#Salt and Pepper Dalmatian

[webkinztournament]

[milkandcookies-222]

Going on vacation for three weeks, so I'll be away from my stuffies for a while, but here's three new additions to my webkinz family! Meet Sobek, Regina, and Dalton 🐊����🧂

[onlinesaltandpeppershakermuseum]

Set # 2,004

This is a set of shakers that has been done so many times but I did not have the dalmation version so I was happy to come across it however the dalmation does not look very pleased

[roguecookers]

How to Smoke Texas Brisket on a Traeger Grill?

Smoking a Texas brisket is an art form that requires patience, precision, and a passion for great barbecue. When done right, it results in tender, flavorful meat with a smoky crust that’s hard to resist. While traditional Texas pitmasters rely on offset smokers, modern BBQ enthusiasts can achieve equally impressive results using a Traeger grill. You’ll learn how to smoke a Texas brisket on a Traeger grill in this guide, from choosing the right cut to serving the perfect slice.

1. Selecting the Right Brisket The foundation of a great Texas brisket is choosing the right piece of meat. Look for a whole packer brisket, which includes both the flat and point muscles. This cut usually weighs between 10 to 16 pounds. When selecting your brisket:

Marbling: Choose a brisket with good marbling, as the fat will render during cooking and keep the meat juicy and flavorful. Grade: USDA Prime is ideal for its higher fat content, but USDA Choice also works well. Avoid briskets labeled as Select, as they may be too lean.

2. Preparing the Brisket Proper preparation is crucial to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor. Start by trimming the brisket:

Fat Cap: Leave about 1/4 inch of the fat cap on the brisket. This layer of fat will help protect the meat during the long cooking process and add flavor. Silver Skin: Trim away any silver skin or tough connective tissue on the surface of the brisket, as it doesn’t render well during smoking. Next, season the brisket with a classic Texas-style rub:

Ingredients: Use a simple mix of kosher salt and coarse black pepper, often referred to as “Dalmatian rub.” For additional flavor, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of paprika.

Application: Generously apply the rub to all sides of the brisket, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let the brisket sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the rub to adhere.

3. Setting Up Your Traeger Grill The Traeger grill is known for its ease of use and consistent temperature control, making it perfect for smoking brisket. Here’s how to set it up:

Wood Pellets: Choose hardwood pellets for a robust smoke flavor. Traditionalists often use oak or mesquite for Texas brisket, but hickory or a blend of hardwoods also work well.

Temperature: Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F. This low-and-slow temperature is key to breaking down the tough connective tissues in the brisket, resulting in tender meat.

Smoke Control: Set your Traeger to the “Super Smoke” setting if accessible. This function enhances the smoke flavor during the initial phase of cooking.

4. Smoking the Brisket Now that your barbecue is prepared, now is the right time to begin smoking:

Placement: Place the brisket fat-side up directly on the grill grates. This allows the fat to render down through the meat, basting it as it cooks. Initial Smoke: Smoke the brisket at 225°F for 6–8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160–165°F. During this stage, the meat will encourage a wonderful bark and hold the smoky flavor.

5. Wrapping the Brisket Once the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 160–165°F, it’s time to wrap it. This step is known as the “Texas Crutch” and helps to retain moisture and speed up the cooking process.

Wrap Type: Use either butcher paper or aluminum foil. Butcher paper allows the brisket to breathe slightly, maintaining a crispy bark, while foil locks in moisture for a softer bark.

Wrapping Technique: Wrap the brisket tightly to avoid any leaks and return it to the grill, fat-side down this time.

6. Finishing the Cook Continue cooking the brisket until it reaches an internal temperature of 195–205°F. This can take another 4–6 hours. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the brisket and your grill’s consistency.

Checking for Doneness: Utilize a meat thermometer to really look at the inward temperature. Additionally, test for doneness by inserting the probe; it should slide in and out of the meat with little resistance, similar to butter.

Resting: Once done, remove the brisket from the grill and let it rest, still wrapped, for at least an hour. Each bite is guaranteed to be juicy by allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat during rest.

7. Slicing and Serving When ready to serve, unwrap the brisket and place it on a cutting board:

Slicing Technique: Start by separating the point from the flat along the natural seam of fat. Cut the level contrary to what would be expected into 1/4-inch thick cuts. The point, which is fattier, can be sliced or chopped depending on your preference.

Serving: Serve the brisket with classic Texas sides like pickles, onions, white bread, and barbecue sauce. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Conclusion Smoking a Texas brisket on a Traeger grill combines the best of tradition with modern convenience. By following these steps, you’ll be able to achieve a tender, flavorful brisket that rivals the best pitmasters. For more BBQ tips, recipes, and inspiration, visit Rogue Cookers.

[getacluu]

🎃👻📊 Halloween Poll Results

Thanks for joining the fun. Now let’s see what we got.

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #1

Marinette and Adrien (from Miraculous)

50% voted Wade and Ember

20% voted a ladybug and a black cat

16.7% voted Snow White and the Prince

13.3% voted Romeo and Juliet

0% voted Barney and Betty Rubble

0% voted a Vampire Queen and a Pimpernel

0% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #2

Mr. Peabody and Sherman

37.2% voted Sherlock Holmes and Watson

30.2% voted Dr. Emmet Brown and Marty McFly

27.9% voted Sam and Max

4.7% voted a Dalmatian and firefighter

0% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #3

Mac and Tosh (from Looney Tunes)

62.5% voted Chip and Dale

25% voted Wilbur and Orville Wright

12.5% voted Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum

0% voted Gemini

0% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #4

Buster and Babs Bunny (from Tiny Toons)

27.8% voted Tuffnut and Ruffnut

22.2% voted salt and pepper

22.2% voted Hansel and Gretel

11.1% voted Aether and Lumine

11.1% voted other options

5.6% voted the Wonder Twins

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #5

The Trolls (Dreamworks: Trolls)

27.9% voted Pokemon

25.6% voted Genshin Impact

20.9% voted bugs

18.6% voted Miraculous weilders

7% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #6

Billie and Oscar (from Billie Bust Up)

44.3% voted Finn and Jake / Fionna and Cake

21.6% voted Ash and Pikachu / Liko and Sprigatito

11.3% voted Klarion the Witch Boy and Teekl

10.3% voted vampire and bat

7.2% voted Bo Peep and sheep

5.2% voted Merida and black bear

0% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #7

Margo, Edith, and Agnes (from Despicable Me)

57.9% voted PowerPuff Girls

26.3% voted a witch, pirate, and kitty

15.8% voted the Chipettes

0% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #8

Doremi, Hazuki, Aiko, Onpu, and Momoko (from Ojamajo Doremi)

31% voted Mew Mews

16.7% voted witches

16.7% voted Sailor scouts

14.3% voted monsters

14.3% voted Disney princesses

4.8% voted other options

2.4% voted Genshin Impact characters

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #9

Hat Kid and Bow Kid (from A Hat In Time)

38.6% voted The Conductor and DJ Grooves

34.3% voted Pikachu and Eevee

14.3% voted Princess Belle and Princess Tiana

7.1% voted Ladybug and Rena Rouge

4.3% voted Jessie and Bo Peep

1.4% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #10

Scooby Doo and Shaggy Rogers

33.3% voted Finn and Jake

25.6% voted werewolf and vampire

23.1% voted Tintin and Snowy

16.7% voted Toothless and Hiccup

1.3% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #11

Sonic the Hedgehog, Tails the Fox, and Knuckles the Echidna

43.8% voted the Three Musketeers

31.2% voted Power Rangers

18.8% voted Vampire, Frankenstein, and Werewolf

6.2% voted other options

0% voted The Three Stooges

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #12

Gene, Louise, and Tina Belcher (from Bob’s Burgers)

61.4% voted the Warner Siblings

22.8% voted Reg, Nanachi, and Riko

10.5% voted Marvel superheroes

5.3% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #13

Yakko, Wakko, and Dot Warner (from Animaniacs)

53.8% voted starter Pokémon

46.2% voted Barbershop singing trio

27.8% voted Star Wars characters

5.6% voted other options

🎃👻📊 Halloween poll #14

SpongeBob Squarepants and Patrick Star

46.2% voted Fanboy and Chum Chum

42.3% voted Mario and Luigi

7.7% voted Orbot and Cubot

3.8% voted Jaq and Gus

0% voted other options

Once again, thanks for joining the fun.

