#Edgewater Group

[newconstructionsfl]

Aria Reserve Miami - The Tallest Waterfront Twin-Tower In The United States

[cloveroctobers]

NOTHING SWEETER — BODE LEONE: [Spring Prompts]

A/N: This will probably flop since it’s basically a ghost town in this tag but here I am! Plus it was also requested for me to write for Bode (again) lol which I don’t have a problem with, we love that guy over here. They’re wrong for going on break after giving us what they gave us! I also just want to say that I really miss Max’s curls but here it goes!!

PROMPT IS FROM HERE + I’m using: 18.  “Damn, I hate pollen.” + 8.  “IT’S A DEER!” “Yeah, and?” “I CAN SEE IT!”

<- read my previous anthology prompt here.

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Eve was lucky you loved her.

Being up this early on your first day back in Edgewater to give her a ride to Three Rock (her car was in the shop) was a lot to ask! Not really! but what kind of friend would you be if you didn’t complain a good portion about it on the ride up to camp?

“If I get you an iced coffee, would you love me again?” Eve pinched the space in between her brows, elbow resting against the car door.

You hummed while using one hand to tap on your chin, “Add in a Mozzarella, Pesto, and tomato bagel then we’ll talk.”

Eve twisted her lips upwards, “…that’s a thing? Whatever happened to a simple cream cheese with eggs and avocado?”

“You’re lucky I’m not asking for a soft boiled egg stuffed with caviar.” You respond as you reduce your speed once you cross the bridge, spying the familiar deli spot up ahead.

Eve scoffed as she side eyed you, “oh yeah, Switzerland done made you bougie.”

Which earned a laugh from you as you pulled the Toyota 4Runner into the small parking lot. If you weren’t a bundle of nerves you would have got out of the car with Eve to see what changed about the deli you spent many afternoons in with your old friends. However you let your mind wander a bit as you stared out into edgewater’s view.

You were home…except your childhood home was just a memory now that your divorced parents no longer resided in Edgewater. So you crashed at Eve’s although you were completely fine staying in a hotel since Jake talked you out of an air bnb after watching some movie called, “Barbarian,” and you were tired of hearing the statistics and other real life horror stories he pulled out of his ass. Eve was your number one best friend and she was more than willing to open up her place for a friend like you.

As you took up a interest in archery and later turned into a professional Archer, you were inspired to see what the world had in store so the sooner you got out of Edgewater, the better it was for you. Some just didn’t get it (your parents mainly, with your mother being an orthopedic surgeon and your father a fire chief before his MS took over) and expected you to start your own roots here. It was kind of a thing here in this small town, that you were to begin again and build your own legacy. However you were in the tiny group of odd’s that wanted more than the expectations hanging over your head.

Which is why you were proud to say that you’ve been participating in the Olympics every few years because of your passion for archery. Of course you had people down your neck all throughout your career but you still stood as tall as you could.

Now you were back home in the place that was full of doubts but the tightness in your chest wasn’t as noticeable the closer you got to camp.

“Thanks for dropping me off, I appreciate it.” Eve starts as she spots a few inmates hanging around on the yard already, “If you stick around for a minute I’ll even do you a solid and send Bode your way. Since I know it’ll be difficult otherwise.”

Taking a deep inhale you say, “I still can’t believe he’s here.”

“Yeah well…if he stays on the right track this time he’ll be out even sooner.” Eve tells, “He’s still a big pain in all of our asses but I think it would do him some good to see you…you did come all this way.”

It’s been years since you last saw each other but you came back for Riley’s funeral and you reached out to Bode when he moved away to a few towns over and changed his last name. You tried to be there even being ocean’s apart but when Bode felt low, it always felt like he wanted to take the world on his shoulder’s and find a way to make it spin again. Yet that landed him in prison and Eve had no problem filling you in on everything in between.

Would he even want to see you? It’s not like your relationship turned sour or anything…it’s just been awhile being in contact with each other. You weren’t nearly this anxious seeing Eve and doubted you would be when you had lunch with Jake and Cara—which was still weird to you—But being near Bode was different from everybody else and you knew that.

“I did…didn’t I?” You loll your head to face Eve, who studies it for a moment before dipping her head.

She tapped her hand against the outside of the door, whispering into the spring air, “it’ll be fine. He’s in a much better headspace and you’re still family no matter where you disappear off to, you got that?”

A watery smile goes Eve’s way before she leaves you to collect yourself. You’re pulling your mirror down from the sun visor, patting underneath your eyes and beginning to second guess yourself. You were here for two weeks and there was no way that you planned on not seeing Bode. You ran into his parents just last night at the bar, craving some wings before heading to Eve’s, just to be received with warm arms and classic banter from the Leone’s.

They were the parents you could talk to more than your own. If you weren’t crashing at Eve’s then you would definitely be at the Leone’s but then Bode and Cara happened so that’s when some of the distance was created. They didn’t last, like most teenage relationships but out of respect you felt like it was the right thing to do.

It felt right being back, even if it was only temporary.

Maybe that’s just how you had to view Bode’s situation. He wasn’t a temporary kind of friend although you couldn’t socialize as much but you tried to be hopeful. Even climbed out of the car pacing back and forth, not paying much attention to anyone around until you spotted the green dust decorating the navy car.

Scowling in disgust, you swiped the arm of your jacket around the hood of your car before cringing at the greenery you wiped on your sweatpants afterwards.

“Damn, I hate pollen.” A voice comes from behind, which makes you slowly stand up straight and glance over your shoulder.

There he was.

Bode Leone, standing in the flesh, hands deep in his jacket pockets, and a small smile on his lips.

You fully turn to face him and tilt your head to the side, “Didn’t I tell you once before that Orange isn’t your color?”

Bode lifts his shoulders with humor in his blue-green eyes as he motions towards the spot on you, “yeah, well maybe green isn’t yours either.”

You scoff as you motion to your outfit, “what? You don’t think I’m pulling it off?”

The blond chuckles as he takes a step towards you, “As long as you don’t start itching then sure, whatever you say.”

“Oh,” you scratch at the back of your hand and shoot a glare at the man who’s got crinkles by his eyes now, “why did you have to go and say that Bode! Now I’m doing it!”

“Sorry! It’s just that I sorta remembered that you were sensitive to almost everything including air.” He says to you, teasing somewhat, now standing face to face with you.

Rolling your eyes you couldn’t help but to smile at that. You didn’t know what it was growing up in high school, you were highly allergic to almost everything which landed you in the nurses office a lot but it seemed to relax as you reached your twenties and moved away. You always joked that maybe it was Edgewater that was making you sick. Yet the longer you stood in this town and interacted with not only Eve but Bode, you knew that wasn’t completely true.

“It’s good to see you, Bo.” You lightly shove his shoulder back while he nods in agreement, “can I give you a hug?”

Bode blinks the furrow of his brows away as if you were being ridiculous, “of course you can.”

And you’re cradling the back of his head while his fingers are at your spine, swaying from side to side in a firm but gentle squeeze. Then he’s burying his nose into your shoulder and the feel of the embrace tells you that this was meant to be.

When your eyes open, you realize that you could live just fine in Bode’s arms. You remember your final kiss goodbye in Drayscott, one month before you left the country and one month before Bode attempted to pull off a robbery—it was the sweetest thing—the kiss obviously! because it should have been happened. It didn’t come out of nowhere, it was full of intention, full of wonder and love but you were aware that it wasn’t the right time to be something more.

Maybe some day it could be.

Little did you know, Bode kept that memory not far away. He was kicking himself for the what if’s but when he manages to pull himself out of the blue, he thinks about the best possibility being you.

The both of you could be good together, could see the world together and he wasn’t sure how it all looked but he was willing to imagine.

A gasp makes Bode pull away, alarmed.

“IT’S A DEER!” You point, over Bode’s shoulder.

He glances over his shoulder to in fact see the said brown animal, peering at the two of you, “Yeah, and?”

“I CAN SEE IT!” You attempt to lower your voice but the excitement got the best of you as you almost bounce on your toes.

