#I'm PUMPED BECAUSE WEATHER IS SO COOL

[wynnyfryd]

Trailer park Steve AU part 58

part 1 | part 57 | ao3

@steddie-island said i wasn't allowed to cut this lol. cw: angst, canon typical horror, mentions of minor character death

“Lucas called me a ghost today.”

Steve almost laughs, bitter and sharp. Sure. Why not? What’s one more ghost in his passenger seat?

He doesn't really want to talk to her right now, if he's honest. It's been fifteen minutes and she still hasn't apologized for trying to rob him, or explained where they're going, or what spooked her, or why this car ride was so urgent that he had to risk his job for it — a job he actually needs, considering his, well, everything. She's hardly said anything beyond the occasional "turn here" or "next left" while sulking with her forehead pressed against the window.

But he can tell she has something she needs to get off her chest, so he swallows his annoyance and offers, "Yeah?"

"Yeah," she says back. Doesn't elaborate.

He gives her another minute to gather her words, watches her open and close her mouth a few times in his periphery, but nothing comes out. She scoffs at herself and abruptly changes the subject. “Eddie was being extra… well, extra today.”

“Was he?” Steve asks, his bones itching under his skin. He doesn't want to talk about Eddie. Doesn't want to think his name.

“Yeah, he, uh- he was kinda manic? He was, like, running all over the cafeteria and starting shit with Jason Carver...” And he's only half-listening, anger simmering as she goes on and on, because she promised that Dustin didn't put her up to this. Said that this wasn't some bullshit excuse to get him to talk about Eddie or hang out with Eddie or think about Eddie or kiss and make up with fucking Eddie, and now she's just talking about him, and it-

And it hurts; god, it still just hurts—

"....Then he started rambling about how he can’t wait to get the hell out of here when he graduates.”

Searing-stabbing-burning-sharp. Steve clutches at the flare of pain in his chest, the crushed soda-can feeling where his heart's supposed to be. His head pounds. He follows her next direction onto a winding, tree-lined road, the canopy suffocating overhead, and his skin feels too dry — too tight, too small, shrink-wrapping him inside of it, because he knows where they are now. Knows the tilt of the rusted lamp shade, the shape of the weather brick paths. He's tasted the metal tang of this stop sign in his nightmares.

Fuck. Fuck.

"Cool," he grits out as he drives through the cemetery gates. Past stone and wrought iron, past the empty central fountain. He hasn't been here since July. “Good for him.”

“Steve-"

“Why are you telling me this?" he snaps. He throws the car in park under an old oak and turns to glare at her, barking a frustrated, "Huh?"

Immediately, he feels bad for raising his voice. Feels even worse for the way she flinches away. The naked fear on her face, her hand reaching for the door. He takes a long, deep breath and lets it out slowly through his nose. “Sorry. Sorry. Just-" There's a leak inside him somewhere; some infected, gaping hole, and his stupid heart keeps pumping all his blood into the wound. "Why are you-?”

“Look,” she says sharply, "I know it sucks. To talk about him." She's staring at the rows of headstones up ahead, her face gone steely with determination, her shoulders squared, her big eyes wide and a little wet when she turns to meet his gaze. “But whatever you were— whatever happened, it just… it really messed him up.”

Good. "You sound like Dustin."

"Maybe Dustin had a point."

"Since when?"

She throws her hands up, nostrils flaring. "I'm trying to tell you that I think he still cares!"

“Yeah? He’s got a seriously fucked up way of showing it if so!”

“Yeah, well some of us don’t know how to show it!”

And oh.

Oh.

Silence blankets them like dust. Eyes locked; harsh breaths. This has nothing to do with him and Eddie, does it?

Lucas called me a ghost.

Steve sighs and slumps forward, his forearms on the wheel, his chin resting on his wrist. The late afternoon sun is warm through the glass, and his head gives another nasty throb as he looks out over the hill, at the polished stones glinting in the golden hour rays.

His dad is buried here.

A lot of people are.

“Hey,” he murmurs, rolling his neck to look at her. The skin under her eyes is red. "Sorry for yelling."

She sniffs quietly. "Me, too."

He reaches over and gives her hand a quick squeeze, keeping his voice low and gentle. "You know you can just talk to me, right? Max, talk to me. Please.”

Her bottom lip quivers. “It’s nothing, okay?” She sinks down in her seat, crossing her arms to shield herself. “Shit’s just been… it’s just been weird all week. Like- like bad weird, and I don't know if I'm just going crazy, or— I mean, maybe Ms. Kelley's right, maybe's it's just— but it feels like…”

"Like what?"

She holds a hand out flat in front of her; flips her wrist over slowly so her palm faces the sky.

Steve's blood runs cold. He thinks of his own nightmares: the weird visions, the headaches, the persistent haunted feeling.

"I don't know anything for sure," she insists, rushing to reassure him before he can fully start to panic. "Seriously, don't freak out; I haven't, like, seen any gates or anything, it's just— bad dreams. Nose bleeds. I don't know." She hoists her backpack onto her shoulder. "I thought coming here might help."

He catches her by the arm, raking his eyes over her face, looking for any signs of danger. "Is there anything I can do?"

She shakes her head no and tugs free of his grip, and then she's slipping out of the car, letting the door fall shut behind her, and Steve watches her crest the hill while sirens wail inside his head.

—

part 59

tag list in separate reblogs under '#trailer park steve au taglist' if you'd like to filter that content. if you want to be added please comment and let me know (must be over 21; please either verify in the comment or have your age visible on your blog)

[fckingsofthips]

Feedist Kinktober, Day 14 - Pumpkin Spice

Pumpkin spice season started early, at Harri's work. September hadn't even started when a huge order of syrup arrived, and they were adding it to the chalkboard drinks menu. Some of his colleagues complained, but it didn't really bother Harri. Especially when he realised it was the particular favourite of a particular regular for his weekday mornings.

Peter was in at 8am as usual, and as soon as his eyes landed on the sign, his eyes lit up. 

"Ooh, I didn't realise it was pumpkin spice season already," he said, tongue poking out to wet his lips. 

"Apparently so," Harri offered, while making a couple of takeout cappuccinos for the customers in front of Peter.

His eyes flicked over the coffee machine just in time to see Peter's hands nervously touch the sides of his belly. It had just recently started to sag over his waistband, gravity finally pulling it down instead of out. His white shirt was looking a little strained at the seams.

Sarah was ringing up the first two customers while Peter deliberated, and Harri grabbed a takeout cup in anticipation.

"It wouldn't do any good for my diet..." Peter's thumb rubbed a little circle where his gut touched his belt.

Harri hated that word. It had no right being said in a bakery.

"I'm sure just one would be fine," Harri offered, hand switching towards the syrup instinctively.

"Oh man, you're good at your job," Peter sighed in relief. "Go on then."

The syrup was ready to go, pumped into Peter's cup in a blink of an eye.

"Cream?"

"Oh yes, can't have a pumpkin spice latte without the cream," cherubic cheeks dimpled with a smile.

Fuck, Harri was down bad. Sarah rung Peter up, and grabbed the oatmeal cookie he'd requested to go with his drink. Harri was already on someone else's drink.

"Have a great day, Peter."

Peter only smiled and gave a cute little wave, having already taken a big bite of his cookie. Harri tried to focus on the breakfast tea in front of him rather than the tight fit of Peter's slacks around his ass as he made his way to work. 

Peter did not go back to his usual latte the next day, or the day after. A month into pumpkin spice season, the weather had cooled somewhat, and Peter stepped into the shop with a sweater vest over his white shirt. It was good timing, too, because it hid the increasingly gaping buttons that had Harri feeling faint each morning.

The usual good mornings and orders went ahead, but Harri couldn't stop stealing glances towards the till as he prepared another large pumpkin spice lattes. The vest covered the gaping buttons, but since when had Peter started looking quite so round?

"-and two oatmeal cookies, thank you Sarah," he was saying, finishing up the most recent edition of his usual. "Ooh, what're those?" Peter's chubby finger pressed up against the glass of the pastry cabinet eagerly.

"Oh, those are our new cinnamon spiced blondies," Sarah responded. "I've heard they're really good with the pumpkin spiced latte."

"Ooh..." Peter sighed, looking longingly at them. He bit his lip, and Harri had to look away. "Oh they look so good... Oh, but the oatmeal cookies are more breakfasty, and better for mornings..."

"It's a hard choice," Sarah agreed, though Harri could see she was glancing over at the small queue formed behind Peter.

"You could eat both," Harri offered, and instantly felt his face flush red. "I mean. You could buy a couple of blondies for later?"

A couple?? What was he saying? 

"Trust you to fix my problem," Peter beamed at Harri, doing nothing to calm his blush. "I'll do just that. Oh I just can't wait to try them!"

Harri busied himself with the coffee machine, hiding his face as best as he can as Peter finished up paying, but he made sure to give him a wave on his way out. And if his gaze lingered on those love handles as Peter left the shop, then whose business was that? Certainly not Sarah's, despite her knowing smile and raised eyebrow.

Into November, on a particularly busy afternoon, they finally ran out of pumpkin spice syrup. Boss hadn't bought any more in, so Harri guessed they'd be focusing on the more Christmasy specials for the rest of the winter. The following morning, Harri had an apologetic look ready to go for Peter.

