#Parade Deck Films

[spectrofilias]

[nysrage]

MOVIE NIGHT, Connie Springer.

synopsis: you and connie always had an unique friendship, all touch feely with one another, but tensions rise after you two took a detour down lustrous lane.

You and your friends were always known for spontaneously coming up with a move. Basking in the time of some unplanned fun until all of you had to face the real world once you were all out of college. The group of you piled up in the dorms common area, with the projector running after feasting on wings, pizza, and alcohol. Ending the night with a horror movie that was sure to have you all watching your surroundings for the next few days.

“girl come on! the movies starting!” sasha called out to you, dimming the lights in the room while you quickly grabbed a few snacks that’ll last you throughout the film.

Entering the common space just for your spot to be taken by onyankapon. Sprawled out across the floor as if he wasn’t just pushing 6’5. “Now ony you knew that was my spot!” You whined.

Ony brushing you off with a laugh as he typed away in his phone. “shittt you decked the fuck out this cot, and workouts been beating my ass sis.”

You sucked your teeth, trying to find any spot you could until there was a light tug on your arm, turning to face your bestfriend connie. golden eyes low from the edible he indulged himself in earlier, voice all low and deep “c’mere, you know i got you..”

pulling you down to sit in just in front of him between his legs, tucked in the corner of the room. His arms circled around your middle as you shifted around till you were comfortable, resting his chin on your should just as the intro of the movie began. Affection such as this was natural between the two of you, so natural that no one would ever bat an eyelash at the two of you unless they didn’t know your dynamic.

Only it hadn’t been so natural lately, the two of you putting a slight distance in your relationship this past week. It’d all been so tense since that one night the two of you heatedly made out session in the closet at a party. Never speaking on it again. Everyone but the two of you swore there was more to your relationship than you spilled, and they were so wrong until that kiss where the both of you drunkenly revealed the love you had for one another. Causing a slight rift between you, but it was so very short lived after tonight.

Horror was the very thing you steered clear of but who were you to rain on everyones parade. Plus being in the same space as your bestfriend gave you some comfort. He always kept you safe, even if things between the two of you were a bit complicated at the moment.

Within the first fourty minutes of the movie you were practically in his lap. Shifting around quite a bit, glancing behind you at connie whose eyes were focused on the screen. You were a bit uneasy from the jump scares. Yet the thing that had you so bothered had nothing to do with the movie. Being so close to connie felt so different now, and it always left you flustered whenever you were in his presence. Plus the feeling of connie pressed so close to your ass, didn’t help to ease every disgusting thought that through your mind right now. From the way his arms and big hands wrapped around your waist. To the feeling of his body pressed so close against yours, it made you all dizzy.

Little did you know, it was the same effect for connie. You, pressing yourself further into every time you got scared. That soft ass sitting atop his pelvis all heavy and round. Your chubby waist resting in his arms as he caressed your soft, smooth, brown skin of your belly. The two of you just so hot and bothered. Pining for eachother in a suffering silence, until the two of began to break. Not able to take it anymore. Maybe it was the liquor? Shit or the weed? Hell, maybe even the good feeling the two of you gave each other last week but that sexual tension wasn’t something the two of you could fight anymore.

Connie let his hands wander mindlessly over your chubby little body, tracing over the skin of your hips and thighs. Massaging the soft flesh and dipping lower to the creases of your inner thighs. The skin all warm and smooth to the touch, as he gently explores your body. Not missing one reaction you had to his touches, big or small. Burying himself into your neck to drown himself in the seductive ass perfume you always wore, and succumbing to the urge to have that soft skin against his lips again. Placing a soft kiss to your exposed shoulder as he continued to massage the squishy cellulite in your thighs. Your body melts into his as you get all worked up, huffing out a small breathe of air. Body growing hotter by the second from these little minuscule touches.

“I missed you..” you whimper out softly, legs subconsciously spreading to give his hands more freedom to roam. Connie responding with a content hum as he placed a wet kiss against the warm skin of your neck. dipping his hands lower to ghost over the soft flesh of your inner thighs. Dick growing stiff against that soft ass pressed so hard against him. “f-fuck, i missed you too.”

“So much hermosa..”

“Yeah..?” the soft whine from your lips barely audible over the loud cries and thrilled beat of the soundtrack. Connie’s strong hand runs up your waist until meeting that perked nipple hidden by the ribbed fabric of your tank top. Giving your breast a firm squeeze as he indulged himself a deep inhale of your scent.

“Mhm, ” he breathed out, hands coming dangerously close to the mound of your pussy, “Gon’ let me show you how much..?” You breathe hitched, looking up at him through your lashes and meeting his lustrous eyes. All low and red, but those golden irises still glimmered with something you couldn’t quite put a finger on. You nod softly, tucking your bottom lip behind those pretty teeth of yours. “Please..”

Connie discreetly looked around the room, all your friends focused on the movie as the masked killer began slowly picking people off, singaling it was almost to its climax. He eased his hand lower, cupping your pussy just as he turned your face towards his to captured your lips in a slow sensual kiss. Swallowing the low moan breaking past your soft lips. Ghosting his hand over the thin fabric of your thong, already dampened with slick. Running his fingers along your clothed folds until reaching your peeking clit, pressing down on it to release some of that building pressure.

You call out to him in a low whine, “connie stop teasingg.” trying your hardest to be discreet, but that needy feeling of having him touchy how you always wanted was too strong, and you were too drunk off lust to realize the consequences.

“Eyes on the movie princesa, you don’t wanna get caught huh?” Whispering against the shell of your ear. You nod, focusing your eyes back on the film. Connie finally pulled those panties to the side to expose that sensitive skin. Fingers gliding through your folds with a low groan, spreading the pooling slick gathered around your entrance.

“What’s got this pussy all wet?” He hummed, giving your clit a soft slap. “Hm mamí? Thought you didn’t like scary movies..”

Fingers teasing slow circles around your clenching hole, so eager to be filled with his thick fingers. Coating his fingers in that clear sticky slick, just before slipping a fingertip into you barely easing that empty feeling and pulling it back out. Slowly stretching you out until he could fully sink two of them into your tight warm walls. Those thick digits slowly piston in and out of you, curling every so often as your walls gripped them in deeper. Moans growing louder as he scissored you open, “shh, gotta be quiet baby..”

“s-shit, connie I-I’m tryinggg..” biting down on your lip with a whimper, nails digging at his forearms. Body tensing at the quick movement from your bestfriend from afar, clamping down on his fingers hard. Just for her to adjust her pillow and lay back focused on the movieonce more, washing away all that fear of getting caught.

“calm down pretty girl, it’s just us.” connie cooed, placing a kiss behind your ear. Stroking your gummy walls, until faint squelching of your pussy could be heard below the loud screams of the film. That fiery pit set ablaze in your tummy as your clit throbs, grinding your hips down against his palm for any type of friction to ease the sensation. Curling his fingers into the spongey ball that made your hips buck up into his hand. “Yeah? Just like that?” He cooed, working messily on your slicked clit.

Walls swelling around his fingers, moaning out from the building pressure. Connie slipped two fingers in your mouth, pressing them down on your tongue as an attempt to keep you as quiet. “ I know, I know. You like when papí play with that pussy?” Head nodding rapidly, too afraid of what sound might break past your lips if you actually tried to speak with those thick digits pressed down on your tongue. “You so fucking good, so good pretty girl..”

