#(which is part of why i love 'sick & tired' so much! dorothy has to be vulnerable there because she *cannot* run this time)

[hecatesbroom]

I hope you don't mind the influx of GG/Dorothy asks you've gotten because I really love your takes and your fics really touch upon a more vulnerable part of Dorothy that I feel was rarely fully explored but was very much present. I was watching recently an ep where Dorothy says she thought her father didn't like her or love her and Sophia cracked that he always talked her up ... to try and sell her to gypsies. Dorothy says "do you know how much that hurts me when you say things like that?". It's one of those lines that's never really followed up on or given a big moment but it stays with me.

Not at all!! I love hearing from you! <3 (and if you ever feel up to it, feel free to send me a dm as well! I'd love to hear more of your thoughts!)

Thank you so much :') I started writing Golden Girls fics precisely for that reason: Dorothy's vulnerability is left so underexplored in the show, even in the moments that (in my opinion, anyway!) presented the perfect opportunity to delve a little deeper into her feelings. I had to give her a moment to shine haha.

That line is the perfect example of what I'm talking about, actually! They throw in those really poignant lines or moments (or even just looks, at times) that hint at so much going on beneath the surface, but it's never expanded on. The only emotional moments she does get, that are fully followed up on, are those relating to Stan -- and even there I feel like a lot is glossed over (often by Dorothy herself, first and foremost).

I could probably write an essay on this but I'll spare you, but I think Sophia's often treated much the same -- if slightly differently -- in the show! And I mean, considering she raised Dorothy, I'm pretty sure she inadvertently ended up teaching Dorothy that covering up your vulnerability is the only way to deal with it. Sophia covers her feelings with quips and jokes, Dorothy does it through dismissal.

And because both of their methods for covering up are very convenient for a sitcom (I can drag Blanche into this as well, by the way. But I promised not to write an essay) it's *so easy* for the narrative to just. go along with their own dismissal of their feelings. Have Sophia distract from her feelings with a funny joke, and the audience is on the floor. Have Dorothy dismiss her feelings with a Look, and there's another opening for someone else to keep up the pace and move the scene along into lighter territory.

[mouxesaint]

reconciliation

Dorothy was ignoring him. She could say it easily, it had been almost ten days since the last time they met to share a date, considering that they were not separated by work or their social responsibilities it was obvious that she did not want to see him, what she did not understand very well was the That is why, even from the first time they met, she used to look for him to spend time together, of course she also reciprocated their attentions with gifts and missions together but in general it was she who approached. - Nozel. - Fuegoleón approached to greet him after the meeting that had just ended, he wanted to comment on some matters to be dealt with by the nobility, however his attention was focused only on the witch with the lilac cape who was smiling at Charlotte, she was awake and her outgoing personality it flourished in all its splendor. - Nozel. - The redhead called her name with greater volume - If you are distracted we can talk later. - I'm not distracted. She - She firmly denied keeping her lips in a tight line when she saw him tease slightly. - Of course not. - He said condescendingly - You just keep your eyes on Dorothy. What happened? - Nothing has happened and it is not true that he is looking at her. - He growled turning on her feet to leave, frustrated when he heard her footsteps follow him. - Don't you have things to do? - Yes. But it's more fun to see how lost you are. - I do not know what are you talking about. - Please, Nozel, if I were anyone else I wouldn't realize that you and Dorothy are far apart, but I know you so well that I know you're worried. - With a complacent smile he kept pace with him as they advanced down the hall - What happened? - I do not know. -Have you forgotten her anniversary? "No." He answered after thinking it over carefully, "I haven't forgotten any of our anniversaries." - Do you have more than one? Sorry I can't see you as a romantic. - Fuegoleón hid his smile behind his hand. - I'm not sure what happened, until a couple of days ago everything was fine and suddenly he started avoiding me. - Doesn't it have something to do with the fact that they were announcing your engagement to the Miss of the Vandlevoir family? - That's kind of silly, take care of that rumor immediately. - Of course, but you have never declared your relationship with her. What have you done to piss her off? - I can't think of anything specific. I have not forgotten any important dates and I have not done anything that could be misinterpreted. - Then ask him Nozel did not agree with that idea very much, if he asked Dorothy why she was upset perhaps it would only make her annoyed with him, however he did not have too many options so before nightfall he ended up using the communicator to call her. - Dear Cousin, I am glad to see your beautiful face. - Kirsch greeted with an enthusiastic smile, Nozel breathed to be patient while she tried to be heard - The Captain is sleeping, she said she felt especially tired today. - Have they done any special training? - No, particularly not one where the Captain participated. She has only been feeling a little drained these days. - I understand. He hung up the call before Kirsch's overly enthusiastic farewell caught him in a conversation longer than expected, he pondered for a few minutes in his office before deciding it was time to go to the Peacocks base, he used his magic to enter the woman's room. - Nozel? - Dorothy's voice surprised him in the dark, the woman was standing in the doorway that led to the bathroom, one hand resting on the wooden frame while the other kept on her stomach. - What's going on? - Nozel rushed to her side, the look in her eyes showed surprise and some relief. - Why did you come, Nozel? Although the question was asked with a calm tone of voice, the man felt it like a bucket of cold water, despite his concern he seemed to be unwelcome at that time, the hands that he had extended towards her returned to his sides , forming fists, the woman seemed to understand his train of thought quickly but before he could say anything his free hand covered his mouth as he returned inside to vomit, seeing the situation he ran after his girlfriend until he saw her hunched over the toilet. - Are you OK? - Question removing the hair from her face at the same time that she sighed and leaned on the bathroom. - No, I have returned all my dinner. - Musito looking for a way to lean against the man's chest, she looked pale and tired - I don't want to vomit anymore. - Has any food been bad for you? Shall I take you to the doctor? - No no no. She - He quickly denied leaning all of her weight against him which caused him to lose his balance and end up with her sitting between her legs.

- You do not look well. - He murmured passing his hands through her bare arms, she had on a shor and a short-sleeved pink shirt, she was cold and looked a little pale. - I'll be fine. She - She commented smiling softly when she felt the heat of her - I did not expect you to come, Nozel. - You have been avoiding me the last days, I wanted to know what I did wrong to make you angry. - Stammering in her ear, ashamed of her, she turned Dorothy to look at his face. - I'm not mad at you, Nozel. - Not? - I ask with bewilderment. - Not. - And this last week? - I've just been busy. With the help of the witch of the Black Bulls she was thinking about the probability of having the queen on our side. - Why did not you tell me? - I know you don't like the Queen too much. - I'm trying to hold you against your will. - Yes, good… - Why are you throwing up? - You may have eaten more than necessary. - I confess ashamed - I have felt sick to my stomach these days, maybe the queen tried to poison me. - Owen ... -She already knows. I am taking the treatment indicated. - Nozel sighed in relief, with one of her hands caressing her hair gently while she left kisses on her cheeks - I just vomited, Nozel. She - She said using her hands to prevent him from kissing her on her lips, in response she took her hand to kiss her palm, while she gave him an intense look, she could not help but blush under the intensity of her eyes. - I'm glad to know that you're not mad at me, but you could have told me about your discomfort ... You can trust me. The completely new situation was too exhilarating for the young woman, having a prince sitting on her bathroom floor while holding her in his arms asking her to trust him made her face blush slightly, Nozel used to be so serious and shy about the demonstrations of love that lunged throwing her arms around his shoulders to hug him tightly. - I am sorry. I trust you, a lot, a lot, I just didn't want to worry you. He made an adorable pout that warmed the man's heart. - I promise I'll make it up to you soon. - I'll keep that in mind, however, now I'd just like to see you rest properly. - Will you stay to sleep with me? - Her words sounded more suggestive than she expected, she hoped they could enjoy the night, but a new wave of nausea returned to her. - I'll stay to make sure you're okay. Dorothy had no complaints so once a few minutes passed without her vomiting, Nozel helped her get to her bed, the woman crawled into the center, waiting for her partner to take off his clothes leaving only colored pants Celeste, once she lay down she snuggled quickly, keeping her close to her body, put her arm under her head while her free hand hugged her stomach, one of Dorothy's favorite ways to sleep was to feel her lover holding her in his arms, he loved being the little spoon, and his short stature helped him a lot, Nozel for his part was grateful that it was all just a misunderstanding.

