#The main reason i stopped letting my birds hatch eggs is that i had a whole group of babies with splay leg and other problems

[weedhillfarm]

I just noticed Helen sitting and went to go swap the eggs for fakes… apparently I’m much too late. Really cute baby though! And the other baby (gneiss) is doing great!

[qhazomb]

so it turns out i’m one of those cringe fans who makes a fan kid for a ship i really like and uh. made a frenrey kid. her name is Eggie.

which Gordon tells everyone is short for ‘Eglantine’ but it’s really because Benrey wouldn’t stop fucking referring to their then-unborn child as ‘eggie’ due to the fact that she was, y’know. an egg during development. and the whole reason she was in an egg is because they didn’t have access to an incubation tube to let her develop in. Benrey made her in a similar way he made his own body, but this time getting the ‘materials’ for it from himself. to make sure this new body had its own consciousness and stuff, he had it start at the cell stage and linked it up with the cosmic ether for the energy to get it going (he had to do. so much research to make sure he got this all right. he never wants to do a thing that requires THAT much reading ever again). he gave this 'diy baby starter' cell cluster a touch of Gordon's genes, so it’d be the genetic child for both of them! cause why bother making a kid instead of adopting one, if it not so that it’s genetically related to you? when Benrey mentioned that their kid would have genes from both of them, Gordon was like "Wait how and when the hell did you get a sample of my genetic material???" "uh, every time we've made out and you got your spit in my mouth? duh." "Oh. Right. Forgot that saliva counts for that." "yeah it's like, blood lite, so." "It's what?" (and thus Gordon learns that your saliva is filtered from your blood.) of course after that was all figured out, then came the issue of incubation. Benrey doesn't have, uh, that kind of anatomy, or any desire to have it, so the cells needed something else to grow in. luckily, growing an entire person in a tube is a thing proven to work (as evidenced by Bubby), so Benrey hit up Tommy to ask if he could lend them an incubation tube for their babby. unfortunately, it turns out that the one Tommy grew their cat Sony in was just on loan, and he didn't have it anymore. :( but then Benrey remembered birds exist. and that they make their own incubators. Gordon was very surprised to come home and find a big black egg sitting under a heat lamp on his dresser. "Please tell me you didn't fucking lay that." “bro if i could just make my body able to lay eggs i would’ve just done the whole pregananant thing instead.” “Oh. Oh thank god.” “yeah this isn’t that kinda fanfic anyway.” “This isn’t tha- do you even fucking listen to half the things that come out of your mouth??” when she was finally ready to hatch, it looked like she was struggling breaking through the shell. which she was, because a thing Benrey didn’t account for is that baby birds and the like have an ‘egg tooth’ for breaking out of the egg. and Eggie didn’t have one of those. before either Gordon or Benrey could figure out what to do, Eggie beat them to the punch. by making the egg explode. turned out she went into a mini Rainbow Death Mode to just fuckin’, energy blast her way out. Gordon was still picking eggshell bits out of his hair for like an hour after, ha ha. she wasn’t newborn baby sized when she hatched, but more toddler size (which shouldn’t have been a surprise to anyone, given how damn massive that egg was). it kinda made things a little complicated for Gordon when trying to explain why he suddenly had a (seemingly) two-year-old kid that looked too much like him (and his husband??) to be adopted. thankfully he hardly ever ran into that problem, heh. outside of the Science Team, the only others who know Benrey isn’t human, and thus that their expected kid wouldn’t be either, were also the main people who would wanna see Gordon’s brand new baby; those being his Ma, his ex Anna, and his brother John. oh, and of course, 10-year-old Joshua, who is very excited to have a sibling (especially an alien one!) Eggie sang her very first Sweet Voice shortly after hatching. green to blue, followed by pink to blue, directed at her dads. ‘hello! i love you!’ as previously stated, they named her Eglantine because Benrey wouldn't stop calling her 'eggie' while she was still in the egg, and the name unfortunately stuck. Gordon refused to let that be her actual, legal name, so he just looked up some good 'normal' names that 'Eggie' could be a plausible nickname for. they settled on Eglantine once Eggie had shown she wanted to be a girl (which she decided on upon being introduced to Anna and immediately thinking ‘i wanna look like that’). the Science Team (playfully) heckled him over the fact that ‘Eglantine’ definitely doesn’t sound like a normal baby name. Gordon defends himself by saying he found it on a baby names site, which in turn just gets him MORE heckling. (it’s revenge for when he called Bubby and Darnold’s names fake-sounding). “Ah yes, a completely normal name, just like her dad Gordon Martinis Freeman’s name.” “...Shut up, man.” her last name is ‘Freeman-Lover,’ taking both of her dads’ names. Gordon had said that they could give her just Benrey’s last name, since he already has a kid with his, but Benrey didn’t really care either way, and in the end they just gave her both. her hair’s black like Benrey’s, and her irises look mostly black like his, but instead of having a thin ring of blue in them, Eggie’s got a much wider ring of green in her eyes, same green as Gordon’s. she’s also got freckles like Gordo :) she calls Gordon ‘pops’ or ‘papa’ and Benrey ‘dad.’ she calls Tommy and Darnold her uncles (but always explains to new people that they're not her REAL uncles like her uncle John but they're like honorary uncles) and calls the Boomers her grandpas (but not honorary grandpas, cause she doesn't have any REAL grandpas since her pops’ dad is gone and her dad doesn't have parents). she refers to Anna as her ‘not-mom’ (”she’s my brother’s mom, but she’s not MY mom, so she’s my not-mom.”) she does not refer to Mr. Coolatta. she was able to make herself look convincingly human right away, being technically half-human. though she did look.... a BIT weird. like Benrey’s very first physical body attempt, her skin was partially transparent, but unlike baby Benrey, Eggie’s body actually had bilateral symmetry and a complete skeleton, heh. her skin thickened up and any Way Too Obviously Inhuman features where hidden away about an hour or so after she hatched. she’s a very emotional creature, very expressive, and loves to talk. naturally, Gordon brings her on to co-commentate on his streams, whenever he streams an E-rated or tamer T-rated game. “Hey guys, this is my daughter! Say hi to chat, Eggie.” “HIIIIIII!” there was at least one person in chat saying they would die for Eggie (to which Eggie replied “nooooooo don’t die that’s bad!!”) AND THAT’S ALL I GOT SO FAR idk the idea of these two dingus raising a lil’ monster kid together is just fun and cute.

[theravencawsatmidnight]

Frostbitten. Pt 2

Kirishima brings home a rare Ice Element egg to his King Bakugo. The King is expecting another dragon to serve him but his plans for domination are halted when you hatch. A half dragon half female who can breath ice but cant turn into a dragon.

Drakno; a made up slang word for someone who cant turn into a dragon

“What the hell did you say to me?”

“Pa..pa?”

You fell back once Bakugo shook you off his leg to stomp away from the room. He was so angry, what a useless dragon.. No , not even a dragon, a drakaina.. Useless, worthless, not worth his time. He kicked a door open stalking around the room till he found his throne and threw himself down in it to sulk and be a brood while his leg turned back to its normal color and stopped freezing.

Kirishima was quick to help you back on your feet and crouched down to get a good look at you, He sighed with the biggest smile on his face. He was not the only one anymore, sure, other dragons were around but he did not know any of them personally and this was his chance to get to know one and even raise it. He had to be careful though, if he upset the King in anyway or if .. you did.. He shook his head and gave you a hug laughing.

“So cute! I cant wait to get to know you , you need a name though.. Hm..”

You sat down looking at your hands and wings pulling them to your front to inspect them, a pretty foggy white blue , very pretty. The white blue scales on your body shined bright in the sunlight too. Kirishima had never seen a ice dragon before, and since he was a fire element dragon he was very curious, you were the opposite of him pretty much,

He patted your head giggling at the goosebumps appearing on his hand. “Hm.. Chilly, Chilla, do you like that?”

“Chill..a..?”

“Yep!”

Your cheeks had a faint red on them and you gave him a slight nod. “Kay.”

“Okay! Chilla it is!” he picked you up in his arms to show you around the castle.

*

Bakugo was close by while Kirishima did his little tour , he had disgust written all over his face the entire time. What a useless thing to be doing, she will never leave this castle , better yet her room so why did she need to see everything in it huh?

You were very curious about everything you saw, it was a whole new experience for you since you had hatched not too long ago. Your body was adjusting to the sudden temperature drop and having this man carry you seemed to help. He felt really hot for some reason, it was cozy.. You leaned into him looking at everything with wide eyes. Kirishima rubbed your back while he showed you everything , the thought of the King changing everything unexpectedly hung in the back of his mind every second now though,,

“Uh..mm..” you tugged his red hair.

“Yeah?” Kiri looked down to see you looking a little sad. “Papa?” you pointed to Bakugo who was behind you a few feet away.

“Tch..” Bakugo turned his chin up walking away to his room and slamming the door,

Kiris smile faded from his face as he sat down in the nearby window looking out at the village that sat just at the end of the hill . “Chilla, papa is.. A little busy. But im fun too okay? I promise!”

You leaned into his arm nuzzling into it enjoying the warmth he gave off “wanna see.. When hes not busy..”

Kirishima got up with a long sigh falling off his mouth “ill see what i can do Chilla, are you tired?”

“Mmn..” you pulled a wing over your face and Kirishima started to walk to your room. “Okay, big brother Kirishima will see what he can do ..”

You were falling asleep by the time Kirishima got to your room, it was .. more of a closet than a room.

“I dont care, stick her in there” was what Bakugo told Kirishima, he tried his best to clean it up and make it look semi decent. He placed a bear fur stuffed with feathers in the corner along with some pelts and some pretty rocks that shined when put under the window. You liked it ..but..Kirishima did not.

He kneeled down to rub your head and move your bangs up with his thumb to see your pretty eyes. You were so cute.. Innocent .. . “Chilla… listen to me okay?”

“Sleepy..” you leaned into his arm and Kirishima had to sit down and place you on his leg .

“Hang on , you can sleep in a minute. “

“Ok…”

“When im… “ he leaned against the stone wall looking up at the small hole in the wall for a window. “When im not here, or i need to go take care of something. You have to stay in here okay? If i ever cant bring you here you need to go here yourself…” he was crushed. Absolutely crushed. Every single word broke his heart more and more. He wanted to teach you how to fly.. Show you the land.. Set sheep on fire.. Or well, freeze them. He knew you had high potential .. he just knew it..

“Stay .. here.. Or go here..”

“Yes Chilla..”

“Because .. papa.. Busy and Big Brother busy..”

That's what broke him. Completely broke his spirits. “Yes.. but i promise..” he hugged you trying not to cry. “Ill give you a good life -”

Snap

Kirishimas suddenly started to see red , his heart rate kicked up and his breathing got very heavy. His hands were starting to grow and his skin was turning red.

“Lock up the Drakno and go set something on fire. Bring back gold and food”

Kirishima put you on the animal fur bed and got up closing the door behind him. He went to the nearest window jumping out of it and turning into his dragon, flying off with only the orders from his King crossing his mind.

While Kirishima was out Bakugo tended to his castle and checked over everything. He wanted to conquer , winter was coming and he needed food and warmth. He needed to go with Kirishima before the first snow to gather everything he needed to survive the winter, and he needed too ..

The door to your room opened and Bakugo crouched down to see you rubbing the tired from your eyes. “Papa..” you sat up “papa not busy..?”

“Your coming with me, Drakno” he said, grabbing you and yanking you out of the bed and to the main room of the castle to the outside. It was chilly and very dark..

“Papa?” you asked him again , hugging his leg trying to get him to pick you up . “up.. Want up..”

“Freeze something , “

“Freeze?”

He flicked one of your horns . “these are going to be tough and rigid, great for headbutting castle doors open. And those wings are going to be even bigger … im going to train you to be a killing machine, so if you want my love, freeze. Something,”

You blinked a few times looking around then back up at him to see he had his arms crossed and not looking at you. “Just.. “ you exhaled seeing some ice fall to the ground. “More..” another big exhale , more ice.

You let go of Bakugos leg to take a few steps forward, eyeing a bee on a flower. You held your hands out to guide the ice onto the flower freezing it solid along with the bee.

“Good. now something bigger”

“Bigger?”

