#DIY tech project
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tinyshe · 7 months ago
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Discover the revolutionary world of #Meshtastic, the new tech sensation that's changing the way we communicate off the grid. Move over, Flipper Zero, and welcome to a decentralized communication network that's open-source, free from big brother's watchful eye, and powered by tiny, affordable, and low-powered ESP32 microcontrollers. In this comprehensive video, we dive into everything Meshtastic can do - from encrypted messages over long-range LoRa technology to its applications in rural, mobile, or grid-down scenarios. Learn about the essentials, including how to set up your device, avoid common pitfalls, and even how to extend its range dramatically with a simple antenna upgrade. This video is your guide to understanding how Meshtastic provides a confidential and secure way to communicate, perfect for avoiding wiretapping by telecom giants. Whether you're preparing for a festival, planning a remote adventure, or needing a reliable communication tool for NGO work in areas without cell infrastructure, Meshtastic has you covered. We'll show you what's inside the LoRa 32 box, suggest upgrades for better performance, and take you through the steps to get your device up and running with the latest firmware directly from your browser. Experience an epic range test as we equip a drone with Meshtastic technology, demonstrating the true capabilities of these devices. From setting up the hardware, including choosing the right battery and case, to flashing the Meshtastic firmware and exploring practical use cases, this video is packed with valuable insights. Meshtastic is not just a gadget; it's a versatile tool for secure, encrypted, text-based communication, ideal for skiing, paragliding, camping, and more. Don't miss out on the future of communication. Dive into the Meshtastic world with us, understand its vast potentials, and see if it's the right tech for your next adventure or project. Subscribe for more in-depth tech reviews and tutorials, and join us as we explore cutting-edge technologies that empower you to communicate on your terms.
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scipunk · 3 months ago
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Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
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adafruit · 2 months ago
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Sunken USB Type C breakout 🔌🛠️🧩
Folks love our standard USB Type C breakout (https://www.adafruit.com/search?q=usb+type+c+breakout) - and we recently got a request to carry a 'sunken' Type C breakout - what's that mean? It looks like this! instead of sitting above the PCB the connector sits in the midline for a svelte look. this connector got our pick because it has four burly THM tabs to keep the connector from cracking at the contact pads.
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dumbgirlgamedev · 1 year ago
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So I've been busy...
It took about 2 and a half hours and was nerve wracking for every step but I modded my iPod classic and turned it into a very personal and special super nugget. It has 128gb of flash storage on it and it is so much lighter and faster than it was. I absolutely adore it and I am so happy with it! Take a look!
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I do want to give special thanks to the following amazing people, without them this project wouldn't have happened:
IFixIt for the tools and the guide; their resources for replacing the iPod's click wheel was invaluable:
Elite Obsolete Electronics for the parts, this project would have been 100 times harder without them, check them out if you need replacement iPod parts:
DankPods for starting this whole project, his content got me into proper music listening and physically owning music again and his passion made me want to get into this hobby in the first place. Plus his guide on repairing old iPods were a major help! Please check out his channel if you're interested in music, headphones, and weird audio players:
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biggestdev · 1 year ago
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Converting a battery backup to Lithium because I hate myself
I've got a whole bunch of battery backups in my home, one on each computer, and a big one in my server rack in the basement. I've also got a few out "in the wild" at some of my family's places. They're great, where I live in the northeast US, the power grid is stable enough that most outages are only minutes long, and these backups (technically called a UPS - Uninterrupted Power Supply) do a great job keeping computers running through them.
My issue is the batteries. They all run on lead acid batteries, aka the same kind that's in your car, and they dont last long in this kind of environment, I'm lucky if I get 3 years out of one. On top of that, their battery life detection is terrible, It's about a 50/50 shot whether I get a warning about a dead battery pack before the next power outage takes it down without warning. Keeping track of that with just one or two is annoying, let alone 10 of them!
Lithium UPS's exist, and theoretically last many years longer, but they are many times more expensive than a normal backup. I'd like to not spend new-car money replacing a dozen UPS units, so I did some math instead.
I have a husk of a ups (no battery), and I tested it out: the open circuit voltage on the battery cable is 27.6 volts, which just happens to be almost the exact voltage needed to float charge a series of 8 Lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePo4) batteries!
Why is that exciting? Usually when you think of lithium batteries, you think of lithium-ion (also can be called lithium-polymer) batteries. These are the batteries in your laptop and phone... And also Tesla cars. They hold more energy than a LiFePo4 battery, but are very sensitive to temperature, over and under-voltage, over-charging, and over-current conditions. Abuse them too hard, and they swell up and pop! That's why Teslas seem to catch fire more often than other cars: most other companies gave up range for a battery chemistry that isn't a ticking time bomb, like LiFePo4.
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These LiFePo4 batteries can take a beating compared to Li-ion ones. Most importantly, they can be "float" charged, that is, left on the charger 24/7, without worrying about overcharging it and blowing caustic smoke everywhere. This is critical, because I'm attempting a direct drop-in swap for the old lead battery in this UPS, because float charging a lead battery is basically a requirement, and doing that to a Li-ion battery is asking for a fire!
Using a Li-ion pack would require a custom charging circuit, as the UPS's 27.6V is not correct for any configuration of Li-ion, and would either under charge the pack, losing me 50% of my capacity, or overcharge it, and make it explode. It would also have to stop the batteries from being float charged, again to keep the battery from exploding, while fooling the UPS into thinking a battery is still attached so it doesn't beep at me all the time, and my head is spinning just thinking about how that would work. Much easier to give up capacity for a simpler, and more robust battery.
This UPS can deliver 900 watts of power on battery, that equates to roughly 30 amps of current from the 27.6V battery pack. Adding a safety factor, I bought a BMS (Battery Management System) rated to 50 amps. A BMS is essential, as it offers extra protection against short circuits, over and under-charging and temperature cutoff. Also cell balancing, which keeps all the cells at the same level of charge during use (if they go out of sync-that's bad, is all I'll say for now). The batteries are rated for 120 amps continuous draw, so I am well under the limit where the cells would self-immolate.
With all that said, here's the guts:
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Looking close, you might see that I had to cut some plastic out to make it all fit. That's an error on my part-I didn't measure right. If I make more, I'll definately be using a smaller cell, so it will be a proper "drop in" mod. Lots of drilling, cutting, and filing to make this all fit!
It took several hours to link up the cells, terminate the balancing wires (the small red spindly ones), and and stuff them in the battery box. That's a LOT longer than I was hoping it would take, but the on-the fly mods took a lot of time. but eventually, it all fit in, and I was able to test it:
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It works! I unplugged it from the wall, and it stayed on! For now, I am in full helicopter parent mode, since I don't want to deal with a lithium fire, even though my math checks out and the UPS should never get the the point that these cells are ever "abused". I only leave it on when I'm in the room, and when I leave, I unplug from the wall, and remove the red lead from the battery, so no charge enters or leaves while I'm not there to watch it.