Peter's cheeks were flushed from the cold as he stepped in, and he gave Harri a warm smile. Harri's eyes had caught on Peter's waist as they so often did. His sweater vest was struggling - it strained around Peter's belly, and made no attempt to cover the rich strip of white shirt that was sagging lower than ever over his trousers. His shirt was showing at the love handles too, squeezed tight into the waistband. Every day he looked more and more angelic to Harri.

Before Harri could say anything, Peter's eyes found the board, and his shoulders slumped. Harri couldn't bear to see it - surely there was something else Peter could look forward to every morning.

"Hey. I bet the hazelnut cream hot chocolate would taste amazing with a couple of croissants and a chocolate muffin."

[inevitably-johnlocked]

Hi Steph, how are you? I hope it's the most comfortable season in your area right now? I had covid in the summer and unfortunately I'm still getting weaker and weaker, so I was wondering if you could recommend some exercises you enjoy? Like YouTube channels or just the names of the exercises would be greatly appreciated. Sending hugs.

Hey Nonny *HUGS*

Yes, we're finally entering the best part of autumn, where the weather is beautiful sweater weather during the day and the evenings are cool. It won't last long, sadly, because we get early wet winters so it will get really cold all the time and just... rain until December, ugh.

Ugh, I feel you about feeling weak after Covid. It took me awhile to get back to my "normal", which is going back to the gym daily and waking up at decent times and sleeping through the night. Took awhile for that.

Oh gosh, okay regarding the fitness thing, I'm trying hard to think back to a couple years ago; I had to get a nutritionist because I had a health scare (I fainted while sitting down and doing nothing) and he wanted me to get back into a routine. Let me tell you, it's SO hard, but his words of encouragement helped SO MUCH MORE than any of those """"fitness influencers"""" and personal trainers (ie. professional torturers lol) ever did because he NEVER expected more than I was comfortable with. He always said "YOU have to want to change, I'm just here to help you on that path".

Currently, I go to the gym pretty much every day for at least an hour and mostly weight lifting. It took nearly a year and a half to get back to that level of fitness for me. Pre-Covid I was doing even more to the point of obsession. Both my nutritionist and my therapist help me with coping mechanisms to ensure that that doesn't happen again. When I was first getting back into exercising, we focussed on the one exercise I LOVED doing: walking. He always said "10 minutes of walking a day is better than not doing it at all." It always started small, and walking was the thing that got me back to exercising. And, little by little 10 became 20 became 30 became an hour, and then going back to the gym was less daunting. My work has a gym which my brain deemed as "safe" in my post-covid anxiety, so I started going back via my work gym. Again, I have previous fitness experience so I started off on machines and then back into my old routines with free weights.

But yeah, definitely some walking or even just some stretching or yoga moves (my nutritionist actually tried to get me to start working out by stretching and meditating, but I don't really like doing either of those). My nutritionist, while he did want me to work towards a healthier lifestyle, never EVER pushed me to do more than I was ready for. So this is my advice to you, Lovely: what kind of exercise do you LIKE doing? Walking? Push ups? Squats? There are simple exercises that people use for physio, seniors, and limited mobility individuals. Getting up and sitting down, wall presses, light lunges, even stretches are great for working towards a more active lifestyle. Heck, even "doing weights" by lifting a full water bottle is an exercise! Mine was walking. Perhaps yours is leg lifts or shoulder rolls. Even just a little activity is GOOD!! This article here is a good place to start if you're limited mobility, and here's a good article for beginners.

Also, search on YouTube for "Workouts for Beginners"; there's quite a few workouts there, hopefully without too many ad-breaks to ruin the flow of the workouts. My favourite workouts, though are Les Mills Body Combat and Body Pump, which are both more advanced once you're into a rhythm. I used to do the classes at GoodLife before Covid, and now my CURRENT routine incorporates moves I learned in both of those (I'm still skittish about being in group settings so I kind of just do them on my own). I'm very proud of myself for how far I've come in a year and a half, when I genuinely thought I would never do it again. I could barely walk because of foot and joint pains, I was always dizzy and I was very lethargic all the time. Changing my diet helped a lot too; my nutritionist recommended a lot more protein to keep me fuller longer, and 3 meals a day with small snacks. Never have a deficit!! He doesn't believe in dieting, just "eating right". AND he doesn't make me weigh myself which helped me overcome my disordered eating triggers. He's a great nutritionist.

It can be done Nonny! Just start small, and stick to a schedule. For me I find it easier to do it during the week during my lunch break at work makes it feel like it's NOT eating into my free time, and on weekends and days off I go first thing in the morning to the gym because it's quieter. So, a routine helps for sure! I think you can do it too!!!!

Let me know if I can help you out with tips that have helped me that I haven't listed here. And, if anyone has something to help Nonny get back into a routine that has maybe helped y'all after Covid, please do offer your support! <3

ALSO as an aside, Nonny, it's recommended you start SMALL after Covid to allow your body to properly heal, so DON'T PUSH YOURSELF nor feel bad if you're slow. Every Body is different! <3

Good luck Nonny!!!

[orange-demons-deactivated2024]

Nayshall's clothing (pt. 1)

I'm gonna be 100% honest with ya'll. I was writing a Bosch smut and for the life of me, I didn't know the names of the clothes he was wearing. But I didn't want to put "Robes" and move on, so I did a deep dive into Nayshall's clothes.

Nayshall is a blend of multiple cultures in one, but the general consensus of forums on Reddit and other forums was that Nayshall was inspired by Bhutan, Nepal, Indian, and Tibet cultures.

This is going to be split into multiple of parts because Nayshall has a lot of different types of clothes so I won't be able to cover it in one sitting. I barely even scratched the surface here.

If anyone is more knowledgeable than me and sees that I got something wrong please tell me in the comments. But I'm posting this because I want people to see the hard work the street-fighting devs put into this and the world of Nayshall.

Chuba 

The chuba is a floor-length, left-crossing loose garment that is adjusted at the waist with a wide, usually red cloth belt, and pulled up to different degrees according to sex, rank or region. It is an extraordinarily adaptable garment worn by town dwellers, farmers, nomads, men and women alike, and is equally wearable on horse or motorcycle.

Chubas are pocket-less and held together with a waistband, with room in the front that serves as an “inside pocket” or inner pouch to store necessities such as food items, money belts, amulets, personal things, and even an infant in the bosom.

The chuba can be worn in different lengths, and the shorter the chuba, the more voluminous the pouch resulting from the overhanging material used to hold small items. Women wear their chuba ankle length, while men mostly pull them up the mid-calf or above the knee. Tibetan weather is fickle and temperatures can rise and fall within minutes.

Half-chupas: Just the skirt

Full chupas: Can be worn with a shirt

One-piece chupas: A one-piece dress

Town women: Wear their chubas floor length with pumps or high heel boots

Farmers and nomads: Double them over trousers 

Ex: Rewancha, Yua, and Bosch all wore a form of chuba as their gown.  The Chuba had 2 sleeves, but the locals usually only wear one sleeve and leave the other hanging loose. This is a way of adjusting the body temperature. When it gets hot, they take off one sleeve to cool down a bit. But if the temperature keeps rising they remove another sleeve too. We can actually see in Bosch's picture that the other sleeve is tucked in the back.

They often have soft fur, pulu, or colorful cloth on the collar, front, cuff, and lower hem of the gown.

5 types of robes could be made out of, Pulu woven fabrics, lambskin robes, sheepskin robes, woolen robes, and light robes.

Woolen robes are made with inner layers of sheep fur, so they are light and warm, making them popular in warmer, agricultural areas like Nayshall.

Pulu, the traditional Tibetan wool fabric, is made by fluffing and combing the wool into a thread by fingers, then weaving it with a wooden shuttle loom. Pulu robes are a favorite in pastoral areas as well as farmland.

Lambskin is ranked by degree, according to the length of lamb hair, curliness, and quality of the skin. 40+ lambskin is necessary to make a medium-class lambskin robe.

Shirts

pants

Modern and traditional

A growing trend among young Tibetans is blending traditional and modern casual clothing. Young Tibetans often try to find a balance between modern styles and their cultural heritage. It is not uncommon to see some Western-style clothing like jeans and t-shirts

The classic chuba robe is still everywhere, but Tibetan youth will make stylish adaptations. The cut of the fabric or the embroidered designs will be changed to something more contemporary. These changes show the desire to keep old traditions alive while making innovations to express personal style.

Ex. Same with the people in Nayshall they blend traditional and modern together. Shopkeeper Tsanpa wears jeans with his gho (Bhutan) tucked in. Yua wears modern shoes that resemble Tibetan boots, and Kina wears a beanie on top of her head.

note that Kina may also be wearing a Kora Yushu hat.

The Kora Yushu hat is made from a blend of yak and merino wool, and its fabric originates from Tibet and China. Kora sources the wool directly from Tibetan communities to ensure its quality and origin. The hat is lightweight, warm, and thin enough to fit beneath a hood or helmet, making it suitable for winter and mountain use.

Hairbeads

Tibetan hair jewelry, including braids and hair beads, is used to mark life milestones like birth, marriage, adulthood, and death. The jewelry often reflects the colors of nature.

Tibetan hair beads can be used by both men and women. In Tibet, long hair was recommended for both men and women, except for monks and nuns. Tibetan braids can signal a woman's marital status, social rank, and tribal affiliation. Tibetan men wear hair beads but there is no male equivalent. 

Headdress

Tibetan headdresses vary by region, age, and marital status. For example, unmarried girls wear a single braid with a red hair string, called Xia Jiu in Tibetan. 