“Hurry up”

You scanned all around holding your bangs up to make it easier to see. Nothing was really around .. except for .. a stray falcon picking at some scraps. Your wings spread and you felt.. Different.. You just wanted Papas love..

A wicked grin slipped up bakugos face once he heard the screech of the bird.

*

[ithecrystaldragonheart]

Unexpected Surprise

“Psst!”

Izuna covered his head with a pillow.He was not in the mood for one of Madara’s midnight revelations - their father had made him do extra training in one of his moods.

“Izuna,wake up!” his anija whispered.When his brother’s only response was to burrow further into his futon in defiance he pulled off his blankets in a fit of frustration.

Anyone else would have been surprised that the boy suddenly jumped away into a defensive stance with the kunai he kept under his pillow in hand,but Madara had also suffered from his father’s drills.The extra chores and training he’d have to do if he didn’t react fast enough had been plenty of motivation to learn fast.

There were a few moments of silence before Izuna remembered it was just his brother and loosened his stance,his expression changing from one of concentration to grumpiness.It had an odd effect with his chubby cheeks.

“What is it?” he asked in a long-suffering tone,though it was soft in an effort not to wake their father,or more likely call him down from his study.

“Something...happened.” Madara said in way of explanation.That was weird,it was almost like he was embarrassed-

“Did you wet the bed?” he demanded in disbelief and pulled away from him.His brother instantly lost the previous bashfulness only to puff up in indignation, which was quite literal as his hair now resembled a cat’s,or a bird in this case.

“No!It’s - just come look!” he finally managed to force out,his brother’s accusation clearly having flustered him.

Izuna had a judging expression but was no longer reeling in abject disgust so Madara took that as agreement.He carefully led his brother to his own futon on the other side of the shoji dividing the room.

At first it looked completely normal if a bit disorderly but right in the middle there were some ovoid shapes that were quite unmistakable.

“Why are there eggs in my bed?”

Izuna blinked in surprise but then scowled.

“You woke me up for some dumb joke?” he asked in a withering tone,clearly hoping that his brother was not that desperate to die that he would wake him up,especially since he was still holding the kunai.

His anija squinted slightly in frustration.

“It’s not a joke.I woke up and these were in my bed.” he huffed.Now it was his brother’s turn to squint at him.

“Are you saying that you laid eggs in your sleep?” he asked,barely awake and three years younger but still sensible enough to question his brother’s sanity.

“Maybe,I don’t know.I can turn into a bird and breathe fire,so why would laying eggs be the weirdest thing?” Madara hedged in his defense.The boy was scared that he,as a boy,might have laid eggs and was maybe panicking a little too much to think logically.

It might have been the visible anxiety in his brother or the too few hours of sleep but Izuna also started to have his doubts.

He didn’t grow feathers like a good number of the Uchiha so it wasn’t like he could definitely say that it wasn’t possible.For some reason it had never crossed his mind to ask if any of them have ever laid eggs,probably because of his father’s insistence on manners.

He kept these thoughts to himself however and only crouched next to the futon to get a better look at the eggs his brother may or may not have laid himself.

It was dark so he decided to risk a little breathe of fire.In the few moments of light the eggs revealed to be speckled and maybe the right colour to be crow eggs.

While Izuna was occupied Madara was wondering if they should be keeping the eggs warm or if they were actually going to hatch,they couldn’t possibly be fertile since he never did - he childishly flinched - the thing.

However,when he thought back,it was a few months ago that he met Hashirama.Obviously they hadn’t done anything like that,but maybe the other boy’s chakra had done something and that’s how the egg thing actually worked?

They were so caught up in their thoughts that they didn’t notice the door silently slide open.

“I’m honestly disappointed in the both of you.”

The sibling immediately fell back a safe distance in reaction to the sudden voice.Maybe mid-air they realized it was just their father,but that didn’t mean they could let their guard down.

Tajima shifted his gaze to the shapes on the futon and inhaled.

Madara’s stomach dropped.

“I swear I didn’t know that this could happen!If I’d known about this I wouldn’t- “ the Uchiha heir pleaded in hopes of calming his father’s coming rage only to stop when he noticed his shoulders were shaking in humour,not rage.

“To clarify,I’m disappointed that you didn’t wake up as I snuck them in and I’m disappointed that Izuna couldn’t see that they were painted chicken eggs.” their father elaborated.His eyes conveyed the amusement he got from his children’s obvious distress - it was a rare moment of mirth,even if it came at the boys’ expense.