In theory, the only issue with this retrofit will be a useless runtime meter. The "minutes of runtime" meter is measuring the voltage of the battery as it discharges to estimate how much longer it will last, and the voltage drop over time is different for lithium and lead, so the meter won't be measuring accurately. Once I'm confident it won't explode randomly, I will likely install it permanently somewhere in one of my compters.
Wish me luck!
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mascaraandmojitos · 2 months ago
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Source: http://neckkiss.tumblr.com
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julianxxl · 3 months ago
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yesss almost!!!
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My rocket engine😁
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ocpl-tech-blog · 4 months ago
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Thinking of a single-page website? 🤔 Consider these drawbacks before making your decision! From SEO challenges to slower load times, here's what you need to know.
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xoxoendlessvibes · 4 months ago
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SHOP STORE
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beingsanket · 11 months ago
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amethystarachnid · 11 days ago
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Can you write a second part of Sky Rockets and Robots with Tony and Reader getting married, Tony adopting Lily as his own daughter and our beautiful couple welcoming a new baby? 💛💛💛
SKY ROCKETS AND ROBOTS - part II
⤷ ANTHONY “TONY” E. STARK
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ᯓ★ Pairing: Anthony “Tony” E. Stark x fem!reader
ᯓ★ Genre: romance, fluff, some angst, a little bit of spicy
ᯓ★ part 1
ᯓ★ Story type: short fanfic
ᯓ★ Word count: 7k
ᯓ★ Summary: Just when you thought that your life with Tony couldn't get better he proposes! How will you life with him be?
ᯓ★ TW(s): pregnancy,
ᯓ★ Comment if you want to be added to the taglist (specify if you want the everything taglist or for a specific character)
ᯓ★ My Masterlist
ᯓ★ MARVEL Multiverse - choose an AU, pair it with your favorite character and make a request!
ᯓ★ Songs & Superheroes tales - The Game (to make a request, follow the rules on the link!)
ᯓ★ MARVEL Bingo (requests open)
ᯓ★ English isn’t my first language
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One crisp autumn afternoon, you're busy in the kitchen, listening to the soft hum of the city outside, while Lily is sitting at the table with her latest science project: a DIY volcano, complete with baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring. Tony’s somewhere in the penthouse, tinkering in the lab or wrapping up a call. This is your routine now—a life filled with laughter, tinkering, and little family moments that feel so natural it’s hard to remember a time when it wasn’t like this.
You watch Lily, trying to focus on measuring the baking soda without spilling it everywhere, her tongue poking out in concentration. She glances at you, her eyes sparkling with the excitement of a secret only she knows. It’s been like this all week—your daughter keeps sending you these knowing looks, barely able to contain whatever she’s hiding. She’s never been one for secrets, so it’s impressive that she’s kept it in this long.
“Mommy, can I add the vinegar now?” she asks, her voice just a little higher than usual, like she's bursting to say something else.
“Go for it, kiddo. Just a little bit at first, okay?” you reply, smiling at her enthusiasm. But before you can finish your sentence, Lily dumps the entire cup of vinegar in. The mixture foams up instantly, spilling over the sides of the bottle and flooding the tray in an eruption of bright red froth. Lily squeals in delight, clapping her hands, and you can't help but laugh with her.
Tony appears in the doorway, a curious smile on his face as he leans against the frame, arms crossed. “What’s going on here? More science experiments?” He winks at you, then focuses on Lily, who beams up at him, clearly holding in that same mysterious excitement.
“It was a big one!” Lily says proudly, pointing at the volcano. Tony steps forward, giving her an impressed nod and a fist bump that makes her giggle.
He straightens up, then gives you that look—the one that says he’s about to say something mischievous. “So, I’ve got a surprise for the two of you,” he says, his tone casual but his eyes bright with something more. “I thought it might be time for a family day out.”
You raise an eyebrow, intrigued. “A family day?”
“Yeah,” he replies, sounding perfectly innocent. “Just the three of us. I booked a place upstate. Thought we could get some fresh air, do something different.”
You give him a skeptical look, but Lily's practically bouncing in her seat, a bundle of barely contained excitement. “Yes, please! Can we go, Mommy?”
The enthusiasm in her voice is infectious. “Alright, alright,” you say, trying not to laugh at her obvious joy. “But Tony,” you add, giving him a look, “no suits, no AI, no tech distractions.”
He raises his hands, giving you a look of feigned innocence. “You have my word. Just a simple day with the two of you.”
That’s how you find yourself driving out of the city early the next morning, Tony at the wheel and Lily chattering happily in the backseat, her eyes glued to the landscape speeding by. It’s strange seeing him like this—just a man taking his family for a weekend getaway. It’s all so normal, yet it fills you with a warmth that’s hard to put into words.
You reach the cabin as the sun is high in the sky, casting golden light over the rustic wooden lodge nestled at the edge of a lake. The leaves are in full autumn splendor, a mix of fiery reds, deep oranges, and vibrant yellows that make everything look like it’s been painted by some master artist. Lily hops out of the car the moment it stops, rushing to explore, her delighted giggles echoing through the trees.
You and Tony watch her, both smiling, before he takes your hand. “Come on,” he says, guiding you towards the cabin. Inside, it’s cozy and inviting, with a large fireplace in the living room and big windows that let in the afternoon sunlight. It feels like the kind of place people dream of running away to.
The day passes in a blur of simple pleasures—roasting marshmallows, skipping stones with Lily on the lake, Tony’s arm around your shoulders as you laugh together. It feels like a perfect slice of life, something out of a story. And yet, there's something more simmering beneath the surface, a tension in Tony’s eyes that’s both thrilling and a little nerve-wracking. It feels like he's building up to something, but you're not sure what.
That evening, after Lily’s fallen asleep in one of the cabin’s cozy beds, you and Tony step outside to the porch, the stars bright above you in the clear, crisp night. You pull your sweater tighter around you, and Tony wraps an arm around your shoulders, his warmth comforting against the cool night air.
“This has been perfect,” you say softly, leaning into him.
Tony glances down at you, his expression unreadable for a moment, before he smiles, a softness in his eyes that makes your heart skip a beat. “It’s only going to get better,” he murmurs, and there’s that same glint of mischief in his eyes.
You raise an eyebrow, curious, but before you can ask, he reaches into his pocket and pulls out… a rock. Not just any rock, though—it’s painted with bright colors, a swirl of blues and greens with glitter sprinkled on top. In the middle is a heart, painstakingly painted in red.
Your eyes widen as you look at it. “Did… did you make this?”
Tony chuckles. “Let’s just say I had some help.” He glances towards the cabin where Lily is asleep, his face softening. “She insisted I do it right. No shortcuts, no tech. Just… paint and a lot of patience.”
You laugh, turning the rock over in your hands, admiring the effort. “Well, it’s beautiful,” you say, touched. “But I don’t understand—”
Before you can finish, Tony takes your hand, guiding you down the porch steps and towards the edge of the lake, the painted rock still in your hand. He stops by the water, looking out over the calm, moonlit surface. Then he turns to face you, taking both your hands in his, his gaze intense.