Tibetan women wear headdresses on special occasions, such as festivals and their comings-of-age. Headdresses can be colorful and made of coral, turquoise, or other materials. For example, a "Bazhu" is a deluxe headdress made of coral or turquoise with gold or silver earrings. Tibetan women also wear silver bracelets on their left hand and white conch bracelets on their right. 

Jewelry

Tibetans traditionally wear jewelry, which is often made from gold, silver, and precious stones. The most common gems used are turquoise, coral, and pearls, which are used in necklaces, earrings, hair ornaments, and to decorate ritual objects. Tibetan jewelry can also be made from cow bone, amber, shell, and agate.

Tibetans wear a variety of jewelry, including ornaments made of gold and silver, as well as jewelry made of amber, agate, jadeite, pearl, and ivory. Tibetan jewelry traditionally features materials from across South Asia, East Asia, and the Middle East, and the symbols on Tibetan jewelry are usually from Himalayan Buddhism. Tibetans like to wear many ornaments and jewelry, such as Buddha beads, hair bands, hair accessories, belts, prayer beads, and necklaces.

Jewelry is a symbol of status and wealth in Tibetan culture, and each design has a specific meaning. For example, ornaments with symbols of animals, flowers, and stones are often given to commemorate special occasions. Some also believe that wearing gold enhances spiritual power over evil spirits. Offering jewelry to holy statues is thought to generate positive virtue for the donor. 

This article also goes into the types of ornaments they use in their jewelry

Jewelry can also serve as a talisman, with different amulets protecting against disease and harm. For example, coral and turquoise are said to ward off evil spirits and illness. 

Many Tibetan jewelry pieces are passed down from generation to generation. For example, some Tibetan-style pendants are used in Buddhism as ritual instruments to subdue demons, which are believed to dispel sins and bring people power, intelligence, and courage. Many of these pendants also have Sanskrit inscriptions of a religious symbolic nature.

Braids

Braids are also a symbol of strength, wisdom, and identity for some indigenous men and boys. They can also represent a connection to the earth, ancestors, and the creator. For example, in Native American tradition, hair is a signifier of spiritual practice, and braiding demonstrates strength in unity

boots

sumba shoes

Tibetans typically wear boots, which are more cultural representations than practical clothing. However, due to the prevalence of mass-produced shoes, traditional Tibetan boots are no longer the daily footwear for ordinary Tibetans. Instead, they are now usually part of ceremonial attire.

Tibetan boots are a significant part of the Tibetan way of life. They are more cultural than practical, and are worn to represent different regions and environments. For example, boots with a pointed toe are suitable for different types of terrain, and can be worn with a garter in cold weather. Boots from different regions of Tibet have different styles and qualities. For example, boots from Chamdo and northern Tibet are simple, while boots from Shannan and Xigaze are more delicate.

Tibetan boots are commonly made from cowhide, pigskin, corduroy, and pulu, a traditional woolen fabric. Other materials used include cloth, canvas, velvet, leather, and felt. The original boots were made from yak hide, and the soles were embroidered with patterns like dragons and snakes, and the shoes were decorated with red and green woolen cloth.

Tibetan boots come in two general types: short leg and long leg. Most Tibetan boots are lined or padded, though some may be unlined. The heads of corduroy boots are made of cowhide, and many kinds of pulu boots have cowhide soles.

[xcyaeraa]

Simple (but cool) fashion items I love seeing ⋆.ೃ࿔ 🩰 ˖*༄

One thing I will always mention whenever someone asks me about my interests, one of them is always going to be fashion. I don't specifically recall what made me pique an interest in fashion but I think it's because I've been surrounded by it ever since I gained solid consciousness, my aunt used to make crafts using fabric and stitching, my mom sold batik dresses, and Evie (yes, Evie from Descendants) made me gain a liking for her and how we have the same interests. But even now in the double-digit age I never not think or obsess over fashion, especially now high-end and even more underrated fashion brands have been gaining more attention thanks to global ambassadors and the repetition of the 2000s culture and aesthetic.

Thanks to Pinterest, I have saved many of my favorite-- maybe niche maybe very simple fashion items I'd love to style and see, and I'd figure I'd share some on this post!

Low heels and pumps

Who else has/had an obsession with loafers and Mary Jane pumps? I surely do, matter of fact, I loved these types of shoes that I started wearing (flat) loafers to school! As someone who likes younger styles, I love low heels compared to stilettos when it comes to everyday wearing because you get to look stylishly and somewhat mysterious yet comfortable, I have never personally worn a low heel shoe before, but if I do ever get one, I will wear it every chance I get.

2. Flats

Super (not) fun fact, I got two compliments from my seniors about my loafers! I may be old school, but seeing loafers or even just regular flats being worn in school makes me happy, it's like you have a personality and character that you want to stand out, especially since most of us are more used to chunky sneakers. I find flats, specifically ballet flats super chic and cool, they look comfortable yet stylish.

3. Scarfs

Scarfs look super duper cozy, especially during winter and autumn, they also can look very sophisticated and elegant when worn tightly on the neck, but they can also look very cozy and warm when worn loosely like the ones I refer to in the images. Since I'm going to move to a lot more diverse weather, I'm excited to incorporate these warm and fuzzy fabrics into my outfits!

4. Bags

I love love shoulder bags and messenger bags that you can sling over or on your shoulder, I even think these are more sturdy and practical than backpacks, since I bring heavy books about 4 notebooks on average, I find these types of bag lighter to carry-- sure they may tense your muscles, but I find my father's old and rusty military bag less in risk of breaking. Unlike my 2-year-old backpack that's strap broke (っ °Д °;)っ... Again, I find every person who accessorizes their bags to the max very cool and characteristically deep because I love decorations!

5. Flower-patterned clothes/dresses/skirts

(no comment, just very cute o(*￣▽￣*)o.)

6. Short sleeved hoodies

These are so comfortable omg?!? Because I live in an area where the weather is never arctic cold (or I can't stand long sleeves) but love the premises of a hoodie's hood and zipper I love these short-sleeved hoodies and not just because it's light on the body but also because it looks good and cool even if it's not styled. I believe they were most popular in the 2000s and I rarely see these, so if anyone knows a brand or thrift store, it's very appreciated if you'd hmu!

7. Colored/patterned stockings

I saw someone on tiktok mentioning them, and I also found them very silly and cute, and the good thing is, as long as your stocking matches your outfit's vibe but it's a bit more in-your-face, it'll still blend out with your outfit!

8. Head accessories

I love head accessories so much-- especially as stylish as a beret, I don't know why, but adding small headbands or hairclips just shows a person's aesthetic just by how they're worn. Though I can't really see myself wearing these for a long period of time or else my hair is going to feel trapped...

9. Arm warmers

I saw these a lot in Japan, mostly worn by grandmas who are traveling by bicycle, and I found those so chic and cool, arm warmers are like stylish gloves, they serve the same purpose, but cuter! Especially the ones with mixed designs and colors.

10. Leg warmers

Lastly, leg warmers, surprisingly, they're comfortable to wear even in less chilly weather, they look super cute too! Again, they just look super fluffy and cozy, but outside Japan, I find myself struggling to find good-quality leg warmers ￣へ￣ so if anyone knows any brand that sells these, please lmk!!

impurities - le sserafim

1:50 ───ㅇ───── 3:16

[pikorizzes]

Hello~! ＼(^_^)／

So today! I'll show my Lenmiku/Mikulen One-shot that i wrote </3! Hope yall enjoy it...!

Let me do some introduction plspls Lenku, highschool + valentine's day oneshot?!?!?! :

Kagamine Len: A boy who's around of 170 cm (5'7), has very spiky and soft blonde hair. 2nd year student. Younger twin. Cold-blooded Tsundere. 16 y.o

Kagamine Rin: A girl who's around of 165 cm (5'5) has a short blonde hair, shorter hair than len's hair. Also wears hair clips. 2nd year student. Older twin. Hot-headed Tsundere. 16 y.o

Utatane-Senpai (Utatane Piko): A boy who's around of 175 cm (5'9) has longer white-grayish hair. Has mis-matched eyes, 3rd year student. Kuudere. 17 y.o

Hatsune Miku: A girl who's around of 172 cm (5'8), known with her popularity and Piko being her guardian. Deredere. 17 y.o

From oldest to youngest:

MIKU

PIKO

RIN

LEN

It was a rainy day at school, the person looked at the rain. It was heavy, sighing. While looking at the bad weather, the person would fix hair. After all, he wanted to be a good-looking but cold guy in front of her.. His beautiful bluetonic eyes, turned to his classmates. He saw his older twin sister, Rin talking with a senpai. Utatane-senpai, He tried to overhear their conversation.

"Oi-!" Rin pouted at the boy, "Where are you going?!" Rin pulled Utatane-Senpai's ear. Causing the white haired boy gasp,

"Today is V-Valentine's day....You silly..!" Rin replied, "So what---?" Utatane-senpai replied, sighing. Causing Rin to explode within her head.

"Idiot!" Rin slapped the boy, a bit of frustrated, "I....I made chocolate... Based on cats....Ughhh!!!" Rin crossed her arms, "You are really not-so caring cold boy, aren't you?" Rin laughed and tried to mess Piko's hair.

