#Top Woodworking Gift Ideas

[ohem1111]

here we are again, how time flies! eden is a teen and we have some things to show off. i truly have no idea how or when she got the romantic sage trait but cool lol as eden has grown up she has definitely become more and more confident, she is socially gifted with high self esteem. maybe a little toooo high because she is kind of full of herself lol but thats ok we still love her. she has been having a blast working on her knitting skill (i’ve been having her sell everything she makes on plopsy because the flea market part of the rules only works if i’m selling woodwork pieces) and cheerleading.

i went a little overboard with amount of outfits with her compared to the past 2 gens but i’m OBSESSED with them especially the first two everyday (the green jacket and jean shorts with the new fishnet shorts from love struck and the black jeans and green crop top with the lace top under it, also from love struck) and her party wear. i think they fit the exact vibe i was going for with her!

we have a new and old face to (re)introduce! first is eden’s boyfriend, dorian florez! (not totally sure if i even officially had them ask to be dating but it’s fine lol) he is demisexual and they are in an open/nonmonogamous type of relationship! (i know they are just teens but i have their story planned out already so it might seem more “adult�� of them to know all of this lol i didn’t think of the actual discovery and discussion about it soon enough to include it in the story lol) he is absolutely head over heels with her, as he should be lol. they do a lot of hanging out together after school doing homework together, listening to their music together, and even just laying in bed cuddling. he is just the boy nextdoor, one of the guys but one of the good ones. eden is really lucky to have him, he keeps her grounded.

i didn’t include milo in the first round of gen 3 because i didn’t think he’d really come up much anymore but i was wrong lol he has been trying to get back into his kids and grandkids lives. his wife recently passed and the kids he had with her just moved out too so he has been in a rough spot. since eden had really experienced the man he was she is more quick to welcome him than the rest of her family.

well i think i learned my lessons to wait until the heirs are a teen to do these posts LOL i have i was just testing it out but it’s not really worth doing it before that.

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[tayo-na]

Project Updates~

Okay, so I have so many different projects going all at once right now because I was diagnosed with Cool Guy Syndrome, so now I take something similar to Adderall.  Anyway!  I’m going to split this into three groups: started, need to start, and planning to in the future.

Started:

The cross stitch I’ve been working for forever on for my Grandma.  I’m so nearing the end, like, I can almost taste the finish line.  Alls I have left to do is the opposite stitch for the sky part of it.  Oh, and fill in the yellow roses.  But there aren’t all that many of those, so essentially it’s just the sky I have to focus on.

Sanding down my night side table.  The goal is to sand it and re-stain it because I’ve tried to do it before, but I had not the patience for it as a young teenager.  It’s amazing how hard it is to change old habits, because I’m also finding the patience for this hard.  However, I eventually want to take a stab at woodworking, so I need to develop the patience for it now.

I started a patch quilt with old sweatshirts from high school, an old set of winter pajamas (of which the fabric is quite fuzzy, so it’s flaking off everywhere it touches, unfortunately for me), and another old pair of plaid pajama pants.  I had some smaller blocks of, like, that kind of felt fabric, the one you’d use to make those knotted blankets with.  Sos I also trimmed those down, and added them to the bunch.  The individual square sizes I’m making are 2��x2″, and I’m assuming when they’re all sewn together, an individual square will be 1.5″x1.5″ or 1.75″x1.75″.  It all depends on how these shake out when I’m done cutting them up.

I started a crochet ombre dark blue beanie for one of my close friends, and I ideally would like to send it to her before October rolls around.  I’m probably, like, 3/4 of the way done.  I just get so bored sometimes with the monotony of the same thing over and over again, so doing the rounds to finish it off is killing me softly.

I had, a couple years ago, started a crochet blanket made with that Bernat fluffy yarn but I still have a ways a ways to go on it.  The plan was to have it in three sections: off-white, this grey and like cream color, and then off-white again.  But I still have yet to even get to the grey and cream color.

I also had, a couple years ago, started a scarf made of the smaller balls of yarn I had and couldn’t think of a use for.  I have, since then, completely unraveled it and started from the top again due to yarn size discrepancies which made my scarf look like a wobbly river.  I actually do like knitting, but I’ve only recently learned how to… purl?  I’m not sure if that’s exactly the stitch I’m doing, but the way it comes out makes the piece ribbed when I do the backwards of the regular knit stitch.  So I’ll take it.