“I know I haven’t exactly been the picture of stability,” he begins, his voice quiet but steady. “And I know that you and Lily are a package deal—the two most important people in my life now.” His thumb brushes over your knuckles, a small, comforting gesture. “You both mean more to me than anything else ever has.”
Your heart is racing now, and you can feel the warmth in your cheeks as he takes a deep breath, his eyes never leaving yours.
“I love you,” he says, his voice full of sincerity. “I love you and Lily more than I thought I was capable of loving anyone.” He pauses, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “And I want to be there for both of you. Always.”
It’s only then that he reaches into his jacket pocket, pulling out a small, velvet box. He opens it to reveal a ring—a delicate band with a single, radiant diamond, glittering under the moonlight.
Your breath catches, your eyes wide as he lowers himself onto one knee, still holding your hand. He looks up at you, his expression vulnerable in a way you’ve rarely seen before. “Will you marry me?”
The words hang in the air, beautiful and surreal, and for a moment you can only stare, your mind struggling to process the enormity of this moment. But then everything clicks into place—all the little moments, the shared laughter, the quiet talks on the balcony, the nights spent watching over Lily together. You realize that you’ve already made your choice. You made it a long time ago, the moment you let him into your life, into Lily’s life.
“Yes,” you whisper, your voice barely audible over the gentle lapping of the water. “Yes, Tony. A thousand times, yes.”
A huge grin breaks across his face as he slips the ring onto your finger, his hands warm and steady. And then he’s standing, pulling you into his arms, kissing you like it’s the first time all over again.
When you finally pull back, a familiar giggle breaks the silence, and you turn to see Lily standing on the porch, her little face lit up with a smile so wide it could rival the moon.
“I kept the secret, Mommy!” she exclaims proudly, rushing over to throw her arms around both of you. Tony scoops her up, laughing, and you can’t help but join in, the three of you caught in a bubble of happiness that feels like it will never burst.
You sit by the lake for a while longer, the three of you huddled together under a blanket, watching the stars. Lily falls asleep in Tony’s arms, her small hand still clutching the painted rock. As you lean your head on Tony’s shoulder, feeling the warmth of him, the softness of the ring on your finger, you realize that you have everything you’ve ever wanted right here.
You look up at him, your heart full. “So, when did you know you wanted this?” you ask quietly, your voice barely a whisper.
He glances down at you, a small smile playing on his lips. “I think I’ve known for a while. But watching you and Lily, seeing the way you both just… fit into my life, like you were always meant to be there—that sealed it.”
You smile, your fingers lacing through his. “I think we were always meant to find each other.”
And as you sit there, wrapped in each other’s warmth, the world feels impossibly perfect. This is your family, your home, and you know, without a doubt, that you’ll hold onto this moment forever.
The weeks following your engagement pass in a flurry of plans, decisions, and endless little tasks, each one building toward the day that’s slowly starting to feel real: your wedding day. Tony, true to his style, has big ideas—ideas involving grand venues, designer dresses, and enough food to feed half of New York. But amidst all his extravagant visions, there’s one more excited than anyone else about every detail: Lily.
From the very first morning after Tony proposes, Lily becomes a self-appointed wedding expert. She’s up before the sun, sitting at the breakfast table with her favorite colored markers and a notebook, declaring her “wedding checklist” in all caps across the top of the page. She’s drawing flowers, dresses, cakes, and even seating plans (although, granted, her seating chart just shows her sitting next to everyone important).
“Mommy,” she says, pushing her notebook across the table, “we have to pick a cake first! That’s the most important part.”
Tony, sipping his coffee, nods gravely as if she’s made the most profound statement ever. “She’s got a point. Cake is a critical component.”
You laugh, reaching for her notebook. “Alright, cake first. But it’ll have to be something both of you like.”
“I like chocolate and strawberry!” she exclaims, her eyes bright.
“Noted,” Tony says, sliding his phone over and already searching for bakeries that specialize in grand wedding cakes. And just like that, it’s the first official wedding decision: a cake tasting with Lily front and center.
When the day of the cake tasting finally arrives, Lily comes along dressed in her favorite fancy dress—a soft pink number with a glittery belt. She drags both of you up to each cake display, pointing out all her favorites and reminding you multiple times which flavors she’s “approved.” The bakery owner, clearly smitten with her, lets her try samples of nearly every flavor on display. By the time you leave, Lily has a chocolate-stained grin and declares herself “very full, but still ready for more wedding stuff.”
Over the next few weeks, Lily’s enthusiasm for every aspect of the wedding grows exponentially. She wants to help choose the flowers, eagerly pointing out her favorites at each meeting. At the florist, she insists on showing you bouquets with big, vibrant blooms, which Tony, ever the doting soon-to-be dad, immediately insists on adding to the order. “If Lily wants them, we’ll make it work,” he says with a shrug, sending you a playful wink.
Then there’s the dress. Your gown shopping trip is a dream come true for Lily, who’s absolutely certain that her opinion is critical to finding the perfect dress. She examines each option with a serious expression, giving a small nod or a big “no” depending on her reaction. When you finally try on a gown with intricate lace details and a long, flowing train, her eyes widen, and she lets out a gasp. “Mommy! You look like a princess!”
You catch Tony’s reflection in the mirror as he stands off to the side, watching you with that unmistakable softness in his eyes. You can see him mouthing “wow” under his breath, and when you meet his gaze, there’s an unspoken promise in it—a promise of all the beautiful moments still ahead.
Lily, ever-dedicated to her role as wedding planner, also insists on helping with her own dress selection. You take her shopping for a junior bridesmaid dress, and after trying on several options, she settles on a beautiful white dress with a tulle skirt and a satin bow. She twirls in it, giggling and watching her reflection as if she, too, were preparing for her wedding day.
On the way home, she leans forward from the back seat, grinning at Tony. “Daddy, can I be in charge of the ring?”
Tony, glancing at you with a smile, nods. “You can be our official ring bearer and junior wedding coordinator. Think you’re up for the task?”
“Yup!” she says proudly. “I’ll be really careful!”
When the day of the wedding finally arrives, it’s everything you’d imagined and more—no detail spared, every element touched by Tony’s love of elegance and, of course, a bit of grandiosity. You’d agreed on a sprawling estate just outside the city, surrounded by gardens that are in full bloom, bathed in soft, golden sunlight that feels almost magical. Massive floral arrangements of white roses, lilies, and peonies line the aisle, creating a soft, enchanting fragrance that wafts gently in the breeze.
Lily’s eyes are wide with awe as she takes in the setting. She holds your hand tightly, her face a mixture of pride and excitement. She knows every part of the ceremony by heart, from when she’s supposed to walk down the aisle to where she’ll stand by your side. She’s practically vibrating with excitement, her eyes darting around as she tries to soak in every little detail of the day she helped plan.
As you prepare in the bridal suite, Lily stands by your side, admiring every part of your look with the utmost seriousness. She makes tiny adjustments to your veil and whispers, “You look perfect, Mommy.” Her sincerity nearly brings tears to your eyes, and you have to take a deep breath to keep from getting misty-eyed.