As he watched them indifferently, he thought of her giving him a chocolate box. Though he knew that it was impossible... After all, he was popular with some girls but his popularity can't really beat on her's....Yes, it was Miku. Hatsune Miku. Len had a huge interest in her, not just because of her looks or anything, her personality was the thing he was mesmerized of....

Past.... January 23rd

"Nee, Len-?" Miku said his name, the water-green haired girl smiled with a blush at her face, giggling. Len would sigh, acting very strict and robotic around the girl. Though in reality...His heart was pumping the blood heavily.

"What you want, Hatsune?" Len sighed, keeping his cool status to Miku,

"Just call me as Miku! Not Hastune y'know? Darn it...Len, we are childhood friends remember?" Miku replied. Their beautiful eyes came cross. Miku giggled more and put a random sticker to his face saying 'I love bananas'

"W...What have you done-?" Len asked, there was a small water puddle. He'd see the sticker, looking a bit indifferent to his face. Then he'd turn to Miku, Miku would laugh and say:

"Wwwhaat~?" She said playfully, "Didn't the Mr. I'm very cool guy like his sticker?" Miku looked at him, slightly narrowing her eyes...She smiled at him with showing her teeth. She'd bit her nail which she looked very attractive. Len sighed,

"Ffffineee..." He'd groan, "I really love the sticker you put on my face...It looks so cool Mickey-chan.... I would wear it everyday." Len sounded like he wasn't even that interested in her. He also groaned while saying the sentence. However, the girl didn't care what image that he gave to her. She'd hug his arm while giggling.

"Waaaa~!!! You really love it!!!! I know that expression of yours!!!" Miku giggled, blushing so badly yet her cheeks also got tired of smiling too much...

"H-Hey! Stop this for instant!!" Len yelled at Miku, blushing a bit...Though he didn't want to show Miku...

Now, February 14rd..

Len felt awful for not really showing his true side to Miku, as he thought of her. He placed his hands to the desk, making them into a fist. He was trying to think.... What could he do...? He knew that Valentine's day was supposed to have girls giving chocolate to guys. Len somehow had an idea....! He decided to mess with his bento with Rins in order to give the best 'Valentine Day' suprise to the girl. Then he messed with his twin's backpack....He found the cute pink bento box of Rin's. He saw the cutely designed octopus shaped sausages, eggs with bored faces and some onigiri to balance...He smirked and opened his own box as well, he saw Sashimi, Tamago with narutomaki... He sighed, no wonder why his mother didn't make cute meals for him but to Rin. No matter what it is, Len decided to combine all the bento with Rin's. As if he was creating a new bento. He emptified Rin's bento... Putting all the food to his. Before he closed his sister's lunchbox. He put a note , saying sorry...

As he was trying to put Rin's Bentobox. He dropped it, catching his sister's attention.

"Len-?" Rin looked at him. And saw the bento box of hers. His completely full with food. And she even saw her food on his bento. Rin had a face of disbelief and anger. Len was slightly scared because we all know that how Rin can be angry.... Rin started to walk towards him. Len quickly closed the bento and quickly rushed from table to table.

"YOU ARE SO DEAD, LITTLE BROTHER-!!" Rin replied and started to throw books at him.

"S-SORRY---" Len hesitated and kept running, then with all of his speed . He disappeared from the class 2-C. Rin was about to chase him...But Piko stopped her, showing the note at Rin's bento.

"Here, look at this one. Please." Piko replied to the girl and handed the note...

Dear, My sister Rin

Today is Valentine's Day. You know that...Well, I saw you giving a box of chocolate for Utatane-senpai. I felt my heart sank...You know whom I have a huge, deep crush on....Miku-san. Well, might be shocking. But i indeed love her and see her as the one....Even though how I treat her awfully...I feel a huge connection with her. Sometimes, because of her reckless actions towards me . I want to throw my head to the wall. I love her not just because of her famous but her personality and her beauty that shines my not even shining sun...I'm so sorry for emptifiying your bento...Today seems so crucial for me...Because I'm about to ask Miku out...So please, don't be mad at me...I want to impress Miku like how you did impress Utatane-senpai...And for tomorrow...I'll do anything that you want. Dressing me as a woman or even make your dreams come true...

Your dearest younger twin brother, Len

Rin looked at Piko, smirking. "Did you hear that...~?" She giggled, she had some ideas...

"Hm-?"

"LEN WILL BE MY SLAVE FOR TOMORROW AHGAGAHAGAHA-" Rin said and rolled herself to the ground. Laughing. Piko sighed and rolled his eyes.

"He should stop calling me as 'Utatane-senpai' , I already gave him the permission of calling me as 'Piko-san' " Piko sighed again and touched a piece of hair at his head. Rin realized that Piko wasn't even giving an attention towards her.

"Oi, do you even listen to me-?"

"Huh?"

"Len will be my slave tomorrow! I can't wait to dress you and him as gi-"

"Thanks to the roll that you showed. I saw your panties' color...It's striped orange..."

"YOU PERVER-"

Now with Len, after losing a track of Rin chasing him. He panted. He was tired of running as his breath was cutting down and down. The boy sighed and sat to the ground. Then he saw Miku with a random boy... He felt awful despite the fact that he didn't really show with his face expression. He would hear the conversation.

"He-Hello Mi-Miku!" The random boy said, blushing with the gut he has. Len's eyes widen as he heard more.

"Hello Yakeru-san~!" Miku replied to the boy. Smiling as usual. Miku somehow had an ability to make people blush.

"M-Miku....!" The boy named Yakeru knelt down, giving his hand to Miku. "W-Will you marry with me?!"

As Len heard this, he wanted to get up and punch that guy but he knew that he didn't want to enter to the detention classes so he kept himself cool and whatsoever... Miku laughed at Yakeru's confession.

"S-Sorry for laughing really!" Miku giggled and looked at that boy, "But we are at highschool...You dummy! We can't get married or something...!"

"PLEASE MIKU JUST GRAB MY HAND AND-" Then Miku akwardly laughed as another girl dragged Yakeru. It seems that it must have been Yakeru's girlfriend...

Wow...He did really cheat on her...." Miku thought and she slightly turned her head and saw Len...Which she was actually belonging for.... "LeeeeEEEENNn~!!!" Miku yelled to the boy. And she started to run so that she could sit next to him. Len gasped and hid the bento box... As Miku approached to him, she slowly kneel down and smiled:

"Why are sitting at the ground, Len-kun?" Miku asked, Len looked at her. Again indifferently. "Well... I...I like sitting at the ground and watch the clouds form some new shapes like this feather shaped cloud." Len pointed to the cloud, Miku was amazed because it really looked like a feather...Miku looked at Len,

"You're really amazing....! Len!" Miku replied sat next to him. Len looked at her. Smiling in front of her for the first time, Miku looked at him and screamed. Len was shocked.

"Oh my god! You actually smiled-!" Miku said wanting to hug him. Though her actions were prevented by Len as he didn't want the girl to touch him. "Shut this instantly!!!"

After the huge conflict that happened with Miku and Len. Miku realized what today is...

"Today's Valentine's day...Huh," Miku replied, tucking a part of her hair to her ear. Len nod and sighed, Miku smiled at him softly.

"Soo.... Did you give any chocolate to girls? Len," Miku replied and Len poked her nose with his right hand.

"Idiot. Valentine's day is supposed to have girls giving chocolate or other stuff t-to guys." Len sighed, slightly sounding a bit of angry. But Miku patted his head.

"But that doesn't mean that man can't give presents to their beloved!" Miku giggled, "Well. I didn't really buy a chocolate to the guy i really love...Because....Uhm." Miku hid her face with her hair. Blushing.

"I don't think he will be satisfied..I have a belief that he will be more satisfied if I just kissed him..." Miku giggled and looked at him, kinda looking hurt.

"Eh? Len-?"

"Y...Yeah?" Len hesitated, looking at her.

"You seem...Hurt." Miku stopped hiding her face with her beautiful hair. The girl was scared and worried for him, she touched his cheek. Causing Len to heat up.

"H-Hey... I'm fine...!" Len replied, softly taking Miku's hand from his cheek and he handed the bento box to her. Blushing, "Y...You probably forgot eating s-something...W...Well! This is uhm...My valentine's day gift...F...For..." Len shivered and looked at her deeply, "For you!"

Len opened the bento box of his. It was full of his and Rin's food. Miku was shocked, "W...Well.. Wh...What do you think...?" Len asked to to the girl. Miku hugged him and kissed his cheek.

"Thank y..You. Len," The girl replied. Smiling and took the bento box. Grabbing the bambu chopsticks. Miku grabbed a Sashimi and looked at the boy.

"Wh-Why are you letting me to take the first bite..."

Len asked , hesitating. Miku sighed:

"Len. You are the guy that I belong for...I like you, I love you. Seeing this bento..." Miku looked at the bento. "Makes me happy. No matter what effort you put in this meal. I would always want to the maker's first bite."

Len blushed and was touched by her words and he gladly took the Sashimi to his mouth. After chewing. He gulped.

"Miku....I-I love you too...I know that this may not be the perfect gift for a popular girl like you but i-"

Miku shut him down with her hand and the way she looked at him was promising.

"For me, anything that has been made by you might be the perfect gift for me...Len-kun..."

And with that...Miku enjoyed her food and kissed the boy afterwards...