[butcherbitching]

If you ever think you’re being too audacious, remember that Franklin and Ray Lewis BBQ sell a “Dalmatian Rub” for $15. Reader, it is literally salt and black pepper mixed together. It says that on the back on the bag in the ingredients list.

[loathingloserwebkinz]

Dalmatian // Salt & Pepper Dalmation

[disneyphotoshare]

101 Dalmatians Puppies Sculpted Salt & Pepper Set for $13.99 this week on Zulily

[sheetsonfire]

Ears and Tears

Summary: Time-rewind. A moment in the past where Kelly takes care of his little sister, Y/N, when she’s feeling unwell.

A/N: This is a time-rewind fic. A young Kelly Severide is due to start at the Fire Academy in the late fall, in the meantime, he’s been put in charge of babysitting his younger sister, the reader.

Fandom: Chicago Fire

Pairing: Kelly Severide x Sister!Reader, Christopher Herrmann

Genre: Slight angst, humour, fluff

Word Count: 2612

This morning, you had complained about a slight ear earache, something you had often struggled with over the years. It was a throwaway complaint, something that would be remedied with painkillers and rest where the long shift at the firehouse allowed. Kelly had told you to keep him updated and to let him know if you were struggling, to which you kissed his cheek and ruffled his salt and pepper hair, smiling brightly at your big brother.

Now, Kelly was seeking out some leftovers from the fridge when he overheard Herrmann sharing an anecdote from one of Lee Henry’s childhood incidents, you were laughing and looking at Chris with fondness as he regaled one of the many adventures from fatherhood. Kelly never really mentioned it much to his co-workers and friends, but as your big brother, he had felt much like a father to you at times. Your earache as an adult took him back to one of your first earaches as a kid, a weekend where it was just you and him at home.

[Flashback]

Your Dad, Benny, was on yet another one of his fishing trips, avoiding the mess he had created back home. As such, your mom was also away on a ‘break’ at her sister’s in Michigan. This left you with your big brother Kelly for company which was, to be honest, the absolute freakin’ best.

You were the light of his life, the reason he stayed determined and motivated even all through the moments of trouble, rebellion, and uncertainty. No matter how many arguments he had with your dad he reminded himself that, despite his own bitterness, your mom was hurting too. As such, he put his focus on doing right by you whilst she took the time she obviously needed.

Which was why he was currently pushing you in the shopping cart, looking for supplies for the weekend.

“Do you want Cheerios or Wheat Chex, kiddo?”

“Cheerioooos!” You put your arms up, fists in the air like it was a sporting achievement to watch the Cheerio box get placed in the cart by your big brother. You had him chuckling as he continued pushing you and the groceries down the aisles.

You’re gawking at all the colourful packaging and choices that the confectionary aisle has to offer, breaking into giggles as Kelly ruffles your unruly short curls of hair.

“Have you thought about what movie we’re watching tonight?”

You place your hand on your face, stroking your imaginary beard, pondering the answer. This was a new thing you had picked up from the pirate in one of your Saturday morning shows. Again, it made your brother laugh.

“I wanna watch… Ju- Jura-sick Park!”

“Jurassic Park?”

“Yep!”

Kelly looks at you, uncertain, “Are you sure you won’t find it too scary, short stuff?”

You scowl at your brother, how dare he even suggest the notion?

“No, I love it, the T-rex stomps everywhere, and then the big ones eat all the leaves! I don’t like the ones with the big claws though, they’re too mean…”

“The velociraptors?”

“Yeah, the veci-raptors, they’re scary!”

Kelly smiles again, looking at you, your brown eyes full of warmth and wonder.

“I agree, kiddo. I agree.”

You’re nearly done with the grocery run when you start to feel a bit icky, your eyes are stinging from sleepiness, and you feel all wobbly in your head. You’re holding your stuffed Dalmatian, it’s got a ‘Fire Chief’ hat on its head, as the discomfort looms over you, you clutch the Dalmatian closer, hoping the bad feeling will go away. Kelly notices you’ve gone quiet, not answering his question about whether you still liked grapes or not.

“Y/N, are you okay?” He bends his knees a little to meet your eye level, rubbing your arms gently.

You shake your head, not sure what to say but definitely sure the short answer was indeed “No”.

“What’s the matter, are you sad?” You think on your answer for a moment, shaking your head again, “No”. You weren’t sad, because Kelly was with you.

“Does something hurt?” Kelly asks, now coming to pick you up out of the cart and hold you in his arms. You immediately seek solace on his shoulder, clutching the Dalmatian as you move to rest your cheek on him. You nod against him.

“What hurts, sweetheart?”

“My ears, I feel… feel…nas-... nas…”

Kelly admired your attempted use of a more mature word, like ‘nauseous’, but he could guess what you were getting at.

“Sick? Is it making you feel sick?”

“...Yeah.” Your voice is quiet, he feels you hold him tighter. His heart tugs, hating to know you were in any kind of pain.

“Okay, little one. How about we get you some medicine, pay for this stuff, and get you home?”

“M’kay…” You close your eyes, feeling better with the security of Kelly holding you.

“Let’s do that then, you can stay holding on to me, it’s alright.” This time you don’t answer, just screw your eyes shut as another ache pulls in your ear, your tummy rolling unhappily.

“Do you think you’re going to be sick now?” He queries, making sure he doesn't have to immediately seek a receptacle.

“No-No, I won’t… It just feels bad.” He smiles softly, proud of you for being so brave.

“It’s okay if you need to be sick, honey, just let me know, alright?”

“Okay, Kel…” You murmur, your arms wrapped around his neck, little fingers petting the back of his hair softly.

-

You make it through the payment of the groceries, Kelly had asked a member of staff to help him with the packing so he could stay holding on to you, a warm hand gently rubbing in circles on your back as you fell into a half-sleep, the warmth of Kelly lulling you into a relaxed state despite your queasy and achy feeling. He had awkwardly smiled off some comments about how admirable he was being a “young father”, not really having the heart to correct them as he often felt like more of a parent to you.

Kelly sets you down in your booster seat, strapping you in, giving you some water to slowly sip on through a straw. Bottle in one hand, your Dalmatian in the other. He finishes loading the groceries into the trunk and carefully shuts it to avoid making too much movement or sound.

As he pulls into traffic he looks back at you through the mirror,

“How are we doing back there, sweetheart?”

“I’m… okay… I think.” Kelly winks at you and is satisfied when he can still make you smile even though you weren’t feeling great.

“Alright, partner. You let me know if you want me to stop, okay?”

“Okay.” You put your bottle next to you in the cupholder, closing your eyes as you hold your stuffed puppy close.

-

You wake up when Kelly opens the front door, eyes bleary from the 30-minute nap you had managed on the ride home. Your ears had taken the opportunity to ramp up the discomfort, and you whimpered in pain.

“Y/N?” Kelly questions, moving in careful strides to the big couch in the living room.

“It hurts, Kel. My ears… hurt.” His heart hurts as he sees tears well up in your eyes, gently reaching a thumb to wipe them from your cheeks.

“It’s alright, sweetheart. We’ll give you some medicine, and get you warm, you’ll feel better after a longer nap.”

You sniff, “Kay…”

“You’re a brave one, kiddo. Here we go…”

He sits you down on the couch, taking your shoes and your jacket off before placing a red fluffy blanket over you, settling you against the couch pillows, the blanket is embroidered with a cartoon-like shield that says “Junior Firefighter” on it. He places it just so your shoulders and little face are peeking out.

“Let me get you another drink and open the medicine, it’s gonna taste like strawberry, alright?”

You nod slowly, burrowing further into the blanket with your Dalmatian.

Carefully, Kelly measures out the medicine onto a spoon and comes to kneel beside you,

“Okay, Y/N. I need you to be really brave, it’s going to make you feel better. I promise.”

You eye your brother hesitantly, but even your young mind had already figured out that it trusted Kelly more than anybody in the world, and if he said the medicine was supposed to help then you believed it.

You nod meekly, sitting up just a little as Kelly swoops the spoon for you to swallow the medicine. Your nose wrinkles, not even the artificial strawberry can save the taste and you’re relieved when Kelly gives you a juice box to sip at.