[herdustisverypretty]

Question tag for AO3 writers~~

I found the original questions on AFF a while back, and I thought since I’ve been tagged in so many meme things lately, I’d also tag a bunch more people in this one XD Since the questions were designed for AFF, I’ve reworked some of them to fit for AO3 writers. I also removed two questions rather than trying to translate them to AO3 terms.  So, I’ll fill out my answers first, and then put the blank questions again at the bottom for you to easily copy and paste! 

1. How did you come up with your username and what does it mean?

'Her dust is very pretty' is the last part of a Dorothy Parker poem called Epitaph for a Darling Lady. Dorothy Parker is the only poet I’ve ever liked. I usually detest poetry and find it stupid and annoying. But I like most of hers. I used this as my first tumblr URL too. It’s just kind of my name now. I’ve been using it since 2010. 

2. Which fanfic of yours has the most feedback? (bookmarks/subscriptions/hits/kudos)

Subs is Chemicals with 177, bookmarks is Neko at 116, hits is Chemicals at  18600, and kudos is Chemicals again with 694. Stats are weird. 

3. What is your AO3 profile icon and why did you choose it? 

It’s ahegao Kuroko lmaaaaooooo. I chose it cause I love slutty Kuroko. 

4. Do you have any regular/favourite commenters?

Quite a few actually. Maybe too many to list even... I’d say High_Noon and Goldfasan are the ones I recognise or see the most?

5. Is there a fanfic that you keep going back to read again and again?

I don’t actually read that much fanfiction? Which might be odd for someone who writes a lot of fanfiction. Idk I tend to find a few really good ones and then reread them for eternity and never look for anything new. Though tbh I haven’t read fanfiction for a number of months now. I’ve been too busy, or too stressed (and definitely too autistic). 

6. How many stories are you subscribed to? How many do you have bookmarked? Subbed to 7 fics (most of which are really old and will never be updated, or are friends’ stories). I have 231 bookmarks. Apparently. I have no idea what they all are, because only 30 of them are my OTP, and I only started bookmarking last year, and again, I don’t read much. I think AO3 is lying to me. Likely, as it lists my subs as 67, but I counted them and there’s only 7 in there plus 2 author subs. Conspiracies. 

7. Which AU do you find yourself writing the most?

I define AU as ‘completely unrelated to the main plot’ so, if the KnB characters were in fuedal Japan. I use UA (universe alteration) to define things such as if a KnB story followed the general main plot (basketball) but had changes to it, such as omegaverse (though I don’t consider ships UAs). With that said, tbh I don’t think I have one? I write a whole range of stuff. I don’t think I lean towards any particular AU or UA. 

8. How many people are subscribed and bookmarked to you in total? (you can view this on the stats page)

Total bookmarks: 1285 Total subs: 504

9. Is there something you'd like to write about but are afraid of people judging you for it? (Feeling brave? If so, share it!)

Honestly I don’t think I’m ashamed of anything by this point. I’m probably one of the most non-judgemental and open-minded people you’ll meet, so I kinda have no shame with that. Like, I won’t judge other people for having weird interests, and therefore don’t feel any shame for my own because I see no reason to have a problem with it. If people don’t like my writing they don’t have to read it. No one’s forcing them to. 

10. Is there anything you would like to be better at? Writing certain scenes or genres, replying to comments, updating better, etc. 

I’m mostly okay at replying to comments, sometimes I won’t reply if I don’t know how to respond or I’m busy/tired. Unless I feel like there’s no reason to further reply to a comment, I’ll usually try to reply later (sometimes months....). I need to get better at putting description in instead of just rushing through something and shoving it at the internet saying “I’M SICK OF IT JUST TAKE IT HOW IT IS”. Ideally it would be nice to update more frequently and consistently but that’s something that will never change due to my mental and physical health sooo. Whatevs. 

11. Do you write rarepairs or popular ships more often?

tbh I think it’s arguable if even the more popular ships I write are even that popular. The most popular ship I write is Akakuro I guess? I do write a bunch of rarer pairs (Mayumibu hghghghgh also Aoaka yes) occasionally though.

12. How many stories have you posted on AO3 to this day (finished and unfinished)?

87. Which I feel like is a lot considering I did about 50 of those in one year. 

13. How many stories do you have saved in/with your writing program?

39 in Google Docs. Possibly. I’m half asleep and may have missed some. I have a crap tonne more in MS Word, but I don’t want to count them all. Oh, fyi, these are only for my current fandom. I have other stories in Docs and Word that are original or other fandoms. 

14. Do you write down story ideas, or just keep them in your head?

Write everything down. Either in a document or just in the notes on my phone. 

15. Have you ever co-authored a story?

No, but I’d like to. It sounds interesting. 

16. How did you discover AO3?

An uh, ex-something found it in 2013 and showed it to me. I liked it more than FF.net, which always gave me a headache with it’s shitty UI and layout, and Livejournal, which was either dead or didn’t exist for my fandoms back then. Does anyone still even use those 2 sites as their main story platform?

17. Do you consider yourself to be a popular or famous author in your fandom(s) on AO3?

Not at all. I might say I am possibly known or recognised, but I definitely do not think famous or popular at all. Far from it. 

18. Do you have a nickname or fandom name for your readers?

Does anyone? I’m not published yet lmao and neither am I a Korean idol so uhhh, no, my readers do not have a nickname or fandom. 

19. Was there an author who inspired or encouraged you to write?

I would say no. No one prompted me to start writing when I was little, I just did it cause I liked it. Even when I started writing seriously, and when I started writing fanfiction, it was all me. I guess there have been writers who have inspired me to get better though? Namely Mikssi and goseum-dochi. 

20. What writing advice would you give to a beginning author?

I was once told that if you can't think of anything to write just put SOMETHING on the page. Be it a date or a title or an idea. Just get something on the page. I now start every story by dating when exactly I started it (yes even the exact time). It's less intimidating that way. Writing down my ideas also helps me plan. 

21. Do you plot out your stories, or do you just figure it out as you go?

I often have a general idea or at least ideas for future chapters. But mostly I just bullshit my way through it lmao. It often backfires. 

22. Have you ever gotten a bad comment on a story? If so, what did you do?

The only negative comment I've gotten on a story that really upset me was once being called insensitive when referring to sexual abuse. It really offended me because. Um. You... do not know my past experiences. At all. And I'm not going to bring them up because of that. But wow. And it bothered me too that they called me insensitive when I was just writing from experience. Like ok. Sure. Cool. I mean I could see where they were coming from, but I’m going to take a guess and say they had never experienced what I was writing about.  I’ve gotten a couple of other negative comments, but they didn’t upset or ‘get to me’ so much as just piss me off due to the stupidity of them. 

23. Is there a certain type of scene that you have a hard time writing? (action, smut, etc..)

Action. 

24. What story(s) are you working on now?

Uhhh, I guess mostly right now I’m working on Nano, and one other story. I have unfinished and ongoing things, but they’re on the back burner right now. 

25. Do you plan your next project(s) before you finish your current ongoing story(s)?

To a really problematic degree. 

26. Do you have a daily writing goal set for yourself?

Definitely not. Way too much pressure. Do not need. 

27. Do you think you've improved as a writer since you first started?

My god, yes. From my early original (shite) stories of 2007-2009, to my really early (also shite) fandom fics in 2011-2012, to my explosion in the VIXX fandom (at least 80% shite), to now... My goodness. I’m actually in the half-hearted process of editing old AO3 fics to be easier on the eyes. Mostly that’s relatively minor changes. If I went back to AFF. Hoo. I’m highkey scared of looking at some of those again. 

28. What is your favorite story that you've written?

I guess I’d say Chemicals. It’s a story I always wanted to do, and I’m happy with how it turned out. I also have to make mention to NMT, since that thing was my life for like 2 years, and writing it helped a lot. I also am quite fond of what I refer to as my ‘cat vampire story’ aka this. I also don’t mind my story Wanderlust. I think I put more effort into that one than I do with most things I write. 

29. What is your least favorite story that you've written?

MMMMM I can think of it and I don’t want to acknowledge its existence at all. IT NEVER HAPPENED AND IT WAS A MISTAKE. Also NMT. 