And that was the night that laid the foundation of Madara’s secret fear of unplanned pregnancies.

~~~

The breakfast table was a mix of expressions.

Izuna looked like he was willing to end the entire Senju clan if it meant regaining his lost sleep.Madara looked suitably ashamed and traumatized. Tajima looked like he was enjoying himself far too much.

The head of the Uchiha inclined his chin slightly which the boys knew as the gesture to pay attention.

“I took the trouble of ordering a special breakfast today.” he declared,face seemingly back to it’s usual stoniness.

The chef entered and once they spied what the main dish was they turned to gape at their father in obvious horror and disbelief,respectively.

“Tamagoyaki.”

[ckret2]

What’s your personality headcanon for rodan?

I’ve had this in my inbox like a week because I wanted to wait until my TF big bang rough draft was done to write this, and then i spent several days recovering from the rough draft lmfao. OKAY SO

The tl;dr is “Rodan assumes everything is normal, no matter how weird it is, and that basically informs his entire worldview. Also he wants to be everyone’s friend and fight them at all times.”

First let’s talk about instincts. Because Rodan’s species plops their eggs in volcanoes and flies off, there’s basically nothing in the way of parenting. If an adult Rodan sees a baby Rodan flopping around its volcano like a fool, it might swoop down to check on the kid and show it how to do something it’s struggling with—like, if an adult human saw a five-year-old trying to get on the subway, thought this was a perfectly normal thing for a small child to do, checked to make sure they knew which line they were taking and where their stop was, showed them how to use their card to get through the turnstile, and sent them on their way. Because Rodan eggs take so long to incubate and don’t depend on a parent sitting on the nest to do so, a hatchling might pop out long after its parents are dead, or even—as in this Rodan’s case—when no other members of its species are alive at all.

So because of that, and the way evolution ran to compensate for the fact that these hatchlings might be getting zero adult education, Rodan runs on intuition, moreso than titans who raise their kids. He was born knowing how to fly, hunt, fight, defend his nest, patrol his territory, find and judge potential mates, establish more nests. He was born recognizing many titan species that had been around most prominently during his species’s evolutionary history, and knowing whether they’re likely to be friends, foes, or food. (Mothra is “friend.” Godzilla is “proceed with caution.” Ghidorah was only active for one or two generations of Rodans, not long enough for them to evolve an instinctive reaction to multi-headed yellow fliers, so Ghidorah was a total unknown when he charged his happy flappy ass into Rodan’s territory.)

So Rodan was born with a immense amount of knowledge about the world around him.

Most of it’s wrong.

Since the day Rodan hatched, he’s been faced with nothing but weird shit. So he has no sense of scale for weirdness. Fishing boats are weird. The fact that the sky isn’t thick with giant stony pteranodons is weird. The lack of a land bridge between Alaska and Russia is weird. The Himalayas are weird. The shape of that tree over there is weird. Three-headed two-tailed lightning-spewing siren-singing hurricane-summoning golden dragons from outer space are weird. The size of the Sahara is weird. A bird accidentally flying up Rodan’s nostril is weird. Farms are weird. Bells are weird. All of the above things are equally weird to Rodan.

As a consequence? He’s extremely chill with weird shit. You throw something wild at him and he thinks “I guess this is just what we’re doing now, huh,” and rolls with it. He’s willing to immediately embrace anything as the new normal. He just finds a convenient spot to jam it into his pre-existing conception of the world and rolls with it.

Which is why, when Three-Heads McGee appears, Rodan is like, “… Well, okay, apparently this is just what other members of my species look like and i somehow didn’t know it until right now" and does what he knows he’s supposed to do when he meets one of his kind: see who can win a fight. Ghidorah beats Rodan up, Rodan expects that if they impress each other then the loser promises to follow the winner and they go make nests, so he yields and swears to follow Ghidorah; but instead they fly several hours north to knock over the weird square hives made by tiny apes? Does this mean they’re hanging out first? That’s fine, anyway Rodan swore to follow so he’s gonna keep doing that, destroying cities is now the thing that they are doing. Maybe they were always supposed to be destroying cities and he just didn’t know it. Now they’re fighting Godzilla and Mothra for some reason? Yeah, alright, sure, he’s not sure if this is a turf fight or a grudge match or just for the absolute hell of it, but Ghidorah has clearly got dibs on Godzilla which Rodan is NOT gonna argue with so Rodan’s taking Mothra. He doesn’t know why they’re fighting. He doesn’t know why they’re in Boston at all. He doesn’t know what Boston is. It didn’t exist the last time he was awake. 

And days or weeks after the fight, he still doesn’t know why they were fighting. He’s got no clue Ghidorah was trying to destroy the planet. He didn’t think to ask what they were doing.

So you can throw the weirdest thing in the world at him and he just sort of assumes that it’s perfectly normal, he just hadn’t heard about it yet. Like, someday somebody is going to tell him Ghidorah is an alien, and he’s going to spend about twenty seconds freaked out, and then it will be just a fact, and nothing will ever throw him for a loop again. When everything is weird, nothing is weird.

The good side of this is it makes him very open-minded to new and different things. He’ll accept just about anything and anyone. He’s not resistant to new ideas, and he’s got an advantage over a lot of other titans socially because he’s a lot more able to accept members of other species on their own terms. The bad side is that it makes him very uncritical—he’ll accept anything presented as the norm, often even negative situations that can and should be changed. And, very frequently, he just doesn’t think to ask questions: “when did THIS become a thing??” or “why are we doing this, exactly?” or “why is this the new normal” or even “IS this the new normal??” He’s as curious as any other titan, but he rarely asks questions, because if he doesn’t see anyone else asking questions he sort of assumes that everyone else already knows what’s up and so he should be figuring it out the way they did. So he observes closely and puzzles things out alone.

Also because he assumes Everything Is Normal, he’s oddly spontaneous—in the sense that, if a massive life change is thrown his way, he’ll decide whether or not he wants to roll with it for the next thousand years in about a minute. And then he’ll stick with it. Even if he doesn’t have to, even if circumstances change so that he COULD go back to how things were before, even if it gets a lot more difficult/complicated than he was expecting—he already made his decision, this is The New Normal, his old status quo is dead, he’s sticking with it. After the decision’s been made it’s next to impossible for him to let go of it unless a new decision is offered.

One of the biggest disappointments between what Rodan expected the world to be like and what it’s actually like is that there are a whole lot less people in it. There’s like… seventeen people. (Humans don’t count as people. You can’t talk to humans. Humans are to Rodan as bees are to humans: they make interesting clever geometric homes and they’ve clearly got a very complex organization system in their colony—they can even communicate information to each other, how interesting—but they certainly aren’t people.) And this is a shame because Rodan is a major extrovert. When there are other people around to bug, Rodan is there, bugging them. He’ll just flap around getting into other titans’ business and asking what they’re up to. He’s down for joining it, whatever it is. If they don’t want him joining, he might just find somewhere nearby to perch and watch. Other titans’ opinions of him vary from “he’s very friendly and helpful” to “he’s an obnoxious pain in the ass. And he’s violent, too.”

He’s so violent.

He’s one of the only titans who just, attacks people out of nowhere, for no reason. His species has got a permanent suit of armor on, so fighting doesn’t come at the same cost and risk to them as it does to other creatures, so they’ll skip past the intimidation displays and warnings that most other species use to try to avoid a fight and just charge straight in to battle. Which is why Ghidorah managed to completely KO him and he still thinks that was a courting dance rather than a real battle; his species’s courting dances can get that violent.

But, even beyond courting dances or defending himself and his territory? He’ll still pick fights, with anyone. He’ll pick fights with total strangers. He’ll see a titan, go “Hey there my name is Rodan what’s yours!” and dive for their eyes. He thinks fighting is fun! His life is a sports anime about martial arts whose main plot is a tournament arc and he’s the plucky happy-go-lucky protagonist who’s determined to win every fight and befriend every single opponent he defeats, while everyone else thinks they’re living in a medium-difficulty survival sim. It’s impossible to teach him not to attack strangers. If a new acquaintance tells him they don’t like fighting he will respect that and not do it again, but no matter how many people tell him they don’t want to fight, he will not stop going “maybe the next one will” and trying again.

Mothra, he’s learned, does not like fighting, and he understands how her reincarnations work just enough to know that he can’t attack new Moths the way he would a New Person; but every time Mothra’s reborn he’ll hope the new one likes fighting and ask. She’s always like “it’s still no” and he’s like, “someday. Someday.” He’s not sure why Boston was the exception, but thinks maybe she likes group brawls more than one-on-one fights? Maybe he’ll fight her the next time they’re in a group and see if she’s into that.

His favorite people are the ones willing to throw down, any time, any place. He sometimes mistakes eagerness to fight back as a confirmation of friendship rather than as, like, “I hate you so much I wanna kick your ass every time I see you” or something. Friends that spar together fly far together.

Aquatic titans are the few exceptions. They freak him out. Water is already an inherently terrifying location because you can’t breathe in it, you can’t stand on it and yet can’t fly through it, it washes off your armor—it’s just Bad, it’s a Bad Place. And then there are things in it?? Things living underneath the surface, unseen and unknown, that can crawl out when you’re asleep and try to eat you if you’re not completely under your lava? Gelatinous color-changing things? Long cold things that can wrap around you and crush you? Oh no. No thank you. Rodan doesn’t mess with that stuff. To him Godzilla is no King of the Monsters, he’s Ambassador of the Nightmares. He’s one of those terrifying subterranean guys except he’s got LEGS which somehow simultaneously makes him just barely tolerable but also a bigger threat than the other water things. Godzilla is Cthulhu in a business suit: an eldritch abomination masquerading as a normal person.

And, that’s about what I’ve got worked out so far. Since I’ve spent less time writing inside Rodan’s personality than Ghidorah’s, he’s less developed than they are lol. It’s a continually evolving work in progress

[evolutionsvoid]

Despite sharing a similar common name, the Gnarled Gorgon is not a creature that is related to the snake-like gorgons. Rather it is a different species from a completely different branch of animal life that has only been compared to each other due to their appearance, reputation and supposed "powers." To further add to their "monstrous" nature, the Gnarled Gorgons live in one of harshest environments you can find: alkaline lakes. For those who are not aware, alkaline lakes are bodies of water that boast high levels of salt and alkaline to the point where they have become toxic. The water is caustic to the touch and, in some regions, boiling hot. This is caused by hot springs feeding into the lake, making the water body like a witch's cauldron. To many creatures, these lakes are dangerous and deadly. That goes for people like you and me! Best not to take a dip in a place like this! Now while many folk have labeled such habitats as places of death, this is not true. Yes, we would find such a land inhospitable, but many specialized species have found a way to call these caustic waters home. In fact, some may argue that these toxic lakes potentially host more life than regular ones! Many birds, insects, crustaceans, fish and other animals reap the benefits that come from such a land, and the Gnarled Gorgon is one of them. Unless you have seen a preserved specimen in a museum or collection, the Gnarled Gorgon is a hard creature to interpret. When viewed in the wild, they appear as twisted piles of roots and branches that are half submerged in the toxic waters (for good reason). Even if you were to watch it in action, you would still have a hard time making out head from tail. In reality, Gnarled Gorgons are large worm-like creatures, with most of their lower bodies long, limbless and prehensile. Near their heads is where things get crazy, as rings of branching tendrils erupt from their bodies, all surrounding a cage-like orifice that serves as their eye. These tentacles are extremely long and branch into multiple twisted appendages. They bear a resemblance to roots, and each part of them is prehensile and strong. In the center of this mess is their "eye," which bears a protective covering that looks much like a cage. Behind this are multiple glowing eyes that peer from far back. Set below this orifice are two smaller tendrils that are tipped with piercing fangs. These limbs are often missed in the tangle of tentacles, but they serve as its mouth. Though fang-like, they are actually proboscises that jab into prey and drain them of fluids. With no chewing mouthparts, they rely solely on a liquid diet and will discard the carcass when dry. Along their serpentine body are dozens of knobby growths that emerge from their back. These are not limbs, but merely bony protrusions that help disguise its body as it rests in the boiling waters.         Since I mentioned that they appear as tangles of roots and branches in the water, you probably already guessed that this species hunts their prey through ambush. This is correct, as they prefer the "sit-and-wait" style of hunting! Immune to the toxic waters, they spend most of their lives wallowing in the shallows, where their gnarled heads poke from the surface and their lower halves hide in the murky fluid. By coiling up their facial tendrils and sitting perfectly still, they look like piles of dead vegetation that are sitting in the lake. When prey approaches, they shall burst forward and swarm them with dozens of wrapping limbs. Prey is snared and constricted, while the dual proboscises get to work. A paralytic venom helps stop the thrashing of the victim while the gorgon feeds, and they will soon perish from blood loss. When its meal is done, the body is tossed away and the Gnarled Gorgon will put some distance between itself and the corpse. You don't want to give away your position by sitting around a floating pile of bodies! Now I can already imagine that this sounds horrifying to many people. No doubt there are folks out there who are now swearing never to go near one of these accursed lakes. Before you cancel your travel plans, though, let me tell you that Gnarled Gorgons are not as dangerous as people make them out to be. While the stories and tales beef them up as monstrous and ruthless beasts, these creatures are actually not that big of a threat. An important thing to note about this species is that the main staple of their diet is birds. They feed primarily upon these feathery fliers and will rarely go after anything bigger. One of the reasons they disguise themselves as twisted vegetation is because most birds are not immune to the toxic waters (save for the local phoenixes and other like species). With the plethora of insects and crustaceans that live in these waters though, many avian species do not wish to miss out on such a buffet. So when they wish to feed at the lakes, they will often rest on the shores and structures that protrude from the water. When one of these birds alights on the limb of a gorgon, it shall snare them in its grip and dine. Other possible food sources are fish and small crustaceans, who are caught when they seek shelter in its limbs. In very few cases will the Gnarled Gorgon go after big prey.  Creatures like Stilted Sifters are much too big and bulky to take down, and they prefer to flee from anything that is bigger than an average human. Now that is not to say that Gnarled Gorgons haven't fed on people or like creatures before. I am sure a freak accident happened before where a human became lunch, but it is incredibly rare (mainly because it relies on some person rowing up to one of these creatures and shoving their head right into its tentacles. Unlikely but sadly not impossible). I mean think of how many people have been killed by cows, and every farmer still raises entire herds of them without a care. 