Your eyes rolling back as your body shook in his hold uncontrollably, gushing out a creamy mess onto his fingers. The vibrations of your moans against his fingers had him ready to fuck you on the floor right there but it was about you. Swirling his fingers around your clit until he slowly brought you down from your orgasmic bliss. Your body limp in his hold, all fucked out and breathless.

Removing his digits and sucking off the creamy white slick with a moan, just as the movies end credits began to roll. Sasha flicking the lamp on with a quick pull at its string,your eyes squinting as they adjust to the sudden change in lighting, body still trembling slightly. Sasha looking over the room with a smile, dropping slightly when he eyes reached you. “You good girl..?”

You nod, mentally cursing yourself as you tried to sit up, cringing at the slicked feeling between your thighs. “She just shaken up, y’know how she get.” Connie snorted , taking all the attention off you.

Sasha giggles, hand on her hips as she teased you about your scary nature.

“c’mon it wasnt even that bad!”

[oneforthemunny]

I have an idea!! trick or treating w janitor!eddie & the kids maybe or even rockstar!eddie. honestly any and all the dads going trick or treating with their kids would be fun to see :))

it's tricky |dad!rockstar!eddie munson x mom!nepo baby! reader|

you can read janitor!eddie's version here and the rest of my spooky story series here!

October 31st, 1999- Hawkins, Indiana

"You got it, Kensie." You coo, grinning at her sweetly, pushing the twin's double stroller in a soothing stride over the dried, fallen leaves that littered the sidewalks.

The four year old looked back, both hands clutching the plastic orange bucket, brown eyes rounded in pure fear, horror- like she hadn't done this at least fifteen times tonight.

"Go up, Kens. Go up with Sephy." Eddie nodded, standing by the path, hands balled in his leather jacket. It was definitely different from Calabasas, that was for sure. Colder, not that Eddie minded- it felt more like Halloween.

The streets filled with kids screeching and darting around in store bought or handmade costumes, not decked in designer looking runway ready being paraded around by their parents on golf carts. It was for the kids, not a social event. Plastic bowls filled with real candy, not whatever the fuck fruit leather is. That had finalized his decision to spend Halloween in Hawkins this year- give the girls a real Halloween.

Persephone gave her sister a bored look, eyes rolling when they met Eddie's with an unamused expression- she looked just like you. "Daddy, she's not going. She's scared." Persephone huffed, five years old and full of sass.

Eddie bit back a smirk. "Go ahead." He nodded towards her. "Kens, if you're not gonna go up, then come stand back here with me."

"No." Kensington shook her head. "You come with me."

Eddie blinked. Every atom in his body screamed "no". He was back in his hometown, with all the fuckers who never left and used to make his life a living hell. Yeah, he'd done better than anyone ever expected, that was an understatement, but he was in their arena here. On their turf.

"Kens, just go with your sister." Eddie countered, crouching to her level. "I'm right here."

"But I want you to come with me." Kensie pouted, arms crossed over her Belle costume, curls slipping out of the bun. "I don't wanna go alone."

The little shake in her voice, eyes rounding nearly pitifully, Eddie knew he was done for, hand reaching to hers, walking up the cobbled steps. You smirked, adjusting the blankets over the twins. He was such a push over now.

Eddie grimaced, heart pounding with dread when Kensington jammed a gloved finger into the doorbell. The door opened, an older man with a bright, festive bowl opening the door.

"Oh, hello there! Look at you." He grinned down at Kensie, her body curling into Eddie's leg, shy at the attention and the stranger.

"What do you say, huh?" Eddie muttered, hand rubbing down her back sweetly.

"Trick-or-Treat." Kensie squeaked, holding her bucket out slightly.

"There you go." The man laughed, dropping a colorful wrapper into her plastic pumpkin. "Have a good- Munson?"

Eddie's eyes snapped, meeting the man's eyes, face falling slightly. "No shit." Eddie muttered, eyes snapping to Kensie carefully. "Principal Higgins?"

"So it is you?" Higgins hummed, lips pressed together, bowl hugged to his hip.

Eddie could feel the heat rising to his cheeks. Suddenly, he was seventeen again, being told he wasn't graduating on time. "Yeah, yeah, it is."

"Thought you were in Hollywood?" Higgins' eyes narrowed.

"We live in Calabasas." Persephone chirped, head poking around Eddie's leg. "Not Hollywood."

Eddie cringed slightly, shoulders tense. Higgins didn't scoff, didn't snap at her, no back handed comment- no. He smiled. Laughed.

"I'm guessing these two are yours?" He grinned at Eddie.

"Yeah, and the other two in the stroller- twins." Eddie pointed behind him. "They're with my wife right now."

"Right. The film producer's daughter?" Higgins asked. Eddie nodded, chest boasting with pride.

"Well, gotta admit, I never thought the kid that flipped me off when he finally graduated would do that much in life," Higgins looked at Eddie, eyes crinkling slightly in a smile. "But looks like you did really good for yourself, Edward. Congratulations."

"Thank you. I have." Eddie nodded, hand smoothing down Kensie's curls. "Good to see you, Higgins."

"You too, Edward. Happy Halloween." Higgins waved, shutting the door behind him.

"What candy did you get?" You asked, eyes bright when you looked at Persephone.

"I got Skittles." Persephone grinned, tilting her basket so you could see.

"Oh, you know those are my favorite." You grinned, pushing the stroller down the path with one hand, your free one grabbing Persephone's gloved hand to hold. "Will you share with me?"

"I guess." Persephone shrugged. "Can I go?" She asked, looking at Kensie and Eddie trailing behind the two of you.

"Sure, go ahead. Make sure you say 'thank you.'" You nodded. Her bright pink costume stood out even in the night time. She had insisted on being the pink Power Ranger, so you had a custom costume made. Not as fancy as the other mothers in Calabasas did, but nicer- warmer too. Fleece lined and thick so she didn't have to wear a jacket. It kills the look.

"Kensie, are you going?" You asked, looking at the small girl who had made her way into Eddie's arms.

"No." Kensie shook her head, face rubbing into Eddie's neck sleepily. "Can I sit in the stroller, Mama?"

"The stroller?" You asked, tone light and playful, hoping to keep her crankiness away. "There's no room in there for you, silly girl."

"But I want to." Kensie whined, lip jutting dramatically.

"Hey, stop that." Eddie warned. "I'm holding you. You don't need to go in the stroller."

Kensie's face twisted, nose scrunching furiously. "I want Mama to hold me." She reached towards you.

"Ok," You hummed, taking her in your arms, ignoring Eddie's protests. "I think I need to take the twins back anyways before they wake up, so we'll go back to Grandpa Wayne's, and Daddy will stay with Sephy."

"You know how to get back?" Eddie asked.

"Do I know how to walk in a straight line back to the house?" You lifted a brow. "Yeah, I think I've got it." Your tone clipped, rolling your eyes.

Eddie's lips twisted, rolling his own eyes. "Alright, Princess. We won't be too long." He muttered, pressing a kiss to your cold cheek.

"C'mon, Kensie. Let's go show Grandpa all your candy you got." You hum, one hand cradling her, the other pushing the stroller.

You made it look too easy, Eddie thought, eyes shining in pure wonder, total adoration at you. His bratty Beverly Hills girl turned into a mom- a good mom.

"Daddy, look!" Persephone giggled, waving the bright orange wrapper in Eddie's face. "I got a pumpkin one." She grinned proudly, the Reese's held between her gloved hands.

"Ooh, this is the good house, huh? We gotta remember that for next year. Maybe bring a couple costumes so you can keep going back, you think that would work?" Eddie grinned at the laugh Persephone gave.

