This, coupled with the lace headpiece framing his hair and face makes him look even more unhinged, “Is it such a bad thing?” 

His hand reaches for the only beverage in the tray. 

It looks like a glass of strawberry soda, half filled with ice cubes; bubbles of carbonation rise and dissipate on the liquid’s surface.

Seeing it makes you realize that your mouth does feel dry, and you are now acutely aware of your thirst.

Somehow you are not surprised to see Vyn taking a long sip from the glass; yet he does not swallow the beverage in his mouth. 

Instead—with his mouth full with drink—he shifts in his seat, now half-kneeling on his chair: one knee on the chair seat, and the foot of his other leg planted on the ground, so his mouth is directly above yours. 

Smiling, he tips your chin upwards, making you face the now dark-purple night sky, and his visage overcast with such a degree of hunger that you cannot yet fathom. 

Vyn locks lips with yours, sparkling drink flowing from his mouth to yours—and it is then that you learn that the beverage is not soda, it is actually a red wine cooler.

Gratefully, almost desperately, you drink the refreshing alcoholic beverage from him, like the gods of Greek mythology would ambrosia. Your tongues slide against each other all the while, and your hands eventually find their way to his cheeks, holding his face fast against yours.

Even after a full minute after you have finished drinking from his mouth, still your mouths are locked onto each other in a torrid kiss. 

Ah. Delicious, comes your hazy thoughts as you eagerly drink in his kisses. 

“Mmph—” Vyn gently tries to pull away from your embrace, only to find himself roughly pulled back towards you by your own arms. “Rosa, Madam, there are still other—”

“No, no, I want the main course now,” you husk, sliding off the wrought iron chair you were sitting on, moving to his chair.

You straddle the man driving you to such delicious madness, while still not breaking your now frenzied kissing. 

“I want you. I want you. I want you,” you chant in between kisses. “Want you.”

You do not know where this sudden surge of bravado is coming from, but you feel like you must absolutely have him now. 

Breathing ragged, your eyes clouded with lust you briefly pull away from the embrace to fully appreciate your lover now shuddering underneath you—with desire, perhaps—Vyn Richter, your work colleague for whom you have carried a secret torch for so long, whose effortless elegance he now makes light of by wearing beautiful white lace on his head, and the apron around his waist, in an effort to lift your spirits…

Ah, life is so beautiful, you finally understand. I can deal with stress. Stress is nothing, as long as I have this to look forward to, every so often…

Moved with this simple epiphany you give your slightly confused lover the softest, most gentle smile that you can muster. “Thanks, Vyn. Really. Um.” You choke back the flood of sheer emotions that you feel for the man wearing the maid apron for you. “I love you.”

Vyn chuckles at such an ardent display of romantic love. “I love you too.” 

Then his own gaze darkens just a smidgen, and with a low, erotic voice he whispers, “Shall I begin servicing you, then?”

Your breath hitches, and you know you will not be coming home to your apartment for tonight.

[the-mysterious-miss-s]

while I was re-reading the kotlc series, I might have noticed- THERE ARE SO MANY CLUES ABOUT WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN- HOW DO THEY NOT FIGURE IT OUT UNTIL THE LAST SECOND, IF AT ALL????

the book that i found to be interesting in this topic is Lodestar.

We all remember when Lumenaria fell. Right? Ok, good.

Now for those that don't remember, Gethen, Brant, and Ruy let themselves be imprisoned and then used outward channeling to crumble the castle.

Now that that's covered, I'm going to list a bunch of lines/scenes that hinted at the plan to bring down Lumenaria

I DONT OWN ANY OF THE QUOTED LINES FROM THE BOOK LODESTAR FYI

ALSO: i will list the page number for said lines, but it's from the paperback version so it may not line up if you have another version

So, let's start towards the middle of the book, where Sophie practices her outward channeling with her Coach.

page 421- "Coach Rohana tilted her head. "I suspect you could bring down a mountain if you sat in solitude long enough." "Why solitude?" Tam asked. "No distractions or activities to drain her reserve." This is vital information that helped me figure out the Neverseen's plan before it happened. This quote also drifted through Sophie's head as she felt the temors in the castle.