Meanwhile, outside, Tony has pulled out all the stops, sparing no expense on the venue, catering, or décor. There’s a sprawling tent set up with chandeliers, elegant table settings with custom menus, and an orchestra softly playing classical music. It’s grand and beautiful, yet somehow intimate, as if every detail has been chosen with you in mind.
As the ceremony begins, Lily leads the way down the aisle, clutching the satin ring pillow with utmost concentration, her face solemn as she carefully makes her way to the front. When she reaches Tony, she gives him a small, proud nod, and he grins, giving her a quick thumbs-up before his attention shifts to the end of the aisle, where you’ve just stepped into view.
The moment he sees you, his expression softens, and he gazes at you like you’re the only person in the world. You feel your heart flutter, the same excitement and nervousness filling you as when you first met. You walk toward him, every step bringing you closer to the future you’ve both dreamed of, and when you reach him, he takes your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.
The ceremony itself is beautiful, filled with words of love and promises that feel like they’ve been waiting forever to be spoken. When it’s time for the vows, Tony’s voice is steady, but there’s a slight quiver of emotion as he speaks. “I knew from the moment I met you that you’d change my life,” he begins, his eyes never leaving yours. “But I didn’t realize just how much you and Lily would become my life.”
His gaze shifts briefly to Lily, who’s standing beside you, watching him with wide eyes. “You’ve shown me a happiness I never thought I’d find, a family I didn’t even know I was looking for. I promise to love you both, to be there for you in every way, and to make our family my everything.”
The rest of his words blur in your mind as tears prick at your eyes, but you hold onto the warmth in his voice, the steady assurance in his touch.
When it’s your turn, you can barely get through the first few words before emotion chokes your voice. You promise to stand by him, to love him and cherish every moment with him and Lily. Your heart is so full, and every word feels like a vow not just to him, but to the life you’re building together.
Lily, watching you both, beams with pride as she hands over the rings with all the seriousness she can muster, her eyes shining as she watches her parents exchange them.
The moment the officiant pronounces you married, Tony pulls you into a kiss that’s filled with every unspoken feeling he’s held back, and as you part, there’s only happiness reflected in his eyes. The guests cheer, Lily lets out a delighted squeal, and you realize that this is everything you’d ever dreamed of.
The reception is a spectacular affair. The grand tent glows with hundreds of softly twinkling fairy lights, the tables are adorned with crystal and silk, and the food is decadent, the kind of feast fit for royalty. But through it all, the heart of the evening is your family. Tony makes a toast, his arm around your shoulders as he thanks everyone for being there and dedicates the night to you and Lily.
As the night goes on, you find yourself wrapped in Tony’s arms, watching as Lily flits around, entertained by guests and other children, her energy boundless.
“You know,” he murmurs, pulling you closer, “I don’t think I ever really understood what happiness could be until I met you. And now I have you, Lily, and this perfect life.”
You smile, reaching up to brush a hand along his cheek. “Well, Mr. Stark, you’ve officially made it a day we’ll never forget.”
Tony grins, leaning down to kiss you softly. “Here’s to a lifetime of them.”
And as you look around, at the friends and family gathered, the joy on Lily’s face, and the love in Tony’s eyes, you know that this is only the beginning.
A few months after the wedding, life settles into a rhythm that feels both new and wonderfully familiar. Tony has embraced every part of his role as a father, from helping Lily with her bedtime routine to planning weekend family outings. His love for her is fierce and unwavering, and you can see that she’s become the center of his world, just as much as you have. Lily’s adoration for him is just as strong, and in her eyes, Tony is already her father in every way that counts.
One evening, while you and Lily are going through her nightly bedtime ritual, an idea takes shape in your mind. You realize that making things official—having Tony formally adopt Lily as his daughter—could be a beautiful way to solidify the bond that already exists between them. But you also know this is something Lily should be involved in. After all, this is about her, too.
As you tuck her into bed, you bring up the idea gently, knowing that it might be a lot for her to process.
“Lily,” you begin softly, sitting on the edge of her bed and brushing a strand of hair from her face, “do you know what it means for someone to be adopted?”
She scrunches her nose, thinking hard. “It’s like…when someone gets to be in a family forever, right?”
You nod, smiling at her understanding. “That’s right, sweetheart. And I was thinking… what if Tony adopted you? That would make him your dad in every way—not just because he loves you like a daddy, but because it would be official, too.”
Lily tilts her head, her brows furrowing as she considers this. For a moment, she looks a little confused, as if the idea doesn’t quite make sense to her.
“But…he already is my daddy,” she says slowly, her eyes wide and questioning. “Why do we have to do anything special for that?”
You feel a pang of emotion, touched by her innocent view of family. To her, Tony’s love is already real and true, and a piece of paper could never define that. But you explain it as simply as you can, trying to help her see the gesture as an opportunity.
“It’s a way to show him that he’s your dad forever and always,” you say, smiling. “It’s something you can both look back on one day, and he’ll know how much you wanted him to be your daddy, too.”
Understanding seems to dawn on her face, and her eyes light up with excitement. “So… I get to ask him if he’ll be my real dad?”
“Yes,” you reply, your heart swelling. “If you want to, you can ask him. And maybe it could be a surprise?”
Her face breaks into a huge grin, and she claps her hands softly, clearly thrilled by the idea. “Yes! I want to surprise him!”
You watch as her mind races, her little fingers tapping against her blanket as she plans. “I want to make a card!” she exclaims suddenly, her voice bubbling with excitement. “I’ll draw me and Daddy, and I’ll ask him to be my dad forever!”
Her enthusiasm is contagious, and the next morning, she’s up with the sun, already digging out her art supplies and getting to work on her surprise. For the next few days, she’s laser-focused on the project, sneaking off to her room with markers and colored pencils, chattering to you about all the details she’s adding. She asks for help spelling words but insists on keeping her drawing a surprise, telling you that it has to be “just right” for Tony.
Finally, his birthday arrives. It’s a cozy evening celebration at home, with Lily helping you prepare a cake and hang up a few decorations. She can barely sit still during dinner, her eyes darting to the gift she’s hidden carefully behind a chair. When Tony finally opens his presents, she waits until the very end, watching with bated breath until it’s time to give him her card.
“Daddy,” she says, her voice filled with both excitement and a hint of nervousness, “I have a special present for you.”
Tony’s eyes light up with curiosity as she hands him the card, carefully crafted with crayon illustrations of stick-figure versions of the three of you, all holding hands. At the top, in her best handwriting, she’s written, “For my Daddy, Forever.”
He opens the card, and his eyes move over her drawing, then to the note she’s carefully written beneath it.
“Dear Daddy, will you please adopt me so I can be your real daughter forever? I love you so much. Love, Lily.”
There’s a quiet moment as he processes her words, his face shifting from surprise to understanding, and finally to deep, overwhelming emotion. His breath catches, and his hand comes up to cover his mouth as he fights to keep his composure. But his eyes shine with unshed tears, and as he reads her words again, a single tear slips down his cheek.
He sets the card down carefully and looks at Lily, his voice unsteady but filled with warmth. “You really want me to be your dad?”