“Alright, sweetheart. I just gotta pack the groceries away, you want me to put some Scooby-Doo on whilst I’m in the kitchen?”

Your sad little face perks up at the words ‘Scooby-Doo’, and you nod, snuggling back down to get ready. Kelly presses another kiss to your forehead, stroking some stray curls away from your forehead.

He slots a VHS in the machine and turns on the TV, smiling as he sees your sleepy expression despite being transfixed on the opening credits.

-

20 minutes later Kelly returns to find you half asleep, fighting drowsiness to continue watching Shaggy and Scooby running around in goofy terror as another masked ghoul chases them.

"Hey, short stuff. You wanna watch dinosaurs now?"

You yawn, rubbing at your eyes,

"Mh, dinosaurs. Okay, Kelly." He smiles, he knows you’d do your damn best to stay awake for dinosaurs. Figuring that he could put it on at least, and if you fell asleep he could rewind it again later.

As quietly as he can, not wanting to upset your aching head, he ejects the VHS and finds Jurassic Park to take its place. He hears rustling behind him, turning to see you whimpering and wriggling in discomfort, not able to settle. He toes off his shoes and comes to sit by you on the couch, wrapping an arm around you in reassurance.

“It’s alright, honey. I’m here, you’re gonna feel better soon…” He doesn’t even get the chance to ask before you do it of your own accord, climbing into his lap to cuddle him. Carefully he maneuvers you in his arms, cradling you at an angle that lets you watch TV and be held by him.

With one hand he reaches to bring the blanket back over you again, tucking your puppy into your arms as he rubs the side of your head, trying to soothe the ache from your ears. He knows it won’t be long til you’re back asleep. Knowing full well if you were awake and well you’d be asking all sorts of questions, and potentially dragging out your small library of dinosaur books that he had bought for you over the last year. You wanted to know anything that you could about dinosaurs, and Kelly was more than willing to help teach you.

-

It’s late afternoon when Kelly wakes up, he had fallen asleep too, long nights of studying for the Fire Academy and working during the week were starting to catch up with him. The toasty weight of your small body draws his attention, your cheek squished against his chest, little arms wrapped around him like he was a teddy bear. He looks at you with all the admiration in the world, pressing his hand to the back of your forehead, pleased to see that you only felt a little warm and not feverish.

He glances at his watch and sees it’s almost dinner time, choosing to enjoy these moments of peace and safety with you. He was excited to start his career as a Firefighter, but he had admitted to himself that he was worried about what might happen to you if something happened to him. Of course, your parents weren’t totally devoid of any skills as caregivers, but he knew that you looked up to him and relished him being in your life. Just as he relished you being in his. He only hoped that he could make you proud and be around to take care of you for as long as you needed him.

[End of flashback]

“Earth to Kelly, you’re a firefighter, dude. Not a spaceman, come back from orbit…” You’re waving your hand in front of Kelly’s face, he had been staring into the space where you and Herrmann were talking, taking sporadic mouthfuls of the Beef Chilli that Gallo had made.

“What?” He didn’t mean to sound so blunt, but he had been truly lost in the memory, coming back to reality as he took in your now-adult features, those eyes were still the same warm colour. He swiped at his mouth with a napkin, removing any sauce from around his mouth, catching you giggling at him.

“You were zoned out, Kel. You alright?” You’re watching him, half a smile, half concern. Herrmann had gone off to see Chief about something.

“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine. Just thinking about when you weren’t even my waist height, fuelled by Cheerios and juice… How’s the earache?”

You laugh quietly, “The only thing different out of all those things is my height… yeah I’m okay, it’s eased off now.”

Kelly nods, smiling as he washes his dish and fork in the sink. You can see he’s still lost in a flurry of memories. You move around the counter, squishing your big brother in a hug, resting your head on the back of his SQUAD jacket.

“I remember it, Kel. I remember all the times you looked after me, especially when my ears were being a bitch. I remember grocery runs, park trips, getting paint everywhere, watching Jurassic Park until the tape was begging for death. I remember you taught me how to ride my bike, how to skateboard, how to tie my shoelaces, what to do in case of a fire or emergency…”

Kelly puts his dish and fork on the side to dry, facing you now with a glint in his eyes, dare you even say tears, still smiling as he listens, you hold onto his arms with a gentle squeeze.

“I remember how you learned to braid hair for me, parent-teacher conferences, taking me to Junior Firefighter Club because I begged even though you were so afraid I’d choose this career… I remember when I graduated, what you said, how proud you were of me… I remember everything you’ve ever done and I know I will remember everything you will ever do. And I really can’t thank you enough, I can only try to keep making you proud.”

Before you know it Kelly is returning the hug, squeezing you tight until you laugh and wriggle,

“Alright, alright… let me breathe…” Patting him on the back.

He looks at you, cupping your cheek affectionately, “You'll always make me proud, kiddo. Always.”

It’s then that you sense movement from across the room, both of you snapping your heads in that direction. Herrmann, Tony, Capp, and Mouch were standing in the entryway to the common room, letting out a collective “Awww” as you and Kelly break apart, shaking your heads with laughter.

Herrmann approaches, patting you both on the back. “That’s family for ya, kids.”

And as if the universe was commenting on how far the Severide siblings had come together, the alert sounded over the system,

“Engine 51, Truck 81, Squad 3, Ambulance 61…”

To which Kelly kissed your forehead, gesturing for you to follow towards the app floor “Let’s go, kiddo. Work to do…” Leading you into your next adventure with him.

-

Fin.

A/N: Bit of a cheesy ending, but I couldn't help myself!

[theonetheycallhannah]

The Treatment of Captain Syverson-Chapter 19: Debridement

Characters: Captain Logan “Sy” Syverson, Shane Benton (OFC), various other original supporting/secondary characters

Summary: Shane begins to process life after her trauma, and Sy delivers the news of her safety to the people that matter most to her…but there is pushback on a few aspects of his report.

Romance and Smut Abound HERE!

Word Count: 4.1k

Warnings: Mostly fluff, but with mention of Shane’s trauma in the cellar. Not graphic. 

Author’s Note: My darling readers! Thank you so much for your patience as I deal with seasonal stress, fatigue, anxiety, and some depression. It was my goal to have all chapters of this story done by the end of this year. I don’t think I’ll accomplish it, but I’ll do my very best to get at least one more chapter up by the 31st. 2020 has been a totally shit year, but I will forever owe it some remarkable things. This story, which has been an amazing escape from real life, the friends I’ve made from all over my country and the world, many of them because of this story, and a long overdue shift in my work hours starting next week. I’ll be glad to see the back of it, but the year has really opened me up to new ideas and some major soul-searching. I think, mentally, I’m actually more myself than I’ve ever been, despite some blue times. You can all take some credit for that improvement, because many of my moments of clarity have arisen from brilliant and profound posts here.

The title of this chapter seemed appropriate for a few reasons. Wounds are cleaned and cleared of damaged tissue during debridement. This is one of the steps usually required for a large and/or traumatic wound to heal. We see Shane beginning this process here in this chapter, and in a sense, Sy, as well. The cleansing of Shane in both the literal and figurative sense was so interesting and satisfying to write. And Sy’s bit at the end was a fun puzzle in which I had to figure out how to have Sy give the same news to four different recipients without sounding repetitive. I hope that landed, and if anyone has any suggestions, please let me know.

Disclaimer: Unfortunately for me, Henry is not mine, le sigh, and all mention of him, his characters, any characters from his films, or his precious doggy, Kal, are strictly for transformative and recreational use. I neither ask for, nor accept payment for the work I post on Tumblr or AO3. Unbeta’d because this is for fun and escapism. This is an original work by me, Hannah. Please reblog if you wish to share. Please do not repost either in whole or part, as the work of anyone but myself. Thanks so much for reading!

