#Aricka and Carrie

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

Julie and the Phantoms f/os

1. Luke Patterson, romantic

Aricka x Luke, you’re my brightest burning star 🎵

2. Reggie Peters, romantic

Aricka x Reggie, we're standing on the edge of great 🎸

3. Alex Mercer, familial

Aricka and Alex, the Mercer twins, live it like it's now or never🥁

4. William “Wille” Stewart, familial

Aricka and Willie, ghost bestie, my life would suck if I didn’t have you 🛹

5. Julie Molina, familial

Aricka and Julie, hey little sister, We will fight to shine together 🎹

6. Flynn Taylor, platonic

Aricka and Flynn, we will shine bright forever, little bestie

7. Carrie Wilson, familial

Aricka and Carrie, hey soul sister, we make them say wow 🌟

8. Bobby Shaw/Trevor Wilson, familial

Aricka and Bobby, the Wilson twins, lost my way til I found you again

9. Nick Evans, platonic

Aricka and Nick, go little rockstar, hey little brother

10. Caleb Covington, familial

Aricka and Caleb, dad and daughter, Life is good on the other side of Hollywood

@astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @yeehawselfshipping @letsgofoletsgo @tsundere-selfship @callsign-revenge

[rosieshipper]

How I would fit Rose into the events of multiverse of madness

⛔️⚠️This is your warning, there are heavy spoilers for multiverse of madness in this post so if you don’t wish to be spoiled please scroll away⚠️⛔️

So, seeing as the events of Wandavision don’t take place in my canon, we can say the reason that Wanda uses the darkhold which corrupts her for this reason. Rose and Wanda have both desperately wanting kids after they got married, but almost all attempts at getting Rose pregnant have practically failed. It isn’t until they visit a doctor that Rose finds out she’s unable to carry children which of course devastates Rose. And when Wanda asks if she can bare children instead, the doctor tells her that due to the unpredictable nature of her powers they aren’t sure if she can have children either. So this upsets them both deeply

Wanda hates seeing her wife so upset so she tries to turn to other solutions, it isn’t until one night where she has a dream about them both having children, two beautiful boys. From there, Wanda gets the idea of dream walking and how she could travel to other universes to get the children that she and Rose want. So, she seeks out the darkhold and uses it, learning all about spells and witchcraft and all of the darkness that is withheld in the book

From there the rest of the movie plays out with Wanda finding out about America and trying to kidnap her to steal her powers so that she herself could travel to another universe. While this is happening, Wanda is keeping Rose secluded on her farm, away from all of this, not wanting her to get involved. But eventually near the end, she does get involved. She gets worried when Wanda suddenly disappears for a few days and goes to find her, eventually coming upon the temple where she is fighting against Strange and trying to steal America’s powers

Rose of course is deeply concerned about what Wanda had become seeing how much the darkhold had corrupted her. She tries to get to her, try to talk some sense into Wanda to see if she can help her, but she’s already too far gone. With a sudden burst of energy, Wanda sends Rose flying away and into a nearby wall where her right eye is gouged out on a stone and she loses it before being knocked out

By the time Wanda realizes what’s she’s done it’s already too late. She starts to break down as she realizes what she’s doing is hurting the one she loves most and decides to put an end to it. As America and Wong try to escape, Wanda shouts at them to take Rose with them as she begins to destroy the tomb, they quickly grab her and run through the portal before Wanda drops the remains of the tomb onto herself, destroying the darkhold in every universe and destroying herself in the process

When Rose wakes up, she’s in a panic, not only because she’s missing one of her eyes, but that she doesn’t know where Wanda is. As she runs through the temple that she was brought to, she eventually runs into Wong and Strange and begs them to tell her where Wanda is and that she needs to see her wife. Strange tells her truthfully that Wanda is gone and that she had to destroy herself to destroy the darkhold so that nobody else could get their hands on something so evil

Rose is distraught. Her wife is gone and there’s no bringing her back. Eventually Rose goes back to her and Wanda’s farm and when she gets back to their now empty home, Rose gets a phone call. It’s her doctor. They tell her that the last test that they ran on her turned out to be positive, she was pregnant. After Rose hangs up the phone she falls to her knees. Her wife was gone and she was pregnant, it was all for nothing

Tags: @astralshipper @aricka-and-her-fictional-others @recordplayershipping @wolfofthedead

[imaginesforallkindoflove]

Felix purposes to Naomie and has to get a priest.

@aricka-and-her-fictional-others I hope you don't mind me tagging you, I just think it could be nice to see Hook in a small writing ah ah

They were laying on the grass, looking at the beautiful night skin who was sparkling with little stars. Felix turned his head towards her, watching her pointing to different constellations.

"We should get married." He blurted out.

"Wh... What?" She asked in a uncertain voice. "I don't understand how could that be possible. Pan..."

"Oh I don't care about Pan!" He growled but his voice softened once he went back to talk to her. "Only the two of us would be necessary. And we can take Hook as a priest."

She frowned and stared at him.

"Hook? A priest?"

"Pirate captains used to be the one who announced marriages on a ship." Felix replied with a shrug. "Right now I checked on my way here, he is very drunk. I will bring him here and the next morning he won't remember a thing."

"Oh Felix that would be wonderful!" She smiled, rolling on her side to kiss his nose.

"But I don't have any rings..."

"I don't care about rings! Just..." She reached for his hand. "Just us to be together... it would be great."

It was settled. The blond haired boy sneaked up to the ship and successfully carried Hook out of his ship, with the promise he would get another rhum bottle. Then, arriving at Naomie's cottage, he let the grown man down harshly and waited for him to open his eyes.

"Wh... What is happening?" Hook mumbled.

"You are going to marry us." Felix stated seriously.

Hook mumbled something else under his breath but they didn't catch it. After ten minutes, the pirate captain seemed to regain a little of his sense and stood up slowly, leaning against a tree.

"Fine fine... by the powers I hold, I now declare you husband and wife." He talked quickly then fell back, probably unconscious because of the alcohol.

Naomie giggled as Felix leant down. But he didn't kiss her. Instead, he rested his forehead against hers and for her, it was more than a simple kiss. That moment was sealing their lives forever. She just hoped nothing will disturb their new life together.

[mischief-pixie]

Knuckles

I wrote a fanfic for me and Sherlock as a coping mechanism for some things that have been happening in my life lately, and it really helped. I wanted to share it with you guys, so here it is!! HOWEVER, I will have add a TRIGGER WARNING for self-hatred, and it is a semi vent. 

xoxo,

Mintie

. . . . . . . . 

  Mint was crying again. They didn’t like crying. The feeling of tears rolling down her cheeks was wet and unpleasant. And yet lately every little thing made them cry. They had cried during a movie, they had cried when they saw a kitten in the pet store, they’d cried when Sherlock and John had gotten into a tiff and raised their voices, and then they’d cried when John had stormed out of the flat for some coffee. And that was just in the past three days. But this cry was different, in a bad way.

  Mint threw the covers off of their bed and pulled the hood of their sweater up before trudging to the bathroom. A glance in the mirror confirmed their anxieties. 

  Ugly. 

Do you think you deserve a boyfriend like Sherlock? You’re wrong.

You cry at everything. You’re so over-emotional and no one wants to be around you. 

Stupid. 

You’re not smart enough to be Sherlock’s partner.

You don’t deserve your life.

  They shook their head and sat on the bathroom floor, against the door, trying to stifle their rising sob. They knew deep down that those words weren’t true, but it didn’t make them hurt less. And it didn’t stop the poisonous doubt from slipping into their head that; maybe those words were true after all. At least the flat was empty, so no one could hear her being a crybaby. They paused and held their breath, listening for any sign of life before letting out their sobs and sinking into that comfortable abyss that is self-hatred. And then a door opened. The front door, to be exact. Mint froze and listened to the person walk up the stairs. Hastened pace, skipping steps says Sherlock on a case, but he doesn’t slam the door, so he’s not in a hurry.

  “Mint!” Sherlock’s voice rings out from the living room as he flops into his chair. “I solved that particular problem with the Lionels! It was really rather clever of me. Would you like to hear how I’ve done it?” he pauses for a moment before walking towards the hall and the bathroom. “Mint?” 

  “I’m sorry, I’d love to hear about your case, Sherlock. I’ll be right out.” Mint bolts up, wiping the tears from their face fervently. “I’m sorry, really.”

  “What for? You haven’t done anything-”

  “I dunno. Just felt like the right thing to do.” Mint opened the door and shrugged, slightly slurring their words in that “I’ve just cried, like, a lot, but I’m not ready to talk about it so I’m pretending it didn’t happen” sort of way.

  “Mint.” Sherlock took both of their hands in his, examining their knuckles for a moment. “Come on.” he grabbed a jar from the bathroom counter and then picked Mint up delicately, carrying them to the couch.

