#Or ok there is a daycare but it's extremely shut down

[summonsunmoon]

A new fanfic! And it’s REALLY GOOD! Rejoice! Today’s fic is Like Clockwork.

What it’s about: You decide to sneak into an old section of the Fazbear theme park, closed decades ago, to stream the process of exploring it. You find that the old animatronics are still there, gathering dust.

Why you should read it: You like fics where the robots are actually robotic? Then you’re going to love this one! This fic has by far the most robotic feeling animatronics of any I’ve seen in the DCA fandom. The writing quality is stellar, the difference between the more advanced modern animatronics and the older outdated ones is apparent in every line. Despite being limited in what they can do, there is still the sense that these animatronics are alive under all the pre-programmed responses.

Notes: The writer also has some really cool animations for their fic on their Youtube channel, linked in the end notes of a few chapters! Make sure to check those out as well!

[rosemaidenvixen]

Halloween story prompt idea:

Sunshine au, the gang somehow accidentally get stuck at a house party when Jim transforms and they have to find a way to:

1) cover for a "missing" Jim who was definitely wearing a different costume and now no one can find

2) explain a completely random stranger showing up uninvited in an awesome and extremely realistic troll costume

3) get transformed Jim out of there without too many people asking questions

“H– Hi Mom,” Claire managed to squeak out “What are you doing home so early?”

Ophelia raised an eyebrow at her as more women, each holding a baby or toddler, streamed into the living room behind her “Enrique’s daycare group is having their Halloween party here tonight, did I not mention it this morning?”

“No I don’t think you did…”

This was bad, they’d planned on having their group meet up at her house because with how early the sun went down this time of year Jim would be ok transforming here and then going home through the woods.

Of course that plan couldn’t account for a herd of babies and their moms occupying the first floor.

“Well uh…I’ll just go back upstairs,” Claire slowly backed out of the room “Tell everyone to keep the volume down so we don’t wake you,”

“Sure sounds great,” Ophelia was already looking away from her, pulling Enrique into his black cat costume.

As soon as she was out of sight Claire broke into a run, racing up to her room, darting inside and slamming the door behind her “We got a big problem, Enrique’s entire daycare group is here!”

You could have heard a pin drop in the stunned silence that followed those words, the four of them staring back at her with expressions of pure horror. 

“Well fuck,” Toby said, breaking the silence.

“Would it kill your parents to tell you their plans ahead of time…” Mary mumbled “Also Toby’s right, we’re screwed,”

Meanwhile Jim had recovered from his shock and shut his jaw with a click “Ok ok ok, no big deal. I’ll climb out on the roof and get to the woods that way,”

Claire felt her teeth digging sharply into her lip “That won’t work. My parents are getting the roof reshingled and have almost all of it stripped off already, so if you go out that way you could slip and wipe out,”

A collective wince rippled through the room.

“Double fuck…”

Abruptly Darci clapped her hands together and got to her feet “Ok, we can do this. You just sneak out real fast and we’ll cover you,”

“We should go now,” Claire added “They’re still getting the babies into their costumes and they’ll be distracted,”

Jim’s expression was still tight and tense but he nodded back at her all the same “Alright, let’s do this,”

Claire cracked open her door and peeked out into the hall. Seeing it was clear she stepped out and waved the others to follow. They crept out into the hall, Claire and Darci in the lead with Mary and Toby trailing behind and Jim tucked in the middle, hood pulled all the way up over his horns.

They made it to the staircase, Claire constantly glancing from side to side and keeping her ears strained for any sudden noises. Waving them ahead, Claire led the group down the stairs, touching down on the main floor without–

Sudden footsteps came from around the corner.

Claire’s heart shot up into her throat “Hide!” she hissed “I’ll cover for you,”

Without wasting a second; Darci, Toby, and Jim hustled through the doorway into the dining room, the door slamming shut behind them just as Claire whirled to face the intruder.

“Oh hello Claire!” Mrs. Knightley beamed at her, a babbling Hailey dressed in a bee costume trailing after her “So nice to see you here!”

Well of course I’m here it’s my house

“Hi Mrs. Knightley, good to see you too,” Claire fixed the smile she used with unfamiliar adults and guidance counselors on her face “Is this Hailey? She’s getting so big!”

Mrs. Knightley beamed “Yes she’s starting preschool this year. Now if you’ll excuse me I need to touch up her make up a bit,”

She stepped around Claire towards the dining room, the same room Jim had gone into–

Quick as a flash Claire and Mary darted in front of her “I don’t think she really needs make up,” Claire had to work hard to make sure her tone was equal parts sincere and convincing and betrayed none of her panic “Her features are so beautiful on their own,”

“Yeah,” Mary piped up “If you want I can give her a baby make up job, it do it for my little cousins all the time–”

“Thank you girls but I’ve worked hard to get the contouring just right and I don’t trust anyone else to do it, now if you’ll excuse me–”

Before they could stop her Mrs. Knightley barged past them and pushed the door open, walking right in on–

“Oh hey, how’s it hanging?” Toby's voice called out.

Hearing a palatable lack of screaming, Claire cautiously peeked past Mrs. Knightley into the dining room. Toby and Darci stood ramrod straight beside the snack laden table, Toby holding a bowl and Darci clutching an apple slice taken from a platter. Each of them sporting wide grins that Claire hoped only looked strained to her.

But where on earth was Jim?

“We were just trying out the snacks,” Darci said, brandishing her apple slice “Gotta make sure they’re good and all,”

Mrs. Knightley’s expression puckered “Please put that down, the snacks are here for the little children,”

“Right right,” Toby set the bowl back down, eyes almost imperceptibly flicking up towards the ceiling.

Stomach churning, Claire lifted her own gaze to the ceiling only to freeze.

Jim was up there, limbs all splayed out clinging to the ceiling like spider man.

Forcing herself to snap out of it, Claire ripped her stare away from the ceiling and back towards Mrs. Knightley.

Ok, so Jim was a wall crawler, that was new, but they could use this. All he had to do to escape was crawl along the ceiling.

And hope to god no one looked up. 

“Well it’s good to see you Mrs. Knightley…” Claire jerked her head up at Jim and then at all the others, before inclining her head towards the still open doorway behind her, slowly starting to back away “We’ll just get out of your hair…” 

The others picked up on what she was doing and followed her lead, inching their way towards the door with Jim crawling along the ceiling.

Mrs. Knightley waved her off from where she’d sat Hailey down and was getting out a container of foundation “Oh yes good to see you to,”

Claire nodded in reply and kept retreating. Once they made it out of the dining room the backdoor was just six feet and one turn away, all they had to–

“Oh, are you doing makeup in here?”

“Yes yes come on in,” 

Claire had to bite back a scream of frustration as a group of moms pushed in from behind her, the room going from wide open to crowded in seconds.

Don’t look up don’t look up whatever you do don’t look–

“Hailey sweetie lean back so I can work under your eyes,”

Claire’s heart stopped as Hailey flopped her head back, getting a full view of the ceiling.

All five of them froze, Hailey’s eyes going wide, a roaring in Claire’s ear as a chubby toddler finger slowly raised to point up at Jim.

“Boogeyman!”

Mrs. Knightley shook her head “Sweetie there’s no such thing as the boogeyman,”

“Boogeyman boogeyman, up up up!”

Mrs. Knightley sighed, more exasperated this time, but she was slowly raising her head towards–

“Hey guys!” Toby’s voice was loud enough to cut through all the chatter in the room, all eyes instantly going to him “Snack spread looks really good, mind if I just snag a few–”

Toby picked up the entire box of cupcakes from the table “So cool if I take this? Awesome, thanks,”

Good news, everyone in the room had forgotten about the ‘boogeyman’. Bad news, all eyes were on Toby and not in a good way.

The sound that came out of Mrs. Knightley could only be described as a screech.

“Oh absolutely not–”

“You kids can each have a cupcake, but not the entire–”

“Young man you put that down right–”

The room devolved into chaos. Women shouting, toddlers wailing, and Toby playing chicken with the cupcake box.

But Claire knew a diversion when she saw one.

Taking advantage of the chaos she all but ran out of the room, opening doors and keeping an eye on the ceiling to make sure Jim was following along on the ceiling. When they finally reached the back door Jim leapt down and they all bolted into the trees.

Only once they were a good distance away did they stop, panting. Going limp as the adrenaline slowly drained away. Looking around Claire saw that there were only three of them. She, Jim, and Darci were here, but Toby and Mary were AWOL. 

The rescue mission would have to come later, first she had to get her heart rate back in the normal range.

“So…” Darci said between pants “You can crawl on walls,”

“Yep,” Jim let out a gusty breath “Turns out I can, so that’s a thing, still not doing that again,”

Claire flopped back on the ground with a groan “Agreed,”

She was glad they’d been able to escape, but she already knew her mom was going to give her hell for this later.

Twigs snapped a short ways away and they all froze, but it was only Toby that came through the bushes.

“Oh man, sorry Claire, but I think I might have burned some bridges with your brother’s daycare group,”

Claire waved him off “Don’t worry about it, none of them are going to risk pissing off the councilwoman who controls their budget. Is Mary with you?”

Toby’s face went red “I…uh…might have tossed the box of cupcakes at her, and booked it the other way,”

Darci gave him an even look “You do know that she’ll kill you for that?”

“Better her than the Karen brigade,” Toby started and flashed Claire and apologetic look “Sorry,”

“Hey you’re not wrong,”

More crunching echoed in the dark woods, the four of them turning towards the sound to see Mary stomping through the trees, face bright red and gaze smoldering “You. Guys. Owe. Me. Big.” 

Jim raised both hands placatingly “Oh definitely, you guys saved my ass in there. I owe you one for sure,”

Still looking angry, but more placated now Mary plunked down on the ground next to Claire. It was only now that Claire still noticed she was holding the cupcake box.

“Mrs. Knightley might be obnoxious, but we really shouldn’t take all their cupcakes,”

“We’ll give them back, but I nearly got trampled by a horde of babies and their moms over these cupcakes, I earned one,” with that Mary pulled back the top of the box, lifted out a cupcake, and sank her teeth into the orange frosting.

After a few seconds Toby reached in after her and did the same, then Darci.

Oh what the heck.

Claire grabbed a cupcake herself, the four of them sitting on the ground in the dark forest munching on their cupcakes while Jim watched with piqued interest.

“So when you guys are done can I–”

“Don’t worry,” Toby gulped down his mouthful of cake “We’ll save you the paper wrappers,”

Jim grinned “You guys are the best,”

Mary swallowed “And don’t you forget it,”

[celestial-mean-girls]

LUNAR AND SOLAR ECLIPSE MALFUNCTIONS: CONCEPT ART

:) teehee (hi @midnightsingvogel <3)

ok so!! Moony and Sunny's Eclipse(s) are categorized as malfunctions. it occurs when the DCA unit becomes overstimulated, stressed, overly emotional/angry, or provoked by either outside sources or internal error/A.I.. (as in, Sunny bothering/upsetting Moony during lights off) OR, if an A.I. tries to be more present through the currently present A.I..

for example: Moony trying to talk through Sunny during lights on, when he shouldn't be able to speak or have any sort of control over Sunny whether it be through voice or body manipulation. they can allow each other to sort of chime in now and then, but a continued effort or fight over control when they're not programmed to (Moony during lights on, Sunny during lights off, etc), can cause an Eclipse Malfunction.

there are two variants, of course: Lunar and Solar. the way i've thought it working for them is that what TYPE of eclipse it is is determined by who's currently active at the time: if Sunny is active, it's a solar; if Moony is active, it's a lunar. makes sense, seems obvious, right?

yeah, but hold the phone. the reason why an Eclipse occurs is due to extreme stress/upset in both of them, at once. it takes two to Eclipse, but the one who is INACTIVE at the time (aka Moony when the light is on, and Sunny when the light is off) been observed to ultimately be the "deciding factor" in whether or not an Eclipse takes place. oddly enough in those situations, the "dormant" one is more influential, or more powerful than the A.I. that's "awake". (something something about "inner turmoil", etc)

it's to note too that an Eclipse can even sometimes be seen as an overthrow attempt, and the A.I.s are literally fighting each other with the "active" one willingly initiating an Eclipse in order to shut them both down. think of it as using an Eclipse as a preventive or safety measure against further harm of each other/themselves (internally or externally), or others. (which is to also say that while these "orchestrated" Eclipse measures would do less damage to their system because they're doing it "consciously" so to speak, it STILL does damage, but less than a "natural" Eclipse would. if. if that makes sense. help)

the important bit: there are variables to an Eclipse, including partial-Eclipses.

because an Eclipse is a malfunction through and through, it corrupts data/programming for the DCA unit and causes some REAL rough harm on even the total robot body. their team would really REALLY like to understand it more, but due to the delicate nature and trouble an actual Eclipse does to the unit, and in order to study it more the team would need to provoke Sunny and Moony into doing it, and so it's just.. messy.

there is an "Eclipse blanket" in the Daycare for Assistant staff to use when/if an Eclipse takes place. the idea is to throw the blanket over the DCA unit whether Sunny or Moony (even if it's Moony and despite his functions being programmed for lights-out) and encase them in total darkness, and essentially shutting them down. but this needs to be done, first and foremost, because the Eclipse malfunctions for each are bright - and i mean, BRIGHT. they WILL cause damage to eyes and they are most often accompanied by some hell-noise right out of 90s dialup sounds, but Worse LOL.

rhdfgklhfghkg but ANYWAY THAT'S. quite enough chatter for now dafglkglhg pls enjoy my Eclipse(s) and cheers mates more art soon xoxo

[alildritten]

HAHA There is no schedule for my shenanigans I guess. So, uh, yeah. Chapter 20 folks! WOOHOO! I’m surprised I’m still doing this! I didn’t give up on it yet! Yay! Anyway.

Text like this: text is Nova thinking thoughts in their little brain. Click “keep reading” to read!

Start / Prev / Next

———————————————————————

Chapter 20: Occurences

Gregory burst into the daycare, yelling to get in the air. Both Sun and Moon jumped, scared by the sudden commotion. Nova panicked and grabbed both of them, and starting using the wire.

“NOVA!” They halt, realizing they grabbed the twins, one of which already can use the wire, and left Greggory on the ground.

Nova drops back down, accidentally putting both brothers on the ground, but grabbing Greggory.

Moon, already panicked enough, did not react well. They were on the verge of a mental breakdown, and Sun wasn’t helping the fact. Both were extremely scared, and paranoid of the other at this point in time.

“For pity’s sake, Sun doesn’t have a wire, Mo-“ The daycare doors are flung open a second time. Moon frantically picks up Sun, and shoots upward. Nova spots Freddy entering the room. Good thing Greggory warned us in time…

The twin animatronics were both on the verge of a panic attack. Sun, being in such close proximity to Moon and also not able to get away safely. Moon, scared that something bad would happen to Sun and also from all the sudden commotion.

“This way, you two!” Nova hisses quietly, hoping Freddy wouldn’t hear. They snake towards the twin’s room. Moon follows.

Once they all enter the room and land, Sun runs to the opposite wall, as far from the others as possible. Moon curls up into a ball, shaking wildly and unable to function anymore out of stress.

“So, er, sorry about that.”

“It’s alright, Greggory. They’re just…. going through a few things. It’s probably best to leave them be for a little while.”

“Oh. Ok. So, yeah. Freddy has certainly changed, huh? Hehe… hah….” The kid laughs nervously.

“I think everyone has changed.”

“Well, not Roxy, Monty, or Chica. They’re all still aggressive.”

“They shouldn’t be. So yes, they have changed, you little sh_t.”

“Hey!” Greggory sticks up their middle finger.

“Why have you happened to show up both times this has happened?”

“What, this virus thing?”

“Yeah.”

“I dunno. I just… came here. Coincidence, I s’pose.”

“Mhm.”

“You don’t believe me? You really think that I would do this? First, I’m still a f__king kid! And second, why would I? WHAT REASON WOULD I HAVE?”

“I DON’T KNOW! MAYBE YOU’RE TRYING TO GET US ALL DECOMMISSIONED!”

“FREDDY WAS MY FRIEND!”

“YEAH? BUT THE REST OF US WEREN’T, WERE WE? I ACTUALLY TRIED TO HELP YOU, BUT YOU TRIED TO KILL ME!”

“HOW WAS I TO KNOW YOU ACTUALLY WERE HELPING ME, AND NOT BUILDING UP FAKE TRUST?”

“How was I to know you were really just a sh_tty little kid…?” Nova growls, clearly upset.

“F__k you.” Greggory says indignantly.

“F__k you, you little f__king sh_tbag!” Nova snaps back.

“S-shut up, b-both of you!” Both look over at Sun.

“He started it!”

“WHAT? That’s not true! Nova started it!”

“I did not!”

“Did to!”

“Did not!”

“Did to!”