Bode’s still lightly has a hand resting on your waist now, as they watch the beautiful creature sniff at the grass and carried on deeper and away into the woods.

“Are you telling me they don’t have deer out in Switzerland?” There’s amusement in Bode’s voice as he peeks back at you.

“I’ve been in the city mainly but it’s been awhile since I’ve really been one with nature, you know? Which reminds me, I’ll have to make time to go off roading with this baby one of these days. Or hiking.” You jam a thumb back at the car.

Bode nods, “you’ll be careful won’t you? Don’t get so easily impressed with animals, not all of them will have the best intentions.”

You were an animal lover back in the day, so much to the point you wouldn’t dissect a frog sophomore year, which landed you in the principal’s office.

“What?” You blow a raspberry, “I’m like freaking Princess Aurora. Animals love me.”

Bode squints his eyes, “…didn’t you get bit by a goat when we were like what? Fourteen?”

“You’re really killing my vibe man and I don’t like that.” You yank on the end of Bode’s hair who laughs again.

He raises his hands in surrender and grips your wrist from his head, “alright, alright. My bad but if it makes you feel better, I still have that scar after that horse kicked the shit out of me when we had too many drinks partying at Tamsin Kadoka’s farm.”

“Really?”

Bode nods, “yeah, right on my lower back and it’s shaped like Utah.”

You meet each other’s gaze before bursting out laughing in unison at yet another memory. He’s gripping your shoulder again while he’s got your attention, “just promise me when you’re out there in those woods that you’re careful. I’d hate it if something happened to you.”

“Well the feeling is mutual, Bo.” You state, “you just had to go on and choose firefighting huh?”

Bode shrugs, “Must be in the Leone blood.”

“Yeah, must be.” You murmur, staring at him like there’s stars getting ready to rise in your eyes and Bode can’t help but to lean forward to place a lingering kiss on your forehead.

His facial hair pricks you but you don’t mind.

“Leone!” A guard calls out, which means your time is up for now.

You hold his hand, interlocking your fingers, which he squeezes with a smile to match, eyes wandering all over your features, almost as if to tell himself that you are in fact really here.

“Until next time?” He questions.

You smile, “See you soon, Bode.”

And he grins at you, those crinkles by his eyes returning before he slips his hand from yours.

This was brief but sweet and you’re mentally kicking yourself for thinking that this could go wrong.

You’re watching Bode walk away from you and he can’t help but to jog backwards to get another look at you. Almost as if you would disappear again and you would never see him again. When he turns back around, heading to the guard on shift who announces the inmates need to get ready for line ups inside at the bunks, he meets up with Cole on his way.

“Who was that?” Cole nudges his chin in your direction.

You’re seated in the driver’s seat, window down, leaning on your arm as you watch the men in Orange make their way back inside.

Catching Bode’s eye, you wave before rolling your window almost all the way up and pull away from the camp site.

“Someone i would like to give the world and more to once im out of here.”

Cole is smirking but appreciates the honesty as he claps Bode on his shoulder, already knowing what that look is for. “Then let’s make it happen, Leone! Nothing sweeter than having something on the outside to fight for, you know?”

“I agree.” Bode pulls his gaze from your retreating car, finding himself standing up straighter as they awaited for Eve to start their day.

When Eve’s brown eyes set on Bode’s, he just barely tips in his head in thanks, which the woman echo’s as she carries on along the line.

Bode already can’t wait for the next day he can get reconnected with you in person again so, he bites his smile away.

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Continue with my spring anthology prompts here.

[ladylamrian]

Female Main Character: Clara Sinclaire

Pairing: F!MC×Ernest Sinclaire (married)

Summary: Countess Clara of Edgewater takes her lovely horse, Belle out for a ride 🐎

Word Count: 3.2K words

Rating: General (Fluff, Adventure, Rescue)

Warnings: none (Injury)

-> My complete Desire & Decorum Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @loreofyore ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; ... [I shortened my Taglist because my Readers wanted to be tagged for Nightbound. For the next D&D fanfictions (if there will ever be ones), nobody gets tagged unless requested] ; @choicesdecember2024 (Prompt: Home)

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's Note: Please have mercy on me since it's my very first Desire & Decorum fanfiction. If I ever write again for this book, I won't tag anyone unless it is requested. Inform me!!!

"I'm heading out for a ride.", his wife informed him as she climbed on the back of her horse, named Belle.

Ernest's expression softened. He knew just how much she cherished these moments with the mare.

"Very well, my dear. But promise me you'll be careful. Belle can be quite spirited."

"Oh, my dear and loving husband. Don't you believe in Team Clara-Belle?", she winked.

Ernest chuckled warmly at her playful remark.

"Of course I do, my love. I have the utmost faith in your skills with that steed. I just happen to like you in a single piece."

"Sure."

With a nod, he released her hand and called put to be safe.

"Be careful. And pat Belle on the nose for me."

Ernest watched her leave. His heart swelled with a mixture of love and worry. He hoped that Clara, with her spirited nature, stayed safe on her ride.

Countess Clara of Edgewater mounted on Belle. Next to her, other ladies on their horses, all eager and excited for a playful race in nature. The soft grass beneath them rustled gently, and the horses seemed to share in their enthusiasm. Clara's eyes glittered with a hint of mischief.

"Ready for a race, ladies?"

Everyone nodded, their horses pawing the ground in anticipation, which made Clara even more excited. She patted Belle's neck affectionately.

"Ready for a race, my girl. We'll show them the power of Clara-Belle."

When the little race finally started, all the horses lurched forward, moving as one. Each rider gripped the reins tightly. Clara, with her intimate knowledge of Belle's speed and the terrain, took the lead. The wind whipped through her brown locks.

The other ladies do their best to catch up, but Clara and Belle are a force to be reckoned with. Clara's skillful guidance and confidence created a seamless bond between woman and horse which propelled them further ahead with each stride.

The young countess laughed heartily, the feeling of triumph rushing through her veins. She patted Belle's neck as they continued to pull further ahead.

Clara glanced over her shoulder and smiled, seeing how far she and Belle had pulled away from the others. The wind rushed past her ears as she called out to her horse.

"We're leaving them in the dust, aren't we, girl? We're Team Clara-Belle, after all. Fast and strong."

Belle nickered in agreement, her strides became even more vigorous as if spurred on by her rider's excitement. The horse's powerful muscles rippled under her, propelling them further and further from the rest of the group.

Clara her focus on guiding Belle, suddenly felt a shift in the horse's stride. Before she could fully process what was happening, Belle let out a sharp whinny and stumbled slightly to the side.

"Belle?!!"

Clara's heart skipped a beat as she frantically tried to regain control, but it was too late. Belle's stumbling turned into a fall, and in a moment of panic, Clara was sent flying from the saddle, landing hard on the grass some distance away.

The rider's body ached from the impact, the shock of the fall left her breathless. She lay there for a moment, trying to assess the damage, but her focus was quickly diverted by a sound that chilled her to the bone... Belle's panicked whinny.

Clara's heart raced as she turned her head and discovered Belle struggling to get up. The beautiful mare twisted her ankle. Her hind legs buckled whenever she tried to put weight on them. Clara, despite her pain, stood up and slowly approached her horse.

"Belle, my girl..."

Belle still whinnied in pain as Clara approached. The animal's brown eyes were wide and filled with fear. It attempted to move but couldn't. The injury was preventing her from standing, let alone moving. Clara's heart aches for her beloved steed. Her hands trembled as she gently touched Belle's injured leg.

"Oh no! My poor Belle..."

A mixture of worry and pain as the young woman examined the injury. Her horse whimpered in response, clearly distressed and in pain. Clara knew that she couldn't move Belle on her own. Belle was too big and too distressed. Panic began to creep into the mind of the young countess as she searched around, hoping for anyone to pass by and help. But the area remained empty and silent. Her face was pale with fear. The realization of their predicament sank in. They're alone, some distance from the estate away. Both were unable to ride and unable to walk back. The only sound was Belle's soft, pain-filled whinnies, echoing through the quiet landscape.

Clara gently placed her shaking hand on Belle's neck, trying to soothe the frightened animal.