I HOPE YALL LOVED IT <333

[can-of-pringles]

It's morning and now I'm finally able to talk about the ritual last night! I tried taking some pictures and videos but they're not the best quality because my phone is so old :'( anyway I'll mostly talk in bullet points for the whole thing. The videos will be posted separately. (And maybe pictures if I can't fit them here)

My first ritual and concert was amazing and I totally would want to go again! Seriously words can't describe the experience lol

I saw a lot of cosplayers so that was cool

The weather and heat wasn't too bad once the sun went down and my dad and I got good seats in the shade

I was nervous about having to go through the metal detector because I have an insulin pump but they were understanding and I got scanned by a wand instead.

After we got in we immediately went to the merch and got tour tshirts and I got my Plushia! Here's a picture of him after the concert

I love Plushia so much and I held him up for the concert a bit at first

There were people with kandi (which my dad was surprised about but I was like see I told you lol) and I did a bit of trading! I don't have pictures of the bracelets rn but I got a red bead one that says Copia, a yellow one that says Banana Boy (which I'm unsure of the reference unless it's about.. Aether(?) Eating a banana in that one picture?) And then I got another red one that says Hail Satan lol. So thanks to those people! I hoped you liked mine, they were first attempts ha.

Our seats were good and I sat on the aisle which gave me a good view. The only thing that was annoying is the person sitting in front of us was vaping almost the whole time...

I'm very glad I brought my ear protection... cause it was very needed!

Amon Amarth was great and I even had fun doing the rowing part lol. It was cool to see them fight the inflatable dragon/sea monster and also to see the two Vikings fighting with swords and shields

Once Ghost started playing it was absolutely incredible and I was so excited. Seriously I can't believe I saw Papa in real life!

All the songs were great live. The only thing was maybe the bass slightly overpowered some of the songs? But that could be where I was seated. My body was vibrating so much from the sound!

Here's my pictures

I used to be slightly annoyed by how popular MoaC has gotten but it's absolutely amazing live so I guess you could say my opinion has changed

They played Rats closer to the beginning than I thought they would

Square Hammer and Dance Macabre were so good live! I was definitely dancing the whole time despite my feet absolutely hurting :') (and I wore regular tennis shoes! There were people there wearing heels and platforms 💀 their feet must've hurt..)

I'm honestly really happy that I got to see Copia before anything happens...

He was talking about the heat and then was joking about having an ice cube down his pants and who wants to be the ice cube (which of course the audience all screamed lol)

He also mentioned wanting to go to Franklin's (which is a popular barbecue restaurant here in Austin)

The Ghouls and Ghoulettes were amazing too! Though I still have trouble telling them apart.. I've pretty much memorized all the names but it's matching the name to the Ghoul that's difficult for me

I didn't think they'd play Mummy Dust because I wasn't sure about the confetti situation but they did! And afterwards someone gave me some Mummy Dust! (Picture taken after the concert)

Something I'm a little disappointed about that I did was I checked my bloodsugar after the show and I basically missed their bowing and stuff. (I had to look down at my meter so I didn't really get a good look) I wish I would've waited a bit but that's entirely on me.

Ok now.. time for some slight negative thoughts. This isn't directed at the band though, I'm blaming the venue. But the show honestly felt rushed. There wasn't much time in between songs, the Ghouls cut the holding the note bit short, Copia didn't interact with the crowd as much, he didn't ask us to bark like dogs which I was a little disappointed about lol. He didn't do the usual marijuana bit and just did Mary on a Cross which was odd. And near the end he even said 'we usually do this long spiel about you going home and then encores but we need to use all of our time so we're just going to cut to the point' (not word for word obviously) so I guess the venue was really rushing them.... which sucked. Amon Amarth didn't feel rushed (though I'm not very familiar with them so idk) but anyway negative thoughts aside it still was a good concert!

I'll be posting some videos soon after this post goes up.

[andagii-writes]

Five Lines

Yoinked from @agirlandherquill!

Rules: Find five lines based on the prompts you are given, then change one of the prompts at the end!

I spent today reading rather than writing 'cause my chops needed an inspiration injection, but I'm using Sanmin Flight again.

A Line About a Building

Nika's house is big enough to have a courtyard, because Noro-sama often has guests--community meetings, ogami preparations, yuta training. Stepping stones mark the path to the front door, but the hedges of hibiscus and towering bundles of sannin beckon her to stop.

A Sad Line

Anmaa gave him her shoulder and matched his plodding steps up the white sand path to the clustered houses of the village. Seeing neither the swaying hibiscus or deigo flowers, neither the grannies waving from the soybean fields or the uminchu pulling their fishing boats to shore, Sei marched his own wake back home.

A Furious Line

Nika finally turns, gaze askance and mouth pressed into a thin, angry line. "No fair. You don't get to act all cool when you're about to do something so stupid."

A Line About the Weather

A rumble resounds. The gray clouds pile higher. Tohru flinches, staring hard at the storm clouds for the striations between the cloud currents, to read the wind like she imagined the uminchu read the sea.

A Fun Line

The boys cavort and clap about in time to their teasing. Tohru draws a sharp breath and pitches. The wrench spins out of her hand, glints under the sun, then one of the boys crumples onto the dirt, screaming. She pumps a fist.

Search for these lines! Open tag to everyone!

A Line About a Building

A Sad Line

A Line About Food

A Line About the Weather

A Fun Line

[jazzytrait]

(Transcript under the cut)

London: Welcome back to The Motive Trials, ladies and gentlemen! I am your host, London Greer, and we are about to begin challenge #3. But first, let's take a look at where we stand so far in the competition. Last week, we saw the curtain come down on Lauren Mack after a tangle with a hungry cowplant. She joins Kendall Shockley who, in our first round, kicked things up too many notches in the kitchen and went "bam".

This week's challenge will give our competitors some much needed time to relax those tired muscles and recharge. They'll each be hanging out in their own luxury sauna, but there can always be too much of a good thing! The challengers will need to stay cool under pressure because the first to overheat will be getting some rather permanent rest and relaxation. Let's head over to The Arena to begin the challenge!

And we can see those saunas beginning to fill with steam.

Grim: I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm actually a little jealous of our competitors.

London: In need of a spa day, Grim?

Grim: This weather has been really hard on my skin.

London: Well, this doesn't seem to be hard on Carter at all.

Grim: Bernard is a little sweaty, but still seems to be relaxing.

London: Chen is looking downright invigorated! She looks like she wants to go for a run any moment now.

Grim: Meanwhile, Kendall and Lauren seem to be taking turns trying to scare one another.

London: I can't tell if that's a friendly game or not...

Tianna is starting to look like she has had enough of this spa treatment.

Grim: Chen still looks like she's getting pumped for that marathon after this round.

London: Aubree, on the other hand, looks like she really wants a shower.

Grim: Bernard has stood up. Is he feeling well?

London: I'm not sure, Grim. He looks pretty sweaty. He might be beginning to overheat...

Oh my! He does look a little overcooked, doesn't he?

Grim: Reminds me of Harvest Fest at my sister's house.

London: What?

Grim: Nevermind.

London: And once again, ladies and gentlemen, a purple curtain has come down in The Arena and this time it has come down on Bernard Harper! What an absolute shame it is. Let's go ahead and sit down with him and see how he's feeling after his elimination from the competition... and life.

Bernard, you put up such a good fight in this challenge. How are you feeling?

Bernard: I'm ok, I guess, but is it still hot in here? How can I still be sweating as a ghost?!

London: It's normal to retain a bit of the feeling of how you died. Sorry about that. Grim, this must be kind of interesting for you too. We know that The Harper Family is very closely guarded by their Watcher and are all granted immortality. Is this a first for you?

Grim: It is, London. Though, as we know, this Harper is just a clone and the real Bernard Harper is safe at home.

London: Well, Clone Bernard, we're not done with you yet. You'll be hanging out in The Arena with us for the rest of the competition.

Well, it is time for us to wrap this us, ladies and gentlemen, but tune in next week as we pit sim against snack in another action packed episode of The Motive Trials! I'm London Greer saying goodnight!

@akitasimblr @comfyinn @potionofquestionablecontents @natiesims @yeshummingbird @simsinfinitylt @moonfromearth @wildmelon

(Just realized I got no shots of Lavender this round. That's my bad. SORRYYYYYYYY)

[vukovich]

boytoy blownwide

you know why

Someone Old, Someone New, Someone Wiser, Black and Blue

"I know," Hermione said, hoisting her wedding skirts up and bunching them forward into Ginny's waiting hands. Her elbows hit the stall walls. "She said it to me, too. Exactly the same way. Like flooing into Astoria Greengrass' second bedroom is something I'm dying to be invited to do."

Ginny shrugged. "It made more sense when she said it to me at me 'n' Luna's handfasting."

"Well, I suppose it would." Hermione plopped her naked butt down on the toilet seat and let out a sigh.

"Pretty bold to go saying that to straight women, though." Ginny tucked a wad of tulle under her arm and guarded the open stall door. "And on their wedding days, too."

Hermione sighed again, then pissed so hard she counted it as her first orgasm as a married woman.

--

Pansy was on the dance floor when it happened to her. It was a dance in the round, women-only. Pansy and her bridesmaids linked elbows and formed the inner circle, facing out. The married women left their tables and made their way to the neon-streaked wooden floor. Some sprinted. Some wobbled on achy knees. One waddled between the tables, one hand on her lower back and a knowing smirk on her face.

Astoria Greengrass-Malfoy sauntered.

