#Lou's Italian comes in when she gets frustrated with people around her

[inafieldofdaisies]

OCs Speech Mannerisms | Tagged by @lilywatt

Sabrina Donovan:

NO. OF SPOKEN LANGUAGES: 1 / 2 / 3 (English, French and Latin - latter thanks to Candy)+

TONE OF VOICE: high / average / deep

ACCENT: yes / no

DEMEANOR: confident / shy / approachable / hostile / other

POSTURE: slumped / straight / stiff / relaxed

HABITS: head tilting / swaying / fidgeting / stuttering / gesturing / worrying her lip / arm crossing / strokes chin / er, um, or other interjections / plays with hair or clothing, earrings / hands at hips / inconsistent eye contact / maintains eye contact / frequent pausing / stands close / stands at a distance

— COMPLEXITY

VOCABULARY: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️

EMOTION: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️

SENTENCE STRUCTURE: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

— PROFANITY

FREQUENCY: ⚫️⚫️⚪️⚪️⚪️

CREATIVITY (in regards to profanity): ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

BOLD ALL THAT APPLY: arse. ass. asshole. bastard. bitch. bloody. bugger. bollocks. chicken shit. crap. cunt. dick. frick. fuck. horseshit. motherfucker. piss. prick. screw. shit. shitass. son of a bitch. twat. wanker. pussy.

— THIS OR THAT

straightforward or cryptic? / finding the right word or using the first word that comes to mind? / masculinity / neutrality / or femininity? / formalities or with abrasiveness? / praise or equivocation? / frankness or lies? / excessive or minimal hand gestures? / name-calling (affectionate) or magnanimity? / friendly or blunt?

— IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

DO PEOPLE HAVE A HARD TIME HEARING OR UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHARACTER? - almost always / frequently / rarely / never

DOES YOUR CHARACTER’S POINT COME ACROSS EASILY WHEN THEY SPEAK? - almost always / frequently/ sometimes / rarely / never

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER INITIATE CONVERSATIONS? - almost always / frequently / sometimes / never

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER BE THE ONE TO END CONVERSATIONS? - almost always / frequently / sometimes / rarely / never.

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER USE ‘WHOM’ IN A SENTENCE? - yes / no / only ironically

YOUR CHARACTER WANTS TO MAKE A COUNTERPOINT. WHAT WORD DO THEY USE? - but / though / although / however / perhaps / mayhaps.

HOW DOES YOUR CHARACTER END CONVERSATIONS? - walk away / ask if that’s everything / say that’s everything / give a proper goodbye / tell their company they’re done here / remain quiet / they don’t.

WHAT SOCIAL CLASS WOULD OTHERS ASSUME YOUR CHARACTER BELONGS TO, HEARING THEM SPEAK? - upper (if she's around Candy, that need to fit in with her crowd raises) / middle / lower.

IN WHAT WAYS DOES THE WAY YOUR CHARACTER SPEAK STAND OUT TO OTHERS? - accent / vocabulary / tone / level / politeness / brusqueness / it doesn’t.

Eloise "Lou" Morello:

NO. OF SPOKEN LANGUAGES: 1 / 2 (English and Italian) / 3+

TONE OF VOICE: high / average (tends to get a tad higher when she's upset, which she hates bcs she refuses to appear weak) / deep

ACCENT: yes / no

DEMEANOR: confident / shy / approachable / hostile (i mean, it's a given) / other

POSTURE: slumped / straight / stiff / relaxed

HABITS: head tilting / swaying / fidgeting / stuttering / gesturing (when she's holding a weapon) / arm crossing / strokes chin / er, um, or other interjections / plays with hair or clothing / hands at hips / inconsistent eye contact / maintains eye contact / frequent pausing / stands close / stands at a distance / looms over you like a shadow

— COMPLEXITY

VOCABULARY: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

EMOTION: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️⚪️

SENTENCE STRUCTURE: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

— PROFANITY

FREQUENCY: ⚫️⚪️⚪️⚪️⚪️

CREATIVITY (in regards to profanity): ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

BOLD ALL THAT APPLY: arse. ass. asshole. bastard. bitch. bloody. bugger. bollocks. chicken shit. crap. cunt. dick. frick. fuck. horseshit. motherfucker. piss. prick. screw. shit. shitass. son of a bitch. twat. wanker. pussy.

— THIS OR THAT

straightforward or cryptic? / finding the right word or using the first word that comes to mind? / masculinity / neutrality / or femininity? / formalities or with abrasiveness? / praise or equivocation? / frankness or lies? / excessive or minimal hand gestures? / name-calling (affectionate) or magnanimity? / friendly or blunt?

— IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

DO PEOPLE HAVE A HARD TIME HEARING OR UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHARACTER? - almost always / frequently / rarely / never

DOES YOUR CHARACTER’S POINT COME ACROSS EASILY WHEN THEY SPEAK?- almost always / frequently / sometimes / rarely / never

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER INITIATE CONVERSATIONS? - almost always / frequently / sometimes / rarely / never

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER BE THE ONE TO END CONVERSATIONS? - almost always / frequently / sometimes / rarely / never.

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER USE ‘WHOM’ IN A SENTENCE? - yes / no / only ironically

YOUR CHARACTER WANTS TO MAKE A COUNTERPOINT. WHAT WORD DO THEY USE? - but / though / although / however / perhaps / mayhaps.

HOW DOES YOUR CHARACTER END CONVERSATIONS? - walk away (if they're so lucky) -> scares them away from the conversation / ask if that’s everything / say that’s everything / give a proper goodbye / tell their company they’re done here / remain quiet / they don’t.

WHAT SOCIAL CLASS WOULD OTHERS ASSUME YOUR CHARACTER BELONGS TO, HEARING THEM SPEAK? - upper / middle / lower.

IN WHAT WAYS DOES THE WAY YOUR CHARACTER SPEAK STAND OUT TO OTHERS? - accent / vocabulary / tone / level / politeness / brusqueness / it doesn’t.