page 469-[talking about gethen]"He sat with his head bowed and his legs crossed, as if he'd been meditating..." HE WAS HE WAS well... kind of. he was filling his energy reserves so he'd be able to bring down the castle

page 471- [talking about gethen]"Clearly this meeting is going to be worth the energy I'm using..." He talks about his energy being depleted from the meeting, which when you reference what Coach Rohana told Sophie, exposed the fact that he was storing his energy for something aka outward channeling

page 476- [gethen speaking] "And I'll take my chances here, thank you very much. They're much better than you think." i want to scream rn. he literally is saying he enjoys being locked up in a cell with no way to feel the time pass, and running on such a messed up schedule that his body is deteriorating. they should have been more onto him after he said this

page 477- [gethen speaking] "And here's my question. Has the Peace Summit already occurred?" His question should have been another warning bell. Especially when he didn't get the specific answer he wanted, so he gave Sophie an unspecific answer.

page 561- [brant speaking to ruy] "Don't!"....."If you shield her, she can't burn." Sophie wasn't trapped in a force field, and Ruy didn't trap him and his fellow rebels in a force field because they wouldn't have been able to be arrested otherwise

page 592- [lady gisela speaking to sophie about getting keefe to leave the Neverseen] "....It's been in place for too long. So get my son back before it all comes crashing down." While this isn't a hint necessarily, it's great work on Shannon's part. Crashing down, and that's what happened to Lumenaria, that couldn't have been a coincidence.

page 635- [sophies thought while watching fintan's reaction to the ogre treaty being written quickly] "It would've been a relief-- If Fintan hadn't looked so stressed. Even Mr. Forkle seemed to notice." AAAAAA PLEASE WHY COULDNT THEY HAVE PUT THE PIECES TOGETHER FASTER

page 637: "The gala," Fintan whispered, so softly he probably thought no one could hear him." Fintan's relief that the leaders would be staying in the castle for the entire night should have definitely helped SOMEONE put two and two together. WHY ARE THEY SO SLOW OMGOSSH

*side note- it took me 30 minutes to research in the book and then write everything down so i got restless towards the end fo' sho' you can tell

[prep4tomoro]

Build an Emergency (Bug-Out) Kit:

Call it what you want, this is an essential tool in any emergency plan whether staying where you are or bugging out. Everything is together in one container to grab-n-go and easy to transport or store. Each person (and pet) should have their own as well as each vehicle. Each bag should have a minimum of the "Eleven Cs (11-Cs)" supplies inside. In the event of an Emergency, this bag should be one of the first things to grab and stay with you through the entire emergency event. Contents: The contents of your Bug-Out Bag will be as individual as you are. Item categories are, basically, universal. Think small/compact and light weight. Expand on the Eleven Cs (11-Cs)

Air-filtering masks

Eye protection

Shelter - tent, space blankets

Water container and methods to filter/purify

Food - emergency bars, basic fishing/snare gear, utensils

Multi-tool, saw, shovel

Fire-making skills/supplies for heat, light and cooking

Cordage - rope, paracord, duct tape

Compass and map

First Aid kit

Whistle

Mini sewing kit

Flashlight - hand crank, solar or xtra batteries

AM/FM/NOAA radio - hand crank, solar or xtra batteries

Emergency cash and/or credit/debit card

Clothing - gloves, hat, coat, extra, raingear

Self-Defense tools

Important documents and contacts on flash drive

Entertainment - playing cards Other items to consider but K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Survivor).

Learn How to Properly Use Your Gear and Supplies and When: If I have all the stuff in the world to go camping or use in an emergency, but don't know how to use my stuff, all I have is STUFF. And, if I don't have a plan for my camping trip or what I will do in an emergency, now I have a pile of stuff with no map to follow for their effective use. Face-to-face with an emergency, or at the campsite, is not the time to learn how to use the gear and supplies that has been accumulated for this very purpose. What was thought to be the right tool when purchased, may now prove to be no help at all "in the moment". Don't go unprepared with not having the correct supplies in the correct quantities and not knowing how to use those supplies. Make the time to learn how to properly use all of the gear when it's first acquired and to discover if it should stay or be traded for something better. Use supplies and gear, periodically, as a refresher course. Initial testing and periodic refreshers will help take some of the stress out of the actual camping or emergency event.

• Look at, and slowly handle, each item to learn how it works. • Rehearse, in your mind, why each item is significant, and what role it will fill in any scenario. • Recall any past experience, information, and training that each item has been used. • Secure Gear. Place each item securely in your pack, in proper order for use. Keep everything tied down or zipped closed. • Exercise and drill with "full gear" to understand personal limits and adjust if needed. • ALWAYS keep your pack on your person or within direct arm's reach. • Never wander away from your pack to, possibly, forget where you left it. • Never place your pack on a slope, hill, or ledge to, possibly, fall or roll away. • Never leave items laying randomly on the ground, making them hard to find.