  “Sherlock, I’m really not worth-”

  “No.” He looked at them and took the lid off of the jar. “First of all, don’t let your hands become so neglected. You have lovely hands and you put effort into finding a nice hand cream, so use it.” he rubbed some hand cream onto each of their knuckles as he spoke to them. “Second, we’ve been working on your apologizing. Just because something feels off doesn’t mean it’s your fault. And third,-” he kissed their forehead and pulled them into a hug. “You are worth everything to me.”

  “But I shouldn’t.” Mint pulled Sherlock close as tears welled up in their eyes once more. 

  “You’re more intelligent then you give yourself credit for. You have a talent with words and people and making people trust you. You can make people see the logical side of things in a kind way.” 

  “I’m not nearly as good as you are at logic.”

  “But you’re kind. You’re kind to me even when I’ve hurt you. Even when the world is against you, you’re kind, and that kindness will endear you to nearly everyone you meet.” 

  “You and John always fight, and I can’t do anything about it. And I cry all the time…”

  “You can hate yourself all you want your entire life, but I will always love you.” Sherlock pulled away from the hug to place gentle kisses on each of Mint’s cheeks. 

  “But John is coming home again, right?” 

 “We’ll see.” 

  “Sherlock!!” Mint pushed him playfully and he fell backward onto to couch with a sigh. “I’ll message him.” She grabbed Sherlock's phone from the side table. 

  “No point on my phone. He’s probably shopping.” 

  “Speaking of shopping, if I get dressed real quick, can we go to the library and then get doughnuts? My book on ancient Greek culture came in.” Mint had already dropped the phone and had started rooting through the pile of clean, unfolded laundry in the basket on John’s chair. 

  “You’re changing the subject from your deep-rooted self-hatred again. Your therapist would not approve.” he rolled onto his feet fluidly and picked up a  berry-patterned blouse from the floor, handing it to Mint. 

  “I don’t have a therapist. Also, I’m not changing the subject.” they rubbed their arm as they spoke in softened tones. “I’d just rather not talk about it today.” they took the blouse from Sherlock's hand. “Thank you.”

  “Thank you for being alive today.” 

  “Bold of you to assume I was ever alive in the first place.” Mint leaned up to kiss Sherlock’s cheek before darting off with their articles of non-pajama clothes, leaving him sighing in the living room.

  “That incredible person.” he chuckled, shaking his head slightly at the antics of his person. 

. . . . . 

tagging:

@aricka-and-her-fictional-others

@existencialvoidofexistence

@kitten-ships

@mouseinthemidnight

@sabifiggis

@sappy-secrets

[astralshipper]

*cracks knuckles* Okay Astra shoild get a cute prompt based off her latest post.....here we go! Imagine this: Sam sees you about to fall asleep while doing research. He walks over and picks you up, bridal style and he carries you to bed, kissing your forehead before he leaves the room.

ARI C KKA AA !!!!:&::@;&, ;U; this is so cute oh my god I was this,,,, real bad..,,, I’m so djdjdndkcoco!!!! MR SAM I LOVE U SO SO MUCH!!!!!!!!! :DDDDDD sleepy time, carrying, forehead kisses..... Aricka you hit every single box with this I cannot BELIEVE!!!!!

[fd-writes]

Unpacking Your Baggage

You Need to Unpack Your Baggage.  Traveling bags are one thing, emotional bags are another, one is for pleasure the other is for pain and let me be very clear, we all have baggage just some more than others.  Nobody is exempt from hurt or pain, it really just depends on whether or not you are going to carry it or let it go so that you can be free.  Let me tell you how people try to fool you about their baggage, they will often have designer bags, dressed to the nines, smelling divine, they even have laughter, witty banter, amazing jobs, married with children and some don’t have children, they have friends, family, beautiful homes, expensive cars and the list goes on and on.  Do you see what I just did there, I just presented a picture of people who on the outside look like they have it all the way together, they are sharp from the crown of their heads down to the soles of their feet, but oh, when you look past all of that or better yet when you look into their eyes it will tell you all you need to know.  The eyes they say are the windows to the soul and one thing I have come to understand is that the eyes don’t lie, but it is often missed because that is not where people are looking, they are doing a perusal from head to toe and all of the other things that come with social engagement but miss the eyes.  Most of us are surface creatures, we can only see what is in front of us, very few of us are spirit led where we can see beyond the surface, in fact, we see everything including the baggage people so desperately try and dress up to look amazing but yet the years are full of pain and scarring.

So how do we unpack the baggage?  It doesn’t take magic, it has nothing to do with timing or money (abundance or lack).  All it takes is picking up the first bag, putting it on your bed and opening it, then begin taking stuff out of it, and although it sounds simple, clearly it’s not.  It will take real courage to pick up the first suitcase and fear will be mingled within it because the first step always seems the hardest.  Unpacking your baggage is very freeing, freedom is calling your name, don’t you hear it?  It is time to empty your heart and forgive, pouring yourselves out of all that has kept you bound and therefore emptying your suitcases of all the things we have accumulated over the years.  This is the only way you will be able to receive all that God has just for you, all the things you have been praying for years about, it will come to you tenfold once you start unpacking, God isn’t trying to make your load heavier but lighter and He said so himself, 28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30 NIV.  If God Almighty is calling for us to come to him because He knows we are burdened and weary, then He will help us to unpack all of our baggage, he will guide us in how to let go completely.  As long as you have your baggage, you are blocking the blessings that are for your life.  Releasing your baggage allows the power to fully flow in and through your life, your cup of joy will overflow.

I implore you to unpack your baggage so that you can live your life the way you were created to live it.  Look behind you at the baggage you are carrying everywhere with you, stop and pick up one of the bags and begin to get rid of everything in it, don’t look at what you're throwing away, don’t linger over it, turning it over back and forth, just get rid of it.  One bag down and however more to go, I know you can throw out every last one.

Well Until My Next Post...Ciao! Photo Credit: Aricka Lewis

[sirenmouths]

writing roundup

Poetry:

there is no separate survival by Shabnam Piryaei

Cutting by Brionne Janae

And What Good Will Your Vanity Be When the Rapture Comes by Hanif Willis-Abdurraqib 

On PrEP or on Prayer by sam sax

Apology; Sweet Talk by Derrick Austin

No is a Complete Sentence; Portrait of the Alcoholic Three Weeks Sober; the Straw is Too Long, the Axe is Too Dull by Kaveh Akbar

Without Conferring, We Both Ask For a Smoke & Dagger by Emily O’Neill

When Lucille Bogan Sings “Shave ‘Em Dry” by Aimee Nezhukumatathil

Where the Fired Body is Porous by Tiana Clark

Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude by Ross Gay

Social Death, An Address by Xandria Phillips 

A Bell Still Unrung by Safiya Sinclair 

Recurring Dream Wherein I’m Watching an Episode of Star Trek by Colette Arrand 

Manhattan is a Lenape Word by Natalie Diaz

This City by Eugenia Leigh

Barbershop by Phillip B. Williams

Poet’s Sampler: b: william bearhart

American Sonnet for Wanda C. by Terrance Hayes

When the Therapist Asks You to Recount, You Have to Say It by Aricka Foreman

Apologies from a Muslim Orphan by Tarfia Faizullah

Fiction:

The Enchantment by Emily B. Cataneo 

When an Artist and a Novelist Let Their Creative Powers Loose on a Fabulous Apartment Filled With Art by Hanya Yanagihara

The Mark of Cain by Roxane Gay

Carry Me Home, Sisters of St. Joseph by Marie-Helene Bertino

No Type of Good by Gabrielle Rucker

Churches We’ve Broken Into by Julia Evans

Essays:

When It Is Not Our World Anymore What Will We Hear: On Empathy by Rosebud Ben-Oni

The Effects of White Supremacy are Non-Transferable by Maurice Carlos Ruffin

The Aqiqah by Kima Jones

A Chorus of Hands by Mahogany Browne 

Women in the Fracklands: On Water, Land, Bodies, and Standing Rock by Toni Jensen

What If: On Black Lives and Mental Health by Jodi Savage

A Map of Lost Things: On Family, Grief, and the Meaning of Home by Jamila Osman

Criticism/Interviews/Hybrid:

Hayao Miyazaki and the Art of Being a Woman by Gabrielle Bellot 

Fine Dining by Maurice Carlos Ruffin

Frank Ocean is Finally Free, Mystery Intact by Jon Caramanica

What Makes a Celebrity Take Off His Shirt by Anne Helen Peterson

I Hated Britney Spears Until I Saw Myself in Her by B. Pietras

Robin Coste Lewis: Black Joy is My Primary Aesthetic

Divedapper: Conversation with Jericho Brown by Kaveh Akbar

VIDA’s Report from the Field: Getting Along Shouldn’t Be An Ambition by Jean Ho

A Story about Discovery by Rachel Monroe (about detransitioning)

Disability and Poetry: An Exchange

He Lived by Syreeta McFadden (cw: lynching)

The Problem with “Pussy” by Josephine Livingstone

This Hair of Mine by Cynthia Harvey 

[ahopkins1965]

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How Can We Stop, Listen and Obey God's Voice?

Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies / How Can We Stop, Listen and Obey God's Voice?

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Cindy Collier

Sunday, July 12, 2020

A covenant is an agreement that involves obligations. It is a conditional promise or a promise with responsibilities. An example of this is: if you do this then I’ll do this or if you listen to me and do what I tell you to, then I will help you. 

Stop, look at me and listen! If you will just do what I say then I can help you! 

I must have said those words fifteen times and she was just not listening. It was like wrestling a wild beast to get the burweed stickers out of the fur of my dog, Chloe’s ears. If you have longhaired animals that like to run around outside, you know what I mean. When the burweed is in season, the stickers get matted in the fur of animals and can be very painful and difficult to pull out. For both of us. I tried to put limits on where she walked, I leashed her on a long lead and warned her not to get in the area where the burweed was flourishing but she did not listen and obey my instructions. Apparently she thought she knew best. 

After about the 14th time of telling her to stop, God finally whacked me on the head and said: “Cindy, I am trying to teach you a lesson here. Do you know how many times I have told you the same thing-to just stop, pay attention, listen, and obey my instructions and you will be okay?”

Uh-oh. Well, God…probably quite a few.

There are several major covenant agreements contained in the Bible – major promises from God to man. These covenants include the Noahic covenant, Mosaic covenant, Abrahamic covenant, Davidic covenant and the New Covenant. 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Aricka Lewis

A Smaller Covenant: Pay Attention and Listen

In addition to these major covenants, there is also a smaller covenant promise made between God and the Israelites that can be found in the book of Exodus chapter 23. Moses penned the book of Exodus in order to tell the story of the Israelites’ flight out of bondage and it was written as a reminder to the people of Israel about the number of times God provided for their needs. In this book, God outlined specific laws and instructions that the people were to follow– from laws governing the Sabbath, to laws of justice and mercy, guidance on social responsibility and even specifics on holding the annual feasts and festivals. 

In Exodus 23:20-22, God continues to teach and give instruction to the Israelites by outlining a conditional promise to the people: 

“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. Pay attention to him and listen to what he says. Do not rebel against him; he will not forgive your rebellion, since my Name is in him.  If you listen carefully to what he says and do all that I say, I will be an enemy to your enemies and will oppose those who oppose you.”  

In verse 22, God specifically told the people that if they listen carefully and did all that He said to do, then He would protect them by becoming an enemy to their enemies and opposing those who opposed them. Make the following notations about this Scripture: Pay attention, listen and do all. 

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Predrag Images

Obey Fully

In chapter 19 of this same book, God also provided a similar covenant promise. Moses had gone up to spend time with God and the Lord spoke to him from the mountain. The Lord gave him a message to give to the Israelites. He told him in verses 4-6:

"‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”

Note in this Scripture verse 5: the Lord said obey me fully. In both passages of Scripture, the Lord’s specific instructions included the words all and fully. 

But, sadly, in Exodus 33:3, something had happened. Look at the Lord’s words to the same group of Israelites: 

“Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you, because you are a stiff-necked people and I might destroy you on the way.”

They were not only disobedient, going against the specific instructions that the Lord gave to them, now they were stiff-necked. They were an obstinate, stubborn, hard to deal with, prideful, think-they-know-best kind of people. God made a promise and it was a good one but God, He is held to His promise by who He is.

The Israelites did not hold up to their end of the promise. They did not stop, pay attention, listen and follow all of God’s instruction. They thought they knew best.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Hakase

A Command to Listen

In Luke 9:28-36, the writer gives us the story of the Transfiguration. Jesus went up a mountain to pray and took Peter, John and James. During that time of prayer, Moses and Elijah appeared to Jesus and spent time talking about his departure.

Peter? He had been sleeping but awoke and saw the three men glowing in splendor. Peter apparently enjoyed being in the presence of Jesus and the prophets of old and decided that it was in the group’s best interest that they build a shelter and just stay there. Read what happened:

 “About eight days after Jesus said this, he took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning. Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious splendor, talking with Jesus. They spoke about his departure, which he was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem. Peter and his companions were very sleepy, but when they became fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As the men were leaving Jesus, Peter said to him, ‘Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ (He did not know what he was saying.)”

Now where was God during this time? He was watching it all. 

“While he was speaking, a cloud appeared and covered them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. A voice came from the cloud, saying, ‘This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.’ When the voice had spoken, they found that Jesus was alone. The disciples kept this to themselves and did not tell anyone at that time what they had seen.”

Look carefully at verse 35. The only words that God chose to speak were: “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.” That’s it. He was probably speaking mainly to Peter who had been stiff-necked and decided that he knew best what to do. Peter, in all of his vast wisdom and planning, gave Jesus, not only, specific instructions they should follow but the reason that they should do them: “It is good for us to be here – now we should build three shelters and you, Moses and Elijah can all stay in them.” His emotions and excitement of being there probably got the best of him but God stepped in: “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.”

All God wanted was for Peter to listen. God not only vetted Jesus by letting them know that Jesus was His son and was chosen to be at this particular place at this particular time, but also that they should listen to him. Jesus had the plan and would provide the next steps … just listen.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Jackson Simmer

How Do We Know What to Do?

God wants us to listen. Just stop, pay attention, listen and obey fully. Much like my dog Chloe, we do not take the time to stop, pay attention and listen. Those are the first steps to obedience. But, you cannot obey what you do not know. So, how do you find out what to do, what to obey? 

Look at Psalm 32:8:

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”

There is a difference between instruct and teach. Instruct is to give specific directions to a task. An example would be: This is what you do first, and this next, and this last. They are specific steps that pertain to a specific task. The word teach is different. You teach large topics, ideas or subjects, for example: patience, perseverance, humility.

Look at the last part of that verse: I will guide you (or counsel you) with my eye. That is the use of nonverbal eye contact. Think about reading someone’s eyes. They look to something you are to pick up, they look in a direction that you are to move, they glance at something that you are to take note of. You are to be close enough to see their eyes, to focus and attend. You are close enough to note the slightest glance and you have to pay attention. Not only is God watching over you with His eyes, He is guiding you.

That is how you gain instruction and guidance. That is how you gain knowledge of the instructions that you are to fully follow. That is how you keep the responsibility that you have in God’s promise. So, remember to:

Stop what you are doing, even for a few minutes per day.

Pay attention and focus by being close enough to watch the guidance from His eyes.

Listen. Be quiet and listen for His voice and instruction

Obey fully. When you find out what to do? Obey fully the instructions or steps and do all that He gives you to do.

This was his covenant promise to the Israelites. This is what is important to God. That we listen and obey everything that he asks us to do. Instead of thinking that we know best – rely fully on God and His instruction.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/kieferpix

Dr. Cindy Collier has retired from a 30-year career in the public school system, having worked with students with disabilities as a teacher, psychologist and administrator. She is currently serving as an adjunct faculty member for the University of West Florida and as an autism consultant. She has published two popular educational books and several online articles. Her doctorate may be in education but her passion is encouraging other believers through her writing. Cindy is a survivor of a marriage controlled by addiction, pornography, abuse, and mental illness. It was a life lived with someone that she grew to fear filled with secrets and deception, but is now a life restored by God and His promises. She is presently the author of transparentwalk.com where she allows her testimony to guide her writing by being transparent in her walk with the Lord.

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[arickaandherfictionalothers]

The daughter of Poseidon

Characters by appearance : Poseidon, Aricka Jackson, Sally Jackson, Amphitrite, Percy Jackson.

Song:

If I could catch a star for you I swear I'd steal them all tonight

To make your every wish come true and every dream for all your life…

She was born on a cool October evening. A cry loud enough to change the tides, Aricka Coral Jackson was a fighter from the moment she first opened her eyes-

And what beautiful eyes she had. A startling turquoise-teal-periwinkle, almost the perfect shade of the sea. Poseidon was full of pride for her.

But that's not how the story goes

The world is full of perfect plans

If there's a promise that I broke, I know one day you will understand…

One night, he snuck into her nursery, scooped up the sleeping babe. She didn’t even stir, content to slumber in her father’s embrace. “My daughter,” he whispered. “μικρά μάτια του ωκεανού, pride of the seas. I can’t be there to watch you grow… I can only hope one day you make it to camp… you belong to the sea. You will one day return. I await that day eagerly, already.” He kisses her forehead, catches a whiff of the soap and powder she smelled off. “κόρη, I will always love you.”