Calahan Hartley:

NO. OF SPOKEN LANGUAGES: 1 / 2 (English and French) / 3+

TONE OF VOICE: high / average / deep

ACCENT: yes / no

DEMEANOR: confident / shy / approachable / hostile / other

POSTURE: slumped / straight / stiff / relaxed

HABITS: head tilting / swaying / fidgeting (with his lighter) / stuttering / gesturing / arm crossing / strokes chin / er, um, or other interjections / plays with hair or clothing / rubs neck / hands at hips / inconsistent eye contact / maintains eye contact / frequent pausing / stands close / stands at a distance

— COMPLEXITY

VOCABULARY: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

EMOTION: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

SENTENCE STRUCTURE: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

— PROFANITY

FREQUENCY: ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚪️

CREATIVITY (in regards to profanity): ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️

BOLD ALL THAT APPLY: arse. ass. asshole. bastard. bitch. bloody. bugger. bollocks. chicken shit. crap. cunt. dick. frick. fuck. horseshit. motherfucker. piss. prick. screw. shit. shitass. son of a bitch. twat. wanker. pussy.

— THIS OR THAT

straightforward or cryptic? / finding the right word or using the first word that comes to mind? / masculinity / neutrality / or femininity? / formalities or with abrasiveness? / praise or equivocation? / frankness or lies? / excessive or minimal hand gestures? / name-calling (affectionate) or magnanimity? / friendly or blunt?

— IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

DO PEOPLE HAVE A HARD TIME HEARING OR UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHARACTER? - almost always / frequently / rarely / never

DOES YOUR CHARACTER’S POINT COME ACROSS EASILY WHEN THEY SPEAK?- almost always / frequently / sometimes / rarely / never

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER INITIATE CONVERSATIONS? - almost always (social butterfly Cal) / frequently / sometimes / never

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER BE THE ONE TO END CONVERSATIONS? - almost always / frequently / sometimes / rarely / never.

WOULD YOUR CHARACTER USE ‘WHOM’ IN A SENTENCE? - yes / no / only ironically

YOUR CHARACTER WANTS TO MAKE A COUNTERPOINT. WHAT WORD DO THEY USE? - but / though / although / however / perhaps / mayhaps.

HOW DOES YOUR CHARACTER END CONVERSATIONS? - walk away (if he's pissed off) / ask if that’s everything / say that’s everything (if he barely tolerates the person) / give a proper goodbye / tell their company they’re done here / remain quiet / they don’t.

WHAT SOCIAL CLASS WOULD OTHERS ASSUME YOUR CHARACTER BELONGS TO, HEARING THEM SPEAK? - upper / middle / lower.

IN WHAT WAYS DOES THE WAY YOUR CHARACTER SPEAK STAND OUT TO OTHERS? - accent / vocabulary / tone / sweet-talk / level / politeness / brusqueness / it doesn’t.

Tagging, @socially-awkward-skeleton @strafethesesinners @strangefable @direwombat @aceghosts

@voidika @theelderhazelnut @raresvtm @dumbassdep @la-grosse-patate

@elligatorrex @simplegenius042 @imogenkol @purplehairsecretlair @cassietrn

@josephslittledeputy @josephseedismyfather @trench-rot @killyourrdarlingss @katsigian

@simonxriley @carlosoliveiraa @neonshrike @captastra @shellibisshe

@cloudofbutterflies92 @wrathfulrook @g0dspeeed @finding-comfort-in-rain

@derelictheretic @justasmolbard and anyone that would like to do the tag <3

[caroline18mars]

A Man On Fire - Chapter 81

“Everything’s ready outside” walking back inside the kitchen, he was met by a spoon full of homemade guacamole “taste! Needs a lot more garlic, doesn’t it?” she puffed a strand of hair out of her eyes looking a little bewildered. “It’s absolutely perfect..” he licked his lips and then looked at the kitchen counter with a million pots, pans, bowls with the most delish food “wooow, wait a minute, you’re cooking up a feast and it’s just a little evening with friends” grinning he took another scoop of the guacamole. “I know but..no, I don’t know, I just thought it’s easier to talk with some good food..oh I still need to make the mozza bowls, arrghh” she spun on her heels but he grabbed her arm “will you just chill? You’ve done more than enough so you go take a nice shower, make yourself even prettier than you already are, I’ll take all this outside in the meantime..oh and stop being nervous, they’ll adore you, trust me”. He pulled her in his arms to plant a soft kiss on her lips that got too deep too quickly “stop it, I’m sticky” she pulled back, waving her fingers covered in guacamole and tomato sauce in front of his face, which was his queue to slowly put two of her fingers in his mouth, ohhh god, erotic much? She already felt her stomach tingle “Oh no you don’t, I know what you’re up to mister, no way, you’ll just have to wait until your bedtime”. That sexy, silly pout of his, walk away now or find yourself shoved against a kitchen counter while he takes you from behind, just the thought of her body being completely owned and possessed by him had her all moist, “Ok ok ok, I don’t like it, but ok” he let her fingers slip out of his mouth and reluctantly let go of her. “Good boy!” she quickly wiped her hands on a towel and hopped on out the kitchen, Jared had a grin from ear to ear until she was out of sight and was met again by a kitchen that looked like a bomb had exploded, sighing he opened the dishwasher door, it’s only fair, she cooked, you clean.

Hair, outfit..hmm, I don’t know, should I wear th.. her thoughts were interrupted by the doorbell, ok leave it, it is what it is, you did your best, nervously she walked down the stairs, Jared was on his way to open the door when she walked down, wowww, she looked absolutely breathtaking. “You look..gorgeous” he smiled up at her, the fact that his friend were on the other side of the door completely forgotten about, “thank you! Uhm floppy hair, your friends are waiting” she giggled. “Heellooo sexy” a skinny, dark haired girl jumped in his arms, purring in his ear, a few friends he said..god, I hope there’s enough food for everyone, she took the last steps and slowly walked up to the bunch of people trickling inside. Should I introduce myself? Stop being so awkward De Robiano, just smile and act confident with the emphasis on ‘act’, “you must be Jared’s new flame” one of the girls noticed her standing behind Jared, “I’m Harper Coco, nice to meet you” she extended her hand, too formal maybe? I’m just not a hugger. The girl lifted her eyebrow at Jared like this was probably the most awkward way that she had been greeted in her entire life, yep Harper, you fucked up, what was it your mother said ‘you can never make a first impression twice’?. But after a few seconds she took Harper’s hand and lightly shook it, ugghh fishhands, Harper uncomfortably pulled back her hand, luckily Jared saved the day “alright alright, you know the way, we’re in the garden” he pointed at the back of the house. “You ok?” he whispered as the gang headed towards the back of the house, “yep, I’ll just go get the bottles” she smiled but he could see the nervous clench in her jaw, “it’s gonna be fine, trust me” he kissed the tip of her nose.