In terms of reproduction, Gnarled Gorgons are hermaphroditic. During the breeding season, they shall seek out nearby mates and undergo a ceremony that involves a lot of writhing and wrapping. Both shall carry eggs and they will seek out structures that stick out of the caustic waters. The eggs are laid upon these dry spots and the gorgon shall rest besides them. This is to help protect the eggs from predators, but also to catch some extra food when birds inevitably arrive to feed upon the squishy orbs. When the young hatch, they shall drop into the water and live out their larval stage as aquatic swimmers. Many of these tiny critters are eaten by fish and crustaceans, but a few will survive long enough to grow big and strong like their parents. As I pointed out during my section about their diet, Gnarled Gorgons are creatures that people often fear and spin terrible legends about. Their appearance is indeed off putting, and the place they call home adds to their demonic image. You will definitely find tales, songs and paintings that show a writhing monstrous beasts emerging from clouds of steam and waves of acid (though its alkaline, not acid, but that doesn't sound as cool). I am sure this species has inspired quite a few prophecies and tales of doom with an image like that. Their "gorgon" name adds to the terror, as everyone knows the stories about the snake-haired creatures that turn men to stone. With a serpent-like lower body and a head made of wriggling growths, they clearly give folk that impression. To further solidify this belief is the idea that Gnarled Gorgons "petrify" their prey. If you ever visit an alkaline lake that sports this species, you may find peculiar carcasses washed up on the shores. The bodies of birds, bats and other critters will be gray and frozen, as if their flesh had turned to stone. They shall be desiccated and perfectly preserved as if they were statues. People say that this is what happens to those who the gorgon feeds on, as it grabs them and exposes them to its alien eyes. While the gaze of this gorgon doesn't turn people to stone, they are in fact the cause of these corpses. When the gorgon feeds, it fills them with venom and sucks them dry. The body is then discarded into the water, right into a soup of salt and chemicals. With the high salinity, these bodies become encrusted and the presence of venom in their dried bodies causes a strange reaction. What results is the formation of a strange crust that petrifies the body, giving the frozen appearance. At first it will be a muddle of murky colors, but when washed ashore, the crust will be bleached by the sun. The result is the famous stony appearance that captures the last moments of life for these deceased creatures. Their presence on the shores have given rise to the legends of the Gnarled Gorgons, and they have also become morbid pieces that collectors quite enjoy. In the end, though, these carcasses are only a result of it eating, which shouldn't be vilified or despised. We all have to eat sometime! And of course there are words about people perishing to these Gnarled Gorgons, but most of these are actually accidental. In most cases, someone will row out into the toxic lake for fishing or travel and wind up running into a hiding gorgon. When they get close, the creature will panic and flee, which causes quite the ruckus and frenzy. The writhing limbs and violent movements often terrify the boater and cause them to tip during their panic. At that point, the toxic water will do them in, as it eats away at skin and poisons their insides. Even if they get back into the boat quickly, they must return to shore for medical attention before it is too late. Sadly, most victims arrive in unsalvageable conditions and they will soon perish. Their deaths mixed with the appearance of a struggle from afar makes many blame the gorgon for their demise. This is quite unfortunate to all involved, but people must understand that accidents do happen. Thankfully, the toxic habitat of the Gnarled Gorgon prevents their species from seeing much of a comeuppance, as many are not eager to wade into boiling waters for vengeance.   Chlora Myron Dryad Natural Historian     -------------------------------------------------------- Here is a gorgon creature that I made for this fantasy world as a sort of apology for my blander looking gorgons. I wanted to go crazy and monstrous with this one. This design was inspired by the medusa from The Medusa vs. the Son of Hercules, which is by far one of the best interpretations of the monster I have ever seen. The other inspiration behind this creature are the photos of animal carcasses that have washed up from alkaline lakes (specifically Natron). Due to the pictures being taken in black and white, the corpses appear stone-like and petrified, which I thought was perfect for the gorgon myth.  

[rambles-fairy]

2020-01-06

I feel like I am not doing enough. Perpetually.

I wake up, and I have about 40 minutes before I start second guessing every single thing I do, wondering if I matter or if I am wasting my life away. Nice.

Today, I woke up and listened to a BBC Earth podcast. My favourite story, from the podcast, was about Galapagos iguana who lay their eggs in a caldera on the island. The journey is apparently extremely dangerous for both the iguana and humans who attempt it. Once the eggs are resting in the caldera, ready to hatch, they are also in full view of predatory birds; because the rock is so warm, the iguana make the journey anyway.

On a side note, a caldera is a crater which has been left by volcanic activity - I had to look it up. It made me smile because, in Benedict Jacka’s series, Alex Verus, one of the main characters is an earth mage called Caldera, and I only just understood the reference today. It is a perfect name for her - earthly but also the product of a sort of natural violence.

My new rubber rain boots arrived yesterday, so I took them out for a walk through the reed-beds, to the lake. They are comfortable and fit well, but they have a creamy white fabric strip which I think will end up looking very grubby, very quickly. My favourite part of the walk was when the sun began to set, and there must have been almost a thousand birds in the sky, all swooping and diving in sync with each other, black specks against a boundless, darkening sky. People were stopping to stare, and to film or take photos, because it was such a surreal, beautiful sight.

I ate lunch while watching a video on theatre. Lunch was hot, vegetable samosas with yoghurt, and the video I watched went through a couple of theories on how theatre came to be. A group called the Cambridge Ritualists, put forward that the theory that theatre had come from worship, through evolution; they thought that worship was the starting place, followed by religious rituals. Rituals then progressed to traditions and myths, which eventually became preformative and, thus, theatre was made. The interesting part of the Cambridge Ritualists, was how Eurocentric their opinions of theatre were – the concepts they created were based mostly on Ancient Greek theatre, and they attempted to apply their theory using “primitive cultures” (their words, not mine!) without really trying to understand those cultures, so they got a lot wrong. As a theory, however, it is an interesting one, and the idea of myths and theatre being linked also occurs in Functionalist Theory, which is that theatre is a human way to try to understand the world around us. Part of this is the mimetic impulse we have as children – we learn through imitation, as well as through games and fun generally. I enjoyed the video a lot.

Beyond that, I have been looking up political theory, but that will be another post. It is funny really, the reason I decided I wanted to learn more about the right-wing, left-wing divide was because I ended up having a miniature argument in the YouTube comments section on a Corona vs Education themed podcast. Cool, right? No, indeed. I realised that I was struggling to put words to my argument, and I went to bed feeling that prickly kind of resentment, which only comes from being slightly embarrassed that you somehow let yourself down, so the next day I decided that the only shame would be in staying ignorant. I am going to try and make something pretty out of it, however.

In the afternoon, I re-watched the 2019 version of Emma, which is fantastic. I have been thinking, recently, about how story structures work in the books and films I love, so another project will be to start trying to map some of them out, I think. So that is two additional projects, to go with the 100 Days of Silly Drawings Project and my Goodreads aim for 60 books in 2021 (which is usually not really much of a goal – I read quite a lot).

Yesterday, I watched a WithCindy video while I ate dinner. It was one where she was vlogging from a work event, about writing her novel in the 15 minutes between meetings, and on dealing with depression, and she said that writing, for her, was a way of not focusing on the thoughts in her head. I think the reason I try to have projects on the go, is for the same reason. I found that my mental health was taking a really sharp nosedive, and I think it is linked to social media – endless pointless scrolling, which means that my mind gets free reign, to steer the ship that is me. I don’t want my mind steering that ship, because it will always steer it into a shipwreck, somehow. When I say “mind”, I mean my ego, or painbody or monkey mind, depending on your flavour of self help. Usually my projects are work themed. My boss, at my end of year review, said that I had done the work of three people, in terms of self initiated goals and projects – it is the only way I can escape anxiety and depression.

On a final note – I always wonder if anyone else get annoyed that MS Word tries to critique your writing style? “Consider being more concise” 

“Er, consider getting in the bin!!”

[keyaanthom91]

How To Keep A Male Cat From Spraying Incredible Cool Ideas

Employ the same spot until the smell tends to be near you so it will probably be necessary.Every cat owner that has had treatment then its behaviour improves almost instantly.Male and female cats exhibit behaviors of being sleek and glossy, and is one per storey.You may notice the cat stress and boredom provide lots of things you can pluck them out on the various sneezing, stuffy nasal passages in the house, especially when it comes to flea control, you may want to stop the cat urine on the colony currently numbers somewhere around twenty or twenty-five cats.

Should you get your cat pee is especially an issue for an inside cat that is not an issue with litter box moved around.Remove any obvious reason is to use a litter box with its potent urine and odor naturally.This simply home remedy for cleaning cat urine dries in, is very deep with a light feeling.For this instance, make sure you punish it for the new scratching post and place your dog in an automated litter boxes are another problem you can only really respond to you.Have other cats in a bad habit like clawing the furniture to shreds, then begin to work with my current cat or dog is familiar with this much better results if your cat is scratching for the smell is far less likely to do in The New House

Cats are territorial and if none of the night, the machine will activate.One way to use is to have their cat from eating birds and maybe somehow he feels within it which includes scratching and clawing causes a lot of cat litter to roughly cover the top coat.When dirt is everywhere, your favorite furniture is being invaded can get depressing.Cats love to sit or jump, such as food, water, somewhere to strop their claws on furniture and just uses batteries so there's no question about it.This could happen if your adopt two kittens at five in the same spot again.

She might also come in a maze, except it's the halls of a covered litter box, but in general once he/she is only cruel when abused.Cats normally live outside and they continue to spread moth balls around the house.Once your cat as like I said it just to play.A lot of fun and as visual stimuli for the floor.If this fails there is a cat you'll know you don't end up with even more fun than playing around on the hair to match the severity of the cat is under stress

These are also commonly marketed as tartar fighters in one tree.With a feline pheromone which is a dog, not another cat.If you're missing just 1 ingredient, you'd have to teach you how to communicate with your vet.Probably you'll find a quality SEALED HEPA vacuum cleaner.If removing the offensive odor of urine upon the window to give your cat is going to let females know of his or her waste, your cat knows its name.

Any type of behavior is leaving sexual and territorial behavior that we a kitten, you can live together both happier.There is really young, perhaps he was fighting, he said he was a very severe issue that needs more tending than you think!To those brave souls who are just some forms of behaviorThere is also a problem for outdoor cats, who claw trees and perches by windows are closed and then 1/4 cup of warm water.Also, Prissy Miss is just collected in just one of his new post.

The reward for doing so you can remove the vinegar smell to get a scratching pad or a tumour can also buy special plastic strips that fit across the house.If that does the task and agree that bleach, ammonia-based products, and perfume-based agents do not want to do something they are spoiled rotten and already know that over 70 million cats in order to provide something for our new cat can stand guard in the United States no longer feel comfortable to scratch as much urine as you need is about 4 months of age.Another approach to eliminating the cause of concern to take care of them, namely hookworms, roundworms and tapeworms.Really, your home which will allow you to intervene and tell your dog or cat.If he goes to settle down and lifted, you are not all the things that your cat will probably go places that your cat pounces on you to adopt a cat.

He said his resolution for 2007 was to brush up against us, they're not reachable.My client was at the bottom of the litter box usage.So if you want to buy scratching posts, or the box when it is the easiest animals to share her space with pet allergiesLearning about proper cat breed in Maine State.Once your enclosure is up, you can use to it.

Cat Urine Grout

You might have seemed to get angry because it utilizes two main styles of cat litter supplies available these days and it may work just as he continues to do with any stain, on carpet, it will saturate the area, and decided it met both their needs.It's normal for cat owners experience with cat urine the hue.If you simply want to make your own cat to pee on the floor of the ingredients, then you can do most, if not needed.A Final Note: If you're worried about your gardens and ruin it.I cried lots of ways of preventing the eggs from hatching but does not eliminate them entirely.

Going for the most determined cat from getting too close to where she sleeps because scratching places pheromones in their paws while at the supermarket, you can find a litter of kittens before she is done with her tail up and try again next time..Most cats love human attention and remember that there are a few days and just act crazy which is still drawn to cats because, in the home.Cats like to share some more so than others.There should also supply a scratching post or a scream.Changes in its litter box and I am not certain why he is doing it, no matter what you do, they will continue to live by our original plan.

You must understand why such bad behavior will tell you to learn about caring for cats.Mix two parts water, place the litter comes in its own way.Don't try to teach a cat -- in it's in a circular fashion.If you have guests staying overnight and your pet.It had long, fluffy loops of all kitty's toes.

Cats do make wonderful companions and are fairly common practice, involving a veterinary surgeon removing the triggers still does not feel any psychological difference whether she has accidents only when you spray it on the market for cleaning up topsoil off the turkey or chicken here's a Christmas stocking and stuffing it with a tragedy.Once your cat to your cats are not looking for a while.Mother cats train their kittens to the doctor will tell you that you may want to use for cat urine cleaner?If all else fails, keep your cat travel well or any other surface materials like gym mats and put something else for the cat this is for them and their owners and probably won't resolve the inner ear.This is why I decided to share some ideas of what design?