"It's going to be alright, girl. We'll find a way."

But the words felt hollow, filled with fear instead of reassurance. For a moment, they sat in silence. The horse's soft breaths were the only sound. The wind had picked up, the chill biting cold against their exposed skin. Clara already shivered in her thin riding clothes. They were miles away from any shelter, and the temperature was dropping rapidly. The thought of spending the night outdoors, injured and exposed, was more than a little frightening. But she pushed that fear down, focusing instead on the hope that someone would find them before nightfall.

When Clara tried to stand, she winced as her sore body protested. It was clear that the fall had left her with bruises and possible injuries, but she still pushed through the pain, gritting her teeth as she rose to her feet. She glanced at Belle and her heart broke at the sight of the helpless horse.

Clara looked around, trying to find something, anything they could use for shelter. The terrain was empty and flat, with no trees or buildings in sight. The wind gusted again, and she shivered, feeling how the coldness had already begun to seep through her clothes. The horse growing restless and agitated by the minute.

The woman sat back down next to Belle, trying to think of a solution. But the coldness was making her head fuzzy, and the pain in her body slowly clouded her thoughts. She wrapped her arms around herself, attempting to keep warm, and huddled closer to her horse for warmth.

"Ernest was right. I should have been more careful."

She let out a small, bitter laugh, and small tears welled up her eyes. Her fingers trembled slightly from the cold. She leaned her head closer against Belle, feeling the horse's soft fur. Trying to soothe herself, to think of a way out of this mess. The sound of the wind howling around them and it was getting darker.

Hours passed slowly, and the night was drawing closer. Clara was exhausted, her body ached and her mind fuzzy. The coldness now had settled deep into her bones, despite the small comfort that Belle's presence provided. The pain in her ankle, coupled with the soreness from the fall, made her breathing ragged. They're in the middle of nowhere, hurt, hungry, thirsty and exhausted.

Suddenly, the sound of horse steps was heard, which caught Clara's attention. She looked up, her heart fluttered with a mixture of hope and anxiety. The steps seemed to get closer, but the darkness made it hard to see anything. The injured lady strained her eyes, trying to make out the form of the approaching guests in the darkness. The wind howled around her, which masked the sound a bit, and for a moment, she was not even sure if it was her mind playing tricks on her or if someone was coming.

It took a little moment until Clara's eyes widened, discovering a figure on horseback approaching. She tried to get to her feet, but her ankle protested making her stumble. So she waved one arm and shouted desperately, trying to get the person's attention.

"Here! Over here!! Help!!"

The mysterious rider seemed to have noticed the movement and guided its horse in their direction, getting closer as the seconds passed.

As the rider approached closer, Clara could just make out the familiar features and stature. It was her husband, Mister Ernest Sinclaire, Master of Ledford. The young man looked panicked. His face filled with worry as he dismounted from his horse and rushed towards her and Belle.

"My Clara!!"

"Ernest?"

Ernest dropped to his knees beside Clara, his eyes scanning her body for any signs of serious injury. His hands moved gently over her skin, checking for wounds as his voice was filled with worry.

"My love, my sweet, my darling, my Clara, are you hurt?"

"How did you find us?"

Mister Sinclaire ran a hand through his soft hair, his expression tense, but a hint of relief in his blue eyes. He glanced at Belle before answering.

"When you didn’t return for dinner, I knew something was wrong. The ladies informed me about your sudden disappearance and looked worried. I saddled my horse and came searching for you."

"Oh Ernest..."

Her husband pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly against his chest. His voice was soft but filled with worry and relief.

"My love, you foolish girl. You could have been hurt, or worse..."

"I'm sorry."

Ernest pulled back slightly, looking at her face. His heart nearly broke at the sight of her tired, bruised face. His hand raised to cradle her cheek with a gentle touch.

"I'm not angry, my love. I'm just so relieved you're safe. But promise me, promise me you'll be more careful from now on."

"I promise."

The young man gave her a soft smile, pressing a gentle kiss against her forehead. He held her a moment longer before standing up, moving to check on Belle. The horse whimpered as he touched her. The injury was indeed painful.

He examined the injury with a serious expression. Running his hand gently over Belle's leg, checking the swelling and the stability of the joint. He looked up at Clara, his mouth set in a grim line.

"It's sprained at the very least. The poor thing is in pain."

"How will we get her home?"

He glanced at the horses and it took a silent moment until an idea slowly formed up in his mind. He knew it was not ideal, but they didn't have many options.

"My love, you ride my horse, and I'll walk. We'll have to build a travois. With branches and rope, we might be able to make something that can support Belle's weight without further hurting her leg. Me and my horse will pull the travois with Belle on it."

And with that, Ernest Sinclaire began to look around, hunting for long enough sticks and searching for rope or cloth that could serve as a support. The night was fully set, the stars their only light source in the pitch-black field.

As he worked, he glanced over at his wife, trying to keep his worry at bay. Clara's face was drawn with exhaustion, and he knew she was holding on by a thread. The travois needed to be done quickly. The sooner they could move, the better.

Eventually, Ernest managed to gather enough sticks and found some rope in his horse's saddle bag. With determination, he set work on building the travois, tying the sticks together and making sure they were sturdy enough to support Belle's weight.

As the travois slowly took shape, he looked up to see that Clara had managed to mount his horse, holding the reins with stiff, trembling hands. A wave of worry washed over him again at the sight of her. She should be resting, not worrying about all this.

When the man tied the final knots on the travois, he approached to his brown-colored horse and Clara. His voice gentle but firm as he spoke.

"Love, I need you to ride slowly and carefully. Belle's on a travois behind us and will be uncomfortable. You cannot jostle her too much. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Ernest."

His heart broke at the exhaustion in her voice. He wished he could take away all the pain and worry, but they were still far from safe. He reached up, gently touching her knee.

"Clara, I know you're tired, believe me, I know. But we have no other option but to keep moving. We will rest once we're back home, once we've got you and Belle safe. Just hold on a little while longer."

"You're walking? Are you sure?"

"Yes, love. I'll walk beside you. It won't slow us down that much. And you need the rest more than I do. Just let me guide the horse while you hang on, alright?"

He took the reins and led his horse forward, gently encouraging the animal to step forward. The travois with Belle on it follows, its wheels making a soft grating sound on the rough ground.

As the party slowly began to move. The only sounds were the soft huffing breaths of the horses, the crunch of the wheels on the ground, and Belle's soft whimpers. Clara's eyes were half-lidded with exhaustion, her body trembled with the cold and the exhaustion.

Ernest was also tired and focused on walking. He knew Clara and Belle were both injured and exhausted, and that every step was a challenge, but he pushed forward. When he glanced back at Clara, he saw how she was struggling to stay awake and on the horse.

"Love, you need to stay awake, you cannot sleep on the horse. Not yet. Just a little bit longer, I promise you'll sleep in a nice warm bed once we're back."

"I'm worried about Belle."

"I know, my love. So am I. But we're getting closer to the estate with every step. Sir Luke Harper will take perfect care of Belle. Soon, you can both rest. Almost there..."

Minutes, hours, a lifetime seemed to pass. But eventually, the familiar sight of Edgewater estate came into view. The buildings were faintly lit in the distance, and relief flooded through Ernest's chest. They made it. They're safe. He glanced back at Clara, a small smile on her face too.

When they reached the stables, he took the horses into their boxes, then turned back to Clara, helping her down from the saddle and supporting her tired body.

The man pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly against his chest.

"My love, you did great. You're safe now. We're home."

"Ernest, my love... You saved us."

He held her close, his arms tight around her. He rested his chin on the top of her head, his exhaustion finally caught up with him. He could see the other staff running out to help, but for a moment he just held Clara and ignored the surroundings. His heart filled with gladness that they were in Edgewater, safe and together now.

"You need to get warm and rest, my love. Let the staff help you inside. I need to take care of Belle."

"But she's my horse."

"I know, Clara. Belle means a lot to you. And Sir Harper is very skilled and will take good care of Belle. But you need to rest too. Let me take you inside."

