#I absolutely adore gem so I hope to find many more quotes from her to present to you all

[correct-hermitcraft-quotes]

Grian: I wanted no judgements, Gem!

Gem: Well you came to the wrong person. I judge! That's what I do!

[myblueeyedbuggers]

My Boys

Chapter 12

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11  Chapter 13 Chapter 14

Pairings: Steve Rogers X Reader (Best Friend) Bucky Barnes X Reader

Word Count: 2420

Warnings: Slight bit of swearing

Summary: After being abandoned by her parents in Brooklyn in 1929, y/n makes a living for herself by working for the Црни лабуд gang until she meets two boys in a back alley and her life slowing begins to change.

Eyup My loves! Soo How’s your week been? Good I hope, so a bit of news for you all, there’s only  two/three more chapters left till this book is finished and then we’ll be moving onto (Drum roll) The First Avenger! Woooo! I hope you’re all as excited as I am. Anyways without anymore rambling, I give you chapter 12, enjoy!

So I can safely say that the rest of the week passed pretty quickly, with only a few ‘minor’ incidents, one of em being a massive food fight caused by yours truly and Steve getting himself stuck in the basement for 2 hours after seeing, and I quote ‘a possessed girl dressed as undead batman’.

I still haven’t told him that was me….oops

Apart from that it was pretty normal, cut to today where I’ve been blessed with the task of lookin’ after my best girl for Buck’s parents anniversary whilst they go into the city to celebrate, I mean it’s the least I could do for em. Plus, the last time the lads were trusted with lookin’ after Becca, Buck’s parents came home to the entire house covered in flour with Becca laughin’ at em cause they managed to lock themselves in a cupboard. We had to call the fire department to get em outta there.

Anyways, we kicked the boys outta the house so Becca and I could have a girls day in, now don’t get me wrong I absolutely adore this girl and I would practically do anything for her.

“Y/n can we play princesses please?! Mama got some dresses from our cousin we can wear!”

I can literally feel my soul burning right now. I honestly tried to say no, there’s nothing more I hate more that being forced into them things but one look into her bright little eyes made all my resistance die away and so I uttered the words that sealed my doom. “Of course, Becs only if we can have a tea party in em”. So here we are, me in a navy style party dress, lace covered my arms and the hem of the sweetheart neckline resting just on my collarbone,  the knee length satin skirt covered my legs.

Honestly, I wasn’t as bad I thought it were gonna be, I even let my hair outta the classic ponytail it’s always in so Becca could style it a tiny bit, to her credit she did a decent job. My h/c locks fell in small waves across my back, with the longer strands near my face tucked behind my ears and Becs even convinced me to pop on some of her mama’s makeup. Now I ain’t a fool, I know makeup’s pretty expensive and only let her pop on a shimmery light gold eyeshadow and some tinted lip balm, much to her disappointment I confiscated the mascara, I refused to let that death stick near my eyeballs.

Becca looked absolutely adorable, we’d managed to find her dance dress from last year and it suited her down to the ground. Baby pink lace covered her arms up to her wrist, the middle part had little gems dotted here and there with a pink satin ribbon separating the skirt from the top, from the looks of it the skirt was made outta some layered netting that poofed outwards when she span around. Don’t ask me how but I managed to wrap some ribbons in her braids and added a lil tiara on the top of her head and if you’d asked me, she looked like a real-life princess to me.

“So, your highness, what would one prefer to do? Would one like to have tea in the parlour or waltz in the ballroom?” my attempt at the British accent was apparently appalling, judging by the level of giggles coming outs Becca’s mouth. Eventually she calmed down enough to give me an answer “I think a waltz would be most fun lady y/n” she said in an equally bad accent. Slowly a smile spread across my face as I moved over to the record payer, I didn’t even pay attention to which one I put on before I turned back to Becca and offered her my hand, lowering myself into a bow that looked like a squid tryin’ to tap dance. Very elegant I know.  

You’d think after the past few weeks I’d been with the Barnes family, I’da got used to being tackled by the siblings, but alas I am surprised every-time, hence why I’m on the floor with a hyperactive 4 year old sat on top of me. Becca’s giggles filled the entire room, she quickly got off me and started jumping around to the sound of the jumpin’ jive and leaving me to slowly die on the floor, for all of 5 seconds before she yanked my arm outta my socket to get me dancing with her. I swear this girl isn’t even human, one second she’s sweet and delicate the next she’s bulldozing people to the ground and pullin’ em to the next life, I mean she’s 4 she shouldn’t be that strong!

Thank the lord she’s adorable. Quickly the music took over my mind, my feet moving along to the music, Becca was doin’ some twirls around me with the biggest smile on her face, I don’t know what made me do it but I grabbed her gently by the waist and spun us around in time to the music, her little arms reached into the air as we both laughed our heads off. Of course, me being me, I lost my balance and my butt suddenly met the sofa, with Becca landing next to me with a small yelp, it was quiet for all of 2 seconds before we burst out laughin’. Think it took us about 3 minutes before we calmed down, a comfortable silence fell between us, the music slowly faded to a stop as the record reached its end, and we stayed like this for a while before Becca broke the silence.

“Y/n, can you sing like mama? She don’t do it often cause it reminds her of my nana….” My eyes drifted over to Becs, her lil eyes dulled a little when she said it and now they were filled with a small glimmer of hope, and I really didn’t wanna be the reason for that light goin’ out. If I were being completely honest singin’ wasn’t something I ever wanted to do again, during my time with the Црни лабуд, singing was the only thing that made me feel like….well me I guess. It was the only sliver of light in so many years of darkness and once I was free from them I made myself a silent vow that I’d never do it again, that I was a new person. But one look in her little eyes was enough to make me break it. “I ain’t too bad, only know a couple of songs on the piano but I can try if you wanna”

Apparently Becca didn’t need to be told twice, in a flash of pink she was off to the other room, bellowing for me to follow her, I mean it ain’t like I gotta choice in the matter is it ? the sound of something hitting the floor in the room opposite me made me move even quicker (if that were even possible). Becca was stood in front of a oldish looking piano, a small bench was tuned over in front of her, and a white sheet was discarded on the floor next to her as she bounced up and down excitedly, I couldn’t help the smile on my face as I turned the bench over on it’s feet. Not even 2 seconds later Becca clambered up on it and looked at me with a bright smile, I swear she gets cuter every second like how does this happen ? I try it and I end up put away in a mental asylum.

“You got any requests princess ?” my legs carried me across the room and towards the seat, cracking my knuckles together and stretching out my fingers before turning to look at the younger lass, a look of concentration covered her face in response and it took her a few seconds to answer. “Dream a little dream of me ? think that’s what mama calls it” I swear I tried to stop the soft smile, but I really couldn’t help it this time. “sure sweetheart” and with that I hit the opening notes, the feeling of the keys under my fingertips were so familiar it was like no time had passed since I last played, I kept my voice soft and quiet as I sang. I think I was halfway through my second verse when I felt Becca cuddle into my side, she ducked her head under my arm and put her head in my lap, a soft yawn left her mouth as her eyes started to close to the sound of the music. It was at the end of the song that I looked at her again, soft snores escaped her mouth and her hand was grasping gently at the top of my skirt, I felt my heart melt even more that I thought possible, completely unaware of the small audience I’d gathered until a small cough came from behind me.

Aw shit…..

Bucky’s POV

If you’d told me a year ago, that after spending a couple of hours at Coney island with my best mate I’d come home to what must be an angels voice singing my sister to sleep. I’da never of believed ya, think you coulda imagined our confusion when me and Steve heard piano coming from the dining room. Steve shot me a look of pure bewilderment, and I couldn’t blame the guy to be honest, “thought you’d said your mama gave up piano couple a years ago”. I’m guessing my face mirrored his, cause I ain’t the slightest clue either, mama stopped playin’ years ago so who the heck could it be? “yeah she did bud, swore she’d never set her hands on it again…..”. I’m completely and utterly baffled at this point, where’s Y/n when ya need her ? she’d figure this out.

We both took a step towards the closed door, eager to know what the hell was going on when something stopped me, the sweetest sound I’d ever heard in my life sang along with the melody, I coulda sworn it sounded like the lullaby mama sang to us when we were kids. I guess I spent too long listening cause Stevie boy pushed past me and walked in, the sounds were so much clearer and more vibrant it felt like I’d died and gone to heaven right then and there. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I realised just who was creating this beautiful sound, there she was, sat in front of the piano as her fingers danced gracefully across the keys. Her voice, oh god her voice sounded like that of an angel, the weak afternoon sun shone over her hair and made her look even more angelic than humanly possible. I barely even noticed Becca asleep in her lap before Y/n finished her song and the ever-living pain in my ass decided to reveal that we were there. I mean he coulda chosen any other way of revealing our presence but no he had to let out the tiniest little cough, coulda got her back for the eyebrow incident….

Y/n literally went stiff as a board before she turned to look at us, her cheeks were red as a rose and a sheepish smile covered her face, it was only a couple of seconds after that both Steve and I noticed what she was wearing, he burst out laughin at her but me, I for once in my life couldn’t say a damn thing. She looked absolutely breath taking, her hair fell down in soft waves and framed her face, the shade of blue in her dress brought out the small flecks of green in her e/c eyes and brought out her hourglass figure. Her lips were drawn into a natural pout and it was that second it dawned on me she asked me somethin’….shit.  

“whaaaa…….” Nice one Bucky.

Steve, the lil punk, could barely stop himself laughin’, at some point he’d moved to take Becca off Y/n and stood behind y/n with his fist in his mouth to smother his laughter. My best friend ladies and gentlemen. If looks could kill he’d be 10 feet under right now.

“Buck ? I was askin’ if you were okay ?” Y/n’s face showed a tiny bit of confusion and much to my horror amusement, “YeAh I’m okay….” And just at the moment puberty strikes in the form of a voice crack, as if this weren’t embarrassing enough. At this point Steve was barely keeping it together, he had actual tears coming outta his eyes and went bright red in the face tryin’ to stop himsen laughing, in front of me y/n furrowed her eyebrows and did look genuinely concerned for my mental state. She didn’t say anything for a few seconds, just looked at me before she lifted her hand to my forehead and held it here for a minute, thank god Steve chose to leave the room before this or I’da never heard the end of it.

“You sure you’re okay, feelin’ a bit warm and ya actin weirder than usual Buck” okay quick say something before this gets even more embarrassing, first thing that pops into ya head in 3,2,1…

“Yeah I’m sure, think I ate somethin’ funky down at the pier, makin’ me real gassy”……why am I like this? Normally I can charm any girl of their feet but with y/n, I’ma bumbling mess.  She didn’t say a damn word, she just raised her eyebrows whilst a small smirk covered her face, before she turned and left me to have a very small breakdown underneath the dining table.

Meaning I let out a noise that sounded like a bear stubbing it’s toe in the middle of winter.

I thought my luck couldn’t get any worse, but nooo old lady luck decided today I needed a second helping, cause the second I did that Y/n walked back into the room. Brilliant. I was too busy stumbling over my words to processes what she was doin’, before I knew it she’d walked back to me and stood on her tip toes….then planted a small kiss on my cheek.

“You’re cute when you’re flustered Barnes”

And just like that, she left me with my jaw on the ground and heart beatin’ outta my chest, cause I’m starting to think that she was right. I’m sure as hell coming down with something, and I’m pretty sure it ain’t a regular ol’ bug…..

SOOO, if you got this far hope you enjoyed it, as always any feed back or constructive criticism is welcome, thank so much for reading and hope you have a great day/night/week.

lots of love

Rose xxx

[winchest09]

The Bunker Party - Debrief

Hey peeps! 

Our latest bunker party was just amazing. My cheeks and my stomach still hurt from laughing...Supernatural seriously does have THEE best fandom and I’m so glad to be a part of it. 

6 and a half hours we were hanging out for…SIX AND A HALF! But to see so many beautiful faces, hear so many lovely voices and to spend time with new people was just a dream!  The support from you guys for each other, the love in this fandom; I can’t express how much I adore it.

Me and @katehuntington​ love holding these events and we are already planning the next live stream (date to be announced) but it will be in August.

So...to the debrief!

Below you will find:

Everyone who joined - their tags, what’s coming up fic wise and their masterlist.

Announcements - a juicy one this time!

Challenges to join

Blogs who want to help with your writing

Want a link breaker?

Fic & blog recs

So without further ado… *cracks fingers*

You are the guys that make it the live stream what it is.  So below is a list of everyone who was on the chat last night accompanied by their masterlist and what they have coming up soon!  For your reading pleasure and in no particular order…

@katehuntington​: The new chapter of Ride with Me is out NOW and she is currently working on the next instalment. The Sullivan Series is now scheduled to be posted every FRIDAY so keep your eyes peeled for that and she is going to be finishing All I Want soon too! 

Her masterlist can be found HERE

@flamencodiva​: This babe is currently working on a multitude of things and we are in awe every time she tells us what she has on. She has FINISHED the epilogue of Getting Back To You. She’s working on the next part of What He Lost, What He Found as well as When You Fall. She also has Call of the Ocean and drabbles that are exclusive to her patreon! 

Check out her masterlist HERE

@talesmaniac89​:  This beaut has been working a lot on editing images lately, making aesthetics and dividers for everyone to use! Besides that, she has a new chapter of The Man in Apartment 43 coming out. The next chapter of Missing in Action as well as the next one of Lost. 

She is also working on a Benny/Dean oneshot!

She’s created a fake website called HunT and is creating a social media AU set in the universe. The whole story will be told through text messages and emails. It’s NOT one to miss!  

Check her out guys, her masterlist is HERE

@whatareyousearchingfordean​: Alex is currently writing her next two fictions! With Happiness Begins finished (previously Et Cetera) she has a sequel in the works...as well as her Firefighter Dean AU.  From what we’ve already heard…it sounds amazing! I won’t give away any plot points that we were told just yet but it’s one to be put on your watch list!

Her masterlist can be found HERE

@superfanficnatural​:  This babe is currently working on the next chapters of The Bringer of balance as well as the next chapters of The Choice! He now has a Mafia AU fic in the works and will be collaborating with Alex (whatyousearchingfordean) on “Heavy lies the crown) a Male reader fiction! 

We’re living for it!

Go and give him some love, his masterlist can be found HERE

@deanwanddamons​: This absolute sweetheart is working on a few things at the moment and I have been given a sneak peak at what her talented little mind is cooking up. The next part of Baby Spoon will be gracing your eyes soon enough as well as updates to the rest of her series...The Show Must Go On anyone? ;) 

Her masterlist can be found HERE

@emoryhemsworth​: This beaut has broken her lil hiatus and posted the sequel to Because of You. Piece by Piece is amazing and if you haven’t read it yet, i suggest you check it out. She’s also writing her first chapter of her series called “Losing Sleep” as well as a TWD crossover fic! 

Check our her masterlist HERE:

@waywardbeanie​: This absolute gem of a woman is working on her very first fanfiction called “A Man Of Letters” and it’s an absolute DIAMOND. Dean. Letters. Fluff. Smut. It’s gonna tick all them boxes and it’s a must read!

You can find her masterlist HERE

@janicho88​: This lovely lady is working on some absolute winners at the minute. We have Love on the Sidelines that’s coming up as well as the next part of Come Back To Me! 

You can find her masterlist HERE

@soaringeag1e​: This lovely lady has a lovely full masterlist of things for you to dig your teeth into! There are series, oneshots for Jensen, Dean, Jared, Sam, Misha, Castiel…her new series “Escape” is an absolute MUST READ.

You can find her masterlist HERE

@smol-and-grumpy​: Nat has such a juicy masterlist. We were thrilled sto see her in our livestream again. She has just finished Light My Fire and is posting the eye candy that is Euphoria! Also keep your eyes out for a few oneshots coming your way soon...

You can find her masterlist HERE

@jensengirl83​: Brandy is an absolute doll and we adore her. She is still relatively new to SPN fanfic but that doesn’t stop her from dominating it! She has over twenty oneshots under her belt already!  What he lost, Prom Queen, Letter To Lisa, and Return to Sender are a few you must check out! 

You can find her masterlist HERE

@alleiradayne​: She is new to our bunker party this week and we absolutely adored having her there! She has been participating in a charity auction for writers (info below) in which she has been writing a commissioned piece as well as outlining a new series which is going to be quote long apparently! But we are SO there for it. 

You can find her masterlist HERE:

@mariekoukie6661​: Marie has a quite a few things on her masterlist going from SPN to Marvel so definitely some goodies for you to feast your eyeballs on! 

You can find her masterlist HERE:

Me: The latest chapter of Life for Rent is out NOW and I’m currently working on the next one, which i’m half way through.  I’m also working on Man’s Best Friend as well as a brand NEW series which will be posted once one series is finished. I also have a couple of Dean oneshots I’m working on right now. 

My masterlist can be found HERE:

To the readers…

We want to thank you for your constant support, your feedback, your words, your reactions to what we write. Your likes, your reblogs, your asks. We appreciate every single thing you do. So thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We love you. 

Also, remember guys - we’re all here to love and support you! My inbox is always open if you want to talk about anything and everything. If you wish to start writing...give any of us a shout. We’re here to help! 

@leissa1287​ @teresa-67​ @jules-1999​  & the few nonnies we had!

Thank you for joining the chat and we hope you had an amazing time <3

Go and follow and give them some love!

In this livestream, thanks to @alleiradayne​, we found out about a wonderful organisation called Ficfasers, an international fundraising group of authors and artists who love Supernatural. They offer thank yous to people who agree to donate to Random Acts by creating stories/art, crafts, and more for winning bidders and ticket buyers!

THIS IS AMAZING!

Unfortunately, it appears we JUST missed out on the June auction but we have been told there is another one around the holiday period!

Want to write for Charity? 

Check out their tumblr HERE

and their website HERE

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Follower achievements! 

Join me in congratulating these amazing blogs as they have surpassed or are close to a follower milestone! @waywardbeanie​ has past her first 100 followers!  

@emoryhemsworth​ is close to 750 followers!            

@talesmaniac89​ is close to 4000 (she may do a challenge...keep your eyes peeled!)   

@superfanficnatural​ has passed 450 followers! 

If you’re not following them already, head on over and show them your support! 

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Want to be the first to read new chapters of your favourite fics? 

 Some of our fabulous livestream participants have Patreon! 

For a small fee a month, you get personalised drabbles, oneshots as well as first dibs on new chapters before ANYONE else! Please consider giving them your support.

The links for each authors Patreon is below:

@smol-and-grumpy​ - Find hers HERE

@flamencodiva​ - Find hers HERE

@soaringeag1e​ - Find hers HERE

Ooooooo we have FOUR challenges for you to get involved in! 

Firstly, the darling @flamencodiva​ is holding a celebration in regards to reaching 1700 followers!

Not only is she hosting a character take over on her blog she’s also posted a writing challenge for all us writers out there! This challenge is still ongoing!

Check it out HERE

Secondly, the wonderful @deanwanddamons​ & @impala-dreamer​ are holding a joint challenge. The “I Do Understand That Reference” Challenge.

Fancy guiding Sam, Dean or Cas through another French Mistake type event? Take a look at the movie list and get yourself signed up!

Check it out HERE

Thirdly, @smol-and-grumpy​ is holding a “Blogiversary” Challenge! It looks amazing with an array of prompts to choose from...head on over and join in!

Check it out HERE

Last, but definitely not least, @alleiradayne​ is holding a challenge in celebration of passing 1000 followers! It’s called “The Summer Shut-in” and it looks fantastic. 

Again, lost of prompts to choose from and still time to do it. What you waiting for?

Check it out HERE

We’ve got you covered!

Need to hash out a plot with someone?

The lovely @malfoysqueen14​ has offered herself up to be a plot buddy to anyone that needs it. Stuck on a plot point, want to talk through a story line with someone? Give her a message! She’s here to help <3

Need help with research for a fiction?

The most wonderful @waywardbeanie​ has offered herself up to be a researcher for anyone who wants help with their fiction. She has been a die hard SPN fan forever and she’s like the Ellen of our live stream.

Need a researching buddy? Give her a message! She’s a doll <3

Please note: we’re all super friendly and we’re all here to help you in any way we can, we’re all here to help you! 

Need a new aesthetic? Line divider? We got you!  Our fabulously talented @talesmaniac89​​ has drawn up so MANY supernatural themed line breakers, headers and more for your free usage!

Just look at some of these!

She has a few posts full already! 

Check them out HERE! 

Give them a like, a reblog and please THANK HER if you use her work. She’s the most kind hearted, loving soul and a few words go a long way <3

In our live stream, we want to highlight what we’ve been reading and the amazing authors behind the words. So below is a list of all the fics that we recommend for some good ol fic binging!

Fic Recs

Long Way Home by @supersleepygoat​ Pairing: Dean x Reader

Summary:  The Reader moves back to Sioux Falls after college to take care of the home front while Bobby travels for the summer. She is hoping for a quiet place to avoid her past and figure out her broken future. Instead, she finds new complications when she falls for her neighbour.

She also has some lovely Sammy goodness...you can check that out HERE

Business or Pleasure by @snffbeebee​ Pairing: Alex x reader/ Jensen x reader (eventual)

Summary:  Y/N is a new cast member of the Supernatural family and finds herself caught in between Business and Pleasure..It’s not always a good thing to get into but she thinks it might just be worth it!