(Little ocean eyes.

(Daughter.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

When times are hard I know you'll be strong

I'll be there in your heart and you'll carry on

Like moonlight on the water, and sunlight in the sky

Fathers and daughters never say goodbye…

Aricka is five now. Strange things has been happening to her since she went to the aquarium with her daycare. “What is the matter, αστερίας?” He spoke funnily, made Aricka giggle.

“What’s that word?” She repeats the funny word clumsily, but Poseidon merely smiles amusedly at his daughter awkwardly copying his mother tongue.

“It means starfish, where I’m from,” he explains. “You seem upset. Where is your mother?”

“She’s at work, this is daycare. Are you lost mister?” She asks.

“No, παιδί. Waiting for someone.” A funny dressed woman walks up to the man then, and he loops his arm around her. “Be well, Aricka. We will meet again soon.”

An angel I will read to sleep, gave me one dream of my own

So learn to love and spread your wings, and find the one to call your home

The funny dressed woman smiled warmly at Aricka too, and they seemed to vanish, leaving a pleasant sea-salt vapor scent behind them.

(Starfish)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When times are hard I know you'll be strong

I'll be there in your heart and you'll carry on

Like moonlight on the water, and sunlight in the sky

Fathers and daughters never say goodbye…

Aricka is seven, and she’s a big sister now. She holds her wriggling baby brother carefully, sitting in the hospital bed with her mommy. “He’s so little,” she coos. “What’s his name mama?”

Sally kisses her daughter’s cheek, knowing now that her days with her daughter were numbered. Chiron would come for her soon. “His name is Perseus Caspian,” she answered. “He’s your brother, and your responsibility. I won’t always be able to protect him, but you will be able to. You will always be able to guard him.” Aricka nods seriously.

“I love you Percy. I won’t ever let anybody hurt you. I promise.”

Later; when mommy and Percy were sleeping, Aricka woke up to see the same man from the daycare standing next to Percy’s bassinet. When he noticed her staring, he put a finger to his lips, shushing her quietly. “You must pretend you didn’t see me here, μικρό γκουπί. Some people wouldn’t approve.” He turns to look at Percy again. “But I had to see your little brother once, before I return to my palace.”

“Are you a king?” She asks in quiet awe. He laughs.

“Yes, η κόρη μου, you could say that.” She tilts her head at the funny words. “I cannot reveal who I am to you yet, but know that the ocean will always be your refuge. Do you understand that?” She nods.

“I like swimming; and seeing fishies.” He laughs again, and the sound makes Aricka feel happy and relaxed.

“Yes, yes you would.” He walks over to her, brushes her cheek softly. “Be brave, little warrior. One day you’ll be called on to protect your brother. You must prepare for it.” He looks at Percy one last time and vanishes, leaving the same sweet ocean vapor behind him.

(My daughter)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When times are hard I know you'll be strong

I'll be there in your heart and you'll carry on

Like moonlight on the water, and sunlight in the sky…

Aricka is 17, and reunited with her brother for the first time since she was 12. That night, she dreamed of an underwater palace and the man from the hospital- her dad. Poseidon. He sees her, and smiles warmly at her. “My daughter,” he greets. “You’ve been reunited with Percy, then. Is he well?”

“Yes dad,” she says softly. “Scared and traumatized, but as well as he can be. I start his water training tomorrow.” Poseidon nods.

“Good. Keep him safe. Protect him. Guide him to the bolt and back to Olympus. I await your safe arrival eagerly. I have long awaited the day we would officially meet, face to face.” He caresses her cheek and her eyes slip shut, wishing this was real, not a dream. All she wanted was for her dad to be able to hug her. “We will meet soon. This I vow.” She felt herself begin to wake and her father nods. “Wake now. Know that no matter what, you are the pride of the seven seas.”

Then her eyes opened, and she went about her day, with no recollection of the dream she just had, other than a feeling that she was loved.

~~~~~

Fathers and daughters never say goodbye

Fathers and daughters never say goodbye…

Aricka is 24 now, battle scarred and covered in burns. “μικρή μου γοργόνα,” a now familiar voice calls. Weary, Aricka turns to face her father, and tears fill her unique eyes as she runs across the Olympian throne room to collide with her father’s arms. “Oh, my daughter,” he says, and she finds herself comforted by how much he smelled like the ocean. “You fought so well. I’m so proud of you.” Aricka cried at those words, words she’d craved since she was 12. “Your brother fought so well, also. I must speak to him too.” She nods, sniffling as she steps back. He cradled her face in both his hands. “You are my pride and joy, as is your brother; and all my children are. The spirit of the sea is strong with you.”

“Father…” she breathes. “πατερούλης…” The word brings tears to Poseidon’s eyes; and he kisses her forehead gently.

“Go now. That boyfriend of yours is waiting for you.” With a smile and a pat to the shoulder, he sends his daughter off to her friends and loved ones, knowing that she would always return to his domain. As would her brother.

As would her children, one day.

(Little mermaid.)

(Daddy.)