"Yes, please."

Ernest nodded and wrapped an arm around her waist to support her weary body. He helped her walk slowly towards the house, his movements gentle and caring. He could feel how tired his Clara was, and it pained him to see her like this. But he knew that soon she'd be warm and comfortable, safe and sound in their manor. When Ernest noticed her stumble, he reacted quickly. He caught her, pulling his wife gently against his side, holding her up. His eyes scan her face, filled with worry.

"Careful, my love. Are you alright?"

"Yes, I'm good. Just tripped, but I'm good."

"Good. Hang on to me, Clara. We're almost there."

"Ernest, I'm the countess of this estate and look like a mess. Hurry upstairs, I don't want anyone to see me like this."

"My love, even when you're exhausted and disheveled, you're still the most beautiful countess and woman in all of Great Britain.", he chuckled and kissed her cheek. Despite the situation, he couldn't help but tease her wife a bit.

"Ernest..."

His heart lightened at the sight of her expression as he continued walking towards the house with his arm tight around her waist.

"Oh, don't give me that look. You know I'm right."

Eventually, they reached the front steps of the house, where only a few of the staff were awake. The rest of the house and family members were already asleep, unaware of the events. The doors of the estate opened for them, and the warm light from inside shined out into the night. Ernest guided Clara through the threshold, his hand still on her waist, supporting her.

"I want the bed now."

"Of course, love. The bed, some food, clean clothes... You'll have it all, anything you want. First, let's get you upstairs. You look like you're about to fall over."

He led her to the staircase, his pace slow and patient as he took the time to help her up each step. His own blue eyes heavy with tiredness, but his care for her never wavered.

Eventually, they reached their chambers. Ernest helped his wife inside. A welcome sight after their long journey. The bed looked soft and inviting. The warm fireplace was already lit and crackling.

He guided her towards the bed, helping her to sit down, and leaned her against the piles of pillows.

"You're safe, my love. You're home."

"I hope Belle..."

"Shhh... My dear Clara darling... Sir Luke Harper will now take good care of her tonight. You need to rest and trust him. And we'll check on Belle first thing in the morning."

"Thanks."

"Of course, my love. It's the least I can do. Now, lay back. You need to rest."

Ernest smiled softly, watching as Clara closed her eyes and started to drift off. He reached forward, gently tucking the blankets around her, making sure she was comfortable and warm. A sigh of relief escaped his lips. They're safe, they're home, and she's finally getting the rest she so desperately needed.

The morning sun was just starting to peek over the horizon as Ernest and Clara made their way down to the stables. The air was crisp and chilly. The morning dew still clinging to the grass. When the couple reached the stables, the familiar sounds and smells of the horses filled the air. The husband lead her towards Belle's stable. His heart was heavy with concern as they didn't know what condition the poor horse might be in.

The horse was lying down, several soft bedrolls and blankets placed beneath her to provide some comfort. A fresh bandage around Belle's injured leg. Immediately, Clara hugged Belle, which brought a soft smile to his face. Ernest could see the relief and love in Clara's eyes as she gently caressed the horse's head. Belle whickered softly, but she responded to Clara's touch and her muscles relaxed slightly.

It was clear that the horse and the countess shared a special bond. A connection that went beyond mere friendship. They're practically inseparable. Two souls joined together by their mutual strength and spirit. That was Team Clara-Belle.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Smithsonian Magazine:

The birds weigh about as much as a bar of soap.

That’s how Melissa Boyle Acuti describes the northern saw-whet owl, the smallest owl species found in Maryland and one of the smallest in North America. They’re hardly bigger than a fist with a ping pong ball on top, she adds.

During the fall in Edgewater, Maryland, a small group of volunteers helps catch and band these little owls from sunset to midnight. They’re participating in Project Owlnet, an initiative that seeks to learn more about these birds and their migration and that supports an ever-expanding network of migrant owl banding stations.

Boyle Acuti is the banding station manager for Project Owlnet’s site at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in Edgewater. She leads the participants through the project’s processes.

The group uses an audio lure to entice the birds, capturing them in mist nets to bring back to the banding station. Once there, they place aluminum bands on the birds—“friendship bracelets for science,” as they’re called within the project. Project participants also measure the owls’ bills, wings and tails.

They use a blacklight to look at the underside of the owls’ wings and see their molt pattern, which helps determine their ages, a difficult task. Old feathers don’t glow as brightly under the light because the pigment has faded, while new feathers have a brighter glow, Boyle Acuti says.

“They nest and summer up in these boreal forests in Canada,” she says. “Those areas, people can’t get to very easily. … So that’s why the fall migration studies are really important to know what’s happening with the population of owls.”

For Christmas bird counts, the owls may be found down in their southern range, possibly showing up at stations in Georgia, Alabama and Oklahoma. “They go pretty far south in small numbers,” she says. “The more that we do with Project Owlnet, the more we learn about their migrations.”

Saw-whet captures have varied widely from year to year at SERC, which became a Project Owlnet banding site in 2017. That year, the team captured eight birds, and the next year, they captured 54. Then in 2019, it was six; the year after, it was 29. And then eight in 2021, 26 in 2022, nine in 2023 and ten in 2024. Notably, one of the birds banded at SERC and identified as a recently hatched owl in 2022 was recaptured nearly 600 miles away in Quebec on October 14, 2024.

Many factors may affect the owl population, Boyle Acuti notes: “You hear about the wildfires in Canada—they’ve been in the news. Even climate change, that could be causing the southern species to move more northerly. The tree species compositions, if those change, that could impact where the owls are nesting and the prey. There’s a lot we don’t know, and that’s why we study them. In order to see trends, you have to have long-term data sets.”

[hedgewitchgarden]

By Julia Kane. April 27, 2023. On an overcast Saturday in March, Serina Fast Horse stands in a ring of freshly planted, 12-foot-tall willow cuttings. Soft white buds are just beginning to emerge from their gray stems.

Easing the tips of the willows toward the center of the circle, Fast Horse holds them in place while another volunteer ties them together with twine.

Fast Horse and about three dozen others have gathered at Shwakuk Wetland, five acres of land situated between a residential neighborhood and a freight warehouse in north Portland, just south of Columbia Edgewater Country Club.

In time, the trees they plant and gently shape will grow into a willow dome—a living structure people can gather around for ceremonies, educational programs or just to enjoy the space.

Shwakuk, which is pronounced “show-kayk” and means little frog in Chinook Wawa, is a unique site co-managed by the local Indigenous community and Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services.

When the city acquired the land in 2016, it was a pumpkin patch.

Since then, the team responsible for stewarding it has worked to restore the wetland. Now it’s used to to cultivate first foods, medicines and basketry plants.

It’s also reconnecting area residents with the land.

Fast Horse, who is Lakota and Blackfeet, serves as a community liaison on the Shwakuk project, bridging the gap between the local Indigenous community and city employees.

Since getting involved with the project, the 28-year-old Portlander has also gone on to found Kimímela Consulting. Her goal is to bring the Indigenous community into environmental decision-making processes at the city and state level.

“When we’re able to come together and uplift Indigenous knowledge—and learn from each other, too, because there are things from western science and ecology that are important for restoration—we can change these systems to be more regenerative,” says Fast Horse.

“Indigenizing” not “de-colonizing”

For Fast Horse, the choice to use the word Indigenize rather than decolonize is intentional.

“When we say Indigenize, it’s centering the Indigenous perspective and being forward-thinking instead of centering colonization and that experience,” she says. 

In restoration work, the Indigenous perspective hasn’t often been taken into consideration.

“Our program has always used native plants, but the selection wasn’t necessarily based on the Indigenous communities’ needs or desires,” says Toby Query, a natural resource ecologist with Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services. “It was more about what would survive and what would fulfill our agency’s goals as far as shading the water, wildlife habitat and structure, and so forth.”

At Shawkuk, the Indigenous community put together a list of desired plants, which included first foods, medicines and plants used for traditional crafts.

That list has guided Query and the rest of the team involved in day-to-day restoration work at the site.