The Woodsman by @thecleverdame​

Pairing:  Alpha!Sam x Omega!Reader

Summary: A/B/O Fairy Tale - You’re a sheltered, thirty-something princess on the run from your brother, the newly crowned ‘Mad King’ of France. When you’re waylaid by marauders and left for dead in the forest, a gruff woodsman nurses you back to health.

The Oath by @thecleverdame​​

Pairing: Dark!Alpha!Sam x Omega!Reader

Summary: After an unsuccessful escape attempt, the reader finds herself taken as a spoil of war. She ends up in the bed of a ruthless Alpha, the son of John Winchester, leader of the kingdom of Gilead. She struggles to conceal her true identity and navigate a society where being an Omega means nothing more than serving at the pleasure of powerful men.

Tic Tac Toe by @percywinchester27​​

Pairing:  Sam X Reader

Summary:  The reader shifts into a new city after being offered a dream job by a big firm. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect after an ugly break-up with a douche-bag Ex. But things turn out not as dreamy as she’d want them to be and the only thing that keeps her smiling is a totally coincidental game of Tic Tac Toe.

Doc and Sir by @crashdevlin​

Pairing: Sam x Reader

Summary: N/A 

King and Pet by @crashdevlin​

Pairing: Sam x Plus-sized!Reader

Summary: Y/n is very happy to be Dr. Winchester, happy to be Sam’s wife, but when Jack and Kaia send everyone into new universes, Doc is suddenly face-to-face with a very different ‘Sir’.

Cave Quid Optes by @crashdevlin​ Pairing: Dean x plus-sized!Reader,

Summary:  Everything is great in 2029. Everyone is happy, life is good. What could possibly go wrong?

Firefly by @jay-and-dean​ & @roonyxx​

Pairing: Future Dean x reader

Summary: 40 years in Hell, but he didn’t spend all this time all alone, he had her. Prepare to know what happened during those years Dean never talks about. To immerge yourself in Hell, only lit by the mysterious kid growing here…And to see some of your favorite villains again : Crowley, Lilith, Lucifer… And also Sammy and Jack…

Owe You One by @supernatural-jackles​

Pairing: Dean x Reader AU

Summary:  Dean Winchester has been your best friend and neighbour for the last year. A year of finding comfort in random drop ins and casual conversations, but neither of you know the pasts that the other has. Not fully. Pasts that come back to haunt you, and ruin everything you want in life. Can you find what you’re seeking in a couple of favours and a good time between the sheets or is history doomed to repeat itself?

Till Death Do Us Part? by @amanda-teaches​ Pairing: Dean x Reader Fake Engagement AU Summary:  At a work party with your best friend, Dean, you panic when your new boss asks if you’re couple. Lying to protect your promotion, you wind up fake engaged before you can take it back. When Dean agrees to go along with your lie for a weekend retreat, you end up finding something neither of you had bargained for: love.

With Wolves by @bamby0304​

Pairing:  Alpha!Dean, Alpha!Sam, Omega!Reader,

Summary:  Known as The Omen, your reputation puts fear in some of the most dangerous and deadly Alphas. So when you’re caught and sent to the worst maximum security facility unknown to man, no one expected an unclaimed Omega to walk through the gates in shackles and an orange jumpsuit. Word circulates, and before long there’s a price on your head. Who will claim the untamed Omega?

Blog Rec:

@idreamofplaid​: If you want some Sammy goodness...then this is a must follow blog! Her posts are to die for. 

@kittenofdoomage​:  Kitten has stories that just pull the reader in and gets them obsessed, completely original and fascinating stories.

@bamby0304​:  Bamby has an impeccable sense of plot and character development and she does it masterfully.

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I think that’s it!

Thank you so much once again to everyone who joined the chat, we had 6 hours of laughs and i cannot wait to do it again. I’d appreciate it if you could share this to spread the love of the fics and authors on here!

Keep an eye out for the next date for our next livestream! It will be in a couple of weeks. If you guys have any idea’s or want something included, let us know. If you want to be tagged when we announce, let us know!

See you next time!

xox

[sinterblackwell]

1, 5, and 103 for the book rec ask game (also feel free to recommend any other one of the categories if there is one you really want to do) :D

book recs ask game

it’s the fact that as soon as you mentioned that last bit, i jumped at the chance at getting to recommend more books. i hope any one of them can peek your attention, and thank you for sending me this <3

1. a book that is close to your heart

fifty words for rain by asha lemmie

@/storyseekers is doing this event here on the site where users can create an edit following this prompt: “book to read to understand me”. i’m not much of an editor but if i did make one, it would be for this book.

i don’t relate to a lot of the events in this book, nor any of the experiences that nori goes through but there’s just a lot of elements to it that made it become possibly my favorite book of all time. nori as our main character goes through many moments where her life is stripped away from her and in the moments where she does feel happy, it takes a lot out of her when others try to strip it down even more. 

akira is her long-lost brother, the one who comes into her life and makes her feel like she does deserve happiness, and he’s also the light that comes into nori’s life and vice versa.....family means the world to me. the relationship between nori and akira, both characters who spent a lot of their life practically alone who then find out about the other, it was incredible. seeing nori come into her own in the moments where she’s forced to be alone made her even more a force to be reckoned with well until the end.

5. something in fiction that reads like poetry

jonny appleseed by joshua whitehead 

this is what i wrote in my personal review:

“reading this story felt like reading poetry at its core, felt like a lesson plan that showed me what it meant to be really honest, what it feels like to read someone spill their guts and not care to make it more appealing, they’re just there. it’s messy, it’s uncomfortable, it’s confusing, but it’s so gripping and you’re highlighting every page because there’s significance in so many pieces of the narrative it flies all around you.

there’s so much pain, so much weight to carry that there’s brief moments where it feels like all jonny could do was scream out [loud] to release all [the] contents inside him—but in his day to day life, in the stories and experiences he’s had with other people on the rez and in the city he’s living in now, it’s like he has to live between two different places at once. physically, he’s having this conversation with someone and he can listen as their words register in his mind but mentally, he has to create another visual that this conversation conjures up because all he’s made up of is memories and just existing feels like constantly having to reconcile the past with the present.”

here’s also a quote from this book:

Maybe that’s why the only bit of me I left was a ghost? I guess that’s all we left each other, eh Kokum, just each other’s spirits? One for you, one for Momma too—maybe that’s why Manito gifted me two? Manito gifted me enough to travel out and in and all that space between, to weave like those old rapids do, and to carry memories as a souvenir between this world and the fourth, where I’ll finally come home and have nothing but my glories to share with you.

103. a fluffy, sweet read

let’s talk about love by claire kann

alice is an absolute gem and the relationship between her and takumi is even more precious. this novel bursts with so much love, and not just romantic but platonic as well. i said a little bit above that family means a lot to me but i adore friendships in fiction just as much and the found family aspects in this book never failed to make me smile so i think a lot more people could like it. 

+ (bleh i recommended three more books from three other categories, i definitely got carried away but i hope it’s okay)

20. a book that got you out of a reading slump

all the better part of me by molly ringle

i changed my url in honor of this book after holding onto it for two years, you can imagine how good of an impression it and sinter blackwell, our mc, had left me.

i’ve been in a reading slump off and on since late february and it’s one of the worst things to go through as an avid reader. in march, i only read three books--all were phenomenal but there was just a lot more i wanted to read. then, i came across this book on scribd in april and sinter is just such a charming character and the writing was so solid that my brain managed to crawl its way out of a fog long enough that i got to read a bit more. 

again, i’ve been on and off when it comes to my reading and i currently am having trouble grasping the motivation to read some books now so i just hope that a book like all the better part of me can get me out of my slump again. 

66. a book that fucked you up

these violent delights by micah nemerever

fun fact: this was one of the three books i was able to read in march :’)

a dark academia novel that explores loneliness, philosophy, grief, chess, toxic codependency in relationships, family dynamics, and murder--the perfect storm to what ultimately made this book fuck me up. it’s also just really well-done and as slow of a pace as it has, i personally enjoyed it much more for that reason. all the characters were portrayed with such careful hands and this book absolutely screams with empathy and compassion for these same characters. it made all the pain and hurt hit way too hard, to be honest.

129. a book featuring flashbacks and/or intersecting storylines

- little gods by meng jin

this author blends physics with fiction well enough to tell a story about time, and how these different characters are affected by the small and big events that make up their lives. the focus on family and interpersonal relationships felt more personal as we were seeing science play a big part in the narrative, and it just made what the author said in her interview of this book afterward blow my mind even more because she’s just so smart.

Fiction and quantum mechanics are both forms of storytelling. They explore all these relational possibilities, and they seek to form order from chaos.

this story is an example of that. 

[artgurusauce]

So, how was Pokemon Shield?

Before I start, this is going to cover the main game, not post-game. Sorry, no talk about Dickhead Swordward and Shieldbert. Also, if it wasn’t obvious already, massive spoilers ahead. 

IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE SPOILED, DO NOT READ THIS POST

I’m not going to ramble for hours about this, because to be honest, my thoughts about this are much briefer than they are for gen 7/Alola. Not to say there’s not much going on in this game, just that if you were expecting a super professional and profound review of the game from me, you may or may not be disappointed.

I will do my best to be articulate, though.

I’ll start with the rivals, the most obvious choice the begin with being: Hop.

Hop is definitely not like Hau like so many people were desperate to make me believe pre-release. In fact, while their arcs are similar, there’s a biiig difference. That difference, to me, is their changes in character. Hau had a big ass crash, yes, but his character change was pretty damn gradual. With Hop, after Bede puts him down, well, you can pretty much tell he’s not the same guy right off the bat the next time you talk to him. I absolutely adore Hope and I’m glad he got as much screen time and focus as he did. His arc was fantastically written and beautifully handled all the way to the end. All I can say is, another cinnamon roll for the collection.

Then there’s...Marnie.

Now, I don’t hate her, far from it. I adore her very much as well. The problem is that it seems she doesn’t get much time to flesh out like Hop did. A problem that goes both ways between her and Bede. Of course when I got to the seventh gym and met big brother Piers I actually did like the dynamic they were going for. Buuut I really wish they had given Marnie just a little more time to herself before that. I just didn’t feel like they did enough with her and...that’s a damn shame considering how popular she was upon her first reveal. Of course, again, this isn’t to say I don’t think she’s still just the cutest little punk goth button ever.

Sigh...and now it’s time for me to talk about Bede.

Look, from what I could tell, half the fandom was nuts for him, the other half was sick to death of a generic douchebag rival that adds no flavor to the table. But I’m a little torn on this one. Like I said, him and Marnie share an awful side effect of Hop’s arc being the most prominent...they don’t get enough time or everything that happens in their arcs feels...rushed, by comparison, at least in my opinion. So the thing is, when Bede gets disowned by Chairman Rose, of course my first reaction is “You had it coming, you were being a shit.” But then Opal...takes him in? And...acts as though Oleana manipulated him? I guess I could perhaps see what they were going for here, and, I’ll admit it, I kind of adored their dynamic, albeit a short interaction between them. And I did find it rather cute at the League when he was all flustered about being trained by Opal, having to continue training because everyone was cheering for him. But the thing is...his arc is kind of...broken? Like, I want to feel bad for him, and I want to feel invested in Opal taking him in and showing him the ropes of the Fairy Gym but...it just doesn’t work like it should. Which is odd considering Bede gets considerably more time to flesh his arc than Marnie, at least, that’s how it seemed to me. I do think the general story and Hop’s own arc really just forced the writing’s hand in sweeping Bede’s arc by as fast as possible. He could’ve been an interesting diversion of expectation, but...oh well.

Speaking of gyms, how do I feel about the gym leaders?

Well, Milo is a fucking cinnamon roll, and I do think I’ve settled on shipping him with Nessa because...I mean...c’mon now. Short bean boy, toll ocean gal? Perfect for each other ♥

I don’t really...feel anything towards Kabu. His design is bland, his personality didn’t stick out to me at all, but I guess they can’t all be iconic gems when you think about it.

Then...there’s my baby boy Allister. And lawd, my dudes, if Hop ain’t my new son well then Allister sure as fuck is. I did HC that he was mute like Red before the game came out and, well, his personality and dialogue are pretty good despite not being what I was hoping. I mean, c’mon, how can you not love that adorable little face? Or that he’s so socially introverted he keeps a collection of masks to make absolute sure his face is hidden? I am going to be quoting “Crumbs, that’s aces” forever now.

Opal was an interesting woman, I definitely think there could’ve been more to her relationship with Bede but I already discussed that. My dad thought she was kinda scary and creepy but she reminds me of that old lady from Spirited Away so I ain’t bothered all that much lol. She was nice enough, I do like her humbleness and that she’s willing to admit it’s definitely time for her to call it quits. And yes, I have seen that official art of her when she was younger. She is a fucking QUEEN  ♥ ♥ ♥

Then comes Melony...hoooo boy my lesbian ass is fallin’ so hard it physically hurts me in ways you will never imagine in your life. Wicke wishes she was this thicc. In all seriousness though, I am pretty curious about that son of hers. I heard you can meet him in Sword but I’ll have to wait and see that for myself. Aside from being the newest love of my life, she’s absolutely adorable and wholesome. I know her card reveres her as strict, but, she just looks like a cinnamon roll.

Piers...oh Piers, where do I even begin? His design is fucking on point, for one thing. And his relationship with his sister Marnie is just so cute and so much fun to watch. As unfortunately left field as it was for me, I did like his arc about not being a good Gym Leader and wanting his sister to take over for him. It was sweet and kinda sad but I just love him so much. For the first Dark Type Gym Leader, not bad guys, not bad at all. Also omg Piers slay me with your metal, king plsssss

Finally, there’s Raihan and...omg he’s so great. This mother fucker not only takes selfies in the middle of a match, not only bombards you with weather effects therefore making him a fun and challenging opponent, but this dude is also beefin’ with our head champ? SIGN ME UP, FAM. For real though, like, I loved battling with Raihan the most out of anybody that I fought. I definitely haven’t felt this much fun battling a Gym Leader in years. And I will forever be torn as to whether or not I want to ship him with Leon >3>

Speaking of the chadster, I ain’t talked about ‘im yet. Or Sonia, for that matter. Honestly, they’re both pretty great. 

But Leon is the fuckin’ MVP this gen, I’ll tell you what. He’s such a bro he tells Rose his “Day of Destiny” bullshit can fuck off til our match is over. Of course, I do like his ditzy and dorky sides too. Like his snapback collection or how easily he gets lost seriously Leon it’s just a straight fucking line to your house how do you fuck that up. But he ain’t just a bro to the main character, naw, he a bro to his actual bro, Hop. And I fuckin’ love it. Their interactions are so investing and entertaining and wonderful to watch. It’s almost kind of magical, in a way. I think he is without a doubt my number one favorite Champion of all time now. 

But as for Sonia, well, I dunno...maybe I’m nitpicky or remembering things wrong but she seemed to drop her disdain for researching the legend of the “Darkest Day” like a hat at some point. Granted, I still think her character arc while it wasn’t even needed was very well done. I loved listening to her dork out about the legends, her research, all of it. It was spectacular. And ever since I first found out she was childhood friends with Leon before the game even came out, ladies and gents, these two have dun been my OTP. The only one still challenging that notion is Raihan at this point, lol.

And now...we get to Oleana and Chairman Rose.

Oleana is just...kind of a nothing character for me, personally. Even after knowing about her Garbardor and all that, sorry fam, she ain’t doin’ it for me. She was a red herring so overblown and obvious it has since been laughable that anybody thought she was gonna be this gen’s Lusamine. She is just...some really crazy lady who happens to be passionate about her job. Ok.

Rose, however, is an absolute bastard. And I love it. However, I do have a problem with this, as it sort of connects to my earlier point with Bede. His relationship with Bede is...I don’t even know if I could call it a father-son relationship. I mean, yeah, he basically adopted him, but he disowns him at the drop of a hat. Granted, what Bede did was wrong, but...really? I guess that’s just how much of a dick he is, but, there’s no closure to that. Even after finding out what a horrible, deplorable man Rose is, Bede never talks to him after he’s disowned. Maybe this was meant to be a “Well it’s better he moves on to the next chapter of his life as soon as possible” sort of thing. But his sudden taking under Opal’s wing did not accomplish that feeling with me. So it feels sort of...hollow, to me. There’s no conclusion, follow-up, it’s almost as if Bede didn’t even know who Rose was anymore after Opal scooped him up. And yeah, Bede says “Everything has gone wrong since I met you” but...here’s the problem; That’s as much as he goes into being affected by Rose. It’s not too important, I guess, but it’s something that bothered me, personally. Rose’s motivations seem...ok, I guess. It’s about what I was expecting. Seriously though, his battle theme has no business being that good.

Those are all my thoughts on the characters, at least any that were all that worth talking about. Without further ado: Allow me to introduce y’all to my babies...

As I mentioned on Monday, my team consists of an Appletun, Centiskorch, Greedent, Hatterene, Inteleon, and an Eiscue. And I only just now realize like 5 out of 6 of them have names that start with a “C” lmao.

First up, we have my very first darling: Chastity

There’s a few things one should know about this slick little bitch:

Big shock, she was a huuuge cry baby as a Sobble. Like, mortified of pretty much everybody. Total mama’s girl. But as a Drizzile she was just a total grump goth binch. The only one of my Pokemon in my camp she would give the time of day is her dear friend Chariot, who at the time was a Hattrem. They pretty much grew up together and they’re besties now.

But now that Chastity is fully grown, well...she’s a little...flirtatious. Oh, no, not with the boys on her team. No no no. Every camp we step onto she’s just flirtin’ like a mad woman. She even managed to seduce my dad’s Cinderace who was already a huge playboy

Still, I can’t stay mad at this cute little brat. She’s still a total mama’s girl at heart and I love her to death. Btw, her Snipe Shot is ridiculously strong, though that’s probably because she’s still holding a Mystic Water haha

Up next is our resident lady in waiting: Chariot

I found Chariot in the Motostoke Outskirts and she has always been a picky snob even as a Hattena. She only ate small portions unless it was Whipped Cream Curry. Though nowadays I’m sure she only eats in such small portions to maintain her figure...

As I said before, she and Chastity have pretty much always been best friends. I definitely love to imagine her always hassling Chastity for her less than lady-like behavior though, haha. Chariot was weirdly sleepy as a Hattrem, though. Like...she dozed off a lot. She must’ve been getting plenty of beauty sleep for her evolution lol. 

I used to have a Toxtricity on my team named Ripper before I found an Eiscue for the League, and she seemed quite enamored with him. At least for the long period he was with us, she talked to him 50% of the time when I stopped for a little break. It was incredibly adorable, though I fear what might happen if I leave them alone at a daycare for too long...  <(⚆_⚆;)>

As a grown Hatterene, she’s rather dainty and conversative. I’m actually surprised, lately she’s starting to talk to some of her other fellow team mates lately. I suppose she’s not as stuck-up as she pretends to be, haha.

Up next we have our looonnnggg boy: Mushu

I picked up Mushu at Kabu’s gym. He was pretty shy as a tiny Sizzlipede and often avoided talking to most of his team mates. He was pretty spooked by a lot of them, actually, particularly Ripper for reasons I never quite understood. I guess when Ripper was still a baby, Mushu didn’t understand why he cried so much and was terrified of the loud noises he made lol.

However, he grew into a long boi rather quickly and he’s pulled us through some pretty tough spots in the gym challenges so I like to spoil him with lots of play time. He’s got a Jolly nature and honestly, it shows a lot more now that he’s all grown up. He loves to play and races with his team mates pretty much all the time. Rip Caramel, your utter annihilation will not be forgotten. He’s a very sweet and almost gentle boy and I honestly feel bad for all the battering he’s had to take before because I was a little too eager to take on opponents way out of my league.

A couple of fun facts about him before we move on:

His favorite curry in the curry dex is Smoked Tail Curry, which he always eats in gigantic portions. He freaking loves camping on Route 6 or in Stow-On-Side, I guess he really loves the heat.

Up next is my precious dumpling baby: Caramel

I first caught Caramel on Route 5, and I love love looove my baby apple pie. He’s such a chill and adorkable little dragon and I’m not one to pick favorites but...oh, who am I kidding? He’s totally my favorite.

As an Applin he was just too cute. He was a little slow and none of his team mates seemed to understand him so they tended to leave him by himself. So I ended up having to give him lots of attention so he wasn’t too lonely. And gosh was he just the cutest little baby apple. Of course, he wasn’t an Applin for very long, so there’s not much to speak of regarding his early stages.

However, once he evolved, he became a fucking tank. Caramel can take hits like a freaking champ and since I gave him Draco Meteor he’s practically an unstoppable beast. Of course, by heart, he’s a Lax boyo and enjoys the littlest things in life: Like the nice breezes in the Wild Area, or his Apple Curry, even if it’s snowing something fierce outside he’s all about it. And I just- argh he’s so fuckin’ cute!  ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Up next we’ve got the chunky cheeked baby: Peter Griffin Conker

Conker is a Gentle boy who’s been with me since the very beginning at Route 1, and it fits since objectively he’s probably the weakest Pokemon I’ve got on my team. But that’s ok, because he’s definitely scored us a couple of hard gym challenges just like Mushu has. He was definitely useful for buying some time when I needed it, that’s for sure.

He was pretty chattery as a Skwovet, even if some of his team mates weren’t all that talkative looking at you, Chastity. This probably comes as no surprise, but he’s always had a bottomless stomach. Seriously, he’s eaten large portions even as a baby Skwovet and it baffles me. Guess he’s just a really hungy boy, lol.