Tags:

@onlyhenrys @cavillryarchive​ @summersong69​ @titty-teetee​ @bloodyinspiredfuck​ @agniavateira@oddsnendsfanfics​ @omgkatinka​ @thisismysecretthirstblog​ @speakerforthedead0​ @tumblnewby  @suavechops​ @radkesgirl83​ @wheretheriversrunintothesea​ @heartfelt-pen​ @auds24  @geekycanuck @lunarstarknight​ @wilma-g  @coldmuffinbanditshoe @feralrunaway​  @sugarpenchant​ @bichibibi @mzchievous-blog @shesakillerkween @madbadidc7ed @foodieforthoughts @toomanyfandomsshreya

If you want to be notified when I post a new chapter or work, I’ll be happy to add you to my tag list! Stricken blogs are getting personal messages from me when a new chapter is uploaded because Tumblr’s faulty tagging system will not stand in the way of me delivering what the people want!(?) lol! (Although…their lackadaisical notification system might…sorry for that. I have no control. lol!)

X@X@X@X@X@X@X@X@X@X@X@

Shane still felt as if her head was floating above her body, like a balloon on a long string. The combination of meds in her system had helped many of her symptoms. The pain she felt, the physical pain, had been alleviated. Her troubled mind had been put at ease, more or less. But that was a long time ago. And unfortunately, the side effects weren't wearing off at the rapid rate of the intended ones.

As she sat in the SUV--the escape vehicle-- parked outside a large building the size of a small airplane hangar, she tried not to think about what Sy and his pals were discussing just outside the vehicle. She tried not to reflect on the past few days that she had convinced herself would be her last. She tried not to think about what -- or, really, who -- was inside that building.

She thought about seeing Elliott again. The man who had planned to kill her, and almost succeeded. A part of her wished he had, because she wasn't sure she knew who she was anymore. She was a stranger to herself. And living like this seemed so much more difficult than a quick painless death. She couldn't bear the thought of being in view of him.

But another part of her wanted to go in there and end his life herself. That part of her could pull the trigger on a gun aimed at his head. That part of her could bury a knife in his kidney, or sever an artery. Her anatomy and physiology courses could serve her well here. She had dangerous knowledge. Maybe that's why doctors often seem so full of themselves. They possess the knowledge to end life, and yet they choose to save it. It sort of puts things into perspective. Maybe they're justified in their hubris.

Still one more part simply wanted to go home, clean up, and lay naked in her soft sheets with Sy wrapped around her. Warmer and more comforting than any blanket had ever been. She had remembered missing him so much. She thought now about his gentle, loving hands on her, his mouth tasting her so delicately, his…

But then her mind was ripped from the sensual thoughts of Sy and back to her horrific memories from that cellar. The hands of strangers, rough and hateful, their mouths full of words like bile or the grunts of their own violent fulfillment.

Her nightmare of a daydream was abruptly interrupted by the opening of the back passenger door. She jumped, and looked at the source of the noise with wide-eyed terror. It was only Sy, but she couldn't school her face into a softer expression, even after realizing she was safe.

"Oh, Sunshine, I'm so sorry I startled ya! You okay?"

She said nothing, just let out her held breath woefully.

"Let's head home. I'll get your purse and bag of clothes here."

"I don't want those clothes. Throw them away. And these shoes are going in the trash as soon as possible, too."

"Okay. I'll toss it. You sure?"

"I never want to see that bag again. I'm positive."

He nodded, grabbed her purse, and went around to help her out of the vehicle.

One of Sy's friends approached them from the building.

"You guys okay? You'll make it home alright?"

"Yeah, Matt, we'll be okay. I'll be in touch soon about next steps."

"You got it, Captain. Anything you need, let us know."

"Will do. Thanks for everything you've already done. I owe ya."

"You don't owe me a thing, brother. You don't owe any of us. Not after everything you've done for all of us…for everyone."

Sy just nodded at Matt, and turned toward his truck, steadying Shane all the way to the passenger door.

The drive to Shane's house was quiet. Sy kept one hand on the wheel, holding hers in the other. She felt safe, but she couldn't shake the uneasy feeling inside her. Like the other shoe would soon drop, and her love would be taken away again.

When they were safely parked in her driveway, Sy took her keys out of his pocket, apparently having gotten them from his friend who'd drove her car from Elliott's to the airplane hangar place. He walked around to get her, and helped her to her door. She kicked off her shoes immediately when she stepped inside her shadowy living room. She had left the same lamp on that she always did, but it was dimmer now, having been on almost a whole week.

"Bath?" Sy asked. Shane nodded slowly. She would need a long soak to erase this feeling.

Sy got the bath water ready while she found some clothes to put on after. She laid her comfiest lounge pants and her favorite sweat shirt on the bed and walked toward the bathroom. She was soon hit with the comforting aroma of lavender, chamomile, and vanilla as soon as she stepped through the doorway. He had used her favorite bubble bath and salts.

"Check that water temp. I think it's about right." he requested. It was perfect. She started to peel off the stiff paper scrubs she was still wearing, but he insisted on helping her. As she stood before him, even though he'd seen every inch of her body before, she felt more naked and exposed than ever. She looked at him, noticed tears welling in his eyes, and dropped her gaze to the bath mat under her feet. Her skin, typically immaculately clear, olive perfection, was now peppered with dozens of bruises. She felt like a dalmatian, covered in spots. She chuckled inside herself at the thought of one of her favorite Disney films featuring the breed most heavily.

Sy's strong, but gentle hands landed softly on her upper arms. His lips lit tenderly on her forehead. "Ready?" he asked. She nodded and stepped into the large, garden tub full of steaming water. It stung her feet, ankles, and calves, but she still bent to sit, wincing as her tender petals and behind met the medicinal broth. Sy held her hand as she stepped in and guided her down. She closed her eyes at the soothing pain of the hot water and did not open them until she felt the water level rise. Sy had stepped in with her, wearing just his boxer-briefs, and was sitting on the side of the tub. He reached for the hand shower, and turned the water back on, slightly less warm, but still soothing and soaked her hair, directing the water away from her face. He had thought to grab her shampoo from the shower, as well, and was lathering some up in his hands to apply to her wet strands. It felt like heaven to have his fingers in her hair like this. Relaxing and soporific. He kept at it until she was certain he must be getting pruney, not to mention tired.

After carefully rinsing her hair of the coconut-scented lather, he grabbed the lavender foam bath she loved, and worked it up in one of the wash cloths he'd brought from the linen caddy between the sink and shower. He massaged the suds into her tired and injured skin over her back, then requested each leg in turn, kneading her calves and feet as she took another of the cloths and washed her face with the rich cleanser she kept by the bath, typically using it only on her "spa days" but feeling that it would nourish her battered cheeks and nose better than anything else. Sy's ministrations filled her with a kind of blissful contentment. She couldn't help but wonder if she deserved him. She always had thought she deserved the best things in life, even though her romantic past didn't tend to pan out that way. She'd worked very hard and often allowed herself to invest in quality. But now…she felt broken, in spite of herself. She'd have to tell Sy all that happened to her one day, and when that day came, he'd probably realize how damaged she really was, and he'd leave. Just like everyone else always did. She knew the conversation needed to come sooner rather than later, but couldn't bring herself to break the spell yet.

Sy let her soak for as long as she was comfortable until the water grew tepid. She looked up to him, sitting on the side of the tub, legs now outside, his gaze like twin seas met hers. He had been watching her, it seemed. As if worried that she would dematerialize if he looked away. Her bath robe was draped across his lap, as was a large bath towel. She moved to stand from the now chilled bath water, and Sy was immediately up to aid her rising. He held her hand as she stepped out of the tub and dried her top half before helping her don the robe, then continued to dry her bottom half.

"Go on in there and get comfortable, Sunshine. I have a few phone calls to make. I wanna let your folks know you're okay and I wanna tell Detective Clarkson you've been found. Anyone else you want me to get in touch with?"

"Umm, do you know if my brother and sister know what's happened to me?"

"They do. They should both be at your parent's house by now from what I gathered when I visited."

"Okay, so mom or dad will let them know. I guess you should call Susan, and let her know that I'm alive but won't be in this week. On my fridge, there's a phone directory for everyone in my department. But first, call Heather. I don't want her to worry any longer. Call her right after mom and dad. And tell them all I'll have them over tomorrow, but I can't tonight. I'm…"

She didn't even know what she was. Tired, sore, depressed, hopeless, and angry. A combination of so many feelings and emotions coursed through her.

"I'll work it out. You get in bed, and I'll be back in when I'm done with these calls, okay?" she nodded. He continued, "I love you, darlin.'" and wrapped his arms around her, making her feel almost whole again.