So far, they’ve had success at growing tule, a sedge used in basketry and canoe-making, along with yarrow, a medicinal plant, and camas, a plant with an edible, bulb-like root. They’ve also planted yampah, a wild carrot.

Instead of spraying herbicide, the restoration team uses vinyl from old billboards to block the sun and kill invasive grasses. Sometimes, they’ll braid invasive grasses around native plants, like yellow dock, horsetail and cattail, so that they stay low to the ground and do not choke out other plants.

“It takes a lot of effort to do it,” says Query, who has spent many hours braiding reed canarygrass alongside workers from Wisdom of the Elders, an Indigenous-led group. “While we were doing it we were enjoying conversation, and it was kind of a healing process.”

Query has implemented many techniques he’s learned from the Indigenous community at the 20 or so sites he stewards across the city.

“It’s really informed what I plant, and how I take care of plants,” he says.

Tending parties, wild tea

Healing is a critical element of Indigenizing restoration work.

In fact, says Fast Horse, “my deepest wish for this work is to bring folks together and to heal our relationships to each other and to the earth.”

At Shwakuk, she’s brought people together by helping organize “tending parties” that attract members of the local Indigenous community, students from Portland State University, city employees and others.

The groups learn about a site, spend a few hours helping with a restoration project and gather for lunch.

Oftentimes, Judy BlueHorse Skelton, an assistant professor at Portland State University who has helped lead the Shwakuk restoration, will make tea for everyone.

She makes the tea using a sprig of Doug fir gathered onsite, and sometimes rosehips, Oregon grape and western redcedar.

“We’re taught that to sip tea together is to become a relative, or to form a relationship,” says BlueHorse Skelton, who is Nez Perce and Cherokee. “It’s also deepening our intimate relationship with the plant world. It’s a big part of Indigenous traditional ecological and cultural knowledge, and it’s embedded in the work that we’re all doing.”

Intern to owner

Restoring Shwakuk was pivotal for Fast Horse, who first got involved with the project as an intern with Environmental Services.

“I was able to be an internal advocate to make sure what the community was saying was being upheld in a really meaningful way,” says Fast Horse. “I would be in these internal meetings, and so that perspective got woven throughout the process.”

In those meetings, the impact that she could have as a community liaison became clear.

From Query’s point of view: “To have somebody that has an Indigenous perspective, but is also willing to be part of the agency side of things, and to be able to walk between those two cultures has been really important.”

Fast Horse began giving presentations about lessons learned from Shwakuk and found that other city agencies and organizations wanted Indigenous input on their projects, too.

Portland has recently become more proactive about reaching out to the Indigenous community. The city hired its first full-time tribal relations director, Laura John, in 2017—a move BlueHorse Skelton says has been “immensely transformative.”

Two years ago, Fast Horse founded her own company, Kimímela Consulting, based in Milwaukie, Ore. She’s continued to act as a liaison between the Indigenous community and various agencies and organizations.

Most of her work has to do with land restoration, but she’s also working with Portland State University to rename a street. The campus’ Native American Student and Community Center is currently located on a street named after President Andrew Jackson, known for enforcing the genocidal Indian Removal Act of 1830.

“She’s been providing a voice and venue for the Indigenous community, including students and folks across all agencies, to get involved—including just the average community member who may not have a voice,” says BlueHorse Skelton.

A reconnected future

According to BlueHorse Skelton, the work that Fast Horse is doing to ensure the Indigenous community is part of decision-making processes is critical.

“When cities look, today, at how to heal, how to begin to restore, how to protect what’s left,” says BlueHorse Skelton, “we have to be part of it.” 

She sees Fast Horse as the first of a new, emerging generation of Indigenous leaders in the region.

“As some of us become elders, who carries that work forward?” BlueHorse Skelton asks. “That’s Serina.”

“A lot of times people put us in the past, and that’s a huge misconception,” says Fast Horse. “We’ve always been adaptable people. We’re not trying to revert back to anything, we’re going into the future.

“We’re all interconnected in this physical and spiritual plane. With Indigenous knowledge, we can reconnect to that and live in a way that is more in line with natural systems that are regenerative and life-giving.”

[galaxymermaid214]

—“are you blushing?! that’s adorable.” for Aayla and Max!

Max would never admit it.

He would never admit how much he enjoyed having Aayla around. How much he looked forward to their philosophical conversations and heated debates (a very welcome change from the dullards he was used to conversing with in Edgewater). How much it pleased him to know he was the one she trusted to have her back while on these dangerous missions.

And he refused, absolutely refused to admit how often he thought about holding her in his arms.

They had managed to clear out the group of outlaws guarding the facility on Monarch. But just as Aayla was about to give the all clear, she spotted one that had been in hiding making a run for the back of the building.

"Now where do you suppose they're off to in such a hurry?" Aayla mused. She rose from her position and hurried to follow after them, but she was so focused on her quarry, she failed to notice the small, steaming pool of sulfur she was about to step into.

But Max didn't.

Acting quickly, he grabbed her with his free hand and, in an impressive show of strength, yanked her away and pulled her flush against him. Aayla let out a startled gasp, partly from the suddenness of his action, and partly from how surprisingly solid his chest was.

"May I suggest you worry about where you're going first, Captain?" he rebuked, his tone a mix of annoyance and relief.

"Well, that's what I have you for, isn't it?" Aayla replied, looking up at him with a smile.

He quickly turned his face from her, still intent on scolding her. "I won't always be here to protect you. And you'll need more than pretty words if you expect to survive any length of time in these Architect-forsaken wilds."

"Right, right, point taken." she relented. Never mind the fact that she had saved his tail from being sniped by a outlaw just earlier today, but it wasn't worth picking a fight over. Not when he was this close to her.

...wait, why was he still holding her?

"If you wanted a cuddle luv, all you had to do was ask."

He immediately let go of her.

"D-Don't be absurd!" he shouted louder than he meant to, glaring daggers at the cheeky woman in front of him. One could easily mistake the reddening in his face for anger. But she saw straight through that faux outrage, and decided to press her luck.

"Are you blushing, Vicar?" she giggled. "That is adorable!"

"I am NOT blushing." Max stated through gritted teeth, his darkening face betraying his words. "And I am not continuing this juvenile banter with you." he added as he marched past his giggling mess of a Captain to scout ahead.

It might have been a touch mean of her, but for all the times he got under her skin, a little payback was warranted.

Besides, Aayla enjoyed catching him off guard. Those rare times she could break past the stuffy Vicar façade and see a different side of Maximillian, one that she was quite anxious to get to know better.

But she would never admit it.

Good to know in the midst of my Luis Serra brain-rot I can still write for these two. Thanks so much for the prompt, @lamiahypnosia !

[alolimos]

Seattle Limousine & Black Car Service – Travel in Style with Allo Limos

In a dynamic city like Seattle, where business, tourism, and culture blend seamlessly, how you get around makes all the difference. Allo Limos is proud to offer the most refined Seattle limousine transportation and black car service in the region. Whether you're heading to a high-powered meeting, exploring the Emerald City, or catching a flight, our services guarantee elegance, comfort, and professionalism every step of the way.

From luxurious limousines to sleek black cars, Allo Limos delivers the premium travel experience that discerning clients expect. If you're seeking a reliable Seattle limo service, look no further. We cater to individuals, corporations, families, and groups who demand superior service and attention to detail.

Unmatched Elegance: Black Car & Limo Service Seattle

When you book our black car or limo service Seattle, you're not just reserving a ride – you're securing a tailored, upscale experience. Our chauffeurs arrive in immaculate, high-end vehicles that reflect your taste and status. Each driver is professionally trained, discreet, and focused on providing a smooth, stress-free journey.

Whether you choose a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Cadillac Escalade, or a stretch limousine, you'll enjoy features like:

Plush leather seating

Ambient lighting and advanced climate control

Premium sound systems

Onboard Wi-Fi upon request

Bottled water and refreshments

Our Seattle limousine transportation service is the gold standard for city transfers, formal events, and business travel.