As a fully grown, chunky Greedent, he’s pretty slow. Like, really slow. Even when he runs it’s like a snail tracking through peanut butter and molasses. And it’s too cute to watch. I really wish I could give him belly rubs tbh, he looks like the type that’d enjoy those, haha. These days he’s best friends with my Eiscue, Cubert. They usually race each other after they have lunch.

And finally, one of my greatest MVP’s: Cubert

Cubert joined us very late in the game on Route 10. And while unfortunately he ended up taking Ripper’s place, I knew he’d be a good addition to the team. I’ve given him Hail and Aurora Veil, which is super useful for battle prep. It’s pretty lucky I was able to find this little guy waddlin’ around up there on my way to Wyndon.

As I said before, he was pretty anti-social with everybody at first. Though I’m sure that’s because he was so new by the time we got to the League. Thankfully, Conker got him out of his shell and they’re best friends. He still seems a little shy around the others, and even myself, but I’m just glad he’s got somebody to talk to. Not much to say about him unfortunately, since he’s so reserved and tends to keep to himself, but I’m sure that’ll change eventually with time.

Now that’s everyone that’s on my current team, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my boy Ripper at all, so, allow me to introduce an old friend who’s been livin’ in retirement for the past few days:

I first picked up Ripper at a Nursery while I was omw over to Hulburry, I believe. So Ripper was with us for a damn long time until I picked up Cubert. Initially I had hoped he’d be a High Key Toxtricity, but I’ll take what I get. Besides, he was more than helpful with quite a lot of battles, especially Opal’s gym.

He was pretty loud as a Toxel, which should come as no surprise. Always throwing tantrums and never really seemed to eat anything bigger than a small portion of whatever curry I cooked, so he was picky just like Chariot was. All around a bastard baby, really. He didn’t really start getting onto the battle field until he evolved, in all honesty.

But once he did, hoo boy, he was killin’ the competition like a pro. I feel pretty bad I didn’t take him into the League with me, but I felt like Cubert would’ve been more useful so I swapped ‘im out. I’ve been pulling him back out of the PC box for some more training lately to help him catch up to make up for it, though. And he seems pretty happy about it, so bygones are bygones I suppose.

And it seems he’s still very much taken with Chariot. Sigh, young love, so adorable. Anyways, respects to the OG madhouse that got me through some toughies, you did good out there buddy. ;w;

Alright, well, that’s just about all I have to discuss, for now. I hope this wasn’t too droning of a post or anything. But before you head out, I’ve got a little surprise. Since this was such an interesting experience, I’m opening a new Tumblr based on my journey that will follow my Trainer OC Luna and her adventures through Galar. If you’re curious to check it out, click here. I don’t really have an upload schedule, so just keep your eye out for any posts in the future. Hope you guys enjoy it!

[simkjrs]

the making of enoshima junko

junko is a fascinatingly funny villain who defies so many attempts to understand her, reason with her, or empathize with her. i think the creator of danganronpa even said she was made to be a villain who’s impossible to relate to or understand. BUT HERE I AM, writing a meta about the inner workings of her mind and her motivations as a villain and how much of a tragedy she really was, because i am out here empathizing with her and loving her with all my heart.

i think she can be difficult to understand, and it’s easy to give up and explain away her actions as just “an obsession with despair” but there’s so much more going on that i just can’t leave it at that. 

SO HERE WE GO: what the fuck is going on in junko’s mind?

[contains MAJOR spoilers for the first and second games and danganronpa 0; includes content from unlocked bonus mode games]

to start things off: if you said that junko's motivation for destroying the world was just because she wanted to and for no deeper reason, you'd be correct. but like, you wouldn’t be right.

critical to understanding junko is danganronpa 0. we learn a few things about junko, the first and most important of which is the fact that her TRUE shsl talent isn’t fashion, or despair -- but analysis. 

junko has a mind that works very, very well. scarily so. she has a brain that:

after watching someone fight for approximately three minutes, can near-flawlessly predict their moves and lay an elaborate trap to knock them out despite the fact that they are much faster and stronger than junko

in fact, she predicts them SO WELL that she doesn’t even have to LOOK at them in order to dodge their attacks while they’re chasing her

just... three minutes, and she completely saw through their fighting style. that’s unreal. 

can analyze others’ speech patterns, thoughts, & mannerisms, to the extent that she can nearly word-for-word guess what someone is thinking or going to say. so we get gems like this: 

“If my prediction is correct, he‘s going to realize very soon that the source of my newfound power lies in my notebook.      [...]     Madarai reached a conclusion. There was some kind of secret hiding in that notebook.” 

“Does [Junko] think this is a game?!     ‘You‘re probably asking yourself if I think this is a game, but I‘m not gonna tell you either way...’”

can generate countless connections and possibilities at a moment’s notice: (from the bonus “ultimate talent development plan” mode)

can anticipate the way everyone is going to react to certain situations, as if they aren’t all complex independent organisms but instead actors whose lines she’s reading off a script... 

junko has a mind that accumulates data about the world very, very rapidly, and makes this.... GIANT database of behaviors, and patterns, and predictions. she's smart. she can lay a plot that accurately predicts the actions of people MONTHS in advance, to the point that she can make her plots run almost entirely on the reactions she predicted other people would have; she can craft a plan that would run completely in absentia of her, powered only by the decisions she predicted others would make. 

that's what she does in dangan ronpa 0. and it goes down without a hitch: 

“Just answer me!” Frustrated, Matsuda raised his voice angrily. “What is it you want to achieve? Just what is it you‘re trying to do?”

Enoshima tilted her head slightly to the side.

“Nothing really. I don‘t want to do anything.”

“... What?”

“It‘s too late, I shan‘t do a thing. I‘m not going to do a single thing, I have everyone else doing it for me. Guys like the student council, the headmaster or the steering committee... and also that girl who you absolutely adore... EEEEVERYONE is running around, doing my work.”

so what you learn from this is that junko is frighteningly good at breaking down the behavioral patterns of the world & people around her. good enough to predict other people, down to their thoughts, speech, and decision making process... good enough to predict fashion trends and make a name for herself as the ultimate fashionista... good enough that, with a little bit of time and observation, she can read her environment like it’s an open book. 

good enough that she’s completely, utterly bored. 

bored of talking to people because their responses are SO predictable, bored of schoolwork because it's SO easy, bored of doing things because it's just the same patterns repeated over and over and over again. junko can predict people months in advance; reading people in the moment must be a joke. 

for example, during her events in the bonus “ultimate talent development” game mode, junko has an encounter with asahina aoi and hanamura teruteru, in which hanamura invites asahina to his kitchen and junko cheerfully inserts herself into the conversation. there’s a little banter that junko takes part in at first, but then, before hanamura can get around to telling asahina what he invited her to the kitchen for--

turns out hanamura wanted asahina to taste-test some of his donuts. before he’d even mentioned it, junko figured it out. and to her, it was completely trivial to figure out. 

this is what daily life is like for her: nothing new, nothing exciting, just an endless parade of people moving according to a script. a script that junko read, divined, memorized, learned by heart, and is now completely and utterly bored of. 

life for junko is the perpetual, endless torture of boredom. it is about as engaging as being locked in an empty room with nothing to do but watch a clock ticking away at the time. 

and if you had no way to leave that room, no way to escape -- eventually you’d have nothing to do except take apart the clock itself, wouldn’t you? how long could you hold out before -- out of sheer frustration and the need to do something -- you’d try to dismantle the clock piece by piece? 

what junko wants, more than anything else, is relief from the numbness of boredom. she wants stimulation! interest! something exciting, something that can stir her to passions she could never reach under the endless cafard that weighs her down so in daily life! the highs of hope and joy, the lows of utter devastation and despair... how could she not chase that? she so desperately  wants it! she wants that excitement! she wants, more than anything else, to feel.

and boy howdy does despair make her feel. taking, for example, this passage from when junko personally murders her beloved matsuda yasuke (dangan ronpa 0): 

[Junko] loved him so much, that irreplaceable existence, more important than anyone else, almost obsessed with him to the point of insanity, always wanting to be within his embrace, even living in a world with only him would be fine. And by losing that incredible existence, just how much despair would [she] fall in?

She nurtured her love for Matsuda all this time just to get a taste of that feeling. Seeing her loved one be smothered by despair during his last moments, she pretty much lived to experience that spectacle.

Finally getting to taste that despair... 

“...INCREDIBLE!!”

It was more than anything she could have hoped for.

"Too depressing! Too good! My chest is gonna tear open! This is true self-loathing! I want to die! This is! This is the despair that comes from losing a loved one!”

While Enoshima‘s being was assaulted by that despair, she kicked Yasuke Matsuda‘s corpse with all her strength.

“Amazing, amazing! Amazingamazingamazingamazingamazing!”

and again: 

Looking at this notebook brought back memories of Yasuke Matsuda. Remembering him, she could feel her chest tightening. Consumed by disgust at what she did to him, she was compelled to cry and scream out. I want to forget this already! I want to just get rid of this notebook!

“Aha! All the more reason to keep this on hand!”

despair is just about the only thing that can reliably make junko feel something -- anything other than the utter boredom that plagues her so, that dogs her footsteps wherever she goes and eats away at her mind. it’s the only thing that can bring her relief. it’s her drug, her nepenthe, her poison of choice 

and for this reason alone, despair is the only thing that junko can cling to. as long as she’s bored, as long as she’s trapped by the very nature of her own mind, the only thing she can do is chase the purity of despair. 

in fact, it would be accurate to say that despair is junko’s only hope for being satisfied with her existence, and her only hope to be happy. Or, as dangan ronpa 0 puts it, “Junko Enoshima wishes for despair above anything else [...] finds hope within despair more than anyone else.” 

with this context, we can finally understand what ikusaba mukuro tried to say about her sister (again, in dangan ronpa 0): 

“[Junko] has lived her whole life with despair by her side. She lived while immersed in despair. That‘s why she began looking for despair in others. She learned to enjoy pushing people into despair [...] she learned to enjoy inflicting despair onto herself. That‘s how the link to despair began. As she chased down despair, she pushed it onto others on the way. Doing so, it caused her to desire falling into despair even more...and because of that chain to despair, the Super High School Level Despair was born.”

junko has been, and i quote, “bored since the day [she] was born.” despair is the only thing she has. by causing others to fall into despair, she can experience it herself. the more she cares about her victims, the better, too -- the worse she’ll feel, and therefore, the better she’ll feel. this is why junko gives so much special attention to causing the despair of those she loves the most, i.e. her childhood love matsuda yasuke, her sister mukuro, and her classmates at hope’s peak. 

BUT! there’s also an added bonus to all her convoluted plans for despair. it involves setting up situations that she’s never before seen -- and therefore, situations she can’t entirely predict! her pursuit of despair is her ticket to possibility of an unpredictable factor in her life -- and for someone as endlessly bored as junko? that’s as good as it gets. something exciting! something new! 

and if she doesn't know what's going to happen, then junko gets to feel things like ANTICIPATION, or SURPRISE, or FEAR, or DELIGHT -- things that are so often denied to her in her daily life because she can predict so much that she's just bored all the time!!! everything is boring!!! an endless plain of dull, boring nothingness with nothing to engage her for more than a minute, and junko HATES it, junko would do anything to find something even a little interesting or surprising in this world! she’d murder, she’d weaponize her empathy against herself, she’d destroy the world! she'd do anything to feel something besides boredom again!!!!

for junko, "despair" is associated with excitement and relief. she would pursue it to such a degree that she'd destroy the entire world and herself while she's at it -- just so she can feel something besides the endless boredom and nothingness that has burdened her all her life. 

of course, that means there’s a little dissonance in what junko claims to stand for. for junko, true despair would probably be akin to being locked in that empty room with the clock, and never letting herself take the clock apart. it would be... giving into boredom. and that’s something she could never bear to do. 

so then we have lines like this: 

With the sullen expression still on her face, Enoshima trotted towards Madarai‘s dead body. “It‘s your fault, y‘know. Take that!” She started jabbing her toes into the body. “Hey, say something! What‘s up with being so easy to kill?! You should‘ve at least made an effort to disrupt my plans! How can I possibly despair like that?!”

despair is about the thrill! the excitement! and yes, junko is making all these plans, hoping that they’ll succeed -- but how can junko despair if there isn’t at least the excitement of defeating all those who would desire to challenge her?! if there isn’t at least something a LITTLE new, a LITTLE bit unexpected?! she can’t, thats what! at least let your despair drive you to do something interesting and new for once in your life! 

or this: 

in all probability, junko -- more than anything -- would love an enemy who she can’t defeat. someone who, no matter how much she tries, she simply can’t overcome! because more than anything, that would represent a challenge -- and therefore, something exciting. junko’s happy ending is meeting her match, and more. 

too bad she doesn’t have anyone like that. 

so instead, junko has nothing to test her mind against, nothing to occupy her... nothing to save her from the boredom eating her alive. and so, from dangan ronpa 0: 

Everything turned out just the way she expected... Everything turned out just the way she hoped... and so she despaired.

“But, it‘s so unsatisfying when your plans always succeed... Whose fault is this? Is anyone going to take responsibility?”

and again, from the last trial of the first game: 

in the end, despair is only a poor substitute for what junko really wants; a pale, cheap imitation. what junko wants the most -- excitement, purpose, relief from boredom -- will forever be out of reach, as long as she’s trapped by the confines of her own mind. 

i think the saddest part about danganronpa 0 is that we get a look at what it would take for junko to be really, truly happy. junko wipes her own memory; more than that, she makes it so her long term memory is nonexistent, and she forgets things almost as soon as they happen. and the kicker is that junko is happier like this, living as the forgetful otonashi ryouko, than she was as herself. 

because she constantly forgets everything, she’s not bored. everything is a new experience. she’s happy to be with matsuda and feels no need to chase despair. as ryouko, junko is still self centered and somewhat callous, but she’s also passionate, excitable, cheerful, upbeat. she cares about those who are important to her, and would try her best to preserve their happiness. 

but when her brain is in perfect working condition, she can only helplessly fall back into the hopeless boredom that she hates so much -- and that she’d do anything to escape. 

it is a boredom so complete, she can’t stand it. she can’t even stand herself. her own predictable self, whose mind, thoughts, actions she knows so well... in danganronpa 3, junko actually has something of a seemingly stable personality, but by the time the end of the first danganronpa game rolls around... 

... she’s so bored of even herself that she feels the need to constantly switch up her personality. 

the sad thing this implies is that junko’s mind just -- couldn’t take it, anymore. it gave out under its own weight. her boredom was so absolute, her mental state could only deteriorate. she could only become increasingly unstable, and increasingly desperate to find something, anything, to keep her boredom at bay. 

no wonder junko has this sentiment, then: 

junko’s analytical mind is her greatest blessing, but also her greatest downfall; the source of her boredom, and thus, her descent into despair. she went to all these efforts to relieve herself of her boredom; and to do that, she chased despair, defined herself by the concept, even. but in the end, what junko needed the most was an escape from being herself. 

for someone like that... no wonder she welcomed death with open arms. here it is: the end of the line. no more boredom -- no more anything, in fact. only the fear, the terror, the excitement of her execution -- the great unknown -- and then, her death. 

the tragedy is that for junko, this was the only happy ending she could have. as long as she was alive, she’d never be happy, never be satisfied. death, for her... was a relief. 

so when naegi started to tell her that executing herself wasn’t necessary--

she became angry. this was all the wanted in life, this was all she could ever hope for. this was, in her eyes, the only way for things to end. 

this is the tragedy of junko enoshima: a girl who, in a desperate effort to keep herself from going insane, destroyed everything she touched. 

[suchagiantnerd]

28 Books, 1 Year

Well, 2020, amirite? Staying home with a 4-year-old and a baby really decreased my reading time, bringing me to my lowest total ever since starting this blog. Here we go!

1. Her Body and Other Parties / Carmen Maria Machado

I rarely feel stupid when reading fiction, but this collection of short stories left me feeling pretty stupid. Machado's writing is visceral and gorgeous but what she's trying to say is mostly beyond me. Overall, the collection (as evident by the title) looks at the ways existing in a woman's body is fraught. Sometimes we want to escape our bodies, often our bodies are harmed or taken advantage of against our will, sometimes our bodies fail us. But as for the more nitty-gritty takeaways, I couldn't get there. One story in particular is staying with me. In it, Machado invents new summaries of each and every episode of Law & Order: SVU, telling a tale of a living, breathing New York City that requires regular blood sacrifices and in which everyone has a doppelgänger. I liked it, but definitely didn't get it.

2. Moon of the Crusted Snow / Waubgeshig Rice

This wonderfully chilling read takes place on a remote reserve in Northern Ontario. Over the course of a few days, cell service stops, the internet goes down, and the power goes out. With no communication possible with other communities, the reserve's residents can only guess at what may be occurring down south. As autumn creeps toward winter, the snow piles up and panic sets in. Eventually, a visitor arrives via snowmobile and confirms the residents' worst fears about the state of civilization while also asking to stay on in the community. Can he be trusted? Will others follow? This was a tense page-turner looking at the importance of community, preparedness and leadership.

3. Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar / Cheryl Strayed

Dear Sugar's advice to a person who didn't know whether or not he wanted kids is what turned me onto her. The answer was perfect. For someone on the fence, there is no right answer, no wrong answer. But there was a simple beauty to the way she said this. In this advice column collection, Sugar answers questions about love, parenthood, friendship, loss, death, finances, education, hopes and dreams. She insists again and again that we open our hearts and give forgiveness a chance while still maintaining healthy boundaries. And through her answers (and anecdotes) she showers love and care on so many devastated readers who are often writing to her as a last resort.

4. Girlfriend in a Coma / Douglas Coupland

We start the action with a Breakfast Club-type group of teens at a party in 1979 Vancouver. One of them, Karen, ends the night in a coma and doesn’t wake up for 16 YEARS. Also, turns out she was pregnant, and gives birth while in the coma. Richard, her boyfriend, raises their daughter with the help of his parents and friends, and by the time Karen wakes up again, the world has gone downhill. Not long after she wakes up, everyone starts falling asleep and dying except for the original group of friends and Karen’s daughter. I liked this novel as I’m a sucker for everything dystopian, but I also had to ask WHY? Why this random group of teens out of all the world? Why did Karen have to be in a coma for so long? How does it tie into the apocalypse? I still don’t know guys. I still don’t know.

5. How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence / Michael Pollan

Back in the 1960s, research on LSD was banned thanks to a moral panic. But today, scientists and therapists are starting to study its uses again. Pollan takes a deep dive into the future of LSD, psilocybin (certain mushrooms, and if I remember correctly, a substance that a certain toad secretes?!) and DMT, taking various trips himself with the help of trained guides. His vivid descriptions of each trip were the highlight of the book, and I find myself, someone who has never tried anything other than pot, wanting to try microdosing in the future.

6. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine / Gail Honeyman

The first of two contrarian reviews this year, I really didn’t like this book. I found Eleanor’s character and quirks completely unbelievable, and even discovered a little hole in the plot demonstrating that she can’t be as out of touch with pop culture as Honeyman claims she is (which I can’t reveal to you because it’s also a spoiler). I think my issue is that as far as I know, the author is not neurodivergent, whereas Eleanor is. I think this does a real disservice to readers, and would much prefer to read something like this by a neurodivergent author.

7. The Story of the Lost Child / Elena Ferrante

I finally finished the Neapolitan Quartet series! The fourth and final book finds Elena and Lila in their thirties and follows them until they’re in their sixties as they navigate professional successes and failures, new aspects of motherhood, relationship woes, and a fraying friendship. The dynamics of the friendship at the core of this series speak to me so deeply and captures so much about the passion, tension, tenderness, and competition that lurk within a longtime platonic relationship.

8. The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle / Stuart Turton

Dare I describe this as Downton Abbey meets Black Mirror? Aidan Bishop wakes up on the same date and in the same setting every day (Blackheath Manor on Evelyn Hardcastle’s birthday) but as a different guest or employee each time. Each night, Evelyn Hardcastle is murdered. Aidan quickly learns that his task is to find the murderer, using the different skillsets and vantage points he inherits with each subsequent body. The tension! The twists! The gorgeous setting! I loved this winding, wild novel.

9. You Were Born for This: Astrology for Radical Self-Acceptance / Chani Nicholas

If you are an astrology lover and don’t know who Chani Nicholas is, you’ve been living under a rock! Follow this woman! Her practice and guidance is so inclusive - feminist, anti-racist, anti-transphobic, body positive, and all about how to discover and lean into your gifts and talents while keeping in mind the greater good and working toward a more progressive society.

10. An Ocean of Minutes / Thea Lim

I started reading this dystopian novel about a pandemic right at the start of the pandemic! Maybe not a wise decision, but it didn’t matter, because this book is a beautiful, moving read. In the near future, young couple Polly and Frank find themselves stranded in Galveston, Texas, when a deadly virus begins sweeping across the globe. Frank gets sick, and the only way that Polly can pay for his expensive life-saving treatment is if she signs up as a bonded laborer and travels to the future (yes, time-travel exists!) The couple agree to meet up in 12 years (which will really be just a few short days for Polly). However, Polly is send an extra five years into the future, and Frank is nowhere to be found. The worry I felt! Polly’s loneliness and confusion in the future! Will they find each other again? Oh boy, this was an emotional ride!