Need to Start:

Embroidery of Gayle Waters-Waters from GAYLE.  It’s a miniseries on YouTube done by Chris Fleming.  The episodes last no longer than ten minutes, and are usually below that anyways.  I want to do an embroidery of Gayle’s Iconic Expression with the phrase “What Would Gayle Waters-Waters Do?” around it.  It’s a very insanely belated Christmas gift for one of my IRL best friends, and is now also a belated birthday gift for her.

Cross-stitch for one of my other IRL best friends.  A similar gift situation as above.  She was a psych major before she graduated, and also took a horseback riding course in her penultimate semester.  My idea is to have a pillow that says “Only Freudian horsegirls get it.”  And in the negative space have a pair of horseshoes and a tobacco pipe there.  She’ll hate it, and I can’t wait!

Another birthday embroidery gift for an IRL friend, but his birthday has yet to pass.  He unfortunately shares a birthday with a notorious date in September, so my goal is to finish it before then.  I call him “Thornbird”, so I’ve got an idea regarding a sort-of blobby Loggerhead Shrike sitting on a branch. Under the branch is a thistle flower, and crawling up the sides are thistle leaves.  His favorite plant and a bird, just like my Grandma’s gift, lmao.

I promised my family socks this past Christmas.  My goal is to also get them done before October so we can have a chance to enjoy them, potentially.  I have super cute sock yarn for them and everything.

Planning to Start:

About a year ago, while I was moving from one state to another, I had taken apart one of my old dresses that I had gotten from Old Navy God knows how long ago.  My idea was to make it a two-piece set.  The top is a crop top and the bottom stays a skirt.  I plan on using denim as the hem for the crop top and the waist for the skirt.  It’s rather ambitious for me, since the most I’ve done regarding clothes is patching holes and light embroidery.  But I’m determined to do it because I did love that dress a lot.

I had a set of penguin pajamas when I was a teenager that I no longer fit into, but I love the pattern so much.  So, I want to turn it into a skirt.  This one is the really ambitious idea because it involves pleats, pockets, and the pleats are ideally two-toned, with the outside facing bit the penguins, and the inside is this dark blue with small white dots cotton that I don’t even remember where I picked it up from.  But I think it’d be super cute if I can manage to figure it out.  I’m planning on doing a mock-up of it for Reginald, the bunny I made at Build-a-Bear on a whim because I saw that there were DC costumes for the stuffed animals.  I originally wanted him to wear the Flash’s outfit, but the store I went to didn’t have it, so I substituted for Batman.  Long tangent, but I’ll probably do a little one with spare fabric to see how it’d work and if I’d be able to actually pull it off.  It’d sure be cool if I could.

I feel like there are other things I want to do/am currently doing, but my brain is tired.  And given that it’s almost five in the morning, I’m not overly surprised.  But yeah!  These are the current works for me right now  :D

[thomasdreschwoodworks]

Unleash Your Creativity: Discover the Joy of Woodworking with Thomas Dresch Woodworks

Woodworking is more than just a hobby; it's an art form that allows individuals to unleash their creativity and create stunning pieces that stand the test of time. At Thomas Dresch Woodworks, we understand the passion and satisfaction that comes with working with wood. That's why we're dedicated to providing premium supplies and equipment to help you bring your woodworking visions to life.

Craftsmanship is at the heart of everything we do. From hand-selecting the finest wood to curating a collection of top-quality tools and accessories, we ensure that every aspect of your woodworking experience is of the highest caliber. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, our products and expertise are here to support your journey.

One of the things that sets Thomas Dresch Woodworks apart is our commitment to offering unique and specialized supplies. We understand that every woodworking project is different, which is why we carry an extensive range of woods, finishes, and hardware to suit a variety of styles and preferences. Whether you're crafting furniture, carving intricate designs, or building cabinets, you'll find everything you need to bring your ideas to fruition.