"No," Persephone giggled, taking Eddie's hand while they walked to the next house. "They would 'member."

"Yeah, you're probably right." Eddie smiled, squeezing her hand lightly. "I think Grandpa has some back at the house anyways. I bet if you ask real nice he'll give you one."

"He already gave me one last night." Persephone said smugly. "Before bed, but he said not to tell you or-or you'd eat them all."

Eddie feigned shock, like he didn't see the whole "sneaky" interaction. Wayne pulling open the Snoopy cookie jar filled with candy, sneaking her one with a wink, finger pressed over his lips.

"He did?" Eddie gasped, Persephone giggling and nodding. "And you didn't share with me?"

"No," Persephone shook her head at him dramatically. "Grandpa gave it to me. You-You woulda ate it all!" She pointed at him.

Eddie's heart swelled with warmth, dimpled creased smile on his face. "Yeah, you're probably right, kid." He shrugged. "Will you at least tell me where he hid them?"

"No." Persephone shook her head. "But I'll let you have one of mine... and the dots."

"The dots?" Eddie's nose scrunched dramatically. "You're giving me the bad candy?"

"Yeah." Persephone chirped. "You can have what I don't want."

Eddie snorted. She was such your kid sometimes. "Thanks, kid. Make sure you say thank you, alright?" He patted her back lightly, leaning against the fence while she darted away in a flash of neon pink.

Bonus:

"This shit is so gross." Eddie gagged, chewing the impossibly stale but somehow chewy candy. "Who the fuck eats this?" He looked at the bright yellow box of Dots.

"You apparently." You giggled, feet in his lap, a pile of wrappers between the two of you.

The girls had gone to bed hours ago. Persephone was true to her word, leaving you and Eddie her rejects and one Reese's pumpkin. Luckily, Kensie had a few better options you sifted through.

Hocus Pocus played on a loop on the TV in front of you, volume lowered to a hush in the guest room of the Hawkins' home. "Stop eating it." You laughed, slapping the box lightly out of Eddie's hand when he ate another, retching dramatically again.

"It's so bad," Eddie shook his head, face puckered in disgust. "And I can't stop eating them."

"Here," You tossed him a Snickers. "Cleanse your pallet with this, you freak."

Eddie grinned, finger gliding under your foot playfully, making you squeal. "How's the baby doing?"

"They're down still, I think. I haven't heard them-"

"-No," Eddie shook his head, nodding towards you.

"Oh," You hummed, hand gliding down your tummy. You hadn't even started to show yet. "They're good. Liking the candy."

"I think it's a boy this time." Eddie grinned wide and bright, it made your heart skip. "You're less sick this time. You're always sick with girls."

"Yeah, maybe." You nod, unwrapping a Skittles bag. "Could be triplets this time, knowing our luck."

Eddie snorted, nearly choking on his candy. "Can you imagine?"

"A nightmare." You roll your eyes. "The twins almost killed me. I was huge."

"Yeah," Eddie's eyes darkened, grin spreading wider and wider. "You looked so fuckin' hot."

You scoffed, rolling your eyes at him. "You're sick, Munson."

"I've been told that a few times before." Eddie smirked. "Never heard you complain though. You like it when I'm a little sick, don't you, baby." Eddie growled, tossing the candy to the side, hand wrapped around your ankle to pull you closer.

You squealed, drug through the pile of candy playfully, Eddie's wild curls silhouetted by the glow of the screen. He crawled over you, knees on either side of your hips, straddling you, hands by your head- a familiar position. A dangerous position.

Eddie's head ducked down, bangs tickling your forehead, lips pressed to yours while your legs wrapped around his waist, hands tangling in his hair.

[ominouspuff]

what would be on your art creation wish list? something you haven’t drawn yet for whatever reason?

Ohoho, ROOK. This is a difficult question, but I love it.

I have a few private answers, but one I can share is an animation dream. I admire Hayao Miyazaki as an artist, and respect his philosophy. I am very serious about wanting to create traditional frame-by-frame films someday, especially ones that likely would fall under the same ‘genre’ of stories.

At the moment, this is beyond me. I’m practicing frame-by-frame animation, but it will be a long process. Here’s a piece for reference:

I have many animation dreams, some more serious and dear to me than others.

For my current Star Wars interest (and just for kicks and practice) I’d love to put together a short end-credits style piece about my RepGA AU, like a wholesome epilogue, or a happier-ending AU to my AU that may not feature all these happy endings precisely.

A few scenes that would feature:

- Plo Koon stepping out of a train-transport onto what is clearly a foreign planet’s platform, with much alien tropical vegetation, wearing a sun hat and followed by first one, then two, then the entirety of his battalion all decked out for a vacation and parading like ducklings (Wolffe is wearing colorful shorts alongside the equivalent of an incredibly thick, tough mountain shacket and combat boots).

- Ahsoka waving out of a train transport, grinning happily as it comes into the station, and the camera panning to see Anakin and Padme very worn, leaning on eachother with signs of recent hospital stay, and Rex right next to them grinning like a fool and holding both twins in his arms (Anakin has a hand pointedly resting on Luke’s head around Rex’s back, so that he essentially is a hen clutching the entire party to his person, visually).

- Fox and Cody in whatever counts as intensive care with healers in the vicinity. They are bickering about the weird hospital food that transcends all AUs and dimensions.

- Obi-Wan digging through rubble to help with cleaning up the wreckage of a sub-city in Coruscant, pausing to catch his breath while Alpha-17 both makes fun of him and walks over leisurely with a water bottle for him. Nearby, a team effort comprised of engineering tools used in a way not quite intended by the designers and Fordo’s raw strength launches an enthusiastic Wolffe up into a second-floor they were having trouble accessing, through a hole in the wall.

There are more, but they would give spoilers.

[pikachu78109]

More Modern!TCODC Headcanons because I’m bored :p

((I don’t have a list for each character; it’s all kind of random. Let me know if y’all are interested in some modern day AU Caligari Ask Blog if you wanna see these dudes in a modern interpretation))

Jane, Francis, and Alan get together for a Friday movie night and is always held at Francis and Alan’s apartment. Francis goes out and gets snacks while Alan cozies up the living room. These three tend to bicker about what genre to watch (Francis like both action and horror, Alan is a romcom fella, and Jane adores historical dramas). They end up playing rock-paper-scissors to decide. Francis tends to hog the popcorn bowl whereas Alan and Jane tend to nitpick on the film’s writing (they both have the writer’s eye), much to Francis’ annoyance.

Jane lives in the dormitory at the college she attends. Occupies it herself and it’s decked out with various posters from plays, musicals, and other theatrical productions. Has quite the plushie collection and keeps most of her manga/novels/writing journals on her desk or crammed into her college shelves.

Jane is not that organized but she can easily find things without trouble.

Francis and Alan live off campus and commute to classes.

Cesare doesn’t attend college due to his condition and because his guardians, Caligari and that other young doctor from the film, has him do stuff such as community work or exercises to improve his health (mental and physical).

Caligari has his own reasons for parading Cesare around, usually to fuel his notoriety and ego as a doctor. Gets jealous very easily and commands Cesare to either sabotage or “take out” his competition.

The other doctor, whom I’m gonna call Mathias, cares about Cesare’s health and worries a good deal about him. Wants him to interact with people and encourages Cesare to make friends, such as Jane. Caligari HEAVILY disapproves of this.

Mathias tends to let Cesare have a bit more freedom and allows him to go out and do things on his own, y’know, building up independence while Caligari isn’t present.