“I SAID SHUT IT!” Both look back over at Sun again. They have their hands over their mouth, looking shocked. “I-I m-mean, quit arguing…” They fidget nervously.

“But-“ Greggory and Nova say, in sync.

“N-No buts! I-I don’t want to hear it!”

“Fine…” Nova groans, while Greggory makes a “Hmph.” sound.

Sun turns towards the nervous heap on the floor that is Moon. “Moony? A-are… are y-you alright?”

…

Moon makes a whining noise, quietly rocking back and forth. Nova sighs, sitting down next to them.

“If it helps, I’m here. Everything’s fine. It’s all r-“

“NOTHING IS ‘FINE!’” Nova gets startled by the sudden loud response.

“Yes, it is. None of us got hurt, now did we?”

“B-but I’m h-here! YOU’RE ALL IN DANGER!”

“No, we’re not. Well, not because of you, at least.”

“BUT M-MY CLAWS! THEY HURT!”

“They can, yes. Only if you use them. And you now have the choice not to, if Greggory is to be believed.”

“What? We got rid of the virus, right? So we don’t have to worry. Well… we might, if Freddy finds a way up here.”

“The wall is too smooth, it can’t be climbed. And Freddy isn’t known for great jumping abilities.”

“The only way to get up here from the ground is jumping, like Sun does. Or a ladder…” All of them fall silent, hearing Freddy’s steps go clunk…. clunk…. clunk…

“You don’t think he actually found a ladder, do you?” Greggory asks, a little nervous.

“Where would he find one that supports his weight? All of the ladders would be made for staff only, right?” Nova continues, also a little nervous.

Both turn to look at Sun.

“Right?”

———————————————————————

[duncanxtrent]

The Punks vs the Parents

(A quick none ABC related Duncan story based on a wondeful prompt by @trash-that-loves-total-drama. Go follow them for more good Duntrent stuff ;) Anyways on with the story)

(Also for context, Trent, Geoff, Katie, Sadie, and DJ all also attend the daycare along with the other kids)

*insert Baps and Beeps by the TDR kiddos intro here*

“UGH!!!!” Duncan screamed

Duncan stormed into the daycare. Visibly angrier than normal.

“What in the world?” DJ glances at him confused.

Duncan just storms to his time out corner and quietly crouches in the corner.

“Are you ok, dude?” Trent asks

“NO IM CLEARLY NOT OK!!!” Duncan shouts.

“What’s going on?” Beth asks

“My parents are coming over…” Duncan mumbles.

“They are?!?!” Beth shouts in excitement.

“EEEEEEEEEE!!!!” Owen squeals wearing a lot of Banana and Cheese merch.

“Oh great… Another cringy concert…” Gwen groans.

“What? No! Those guys aren’t my parents anymore…” Duncan counters.

“WHAT?!?!” Everyone screams.

“What happened?” Owen cries out in sadness.

“Well…” Duncan trails off.

FLASHBACK

“Letting your child set off several kilograms off explosives?! Leaving your child alone for months at a time?!?! Leaving the child with only 2 weeks of supplies in food per month?!” The social workers screamed.

“What? We needed money for props!” Cheese explains.

“Yeah.. And besides I don’t think it was that bad!” Banana adds.

“Your son is literally in the hospital after collapsing of exhaustion and starvation…” The child care worker sighs.

Banana and Cheese just look down at their feet.

FLASHBACK END

“Oh so that’s why you weren’t here Monday through Thursday!” Beth concludes.

“Yeah, I was in foster care for about 2 weeks before a new pair of parents adopted me. A pair of local cops…” Duncan explains.

“That doesn’t sound so bad!” Trent says

“It’s just… Listen I don’t want them coming…” Duncan sighs.

“Well we can try and stop them. I’d be glad to help!” Trent offers.

“And this is why you’re my best bro!” Duncan says clapping Trent on the back. “Let’s do this!”

The two of them quietly sneak into Chefs office. They pay Owen some cookies to distract Chef while Trent messes around with the computer.

“Alright what should we do?” He asks

“How about you shut down some traffic lights? That should cause some chaos!” Duncan offers.

“Sounds like a plan!” Trent types some things into the keyboard and shuts down some traffic lights in the neighborhood.

Meanwhile

Jackson eagerly bounced up and down in the police car as June quietly drove to the daycare.

“I’m so excited! Visiting my son in the Daycare, and getting to present to his class! I can’t wait to see him.” Jackson excitedly cheered

“We’ll be there in a bit. Just be patient.” June explains.

“Do you think we’ll meet this infamous Trent he’s always going on about?” He asks

“Probably… Not many people were absent today…” June explains

“Oh I can’t wait to meet him. He sounds amazing from the way my son described him.” Jackson sighed.

Suddenly the radio in their car went off.

“All units we have a traffic light shut down on the corner of Maizono and Kuwata. Please call in to direct traffic.” The police chief reports.

“What?! Come on!!!” Jackson shouts.

“That’s awfully inconvenient.” June mumbles.

“UGH!!! And just when we were going to see him too!” Jackson cries planting his face into the dashboard.

June looks at the map and sees the daycare is only a couple blocks away.

“Hey Honey do you think you could run today?” She asks

“Yeah why?” He asks sitting up.

“Well what say I go handle the incident with the traffic lights. And you go run to meet our son at the daycare.” June offers.

“Really?! You mean it?!” Jake asks excitedly.

“Just be careful ok?” June smooches Jake on the cheek.

“I will! Thanks!” Jake says hopping out of the car. June drives off to handle the traffic incident while Jake begins running back to the daycare.

Back at the daycare

“Seems like THEYRE on their way to deal with it. They shouldn’t be around for the whole day!” Trent explains.

“Awesome! Thanks dude!” He says quickly hugging Trent before retracting and hopping down.

Duncan begins humming and walking back to the main room when the door bell rings.

“I’ll get it!” Chef calls approaching th door.

“Probably the mail man…” Duncan assumes.

Chef opens the door and wouldn’t you know it? Jake is standing there patiently waiting to get inside!

“Mr. Fuego! A pleasure to see you!” Chef waves.

Duncan stops in his tracks.

“I-I’m sure it’s another-“ Duncan is cut off.

“DUNCAAAAAANNN!!!!!” Jake runs past Chef and immediately picks ups and squeezes his son in a hug. Duncan struggles to get out but eventually reluctantly accepts and hugs him back.

Jake sets him back down and Jackson crouches down. “How ya been little dude?!” He asks excitedly.

“How’d you get here so fast?” Duncan asks in retaliation.

“Your mother and I were supposed to help with a traffic problem but she offered to take care of it while I ran here.” Jake explains.

“How nice…” Duncan mumbles, red in the face.

“You ok little dude? The summer heat getting to you?” He asks

“No no… Everythings cool Dad…” Duncan stutters.

“Ah good! Wouldn’t want anything happening to my little buddy!” He says ruffling Duncan’s hair.

He stands up and turns to Chef. “How’s my son been doing?” He ask

“That’s actually what I invited you to talk about.” Chef explains

Jake looks at him with a questioning face. Chef leads Jake to his office and sets Jake down in the chair in front of his desk.

“What’s going on?” He asks

“Your son is an absolute menace in our school! He’s constantly setting off explosives! Bullying the other kids! And he’s always destroying things!” Chef explains.

“What?!?! That doesn’t sound like him at all!!!” Jake says genuinely shocked.

“You mean he doesn’t experience this behavior at home?” Chef says obviously expecting that he does.

“No! He’ll knock things down on one rare occasion when he’s running around, and he’ll usually apologize for ti even. And whenever other kids are over he’s always incredibly nice playing with them! The parents even confirmed this!” Jake explains.

“See exa- Wait HUH?!” Chef says clearly shocked.

“Did you really come here to lie to me about my son, Mr.Chef? I’ll have you know I can easily arrest you for that.” Jake glares.

“N-no! Your son always exhibits this behavior at school! I don’t know why he doesn’t do it at home!” Chef explains.

“You’re sure?”

“Yes!” Chef insists

Jake sits back down “Well then if you would like I wouldn’t mind observing your classroom for a bit to see this ‘behavior’ you claim he has.”

“Ok sure! I could use the extra hand.” Chef offers.

Jake nods and walks outside the office to observe the kids.

Outside, Duncan was fully prepared to knock over Cody’s tower. But sees his dad mid way and stops and turns around quietly.

Cody turns around looking confused.

Transition

Later the kiddos are eating lunch together when Beth accidentally trips Duncan over.

“Oh my god I’m so sorry…” Beth shouts.

Duncan quietly gets up and Beth expected a violent response but instead Duncan simply reached out his hand.

“It’s fine! Everyone makes mistakes!” Duncan says shrugging.

Duncan just quietly walks over and begins eating his lunch, which was thankfully I damaged due to the fact that it was still in his lunchbox. But Beth just looked at him confused.

“Huh?”

Another transition

The kids are quietly finger painting, and Courtney ‘accidentally’ spilled some paint on Duncan.

“Oops… Sorry…” Courtney says sneakily.

Duncan growls for a minute but then takes a deep breath and faces Courtney.

“Can you please be more careful next time? I like this shirt.” Duncan asks shockingly polite.

Courtney just looked at him confused.

“Im going to go clean up…” Duncan walks off to clean up in the bathroom.

“What the?” Courtney stares at him confused.

And another transition because TDR moves fast

All the kids are quietly napping away and Trent approaches Duncan, quietly scooting up next to him.

“Dude what’s going on?” He ask

“What do you mean?” Duncan asks

“You’ve been incredibly well behaved the entire time we’ve been here. What’s going on?!” Trent says clearly confused.

“I just wanted to not break the rules! What’s the problem with that?” Duncan shrugs.

“Yes but that’s the attitude you NEVER have!! What’s going on?” Trent asks

Duncan looks around for a moment. Then sighs and gets up quietly.

“Follow me…” Duncan asks.

Trent gets up and the two of them head to the bathroom where Jake can’t see them. Then Duncan turns to Trent.

“Listen… I’m trying to be on my best behavior for my dad. Ok? I don’t want him to know that I’m this thug punk guy that beats people up on the daily.” Duncan explains.

“Why? Just because he’s a cop doesn’t mean he’ll hate you if you’re a thug…” Trent explains.

“No! That’s not it! It’s just…” Duncan sighs “Dad and Mom were way better than Banana and Cheese were. They actually gave me attention! They never abandoned me or had me cook my own food just because they were busy. They helped me! They cared for me. Yes they punished me which is a little unfortunate but the punishments weren’t ever extreme. The worse I ever got was having to clean out the toilets for a couple days. And even then they helped me by showing me how to do it. Dad and Mom, they are the only adults I actually trust. And I don’t want them to think I’m just a bad kid who just puts on a show for them for the sake of getting love and cookies or whatever. I love them… I love them too much to betray them…” Duncan begins noticeably crying.

“Dude… Are you ok?” Trent asks reaching a hand out.

“IM NOT CRYING YOURE CRYING!!!” Duncan sniffles.

“Hey dude it’s ok…” Trent reaches around and hugs Duncan. Duncan quietly hugs him back.

“It’s fine dude… If you wanna start changing your ways. I’ll be by your side no matter what…” Trent says patting Duncan’s back.

Duncan lets go. “Thanks…” He mumbles wiping his eyes.

“Should we head back now?” Trent asks

Duncan nods and the two of them open the bathroom door…

To find Jake standing outside the door, with tears streaming down his face.

“Ah nuts…” Trent mutters.

“Dad… I-“ Duncan gets cut off by Jake picking up Duncan and pulling him into a hug. This time Duncan only has a slight hesitation before pulling his Dad into a hug as well. The two of them sit there quietly hugging as Trent stands by and awkwardly watches.

“You really love me that much?” Jake mumbles.

“Of course I do. I love you so much, Dad. I don’t wanna hurt you…” Duncan responds.

“I love you too…” He says hugging him harder.

Finally Jake sets down Duncan and wipes his eyes. “I get it though. You always loved to play the villain. It’s not necessarily good for you, but if it’s what you want to do that fine with me. Just don’t do anything highly destructive, ok? And nothing majorly emotional damaging obviously. Basically just don’t go too big.” Jake explains.

“Ok Dad…” Duncan hugs Jakes leg before wandering back to the nap room. Trent gets up to do the same but Jake stops him.

“So you’re the Trent I’ve heard so much about!” Jake says smiling.

“Hmm?” Trent looks at him confused.

Jake crouches down. “Duncan talks about you all the time at home. He considers you his best friend, I’d almost say he loves you. He really is a good kid at heart, I want you to know that.”

“I’ve always known that…” Trent chuckles.

“Good. You seem like a good friend for my son. Hope to keep seeing you around.” Jake says ruffling Trents hair and standing up.

“Thanks…” Trent is about to walk back but stops.

“One more thing…” Trent says turning around. “Do you have any embarrassing photos of him?” Trent asks

“Whaddya mean?” Jake asks

“Like photos of him being cute or dorky or stuff that isn’t cool or villainous or whatever.” Trent explains further.

“Ooh! Yes actually I have the perfect photo I’ve wanted to show for a long time.” Jake explains.

Jake pulls out his phone and scrolls through his photo till he finds the photo in question. He crouches down again and shows Trent the photo. In the photo, A starry eyed Duncan is clinging to Jake’s arms in a white shirt with red sleeves smiling giddily as Jake smiles back at him. The photo was presumably taken by June.

“That is so cute. I love it.” Trent laughs.

“He’s so cute isnt he?” Jake smiles.

“He is! Anyways that’s all! Have a good day Mr.Fuego!” Trent says wandering off.

“You too!” Jake says waving.

(End)

[foreverfangirlalways]

What’s Your Name? (Chapter 2)

Chapter Title: Coffee, Cafes, and Conversations

Summery: Logan talks with Remy, and Virgil tells Patton about his encounter. Remy and Virgil also have a very interesting phone call.

Ships: Analogical, RemyxCriticxEmile, Moceit

Warning: teasing, threats, foreshadowing, pastshadowing(?), obvious gays being oblivious

-let me know if I need to add more warnings-

(please give some love to my wonderful cowriter @star-crossed-shipper, as well as @kuroyurishion, who has given me quite a few ideas for future chapters!)

/I totally projected my best friend and I’s dynamic onto Remy and Virgil’s dynamic, incase anyone is wondering why they act like they do!\

<A super mega thank you to @winterknight1087! They give me ideas on Remy’s partners and certain plot points for this chapter, including the bit about why Logan got a job working for Remy!>

*if you want, message me or comment with theories of what happens next! I’ll credit you of course, I just want readers input on how the story should go!*

—-

Logan had just finished restocking the sugar racks when Remy came busting through the door.

“What’s up bitches? Your favorite insomniatic slut is here and just got two cuties to love and cherish!”

Remy sat on the counter and Logan handed Remy his specialty coffee, totally not trying to butter him up or anything.

“Ah, my favorite employer. You have returned. So, how did your romantic endeavors go? Was my guess of woe correct?” Logan asked, watching Remy take a big gulp of his drink the sigh.

“Nope! It was what onderful! He was so sweet, likes cartoons, and even helps people! He’s an angel. I’ve been friends with him since middle school, and we were just catching up. His boyfriend is just like him, and we were actually partners in a few classes when I was still in college. We all met at the park and then went for brunch. I commented on how they look like such a happy couple and I wish I could have that, and then they invited me to join in their relationship! They both confessed to liking me and long story short, I am now in a polygamous relationship with my childhood friend Critic and my psychology partner Emile!”

“Wow.” Logan said, looking faintly surprised. “I’m impressed. You got two boyfriends and I didn’t even manage to get his name.”

Remy whipped around and hopped off the counter. He set down his drink and leaned over the counter with his chin atop his hands.

“So Logie,” Remy smirked, “whose the guy? You told me that you pride yourself on being able to make people trust you enough to get names from them without using your fae magic. That’s the whole reason you wanted this job. Well, aside from having the privilege of working for me, of course.”

Logan nodded. “I know. People typically throw their names at me way too trustingly, but I don’t think he trusts very easily. It’s a shame, he is extremely aesthetically appeasing. I even tried to non-magically charm him and it still didn’t work. He definitely has walls.”

Remy nods like he understands, but the smirk has yet to leave his face.

“Ooo, so Logan, who’s the hottie that evaded you and your flirting? Was he a regular?”

Logan shook his head. “I’ve never seen him before but he said he knows you.”

Remy raises his eyebrow and takes a sip of his drink.

“The name he gave me was Anxiety.”

“SPPPTTHTT!” Remy spewed out coffee. Logan looked alarmed, but Remy more so.

“No shit?! He visited? And I missed it? You think he’s hot? Oh, oh Logan. I’ve known Anx my whole life, he’s like a little brother. All I can say is good luck. And be patient.”