But it's not just about the products; it's about the experience. When you choose to work with us, you're not just buying supplies – you're joining a community of passionate woodworkers who share your love for the craft. Our team is comprised of knowledgeable experts who are always on hand to offer guidance, advice, and inspiration. We believe that woodworking is as much about learning and growing as it is about creating, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

At Thomas Dresch Woodworks, we believe that the true joy of woodworking lies in the process of creation. There's nothing quite like the feeling of transforming a raw piece of wood into a beautiful, one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Whether you're crafting a piece for your home, giving a gift to a loved one, or simply indulging in a creative outlet, woodworking offers a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that is unmatched by any other hobby.

So why wait? Join us today and experience the joy of woodworking for yourself. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, there's never been a better time to start creating something truly special. With Thomas Dresch Woodworks, the possibilities are endless – and the satisfaction is guaranteed.

For more info :-

Thomas Dresch Woodworks

Thomas Dresch Woodworks LLC

tdwwllc

[giftcarnation23]

Father's Day Gifts: Top Unique Presents to Show Dad You Care

Father's Day marks an extraordinary event to honor the paternal figures in our existence and exhibit the depth of our regard for them. One of the most exemplary methods to articulate gratitude is through thoughtful tokens that mirror their passions and personas. Regardless of whether your father exhibits an inclination towards technology, embraces outdoor escapades, or values individualized gestures, there exist a plethora of distinct gift concepts to render this Father's Day etched in memory.

Importance of Father's Day Gifts

Father's Day gifts are more than just material possessions; they symbolize love, gratitude, and recognition for the sacrifices and support that dads provide. A well-chosen gift can convey heartfelt sentiments and strengthen the bond between father and child.

Understanding Dad's Preferences

Before selecting a Father's Day gift, it's essential to consider your dad's preferences and hobbies. Understanding his interests will help you choose a present that resonates with him and showcases your thoughtfulness.

Personalized Gifts

For dads who appreciate sentimental gestures, personalized gifts are an excellent choice. Consider items like custom engraved watches, photo albums, or monogrammed accessories that add a personal touch to his everyday life.

Tech Gadgets

Tech-savvy dads will appreciate cutting-edge gadgets that enhance their daily routines. From smart home devices like voice-activated assistants and security cameras to the latest smartphones or fitness trackers, there's a wide range of tech gifts to suit every budget.

Outdoor Gear

If your dad enjoys spending time outdoors, consider gifts that cater to his adventurous spirit. Camping hammock sets, durable hiking gear, or portable grills are practical options that will enhance his outdoor experiences and create lasting memories.

DIY Kits

For creative dads who enjoy hands-on projects, DIY kits offer a fun and interactive gift idea. Choose from brewing kits for craft beer enthusiasts, woodworking sets for DIY enthusiasts, or gourmet cooking kits for culinary enthusiasts.

Top Unique Presents for Father's Day

Custom Engraved Watch A custom engraved watch is a classic gift that blends style and personality. Engrave a special message or his initials on the watch to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake he'll cherish for years to come.

Smart Home Devices Upgrade your dad's home with smart devices that simplify everyday tasks and enhance convenience. Consider options like smart speakers, thermostats, or lighting systems that allow him to control his environment with ease.

Camping Hammock Set Give your dad the gift of relaxation with a camping hammock set that allows him to unwind in nature. Whether he's camping, hiking, or simply lounging in the backyard, a comfortable hammock provides the perfect retreat.

Brewing Kit For dads who appreciate craft beer, a brewing kit is a unique gift that allows him to create his own brews at home. Choose a starter kit with all the necessary equipment and ingredients to kick-start his brewing journey.

Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas

Meaningful gifts do not have to cost a lot. Here are some budget-friendly Father's Day gift ideas that are sure to make a lasting impression:

Handmade Cards Put your creativity to the test by crafting a handmade card filled with heartfelt messages and memories.

Memory Scrapbook Compile photographs, ticket stubs, and mementos from special moments shared with your dad into a personalized scrapbook.

Cooking Class Vouchers Treat your dad to a culinary adventure with cooking class vouchers that allow him to learn new recipes and techniques from professional chefs.