Jane and Cesare are pretty good friends, though people often mistake them as a couple. Both of them shut that down immediately.

I imagine Cesare’s demeanor that of Cinnamoroll from Hello Kitty when around Jane: sweet, shy, helpful, and overall kind. Jane is a blend of My Melody and Pompompurin.

Francis and Cesare do not get along. Francis thinks Cesare is a love rival and Cesare keeps getting annoyed by this. Their common greeting is a middle finger. Alan gets on fine with Cesare, though is admittedly intimidated by him.

Whenever Caligari and Mathias aren’t around in the evenings, Cesare sneaks out and wanders around the neighborhood in the dark, wearing his headphones and listens to music. He might not own a phone, but he has a CD player and owns a couple of CD’s that Jane has given to him with songs she picked out for him to listen to. Cesare likes to go to the park and sit on the swings and just…zone out.

Dr. Olsen and Caligari do not get along. They don’t tend to see things eye to eye and have had hour long debates which resulted in a few fists being swung.

Alan may be soft spoken, but the boy can SPIT. Try him at slam poetry and you’ll be surprised.

Adding on to being soft-spoken, Alan has a Podcast where he narrates bedtime stories and conspiracy theories about nonsense in a calming delivery. Has a good following.

Francis gets up at ungodly hours and goes on runs. He sometimes bumps into Cesare and these two will just stare at each other like two alley cats.

Cesare has a sensitive stomach, so he can’t eat anything high sugar, anything caffeinated, contain high amounts of sodium, etc. He’s kept on a nutrition plan that Caligari constructed himself.

Gonna say it: Caligari is an almond parent.

Cesare has gotten a couple of admirers, though he’s oblivious to it.

To be honest, Cesare is scared of romance altogether. Like, out of all the people in this universe, why him?

Unlike Francis and Alan, Jane doesn’t have a job. Where Francis works part-time in retail and Alan at a café, Jane does editing work on commission. Her parents send her money once a month to help with tuition, but Jane wants to earn money by utilizing her writing skills in her little freelance business.

Cesare usually lingers at the local psych ward with other patients. He’s typically with Marlene (the woman who was “playing” the piano) and Claudia (woman with the doll) as they are the calmest patients there. Cesare doesn’t stay at the ward; he goes home with either Caligari or Mathias (usually with Caligari, poor guy).

On rare occasions, Francis, Alan, Jane, and Cesare meet up and do stuff as a group whether it’s hanging out at the park, or at a nearby café, or just casually walking around.

[warningsine]

There has never been an opening ceremony quite like it.

For the first time in Olympic Games history, the ceremony took place outside a stadium arena. Despite a rainy and miserable Paris evening, enormous crowds – most who paid no fee to attend – lined the banks of the Seine to witness this outdoor promenade of history, art and sport as 100 boats carrying 10,500 athletes sailed down the river.

Designed to showcase the depth of French culture and celebrate the Olympics as a source of human greatness and unity, the ceremony combined the traditional and the irreverent.

Paris featured as the unmistakable backdrop. The ceremony marked the first since 2018 that has not had to work around COVID restrictions. As the world watched, it took place amid a global context of war, invasion and genocide. Within the performances and speeches featured in the ceremony, there were aspects designed to address and acknowledge this, and promote peace and inclusion.

A mission across Paris

The ceremony was divided into thematic chapters, including Fraternite (fraternity), Sororite (sorority), Sportive (sportsmanship), Solidarite (solidarity), Solennite (solemnity) and Eternite (eternity). These were used as prompts to underpin each section of the sprawling, epic ceremony.

Across the three hours, we travelled throughout Paris. Artists and sportspeople from across the broad spectrum of each of these fields were featured and celebrated.

All was underpinned by an amazing soundtrack featuring French electro-pop bangers, classical music and opera.

The ceremony was anchored by a masked torch bearer who initially arrived at the Olympic stadium only to realise they were in the wrong place. They embarked on a Parkour-like mission across the rooftops and streets of Paris with the torch held aloft.

Kicked off by a short film featuring French soccer star Zinedine Zidane, followed by a performance from Lady Gaga, the ceremony brought together the iconic and the unexpected.

Images of beret-wearing accordion players under bridges and the high kicks of 80 dancers in hot pink performing the can-can were interspersed with tributes to the French revolution and the contemporary rebuild of Notre Dame.

There were stylishly considered moments. A single opera performer sung the French national anthem on the roof of the Grand Palais, as tribute was paid to the history of women in France. During this moment, ten golden statues featuring prominent French female political advocates, anarchists, explorers, botanists, intellectuals, journalists, artists and writers from across history emerged from plinths situated in the river.

The moment ended with a soaring rendition of the anthem as the singer on the roof was accompanied by a chorus of children on a bridge across the river.

The ceremony brought together tradition and contemporary performance. In a stunning moment, French-Mali singer Aya Nakamura performed with 60 musicians of the Republican Choir Guard dressed by Dior (obviously).

Profoundly stunning images such as a concert pianist playing on a bridge over the River Seine on a raindrop covered piano were juxtaposed with an animated film featuring the beloved Minions (created by a French animation studio).

BMX riders, breakers and circus performers on large pontoons performed death-defying stunts in front of illuminated fountains. A fashion parade on a bridge across the river featured up and coming French designers and included a demonstration of Eurodance styles including krumping, vogueing and breaking. DJs on decks and drag performers turned the Seine into Paris’ largest outdoor nightclub.

Peace, inclusion and solidarity

Toward the end of the three hour extravaganza, Paris was plunged into darkness as a singer standing near a burning grand piano floating on a barge delivered a poignant version of John Lennon’s Imagine.

The words “We Stand and Call for Peace” in both English and French appeared on screen. This elicited an enormous cheer from the crowd, and underscored a theme appearing in speeches and theatrical images throughout the ceremony: inclusion, respect, solidarity and the role the Olympics can play in supporting these notions across global borders.

“In our Olympic World we all belong,” claimed the International Olympic Committee chair Thomas Bach in his speech.

Taking this idea further, as part of Solidarite, an illuminated silver mechanical horse carrying a rider wearing the Olympic flag appeared to gallop down the river. We watched images of Olympic moments over the years that united the world – and at times challenged dominant thinking.

The rider emerged from the river on a dappled grey horse at the Trocadero at the base of the iconic and resplendent Eiffel Tower. A parade of flag bearers from all countries assembled behind the rider as they walked together through the streets of Paris to raise the Olympic flag and sing the Olympic anthem.

It was magnificent and humbling.

Zidane returned in person near the end of the ceremony to meet the masked torch bearer and was handed the Olympic torch. As the Eiffel Tower lit up with a jaw-droppingly spectacular laser display illuminating across the city, the torch travelled back down the river on a boat with athletes Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Carl Lewis. It continued its journey toward its final destination with a sign-interpreted electronic dance banger in the background.

A parade of extraordinary French athletes completed the torch’s journey to the Olympic cauldron – a hot air balloon, a tribute to daring French inventors.

The cauldron was set aflame and the balloon lifted into the air above Paris to the cheers of the crowds.

Underneath the illuminated Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tour, Celine Dion sung Edith Piaf’s Hymne A l'amour. Dion’s journey to this performance has been publicly marked by illness.

Her stirring and flawless performance against the odds speaks to the Olympic spirit of perseverance and witnessing superhuman feats of the extraordinary, reminding us sport and performance have much in common.

Let’s hope the rest of the sporting event can match this creative beginning.