Logan wipes up the mess and responds. “I shall take your words into consideration. I’ll admit, I got frustrated because he has been the first to give me a false name, and I really wanted his name, but if it takes time for me to break down his walls it shall be time well spent.”

Remy nods and a very serious look passed over his face. He grabs Logan by the tie, pulling, and Logan is so startled he drops his rag.

“It will be time well spent because if you even so much as accidentally put too much foam into his ‘Damnit Karen’, I will fire you in more ways then one. Am I understood?”

“Perfectly.” Logan said while straitening his tie. He then got an idea.

“Say Remy, what did you say his name was again?”

Remy tilts his head.

“Anxiety?”

“No, you called him by another name.”

Remy thought for a moment the made an ‘o’ with his mouth.

“Anx? Yeah, that’s just a childhood nickname I gave-“

Remy looks at Logan slightly disappointingly and crosses his arms.

“...him. And if you want his true name, you can make him trust you enough to get it without using your magic. And if you try with any of your tricks, keep in mind that I know just what type of paralyzing  nightmares to send your way.”

Logan blinked and picked up his rag. Despite his particular stand as a fae, he does not like people to know of it, and he does not like to use his magic on people.

However, Remy knows of Logan’s standing and magical capabilities, and is the only person that can truly intimidate Logan.

“I can tell that Anxiety is very close to you. And you are extremely protective of him. I never had any intentions of using magic on him, and if anything, that decision has just been solidified.”

Remy looked satisfied with that response. He started to walk away, and in a burst of nervous energy, recklessness, and perhaps a slight death wish, Logan called out.

“Remy, wait.”

Remy turned around and raised his eyebrow.

“Yes?”

Logan swallowed and adjusted his glasses.

“I promise I will never use magic on him unless I have your permission and his consent, but I was wondering if you would mind if I... try to get his name using different tactics?”

Remy crosses his arms and steps forward. “What tactics?”

“... uhh, well, charming him? If that is approvable.”

Remy swiped his hand over his face and huffed out a laugh. Then the laugh got stronger and he flopped into the nearest chair.

“So let me get the stra- let me get this gay, you want my permission to flirt with my little brother?”

“Yes...?”

Remy rolled his eyes. “For such a smart person, you are a complete dumbass. Do you remember when I told you about one of my friends that I basically adopted and we were roommates before I opened up shop?”

“Yes, you told me that we would be a cute couple and your ‘otp’ ?”

“Uhuh, the friend is Anxiety.”

Logan’s mouth dropped open in shock. Remy shook his head, still chuckling.

“Yes, I give you permission to flirt.”

“Thank you Remy. Would you like me to keep you updated? I could ‘spill the tea’ as you say.”

“Oh, absolutely! Now, excuses me, I have a brother to call and get his side of the story. And we are going to talk afterwards too, so don’t go to far! I’m sure you want to know if he finds you hot too.”

Logan finished up an order and smirked. “Oh, he does.”

Remy walked to his office and laughed. “I can’t wait to hear this.”

-_-_-_-

Virgil left Bitchin’ Brews, he headed straight to Sunshine Daycare.

‘Alright, so, Patton gets off at 12, five minutes. He can give me advice...’

Virgil stood beside the entrance, and waited. Patton exited, saw Virgil, and ran to him.

“Virgil! Hi! What are you doing here?” Patton asked while hugging him.

“Hey Pat. I was wondering if you wanna have lunch together? I kinda want to talk to you about a few things...”

Patton nodded and looped his arm through Virgil’s. “Sounds perfect. Let’s go to The Mindpalace Cafe and chat!”

Once they were seated and ordered their drinks, Virgil cleared his throat.

“Ok, so, I wanted to talk to you and get advice about this thing that happened this morning. I went to go see Remy, but he was not there. There was the really attractive barista, and he told me Remy was out, getting a boyfriend or something.”

Patton nodded along, but was slightly confused.

“Ok I get that, but I don’t understand what’s wrong?”

“Well... he’s fae. He asked for my name, got upset when I said Anxiety, and completely blanched when I called him out on being fae.”

Patton instantly became concerned. He grabbed Virgil’s arm, started checking his pulse.

“Did he enchant you? Your pulse is normal, but did he? Is that what this is about? I’m so sorry Virgil, I can’t believe this happened aga-“

Virgil leaned over and pressed his hand to Patton’s mouth.

“No, nothing like that. He didn’t enchant me or anything, he just got a bit frustrated with me for not giving my name.”

Removing his hand and seeing that Patton’s still confused, he continued.

“I need you thoughts and advice because... he flirted with me to get my name. No enchant, regular flirting. I didn’t give it to him, of course, but how do I go back? That’s my favorite coffee shop, Remy is there, you are laughing. Why are you laughing?”

Patton composed himself and shook his head. “Virgil, sweetie, as one of your best friends I say this to you with the upmost respect... you’re kind of stupid.”

Virgil looked as insulted as he felt.

“Please don’t be offended Verge, I just don’t understand your problem. A person you find attractive, flirted with you, didn’t enchant or take advantage of you in anyway, and only got slightly offended. I see nothing wrong.”

Virgil couldn’t believe his ears. He rubbed his forehead, trying not to groan aloud.

“Seriously Pat? I’m anxious about everything! I don’t trust the fae, and I don’t know if I can trust the barista. How can I go to Remy’s if I can’t trust the person who works there?”

Patton pondered that. After a few moments, he held up a hand.

“Oh! I know!”

“Yes Patton?”

“Talk to Remy. If he has done nothing wrong, simply ask Remy if you think it would be wise to stay in contact with the cute barista. He will understand your concerns.”

Virgil was amazed. He fiddled with the edge of his sleeve and looked up.

“That’s great advice! Uhhh, I should have thought of it.”

Giggling, Patton patted Virgil on the head. “It’s ok, here’s a Patton pat. At least we get lunch!”

After lunch, Patton and Virgil parted. Virgil heads to his dorm, and his phone rings as soon as he shuts the door.

“Remy? Hey! What’s up?”

“Bitch, how the hell am I supposed to know? You never talk to me anymore!”

“Hey, don’t blame me, I came by today, and you weren’t there.”

Remy sighed. “Yeah, sorry about that. I was at a brunch. Speaking of, do you remember Critic?”

Virgil removed his boots and jumped onto his bed.

“The Critic you wanted to ask to prom but chickened out? Both years?”

“Yes you asshole. That Critic. I thought I said we were never to mention that again?”

“No, you said you wouldn’t. I just got more ice cream for you.”

“ALRIGHT! Enough about that, anyways, the reason I asked was because I am now dating Critic and his boyfriend Emile.”

“The sa-“

“Yes! That Emile.”

Virgil laughed. “Alright, congrats dude! I’ll give them the brother talk next time I see them.”

“No, please don’t. Changing subject, what happened when you came to the shop?”

Taking a deep breath, Virgil prepared himself. “Well, I met your barista. He’s fae. And he asked for my name.”

“What happened? He didn’t do anything wrong, did he?” Remy asked, knowing full well what happened but still getting ready to commit murder if Virgil said yes.

“No no, nothing like that. He was a bit frustrated that I gave a fake name, but other than that everything seemed fine. I just don’t know what to do. He’s really attractive, but he’s also fae, and he works for you...”

Remy huffed out a laugh. “So, you think he’s attractive?”

“Really? That’s what you got? That I think he’s hot?”

“Yep!” Remy responded, popping the p.

Rolling his eyes, Virgil decided to take Patton advice. “Yes, but I’m not sure I can trust him. I don’t want to hurt your feelings, but I don’t think I could continue to go to Bitchin’ Brews if I can’t trust the barista.”

“Verge, I’ve talked to him. I already knew about the meeting. He was a bit irked having not gotten your name, but that’s just because you were the first person to not freely give it to him. He has already swore to never enchant anyone at my shop, and he told me that he will never use any magic on you unless you ask first. It is up to you, but I think he’s a good guy.”

Virgil sighed, relieved and grateful for the good report.

“Oh, and one other thing,” Remy said, smirk evident in his voice. “He finds you hot as well.”

Virgil groaned and Remy laughed. They continued talking until around six, when Virgil was promptly told to, “go get some damn food in you, ya twig!”

Virgil eventually went to bed, and had decided that he would give the cute barista a chance, but definitely make him work for the name.

----

Gen Taglist-

@dragonwithproblems

@five-falseh00ds-ph0nated

@thefingergunsgirl

@kawaiikat54

@sanders-sides-with-quinn

@007ardra

@yikesdodson

@nerdycupcake559

@softestvirgil

@teacupfulofstarshine

@impatentpending

@star-crossed-shipper

@ravenivy2079

@rainbowemonightmare

@ladyartemisia28

@moose-boi

@resident-trash-goblin

@parx-boiiz

@ninathepancake

@kuroyurishion

@funkyfreshfatherfigure

@pattoncake-and-eyeshadow 

@drewwwbydoobydoo

@sure-i-exist

@sophiexteresa

WYN? Tagist-

@tranquil-space-ninja

@antiredhuman

@enby-phoenix

@tired-yeetling

@gothfoxx

@grouptalekindnesssoul

@pricklyfish777

[mikeyhatesit113]

forever and never: Chapter 13

November 4th, 2007.

“Welcome to Sunday Night Football! The Dallas Cowboys take on the Philadelphia Eagles...”

The lights in the sports bar had dimmed for the night game, which was being broadcast from the three large projector screens at the front of the dining area. The commentator gave his pre-game introduction as I settled excitedly in my chair at the table.

My favorite team was about to play...and she was coming.

She had just gotten back from her weekend trip to a college football game, and she wanted to see me. I told her my whereabouts, and she was en route. She even had arranged it so that a fellow couple from the daycare center would meet us there, as the husband of the other couple was a trash-talking Eagles fan who loved to mock my Dallas Cowboys fanship.

But his opportunity to taunt me served only as a pawn in a larger game he didn’t know was being played.

The other couple would give us our perfect cover from curious eyes. Janie and I would be just two friends, meeting up with some other people to watch a football game in a public setting.  

But the game itself was the furthest thing from my mind. The only thought that highlighted the evening was our first kiss, which had occurred 3 days earlier.

She appeared in the doorway a short time later, looking for me. The buzz and conversation around the bar went on normally, the patrons guzzling their beers and unaware of the forbidden scandal playing out between two people before their very eyes.

I caught her eye and waved her over, and she sat down in the seat next to me.  

What now? It’s not like we were an item, or in an official relationship.

Our exchange of small words was interrupted by the arrival of the other couple, and the stage was set.

Regardless of the occasion and company, we were where both of us seemingly wanted to be...together.

It’s what made me think this was genuine. Her efforts to see me, even under the most mundane circumstances, are what made me believe I was the exception.

Her “Happily Ever After”.

Her “Forever and Ever”.  

The game began, animated conversation ensued, and what seemed like a year of fateful good luck continued as my Cowboys beat the living hell out of his Eagles, effectively silencing him.

Victory was sweet.

The game ended too soon, and the other couple bid their farewell. Janie and I sat at the table after their departure, continuing our conversation.

“I couldn’t get you out of my mind all weekend,” she admitted.

The bar closed, and we went and sat in her van, as we weren’t ready to go home yet.

She turned on her radio, and the CD in her changer started playing.

Hinder’s “Extreme Behavior”, an album by a popular rock band that would play as the soundtrack to that entire stage of our relationship. Years later, I look back on how appropriately the album was titled.

“Lips of an Angel” hummed from the speakers as our lips found eachother once again...

...”And I never want to say goodbye, but girl you make it hard to be faithful, with the lips of an angel”...

November 4th, 2012.

5 Years Later.

“Welcome to Sunday Night Football! The Dallas Cowboys take on the Atlanta Falcons...”

I settled onto the couch, placing my cold beverage on the coffee table in front of me. I laid my lifeless cell phone beside my cup.

Janie was laying on the love seat a few feet from me, her phone tucked under her leg as she snoozed.

The face under my skin, the voice in the back of my mind spoke to me...urging me that this wasn’t normal behavior...

But I shook it off. After all that had happened...

...all the fights, the men, and the questions, this was my last stand.

This was my last chance to trust her. If I couldn’t trust the location of her cell phone, then I couldn’t trust anything.

The game started, and though the action and cheers on the television were non-stop, our living room was quiet, save for my occasional curse word.

The game drug on, and as the fourth quarter got underway, it became clear that I was watching my team’s loss in progress.

In a year of what was seemingly fateful, endless bad luck, Dallas lost 19-13.

The game wasn’t over quite yet, but I angrily shut the TV off. I had to work in the morning, and I wasn’t going to lose anymore sleep over this game.

“I’ve seen this story before,” I said, my finger angrily pressing the OFF button on the remote.

Janie’s eyes shot open, awakened from her slumber by my words.

“Whatever, Ekim,” she said, grabbing her phone from under her leg and standing up before marching towards the staircase.

“What’s your problem?” I asked, dumbfounded by her reaction.

Apparently, she thought my words were directed towards something else.

Could have been a guilty conscience. What else would she think “I’ve seen this story before” meant?

The sad thing is, we indeed had seen this story before. Too many times.

I stood downstairs in silence, hearing her move around and then get into bed.

Unconcerned.

Not giving a single shit I didn’t follow her up that staircase.

My temper soared. I reached another boiling point.

Treat me like this, huh? I’m this disposable, right? You’re invincible, correct?

I marched up the stairs and walked to our bedroom doorway, observing her get comfortable and curl up under the covers.

“You just think you’re hot shit, don’t you?” I fired.

“Whatever, Ekim. Just come to bed,” she said dully.

We exchanged some more words, and I spilled what was on my mind.

“All I want is you,” she said.

Following this fight, we made love, but neither of us knew it would be for the final time.

Few people ever know when it’s the last time for anything.

The next day, I woke up early and went to work, and throughout the morning, I was encouraged by normal, jovial rounds of text exchanges with Janie.

By mid-morning, they stopped.

And for the next few hours, it was complete silence.

I went about my day, unable to focus on anything but her silence.

She still worked in the same building as Steppenwolf...

After work, she finally contacted me and I felt instant relief.

“Sorry, busy day,” she said shortly.  

“Did you want me to pick up a pizza?” I asked her.

“...what are we doing, Ekim?” she asked.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“All we do is fight,” she said.

“Janie, don’t start this shit with me,” I shot.

An argument instantly erupted, and I couldn’t help but notice that she was trying to cut me short and get off the phone.

“Why are you trying to get off the phone so fast?” I asked.

“Because I stopped for gas and I have to use the bathroom, is that OK with you?” she asked savagely.

“Fine,” I said.

“Do you want me to call you right back?” she asked.

“Whatever,” I replied.

But that call didn’t come. I arrived home, and I determined that this was no good anymore...or at least I thought I had.

Packing my things was more for presentation for her to walk through the door and see how serious I was. But was I?

If I wasn’t, it was about to get serious real quick.

More sadly yet, there wasn’t much for me to pack. Just some clothes and small belongings, as I had left the majority of it in my storage and at my grandma’s house.

The safe zones.

Janie arrived home soon after, and watched me condescendingly as I packed up my things and put them in my car.

She was flawless at making me feel like this was all my fault, and I was the one leaving.

But she wasn’t backing down. In fact, she marched upstairs and packed a bag of her own.

Gym clothes, and a bottle of vodka.

She walked out the front door, and this was my last stand.

I followed her across the street to her mom’s house.

Just like I had done so many times before, in the bad times and the good.

“Leave me alone, Ekim.”

“Tell me it’s over,” I said.

“What?”

“I won’t end this until you tell me it’s over,” I said.

“Ok, Ekim. It’s over,” she said, not bothering to look back at me as she continued walking through her mom’s backyard.

But I needed more. I needed a whole lot more to end this.

5 Years...could a simple declaration just end that?

I continued following her as we made our way up the steps to her mom’s back deck.

“Tell me you’re done,” I begged.

“Why?” she asked angrily, turning around to face me.

Her husband. My wife. A union in splinters.

“Because I can’t walk away until I know you’re done,” I said, my eyes welling with tears.

Inside her mother’s house, everything was normal and happy conversations could be heard.

Outside on that wooden deck in the cold November sunset, there was an emptiness.

“Ok Ekim, I’m done,” she said emphatically, looking into my eyes.

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“Yes. I’m. Done.”

She walked inside the sliding glass door and shut it behind her.

I stood there for a moment, soaking in the finality.

Tonight, there would be no pestering her. No knocking on the back door, pawing at it like a stray no one wanted.

This was my apocalypse, and I was standing in the middle of it.

I slowly walked off the back deck and back across the street to our empty home.

A home that held secrets. A home that would thrive without me.

A home that was no longer mine.

I finished packing, and as I was loading my final things in the car, Janie emerged from the darkness and walked inside the house.

I shut my car door and walked inside the house, the ghost of hope slightly rising in my chest.

My last stand.