Conclusion

This Father's Day, endeavor to traverse the extra mile in evoking to your father the depth of your regard with a thoughtful and distinctive token. Whether it materializes as a personalized memento, cutting-edge gadgetry, or outdoor expedition gear, the superlative tokens are those resonating with his fascinations and persona. Celebrate the unique bond shared and engender enduring reminiscences poised to be cherished across the ages.

[newbusinessideas]

10 Best Profitable CNC Business Ideas -That You Can Start Today

Hey there! 👋 Want to dive into the world of CNC business? 💼 Check out these Top 10 Small Business Ideas with CNC Machine! From custom furniture to personalized gifts, there's something for everyone. 🔥CLICK LINK for the full list #CNCBusinessIdeas

In today’s dynamic business landscape, leveraging cutting-edge technology is paramount for success. One such technology that has revolutionized the manufacturing industry is the CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine. CNC machines have revolutionized various industries with their ability to automate and execute complex tasks with exceptional accuracy. From woodworking to metalworking, the…

[pets12pets]

The Top DIY Woodworking Projects for Beginners

Woodworking is an ancient craft that has stood the test of time, evolving and adapting to fit the needs and desires of modern society. And while it may seem intimidating at first, it is a skill that can be mastered by anyone with patience, determination, and the right guidance. DIY woodworking projects not only allow individuals to customize their own furniture and decor, but also provide a sense of accomplishment and pride in creating something with their own hands. However, for those just starting out on their woodworking journey, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. That's why we have compiled a list of the top DIY woodworking projects for beginners. These projects are not only perfect for honing your skills but also serve as a great starting point for building your confidence and inspiring new ideas. From simple home decor pieces to functional furniture, we will guide you through step-by-step instructions and provide valuable tips to help you achieve success in your woodworking endeavors. So whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby or enhance your existing woodworking skills, read on to discover the top DIY woodworking projects for beginners.

Basic woodworking skills for beginners

As a beginner in woodworking, it's important to start with the basics. This includes learning how to safely use tools, understanding different types of wood and their properties, and mastering fundamental techniques like measuring, cutting, and sanding. These skills will not only help you complete your first few projects successfully, but they will also serve as a strong foundation for more advanced woodworking skills in the future. It may seem overwhelming at first, but with practice and dedication, you'll be surprised at how quickly you can develop your skills and create beautiful, functional pieces. Remember to always prioritize safety and take your time to ensure accuracy in your work. With these basic woodworking skills in your toolkit, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and skilled woodworker.

Crafting a simple wooden shelf

One of the most practical and useful projects for beginners in woodworking is crafting a simple wooden shelf. This project allows beginners to practice their measuring, cutting, and sanding skills, as well as learn how to assemble and finish a basic piece of furniture. With the right tools and materials, even those with limited experience can successfully create a functional and stylish wooden shelf. This project also offers room for creativity and personalization, allowing beginners to experiment with different wood types, finishes, and designs. By following step-by-step instructions and taking the time to carefully measure and cut, beginners can create a beautiful and practical addition to their home.

Building a sturdy workbench

Another essential project for beginners in woodworking is building a sturdy workbench. A workbench is a must-have for any woodworking enthusiast, as it provides a stable and secure surface to work on. It also offers storage space for tools and materials, making it a practical addition to any workshop. When building a workbench, it is important to choose strong and durable materials, such as hardwood or plywood, and to properly reinforce the structure for stability. With the right tools and techniques, beginners can create a sturdy workbench that will serve as a reliable and useful workspace for years to come.

Creating a custom picture frame

One of the most fun and creative woodworking projects for beginners is creating a custom picture frame. This project allows you to showcase your woodworking skills and personalize a piece of decor for your home or as a gift for someone else. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily create a beautiful and unique frame that will add a special touch to any room. Plus, the materials for this project are relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for those just starting out in woodworking. So grab your tools and get ready to create a one-of-a-kind piece that will impress your friends and family.

Constructing a wooden storage box.

Another great project for woodworking beginners is constructing a wooden storage box. This project not only allows you to practice basic woodworking skills, but it also serves a practical purpose. A wooden storage box can be used to store anything from tools to toys and can be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences. With the right measurements and materials, you can easily create a sturdy and functional storage box that will last for years to come. Plus, the skills and techniques you learn from this project can be applied to more complex woodworking projects in the future.