[tangentburd]

~ Oh So Fly! ~

From the rockin’ street doves to the coo-l Capuchines We’ll pick and peck apart every piece of bird-based bling Warmers, collars, capes… Gramma’s cornbread cowls? You might as well go back home with your head in a towel!

~ A nonsensical poem I wrote on pigeons and their Fabulous! Bread! Necklaces! for the recent "Toasty Mart" bread x animals zine hosted by @bycmykae. Thanks for the pun fun-filled experience!

Shoutout to @katsuayumu too for making all the super cute and delicious pigeon character art for this piece :D

🕊 [ Read the full poem on AO3 or under the cut! ]

🍞 [ Read the free zine via itch.io! ]

Greetings! Salutations! Birds of a feather! Welcome to the Bread Derby, sisters and brothers! The name’s Pasquale and I’m your host for today— Colomba of keen eye for fashions of the day ~✦

It’s party pigeon time down here in the square Where every-birdy’s decked in their fanciest neckwear Where the have-its flaunt it! And the have-nots want it! Where upper crusts and lower crumbs clash in showers of grit!

From the rockin’ street doves to the coo-l Capuchines We’ll pick and peck apart every piece of bird-based bling Warmers, collars, capes... Gramma’s cornbread cowls? You might as well go back home with your head in a towel!

We’ll see who’s the boss in their oven-baked best! And who’s burnt toast that’s only good for lining nests! Beaks up and b-ready, we’re starting the show Coo! Here’s our first lady—let’s fluffin’ go!

———

Behold! This uppity—I mean, blue-crowned royalty: The Duchess of Dovershire, come to visit from her county With her pearl-tipped crest as though dipped in icing And draped with a most exquisite braided bread ring Such graze! Delicacy! (Maybe a hint of power?) The air and flair of fresh-milled flour—

“How do you do? Your reds and greens are lovely!” Hold up, did... she just say something to me? Why yes ma’am, thank you! I adore them too! It’s just avocado bruschetta, nothing too frou-frou~ She chortles, nods; then away she struts: A portly, pleasant presence in her posh, plaited doughnut.

———

Kerfuffle from the crowds! Cue the world’s favourite Frillback: Pop idol Pae-Dae, in a cushy cape of flatbread Luscious curls of feathers bronze all across his wings A dishy dove indeed: he’s every fledgling’s prince! His shuffling feet pause, his misty eyes find mine I wonder what words might leave a beak so sublime...?

“Wish I could sleep, Mister Host, but I’ll do my best Ask me about the dramas I’ve been filming without rest Or how everyone thinks my wings are hazelnut flakes...” Sigh, a celeb’s life! You can’t ever get a break I’ll interview you next week! Now go and catch some Z’s Your tortilla blanket should be cosy—but don’t let your fans see!

———

An emerald dove patters by, sleeves shimmering green Donning the airiest, fairiest sourdough I’ve seen: Scored like a flower, flour dusted like a lace veil Aw, she’s proud of it! Look at her bobbing tail~ “My name’s Paige Pidgerton, I baked it just today I hope to open my artisan beak-ery someday!”

You’re a natural, miss, this here’s a work of art! But really, is that all you dream of deep inside your heart? She flusters, she flushes, her white headband askew The rosy eyes of a heroine’s fairytale come true! “Maybe... if I can’t bake for everyone in town Then at least for some-birdy I’m happy to be around.♥”

———

You hear them before you see them: Two lean, rugged doves Squabbling, squawking, crash-landing (on the) square from above “I told you to hurry, old man, now we’re late for the parade!” ‘Why don’t you stop by a corner shop again, you ingrate!’ Good day, gentlemen! I might have seen you somewhere, sir Aren’t you G.I. Low, that decorated war officer?

‘Some eye you’ve got, chap! Sharp as this one I’ve got left Better than my grandkid here who thinks he’s bloody EMS.’ “If this thumbdrive don’t reach later, I’ll be toast-er than my toast! Name’s Payload Swift, mister, I’m a racer turned pigeon post.”

(Aha! Do I sense a glorious generation gap? A question trap to set their wings and tempers aflap!) Living life in the fast lane? Your intake must be insane! Care to share with us your go-to holy grains?

“This grilled tuna sandwich melt from Leaven-Eleven’s Is the best thing since sliced bread—a taste made in heaven!” ‘It IS sliced bread, for heavens’ sake! See the junk this boy is eating? Not like this chipped beef on toast from back when I was serving It’s provisions! Nourishment! Blessings for the whole flock!’ “Yeah sure, if only you can eat it without a fork...”

———

A zig-zagging, a tango-ing, a high bird-song and dance A kererū, post-dine-and-wine, down on the bench in a trance That passé office plumage versus bland-as-heck handbag— Lady, your tastebuds are wrecked! And that fruit loaf’s a big red flag!

She waves her bottle—budget Pigeot Noir!—before my eyes “I’ve seen your shows on CooTube, you’re that real fly guy! That Nicobar fella who’s gone way up the pecking order...” Lady, your tastebuds are just fine! Ignore what I said earlier—

“Can you tell me how you’ve been eating every-birdy’s lunch? You’re now rolling in dough, but I’m just rolling off the branch... How can a common quill-pusher like me, Karolie Flee Fly to the top, eat all I want, and still be this carefree?”

Oh Miss Flee, let’s first put my inspiring haute coo-ture aside No matter what you’re doing, you should do it with pride! Push all the quills (and your bosses’ too) until you’re seen and heard But remember: there’s more to you than just this corporate bird!

Sure, your whites, greens and purples may not be the hottest stuff But if you’re a better you than yesterday then that’s good enough~★ That said, please just toss that brick of cursed candied fruit Get a loaf that tastes more chic! With marmalade to boot!

———

So there we go, folks—our roundup of this Derby: A true-blue cross-section of our bling-based society I’ve seen a future star baker, courier, wine connoisseur Stay inspiring, inspired and well rested, you youngsters!

Boast your bread-lace loud and proud, bake it till you make it The true slice-of-life is how you wear it and what you make of it! And to every-birdy else who’s stayed with us throughout— Beak thanks to you all! This is Col. Pasquale, signing out~♫

~ end ~

[tastethesetears]

🌊 INTERTIDAL - Chapter 29: Married Life

Eyes blowing wide as they looked back and forth at each other, Divina and Kent lit up with childlike smiles as the music began to play. It was their favorite thing at any Disney park. Grew up watching it sitting on the street curb wrapped up in their jackets and blankets when they were little and would go to Disneyland Paris in the summer while visiting their grandparents on their mother's side. Unfortunately the dazzling show was being retired for the new and less impressive "Electrical Sky Parade" that was powered by soulless drones. And we thought we had missed the closing act night because it wasn't listed on the app anymore but one of the cast members had told Wednesday, Enid, and I yesterday that tonight was it's last showing while we were grabbing our morning coffee and chai.

We knew what we had to do. Damn near killed us pulling it off.

But it was worth it to see the chaos twins lit up the way they were when Alice's massive mushroom float came cruising along with the snail and ladybug zipping along next to her. And it was as the illuminated clock tower appeared around the gentle bend in the road with its bell chiming that a good half dozen cast members and one of the chefs appeared with the large chocolate ganache cake I had ordered for them appeared. Decked out with firework designs and sparklers with a Pete's Dragon candle for each of them to blow out, they sang Happy Birthday to the twins who'd effectively been stunned speechless--Julissa filming the whole thing as she sang along while her kids tried not to cry. - @anotherbluesunday

CATCH THE WAVE HERE

[blackdogsilver]

50 things I probably won't get done before 50

Let's face it, I've been working on varying versions of this list for 12 years. I've never come close to hitting my goal. BUT I have done a whole bunch of things I've always wanted to do, that I probably never would have done other wise, so whether or not I reach the goal, I think this is a good thing to keep going.