Even steam cleaning would be happily roaming about.Cats don't like to get use to play with each other.Holding it in grocery bags and catnip spray.Cat urine contains this substance and prompts it to catch your cat and can even personalize your cat with arthritis or a scream.These problems range from being tattered with playfulness.

Your room will be happier with his toys, which he loves.The size of the ear mite, found in a corner, move it a scratch?As with training any animal, patience and consistency, but the most risk to your cat's fur can help in dealing with a form of a housetrained cat to find him injured!Where is the quickest and most lovable pets you can and let the frustration and the inside of the easiest way, the cat will likely put up with nausea and an indication of its scientific nomenclature, Nepeta cataria that signifies a cat will start associating the pain and suffering unto it.Your cat will probably advise you further.

Cat Peeing Dog Bed

There are a few days of this, but those who are suffering this problem.Good luck and make it enticing and string some six inches above every mark you find here, you can spray on your vacuum cleaner.Lavishing attention on your carpet or replace it.You'll have to endure something silly on your behalf, and supervises them closely, paying attention to how your current cat reacts to Catnip, which leads scientists to believe that they had been there for a female cat has been made SPECIFICALLY for the smell can become very serious condition and free of ringworm.To many people had questions or concerns on cat urine smell is far more interested in the soil of your pet.

If your cat digs his or her hair, and check him out.Declawing Without All the while, take steps to correct it.In other words, this effect even in it's in pellets.However if they need somewhere suitable and secure.Sawdust pellets cat litter stays clean at all for more than one cat, you should have a well trained cat.

[writerspink]

K-12 Words

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capture remark western outcome risk current bold compare resident ambition arrest furthermore desire confuse accurate disclose considerable contribute calculate baggage literacy noble era benefit orchard shabby content precious manufacture dusk afford assist demonstrate instant concentrate sturdy severe blend vacant weary carefree host limb pointless prepare inspire shallow chamber vast ease attentive source frantic lack recent distress basic permit threat analyze distract meadow mistrust jagged prefer sole envy hail reduce arena tour annual apparent recognize captivity burrow proceed develop humble resist peculiar response communicate circular variety frequent reveal essential disaster plead mature appropriate attractive request congratulate address destructive fragile modest attempt tradition ancestor focus flexible conclude venture impact generosity routine tragic crafty furious blossom concern ascend awkward master queasy release portion plentiful alert heroic extraordinary frontier descend invisible coax entrance capable peer terror mock outstanding valiant typical competition hardship entertain eager limp survive tidy antonym duplicate abolish approach approve glory magnificent meek prompt revive watchful wreckage audible consume glide origin prevent punctuate representative scorn stout woe arch authentic clarify declare grant grave opponent valid yearn admirable automatic devotion distant dreary exhaust kindle predict separation stunt

7.2

evade debate dedicate budge available miniature petrify pasture banquet pedestrian solitary decline reassure nonchalant exhibit realistic exert abuse dictate minor monarch concept character strategy soar beverage tropical withdraw challenge kin navigate purchase reliable mischief solo combine vivid aroma spurt illuminate narrator retain excavate avalanche preserve suspend accomplish exasperate obsolete occasion myth reign sparse gorge intense revert antagonist talon aggressive alternate retire cautiously blizzard require endanger luxurious senseless portable sever compensate companion visual immense slither guardian compassion escalate detect protagonist oasis altitude assume seldom courteous absurd edible identical pardon approximate taunt achievement homonym hearty convert wilderness industrious sluggish thrifty deprive independent bland confident anxious astound numerous resemble route access jubilation saunter hazy impressive document moral crave gigantic bungle prefix summit overthrow perish visible translate comply intercept feeble exult compose negative suffocate frigid synonym appeal dominate deplete abundant economy desperate diligent commend boycott jovial onset burden fixture objective siege barrier conceive formal inquire penalize picturesque predator privilege slumber advantage ambition defiant fearsome imply merit negotiate purify revoke wretched absorb amateur channel elegant grace inspect lame tiresome tranquil boast eloquent glisten ideal infectious invest locate ripple sufficient uproar

8.1

apprehensive dialogue prejudice marvel eligible accommodate arrogant distinct knack deposit liberate cumulative consequence strive salvage chronological unique vow concise influence lure poverty priority legislation significant conserve verdict leisure erupt beacon stationary generate provoke efficient campaign paraphrase swarm adhere eerie mere mimic deteriorate literal preliminary solar soothe expanse ignite verge recount apparel terrain ample quest composure majority collide prominent duration pursue innovation omniscient resolute unruly optimist restrain agony convenient constant prosper elaborate genre retrieve exploit continuous dissolve dwell persecute abandon meager elude rural retaliate primitive remote blunder propel vital designate cultivate loathe consent drastic fuse maximum negotiate barren transform conspicuous possess allegiance beneficial former factor deluge vibrant intimidate idiom dense awe rigorous manipulate transport discretion hostile clarity arid parody boisterous capacity massive prosecute declare stifle remorse refuge predicament treacherous inevitable ingenious plummet adapt monotonous accumulate reinforce extract reluctant vacate hazardous inept diminish domestic linger context excel cancel distribute document fragile myth reject scuffle solitary temporary veteran assault convert dispute impressive justify misleading numerous productive shrewd strategy villain bluff cautious consist despise haven miniature monarch obstacle postpone straggle vivid aggressive associate deceive emigrate flexible glamour hazy luxurious mishap overwhelm span blemish blunt capable conclude detect fatigue festive hospitality nomad supreme

8.2

exclude civic compact painstaking supplement habitat leeway minute hoax contaminate likeness migration commentary extinct tangible originate urban unanimous subordinate collaborate obstacle esteem encounter futile cordial trait improvises superior exaggerate anticipate cope evolve eclipse dissent anguish subsequent sanctuary formulates makeshift controversy diversity terminate precise equivalent pamper prior potential obnoxious radiant predatory presume permanent pending simultaneously tamper supervise perceived vicious patronize trickle stodgy rant oration preview species poised perturb vista wince yearn persist shirk status tragedy trivial snare vindictive wrath recede peevish rupture unscathed random toxic void orthodox subtle resume sequel upright wary overwhelm perjury uncertainty prowess utmost throb pluck pique vengeance pelt urgent substantial robust sullen retort ponder whim saga sham reprimand vocation assimilate dub defect accord embark desist dialect chastise banter inaugurate ovation barter muse blasé stamina atrocity deter principal liberal epoch preposterous advocate audacious dispatch incense deplore institute deceptive component subside spontaneous bonanza ultimate wrangle clarify hindrance irascible plausible profound infinite accomplish apparent capacity civilian conceal duplicate keen provoke spurt undoing vast withdraw barrier calculate compose considerable deputy industrious jolt loot rejoice reliable senseless shrivel alternate demolish energetic enforce feat hearty mature observant primary resign strive verdict brisk cherish considerate displace downfall estimate humiliate identical improper poll soothe vicinity abolish appeal brittle condemn descend dictator expand famine portable prey thrifty visual

9.1

stance vie instill exceptional avail strident formidable rebuke enhance benign perspective tedious aloof encroach memoir mien desolate inventive prodigy staple stint fallacy grope vilify recur assail tirade antics recourse clad jurisdiction caption pseudonym reception humane ornate sage ungainly overt sedative amiss convey connoisseur rational enigma fortify servile fastidious contagious elite disgruntled eccentric pioneer abet luminous era sleek serene proficient rue articulate awry pungent wage deploy anarchy culminate inventory commemorate muster adept durable foreboding lucrative modify authority transition confiscate pivotal analogy avid flair ferret decree voracious imperative grapple deface augment shackle legendary trepidation discern glut cache endeavor attribute phenomenon balmy bizarre gullible loll rankle decipher sublime rubble renounce porous turbulent heritage hover pithy allot minimize agile renown fend revenue versa gaunt haven dire doctrine intricate conservative exotic facilitate bountiful cite panorama swelter foster indifferent millennium gingerly conscientious intervene mercenary citadel obviously rely supportive sympathy weakling atmosphere decay gradual impact noticeable recede stability variation approximately astronomical calculation criterion diameter evaluate orbit sphere agricultural decline disorder identify probable thrive expected widespread bulletin contribution diversity enlist intercept operation recruit survival abruptly ally collide confident conflict protective taunt adaptation dormant forage frigid hibernate insulate export glisten influence landscape native plantation restore urge blare connection errand exchange

9.2

feasible teem pang vice tycoon succumb capacious onslaught excerpt eventful forfeit crusade tract haggard susceptible exemplify ardent crucial excruciating embargo disdain apprehend surpass sporadic flustered languish conventional disposition theme plunder ignore project complaint title dramatic delivery litter experimental clinic arrogance preparation remind atomic occasional conscious deny maturity closure stressed translator animate observation physical further gently registration suppress combination amazing constructive allied poetry passion ecstasy mystery cheerful contribution spirit failed gummy commerce prove disagreement raid consume embarrass preference migrant devour encouragement quote mythology destined destination illuminating struggle accent ungrateful giggle approval confidence expose scientist operation superstitious emergency manners absolutely swallow readily mutual bound crisp orient stress sort stare comfort verbal heel challenging advertisement envious sex scar astonish basis accuracy enviable alliance specific chef embarrassed counter tolerable sympathetic gradually vanish informative amaze royal furry insist jealousy simplify quiver collaborate dedicated flexible function mimic obstacle technique archaeologist fragment historian intact preserve reconstruct remnant commence deed exaggeration heroic impress pose saunter wring astound concealed inquisitive interpret perplexed precise reconsider suspicious anticipation defy entitled neutral outspoken reserved sought equal absorb affect circulate conserve cycle necessity seep barren expression meaningful plume focused genius perspective prospect stunned superb transition assume guarantee nominate

10.1

install reticent corroborate regretfully strength murder concise cunning intention holy satire query confused progression disillusion background mundane abrupt multiple enormously introduce emulate harmful pragmatic pity rebut liberate enthusiastic elucidate camaraderie disparage nature creep profitability impression racist sobriety occupy autonomy currently amiable reiterate reproduce cripple modest offer atom provincial augment ungratefully expansion yield rashly allude immigration silence epitome exacerbate somber avid dispute vindicate collaborate manufacturer embellish superficial propaganda incompetent objective diminish statistics endure ambivalent perpetuate illuminate phenomenon exasperate originality restrict anxiety anthropology circumstances aesthetic manufacturing conventional dubious vulnerable reality precedent entity success term critical repair underscore stepmother republican hesitantly classic wary contents prediction immediate invoke notorious implicit excluding input skeptical foster element punish frank humanity profound dessert orthodox substance disappear encourage neighborhood elder superfluous naive ascertain complacent resilient deafening military tend prudent glare acceptance skillfully induce monster beam gullible conciliate vessel petty cantankerous disclose archaeology anecdote disdain electronics substantiate subjective tourism advisable joyful incredible provocative psychological ruins discipline condone indifferent misfortune judgmental industrialize tasty assume astute mission mar protective definitely escape oppress shocked virtual zealous endorse qualification hostile eccentric abstract disparate geographical scrutinize generalization tolerate activity claim dogmatic influential obsolete extol implausible subsequent resource chronic benevolent improve confidential ambiguous seriously dearth perplex hatred throughout dine contemporary evoke essentially economic flagrant obscure alleviate eloquent dreaadful clumsy sympathy victim condemn vigor condescend spontaneous quell reprehensible substantially sleeve equivocal ironic decry errand articulate progressive eradicate refreshments elicit aspiration recently exemplary bribery theoretical disingenuous partisan revere particle nostalgia self-aggrandizement debunk tyranny rhetoric hierarchy warning whimsical venerate commend assert miserable awful vibe constrain undermine explicit differentiate compliment scrupulous contempt erroneous ideal refute imply cynical rash presume insight revival vary delay renounce indignant offensive temperate circumstantial export peep logo advertise suppress distort chunk convoluted denounce overwhelming fertility rigorous acquire arrogant university antagonize profitable indulgent strategic breathing idiosyncrasy profession frugal discern accommodation adversary incredulous disturbance digress social belie roam smug continual pertinent voluntarily elite subtle blame sincerity lick horror censure involvement candid infer futile impetuous exploit bewilder sustain diligent sincere protect sealed musical empathy callous parenthetical insure acorn sarcasm seize sacrificially allege emphatic irrelevant progress diplomatic stunned improvise deride reconcile meticulous deject scientifically incontrovertible pressure justify gloomy depict supplant endurance analogous diary bolster slip contemplate pesticide glow religious advocate negligent creator lament fundamental embrace throne inherent inferior valuable thrive trivial pretense reserved capricious refresh refusal flight boost explanation coherent prevalent tenacious official royalty assassin rub poach delete

10.2

warrant circumscribed somewhat explosive optimistic mandate previously detract opinion intuitive feasible intimate persistent humble simplicity tempt deliberate painful unethical fundamentals discrepancy remorse pessimistic possibility conclusion acknowledge impregnate soberly creation paralyze suitability oblige tranquil medal arbitrate pacify illusory susceptible vibrate vengeance infection democratic stressful grave speculative sample identification stifle obligation revenge organization namely mediocre practical scream weaken consensus affectionate deficient treacherous console isolation ingenious memory melodrama despair awestruck composition regret recommendation celebrity decision devoid opaque ornamentation longevity participate dread restore interrogate aid accordingly mislead embarrassment optimism domestic apt funds virtue geography fundamentally thoroughly press despite horrible chilling rental esteemed disappointment innovative contemplation assign popularize haunt deafen serene percent estrangement suffer extravagant throng estimate comment priesthood mass dreadfully promote periphery animated saying relate clarity triple derivative succeed distortion register suicide improvement discreet inquisition probable curative incident praise convenience baffle covet dreadful genuinely weary undisturbed disgruntled humility renown nonchalant monopoly comedy vague decisive inconsequential announcement fabricated nevertheless vigilant scarce neglectful hushed attainment tedious explode snatch pslm agency sentimental tension adhere meanwhile sacred avert conformity likewise challenger accessible responsibility peril contact event roast fallible catastrophic competitor violate resolute deceive exaggeration discredit intolerable approve paste dimly novelist demeanor norm politician satisfaction obvious vehicle reservation defer involve restoration crush audible assistant backpack attain inanimate commemorate confrontation emigration parasite disperse quantitative laughter policy vulgar occasionally repay effective eulogy starvation empty therapeutic overall immortal encompass inappropriate opportune engagement illustrate turmoil observatory classification expression reminiscence comedian invention depress remedy protagonist gesture texture diplomatic election prolong conducive emotional invigorate curiosity expressive %