11. Where the Crawdads Sing / Delia Owens

The second of my two contrarian reviews this year, I also really disliked this book, which everyone else and their mother seemed to adore? It was bad! The plot felt really contrived, the characters were two-dimensional, and I felt icky about the author’s two Black characters and how the protagonist, Kya, interacted with them. I don’t think Delia is informed enough about the realities of the Black experience, then and now, to responsibly write Black characters. Also, the ‘twist ending’ was a snooze fest. The one redeeming factor was the author’s palpable love of and knowledge about nature. I really did enjoy reading about the coastal habitat and sea life that the Kya loved so much. Oh, what’s this novel about, you ask? It’s a combo coming-of-age / murder mystery set in the 1950s and 60s.

12. The Skin We’re In: A Year of Black Resistance and Power / Desmond Cole

Cole is a Canadian journalist and activist shining a much needed light on racism in this country. In this book, he highlights one incidence of systemic racism in action per month during the year of 2017, focussing on police brutality, harm caused by school boards and educators, the Canada 150 celebrations, and unjust immigration policies. This book packs a punch and Cole’s writing style is really accessible. It’s a great entry point into learning about the realities of racism in Canada.

13. Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds / Adrienne Maree Brown

I absolutely loved this book, though I find it hard to pin down. At its core, it encourages us to think more deeply and holistically about nature, social justice, and community. Brown is heavily influenced by Black sci-fi / dystopian master Octavia Butler, specifically Butler’s ideas around “shaping change” while living through change. It’s full of gems of wisdom, like this quote, which is one of my favourites: “Imagination is one of the spoils of colonization, which in many ways is claiming who gets to imagine the future for a given geography.” As Brown also writes about, and which we can really see in this moment, we are currently living through the tail-end of a dying society, imagined by a small few. What could we create together if everyone’s imaginings carried equal weight?

14. From the Ashes: My Story of Being Métis, Homeless, and Finding My Way / Jesse Thistle

Thistle’s emotional and turbulent memoir begins with a loving memory of his time as a little boy at his maternal grandparents’ home. Not long after, his parents moved the family away from their Métis community and Jesse and his two brothers soon end up in the foster care system. This experience, though relatively brief, absolutely traumatized all three of them. Later, they end up living with their paternal grandparents, who love them deeply but are extremely strict, which doesn’t work for Thistle. He hits various rock bottoms, battling with addiction, trauma and homelessness at the intersection of racism. And somehow, he manages to break free of these harmful cycles, go back to school, and become an academic and best-selling author.

15. Policing Black Lives: State Violence in Canada from Slavery to the Present / Robyn Maynard

I would call this a must-read for Canadians. Maynard breaks down exactly how Canada surveils and punishes Blackness despite its claims of inclusivity and tolerance. She explores policing, yes, but also social work, education, immigration, and education and it’s impossible not to see the levers of systemic racism at work everywhere. Fair warning though, this is a more academic text and requires real concentration.

16. Jhumpa Lahiri / Unaccustomed Earth

This collection of short stories (the last being more of a novella) was gripping. I somehow fell in love with almost all of the characters. Lahiri writes people so skillfully. I felt their longing, hope, sorrow, grief, excitement. Most of the tales take place within the Indian community in Cambridge, Massachusetts, but some stories take us further afield. Lahiri picks a key relationship to focus on within each story - daughter/father, sister/brother, two roommates, childhood acquaintances - and lays them out gently under her microscope for us to see in all their intricate complexity.

17. Midnight Sun / Stephenie Meyer

Did you guys know I’m a Twihard? Having read all the Twilight novels (multiple times) way before I started this blog, this may be new information. But I’m a huge, pathetic fan and though I love Jacob, I will always be Team Edward. So OF COURSE I had to read this extremely long-awaited book, which is actually Twilight, but from Edward’s point of view rather than Bella’s. It was genuinely enjoyable, but not filled with nearly enough sexual tension for my liking. And of course, never ever read it unless you are also a Twilight fan.

18. The Sun and Her Flowers / Rupi Kaur

It’s Rupi being Rupi! I legitimately enjoy Rupi’s poetry, but I don’t love it. Some of the pieces really resonate, and others do nothing for me. But I do think she’s an important voice for young women, and specifically young women of colour. So much of her writing is about reclaiming your power, honouring the older generation of women who sacrificed so much and received nothing in return, and learning to love yourself in a society that is constantly trying to hurt you. Her poetry is always an uplifting read.

19. Conscious Creativity: Look, Connect, Create / Philippa Stanton

I’ve been following Philippa on Instagram for years as I adore her flat-lays and domestic foraging arrangements (if you follow me on IG, you may have seen my colour-themed #DomesticForaging homages to her work!) So when she published a book outlining her own creative process (and containing tons of her gorgeous photography), I had to read it. Stanton has included lots of activities meant to light your creative spark and inspire new ways of looking at things. She also writes about her experiences as a synesthete (someone who may “see” music as colours or who may “hear” shapes), which was fascinating. This is a book I’ll certainly go back to when I’m feeling uninspired. Want to follow her on IG? Her handle is @5tfinf.

20. Turkey Trot Murder / Leslie Meier

Guys, this review is the start of something BIG. Brad knows that I love to read books that are “in season” (I don’t want to read a book set in the summer during the winter, etc.). So he bought me this very niche Thanksgiving mystery novel to read in October. It’s alllll fluff, and very much in the “so bad it’s good” category. It also turns out that Leslie Meier may be one of the most prolific authors of all time, and so Brad signed me up to her “book of the month” fan club for my birthday this year, meaning I get a new, seasonally appropriate Meier classic each month. (You should also know that the “book of the month” fan club is entirely made up, and the letters from Leslie are actually written by Brad, and yes, he has designed a logo for the letterhead.)

21. Haunted House Murder / Leslie Meier and Lee Hollis and Barbara Ross

Wait, what? THREE authors? Yes, some of the Leslie Meier classics are actually novellas, so they are combined with novellas by two other authors into these seasonal collections. Also, Lee Hollis isn’t even real. Lee Hollis is in fact TWO PEOPLE, a brother/sister writing duo! So there are four authors involved in this spooky little collection. They all take place in small-town Maine, so yes, the settings are adorable and the plots are terrible.

22. Autumn / Karl Ove Knausgaard

I think I would describe this memoir (?) as a collection of magical noticings. While his wife is pregnant with their fourth baby, Knausgaard starts writing letters to the unborn child, telling them about, well, everything and anything. That project turned into this book, in which the writer observes everyday things like hands, toilets, fog, petrol, and snakes, and finds the beauty and wonder in all of them. Reading this book left me feeling very inspired and wanting to try and develop this skill in myself as I write.

23. The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century / Kirk Wallace Johnson

Back in 2009, Edwin Rist stole HUNDREDS of dead birds from the British Museum of Natural History. That fact alone is mind-boggling (how?), but it gets wilder. He didn’t steal them for nerdy science reasons, he stole them to sell to the Victorian fly-tying community. Yes, flies as in the things you attach to fish hooks. And no, not flies that will actually be used, but flies that are constructed as a hobby and art form. Wallace Johnson does a great job of conveying Rist’s obsessive passion for fly-tying and the desperation many fly-tiers feel as they try to track down increasingly rare and protected feathers from exotic (or extinct) birds. The author also has a journalist’s nose for sniffing out lies and half-truths and even tracks down Rist himself for a sit-down interview. I was riveted throughout the whole book, which lives at the intersection of history, science, mystery, and psychological deep-dive.

24. Yule Log Murder / Leslie Meier and Lee Hollis and Barbara Ross

The seasonal fluff dream team is back! And yes, a yule log features prominently in each novella. Once as a murder weapon, and once as a suspected murder weapon! These books also feature real recipes, some of which actually look pretty tasty!

25. Empire of Wild / Cherie Dimaline

This was a chilling page-turner and the second novel of Dimaline’s that I’ve read and devoured. She’s quickly become one of my favourite authors. In this story, Joan, a Métis woman living in the Georgian Bay area, is at the tail-end of the worst year of her life. Almost a year ago, her husband Victor disappeared into thin air after a rare argument between the couple, and Joan’s been searching for him ever since. One day, she wanders past a Christian revival tent in a Walmart parking lot, and the minister is the spitting image of Victor. She manages to have a brief conversation with him and it appears he has no memory of her or his prior life. Yet, in her gut, she KNOWS it’s him and resolves to return him to himself (and to her). This slow-burning horror novel weaves in the Métis myth of the Rogarou, a werewolf-ish creature who walks lonely roads looking for victims, to great effect.

26. Eggnog Murder / Leslie Meier and Lee Hollis and Barbara Ross

Another seasonal romp in which this time, the eggnog is the murder weapon in TWO of the stories! TWO PEOPLE IN TWO SEPARATE STORIES DIE FROM DRINKING NUT MILK EGGNOG AND NOT KNOWING IT WAS NUT MILK AND SUFFERING FROM A NUT ALLERGY. Anyways, I actually made one of the included recipes this time - eggnog muffins - and they were truly delicious!

27. Watch Over Me / Nina LaCour

This is a beautiful and haunting (both literally and figuratively) YA novel about the way trauma from our past follows us around, haunting our present. Mila, who’s just aged out of the foster care system, lands what seems to be a perfect job helping to teach younger children at a farm in Northern California. The farm is owned by an older couple who’ve become somewhat famous for taking in dozens of kids from the foster system over the years. Upon arrival, Mila falls in love, but soon starts to notice strange things about the way things are done on the farm, while also suffering from PTSD related to her own childhood traumas. Is there something sinister going on, or could this beautiful, isolated place become the home Mila’s always longed for?

28. Phases / h.duxbury

I started writing poetry again this summer, and quickly found lots of other poets sharing their work on Instagram. @hduxburypoetry (a fellow Ontarian, too!) quickly became one of my favourite accounts to follow, so when i learned that she self-published a poetry collection, I had to grab a copy. Her work is heavily inspired by nature and the changing seasons, which I’m a sucker for, so I really enjoyed it. Her poems also delve into grief, loneliness, love, and growth.

Well, there you have it! As for my 2020 faves, my top three reads were:

Empire of Wild

Unaccustomed Earth

Emergent Strategy

[kristallioness]

"Turf Wars: Part One" - a review

I am a very happy girl tonight.. My 7-months-preordered comic book FINALLY arrived, yay! I read the first part of "Turf Wars" around 1 am and I absolutely loved-loved-loved it! It really gave me the familiar feeling of TLOK (I haven't watched it since last year *sob* and now I miss it but I'm busy rewatching ATLA currently, will have to continue with TLOK after that). Okay, I'm still shaking a little because I'm so excited, but I'll try to write down some of my favourite things about this part:

First off, in general it was so gay, there's so much happening, but it's all sort of related and balanced out rather well imo, the illustrations are pretty *bows to Irene Koh*, the colour palette is soft and it all left me with such a nice impression! I'm very pleased that this is the first TLOK comic book ever to be released (almost forgot "Friends for Life", but "Turf Wars" is the first trilogy). I have no idea why I've seen so much critique about these kinds of things, but none of it bothered me at all. I think some people are only focused on (pointing out) the negative sides that they've forgotten why they're reading these comics in the first place - to enjoy reading them, to notice every positive little detail instead, to appreciate the fact that life goes on in the Avatar world and we've been blessed by Bryke to see it through these beloved characters.

Secondly, I think I'll mention some great moments I enjoyed very much. Obviously I can't get around the way Korra and Asami interacted - the loving gazes, the kisses, the hand holding, worrying about each other, talking about their feelings, fighting alongside Team Avatar, putting arrogant businessmen and the President in their place. It was so precious to see them doing everything together (and NO, it wasn't too much for me)!

Korra coming out to her parents - their reactions were realistic. I especially liked that Senna hugged both Korra AND Asami, too. To anyone who wasn't too happy with Tonraq's reaction - it was resolved later when Kya talked to Korra that it's Water Tribe tradition to keep very personal matters to yourself (I love that it's special in the Water Tribes and how Korra's face softened when Kya said it). This is such an important lesson and it's one my family has propagated as well (my parents taught me). Not everybody has to know about everything private that goes on at my home, if only my closest friends and family members. This is why I related to Tonraq, even Senna said what he meant - that not everyone won't be as accepting. And do people blatantly ignore the fact that as Korra was rushing out of the palace (with Asami's hand in hers, demonstratively) Tonraq apologized?

So they're now heading back to Republic City.. D'aawwww!!! Aang and Katara's children welcoming Korra and Asami back. Enough said. One of the most heartwarming moments. Poki for President! Meelo, you little nugget, I love you. And Korra stroking Poki's head, so cuuuute! Asami being a little shy about going with Korra to give a speech (because she's just the Avatar's lover.. Oh c'mon, Asami! Do it like Katara did when Aang had to thank everybody after the invasion failed, am I right?). I understand her and Korra was understandably disappointed. I love that Kya noticed it and later went to talk to them about it. Her smirk when Tenzin said that those two make a good team together. Kya, you lesbian goddess, stop stealing my heart, I'm straight! Also, I loved that Korra quoted Tenzin during her speech, that was touching.

Air Temple Island is such a beautiful place.. Aang and Katara had it good over there. I mean, that pretty bi-flag-coloured sunset, I'm in love! Kya's conversation with Korra and Asami meant so much to me (one of my favourite scenes EVER in this comic, if not in the entire series concerning Kya) and I can't wait to see more of her. If not, then I'm actually satisfied this time since we learned a lot more about her from these little moments where she was in. The most important being that AANG LOVED HER AND WAS FULLY SUPPORTIVE WHEN SHE CAME OUT TO HIM! Take notes, fandom! Aang and Katara loved all of their children, they only wanted the best for them and they tried to be the best parents they could be *drops mic*.. Also, yeah, when's Bumi's turn to interrupt his father's reincarnation's private moment with her girlfriend during that sunset? Ha-ha!

Did anyone even notice that the police headquarters is now temporary? Did that building with Toph's statue get wiped out during Korra and Kuvira's battle? Aww, I'm sad if it's so, I loved that statue because Toph was in her police uniform there.. *remembers that Toph has 2 other statues in Zaofu* Never mind, moving on! *lol* Then again, can I say how happy I am that Kya was in the evacuee camp helping the healers!? This gives me hope that maybe we'll get a peek at the hospital (and KATARA'S STATUE in front of it) if someone gets injured in the following parts!!! Also, even as a little girl, Kya totally went to work with her mother at the hospital (Katara would let her daughter play with the medical instruments or practise her waterbending and healing in her office, she might've gotten annoyed by it a bunch of times but eventually she'd always end up playing along to take a break from her paperwork). This is my headcanon and ain't no one stealing it from me now. Help, I NEED to draw this!..

Zhu Li taking command at the evacuee camp, damn yes! She's got my support for the election! Korra smirking when she sees President Raiko's campaign poster.. *lmfao* Same, Korra, same... His support is NEGATIVE 3%, pffft.. I can't breathe, this entire meeting was hilarious!

Wonyong Keum (note: this guy has a surname, a rich type) - it took me two pages and I already knew I hated that guy. Asami's right, she doesn't need his condolences. I giggled when Korra scared him and his workers away by going into the Avatar State and ever-so-gracefully airbending herself back down. Omg that smile, she was so pleased with herself (and so was I)!

Can we talk about the fact that Tokuga took out Viper by using his hook swords (the same weapon of choice by Jet) and can hold his own even as a nonbender? Just a reminder that nonbenders can be just as powerful as benders.

BOLIN!!! Bolin is such a precious gem throughout the book and I can't even.. Still talking to the captives and Mako being annoyed af (seriously, the changes in his expression in each panel are on point). Two-Toed Ping is a hoot, I really like him. Also, Bolin calling the first double date - my son, you are too sweet! Mako's.. god.. damn.. face. Mako.exe stopped working. *lol*

Ugh, I just adored that sweet Masami hug! Also, the radio frequencies have been screwy ever since the spirit portal appeared - I think this might play an important role in a future part. They wouldn't have put it in there otherwise (unless it was just meant to show that during this battle they were in trouble because they couldn't call for help). And the fact that the spirits' darker side appeared due to negative energy coming off from the battle - I didn't expect that, neither did I expect that bird spirit to be the one to charge at Tokuga. Since he saw Korra talking to it before it came for him, I don't blame him for thinking the Avatar sent the spirit to do that to him. Also, Korra having to choose between protecting Asami or stopping the dark spirit - this might turn some of the townspeople against her when they find out (if they think she was playing favourites and Tokuga tells them she ordered the spirits to attack humans).

In conclusion, I really miss TLOK, but this comic made me experience so many emotions, the familiarity of the characters and the breathtaking locations, the plot and the pace of action - everything made me feel like I was actually watching a brand new episode of the show and wow, I'm crying as I type this.. *rubs eyes* It made me feel at home, welcomed in a world I fell in love with back in 2012. I couldn't be happier.

[rainbowrites]

Deep Space Mutant

hi @ihamtmus!!

OKAY, I'm super late but let's do this thing!! Thanks to @wellntruly, who is a GEM and helped come up with a ton of these and was just super fun to scream about this with

little background: most everyone has powers, it's very House of M although since this is a Star Trek universe they make a BIG DEAL out of ~equality~ between powered and non-powered people. Still, life is harder for you if you're non-powered or have weak powers, especially in terms of employment. Would you hire a non-powered bodyguard if you could get one that could shoot fire? I didn’t think so. It’s one of those undercurrents of society that DS9 addresses, and everyone else pretends doesn’t exist. Unsurprisingly, most colonists (and Maquis) are non-powered or have weak/not ‘useful’ powers as they willingly risk that danger to create a world for themselves where they’re not the ‘lesser’. 

And not every planet/species has the same style of powers that we're used to in our mutant comics, where everyone has different powers. Some are like Changelings, where everyone has the same powers. Some have symbiotic powers, like the Trill who have individual powers and then the symbiont all have the same power - which is the ability to retain and pass on memories and powers from previous hosts.

ANYONE ON TO THE GOOD STUFF (readmore below!)

Sisko has The Voice. When he speaks, everyone listens. It's more of a telepathic power, that compels everyone within hearing distance to listen to him. It doesn't force them to actually do what he says, but they have to at least listen to what he says. It's near impossible to interrupt him, and even a whisper is enough to get everyone around him craning to listen. He mostly finds this embarrassing or annoying at first, since it means no muttering under his breath and his superiors are always a little pissed since whenever he says anything everyone stops listening to them and tunes in exclusively to channel Sisko. The Bajorans are ALL OVER IT though. For so long, they were kept oppressed and silent by the Cardassians. Now the Prophets have sent them an Emissary that CANNOT be ignored - the Bajorans will be listened to at last! This power is definitely not inspired by the beautiful chocolate velvet that is Avery Brook's voice, what voice fetish, I don't have a voice fetish, YOU HAVE A THING FOR HIS VOICE DON'T LIE WE ALL DO.

Kira has flame powers, connected to her body. She literally has sparks flying from her eyes when she's enraged, and can punch a flaming fist into your stomach. She can't really spread the fire outside of her body, but that's what a blaster is for. She doesn't need to use her powers to kick your ass. When she was young, she thought that if she got fatally shot she would use the last of her strength to self-immolate in the hopes of burning some Cardassians to death. She has some control issues, but over the course of the series learns to be gentle with herself and her powers - lighting candles with the tips of her fingers and turning herself into a glowing pillar of warmth.

Miles tells everyone that he can talk to machines, but it's no big deal. He doesn't do anything that any good engineer couldn't do. In reality, he connects with systems like no one else can dream of. It's more than just communication, the machines themselves fall in love with him and jump to his every word to try to make him happy. It gets very boring though, every problem bending over backwards to fix themselves. It's why DS9 is so interesting, it's the first time that machines have fought back against him, argued and dragged their feet rather than eagerly work with him. Of course he doesn't realize that this is because Cardassian computer systems are justlike Cardassians themselves, and show their love via intense argument. He doesn't realize for a LONG time that all that petulant breaking and constant backtalk is really just Cardassian for TAKE ME NOW YOU HOT PIECE OF ENGINEER.

Here is a story about Julian: when he was 6 years old, he still wasn't showing any sign of powers. He couldn't read, he could barely write his name, but his parents clung to the idea that his powers would elevate him beyond needing those things. They worried constantly that their own weak powers (she glows very slightly in the dark, he has enough heat powers to fry an egg on his chest if he concentrates) might have doomed their son to mediocrity. Then the doctors tell them, very gently, that their son was among the tiny percentage born without an x-gene. The next day, they start looking into augmentation. If genetics couldn't make their son great as their dreams, then they would use science to do the job instead.

So Julian has super-smarts, and incredibly reflexes to go along with them. But somehow they are always...incomplete, in some weird way. Because they are artificial. He doesn't understand them innately, like a native speaker. He's FLUENT, because he's STUDIED, but there's always something just a little off. However he's CONSTANTLY talking up his smarts and Miles wants to fucking kill him at first because 'yeah okay GOD super smarts are a good power to have, shut UP about them you fucking show off I'm not constantly talking to your tricorder am I?'not realizing that Julian is hella over compensating and also would LOVE Miles to talk to his tricorder all the time. His brain is so weird, sliced and diced and reconnected until the wave length it sends out gives every telepath a headache which Miles thinks is HILARIOUS. 'your real mutant power is ANNOYING EVERYONE.'