~~~~~~~~~

When times are hard I know you'll be strong

I'll be there in your heart and you'll carry on

Like moonlight on the water, and sunlight in the sky

Fathers and daughters never say goodbye…

~~~~~~~~~~~~

@astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @yeehawselfshipping @letsgofoletsgo @tsundere-selfship @callsign-revenge

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

In another life…

(Modern!Aricka x Bill S Preston, Esquire)

(Thanks Dori (@yeehawselfshipping) for helping me with Bill’s dialogue-!)

It had been two weeks since Bill and Ted’s most excellent time traveling adventure. Ted was able to stay in school at San Dimas with Bill, but the latter was working through a most confusing issue- he missed his princess. Joanna had come to the future with Rufus to be with Ted, but their time traveling mentor had said that Bill’s future was in the present- whatever that meant. Currently; he was at the library, looking for a book to potentially lose himself in for a while. Maybe a new hobby would take his mind off of the most beautiful princess he’d ever seen.

“Beg your pardon, shining knight.. may I interest you in this one?” He was pulled from his thoughts by a voice to his left- and that was funny; did the voice call him a shining knight? Cause that’s what his princess had called him. “It’s about a knight traveling back in time to save his beloved princess when it turns out the girl of his was in the future with him all along. It’s called Once Upon a Time Traveler.”

"Whoa cool! That almost sounds like what happened to...." he looks up at the girl, "me..." He takes in her features, realizing, "No way... Aricka?"

The girl- Aricka- tilts her head questioningly. “Yeah? We’ve been in the same classes since kindergarten. I’m surprised you know my name. You’re Bill S Preston, Esquire right? And your friend is Ted Theodore Logan, and together you’re,”’and she does the air guitar motion, “Wyld Stallyns?”

Not only did she know his name, but she knew Ted, AND she knew that he was in a band-?! "Yeah! We are Wyld Stallyns! How did you know? We aren't even famous yet."

She giggles; and the sound was like a most perfect melody. “Just a guess. That and you sometimes sit by my lunch table- I can hear you talk about it. It sounds most splendid. Do you like medieval times too?” He nods, turning to fully face her, elaborating,

"Most definitely! Ever since Ted and I went there, it's become one of my favorite time periods."

Aricka tilts her head. “Went there-?”

He waffles for a minute, “The history book was so interesting if felt like we actually went there.”

Aricka stares at him for a moment, but then she says, “Once upon a time traveler is my favorite book currently… but I also really love grimm’s fairy tales.”

"Grimm's fairy tales?" he thinks for a second, "Oh yeah. I think my english teacher's mentioned those dudes before."

Aricka nods her head, “Yeah, Cinderella. Snow White. It’s where we get so many of our Disney movies.” Aricka blushed. “A bit childish but it’s a comfort.”

Bill nods, “That's cool. Disney movies can be most comforting." He was fond of “The Goofy Movie,” himself.

“Do you have a favorite book?” Aricka asks; and he then notices the stack of books she was carrying. She was a bookworm, then. He could dig that. Smart girls were cute.

"Uh, not really. But that time traveller book you mentioned seemed pretty neat." Her eyes lit up; and she hands him her copy, saying,

“Go ahead and take it, I’ve read it twice already.”

"Thanks, babe," he takes the book, his hands brushing hers slightly, "That is most generous of you." An electric shock went through his arm at her touch, and a feeling of warmth was left behind as he pulled the book closer to him.

Aricka felt a strange feeling of dejavu when he touched her hand, and she blushed at his compliment. “Just wanting to inspire a new reader,” she says softly. “Maybe it’s something Ted would like too? Give it to him when you’re done. I’m okay loaning my personal copy.”

“Your personal copy-? Oh babe, that’s way generous, and most kind of you. I totally insist on finding a way to repay the favor.”

She giggles, and he noticed that her face had a pink tinge now. She ducks her head, and looks back up; only a bit shyer now. “Maybe when Wyld Stallyns has their first gig, I could be in attendance?” He nods.

“Most definitely. Front row seat, babe. Also, I’ll walk you to your next class, if you want.”

“I want,” she agreed. “And maybe if you like, we could get together after school and we could read the book together?” Bill nods and holds the door to the library open as he says,

“Oh, babe. That sounds like a most excellent idea.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*time skip: two weeks after their first meeting*

“What did you think about the knight revealing his secret? I never see it coming.” It had been a few weeks since Aricka had first loaned Bill her copy of Once Upon a Time Traveler. Bill had been hooked from the first page, and he had only put it down to eat; sleep; or attempt to pay attention in class.

Paying attention was easier if Aricka and Ted and Dori were in the same classes with him; he discovered. They helped him focus better.

"It was a most excellent twist. I was hoping the dude was gonna tell the princess eventually." Aricka smiles; a wistful sigh escaping her.

“Brigham and Annalise are the cutest couple I’ve ever read about…” she sighs, her smile fading to a frown. He noticed, however, and nudged her arm.

"What is it?" She shrugs.

“Guess I always dreamed about finding my own Brigham. Someone who traveled through time itself to find me. Who risked returning to his own time to be with me.”

Bill thinks for a moment, making a decision to tell Aricka the truth, "Well... you're in luck, babe. Cause I'VE traveled through time!"

Aricka’s eyes snap up to him. “Wha- really?! What was it like? Did you- did you actually meet a princess? Was that the REAL ABRAHAM LINCOLN at your presentation-?!”

Her questions were expected, and he was ready to answer all of them, "It totally was the real Abe Lincoln, babe! And it just so happens that me and Ted did get a chance to meet some beautiful princesses. We tried to save them from getting married to these two royal ugly dudes, but we ended up almost getting beheaded. It was a most terrible turn in our adventure. But, luckily, our two historical friends rescued us and we were able to go and get more historical figures and finish our report."

“Wow… I bet they were the most beautiful girls..” Aricka said. Knowing she could never compare to a real princess. It also explained the sudden appearance of Joanna; the new girl in school. “Did they talk all romantic and pretty?”

"Oh, their speech was most regal. But, y'know...” he taps his knuckles against the table they were sitting at, “you remind me of one of the princesses I met. You look a lot like her, and you kind of act like her too. Maybe she's your ancestor or something!"

Aricka’s face went scarlet at those words, covering her mouth and looking at the book in front of her.

Bill wished he could erase her insecurities from her mind, she was too beautiful to doubt herself.

“I- there’s no way I’m related to a genuine princess. That would make me in some way royal. I’m just a book nerd who hides in the back of the class. I’m not- a time traveling knight like you, Bill.” Aricka’s words slow as she says the last phrase, dots beginning to connect in her mind-

A girl in the future

A time traveling boy

A princess who tells the knight to open his heart to another

“Wait a minute….” She gently wiggled the book away from Bill, flipping to the pages of pictures.

“Annalise and her beloved knight Brigham… Annalise has short brown and and eyes as blue as sapphires. Brigham with his sunshine curls and piercing eyes, looking like a golden cherub.” Aricka looks at Bill. “What did your princess look like?”

"Uh, she had short brown...hair. And..." Bill looks at Aricka, "And blue eyes...." a smiles creeps up on his face, "There's no way!"

“… And the girl who waits for Brigham in the “future…” Aricka flips a few pages. “Aurora. Short, brown hair, bright blue eyes. Quiet, hides in the back of the class so she doesn’t gain the attention of bullies… but has a deep love of reading.” She sits back, her whole world rocked on its axis. “No way….” Aricka stares at the book, the book that had given her so much solace as a lone high schooler. “… it’s me,” she whispered. “I’m Aurora. Aren’t I.”

"You most definitely are. So that makes me Brigham."

“Most certainly…” she whispered. Still staring a hole through the book. Bill itched to reach out and hold her hand, an urge he’d been trying to hide for a while. He’d been developing a bit of a crush on Aricka for a while now, but he’d also been putting together what Rufus had been implying-

Aricka- his future- was in the present with him right now. He was supposed to find her here. Not in the past.

“Well, my princess,” he says with a teasing grin. “This is a most triumphant discovery.”

“It is…” Aricka says, smiling shyly at him, and then they both notice that their hands are brushing each other’s. They look up, and Bill notices that once again, the pink tinge is back on Aricka’s cheeks-

And he slides his hand under hers, flipping it over to intertwine their fingers, squeezing gently.

He leans forward…. So does she… Bill closes his eyes… she does too-

And then Ted and Dori burst into the library. “DUDES-!” Ted exclaimed. “I just was reading the book Aricka was talking about- dude she’s your PRINCESS-!”

Both Aricka and Bill jolt back at the interruption, and now Aricka’s face wasn’t just pink, but full on scarlet again. Bill sighs and scrubs his face. “Shut UP, Ted,” he says.

“Um…”’Dori pulls her brother back toward the door. “I think we barged in at a most uncomfortable moment, Ted. Apologies Bill.”

No offense to Dori, but Bill didn’t even hear them, he was already kneeling in front of Aricka, making sure she wasn’t too embarrassed. “You okay, princess?” He asks. She nods.

“I- I’m sorry if- if that felt so rushed-,” she whispered.

“What- you mean this-?” And he leans forward to kiss her cheek. She tilts her head at him. “What?”

“You missed, my knight.” The nickname felt right, to both of them.

“Apologies, princess. That was most rude of me. How can I ever be forgiven?” She giggles, flooding his ears with music, and she says,

“Like this,” and leans down to kiss him, properly.

He smiles, right against her lips, and puts his hand on the back of her neck, pulling her closer. She ends up falling into his lap, both of them giggling in surprise.

When she leans back, he brushes her hair from her face. “A most happy ending, wouldn’t you agree?” Aricka brushed her hand through his curls.

“No Bill. It’s not an ending.” He tilts his head this time. “It’s just the beginning.”

~~~~~~~~~~

@yeehawselfshipping @letsgofoletsgo @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @callsign-revenge

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

Comfort in the hard times…

(Aricka Penbury x Steve Binder)

(After finding out Bobby Kennedy was assassinated, five months pregnant Aricka and her husband Steve find comfort and solace in each other.)

Aricka was shocked. Frozen. Hand over her stomach, the other cupping her mouth in horror. Steve was staring pensively, somberly at the television screen, open grief and tears in his eyes and on his face. She crossed the room, wading through the crowd in the dressing room; making her way to her husband, seeing Elvis with his fiancé - also named Aricka- huddled together, her on his lap rubbing soothing circles on his back while he had his face nuzzled again her shoulder.

It was good they had each other, just as she had Steve. And speaking of- she slid her hand slowly up Steve’s arm; across his shoulder, and leaned against him. He jolted at her touch, but quickly leaned into her as a source of strength. Her other arm slid around his waist and she squeezed. “We need to do something,” she murmured.

“I know,” he whispered back. “He needs to do something. The nation needs comfort.”

“He’s just a man, Steve. Seems like the Colonel has him on such a tight leash he can’t do nothing for nobody without express approval.” Steve clicks his tongue. Instead of replying to her, he turns to address the room at large, a heavy sigh slipping free,

“Listen, I ah, I just wanna say that- that this nation is hurting. It’s lost you know-? It needs a voice to help it heal.” He sighs, a pained laugh escaping him. “We have to say something.” Those blue eyes-bright with the sheen of tears and the weight of his emotions-darken, deepen, and he locks eyes with Elvis, “You, you have to make a statement, EP.”

Aricka nods, moving to take his hand, “He’s right.” She glances back at the Colonel, who was chewing his cigar hard enough to snap it in half. “The nation loves you, we wouldn’t ask you to do anything if we didn’t think it wouldn’t be received well.”

Aricka- Elvis’s girlfriend Aricka- smiles assuringly when the King of Rock and Roll looks at her. “They’re right. It’s about time someone else saw in you what I always have. Your voice is powerful- and I don’t just mean your singing voice.”

“Mr. Presley doesn’t make statements,” the Colonel finally objected, having gathered his jaw off the floor. “He sings “Here comes Santa Claus,” says Merry Christmas, and goodnight.” And to punctuate his words, he flicks the tv off.

“You might not make statements, Mr. Parker, but we do. We always have. And the decision is Elvis’, at the end of the day.” Aricka didn’t know where her bravery came from, but it was there.