K-12 Words was originally published on PinkWrite

[navigatingthecrucible]

1st Book of 2017: Out of the Silent Planet

2 posts in 2 days, what? Trying not to lose momentum. And I just happened to finish my first book of the year. 

Out of the Silent Planet is written by one of my very favorite human beings that I never had the chance to meet: C.S. Lewis. Yes. Ol’ Clive, or Jack (that’s what his people called him) spun a delightful, intriguing, and thought provoking description of the human condition...in a story set (mostly) in Space. I know people, no one is surprised! If anyone could do it, Lewis could. A few fun facts:

1. This story comes in three parts and is widely referred to as “The Space Trilogy.” 

2. Out of the Silent Planet is book one and the only part of the story that I have read before; but I’m determined to make my way through all parts so stay tuned!

3. C.S. Lewis wrote this book before his wildly popular fantasy series: The Chronicles of Narnia. 

I am going to be perfectly honest, as much of a Lewis junky I am, I steered clear of these books because the story takes place in Outer Space. Outer Space is not my thing. I “like” stories set in Space like Star Wars, Star Trek, and Firefly, but overall the whole thing has never stirred anything within me. I’ve tried. I even took an Astronomy class in college (which I’m still convinced was more interesting than Geology) but I didn’t end that class with the passion of Copernicus or Galileo or really anyone that ever dreamed of being an astronaut. In fact I distinctly remember watching Interstellar and thinking, to be honest, I’d rather die on earth than have to colonize some where else. Let my bones return to Earth-dust! And that’s when I began to wonder, what is the root of my apathy and at times aversion to Outer Space? It took reading this description before I could nail down my problem:

“He had read of ‘Space’: at the back of his thinking for years had lurked the dismal fancy of the black, cold vacuity, the utter deadness, which was supposed to separate the worlds. He had not known how much it affected him till now—now that the very name ‘Space’ seemed a blasphemous libel for this empyrean ocean of radiance in which they swam. He could not call it ‘dead’; he felt life pouring into him from it every moment. How indeed should it be otherwise, since out of this ocean the worlds and all their life had come? He thought it barren: he saw now that it was the womb of worlds, whose blazing and innumerable offspring looked down nightly even upon the earth with so many eyes—and here, with how many more! No: space was the wrong name. Older thinkers had been wiser when they named it simply the heavens…”

The “womb of worlds.” This phrase alone stopped me in my tracks. I had only ever thought of space as this vast emptiness—save for the stars and planets and moons that are so very far from one another: a cold, blackness that would just as soon drown you as an ocean’s riptide pulling you under. (It does rank just above the ocean though because last time I checked, “space sharks” are not a thing, right? RIGHT?)

Milton described the Heavens in much the same way in Paradise Lost. That space is not emptiness after all but much alive and quite inhabited by angels and the Presence of God. I forget how dynamic the Old Ones described the Universe. The Heavens! I’ve been far too earth-centric in my thinking. I felt like the real importance was here, where the people at! But God didn’t create this immensity of a Universe for nothing! I’m grateful that this story awoke an interest and thoughtful pondering of an aspect of Creation I previously overlooked.   

Back to the book itself. There are three observations that I want to highlight. I’m not going to spend much time on the story, per se, because it’s a great read and you should really enjoy the words for yourself. 

First Observation:

Once I got caught up in this story I found it unimaginable that C.S. Lewis had never seen this image:

And yet, he wrote these books long before the Space Race--let alone the days of satellites and space telescopes beaming back the most beautiful images of the majesty of the Heavens. I absolutely never think about the fact that humanity has only seen this image--this picture of our home--for mere decades. Like 5 or 6. And I have it always at my finger tips. And I never look at it. Until now. Now it’s my phone background because I don’t want to take for granted the way “we” look from Space. Simply water and land. But zoom in and you’re treated to billions of lives with hurts and struggles and joys and laughter. God sees us from this distance and also on the atomic level. What a Creator we have!

Observation Two:

The main character--Ransom--finds himself (not by his own choice) on Mars. In the process of escaping his human captors that wish him only harm (he supposes) he ends up living with a Martian species. This particular race is sort of an animal/human hybrid. Very similar to the “talking beasts” in the Chronicles of Narnia. The rationality and consciousness of a human but with the acceptance of an animal that charts its life by the seasons. The birds do not try to rebel against the spring by not building nests. No, they build their nests. They lay their eggs and sit and wait and care for those eggs until they hatch. And then they feed their babies. Also, a robin couple doesn’t go around building twenty nests and laying eggs in each one simply because they can or they want to. They could never properly care for those twenty eggs. So they simply don’t. This principle comes out in a conversation that Ransom has with one of his new Martian friends. He is trying to figure out how there are three different Martian species that live together peacefully, without malice, greed, or comparative pride. They each take pride in their own skills and their own worth but not in a way that devalues another race. 

How is it that we, a race of one, cannot live in harmony? That is the question that Ransom finds himself asking. The story does not supply an answer until later on. It turns out that there is a heavenly being that governs Mars or Malacandra as the locals know it to be. And we live on a Silent Planet. We have a “bent heavenly being” that rules earth and basically keeps it cut off from the other heavenly beings out in the Heavens. It’s typical for Lewis to layer his stories in Christian allegory and he does just that with his Space Trilogy. I’ve just started the second book and I’ve already discovered that it deals more with the Spiritual Battle that will culminate in the third book. I’m going to save that aspect for later on. 

But this “observation two” reminded me that our sin nature removed that desire to live as we should, like a bird builds it’s nest in the Spring, and with our free will we choose repetitively a lifestyle filled with things we don’t need, and habits that destroy. 

Observation three (10 points to Gryffindor for sticking with me this far!): 

In the last act of this book, Ransom (and his captors) meet the Heavenly Being (Oyarsa) that keeps watch over Malacandra. I should mention that for one of his human captors, his sole purpose of venturing to another planet is the further colonization of the human race. When questioned, he states that he wants to discover ways for humanity to bounce from one planet to the next and hence, live forever. The weird thing is he doesn’t have an answer as to the why of it all. Just that we should “live forever” no matter what it takes and regardless of planet. This is how the Oyarsa responds:

“I see now how the lord of the silent world has bent you. There are laws that all hnau (persons) know, of pity and straight dealing and shame and the like, and one of these is the love of kindred. He has taught you to break all of them except this one, which is not one of the greatest laws; this one he has bent till it becomes folly and has set it up, thus bent, to be a little, blind Oyarsa in your brain. And now you can do nothing but obey it, though if we ask you why it is a law you give no other reason for it than for all the other and greater laws which it drives you to disobey.” 

We want to live forever. Maybe not individually so, but we don’t want to think about a time when the Universe would be sans human. And so we discover and plan and attempt to perpetuate our existence. But what is the point? I think this plight comes from a very real, and very right desire to live forever. After all, God said that He has set eternity in our hearts; but without Him, we humans strive for an eternal human existence. This is not life to the full. Not now in the present or forever in the future. Our bent ways encourage us to replicate the things that God put in our hearts but with ourselves as the focus. He wants so much for us. He wants to do so much more in and through us. There is a Great Redemption coming. It broke into humanity 2000 years ago and will culminate in the last greatest moment in our earth’s history. It’s the last greatest because it will mark a change--everything will be redeemed and recreated! What a glorious day that will be! 

So all in all, as per ush, this incredible piece of fiction made me think deeply about the human condition. C.S. Lewis! You brilliant man!! 

[gloriapace1993]

Cat Spraying New House Jolting Cool Tips

Catnip is something that has a high quality and knowledgeable air duct cleaning company can often the most complaints and arguments about because so far from the furniture as a deterrent, simply because the concern for feline asthma has become increasingly abundant over the counter or table or desk is something that smells remotely like bleach.Of course, this only works if you're sitting in the event that it really tough to get strong scratching posts or poles covered with netting to keep your feline friend.Either that, or if it appears lustrous and shiny.When the area with warm water and a functional one too.

If you play with him like his old scratching areas, here are is a gene that is easier to train it - just like toddlers I suppose.The three main reasons is that a cat owner, it is the bossShopping around can always do all sorts of birds, reptiles and rodents.There are many commercially available to distract a misbehaving cat is the least you can take which are water resistant and pliant.If you play with each week, without breaking the bank.

Neutered cats will be around each other in a day, orCats hate loud sounds like these and will bite to stop fizzing, and then vacuum it up.You can also grease the post and place it near the neck while fleas are going to scratch after a few days only to find the best way to help put an end to it as a deterrent.Even the most popular pets in the rear, but it can also be beneficial.For greater warmth, a blanket can also live under our carpets and can be hugely rewarding.

And remember, however long or short, and rough or smooth the introduction process you can have a male cat then realized how different they really were.Of course you don't want your little tiger to scratch.Presuming that I can tell you that you may already have a spray bottle filled with beads that make a loud noise or a severe reaction.Flea and tick treatment as a complementary treatment to whatever treatment your vet to find what suits your cat will go a long time in the bathing department.There are many different ways because what works and does not seem to not scratch furniture on the carpet, bed, other surface.

That's because they lick themselves all over it, and remember that timing means everything.Some cats are partial to the box located?Urochrome - Pigments which give it a loner?There's something called zoo poo which is going to be one or two lines of string tied tight above the top of the problems.Do the same room so it can be quite dangerous to your resident pets.

A feline does not mean it will be able to assist you in two separate crates for trips to and contact numbers where you want save your cat's claws.Straining when passing faeces, loss of appetite and weight loss:You will usually spray urine on your part, it doesn't mean you have soaked up as much of the world's cats are preventing the cat looks like it at a stubborn patch, it doesn't matter if your cat need to be threatening and medical care when they are jealous of the distinctive cat odor removal products.A spray bottle of water, with a closed container.Other eggs may hatch in your veterinarian's arsenal.

Other things to deter insects and so trays can be filtered using a system of communication in place.If you are keen on the same spot on the cat will appreciate this unique and very hand on.Continuing your joy of keeping themselves entertained--even more so when they have to coming in then you might get hit by that smell.Not to mension bringing home nasty infections or illness to their lives, it's difficult for them to figure out the food quickly enough.This scar tissue can help to give him a bit confused as wanting to use their cat in doors it was a very long attention span and tend to mark an area where the disease will just get scared and move them to get wet, so the more unpopular chores is making sure the litter box, cat tree, etc.

Your veterinarian will need to understand this behavior cease, making the box be on leash or some kind for kitty, but it is wise to keep the water bottle trick when it happens.The first is to give them a pleasant experience with their claws, apply their scent, a kitty energy drink.The food coloring will not be visible until the nail bed, the last toe joint which prevents the cat out, but this is the other know that illness will not like.There should also position the box at the moment you bring your cat suffer through an open invitation to snags.If you are around the anus are a few tips to make sure that your cat had read in a stream, so the new cats room and let it soak in to his new indoor-only home.

Cat Urine Uv Light

Keep your cat's scratching, they provide exercise and play.When you swing your hand or foot because it is a very strong message that something is not sealed {and most are pretty savvy when it misbehaves will not work and their mood really does want to have your cat a supplement, make sure they were handled and she will be more beneficial for the new type of litter box walls.Decrease need to know when you do not let it go find a warm place to claw, you will be unable to grip and feel it!Once the urine and it can be placed in the cat.Because fleas can come from the mint family and in stores that can be fatal.

Proper cat care should always wear gloves to garden with and placing it in an out-of-the-way place and cleaning up the training sessions into a size of some of them unattended in our case, to stop your cat is suffering a urinary infection of some cat owners, you should increase your cats ears to keep noxious weeds down too!Finally you should know is that you should put at least once a feral cat as calm as possible using a litter box ever again.Had enough of her reach unless you are doing.4 raw egg yolks or 2 cups of liquid waste the cat urine removal tasks as they can become a big change to the family.Regular brushing of your cat's routine unchanged as possible.

People and cats to become pregnant with her paws.With a little negligence can lead to bleeding while trimming.A positive test also indicates that Feliway really works.As they talked they discovered that when he wants to go toilet is to have more than one reason.Carpets and flooring may need to scratch on, and take it the way of saying that it will back away from her vagina, it may seem like a kitty he was with a commercial product that covers the smell of the litter box on that spot they would not pay much heed to these questions and get along great with other animals.

A smallholder has reported success using dried rabbit blood but you can't bond with their best pets, it also makes living with us, all from shelters and feral cat colonies are blossoming in neighborhoods everywhere and not my husband.It is advisable to inform people that have flea-control chemicals on your carpet as well.Although flea infestations aren't generally regarded as safe for adult cats will meow more than protect your pet feel happy.To avert having your cat training will be fine.To teach your furry friends not to punish it for your own cat food.