I went right back to the original list, and am combining it with all the iterations from over the years. I'm also adding in my travel goals. I always kept them separate because I didn't have the money to travel, and wanted to keep my list achievable, but I'm not as concerned about hitting every goal any more, and also, if I don't travel by 50, then when?

I've made a separate list for the things I've done too, to remind myself of what I have accomplished. The items I removed from the list because I really don't think it's possible, or care if I achieve it, I'm putting back in as bonus goals... they don't need to count, but maybe the opportunity will come up, who knows? And it's good to see where I've come from.

THINGS I'VE DONE

1. hide 43 treasures 

2. milk a cow

3. Tie a cherry stem in a knot with my tongue

4. Get a tattoo

5. finish crocheting my tetris blanket

6. Send in a postsecret

7. try sushi

8. Have glamour photos taken of me

9. crochet a hat

10. Go to a strip club

11. dye my hair purple

12. go on a pub crawl

13. have brunch with friends

14. Give blood (well, I tried, but they wouldn't take it!)

15. take part in gishwes

16. try a foreign cuisine I’ve never had before

17. take a chocolate factory tour

18. fly first class

19. do the Colour Run

20. do a nude photoshoot

21. find a signature scent/perfume

22. get a helix piercing

23. go to a RHPS Audience Participation screening

24. go to Midsumma/Pride March/Mardi Gras parade

25. grab a handful of cake and just eat it

26. invent a silly holiday and get other people to join in

THINGS I'VE YET TO DO

1. Send a message in a bottle

2. Record/produce a song

3. visit a planetarium

4. Swim with dolphins (attempted, but failed and still want to try)

5. Throw a dart into a map and travel to where it lands

6. take a moonlit walk on a beach

7. learn the thriller dance

8. see a total solar eclipse in person

9. go on a road trip with friends

10. bake a Croquembouche

11. Take a pole dancing class

12. get a professional massage

13. spend a day taking photos of my city

14. visit all the Australian states and territories - 5/7

15. eat at a teppanyaki style restaurant

16. visit the Great Barrier Reef

17. finish a ‘Wreck This Journal’

18. get a matching tattoo with someone

19. complete the c25k program

20. do a proper cosplay photo shoot

21. take part in a drum circle

22. write an Android app

23. Design my own Tarot deck

24. go strawberry picking

25. take a silversmithing course

26. eat fondue

27. learn to contact juggle

28. ride in a limo

29. join the mile high club

30. see the Southern/Northern Lights

31. wear a bikini to the beach (without a cover up)

32. Be able to do a pull up unassisted

33. host a fancy dinner party in a strange place (ie, traffic island)

34. learn to read lips

35. eat alone in a (fancy) restaurant

36. build a Rube Goldberg machine

37. watch a meteor shower

38. recreate a childhood photo

39. cook pasta from scratch

40. take a salsa dance class

41. learn ASL

42. see the Thai floating lantern festival

43. go to the City Museum in St Louis

44. visit New York

45. tour the Dresden Files sites in Chicago

46. visit Petra, Jordan

47. visit Japan

48. visit the Eternal Lightning Fields, Venezuela

49. visit Wat Samphran (Dragon Temple), Thailand

50. visit Chichen Itza, Mexico

BONUS GOALS

1. bungee jump

2. watch all of classic Doctor Who

3. visit Katoomba at Winter Solstice for the Winter Magic Festival

4. get my driver’s license

5. do a beer centurion (100 shots in 100 minutes)

6. crowd surf

7. fire a gun at a shooting range

8. learn to juggle

9. write and film a (short) movie

[jaketrains]

Ryder

Season 1: Pups Make a Splash Pups Fall Festival Pups Save the Sea Turtles Pups Save s Train Pup Pup Boogie Pup Pup Goose Pup Pup and Away Pups and the Ghost Pirate Pups Save Christmas Pups Save the Super Pup Pups Save Ryder's Robot Pups Save Alex Pups Save the Bay Pups Save s Goodway Pups Save the Turbots and Pups Save the Pirate Treasure

Season 2: Pups Save the Penguins Pups Save Jake Pups Save the Parade The New Pup Pups Jungle Trouble Pups Save the Big Freeze Pups Save the Basketball Game Pups Save an Ace Pups Save a Mer-Pup Pups Save the Parrot Pups abd the Mischavious Kittens Pup-Fu! and Pups Save the Mayor's Race

Season 3: Pups Save a Goldrush Pups Save the PAW Patroller Air Pups Pups Save Friendship Day Pups Save Apollo Pups in a Fix Pups Save Daring Danny X Tracker Joins the Pup and Merpups Save the Turbots

Season 4: Pups Save a Blimp Mission PAW: Quest for the Crown Pups Save the Carnival Mission PAW: Pups Save the Royal Thorne Pups Save the Ferris Wheel Sea Patrol: Pups Save a Baby Octopus Pups Save Luke Stars Pups Save Chill Sea Patrol: Pups Save the Frozen Flounder Sea Patrol: Pups Save the Narwhal and Sea Patrol: Pups Save Puplantis

Season 5: Ultimate Rescue: Pups Save the Royal Kittens Ultimate Rescue: Pups Save the Tigers Ultimate Rescue: Pups Save the Monster Movie Pups Save a Werepuppy Pups Save Thanksiving and Mighty Pups

Season 6: Mighty Pups, Super Paws: When Super Kittens Attack Mighty Pups, Super Paws: Pups Save the Mighty Twins Mighty Pups, Super Paws: Pups Save the Giant Chicken Mighty Pups, Super Paws: Pups Stop a Harold's Freeze Trouble Mighty Pups, Super Paws: Pups Save the Mega Mayor Pups Sace a Wrong-Way Explorer Mighty Pups, Charged Up: Pups vs. The Copycat and Ready Race Rescue

Season 7: Dino Rescue: Pups and the Lost Dino Eggs Pups Save a Trash-Dinger Pups Save the Game Show Ultimate Rescue: Pups Save the Pupmoblie Moto Pups: Pups vs. Ruff Ruff Pack and Jet to the Rescue

Season 8: Pups Save the Runaway Rooster Pups Save the Sweet Mayor Pups Save the Magic Trick Pups Stop the Cheetah Sea Patrol: Pups Save the Water Walk Sea Patrol: Pups Save a Windsurfer Pups and Katie Stop the Barking Kitty Crew Pups Save the Treasure Curise Pups Save Ryder's Rocket Pups Save a Chicken Tuilip Rescue Knights: Quest for the Dragon's Tooth and Rescue Knights: Pups Save a Dozing Dragon

Season 9: Liberty Make a New Friend Pups Save the Pup Pup Boogie Concert Pups Meet the Cat Pack Cat Pack: Saving the Safe Big Truck Pups: Pups Stop a Flood Big Truck Pups: Pups Save the Bridge Mighty Pups, Super Paws: Pups Stop the Mighty Eel Mission PAW: Pups Save the Floating Royal Carriage Aqua Pups: Pups Save the Floating Castle All Paws on Deck Charger Visits the Pups and Pups Save a Shiny Ride