Now all they could do was wait for Elvis to decide.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back in the control room, it was just Aricka and Steve. The man sank heavily into the nearest chair, grief heavy on his face, seeming to weigh him down physically. Aricka went to join him, kneeling before him, one hand on his arm, the other on his knee. “We’re alone, baby. I locked the door. Bones is downstairs helping set up for tomorrow.”

At those words, her husband of three years leaned forward, and collapsed in her arms. Tears stained her dress sleeve, but she couldn’t bring herself to care. Her own tears fell silently as she held space for Steve to feel his emotions. “I know…” she whispered. “Just let it all out. I’m here to hold you through this.”

They sat like that for what could’ve been hours but really was more than likely mere minutes, and Aricka continued to hold Steve even as he came back to himself, wiping his eyes and looking sheepish even though he knew Aricka would never judge him for his feelings. “I-,” he starts but she puts a finger to his lips,

“Hush, my love, you’ve held that in for a while now, haven’t you?” He nods, a bit abashed. “It’s okay to cry, you know I’m a firm believer in that. I’m five months pregnant, I cry when my food isn’t brought to me quickly enough, does that make me weak?”

“No-!” He protests. “You’re carrying my child, you have every right to- oh.” He blushes. “Yeah.” He leans forward again, kisses her forehead. “You always know just what to say when I’m like this. How?”

She smiles, leans forward to properly kiss him. “Because you’re my Steve and I love you.”

His hand makes its way to her stomach, gently rubbing the spot where their child was growing. “I hope they get their momma’s compassion and love,” he says.

“And I hope they get their daddy’s deep feelings and sarcastic streak, ” she whispered.

Steve’s forehead rests against hers, and they both allow themselves the opportunity to close their eyes and soak in the warmth of each other’s presence. “I love you.”

“I love you too,” she whispered back. The man stands, and pulls her to her feet, before wrapping his arms tightly but carefully around her, encasing her in a famous Steve Binder hug. She sighs happily and hugs him back, as tightly as her pregnant belly would let her hold him to her, rubbing his back and nuzzling his shoulder.

“We should wrap this up and head home- I want to show my wife how much I appreciate her constant support and love.” She giggles, but then the piano catches their attention.

A sad, slow version of, “Here Comes Santa Claus,” plays, and Aricka shares a Look with her husband.

He walks over and hits the switch allowing him to communicate with the stage from the box, “We’re pretty set for the number tomorrow, right, E.P.? It’s pretty familiar territory…”

Elvis looks up at them, as Bones comes in the room to grab his jacket. “A reverend once told me… “When things are too dangerous to say…Sing.””

Aricka, Steve and Bones exchange a Look, a smile blooming on Aricka’s face as sweet as a blossom after rain.

“Let’s get to work, then,” Steve says, and then proceeds to help Elvis create his statement.

——————-

Italicized script is taken from the movie script.

—————-

@astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @yeehawselfshipping @tsundere-selfship @callsign-revenge

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

Aricka and Bobby reunited

(Aricka and Bobby/Trevor Wilson)

(After they play the Orpheum and Carrie saves Aricka, the Shaw twins are properly reunited.)

*Aricka S*

Phantom pain sensations ripple through Aricka’s middle as she looks up at her brother- her BROTHER- who had apparently ran from the Orpheum all the way to this studio- their studio, their home- on the off chance of seeing her one last time.

Carrie had got there seconds before her dad, throwing her arms around Aricka’s dying form and pleaded with her to stay, declaring that she loved Aricka even though they barely had any time to talk, and it was enough to save her. Aricka had glowed just as her band mates had, and the purple stamp of the HGC floated away just as Trevor had ran in.

Aricka remained on the floor, Carrie’s arms around her waist, as the rockstar knelt in front of his still 18 year old twin sister. “… Aricka?” He whispered.

Hot, salty tears filled Aricka’s eyes as she nods and bites her lip, holding up her left wrist to show off the red beaded bracelet she never took off, not for a moment. “Hi Buggy,” she whispered back.

The old nickname was enough for Trevor- for Bobby- to break down crying, and Aricka surged forward to hug him, wrapping her arms around her brother’s neck and running a hand through his hair like she had when they were littler.

“You died… you died before I could even say goodbye- I’m so sorry. I never forgot about you… I just- it hurt so much to talk about you… you were my twin and I lost a half of me when you died…” words came choked out through sobs and Aricka merely clung to her now-big brother.

“Shh… I’m here. I’m back and I think I’m human again. And I don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon,” she soothes. “I’m back Buggy. I’m back…” she looks at Luke over Bobby’s shoulder, and sees the mixed look of anger, hurt and relief on his face. The lead singer and guitarist of Sunset Curve, now backup vocalist and lead guitarist of Julie and the Phantoms, walks over to them.

“Hi Trevor,” he says. The name caught Trevor’s attention and he looks up.

“Luke…” he breaths. “It’s actually- you’re not- I’m not dreaming-!?”

Luke stiffly shakes his head no, and shies away when Bobby tried to grab his hand. “No, it’s not a dream. I- I’m not-,” and then he strides away, but not before giving Aricka a “I’m not upset at you,” look.

Trevor sighs. “I have some explanations for you all. Please sit?” The phantoms; Julie and Carrie all claim a seat, save Luke who was glaring out the garage window. Aricka clings to her brother, who was reciprocating, and Carrie was leaning against her aunt and dad. “… I want to start by asking- how did this happen-? And why just now?”

They give Bobby the cliff notes version of their coming back, which had both himself and Carrie wide eyed and terrified by the end. Carrie latched onto Aricka in a shocking display of public affection. “We almost lost you twice and never would’ve known-,” she whispered. Aricka gripped Carrie’s hand tightly.

“I’m right here, Care-Bear. You’re gonna be stuck with me for a while- if you want that.”

“Okay that’s great and all, love the family reunion, but it doesn’t explain why you stole our music.” Alex was glaring at Trevor, his own twin echoing his look.

Bobby sighed. “It’s not what it sounds like… after you guys died I was a wreck- it took me six months to leave the house- and took eight months for me to want to sing again. I started recording the songs as a tribute for you all- not as a way to steal your music. You guys were my brothers and sisters and you suddenly died and I had to remember you- had to memorialize you somehow. But then I signed a bad contract and they said I couldn’t mention you guys or the fact that I was using your music ever again. I played along and bided by time until I had enough fame to break away from that recording studio. And all the royalties from that album go to charities I know you all would appreciate- Alex’s is to a LGBT+ group that advocates for teens in that community in foster care. Reggie’s is an animal shelter. Luke, yours goes to a music group that teaches teens in poverty how to make music. Sis, I found a musical theater that needed funds so I pour money into their campaign. And Aricka M, I found a dance studio that also teaches the importance of music and art for life lessons.”

The declaration got the young adults on the couch crying. Aricka M finally stood and threw herself in Bobby’s arms. Bobby welcomed the hug, squeezing her tightly and apologizing softly. “Baz…” she whispered, and he hugged her tighter.

“Ari,” he replied. “I never forgot about any of you. In fact- Care, why don’t you tell them your middle name?”

Carrie smiles softly, wetly. “My name is Carolyn Aricka Wilson.”

Everyone looks at Aricka Shaw, whose eyes widened and more tears fell as she embraced her niece once again. “You have my name-,” she whispered.

“Daddy never let me forget about the aunt I never knew,” she says. “That’s why I saw you. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you until you told me.”

Aricka stroked Carrie’s pink hair and the girl curls into her aunt. “I’ll never be upset at you for that, Care. I knew one day Bobby would be a great dad. And look at you- you’re strong and beautiful and so talented. I’m so proud of both of you.”

That was the tipping point for Carrie, and tears fell down the girl’s face. “I-I’m not brave…. I ran away from my best friends,” she says. Aricka looks at Julie; who inches closer to her former friend.

“Carrie… we never talked about why we stopped being friends,” she says. Julie and Carrie walked away to give the phantoms and Trevor some privacy to finish their conversation.

Reggie was the next one to walk over to the two Arickas’ and Trevor. “… You recorded My Name is Luke and Crooked Teeth- as tributes?”

Trevor nods. “You never had a chance to professionally record them. I just- had to do something. The world deserved to hear your songs.”

Alex walked over. “Our brothers- mine and Aricka’s- are they-?”

“Sean is a lawyer and Damien is a foster parent and owns a bar not far from the Orpheum,” Trevor says. “They created the Mercer Scholarship for kids who are musically inclined and want to pursue a music education in college.”

Finally Luke returned to Aricka S’s side. “… so you didn’t just steal our music for the money?”

Trevor gapes and protests, “NO-! It was never about the money for me. It was always about making sure you guys had the chance to be heard. I just wanted to keep you guys alive somehow- even if you weren’t physically there.”