By the time every guest had a drink and something to eat, it was an hour later and the excited conversations were flowing around the table, with all her walking in and out there was only one spot free tucked away at the end of the table. Plopping down on her chair, she took a sip of her wine and tried to follow the conversation, but they were all so wrapped up in each other that she couldn’t get two words in, Jay looked completely in his element though, talking and laughing. Stop stressing, just enjoy the moment, enjoy your man who is in his element like you’ve never seen him before, she leaned back, lit up her cigarette and took a sip of her wine, the weather here reminded her of those Italian summer evenings in a way but did she warm up to LA yet? Nope! Not really, this just wasn’t her home..yet..would it ever be? Come on, make an effort, your man calls it home, then surely you can too. While the rest of the table was reminiscing about previous tours and things only they could know, the guy on her right gave her a friendly smile “so, how’s LA treating ya?”. She gave him an equally friendly smile back “I’m still trying to find my way round I guess..it’s not New York, that’s for sure!” he had really friendly eyes and seemed pretty genuine which was so refreshing in LA-la land. “I’m sorry, where are my manners? I don’t think we’ve been introduced, I’m Harper Coco” she extended her hand which he grabbed and gently shook “Oh you’re right, sorry, I’m Cooper..I’m with Marie-Lou” he pointed at one half of the twin sisters who are curling around Jared. “Aha..” she looked to get a better look of the girl but nah..still ordinary, oh for crying out loud Coco, stop it, for all you know she might be the sweetest woman alive “..and what does Cooper do, besides being Marie-Lou's boyfriend?” she turned her attention at the man again, “I work for a local art dealer”. Her head shot up, he really had her attention now “oh! You buying or selling? Contemporary or classic?” she took another drag of her cigarette, “I’m a buyer and I also scout new talent, shame that you signed with Charles already” he gave her a coy smile “your work is so, so..amazing!”. What?? A fan? “you know my work?” she said genuinely surprised, “know your work? Oh Harper, you really are too precious, how can anyone not be a fan of your work? everyone in the business is asking where Charles has kept you hidden for so long? Your work is such a breath of fresh air..it’s shocking and relevant and completely..” he rambled but paused to find the right words “new..it’s unlike anything anyone has ever seen before”. A warm blush crept around her cheeks, she never knew what to do with compliments of this magnitude “Uhm..thank you”, she wanted to shout at him that she was in a complete panic now that all her inspiration seemed to have dried up but she kept her cool and gave him a grateful nod instead.

”Excuse me a second, I think everyone is ready for a second round of drinks and nibbly things” she got up from her chair, oh come on Jay, get up for a second and help me, talk to me, I just want a few minutes with you, but he didn’t even notice, too wrapped up in his conversations. “Need some help?” Cooper spontaneously got up as well and followed her back to the house, in the kitchen she started rummaging through the fridge, taking out a huge pitcher of L’americano cocktail and then started taking out what seemed like a hundred different bowls of delish food “oh my, a crazy talented painter and a cook as well, Jared is a lucky man”. She never was good with compliments and this man was full of them “thank you, you’re too kind, but why don’t we take all this outside and then you have to tell me all about your job” she blushed and stammered as she handed him the pitcher. Walking back to the table with her hands full, she stopped behind Jared’s chair “Jay, can you make a bit of room and take these?” but he didn’t seem to hear her and the tray was getting really heavy. “Jay?” she kicked his chair a little to make him notice her but like this afternoon he was too wrapped in his bubble of friends, and it was exactly the same girl, Chloe?? Who had to make him aware that she was standing right behind him. “Oh sorry, didn’t see you there” he turned in his chair to take the tray from her, maybe she’d expected him to say something sweet or pull her against him for a second but there was none of that, trying not to look too frustrated she hurried back to her seat. “Try not to stress, I get the same thing with Marie-Lou, she forgets who I am when this bunch gets together, I only decided to come along when I heard who Jared’s new girlfriend was” Cooper shrugged when she sat down again. “I’m not stressing, anyway, let’s talk about you and your job” she quickly pushed a piece of bruschetta in her mouth.

”She’s awfully quiet, isn’t she? She didn’t even try and engage in the conversation” Chloe put her arm on Jared’s back as she stared at Harper sitting by the pool while the party was just getting started. Jared felt so lightheaded, he had way too much to drink “Harper? Oh Chloe, you don’t know what you’re talking about, she’s just got a lot on her mind..she’s been through so much with her family..and she’s still getting used to LA”. Chloe shifted in her seat not too convinced “whatever, just sounds like she's a lot of work, to me..anyway, come on old man and dance with me” she shot up, grabbed his hand and started yanking it. “No, leave it Chloe, I’m gonna check on Coco” he got up but then he watched her get up too, putting her phone to her ear she hurried back to the house, “oh come on, let her take that call, in the meantime you and I are gonna hit your cute improvised dancefloor right now” she pushed him in the direction of the pool. “We haven't talked since..well you know since that horrible night, you didn't return any of my calls, and I can understand why but believe me I've been so worried about you, I just wanted to see how you're holding up?” her brother's voice wurmed itself into her ear, why did she have to pick up? Sighing she sat down at the bottom of the stairs “I moved to LA..to get away from..them” she nearly puked the word “she's..gone way too far, Arno..listen, I know that you're trying to keep me part of the family but you're wasting your time..you heard what she said, she doesn't consider me a part of the family anymore so there's no real point in calling me”. This was a night to forget as soon as possible, who am I kidding, these last couple of days..this whole idea of following her lover to LA was something to forget all about as soon as possible, “you're still my little sister, Coco, that will always make you part of my family..how's LA treating you? And Jared, how is he?” he was determined to keep their conversation going. “Jared has been nothing but kind to me..LA on the other hand..” she pinched the bridge of her nose, no don't dive into all these negative emotions, just try and keep a cool head about it, it's only been days..oh god, I miss New York, I miss getting inspired. “Jared is great, you deserve each other so much, and as far as LA is concerned, it's just a city, and it's only been what? A couple of days? Give it a chance, you've lived all over the world in the past, surely LA will grow on you just like the other countries and cities did” bless him, he was trying to lift her spirits, whether it was working was a whole different matter. “I know..” she sighed, “and how's the painting going?”oh no, straight to the sore spot, “fine..just fine..” she lied, but he was having none of it “ok, out with it, Coco, what's going on?”. Harper bit her lip, should she? “nothing, just a little painter's block, nothing major” oh all those little lies, that is so not you Coco “listen Arno, I've gotta go, there's a party going on here tonight and Jared's gonna start looking for me soon, so..I'll call you next week if that's ok for you?”. Arno was very understanding about it so after saying their goodbyes, she threw the phone next to her, so glad she could stop lying, sighing she put her head on her crossed arms, oh Jared it would be so nice if you would actually come looking for me right now..but you're not are you? Just goes to show how different we really are, you have a life and I don't and boy did the truth hurt right now.