30. Where do you see yourself (as a writer) in 5 years?

Probably not published yet but goddamn will I try (not very hard though)

31. What is the easiest thing about writing?

For me it's writing dialogue. Chat room/text message based dialogue is especially fun.

32. What is the hardest thing about writing?

Starting and ending the story (or, if it’s a chaptered story, ending the chapter). Also liking your own work. And not comparing yourself to others. And holding onto the hope that maybe one day you’ll actually be successful and you should keep going. 

33. Why do you write?

idek. It’s fun? Satisfying? It arguably sometimes entertains people? Gives me something to do. Unleash all that creativity bopping around up there. idk. Do I need a reason? 

Anyways that’s all the questions, so I’ll put them here as well without the answers to easily c+p.

1. How did you come up with your username and what does it mean? 2. Which fanfic of yours has the most feedback? (bookmarks/subscriptions/hits/kudos) 3. What is your AO3 profile icon, and why did you choose it? 4. Do you have any regular/favourite commenters? 5. Is there a fanfic that you keep going back to read again and again? 6. How many stories are you subscribed to? How many do you have bookmarked? 7. Which AU do you find yourself writing the most? 8. How many people are subscribed and bookmarked to you in total? (you can view this on the stats page) 9. Is there something you'd like to write about but are afraid of people judging you for it? (Feeling brave? If so, share it!) 10. Is there anything you would like to be better at? Writing certain scenes or genres, replying to comments, updating better, etc. 11. Do you write rarepairs or popular ships more often? 12. How many stories have you posted on AO3 to this day (finished and unfinished)? 13. How many stories do you have saved in/with your writing program? 14. Do you write down story ideas, or just keep them in your head? 15. Have you ever co-authored a story? 16. How did you discover AO3? 17. Do you consider yourself to be a popular or famous author in your fandom(s) on AO3? 18. Do you have a nickname or fandom name for your readers? 19. Was there an author who inspired or encouraged you to write? 20. What writing advice would you give to a beginning author? 21. Do you plot out your stories, or do you just figure it out as you go? 22. Have you ever gotten a bad comment on a story? If so, what did you do? 23. Is there a certain type of scene that you have a hard time writing? (action, smut, etc..) 24. What story(s) are you working on now? 25. Do you plan your next project(s) before you finish your current ongoing story(s)? 26. Do you have a daily writing goal set for yourself? 27. Do you think you've improved as a writer since you first started? 28. What is your favorite story that you've written? 29. What is your least favorite story that you've written? 30. Where do you see yourself (as a writer) in 5 years? 31. What is the easiest thing about writing? 32. What is the hardest thing about writing? 33. Why do you write?

People I’m tagging @justsimplyl | @6ubble-gum | @the-chibi-sempai | @humanitys-shortest-soldier | @friendlyslowpoke | @kelandry5 | @someone-stole-my-shoes

Fill out the questions and tag more authors you know ^^

[one-of-us-blog]

We’re Outta Here (TGG, Season 4, Episodes 25-26)

Today Eli is forced to watch and recap We’re Outta Here, another two-part retrospective of episodes past, and the conclusion of the fourth season of The Golden Girls.  Will a reminder of these older adventures help to bring the girls closer together than ever, or convince them that perhaps it’s time to move on?  Keep reading to find out…

Oh, thank goodness!  Jon, not only was your last recap of Journey to the Centre of the TARDIS brilliant as always, but you reminded me that I had already noticed a small crystal in the strange dimension in which I found myself, in the parallel version of the mansion I had visited.  The crystal was hanging around the neck of a skeleton, belonging to a man that had apparently died in his bed.  He must have been some sort of wizard, as he not only wore such a talisman, but his bedside table was covered in an assortment of mystical oils of some sort.  I seized the crystal, placed it around my neck, and following my intuition, began to rub it…slowly at first, but then picking up speed.  Somehow, I knew that somewhere, you were doing the same!  At last, a burst of magical energy was released, and I found myself in the correct world once more.  What a relief!  However, the whole endeavor has left me feeling rather tired quite suddenly, so I am going to post my current recap and get some much-needed rest.  So come on, let’s head to Miami!

Buttocks tight!

Episode written by Barry Fanaro, Mort Nathan, Kathy Speer, and Terry Grossman, directed by Terry Hughes

As the episode opens, Dorothy, Blanche, and Rose have returned from a fun day at the theater to discover that Sophia is showing the house to a potential buyer, Mr. Yakamora.  The trio protests, but Blanche (who actually owns the home) is blown away by the offer he makes.  It turns out that some neighborhood boys put a “For Sale” in their front yard as a prank, but the money now up for discussion is very real.  Blanche is conflicted.  The offer is large and tempting, but the girls all want to stay together.  They sit around the kitchen table and recall when they first met.  You know what that means…buckle up, it’s time for a clip show!  In this instance, we get to revisit the moment that Blanche originally met Rose (and Mr. Peepers the cat) while posting an ad for roommates, and the day that Dorothy and Rose moved into the house and tackled a bedroom dispute (The Way We Met).

(Note: As these episodes are comprised of actual clips from previous episodes that have already been covered, rather than newly filmed flashback scenes, I will not be describing these clips in detail, but will link to previous blog posts).

Returning to the kitchen table, the girls remark on how difficult it is to believe that they have lived together for five years, but the conversation quickly turns to Rose’s naivety.  Rose points out that she has plenty of knowledge and skills that the others lack, and even reminds them of the time she showed them a thing or two in a dance marathon.  We are then treated to a flashback of Dorothy, Blanche, and Rose showing off their skills on the dance floor, with Rose in particular stunning the crowd (One for the Money).

Well, Blanche has now finished her cheesecake, and she still doesn’t know if she’s going to sell the house.  Sophia thinks that Blanche should grab that money and buy a bigger place, and they all recall moments in which the home was a bit crowded due to visiting relatives.  We get to reminisce about the time that Uncle Angelo came to visit, and Dorothy had to pretend that she was still married to Stan, while Blanche and Rose pretended to be nuns (My Brother, My Father).  We also remember the time that Blanche’s flirty, boy-crazy niece Lucy came to visit (Nice and Easy), the time that Sophia’s sister Angela came to stay and was asked to move to Miami (Long Day’s Journey Into Marinara), and the time that Rose was visited by her eccentric cousin, Sven (A Visit from Little Sven).

After remembering these moments, the girls make a pact to limit visits from relatives if they decide to stay in the house.  Sensing that he isn’t remotely wanted, Stan immediately shows up.  He asks to borrow a car for his potential new pizza business, but settles for begging for food.  Stan doesn’t want the girls to sell the house either, and remembers some of the good times (from his perspective) they have shared there.  We get another scene from the time that Dorothy and Stan had to pretend to be married for Uncle Angelo’s sake, and that Stan attempted to weasel his way back into Dorothy’s bed by singing to her (My Brother, My Father).

Blanche declares that she has come to a decision; she isn’t selling the house.  Just then, the phone rings, and Mr. Yakamora doubles his offer.  They move out by the first of the month, Blanche declares!

To Be Continued (Later This Evening)…

Moving along to the second half of the story, Dorothy and Rose are so uneasy about the decision to sell the house that they find themselves unable to sleep, and Sophia also returns from a contemplative nighttime stroll at 2 AM.  She had a nightmare, and doesn’t want to be sent back to Shady Pines.  Blanche enters the kitchen, and Sophia begs her not to sell.  Blanche is still wavering after all, and says that she is going to need help making the decision.  They recall times that they have given one another advice, and we are treated to a scene from an early episode in which Rose has been invited on a cruise by her boyfriend, and needs to talk out her unease about entering an intimate relationship after the passing of her husband (Rose the Prude).

It’s now the middle of the night, and the girls still can’t sleep.  Even counting cows doesn’t seem to be a viable option.  Blanche gets a bit dramatic about her current dilemma, and we are then reminded that plenty of bad acting, singing, and dancing has taken place under this roof.  To demonstrate, we revisit scenes of Blanche and Rose tap dancing in the living room (The Operation), Sophia’s parody song, “Thanks for the Medicare” (Letter to Gorbachev), Rose’s time with Count Bessie the Showbiz Chicken (Long Day’s Journey Into Marinara again), and Dorothy and Rose’s hit song from the Miami songwriting competition, “Miami, You’ve Got Style” (Big Daddy’s Little Lady).