Janie stood there, leaning up against the living room wall as she looked around wistfully, completely silent.

I was silent too, but I couldn’t help myself.

I walked toward her and reached out to hug her.

I wanted to hold her. I wanted to be those two people again who did everything they could to be together.

Sports bars. Stores. Hidden parks. Her van, listening to Hinder.

Anything to be together.

I reached out to embrace her, and she ducked under my left arm and marched to the staircase.

She trotted up the stairs, and on instinct, I went to follow her.

I put one foot on the bottom stair.

SNAP.

I felt it. It wasn’t physical whatsoever, but I felt it nonetheless.

I broke.

My resolve to fight for her snapped in two.

I stood there, in complete silence, staring up the stairs.

Silence.

Deafening silence.

Except for one single thought that verbalized itself in my head.

“It’s time. You’re done.”

I turned around slowly and walked out the front door.

I walked to my car in complete defeat, understanding for the first time in years what was happening inside of me.

I reached my limit. It was time to go.

As I sat in my car and turned the key, the bright lights of my dashboard lit up my car’s interior. But something else caught my eye.

Janie had stepped out onto the front porch. She stared at me, her arms crossed, and her face without emotion.

But there was no looking back. No turning back.

My engine roared to life.

I put the car in DRIVE and put my foot on the gas.

I was going home, where there’d be no more hurt.

No more abuse. No more confusion. No more pain.

Not like this.

That night, I slept soundly for the first time in months.

Alone.

And safe.

The next day, a co-worker gave me a ride back to Janie’s house where I picked up my Lancer.

I thanked him and got behind the wheel.

I turned on the ignition.

Gas Tank on E.

Stopped for gas and had to use the bathroom, huh?

There was paperwork that needed to be filed.

The games were far from over.

“There's nothing you can say Nothing you can do There's nothing in between, You know the truth.

Nothing left to face There's nothing left to lose, Nothing takes your place.

When they say You're not that strong You're not that weak It's not your fault And when you climb up to your hill Up to your place I hope you're well.”  

Our Lady Peace “Not Enough”

NOTE: Though this is my side of the story, including my own personal recollections and opinions, the reader should not consider this note anything other than a work of literature. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

[singledad-emile]

Virgil's First Time At Daycare:

Emile groaned as he ran around the house grabbing diapers, bottles, wipes, spare clothes, and a couple small toys; shoving them half hazardly into a diaper bag as he rushed to get everything ready to take the kids to Daycare.

It was Virgil's first day at the daycare, and Emile was extremely anxious about how the young boy would respond to the situation due to his severe seperation anxiety.

Remy had promised his dad he would try to help the best he could, since Virgil seemed to like and trust him, but Emile's nerves still remained on edge.

"Lo, can you go get the twins up?"

Emile pleaded, running his hand through his hair exhaustedly.

Logan put the book he was currently reading down, giving a small nod, and heading back to the twins' room to do as instructed.

Emile then rushed to Deceit's room, knocking lightly before turning the knob, and opening the door.

Deceit was sat up in bed, looking half asleep still,

"Good morning, buddy!"

Emile greeted cheerfully, causing the young boy to slightly jump in surprise, then slowly glance up at his new dad,

"Can you start getting dressed Dee, so we can leave for daycare?"

Deceit nodded a little, he still hadn't said much since Emile adopted him. But, he understood the little boy still needed some time to warm up to him.

"Thanks bud, I'll come check on you in a bit, ok?"

Deceit slowly got out of bed, murmering a soft,

"Ok."

Emile nodded, then began his walk to check how Logan was doing with the twins.

Roman was being pouty and grumpy about getting up, while Remus cackled, running away topless from Logan as he tried to help him get dressed.

"Ree, let Logan help you get dressed."

Emile said firmly, but Remus just let out another cackle, and dashed for the door.

Emile easily caught him, scooping him up, and booping his nose lightly,

"You sir, need to listen to daddy."

Remus scrunched his nose slightly at the boop, trying to wiggle out of his dad's grip,

"Eh! Eh!"

Remus let out frustrated screeches as his dad held him in place, and let Logan slip the shirt over his head, then get his arms through the sleeves.

He kept signing: 'NO!' angrily as Logan did this, but Emile knew Remus needed to be dressed, so he could take him to Daycare,

"I know Ree, I know. You don't like having to change clothes. But, you have to do we can go to Daycare."

Remus didn't seem to hear a word his dad was saying, and continued to fuss, still trying to squirm out of his hold.

Once Logan finished with helping Remus get dressed, he peaked up at Roman, who pouted slightly at all the commotion, but seemed more awake now,

"You going to be ok if I go wake Virge up, Lo?"

Logan simply nodded,

"Yeah, I should be fine. I'll let you know if I require assistance."

Emile nodded, smiling at how indepent Logan was getting already, asking,

"Alright, is Rem in the kitchen yet?"

"Affirmitive, and making coffee I presume."

Was Logan's reply, and Emile nodded, knowing it was his second oldest's regular, morning routine as soon as he got up, to start a pot of coffee, even though he was only eleven.

Emile made his way past the kitchen, smiling as Remy moped, staring the coffee pot down as if willing it to make his coffee more quickly,

“Good morning, Rem.”

Remy simply grunted at his dad’s greeting, and Emile chuckled softly, continuing towards Virgil’s room.

He carefully opened the door, not wanting to frighten the toddler, then made his way over to the crib, glancing inside to be meet with two chocolate brown, wide open eyes.

As soon as Emile came into Virgil’s sight, his lower lip began to quiver, and he made grabby hands anxiously for the father figure,

“Da!”

Virgil exclaimed tearfully, attempting to stand up by holding onto the edge of the crib.

Emile carefully scooped him up, holding him close tenderly, and bouncing him very lightly as he made soft hushing noises to calm him.

“Daddy’s here Little Storm Cloud, I’ve got you. Shhh, you’re ok.”

Emile coaxed, lovingly running his fingers through Virgil’s hair.

Virgil’s whimpers and tears lessened, but didn’t completely stop,

“Should we go find your brothers, bud?”

Emile cooed, and the small boy just curled against him, his thin limbs shaking like a leaf.

Emile then reached into the crib to grab Virgil’s plaid purple, black, and white baby blanket, handing the comfort item to the small child, and smiling as he eagerly accepted the blanket, and began chewing on the corner.

He quickly changed Virgil’s diaper and clothes, and carried him into the kitchen, where he handed the toddler a purple bottle filled with warm Strawberry Milk, grabbed his diaper bag, and made his way outside.

Logan and Remy had luckily gotten the other kids buckled, even though Deceit was snipping at Roman to stop singing because it was upsetting Remus.

Emile began to buckle Virgil in his car seat which was next to Deceit’s seat, who smiled a bit at the toddler, who was eagerly downing the bottle his daddy had given him a few minutes ago

Virgil then raised a chubby, little hand to grab hold of Deceit’s finger, causing him to chuckle softly,

“Hello to you as well, Little Storm Cloud.”

Deceit greeted, ruffling Virgil’s hair tenderly, causing the toddler to giggle softly.

“Everyone got everything they need with them?”

Emile suddenly called out, receiving several nods, then nodding himself.

“Alrighty then! We’re off!”

He exclaimed, climbing into the driver’s seat and beginning their drive to the daycare.

〰️

The drive took about 15 minutes, and once they arrived, the older kids eagerly rushed out of the car.

Emile helped unbuckle Remus’ seat belt, quickly grabbing his hand before he could run off, having experienced it beforehand.

Remus whined impatiently as his father unbuckled Virgil, moving him to his hip, grabbing the baby bag from the floor, and hoisting it over his shoulder.

As soon as the car door shut, Remus attempted to pull free from Emile’s grip and run off, but just as he was about to escape, the teacher who worked in his classroom appeared, and he lit up like a Christmas tree, rushing over.

Emile grinned warmly, then glanced down at Virgil who seemed extremely confused by the unfamiliar surroundings. He kept glancing at his dad in panic, unsure what was happening.

“This is the daycare your brothers go to while daddy is at work.”

Emile explained, even though he knew Virgil probably didn’t completely understand him,

“Hello, Emile! How has your morning been?”

The owner of the daycare, Thomas greeted cheerfully, causing Emile to sigh in exhaustion, and respond with,

“It’s been pretty chaotic, but Lo and I were actually able to get Remus in clothes today without a complete meltdown, which is progress I suppose.”

Thomas grinned, nodding happily at the information,

“That’s great, Emile! Even small steps are progress!"

Thomas then noticed the toddler in Emile’s arms, and his grin grew quickly, exclaiming,

“This little guy must be Virgil! Are you having him start yet?”

Emile chuckled, looking at Virgil fondly, then nodding,

“Yeah, this is Virgil, and today will be his first day.”

Emile noticed how Virgil eyed Thomas warily, clinging to his shirt tightly with his small, chubby fists.

“Would you like me to take him to meet the other kids his age?”

Thomas suggested, but Emile quickly shook his head, explaining quietly,

“Virgil has severe separation anxiety, and I know today is going to be extremely rough for him.”

Virgil looked up at his daddy, nibbling on the rubber nipple of his bottle anxiously,

“Da...?”

He squeaked out quietly, and Emile gave him a soft smile,

“Daddy is right here, Little Storm Cloud. But, daddy has to go to work in a little bit, and you’re going to stay with Mr. Thomas until daddy finishes. Daddy promises he’ll be back as soon as he can, and your brothers are here too if you need them. You’ll be safe, and I promise I’ll have Mr. Thomas let you know when daddy is coming to pick you guys up, ok?”

Virgil looked at Emile in terror for a moment, thinking he was leaving him permanently, then the dam broke, and the small child’s eyes immediately filled with scared tears, lower lip quivering, and small frame trembling like crazy, loud wails suddenly erupting from him, clinging to his daddy in fear of abandonment.

Emile shot a heartbroken look at Thomas, unsure how to continue.

The other then gave Emile a soft, understanding look, then held his arms out for the toddler, saying firmly,

“I know it’s hard, but you have to work, Emile. Remember when Deceit first started, how rough it was at first? Well, he’s doing so much better now, and Virgil will be the same with time, patience, and lots of love.”

Emile nodded, trying to keep his tears at bay, knowing Thomas was right, even though the small, frail child in his arms seemed to think otherwise.

He carefully placed Virgil in Thomas’ arms, tears trickling down his cheeks as the toddler looked up at him with a panicked expression, clearly distressed at being put in a strangers arms.

Virgil wailed loudly in fear, reaching for his daddy frantically, squirming wildly in Thomas’ arms scared to death Emile was going to abandon him with a complete stranger.

Emile’s heart broke as he saw how clearly upset his youngest son was, and his own tears leaked freely as he leaned to press a gentle kiss to the toddler’s forehead,

“Daddy will be back as soon as he possibly can, Little Storm Cloud.”

Emile croaks out, giving Thomas one last, unsure glance, before heading to walk back to his car.

Thomas sends Emile one last reassuring smile, the small child in his arms still wailing in fear; only focused on his dad, and being back in his arms where he feels safest.

As Emile starts the car, then proceeds to drive off to work; Virgil’s wails began to increase in volume and distress, and Thomas can tell he’s quickly tiring himself out with the effort it takes to wail his little heart out so loudly.

Virgil quickly tires himself out after another 30-45 minutes of distressed crying, and falls asleep almost instantly once Thomas places him in Deceit’s arms.

He naps for about two hours, but once awake begins the heartbreaking cycle of wailing again.

Virgil refuses to eat, play, or be held by anyone(Even his siblings) at this point, and Thomas decides for the sake of the toddler’s health and mental state, it’s best to have Emile pick him up early.

Once Emile arrives, he quickly rushes to Virgil’s side, holding him close, kissing his forehead lovingly, and runs his fingers through his hair, humming soft lullabies to calm the poor child, repeating over and over,

And Emile immediately knows that Virgil and himself are not ready for this.

That they may try again in the future, but not for quite a while.

[somecallmemona-blog]

Soooo it was my first time making butter for a client. They wanted a stick, that’s like 4 oz 🧐. I wanted to make it presentable instead of just like, “here’s your stick of butter” wrapped in wax paper 🙄. I go grab some 4 oz mason jars and go to town with some food safe spray paint and sealant to match the colors in my logo. Had to let it cure for something crazy like 48 hours. Anyway, they were scheduled for a Friday pick up and when I say this was THEE WORST DAY EVER, I’m not lying. I get home from a hard day at work and a failed pre-K graduation ceremony at daycare that my 3 year old decided to use as his personal platform for a meltdown, and get to work packaging the product. The jar held all but about a 1/2 tsp of butter. Since I had a rough day my mind was like “do it 👊🏾”. I’m like “say no more” I took a piece of bread and sopped up that lil bit o-butter!

Client comes and happily picks up the package. So I’m excited bc I FINALLY have some time alone!! I go on the balcony to spark one and kee-kee with my crazy neighbors, I’m feeling GREAT, then the munchies hit. I made the worst decision by eating leftover Popeyes chicken, red beans and rice, and a biscuit. About half way through, my stomach said STOP! Ok, I threw the rest away, cleaned up the kitchen, and retire to my boudoir. Now, I’m cracking up switching between my favorite shows 20/20 and Dateline while sipping some ice water. Use the restroom and upon exiting I look back and whisper “I’ll be back!” 🤦🏾‍♀️

I lie down and my equilibrium shut down, now I’m a fucking astronaut (I kid you not!) my whole body was floating in slow motion, the room was spinning and I’m trying to get comfy but my limbs won’t cooperate because there’s no gravity in space, duh! So as I’m struggling to plant my feet to make the spinning stop (like when you’re drunk) my legs won’t do it. I can’t get my feet out of the air, shit!! Now, all the sudden my mind says “get up and go to the bathroom NOW” as I float to the side of the bed opposite of the bathroom my stomach was like “fuck this Popeyes” and betrayed me. Now, it’s an extremely slow race against time to stop the inevitable. I cover my mouth and clumsily jog to the bathroom, as soon as my feet hit the door, ya girl reinacted the scene from the Exorcist. I lost all since of time and space, just me and the cold porcelain god I had been forced to worship. Every time I attempted to get up, the squish under my feet forced me to bow down again. Finally, I succumbed to the darkness in my mind and just slept like a refugee who finally found a safe space, only problem was I was in my once spotless bathroom which I had now defiled...

Around daybreak, I mustered enough strength and equilibrium to throw away everything in my bathroom and bleach every surface, still high as a kite. Nothing was salvageable, nothing. I cursed myself as I threw away my $100 face scrubber 😢. I promised myself I’d walk the straight and narrow as I opened my cabinets and realized the interior doors somehow had not been spared. Finally when everything was sparking clean and I almost died again from bleach intoxication, I showered and took a nap. I was awakened 30 minutes later by the loud footsteps of my three year old coming to demand breakfast. I dutifully put my mommy cape back on and was thankful to see another day; because unlike alcohol, cannabis doesn’t leave me hungover and sad.

[otakufander]

Snow days and fireplaces

Summary: Deceit is cold. Some backstory. Cold Virgil. And cuddles. I'm really trash at summaries so you'll just have to take my word for it, this is pretty sweet. Deceit is called Dimitri in this.

Pairing: Romantic DLAMP

Warnings: snakes

Notes: This was supposed to be out for Christmas but since I procrastinate like a pro it wasn't. I really didn't have a plan for this but I'm happy with how it turned out :). Hope you enjoy. Constructive criticism always welcome. Please point out mistakes and inconsistencies. I didn't look over this before I posted it. And I went many days in between writing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was a cold cold day. The snow was falling heavily. It was already a foot deep and wasn't stopping anytime soon.

Dimitri was laying in his bed covered by blankets. The heating wasn't working and he's just to scared to light a fire in the fireplace.

He swears that he was a snake in his past life due to him not fairing well in the cold and his high capacity for lying. That was until he met the others.

He had met his boyfriends purely by chance. He is a snake milker and zoologist. He worked at the local zoo at the time. His old boss called him a snake whisperer because he seemed to just have a way with serpents.

~

He was doing a show with snakes when a strange group walked into the room where he was doing the show. They didn't look like the type to hang out at all. They all looked to be in their mid to late twenties. They were all attractive in their own way.

The first to enter was a short slightly chubby man with glasses and wearing a blue polo with a cat hoodie tied around his shoulders. His hair was a light brown curly mess. He had freckles dusted all around his face and a smile to light even the darkest spaces.

The second man to enter was slightly taller than the first. He was very skinny and pale. He was wearing dark makeup, a purple patchwork hoodie and ripped black skinny jeans. His hair was straight Raven black with purple ends hanging in his face a bit. He had an intimidating air about him.

The third man to enter was the tallest. He had a regal air about him, a bit like a prince. He had dark brown hair styled a bit like a jock from a football movie. He was wearing a red bomber jacket, a white t-shirt and Levi's.