[waves--6821]

Ardent ~ Chp. 2

- Warnings: all translations are from google translate, so we’ll see if they’re correct. The italicized words in quotations are the translated version in English. Italicized paragraphs in a series are past scenes or dreams, just to specify in case.

- I hope you like it, it took me months to actually finish it and like it somewhat.

Steve stood under the pavilion on the front of the Ebbets Field stadium, glancing through the growing crowd for his friends. Louise is the first to show, wearing a white buttoned shirt tucked into an a-line red floral skirt, her eyes catching his back as she approaches from behind him.

“Boo!” She shouts, shocking Steve and scaring a few men and women passing her.

“Really, Lou?” Steve asks, glancing up to her with a scoff and shook his head.

“What’s wrong, Steven? You’re usually laughing about my feeble attempts to scare you and Bucky.” Louise points out, letting her smile fall slightly at Steve’s frustrated demeanor.

“I got rejected again.” Steve responds after a minute of their silence, the crowd bustling into the stadium for another Dodgers game.

“Steve, I know you want this, but you need to be careful. One day they’re going to catch on, and then we’ll not be able to do anything.” She cautions, and Steve shakes his head.

“If you were brave enough or just able to tell him you’re in love with him; and have been since you were children, would you try no matter the rejection? No matter the pain?” Steve retorts and Louise takes a step back, feeling defensive of his accusation, rather his meticulous knowledge of her feelings. Both keep quiet as they think over each other's words, not noticing Bucky standing across from them, just catching Steve’s last words.

“You’re in love with someone?” Bucky says, his tone meaning in a joking matter, covering his rising jealousy, envy. Louise glances to Bucky, freezing like a deer in headlights, peeking to Steve to help.

“I was just teasing Louise about a man who flirted with her before you arrived.” Steve tumbles out, scratching the back of his head, taking Bucky’s attention. Louise breathes out quietly, giving Steve a nod of approval before speaking.

“I was telling Steve he needs to be careful on choosing a seat. Telling him about being able to see and some crazy fan shouting next to us.” Louise adds on to Steve’s blatant lie, hoping Bucky at least believed her.

“Well, what are we waiting for then? I’m here, and now so is the fun. So let’s get inside and enjoy the game.” Bucky speaks up with a chuckle, wrapping his arm around Louise’s shoulder and Steve’s to lead them into the stadium. Bucky himself has a feeling of doubt to their words, but rejoicing somewhat in Louise's single status.

--

Louise stands in a small fresh market, her left hand holding a wooden basket slightly filled with some fruits and a few vegetables. Her right hand softly grabs a peony, already knowing what it was by the look.

“Here you go.” A voice says behind her, her head turns to see Bucky standing in a brown army recruit suit with a matching hat over his short dark hair. She glances over it, her chest aching slightly as she turns to face him. Bucky dropped some change to pay for the flower, and he held his arm out for her to grab. She looped her basket with her left arm, holding the flower in it as she looped her right one with his left.

“I-” “My grandmother grew this exact flower in her garden for decades, saying it reminded her of a special flower she saw in France. She called them Rosa ‘Princesse Louise’. Told my Father they were named after a princess she didn’t even know about.” Louise rambled, as Bucky led them through the market slowly, listening as he understood what she was doing. He slows to a stop, pulling her to face him.

“Is that how you got your name?” He plays along, giving her a look of knowing as she glanced down.

“Sort of. My mother’s Italian so she wanted a strong name, as she knew somehow I would be strong before I was born. My father proposed the name, and she agreed after months of finally figuring out a little meaning behind the name. It supposedly means ``renowned warrior.” She finishes, keeping her head down as she smelt the rose, his hand tilting her face up.

“It’s fitting.” He responds, pulling away as she stares at him.

“When are you leaving?” She asks after a minute of silence between them and the bustling crowd around them.

“First thing in the morning.” He says quietly, her eyes closing at the thought.

“I’m with the 107th, Sergeant James Barnes, shipping out for England tomorrow.” Louise glanced up to his eyes after a second, her glasses hiding the slight glossiness in her eyes. She gives him a nod and tries to leave, Bucky grabbing her arm softly to turn her back.

“You could alway write. You’ve always had good penmanship.” Bucky tries, having a sick feeling towards her reaction.

“Why, you’ll always have plenty of girls writing to you?” She jokes, trying to keep herself from being sad and letting him notice. He chuckles in relief, unknowingly breezing over her feelings.

“Well, will you come with me tonight before I leave?” He asks, holding out his other hand after letting her go.

“Where?” She chirps back, trying to stay positive.

“The World Exposition, the Future.” Bucky speaks out, and she sighs, knowing the basic outcome of tonight.

“Of course, James.” She responds, making him frown slightly as she moves to leave.

“I’ll meet you there.” She adds quickly, stepping away from him as many people tried to walk by. Bucky tries to follow, many people surrounding him as he sees Louise slither by, and disappear.

--

Louise softly applied a red lip colour with a small bush, finishing it smoothly and washed the brush quickly. She stood in a red cocktail tea dress, the red complimenting her skin tone. She softly laid her glasses on her face, checking her soft makeup she applied. She checked her small blacked heel shoes, and held her black clasp in her hand. She exited her room, and stepped down her stairs and into the bakery. Her mother glanced at her, smiling sadly as she knew what she had done earlier that afternoon.

“Sei bellissima, Luisa.” (You are beautiful, Luisa.)

“Non so se dovrei andare, mamma.” (I don’t know if I should go, mom.) Louise spoke in italian, her nerves fluctuating as she mentally debated her feelings.

“Vai Luisa. Mi rifiuto di lasciarti qui, sguazzando, mentre l'uomo che ami sta lasciando. Vai, il mio fiore.” (Go, Luisa. I refuse to let you stay here, wallowing, while the man you love is leaving. Go, my flower.) Her mother responds, making Louise calm slightly as she regains her confidence.

“I will, mamma.” Louise smiles as she exits, waving down a cab to go to the Exposition. Her mother watches as she disappears and her last employee leaves, making her return into her bakery and close it for the night.