Sophia attempts to share some family wisdom, but we have now entered the phase of the evening in which everyone is hungry, and they all want different food.  Why not order all of it?  Surely they have done crazier things than that together!  We then get to revisit the moments that the girls were arrested as prostitutes, and had a visit from Burt Reynolds (Ladies of the Evening), the time that Rose messed up Dorothy’s employment ad and summoned a swarm of men looking for love (Three on a Couch), and the time that Rose’s cuddly pal Fernando was bear-napped, forcing her to take drastic measures (my personal favorite, Old Friends).

Blanche has come to a decision and goes to call Mr. Yakamota, but learns that he has backed out of the offer after going on a spending spree.  She reveals that she had in fact decided to sell, but from now on the girls are determined to stay together forever.

The End.

Well, sure enough, that was a clip show!  I’m not sure how much I can say about this one; clip shows serve their purpose, but they are never exactly the best part of any series.  I suppose it makes sense to place such an episode at the end of a season, even it that means not having the strongest finale.  The very loose narrative tying the clips together was somewhat interesting, and I like that the girls have committed once more to staying together forever, no matter what.  The manner in which some of the clips were introduced felt a bit forced at times.  The dialogue preceding the dance marathon clip springs to mind in particular; but then again, I was quite relieved to hear Rose reminding the girls of her dancing skills, because in my very last recap I mentioned that everyone seemed to have forgotten that Rose has some insane moves!  If nothing else, the episode seems to have succeeded in getting me excited to move on to Season 5, and to see if it can match the quality of Season 4 (which I thought was very good)!  But taken on its own merits, I would give We’re Outta Here a score of 2.5 poofy hairdos out of 5.

Stop back in tomorrow, when Jon will be sharing his recap of The Crimson Horror, the next episode of Doctor Who, and I’ll be back on Friday with my take on part one of Sick and Tired, the Season 5 premiere of The Golden Girls.  Until then, as always, thank you for being a friend, and for being One of Us!

[newyorktheater]

Before he started collaborating with Richard Rodgers on some of the most beloved musicals in Broadway history, Oscar Hammerstein II (1895-1960) had helped create some three dozen Broadway productions over a quarter of a century, most often writing both the lyrics and the libretto. Of course, he began with an in:  His uncle Arthur Hammerstein produced the musical, “Furs and Frills,” for which the young Hammerstein, at age 22 in 1917, wrote his first Broadway lyrics — for a song composed by Silvio Hein entitled “Make Yourselves at Home.” Arthur wasn’t his only relative in the business.  His father William Hammerstein was a theater manager; his grandfather, Oscar Hammerstein I, an impresario who helped create the theater district we know today.  But if family connections helped to make Oscar Hammerstein II feel at home on Broadway from the get-go, he soon transformed the place.

“Hammerstein, first with Kern then with Rodgers, revolutionized musical theater,” his protege Stephen Sondheim wrote in the introduction to the reissue of Hammerstein’s collection of his favorite lyrics. He accomplished  this, Sondheim says, “by combining the traditions of musical comedy with operetta while nudging story, character and lyrics towards the kind of naturalism that had overtaken the nonmusical stage since World War I.”

Still, there is some satisfactions in sifting through his individual songs — he reportedly wrote more the lyrics for more than a thousand of them —  and realizing how many vocal artists and musicians of many stripes and many generations have interpreted them — and so so still, 60 years after his death.

The New Moon, 1928

With composer Sigmund Romberg. Hammerstein worked on four Romberg shows.

From this one comes  “Lover, Come Back To Me,” sung by Barbra Streisand, accompanied, conveniently, by a scroll of Hammerstein’s lyrics.

Show Boat, 1927

Music by Jerome Kern, with whom Hammerstein collaborated on some half dozen musicals.

Paul Robeson sings “Ol Man River” in the 1936 movie of the musical. Hammerstein’s original lyrics were problematic in the way he referred to African-Americans. In the movie version, it’s been changed to “darkies,” which to modern ears isn’t much better than the original epithet.

I’ll quote here just the first few verses:

Dere’s an old man called the Mississippi, Dat’s the old man dat I’d like to be, What does he care if the world’s got troubles, What does he care if da land ain’t free?

Old Man River, Dat Old Man River, He mus’ know somepin’, But don’t say nothin’ He just keeps rollin’ He keeps on rollin’ along.

He don’t plant taters, He don’t plant cotton, And dem dat plant ’em, Is soon forgotten, But old man river, He jus’ keeps rollin’ along.

You an’ me, We sweat an’ strain, Body all achin’, An’ wracked with pain, Tote dat barge, Lift dat bale, Get a little drunk, And ya lands in jail.

I gets weary, An’ sick of tryin’, I’m tired of livin’, And scared of dyin’, But old man river, He jus’ keeps rollin’ along.

After 1938, Robeson changed the lyrics to the son in his concerts, not just omitting the denigrating references but cleaning up the dialect and changing the character of the singer from resigned to empowered. Instead of ” Git a little drunk, / An’ you land in jail…”, Robeson sang ” You show a little grit / And you lands in jail..” He changed “I gits weary / An’ sick of tryin’; / I’m tired of livin’ / An scared of dyin’,” to “But I keeps laughin’/ Instead of cryin’ / I must keep fightin’; / Until I’m dyin'”

Billie Holiday sings Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man in 1937, with Teddy Wilson on the piano.

Fish got to swim and birds got to fly I’ve got to love one man till I die Can’t help lovin’ that man of mine

Tell me he’s lazy tell me he’s slow Tell me I’m crazy maybe I know Can’t help lovin’ that man of mine

When he goes away That’s a rainy day And when he comes back that day is fine The sun will shine

He can come home as late as can be Home without him ain’t no home to me Can’t help lovin’t dat man of mine

Sweet Adeline, 1929

Music by Jerome Kern

Helen Morgan sang “Why Was I Born” in the original production Here’s Irene Dunne singing it five years later

Why was I born? Why am I livin’? What do I get? What am I givin’? Why do I want a thing I daren’t hope for? What can I hope for? I wish I knew. Why do I try to draw you near me? Why do I cry? You never hear me I’m a poor fool, but what can I do? Why was I born to love you?

Music in the Air, 1933

Music by Jerome Kern

Ten years later, Frank Sinatra sang “The Song Is You” which has been covered by singers as diverse as Mario Lanza and Mary Wilson

I hear music when I look at you, A beautiful theme of every Dream I ever knew. Down deep in my heart I hear it play. I feel it start, then melt away. I hear music when I touch your hand, A beautiful melody from some enchanted land. Down deep in my heart, I hear it say, Is this the day? I alone have heard this lovely strain, I alone have heard this glad refrain: Must it be forever inside of me, Why can’t I let it go, Why can’t I let you know, Why can’t I let you know the song My heart would sing? That beautiful rhapsody Of love and youth and spring, The music is sweet, The words are true The song is you.

Very Warm for May, 1939

Music by Jerome Kern

Ella Fitzgerald sings “All The Things You Are” (accompanied by lyrics!)

Carmen Jones, 1943

Music by Georges Bizet. Hammerstein basically supplied a new setting and new lyrics to the opera Carmen

Dorothy Dandridge sings ‘Dat’s Love’ (set to the song “Habanera) in

Oklahoma, 1943

Hammerstein’s first collaboration with Richard Rodgers, and the musical still most credited with creating the modern Broadway musical.

Barbara Cook sings Many a New Day

Kristin Chenoweth sings “I Can’t Say No”

Bette Midler sings Oklahoma!

State Fair, 1945 film

This is the only Rodgers and Hammerstein musical written directly for film. It was brought to a Broadway stage in 1996.

Jeanne Crain sings “It Might As Well Be Spring” from the movie.(Actually her singing voice was dubbed by Louanne Hogan.) Song begins at around 2:00

I prefer Rosemary Clooney with Harry James on horn

I’m as restless as a willow in a windstorm I’m as jumpy as a puppet on a string I’d say that I had Spring fever But I know it isn’t Spring

I am starry-eyed and vaguely discontented Like a nightingale without a song to sing Oh, why should I have Spring fever When it isn’t even Spring?