Prioritizing Use of Gear and Supplies: Part of knowing your gear is knowing their limitations, quantity available and alternatives that can be used in their place. Your gear and supplies are not inexhaustible. Before using your supplies, think of other renewable resources that might be used instead so that your exhaustible supplies can be used as a last resort another time. Save the most precious resources as a last-ditch option; the "most precious use last". For example; never start a fire with a lighter if a magnesium fire-starter (ferro rod) is available and don't use the ferro rod if the sun (renewable resource) is available (using a magnifying glass). Hunt or gather off the land for food before eating your packaged, long-term food supply. Filter a natural water supply before drinking stored/bottled water. Test with Your Bug-Out Bag (BOB): Create a list of exercises, drills, and tactics (sample below) that will test the gear, no matter what it is.

Small hikes building up to multiple miles

Urban and outdoor tactical drills

Crawling, running, swimming, lying prone for extended periods of time

Running and jogging with fully loaded BOB

Pushups and pull-ups

Climbing steep hills with all weaponry

Climbing urban environments such as stairs, walls and fences

Long hikes with sprints and running

Perfecting your stances for long periods of time while crouched

Compact and Lightweight: Innovations and technology have made bug-out supplies more compact and lightweight. When putting a bug-out bag (BOB) together, research the many options that are available, keeping these two factors in mind as well as quality. Here is a suggestion: Compressed Towel "Tablets" come in a variety of sizes and can be used for cleaning and bandages. Just add water to expand. Dollar Store Checklist NOTE: While water is essential to life, it is heavy (8 pounds per gallon) so carrying large quantities is not practical. That's why a reuseable container (suitable for carrying and boiling water) and water purification method(s) should be included in the kit if you'll be on the move. Proper Packing: There is a correct way to load a backpack; something most hikers find out the hard way while suffering from all sorts of uncomfortable backpack related pains out on the trail. Everyone wants to cram as much stuff as they can in their pack but, realistically, determine how much YOU can carry and for how long and how far. The only sure way to find out is to Test Your BOB.

Determine how much you can, realistically, carry and don't exceed that weight limit

Pack only gear that is "essential" to your ultimate survival (11 Cs)

Choose lighter-weight alternatives to heavier and bulky

Choose items that serve more than one purpose to help lighten your load

While some packing rules are flexible and will depend on your unique needs, there are a few rules of thumb you should keep in mind.

Bottom of the Bag - items you don't need quickly (tent, sleeping bag)

Middle of the Bag - heaviest gear packed somewhere near the middle of the backpack (near your belt line).

Top of the Bag - filled with light items and the gear that you will need the most.

DIY Primitive Bushcraft Backpack: Regardless of what you have to carry, most times, strapping it to your back, or over the shoulder or around your waist will be easier than holding it in your hands. In a survival situation, your hands should be free to hack through brush, move branches, hold a compass or carry a walking stick, to name just a few. If, for whatever reason, you find yourself without a useful pack, learn how to make your own. You can lash a frame together with rope and fill the frame with some kind of bag or tarp, or just tie a bag shut and sling it over your shoulder or tie it around your waist or make a pack or pouch from scratch with the materials on hand, like tree bark, animal skin, vines, clothing, whatever. Here are some ideas for your brain to ponder: [Bushcraft BackPack Video 1] [Bushcraft Packing Video] [Bucket BackPack] [Pants BackPack] [Tree Bark Pack] [Grapevine Basket] [Making Your Dispatched Deer into a Backpack] FEMA Restrictions: If The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) wakes you up in the middle of the night with an alleged community emergency, understand that they prohibit "hazardous" items (guns, knives, lighters, etc.) and limits the amount of items a "victim" can bring with them to a FEMA Emergency Facility (field camp). If you become a "guest" of a FEMA Field Camp, you cannot bring any pets and what you bring must fit on your lap. If a sudden event causes you to become a FEMA Guest, it's best to prepare for such an encounter by building a FEMA-friendly kit within your Bug-Out Bag as the Bug-Out Bag may not comply with their guidelines. You may only have minutes to evacuate, with FEMA assistance, so having this kit at the ready is a good preparedness step. It is recommended to bring your wallet with legal, government-issued, identification and cash:

Your Emergency Bag may be OK as long as its contents comply with FEMA guidelines (above)

Ear plugs to help sleep in a room full of noisy people

USB drive containing electronic copies of important documents

[Reference Link] Other Resources: Think S-U-R-V-I-V-A-L in an Emergency 3 Zones of Assessment for Emergency/Survival 5 Components of Survival BugOut Bags on Amazon Pocket Survival Kits Survival Guides/Manuals Knowing When It's Time to BugOut Prepare an Evacuation Checklist and Plan What Makes a Good Bug-Out Location? Everyday Uses for Your Emergency Kit (Bug-Out Bag)

[14-Point Emergency Preps Checklist] [11-Cs Basic Emergency Kit] [Learn to be More Self-Sufficient] [The Ultimate Preparation] [5six7 Menu]

This blog is partially funded by Affiliate Program Links and Private Donations. Thank you for your support.