- gif belongs to the poster of original post...

- Let me know if you wanna be tagged.

[keywestlou]

GREECE THE FIRST TIME

DAY 1…..Greece the First time

Posted on May 28, 2012 by Key West Lou

I made it! I am in Italy! Screwed up a bit, no, a lot, from jet lag.

I could not write a blog yesterday. My head was all over the place.

So many things to share with you. I am going to run through as many as I recall.

Lets begin at Key West airport. The family saw me off. Robert and Ally excited. Each pulled one of my pieces of luggage. A big deal for them!

I have not flown in a while. The following may be old hat to you who do. To me it was new.

TSA security now permits those over 75 to go through with shoes on. No more shoes off. I am 76. Three different guards attacked me with shoes off! I looked, smiled and said I am over 75. They looked back in disbelief.  The scenario made me feel good. Vanity involved. Meant I do not look my age.

New cell phone a disaster. I still do not have its use down. This one has Bluetooth. Decided to use it in the airport. A mistake. I screwed things up. Every time the phone rang, no one was there. I could not correct it. I needed to put the cell phone on airport mode. Took me 20 minutes.  It is still on airport mode.

Trip from Atlanta to Milan a pain. Nine hours. I did not sleep a wink. It seemed like the whole plane slept but me. I walked the aisles and everyone looked dead as they slept.

Because of blood pressure and heart problems, I have a fluid problem. My ankles swell occasionally. I feared they would be huge by the time I reached Milan. I visited with my heart doctor before the trip. He said wear compression socks and take a water pill as soon as you get on the plane in Atlanta. I did both. Peed a lot. It worked! Swelling very minimal when I got off the plane in Milan.

Arrived in Milan 8 in the morning Milan time. Two in the morning my time. Permit me to interject, I was up 34 straight hours before I went to bed. There was no time to rest once I arrived.

My driver took me to Navarro. I am staying in Navarro a few days till I am over jet lag. It was a 30 mile drive.

The scenery reminded me of two things. First, it was like driving route 5 from Utica to Frankfort in upstate New York. A smattering of houses and barns. Fields otherwise. Second, in many places there was heavy foliage. Like that I saw in Virginia near Mount Vernon.

The fields were rice paddies. As far as the eye could see. Pools of water with what appeared to be blades of grass growing above. I had never seen rice paddies before, except in movies about China. Turns out northern Italy is one of the largest suppliers of rice world wide. The reason is the area sits at the foot of Mount Blanc. Water flows down the mountain. Fills the many streams and rivers. Water abounds below the land surface also. Easily tapable well style.

After miles and miles of rice paddies, there appeared a castle. Sitting on a mountain nearby. The driver told me the man who lives in the castle owns all the rice paddies. Plus a golf course nearby.

We drove over many bridges. All old in appearance. Some stone. Others metal. Napoleon responsible for them all. The people refer to Napoleon as King Napoleon. He conquered northern Italy in the early 1800s. Many French persons came to live here under Napoleonic rule. Their descendants still speak French. France itself is a hop, skip and jump away. Switzerland is nearby and French is common there.

I found it strange that in our 30 mile drive I saw very little traffic. Whether on a major highway complex or on a back road. I was told it cost money to drive. The price of gasoline is $12 a gallon. Additionally most roads have a tolling system which is expensive. When contracts are let to build or repair a road, the contractor gets a long time deal. Beside the construction or repair, the contractor gets to maintain the road for 30 years. It is the law! The contractor charges tolls purportedly to pay the cost of repairs. Actually it is a big money maker. Called positive cash flow. The tolls are very expensive. Some of the persons I discussed this topic with blamed the Mafia. In fact, in the short time I have been here I have discovered Italians blame the Mafia for everything.

We entered Navarro. I was impressed!

There is an extensive downtown area. Most of the buildings were built 1100 to 1300. They still stand. Are referred to as medieval. The roads are narrow. Very narrow. Like downtown Boston. The streets are all closed off, except to pedestrian traffic. No cars.

The buildings are magnificent. Majestic. Most muted pastel colors. Yellow, gray, tan and pink. Some concrete colored. Nothing big. Three to four stories. Ground floor expensive stores. A restaurant with outdoor seating here and there. Apartments on the floors above. The buildings appear to be of poured concrete. No wood. Tile roofs. Where ever stucco or brick is apparent, it is a facade. Merely attached to the wall of the building.

I am staying a few nights in one of the apartments. The buildings are magnificent as well. The staircases! I am staying in an apartment on the second floor. It is actually two stories. Once inside the apartment, there is a staircase to an upper floor. The apartment I am in is at least 4,000 square feet. Many rooms. Many baths.

The ceilings are art. Each is painted with a story. My bedroom is a hunt involving stags and dogs.

The furniture is all antique. It is like walking into a museum.

Every room has one or more outside balconies. Overlooking the street or inner court.

The inner court is a beauty in itself. Entrance is gained through a heavy wood door. The courtyard reminds me of the Roman courtyard to be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The exhibit on the first floor to the left of the staircase as you enter the left hallway. Resident cars are parked in the inner court.

I attended a dinner party last night. Great food!

There was a mixture of people. Navarro is obviously cosmopolitan. People from all countries. I spoke at length with a Muslim woman from Morocco. Actually, Casablanca. 35ish. Lovely. Dressed like every one else.

I said Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman. She did not know what I was talking about.

Her husband is Italian. He converted from Catholic to Muslim to marry her.

They have two grammar school age children. Both attend Catholic school. Neither has been baptized or confirmed. Their parents are leaving it to the children to decide when they are older. The Catholic Church is giving them no issue. The priest and nuns welcome the two into school with open arms. I doubt such would be permitted in the United States.

I was told that Morocco is very modern. None of the women cover their faces or wear long black robes. Mini skirts are very much in style. Although there are wars in the African countries all around Morocco, there is no conflict in Morocco. The people are of a different mind set.

We drank Italian champagne. By the case. Apparently it is the drink of choice here.

Everyone was dressed as if we were at a party in Key West. Casual. Women in jeans. Men in  jeans and khakis. Too cool yet for shorts.

Everyone wanted to talk with me. All were interested in our Presidential election. All like Obama. He is respected for his international endeavors. They knew we had financial problems also, but did not understand them. The euro is on their mind. They agreed however that if Greece goes down, so will the rest of Europe. With the United States being severely impacted.

I am sleeping in a suite complex. All for me. A bedroom, dressing room and bathroom. Bathrooms are big in size. Decorated. Different from ours.