Allo Limos for Business Travelers

Executives and professionals in Seattle rely on our black car and limo service to maintain their schedules and image. Our punctual, confidential service ensures you arrive on time and in complete comfort. We understand the importance of seamless, efficient travel, especially for back-to-back meetings and airport runs.

We serve major business hubs such as:

Downtown Seattle

South Lake Union

Bellevue

Redmond

Tech campuses and corporate parks across King County

If you’re flying in for work, we offer Seattle airport to hotel transportation with real-time flight tracking, luggage assistance, and meet-and-greet options. Our service is ideal for VIPs, board members, and traveling executives.

Elegant Options for Leisure Travelers

Allo Limos is also the preferred choice for visitors seeking luxury during their leisure stay in Seattle. Our chauffeurs double as city guides, offering insider knowledge and personalized routes. Whether you're going wine tasting in Woodinville, enjoying a night out at the Seattle Opera, or taking a scenic tour to Snoqualmie Falls, our black car service offers a refined way to explore.

Need transport to a romantic dinner at Canlis or a shopping day at Pacific Place? Let our Seattle limo service elevate the experience.

Reliable Seattle Airport to Hotel Transportation

One of our most requested services is Seattle airport to hotel transportation. We provide service to and from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Boeing Field, and private aviation terminals. Our chauffeurs handle every aspect of your arrival and departure so you can relax after a long flight or prepare for one ahead.

With advanced scheduling, real-time updates, and luxurious pickups, you’ll never need to worry about airport transfers again.

Convenient Seattle Hotel Shuttle Service

Staying at a hotel? Use our dependable Seattle hotel shuttle service to navigate the city with ease. We provide daily transfers to and from top accommodations including:

The Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

The Edgewater Hotel

Hotel Theodore

Lotte Hotel Seattle

Sheraton Grand Seattle

Our hotel shuttles are perfect for tourists and business guests alike, offering comfort, reliability, and class.

Special Occasions and Event Transportation

If you're planning a special occasion, arrive in unforgettable style. Allo Limos specializes in:

Weddings: Grand entrances for the bride and groom

Proms and Homecomings: Fun, safe, and stylish group transport

Anniversaries & Birthdays: Celebrate your milestone in a luxurious ride

Concerts and Games: No need to worry about parking or traffic

Whatever the occasion, our Seattle limousine transportation ensures your event is memorable from start to finish.

Customized Transportation Solutions

Not every journey fits the mold. That’s why Allo Limos offers flexible solutions based on your unique needs. From hourly charters to long-distance trips and multi-stop itineraries, we work closely with clients to build tailored experiences.

Whether you need:

Shuttle service for a corporate conference

All-day black car service for sightseeing

Private transfers for a large family

We have the vehicles, expertise, and dedication to deliver excellence.

The Allo Limos Difference

Our clients choose Allo Limos because of our attention to detail, dedication to punctuality, and genuine commitment to luxury. We are fully licensed, insured, and experienced in high-end transport. Safety and client satisfaction are our highest priorities.

We pride ourselves on our personalized approach. From the first inquiry to the final drop-off, you can expect white-glove service that sets us apart from other Seattle transportation providers.

Book Your Ride with Allo Limos Today

Booking your luxury ride with Allo Limos is easy. Reserve online through our secure booking platform, or call our customer service team to discuss your transportation needs. Whether you need Seattle limo service for business or pleasure, we promise a level of service that redefines what transportation should be.

Experience the ultimate in luxury, safety, and reliability. Choose Allo Limos for your next ride and travel in style throughout Seattle.

[cmcsmen]

The Short Story Behind Catholic Men Chicago Southland (CMCS)

(click here for the long story)

By Frank J Casella, CMCS Executive Director

Our mission at Catholic Men Chicago Southland is to empower local Catholic men to deepen their spiritual lives and bring Jesus Christ into their daily relationships. This vision was born in 2004 when Deacon John Rangel, David Taylor, and I met with Reverend Bishop Joseph N. Perry to seek his blessing for our initiative. Although Bishop Perry is now retired, his legacy continues to inspire our mission today.

We initially sought Bishop Perry's guidance because of his role as our local Vicar in Vicariate VI on the far south end of the Archdiocese of Chicago. We recognized the importance of having a strong foundation and platform to support our efforts. Bishop Perry not only understood the value of our initiative but also encouraged us to challenge men in the Vicariate to live up to the virtues of a Catholic man and make Christ the center of their lives.

Our decision to maintain a manageable size within the Vicariate has proven to be a wise choice. This approach allows us to provide a template for other groups seeking to establish similar initiatives in their own Vicariates. While there has been significant interest, only one commitment has been made in the Edgewater area of Chicago.

As a third-generation Knight of Columbus, I have a deep understanding of the importance of Catholic men's ministry. However, I realized that there was a need for a Catholic men's spirituality prayer breakfast that would challenge men to replace bad habits with good habits and develop a holy life. This concept is rooted in the idea of "feeding the stomach and then feeding the soul."

In the 1980s, men's conferences began to emerge, but many fell short of making a lasting impact on men's lives. I believe that we need Catholic men who model virtues and goodness, making a positive difference in the lives of others. As Matthew Kelly once said, "We are a people of possibility, the Holy Spirit is the great encourager … holiness is possible."

Jesus Christ desires a personal relationship with each of us, but he also wants us to be in covenant with him. This covenant is rooted in the New Covenant established through his sacrifice and renewed through the Holy Eucharist. When we gather at the family table for the sacred meal, we become one with Christ and with each other.

In the home, men are called to lay down their lives for their wives, serving them as Jesus served the Church. The Christian home is the domestic church, a community of grace and prayer, where children receive their first proclamation of the faith. As Saint Paul said, "Power is made perfect in weakness," reminding us that our strength lies in our vulnerability and dependence on others.

Jesus wants us to know not only the Father and the Holy Spirit but also his Blessed Mother and all his sainted brothers and sisters. He desires us to live according to the family structure he established for his Church on earth, with the Pope and all the bishops and priests united to him.

The Gospel is not about setting up a legal system but about transforming hearts, freeing people from the darkness and slavery of sin. As Cardinal Francis George once said, "We as a Catholic Church have much to learn from our Protestant brothers and sisters about marketing and promotion, and evangelization."

In response to this challenge, we began an online ministry in 2009 to reach Catholic men in any way possible and learn from those who are skilled in evangelization. However, Bishop Perry reminded us to balance our online efforts with in-person worship and community involvement in the pews. Community is the foundation of our Catholicism, and we strive to nurture Catholic men's spirituality through in-person gatherings and Mass.

Our approach is not about accountability to each other but about covenant with Jesus, which transforms us as men. When we foster a man in holiness, the positive adjustments he makes create a positive impact that can be felt for three generations. This takes transforming one man at a time from good intentions into right-action, developing a holy church, and recognizing the essential role of fathers in a healthy family.

[modernbusinessmarketing1]

Google Ads vs. Facebook Ads: Which One is Right for Your Business in 2025?

In 2025, paid advertising continues to be one of the most effective ways to reach new customers and grow your business. Among the most popular platforms for online advertising are Google Ads and Facebook Ads. Both offer unique benefits, but deciding which one is best for your business depends on your goals, audience, and budget.

Let’s compare Google Ads and Facebook Ads to help you determine which platform will give you the best return on investment (ROI) in 2025.

Google Ads: The Power of Intent-Based Advertising

Targeting Users with Specific Intent

Google Ads allow you to target users who are actively searching for products, services, or information related to your business.

This form of advertising, known as intent-based advertising, means that the people who see your ads are already interested in what you offer, increasing the chances of conversion.

Broad Reach with Search and Display Networks

Google’s vast network reaches millions of websites and apps, allowing you to display your ads on search results pages, partner websites, YouTube, and more.

Whether you choose search ads or display ads, Google’s network ensures a wide range of opportunities to get your message in front of the right audience.

Measurable and Trackable

Google Ads offers detailed analytics and reporting tools that help you track performance, set budgets, and optimize your campaigns for better results.

You can measure key metrics like impressions, clicks, and conversions to see exactly how your ad spend is impacting your business.