That was all the boys needed to hear before crushing Bobby in a hug- Aricka M and Aricka S joining them. The same yellow glow that they felt when Julie hugged them filled them again and Aricka S sighed in relief.

She had her band back.

She had her brother back.

And she had Carrie back.

Maybe this second chance would give her an opportunity to be the aunt she never got to be.

And maybe, she thought, Reggie and I can finally open that music therapy camp we always wanted to.

~~~~~~~

@astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @yeehawselfshipping @letsgofoletsgo @callsign-revenge @tsundere-selfship

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

The Bradshaw bunch

(Gif order: Maisie, Sienna, Miles, Rhys (Reece), Caroline/Carole, and Nicholas)

Aricka and Bradley had only intended on having two children. Maisie and Sienna.

They didn’t expect having three sets of twins, two girls, two boys and a pair of each.

But they wouldn’t trade their little family for anything in the world. Their very own little Bradshaw bunch.

~~~~~~~

Maisie Nicole and Sienna Teegan. Born on a hot summer afternoon in 2009, several years after their parents were married, these two were thick as thieves but also different as day and night.

Maisie-or Maisie-Moo or MayMay- was laid back, quiet like her dad tended to be. She preferred reading books to skateboarding and she loved sitting with her dad at the piano learning to play. The first song she was able to play after learning basic lullabies was “Baby Mine,” from Disney’s Dumbo. She had a laugh as captivating as her Gran’pa Nick and a perfectionist streak she inherited from her uncle Tom. She seems to be an innocent child but don’t let your guard down if she’s with her twin- if left alone these two could definitely take over the world. Like her parents: Maisie seemed to be born with the need to fly, and as soon as she turned 18 she was asking how to apply to become a naval aviator just like her parents.

Sienna, on the other hand, was the wild child. Rambunctious like her own mother as a child, Sienna- or CiCi to her family-always climbing trees and skateboarding around before she turned eight, constantly skinning her knees or elbows and would inevitably be the first to land in the ER with a broken bone. She had a mischievous streak that rivaled her Papa Mav’s, but a heart of gold like her parents. She was as fiery and fierce as her mane of red hair, a recessive gene from her mom’s side of the family, and loyal to anyone she called family or friend. Just like her twin Sienna was born to fly, and coincidentally; the twins were assigned to each other as a pilot-RIO duo, just like their mom and uncle Jemmy. (Jeremy)

Then came the twin boys- Miles and Rhys, pronounced Reece. Born one of of the coldest nights in 2012. M&M and Reece’s, to their family, these two were chaos in human form, only reined in by their favorite person in the world- their mother.

Miles, aka Mylo, was the take-charge boy. He wasn’t introverted or extroverted, but rather he was a mix of the two. He could be a social butterfly for hours at a time and then all of a sudden he would vanish into the quiet of whatever space he could find. He took to coding and computers like a fish to water, and made the middle school robotics team his sixth grade year. He was extremely gifted in the science department, which was good and also bad because then him and his brother took that ability and made things explode.

Rhys- aka Rhysie-Bear- was the crowd following, people pleasing child. He was always trailing after his mother; watching her care for the other children and learning how to make people feel better with just a few words and a smile. He loved art, especially painting, and flourished in that department with the right amount of teaching and the proper tools. But left alone with his brother, Rhys could be quiet the ornery little boy, and would become a very loud and hyper child.

For several years they were a family of six, existing in a happy bubble of domestic bliss and crazy school escapades.

And then the surprise babies were born, on a beautiful spring morning in 2015.

Aricka and Bradley knew what they were going to name these two long before they were even a thought; having decided it not long after they had given birth to their first four rugrats.

Caroline Lily- their sweet little Carrie-bug- was born first. She was a bright eyed; curious little thing from the moment she opened her eyes: constantly looking around and exploring everything she could touch or see. She took after Bradley with light blonde hair that darkened gradually as she got older, and by the time she was 12 her hair was a gorgeous shade of copper-brown. Caroline was named after Bradley’s mom, who promptly burst into tears when she found out her surprise grand-baby’s name. Bradley could often be found humming, “Sweet Caroline,” to his newest baby often even after she was past the toddler stage, and it would end up being the song they would dance to when Caroline someday got married. Carrie loved swimming: and she loved any type of marine life, so she pursued marine biology as soon as she was old enough.

Nicholas James- Nicky- was the quietest, best baby of the Bradshaw bunch. He stuck to every schedule, hit every milestone right on time, and was way ahead of his peers in his grade. He inherited his dad’s unruly curls and-as he got older- his dad’s performance streak. He loved being onstage, felt called to the stage the moment he first auditioned to be Charlie Bucket in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” He worked tirelessly all through high school and applied to various acting colleges, and once he turned 18, he got several acceptances, including one from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, aka AMDA.

But that’s jumping just a bit too far into their story, isn’t it?

When they couldn’t be with their parents, the six Bradshaw kiddos- the Bradshaw bunch- would spend their time split between their grandparents and their great-aunt Ricki and uncle Tom’s houses.

The kids had several older cousins- by blood or by choice- who they adored and looked forward to seeing every chance they got. Like their cousins Lydia, Brynlee, Miriam and Casper, their uncle Jemmy’s kids.

And once the Dagger Squad had been made an official unit, they gained even more family. Because at the end of the day, family was the lord important thing.

~~~~~~~~

@astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @letsgofoletsgo @yeehawselfshipping @tsundere-selfship @callsign-revenge

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

DWTS AU night four: Latin night!

(Eventual Aricka x Bradley)

( @astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @yeehawselfshipping @letsgofoletsgo @tsundere-selfship @callsign-revenge )

“Our next duo was in the bottom four last week, but thanks to your votes they get to keep dancing and making us fall in love with their relationship. Watch Aricka and Bradley learn from their mistakes and work together to create a

~~~~ rehearsal package ~~~~~

The video shows Aricka and Bradley hugging for a solid minute before letting go, but they keep hold of each other’s hands. “Last week was rough for both of us,” Aricka was saying softly, “but we got through it and we’re still here, still dancing.”

“I don’t ever wanna be that low on the scoreboard again, that felt nerve wracking,” Bradley says, rubbing his thumb across the back of Aricka’s hand. “We need to make a solid comeback, huh.”

“Yeah, and I have just the thing. It’s Latin Night; and we got the cha cha cha to “Havana”!” Aricka tugs Bradley over to where her phone was to show him the ideas she had, and they got to work.

~~~~~~~ interview ~~~~~~~~~

“Bradley and I have worked together really hard on this dance because it’s our redemption in a way; and we really want this to go perfectly, without a hitch,” Aricka says; and the camera didn’t miss the way her eyes lit up when she said Bradley’s name.

“Aricka has done everything she can to bolster my confidence and I want to do my best to encourage her just the way she has me,” Bradley says, twisting a plastic rose around in his hand. “She’s a special girl and deserves the best partner she can get.”

~~~~~~~ rehearsal ~~~~~~~~

“Push away with your hips, don’t stick your bottom out though- pull them back close and- yes! You got it-!” Aricka says as she slides her hands down his front, where he grabs one of hers and spins her twice before pulling her into frame, both rapidly spinning before he dips her, and she rotated in a circle as he holds her steady. “Yes!” She let him pull her up and hugs him tightly. “We are going to crush this dance.” The camera definitely didn’t miss how Bradley smiled down at her and says,

“With you at my side, how can we not?”

~~~~~~~ dance ~~~~~~~~~

“Dancing the cha cha cha, with his partner Aricka Mitchell, it’s Bradley Bradshaw!”

Aricka stands on the steps, one hip jutted out with a hand resting on it, the other snapping in time to the beat as the song begins, before she slid her hand up her body and into Bradley’s as he appeared behind her. He spins her around before they floated down the stairs, and he kissed her hand as they move into frame, offering her the rose, before replicating the move from the rehearsal package without a single mishap.

Bradley beams as he spins her away from him, and they stand side to side, him sliding forward on his knees as she pirouettes up beside him; Bradley sliding a hand up her leg as he stands, one arm around her waist grabbing her right hand as he twirls her twice with one hand, both seeming to innocently “grind” against each other as they move back into frame, before Aricka ends up behind Bradley, the pair shimmiying as they snap their fingers to the beat. Bradley letting go with his free hand as she slides under him again like the week previous, before she hooks her legs around one of his.

As it reaches the, “Oh, but my heart is in Havana

My heart is in Havana (ayy)

Havana, ooh-na-na…” part of their dance, Bradley swings her around and stands proudly as Aricka grips his hand with both of hers and stares at the ceiling as she hangs onto him for the remainder of the song.

~~~~~~ judges comments and scores ~~~~~

Carrie-Anne: “flawless technique and insane chemistry as always! Work on connecting to the music and following through with the movement but all very fixable.” Score of 8.