"I love you." she replied. Holding back tears until he had left the room.

~~~~~~

Shane realized she hadn't brushed her teeth in…far too long. She donned her sleeping clothes and went into the bathroom again to complete a comprehensive oral hygiene routine.  Sy had been gone for about a half hour, during which time, his absence felt like a noose around her neck. Or an anvil on her chest. It made it feel like hours had passed rather than mere minutes. She was fidgety. When he finally re-entered, she breathed a sigh of relief.

"Do you need anything, sweet pea?"

"Just you."

Sy crawled under the covers with Shane to spoon her, arm laying over her rib cage. She winced, as the bruises on her torso were disturbed at the contact, but she didn't ask him to adjust. Despite the dull pain, this was what she needed. Sy's protecting arm around her.

"Did you get a hold of everyone?" She asked, sleepily.

"I did. Your family are eager to see you, but they understand your need for rest. Heather says that you better let her come over soon, because she's holding your phone hostage until you pay her in hugs. They all send their love."

"And Susan?"

"Yeah, that woman is a piece of work, I know, but I think she's going to come through for you. She's going to have them hold off on scheduling patients with you until you're better, and put both weeks in as vacation. She said you have plenty of it. But also, if you need more time, she can work out some…family medical leave…thing? She said she'd get the ball rolling on that, and will let you know what you need to do on your end."

"Oh, good. Yeah, she can be an asshole, but sometimes she does right by her employees. What about the detective?"

Sy paused there. "I, uh, I talked to him for quite a while and he said a lot of things. Let's go over the finer points tomorrow at breakfast. Or, rather, today." He said, looking at the blue numbers on the glowing digital clock on Shane's nightstand that indicated the wee hours of the morning were running out. "I'm sure we're both tired enough to grab a few winks, ain't we?" He asked, and she hummed her ascent as she tucked herself closer to his warm, monolithic chest.

As Shane drifted off, she thought she felt a warm kiss, and a whisper at her temple. It sounded like a tearful prayer. She was too far into her sleep to comprehend the words being said.

"Thank you God," Sy whispered. "I know I'm not your most faithful servant, but I am truly grateful that you've kept this treasure of mine alive and brought her back to me. Thank you for reuniting me with the woman I mean to spend the rest of my days with, if she'll agree to it. Thank you."

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

About Thirty Minutes Ago-

Sy left the bedroom and began scrolling through his phone for the Benton's number. He pressed the call button with joy.

"Sy?" John answered frantically, just as he did the first time Sy spoke to him.

"John, is everyone there?"

"Yeah, we're all just watching a movie in the family room. Do you have news?"

"I do. You may want to put me on speaker, because everybody's going to want to hear this."

"Okay." and after a brief struggle with the speaker button and help from two younger people Sy presumed were Ethan and Gabby, John was back with the whole family. "Okay, Sy, we can all hear you. What's the word?"

"Oh, it's a very good word, guys. I found Shane and she is alive, and now safe." Cheering from what sounded like a stadium full of fanatics resounded from the ear piece of his cell phone.

"Sy, this is Gabby, Shane's sister. Can we come see her now?" Gabby's tears were evident in her voice. He wished he could tell them yes. But Shane needed her rest.

"I know she would love to see you, Gabby, she'd love to see all of you, but I think what she needs right now is rest. She's been through…a terrible ordeal. I took her to the Emergency Room to get checked out, and she just had a bath and is about to go to bed. She'll want to see you all tomorrow, though. Maybe around lunch time?"

"That sounds good, Sy. We'll bring some of this food over." John said.

"Are you sure we can't come over tonight? I…I want to see my daughter with my own eyes." Margaret said, weepily.

"I truly wish I could tell you yes, Peg, but she's hardly slept the last week, and just had her first full meal since she was taken this evening at the hospital. I really think it's best for everyone if you guys wait until tomorrow when she's more herself and rested." Sy reiterated.

"What about the people who did this to her?" a male voice he didn't recognize asked, assured to be Ethan. "Any leads on them?" He wanted to tell them that most of the men had been dealt with using lethal or nearly lethal force, and that the perpetrator of Shane's misery was locked up in Matt's shop bathroom until they decided just how to take care of him. But he needed to disclose what he knew to as few people as possible.

"The less y'all know, the better. For your own good. At least right now. Just know that whatever justice has not yet been served, it will be very soon."

"That's good enough for me." John offered, in an apparent attempt to bring Ethan on side.

"Thanks, John. I'll take care of her tonight. I won't leave her side. I promise."

"Thank you, son." John replied. Sy appreciated the tender address, but wondered how Ethan felt about his father referring to someone else as his son. Probably not that great. He couldn't worry about that now.

"It's my sincerest pleasure. I want you to know that. She's my world now. I won't let anything else happen to her."

"We know, dear." Peg added.

"Good night. And we'll see y'all tomorrow."

Four incoherent replies rang out before he ended the call. Next was Heather.

"Hello?" she answered in sleepy confusion.

"Heather?"

"Who'sis?"

"It's Logan Syverson. Sy? From PT. Shane's boyfriend."

"Sy! Oh, it's good to hear from you! Any news?"

"The best news, darlin.' Our girl is alive, and home safe." he smiled ear to ear saying the words, but it quickly turned into a wince when Heather shouted for joy in his ear. It was fine. Not like he didn't already have mild tinnitus.

"Oh my GOD! I'm coming over right now!"

"No, Heather, she's resting. She told me she'll see people tomorrow, but I don't think anyone but you and her family should be allowed in right now. She's…well, she's been through seven levels of Hell, and when I look into her eyes, I can still see the fire."

"Shit. Anything I can do?"

"She'll be thrilled to see ya. But tomorrow."

"She better. I have her phone and the ransom is a thousand hugs."

"That's a steep debt." Sy chuckled.

"She can owe me for a while." Heather laughed. "Is she okay?"

What a loaded question. Physically, she was injured, but would heal. Emotionally, that would be more of a journey.

"Honestly, Heather? Not really. The physical stuff is more or less superficial, but…I'm worried about her mental state."

"Poor thing. Please let me know if I can do anything. Anything at all. She's like a sister to me."

"I will. For now, keep the news and the details quiet. I'm gonna call Susan next, and I don't think she'll like it if you know before she does. Just a hunch."

"An accurate one. She'd be furious. I'll keep mum. Thanks so much for putting my mind at ease, Sy. Take care of her."

"I'll do my best. See ya."

He was dreading talking to Susan the most. More than Clarkson. He couldn't quite pinpoint why, but she'd really pissed him off every other time he'd talked to her, and he really didn't think too much of her.

"Hello, this is Susan."

"Hey, Susan, it's Logan Syverson. Shane's boyfriend." He made sure to put the label in there. Remind her that her policy had not been enough to keep them apart.

"Mr. Syverson. Hello. What can I do for you?" her haughty tone was softened a measure with concern for her employee. Even though she didn't ask about her in so many words, he knew that she was wondering.

"Nothing. I just wanted to let ya know, Shane's okay. She's been hurt, and won't be in this coming week, at least. She's in some pain right now, of both a physical and emotional nature."

"What happened?"

"She, uh, hasn't given me a lot of details." Not a lie. "She just escaped from her captor and we found each other." Misleading, but mostly true. "We just got home from the ER." Perhaps a lie by omission of the stop off at Matt's. "They said she'd be okay, but to follow up with her primary for more tests."

"Okay, I'll make sure her schedule is cleared. She has plenty of PTO for these two weeks, but I'll call the FMLA office in charge of family medical leave and short term disability and let them know she'll need some more time off, and see if we can get that going. I'll get with her about the details, and what she'll need to do. I'll text her sometime this week. How's she doing?" Sy thought he heard genuine concern from this dragon woman.

"About as well as someone who's been kidnapped, tortured, and assaulted for a straight week can possibly be, I'd say." Sy's words were civil, but tinged with venom. Even though she was being decent right now, he knew the kind of person she could be.