It is not lost on Julian that he immediately attaches to Miles, rather than any other officer on the station. Keiko jokes that all machines fall in love with him, and Julian just gives her a very strained smile and agrees softly. When he tells Miles what he is, that he's unnatural, he says that of course Miles is his best friend - Miles has plenty of practice speaking to machines. And Miles is just like 'listen buddy even the cardassian machines aren't as annoying as you are, only a REAL PERSON could be as much a pain in my ass as you are. and that's from the HEART'

Garak keeps his powers a secret. Also a secret? Whether or not he even HAS them. Julian is absolutely FASCINATED, and adores hearing all the stories Garak spins about them using his, quote. 'rare gift for obfuscation':

my powers stimulate nerve endings. I could make Bajorans scream with pain without ever touching them

when I was young I discovered I could disappear into the shadows. Elim had the same type of power, which is why we were known as the sons of Tain, who could disappear in plain sight

haven't you noticed my clothes are exceptional? cloth listens to me as raptly as you do

oh my dear Doctor, my power? I told you everything. It was all true. especially the lies.

It;'s a different power every time and we never ever find out what his real powers are, or if he even HAS ANY. He might be baseline, for all anyone of them know

Jadzia is, to quote Tarra, "the actual cool version of Apocalypse". As I said earlier, Trills are born with a vast array of potential powers (plus a small percentage with none just like on Earth) and the symbionts are much the same as they are in the show, except they don't just pass down memories/personality but also the powers of their previous hosts - though the powers are weakened in transition. The Trills chosen for joining though are only chosen by those with really strong powers and incredible control though, since if those powers are gonna be saved forever through the symbiont you want them to be GOOD ones and if they're gonna be weakened you want them to be as strong as possible to start out with. For example, Curzon had super strength that he used to impress the Klingons and gain their respect; it's something Jadzia uses frequently to help her withstand some incredibly violent Klingon sex. Emony controlled water with incredible precision, able to control each drop just as she controlled her gymnast muscles, and used them often in her routines as water whips in rhythmic gymnastic style; Jadzia mostly uses it to flick water in people's faces when she's feeling mischievous, which is most of the time. Audrid was famous for her amazing flying powers, able to zoom around like a rocket, which is actually why Tobin, adrenaline junkie and first Trill to join Starfleet, joined the program: to get those flight powers and zoom around without a shuttle. He ends up disappointed at their weakness, though he still loves flying without a shuttle, and it's what pushes him to test drive new experimental engines - he will fly like he an remember!! - and what eventually kills him. CAN YOU TELL I'VE THOUGHT WAY TOO MUCH ABOUT THIS???

Jadzia herself had touch telepathy, able to know everyone with a hug. She has a ton of control though, and usually just skims the surface of people's thoughts. It's one reason she's super good at flirting - she knows IMMEDIATELY if someone's attracted to her. It's a rough power on DS9 though; that station saw a lot of misery and pain, and it shares that pain with her every chance it gets.

Ezri had very very weak powers, which is one reason she never even considered trying to get joined. She can technically smell emotions, but she has a really bad sense of smell. She would have to get REALLY close to smell something, and she's not alway gauranteed to recognize it. Like, do you realize how many emotions people generally feel?? It makes for a very weird, confusing blend! Fear is of course, the easiest to smell. She can smell fear!! Kinda. If she's close to you. And you're not wearing perfume. It's a pretty terrible power, and one that she really doesn't use very often. Fun fact: Garak liberally douses himself in cologne every time he might run into her. Un-fun fact: when she's trying to treat him he calls her  'a poor imitation of a betazoid, trying to be a poor imitation of Jadzia'

The Dax powers are technically weakened, but since she had such shit powers in the first place it's yet another thing to get totally overwhelmed by. like oH MAN NOW I SUDDENLY KNOW JUST HOW MUCH THAT THE GUY I BRUSHED IN THE HALLWAY NEEDS TO POOP, THANKS JADZIA'S TOUCH TELEPATHY. OH SHIT THERE GOES THE TABLE EDGE DAMMIT IT CURZON'S SUPER STRENGTH. WELP NOW I'M FLOATING HOW DO I TURN OFF AUDRID'S FLIGHT POWERS

Worf is basically the living embodiment of no. Non-physical powers don't work on him, he can't be affected by telepathy or illusions or anything like that. If someone has super-strength or stretchy powers they can use them against him, but whenever anyone tries to trick him he can just be like 'I see you giggling and waving your fingers. You look ridiculous and are doing nothing.' He's too straight forward to be tricked! It's the first thing that really intrigues Jadzia, he's the first person she can't just know with a touch. She has to work hard to get to know him, work doubly hard because his personality can be just as closed off as his powers, and eventually that desire to know him develops into love. He's the one person who could keep a secret from her if she wanted to know it, but he never would. THEY'RE REALLY CUTE.

Rom has magnetic powers, but really really shitty ones. He mostly just accidentally gets cutlery stuck to him. He does use his powers sometime to turn little bits of machinery that can't normally be reached - something he thinks of as pretty whatever but is actually SUPER USEFUL. Miles gives him a big clap on the shoulder and is super proud of him when he finds out, and Rom nearly dies of joy right then and there.

Quark IS Drinks Space Nine. He can look at you and tell exactly what your blood alcohol content is and how alcohol would affect you. It means that he can keep his patrons at a pleasant buzz all night, or can tip someone into sloppy drunk if they're winning too much at tongo. Despite how much shit the bar goes through, it almost never has to deal with rowdy drunks, and that's because of Quark's ability to keep everyone at that pleasantly tipsy state all night.

Nog is an awkward tree fog, with literal sticky fingers. It's very useful for stealing little things when he's young, but becomes HORRIFICALLY EMBARRASSING when he grows up and joins Starfleet, especially at first. Some people get sweaty hands when they get nervous but he just gets EXTRA STICKY HANDS. Like, picture him frantically trying to shake off the PADD he was just handed with his first assignment while Sisko's back is turned and then being like EVERYTHING IS FINE SIR AHAHAHA I JUST.... REALLY LIKE THIS PADD when he turns back

Jake has stretchy powers because come on have you SEEN Cirroc Lofton??? I almost can't believe that guy DIDN'T have stretchy powers. He's no Mr. Fantastic, but he can drape himself across all the furniture in the room in Peak Teen fashion. It also makes for some baseball shenanigans. He uses it a lot to tease his dad by being taller than him, at least until he ACTUALLY GETS THERE. It's a bit tiring for him to hold a stretch though, which is why when he first hits his growth spurt his dad is like 'hey watch out son, you'll strain something keeping yourself so tall for so long.' Jake tries to tell him that no, he's just naturally growing, and Ben is just like 'LALALALA I CAN'T HEAR YOU, I KNOW YOU'RE JUST USING YOUR POWERS, YOU'RE NOT ACTUALLY TALLER THAN ME, YOU'RE STILL MY BABY'

Keiko has growing powers. She's heard all the jokes, a botanist with growing powers? How obvious. It's mostly really annoying though, since when she discovers something new and gets excited she can accidentally spark some intense growth spurts and totally mess up her data. She loves making flowers bloom for Molly and Kirayoshi.

[artificialqueens]

The Lost Princess {Biadore} Chapter 3 -C*NT

A/N: Alright we finally have some Biadore interaction like I had promised in the last chapter. 😄 Thoughts, inner monologue, words I thought needed additional emphasis, and a song are all italicisized (i hope i spelled that right lol whoops). Like i said before, cis AU loosely based off of the disney movie Tangled. TW for mention of blood in the begining bit here, and alcohol consumption (!!!!) Enjoy!

“Oh god, please don’t wake up yet.” Adore murmured, wiping off all of the blood from the mysterious mans skin. His arms had gotten badly scraped against the brick wall of the tower when he fell, which lead to a ton of sticky blood all over her hands as she disinfected his wounds.

Adore had managed to drag him up the stairs, into the living room and even sat him into a chair all by herself. At first he kept slumping over, so she had found nearby rope and was about to tie him to the chair- until she found a satchel hanging from his shoulder.

Removing the bag gently from his shoulder, she noticed that it was very heavy. Curiously, she opened it up revealing a perfectly intact tiara. It had 3 pear shaped diamonds and a bunch of smaller gems encrusted into it. Rubies and smaller diamonds gleamed in the light as she stared at it fixated. It was the most beautiful piece of jewelry she had ever seen. How it didn’t break with his fall was beyond her, but she realized this could be her leverage. This could be her way out of the tower and to wherever the floating lights were coming from.

She concealed the crown in the satchel, and hid it under a loose floor board as she wondered if this man was going to attack her once he woke up. She needed something to defend herself in case he became as wild as her mother had described to her in the past.

An iron frying pan that was hanging against the wall caught her eye. That would have to do, she thought. She grabbed it and then looked over at the unconscious man slumped over in her chair.

He didn’t look so good, and was still bleeding through his clothes. Adore pressed a finger to her lips as she thought about what to do next.

He was handsome, he almost looked like how a character in a book she had read would look in real life.

He had dark hair the color of ebony that complimented his olive skin, hollow cheeks and thick eyebrows. He was slender, but not too muscular and was wearing long tan pants and a black long sleeved top with a tan vest over it to match.

Was he really a monster?

Inching closer, Adore grabbed his cheek softly and lifted up his upper lip. She jumped as he twitched instinctively, but raised an eyebrow in confusion at his teeth.

His teeth aren’t sharp and pointy,Adore thought puzzled. Why would her mother lie to her about that?

He shifted in his seat, groaning out in pain. Adore frowned, suddenly not wanting to see him suffer anymore. She pushed the hair out of his eyes and revealed smooth skin and very long eyelashes.

Adore stared. And stared. She stared until she couldn’t look at him anymore. She had always been under the impression that men were the personification of the monster underneath your bed, that they were frightening and ugly.

There was absolutely nothing ugly about him. At least aesthetically.

Realizing he resembled her mother after a long trip away from home with all of his cuts and bruises, she got an idea.

Wrapping her long hair around him, she grabbed a brush from a nearby side table and began to brush her hair. She hummed her mom’s favorite spell that she would sing to her twice a day.

Flower gleam and glow Let your power shine Save what has been lost Bring back what once was mine

Her hair began to glow around him, enveloping him in a bright golden light. He sat there seemingly at peace as her hair made all of his cuts and bruises disappear. Once the light faded, she unwrapped her hair from him and stepped back.

Now she waited.

—————���——

Pain.

White hot pain.

That was all Roy could feel as he began to wake up. Groaning, he tried to reach his arms above his head to stretch. When they wouldn’t move, he opened his eyes and realized what was going on.

There was rope. Lots of it, wrapped tightly around his wrists which were pinned behind his back. That explains the burning, he thought grimly. He also realized he was sitting on a chair.

He remembered then, that he had fallen from the tower. How was he not in more pain? How did he not break any bones?

“Where the hell am i?” He asked himself.

“I don’t know, you tell me.”

Roy whipped his head around the room, trying to find the source of the voice. He was about 95% sure it belonged to a woman.

“Look, I needed a place to crash and I saw that this place looked creepy and abandoned. I didn’t think anyone lived here.” Roy started.

“Didn’t you see that the window was open?”

Roy’s face fell in annoyance. She was sassy, whoever she was.

“Yeah, I just thought that it had been abandoned for a short amount of time.” Roy shrugged. “By the way, why don’t I feel like I just fell from halfway up a tall tower?”

Adore wasn’t about to tell a complete stranger about her magic hair. That would just make her more vulnerable to his attack, and he would most likely just cut her hair off making her magic disappear forever.

“You just had a couple of scrapes. I had magic ointment from a witch that I rubbed on you.” Adore lied.

Well as long as he didn’t feel any pain later, he really didn’t care how hurt he was before she healed him with the ointment.

“Wow, thanks.”

He still doesn’t seem like a monster though, Adore thought. She would’ve thought by now he would’ve at least tried to escape. But if men really were as deceiving as mother made them out to be, it wouldn’t take long to figure out whether or not he was a monster.

“Who are you?” Adore asked, emerging from behind one of the bookcases; her long blonde hair flowing softly behind her. Her light purple dress was hemmed just below the knee,and flowed around her as she walked.

For the first time in a very long time, Roy was speechless.

She was a woman alright,Roy thought. Her hair seemed to go on and on for miles, looking more like a golden river then blonde hair.Had she ever heard of scissors? He thought sarcastically. Her eyes were the color of fresh cut grass, mesmerizing in the afternoon light. Dark brown eyebrows framed her angular face, and her slim body was fitted with quite an expensive looking silk dress. Silk and satin were definitely present in the design, both temperamental fabrics to work with. It looked stunning on her. The girl couldn’t be more than 18 years old, if that.

Roy has always had a thing for blondes, and she was by far the most attractive blonde he had seen in a very long time. He raised an eyebrow at her as his eyes drifted to her arms.

“Are you holding a frying pan?” Roy asked bewildered.

The girl huffed in frustration and crossed her arms. She had tried to intimidate him, but it obviously was not working.

“Yes! Just in case you get any ideas. Now who are you?” She pointed the frying pan at him threateningly, glaring down at him.

If he wasn’t seriously afraid of her using it on his face, he would’ve been in tears laughing. Instead, he gulped, biting his tongue to stop the laughter from escaping, and continued. She was cute.

“My name is Roy. What about you blondie? Does a sexy thing like you have a name?” He smirked showing off his pearly whites. He got one good thing from his parents: his perfect teeth.

Sexy? Adore thought bewildered as she looked at Roy’s perfect teeth. They were blindingly white, she realized. He also had beautiful brown eyes, that were warm and filled with..compassion? She couldn’t read the emotion coming out of them.

But she was confused about what he had said: what on earth was sexy about her?

“I’m Adore.” She said hesitantly, gripping the pan tighter. She didn’t trust him, charm was one of the weapons her mom had warned her about with men.

“Adore. That’s an interesting name. You must have been named after the lost princess too.” Roy muttered. How original, he thought.

“An interesting name?! So you don’t like it?” Adore huffed, completely bypassing the lost princess statement.

“I never said that bitch. It’s just… so many girls were named after the princess after she went missing. That’s all.”

Ignoring the curse word, she looked curiously at him. “Tell me about this “lost princess.” If there really is such a thing.” Adore said, using air quotes. She had her guard up now, ready for whatever lie he was about to spew.

“Okay, you really must not be from around here if you don’t know about the lost princess.” Roy rolled his eyes.“Almost 18 years ago now, someone kidnapped the newborn princess from the king and queen in Corona; and she was never found. The kingdom had been so excited about her birth that they were devastated when she was never found. Soon almost all of the baby girls had Adore as their middle name or even their first name.” Roy shrugged. “I can’t believe you didn’t know the story. It’s world famous at this point. Guards are still out there looking for her.”

This must be her vacation home, Roy thought. Maybe she was royalty from a far off land.

Adore studied the man carefully. His story seemed sincere, and not in the least bit made up. It would be hard to fabricate a story like that especially on the spot. She decided she would give him the benefit of the doubt for now.

“A lost princess huh? Seems romantic. Do you think they’ll ever find her?” Adore asked.

“I doubt it, but I have her crown right-” Roy tried to reach down by his side, momentarily forgetting that he couldn’t move his arms. Looking down at his waist, he realized he no longer had his satchel.

“Where the fuck is my satchel?” Roy exclaimed, jerking about in the chair.

“I’ve hidden it.” Adore said proudly. She was happy she hadn’t show her fear at his outburst, but realized this could be the start of him showing his true colors.

“No no no, you see blondie-”

Here comes the manipulation mother warned me about,she thought.

“It’s Adore.” Adore snapped.

“A door, a window, whatever. I need that satchel. There are some scary guys after me and I need to go back to the city to sell that crown on the black market.” Roy huffed.

Adore had no idea what this Corona was that he kept mentioning, where it was, what a black market was, or why Roy had chosen to come hide in her tower out of all of the other places in the world. Nonetheless, she believed that this encounter was meant to be her way out and to the floating lights. It was a sign:

“Something brought you here, Roy. Fate, destiny-”

“A horse.” Roy muttered.

“Whatever. Everything happens for a reason, and I truly believe there’s a reason you’re here with me right now. I’m willing to give your satchel back and the crown; on one condition.”

“What’s the condition?” Roy asked.

“You will escort me to the floating lights, which are supposed to be happening in 2 days time.”

“Floating lights? You mean the stupid lantern send off they do every year for the lost princess?”

“They’re lanterns duh!” Adore exclaimed. “ I knew it! I knew they weren’t stars.”

“You don’t get out much do you?” Roy asked dryly.

“Anyway, yes I need you to take me to the lanterns so I can see them on my birthday. Then I’ll need you to escort me back, then and ONLY then will I give you your crown back.” Adore crossed her arms. “Your birthday is July 14th? How old will you be Adore?” Roy asked, ignoring Adore’s conditions.

“18. Why?” Adore tilted her head smiling, still gripping onto her frying pan.

The color suddenly drained out of Roy’s face as he began to do the math. Long blonde hair. Green eyes. 18 on the 14th. It all matched up perfectly…could this be her? She definitely wasn’t a princess visiting from a far away land.

If this girl was the lost princess, she literally had no idea who her parents really were. If she didn’t even realize that the lanterns weren’t stars, then that would indicate that she had never even left the tower before. Or whoever was keeping her from the city didn’t want her to know about them, for that very reason.

If he could bring her to the king and queen, he would be dubbed a hero for finding their daughter and most likely given a fat reward.

But he had to make sure this was really her. The real Adore would most likely have some sort of magical powers from being healed by the golden flower in the womb.

The golden flower… the one that his mother died over. How ironic, that 18 years later he would be trying to get the golden flower yet again. He could he face to face with the human version of it basically if this was the princess.

12 years in an orphanage, all for that flower. That one chance to save his dad’s life, but instead ended both of his parents life.

He had the chance now to make things better for himself. If this was the Adore, she would save his life in the way his parents couldn’t save their own. That in itself would make up for not being able to give his dad the golden flower all those years ago.

“No reason. I’ll help you out blondie. But I can’t do much tied to this chair.”

——————

Roy was standing outside underneath the shade of a nearby oak tree, arms crossed in front of his chest annoyed.

“You’re acting like you’ve never been outside before.” Roy huffed impatiently.

Adore stood at the bottom of the steps with the satchel, and a basket filled with food, clothes, and other necessities.

It was only one more step until she was completely out of the tower.

“I haven’t.” Adore confessed.

Roy’s eyes widened as he looked for any sign of a joke in Adore’s voice. When she didn’t say anything more, he cleared his throat.

“Wait, so you’ve really never been outside of that tower?” Roy asked gently now. He had no idea how locked up Adore had really been. This was pointing more and more to his theory that she was the lost princess.

“No, never.” Adore said softly. She looked timidly down at the ground, bending down to touch it with her fingers.

“Ew. That feels weird. I have to step on that? ” Adore said disgusted wiping the dirt off of her hands onto the sides of her dress.

“You don’t actually feel it! That’s why you wear shoes blondie!” Roy cackled

Ugh, that felt so grossAdore thought. She sighed, mentally preparing herself for what she was about to do. Was this going to be worth it? Sneaking out behind her mother’s back with a strange man that she’s never even met?

There was only one way to find out.

She closed her eyes, took a deep breath and stepped onto the soft grass for the first time.

“Congratulations. Now can we hit the road? I have a place we could go and stay for the night, but we need to leave now.” Roy urged.

Adore shut the front door and turned around slowly away from the tower for the first time ever.

The field the tower was in had a gold cast from the late afternoon sun. Purple and pink wildflowers were sprouted in various places along the path, and over to the west there was a dense forest surrounding the entire area. Birds sang above her as they flew high above them, and the clouds painted the immaculate blue sky. It was so warm and it felt so so good to breathe the outside air.

She had never realized how secluded she really was from the rest of the world until now. Her heart was racing as she realized she had done it! She had really left!

Just from this little taste of the outdoors, she knew that she wanted to experience every part of the world that she could.

Leaving the tower was definitely worth it.

“Let’s go!” Adore exclaimed, jumping as she began to run towards the forest.

“Jesus what the fuck got into you?” Roy asked as he jogged alongside her.

“This is my first time outside ever! Can’t you be more happy for me?” Adore asked as they slowed down right before the entrance to the woods.

“I don’t know if I should be happy or concerned.” Roy mumbled. He saw the excitement leave her eyes, and he instantly regretted what he said.

“My mom was just trying to protect me,” Adore said in defense, “I’m sure your mom is the same way.”

“My mom is dead, so try again.” Roy said abruptly.

Shit, filter Roy. Try using it every now and then, he thought. Adore was the last person he should be blunt with right now. He didn’t want to push her away.

Adore frowned and reached out to touch the young man’s arm softly.

“I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to-”

Roy shrugged, putting his hands in his pockets.

“It’s fine. I got a dark sense of humor out of it at least.” Roy smirked.

“Dark as night.” Adore mumbled as she stopped at the sight of large curtains of ivy.

“Speaking of dark, it’s going to be almost pitch black in there. Are you afraid of the dark?” Roy teased.

“I’m not afraid of anything.” Adore said confidently.

“Then why did you hesitate?” Roy asked. “Kidding.”

Adore rolled her eyes at him, pushing aside the ivy to lead the way. She had no idea where she was going, but she was sure Roy would guide her if she was leading them in the wrong direction.

It was really dark in the forest. Adore could barely see in front of her, let alone any sort of pathway. She clutched onto her basket firmly, trying not to seem like a scared little girl. Her mother was strong and independent, and she needed to be the same way. She didn’t want to seem weak in front of Roy.

“This way.” Roy said, grabbing her hand softly as he lead them down a new path.