The final man was just shorter than the tallest. He had short black hair, it was slicked back off his forehead. He also had glasses, they were the same frames as the first man. He was wearing a black polo shirt and a blue striped tie. He had a professional air about him.

Dimitri was immediately captivated by them. He did his usual show and ended with milking a snake. There was a small problem when he went to get the snake to milk. The snake was gone. He told everyone in the audience not to panic and to look around their feet slowly as a venomous snake was currently loose.

He spotted the snake looking at the curly haired man who looked terrified starring down at it. He told the man to stay calm and not to move. Just as the snake went to bite he caught it's head and put it back in the box. He then ended the show and told the man to hang back while everyone was pouring out.

The group stayed back. He absolutely ripped into his assistant who was in charge of the cages for allowing a snake to escape and fired him on the spot. He apologized profusely to the man and the group for putting them in danger.

“It's alright it wasn't your fault kiddo.” The short man said. “I still feel terrible that you were put in danger. It seems that we’ll have to be more vigilant about the show and who we let watch the cages.” Dimitri said. “It's alright you saved me and that's really all that matters right?” The short man said flashing his bright smile. “I'm Patton by the way. Patton Valentine.” He said holding out his hand to shake. “I'm Dimitri.” He said taking Patton's hand.

The professional looking one stepped forward and stuck out his hand as well. “My name is Logan. Logan Crofter. Thank you very much for saving Patton.” He said. “No problem, but it shouldn't have been necessary.” Dimitri said taking his hand as well.

The princely man then also stepped forward. “Regardless, you saved our Pattoncake. We cannot thank you enough for that. My name is Roman. Roman Prince.” He said. “It's fine.” Dimitri said taking his hand as well.

The final man stepped forward. He seemed really familiar to Dimitri for some reason. He didn't put his hand out. “Yea thank you for saving him. I'm Virgil. Virgil Shea.” He said. “No problem. Wait a minute, Virgil Shea, that sounds really familiar to me.” Dimitri said. “Wait a minute. DIMITRI! Dimitri Sanders!?” Virgil said looking shocked. “Yes. Virgil I haven't seen you in years.” Dimitri said equally shocked.

“Wait you know one another?” Logan asked confused. ���Yes we do. It's just been a long time.” Virgil said like it wasn't a happy memory. “We used to be best friends in high school. But something happened” Dimitri said at their stunned faces. “Well now you must tell us Storm Cloud. What happened between you two?” Roman asked boisterously.

“My boyfriend at the time kissed him. And I was so in love that I didn't believe him when he said that my boyfriend was lying” Virgil said. “Wait how did you figure out that he was lying, what made you finally believe it?” Dimitri asked accusingly. “Im so sorry Dee. He told me when he dumped me. I wanted to reach out to you so badly. But I couldn't. You moved away before I could and I deleted your phone number so I couldn't contact you. I felt so bad about it for years.” Virgil was rambling now, how breath was shortening. Dimitri knew that he was working himself up so he decided to cut him off with a hug. It was so unlike him but he had to do something.

Virgil stopped shocked. “It's alright Virgil I'm not angry anymore. I haven't thought about it in years. It's alright.” Dimitri said pulling away.

They finally made nice, after years they finally reunited. They talked for a while after that. Dee learned that they were all in a polyamorous relationship. He was surprised at first but it's not to weird anymore.

They all started hanging out together for a while. Dimitri learned that Logan is an astronomy professor, Roman is a small time actor, Patton owns a daycare, and Virgil fulfilled his childhood dream and opened a tattoo parlor.

They confessed to Dee that they all had a crush on him after a few months. Dee had developed a crush on all of them as well so the feelings were immediately reciprocated.

That leads us back to the present day.

~

He was just laying there lost in memories when he heard one of his boyfriends return. He heard Patton say “why is it so cold in here” and he heard him taking off his snow gear.

Patton then called out “Is anyone home?”. Dee called back “Back here” He called from the bedroom. He heard Patton walking back and snuggled deeper into the blankets.

“Hey there Dee.” “Hi Pat.” “Why is it so cold in here kiddo?” “The heating won't work.” “Why didn't you just light a fire?” “...” “Are you scared of fire?” “How’d you guess.”

He let out a surprised squeak as Patton picked him up, blankets and all, bridal style. Pat may be short but he is surprisingly strong. He carried Dee to the couch and started lighting a fire in the fireplace.

As Pat was lighting the fire Dee ordered some food from the nearest pizza place. After he finished ordering Roman came home.

“Hello my dears, Padre, Snek how are you both doing this fine afternoon?” Roman asked walking over and kissing them both. “Pretty good today kiddo.” Patton said happily. “Cold.” Dee said. “Well we can't have that now can we.” Roman said. He pulled off his snow gear and got under the blankets with Dee pulling him close. Dee snuggled into the warmth.

About 10 minutes later Logan came home. “Good evening my dears.” Logan said as he took off his snow gear. “Hey Lo” “Hey kiddo” “Hello Calculator Watch.” Logan walked over to the couch and kissed his boyfriends. “Great now we're just missing Virgil.” Patton said.

They all settled on the couch and started talking about their day.

Dimitri was home all day so not much to report. Patton had a half day at the daycare because of the snow. He is ecstatic because one of the LIU kids is greatly improving.

Roman's role as the Ghost of Christmas Past in a production of “A Christmas Carol” is going amazing.

Logan had a normal day at of classes. The day was cut short because of the weather.

They all discussed their days and cuddled while watching some random holiday movie.

(20 minutes later)

“Has anyone heard from Virgil? I'm trying to reach him but he's not picking up.” Patton said concern lacing how voice. “I'm sure the buses just got delayed because of the snow Patton.” Logan said. “Yes! I'm sure our emo nightmare will be home shortly.” Roman said boldly. Dimitri was worried, it's not like Virgil to be late and not at least send a text.

(40 minutes later)

Ok now everyone is worried. Virgil isn't picking up the phone and the snow is really coming down.

Patton decided to go and get Virgil's favourite patchwork jacket for him, for when he comes home. He audibly gasped from Virgil's room. He walked back to the living room hurriedly. He said that Virgil's snow gear except for his heavy jacket is still there.

Now everyone is extremely worried about Virgil. He doesn't have his snow gear in a blizzard, and he's not picking up the phone.

(50 minutes later)

Virgil walked into the house. He was covered in snow. His was shaking and his lips were blue. Everyone got up and ran to him.

“Virgil where have you been!? Oh my goodness your freezing!” Patton exclaimed.

“Yes Virgil, where have you been, you are almost an hour late.” Logan asked.

“S-s-sorry g-guys the bu-uses got s-shut down.” Virgil managed while shivering.

“Don't tell us that you seriously walked home in a blizzard without your snow gear. You should have called us. We would have picked you up” Dimitri said shaking his head.

“Yes why didn't you call J-Delightful? We were worried sick.” Roman said.

“I-im sorry. M-my phone d-died. A-and even if y-you w-wanted to p-pick me u-up you c-couldn't, the r-roads are all c-closed.” Virgil managed still shaking violently.

“It's alright kiddo you just scared us is all. Now let's get you out of these wet clothes and into something warm. And next time you go out your taking all of your snow gear.” Patton said starting to help Virgil out of his jacket.

After they had gotten Virgil out of the wet clothes and into something warmer they all curled up on the couch. They formed a cuddle pile to help warm up Virgil. They put on some Disney movie and one by one fell asleep. Dimitri was the last awake.

He sat up slowly as to not wake the others. He looked over the peacefully sleeping faces of his boyfriends. He smiled and wondered what he had done to deserve these four amazing people in his life.

He looked out the window. The snow had fallen multiple feet at this point. There was no way they were going into work the next day.

He laid back down. He looked over again and said quietly “I love you all so much”. He was really surprised when Virgil responded “We love you too. Now go to sleep”. He smiled and chuckled before relaxing and falling asleep warm and happy surrounded by the loves of his life.

[glassbonesandpaperskin33-blog]

Rant about community housing.

If you're a young mom in need of shelter that resides in the Vancouver WA/ Clark County area. Do NOT live at Vida's Ark. It's a Christian program run by Transitional Youth. Who are wonderful people by the way.

Unfortunately not everyone can be a good person. The House Mom, we'll call her Karen. ( Not her real name) who lives there is a conniving narcissists. The toxicity of this will probably haunt me for life.

I moved into the home in October 2017, I was 5.5 months pregnant at the time. The lease was up on my apartment and my baby daddy was slacking on finding a place for us to live. So my house nurse suggested me the place.

I took it as my last option and began to live there. I thought that I was only renting a room but turns out Karen had a list of rules which comes with a list of chores to do each day and all day. Including back breaking chores such as bending down to clean walls and lift heavy objects such as trash and laundry.

Again I was pregnant so I wasn't supposed lift or bend, especially in late trimester. Despite it all, I still did her list of chores. To be nagged at about resting and sleeping.

A few months fly by and she makes me walk miles and miles to places, bus stop to bus stop, in the winter. My legs hurt to the point where I can hardly walk and even sometimes fell. The doctor tells me to rest, Karen doesn't care. I'm still forced to do what she wants. I had nowhere else to live so I deal with it.

In April I give birth to my son. The delivery was hell. I was in labor for 3 days, I ended up with high blood pressure, high pulse rate and I tore. My son had a swollen nose and was breathing funny with that a swollen head. I spend a total of 5 days in the hospital. Came in on the 3rd to be induced, came home the 8th.

Once I got home, I was demanded to lift objects such as trash and clean her entire bathroom. If you've even given birth you know that you're not supposed to be active, especially the first week.

A few days later Karen has the nerve to tell me that I need to go back to work or sign up for college classes immediately and put my son in daycare. I confront her and say " I just spent most of the week in the hospital, the doctors told me to rest" she replies "well I think that was a little too extreme" I was honestly astounded by how much she did not care.

Nothing mattered to this woman aside from her clean house and her vacation time. If you crossed her in any way she ruined you. And it was horrifying.

My 16 year old roommate who was from the Foster Care system, refused to do her chores. So Karen called her caseworker, accusing her of neglecting her infant son. Nearly having her baby removed from her custody. None of this was true, I was with her the entire time. That very evening, she ran off and was never seen again.

A month later another girl Ariel ( Not her real name) moves in. This is where it goes to hell in a hand basket. And takes a turn for the worst.

At first Ariel seems ok. Until one day I get my son down for a nap, I go to the bathroom. Within a few minutes my son screams at the top of his lungs in pain. I hear footsteps running, I open the door and Ariel is hauling ass back into her room and slamms the door.

I rush back to my room to get my son who's still crying and comfort him, I check for marks and don't see any thankfully. I lock my door and never have my son out of my sight for the time being.

Being too afraid to report it, I keep silent. I don't let my son be touched or held by anyone and kept him in my range. Even with Karen nagging at me all the time for not putting the baby down.

A few weeks pass, Ariel and the other roomate go to camp. I find my EBT card missing from my purse. I report it to Karen, she tells me to call Fred Meyers customer service to see if I left it. I call, they don't have it.

Ariel comes home from camp and starts accusing me of stealing "her" cereal. Which was a box of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, I bought from WinCo that I've been eating out of for over a week.

Karen jumps to her side and tells me not to eat other people's food blah blah. I try to explain that it's actually mine, she doesn't listen. A few hours later Ariel's garlic bread goes missing. I'm the blame for eating it although I didn't touch it.

Karen's up my ass of course! And I tell her I think Ariel stole my card. She calls me a fool and that " Ariel doesn't steal" she tells me to clean out my room, I do so. The card is nowhere to be found.

I contact my father who was with me at the time when I used it. He confirms that he saw me put it back.

A few more weeks pass, this drama continues. Karen finally goes on vacation. Ariel finds her pasta half empty in the fridge with a Tupperware lid inside. Of course I'm accused of eating it although I didn't. We text Karen who's already in Southern Oregon if she took some she says "no".

Of course now I look like I'm pigging out on Ariel's food. I continue to tell her it was Karen. She doesn't believe me because Karen is vegan and doesn't eat meat. Now I look bad an am framed.

I become a total target of Karen and Ariel. Rumors are spread about me. Claiming I was talking shit about the other house mate, we'll call her Nora. She heard me talking on the phone to a friend earlier that day. It had nothing to do with Nora, she made it up on her own.

Of course I'm confronted about this lie Ariel is telling. I'm explain that it isn't true. And Ariel continues to bring up "her " cereal that I ate. I'm forced to apologize to Ariel about the stupid cereal and for accusing her of stealing my card in the group meeting we had. I receive no apology from Ariel for the rumor.

In September a $50.00 bag worth of clothes and shoes I haven't even used yet goes missing from my room. I report it to the case manager, we'll call her Charlotte. Charlotte goes through my room and finds nothing.

Ariel refuses to let anyone check her room, because Nora and I were blaming her. I was told I was being toxic and making accusations. 2 days later I find my bag in my file box that's a few inches high that's been sitting at the edge of my bed the entire time.

I tell Charlotte that I found my stuff, I look in the bag and one of my shirts are damp. I tell them that, I get shut out and get forced to apologize to Ariel. Hmm makes me wonder why Charlotte didn't notice the bag before.

And last but not least some of my food goes missing. No one believes me so I write " touch my food and you won't see daylight again" on a Mac and cheese box to prove she's doing it. Soon enough Ariel reports me for threatening her and no one wonders why she's been in my food in the first place.

While my point was proven. I get called a monster by Karen. I told her and Charlotte that I don't care, I'm tired of spending money so she can take things. They ignore me and tell me why I shouldn't threaten people blah blah blah.

I eventually tell Charlotte what happened that day when I saw Ariel run out of my room. She gives me an odd look and ask " was she comforting him?" I told her no he was asleep and I heard him screaming.

I know my son's cries. He's pretty loud but I've never heard him cry like that unless he gets his vaccinations or gets hurt in general. He was only 4.5 months old at the time and in a crib so he wasn't able to hurt himself. Plus he doesn't really cry unless he wants me.

It finally got on my nerves when I found my food destroyed in my cubby we had in the fridge. My eggs were crushed, unopened blueberries were dumped and my bacon was open. I asked Nora if her two year old son got into my fridge. She said no and that he didn't go near the fridge. Prior to that I told Karen and she said that it was most likely the toddler. I gave up, I couldn't take it.

Two days later Ariel puts a bowl of rotten strawberries in my cubby. I ask about it and she says "maybe you should've thrown it away" and then starts yelling at me about "her" food. I snap and say that I'll beat her ass.

Nora yells and says that she's gonna tell Charlotte and Karen and I'm gonna get kicked out. And yes I got kicked out! And I'm super relieved I did.

The reason why I'm writing this is because it's been 3 months and Karen continues to tell my house nurse that I'm "hearing voices" which isn't true. My nurse, I'll call her Deb evaluated me twice and she found nothing wrong.

She called and tried convince my older sister that I did this because I don't like Ariel and never have and that I need mental help. Then told my younger sister that I need to be on meds. No one bought her crap so she's still on my case. I blocked her from my phone and social media so she can't harass me so she goes through Deb.

Anyway, I know a lot of people including single moms struggle with housing. But Teen Parents/ Single Moms need support not to be treated as inadequate by a program leader.

[mypetshopworld]

How To Treat Dog Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety Symptoms

Humans аnd their реt dоgѕ ѕhаrе a unique bond. Thiѕ еxрlаinѕ whу dоgѕ are often rеfеrrеd tо аѕ man's bеѕt friеnd. Hоwеvеr, thаt bond соuld have ѕоmе drаwbасkѕ tо it, еѕресiаllу when thеѕе twо аrе physically away frоm еасh оthеr such thаt a common соnditiоn knоwn as dog ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу could dеvеlор.

Dogs, like us, are very social animals. They would naturally live in family groups and have ‘evolved’ alongside humans over thousands of years to ‘work’ with us and live as our companions. Most dogs would choose to spend the majority of their time in our company. Some might actually prefer the company of their own kind, but what is certain, is that being alone just doesn’t come naturally for most.  via Separation Anxiety in Dogs Alone at Home | Anxiety Symptoms and Treatment

How does Anxiety happen

But hоw dоеѕ аnxiеtу аnd dерrеѕѕiоn in уоur dоg hарреns?  Is it solely built оn thаt tight bоnd that еxiѕtѕ bеtwееn thе humаn аnd thеir реt аnimаl? The аbilitу tо undеrѕtаnd hоw this соnditiоn arises will еnаblе you tо dеtеrminе whаt the common symptoms are for proper diagnosis аnd immediate trеаtmеnt tо сurе dоg ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу.