Designing a stylish wooden cutting board.

Another great woodworking project for beginners is designing a stylish wooden cutting board. With just a few pieces of wood and some basic tools, you can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing cutting board for your kitchen. This project allows for creativity and customization, as you can choose the type of wood, shape, and size of the cutting board. It also requires the use of basic woodworking techniques such as measuring, cutting, and sanding, making it a great way to develop your skills. Plus, a handmade wooden cutting board adds a personal touch to your kitchen and makes a great gift for friends and family.

Crafting a rustic wooden lamp

Another great project for beginners is crafting a rustic wooden lamp. This project will not only teach you basic woodworking skills, but it will also result in a functional and stylish piece of decor for your home. To create a rustic look, you can use reclaimed wood or distress new wood with staining and sanding techniques. This project will also introduce you to wiring and electrical work, making it a valuable learning experience. Plus, with the option to add a unique lampshade, you can truly make this project your own.

Building a functional bookshelf

Another popular project for beginners in woodworking is building a functional bookshelf. This project not only teaches basic woodworking skills such as measuring, cutting, and assembling but also allows for creativity in design and customization. A bookshelf is a practical and useful addition to any home, and building one from scratch allows for a sense of accomplishment and pride in creating something both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With the right tools and materials, a functional bookshelf can be built in a relatively short amount of time, making it a great project for beginners to tackle.

Creating a personalized wooden sign

Another great project for beginners in woodworking is creating a personalized wooden sign. This project allows for creativity and customization, as well as practice using basic tools and techniques. Whether you want to make a welcoming sign for your home or a unique gift for a friend, a personalized wooden sign is a fun and satisfying project to take on. You can choose the type of wood, design, and finish to match your style and skill level. Plus, it's a great way to add a personal touch to your home decor or gift-giving. With some basic tools and materials, you can easily create a beautiful and unique wooden sign to display proudly.

Constructing a sturdy wooden coffee table.

Another great beginner woodworking project is constructing a sturdy wooden coffee table. This project will not only test your skills with more advanced tools and techniques but also provide a practical and useful piece of furniture for your home. To begin, choose a type of wood that is strong and durable, such as oak or maple. Measure and cut the wood to the desired size and shape, making sure to leave room for the legs and any additional features like a shelf or drawers. Then, using a combination of screws and wood glue, assemble the pieces together, making sure to reinforce any joints. Finally, sand and finish the table to your desired look, and voila, you have a beautiful and functional coffee table that you can be proud to say you made yourself.

In conclusion, woodworking is a fulfilling and rewarding hobby that can also save you money in the long run. With the right tools, materials, and knowledge, anyone can create beautiful and functional pieces for their home. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodworker, the projects listed above are great options to start with. So gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to unleash your creativity and talent through these top DIY woodworking projects. Happy crafting!

FAQ

What are some easy DIY woodworking projects that beginners can try?

Some easy DIY woodworking projects for beginners include building a simple bookshelf, making a wooden picture frame, crafting a wooden serving tray, constructing a small storage box, or creating a wooden plant stand. These projects usually require basic tools such as a saw, drill, and sander and can be completed with relatively simple woodworking techniques like measuring, cutting, and assembling pieces of wood. They provide a great opportunity for beginners to practice their skills and gain confidence in woodworking.

How can beginners get started with woodworking, and what tools do they need?

Beginners can get started with woodworking by first gaining knowledge through books, online tutorials, or joining beginner-friendly woodworking classes. They should start with simple projects like a cutting board or small shelf to develop basic skills. Essential tools for beginners include a measuring tape, a circular saw or miter saw, a chisel set, a combination square, a power drill, and a set of clamps. As their skills progress, they can gradually add more tools, such as a table saw, a router, and various hand tools, to their collection. It's important to prioritize safety and always wear protective gear while working with woodworking tools.

Are there any specific safety precautions beginners should take when working with wood?

Yes, beginners working with wood should take several safety precautions. These include wearing protective gear such as safety glasses, ear protection, and appropriate clothing. It is also important to use sharp and well-maintained tools to minimize the risk of accidents. Beginners should take their time and focus on their work, avoiding distractions. Additionally, it is crucial to have a clean and well-organized workspace to prevent tripping hazards. Lastly, beginners should familiarize themselves with proper techniques and seek guidance from experienced woodworkers to ensure safe practices.