I keep wishing I were somewhere else Walking down a strange new street Hearing words that I have never heard From a girl I’ve yet to meet

I’m as busy as a spider spinning daydreams I’m as giddy as a baby on a swing I haven’t seen a crocus or a rosebud or a robin on the wing But I feel so gay in a melancholy way That it might as well be Spring

It might as well be Spring

Carousel, 1945

Joshua Henry and Jessie Mueller perform ‘If I Loved You’

Allegro, 1947

Part of a London production of the musical in 2016 at Southwark Playhouse, Katie Bernstein sings “The Gentleman is a Dope.”

The gentleman is a dope, a man of many faults A clumsy Joe who wouldn’t know a Rumba from a Waltz The gentleman is a dope and not my cup of tea Why do I get in a dither? He doesn’t belong to me

The gentleman isn’t bright, he doesn’t know the score A cake will come, he’ll take a crumb and never ask for more The gentleman’s eyes are blue but little do they see Why am I beating my brains out? He doesn’t belong to me

He’s somebody else’s problem, she’s welcome to the guy She’ll never understand him half as well as I

The gentleman is a dope, he isn’t very smart He’s just a lug you’d like to hug and hold against you heart The gentleman is a dope doesn’t know how happy he could Look at me crying my eyes out, as if he belonged to me He’ll never belong to me

He’s somebody else’s problem, she’s welcome, welcome to the guy She’ll never understand him half as well, well as I

The gentleman is a dope, he isn’t very smart He’s just a lug you’d like to hug and hold against you heart The gentleman is a dope doesn’t know how happy he could Look at me crying my eyes out, as if he belonged to me He’ll never belong to me

South Pacific, 1949

Mitzi Gaynor (actually) sings “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair”

Bing Crosby sings Younger than Springtime

You’ve Got To Be Carefully Taught

In what amounts to a Public Service Announcement on Brotherhood Week, Oscar Hammerstein introduces the song, while Richard Rodgers plays the piano and while William Tabbert, who originated the role of the character Lt. Joseph Cable, sings

Here’s Mandy Patinkin’s interpretation

And Billy Porter

You’ve got to be taught To hate and fear, You’ve got to be taught From year to year, It’s got to be drummed In your dear little ear You’ve got to be carefully taught. You’ve got to be taught to be afraid Of people whose eyes are oddly made, And people whose skin is a diff’rent shade, You’ve got to be carefully taught. You’ve got to be taught before it’s too late, Before you are six or seven or eight, To hate all the people your relatives hate, You’ve got to be carefully taught

Alex Newell sings “Wonderful Guy”

The King and I, 1951

Kelli O’Hara sings “I Whistle A Happy Tune”

Whenever I feel afraid I hold my head erect And whistle a happy tune So no one will suspect I’m afraid. While shivering in my shoes I strike a careless pose And whistle a happy tune And no one ever knows I’m afraid. The result of this deception Is very strange to tell For when I fool the people I fear I fool myself as well! And ev’ry single time The happiness in the tune Convinces me that I’m not afraid. Make believe you’re brave And the trick will take you far. You may be as brave As you make believe you are You may be as brave As you make believe you are LOUIS While shivering in my shoes I strike a careless pose And whistle a happy tune And no one ever knows, I’m afraid.

Jelani Alladin and Matt Doyle sing “We Kiss In A Shadow” in 2019 (a gorgeous version that’s part of the unfortunately named R&H Goes Pop series)

Pipe Dream, 1955

Perry Como sings “All At Once You Start to Love Her”

You start to light her cigarette And all at once you love her You’ve scarcely talked You’ve scarcely met But all at once you love her

You like her eyes, you tell her so She thinks you’re wise and clever You kiss goodnight and then you know You’ll kiss goodnight forever You wonder where your heart can go Then all at once you know (All at once you know)

You like her eyes (‘like her eyes) You tell her so (‘tell her so) She thinks you’re wise and clever (You’re wise an’ clever) You kiss goodnight and then you know You’ll kiss goodnight forever You wonder where your heart can go Then all at once you know

Flower Drum Song, 1958

Miyoshi Umeki sings the first song “A Hundred Million Miracles” in this long segment on the Ed Sullivan Show

This is followed by “You Are Beautiful”, “I Enjoy Being A Girl”, “Love Look Away”, and “Sunday”. sung by members of the cast Pat Suzuki, Ed Kenney, Juanita Hall, Arabella Hong, Larry Blyden, Patrick Adiarte.

The Sound of Music, 1959

My Favorite Things

Julie Andrews sings it in the movie

But it’s been embraced by singers the world over, especially jazz singers.

Sarah Vaughn

Bobby McFerrin

Tony Bennett

Raindrops on roses And whiskers on kittens Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens Brown paper packages tied up with strings These are a few of my favorite things

Cream-colored ponies and crisp apple strudels Doorbells and sleigh bells And schnitzel with noodles Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings These are a few of my favorite things

Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes Silver-white winters that melt into springs These are a few of my favorite things

When the dog bites When the bee stings When I’m feeling sad I simply remember my favorite things And then I don’t feel so bad

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens Brown paper packages tied up with strings These are a few of my favorite things

Cream-colored ponies and crisp apple strudels Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings These are a few of my favorite things

Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes Silver white winters that melt into springs These are a few of my favorite things

When the dog bites When the bee stings When I’m feeling sad I simply remember my favorite things And then I don’t feel so bad

The Sweetest Sight

In 1939, Oscar Hammerstein spotted an old couple on the beach, and was moved to write lyrics set to a melody Jerome Kern had written several years before. Here in 1981, Isaac Stern plays the violin violin and then Mary Martin sings “The Sweetest Sight I Have Seen” Starts at around 3:00

I have seen a line of snow-white birds Drawn across an evening sky. I have seen divine, unspoken words Shining in a lover’s eye. I hae seen moonlight on a mountaintop, Silver and cool and still. I have heard church ells fairly echoing Over a distant hill. Close enough to beauty I have been. And, in all the whole wide land, Here’s the sweetest sight that I have seen — One old couple walking hand in hand.

O is for Oscar Hammerstein II. The Lyricist Who Revolutionized Broadway, even before Richard Rodgers. Before he started collaborating with Richard Rodgers on some of the most beloved musicals in Broadway history, Oscar Hammerstein II (1895-1960) had helped create some three dozen Broadway productions over a quarter of a century, most often writing both the lyrics…

[keywestlou]

FROM PAGANISM TO LOVE.....ST. VALENTINE'S DAY

Amazing the path life experiences take us.

Valentine’s Day, for example.

Born of pure unadulterated sex. The ancient Roman festival Lupercalia. Pagan fertility rites and the pairing off of women by lottery.

At the end of the fifth century, Pope Gelasius I replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine’s Day.

The poet Chaucer in the Middle Ages was the first to link St. Valentine with romantic love.

Today, lovers express their affection with greetings and gifts.

I recall vividly my early grammar school years. St. Valentine’s Day was a big deal! We exchanged little love cards and candy. It was exciting. I can recall sitting at the kitchen table the night before deciding which of my female class mates would receive a card from me. Wondering whether each would give me a card the next day.

A day dedicated to love! Making your special one feel even more valued.

A few love lines remembered by all. Aristotle’s…..Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies. Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s…..How do I love thee, let me count the ways.

In researching this morning, I came across an extremely sensitive  love statement. Surprisingly spoken by Judy Garland…..For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul.

The face of Tino.

Tino is an interesting person. Seventy seven, still active, and earning money. An art photographer saw Tino while he was performing as an extra. He asked to take Tino’s picture. A black and white photo solely of Tino’s face.

The photographer advised Tino he would be showing the photo shortly in an exhibition. I can understand why. The photo reflects character and strength. It can be said to touch one’s soul.

My yesterday began with haircut time. As always, Lori most enjoyable. She looks fine. A few months ago she had to take 2 months off. She was sick. Appears to have fully recovered.

While Lori was cutting my hair, I noticed a young boy having his hair cut on the opposite side of the room. I could only see the back of his head. He was relatively short, his hair blond and short also. A boy’s haircut.

Seemed like the hairdresser was working on the young man forever. A haircut is a haircut!

I asked Lori why the haircut was of the young boy was taking so long. She quietly laughed and said it was no boy, a woman! In fact, a mother. Her little girl was standing to her front.