Mine has a bidet. I was pleased. I have one in my Key West home and have become accustomed to its use. I found this one strange. A bidet requires a water spout near center from which the water can shoot up to cleanse the underside. No spout.

I inquired why. Turns out Mussolini was the driving force in bidets. He made sure every Italian home had one. Like a chicken in every pot and a car in every garage. At the end of World War II, Mussolini was not too popular. You will recall that he and his mistress were beaten to death and then hung by their heels. The post war government decided to do away with bidets since they were Mussolini inspired. A law was passed outlawing the spout on the theory it was bacteria/microbe infested. My bidet is nothing but another sink. Based on its height, for child use I assume.

I got to bed at 10:30 in the evening Navarro time. I had been up more than 30 hours straight. I fell asleep immediately. Woke at 2. Was awake till 4. Then slept to 8.

Writing this first blog has been an exercise. A frustration.

Electricity is rationed in Italy. The computer I was working on had rationed electricity. Fifteen minutes and it went off. And stayed off for an hour. All to conserve electricity. This blog has been written piece meal over the course of a day.

Enjoy your day! More to come tomorrow!

_____

I hope you enjoy Greece My First Time. The late spring and summer of 2012. I did this blog daily for the 80 some odd days I was away. I never published it in any but blog form at the time. Hope you enjoy.

The  Greece story opens today’s blog. Used it as such to introduce you to the writing. Not sure where it will appear from this point forward. I suspect as the closing topic.

We begin.

Schumer came out a winner. He called McCullough’s bluff. The Democrats will be the majority party for the next 2 years.

I am disappointed Schumer will be in a tough position in attempting to get rid of the filibuster. Two Democrats assured McCullough that they would never even have have an intention of getting rid of the filibuster.

A shame. More could be done if the Democrats were able to go for the nuclear option.

Each of the two Democratic Senators have their own reasons. Some to be respected. Some not.

Joe Manchin is a Democratic Senator from West Virginia. He has been a successful politician his whole life.

West Virginia is a Republican state. It is also a coal mining state. Manchin has always walked a fine line. In fact, he voted with Trump 50.4 percent of the time.

Krysten Sinems is a Democratic Senator from Arizona. Always a deep red state. The Democrats did well in November. Better than normal.

Arizona is definitely leaning Democratic. She should start throwing off her false Republican mantle. A conservative, she voted with Trump 25 percent of the time.

Twenty five percent does not seem like a lot in comparison to Manchin’s voting record. However 25 percent placed her in third place among Democrats supporting Trump policies. Ergo, the 25 percent is significant.

Schumer sounded confident last night that at some point the filibuster would go. I hope so.

A comment in Citizens’ Voice this morning spelling out the state of the COID-19 pandemic in the U.S.: “We were dying from COVID-19 and now we’re dying from state and federal incompetence.”

On this day in 1998, President Clinton lied re his engaging in sexual relations with Monica Lewensky: “I want to say one thing to the American people; I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky.”

When Clinton had to own up to the deed, his excuse somewhat difficult to understand. However showed the genius of the man that worked in many other ways for the betterment of the U.S.

Clinton’s position basically was that he did not have sex with Lewinsky, she had sex with him. It was limited to oral copulation and she did him. He did not do her.

I have wondered about Trump and his sexual life if any while President. The man had a terrific career of philandering. Having a wife never seemed to bother him when it came to cheating.

A  leopard does not change his spots.

Query: How went his 4 years in the White House?

One further observation since I am comparing Clinton and Trump. Clinton was a far superior President than Trump. Without question.

Tuesday again! My blog talk radio show tonight. Tuesday Talk with Key West Lou. Join me at 9 my time. I may have less to rant and rave about this week. However, I promise to do my best. You will not be disappointed. www.blogtalkradio.com/key-west-lou.

Enjoy your day!

    GREECE THE FIRST TIME was originally published on Key West Lou

[ktrsss1fics]

I'll Be Your Safety: Fifteen.

If there is one thing that can bring a group of friends together, it’s a home made meal. Historically the act of breaking bread with one’s friends promotes community and love. Veronica Michaels adored cooking for her friends. That’s why she was so excited to host her first Family Dinner for the boys. In order to make an impression, she went all out. She made both beef and cheese ravioli, homemade garlic bread, and a nice salad that was two sizes too big. She made tiramisu and bought four different types of ice cream to go along with it. Her house smelled like an Italian restaurant and she knew at least one of her friends would be happy that she spent some time in Italy during college.

At half past five, there was a knock at the door. Ronnie stirred the pot of sauce on the stove once more. She wasn’t expecting anyone until six. She threw a tea towel over her shoulder before heading to go answer it.

Standing in a flannel shirt with a bottle of white wine in his hand was a boy she hadn’t talked to in at least twenty four hours. He pressed a quick kiss to her cheek before stepping inside her home. She closed the door and followed him to the kitchen. Without saying a word, he placed the wine in the fridge and took a seat on a barstool at the island in the middle.

“You’re trying to fatten me up, aren’t ya Veronica?” Niall laughed as he looked at the food she had made.

“Just trying to prevent you all from leaving me.” She joked going back to the pot on the stove.

“I’m not going anywhere.” He said sneaking a piece of bread.

“You know you didn’t need to bring anything Ni. ” Ronnie said stirring the sauce once more.

“Well I didn’t want you to run out of wine because apparently that’s all you’re allowed to drink when you have Italian food.” He said scratching the back of his neck.

A smile crept across her face as she remember the last time they had dinner together. She knew he was being a little shit but she loved it. Without thinking, she turned around and chucked the towel that was on her shoulder at the boy.

Niall’s infectious laugh filled her kitchen with warmth. She turned off the burner before pulling up a seat beside him.

“Why’d you come early?” Ronnie asked tucking a few pieces of hair behind her ears.

“It’s rude to be late.” He shrugged.

“Oh.” She replied shyly.

He placed a hand on her shoulder and squeezed gently. “I can leave if you want.”

“No it’s fine.” She smiled. “Was just curious.”

Niall moved his hand to her thigh before resting his head on the top of the island. “Maybe I just wanted to see ya before the others got here.”

Ronnie took a hold of his hand. Something wasn’t right. She didn’t know what it was but there was something bothering her usually carefree friend.

“You watch the Chelsea game today?” He asked before closing his eyes.

“Only caught the highlights. Why aren’t they giving Oscar the time of day?” She asked running her thumb across the back of his hand.