[carrotzcake]

In one week, my cousin is getting married. this will be the first time I've seen some of my extended family in over 5 years, the first time I've seen nearly all of them since being fully weight restored and after numerous psychiatric hospitalizations which they inadvertendly became aware of through nonsensical social media posts last year. we don't discuss these things in my family so I don't know who knows what which makes me extremely uncomfortable. obviously the focus is on the bride and groom but I'll be forced to make small talk with people about what I do, etc. which brings up a lot of guilt and shame since I'm not at all where I want to be in life.

meanwhile the food/alcohol/body situation is already stressing me out. I tried on a dress this morning that my mom bought me at a thrift store (w/ the additional comment about my body and how 'if anyone can fit into this, it's you'). it doesn't fit. maybe w/ some assistance, I'd be able to zip it, but it's yet another reminder that my body has changed into something unrecognizable. i know if i drink at this wedding, my immediate family will be angry with me. i don't particularly want to drink but i wish they trusted me to make my own decisions.

i'm overthinking it, i know i'm overthinking it. i just need to breathe and focus on my family. i love all my cousins and my extended family and truthfully, i know everyone will just be joyful. except maybe my mom.

in other news, i started a new job. still food service, but a little nicer, seems like a better team to work with and I'll be getting paid more. i think i'm still going to keep my original job and just adjust hours. part of that is because i feel bad quitting, but also have a lot of financial anxiety. i finally got ahold of unemployment this week and hopefully i'll start seeing some of that money soon. i try to apply for research/professional jobs in my field when i have the time/energy-i was actually invited to interview for a research job w/ an eating disorder lab this week. i disclosed my history in my application & that may be the only place it will benefit me. since my therapist ghosted me, i've also been trying to find other providers so I have a couple of consults this week too. which reminds me i need to select a marketplace insurance plan, not that any of my providers will accept that.

my life kind of feels like one week, things are moving in the right direction; i'm productive, i apply for jobs or have interviews, i am relatively social or otherwise content w/ self-care and alone time w/ Nutmeg. then i look around and see i'm not where i want to be at this stage in my life and i just want to crawl into a hole forever.

/end ranty update.

[websitesdepotla]

3 digital marketing in los angeles tips to create content any time

Have you sat down to create content but just can’t quite do it? Has it been more of a struggle than it should be? Did you wake up on a Saturday and realize that you didn’t post a blog on the company website so you have to do something right now? Content, as Danny Star says, is king. Content does not wait. In a perfect world, you’d be able to take all the time you need for content. Since we don’t live there, you may have to create content on deadline very quickly. These are some omnichannel digital marketing in Los Angeles tips I use. (Of course, you can use these anywhere.)

Marshall Your Resources to Show the Real You You need to create content fast. Before you just start posting, look around. What do you have right where you are? If you’re like most people, you’ve got a phone. Maybe there’s a computer around you, too. That in and of itself can be enough.

The other day, I was in a studio that costs thousands of dollars. It’ll be used to create great content for many, many years, that will help that business owner to grow their business. If you’re just starting out, though, you probably won’t need all of that just yet (but, if you can afford it, go for it).

What you can show with that phone/laptop/and so forth is your company’s authenticity. You can show the “real you.” That’s true whether the “real you” is you yourself, the company, your services, etc.

Authenticity isn’t expensive, nor does it have to be crafted over a long period of time. When in doubt, show the true, authentic nature of your company. How do you do that? Well, go back to your mission statement, your goals. If you can post just a picture that really shows that, each day, in a pinch, you’ll have the foundation of a good content strategy.

“Today at Work” Still don’t know what to show? Ask yourself another question: what’s happening today at work? If you want to showcase your business, well, showcase your business. Let’s see what you’re doing today. This doesn’t have to be some big enormous thing, sending out a new project, etc.

Instead, you can just show something simple, something that shows off how good you are at what you do. If you’re a store, let’s see some products that are on sale. Maybe even show them being stocked.

“But there’s nothing going on at work today.” OK, fine. (I’m not sure I believe you, but, fine.) Then what’s going to be happening? What should your customers/clients be looking forward to?

“There’s nothing coming up.” OK, you’re being a bit combative with these questions, but whatever. Then tell us about something we can do, some tips about your business.