When I was leaving, I could see the “young boy’s” face. Absolutely beautiful!

Then to Harpoon Harry’s for lunch. Chatted with some locals.

The cupboard was bare and so it was off to Publix for groceries.

I do not take the cane into Publix when shopping. The cart is more than enough support.

About one third through my shopping, I suddenly became tired. Extremely so. Thought I was going to pass out. Left the cart in the middle of the aisle and walked out of the store.

Sat in my car a while. Though still a bit groggy, started for home. I figured my car was like a horse of old and could find its way home.

Laid down for a while. Remained exhausted.

Dorothy Downs is an old friend. I was to meet her at 6:30 at the Chart Room.

Dorothy is an author. Her husband of many years died 2 years ago. She lives in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area. She retains the Key West home she and her husband had, also.

She had called in the morning to say she had written another book and wanted to know if I would read the transcript. The book not published as yet. I agreed.

Dorothy has written 3 previous novels. Art of the Florida Seminole and Miccosukee Indians, Patchwork: Seminole and Miccosukee Art and Activities, and Canoe Back in Time.

She inferred the transcript she wanted me to read was different from her prior works.

It was 4 o’clock and I continued to be exhausted. Called Dorothy and begged off our meeting for last night. It has been rescheduled for this evening.

I continued to be tired and slept off and on till 9 in the evening. Have no idea why I was so tired.

I think this good living might be too much for me!

The great whites are getting bigger! Climate change?

A 20 footer was seen a mile off shore from the Breakers in 55 feet of water. Eleven scuba divers were in the water at the time. They spotted the great white beneath them.

All reported how excited they were. None spoke of fear.

Barr’s rebuke tweet of Trump yesterday interesting. A stunning surprise. The two were and perhaps still are attached.

Questions arise. Was the tweet merely to cover Barr’s ass professionally? Was Trump aware it was coming? If Barr should be gone, can Trump function without an Attorney-General who does his bidding all the time? Was the tweet an act of insubordination?

Finally, many who were close to Trump have eventually left or been fired. Is Barr on his way out?

Trump lies in an unending fashion. Were he Pinocchio, his nose would have fallen off by this time caused by the sheer weight of the lies.

In November, Trump denied sending Giuliani to the Ukraine to discover damage information re Biden. Yesterday, he admitted he did while being interviewed by Geraldo Rivera.

How does Trump keep track of his lies? Has he reached a point where he cannot remember what he said previously? Or is it that he is emboldened by his acquittal and doesn’t care?

Donald has a tough life in this regard.

“I knocked on Hell’s door.” The words of a recovered 21 year old coronavirus victim. He fortunately has recovered.

He resides in Wuhan where the epidemic began and is at its worst.

The young man also said, “I suffered from high fever and pains that tortured every part of my body…..I was coughing like l was going to die.”

Stay healthy!

Enjoy your day!

FROM PAGANISM TO LOVE…..ST. VALENTINE’S DAY was originally published on Key West Lou

[rachelisnotatwork]

Week one: Heading back down under

This time I let Marcel pick our big holiday destination, and he picked Australia. Can’t say I was super keen, as a work colleague fairly accurately summed up my feelings towards Australia: “It is an oven full of spiders”. I’m not big on visiting places were everything can kill you. But considering Marcel’s sister has emigrated to Australia and Marcel has wanted to go on a big road trip there for years, I sort of felt I couldn’t say no (I was thinking it though).

Our flight was a very civilised 9pm on a Sunday. However we were lending out our flat whilst we were away and in the run up to leaving we’d been pulling lots of shifts to pay for it (the oven full of spiders is surprisingly expensive) and so that left us spending the weekend frantically packing, cleaning and mopping the place.

We managed to head off without any too obvious catastrophes and headed off on our first flight to Singapore. We hit turbulence pretty much straight away. Nevermind I thought, that will soon settle down. It did not. We were jiggled constantly all 12.5 hours of the way there. Quite hard to sleep whilst being constantly jolted. Thankfully there was an excellent movie selection.

When we arrived, we headed straight to our hotel, One Farrer Place. We had stayed there on our previous trip and quite liked it, plus we got a huge discount on a booking website. When we arrived, our receptionist told us the bad news that our class of hotel room (the cheapest) was booked out. So we had to be upgraded to a huge room with free-standing bath tub on the top floor. Which is the sort of bad news I’m happy to deal with.

We were so tired, we couldn’t be bothered to go far for dinner. We were staying in Little India, which is a great place for vegetarians but less good if you always ask for Asian Vegetarian as a meal on your flight. I couldn’t really face my 4th curry in 24 hours. So instead we ate at a surprisingly good but completely empty Thai restaurant in the hotel next door. The air-con was so frigid we ate poolside and enjoyed the warm night air.

The next day we had a lazy morning by the pool, then headed out to meet our friend Ryan for lunch. We had had a fairly late breakfast but managed to stuff ourselves at Lau Pa Sat food market, because we are committed like that. We had basically chosen Singapore as a repeat stop-off for two reasons; to see Ryan and to eat a lot of good, cheap food. Both missions were accomplished.

After that we had a wander around the Gardens by the Bay. The last time we’d been there the Flower Dome had been shut. We went in this time. It was a bit underwhelming, especially since it was having a sunflower show and there were lots of weird Dorothy-themed statues there. Plus sunflowers aren’t the most...diverse group of flowers to display in huge numbers. The cloud forest was better.

When we came out it was pouring with rain (unexpected, although given it is so humid I’m not sure why I was so surprised) so we got a taxi to dinner. Last time I was obsessed with this tofu starter dish we ate at a place called The National Kitchen, so I went back and ordered so many of them the waiter kept thinking I was making a mistake. I was not. We went home and I passed out in a python-like coma.

Our flight was unfunnily early the next day so we got a taxi to the airport. Check-in was super quick and seamless (got to love the slightly dictatorial nature of Singapore. Everything just works...so well) so we had loads of time. After breakfast and laughing at the Heavenly Wang sign (because we are immature) we found out that they have a free butterfly garden in the airport (because why not?) so whiled away some pleasant time there.

Our flight to Perth was a lot smoother, which was great because the audio on my entertainment system didn’t work, so thankfully I could read a book without getting airsick. We touched down shortly afterwards and went to wait for our baggage. Marcel went to the loo and came out complaining that someone had produced something that smelt God-awful as he was washing his hands. I kept complaining that he smelt of some sort of sulphurous nightmare. He claimed I was imagining it. Until he smelt his hands and realised Perth airport had invested in some soap that appears to be going for the smell of “digestive distress”.

We got through security and went to pick up our car (with me staying a good ten foot from him). The Hertz lady decided to tell Marcel whilst taking him down to our car, about how the Outback is full of “real sickos” that will murder you. Great chat before a road trip.

After driving to our airbnb and dropping off our stuff, we went to Kings Canyon Park to stretch our legs a bit and see an overview of the city. Spring is wild flower season and their botanical gardens were in bloom, which a lot of beautiful flowers that smelt atrocious and may have been the base for the airport soap. One of the rare occasions when admiring a photo might have been better. We did see some kokaburras in a tree at the end of our trip, which was very satisfying on a stereotype level.

We were aware Perth was a rare opportunity before we headed into the food wastelands of rural Australia to eat some good food, so we wracked our brains for a cuisine we wouldn’t be able to get easily and would miss. We settled for Mexican and ate an obscene amount.

The next day we drove over to Freemantle (apparently a sight Lonely Planet recommends but the thing that was most impressive there was the GIANT container ships getting loaded by giant cranes). We went there because we wanted to see a virtual reality documentary they’d made about the Australian Antarctic base. When we arrived everyone in the audience was north of 80. I never imagined my first experience of using a VR headset would be in the company of the least likely cohort to use them. It was pretty cool though. It was only half an hour, which was a mixed blessing because it was really impressive BUT I was starting to get motion sick so was pretty glad it came to an end.

After that we headed into town to do some boring pre-trip shopping (essentials like sim card, basic food supplies, a large water container, a shit ton of books and expensive chocolates). After that there wasn’t much time left so we went for another nice wander in Kings Canyon and I found a bunch of statues to pose with and embarrass Marcel.