The forest was eerie, there was a sick feeling that Adore was staring to get in her stomach as they moved further and further into the woods. She gripped onto Roy’s hand tighter as they made their way through the winding pathways.

They continued to walk in silence for a little while, until Adore heard a faint rustle of leaves.

“Oh my god, what was that?!” Adore exclaimed, jumping onto Roy. Roy, startled, stepped back to support the both of them but ended up tripping and falling backwards. Landing on his back, shortly after Adore tumbled face first onto his chest he watched her basket of clothes and perishables go flying in the other direction.

“I’m so sorry. I didn’t hit your head did I? I really tried not to.” Adore rushed, stroking his face soothingly.

Roy smiled as he felt the soft hand touch his face. No one had touched him so tenderly in years. He let his face relax against her hand as she hesitated studying his features.

This was the first time she had seen him really smile, she realized. He didn’t seem like a bad person, and he didn’t seem so deceiving either. Someone with eyes like melted caramel couldn’t have one bad intention in their heart. There was no way. Adore could just feel the kindness radiating out of Roy as she stroked his cheek, making sure to carefully remove the dirt from it. He smirked, revealing two indentations in his cheeks instantly making Adore’s face heat.

“You have really cute dimples, you should smile more often.” Adore murmured, smiling as she removed her hand from his face. She stood up, dusting herself off and making sure everything was back into the basket. She felt her stomach fill with some sort of uneasy feeling - was she nausous? Was it that weird gut feeling that her romance novels talked about whenever the women found a man attractive? She couldn’t exactly tell, but she felt like it was a good thing so she decided to ignore it. She ignored the foreign feeling in her stomach, and what her mom had always told her about romance novels, that they weren’t real interpretations of men and the way that they acted.

“Thanks,” Roy said, brushing off the dust from his shoulders “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. Just ready to be out of this stupid forest.” Adore admitted.

“Look over there.” Roy pointed. Why did it seem so long when he was running from the royal guard?

In the near distance, a literal light at the end of the forest could be seen. Adore sighed in relief.

“Thank god.” Adore breathed.

They exited the forest briskly, walking alongside a path for a little while in silence. It was a comfortable silence though, the two of them lost in their thoughts as they traveled.

For having just met, Adore was sure trustworthy of him. If he were any other man, she would most likely be in grave danger. In this day and age,a lot of men were pigs who would take advantage of such a beauty. Roy shuddered at the thought of the young girl being harmed, and in that moment was thankful that he was the one that had found her instead of well, literally anyone else.

Roy would be the first to admit it didn’t take much for him to fall for a girl - but there was something so refreshing about Adore that he was drawn to. He just couldn’t help himself. She was so positive despite being locked in a tower for her entire life- which reminded him he needed to really hear the rest of that backstory.

Then he remembered that would make her curious about his backstory. And Roy didn’t do backstories.

As he continued to ponder why he was so drawn to someone that he had just met, he noticed that they had arrived in front of the bar he had wanted to go to. Adore had stopped on the nearby riverbank for some water, and to gaze at the surroundings. The excitement was written all over her face, and he hated to ruin it; but Roy needed to get inside and talk to Courtney - who knows how long he had until the royal guard found him.

“This is where we’re staying tonight! Let’s go.” Roy called.

———————-

Once they were seated in the bar area, Roy grinned at all of the attention that they were getting from the other customers. Him and Adore sure looked like a motley cru. Adore was dressed in some of the richest fabrics Roy had ever seen, with hair that could wrap around the width of the restaurant two times over. Adore’s hair had leaves, broken tree branches, flower petals, and all sorts of things stuck to the ends.

And Roy was well, Roy.

“What can I get you- Oh my god pussyface!” The short blonde exclaimed. She quickly set down their waters on the table and bounced up and down in excitement, her perky breasts jiggling in her dress. She embraced Roy in a hug, smiling ear to ear.

“Calm down jiggly, jeez.” Roy laughed, squeezing her in for a close hug. When they moved apart the girl eyed Adore, raising an eyebrow at Roy.

“Are you going to introduce me to your beautiful girlfriend or what?” She teased, punching him in the arm playfully.

Roy, blushing and now appearing flustered, stumbled over his words before he uttered:

“She’s not my girlfriend.”

“Well she should be! What’s your name sweet thing? And where did you get all of that beautiful hair?” She eyed the long hair swept across her shoulder as it drooped onto the floor.

“My name is Adore, and I got it from my mom bitch!” Adore exclaimed.

Roy spit out his water in shock as his high pitched laugh echoed throughout the bar.

“My god you’re feisty. I like you, my name’s Courtney. Your drink is on the house!” Courtney exclaimed amused as she walked away.

“What was so funny?” Adore asked puzzled.

“You’re just this cute little thing, I didn’t think a dainty girl like you could ever utter such a dirty word.” Roy chuckled. He actually found it quite charming that Adore had been bold enough to introduce herself that way. No other girl would ever call another female a bitch to their face, at least not in this day and age.

“First of all, I’m not dainty.” Adore started. “And second of all, doesn’t everyone cuss?”

“Most women usually don’t.” Roy shrugged meekly.

“Well, I’m not like most girls.” Adore said.

It was a simple statement, but something about it made Roy look at her in a different way. Yes, clearly she was not like other girls with her miles of blonde hair but there was something so alluring about her that he just couldn’t put his finger on. There were so many faucets to her personality, she was just so fascinating. He just couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. He noticed that her eyes had deepened to more of an emerald color in the warm light of the bar - was it the bar lights or had they always been that dark of a green?

“Would you believe that Courtney’s a man?” Roy asked wiggling his eyebrows, changing the subject. Adore probably had absolutely no idea what a drag queen was, but she was definitely about to find out tonight.

“A man? What are you talking about? She’s clearly a woman. Stop messing with me.” Adore argued annoyed. Roy’s lips curled up in amusement and she scowled at him. She was a bit irritated with Roy now, he seemed to be enjoying her embarrassing herself.

“When she comes back, ask her.” Roy smiled.

As if on cue, Courtney came back smiling with two drinks. The one for Adore was dark blue, while the one Roy had was brown in a small square glass. Adore raised an eyebrow at him, not challenging his lie as she tried to figure out what kind of drink Courtney made. Was it a blueberry lemonade?

“Have you lost your mind?” Roy hissed, glaring at Adore’s blue drink. The “Adios” was famous for staying true to it’s name, and with the 7 different liquors decorating it - Adore would only need one.

“Whatever do you mean?” Courtney asked sweetly. She winked at Roy, who was now scowling. The last thing he wanted to do was be a babysitter.

Adore had taken a large gulp of the liquid, expecting something fruity and sweet. She coughed as she felt the burning alcohol hit her throat.

Why did people like alcohol? It’s disgusting! She thought. She frowned as she realized it was un lady-like not to finish a drink, especially a free one.

Roy looked at her sympathetically and took a sip of his scotch.

“Adore, you should just chug that and get it over with.” Roy suggested. If she got drunk now, she could go pass out quicker which would leave him more time to sweet talk Courtney into letting them stay the night.

“Yeah right, I’m not going to listen to you again.” Adore said annoyed. She pushed the drink aside, already feeling the alcohol settling in her stomach.

“Wise girl.” Courtney commented. Roy shot her a side eye and she winked in return.

“Thank you Courtney. He was trying to tell me earlier that you’re a man. What a jerk right?” Adore asked, twirling a piece of blonde hair around her finger.

Courtney’s face went from amused to shock and back to amused all within 30 seconds.

“He did now?” Courtney asked playfully, glaring at Roy.

“Yeah, I knew it was a lie because you’re so beautiful and there’s no way! Like look, she has boobies Roy.” Adore exclaimed, pointing to Courtney’s breasts.

Roy was cackling so hard now that he was bent over in his chair. Clearly, Adore was buzzed already, only after a literal sip. He was having way too much fun teasing her. She was a very gullible 18 year old, although he didn’t know how many young girls were really interested in the art of drag.

Adore rolled her eyes, taking the remainder of her drink and chugging it. Roy’s jaw dropped as he watched her successfully drain the remains of the cocktail.

She just knew how to surprise him over and over again.

“He acts like I’m so stupid. Does he do that with you Court? I’ve read more books than he probably ever will in his entire lifetime.” Adore continued, noting that the room was starting to have a foggy edge to it.

“False.” Roy retorted. He had been in an orphanage yes, but that didn’t mean he didn’t take advantage of the education.

“Listen Adore. I’ll tell you a big secret of mine.” Courtney paused for dramatic effect as she stared down at Adore. “I really am a man.”

“No fucking way! Prove it!” Adore shouted, standing up on her chair, teetering slightly. This must be what it’s like to be drunk, she thought. Everything around her was spinning, and she felt giddy. Maybe she was on a natural high from disobeying her mom for the first time.

“Jesus Roy, do you see what you’ve started? Fine, come backstage with me. But I’ll only prove it to you on one condition.” Courtney said.

“What’s the condition?” Adore asked eagerly.

“Roy has to dress up as Bianca del Rio.”

Roy groaned, slamming his drink down on the table.

“No, not worth it.” Roy shook his head.

“You can be a girl too?” Adore asked slurring. “You’re just a fuckin’ magician aren’t you?”

“Bianca is not a girl- trust me. She is a clown in a gown, there’s a big difference. “ Roy scoffed, before turning towards the waitress. “Damnit Courtney, I almost want to humor your stupid condition.”

“Humor her. I wanna meet Bianca.” Adore said.

“Fine, but only if Courtney agrees to fix your rat nest of a hairdo. It’s a fucking catastrophe frankly, and probably has 50 different species living in it as we speak.” Roy snapped.

“Deal, ” Courtney answered, much to Roy’s dismay as she shook his hand

[pageantcast]

PageantCast Mail Bag: 01/16/2019

New Post has been published on http://www.pageantcast.com/2019/01/pageantcast-mail-bag-01-16-2019/

PageantCast Mail Bag: 01/16/2019

We know no one uses mail anymore, but here in the mailbag we put a selection of Instagram posts, Facebook posts and Twitter posts that we’ve been tagged in.

Here’s this week’s selection:

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Finishing out the weekend by celebrating that both of my Teen Clients made Top 5 at Miss Teen NV USA. @tinleymcwhorter absolutely nailed her onstage question! (Video at the end) I couldn’t have been more proud of how far this blonde bombshell has come in the last few months. It’s always my pleasure to be a part of my client’s pageant journeys. My eyes literally swelled with tears as I watched @tinleymcwhorter step forward, and slay that answer! Tinley left everything on that stage last night, placing 3rd runner-up in a strong class of teen pageant contenders. 💕 @acireciel beautifully graced that stage and brought home the title of @missnvteenusa. Erica’s platform is about ensuring that people everywhere will have opportunities for education. She, herself, was the recipient of a scholarship, which has changed her life. So proud of you @acireciel! You will be a great representative for NV this year! It was my pleasure to have sponsored your interview coaching. 👑😘. Congratulations to @rissrose2 for both of your titleholders walking away Nevada State winners. I don’t know of a harder working woman in the pageant industry! @rissrose2 continues to help create avenues for girls to pursue their dreams. Congratulations to @tiannatuamoheloa your new Miss NV USA. @missnvusa 💗 I want to give a big shoutout to @britneybarnhart and @carolinaaurrea for a job well done representing NV this last year! Both are gorgeous, intelligent and sweet. Britney placed Top 15 at Nationals and Carolina was 2nd runner- up at Nationals. To say that we are all proud of them is an understatement. 👑💕 Lastly, I got to spend the day giving hugs and kisses to some of my favorite pageant babes. It was so much fun seeing my pageant girls. “Find your tribe, love them hard.” @tinajarchow @karicarlsondeike @kamideike @mnvoteenlasvegas @autumn_mckissick @wishtheturtle @mnvoteen_unlv @jill_barnhart @pageantlife_coach @alexa_fahd @rissrose2 #pageant #pageantcoach #queen #motivated #dedicated #driven #sisterhood #beautyandbrains #lovemygirls #mysquad

A post shared by Tracy Rodgers💃👑 (@legalnurse1) on Jan 7, 2019 at 9:03am PST

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🎉 THE PAGEANT EVENT 🎉 Such an awesome 👏 day with 250 women from all over the country! On behalf of Marleighs Ministry and Marleighs Angel Gowns as the International Spokeswomen thank you for all your donations and a huge thank you to Taylor Gem for all your work!!! Cheryl Smukowski and Michelle Becker wow is all I can say about today!!!! Thank you for providing such a wonderful event that we can all come together ❤️❤️❤️ Autumn Kastein I think we did killer with the fashionshow and can’t wait to rock it next year!!! 💥💥💥 love you 😘 Crystal Cavey thank you for absolutely everything this weekend from road tripping together, being one of my roomies, helping with my fashion show trunks and ALWAYS the great memories ❤️❤️❤️ love you to pieces!!!! Tiffany Christina and Sherlyn Fox best roomies ever!!!! Love you guys so so much!!! Loved meeting so many wonderful queens from so many systems too….Nicole Elizabeth so happy we finally connected 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 I just adore you! Thank you to all my wonderful models that rocked the runway wearing GO BLING Yourself!!!!! Xoxo #pageant #communityservice #model #thepageantevent #sash #crown #queen #titleholder #mission #womenempowerment #womeninspiringwomen #womensupportingwomen #styleblogger #fashionblogger #pageantmakeup #makeup #hair #stylist #fashion #fun @mrsnicolecook @crystalcavey @mrswisconsinunitedstates @jaynelblack @emma.loney @sherlyn707

A post shared by Ms Illinois USC (@msillinoisuscontinental2019) on Jan 7, 2019 at 10:48am PST

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Best of luck this weekend to this green-eyed bombshell, @tinleymcwhorter! This gorgeous soul, also known as “Tin-can,” brings a whole new meaning to “fighter.” Embracing her challenges in life, and facing them head-on, her platform, “Blind To Disability,” is based on her personal story of hope and inspiration. This amazing young woman reminds me every time we speak how amazing pageant girls really are. I’m so happy to work with and feel inspired by this beauty. Good luck Tinley! #pageant #pageantlife #queen #blindtodisability #tincan #motivated #fighter #greeneyes #model #modeling

A post shared by Tracy Rodgers (@pageantlife_coach) on Jan 4, 2019 at 8:51pm PST

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Backstage at the Parade of Nations for Mrs Universe 2018 #transcontinentalpageants #mrssouthamerica #mrsuniverse #mrsuniverse2018 #mrsuniverseltd #pageantprosllc #sabrinapinion #mrsgalaxy #mrsworld #mrsunitedstates #mrsglobe #mrspageants #missology #pageantcast #mrsinternational #mrsearth #mrspetiteworld

A post shared by Shelley (@shelleyspics) on Dec 9, 2018 at 9:49am PST

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Happy New Year 🥳 #cometome2019 😍 #bestisyettocome

A post shared by Јεƞƞa 🖤 (@jennarenee85) on Dec 31, 2018 at 6:39pm PST

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🎉This is such a privilege and honor to be your COVER MODEL for Pageant Platform Magazine January/February 2019 Issue!!!! I want to send my deepest thanks to Kerry Kathleen for giving me this wonderful opportunity!!! I am so grateful!!! Be sure to read my interview in the link below Check them out on Facebook and online at : www.pageantplatformmag.com 📸by DazzleShot Images Owner Radh Balwan 👗by Mac Duggal Styled by Crystal Cavey #pageantplatformmagazine #covermodel #pageant #titleholder #msillinoisuscontinental2019

A post shared by Ms Illinois USC (@msillinoisuscontinental2019) on Jan 8, 2019 at 2:38pm PST

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Inhale faith Exhale doubt 💜💙💚💛 Miss ECO Georgia 2019 * * * * * * @missecointernational @missecous @glamgreenpageants @macduggal @bodybycraig @heathersumlin @pageantplanet @pageants.news @thepageantspotlight #journeytothecrown #roadtothecrown #pageant #befearlesslyyourself #beyourownsuperhero #beautypageant #beauty #WomenEmpower #nofear #nodoubt #thisisme #picoftheday #queen #photooftheday #glamgreenpageants #missecointernational #missecousa #missecogeorgia #makeup #curlyhair

A post shared by RACHEL STACY (@rachelleighstacy) on Jan 8, 2019 at 8:14am PST

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🎉 THE PAGEANT EVENT 🎉 Such an awesome 👏 day with 250 women from all over the country! On behalf of Marleighs Ministry and Marleighs Angel Gowns as the International Spokeswomen thank you for all your donations and a huge thank you to Taylor Gem for all your work!!! Cheryl Smukowski and Michelle Becker wow is all I can say about today!!!! Thank you for providing such a wonderful event that we can all come together ❤️❤️❤️ Autumn Kastein I think we did killer with the fashionshow and can’t wait to rock it next year!!! 💥💥💥 love you 😘 Crystal Cavey thank you for absolutely everything this weekend from road tripping together, being one of my roomies, helping with my fashion show trunks and ALWAYS the great memories ❤️❤️❤️ love you to pieces!!!! Tiffany Christina and Sherlyn Fox best roomies ever!!!! Love you guys so so much!!! Loved meeting so many wonderful queens from so many systems too….Nicole Elizabeth so happy we finally connected 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 I just adore you! Thank you to all my wonderful models that rocked the runway wearing GO BLING Yourself!!!!! Xoxo

A post shared by Saryna Ritter (@sarynalouise) on Jan 7, 2019 at 10:51am PST

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Best of luck to this beauty @acireciel who will grace the Miss Nevada Teen USA Stage this weekend. Erica was our very first Tivoli Teen NV winner and I was honored to work with her as a sponsor of the Miss Tivoli and Miss Silver State preliminaries. This beauty is working her platform to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to further their education and career paths. Best of luck @acireciel! #pageantry #pageantcoach #pageantlife #education #beautyandbrains #model #nevada

A post shared by Tracy Rodgers (@pageantlife_coach) on Jan 5, 2019 at 7:49am PST

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Make an effort for yourself and believe in your inner goddess! 📸- @donzartinauz #blue #princess #jasmine #disney #goddess #grecian #love #royal #power #effort #selfimportance #selfworth #this #pose #brunette #girls #me #life #live #pageant #beauty #must

A post shared by Jasmine Farlow (@jasminefarlow) on Jan 4, 2019 at 8:00pm PST

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27 days until I leave with @bodybycraig and @edawn5 to Las Vegas compete for @missecous 💜 👑 Miss ECO Georgia US 2019 @glamgreenpageants @missecointernational * * * * * * * @heathersumlin @mental.management @realpaulashugart @missusa @missuniverse @dalesmiththomas @pageantplanet @pageants.news @roadtomissusa @missusafans @pageantupdatemissusa @thepageantspotlight #journeytothecrown #roadtothecrown #confidentlybeautiful #pageant #befearlesslyyourself #beyourownsuperhero #beautypageant #beauty #WomenEmpower #nofear #nodoubt #thisisme #quote #quotes #quotestoliveby #quotesdaily #dailyquotes #crown #crownup #misscongeniality #highheelhopedealer #internationalpageants #lasvegas #cairo

A post shared by RACHEL STACY (@rachelleighstacy) on Jan 11, 2019 at 12:46pm PST

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There’s a pageant for every woman… let’s do this babes. 2019 is your year!!!#pageantry #pageantcoach #pageantlife #2019

A post shared by Tracy Rodgers (@pageantlife_coach) on Jan 10, 2019 at 10:52am PST

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Best of luck to this gorgeous Australian beauty @missintercontinentalaus18. I had the pleasure of helping this beauty get ready for her National Pageant. She leaves tomorrow for the Philippines to compete for @missintercontinentalorg. This amazing, hard working, passionate and dedicated young woman is bringing her darling accent and fierce competitive side to that International Stage. Best of luck Mikaela! 👑💗 #pageantry #pageantlife #pageantcoach #australiangirl #brainsandbeauty #international #australia #gorgeous #model

A post shared by Tracy Rodgers (@pageantlife_coach) on Jan 4, 2019 at 9:12pm PST

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What being a true Queen is really all about. #queening #pageant #pageantlife #quotes #pageantcoach #alwaysgrowing #motivated

A post shared by Tracy Rodgers (@pageantlife_coach) on Jan 4, 2019 at 9:06pm PST

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✨So honored to be the cover model of @officialcrownsmagazine !!!!! Make sure to check out their page and website at: www.crownsmagazine.com Photo 📸by @dazzleshotimages Earrings👑 by @sparklestudiollc Gown💃 by @macduggal @ieenaduggal Styling 💁‍♀️by @crystalcavey and @darrenkeddy Makeup💄 by @angelreyesbeauty Hair 👱‍♀️by @sarynalouise @msillinoisuscontinental2019 @uscontinentalpageants #pageant #covermodel #model #pageantmakeup #pageanthair #gown #dress #red #blue #white #makeup #hair #magazine #editorialphotography #fashionblogger #styleblogger #style #fashion #fun #reddress #like #follow #life

A post shared by Ms Illinois USC (@msillinoisuscontinental2019) on Jan 4, 2019 at 12:14pm PST

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Best of luck to this beauty, @queendanielledanielle as she competes for @usoa_miss_utah tomorrow. Danielle has worked so hard, sharing her platform, “Remember You Are Beautiful.” I’m so proud to be part of Danielle’s pageant journey and gained another beautiful friend. This gorgeous single mother epitomizes hard work, dedication, compassion and strength. Best of luck @queendanielledanielle 💗👑 #pageantqueen #queen #pageantlife #pageantcoach #motivated #determined #compassionate #brainsandbeauty #blonde

A post shared by Tracy Rodgers (@pageantlife_coach) on Jan 4, 2019 at 8:24pm PST

[proverbesdamour-blog]

50 Cute Quotes for Your Boyfriend to Make Him Smile

If you have read one of our previous love messages that talks about love messages for her to make her smile, this is a sex opposite version of it as we are going to be focusing on him this time around.