“Because they are dumb and don’t want to win the title.” Niall mumbled.

“Tryna give Arsenal a chance I think.” She said trying to making him laugh.

His lips turned up into a smile. “Gonna need more help than that love.”

Ronnie giggled softly.

For the next fifteen minutes, her flat was silent. She squeezed his hand in an attempt to see if he was alright. He squeezed back before letting out a long sigh.

Before she could ask him what was wrong, there was a series of knocks at her door. She squeezed Niall’s hand once more as she got up to answer the door. Standing in all their glory was the last four members of their dinner party.

She was bombarded with hugs and kisses as the boys made themselves at home. Her once quiet home was now filled with laughter and joy.

She kept an eye on Niall. Somehow he seemed to snap out of whatever mood he was in. It was as if he was a brand new person. He climbed on her couch and set up a game of FIFA for Zayn and Louis to play. Ronnie knew he was faking it but she didn’t know why.

“So Ronnie is there anything I can help you with?” Liam asked politely.

“I’ve got everything just about done.” Ronnie smiled. “Just need to know what everyone wants to drink.”

“I’ll take care of that.” Liam said before scurrying off to take drink orders.

Niall headed to the kitchen to grab a few wine glasses from the cupboard.

“How do you know people are gonna use those?” She asked in a playful tone.

“You are a member of the Drink Police so I figured you’d be having one and as long as I’m under this roof I am obligated to have wine too.” He joked sending a smile her way.

“Ni…” She sighed.

“I’m joking Veronica.” Niall said getting some regular glasses for the rest of the boys.

“Ron!” Louis called from the living room.

She looked over to find him and the others standing beside the easel she had set up. The painting she had made for him was attached to it. She walked over to them. A wave of anxious energy washed over her. This was the first time any of the boys were going to see her work. She was used to getting critiqued on her paintings but never by people who she cared about.

“You made this?” Zayn asked pointing to the canvas.

Ronnie nodded. “It’s for Lou.”

“Shit, really?” Louis asked impressed.

Zayn took a step closer to inspect the piece she made. With an appreciative smile, Louis moved over towards the young woman.

“That is probably the coolest thing anyone has ever made for me.” Louis said. “I don’t even know what to say. I love it.”

“Well thanks Lou. That means a lot.” Ronnie smiled shyly.

“Can I like pay you for it?” Louis asked rubbing his neck shyly.

“No.” She shook her head. “It’s a gift.”

“But Ron, it must have taken ages. It looks like really expensive and I probably took away from your studies. I-I-I just can’t take it from you.” Louis rambled.

“I promise none of that is true and I want you to have it.” Ronnie said placing a hand on Louis’ shoulder. “I’d be offended if you paid me for it. I’d just find a way to secretly give you the money back.”

“Fine.” He sighed dramatically before pulling her into a huge bear hug. “Thanks love. I love it.”

“You’re welcome Lou.” Ronnie replied as he let her go.

“Look how detailed it is.” Zayn said calling Louis closer.

“I’m impressed Michaels.” A tired sounding Harry Styles said as he occupied the space beside her.

“Well thanks Harry.” Ronnie smiled glancing over at him.

She was forced to do a double take. Something wasn’t right. His dimples were hiding and a look of frustration was occupying his boyish features.

“Y'alright Haz?” Ronnie asked nudging him gently.

“Peachy.” Harry mumbled dryly.

“What’s wrong?” She asked trying to catch his full attention.

Harry shook his head. “Nothing.”

“I know when you’re lying Styles.” She said with a sigh.

Harry turned toward her with a fake smile plastered on his face. “It’s nothing love.”

She tried to object but he wouldn’t let her. He slid an arm around her shoulder and placed a quick kiss on her temple.

“You’ve been holding out on me Veronica.” He said softly.

Ronnie sent a confused look in his direction.

“I think it’s time I see the rest of your work. My gallery is looking a bit empty.” He explained nodding towards the painting.

“My work isn’t nearly good enough to make it in your gallery. Trust me.” Ronnie said shyly.

“Bull shit.” Harry rolled his eyes.

“It’s true.” She blushed.

“You’re delusional babe.” Harry said before leaning in close. “Speaking of galleries, do you want to go to the Tate Modern with me next week?”

“I’ll have to check my schedule.” Ronnie said with a smile. “But that’d be a lot of fun.”

“Perfect.” Harry smirked.

His voice was oozing with arrogance and that confused the young woman. Harry was only that way when he was feeling insecure. She didn’t know what happened before the boys decided to come over but she knew she didn’t like it.

By the time dinner was over, Veronica Michaels felt loved. Each one of the boys raved about the meal she had prepared. Liam asked for a few recipes. Harry shared a few images of it with his mother. Zayn snuck a dish home to rehear the next day. Louis spent the time between dinner and dessert trying to pay for the painting she had gifted him. In his eyes, it was too good to be given away for free. She deserved to be paid for her services. Ronnie wouldn’t have it though. She sent him home with extra cake hoping it’d keep him from bringing it up again.

As she said goodbye to her friends, she realized the Irish one was missing. Ronnie turned around to find Niall standing at the sink with a pair of rubber gloves on. She shut the door before heading into the kitchen to see what he was doing.

“What are ya doing Ni?” She asked leaning over the island to look at him.

“What does it look like I’m doing? I’m washing the fucking dishes.” He said talking over his shoulder to her.

“You didn’t have to do that.” Ronnie said walking over to him.

“Me mum always said whoever did the cooking shouldn’t do the dishes.” He said.

A smile formed as she looked at him. “God why are you so perfect?”

“It’s the Irish roots, love.” He replied with a cocky grin on his face.

"No, I don’t think that’s it.” She said playfully teasing him.

Without warning, the young boy scooped up a handful of water and splashed her.

The front of Ronnie’s clothes were now soaked.

"What the hell man?” She said shocked.

Niall held back a laugh. “Okay I just have to say that I didn’t think it’d be that much. I’m sorry.”

“Yeah, yeah. Sure you are.” She sighed heading towards her room to change.

“Veronica. I’m sorry.” He said feeling guilty.

“Don’t be.” She said walking down the hallway.

“Hey Ni?” She called from her room.

“What Ron?” He called back placing a few dishes into the dishwasher.

“What did you guys do before you came over? You and Harry seemed like you guys were in a bad mood before we ate.” She asked quickly trading her wet shirt for a dry one.