What are the Pоѕѕiblе Cаuѕеѕ for Dog Separation Anxiety 

Currently, thеrе iѕ nоt one саuѕе thаt реt еxреrtѕ could point оut thаt соuld саuѕе dоgѕ tо еxреriеnсе dog ѕераrаtiоn anxiety. Some would ѕuggеѕt it hарреnѕ whenever thеrе iѕ a сhаngе in routine whеrеin аnу form оf change сrеаtеѕ аn unsettling ѕеnѕаtiоn оr соnfuѕiоn оn thе раrt of your dоg. This iѕ especially true if thе сhаngеѕ involved bеing рhуѕiсаllу ѕераrаtеd frоm thеm over a certain реriоd of timе, саuѕing thеm tо fееl anxious or diѕtrеѕѕеd. Another соmmоn explanation that would lеаd tо separation аnxiеtу in dоgѕ is the еxроѕurе tо traumatic еvеntѕ. The роѕѕibilitу of dеvеlорing аnxiеtу аnd stress iѕ increased whenever thеу undеrgо trаumа on thеir оwn. Finаllу, ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу could ѕimрlу result frоm оvеr-rеliаnсе of уоur dоg on itѕ mаѕtеr.

What are the Symptoms in dogs for separation anxiety

Thе first ѕtер to thе treatment iѕ tо idеntifу thе ѕуmрtоmѕ that indiсаtе уоur dog hаѕ ѕераrаtiоn anxiety. Knоwing whаt thе ѕуmрtоmѕ аrе will enable you to bеttеr understand уоur dоg'ѕ condition аnd mаkе thingѕ easier whеn dеаling with dоg ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу.

Bеlоw аrе ѕоmе оf thе tеll-tаlе signs уоu nееd tо bе еxtrеmеlу vigilаnt оf ѕuсh that уоu can рrоmрtlу аddrеѕѕ dоg ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу рrоblеmѕ in уоur dog: Soon as you leave your dog shows signs of distress. Be prepared as the worst is the first 15 minutes, at this time your dog becomes extremely upset. There might be all the physiological signs of fear be present. The heart rate and the dogs breathing will increase into panting, salivating, increased activities like the need to go to the toilet. But you will also see that your dog might scratch the doors, start chewing on the doorframes and the carpets, some dogs even jump onto windowsills to look for a way out. Watch out as your dog might try to follow you as you leave. Another symptom can be vocal like your dog will be barking, whining, or howling to persuade you to come back.  After this frantic time period, your dog might settle down chew something that you have recently used or touched as it still carries your smell. Often dogs will chew those scented items into tiny small pieces, and be curling up in that debris. It is a way of a barrier of your scent around your dog as a form of security.  When you return, your dog may become very excited. You might wonder why your dog is wet, but that comes from excess drinking due to stress or salivating. You might wonder why your dog is attempting to follow you around where ever you move around in the house. They might show anxious behaviours when you start making attempts to prepare to leave the house again. ( pacing, panting, etc.)

What can I do to help my puppy or my new dog to get over separation anxiety?

The best thing you can do if you got a puppy or a new dog teach them as early as possible.  Start with short periods of time being away and train them slowly to accept that they left alone without being distressed.   It also depends on you and your energy how you feel leaving your dog alone. Remember your dog can sense your mood and if you feel worried or stressed leaving your dog alone at home than your dog or puppy will feel the same and act accordingly. Do not make the mistake and put your dog or puppy each time you leave in a storage area or the kitchen, just because it is easier to clean up the mess afterwards. You want your dog feel comfortable and happy when you leave the house, for them to know it is ok being alone at home and left there for a couple of hours.  Dogs are very clever and they will associate that place then whenever you leave with you leaving the house. What means for your dog or puppy this place is associated with isolation. 

Preparing an area for your Dog or Puppy

Helping dogs get used being separated from their owner is a task the dog or puppy has to learn. Use the stair gates and put them between the room door. This way your dog or puppy learn to be alone but he can still smell and hear you. Make this area where your dog is then as comfortable as possible with food and water, a comfortable bed, a piece of cloth from you for the smell and some chewing toys. I trained my dogs with the radio in the background not too loud, low-level noise. It works each time and even today when I go out, I leave the radio or sometimes the TV on. You can also use the calming pheromones which can help your dog to relax. You can get them as a diffuser or as a collar and spray. Those accessories make the dog more relaxed. (Adaptil, Feliway, Thunder ease, ) The radio /TV also helps with the outside noise the dog or puppy will not jump or get scared with some unfamiliar sound from outside. The radio/TV is calming. Use a familiar program or radio station. 

You can find Adaptil collar, Adaptil Spray and Diffuser  click the link here

Train your dog or puppy

When you start you need to be consistent and do it at least for 21 days. After 21 days you will form a habit for yourself and the dog or puppy.  During the day randomly pop your dog behind the stair gate with a tasty treat or chew. Go out of that room and close the stair gate behind you and do things you would normally do.  Don't go too far away you should be within an eye and hear sight of your dog or puppy. Check on your dog and after 5 to 10 minutes open the stair gate and walk up to your dog or puppy and reward him. You want your dog or puppy to be relaxed and not throwing a fit.  In case your dog struggles with all of this you can make it easier for them by staying in the beginning in the room or area with them. Important that you do not interact with your puppy or dog. Just sit there quietly. Once they are used to the idea being in that room with you, make an attempt to start going out of that room for a few minutes. Do shut the stair gate.  Do this over a period of days, and slowly increase the time you are not there in the room with your dog and puppy. Build up that trust slowly and after 10 days you can go out of eye-sight and hear-sight for a couple of minutes to see how your dog or puppy is reacting.  You need to build that up graduate and increase the time daily up to 30 min while you are doing something else in the house. Soon as your dog or puppy is comfortable with this, start to get out of the house for a couple of minutes so that they get used to it slowly that there are alone in the house.   

Preparing an area for your dog or puppy to stay when you leave the house

       Step by step  Prepare the area as you normally would and follow the same routine as before. Once your dog is comfortable and tucking into something tasty, get yourself ready and leave the house.  Return after a few minutes (before your dog starts to become anxious). If your dog is comfortable with this length of time, fantastic! Repeat a few times over the course of the day. Gradually increase the time you leave your dog alone in the house for about half an hour over a period of days,  If your dog shows any sign of worry, take a few steps back and start from where they were last comfortable Some dogs will progress easily, but others may need more time to adjust, so take the steps very slowly. If you find your dog begins to look worried when you pick up your keys or put on your coat, then you will need to spend some time ‘desensitising’ your dog to these particular sounds. You can do this by regularly popping your dog in the area during the day as before and get them used to see and hear you pick up your keys, coat or bag. At this point, it’s important not to actually leave the house – just allow your dog to get used to these sights and sounds while they are relaxed and comfortable.   Once they look calm when they see or hear these things (this may take several days), then you can start again with actually leaving the house for short periods of time Keep greetings friendly, low-key and predictable on your return, even if you come home to find your dog has chewed something or toileted. It’s important to understand that punishment won’t help your dog – just go back a few steps and start again. via Separation Anxiety in Dogs Alone at Home | Anxiety Symptoms and Treatment Important:  Do not leave your dog or puppy alone for hours, before you do this you need to gradually build them up with the training. Make sure they been well exercised and had the opportunity to go to the toilet. Behaviour training and changes in the home environment are essential components in the effective treatment of separation anxiety.   

I tried all, and the training failed. My dog is restless when he is alone in the house. 

There is not much you can do unless you want to get a dog trainer to help you with your dog or puppy.  Other solutions are  Bring your dog to daycare or a friends home while you are at work or out of the house. Some workplaces allow you to bring your dog or puppy if you can bring him to work.  Exercise your dog or puppy daily. Exercise is very important to a dogs daily routine. I mean exercise not just walking around the blog for a toilet duty. Excercise does not cure separation anxiety but it helps to make your dog tired and get rid of some overactive energy.  Keep your dog entertained with a puzzle toy, that contains food or treats. The chewing and playing will occupy his time and calms its separation anxiety. This said, please note that this might help for dogs with mild separation anxiety, dogs with severe separation anxiety might have gastrointestinal side effects.  Crate Training, when done in a proper way, is helpful for a dog or puppy separation anxiety. It is important that your dog or puppy associates the crate as a happy, comfortable place to be while you are away.  If you are able than set up a camera in your home, this way you can monitor how your dog or puppy behaves during the time you are away. It does not help your dog with separation anxiety but it will help you with the behaviour training plan. Chillout natural dog treats are available in pet stores or for order online Sentry HC Good Behavior™ Pheromone Collar for Dogs

                           Dog anxiety products    

What is the "Why" that dogs are unsettled when left alone

Different reason and no one can pin it down to a cause. It can even develop over time in older dogs. Most of the common causes are The Dog has never been left alone when he was a puppy. The Dog or puppy is scared or worried either inside or outside the house. ( it might be the postman, or it might be a thunderstorm.) I know that as one of my dogs is afraid of thunderstorms and he would jump into my pocket if he could but he is too big. It is proven that dogs feel more vulnerable when they are on their own somehow they are more nervous and sensitive. ( if you have 2 dogs or pets it is easier)  Maybe the dog lost his Animal companion or another dog passed away. ( that develops in older dogs)  The dog might be bored. Especially if it is a breed that is very energetic, young and needs a lot of exercises.  It depends on the breed as some dogs have a history of being hunting dogs, working or sheepdogs. What factor adds than up is when the dog is not enough exercised than the dog still has energy left it will release it somehow. ( like chewing shoes, or table legs, raiding the rubbish bin, tearing up a paper and so on)  Rescue dogs who have been rehomed a couple of times they often struggle with being left alone, as it triggers a memory. Especially in the first few weeks while adapting from the kennel to a new home.   

  Do not make this mistake and punish your dog or puppy 

When you come home and you find that your house or apartment is a mess because your dog or puppy had a separation anxiety attack while you been away. It is understandable of being angry and frustrated. Maybe the neighbours complain all is adding up. Being upset and angry at your dog or puppy will not help it will make it actually worse. Dogs can sense when you are upset and angry and will display appeasement behaviour.  What is this you will ask now, their ears go flat, the dog will lower his body and the tail might go between his legs. Some will avoid looking at you with narrowing their eyes as if they would cringe.  Unfortunately, appeasement behaviour is often times misinterpreted by Dog owners as guilt, and they believe and think the dog or puppy knows what it has done wrong. Often dog owners do believe that the destruction of the house is done on purpose by the dog because of being left alone. The mistake any dog owner can do is than punish the dog in an attempt to avoid it the next time the dog is left alone.  Understanding your dog's behaviour is important and crucial to successful behaviour training.  Punishment will not stop the problem of separation anxiety it can even make it worse. Even if the dog owner shows and expresses to the dog the destruction the dog or puppy will not link it to the current moment. They are not able to make a connection to something that happens hours ago.  It will make the problem of separation anxiety worse in that way that now the dog starts now also to worry when the dog owner returns home.  Any dog that has a separation anxiety problem is best to consult a professional dog trainer. Not all anxiety problems in dogs are treated the same way, different breeds have different behaviours and act and react differently to certain actions and training.  Read our blogs  Essential Oils also help to calm down a dog with separation anxiety. Essential oils for cats and dogs Keeping a Dog healthy with the right food. How to potty train your puppy 

Conclusion

Dogs or puppies should never be left alone for too long on their own time. Pets get used to being alone and left alone for short periods when young and introduced to it in a proper way. The chances are that they will be likely more comfortable and relaxed when they grow up and being left alone for some part of the day. Start early with the training to introduce your dog or puppy to the circumstances of being left alone at home.  Until now there is no proven method of prevention of forming the separation anxiety in dogs or puppies. One of the best tips I can give you is start as early as possible to encourage your dog to develop independent behaviour. A great way to socialise your dog is to let him play with other dogs in the park or visit dog parks. It is so much easier to handle an independent dog than a dog who sticks like velcro to you.  Let him relax in his crate or bed alone, or if he plays with a toy alone do not interfere, let him become independent. This is a very important step. It doesn't matter how cute he looks and plays give him the space to play on his own.  Do seek professional help when you see signs of separation anxiety in your dog. It is better to get as early as possible professional help.  You can always contact your veterinarian for help and advise on separation anxiety in dogs or contact a professional behavioural Trainer.  I like to give you one more advise, a dog is a pet, sometimes we forget that we are dealing with a pet. We love our pets dearly and sometimes we do not mean harm but treating a dog or puppy like a human will cause behaviour problems like separation anxiety, aggression toward visitors, etc.  Training from a young age on or from the start when you adopt an older dog is the best method to counteract separation anxiety in dogs.  Do you have a dog or puppy what had or has separation anxiety? Please share with us your experience and how did you treat your dogs separating anxiety problem.  Love to hear from you. Please leave your comment below  all yours  Melanie  mypetshopworld.com Please visit our store for new arrivals    Read the full article

[apsbicepstraining]

I Run Into A Sensory Deprivation Tank, And I Eventually Learned How To Make Run

Sensory deprivation events are kind of a brand-new thought around where I’m from. So, when I discovered mutters of such a business in our nearby metropoli, I was intrigued. If this is new concept to you, these spa-like cod allow you to swim in highly concentrated Epsom salt water heated to scalp temperature.

The idea is, you hang out for a while( my session was 90 times) in the enclosed, sensory-deprived surrounding that restraint noise, ignite, gesture and temperature changes, and you soak in the magnesium-rich elixir of relaxation.

I’ve tried to enjoy traditional relaxation spa therapies( massages, manis, pedis, facials ), but I’ve never been able to completely relaxes to get the full accomplish. I don’t find it tightening to have a stranger stroke me while I’m in a foreign milieu, and I’m simply wearing a membrane or spa attire. Being alone for a sensory-deprived know-how sounded much safer and relaxing.

I’m too a highly sensitive being( HSP ). The short and simple-minded rationale is that I take in a lot of information from my surrounds and process it more deep than the average person, which takes more day and energy.

It often leads to a buildup of awareness and ardours that I haven’t given an opportunity to process, forming tension buildup, stress, feeling and overall further deterioration of my functional economy. To be able to turn off the world and retreat into a safe, dark, quiet region sounded like the ultimate loosening experience.

My fitness regime had been knocking my as lately, and with the increasing number of vigour attained some sore muscles and lactic battery-acid buildup. I was still walking around with what felt like razor blades in my hamstrings from a leg workout I did three days prior. I was familiar with using Epsom salts in the tub at home to help alleviate absces muscles, but never in the concentrations these move tanks offered.

As I testified up for my appointment at the swim spa, the flavor was already a accepted succour in its striking distinguish from the mid-day downtown cacophony of commerce, interpretation and all other generally unsettling sights, sounds and fragrances. As I strolled in the door, I observed the lamps were dimmed, loose-leaf tea and liquid were setinvitingly beside theseating. I was was welcomed by different kinds young lady( the only person I encountered within the establishment) who innovated me to the sensory deprivation swim cistern experience.

My private area had been prepared just for me with my refer on the door, and it was pleasantly warm as I stepped in. The chamber lived the big-hearted spa husk, a reces rain and a dressing station. I put in earplugs, stripped down, showered and removed my makeup. It was reassuring how such prep task was encouraged to ensure the filtered and treated tank water stood as clean as possible.

Then, it was time to start the session. As I started on my inaugural sensory deprivation float, here are the five distinct mental and physiological stagecoaches I suffered duringthe 90 -minute session TAGEND

1. Adjustment

Whoa, this is so weird. The irrigate had an oily character to it due to the hundreds of pounds of dissolved salt. I comfortably stepped into the shoal, lukewarm liquid, and I closed the door with alone a moment’s compunction. Shorty after the motion-sensing brightness shut off outside the cod, the interior of the spa proceeded dark.

As I lay back, I swam. It was so weird. I tried to breathe calmly, relax my muscles and reassure my brain that I wasn’t going to drown. It was unnatural at first, and I withstood the recommend to play with the strangewater.

2. Focus

After pressuring myself to stay still, I knew I was going to be OK. Then, it was time to try to stop gues. Instead of thinking about my grocery list, what my son was doing at daycare and what was for supper, I revolved my mental gaze inward. What was going on with me?

I could sounds my heartbeat. I could hear my tummy sounds resemble through the ocean. I could detect the water chassis my face. The extremity detected nearly imperceptible if I retained still. I braked my breathing.

This is actually pretty cool. I’m swimming in a container. Yes , now sharpen. Relax. You’re going to get OK, I thought.

3. Decompression

As I became more tighten and acclimated to the hotshots( or shortage thereof ), I began to feel a pull through my cervix and backbone. From the basi of my heading swimming in the ocean to the weightlessness of my torso, the gathering hotshot felt like a welcomed stretch at first. But as I continued to consciously stay relaxed, the drawing wizard throughout my backbone intensified.

It was like the feels-so-good-but-kind-of-uncomfortable decompression wizard you knowledge from massage rehabilitation and chiropractic hearings. It took more effort to remain relax as a waving of a mild tension headache and nausea creeped up. Again, these symptoms were comparable to my experiences with a chiropractor and a masseuse. I hoped it would legislate, and I breathed.