"Dear God." Susan gasped, shocked at the statement, and Sy wasn't sure whether it was due to the events themselves, or the blunt way he'd told her about them. "Well, I'll do anything I can to help her though this on my end. She's one of my best. I can't…I really don't think I could replace her."

"I'm glad you don't have to try, Susan. Have a nice evenin.'"

"Thanks, Sy, you too."

Sy took a deep breath as he pulled up Clarkson's number and called him. He honestly wasn't completely certain how he was going to explain things, but he'd figure it out. He was good at flyin' by the seat of his pants.

A gruff voice came from the ear piece. "Clarkson."

"Detective, this is Captain Syverson. We spoke about the Benton case a few days ago?"

"I remember you, Sy. What's up?"

"Oh, uh, well, wanted to tell ya you could close the case. I found her." It was the coming conversation in which he would really have to bend the truth or lie altogether.

"Really?! Oh, that's great, man. Where'd ya find 'er."

"I's drivin' 'round, hopin' to come across some lead or sign of her. I was a few miles down highway 100 when I saw a slumped form in one of the ditches. I pulled off at the next drive and went back to check, and it was her. She was hurt, but once she recognized me…I dunno, everything's kind of a blur after that. But I got her checked out at the ER, and brought her home now." Most of that statement was false…but not the recount of them seeing each other for the first time. That was a very real and true fact.

"Highway 100?"

"That's right. Why do you ask?"

"Well, I heard about a terrible, two-vehicle accident on Highway D tonight. No survivors."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that." He wasn't. "I hope there weren't any kids involved." He knew there weren't.

"Nope. All adult males, aged 30-40. Couple of SUVs. One ran off the road, and another…well, it's almost like it was blown up on purpose. Happened just a few miles from town."

"That sounds horrible, but what does an accident on Highway E--"

"It was D. Highway D." Sy knew it was, and had said the wrong thing on purpose.

"My mistake. My question though, is what does that…tragedy have to do with my finding Shane on Highway 100?"

"That's what I'm wondering, myself, Syverson. See, there was some…evidence that suggests military involvement in this incident."

"Well, I'm retired."

"Are you though?  Is anyone ever really retired from the armed forces. No veteran I've ever talked to can seem to shake off the war shackles."

"Well, I ain't shackeled, detective. I'm proud of my time serving my country, but I got no cause to relive it or hang on to it. Especially now that I have Shane. She's my life now. That part of it’s over."

"I guess I have to take you at your word, captain. Got no evidence so far that ties you to the scene. Just…be careful. If you do anything retaliatory to Miss Benton's captor or captors, I won't be able to protect you, no matter how I feel about your actions. Or how justified they might be."

"Understood. I will keep that in mind should I decide to take matters into my own hands." he tried not to let the smile on his face show in his voice.

"Right, well…is she okay?"

"I, uh…I think she will be…eventually. She hasn't said much to me about what happened, but I know it was torture, or akin to it. "

"Well, I hope she recovers quickly. I'll want a statement from her before I close the case."

"Sure thing. As soon as she's ready to talk."

"Great. Thanks for the call, Sy. I'm glad she's safe now. That's all that matters, really."

"Agree. Have a good night, Clarkson."

He ended the call and rubbed his face as head in frustration with his free hand. They'd have to come up with a story. A good one. Close enough to the truth that Shane could feel comfortable telling it, but far enough of a departure that they weren't incriminated in any kidnapping, murder, or manslaughter charges.

But for tonight, they’d rest. And just be glad to be together again.

Up Next: Chapter 20-Second Assist

[fenneykindlefire]

Inanimate Insanity Animals

Because I made one for BFB and TPOT, why not do Inanimate Insanity?

OJ - Fox Salt and Pepper - Dalmatians Bomb - Black Squirrel Bow - Moth Paper - Zebra Pickle - Alligator Taco - Paca Lightbulb - Firefly Paintbrush - Clydesdale Horse Marshmallow - Chinchilla Apple - Red Panda Fan - Peacock Test Tube - Beaver Tissues - Aardvark Cherries - Geckos Yin-Yang - Tanuki Baseball - Great Dane Nickel - Rat (same as BFB one) Knife - Wolverine Balloon - Giraffe Suitcase - Wallaby Trophy - Cheetah Soap - Seal Microphone - Parrot Cheesy - Mouse Box - Plush Rabbit Dough - Camel Blueberry - Blue Jay Bot - Robot Butterfly Cabby - Kangaroo Candle - Dove Clover - Irish Setter Goo - Slug Lifering - Sea Otter Silver Spoon - Spoonbill Tea Kettle - Elephant The Floor - Unknown MePhone4 - Wolf MePad - Coyote Toilet - Pelican

[webkinztournament]

[milkandcookies-222]

My Webkinz Collection: Part 7

Moondancer, Allison, Sobek, Regina, Mina, Dalton, Seamus, Nerissa, and Charli ❤

[ericsonclan]

Here Comes The Sun

Summary: Minnie tries to make sure everything is okay for Renata and the baby before remembering that she has a special surprise.

Word Count: 2127

Read on AO3:

It was a quiet morning. The birds were happily chirping outside and the sky was a pale blue. The sun shone up high in the sky as its rays peeked through the window into Minnie and Renata’s bedroom. The light grew warm on Minnie’s face who mumbled something before pulling Renata closer to her. Renata hummed happily and lifted up Minnie’s hand, giving soft kiss after soft kiss before melting back into her wife’s warm embrace. Minnie’s heart fluttered happily at the morning affection and she snuck a kiss on Renata’s neck, causing her wife to laugh lightly.

“That tickles,” Renata sleepily mumbled.

“Sorry,” Minnie whispered and nuzzled her face near Renata’s neck. Minnie’s fingers intertwined with Renata’s and she began to gently brush her thumb against her wife’s hand. The two snuggled in pure bliss, never wanting the moment to end when suddenly life had different plans. The alarm clocked began to buzz again and again. Minnie groaned and slipped her hands free from cuddle time to turn it off. The redhead looked over to the clock to see it was nine thirty. She really had slept in. Usually she would’ve gotten up around six. Minnie glanced back at her wife. Cuddles really were a powerful thing. Renata shifted around  before sitting up and smiling at her wife with a sleepy expression. “Good morning,”

“Good morning,” Minnie kissed Renata’s lips then pulled back and leaned down and kissed the small bump of Renata’s belly. “Good morning to you too,”

Renata smiled warmly at the sight. Every day Minnie followed the same routine and each time it filled Renata’s heart with such happiness. Renata was about to speak up when she heard paws whack against the bedroom door, causing it to open. The sound of a small bell rang brightly. Esperanza quickly hopped up onto the bed. The dalmatian wagged her tail happily and slowly moved forward. She must've heard them waking up.

“Hey there, Espy!” Renata gave the dalmatian tons of head scratches causing the dog’s tail to begin to wag wildly. Esperanza tried to lick Renata’s face which made her laugh brightly.  “So, Min, wanna get up or cuddle some more?”

Minnie glanced over at the open door. It would probably be a good idea to start the day but she also really just wanted to stay in bed and cuddle with Renata. Before she had even replied Renata was going under the covers again and had grabbed Minnie’s arms. Gently she wrapped them around herself.

“Cuddles it is,” Renata snuggled deeper into the bed. Minnie immediately returned her attention to the cuddles and moved closer to her wife. She savored the peace and tranquility of the moment. Taking a deep breath, Minnie was overwhelmed by the comforting smell of cinnamon. Esperanza quickly curled up on top of their legs and rested peacefully. The couple fell deeper and deeper into cuddle time. That was until Renata’s stomach began to growl.

“Shit, I should make breakfast!” Minnie untangled her arms and hopped out of bed. The abrupt movement made Esperanza’s head shoot up and look around worriedly. “No, stay there, Esperanza. Keep Ren company.” Minnie instructed and the dalmatian listened, moving closer to Renata and resting her head on Renata’s arm. Minnie’s feet whacked against the floor as she jogged into the kitchen. She had to make sure Renata ate enough especially now that she was pregnant. The redhead moved to the fridge and pulled out the eggs, jam and butter then searched for the bread.

“Do you think Minipie is being a bit frantic?” Renata asked her dalmatian who looked up at Renata with big eyes. A small crash from the kitchen made their heads turn to the door.