Bruno: “Oh it was a SPICY cha cha cha, I feel faint all of a sudden! When you both settled into the music it was obvious to see that you enjoy dancing together, so Bradley darling work on connecting to the music and you’ll be fantastic.” Score of 8.

Derek: “The dynamic duo is BACK! I’m so proud that you guys took our comments to heart and worked so hard to improve everything from last week. Aricka I can tell adding Bradley’s input to the dance has helped your confidence so much, and Bradley I can see how comfortable you are when Aricka is around. Keep up the good work.” Score of 9.

Pete Mitchell: “Echoing Derek, I’m very proud that you two didn’t get discouraged too much by last weeks scores but used that disappointment to work even harder to make tonight better. It definitely paid off and I have no other comment.” Score of 9.

Total score: 34/40

~~~~~~

^^^ inspiration for their dance moves

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

******DWTS AU cast members*******

Hosts: Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro

Judges: Carrie Anne Inaba Derek Hough Pete Mitchell and Bruno Tonioli

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pros and celebrities

Aricka Mitchell and Bradley Bradshaw

Rylee Arnold and Mickey Garcia

Val Chmerkovskiy and Natasha Trace

Emma Slater and Reuben Fitch

Sharna Burgess and Javy Machado

Sasha Farber and Callie Bassett

Witney Carson and Bob Floyd

Koko Iwasaki and Jake Seresin

Jenna Johnson and Brigham Lennox

Daniella Karagach and Billy Avalone

Peta Murgatroyd and Logan Lee

Brit Stewart and Neil Vikander

[arickaandherfictionalothers]

TopGun AND TopGun: Maverick OC 1 of 2

Name:

Full name: Aricka Leanne Blackwood-Mitchell

Reason: she’s named after her aunt, Aricka “Ricki” Mitchell, her dad’s twin sister

Nicknames: Little A, MiniMav, Princess, Li’l Bug, Shortie, Little-Legs, Munchkin, Icicle, Sweetheart, Darlin’, Sissy, Twin

Date of birth(changing her and Bradley’s birth years): May 18th, 1980

Face claims:

Ages 4-7: Mia Talerico

Ages 7-10: Michelle Tanner

Ages 10-19: Bailee Madison

Ages 19+: Maia Mitchell

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Physical Appearance/Characteristics

Eye color: Blue-Green

Hair color: blonde until she’s seven, then it darkens to a deep shade of brown, when she’s ten she fully dyes it to match her dad.

Height: 5’4”

Weight: 170”

Build: athletic; thin but muscular

Notable features: her constantly-red cheeks, the Mickey Mouse birthmark on her left bicep, she has lightning bolt birthmarks on her legs and thighs, she has naturally long eyelashes, and she has a strand of hair that won’t dye brown; it’s permanently blonde.

Jewelry/accessories: her ears are pierced, and she has a couple tattoos on her back.

Dominant hand: she’s left handed but in a pinch can use her right hand.

Are they healthy?: yes. She’s in the navy so she’s usually healthy. Sometimes when she’s on leave she eats more than a little unhealthy foods but she makes up for it with all the exercise she does.

Any allergies: pollen, any type of fish, soybeans, coconut and mustard.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Background

Hometown: Miramar in San Diego, California (for this AU it’s gonna stay in San Diego and Aricka lives there even when her dad is deployed

Education: high school diploma, bachelor of aviation, associates in music therapy

First memory: meeting her dad when she’s four years old. She was in a big scary place for the first time and her mama wouldn’t hold her but she was holding Remy (Jeremy), and why were they even in the big, loud scary airport to begin?

And then she sees a man with her eyes and smile looking back at her and she suddenly feels like everything is okay. She finds out that the man is her daddy, and wow, isn’t that AWESOME, her daddy wears a cool black jacket and still carried a pink teddy bear around with him until he found her. She stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him as far as she could reach and he pulled her close to him, and Aricka remembers feeling safer than she’d ever felt.

Worst memory: when her aunt Carole and uncle Ice were both diagnosed with cancer almost two months apart. It was a scary time in her family’s lives, and things got jumbled around, including how Aricka and Bradley were cared for, but neither kid felt like they were being ignored or left behind, cause they always had each other when the adults were busy.

Both her aunt Carole and uncle Ice were in remission nearly a year after their initial diagnoses, but that time in which they fought it was the worst memory Aricka has ever experienced.

Best memory (as a child) : when Aricka was seven years old, her dad and her unofficial yet official stepmom/true mom Penny took her to the pet store; and she got to pick out her very own puppy. She was wandering the aisles; listening to all the barking and yapping and sticking her fingers carefully through the fencing to let several puppies sniff her fingers, but she didn’t find the puppy she wanted until the very last cage, when she found a scared, grey, shy Great Dane puppy hiding in the corner of the area. She begged the owner to let her in to try and earn the pup’s trust, and with some time, love and patience, the pup eventually rested its head in her lap, Aricka talking softly to him and promising to be its friend. “Don’t worry Scooby,” she said, “we were alone before but now we have family and each other. That’s all we need.”

(A/N: Scooby-Doo premiered in 1969, so it would make total sense for Aricka to name her puppy after him if she’d watched the show.)

Best memory (as an adult): when Bradley asked her to marry him. Story to be revealed later on :).

Most important childhood event: when Aricka was eight years old, her dad was promoted to the rank of captain, and she got to play a role in his ceremony. She, along with Bradley, got the big honor of pinning the captain insignia on her and Bradley’s dads’ uniforms Her hands only shook a little bit, but she got the pin on the first time she tried, and then her and Bradley sat together and held hands quietly the rest of the ceremony. As soon as it was over, both kids were running to their dads to congratulate them; and Pete spun his daughter around and kissed her temple as she told him how proud she was of him.

Most influenced by: her dad, her uncle Nick, her aunt Ricki, her uncle Blake, her mom Penny, her best friends: Bradley, Jake and Bob, and her uncle Ice.

Role models: her mom Penny; her aunt Ricki, her aunt Carole; her future best friends: Natasha and Callie, Brooke Shields, Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, Lea Solonga, Jodie Benson, Howard Ashman, Alan Menken, Olivia Newton-John, and Dolly Parton.

Who does she live with and why: She lives with her dad- and eventually her twin brother, stepmom and two half siblings- because her mom in part wanted her dad to be able to raise one of his children and in part because she didn’t want a daughter.

Where does she want to live and why: she wants to live in Anaheim so she can go to Disneyland whenever she wants to- even as an adult.

Type of childhood: she never went without love, she was spoiled in the best way possible. Her aunts and uncles loved her deeply because for a little while her and Bradley were the only two babies in the cobbled together “‘86 Squad Family,” as they dubbed themselves. Both of them were treated like royalty but they also were taught the importance of the word No and learning when enough was enough. Her dad tried to give her everything she wanted to make up for the neglect she faced in the first four years of her life. But she had all she needed with her dad, her best friend, and her aunts and uncles and cousins.

~~~~~~~~~

Immediate /Birth Family

Dad and best friend: Pete Mitchell:

Biological mom: Charlie Blackwood

True mom: Penny Mitchell-Benjamin

Siblings:

Jeremy “Remy” Blackwood

Amelia Benjamin

Nova Mitchell

JJ Mitchell

~~~~~~~

Extended Family:

Adoptive grandfathers: Mike Metcalf and Rick Heatherly

Adoptive grandmothers: Melissa Metcalf (OC) and Sharon Heatherly (OC)

Aunts: Ricki Mitchell-Kazansky, Carole Bradshaw, Sarah Kazansky-Davis (in my canon Sarah is Tom’s younger twin sister)

Uncles: Tom Kazansky, Nick Bradshaw, Blake Davis, Ron Kerner, Rick Neven, Leonard Wolfe, Marcus Williams, Charles Piper, Bill Cortell, Sam Wells

Godparents: Nick and Carole Bradshaw

Cousins: Aurora, Piper, Davey, Carter (Davis), Jasper (Davis)

Pets: Scooby Doo and Marley; a Great Dane and a boxer respectively

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Non Familial Relationships:

Best friend and future boyfriend/husband: Bradley Bradshaw (or others depending on the AU but Bradley is my main f/o for TopGun: Maverick)

Best friends: her twin brother Jeremy, Jake Seresin; Bob Floyd; Javy Machado, Natasha Trace, Callie Bassett, Neil Vikander, Mickey Garcia, and Logan Lee

Friends: Reuben Fitch, Billy Avalone, Brigham Lennox, Jasper Davis, Carter Davis

~~~~~~~~~

Time line coming next !!!

@astralshipper @rosieshipper @hyperionshipping @sappy-secrets @callsign-revenge @yeehawselfshipping @letsgofoletsgo @tsundere-selfship