It was rumoured Draco had left her because she'd been caught fucking the gardener. It was also rumoured that they had an arrangement, and the real scandal was that the "gardener" was one Professor Longbottom, most recent recipient of the Linnaeus Herbology Award, and vastly overqualified to be pruning roses in the nude.

The women in all manner of dress joined hands in a ring around the ones in uniforms of chiffon and stays.

The music started, a bouncing, step-easy beat, and the women moved, passing each other, then back a step. Their shoes were a cacopany of sharp stilettos, hushed flats, thunking pumps, and the squeak of bare feet as they pivoted.

Astoria's palm was cool against Pansy's, and they lifted their joined hands to their shoulders. They rotated around each other, both on the verge of gasping with effort.

"I have a second bedroom," Astoria said. She yelled it over the music, but no one else noticed.

"What?!" Pansy yelled back.

Astoria leaned closer, and she smelled like diamonds ought to. "I have a second bedroom! Off of mine! At the Manor!"

Pansy shook her head. "Okay!"

"Malfoy Manor! East Wing! Fourth Room!" Astoria had a fine crease between her brows. She hopped and skipped a step to catch up to the footwork. "If you ever just want to use it!"

The circles rotated, and Pansy lost her in the crowd, which was fine, because she wasn't certain what to make of the offer.

--

Harry tried to stop fidgeting with his cufflinks and managed to tame his fingers into absent drumming against his thighs. He smiled at an approaching woman, nodded, smiled again, and thanked her for her well wishes. Next to him, Draco greeted her by name and asked if she planned on staying for the wedding reception.

Harry smiled at the next person, nodded, and hoped the end of the receiving line would show itself. His suit was itchy, too heavy for the clingy May weather, and the jacket shoulders fit like his Auror robes used to. It was enough to make him crawl out of his skin.

He smelled the next person before he saw her, which was just as well, because she ignored him entirely and went straight to Draco. Perfume wafted after her.

"Congratulations, Mister..." She cocked her head. At her side, a tow-headed boy watched them speak. "...Malfoy-Potter? Potter-Malfoy? Surely not Malpot or Potfoy."

Draco looked down at her primly. "You're one to speak, Ms Greengrass-Malfoy-Longbottom."

She grinned wide, then wrapped him in a hug. He squeezed her until she squeaked. Scorpius raised his arms and bounced on his toes. Draco scooped him up on one arm.

Harry's blood pounded in his ears, and he ignored the guests filing past him. He ignored the guests, and his heartbeat, and Draco's real first love being cuddled against his chest.

Astoria glanced at Harry, and her face sobered. She tugged Draco's lapels down, then brushed his shoulders off. "You remember you're always welcome at the Manor."

"I know, Tory," Draco said. He booped Scorpius on the nose. "So long as the esteemed lord of the manor accepts me."

Astoria accepted Scorpius back and settled him on her hip. She glanced at Harry again. "And you know the Floo in my second bedroom is still there."

Draco rolled his eyes, but smiled. "I'm aware."

Harry looked at them, leaning closer and closer, with their son between them, as she reminded Draco, "And you know that Floo is the secure one, right?"

"Yes, Mrs Greenfoybottom. I know."

"All right," she said tersely, then reached down and pinched his bottom. He yipped, smiled, and slapped her away. She patted his waist. "Happy tidings and all that, then."

"Why, thank you," Draco said, and did a little bow. "And I'll see you at Mum's the Sunday after next."

She nodded and let the queue push her away. Draco watched his son's hair in the crowd for long after Harry lost track.

--

It was years before the Floo got any use, but Astoria kept the hearth clean and the linens fresh. It didn't surprise her that Hermione Granger was the first one to come through.

A gentle chiming woke her, and she slid out of bed, pregnant belly first. Draco stirred in her bed, and a single grey eye watched her.

"Go back to your own rooms," she whispered.

He grumbled and hugged her pillow. "Too cold."

"Shoo!" She flapped the blankets, stealing the warmth out from under them.

He curled up in a ball, clutched for blankets, and came up short.

"All right," he said, and rolled away. He stood, stretched, and walked toward the door. "Don't stay up too late."

"I most certainly will."

"More coffee for me." And he slipped out into the dark hallway.

When she entered the attached bedroom, Hermione was pacing between the hearth and the foot of the bed. Old mascara was tracked down her cheeks.

Hermione's voice cracked. "I'm sorry I woke you."

"No," Astoria whispered, "it's fine."

"I just," Hermione wiped fresh tears from her face. "How long did it take you to get pregnant?"

"Oh," Astoria said softly. "Let me turn down the bed."

Hermione's sob stopped her at "Thank-"

--

A bit to her surprise, Luna was next, a few years later. Astoria heard the Floo chime while she was in the rose garden.

She was kneeling at the edge of the knot garden, and she set her trowel down to more closely listen, because afternoon felt like an odd time of day for someone to use that Floo.

Draco and Scorpius were sitting in a wooden swing under a tree, doing something that involved braiding long strands of willow bark. Neither of them seemed to notice the faint chime.

A wheelbarrow rumbled up the brick path behind her. Neville's chest gleamed with sweat where it wasn't streaked with dirt or covered in hair. "Doorbell charm?"

Astoria nodded and put down her trowel, then removed her gardening gloves. "I think I'm done for the day."

He nodded, and she went into the Manor.

Luna was sitting on the hearth in the small bedroom attached to hers. Just sitting.

Astoria knocked on the open door frame. Luna didn't react.

"Can I get you something?" Astoria asked.

Luna shook her head. "No, thank you. I just wanted to sit somewhere quiet for a bit."

Astoria nodded. "If you'd like me to come back, just put your hand in the Floo and pull it back out."

"Okay," Luna said vacantly. "Thank you."

"No trouble."

--

Pansy was the least surprising. Astoria had gone so far as to stock the spare bedroom for the occasion. Next to the bed, on either side, lay matching Spiderman sleeping bags.

The bed's pillowcase was stocked with a new wand, Pansy's life savings in cash, and the boys' passports. She'd also tucked in a pill bottle inside the big bed's pillowcase that held just enough for Pansy to have a restful night, but not too much.

The chimes woke Astoria just after midnight, and she untangled her limbs from Neville's and went to check. Her old bedroom was dusty, but she kept the second bedroom clean.

"Hey," Pansy said on an absolute rush of relief. She had a sleepy boy in footie pyjamas on each hip. "Thanks for this."

"Any time," Astoria whispered. She took one of the twins from Pansy and carried him to a sleeping bag.

"The last time," Pansy said.

"But still," Astoria said, trying to sound stern. "Any time."

--

The Floo went decades without use after that. Astoria didn't sleep next door, but rather in a small solarium on the ground floor, where the French doors opened into the rose garden. At first, she'd objected to their wedding bed being in a glass house, but Neville had been quite persuasive, despite being ineloquent.

Slowly, she moved closer to the room and its Floo. When Neville's arthritis worsened, a bedroom with sketchy temperature control was less romantic. When Scorpius and his wife had moved home, she and Neville had taken a bedroom upstairs, just to see the industrious young man in passing. His wife had asked Astoria if they could turn her old bedroom into the nursery.

"Of course, love," she'd said.

"And we'd convert that small second bedroom into a walk-in closet."

Astoria clicked her tongue. "I believe you'll want that for the night nurse."

Her daughter-in-law grimaced. "We don't plan on having hired help. We'd rather do it ourselves."

Astoria said nothing, but the room stayed as it was, Floo and all. It was on night eight of her grandson's colic when she'd taken up residence in the small spare bedroom next to his.

She started a fire in the fireplace, pulled her rocking chair up to it, and hummed softly to him while he fussed. His belly rumbled like a disgruntled water balloon, and he let loose a long bout of wind that made her let out a surprised snort.

"Well," she whispered to him as she stood, then patted his back, "I'll bet you feel better."

She laid him slowly, gently, in the bassinet next to her bed. It was still his nightly bed two years later, when Draco came through the Floo.

Astoria was just taking off her reading glasses when the Floo coughed out a cloud of dust. She leaned over the edge of her bed to make sure it didn't land on her grandson, asleep in a blanket nest on the rug. He sucked his thumb, but didn't wake.

"Hey," Draco said quietly. He was in boxers and a white bathrobe that was streaked with red. His mostly bald scalp sported a fresh bruise on one side. His chin was scraped clear across, and one of his eyebrows was split. He wrung knobby-knuckled hands and licked his lips.

"I think..." His voice throttled itself. "I think it's dementia. Or PTSD. Or both. I don't know." He sniffed back tears.

There was blood behind Draco's ear.

"It still hurts," she said softly. "Regardless."

He nodded until he cried, then buried his face in his robe sleeves. Eventually, he scrubbed his face dry. "I wasn't sure..." He cleared his throat. "If you still kept this Floo."

She folded the covers open next to her. "Come on."

He dried his eyes again, then came to stand next to the bed, looking down at their grandson. Silently, Draco slid into the bed, laying on his side. He settled his head on a pillow, arms folded underneath so he could watch their grandson sleep.

Astoria put an arm around his waist and hugged him tight.

"You know you're always welcome here," she whispered.

He brought her knuckles up to his lips, kissed them, and sighed. His grandson sighed, too. "Thank you."

She head butted him lightly between the shoulder blades. "You're welcome."