“It’s fine! Don’t worry about it! A pan just fell!” Minnie’s voice called out and soon the sound of the stove turning on could be heard.

Minnie whisked together the eggs and tossed in some pepper and salt before pouring the contents into a pan. The eggs sizzled in the pan and began to cook while the inside of the toaster glowed a light red as it toasted the bread. Minnie worked to get out the plates and the hot sauce then turned her attention back to the eggs. After a few minutes the eggs were ready, the toast was finished and covered in butter and jam and the plates were piled with food. Minnie grabbed the plate and strolled back into the bedroom. “Ta-da! Breakfast in bed!” Minnie smiled brightly at her wife.

Renata’s eyes shone with happiness and she sat back up again. Esperanza moved over and plopped down beside Renata’s legs, ready to give the biggest puppy dog eyes to get food.

“Yay! I have the best wife!” Renata leaned over and kissed Minnie’s cheek which made her blush softly. “Oh, and you brought me hot sauce too!”

“Only a little bit. I read somewhere that hot sauce can trigger an early pregnancy,”

“Boo, hot sauce is what I crave though. That and your lips,” Renata smiled flirtatiously and captured Minnie’s lips in a warm, tender kiss. Minnie’s eyes grew large before she returned the kiss then gave another and another. The two soon pulled away though as Esperanza was trying to sneakily grab Renata’s food.

“Espy, no! That's for me and the baby. You can have this though,” Renata tossed over a bit of the scrambled egg. The dalmatian happily took the food then returned to resting on Renata’s feet. Soon the couple began to eat and talk happily about this and that when a realization struck Minnie.

“Oh, shit. I forgot the drinks,”

“I can go grab them,” Renata offered and moved to push back the sheets.

“No, you should rest, don’t wanna overwork yourself!” Minnie jumped out of the bed and ran off to grab the drinks. “I’ll be back in a second,”

“Min-” Renata’s voice sounded a little worried.

“It's okay, Ren. I-” Minnie was cut off when her head hit the door and she fell backwards onto her ass.

“I was going to warn you that the door was closed,” Renata leaned over to check on her wife. “Are you okay, babe?”

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Minnie rubbed her forehead then got up and opened the door. The redhead strode into the kitchen and began to search the fridge for some orange juice. After successfully finding it she poured two glasses and ventured back to the bedroom. Having safely returned, Minnie sat beside her wife and the two began to happily talk once more. Breakfast was soon consumed and Minnie ran off to do the dishes. She was just about to start them when she heard the jingle of the bell on Esperanza’s collar.

“Espy and I are here to help out,” Renata beamed and walked forward, pushing up the sleeves of her pajama top.

“Ren, it's fine. I can do the dishes,” Minnie smiled back at her love. “You should-”

“Don’t say rest. I’ll be resting plenty today, especially since it's the weekend which means endless cuddle time. So just accept my help.” Renata placed her hands on her hips and tried to look intimidating. Minnie laughed and gave a nod.

“Okay, I’ll wash and you dry but please be careful where you step because-”

“Because sometimes water gets on the floor and it's slippery. Don’t worry, Min, I’ll be careful. And besides, I’ve got you and Esperanza so I’ll be safe,”

Minnie hesitantly nodded and the pair started on the dishes. After a minute Minnie began to hum a little tune; soon Renata joined in. The couple hummed together while doing the dishes and before they knew it they were done. Minnie washed her hands then gave Esperanza some much deserved affection and head pats.

“Okay, back to cuddles!” Renata placed away the damp dish towel before her eyes widened in surprise when Minnie picked her up her arms. “Min,”

“Just to make sure you don’t tire yourself out,” Minnie carefully navigated her way back to the room. Renata took the opportunity to pepper her love’s face with kisses which made Minnie’s face turn as red as her hair. Minnie gently placed Renata down onto the bed when she suddenly remembered something. “Oh, wait here!” Minnie disappeared out of the room. Renata looked confused but listened and waited with Esperanza who laid her head on Renata’s knee.

Minnie walked throughout the house and looked for her guitar. She had totally forgotten that she had been practicing a new song to sing as a surprise for the baby. The doctors had said that around this time was when the baby could begin to hear sounds. Minnie wanted to make sure that her child got to hear countless songs, starting with this one. After a minute of searching Minnie’s eyes landed on the black acoustic guitar. Grabbing it, Minnie tossed the strap over her shoulder and made her way back to the room.

Renata’s smile grew when she saw Minnie return with the guitar. “Ooo, are you going to play a song?” she asked as Minnie took a spot on the bed beside her and propped up the guitar.

“Yeah, it's actually a song I learned to sing to our baby,” Minnie scratched the back of her head and smiled then worked to tune the guitar.

Renata felt her heart warm at Minnie’s statement. She had learned a song for their child. Minnie tried a few notes and gave a short smile when she was happy with the sound. Clearing her throat, she moved her fingers to the right position on the guitar strings. Her fingers plucked the strings, creating a warm, happy tune. Minnie played the bright notes for a few seconds before she began to sing.

“Here comes the sun do, do, do

Here comes the sun

And I say it's all right.”

Minnie played some more notes and smiled at Renata then looked down at her belly.

“Little darling, it's been a long cold lonely winter

Little darling, it seems like years since it's been here

Here comes the sun do, do, do

Here comes the sun

And I say it's all right.”

Minnie plucked a few more notes, her fingers moving to the different positions as she strummed her guitar. She had a soft, loving expression on her face as she continued to sing.

“Little darling, the smiles returning to the faces

Little darling, it feels like years since it's been here

Here comes the sun do, do, do

Here comes the sun

And I say it's all right.”

Minnie smiled and looked at her love once more who mirrored her expression. The warm, bright notes continued to fill the room as the redhead continued to the last section of the song.

“Little darling, I feel that ice is slowly melting

Little darling, it seems like years since it's been clear

Here comes the sun do, do, do

Here comes the sun

And I say it's all right.”

Minnie strummed a few more notes and took a deep breath as she sung the last few lyrics.

“Here comes the sun do, do, do

Here comes the sun

And I say it's all right.”

She plucked the last note and the joyful tune rang in the air for a moment before fading away. Renata smiled brightly and began to clap. “That was beautiful, Minnie! I know they loved it too,” Renata placed a hand on her belly.

“I wanted to do something special, show them how much I love them,” Minnie smiled softly. “I never thought I’d get a life like this, filled with so much joy and brightness. And now we get to bring a new brightness into this world. A little sundrop,” Minnie took Renata’s hands and gently kissed them. “I guess all of this is to say is I’m so happy to have you in my life and can’t wait to meet our child face to face.”

Minnie’s words made Renata smile softly and she moved forward, kissing her love passionately. After a moment the two pulled away and Minnie readjusted the strap on her shoulder and moved her guitar. “I’m going to learn so many songs to play for them. Our kid is going to grow up listening to music every day!” Minnie began to pluck a few more notes for another song she had been practicing and was surprised when Renata kissed her cheek.

“I love you, Minnie.”

“I love you too, Ren,” Minnie smiled then placed a hand on her belly. “And I love you too.”

The couple shared a smile and soon Minnie decided to play the song again. The music filled the room with warmth and joy as they sat together and looked forward to their bright future.

[diabloindigo]

101 Dalmatians: Lucky enamel pin & Patch and Rolly salt and pepper shakers.

@silver-bullet-bitten

[sidetable-drawer]

Semi-comprehensive list of all the plushies I own so far

Bugs Bunny (Looney Tunes) (Big Star; 1981)

Parasol (My Little Pony) (Hasbro; 1984)

Gromit (Wallace and Gromit) (Born To Play; 1989)

Buster Bunny (Tiny Toon Adventures) (Playskool; 1990)

Babs Bunny (Tiny Toon Adventures) (Playskool; 1990)

Plucky Duck (Tiny Toon Adventures) (Playskool; 1990)

Furrball (Tiny Toon Adventures) (Playskool; 1990)

Pongo (One Hundred and One Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 1991)

Perdita (One Hundred and One Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 1991)

Rolly (One Hundred and One Dalmatians) (Mattel; 1991)

Patch (One Hundred and One Dalmatians) (Mattel; 1991)