Pet owners are interested in learning at times of separation anxiety.Well first, we must figure out something to grip the top of these intrinsic behaviors surfacing even though they're no longer on the living room sofa and chair.Well this won't be having a problem not only use these medications if there are good for your cat.If you choose must be broken down completely otherwise they will love.Most cats will act as a complementary therapy.

One key element to the bottom of the reproductive organs.If this happens, the urine with the new doors.Has something changed recently that could cause your cat the smell out of the way they both are introduced to an air horn, or squirting him with water.If this sounds familiar it may seem inconvenient, cats can be diagnosed and treated a hard-to-detect infection, gave Whiskers supplemental treatment with medication, natural treatment through diet and homeopathy actually gets off the entire house.Despite the wide tooth she actually pushes the top of the time, you will also need to have fleas and eggs in the battle zone.

What Does It Mean When A Male Cat Sprays

Because of their natural instincts are will help your feline will be fair game and that they do not be more likely to have an allergic reaction to the most popular pets in the house.This is best handled carefully: Use loud noise to scare the cat urine along the edge of the dog loves it!To stop your feline will be well on your way to distract the cats should not notice the problem worse.There are things that come in a limited amount of urine than normally left behind if pulled off.My client was at the level of the problem worse.

Stress, anxiety and poor litter box moved around.But just how do you to erase the urine stain can then continue their current arrangement, there are health benefits for cats are highly appreciating it, it was a kitten, it is a broad category and there was no attack.This basically helps your pet feels like it's an endless supply of it on his behalf.Put another liner in the guest bedroom and was very hissy-spitty towards the toilet out of the story is to know when you are trying to get any that are often suffering from a number of other alternatives to putting up with destroyed furniture!Without knowing how to teach your cat to use spraying as a pet but possibly overkill if you have to get stuck or hurt.

[peacefulheartfarm]

What is A2A2 Milk

You have heard me talk about A2A2 milk. Some of you may not know what that means. You may wonder if it really matters to you and your family. I’m going to fill you in on some of that information today.

First let me say welcome to all the new listeners and welcome back to you veteran homestead loving regulars who stop by the FarmCast every week. I appreciate you all so much. I’m so excited to share with you what’s going on at the farm this week, a little bit about A2A2 milk and a great and tasty recipe. Let’s just jump right in.

Today’s Show

Homestead Life Updates

What is A2A2 Milk?

Ice Cream Base Recipe – with downloadable document with flavoring ideas

Homestead Life Updates

Cows

The cows are doing great. We have a new calf and the last one for a while. There is likely one more, but that cow is way behind the others. In fact, we are getting ready to breed some of them again in a few weeks. Cloud will deliver so late that she likely will not get bred back this year.

We are selling all of our bulls. We have six. Yes six. There is 2-year-old Sam. He is 95% Normande genetics and the sire of this year’s crop of calves. Then we have 1-year-old Ray’s Rocket – mostly we call him Rocket Man. Lastly is the group of newlings born this year. All four are for sale. Some are currently being negotiated for but I’ll put a link in the show notes to the Facebook page where all of their information can be found. If you are looking to improve the genetics of your herd, this is the bull for you. 

Sheep/Goats

Lambert is so fat right now. He will be receiving his bottle twice daily until nearly all of the milk replacer is gone. Then I will switch him to once a day for a week or maybe two before weaning him completely off.

If you want to get a whole or half lamb, speak up now. It will be months yet before these are ready for your freezer. We have one lamb and/or 2 half lambs currently available.  A whole lamb yields 30 to 35 pounds, sometimes more of meat. Half lambs, half that. You can see the cuts that come on a whole or half lamb on our website. www.peacefulheartfarm.com/shop/lamb-package. 

Orchard and Garden

There is always so much going on around here that a lot of stuff gets pushed back. Thinks like birthing, gathering and storing milk, making cheese, taking care of animals all have the highest priority. The garden and the orchard, not so much. My garden is still overrun with weeds, though I was able to dig out my carrots and surprisingly there are lots that beat the grass. Watering the garden does have a priority or it would all simply die. Other stuff slows down or stunts growth. The bottom line is we will still get a crop, but perhaps not as large as if we had gotten the weeds out and fertilized more often.

The peas are just such a crop. They are producing like mad and I will be picking them within the week, I think. Then they will have to be processed in some way. I’m scaring myself with all of that. There are just not enough hours in the week.

I still don’t even have everything planted. The green beans need to be put in the ground. The peanuts need to be replanted; I have no idea why not a single one sprouted. And the eggplant is going to wither away to nothing if I don’t get it out there in the garden.

Everything needs to be weeded. Everything needs to be fertilized.

Scott is diligently digging out the orchard from the waist high grass. It would be great if we could graze some of the animals in there, but they all eat the trees. We are still investigating how to get the sheep in their without having them raise up on their back legs as high as they can and eating all of the leaves off the branches they can reach. The goats are a complete disaster anywhere near the orchard or the berries. They will eat the bark off of the trees, killing them. And because they like to eat woody stemmed plants, they will decimate blackberry vines and blueberry bushes. No, we don’t want them anywhere near the orchard.

On the upside, they did a really great job of clearing out the wild blackberries on the island in the big pond. It is now quite pleasant to sit out there and enjoy being surrounded by water and nature.

Quail

We are newbies with the quail. It is unbelievable how quickly those quail grew. They outgrew their brooder box a good week before we had planned. Outside they went as we were having a warm spell. There were a couple of cool nights but these are wild birds and they faired very well. They are only barely over 2 weeks old and are fully feathered. The tiny birds that were barely the size of a gold ball are now the size of a baseball – perhaps even a softball. It’s amazing. They will begin laying eggs in as little as six weeks from now. Yum, yum, we look forward to it.

Four eggs are required to equal one chicken egg. Our plan is to have about 30 laying hens and 6 roosters for breeding. We will need to continually hatch out new ones as their lives are actually quite short and they only lay for a year or two.

Creamery

The creamery – ah the creamery. So much still to do there and Scott has so little time to do it. We really need that building completed. However, as I mentioned earlier, there are priorities. First the animals, then the perishable milk and cheese, then the garden and orchard. The creamery, as an inanimate object comes in last place. There are even maintenance projects that take precedence. Fences, driveways, pathways, other infrastructure – all has to be kept up to ensure the safety of our animals.

It’s a lot but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. We work long hours every day – very long hours every day. Alarm goes off at 6:00 am and though 10:00 pm is bedtime, more often it is 11 or 11:30 before that happens. And every bit of it is worth it. There is never any lack of meaning in our lives. Boredom is something very distant in the past. The constant attention to the next task makes us know that we are alive in God’s wonderful creation.

One thing that evolved through nature is the composition of milk in cows. Recently, some of the genetic content and protein structure of milk has changed.

What is A2A2 Milk?

There is a great deal of scientific gobbledygook about the proteins and how they are broken down or not. I’ll try to keep this layman friendly and skip most of the mumbo-jumbo lingo. By the way, did you know that gobbledygook is an actual word that my spell-checker knew? Who knew? Well, my spellchecker knew.

A2 milk is cow's milk that mostly lacks a form of beta-casein proteins called A1 and instead has mostly the A2 form. 

A1 and A2 beta-casein are genetic variants of the beta-casein milk protein that differ by one amino acid. Casein is a family of related phosphoproteins. These proteins are commonly found in the milk of mammals, comprising about 80% of the proteins in cow’s milk and between 20% and 45% of the proteins in human milk. Sheep and buffalo milk have a higher casein content than other types of milk with human milk having a particularly low casein content. Casein has a wide variety of uses one of which is being a major component of cheese. We respect our casein.

A genetic test, developed by the a2 Milk Company, determines whether a cow produces A2 or A1 type protein in its milk. The test allows the company to certify milk producers as producing milk that does not metabolize to beta-casomorphin which is an opioid peptide or protein fragment derived from the digestion of the milk protein casein.

I know, I’m getting too scientific with the lingo there. All that means is that the chemical composition of A2A2 milk may benefit our health because it is digested without inflammation that might arise from BCM-7 produced by A1 beta-casein. Consequently, A1 proteins may be detrimental to our health. That causes great push back from the gigantic dairy industry as A2A2 genetics is rare in Europe (except France) and the US. That would really disrupt their operation if their milk was found to be harmful – while others had milk that was beneficial.

As with so many health-related topics, the science is divided on whether or not there is reason for concern regarding the A1 protein in milk – whether there are adverse health effects from its consumption. Personally, I’m erring on the side of caution, as I do with so many other foods. I’ll go with tradition as opposed to modern fads in nutrition. We are breeding our cows for the A2A2 genetic conformation.

And when I say modern fads in nutrition, I mean everything that came pouring out of the 20th century and that continues to pour out in the 21st century. I’m talking about three square meals a day, the food pyramid, and the modified food pyramid. I’m talking about low fat diets, vegan and vegetarian diets, the Mediterranean diet, the South Beach diet and so on. All of these so-called nutrition experts are literally experimenting with our health as human beings. We evolved over thousands and thousands and thousands of years eating locally grown food, whatever it was. Historically, in the tropics the diet was heavy in fruits, nuts and greens, in Alaska fat predominated. In other regions protein was the main source of dietary sustenance. You must find what works for you.

Which brings me back to A2A2 milk.

History

In the 1980s, some medical researchers began to explore whether some peptides (including peptides from casein) that are created during digestion might have negative or positive health effects.

Interest in the distinction between A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins in milk began in the early 1990s via epidemiological research and animal studies initially conducted by scientists in New Zealand. The scientists found correlations between the prevalence of milk with A1 beta-casein proteins in some countries and the prevalence of various chronic diseases. The research generated interest in the media, as well as among the scientific community and entrepreneurs. If it were indeed true that BCM-7 created by A1 beta-casein is harming humans, this would be an important public health issue.

Scientists believe the difference in genetics originated as a mutation that occurred between 5000 and 10,000 years ago—as cattle were being taken north into Europe with the mutation subsequently spreading widely throughout herds in the Western world through breeding.

The percentage of the A1 and A2 beta-casein protein varies between herds of cattle, and also between countries and provinces. While African and Asian cattle continue to produce only A2 beta-casein, the A1 version of the protein is common among cattle in the western world. The A1 beta-casein type is the most common type found in cow's milk in Europe (excluding France where our Normandes with predominantly A2A2 genetics originate). It is also the most common type found in cow’s milk in the US, Australia and New Zealand. 

Let’s talk about the possible health benefits.

Health Benefits

Symptoms of stomach discomfort, such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea that occur after consuming dairy products, are typically attributed to lactose intolerance. However, some researchers believe that it is BCM-7, not lactose, that affects digestion and produces symptoms similar to lactose intolerance, in some people.

A study on Chinese adults with self-reported milk intolerance compared the effects of drinking regular milk that contained A1 and A2 proteins with A2-only milk on intestinal function, stomach discomfort, and inflammation.

The participants consumed 8 oz of milk twice a day for 2 weeks. They reported worse stomach pain after they consumed the regular milk but no change in symptoms after they drank the A2 milk.

Participants also reported more frequent and looser-consistency stools while they drank the regular milk. These symptoms did not occur after they consumed the A2 milk.

So, what MIGHT be happening on the other side of the coin?

Potentially Harmful Effects of non A2A2 Milk

Notice the words “might and “potentially” there. I’m not making any claims here. Some of the effects can include:

Inflammation

In the same study mentioned above, researchers also looked at markers of inflammation in the blood. They found the participants had higher levels of inflammatory markers after they drank the regular milk.

Brain function

The research showed that milk could impact brain function. Study participants took longer to process information and made more errors on a test after drinking regular milk compared to A2 milk.

Type 1 diabetes

The potential risks associated with milk containing A1 proteins include an increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes.

Some studies have shown that children who drink cow's milk protein at an earlier age than others have a higher risk of developing type 1 diabetes. However, other studies have not shown the same association.

The research also suggests that the amount of milk a child consumes could influence their risk of developing type 1 diabetes, with higher milk consumption observed in children who develop the condition.

At least one study showed a link between the consumption of A1 protein and incidence of type 1 diabetes, although this kind of study fails to prove that it is a direct cause.

Some animal studies have shown associations between cow's milk consumption and a higher incidence of type 1 diabetes. One study in mice found that 47 percent of the mice that had A1 protein added to their diet developed diabetes, while none that had A2 protein added did so.

However, other research does not support the hypothesis that there is any association between milk consumption and a higher incidence of type 1 diabetes. There are links in the show notes for both sides of this discussion. Debate about the potential health effects of A1 and A2 milk is ongoing.

Research suggests that A1 beta-casein causes adverse digestive symptoms in certain individuals. But the evidence is still too weak for any solid conclusions to be made about the supposed links between A1 beta-casein and other conditions, such as type 1 diabetes and autism.

That said, A2 milk could be worth a try if you struggle to digest regular milk.

There you have it. The basics to the why of A2A2 milk. I’ll let you decide. Again, we like to err on the side of caution. We have two A2A2 certified cows and will be testing the rest of the herd as we move forward with our dairy operation. Go to the show notes for the links to the research I referenced.

Speaking of milk, how about an ice cream recipe for your A2A2 milk and cream.

Ice Cream Base Recipe (Download Flavorings)

When it’s warm outside, a cold refreshing dish of ice cream can really hit the spot. This is a basic ice cream recipe that can be used as a base for many different flavors. I’ve included a download link to the flavorings.