Season 10: Pups Save the Mayor's Assistant Jungle Pups: Pups Find a Hidden Jungle Jungle Pups: Pups Save the Big Big Animals Pups Save Their Digi Tal Friends Pups Save the Rainbow Liberty's Mountain Rescue Charger's Christmas Adventure Mighty Pups vs. The Mayor of the Universel Mighty Pups vs. the Big Chill Mighty Pups vs. the Mighty Cheetah Mighty Pups vs. the Mighty Queen Mighty Pups Stop the Hiccup Rescue Wheels: Pups Save Adventure Bay! Pups Save the Missing Flounder Pups Save a Underwater Otis and Rescue Wheels: Pups vs. the Monster Mayor

Season 11: Rescue Wheels: Pups Save the Teetering Tower Rescue Wheels: Pups Save the Risky Race Rsscue Wheels: Pups Save the Runaway Truck Pups Plus a Chicken Plucky Pups Save a Pet Show Pups Save Helga & the Humsquatch Pups Save the Missing Bone-Stone Pups Save the Director Pups Save the Super Cows Air Rescue: Pups Save the Airport Opening Pups Get Your Goat Air Rescue: Pups Stop a Rocket Powrted Pogo Stick Pups Save the Baddles and A Jr. Patrollers' Christmas

Movie Films

PAW Patrol: The Movie (2021)

PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie (2023)

[frank4457]

Seasonal Activities in Tahlequah, Oklahoma: Summer Fun and Winter Wonders.

Tahlequah, Oklahoma, the capital of the Cherokee Nation, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and bordered by the Illinois River, Tahlequah offers a variety of seasonal activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking for a more relaxed pace. Here’s a look at what makes Tahlequah a year-round destination for fun and wonder.

Summer Fun in Tahlequah

1. Illinois River Adventures

One of the highlights of summer in Tahlequah, Oklahoma is the Illinois River. Known for its clear waters and gentle flow, the river is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Families and groups of friends can spend a day floating down the river, stopping at sandbars for picnics, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. Several local outfitters provide rentals and shuttle services, making it easy to plan a river adventure.

2. Cherokee Heritage Center

Summer is also an excellent time to explore the Cherokee Heritage Center. This cultural and historical attraction offers an immersive experience into the history and traditions of the Cherokee people. Visitors can tour Diligwa, a 1710 Cherokee village, watch traditional Cherokee craftspeople at work, and participate in interactive exhibits. The Heritage Center also hosts summer events and workshops, providing a deeper understanding of Cherokee culture.

3. Lake Tenkiller

For those who love water sports, Lake Tenkiller is a must-visit. Located just a short drive from Tahlequah, this pristine lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake's 130 miles of shoreline offer numerous camping sites, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Scuba diving enthusiasts will find the clear waters of Lake Tenkiller perfect for exploring underwater attractions, including submerged towns and a variety of fish species.

4. Outdoor Festivals and Events

Tahlequah comes alive in the summer with a variety of festivals and events. The Red Fern Festival, held in April, celebrates the city’s connection to the classic novel "Where the Red Fern Grows" with live music, arts and crafts, and a hound dog field trial. The Fourth of July Parade and fireworks display are also major highlights, drawing crowds from across the region to celebrate Independence Day with a bang.

Winter Wonders in Tahlequah

1. Holiday Lights and Festivities

As winter sets in, Tahlequah transforms into a festive wonderland. The annual Christmas Parade lights up the streets with floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus, bringing holiday cheer to residents and visitors alike. The Tahlequah Chamber of Commerce also organizes the "Deck the Halls" contest, where local businesses and homes compete in a holiday decorating competition, adding a magical glow to the entire town.

2. Roxy Theater

Winter is the perfect time to catch a show at the historic Roxy Theater. This beautifully restored venue hosts a variety of performances, including classic films, live music, and community theater productions. The cozy atmosphere of the Roxy provides a warm retreat from the chilly weather outside, making it a favorite spot for winter entertainment.

3. Eagle Watching

Tahlequah’s proximity to the Illinois River and Lake Tenkiller makes it an ideal location for eagle watching during the winter months. From December through February, bald eagles migrate to the area, offering bird watchers a spectacular sight. The best viewing spots include the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge and the Tenkiller State Park, where guided tours and eagle-watching events are often organized.

4. Cherokee National Holiday

While technically held in late summer, the Cherokee National Holiday has elements that extend into the winter season, particularly in the planning and preparation stages. This major event commemorates the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution and includes traditional games, arts and crafts, and storytelling. The sense of community and celebration continues into the winter as the Cherokee Nation reflects on its rich heritage and prepares for the year ahead.

Conclusion

Tahlequah, Oklahoma, offers a diverse array of activities that change with the seasons, making it a captivating destination year-round. Whether you're floating down the Illinois River in the summer sun or watching bald eagles soar over a winter landscape, Tahlequah's blend of natural beauty and cultural richness ensures that there's always something to explore and enjoy. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, the city’s unique charm and seasonal offerings create memories that last a lifetime.

[redcarpetview]

Brandy Releases Romantic Christmas Single, "Christmas for Two"

(photo credit: William Sikora III)

R&B icon Brandy releases her new holiday single “Christmas Party For Two.” Listen HERE via Motown Records. Soulful and sultry, the romantic yuletide anthem is just the thing to add a little extra spark to the festive season, ensuring some not-so-silent nights. It's the lead single from Brandy’s highly anticipated holiday album Christmas with Brandy, which arrives November 10. Pre-order HERE. 

“You need someone to make you feel the way that I do,” legendary vocalist coos over guitar plucking and bluesy drumming. At the chorus, Brandy makes it clear exactly what she wants for Christmas this year. “Help me undress, oh yes," the enduring hitmaker purrs. "I’ll be your present, just give me your presence — that’s all that I’m asking of you.” It’s safe to say the new anthem of the season has arrived.

With a new album on the way, Brandy will have plenty of material to choose from when she takes the stage at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 23 to help ring in the season. But the fun doesn’t end there. Brandy is starring in the upcoming Netflix original film Best. Christmas. Ever! alongside Heather Graham, which arrives November 16. Check out the exclusive images for the film HERE.

In Brandy’s capable hands, classic songs like “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Halls” transform into deep, soulful grooves that will move audiences who have been waiting for a contemporary, fresh take. And “Christmas Party For You” isn’t the only original track on the album, which includes “Feels Different,” and “Christmas Gift,” which finds the R&B great having a blast with her daughter Sy’Rai. 

FOLLOW BRANDY:

Facebook / Instagram / X / TikTok / YouTube

[schistcity]

truly a sad sad day if you girlies watched that film and heard nirvana in the soundtrack and went "oh edgy music like mcr??" STOP projecting PLEASE kurt cobain did NOT die for u to go around calling his band emo!!! bruce wayne does nOT know what the fucking black parade is he listens to soundgarden !!!!! he listens to alice in chains !!!! he accidentally got in utero jammed in the batmobile's tape deck four years ago and its the only thing he can listen to in there !!!!!

[through tears] “battinson listens to mcr” jokes r funny but please i need you to look me in the eye and tell me you know that grunge and emo are not the same thing please im begging you please..

[foodieforthoughts]

Hi, my darling! I love your writing and I have a special ask for you: my birthday is in July 14th, a big and important holiday in France. So, how could it be if Henry brings me to Paris to celebrate my day (this is one of my biggest dreams)? (in case to describe the reader's physical characteristics I'd like it to be a plus size one, please ❤️) P.S.: Forgive my writing. English is not my mother language.