Penny (One Hundred and One Dalmatians) (Mattel; 1991)

Yakko Warner (Animaniacs) (Ace Novelty; 1995)

Wakko Warner (Animaniacs) (Ace Novelty; 1995)

Allegra (Allegra’s Window) (Playskool; 1995)

Lindi (Allegra’s Window) (Playskool; 1995)

Binyah Binyah (Gullah Gullah Island) (Playskool; 1995)

Huckle Cat (The Busy World of Richard Scarry) (Gund; 1995)

Lowly Worm (The Busy World of Richard Scarry) (Gund; 1995)

Dot Warner (Animaniacs) (Avon; 1996)

Two-Tone (101 Dalmatians) (Applause; 1996)

Lucky (101 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 1996)

Jewel (101 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 1996)

Whizzer (101 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 1996)

Fidget (101 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 1996)

Dipstick (101 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 1996)

The Queen of Hearts (Alice in Wonderland) (Disney Consumer Products; 1996)

Himura Kenshin (Rurouni Kenshin) (Banpresto; 1996)

Lola Bunny (Looney Tunes) (Ace Novelty; 1997)

Sylvester (Looney Tunes) (Ace Novelty; 1997)

Wishbone (Equity Toys; 1998)

Susie Carmichael (Rugrats) (Viacom; 1998)

T.J. Detweiler (Recess) (Mattel; 1998)

Skeeter Valentine (Doug) (Mattel; 1998)

Kermit the Frog (The Muppets) (Applause; 1998)

Blue (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1998)

Mr. Salt (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1998)

Mrs. Pepper (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1998)

Paprika (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1998)

Tickety Tock (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1998)

Freckles (One Hundred and One Dalmatians) (Mattel; 1998)

Pepper (One Hundred and One Dalmatians) (Mattel; 1998)

Magenta (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1999)

Steve (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1999)

Mailbox (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1999)

Slippery Soap (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1999)

Shovel (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1999)

Pail (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 1999)

Blossom (The Powerpuff Girls) (Trendmasters; 1999)

Bubbles (The Powerpuff Girls) (Trendmasters; 1999)

Buttercup (The Powerpuff Girls) (Trendmasters; 1999)

Gretchen Grundler (Recess) (Disney Consumer Products; 1999)

Gus Griswald (Recess) (Disney Consumer Products; 1999)

Doug Funnie (Doug) (Disney Consumer Products; 1999)

Patti Mayonnaise (Doug) (Disney Consumer Products; 1999)

Porkchop (Doug) (Disney Consumer Products; 1999)

Tigger (Winnie the Pooh) (Disney Consumer Products; 1999)

Green Puppy (Blue’s Clues) (Viacom; 2000)

Periwinkle (Blue’s Clues) (Eden; 2000)

Oddball (102 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 2000)

Domino (102 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 2000)

Little Dipper (102 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 2000)

Dottie (102 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 2000)

Dipstick (102 Dalmatians) (Disney Consumer Products; 2000)

Sorcerer Mickey Mouse (Disney Consumer Products; 2000)

Dejiko (Di Gi Charat) (Sega; 2001)

Goddard (Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius) (Equity Toys; 2002)

Eliza Thornberry (The Wild Thornberrys) (Nanco; 2002)

Sandy Cheeks (SpongeBob Squarepants) (Nanco; 2002)

Zoe (Sesame Street) (Nanco; 2003)

Wanda (The Fairly OddParents) (Applause; 2003)

Timmy Turner (The Fairly OddParents) (Nanco; 2004)

Wilt (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends) (Cartoon Network; 2005)

Coco (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends) (Cartoon Network; 2005)

Bloo (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends) (Cartoon Network/Singapore Airlines; 2006)

SpongeBob Squarepants (Viacom; 2007)

Eduardo (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends) (Kellytoy; 2008)

Mac (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends) (Kellytoy; 2008)

Jimmy Neutron (Viacom; 2008)

Jiminy Cricket (Pinocchio) (Disney Consumer Products; 2010s)

Phineas Flynn (Phineas and Ferb) (Disney Consumer Products; 2010)

Ferb Fletcher (Phineas and Ferb) (Disney Consumer Products; 2010)

Perry the Platypus (Agent Mode) (Phineas and Ferb) (Disney Consumer Products; 2010)

Greg Heffley (Diary of a Wimpy Kid) (Funko; 2010)

Luna (Sailor Moon) (bootleg; 2010)

Fozzie Bear (The Muppets) (Disney Consumer Products; 2011)

Miss Piggy (The Muppets) (Disney Consumer Products; 2011)

Gonzo (The Muppets) (Disney Consumer Products; 2011)

Cosmo (The Fairly OddParents) (Jazwares; 2012)

Vanellope Von Schweetz (Wreck-It Ralph) (Disney Consumer Products; 2012)

Sailor Moon (Great Eastern; 2012)

Sailor Mercury (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2012)

Sailor Mars (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2012)

Sailor Jupiter (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2012)

Sailor Venus (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2012)

Sailor Chibi Moon (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2013)

Artemis (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2013)

Eevee (Pokemon) (Takara Tomy; 2013)

Applejack (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Funrise; 2013)

Cheerliee (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Funrise; 2013)

Vinyl Scratch (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Funrise; 2013)

Octavia Melody (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Funrise; 2013)

Mermaid Hello Kitty (Ty; 2013)

Plankton (SpongeBob Squarepants) (Nanco; 2013)

Elsa and Anna (a two-in-one; flip the dress over and it’s the other character) (Frozen) (Disney Consumer Products; 2014)

Olaf (Frozen) (Ty; 2014)

Sailor Uranus (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2014)

Sailor Neptune (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2014)

Sailor Pluto (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2014)

Princess Luna (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Aurora World; 2014)

Apple Bloom (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Funrise; 2014)

Sweetie Belle (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Funrise; 2014)

Scootaloo (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Funrise; 2014)

Medium Bashful Black & Cream Puppy (Jellycat; 2014)

Eudial (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2015)

Sailor Saturn (Sailor Moon) (Bandai; 2015)

K.K. Slider (Animal Crossing) (San-Ei Co.; 2015)

Isabelle (Animal Crossing) (San-Ei Co.; 2015)

Small Lady (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2016)

Black Lady (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2016)

Twilight Sparkle (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Pinkie Pie (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Rainbow Dash (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Rarity (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Fluttershy (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Spike (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Trixie Lulamoon (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Starlight Glimmer (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2016)

Sailor Chibi Chibi Moon (Sailor Moon) (Great Eastern; 2017)

Dumbo (Disney Consumer Products; 2017)

Mickey Mouse (as Jack Skellington) (Disney Consumer Products; 2017)

Minnie Mouse (as Sally the Ragdoll) (Disney Consumer Products; 2017)

Lapis Lazuli (Steven Universe) (Zag Toys; 2017)

Tommy Pickles (Rugrats) (Just Play; 2017)

Chuckie Finster (Rugrats) (Just Play; 2017)

Phil DeVille (Rugrats) (Just Play; 2017)

Lil DeVille (Rugrats) (Just Play; 2017)

Angelica Pickles (Rugrats) (Just Play; 2017)

Ren Hoek (The Ren and Stimpy Show) (Just Play; 2017)

Stimpy (The Ren and Stimpy Show) (Just Play; 2017)

Arnold Shortman (Hey Arnold!) (Just Play; 2017)

Gerald Johanssen (Hey Arnold!) (Just Play; 2017)

Helga Pataki (Hey Arnold!) (Just Play; 2017)

Princess Celestia (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic) (Hasbro; 2017)

Tempest Shadow (My Little Pony: The Movie) (Hasbro; 2017)

Songbird Serenade (My Little Pony: The Movie) (Hasbro; 2017)

Winnie the Pooh (Just Play; 2018)

Rocko (Rocko’s Modern Life) (A&A Global; 2018)

Dylan Dalmatian (101 Dalmatian Street) (Mattel; 2019)

Dolly Dalmatian (101 Dalmatian Street) (Mattel; 2019)

Charlie Brown (Peanuts) (Spirit Marketing; 2019)

Snoopy (Peanuts) (Spirit Marketing; 2019)

Rainbow furred kitten (Walmart; 2020)

Lady (Lady and the Tramp) (Just Play; 2020)

Simba (The Lion King) (Just Play; 2020)

Nala (The Lion King) (Just Play; 2020)

Coraline Jones (Coraline) (Kidrobot; 2020)

Cursed Commercials Chadtronic (Makeship; 2021)

Bulbasaur (Pokemon) (Jazwares; 2021)

Charmander (Pokemon) (Jazwares; 2021)

Pikachu (Pokemon) (Unknown company and year)

Togepi (Pokemon) (Unknown company and year)

Meowth (Pokemon) (Unknown company and year)