She nods, her eyes bright and hopeful. “Yes! I want to be your real daughter, Daddy. Forever.”
He pulls her into his arms, holding her close, his voice thick with emotion as he whispers, “You have no idea how much this means to me, sweetheart. You’re my daughter, and you always will be.”
She squeezes him tightly, her little arms wrapped around his neck as she buries her face in his shoulder. Tony’s eyes meet yours over her shoulder, and there’s a depth of gratitude and love in his gaze that takes your breath away. In that moment, you see the man you fell in love with, the man who has become a father in every way that counts.
Finally, he pulls back, brushing a hand gently over her hair. “Thank you, Lily,” he says softly. “Thank you for choosing me to be your dad.”
She giggles, wiping a tear from his cheek with her little hand. “Now you’re a real daddy! And we’re a real family forever!”
Tony chuckles, pulling her close again, and you join them, wrapping your arms around both of them as you sit together, feeling the weight of the moment settle around you in the best way possible. You’re a family—one built on love, trust, and a bond that goes far beyond words or papers. And as you sit there, all three of you wrapped in each other’s arms, you know that this moment, this promise, is something you’ll cherish forever.
Later that night, when Lily’s asleep, Tony holds the card in his hands again, tracing over her words with a soft, almost reverent touch. He glances up at you, his voice still hushed with emotion. “I didn’t think I could love her any more than I already did,” he whispers, his eyes glistening. “But knowing that she chose me…I don’t think I’ve ever felt anything like this.”
You reach for his hand, intertwining your fingers with his. “You’ve given her so much, Tony. She feels safe, loved…like she finally belongs. And that’s because of you.”
He looks down, his smile soft but filled with the quiet strength that defines him. “I may not have known what I was missing before,” he murmurs, pulling you close, “but now I do. And I wouldn’t trade this for anything.”
As he kisses you softly, his hand resting on the card, you know that this journey, the one that started with a small family and a big love, is only just beginning. And together, you’re ready for every beautiful, imperfect, incredible moment still to come.
As you sit together in the soft glow of the dimmed lights, the quiet hum of night settling around you, Tony’s eyes stay fixed on you. He still holds Lily’s card gently in his hands, his thumb brushing over the childishly scrawled words, but his gaze is on you—filled with a depth of love and gratitude that wraps around you like a warm embrace.
Slowly, he places the card on the table beside him, and without breaking eye contact, he pulls you onto his lap, his hands warm as they rest on your hips. The quiet of the house feels heavy, intimate, filled with the unspoken emotions that tonight has stirred between you.
“Thank you,” he murmurs, his voice soft, the words laced with a warmth that makes your heart flutter. “For letting me be part of this. For making me feel like…like I belong.”
You cup his face, your thumb grazing over the line of his jaw as you tilt his face up to meet yours. “You’re more than just a part of it, Tony. You are it. You and Lily—you’re my family.”
There’s a heat that flares in his gaze as you speak, a spark that kindles something deeper, something that has simmered beneath the surface, fed by months of tenderness, laughter, and every precious moment you’ve shared together. His fingers tighten on your hips, pulling you closer, and before you know it, his lips are on yours—warm, insistent, and filled with a passion that leaves you breathless.
The kiss deepens, his hand sliding up to the back of your neck, holding you close as his other arm wraps around your waist. You melt into him, feeling the familiar strength of his body beneath yours, the way he grounds you, makes you feel cherished, wanted. The air between you thickens, each kiss growing more fervent, each touch more urgent. It’s as though he’s trying to pour all the gratitude, the love, the overwhelming devotion he feels into this moment, and you can feel yourself responding, matching his intensity with every beat of your heart.
The quiet of the house fades into the background as he lifts you, carrying you to the bedroom with a confidence and ease that makes you feel weightless. You can’t help but laugh, breathless and giddy, as he sets you down, his mouth finding yours again before you can even catch your breath. The room fills with the sounds of whispered promises and shared laughter, of murmured declarations that leave no doubt about how much he loves you, how deeply he’s committed to this life you’ve built together.
And as the night fades into the early hours of morning, you find yourselves wrapped in each other’s arms, drifting into sleep with a sense of peace and fulfillment that feels as natural as breathing.
A few months pass, filled with the easy rhythm of family life. Tony continues to be an incredible father to Lily, and each day brings you closer as a family. But lately, you’ve been feeling…different. A certain tiredness lingers, and you’ve noticed small changes, ones that you haven’t quite been able to explain. And then one day, it hits you.
You buy a test, waiting anxiously until you see the result that confirms what your heart already suspected—you’re pregnant.
The realization floods you with a blend of emotions, joy and disbelief mixing into a giddy, breathless excitement. You can hardly wait to tell Tony, and you spend the rest of the day trying to figure out the perfect way to share the news.
That evening, when Lily has gone to bed, you find Tony in the kitchen, unwinding with a glass of wine. He smiles as you enter, setting his glass down and reaching for you with a warm familiarity that still makes your heart skip a beat.
“There’s my beautiful wife,” he says, pulling you into a hug. “You looked deep in thought earlier. Everything alright?”
You take his hand, guiding him to sit with you at the table, the same spot where he read Lily’s card just months ago. His gaze turns curious, and you see the soft crease between his brows as he studies your face, sensing something important.
“Tony,” you say, your voice a little shaky with excitement, “there’s something I need to tell you.”
He sits up a little straighter, his eyes filled with gentle concern. “What is it?”
You reach for his hand, squeezing it tightly as you look into his eyes. “I’m pregnant.”
There’s a moment of stunned silence as he processes your words, his face shifting from surprise to dawning comprehension. His eyes widen, and then a look of pure, unrestrained joy spreads across his face. He lets out a soft laugh, his hand moving to cradle your face, his thumb brushing tenderly across your cheek.
“You’re serious?” he whispers, his voice choked with emotion. “We’re going to have a baby?”
You nod, tears prickling at the corners of your eyes as you see the happiness radiating from him. “Yes, we are.”
He pulls you into his arms, holding you tightly as he buries his face in your shoulder. You can feel the slight tremor in his hands, the unspoken gratitude in his embrace. When he finally pulls back, his eyes are bright with unshed tears, his smile one of pure, unfiltered joy.
“We’re going to have a baby,” he repeats, as though he’s trying to wrap his mind around the words. “A baby. With you.”
You laugh, leaning into him as he wraps his arms around you once more. “Yes. And I can’t think of anyone I’d rather do this with.”
For the rest of the evening, he can’t stop smiling, can’t stop looking at you with that look of wonder, as though he’s witnessing a miracle. And it doesn’t take long before he’s talking about baby names, already picturing what this little one will be like, how they’ll fit into the family you’ve created.
A few days later, you and Tony decide it’s time to tell Lily. You’re sitting with her in the living room, surrounded by her favorite stuffed animals, when Tony clears his throat, his eyes twinkling with excitement.
“Lily,” he begins, his tone soft and warm, “we have some exciting news. Do you remember when we talked about family and how much we love each other?”
Lily nods, her big eyes attentive as she listens.