Pop . It startled me from my trance-like situate, and my form wiggled like a fish in the liquid ruffles. Weird. I didn’t expect my neck to pop. Relax. Reset. Try again. Pop, daddy, pa .

Really? My vertebrae cracked between six to 10 eras throughout the session. Earnestly, how compressed was my sticker? As my cervix and back unzipped, it find mildly and temporarily unpleasant, but the relief that followed felt glorious.

4. Melting Away

Once my back had finished popping and decompressing, my mild inconvenience faded, and I could float undisturbed. I couldn’t tell where my skin purposed and water embarked. Did I even have legs anymore? It felt good. It find so good.

It was so quiet. I recognized the darkness. The post-spinal freeing had my endorphins flowing. I began to move, and I didn’t are concerned about where my thoughts and state of loosening would take me. My gazes shut. Facial muscles I didn’t know I had let go of the last threads of tension.

5. Relaxation

I’m reasonably stunned to add I was actually able to reach a commonwealth of loosening. It was a duration of slow, deep, inward self-reflection without press to do, add or reckon anything. I didn’t have anything to worry about.

My last-place conscious thingI can recall places great importance on was a recognize on my forehead. It’s a practice I’ve procured facilitates me float into deep loosening and sleep. Some might call the expanse the third eye, and scientists refer to it as the pineal gland, which is known for producing melatonin( sleep hormone ). After taking a deep, slow breath, I don’t recall much beyond that.

It was glorious. I lastly shut off.It wasn’t long before a gentle blue light and soft music awakened my senses again and my conference was over. Already? Ninetyminutes felt like 30.

As I gradually reacquainted myself with my limbs, showered and dressed, I discovered my muscle annoyance had decreased significantly. If I had to employed a number to it, 70 percent of the exercise-related muscle hurting was extend. Mentally and physiologically I appeared open, lighter, taller, clearer and refreshed.

As I padded down the hallway back towards the figurehead table, the manner noblewoman wished to know how I was and offered tea. I could scarcely pronounce, but I had smile on my look. I sat, sighed and sipped in the post-sensory-deprivation glow.

Would I recommend the experience? Absolutely.Will everyone have the same know as me? Likely not.It’s my understanding that the sensory deprivation ordeal in a swim cod can be as unique as the people who use them. I can imagine that with additional periods, I might be able to reach a nation of relaxation more quickly or have a completely different know altogether.

Whatever your goal may be for trying a sensory deprivation swim, it may require some rehearse of physical and mental power to be achieved. Whether it’s loosening, connecting with your inner self, developing theta brain wave, magnesium absorption, decompression or sting succor, the sensory destitution cistern helps you along the way by providing the ideal smothers to do so.

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[fesahaawit]

How We’re Reaching Financial Freedom On One Income – Mom’s Income.

[Hey guys! Liz, the Chief Mom Officer stops by the blog today to share her journey to financial freedom as the sole breadwinner of her family of 5. If you don’t feel empowered after reading this, I’m shutting down the blog!! (Okay, no I won’t, but I will wonder what’s wrong with you… ;)) Enjoy!]

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Many people think it’s impossible for a family to just live on one income nowadays. In fact, 60% of families are dual income, with both mom and dad working outside the home, while back in 1960, 70% of families had only the dad working outside the home.

My family is different – we’re in the 6% of families where only the mom works outside the house. And we’re not just living on one income. No, we’re on FIRE in a big way, saving and investing more than half my income and working toward financial independence in my early 40’s.

We’re a “traditional” family, but in reverse. I’m the breadwinner who heads to work in corporate IT while my husband stays home caring for the kids, cooking, cleaning, and running errands :) I support my family of five humans – me, my husband, and three boys ages 13, 9, and 2 – the dog, and the cat.

How did we end up like this? How do you pursue FIRE on one mom’s income? Let me show you…

How It Happened

When my husband and I first got married over 15 years ago, we were both blissfully ignorant and naive.  I fully expected we would both work forever and earn roughly the same amount. I was 21 years old working full time in a call center, putting myself through full-time college debt free, and my husband worked full time in a factory. We didn’t make a lot – roughly $25k each – but it was enough to get us by.

Our oldest son was born a few years later, and I had gotten a better job paying $35k per year in corporate IT. We originally shopped around for daycares, but had to look at different paths once we realized we couldn’t afford it on our salaries. At first, my husband switched to the third shift at the factory, but that took a huge physical toll on him (working overnight is rough!). I then got a decent raise at work, and we calculated that my husband could leave the factory job and take a well-paying part time night/weekend gig turning apartments into condos. So he did, but after a year and a half the work dried up and he went back to the factory to work the second shift (evenings instead of overnight).

I would work 6 AM until 3 PM, come home, then my husband would immediately go to work from 4 PM – 12:30 AM. We saved and invested for retirement and college, eventually selling our condo and buying a house.  Our middle son was then born in 2007, and we were getting by OK. The downside of this schedule, of course, is only seeing each other on the weekends. Life continued on this path for a few years until the Great Recession.

Then things became difficult. My husband’s factory closed down, and factory work where we live was impossible to find. We didn’t know it then, but my husband would never work another full time job again. Although the job loss wasn’t ideal, we were able to figure things out.  I was in an MBA program and could go to classes on nights and weekends while working full time, and we still managed to pay our bills while saving and investing. Though it was definitely a struggle, and at times we took on some debt.

Finding a job in the depths of the Great Recession that would (1) allow us to continue having someone at home all the time or (2) pay enough to cover daycare expenses proved impossible.

Then, the unthinkable happened. When my husband was 37, five years ago, he almost died of septic shock.

Overnight, his unemployment evaporated. Working became impossible. It took about four months for him to recover enough drive a car, let alone care for our boys again, so we pulled the youngest out of preschool and enrolled him into daycare full-time. We stopped all savings and investments, and had to get by on less income to free up more money to pay for the extra $1k/month in daycare costs, plus all the new medical expenses now.

That event was our financial turning point. It was then that I realized we could live just fine on my income, and eventually thrive off it. We figured out how to cut all expenses to the bone, eventually getting used to – and enjoying! – our new normal.

Debt, even “good” debt or “small” debt, kills you when things go wrong. I had vowed to get rid of all our debt and achieve financial freedom once and for all. I got extremely aggressive about freeing up cash flow, and within 18 months we terminated the remaining $33k from our car and MBA loans.

That was three and a half years ago now, and ever since we’ve lived on only my income. We use more than half of it to save, invest, and pay down our mortgage. My financial goals now are to be mortgage free by the end of 2019, fully fund my three boys college compact, and achieve financial independence in my early 40’s.

How We Thrive On Mom’s Income

In my real life, I don’t know any other moms that work full time supporting their family while their husband is a stay at home dad. And I don’t know anyone for that matter who’s pursuing FIRE, even on two incomes, and especially not people saving/investing over half their incomes.

Here are five keys on how we’re able to do it:

#1. Artificial Environment of Economic Scarcity

I don’t budget (gasp! Horror!) except when I was aggressively paying down debt. Instead, I automatically save and invest to reach my financial goals, and then I spend the rest on whatever’s needed for the month.

Dr. Thomas Stanley in The Millionaire Next Door refers to it as creating an “artificial environment of economic scarcity.” Since I don’t have money in my checking account, it’s not there to spend. I took out a 15-year mortgage specifically to force myself into higher payments. I automatically save/invest for college, retirement, and mortgage freedom. And then I only spend what’s left over after I’ve put aside what I need for my goals.

#2. Income Inflation, and Lifestyle Deflation

Back in crisis mode, I deflated our lifestyle while increasing our income. As they say in the London Underground, “Mind the Gap” – I take that to be the gap between income and spending.

During our financial turning point, I eliminated tons of expenses that have never returned to our life. We sold things, ended subscriptions, lowered our fixed costs, and have kept them low. I happily pay $4 for my Ooma phone instead of the $50 I was paying before, and then $25 for Netflix and HBO subscriptions instead of whatever ridiculous amount cable costs nowadays. I shop at warehouse clubs for all our groceries and household goods, and shop around for car and home insurance every year. We go on camping vacations and road trips and have a blast – no expensive day trips or vacations.  While my coworkers shop for second homes, we go to the park to play.

As for the income inflation side? Well, I finished that MBA about four years ago, and combined with my career strategy, my income has increased by over $40k since. Now over half of every dollar I earn goes straight to buying freedom. I’m no longer willing to work for “stuff” – I work for myself and my family.

#3. Frugal Fun

My co-workers on two incomes have new homes, second homes, new cars, expensive vacations, home remodels, expensive weekend trips, and so on. We live in the house we bought 11 years ago when we only had one kid (we’re now up to three).

We do fun things like spending $11 on day trips (thanks to Groupon, used book stores, and free museums), go to free hot air balloon festivals with homemade muffins, and we even host “Chopped Championships” with food we have around the house. The library is our friend, giving us free books, movies, and even a 3D printer! Free and nearly free activities consume our spare time, and we have inexpensive hobbies. Think kids need to be expensive? They’re only as expensive as you let them be.

#4. Not Caring What Others Think

People may find our lifestyle weird, strange even. A married couple with three kids living on mom’s income while dad stays home? Pretty rare. On top of that, living well below your means results in living very differently than folks used to the lifestyle inflation that two incomes typically bring. I don’t really care what other people think of our family arrangement, though, nor our frugal life or pursuit of FIRE. We’re doing what works for us!

#5. Crystal Clear Priorities

There’s nothing like a near death experience to clarify the priorities in your life.  Buying stuff? Going into debt for a car? Using raises and bonuses to go on fancy vacations or second homes?

Hell no.

Using money to buy mortgage freedom, college funding, and financial independence?

Hell yes.

Moms On FIRE

I started my site specifically to cater to other moms like myself – interested in personal finance and investing, financial independence, family breadwinners, and/or high income earners.

I’ve been fortunate to meet other amazing moms, virtually, who are also the breadwinners of their households in all kinds of different ways. Some are the higher income earners of a two-income family, others go to work while their spouse stays at home, women millionaires, moms working to support their family and their own parents at the same time, and women interested in all the fun details of personal finance and investing (and not so much in extreme couponing).

We may still be uncommon, but we’re a growing force in the world.

To other women out there, I say this: whether you’re the breadwinner, earning a high income, a single mom, in debt, a millionaire, or anything else – you too can set yourself on FIRE!

Whatever’s happened in your life, you can overcome it and achieve your wildest dreams. Get clear on your priorities, stop caring what others think, and live your life the way you want!

****** Liz writes over at Chief Mom Officer, a site dedicated to helping other moms with money, work, and frugal family life. Every Wednesday she publishes a new interview with a breadwinning, six figure, and/or millionaire mom. Connect with her over on Twitter or Instagram!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Speaking of FIRE, check out this in-depth article on the originals of the FIRE movement. It spans over 800 years, did you know that??? (For those new to the scene, FIRE = Financial independence, Retire Early)

How We’re Reaching Financial Freedom On One Income – Mom’s Income. posted first on http://ift.tt/2lnwIdQ

[heliosfinance]

How We’re Reaching Financial Freedom On One Income – Mom’s Income.

[Hey guys! Liz, the Chief Mom Officer stops by the blog today to share her journey to financial freedom as the sole breadwinner of her family of 5. If you don’t feel empowered after reading this, I’m shutting down the blog!! (Okay, no I won’t, but I will wonder what’s wrong with you… ;)) Enjoy!]

******

Many people think it’s impossible for a family to just live on one income nowadays. In fact, 60% of families are dual income, with both mom and dad working outside the home, while back in 1960, 70% of families had only the dad working outside the home.

My family is different – we’re in the 6% of families where only the mom works outside the house. And we’re not just living on one income. No, we’re on FIRE in a big way, saving and investing more than half my income and working toward financial independence in my early 40’s.

We’re a “traditional” family, but in reverse. I’m the breadwinner who heads to work in corporate IT while my husband stays home caring for the kids, cooking, cleaning, and running errands :) I support my family of five humans – me, my husband, and three boys ages 13, 9, and 2 – the dog, and the cat.

How did we end up like this? How do you pursue FIRE on one mom’s income? Let me show you…

How It Happened

When my husband and I first got married over 15 years ago, we were both blissfully ignorant and naive.  I fully expected we would both work forever and earn roughly the same amount. I was 21 years old working full time in a call center, putting myself through full-time college debt free, and my husband worked full time in a factory. We didn’t make a lot – roughly $25k each – but it was enough to get us by.

Our oldest son was born a few years later, and I had gotten a better job paying $35k per year in corporate IT. We originally shopped around for daycares, but had to look at different paths once we realized we couldn’t afford it on our salaries. At first, my husband switched to the third shift at the factory, but that took a huge physical toll on him (working overnight is rough!). I then got a decent raise at work, and we calculated that my husband could leave the factory job and take a well-paying part time night/weekend gig turning apartments into condos. So he did, but after a year and a half the work dried up and he went back to the factory to work the second shift (evenings instead of overnight).

I would work 6 AM until 3 PM, come home, then my husband would immediately go to work from 4 PM – 12:30 AM. We saved and invested for retirement and college, eventually selling our condo and buying a house.  Our middle son was then born in 2007, and we were getting by OK. The downside of this schedule, of course, is only seeing each other on the weekends. Life continued on this path for a few years until the Great Recession.

Then things became difficult. My husband’s factory closed down, and factory work where we live was impossible to find. We didn’t know it then, but my husband would never work another full time job again. Although the job loss wasn’t ideal, we were able to figure things out.  I was in an MBA program and could go to classes on nights and weekends while working full time, and we still managed to pay our bills while saving and investing. Though it was definitely a struggle, and at times we took on some debt.

Finding a job in the depths of the Great Recession that would (1) allow us to continue having someone at home all the time or (2) pay enough to cover daycare expenses proved impossible.

Then, the unthinkable happened. When my husband was 37, five years ago, he almost died of septic shock.

Overnight, his unemployment evaporated. Working became impossible. It took about four months for him to recover enough drive a car, let alone care for our boys again, so we pulled the youngest out of preschool and enrolled him into daycare full-time. We stopped all savings and investments, and had to get by on less income to free up more money to pay for the extra $1k/month in daycare costs, plus all the new medical expenses now.

That event was our financial turning point. It was then that I realized we could live just fine on my income, and eventually thrive off it. We figured out how to cut all expenses to the bone, eventually getting used to – and enjoying! – our new normal.

Debt, even “good” debt or “small” debt, kills you when things go wrong. I had vowed to get rid of all our debt and achieve financial freedom once and for all. I got extremely aggressive about freeing up cash flow, and within 18 months we terminated the remaining $33k from our car and MBA loans.

That was three and a half years ago now, and ever since we’ve lived on only my income. We use more than half of it to save, invest, and pay down our mortgage. My financial goals now are to be mortgage free by the end of 2019, fully fund my three boys college compact, and achieve financial independence in my early 40’s.

How We Thrive On Mom’s Income

In my real life, I don’t know any other moms that work full time supporting their family while their husband is a stay at home dad. And I don’t know anyone for that matter who’s pursuing FIRE, even on two incomes, and especially not people saving/investing over half their incomes.

Here are five keys on how we’re able to do it:

#1. Artificial Environment of Economic Scarcity

I don’t budget (gasp! Horror!) except when I was aggressively paying down debt. Instead, I automatically save and invest to reach my financial goals, and then I spend the rest on whatever’s needed for the month.

Dr. Thomas Stanley in The Millionaire Next Door refers to it as creating an “artificial environment of economic scarcity.” Since I don’t have money in my checking account, it’s not there to spend. I took out a 15-year mortgage specifically to force myself into higher payments. I automatically save/invest for college, retirement, and mortgage freedom. And then I only spend what’s left over after I’ve put aside what I need for my goals.

#2. Income Inflation, and Lifestyle Deflation

Back in crisis mode, I deflated our lifestyle while increasing our income. As they say in the London Underground, “Mind the Gap” – I take that to be the gap between income and spending.

During our financial turning point, I eliminated tons of expenses that have never returned to our life. We sold things, ended subscriptions, lowered our fixed costs, and have kept them low. I happily pay $4 for my Ooma phone instead of the $50 I was paying before, and then $25 for Netflix and HBO subscriptions instead of whatever ridiculous amount cable costs nowadays. I shop at warehouse clubs for all our groceries and household goods, and shop around for car and home insurance every year. We go on camping vacations and road trips and have a blast – no expensive day trips or vacations.  While my coworkers shop for second homes, we go to the park to play.

As for the income inflation side? Well, I finished that MBA about four years ago, and combined with my career strategy, my income has increased by over $40k since. Now over half of every dollar I earn goes straight to buying freedom. I’m no longer willing to work for “stuff” – I work for myself and my family.