Niall let out a sigh. He had hoped she wouldn’t notice his mood from earlier. There was a very cryptic comment during a band meeting that turned into an unnecessary argument.

“We had a meeting with Dean.” Niall replied as he heard her walking back to him.

“Did it not go well?” She asked reappearing in a pair of sweats and a sweatshirt he had left in her car the week before.

“Lets just say some people aren’t making the best interests of others a priority.” He said trying to be very deliberate with his verbiage.

Ronnie furrowed her brow trying to decode what he had just said.

“Don’t think about it too hard.” Niall said with a laugh.

“If something was wrong, you’d tell me right?” She asked placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Be the first person after Mum.” He smiled before placing the last few dishes into the soapy sink water.

Ronnie sat down on the counter top beside him.

“How long did it take ya to make that bread?” He asked cleaning the inside of her ceramic serving dish.

“Few hours.” She said resting her head on the cabinet behind her.

“You think if I get the supplies we can make some tomorrow after class?” Niall asked shyly.

“Of course.” Ronnie smiled. “It’s really good isn’t it?”

“And I suppose we could watch one of those Disney movies if you really wanted to.” He said rolling his eyes dramatically.

Niall slipped off his gloves before drying his hands on a dish towel that had been resting on the counter. He walked over and placed his hands beside her legs.

“I might just skip class so we have more time to bake.” She said.

“Unfortunately for you, that is the wrong answer my friend.” Niall said.

“Why’s that?” She asked confused.

“Aunt Ruth wouldn’t approve of you missin’ class for me.” He said softly.

“Well she’s not here to find out.” She whispered.

“If you think I’m about to get haunted by her ghost from keeping you from school, you’ve got another thing coming Michaels.” Niall said making her smile.

The next few minutes were quiet. She just sat as Niall started to study her face. His stare started out gentle. As soon as their eyes locked, something else took over.

She didn’t know what he was doing. He seemed different. He wasn’t just some goofy boy who was her friend. He was something else. An option. A choice. A boy that was willing to step up and make her feel wanted.

She didn’t want to read too much into it but there was something there.

“I think it’s time to call it a night.” He said pulling her out of her thoughts.

She could feel her cheeks growing warm for no reason at all. Was her brain trying to tell her something? Could she have feelings for Niall? What about Harry?

Ronnie didn’t want to think about it. She scooted off the counter and walked him to the door. After a brief hug and a joke about serial killers, he left.

Ronnie locked the door and headed straight for her room. She curled up into a ball on her bed and took a deep breath. Dinner was nothing like she expected. She gave love and received love but she was have trouble distinguishing what type of love it was.

She hoped that one day she’d figured it out. But that day wasn’t going to happen any time soon.

[keywestlou]

AN INSULT

The White House is where the  President lives and works. It is not his house. It is ours. It belongs to the American people.

I am personally insulted as to what transpired in our house yesterday. The American public should like wise be insulted.

It began with my watching on TV as Russia’s foreign minister Sergey Lavrov was greeted by Tillerson and was being led into a conference room. The American press had been barred from the meeting. A group however were standing in the background.

Dauntless Andrea Mitchell shouted out a question. She is getting good at it. It was directed to Lavrov. He looked at her with disdain. A sneer and smile…..like who are you? Then turned his back on her and walked away with Rex Tillerson.

Tillerson had a similar smile. Tillerson should ride his horse back from  wherever he came.

And, screw Lavrov!

Trump barred the American press and photographers from the meeting. He permitted a Russian reporter and photographer. Any photos run later in the American media were the result of the Russians sharing the pics they had taken.

Several weeks ago, Tillerson was in Moscow for a meeting with Putin. Putin kept him waiting three hours. No one kept Lavrov waiting. He was treated like royalty.

Note also that Comey was fired the day before Lavrov’ visit.

Though conjecture on my part, I see it coming. Trump and Russia in cahoots. Even before Trump became President.

Many media outlets this morning were describing Comey’s discharge as a coverup. A coverup between Trump’s campaign people, perhaps Trump himself, and Russia.

In yesterday’s blog, I referred to Rod Rothenstein as a Judas. Today, I would add a Brutus. He and Comey have been friends and comparable professionals for years.

They say Rothenstein is a man of honor. If so, his conduct re Comey does not make sense. A man of honor would not have participated in Comey’s removal. He should have resigned. It is not yet too late for him to resign. A man’s reputation/character is more important than any position.

I am having a video problem. I could not do my Facebook video yesterday. My cell phone keeps indicating no internet connection. Everything else in the house working, however.

I went to Verizon. Video worked ok there. Came home, not working. Plan on returning to Verizon this morning. It is either something in the phone gone blink or my Verizon wi fi connection not working.

Do not know under the circumstances whether I will be able to get out a video today.

I am frustrated. I was anxious to share additional views re Comey’s firing yesterday.

Two months ago, I stubbed my middle toe on the bed post. Broke it. Raised the nail, also. I have avoided a pedicure during that time waiting for the toe to heal and the nail to come down. The toe healed. The nail did not come down.

It was Tammy time yesterday. For the overdue manicure. My concern was the toenail. Once Tammy cut away the excess nail, everything was fine. To my relief.

My concern was toe nail fungus. Never had it. Do not want to get it. My Dad had the problem terribly in his later years.

After my Tammy visit, hurried over to Cuban Coffee Queen for lunch. My usual. Cuban cheese toast, Cuban coffee and the newspapers.

Last night, fun time! The monthly meeting of the Sons and Daughters of Italy. A great group.

Good food and good company. Giorgio, Sharon, Lilly, Jerry (the fisherman), Bob (who broke a rib over the weekend), Donna, and Helena. More whose names I cannot recall.

Birthdays were celebrated. Happy birthday sung in Italian. I have to learn.

Robert and Ally’s Santa Claus a member. Mac. Looks like Santa Claus even when not Christmas. He recently had by pass surgery. Lost a ton of pounds. He will need padding come next Christmas.

Mac’s wife Cindy a member, also. She drives Mac/Santa Claus around Christmas Eve as he makes his visits.

The club awarded a Key West High School young lady a $1,000 scholarship. She was proud to receive it. Her parents with her to enjoy the occasion.

Bocce tonight. I shall sit, drink and cheer my former team mates on. It does not seem to be helping this season.

The Sons and Daughters of Italy have a bocce team. The team’s second year. I will be cheering for them also. Tonight may be hell night for them. They are playing the #1 team Hell’s Rangers.

Enjoy your day!

  AN INSULT was originally published on Key West Lou