“Well,” you say, reaching out to take her hand, “you’re going to be a big sister. There’s a baby growing inside Mommy’s belly.”
Her face lights up with surprise, her eyes widening as she looks between the two of you. “A baby?” she whispers, a mixture of awe and excitement in her voice.
“Yes,” Tony says, his hand resting on your shoulder. “You’re going to have a little brother or sister. Someone to play with, someone who’ll look up to you.”
For a moment, Lily’s face glows with joy. But then, her expression shifts, and you see a flicker of uncertainty cross her face. She lowers her gaze, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her shirt.
“Will…will you still love me as much?” she asks, her voice small, a hint of sadness creeping into her tone. “If the new baby is his real baby?”
Your heart clenches at her words, and you feel a pang of understanding. You hadn’t anticipated how this news might make her feel—especially with the bond she’s built with Tony. Gently, you pull her onto your lap, holding her close as Tony kneels beside you, his eyes full of compassion.
“Oh, sweetheart,” you say softly, “we will always love you just the same. Nothing will ever change that. You’re part of this family, and that means you’re loved just as much as anyone else. Always.”
Tony places a hand on her shoulder, his voice low and filled with warmth. “Lily, you’re my daughter, and I love you with all my heart. Nothing in this world could ever make me love you any less. Not this baby, not anything. You’re my first kiddo, and that makes you incredibly special to me.”
She looks up at him, her eyes big and round, a faint glimmer of relief softening her expression.
“Really?” she whispers, her voice trembling just a bit.
“Really,” he replies, his hand moving to cup her face gently. “You’re my daughter, Lily. That will never change. This baby just means we get to love someone else alongside you. It doesn’t change how much we love you. It only means our family is growing, and you’re a big part of that.”
Lily’s face brightens, a shy smile slowly spreading across her lips. “Okay,” she says softly, her voice a little more sure. “I think…I think I’m excited, too. I want to be a big sister.”
Tony pulls her into a tight hug, and you wrap your arms around both of them, feeling the love and warmth of this moment settle into your heart. The three of you sit together, the promise of this new life filling the room with a quiet joy, a sense of unity that only grows stronger with every passing day.
In the coming weeks, you find yourself daydreaming about the future—the laughter and love that will fill your home, the way Tony will hold this new little one with the same tenderness he shows Lily, and how, together, you’re building a family that’s bound by something deeper than words.
And as you look at the man who’s become your husband, your confidant, and now the father of your children, you know that no matter what the future holds, this family is yours, built on love, and here to stay.
Your pregnancy unfolds in a swirl of excitement, adjustments, and the joy of having Tony and Lily at your side through every step. From the moment you tell him, Tony barely lets you lift a finger. He insists on taking over almost every household task, whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or fetching snacks. You only have to mention feeling a little tired, and he’s by your side in an instant, urging you to rest.
“Here, I’ve got it,” he says with a wink as you start to clear plates after dinner one evening. He moves with an air of confidence, quickly picking up the dishes before you can even make it halfway to the sink. “You just sit back and relax. Doctor’s orders.”
You roll your eyes, laughing, but sit down anyway, grateful for his protectiveness. Watching him bustle around the kitchen with his characteristic enthusiasm warms your heart. Tony’s even rearranged his work schedule, making sure he’s home for every doctor’s appointment and ultrasound. His excitement is contagious; he’s like a kid counting down to Christmas, brimming with energy every time you bring home a new baby item or when you finally feel the first kicks.
Lily, meanwhile, has become your little shadow, constantly finding ways to “help” around the house, even if her help sometimes leads to little mishaps. She insists on making you tea every morning, a ritual she takes very seriously. One morning, she even decides to bring it to you in bed, balancing the tray as carefully as she can. Just as she reaches the bedside, a few drops slosh over the rim, but she beams with pride.
“Look, Mommy! I made it all by myself!” she declares, her little chest puffed out.
You smile, cradling the mug she hands you. “It’s perfect, sweetheart. Thank you so much.”
Tony chuckles, ruffling her hair as he says, “Best tea in the house, Lily.”
She beams, thrilled by the praise, and makes a habit of it every morning after that. You can’t help but marvel at her kindness, and even though there are some spills and little accidents along the way, each gesture fills you with gratitude.
As your belly grows and the pregnancy progresses, you go for an ultrasound, the three of you eager to learn the baby’s gender. Tony’s hand is wrapped around yours, his grip firm as the image of your baby appears on the screen. Lily sits on Tony’s lap, her eyes round with wonder as she gazes at the screen.
When the technician announces, “It’s a boy!” Tony’s face lights up with joy, and he laughs, pressing a kiss to your cheek. Lily’s excitement bubbles over as she hugs both of you.
“A little brother!” she exclaims, grinning from ear to ear.
On the drive home, you and Tony decide to let Lily pick out his name. She spends the next few days mulling it over, scribbling ideas on paper, and discussing options with all her stuffed animals. Finally, one evening, she presents her choice proudly.
“I want to name him Leo,” she says, looking at both of you with such confidence that you know she’s thought it through.
Tony smiles, nodding in agreement. “Leo. I like it. Strong name for a strong kid.”
You wrap your arm around her, pulling her close. “Leo it is,” you say, and Lily’s face practically glows with happiness. You couldn’t have chosen a better name yourself.
Months later, the day finally arrives. It’s the middle of the night when the contractions start, and Tony immediately springs into action, calm but focused, gathering your hospital bag and guiding you to the car. His hand never leaves yours, and his voice soothes you, steady and comforting.
“It’s happening,” he whispers with a smile, kissing your forehead as the hospital comes into view. “We’re going to meet our son.”
Hours pass in a blur, and Tony is by your side for every minute, his presence a source of calm as you work through the labor. Finally, after what feels like an eternity, you hear the first cry of your newborn son. The sound fills the room, and your heart swells with a love so fierce it takes your breath away. The nurse places little Leo in your arms, and you marvel at his tiny features, his soft wisps of hair, and the way his eyes open just a sliver as if he’s taking in his new world.
Tony watches you, tears glistening in his eyes, and he leans down, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. “He’s perfect,” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion. “Just like his mom.”
You laugh softly, brushing a tear from his cheek as he leans down to cradle his son in his arms. The way he looks at Leo—with such awe and tenderness—fills you with warmth, knowing that this little boy will have a father who loves him beyond words.
A few hours later, after you’ve had time to rest, Tony returns to the hospital with Lily, who practically bursts into the room, her face shining with excitement. She tiptoes over to the bed, her eyes wide as she gazes at her little brother bundled in your arms.
“Hi, Leo,” she whispers, reaching out to touch his tiny hand with a gentle, reverent awe.
You smile, lifting him slightly so she can see him better. “Would you like to hold him?”
Her eyes go wide with surprise, and she nods, carefully sitting down beside you as Tony helps guide Leo into her arms. She holds him, her small arms wrapped protectively around him, and you can see the absolute adoration in her gaze as she studies his face, her thumb tracing lightly over his tiny fingers.
“Hi, Leo,” she whispers again, her voice soft. “I’m your big sister, Lily.”