Facebook Ads: The Power of Targeting Based on Interests and Demographics

Highly Granular Audience Targeting

Facebook Ads allows you to target users based on interests, behaviors, demographics, and even job titles.

With advanced targeting options, you can hone in on your ideal customer and create hyper-targeted ads that speak directly to them.

Visual Ads for Engaging Content

Facebook is a highly visual platform, making it ideal for businesses with strong visual content, like photos, videos, and graphics.

Ads that use rich media are more likely to engage users, and Facebook’s carousel, slideshow, and video ads allow you to showcase your products or services creatively.

Strong Social Proof with Engagement

Facebook Ads often include social proof—likes, shares, and comments—making your ads feel more authentic and trustworthy.

Engagement with your ads can lead to a higher click-through rate (CTR) and a more involved audience.

When to Choose Google Ads vs. Facebook Ads

Choose Google Ads if:

You want to target users with high purchase intent who are actively searching for solutions.

You are promoting services that people often search for, such as local services, retail products, or professional expertise.

You want to reach a large, global audience and are comfortable with performance-based pricing.

Choose Facebook Ads if:

You’re targeting a specific demographic, interest group, or location.

You want to create engaging visual content that can tell a story or showcase a lifestyle.

You aim to increase brand awareness or engagement and build a community around your business.

Conclusion

Both Google Ads and Facebook Ads have their place in your marketing strategy. Google Ads is ideal for businesses looking to capture high-intent traffic and drive immediate conversions, while Facebook Ads is great for targeting specific audiences and building brand awareness. The key to success in 2025 is understanding your business goals and choosing the platform that aligns with them.

To make the most out of your online advertising efforts, it’s often beneficial to use both platforms in tandem, targeting the right customers at the right stage of the buyer’s journey.

If you’re unsure which platform to choose, or need help setting up and optimizing your campaigns, consider working with an expert in Google Ads and Facebook Ads to maximize your ROI.

Modern Business Marketing 1317 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804, United States

Want to book an appointment? Visit our website: https://modernbusinessmarketing.com/

[worldcuphospitalitytickets]

World Cup Hospitality: Seattle’s Hospitality and Tourism Boom for FIFA World Cup 2026

World Cup Hospitality Tickets: Two years ago, it was publicized one of the major. Sporting events on the planet would land in Seattle in 2026. Now, FIFA has publicized the city will host six Football World Cup 2026 matches. Emotions are preparing as fans of this beautiful game drink up this once-in-a-lifetime occasion by securing FIFA 2026 Tickets.

It’s going to bring the eye of the world everywhere here to a place that you. Don’t hear about too often, supposed Daniel Pagard, the proprietor. Of George and Dragon Pub in Fremont, recognized as the Seattle Soccer Headquarters. Pagard is electrified after FIFA proclaimed Seattle will host six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. The United States men’s nationwide team will play at Lumen Field on June 19, 2026, in one of four group-stage matches presented in the city. Seattle will also host two knockout matches in July.

It’s fundamentally like having multiple St. Patrick’s Days over the sequence of one month, Pagard supposed. His business has presented watch parties for the biggest soccer games over the years. Packing the pub, occasionally going through 30 barrels in one day. Pagard imagines that and so much more when the world’s game originates to town.

FIFA World Cup Hospitality Tickets: Downtown Seattle Set to Thrive with Incoming Global Visitors

Hundreds of people viewing up from all over the state by. Securing FIFA World Cup Hospitality Tickets and just. Totally losing their minds for a complete day and you can. Perhaps hear a little bit of that over there, Pagard supposed. The enthusiasm isn’t just at this resident drinking hole. The CEO of the Downtown Seattle Association.

This is going to be the major party, biggest event on the planet that slopes in downtown Seattle, supposed Jon Scholes CEO, Downtown Seattle Connotation. It’s not only going to advantage our downtown, the whole city is going to feel this and the visitors securing Football World Cup Hospitality Tickets.

Conferring to the DSA, this past July more than three million people stayed downtown Seattle, the most since 2019. Believing two huge events. The MLB All-Star Game scraped in more than $ 50 million in revenue. And the Taylor Swift Eras Tour earned $7.4 million in hotel revenue on July 22.

Football World Cup 2026 followers worldwide can secure their World Cup Tickets through our online platform, eticketing.co. With a user-friendly interface and exclusive deals, fans can effortlessly book Football World Cup 2026 Tickets for thrilling FIFA 2026 matches at discounted prices. Do not miss the chance to witness the world’s greatest FIFA World Cup 2026 event live.

Football World Cup Hospitality Tickets: The Edgewater Hotel a Prime Stay for FIFA World Cup Fans

I think we’re going to shatter all archives when it originates to guest spending over a shortened period of time who secures World Cup Hospitality Tickets, Scholes supposed. Scholes thought downtown Seattle has 16,000 hotel rooms for guests securing FIFA World Cup Hospitality Tickets. He suggests people should start making reservations now. He imagines thousands of guests will book hotels in nearby communities as well.

The Edgewater Hotel is preferably located near the enthusiasm of Seattle’s varied set of nationally documented expert and college sports teams. With close nearness to T-Mobile Park, Lumen Field and Climate Pledge Arena, visitors securing Football World Cup Hospitality Tickets can easily relish the city’s vivacious sports scene.

Seattle made the cut as one of three U.S. West Coast host cities for FIFA 2026 and The Edgewater is just 1.7 miles away from the iconic Lumen Field. With one year residual until the beautiful game comes to North America, FIFA has supposed that more info on when fans can acquisition tickets will come in due to course.

USA Hospitality Tickets: T-Mobile Park A Premier Venue for Sports and Entertainment

T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners, offers a memorable knowledge for baseball fans and visitors alike. Situated in the heart of Seattle, this iconic ballpark features state-of-the-art amenities and a dynamic sky. Beyond game days, T-Mobile Park is a best venue for conventions, festivals, corporate events and more for those who secures World Cup Hospitality Tickets.

Football enthusiasts around the globe are eagerly anticipating the chance to secure FIFA World Cup tickets. To experience the excitement firsthand, purchase your FIFA World Cup Final Tickets through our online platform, eicketing.co. Do not miss the opportunity to be part of one of football’s most thrilling tournaments.

Lumen Field was constructed for the Football World Cup 2026; it will welcome fans from crossways the country and everywhere the world to our city. From substructure to local businesses, Seattle is well-informed for hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026. The FIFA 2026 in Seattle will honor the rich history of soccer in our area. With a world-class Fan Fest on the waterfront and ample events through the state, it will be a memorable experience.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 in Seattle has the will brand a generational impact on Seattle. Whether it’s the ground-floor businesses around the city or a fast growth in grassroots soccer, the legacy has the possible to change lives. It’s a huge undertaking, one that will need substructure developments within the city and renovations to Lumen Field that will comprise a new grass surface.

World Cup Hospitality Tickets: Fan Fest Celebration a Central Waterfront Experience

That has eased a much higher-level chat with the city, the county and the state of bringing the right stakeholders composed and essentially having the bat signal button that you can just drive to influence everything we want in this market essential for us and for fans who will secure USA Hospitality Tickets 

This close-knit community has gotten more urbane over the last three years since we underway this bids process, and also a lot more synchronized, she added. That’s credit to the city. The city has done a lot of work to regroup itself to be a one-stop shop for major events. It will work for the World Cup. It will work for the MLB All-Star Game next summer for guests securing Football World Cup Hospitality Tickets.

For fans eager to attend FIFA 2026 matches, a wide array of FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets is available at eticketing.co. Our platform partners exclusively with reputable sellers on the secondary market, ensuring access to top-notch ticket listings from across the web. Explore our Football World Cup 2026 selection to find the best deals available today. Grab your World Cup hospitality tickets from trusted platforms and join the excitement!

[listfor1realestategroup]

Exploring Luxury Property in Lawrenceville: Where Elegance Meets Southern Charm

When most people think of luxury real estate, their minds might jump to high-rises in Atlanta or beach homes along the Georgia coast. But tucked within Gwinnett County is a market full of sophistication, value, and lifestyle appeal—welcome to the world of luxury property in Lawrenceville.