Honey! I know it has been ages since you sent this but now seems the perfect time. Happy birthday to you in advance sweetheart. 🤗❤️

Also, I only know about 14th of July celebrations from what's available on the internet, if I have made any mistakes I'm sorry about it. 🙈 Also, also, I haven't described the physical attributes of the reader. I hope that is okay. 😇

Title: Mon amour

You were pretty sure Henry was going to miss your birthday this year, what with him being away for filming and only a couple more hours until your birthday. But you were completely taken by surprise when he called, asking you to head out to the airport and pack whatever you deemed necessary.

"You are crazy, Henry!" You exclaimed on the phone, standing outside the airport in the night with a hurriedly packed bag. "What is happening?!"

"Hurry up, love." You nearly shrieked when out of nowhere Henry came up to you and grabbed your hand. Tugging you along to follow him, instructing you to take out your passport, Henry led you through the gate inside the airport.

It was only when you saw the boarding pass, your happiness knew no bounds as you realised he was taking you to Paris for your birthday.

Being in Paris for July 14th celebration, an important day called la fête nationale, was at the top of your bucket list. Henry explained how he had meant to come home one day prior but bad weather and some delays with filming had pushed his plans to the last minute. He had apologized for it but you assured him there wasn't any need for them. There was nothing to forgive, on the contrary, he got a big kiss and a tight hug when the plane took off. You were pretty sure your were floating to cloud nine even before the Eiffel Tower came into view.

Henry had left no stone unturned to make your stay special. A room in Shangri-la with an amazing view of the Seine river, complimented by the giant, wrought iron symbol of love for romantics, was already booked for next four days and decorated with balloons for your birthday. You felt your heart could burst with the surprises he had planned, unfolding one after another and making you teary eyed, only for Henry to take you in his arms and kiss the tears away.

"Good morning, love." He greeted you the next day, naked and still in bed with his arms around you. Running his hand through your hair and kissing your lips, Henry wished you a 'happy birthday' again.

Despite sleeping only for a few hours, both of you were eager to spend the day out and about it in the city. Henry had to try to blend in with the crowd, wearing a cap and casual clothes yet still managing to look like an adonis, making you laugh when he hung the DSLR from his shoulder. Luckily for him with the moustache he had going on for his upcoming movie, he looked almost, if not entirely, unrecognizable.

After watching the military parade in Champs-Elysées, he took you for a dessert splurge around the avenue. From all the crêpes, éclairs, madeleines and macarons, you were getting a sugar rush, joking and laughing with a constantly soaring high. Since Henry was on a strict diet, he only had taken a small bite from your crêpe, sitting and listening to you, amused at the sheer level of your excitement.

Lucky for you, before you could go on a downward spiral from the drop in blood sugar, Henry got you hydrated and tucked in the bed for a nap. You had protested initially, but all your complains vanished when he started kissing you and whispering in your ear in his low, gruff voice, how much he had missed you.

It wasn't until late afternoon that you finally woke up to find Henry in the balcony, sipping on tea and basking in the evening sunlight. You sneaked up behind him, wrapping your arms around his waist and taking in a deep breath of his scent while resting your face against his taut back.

"How did I ever become so lucky to have you in my life?" You mumbled against his shirt, smiling to yourself as you said it.

"I am the lucky one to find you." He placed the cup on the railing, twisting to pull you to stand in front of him. Trapping you in between his arms, he kissed your nose causing his moustache to tickle your skin and make you giggle.

You sighed happily, throwing your arms around his neck and running your hand through his hair. Gazing at him with a smile, you were mesmerized by his captivating blue eyes like it had been the very first time.

"We better start getting ready to head out again." He caressed your cheek with his thumb as he spoke.

"Yeah? We could stay in though. Maybe continue from when you stopped in the afternoon?" You winked at him, making him chuckle.

"Later tonight, baby. I have one more thing planned for you."

When you stepped inside the Bateaux Parisiens, you knew why Henry had asked you to pack 'something fancy'. Donning a sleek blazer suit himself, Henry looked dashing as always. Live music playing in the background, an elegant menu of scrumptious food, glasses of Champagne Jacquart Brut Mosaïque, accompanied by the love of your life while cruising down the river with magnificent view of the city on both sides, you knew dinner couldn't have been any more lavish than this. Henry was recognised by few, approached for photos which Henry would have generally declined but you insisted he should go for it. Their smiling faces and elated shrieks only somehow lifted up your spirits even more.

When the boat stopped near the Eiffel Tower with only a few minutes until the fireworks display, Henry grabbed your hand and took you up to the deck. It was already crowded but he managed to find a spot at the far end of the boat. He draped an arm around your shoulder, yours enveloping his waist as you waited for the fireworks to start.

Everything about your birthday was perfect. You were brought to tears as the vibrant colours of the fireworks glowed in the night sky. Henry hugged you closer, kissing the top of your head and watched the beautiful display with you.

Through the crackle of the fireworks, glimmer of the colours sparkling in his eyes, you stood on your tiptoes to kiss his soft lips.

"Thank you for making this day special, Henry." You whispered in his ears, placing another kiss on his cheek.

"Special day for a special lady." He winked at you, before leaning down to kiss you deeply.

[yelenadelova]

Some The Last of Us Pride headcanons!

I’ve seen some people talking about TLOU characters at Pride and I love them all and think they’re super cute so I wanted to add my own two cents and contribute some headcanons. If you want to see more of these or anything about a character I don’t cover feel free to let me know. Happy Pride month!!

Although Ellie has been out for years she doesn’t usually go to Pride. The crowds aren’t totally her thing and she usually would rather just stay home and watch gay TV and films to celebrate the month.

Ellie did go to her first pride with Riley when they were both still navigating their sexualities and it was a great (slightly overwhelming) experience. 

Dina loves the atmosphere of Pride so she usually manages to convince Ellie to go with her. And Ellie loves it when she’s with Dina because somehow she makes the whole thing much less stressful and much more fun. They spend a lot of time just holding hands and wandering around looking at the different booths and vendors and stuff. 

Ellie likes to lay out on the lawn with Dina and people watch. She brings a sketchbook and draws the people she sees.

Ellie and Dina both get hoarse from cheering for all the various people and floats in the parade.

Dina is very into DIYs and crafting so she has both her and Ellie decked out with things like homemade t-shirts and bandanas. She also makes various trinkets like buttons, pins, earrings, and bracelets and hands them out to people. Ellie jokes that Dina should at least be charging for them but Dina just likes seeing smiles on people’s faces.

Ellie definitely convinces Dina to buy shirts with stupid gay puns on them because she thinks they are the funniest things in the world. 

Joel also goes as an ally and is super supportive of Ellie. He is largely unfamiliar with the community so it’s a little overwhelming at first and he asks Ellie a lot of questions. But he also gets into it and genuinely wants to learn and experience as much as he can.

Joel also doesn’t deal with any bullshit and if he sees homophobes or people protesting the event he will try to guide Ellie away before she even sees it so it doesn’t ruin her day. 

Lev goes to pride with Yara and Abby and is super excited about it. Lev hasn’t really had the chance to experience the sense of community before so Pride is amazing. He excitedly bounces from stall to stall meeting people and seeing new things.

Abby, Lev, and Yara all get pronoun pins and mini pride flags. Lev even somehow manages to convince Abby to put on some rainbow face paint.

Abby doesn’t entirely get the whole thing but she is more than willing to learn and it makes her so happy to see Lev happy.

When there are concerts, drag performances, etc. Abby lifts Lev up on her shoulders so he can get a better view of the show.