Leo stirs, his eyes opening just a fraction, and Lily’s face lights up, as though she’s witnessing something magical. Tony sits beside you, his arm around your shoulders, and together, the two of you watch Lily and Leo, feeling the love that fills the room—a love that has only grown stronger with each addition to your family.
In that moment, as you sit surrounded by the family you’ve built, you know that you have everything you’ve ever wanted. This is your world now: Tony, Lily, and Leo.
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if you liked the story don't forget to leave a like and a reblog and if you want to read more drop a follow! <3
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vampbloodx · 4 months ago
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DIY Basics
-Goth DIY Tutorials Number 1 (Part 1)- Hi there, I decided to start a little DIY series! I’m not the most professional at anything lol but I’ve been doing DIY and crafts my entire life and been part of the goth subculture for 10+ years. I’ve seen a lot of baby bats and people inexperienced in crafts online saying they don’t know how to DIY thrift store clothing to be goth so I’m here to help! I believe DIY is super important to the goth subculture and should be easy and accessible, and if I can stop anyone from buying big fast fashion brands I’ve done my job.
For the first post of this series I thought I’d link some sources for people new to DIY or looking for some easy projects to do yourself (projects will be in part 2)🖤This will help you find a starting point if the idea of DIY is overwhelming.
None of these links are mine! I will be posting my own tutorials as part of this series though:)
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Some of the most basic starting points for goth DIY are using fishnet tights as a top (just cut a hole in the crotch and cut off the feet), putting safety pins in everything, adding holes to clothes, and adding pins and patches. I like to make my own patches, either by free handing or stenciling, which I linked a tutorial for in this post.
Helpful tools to have:
(I don’t agree with buying from aliexpress but their other sources are great!)
Sewing Tips for Beginners:
T-Shirt Design Methods:
This is just s few ways to weave t-shirts, there are a ton of different ways to do it and YouTube has some great tutorials, especially on Angela Benedict's channel
RIT Dye Tutorial:
Patches:
Sewing them:
Stenciling them:
youtube
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ayeforscotland · 5 months ago
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Ad | Some Humble Bundle Goodies
One for the audio engineers - The Audio Arcade bundle gives you a whole bunch of royalty-free music and SFX as well as plugins to insert in all the major game engines. Ambient tracks, environmental sounds, explosions, you name it.
Money raised goes towards Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.
For those who dabble in Virtual Reality, the Upload VR Showcase with Devolver Digital has a bunch of Serious Sam VR games as well as the Talos Principle, a really solid puzzle game.
Money raised goes to Special Effect which helps people with disabilities enjoy games via accessible controllers. I've seen the stuff they do and it's honestly great.
Want to get into programming but don't know where to start? The Learn to Program bundle has a tonne of resources covering everything from HTML and CSS through to Python, C# and Ruby.
Money raised goes towards Code.org which seeks to expand participation in computing science by helping women and students of colour.
The Future Tech Innovators Toolkit is a software bundle with courses on Robotics, Electronics and programming with Raspberry Pi and Arduino.
Money raised goes towards Alzheimers Research UK.
The Home How-To Guides bundle offers a complete set of books for home improvements and projects. Want to know more about plumbing, home repair, bathrooms, wiring or carpentry? This bundle has you covered.
Money raised goes to It Gets Better, a charity that supports LGBT Youth.
Want to pick up the latest Elden Ring DLC? It's also available on the Humble Store with the key being redeemable on Steam.
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0-n-1-x · 9 months ago
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Headcannons <33
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Link to the series masterlist <3
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Despite his rough exterior, Jason is surprisingly skilled in the kitchen and enjoys cooking elaborate meals for his partner.
Jason is a secret romantic and loves surprising his partner with thoughtful gestures like handwritten notes or surprise date nights.
He's a night owl and often stays up late working on his motorcycle or reading. Usually accompanied by your half-asleep figure
Jason's taste in music is eclectic, ranging from classic rock to indie folk, and he loves sharing his favorite songs with his partner.
Despite his tough exterior, Jason is surprisingly affectionate and loves cuddling up with his partner on lazy Sundays.
He's a bit of a neat freak and can't stand clutter or messiness in the house.
Jason is a skilled handyman and enjoys tackling DIY projects around the house, and you like watching how his arms flex as he works
Jason's favorite movie genre is action-packed thrillers, but he secretly enjoys watching cheesy romantic comedies with his partner.
Jason has a green thumb and loves tending to his garden, finding solace in the quiet moments spent surrounded by nature.
Despite his tough exterior, Jason is surprisingly sentimental and keeps mementos from important moments in his life, like ticket stubs or photos
Jason's favorite holiday is Halloween, and he goes all out with elaborate decorations and costumes.
Jason is definitely a bookworm and loves curling up with a good book, especially mysteries or thrillers. He likes reading you to sleep more though
Jason is a bit of a thrill-seeker and loves adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving or bungee jumping.
He's a bit of a tech geek and loves tinkering, but not with gadgets and electronics, he loves working/and taking apart cars or bikes and takes over all IKEA projects.
He's 100% a history buff and loves visiting museums or historical sites
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Let me know if you want to be added to the series taglist <33
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mascaraandmojitos · 2 months ago
Photo
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Source: http://gorgeousnessandgorgosity.tumblr.com
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ryuzakemo128 · 2 months ago
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Goodnight & Sweet dreams
Pairing: Poly 141 x Australian Female Reader
Content Warnings: Cheating, Affair, remarriage, no mention of y/n or the variation of 'you', Possible prequel?, third person written. Angst.
Words: 1707
Masterlist
Credit for Dividers: @cafekitsune + @strangergraphics
Credit for the Divider Template: @cafekitsune
Note: You have many code names. Many. Many of them are used by certain people. Like the devil. You have many names. Boomer, Opal, Crimson and Emerald are the main ones used to refer to you. As your real name is covered in layers of black ink and confidential files restricted to the higher-ups.
Note 2: The only defining factors, I will give you, are the following: Codename. As labelled. Height. You are not small. You are rather tall, at least six feet and four inches. Roughly the same height as Ghost. Your voice is also quite deep, for reasons you can come up with yourself. As no answer is wrong or right. Might make an oc version sometime.
Note 3: I suggest listening to Moon Shadow by Cat Stevens when you read this.
Summary: “I don’t see you the same way anymore. I don’t respect cheaters, no matter the reason you might have had. You ruined this home by yourself.”
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Boomer grew up on a farm in the Australian outback. Her father is an Australian Commando. Thus, she didn't see him nearly as often as her mother, who happened to cheat on her father while he was deployed. Her excuse was the lack of affection making her cheat with his older brother, Marcus. The CEO of a tech company he started up in America.
“I don’t see you the same way anymore. I don’t respect cheaters, no matter the reason you might have had. You ruined this home by yourself.” Boomer told her mother once her father came back on leave. He was immediately told by her.
Boomer decided to stay with her father, even though the divorce, and she hadn’t spoken to her mother since the end of the divorce had taken place. Her father, even though heart broken about the affair and the eventual divorce, he tried to keep a positive attitude through it all. Boomer saw right through quite often.