Many believe that men do not value things like SMS and love quotes in a relationship, we’ll like to tell you that that assertion is totally wrong.

Men just like women also like being pampered, being showed love and being spoilt with gifts, flowers and romantic love messages. What many get wrong is the approach. And we’ll be proving them wrong with the cute love messages below.

Do you think he’s stressed out at work and won’t be paying attention to your love messages? Or you think the day was rough for him so love quotes would be the last thing on his mind? If these are your way of thinking, believe me, you’re losing your relationship.

The best time to show affections to a man is when he’s down and stressed out. Your sweet love quotes will make him smile and forget all his worries. And above all, he’ll cherish you more.

This article contains top 50 cute quotes for your boyfriend to make him smile. These messages are perfect for boyfriend, husband, fiancee and even male friends.

Love text messages bring two separated heart together for a more important reason which will help them in the long run. And if you need a long lasting relationship, we’ve got you covered, all you need to do is to always read our messages. So yourself and happy texting!

Cute Quotes for Your Boyfriend to Make Him Smile

1. Like a victorious prince you affect me with your smile in a way I can’t easily explain. My darling sweetheart, the father of my kids, I love you with every now and then of my life. If you are missing in town—then you can only be found in my heart! I love you!

2. The first day I set my eyes on you little did I sense the kind of blessing God has given to me, now I have come to realize how lucky I am to have found a great lover like you. My heartthrob, I will forever appreciate your love in my life! I love you baby!

3. I can’t stop loving again because already my love for you is becoming infinite. In the first instance when I saw the light of your passion in your beautiful smile, I thought it was not for real. Now I believe everything about—my God sent angel!

4. I can’t compare your love with anything because you are so special. Words cannot explain the depth of my love for you. You are a flower of love planted in my heart, watered with passion and grow with passion. You are my sunlight that shines with compassion in my heart. I love you!

5. How deeply happy I’m I that I met you in life? Since the beginning of my love life, I have never met a man as special as you are. You brought joy to my life and made me a new version of a happy person. I love you my superhero!

Things to Say to Your Boyfriend to Make Him Feel Special over Text

6. I want you to understand that you are the most handsome man my heart sees. I can’t see anything again but you because your love has occupied everything about my thinking. When I sleep, I see you. When I wake—it is you! Whatever I’m doing I always see you. I love you!

7. It is my greatest joy that you are mine. The prince of my life I love you so much. From the beginning to the end of my heart, I adore you my dream come true. If there is any perfect way I can explain to you on how much you mean to me—I will have adopted it without hesitation.

8. My dear husband, I want you to understand that the tears of passion that rolls downs my cheeks are not for pain but for the selfless love you have shown to me over the years. I used to wonder the kind of man God has made you to be. You give me all that I need. I love you my baby!

9. I am passionately sick in love and I want you to cure me with your romantic hugs and hot kisses. My heart is jumping over and over like a frog, because you smiled at me. Your smile is ever difficult to resist. I love you my superstar.

10. In the midst of millions of stars, I chose you because I believed you are meant for me. Now I have come to realize that my choice was right. You proved beyond my expectations that you are a man worthy of been loved. I love you my heartthrob!

Cute Things to Say to Your Boyfriend to Make His Heart Melt

11. On the horizon of passion I wish to pour on you, a rain of love which you can’t miss even a single stripe. I am willing to make you soak in love so that you can realize how deeply in love I am with you. You have unleashed the fuel of joy in my heart! I love you!

12. Your kiss makes me to want the more and more of you every minute of my life. You have captured my heart and programmed it to think only of you. My love, please always be mine until the end of time. I don’t think I can live without you. I love you with all due respect.

13. You are my companion in times of hardship. You never leave me when I need you most. You stay by my side when everything seems to have turned against me. Baby your kindness have no bound. You shower me with the most interesting love ever. I love you!

14. A single minute away from me—means a thousand of days in journey. I can’t withstand the risk of missing you for once. You have become my heart—not having you close to me can cause my death. I don’t want to leave you forever my darling. I love you!

15. Until I met you I never knew there is love addiction. My spirit and soul is attached to you that I can’t breathe a day without remembering you in my mind. You became my thought when since the day I met you. Baby I love you!

Text to Make Him Smile at Work

16. You bright joy to my heart, you purify my mind with your passion. Everything I want in man is found in you. Anytime I close my eyes, I see you like a treasure full of light accomplished with endless bliss. I love you my sweetheart!

17. No matter how sad I may be, just a smile from you brings an ocean of joy to my heart. Except that I can’t see your beautiful face—my heart melts for your love. There is a special part of you which I love so much and it is your gentleness. My gentle guy, I love you!

18. You gave me reason to smile, so I fell in love with you. I thought everything is over until you gave me the shock of my life with your powerful smile. I love you my angel. I will continue to appreciate your kindness in my life until the end of time.

19. For all that you have done in my life. For the glory you brought into my life. For the mercy that you are which God has blessed me with, I want to appreciate you today and forever. I love you!

20. When I said I love you, I really mean it because you deserve to be loved over and over. I am promising you now to be with you forever. My uncommon treasure, I want you to realize that nothing can drive my heart away from you except what has passed. I love you my lovely prince of passion!

Cute Quotes for Your Husband to Make Him Smile

21. My dear hobby, we have made it this far because you gave me all the attention I demanded from you. No matter the mood you find me, you understand and flow with me in the best manners. I used to wonder the kind of man you are, having realized the aura of your charming kindness. I love you!

22. My charming goody handsome husband, the father of my kids. It came to me this morning to reach out to you because I am already soaked in your thought. I can no longer bear your absence. I want you to be with me as soon as possible. I love you!

23. Loving you with all that I have is my pride. I smile whenever I remember every memory shared with you. Like a lily you are so cute and charming to me. I love everything about you. No matter how hard the situation may be, I will always leave to love you till eternity. I love you baby!

24. True love is rare but with you it is absolutely possible. A gem like you is hard to find in this cruel world of us. Baby, in the midst of millions of princes, you alone I see, admired and want to lead my life with until the time seizes to exist. I want to end my life with you, finding my head on your chest every day of my life. I love you!

25. Despite all that came between us, you still find a space in your heart to forgive and love me better. I erred yet you never get tired of me. I am so lucky to have found a good man like you. Dear love, I’m sorry for all the past pain I might have caused. I love you!

cute text to send to your boyfriend to make him smile

26. My heart is yelling and crying for your attention. The amazing thing is that, you give me all listening ears I ever needed yet my heart is not satisfied to have more and more of your presence. Baby, you put smile on my face and give me a good reason to always want to live with you forever!

27. In times of darkness and adversity, you became my sun and moon bringing hopes and comforts to my gentle soul. I was sad having realized you were not with me last night. But now I am stronger and happier than I have ever been because I could hear your voice. My sweet angel, I love you!

28. From my perception about you, I saw a king of heart that specialized in making his woman feel special. You took me to where I have never been before in an imaginary journey of love. You kissed me in a garden built of love, and hugged me under a tree of passion. I love you!

29. A day does not pass by except that the thought of you rolls over my heart millions times over and over. I am addicted to you. I can’t control my feelings for you anymore. My baby, you are the best for me. Thank God I met you.

30. What have you done to my heart that I lose it always for you alone? I grew up to know only that a person loses temper not his heart. My baby, why did you steal my heart away though you know I can’t leave without you? The prince of my heart, please bring my heart back for me. I love you!

Quotes for My Boyfriend to Make Him Smile

31. I never believe a person like you exist until I met you. All the past pains have found themselves washed away since the day step into my life. Loving you will continue to be a thing of joy to me. You are a special person and I love you with all my heart!

32. My heart is dedicated to love you forever. This is the reason why I adore you so much. I admire your passion and your beautiful smile. All what I want from you is to love me back even more than I love you. My dear angel, I love everything about you. You’re my dream comes true!

33. I am so stinging about one thing—sharing you with anyone! I know how much happy I am been with you. Having a rival will be a big nightmare. Baby, I alone own you. I will love you until the end of time. My sweetheart, I really mean what I’m saying. I love you my hero!

34. I love that you love me for me. I love that I don’t have to hide my imperfections or pretend to be someone else when I’m with you. I love that you don’t mind my madness. I love that we can be crazy together. I love that you make me feel this way. I love YOU…forever and a day!

35. You make me feel like a silly teenager all over again. And I love you for that!

36. Anytime I spend a moment with you, you make me feel special because you treat me like a queen. You have a special skill of bringing out the child in me. You make me shed tears of passion like a baby wrapped on the mother’s chest. I love you my sweet star!

37. Thank you for all you have done in my life. I will always cherish you and care for you as long as I may exist in this quite world of ours. Life without you to me is a life without love, passion, sincerity and comfort. But having found you in my life, I feel all of the above. I love you my sweetheart!

38. In the valley of affectionate moment, I chose you above every other dude. In the river full of passionate treasure, you are the most valuables of the diamonds. Your presence in my life brought lots of changes to me which I will never forget. I love you my angel!

39. There is no doubt because you are a God sent angel to me—to bring peace to my heart. Anytime I think of you, I feel a special comfort in my mind yet I cannot comprehend. There is this burning fire in your eyes; it is called the bracelet of love. I love you baby!

40. Your powerful smile mesmerizes my heart setting a love time bomb in it. Any kiss or hug from you may cause a mass construction in me, living my heart soaked in love. Do you want to kill me with passion? Anyway I am ready to die for your love no matter the condition. I will always cherish you my dear love!

Cute Things to Say to Your Boyfriend to Make Him Smile over Text

41. I will always love you no matter what life may bring to us—it is normal! No two specially created people lived together without constraints. Sometimes we are happy, sometimes we are sad however the most important thing is that we still stay in love. I love you my sweetheart!

42. I can’t get tired of having the whole of your smile every day of my life. The reason is because it brings a magical heart healing effect I cannot possibly explain. The bad news is that distance may physically set us apart while the good news is that I will always remember you in my heart no matter what. I love you my heartthrob!

43. My joy in life is to see you happy and that’s why I have dedicated my time to give you the best I can. For destiny been favorable, you respond to my love in the best way I wanted it to be. I am so lucky to find a husband like you. I love you baby!

44. If I can see your face every day of my life—then it is enough a comfort zone for me. Your passionate smile continues to melt my heart like an ice berg turning into a love liquid. You hug releases a fluid of passion in my heart and in the end, yielding a perfect reason to live with you forever. I love you!

45. No wonder it occurred to me never to love anyone until I met you. A truthful man made for me alone. You are such a wonderful person I will continue to love you until love itself begs out of stress. I will stretch my love for you until it can’t be expanded again. I love you!

Cute Messages to Send to Your Boyfriend to Make Him Smile

46. When I closed my eyes, when I walked through the bank of the river of love. I saw a very handsome man smiling at me from a distance worthy to be called the angle of passion. I knew you were the one. So I smiled back at you—to show you how much you mean to me. I love you!

47. I am sorry for many things I didn’t say. I want you to over look all what I did not do. Today, I want to devote my heart for you and you alone no one else. Look into my eyes whenever we meet again, you will find a burning passion in them—my eyes are blue because of you. I love you!

48. I remained patient not sharing this special love with anyone until I met you. I never believed in the existence of true love before. However, now I have come to realize that it exists because I can see it in you. I love you baby!

49. You are such a romantic lover. Your kisses taste like chocolate. Your hugs, I feel like a blanket. Everything about you appears to me as extra ordinary. You are a living passion. I love you!

50. My heartfelt, you are like a flower—giving sweet fragrance to my nose. I adore you so much more than a diamond treasure. You are a one in a million kind of a man. I wish I can describe how much I love you in a single sentence: I love you!

51. I can never lose a track loving you in my life. I am happy today because you are part of my life. Anytime I set my eyes on you, I feel lots of comforts in my mind. You are a great gift to me. Thank God you are mine. I love you!

The post 50 Cute Quotes for Your Boyfriend to Make Him Smile appeared first on proverbesdamour.

https://proverbesdamour.com/?p=1189

[daisychaindaydreamsblog]

Last year I discovered so many lovely beauty bloggers and Instagrammers and made lots of online friendships within the online beauty community, thank you for all the love everyone! These gals are all so gorgeous, inside and out, and have amazing content. So I thought I’d put together a bit of a ‘sharing the love’ kind of blog post today to spotlight some of the lovely ladies I enjoy following for makeup and skincare inspiration, thoughtful and honest reviews and pretty photography (although it’s probably also the reason my wishlist is way too long now haha). So let’s begin… I hope you enjoy this beauty blog post and find some new accounts to follow on Instagram 🙂

Illustration Credit: Emmy Smith

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Rolly Mag – I honestly consider Rolly Mag my blogging bestie, I discovered her Instagram account probably sometime in the middle of 2019, stalked her account with likes and comments because I loved the look of everything I saw on her feed, and surprisingly didn’t scare her away haha. I guess the rest is history haha, we’re almost the exact same age, share a passion for blogging and beauty, amongst a few other things *wink wink*, if you know, you know. Jokes aside, her content is gorgeous, very creative and she gives great (and transparent) reviews.

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Roxane Papa – I’ve been following the lovely Roxane for quite a long time now, but I think we really reconnected in 2019, hooray! 🙂 She’s so sweet and supportive and creates such aesthetically pleasing photos. She also has a beauty blog called ‘A Beauty Wanderer’ where she shares her more in-depth product and brand reviews. She also has a thoughtful approach to buying new products, which I admire.

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Strictly Sal – Sal is such a sweetie, her Instagram feed is absolute goals, her reviews are honest and in-depth, and her makeup selfies are so pretty. She styles her photos and flatlays so beautifully too, including cute hair-clips, flowers and jewellery. She also posts great brunch reviews from her travels around Melbourne which I love hearing about and discovering new places to try in the future.

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Tarlie Russel – Tarlie is an absolute gem and such a genuine and supportive gal. We connected on Instagram earlier this year and have been chatting on DMs and through our content ever since. Her photography is breathtaking (no exaggeration), creative and authentic. Her product reviews are transparent, honest and always a joy to read.

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Marisa Robinson Beauty – Marisa is so lovely and always very supportive to me. Her photos are divine and always very aesthetically pleasing. I love the ‘glowy’ makeup looks she creates and her eyeshadow and highlighter is always on point.

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By Amy Gee – she’s witty, sassy and an absolute talent with makeup! Amy is an icon, I discovered her account around four months ago and have been loving everything she posts. Her flatlays are always styled beautifully and her ‘makeup of the day’ type selfies are gorgeous – my makeup inspiration, insert *heart eyes emoji here*

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Danica Sarza – I’ve always been in awe of how pretty and pastel pink Danica’s photos are. A month or so ago, I reached out to her to tell her this, and I’m so glad I did. She’s such a lovely and sweet soul, and it’s been nice getting to know more about the lovely lady who curates one of my favourite IG pages, and her feminine aesthetic always inspires me.

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The Life of Laura – Laura is a gem and such a sweet and supportive soul in the beauty blogging community. I’ve been following her for over a year now and honestly love following her Instagram and blog. Her photography skills are amazing and I love how she shares honest and thoughtful product reviews of even the most ‘hyped’ about products on the ‘gram. Her makeup looks are gorgeous and usually end up in my ‘saved’ page on Instagram for future inspo hehe.

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Beauty Style Travel Blog – Nicky is lovely lady and her content is just as lovely. I always find her reviews helpful to read when considering adding something new to my makeup collection, and her product styling and photography is divine. Most of her posts end up in my ‘saved’ folder too, hehe.

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ELC Michelle – Michelle is a makeup icon. I love the golden glow and glam aesthetic of her Instagram page and the makeup looks she creates, especially her eyeshadow looks (oh to be that talented!). Her accessories collection is also my dream.

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Shanice Jade Makeup –  Shanice is such a supportive and sweet soul too. Her Instagram posts are always unique and inspiring and feature a range of different brands, across makeup and skincare, some I’ve heard about and others are new to me. She is very talented and always making creative and authentic content for the ‘gram.

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GlossCo – Centaine is a lovely beauty boss on Instagram and her content always inspires me to be more creative with my own photography (the dream, right? haha). Her gorgeous IG page is a curated combination of luxe and affordable makeup and skincare, detailed and honest product reviews, jewellery collection goals and tea.

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Makeup and Coffee – Erin creates such creative photography for beauty products on her Instagram page. She’s funny, talented and very creative – there’s usually a theme of some sort too, which I think is awesome. I also love when she shares inspirational quotes, they always resonate with me.

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Fantasmaface – Corinne is such a cutie! I love how her makeup looks are inspired by different things, including comics, pets and lots more… her backgrounds are always creative too and I love the sassy poses in her selfies. Oh and she’s 100% the queen of eye-liner.

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Little Pink Flower – Sonia is so sweet! I had the chance to meet her in real life earlier this month and she’s so lovely and makes me laugh haha. Her makeup and skincare reviews are detailed and honest and her product styling is lovely too.

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Jarrad Marc – Jarrad is a gem! He’s so supportive and sweet and has an amazing makeup and skincare collection too hehe! His product reviews are detailed and genuine, and his product styling is beautiful. He also promotes SPF regularly, which is amazing.

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Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter – this lovely lady’s Instagram page is oh so very aesthetically pleasing and always very creative and ‘outside of the box’ which I love. Her product styling is inspiring and her product reviews are genuine and authentic. She’s also so supportive and a real gem in the beauty blogging sphere.

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Real Juliam – Juliam is so supportive and sweet. Her content is adorable and has a unique aesthetic which I love. Her product reviews are genuine and honest and styling is lovely.

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Katie’s Cosmopolitan – Katie is so lovely and her Instagram page always inspires me. I love how she features mainly affordable drugstore makeup brands with a curated hint of high-end and luxury beauty – it’s a great combination. She also finds lots of lovely dupes and posts in-depth reviews on her page, so I’m always discovering something new through her Instagram. I love the purple, pink and golden hues she uses too, they’re beautiful and really suit her.

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Ree Averillo – what a babe honestly. Her photography is beautiful and has a lovely golden glow. Her makeup looks are always so gorgeous and her product reviews are interesting to read and consider before buying the ‘hyped up’ products we often see on Instagram.

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With Love Rebecca – this is one of my most recent beauty blogger discoveries on Instagram and I absolutely adore Rebecca’s account. Such beautiful product photography, lighting and overall aesthetic, hehe. I think we have quite a similar taste in makeup too, so all the products she’s reviewed went straight onto my wishlist oops 🙂

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Morgan’s Skin Journal – another discovery this year, and I have been swooning over her beautiful Instagram feed since then… haha! I appreciate Morgan’s approach to beauty and shopping mindfully and her collection is absolute goals, featuring oh so many lovely products (many of them sitting pretty on my wishlist hehe).

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Of course, there are so many more lovely beauty blogging Instagram accounts I enjoy following in this online community, but I’d probably never finish writing this blog post if I listed them all at once haha. I might make another one soon 🙂

If you’re looking for more makeup inspiration, I shared some more of my favourites (not just Australia-based) in this blog post if you’re interested. Enjoy x

I’d love to hear who you enjoy following in the comments 🙂

Daisy Chain Daydreams xox

Inspiring Australian Beauty Bloggers… Last year I discovered so many lovely beauty bloggers and Instagrammers and made lots of online friendships within the online beauty community, thank you for all the love everyone!

[howellrichard]

14 Sensational Books for Your Summer Reading List (2019 Edition!)

Hiya Gorgeous!

If you’ve been tuning into my weekly Wellness Wednesday live series on Instagram and Facebook, then you know that I recently launched our #CrazySexyBooks club with my friend Sheri Salata’s new book, The Beautiful No (and I also recently shared the next book I’m reading, which is also on this list!). I’ve been having such a blast connecting with our amazing community over our shared love for reading books that make us think, question, laugh out loud, vision, tear up and everything in between.

That’s why I couldn’t be more jazzed to bring you my 2019 summer reading list, hot off the press! It’s got something for everyone… fiction and nonfiction, brand new and classic must-reads. These books touch on everything from environmental issues and the powerful feminist themes behind Mary Magdelene’s gospel, to psychedelics, small business marketing and finance, wellness, and set-your-heart-on-fire inspiration!

But before you dive in, I’ve got a special gift just for you…

My 2019 Summer Reading List

1. Mary Magdalene Revealed by Meggan Watterson

This amazing new book by Meggan Watterson, a Harvard-trained theologian, dear friend and one of my spiritual teachers is my latest pick for our #CrazySexyBooks club. In Meg’s words, Mary’s gospel reveals a radical love at the heart of the Christian story (and for many of us, it’s a story we haven’t heard yet!). I feel that love as I read this beautiful book, and I think you will too. It’s a love that transforms everything—and it’s available to all of us. Add this book to your morning spiritual practice. Your heart will open and your soul will thank you.

Get Mary Magdalene Revealed here!