The next morning after breakfast we hit the open road. I thought that the bits around Perth might still be quite busy. Especially since it was going into a holiday weekend (the bastards get a long weekend for the Queen’s birthday here! Why don’t we?) But no, pretty much as soon as we left the outskirts of Perth we were about the only car on the road. Despite the lack of traffic we saw about 500 dead kangaroos on the hard shoulder. Depressing and also slightly alarming.

On the way to our first town, we stopped at a National Park called the Pinnacles. As we were buying a parks pass, I was slightly horrified to see the woman selling tickets appeared to be in some sort of giant bee keepers outfit. This turned out to be because the place was RIDDLED with flies. Despite being a beautiful and mysterious rock occurrence, every time we got out of the car about a thousand flies attempted to fly into our noses and eyes. Frantic waving of your arms around your head did pretty much nothing. Our trip there was short. We did see a galah though, which I made very angry by accident getting close, so that was another stereotype win.

We instead decided to go for a walk on the beach opposite which was windy. This was a good choice as the flies were completely thwarted by the wind. The beach was beautiful and empty. We looked at the turquoise sea and decided to dip our toes into it. It was FREEZING. We then decided to walk along the shore line. We walked happily in the wet sand for a bit before finding it was full of washed up jellyfish, probably of high toxicity. Apart from the near death experiences, it was a good walk.

We arrived in time to watch the sunset in Jurien Bay. We cooked dinner ourselves since nothing was open but a bottle shop when we arrived, and had an early night as we had an early start the next day.

I must confess I was rather apprehensive as the morning came as Marcel had arranged for us to swim with sea lions. I had many reservations about this venture. Secondly, shark attacks are often explained away by sharks “mistaking” people for seals/sea lions so dressing up as one in a wetsuit and hanging out with them seems a rapid way to get eaten by a shark. Thirdly, the water was, as evidenced by our explorations yesterday, freezing. Fourthly, there seemed to be a lot of jellyfish in these parts… However we’d paid up so we set off after breakfast for the harbour.

The boat was lovely and new and did provide wetsuits although sadly they were of the short armed and short legged variety. I kept asking for larger ones because I hate tight-fitting stuff. This turned out to be an error as when we got there, brisk winds abound, and had to jump into the water, I realised that having a super baggy one that just lets cold water run over you is not the point of a wetsuit.

The experience was pretty amazing though. The sea lions live on a protected island inside a reef, so that took out the shark fear. They are very curious and like to swim twirling around you, blowing bubbles, it you twirl too. Which was really fun to do, although I got worried that I don’t really understand the behavioural patterns of sea lions and I might be signalling that I was keen to mate for life with one of them. Annoyingly just before we left I found an underwater camera that Marcel had bought a decade ago and despite finding the batteries had leaked, I cleaned the inside with a cotton wool bud and vinegar (as the internet recommended) and found a blank memory card for it and charged it and took it into the sea to find the waterproof seal had clearly eroded and it died in about 4 seconds, leaking battery gloop. So alas no photos.

We were given restoring hot drinks and tim tams once back on the boat, which Marcel found very exciting and wouldn’t believe was just essentially a penguin bar. We headed back to shore and had lunch during which I very, very slowly thawed out (over about 3 hours).

After that we drove up to Kalbarri, a town on the outskirts of Kalbarri national park. We walked out under a very starry sky to an Indian restaurant, which was surprisingly decent for a tiny town in the middle of nowhere.

The next day we headed into the National Park past about a thousand dead kangaroos. The park is famous for its gorges, so we headed to the furthest away one first and went for a walk along the river bank, hoping that being by the water would distract the inland fly plague from trying to drink from our eyeballs every 0.3 seconds. Alas it did not.

We then headed to a few spectacular lookouts, largely power-walking around them to avoid being besieged by flies.

The last one allowed you to see into a beautiful bend in the river gorge, which you could hike down to if you were feeling sporty/tolerant of flies, which we were not. We could however from above, see a guy spend about 20 minutes setting up the perfect selfie of him in his camp site. Which was quite amusing to watch.

It was heading towards late afternoon as we drove back through the park. We saw about 100m ahead of us, a kangaroo gracefully bounce out into road. Awwh, how cute we thought. And then it immediately got hit by an SUV going in the opposite direction. Now we know why there are so many dead kangaroos by the side of the road and also why almost all the cars have giant kangaroo bars on the front. Car that had hit the kangaroo and thus was responsible for removing the giant corpse from the road was filled with a large tourist family including wailing kids in the backseat who probably hadn’t just had the right sort of kangaroo memories generated.

Apparently, hitting kangaroos can kill you, if they come through the windscreen. So the week ended with me having to add that to the giant list of ways I’m concerned I might die in Australia.

So far the list goes as follows. I will keep it updated:

Ways I've thought I might die in Australia this week:

death by falling off a cliff/into a river/into the path of an oncoming car because you couldn't see anything due to frantically waving your arms because of the flies, contracting trachoma from said flies and then being savaged by your guide dog, being bitten by a sea lion, being eaten by a shark whilst pretending to be a sea lion, being stung by a washed up box jellyfish whilst trying to mind your own business on the beach, hypothermia from the freezing cold Indian ocean (it is definitely warmer at the Indian end), being killed after hitting a kangaroo that bounces up and through your windscreen

[ongames]

The Inspiring Reason This Marathon Runner Posted A Photo Of Her Cellulite

Marathoner Dorothy Beal has a message for all the runners out there: Don’t let a race photo steal your joy. 

The blogger, mother of three and running coach based in Leesburg, Virginia recently went viral after posting powerful side-by-side photos to Instagram, both of which were taken during the same race. 

“In one I looked happy and strong and in the other I was left questioning if there was a part of my body that didn’t have cellulite,” Beal said before explaining how hard ― but rewarding ― this particular race was for her. 

“If you had asked me after if I had a good time I would have said YES!!” she wrote. “I still felt that way in the days following the race UNTIL I saw the photo on the left and then insecurity set in and I thought about how that day was not fun. But that’s silly, because it was fun...A race photo is ONE SINGLE moment in time and I let one of them steal joy from me.”

Beal added, “Most times we don’t look great while we run, but that’s not why we run anyways, we run to FEEL like I look in the photo on the right - HAPPY.” 

Let's get REAL with each other again... I'm reposting this here because I think we all can agree that we are worth more than a photo captured at a race. Far too many of us let a single photo steal joy - the thing is - it's a single photo and we need to take back any power that photo steals #Repost @womensrunningmagazine ・・・ @mileposts here Let's get real with each other for a second shall we!? How many of you have let a race photo steal joy from you?? Both of these race photos were taken on the same day at the same race. In one I looked happy and strong and in the other I was left questioning if there was a part of my body that didn't have cellulite. This race at some points sucked for me - I got sick - threw up before crossing the finish line and had possibly my slowest 13.1 time ever - but post race the sucky feelings faded and I remember the day being fun - drinking wine with friends after, joking how wine cures all. If you had asked me after if I had a good time I would have said YES!! I still felt that way in the days following the race UNTIL I saw the photo on the left and then insecurity set in and I thought about how that day was not fun. But that's silly, because it was fun...A race photo is ONE SINGLE moment in time and I let one of them steal joy from me. Most times we don't look great while we run, but that's not why we run anyways, we run to FEEL like I look in the photo on the right - HAPPY. Don't let a photo steal joy - you are worth so much more than one split second - moment in time. #irunthisbody @ihavearunnersbody #whstrong

A post shared by Dorothy Beal | #irunthisbody (@mileposts) on Mar 4, 2017 at 4:29am PST

Beal’s post resonated with her 44k Instagram followers, who shared their own struggles with race photos. 

“Thank you yes I have one from [a race] I trained so hard and the pic they took made me look awful,” one commenter wrote. “It really did steal my joy and accomplishment so thanks for this reminder.” 

Another fellow runner wrote, “I had the same thing after my first race I hated how I looked in the photos but I just remember what a feat it was! Glad I’m not the only one it momentarily got down.” 

The response to the photo proves that the activity is about more than just a race picture. Running is an incredible exercise that can do wonders for a person’s wellbeing. Research shows it can drastically improve your physical and mental health.

Beal’s side-by-side photo is also just one example of the many body-positive posts Beal puts on her Instagram page. In an emailed conversation with The Huffington Post, she explained her new “MOVEment,” called #ihavearunnersbody, which is all about revising what exactly a “runner” looks like. 