[angelsnaiils]

diary 9/28/23

haven't done a diary post in a while so why not now !

fall is a weird time for me. first of all i LOVE fall. its so so so comforting, the cool weather and the fog and the rain are just so comforting and ethereal. i feel very connected to things like liminal spaces, ghosts and angels etc.. that side of myself. however fall is both the best of times and also the worst of times, 90% of my all-time-lows hit sometime during the fall. so emotions (and motivation, energy etc) have been violently up and down !!!!!

today is ending on a pretty good note so i'm thinking if i finish this assignment and get some tidying done before bed, i'll have the energy to work out tomorrow .. maybe? my brain really needs it, my dance rehearsals (im choreographing a show at my community theatre) have been a lifesaver because they get my heart pumping and i leave in a good mood even if i had a shitty day beforehand. anyways, then after i run or do some yoga i can shower + finish up my assignments. i also need to practice for the competition im entering with my club at school ..

i'd really like to go out for a coffee tomorrow. we'll see if that happens, i don't know whether i want to sit in a cafe or just pick it up and come back. hm

i think that's all for now. OH wait ! i finally got copies of the bell jar and the secret history!! im so excited. i got the secret history from the library but couldn't finish it before someone else requested it. i'll probably just restart, but first i have to finish 1984. might post my thoughts on that book when i'm done . i have .. many !

[spymeister]

Thinking about BW!Jazz- and I literally, LITERALLY spouted off an entire fucking headcanon to @sparkmender @a-life-revised @ofvaporex and @gowithplana

So, uh. Long-story short. How do you make large predatory/herbivorous mammals co-exist with an ancient non-avian dinosaur?

Big ass explanation under the cut to save y'all space on your dash.

/puts on fact-hat

Continental Drift.

See, it's already a thing that happened in the fossil beds if we look at large carnivores on the northern and southern hemispheres. There's a series of convergent evolution- which means that two predators of nearly the same shape, size, and configuration became the top predator in any given area. We see this repeated over, and over, and over.

Tyrannasaurids - (North America/Europe, etc) vs. Ableisaurids (South America, Africa, Asia...etc.)

Raptors (Utahraptor (N.America) vs Macrothorax (S.America

And the list goes on.

This includes mammals as well....though, as modern tectonics as we know them really began to get where they are now around 20-30 million years ago, with the Great Interchange happening somewhere about 3-4 million years ago as the Isthmus of Panama was created as sea-levels went down because of ye olde large ass glaciers in the north and south, and mountains.

This is also including the Siberian and Deccan Traps going off their nuts and spewing enough volcanic gasses into the air to briefly melt everything, and then it just freezes right back because volcanic ash can actually COOL down the air. Shit's whack, yo.

But Meister, you ask- what does this have to do with an obviously badly animated (in 2023. Back in the 90's, this shit was epic) kids show animated purely to sell toys.

So, lemme give ya the deets:

Convergent evolution is still a thing that could happens. Let's thought-experiment that something goes down in the northern climates. Maybe it's a modified asteroid impact that has the radius of clocking out everything in North America, and another one impacts the European/Siberian area. Mongolia and Northern China are still going to be desert because y'know, equatorial inlands often are due to lack of rain able to precipitate in that area. ESP with the Himalayas, all caused because India lost control of the wheel and smashed right into the mainland.

ANYWAY.

So, we continue this thought experiment. The whole ass planet gets cold for a while, but because of the Coriolis effect- winds that would have otherwise gusted down south and fucked with weather patterns were instead pushed east/west instead of north/south. This creates a weather divide instead. So, because of this huge environmental trauma, the non-avian Dinosaurs in those climates begins to die out. Lack of food, disease, blah, blah, blah. Basically, a few things fall out of the Great Jenga Tower of Life, and it's game over.

In the south, where things aren't so bad- they continue to flourish.

So, in the North- with the ABSENCE of large non-avian dinosaurs, Mammals can finally step foot out of their little burrow and victoriously fist-pump the sky. You know, because the literal little guy won. With higher sea-levels after this whole mind-experiment disaster movie thing happening, that land bridge never forms. It takes a planet relatively a few million years to kind of right it's weather/storm/temperature patterns and a few after that to get it's climate optimal. (Optimal being: constant, but small vulcanism, tidal pull being a consistent thing without much disruption, and of course... a myriad thousand other variables- but still)

So, here we are. Mammals on the north. Dinosaurs on the south. Mammals can get big because they are now occupying niches formerly taken by said non-avian dinos, and can now be vicious and full of ATTITUDE or is it cattitude, (I think I'm funny, sometimes.)

If you've read this trainwreck of a post this far, I commend you- and also worry about your sanity.

So, now we get to the meat of the whole post.

The Decepticons would have landed second, chasing ye olde AutoButts.

Landing in the middle of summer, they would have impacted the Southern Hemisphere (for shits and giggles, let's say Africa) and would have trans-scanned the first creatures they saw. I'm also allowing for large arthropods, because why not, there's plenty of oxygen to go around. So, now we get dinosaurs, giant spiders x2, a wasp with ADHD, and a eusocial insect w/o a hive, who is his own classification.

The Autobots, having landed first, and they would have gotten here in the winter- which would account for landing in the N. Hemisphere due to the tilt of the planet. THEY would have trans-scanned the first animals THEY saw.

Which would have been mammals.

Give them a couple of hundred thousand years to blithely do their own thing, aaaaand boom. The land-bridge opens up again, the Interchange happens- and suddenly.

We get the meeting of the factions.

Anyway, long-winded as this is, my damn brain was like "Why can't I make this scientifically feasible?" And really, this isn't. It's just a lotta headcanon with some science thrown in. But, I still like the idea, and feel free to steal this.

[nyctophiliq]

Hi mosss Im back! Letting you have a go at this, I want to see what you come up with, thankuuu 🙌

Im in the 20s

Overwatch

She/her , I love gi rls

5" used to be INFP, but it converted to an INTP recently, Taurus, introvert. People say I am friendly, approachable and kind, but my friends call me a menace and chaotic. Generally finds comfort in my own home, working on art or playing video games. Im not the most adventurous when it comes to potentially dangerous unknowns. Prefers cooler weathers, the heat turns me into an unproductive blob. Zoos & aquariums are some of my fav places to visit, as I enjoy random animal facts. Some hobbies include creating art, playing video games and napping.

your match-up and star messenger is . . .

KIRIKO KAMORI (enfp) !

you guys are the shy and overenergetic golden retriever couple

there is no question why you and kiriko would make a great couple. kiriko's warmth, creativity, and spontaneity might be something you have to get used to but are attractive qualities of hers, she is someone you need to gain some sunlight and not blue light. in contrast, she finds your complexity, creativity, and intelligence alluring. your chaos and her chaos mixed together are nothing less than fun because both of you dream big and can reach for the stars. from the moment you met kiriko, she knew and recognized the silent cues from you the minute you started talking. she knew that she needed to go slow and be clear about her intentions.

kiriko has cold hands, not because she has some kind of medical problem, she just has cold hands. she is one for stroking your cheeks, either just to or to help you cool down whenever you need.

while resolving conflicts or just going through a rough patch, in the beginning, it might seem to be hard to see eye to eye since kiriko is mostly driven by emotions, while you might just be the exact opposite. the two of you can easily talk openly about feelings and potential deal breakers and your logical thinking with her emotional approach could provide both of you with a new approach toward agreements.

having deep, meaningful conversations might just be the cherry on top. both of you are abstract thinkers, and see things differently which makes for a great conversation full of rich and interesting points. both of you avoid irrelevant questions, skip the small talk, and move right on to philosophy. this once again comes from your more logical thinking and her more emotional thinking.

some aspects of your relationship would be:

making each other laugh so hard during a movie you both get kicked out

aquarium dates !!! you sketch kiriko being glued to the glass panels while staring at the fish

she saves her dirties jokes for you, and at every table you save her a seat

fooling around with the chopsticks while eating, accompanied with disapproving looks of hanzo and her mother

MEETING EACH OTHER !

version 1

head buried deep in your notebook, taking mental notes of which drawings need some finishing touches, paying little to no attention to your surroundings you suddenly end up with your butts kissing the sidewalk. the stranger who you pumped into laughed it off before offering a hand for you to get up. you were still stunned and could only mutter out a small "thank you" well she went on and on with her words before she blurted out a question regarding your phone number. although not enthusiastically, you ripped a piece of paper from the corner of an empty page of your notebook and scribbled your number down before handing it to the green-haired girl.

"i'm kiriko by the way, just so you know when you pick the phone up."

version 2

fancy dance parties were never your thing but bonded by contract and since your boss asked you to be there you were there, in a dress with your hair up, and light makeup on. everyone was chatting away, enjoying the tall, thin glass of crisp champagne before a slow song comes up- and you thought this night couldn't get any worse. just then, as you try backing out from the middle of the swaying people, a green-haired woman asks if you have anyone to dance with. shaking your head no she laughs before taking your hands in hers and pulling you back right under the big lights.

"i'll try not to step on your toes, pinky promise."

YOUR SONG IS . . .

romantic lover by eyedress !

[ghoulishria]

You Were With Me

On February 3, 2024 I lost my little sister to an overdose, she was 27 years old. I am an avid disc golfer and I was signed up for my first major tournament of the year. This post is about how I believed my sister was "with me" during my tournament:

I had been looking forward to The Hummingbird since I registered. First tournament with a PDGA number I was ✨ excited ✨

My husband was so good in helping me get prepared and even provided my coffee in the "I Am The Queen" mug because I was going to be the Queen of Disc Golf. Feeling loved and prepared, I drive to the tournament.