#3. Frugal Fun

My co-workers on two incomes have new homes, second homes, new cars, expensive vacations, home remodels, expensive weekend trips, and so on. We live in the house we bought 11 years ago when we only had one kid (we’re now up to three).

We do fun things like spending $11 on day trips (thanks to Groupon, used book stores, and free museums), go to free hot air balloon festivals with homemade muffins, and we even host “Chopped Championships” with food we have around the house. The library is our friend, giving us free books, movies, and even a 3D printer! Free and nearly free activities consume our spare time, and we have inexpensive hobbies. Think kids need to be expensive? They’re only as expensive as you let them be.

#4. Not Caring What Others Think

People may find our lifestyle weird, strange even. A married couple with three kids living on mom’s income while dad stays home? Pretty rare. On top of that, living well below your means results in living very differently than folks used to the lifestyle inflation that two incomes typically bring. I don’t really care what other people think of our family arrangement, though, nor our frugal life or pursuit of FIRE. We’re doing what works for us!

#5. Crystal Clear Priorities

There’s nothing like a near death experience to clarify the priorities in your life.  Buying stuff? Going into debt for a car? Using raises and bonuses to go on fancy vacations or second homes?

Hell no.

Using money to buy mortgage freedom, college funding, and financial independence?

Hell yes.

Moms On FIRE

I started my site specifically to cater to other moms like myself – interested in personal finance and investing, financial independence, family breadwinners, and/or high income earners.

I’ve been fortunate to meet other amazing moms, virtually, who are also the breadwinners of their households in all kinds of different ways. Some are the higher income earners of a two-income family, others go to work while their spouse stays at home, women millionaires, moms working to support their family and their own parents at the same time, and women interested in all the fun details of personal finance and investing (and not so much in extreme couponing).

We may still be uncommon, but we’re a growing force in the world.

To other women out there, I say this: whether you’re the breadwinner, earning a high income, a single mom, in debt, a millionaire, or anything else – you too can set yourself on FIRE!

Whatever’s happened in your life, you can overcome it and achieve your wildest dreams. Get clear on your priorities, stop caring what others think, and live your life the way you want!

****** Liz writes over at Chief Mom Officer, a site dedicated to helping other moms with money, work, and frugal family life. Every Wednesday she publishes a new interview with a breadwinning, six figure, and/or millionaire mom. Connect with her over on Twitter or Instagram!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Speaking of FIRE, check out this in-depth article on the originals of the FIRE movement. It spans over 800 years, did you know that??? (For those new to the scene, FIRE = Financial independence, Retire Early)

How We’re Reaching Financial Freedom On One Income – Mom’s Income. published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

[mypetshopworld]

How To Treat Dog Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety Symptoms

Humans аnd their реt dоgѕ ѕhаrе a unique bond. Thiѕ еxрlаinѕ whу dоgѕ are often rеfеrrеd tо аѕ man's bеѕt friеnd. Hоwеvеr, thаt bond соuld have ѕоmе drаwbасkѕ tо it, еѕресiаllу when thеѕе twо аrе physically away frоm еасh оthеr such thаt a common соnditiоn knоwn as dog ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу could dеvеlор.

Dogs, like us, are very social animals. They would naturally live in family groups and have ‘evolved’ alongside humans over thousands of years to ‘work’ with us and live as our companions. Most dogs would choose to spend the majority of their time in our company. Some might actually prefer the company of their own kind, but what is certain, is that being alone just doesn’t come naturally for most.  via Separation Anxiety in Dogs Alone at Home | Anxiety Symptoms and Treatment

How does Anxiety happen

But hоw dоеѕ аnxiеtу аnd dерrеѕѕiоn in уоur dоg hарреns?  Is it solely built оn thаt tight bоnd that еxiѕtѕ bеtwееn thе humаn аnd thеir реt аnimаl? The аbilitу tо undеrѕtаnd hоw this соnditiоn arises will еnаblе you tо dеtеrminе whаt the common symptoms are for proper diagnosis аnd immediate trеаtmеnt tо сurе dоg ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу.

What are the Pоѕѕiblе Cаuѕеѕ for Dog Separation Anxiety 

Currently, thеrе iѕ nоt one саuѕе thаt реt еxреrtѕ could point оut thаt соuld саuѕе dоgѕ tо еxреriеnсе dog ѕераrаtiоn anxiety. Some would ѕuggеѕt it hарреnѕ whenever thеrе iѕ a сhаngе in routine whеrеin аnу form оf change сrеаtеѕ аn unsettling ѕеnѕаtiоn оr соnfuѕiоn оn thе раrt of your dоg. This iѕ especially true if thе сhаngеѕ involved bеing рhуѕiсаllу ѕераrаtеd frоm thеm over a certain реriоd of timе, саuѕing thеm tо fееl anxious or diѕtrеѕѕеd. Another соmmоn explanation that would lеаd tо separation аnxiеtу in dоgѕ is the еxроѕurе tо traumatic еvеntѕ. The роѕѕibilitу of dеvеlорing аnxiеtу аnd stress iѕ increased whenever thеу undеrgо trаumа on thеir оwn. Finаllу, ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу could ѕimрlу result frоm оvеr-rеliаnсе of уоur dоg on itѕ mаѕtеr.

What are the Symptoms in dogs for separation anxiety

Thе first ѕtер to thе treatment iѕ tо idеntifу thе ѕуmрtоmѕ that indiсаtе уоur dog hаѕ ѕераrаtiоn anxiety. Knоwing whаt thе ѕуmрtоmѕ аrе will enable you to bеttеr understand уоur dоg'ѕ condition аnd mаkе thingѕ easier whеn dеаling with dоg ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу.

Bеlоw аrе ѕоmе оf thе tеll-tаlе signs уоu nееd tо bе еxtrеmеlу vigilаnt оf ѕuсh that уоu can рrоmрtlу аddrеѕѕ dоg ѕераrаtiоn аnxiеtу рrоblеmѕ in уоur dog: Soon as you leave your dog shows signs of distress. Be prepared as the worst is the first 15 minutes, at this time your dog becomes extremely upset. There might be all the physiological signs of fear be present. The heart rate and the dogs breathing will increase into panting, salivating, increased activities like the need to go to the toilet. But you will also see that your dog might scratch the doors, start chewing on the doorframes and the carpets, some dogs even jump onto windowsills to look for a way out. Watch out as your dog might try to follow you as you leave. Another symptom can be vocal like your dog will be barking, whining, or howling to persuade you to come back.  After this frantic time period, your dog might settle down chew something that you have recently used or touched as it still carries your smell. Often dogs will chew those scented items into tiny small pieces, and be curling up in that debris. It is a way of a barrier of your scent around your dog as a form of security.  When you return, your dog may become very excited. You might wonder why your dog is wet, but that comes from excess drinking due to stress or salivating. You might wonder why your dog is attempting to follow you around where ever you move around in the house. They might show anxious behaviours when you start making attempts to prepare to leave the house again. ( pacing, panting, etc.)

What can I do to help my puppy or my new dog to get over separation anxiety?

The best thing you can do if you got a puppy or a new dog teach them as early as possible.  Start with short periods of time being away and train them slowly to accept that they left alone without being distressed.   It also depends on you and your energy how you feel leaving your dog alone. Remember your dog can sense your mood and if you feel worried or stressed leaving your dog alone at home than your dog or puppy will feel the same and act accordingly. Do not make the mistake and put your dog or puppy each time you leave in a storage area or the kitchen, just because it is easier to clean up the mess afterwards. You want your dog feel comfortable and happy when you leave the house, for them to know it is ok being alone at home and left there for a couple of hours.  Dogs are very clever and they will associate that place then whenever you leave with you leaving the house. What means for your dog or puppy this place is associated with isolation. 

Preparing an area for your Dog or Puppy

Helping dogs get used being separated from their owner is a task the dog or puppy has to learn. Use the stair gates and put them between the room door. This way your dog or puppy learn to be alone but he can still smell and hear you. Make this area where your dog is then as comfortable as possible with food and water, a comfortable bed, a piece of cloth from you for the smell and some chewing toys. I trained my dogs with the radio in the background not too loud, low-level noise. It works each time and even today when I go out, I leave the radio or sometimes the TV on. You can also use the calming pheromones which can help your dog to relax. You can get them as a diffuser or as a collar and spray. Those accessories make the dog more relaxed. (Adaptil, Feliway, Thunder ease, ) The radio /TV also helps with the outside noise the dog or puppy will not jump or get scared with some unfamiliar sound from outside. The radio/TV is calming. Use a familiar program or radio station. 

You can find Adaptil collar, Adaptil Spray and Diffuser  click the link here

Train your dog or puppy

When you start you need to be consistent and do it at least for 21 days. After 21 days you will form a habit for yourself and the dog or puppy.  During the day randomly pop your dog behind the stair gate with a tasty treat or chew. Go out of that room and close the stair gate behind you and do things you would normally do.  Don't go too far away you should be within an eye and hear sight of your dog or puppy. Check on your dog and after 5 to 10 minutes open the stair gate and walk up to your dog or puppy and reward him. You want your dog or puppy to be relaxed and not throwing a fit.  In case your dog struggles with all of this you can make it easier for them by staying in the beginning in the room or area with them. Important that you do not interact with your puppy or dog. Just sit there quietly. Once they are used to the idea being in that room with you, make an attempt to start going out of that room for a few minutes. Do shut the stair gate.  Do this over a period of days, and slowly increase the time you are not there in the room with your dog and puppy. Build up that trust slowly and after 10 days you can go out of eye-sight and hear-sight for a couple of minutes to see how your dog or puppy is reacting.  You need to build that up graduate and increase the time daily up to 30 min while you are doing something else in the house. Soon as your dog or puppy is comfortable with this, start to get out of the house for a couple of minutes so that they get used to it slowly that there are alone in the house.   

Preparing an area for your dog or puppy to stay when you leave the house

       Step by step  Prepare the area as you normally would and follow the same routine as before. Once your dog is comfortable and tucking into something tasty, get yourself ready and leave the house.  Return after a few minutes (before your dog starts to become anxious). If your dog is comfortable with this length of time, fantastic! Repeat a few times over the course of the day. Gradually increase the time you leave your dog alone in the house for about half an hour over a period of days,  If your dog shows any sign of worry, take a few steps back and start from where they were last comfortable Some dogs will progress easily, but others may need more time to adjust, so take the steps very slowly. If you find your dog begins to look worried when you pick up your keys or put on your coat, then you will need to spend some time ‘desensitising’ your dog to these particular sounds. You can do this by regularly popping your dog in the area during the day as before and get them used to see and hear you pick up your keys, coat or bag. At this point, it’s important not to actually leave the house – just allow your dog to get used to these sights and sounds while they are relaxed and comfortable.   Once they look calm when they see or hear these things (this may take several days), then you can start again with actually leaving the house for short periods of time Keep greetings friendly, low-key and predictable on your return, even if you come home to find your dog has chewed something or toileted. It’s important to understand that punishment won’t help your dog – just go back a few steps and start again. via Separation Anxiety in Dogs Alone at Home | Anxiety Symptoms and Treatment Important:  Do not leave your dog or puppy alone for hours, before you do this you need to gradually build them up with the training. Make sure they been well exercised and had the opportunity to go to the toilet. Behaviour training and changes in the home environment are essential components in the effective treatment of separation anxiety.   

I tried all, and the training failed. My dog is restless when he is alone in the house. 

There is not much you can do unless you want to get a dog trainer to help you with your dog or puppy.  Other solutions are  Bring your dog to daycare or a friends home while you are at work or out of the house. Some workplaces allow you to bring your dog or puppy if you can bring him to work.  Exercise your dog or puppy daily. Exercise is very important to a dogs daily routine. I mean exercise not just walking around the blog for a toilet duty. Excercise does not cure separation anxiety but it helps to make your dog tired and get rid of some overactive energy.  Keep your dog entertained with a puzzle toy, that contains food or treats. The chewing and playing will occupy his time and calms its separation anxiety. This said, please note that this might help for dogs with mild separation anxiety, dogs with severe separation anxiety might have gastrointestinal side effects.  Crate Training, when done in a proper way, is helpful for a dog or puppy separation anxiety. It is important that your dog or puppy associates the crate as a happy, comfortable place to be while you are away.  If you are able than set up a camera in your home, this way you can monitor how your dog or puppy behaves during the time you are away. It does not help your dog with separation anxiety but it will help you with the behaviour training plan. Chillout natural dog treats are available in pet stores or for order online Sentry HC Good Behavior™ Pheromone Collar for Dogs

                           Dog anxiety products    

What is the "Why" that dogs are unsettled when left alone

Different reason and no one can pin it down to a cause. It can even develop over time in older dogs. Most of the common causes are The Dog has never been left alone when he was a puppy. The Dog or puppy is scared or worried either inside or outside the house. ( it might be the postman, or it might be a thunderstorm.) I know that as one of my dogs is afraid of thunderstorms and he would jump into my pocket if he could but he is too big. It is proven that dogs feel more vulnerable when they are on their own somehow they are more nervous and sensitive. ( if you have 2 dogs or pets it is easier)  Maybe the dog lost his Animal companion or another dog passed away. ( that develops in older dogs)  The dog might be bored. Especially if it is a breed that is very energetic, young and needs a lot of exercises.  It depends on the breed as some dogs have a history of being hunting dogs, working or sheepdogs. What factor adds than up is when the dog is not enough exercised than the dog still has energy left it will release it somehow. ( like chewing shoes, or table legs, raiding the rubbish bin, tearing up a paper and so on)  Rescue dogs who have been rehomed a couple of times they often struggle with being left alone, as it triggers a memory. Especially in the first few weeks while adapting from the kennel to a new home.   

  Do not make this mistake and punish your dog or puppy 

When you come home and you find that your house or apartment is a mess because your dog or puppy had a separation anxiety attack while you been away. It is understandable of being angry and frustrated. Maybe the neighbours complain all is adding up. Being upset and angry at your dog or puppy will not help it will make it actually worse. Dogs can sense when you are upset and angry and will display appeasement behaviour.  What is this you will ask now, their ears go flat, the dog will lower his body and the tail might go between his legs. Some will avoid looking at you with narrowing their eyes as if they would cringe.  Unfortunately, appeasement behaviour is often times misinterpreted by Dog owners as guilt, and they believe and think the dog or puppy knows what it has done wrong. Often dog owners do believe that the destruction of the house is done on purpose by the dog because of being left alone. The mistake any dog owner can do is than punish the dog in an attempt to avoid it the next time the dog is left alone.  Understanding your dog's behaviour is important and crucial to successful behaviour training.  Punishment will not stop the problem of separation anxiety it can even make it worse. Even if the dog owner shows and expresses to the dog the destruction the dog or puppy will not link it to the current moment. They are not able to make a connection to something that happens hours ago.  It will make the problem of separation anxiety worse in that way that now the dog starts now also to worry when the dog owner returns home.  Any dog that has a separation anxiety problem is best to consult a professional dog trainer. Not all anxiety problems in dogs are treated the same way, different breeds have different behaviours and act and react differently to certain actions and training.  Read our blogs  Essential Oils also help to calm down a dog with separation anxiety. Essential oils for cats and dogs Keeping a Dog healthy with the right food. How to potty train your puppy 

Conclusion

Dogs or puppies should never be left alone for too long on their own time. Pets get used to being alone and left alone for short periods when young and introduced to it in a proper way. The chances are that they will be likely more comfortable and relaxed when they grow up and being left alone for some part of the day. Start early with the training to introduce your dog or puppy to the circumstances of being left alone at home.  Until now there is no proven method of prevention of forming the separation anxiety in dogs or puppies. One of the best tips I can give you is start as early as possible to encourage your dog to develop independent behaviour. A great way to socialise your dog is to let him play with other dogs in the park or visit dog parks. It is so much easier to handle an independent dog than a dog who sticks like velcro to you.  Let him relax in his crate or bed alone, or if he plays with a toy alone do not interfere, let him become independent. This is a very important step. It doesn't matter how cute he looks and plays give him the space to play on his own.  Do seek professional help when you see signs of separation anxiety in your dog. It is better to get as early as possible professional help.  You can always contact your veterinarian for help and advise on separation anxiety in dogs or contact a professional behavioural Trainer.  I like to give you one more advise, a dog is a pet, sometimes we forget that we are dealing with a pet. We love our pets dearly and sometimes we do not mean harm but treating a dog or puppy like a human will cause behaviour problems like separation anxiety, aggression toward visitors, etc.  Training from a young age on or from the start when you adopt an older dog is the best method to counteract separation anxiety in dogs.  Do you have a dog or puppy what had or has separation anxiety? Please share with us your experience and how did you treat your dogs separating anxiety problem.  Love to hear from you. Please leave your comment below  all yours  Melanie  mypetshopworld.com Please visit our store for new arrivals    Read the full article