Again, if you’re a store, tell us about how if someone has your products, what they can do with them to get the most out of them. Or, if you sell services, tell us how someone can prepare for your services, or maintain the work that they’ve done.

These don’t have to be really well-written videos, nor do they have to be particularly “funny” or even “entertaining.” Sure, that’d all be great, but it’s not the kind of thing that you have to stress yourself out about.

There’s an old Alfred Hitchcock quote, which is something like: “we, the audience, like someone who’s good at their job.” That’s what you have to show. When in doubt, when unsure what to do, let’s see someone who’s good at their job. You show us that, you’ll always be a bit ahead of the game.

Find a Problem then Find a Solution Your customers/clients have problems right now. So, if unsure what to create, create content about how your goods/services can solve problems they have right now. Make it topical. Make it about something that’s going on right this second, something they’re wondering about.

Don’t know where to start? Ask yourself: “what problems am I struggling with?” Once you find the answer to that, the odds are good that you’ll find your customers/clients have the same issues.

Case in point, as of this writing, in the eastern part of the United States, there are blizzard-like conditions rolling in. These could affect everything from local schools to professional sports. So, if you’re creating content for customers there and you need to do something fast, make it about that.

Yes, if you sell shovels or something, you want to mention that. But, you can reference that storm in just about any context, just to get something out there. This can even be something as small as offering support, highlighting charities that you work with in the area that can help with this sort of thing, etc.

These are the little gestures, the tiny things upon which a big, successful content strategy is based upon, step by step.

Omnichannel Digital Marketing in Los Angeles to Help These are just some of the tips I use. There are many others. Of course, with our clients, I map this stuff out way in advance, working with them to the extent that they prefer. We can do the same for you, so that you don’t have to worry about what I’ve mentioned above.

To see how we can help, schedule a free evaluation with us through our site or by calling.

[progressivemother]

Our anniversary (10 years together)

So it's been ten years! Wow. There is so much that we have endured and learned during this time. I am not a marriage or relationship expert by any means but I love to share our journey. We were entirely different people and definitely considered to be mismatched but I believe that through our trials together, we have grown into who we are supposed to be.

We got married at 18 years old, rented a home, amd had a baby all within a year. Things were stressful amd we barely had money. We had to struggle through. We are much better off now but the beginning was hard.

We've had the autonomy to grow and evolve over the years as individuals, while supporting one another’s metamorphosis along the way, falling in love with each version, each iteration that we’ve been. We still have our own interests, hobbies, and preferences. We’ve maintained individual identities apart from us as a couple, but at the same time, we’d love doing most things together. Over the years we have supported each other.

We had no idea of what would be in store for us; marriage to debating divorce, babies to children, moves to military and businesses. Through it all, we've honored each other and understood that we are on the same team even though we are individuals.

The most important factor in any relationship is friendship. Having a strong friendship is an important foundation for a strong marriage. With friendship, you already know each other's secrets and flaws but even then it can be difficult. The first year of marriage is hard. Many people want to quit. You see more flaws that annoy you. Even the flaws you already knew about irritate you. You struggle in the first year to get into a routine that fits your current life and understand that those flaws are apart of your spouse that you have to learn to love.

Marriage is made of a million little moments, and comparatively few big moments. Everyone has this idea that it is the big moments that matter most. That isn't true. The everyday things matter more. The kiss good morning, the smile hello, the what-can-I-get-you-dear, the casual touch on the arm, even the angry moments. You will get angry at each other. I have been angry at my husband for the dumbest things. Last time were were upset with each other, it was actually something extremely minor. A lot of times, you will end up laughing about it.

Marriage always evolves over time along with you and your spouse. Things have to be re thought and re engineered. We do it together. We get to know each other again every ten years or so. People change. It's part of life. It's apart of marriage. Just because we change, doesn't mean we aren't meant for each other. We haven't given up and we still love each other very much. It doesn't matter how much we change.

Plans will never go exactly the way you want them to. Our plans don't always go exactly the way we want them to. Our grand schemes for our perfect marriage, our house, our children, etc. We all have plans and we think they will come true. It's fun for my husband and I to look back at the great plans and compare how it actually turned out. It's great to laugh about.

So make plans and dream about how your life will look but remember that reality has a way of making things work out differently. You life will never be perfect amd exactly the way you want it to be. Marriage can be hard. People change. You can plan for a family but you cannot force a pregnancy. You can plan a beautiful home but the way architecture works will not always bend to your ideas. Just remember that life may not always be as perfect as it is in your mind but it will be perfect for you if you accept and work at life.