The tournament is buzzing with activity and it's not even 8am yet. Girls from so many parts of Florida and even other states were gathered for this tournament. I was buzzing. Really taking in the moment of seeing so many disc golf girls I beyond ready to get out there. I spent an hour, practicing my putting, seeing what my drives were looking like and practicing two holes at Original. I would look at the clock and be somewhat surprised at how slow the time was going. By 9am I was sweating and telling myself to slow down before I got tired to play Round 1. Got my tee and it was 9:15 or so when I started to walk to Hole 12.

I can't recall if it started on Hole 12 but I know it wasn't past Hole 14 before I started to notice the butterflies. Every moment at the tee or getting ready for my approach and/or putt I would notice a butterfly. Of course my mind instantly thought of You. I went disc golfing last week and didn't notice as many butterflies but that day I was never going anywhere without seeing them. I remember saying hi to You a few times, telling You I love You and thank you Sissy for just being around. I noticed monarchs, orange butterflies and swallowtails. I remember one hole, in a patch of grass to my right, You were a white butterfly. Slightly out of reach, but so close to me that I couldn't help to think that's where You are. So close, yet out of reach from me. We walked together that day, every drive, every putt. I didn't check my scores and bogeyed the last hole on Round 1,  but Walter told me I was in first. You were with me.

I ate my lunch, got settled in the car to eat and change. Talked to Mom about my round and how I was doing. I don't think I saw you until we started Round 2. As it was in Round 1, we walked through the course together. I remember marking my disc for either my putt or approach and You flew by in front of my face. A gentle flutter, not rushed or scared. Just passing through so I could see You. How could this not be You? I said thank you Sissy or something loving like that. Don't even remember if I did well that hole but You were with me. Weather delay and I didn't see you for a little bit I know You were with me. Last hole on Round 2. Hole 10. Waiting at the tee pad and a butterfly on the tee pad sign just sitting. Lazily opening and closing it's wings as if it intends to watch. I know it was You. And even if it wasn't? Maybe I'm crazy but it just brought magic to the entire moment, the entire day was just us. You walking through this moment with me because I know if you were still here. If you were better, I would have told you about disc golf and maybe you would have been here...I make the shot. Trusty Vandal nicely anhyzers pin high to the basket. My putting had been low and a struggle all day, but I walk up there. Mark my disc. I don't recall seeing You but You were with me, somewhere and this was my last putt. BIRDIE!

I WAS PUMPED. Finishing the tournament with birdie for the division win was such a cool moment. I got my 1st place trophy and packed the car, called mom and headed home and I don't believe I saw you after I got in the car to drive home, but I thought about the day, how You walked besides me through the whole thing. And while this was not the way I wanted You to be there for me, You were with me and we won. Thank you Sissy

[dybdahlsvisitportugalspainfrance]

Brittany/Bretagne/Briezh - partie trois

It is October 7 and we have been home 5 full days. I am back on Michigan time but due to my new "job" (watching Freya on Tuesdays and Fridays) there has been little time to sit and write. It doesn't mean I haven't been having a blast explaining about PSI and gravity and how a pump works. I have such a receptive student...

Mark has also had different duties - and the cornbread taste test went very well.

But back to our trip...

September 27, 2023

Gabby and Danielle left to return to their home about an hour away after breakfast this morning. Sometime during our often broken conversations in Franglish, we discovered that Gabby and Danielle are sailors and have a Beneteau 48 ft sailboat. That gave Gabby and Mark plenty to try to talk about. (Gabby's English is so much better than Mark's French - but they did communicate without too much trouble. Gabby and Danielle are a delightful couple and we look forward to seeing them next year in California.

The day was overcast and threatening rain - but full speed ahead. Francoise suggested we take a road trip to see Côte de Granite Rose (The Pink Granite Coast) about an hour away. She had other things to show us on the route too. So off we went.

Carl was driving, Mark was in the front seat and Annie, Francoise and I were in the back seat - BUT the only person who knew where we were going was the only non-native English speaker. One would like that everyone would just listen carefully to Francoise - but NOPE! Everyone - including the car GPS - had a plan. But Francoise pushed forward and got us to everywhere she had planned. (Damned pushy, pig-headed Americans!!).

And what a treat for us! We stopped for some lovely views along the way and then we arrived. The coast is indeed Pink Granite! Francoise was disappointed that it was overcast because the sunshine makes the place much pinker to the eye - but we loved it clouds and all.

I could not help but see the resemblance to the Canadian North Channel where Mark and I spent 15 magnificent summers on our sailboat.

Below are a couple of pics from the North Channel...

It is as if these locations so far away shared the same planet - or something. Beauty abounds.

The weather threatened rain - but it held off until we were having a lovely lunch by the harbor. After a lovely lunch Francoise had another trick up her sleeve - a trip to a sleepy village named Tréguier established during the 6th century and somehow escaped destruction during WWII. It was delightful.

But then, we turned the corner and saw this:

WHAT!?!? A massive cathedral in this tiny town!?!?!?

The history of this still active Catholic Cathedral - this not really a cathedral - is fascinating. A "Cathedral" is the church of a bishop and this place hasn't had a bishop since 1802, however the church is still referred to as Tréguier Cathedral or Saint Yves' Cathedral.

I'm lifting this right off the WWW. "It was in the 6th century that Anglo-Saxon invasions caused Saint Tugdual to leave Wales and settle in Brittany. Tugdual had been a pupil at the monastery of Llanwit Major founded by Saint Iltud, but now, with his mother and several fellow monks, he braved the seas and settled in Brittany at a point where the rivers Guidy, Jaudy and their estuary joined and eventually and in around 532, founded a monastery there which he called "Landreguer" ("the monastery of three rivers") and around this monastery and the village of Minihy grew what was to eventually be the town of Tréguier."

From that monastery grew a church - made of wood. After Tugdual was made a saint and was buried there and a few hundred later it was decided that this place needed something a LOT better than a wooden church -- so in 970 a new cathedral was built in the Romanesque style. Only a little bit of it remains - look at the tower in the center of the picture below. If the windows have a round top - Romanesque. If the windows are arched - Gothic. Cool huh?

In 1339 - the construction of the Gothic cathedral began to replace the completely old fashioned and way too small Romanesque building. Why had it become too small? St. Yves. In 1252, the soon to be Saint Yves, a native son of Brittany was born. He proved to be a brilliant student, a pious, kind and generous man and from the website Catholic Saints: "During a famine God almighty came to the assistance of his generosity by visible miracles. A flour bin which a domestic had found empty was found filled when Yves himself went with the domestic to examine it. Once he fed two hundred hungry persons with seven loaves of bread; at another time he fed twenty-four persons with a small loaf." TA-DA!!! Upon his death in 1303 he was buried next to Saint Tugdual. And at that point this church became a pilgrimage destination.

Anyway, what we see today is what happened from 1339 to the 1700s as the cathedral grew. It is quite impressive inside and out.

I loved the cloisters.

We walked around this quaint little village and then headed back to Loguivy de la Mer.

There were naps and downtime and then our darling hostess, Francois took her position back in the kitchen meeting all our needs before we even knew we had them. What a sweetheart! Nos chérie!

Carl has developed a cough and feels a bit rundown, so tomorrow he will rest while the we go to Île de Bréhat for the day. Our time here is quickly drawing to a close and I will truly be sad to leave. This part of the world is just extraordinary and let me say again - we have been treated like royalty by our wonderful hosts.

We finished the night with a card game with Francoise by my side learning. Tomorrow night she will sub in. Fun in Brittany/Bretagne/Breizh!!

Stay tuned.

[dinosaurcharcuterie]

Casual and accidental theft aside, it was great fun. The people were nice, the teacher was chill and patient, the view was amazing, there were historically accurate fuzzy friends, I brought apple muffins... Did you know you get most of an open air museum to yourself if you go on a drizzly day? Because you do.

Not pictured: the only mosquitos on earth that don't sting me 17 times an hour and also don't pump me so full of anticoagulant I get an allergic reaction. Probably partially because I was in an ankle length dress with long sleeves, but their brethren literally anywhere else has never been slowed down by those. Just two stings all day. Even the blood suckers wanted me to have a good time.

The teacher is a big fan of twill weave and just opted to let us start with that instead of a "turn 4 forward, turn 4 back" situation. Also makes it easier to read and write charts if you start by learning more than one thing happens each pick. The paper cards weren't too happy about the damp weather, but things worked out well enough. I quickly got in the zone of plain weave... So 90 picks in, I got handed a pattern to keep me challenged.

Yeah, that's supposed to be a diamond. No, the teacher also didn't know what had gone wrong. We both admired the problem for some time, decided unpicking that mess was not vital for a learning piece, and fudged the cards back to the starting position.

Then the museum staff came around and told us they had to lock up.

I crashed hard for about 18 hours after this. Turns out, you shouldn't sit curled up like a shrimp on a wobbly picnic bench in damp, cool weather for a day if you've got fibromyalgia. Rest, pain killers and 45 minutes of abject suffering at the physio fixes a lot, but I'm still gonna build up some reserves and wait until at least next weekend to try again.

Who has two thumbs, a pretty bad few days for her social anxiety and less than 24 hours to get ready for an 8-hour long seminar on early medieval tablet weaving? =D

(I'm fine, this is fine, everything is going to be FINE.)