2. More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth

We all have so much to learn from Elaine Welteroth, who broke barriers as the youngest Editor in Chief of Teen Vogue and paved the way for it to become the socially conscious publication it is today. I love this quote about the book from another woman I admire, Malala Yousafzai: “More Than Enough is a guide for young people who want to find their voice, a crash course for those who want to challenge the status quo, and an adventure story for all of us.” So whether you’re young in years or young at heart, this one is a must-have for your summer reading list.

Get More Than Enough here.

3. Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

Calling all dreamers, small biz owners and solopreneurs! I didn’t think talking about money could be fun, but Mike Michalowicz has proven me wrong. If talking financials makes your head spin but you want your company to grow (and be profitable!), this one is a must-read. You’ll get practical advice paired with case studies that’ll help put you and your business baby on the path to success.

Get Profit First here.

4. How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan

You might know Michael Pollan for his famous food-centric books such as The Omnivore’s Dilemma and In Defense of Food. This time around, his unique brand of skeptical curiosity takes us into the world of psychedelics. Pollan started the research for this book by exploring how some people are using LSD and psilocybin (the active ingredient in psychoactive mushrooms) to treat health challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. In doing so, he discovered a whole world of possibilities for using psychedelics to expand our consciousness, better understand our own minds and transform our fears around dying (especially for cancer patients). If that sounds too trippy to you, I encourage you to keep an open, expansive mind! This book is fascinating.

Get How to Change Your Mind here.

5. Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo

My BFF’s sizzling new book launches on September 10 and I couldn’t be more excited! I’ve been along for the behind-the-scenes ride for an entire year as Marie wrote this glorious gem. I’m devouring the advanced copy now and let me tell you, this brilliant baby is full of spirit-stirring wisdom and life-changing perspective. It’ll fire you up and fill you with hope and the knowledge that it doesn’t matter how many crazy roadblocks threaten to throw you off course, your dream is and always will be figureoutable. I may be biased, but I have a feeling you’ll agree. This masterpiece will definitely be a fall #CrazySexyBooks club pick!

Pre-order Everything is Figureoutable here.

6. A Bright Future by Joshua S. Goldstein and Staffan A. Qvist

I had to share this book because I know how passionate this community is about protecting our planet! The authors unpack how several countries have already replaced fossil fuels with low-carbon energy sources and how the rest of the world could follow in their footsteps to (literally) save the world. This is a compelling, no-nonsense, yet hopeful book that will motivate you to influence change however you can.

Get A Bright Future here.

7. The Beautiful No by Sheri Salata

We just wrapped up chatting about this scrumptious book in our #CrazySexyBooks club, but it’s not too late if you haven’t had a chance to read it yet! Like many of us, Sheri dedicated a big chunk of her life to a career she loved (working with Oprah!). As fulfilling and magical as that was, she found herself wishing for a life she loved just as much. So she left it all and went on a soul pilgrimage. And lucky for us, she shares what she learned and how you can apply it to your own life in this transformative book. I can’t recommend it enough. And my mom agrees!

Get The Beautiful No here.

8. City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert

I adore Elizabeth Gilbert and her captivating new release is perfect for this time of year. This instant bestseller is set in the New York City theater world during the 1940s. It’s got love, sex, glamour, adventure and a little dose of danger—what more could you ask for in a yummy beach read? Grab a champagne cocktail and drink in these delicious pages.

Get City of Girls here.

9. From Poop to Gold: The Marketing Magic of the Harmon Brothers by Chris Jones

Team Crazy Sexy and I have been reading this book and absolutely loving it! If you’ve seen the genius ads for brands like Poo-Pourri and ChatBooks, then you know Harmon Brothers! This book takes you behind-the-scenes of these viral ad sensations that have not only cracked up millions of people, but also boosted these companies’ reputations and helped them sell a whole lotta product. If you’re an entrepreneur like me, then you’re always hungry for proven tips about what works and what flops—and this book is loaded with ‘em!

Get From Poop to Gold here.

10. Let Your Fears Make You Fierce by Koya Webb

We’ve been exploring fear and how to make it work for you (instead of against you!) in a couple of our recent Wellness Wednesdays. If those conversations resonated with you, you’re gonna love this book. Koya Webb, holistic health coach and yoga teacher, shares how she’s turned her fear into one of her greatest superpowers—and how you can too with her straightforward tips, breathing and journaling exercises, mantras and more. I met Koya at an event this spring and I instantly loved her. I can’t think of a better way to spend a summer afternoon!

Get Let Your Fears Make You Fierce here.

11. Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb

I love my therapist and think folks can benefit from talking to someone. Unfortunately, there’s a long-standing stigma that going to therapy is somehow a sign of weakness. That’s why I’m so grateful for this wonderful book—we can start to break down the harmful notions our society has about mental health. Lori Gottlieb’s intimate portrait of her experiences as both a clinician and patient pulls back the curtain on the world of talk therapy. It’s funny, eye-opening, thought-provoking and so much more.

Get Maybe You Should Talk to Someone here.

12. Beauty Water by Tori Holmes

If you’ve been following me for a while or hanging out with me on Wellness Wednesday, then you already know how I feel about hydration! It’s one of the most important (yet undervalued) aspects of living a healthy life. Now you can turn your H2O routine into a nourishing self-care ritual with this gorgeous book. It landed on my desk a few months ago and I’m grateful it did. This book is packed with 50 recipes for deliciously quenching elixirs that use ingredients like CBD oil, ashwagandha and lion’s mane. Cheers!

Get Beauty Water here.

Looking for something special to read this summer? These 14 gorgeous books are at the top of my list!

13. Do Less by Kate Northrup

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book as soon as my dear friend Kate told me she was writing it. If you’re ready to ditch the damaging belief that your worth is based on your productivity, then I suggest picking up a copy for yourself! Instead of trying to squeeze every last thing into your time, Kate encourages a more minimalist approach to life rooted in mindfulness and presence. These powerful lessons are the soul medicine that our busy, overwhelmed, stressed out world so desperately needs! For more on this topic, check out this fascinating interview with Kate on Jenna Kutcher’s Goal Digger podcast.

Get Do Less here.

14. The Future of Fashion by Tyler Little

I’ve written a couple of articles recently about the environmental, human and animal impacts of fast fashion. If that topic moves you, you’ll really dig this book. It’ll help you understand the problems with the global fashion industry on a deeper level, as well as what innovative people and businesses are doing differently to flip the script. You’ll be inspired and empowered to make sustainable shifts in your own life!

Get The Future of Fashion here.

I can’t wait to hear what you decide to add to your summer reading list! And don’t forget to join me for Wellness Wednesday on Instagram and Facebook. Going live has become one of the things I look forward to every week—I love this special space we’re creating together. In addition to chatting about #CrazySexyBooks, we dish on lots of juicy tips to help you live your healthiest, happiest life. It’s also a chance for us to just connect and get to know each other better… so fun!

You can catch up on past Wellness episodes here and sign up for reminders (so you never miss another one!) here.

Your turn: What books are on your summer reading list?

Peace & bookworm buddies,

The post 14 Sensational Books for Your Summer Reading List (2019 Edition!) appeared first on KrisCarr.com.

[atrayo]

Jewels of Truth Statements and Favorite Quotes of the Month

Hello All, What a year its been! The hurdles encountered and the difficulties silenced along the way especially with the help of others. This is a time of inner poise and reflection now that the New Year is upon us. Beyond that of considering for ourselves new years resolutions there comes the moment of reconciliation. Be it with ourselves or better yet those we have offended accidentally and certainly on purpose. Which can include loved ones be they kinfolk by blood and of the dear heart that pulls us in various directions for better or for worse. This is an excellent time to bury hatchets while the moments of festivities are still fresh upon our faces. Although I personally and thankfully I have no hatchets to bury. I am very grateful to countless others for this is also a period of counting our blessings for the year that has past. I'm grateful to the Spirit University for all of its programs, helpful staff, and especially fellow students. I've grown spiritually with my psychic-mediumship gifts of God. Besides as a person confronting needs of independence on the home front whilst struggling as a caregiver for my mother. The caregiving has taken a toll on me albeit my sanctuary of the "Spirit University" has aided me greatly in detoxing from all of that stress. However, my public blog writing here at "Atrayo's Oracle" has been a partial causality. In terms of frequency and certainly the "Gems of Opportunity" series of inspirational innovations also channeled by automatic writing. As conceptual designs for society at large akin to being an abstract summary inventor. With over 200 plus such concepts on this blog site of a dozen years plus listed here for new and old readers alike. That segment hasn't been contributed to since possibly in late 2017. It hurts personally since it was a great love to share these works at large. Be it the conceptual designs and the frequency of these angelic inclusive spiritual wisdom entries. So whenever I can sneak away as a caregiver and build up the motivational strength I write. Be it privately for my spirit to find renewal and joy when in public like here on this blog site or on my Facebook fan page. Where I write new spiritual material as a long and short statement freshly minted as its posted by inspired clairvoyant automatic writing. At least once a week if not sometimes a wee bit longer then that period. Consider this my confession as to my literary whereabouts to loyal global readers online. As to the status of my lack of presence. However, with all that stated I hope to share more than the typical three longhand recently written "Jewels of Truth" statements. I'll share at least three more of my Facebook postings as well for your spiritual personal reflections. Making a total of six in all statements for expansion of our holiest spirits within. Today's topics in longhand format will be on Empowerment, Angelic Dialect, and the Word of God. With the Facebook long and short statements with an accompanying picture meme of the series. On the topics of God, Love, and Creation in this ongoing dialogue with and by the angels with all of us at large. Enjoy. Empowerment: 2697) With all things that come at us in this life. One it will be with an uncertainty that it will only matter to some of the people sometimes. We must be the ones to anoint with a loving heart the significance what our endeavors mean to us alone. Not to glorify ourselves but to love God in our sacred doing and being alive as a gift back towards God(dess). To be alive consciously is no easy feat it takes focus, willpower, and inner compassion for self. Our days can slip into periods of funk. Where we forget our divinity in God and more so our humanity in this world. The trials, challenges, and problems of the world test us continuously. Especially, if we fail in our treatment of ourselves and our loved ones in living with healthy boundaries holistically. We can come off as irrational, possessed with guilt and shame, neurotic with our embedded idiosyncratic choices within ourselves. All of this can phase us in alignment with our holy spiritual being within the world. Our lives can become mired whether we respect ourselves or not in personal dignity of self-worth. No one can remind you that you matter profusely to society and certainly to God. If you do not first give yourselves a chance to survive in this barbaric human global civilization. There is patches if not entire zones of grace in the world at large. Filled with both awe and beauty of everything worth adoring in the Angelic Image and Likeness of God in us, in the world, and in the Holy Ghost. The best tenets to live by is with unconditional benevolence as goodness lived in moderation as the gateway to Heaven on Earth. Are three-fold as the Holy Light, Divine Life, and the greatest is Absolute Love as the three "L's" worth remembering in the English language. They roll off the tongue in melody just as well when sung with thanksgiving to God equally. Be the ones to surpass your humanity in the world through the bonafide climax of faith in the divine afterlife. To come to know sincerely without outside manipulation that each of you is God as the angels reborn. Alive as the meta-pleasure of God(dess) for all souls everywhere. Amen. ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo. Angelic Dialect: 2698) As with antiquity there comes as an understanding of the cultural faith of our forefathers in this world. That we are not unique in regards to adoring a marvelous mysterious Creator God under usually a patriarchal colored worldview. Aside from how we regard the Creator as male or female predominantly on this Earth on a macro basis. We are alive because it has willed us into existence through its own native ethereal bosom. Before there was sentient life on worlds like planet Earth. Was the time of pure instinct where emotions were and in many ways are still primal in a foundation of being alive. Before the ages of learning through intellect much less with words as spoken communicated meaning. There was pure guttural sound to evolve signals of safety and/or danger in the untamed wilds. All creatures have a personality as a divine inheritance of the Soul of God in all incarnated life forms. The Ego is a developed trait much as Divinity is a deeper remembrance of the existence of spiritual matters in the Infinity of God. We speak these things for a reason since before there was a spoken, read, and written language on Earth. There were and still are spiritual Omens as an Angelic Dialect of the gods to commune with the early hominids of this world. All omens, boons, blessings, miracles, curses, acts of God, and so forth is the language of the souls in the afterlife. To communicate via subjective and objective inferences as paradoxical phenomena by a united dialogue of grace for those of goodwill spiritually. This Angelic dialect for humanity on Earth isn't just for the world. It expands infinitesimally outwards as a macro universal expression into the cosmos for mystics and sages with open hearts and minds to experience with all their senses. Be these senses carnal and spiritual psychic alike as the expansion of self in the Angelic Image and Likeness of God in pure divine perfection. To be fluent in this Angelic dialect that includes totality as forms of expression. Which may include words, phrases, numbers, equations, coincidences, magical divinity, and so forth. Brings God that much closer into our lives much less to harness grace for the benefit of all souls alike. Amen.   ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo. Word of God: 2699) All those that would abuse the Word of God out of context. With poor interpretations and mistranslations have fallowed their spirits as God is their Ultimate Witness. None other but the deceiver knows the extent of their malicious misdeeds in despicable conduct. Since the one that is naive and misses the point in a fair manner. No injustice is committed due to their innocent albeit ill-informed nature. But the usurper that fills the bile of hatred and falsehoods using the Word of God as a weapon rather than a healing restorative balm. Shall inherit the misery they have sowed firsthand with dishonor. Karma will deliver his/her unwelcome lot without mercy. To the extent that he or she has soiled the hearts of others. Shall their demerits be experienced in the fullness of time on this Earth. To the extent of the "Jewels of Truth" series we the Angelic Host bear solemn witness that these benevolent inspired works of wisdom. Are to be classified akin to an extended dialogue with God(dess) with his holiest children. All are welcome to distill these kernels of truth at their own pace of spiritual maturity. None shall be spared the rods stroke that fails to uphold the Will of God as their divine birthright. Be not afraid the kind truth seekers since your hearts are pure and beautiful. You are spared even if you feel guilty at times as having fallen short of the prize of Victory with the Lord and Lady God(dess) as One Creator. The effort is the telltale sign of redemptive glory of the Spirit of God growing in each of you over time. Be still and awakened with the sublime gentleness of the beauty of Creation returning all towards harmony. Even chaos cannot escape the tranquility of God everlasting. For this is the blessed holy truth of all ages. Amen.   ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo. God:

Creation: 882B) To anoint the Divine within ourselves at every turn is to realize that our brethren as abundant life. As Mother Nature and her infinite children are our holy kinsfolk equally as well. We are joined at the proverbial hip of the Image and Likeness of God Everlasting. Amen. ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo. Love: 881B) With every tender love to have existed we extol that the highlight of grace itself is to recognize the Creator as ourselves in its earliest expressions of absolute life. We are the babes of antiquity reborn as people albeit there is also an entire Universe to share with God as abundant everlasting life as well.

Be not afraid to anoint the beauty of mother nature with the beauty of a sacred and sublime divinity we acknowledge as Goddess in all her luxurious beauty. Her captivating appeal captures all of the fragrance of life into its most refined moments we can have ever imagined sincerely.

The Divine afterlife is both an exquisite treasure and an undiscovered Creation for all souls alike. Both as an expansive reality and that the expressions of God's Image and Likeness are Infinite. Even the most Almighty Angels are still making new discoveries of God the Supreme Creator across endless universes of reality to this very moment.

To note the grandeur of God is to softly embrace the loving truth that God is beyond patriarchy of manhood alone. That the All-Father as Creator is also the All-Mother as the Absolute Matriarch of all realities combined as One Love we adore forever as God(dess).

Still, the endless whispers of the angelic choirs sing that God is every relationship originally we may ever want or need as people on this Earth and beyond. From the Best Family, Best Friends, Best Altruistic Strangers, and certainly Best Lovers into all we consider as Eros, Ludus, Philia, Pragma, Storge, Philautia, Mania, and certainly Agape. Amen. ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo.

How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.  ---George Washington Carver.

When the crowds saw it they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings.  ---Matthew 9:8.

And you will have confidence because there is hope; you will be protected and take your rest in safety. ---Job 11:18.

The measure you give will be the measure you get back. ---Luke 6:38.

Let the beauty of what you love be what you do. ---Rumi.

Human beings are not born once and for all on the day their mothers give birth to them, but ... life obliges them over and over again to give birth to themselves.  ---Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Do not be dismayed by the brokenness of the world. All things break. And all things can be mended. Not with time, as they say, but with intention. So go. Love intentionally, extravagantly, unconditionally. The broken world waits in darkness for the light that is you. ----L.R. Knost.

Ivan "Atrayo" Pozo-Illas, has devoted 23 years of his life to the pursuit of clairvoyant automatic writing channeling the Angelic host. Ivan is the author of the spiritual wisdom series of "Jewels of Truth" consisting of 3 volumes published to date. He also channels conceptual designs that are multi-faceted for the next society to come that are solutions based as a form of dharmic service. Numerous examples of his work are available at "Atrayo's Oracle" blog site of 13 years plus online. Your welcome to visit his website "Jewelsoftruth.us" for further information or to contact Atrayo directly.

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Gifts for Film and TV Lovers 2017: Entertainment Holiday Gift Guide

Nick Thackray for Thrillist

D o not bother counting the shopping times until Christmas — you had the perfect gift yesterday. ‘Tis your right time for you to look for “the finest presents for him” and “the finest presents for her,” hoping to land onto a gift guide that’ll somehow understand your loved one much better than you do.

C’mon! The holiday season doesn’t have to feel like one, long eggnog hassle. What did she diligently binge watch this year? What film did he have to check out in theaters? You see where it’s about: Pop culture obsessions will be the secrets to finding the perfect presents this Christmas, what from the pragmatic to this totally superfluous into the stocking stuffer throwaway you end up using for the subsequent 20 years. Whether you are buying for fanatical in need of a new coat, fanatic that skateboards on the facet, theory-hunter looking to kill time between seasons, or someone in need of a good book, Thrillist has you covered. Here are seven gift guides best that’ll score big with the giftee this past year. We all know you can do better than a card.   (Click through each picture for full gift guide)

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Here ‘Stranger Things’ Theory Means Trouble for Everybody

Nick Thackray for Thrillist

A longyears ago, in a galaxy you call home, the film Star Wars forever changed the lives of countless generations, for example somebody who you owe a gift this holiday season. Together with The Last Jedi on the horizon, Star Wars materialism is once more on the rise. Overwhelmed? Recall Yoda’s words : “Fear is the path to the dark side… fear leads to anger… anger leads to hate… hate leads to suffering” Don’t be mad, don’t be hateful, and certainly don’t suffer. We have sifted through Star Wars clothes toys, Last Jedi homework studying, and everyday household items which seem like lightsabers to build a set of presents worthy of Jabba’s palace. To quote Yoda once again: “Do or do not. There’s absolutely not any try.”

Nick Thackray for Thrillist

If you wish to impress the Thrones-buff in your life, or wish to get a newbie hooked, look no further than this selection of Kingdom-inspired goods, from novels to dragon eggs into a door stop (“HODOR!”) You never knew you wanted until now. These will be the best   Game of Thrones gifts money can purchase.

Nick Thackray for Thrillist

However, what do I purchase The Walking Dead enthusiast in my life? You wonder since the doomsday clock counts down and the zombie appetite (for presents) grows. We have great news: Besides all of the merch AMC pushes throughout the holiday season, you will find tons of less obvious gems that’ll amuse your post-apocalyptic. Contemplate these  collectibles, tchotchkes, and TV-watching companions.

Nick Thackray for Thrillist

About the 12th day of Christmas, a diehard  Stranger Thingsenthusiast gave to me  12 Demogorgons demogorging, 11 psychics psychicing, 10 Barbs a-screaming, nine Hawkins lab goons, eight minute a-slobbering, seven wide-eyed Joyces, six nail bats a-swinging, five gold Eggos, four bike-riding D&D gamers, three hormonal teens, two government conspiracies, along with also a shadow monster in an Upside Down shrub.   In all honesty, not one of these were really great presents, so consider our listing of Stranger Things… things. They’re not so much strange as perfect. Perfect Things.

Nick Thackray for Thrillist

Together with the mega success of , the breakouts of lesser-knownadaptations, along with the forthcoming series , that will mine multiple King novels for inspiration, there’s never been a better time to be an obsessive reader of America’s most popular living horror author. Many obsessives possess the majority of the famously prolific novelist’s back catalog, so we’re digging a bit deeper for something creepy to get your IT-adoring noob along with also the Dreamcatcher-protecting diehard in your life. These are the finest Stephen King presents money can purchase.

Nick Thackray for Thrillist

If your giftee is somebody whose favorite Christmas film is a marathon of all eight Harry Potter movies, that has definitely sorted the personalities of their favorite TV series into Hogwarts homes, and that will rattle off every one of Albus Dumbledore’s center names at the fall of a sorting hat (“Percival Wulfrick Brian,” for the album), keep reading to get a collection of the most advanced, unique, and intriguing Potter-related gifts that’ll wow them win favor for future alliances. There are just a lot of neckties in Hufflepuff colours a individual can possess, and commemorative sculptures of Dobby the House Elf don’t totally net with most modern decor, so here are a few off-the-Marauder’s-Map selections.

Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Since you rack your brain trying to think of the perfect gift for everybody on your holiday shopping list, it is important to not forget that in our technology-driven Earth, there is no substitute for a good book. Here are our favorite titles released in 2017 — you are sure to find something for everybody.

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from gift4sure http://www.gift4sure.co.uk/gifts-for-film-and-tv-lovers-2017-entertainment-holiday-gift-guide/