Pulling things apart, fixing them regardless of what it was, became Boomer's silent mantra as she grew older, mirroring the tireless work ethic of her father.
The farm grew quiet without her mother's laughter, but it grew stronger with the echoes of her father's footsteps and the occasional clank of tools as he taught her the ropes of being a true Australian commando.
She took to the training like a natural, her determination fuelled by the anger she felt towards her mother's betrayal. Each push-up, each mile run, every target hit, was a declaration of her loyalty to the truth and the man who never abandoned her.
“I don’t want to become my mother and cheat on any potential spouse, man or woman.” Boomer, adamant in wanting to be reliable regardless of any circumstances she would encounter in her life.
Her father often came home to small things fixed like the broken tractor, a leaky sink, and even a few upgrades to the farm’s security system.
Even reading into carpentry DIY projects like the bee aviaries she built from scratch. Her dedication to self-reliance grew, and so did her skills, a silent promise to never become what her mother was.
Her aunt, Alyssa, came over a few times a month to keep the house from going up in flames. Boomer showed her all the DIY things she made, often wanting to rescue bees from abandoned areas, unwanted areas and sometimes even from people’s backyards.
Her father had a slight smirk on his face when she brought home her first queen bee, a rare breed she had found in the forest. He knew she had her mother’s charm and beauty, but he was proud she had chosen a path of honesty and reliability.
Alyssa’s work as a beekeeper rehoming bees from areas where they aren’t wanted became an unexpected bonding point for Boomer. Her aunt’s gentle nature with the creatures and the way she spoke about them as if they were soldiers in a grand army, protecting the future of the planet, sparked a fascination within Boomer.
She began to see the world through a different lens, one that valued every creature’s contribution, and the delicate balance that needed to be maintained.
Her father noticed the change in her, the way she had found peace in the buzzing of the bees and the precision of their movements. He knew this was something more than just a phase; it was a piece of her soul finding its place in the world.
The farm grew not only in crops but in life as well, with more bees thriving under Alyssa’s guidance and Boomer’s care. It became a sanctuary for those who needed a second chance, a reflection of Boomer’s own spirit.
Boomer took the bee’s safety and health seriously, researching how to take care of the bees better and what ways to keep them happy as well as healthy.
Setting up a mini lab to study the bees in their natural environment without disrupting them became a weekend routine. The bees had become more than just a hobby; they were her silent companions, a symbol of her resilience and unyielding spirit.
One thing her father noticed was the ebony wood varnish on the bee aviaries, making them look more like a piece of art rather than a simple shelter for bees.
He knew his daughter had a creative side to her, but he never knew it would be expressed in such a way. Her creations weren’t just functional, but aesthetically pleasing, a reflection of her respect and admiration for the bees.
Each aviary was named after a character from an X-Men comic she loved as a child. She had found solace in their stories, in their struggle for acceptance and fighting for what they believed in despite their differences.
Her favourite, the Wolverine aviary, housed the most aggressive bees, which she found quite fitting. Each name was engraved in a small brass plate at the entrance, adding a touch of whimsy to the otherwise utilitarian structures.
She would then sell the honey on the farmer’s market for her pocket money. As she grew older, her love for bees remained as she got more invested in the military. She enlisted at seventeen, she told her father she wanted to because it felt like it was the right thing to do.
“I’ll give it my best shot, I promise.” Boomer pinky swore, her eyes gleaming with excitement and determination as she held her father’s hand tightly. His calloused grip returned the gesture, a silent promise of support and belief in her.
Her expertise in heavy weaponry like heavy machine guns, grenade launchers, rocket launchers, miniguns, anti-material rifles, and even the rare use of the Predator drone grew from her time in the military. She had always been a good shot, something her father had noticed when they used to go hunting together back in the outback.
Boomer dove into electrical engineering, electrical technology, nanotechnology and even robotics. During her military training, it was an eye-opener to an even bigger world. A world she is more than a little keen on learning more about day by day. Even reading more about in her downtime.
Growing up, her pets were bees and the blue Merle Shetland Sheepdogs that her aunt brought with her, which grew into a small pack over the years. They became her loyal companions, protecting the farm and the bees from predators. The dogs had an uncanny sense of when Boomer was upset, and they’d often sit by her side, offering comfort with their soft, warm presence. Her father named her first dog, Blue, after her mother’s favourite colour, hoping it would bring some peace to their lives.
Other than beekeeping and pulling things apart. The extracurricular activities she got into before she turned seventeen were gymnastics and ice skating.
Gymnastics was a way to keep her body in tip-top shape, she was always a fast learner and had a knack for acrobatics. The strength and flexibility it gave her were surprisingly useful in the field, allowing her to navigate tight spaces and pull off stunts most wouldn’t dare.
Ice skating, on the other hand, was her escape. The cool rush of the wind against her face, the sound of the blades cutting through the ice, it was her silent battlefield where she faced and conquered her inner demons, pushing herself beyond her limits.
Boomer, at sixteen years old, rescued a nine-month-old blind cat on the way home from school once, her father saw her with it. She was determined to care for the blind cat and named her, Shadow. The cat's full name is Moon Shadow. Naming it after the song Moon Shadow by Cat Stevens.
One of her father’s favourite songs. Thus, it became one of her many favourite songs as well. A classic ‘60s song amongst the many she would listen to on repeat. She listened to it when she got ready for bed, even after he passed months after her 24th birthday.
Her father’s death was a blow she never saw coming. A heart attack in his sleep, the doctor’s said it was peaceful. But for Boomer, it was anything but peaceful.
Her entire world had crumbled around her. The one constant, the one person she had always relied on, was no longer there.
It took a while to mourn her father, taking on many short term to keep herself from going off into the deep end. A distraction to keep her moving, both in mind, body and soul.
The farm remained her sanctuary, but now it was filled with the echoes of her father’s laughter, her aunt’s gentle guidance, and the ever-present hum of the bees.
She continued her military service with renewed vigor, channeling her grief into her work, seeking solace in the structure and discipline it provided.
Most of her dead dad jokes were made to help her cope with her father’s death. If he were around to hear them. He would most likely face palm himself. Followed by an even darker one in return.
“I loved my father. He’s got a darker sense of humour than I did and possibly ever have.” Boomer told her therapist. “I have my pet cats and my dogs. But I live on my own on the farm now.”
The therapist nodded, scribbling something down on her notepad. “How has that been for you?”
“Too quiet. I don’t particularly like the quiet as much as I used to. Maybe it was the fact I had other people around me?” Boomer answered, her voice filled with a tinge of sadness.
The therapist, Dr. Krovic, nodded thoughtfully. “It’s common to feel that way after a loss. The quiet can be deafening when you’re used to the noise of a loving home. Tell me, have you considered getting involved in any social activities? Maybe reconnecting with your mother?”
“If she wanted to, she would have made the effort ages ago.” Boomer replied.
The thought of her mother still brought a bitterness that lingered in the back of her throat. She knew the woman had moved on, living a life of luxury with her aunt’s husband, Marcus. It was a life that didn’t have room for her, not anymore.
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