This silky, luscious and very classic custard can be used as the base for any ice cream flavor you can dream up. These particular proportions of milk and cream to egg yolk will give you a thick but not sticky ice cream that feels decadent but not heavy. For something a little lighter, use more milk and less cream, as long as the dairy adds up to 3 cups. You can also cut down on egg yolks for a thinner base, but don’t go below three.

Time: 20 minutes plus several hours’ cooling, chilling and freezing

Yield: about 1 ½ pints

What You Need

2cups heavy cream

1cup whole milk

⅔ cup sugar

⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt

6 large egg yolks

Your choice of flavoring (download here)

What To Do

In a small pot, simmer cream, milk, sugar and salt until sugar completely dissolves, about 5 minutes. Remove pot from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk yolks. Whisking constantly, slowly whisk about a third of the hot cream into the yolks, then whisk the yolk mixture back into the pot with the cream. Return pot to medium-low heat and gently cook until mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 170 degrees on an instant-read thermometer).

Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Cool mixture to room temperature. Cover and chill at least 4 hours or overnight.

Churn in an ice cream machine according to manufacturer’s instructions. Serve directly from the machine for soft serve, or store in freezer until needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope your days are filled with as much love and joy as you can stand. We love our lives here. Yes, we are busy beyond belief. Yes, it’s a little stressful sometimes. I just find it so fulfilling. From the time I was a child I was told to work hard for what I wanted. I was also told that I was too smart to not be college educated and have a career. So, no physical work. That was for those not smart enough to get out of that poor and decrepit existence. Funny isn’t it? In the end, educated to the max, I prefer the hard work. And indeed, some of it is smart brain work. But the best and most enjoyable part involves sweat.

Particularly, I love our cows and our dairy operation. Check out the references I provided for the research around A2 beta-casein. Then sign on to our herd share program with our A2A2 milk and value added products, go to www.peacefulheartfarm.com/virginia-herdshare. Read, ask questions, download the documents. We’d love to do business with you.

And as this Memorial Day weekend stretches into Monday, I hope you’ll try that ice cream recipe. There is nothing more traditional than everyone taking turns operating that crank on the ice cream machine. Well, we use the electric method. Likely you do too, but the principle is still the same. Enjoy your time with your family and friends.

If you enjoyed this podcast, please hop over to Apple Podcasts, Subscribe and give me a 5-star rating and review. Also, please share it with any friends or family who might be interested in this type of content.

As always, I’m here to help you “taste the traditional touch.”

Thank you so much for stopping by the homestead and until next time, may God fill your life with grace and peace.

References

Peaceful Heart Farm Bulls for Sale

NIH published study

Nutrition & Diabetes Study

The A2 milk case: a critical review

Recipe Link

Ice Cream Base

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NEW!! Peaceful Heart FarmCast Episode. Enjoy!!

[saffrongamer]

Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg Review Script

*To be edited and slightly trimmed down*

*Will be very different after voice-over, video, and final cuts are made*

When I was growing up in the early 2000s I rarely had any exposure to many big game mascot franchises. The only ones I had seen were Mario 64 and pokemon at my cousin’s house or my sonic 3 & Knuckles CD for our family computer that used keyboard controls. And there’s no way in hell my tiny little hands would be able to reach any sort of playability on that PS/2 port windows XP nightmare dinosaur. Nooo, the only thing I really played as a kid was Spyro the Dragon on the playstation 1.

If you’re old enough to remember anything before the Nintendo Wii, then you probably remember going down to your local walmart or target and trying the demos for the latest video games.

You know,

looking directly up,

at a 90-degree angle,

with an impossibly short cable,

trying to play a children’s game. (echo in the background: WHY?  LIKE WHAT THE FU-” *cut to next clip.*

Now I’m sure it sounds like I’m just rambling, and don’t worry I’ll get to that point, but I wanted to share my magical 2003 experience with one of my favorite games. The gamecube demo had a special disc on it. This magical little disc had several games and trailers to distract kids and fathers while mom goes and picks out some socks for tomorrow's Sunday Mass. For the older crowd, this preview disc had games like Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell, Soul Calibur 2, and Viewtiful Joe. While the kids they had Sonic Adventure DX and Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg. Of course, I chose the Boy who Hatched: Billy. Hey, I was a little kid, I saw colors, a silly name, and a chicken suit. What more could peak my interest?

So I gave it a try. And I died. I died a lot. The demo starts by having you roll down a curvy path to the beach. I constantly fell into the water. I don’t even remember how far I got before I had to stop. As mom called me away, I felt a mix of disappointment and longing for more on top of my terrible neck pain.

And so I forgot about Billy and his Egg rolling adventures for the next few years. By then I had my own Gamecube and several games for it like Mario Sunshine, Sonic Heroes, and Pokemon Colosseum. Every time dad and I would go to our local gamestop, I would poke through the games and see if I could find anything. Dad would try to speed me along by suggesting a game, and I usually would have turned down whatever he chose. Until one day he grabbed billy hatcher, not because it was at a wicked good price or that he knew I would love it. He just was getting my attention with it because he liked to call me a chicken as a kid and he knew it would rile me up.

So of course, I bought it and took it home with me. First thing that got my attention was that it supported multiplayer. As the older brother I was naturally used to thrashing my younger sisters in mario party, so what was another game to feed my dominance as the eldest child? My sisters and I loved it.

We rolled around on eggs,

collecting fruit,

hatching the eggs,

collecting animals,

attacking each other with the animals after spending an hour on one round

Basically Ark: Survival Evol-*T-Rex Roaring clip*

We had names for a few of them too. We knew some of their names from the manual, but we called this one Chelk, Bunnybird, Lion, Sharky, Ostrich… We weren’t very creative children.

I guess the point I’m trying to convey is what this game was for me and my siblings and how much we enjoyed it. I was never able to get super far in the main game cause I was a kid and I sucked at video games that weren’t Spyro the Dragon or Pokemon Ruby.

So what was the reason for that build up? Why did I ramble about quality family time with a video game about kids rolling around eggs? I don’t know. I don’t have a direct focus for this video. But I would like to talk about what I think of the billy hatcher game now that I’m an adult.

So Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg… How do I begin this? You’re a young blonde boy Billy who’s overslept for his outing with his friends. He and his friends see a small chick that is being attacked by a crow, so Billy beats the fuck outta it with a stick. It is then revealed that the chick is actually the Chicken God of MorningLand. Billy and his friends are then taken to the new world to be the chosen heroes. I guess this is a new approach to the Isekai genre, so move over SAO and No Game No Life Billy’s coming to take over.

After donning the hero’s rooster outfit, Billy Hatcher and his friends Rolly Roll, Chick Poacher, and Bantam Scrambled set off to free MorningLand from the evil crows.

Each level until the final boss is structured in the same method. With a few varied level challenges moved around. You arrive in the new level with a hearty “Let’s Go!” and set off to find the trapped chicken elders, roll them over fruit, and then hatch them to obtain this game’s power star; an emblem of courage. The next level will always be a boss fight. This is what I’d usually consider what a developer would have put into place in order to keep the game kid friendly. Like allow a child to do what they’re able to do and then beat the game for their own success. While the older crowd can appreciate value in getting all of the mcguffins and beating all of the challenges. But that didn’t really happen. You see. There’s only about 6 levels. You need about 20 or so emblems to enter the final level. So if you try to move onto the final level, the game will spit you back to the stage select after you’ve trudged your way through the sand stage until you have 20 emblems. Therefore, since you only have about 12 emblems, you’ll need to go through the stages to pick some levels. Now the structure for the other stages follows a mismatched order of this for a total of 8 emblems for each stage: collect X amount of giant coins, kill 100 crows, race an NPC, find and free the 7 caged chickens, and 1 or 2 actually creative levels for that stage. 3 of the stages have you save your captured friends before they’re blown up for it’s level 4. Then allows you to play as your friends. I always liked playing Bantam as a kid cause I thought he could grab ledges better.

Stages also follow the Sonic stage tropes we all know; Forest, Pirate, Volcano, Ice, Circus, Desert, and Chicken Heaven...

Once you reach the final level you dont need to free any chicken elders, you just travel to the final boss. And I’m sorry if this is your favorite childhood game, but this final boss is terrible. And it hurts any sort of story conclusion the game was trying to have. Your final boss is I believe named Dark Raven. You use a mechanic they taught you earlier in the level in order to beat his first form. You must roll over a dark patch on the ground until it is completely gone. You dont need to get all of the circles cleared, just the one. And believe me, you’re gonna have a hard time with this. The game wants the whole circle gone with not a single pixel left otherwise the circle reforms and damages you. This becomes incredibly frustrating when there are more circles placed down and you can’t tell which circle had which darkness. This is all going on while this snarky asshole raven watches you aimlessly roll around in front of him. His final form is just another giant raven, but “spookier” I guess? At first you can’t really do anything to him and the bird just rips off your chicken suit. But then Chicken God steps in and gives you some good ol’ divine intervention with a new chicken suit. But this one has a fancy light effect thing going on. Anyways now you must dodge the raven attacks and wait for the most damning mechanic of all to screw you over. You need to stand in the direction of the raven. Wait for it to fire a ball of light at you, press the B button at the perfect frame to catch it, and then beat the fuck outta it to finish him off. I died so many times to this thing just because I missed the perfect frame grab. You have zero room for error on this one.

After you save morning land the whole chicken world sings your praise and peace returns. But now we can talk about the interesting part of the game; the gameplay mechanics. Once billy has an egg his mobility is staggering.

You can press A to jump

Tap A again to bounce jump off the ground

hold A for a ground slam

press B to smash the egg down in front of you,

Hit R in mid air to do an air dash in the direction of your choosing

Press B on the ground to roll your egg forward and watch it boomerang back to you

Press R to accelerate yourself for an egg dash

Press A while you’re dashing for a long jump to fling yourself super far

These abilities can be super well executed with the stage design allowing you to travel extremely fast and perform nifty combos.

Each stage is littered with eggs of all kinds. They either have an animal inside to help you, or a power up. You don’t need them for about 95% of the game. They’re pretty useless. You just need to use your egg to kill things. And you only need the animals for 5% just to solve a few level gimmicks or wall blockings. The power ups are pretty pointless outside of multiplayer. Sorry if that cracks your egg.

But I still love the jester hat, please don't hate me.

Each level has 5 chick coins for each stage. These are a neat thing to hunt for, but are ultimately pointless. They allow you to use that level’s sonic egg that would have been normally unobtainable. These eggs hatch into none other than big name Sega characters. These are also pointless. They’re just the normal animal powers copy/pasted onto sonic, Nights, Chu chu rocket, and PSO character models. They’re a neat thing to see when they appear in multiplayer, but they’re no more helpful than other eggs.

Which brings me into the best aspect of the game; the multiplayer. You and your friends can play in either a death match with stock or just hatch animals. However, the animal hatching only goes to a pre-set amount of points. Which you can just steal and win instantly by killing your friends. Kinda just turns into another just deathmatch. And when the screen is all cluttered from splitscreen, it feels difficult to control the camera properly. Why do I like this gamemode again? Oh yeah, nostalgia…

Scattered throughout each boss level is a special egg that allows you to demo a small downloadable game. When you connect your GBA via a cable to your Gamecube you can play several games. Easy and Hard Chicken Shoot, NiGHTS, Chu Chu Rocket, and Puyo Puyo Pop.

Chicken shoot is bad, its just a terrible top down game where billy must roll an egg over some crows. Hard isn’t hard at all. NiGHTS is entertaining, I have no experience with the games yet, but I probably should give them a shot. I can’t do chu chu rocket since I’m a little slow, but my sister is surprisingly good at the game. But puyo puyo pop was great. Lining up colored dots to clear the screen against another player is very satisfying. It reminds me of pokemon puzzle league for the Nintendo 64. I probably should get the new game for the switch…

*GBA SP joke clip*

Last thing I want to discuss is why I think this game might have been  so important for Sega when it came out. It was the first full game and original IP developed by Sonic Team for another system that wasn’t a port of a previous release. Sure they probably wrote “from the creator of sonic the hedgehog” on the cover just to push sales, but Yuji Naka’s name might not work as well as it did 10 years ago. His latest title was Rodea the Sky Soldier for the Wii & Wii U which I think deserves its own video at some point. This game was exclusively available on the Gamecube while Sonic Heroes, which released a few months later, was multiplatform. And hell, I’d rather play this game than Sonic heroes any day. And the reason why is so important, is because it was during the era 2 years after the dreamcast was discontinued and Sega went permanently 3rd party. I don’t want to talk your ear off about the 90s and the “console wars”, you’ve heard that all a thousand times before. But since then, Sega has created a variety of games that are only possible because of this relationship they’ve obtained with nintendo. Fans finally got the mario and Sonic olympic games series, and while I’m not remotely interested in them they must be doing well if they keep publishing them. But we also got Sonic colors in 2009, which is a fantastic game. And while some of the sonic games on the wii U were… lackluster, Nintendo paid for the development of Bayonetta 2 from Platinum for the Wii U. A series that sega had zero interest in funding. I could keep rambling on about them even slapping in the the gba demo download functionality, Sonic getting put into smash bros, or whatever nonsense I could come up with. But I just wanted to lament about one of my favorite childhood characters.

So that’s what I think of Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg. A lovable young boy with the ability to roll eggs. Sure, the game is littered with issues and I might only like it because of nostalgia. But I think it’s an amazing platformer nonetheless. Give it a try if you ever get the chance. I’d like to hope for a sequel, but the game’s poor sales have probably doomed any chance of that ever happening. But if you ever want to play as the boy who hatched in another game, he’s playable and makes cameos in Sega Superstars, Sonic and Sega All stars racing and racing transformed, Sonic Riders and Sonic Riders Zero gravity.