“I’m constantly told that I don’t look like I run,” Beal said. “A) there is no such thing as a perfect body and B) anyone who runs looks like a runner. So yes I have cellulite and I’m not a featherweight, but my body and these legs have carried me through 32 marathons and over 100 races of various distances.” 

In love with this #ihavearunnersbody photo from @thejessiest ・・・ Do you see me in this photo? In this photo I am strong and capable and determined and finishing the second of two marathons a month apart. But this morning I was still afraid to step on the scale. Like that number has value and therefore determines my value. It's ridiculous of course, but that feeling has persisted for so long. So this is a reminder to myself and to you that the scale carries no value, only a piece of information, that we are so much more than our appearance and that health is infinitely more important @ihavearunnersbody #healthyisthenewskinny #irunthisbody #ihavearunnersbody #sportsbrasquad #realrunning #austinmarathon #teamsnackattack

A post shared by #ihavearunnersbody (@ihavearunnersbody) on Mar 6, 2017 at 12:56pm PST

#ihavearunnersbody regram from @g.runderfullife ・・・ Today's 5mi=rough, wk 14 marathon training & my legs know it! Buttt at least I didn't cringe at all the weekend's professional race pics (...must've been taken at the start )

A post shared by #ihavearunnersbody (@ihavearunnersbody) on Feb 15, 2017 at 4:51pm PST

#ihavearunnersbody regram from @b.fit.fest ・・・ Sunday I ran my worst half marathon yet (2hrs34mins) I struggled the last 4 miles. When I saw these photos, I was tempted to pick apart how tired I look, how thick my legs are, and how slow I know I was going (you can just tell ). But I DID it. Day 7 of #whole30 and in the pouring rain the whole time, I still finished. That's something to be proud of! • • • • • • • #runnerscommunity #womenrunners #inspiringwomenrunners #NRC #halfmarathontraining #pasadenahalfmarathon #worldrunners #benchmarkrun #newyeargoals #runlikeagirl #runit #runnersworld #ihavearunnersbody

A post shared by #ihavearunnersbody (@ihavearunnersbody) on Jan 26, 2017 at 6:45am PST

“We are thin, we are thick, we are small, we are tall, we are black, we are white, we are every color in between, some of us have abs and others of us have bellies, and many of us have cellulite BUT we are ALL runners,” Beal said. 

Amen to that.  

The HuffPost Lifestyle newsletter will make you happier and healthier, one email at a time. Sign up here.

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

The Inspiring Reason This Marathon Runner Posted A Photo Of Her Cellulite published first on http://ift.tt/2lnpciY

[imreviewblog]

The Inspiring Reason This Marathon Runner Posted A Photo Of Her Cellulite

Marathoner Dorothy Beal has a message for all the runners out there: Don’t let a race photo steal your joy. 

The blogger, mother of three and running coach recently went viral after posting powerful side-by-side photos to Instagram, both of which were taken during the same race. 

“In one I looked happy and strong and in the other I was left questioning if there was a part of my body that didn’t have cellulite,” Beal said before explaining how hard ― but rewarding ― this particular race was for her. 

“If you had asked me after if I had a good time I would have said YES!!” she wrote. “I still felt that way in the days following the race UNTIL I saw the photo on the left and then insecurity set in and I thought about how that day was not fun. But that’s silly, because it was fun...A race photo is ONE SINGLE moment in time and I let one of them steal joy from me.”

Beal added, “Most times we don’t look great while we run, but that’s not why we run anyways, we run to FEEL like I look in the photo on the right - HAPPY.” 

Let's get REAL with each other again... I'm reposting this here because I think we all can agree that we are worth more than a photo captured at a race. Far too many of us let a single photo steal joy - the thing is - it's a single photo and we need to take back any power that photo steals #Repost @womensrunningmagazine ・・・ @mileposts here Let's get real with each other for a second shall we!? How many of you have let a race photo steal joy from you?? Both of these race photos were taken on the same day at the same race. In one I looked happy and strong and in the other I was left questioning if there was a part of my body that didn't have cellulite. This race at some points sucked for me - I got sick - threw up before crossing the finish line and had possibly my slowest 13.1 time ever - but post race the sucky feelings faded and I remember the day being fun - drinking wine with friends after, joking how wine cures all. If you had asked me after if I had a good time I would have said YES!! I still felt that way in the days following the race UNTIL I saw the photo on the left and then insecurity set in and I thought about how that day was not fun. But that's silly, because it was fun...A race photo is ONE SINGLE moment in time and I let one of them steal joy from me. Most times we don't look great while we run, but that's not why we run anyways, we run to FEEL like I look in the photo on the right - HAPPY. Don't let a photo steal joy - you are worth so much more than one split second - moment in time. #irunthisbody @ihavearunnersbody #whstrong

A post shared by Dorothy Beal | #irunthisbody (@mileposts) on Mar 4, 2017 at 4:29am PST

Beal’s post resonated with her 44k Instagram followers, who shared their own struggles with race photos. 

“Thank you yes I have one from [a race] I trained so hard and the pic they took made me look awful,” one commenter wrote. “It really did steal my joy and accomplishment so thanks for this reminder.” 

Another fellow runner wrote, “I had the same thing after my first race I hated how I looked in the photos but I just remember what a feat it was! Glad I’m not the only one it momentarily got down.” 

The response to the photo proves that the activity is about more than just a race picture. Running is an incredible exercise that can do wonders for a person’s wellbeing. Research shows it can drastically improve your physical and mental health.

Beal’s side-by-side photo is also just one example of the many body-positive posts Beal puts on her Instagram page. In an emailed conversation with The Huffington Post, she explained her new “MOVEment,” called #ihavearunnersbody, which is all about revising what exactly a “runner” looks like. 

“I’m constantly told that I don’t look like I run,” Beal said. “A) there is no such thing as a perfect body and B) anyone who runs looks like a runner. So yes I have cellulite and I’m not a featherweight, but my body and these legs have carried me through 32 marathons and over 100 races of various distances.” 

In love with this #ihavearunnersbody photo from @thejessiest ・・・ Do you see me in this photo? In this photo I am strong and capable and determined and finishing the second of two marathons a month apart. But this morning I was still afraid to step on the scale. Like that number has value and therefore determines my value. It's ridiculous of course, but that feeling has persisted for so long. So this is a reminder to myself and to you that the scale carries no value, only a piece of information, that we are so much more than our appearance and that health is infinitely more important @ihavearunnersbody #healthyisthenewskinny #irunthisbody #ihavearunnersbody #sportsbrasquad #realrunning #austinmarathon #teamsnackattack

A post shared by #ihavearunnersbody (@ihavearunnersbody) on Mar 6, 2017 at 12:56pm PST

#ihavearunnersbody regram from @g.runderfullife ・・・ Today's 5mi=rough, wk 14 marathon training & my legs know it! Buttt at least I didn't cringe at all the weekend's professional race pics (...must've been taken at the start )

A post shared by #ihavearunnersbody (@ihavearunnersbody) on Feb 15, 2017 at 4:51pm PST

#ihavearunnersbody regram from @b.fit.fest ・・・ Sunday I ran my worst half marathon yet (2hrs34mins) I struggled the last 4 miles. When I saw these photos, I was tempted to pick apart how tired I look, how thick my legs are, and how slow I know I was going (you can just tell ). But I DID it. Day 7 of #whole30 and in the pouring rain the whole time, I still finished. That's something to be proud of! • • • • • • • #runnerscommunity #womenrunners #inspiringwomenrunners #NRC #halfmarathontraining #pasadenahalfmarathon #worldrunners #benchmarkrun #newyeargoals #runlikeagirl #runit #runnersworld #ihavearunnersbody

A post shared by #ihavearunnersbody (@ihavearunnersbody) on Jan 26, 2017 at 6:45am PST

“We are thin, we are thick, we are small, we are tall, we are black, we are white, we are every color in between, some of us have abs and others of us have bellies, and many of us have cellulite BUT we are ALL runners,” Beal said. 

Amen to that.  

The HuffPost Lifestyle newsletter will make you happier and healthier, one email at a time. Sign up here.

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

from Healthy Living - The Huffington Post http://huff.to/2niWuRA