What Defines a Luxury Home in Lawrenceville?

Luxury in Lawrenceville isn’t just about price—it’s about location, design, quality, and amenities. High-end homes in this area often feature:

Spacious open floor plans

Gourmet kitchens with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances

Spa-style bathrooms with soaking tubs and walk-in showers

Home theaters, wine cellars, and expansive outdoor living spaces

Gated communities or large, private lots

Typically, these homes start around the $700,000 mark, but the value they offer compared to properties in more crowded metro areas is hard to beat.

Top Neighborhoods for Luxury Living

Some of Lawrenceville’s most prestigious communities include:

River Oak Village – Known for stately homes and tree-lined streets

Edgewater – Offers lake views, tennis courts, and walking trails

Knollwood Lakes – Popular for large homes and proximity to shopping and schools

Tributary and Alcovy Club – Upscale areas with custom homes and estate lots

These neighborhoods provide both elegance and community—perfect for those who want privacy without being far from the action.

The Lifestyle Perks of Lawrenceville

Buying luxury real estate in Lawrenceville means you’re investing in more than just a beautiful house. The city offers:

Award-winning schools

A thriving arts and theater scene at the Aurora Theatre

Local boutiques, golf courses, and fine dining

Proximity to Atlanta without the traffic and congestion

It’s the perfect blend of Southern charm, modern amenities, and quiet sophistication.

Why Work With a Local Expert?

Navigating the luxury property in Lawrenceville market requires more than just browsing online listings. A seasoned local agent can:

Give you access to off-market or exclusive properties

Help you understand pricing trends and resale potential

Connect you with trusted inspectors, lenders, and designers

Negotiate high-stakes deals with confidence

Luxury buyers deserve white-glove service—and that starts with the right real estate partner.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for elegance, comfort, and value, Lawrenceville’s luxury real estate market is one worth exploring. With diverse styles, top-tier amenities, and a welcoming community, this growing city is the ideal place to find your dream home.

List For 1% Real Estate Group 134 Hurricane Shoals Rd NE suite-a, Lawrenceville, GA 30046, United States To book an appointment, visit https://www.lf1p.com/

[ofresoluxe]

⋮ ★ 𝚘𝚏𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚘𝚕𝚞𝚡𝚎: dependent, multimuse roleplaying blog for @willowpeakrp. penned by krys ( 32, she / her + est ). please do not interact if you are not a part of the group.

NAOMI MASON lyndsy fonseca 35. marketing manager at the field museum. resident of the loft district, factory flats, unit #2b. ( interactions )

ARTIE ELROY HALE michael cimino. 27. kennel assistant at baker's dozen vet clinic. resident of lakeshore crescent, the edgewater residences , 150 marina boulevard, unit #8c. ( interactions )

[viewwrangler]

apparently, the fascism will be televised - ICE attacks on Chicago begin

Somehow, ICE giving Dr Phil a ride-along for their attacks is entirely on brand for this administration.

(NB: You may need to watch a 30-second video to read the full article below.)

As far as locations go, nothing has been publicly released (well, duh) and not much is known. According to the Sun-Times:

... Officials told McGraw that 300 people were being targeted in Chicago, but specific details of the Chicago operations, including locations or number of arrests, were not released. Until Sunday, there were few reports of large immigration actions in Chicago despite previous statements that Chicago would be targeted as early as Tuesday morning, the day after President Trump’s inauguration.

[...] Two residents who live in the 9900 block of South Commercial Avenue in South Deering told the Sun-Times that immigration officers were on their block about noon Sunday and knocked on at least one door. The officers were in an unmarked van and “ICE” was clearly visible on their clothing, the men said.

[...] Ald. Daniel La Spata (1st) said federal officials conducted operations in Logan Square but not in his ward.

A spokesperson for Organized Communities Against Deportations, an immigrant advocacy group, said they received reports that people were taken from Albany Park, Hermosa and Edgewater, and also from suburban Bolingbrook and East Chicago. “We are continuing to inform folks of their rights, and it seems at least in some circumstances asking for judicial warrants have at least prevented some folks from getting detained,” said Antonio Gutierrez, the group’s strategic coordinator....

[izafoodie]

Terra, One Thousand Group and Major Food Group Break Ground on Villa Miami in Edgewater - PROFILE Miami

Terra, One Thousand Group and Major Food Group Break Ground on Villa Miami in Edgewater  PROFILE Miami http://dlvr.it/TGh5wc

[tennis-sports]

Edgewater Tennis: A Local Gem for Tennis Enthusiasts

Nestled in a vibrant community, Edgewater Tennis has become a go-to location for players of all ages and skill levels, offering a fantastic blend of competitive play, skill-building opportunities, and a supportive community. Drawing inspiration from the structured, skill-driven approach of Tennis Prime, Edgewater Tennis is tailored for both beginners and advanced players, blending accessible programming with expert coaching. Here’s a closer look at what makes Edgewater Tennis an outstanding option for anyone looking to get involved in the game.

A Focus on Comprehensive Coaching and Skill Development

One of the standout aspects of Edgewater Tennis is its dedication to fostering player growth through structured coaching. Following an approach similar to that of Tennis Prime, Edgewater Tennis prioritizes foundational skills, focusing on proper technique, agility, and endurance. The facility offers a range of programs for players at various skill levels, ensuring that everyone can advance at their own pace with high-quality guidance. Coaches work one-on-one and in group settings to instill the basics while introducing advanced strategies as players progress.

Youth Programs: Inspiring the Next Generation

Youth development is a primary focus, with tennis lessons designed to inspire and equip young players with the skills they need for lifelong enjoyment of the sport. Edgewater Tennis’ youth programs place an emphasis on making learning fun while focusing on discipline, teamwork, and respect for the game. Through drills, exercises, and competitive matches, young athletes learn tennis fundamentals and develop a strong foundation for future growth.

Advanced Programs: Pushing Skills to New Heights

For experienced players looking to refine their skills, Edgewater Tennis offers advanced training programs, including intensive clinics and private coaching. These sessions are designed to help players improve their game through drills that enhance footwork, precision, and strategic play. The facility also runs competitive leagues and tournaments that give advanced players a chance to test their skills in a competitive environment.

Community-Centered Events and Social Leagues

Edgewater Tennis understands the importance of building a community around the game. From social leagues to friendly doubles tournaments, the facility provides plenty of ways to meet other tennis enthusiasts. Events like round-robin tournaments, family tennis days, and social mixers make it easy to connect with other players, share tips, and enjoy the game’s social aspect.

Top-Notch Facilities and Court Accessibility

Equipped with well-maintained courts, Edgewater Tennis offers both indoor and outdoor options, accommodating play in various weather conditions. The facility makes it easy for members to reserve courts through an online booking system, ensuring they get ample time to practice and play.

Personalized Player Development: The Tennis Prime Approach

Echoing Tennis Prime’s approach to personalized player development, Edgewater Tennis adopts a tailored progression system that emphasizes mastery at every stage. Coaches track each player’s improvement and adjust training plans to target specific needs. This individualized attention ensures that players are continually challenged and progressing, resulting in a rewarding and dynamic tennis experience.

Conclusion

Edgewater Tennis stands out as a premier tennis destination that champions skill, community, and growth. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned player looking to sharpen your competitive edge, Edgewater Tennis offers a welcoming space and a structured pathway to improvement. With its dedication to excellence and a supportive community, Edgewater Tennis is not only a place to play but a place to belong.for more details visit tennisprime.

[urgefitnessedgewaterpark]

Website : https://www.urgefitness.com/edgewater-park/

Address : 4355 South Route 130, Edgewater Park, NJ 08010

Phone : +1 609-216-7456

URGE Fitness is New Jersey and Pennsylvania’s best and most affordable 24-Hour Gym and Personal Training fitness center. New weights and state-of-the-art machines compliment a schedule of the hottest group fitness classes, including Aerial Yoga, TRX, Zumba, Cycling, and much more!

Business Mail : edgewaterpark@urgefitness.com