What are some common mistakes beginners make when attempting woodworking projects?

Some common mistakes beginners make in woodworking projects include not measuring accurately, not using the right tools or techniques for the task at hand, rushing the process, not sanding or finishing properly, and not following the plans or instructions closely. Additionally, beginners often struggle with not having a proper understanding of wood grain and not using clamps or supports to hold pieces in place securely. Overall, it is important for beginners to take their time, be patient, and learn from their mistakes in order to improve their woodworking skills.

Can you recommend any online resources or tutorials for beginners interested in woodworking?

Yes, there are several online resources and tutorials available for beginners interested in woodworking. Some popular options include websites like the Woodworkers Guild of America, Wood Magazine, and The Wood Whisperer, which offer a variety of instructional videos, articles, and project plans. YouTube channels such as Steve Ramsey's Woodworking for Mere Mortals and Jay Bates' Jay Bates 2 also provide step-by-step tutorials and tips for beginners. Additionally, websites like Instructables and Do It Yourself offer user-generated content and project ideas for woodworking enthusiasts of all skill levels.

[positiveshine1]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: NWT Handcrafted Charcuterie Cutting Board, Cherry & Maple, High End, Quality.

[selfishwife]

Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace

My brother B once said days are hard when you feel every emotion in 24 hours, and I'm there. The rage, the sadness, the attempts to be still and "enjoy the good moments." The need to keep my house literally in order, take care of my kids, dealing with my spouse's ping-pong emotions, working. Little victories are constatntly squashed down.

I've recently narrowed down something important -- people are petty or people are graceful. From where I sit, those are the parameters. Sure, everything is a spectrum, but the people who show up are the people who show up, and it's not always who you expect. That's a wonderful gift. Luckily your ride or dies are there, but the people who have come out of the woodwork, whether it be at work, my community, etc, has blown my mind. I don't want to seem ungrateful for it. But my heart is so full of the negative I can't seem to breathe.

In part, this is because those that don't show up also try to push you down. They tell you a story that's inappropriate, they make what's happening to my family about them. They push their pain onto you, or their desire to be "most martyred." Don't get me wrong, I don't want or need the world's sympathy, I just don't want bullshit. The pain I feel is so overwhelming that I don't have room for the stuff I can normally roll my eyes at or laugh off. It sits on top of me like a stone, resting atop the boulder that's already on my chest. It's impossible to move past the small things and paralyzes me.

Yesterday my backyard neighbor, with who up to now we've had a friendly relationship, called our town about some water seepage in their backyard. Part of it relates to us, and part of it doesn't. It's occurring behind our garage, where we can't see it. I'm neighborly to a fault, and I hate the idea of someone's home not working because of us. But they chose not to come over and tell us, and not work it out. Instead, I had a note on my front door to call the village and find out who had tattled on me. It fucking hurt my heart, and after going to talk about it the homeowner was a huge bitch. It's not worth getting into here, but the whole thing was so unnecessary.

This "tattling" has happened at my work lately too. Luckily I haven't been in the crosshairs (thank you, Cancer Card!) but some good friends have. It all stems from this idea that tattling absolves people of personal responsibility and ownership. Adults engage in dialogue, not hiding behind smokescreens of anonymous accusations. The truth gets out anyway, and then there's just awkwardness.

I guess I'm trying to say is there is no patience or grace anymore. This line comes from the Foo Fighters' song Home, and in it, my BFF Dave is trying to find his way home, despite obstacles of being on the road, etc. It's all "let's blame others, let's not look inward." I'm the first person to admit I'm not perfect. There are a zillion things I could do to be a better human being. But despite everything, I try. I try my best to listen to people. I try my best to bring things to people's attention, even when it's hard. On top of everything else, I don't want to be the punching bag for another person's insecurities. Not that anyone else does.

[danielkane]

The Top 25 Woodworking Presents For Your Craftsman Dad

The papa bear in your life deserves a big celebration this year. And because he is the best father in the world, you want to offer him a sentimental memento. Then you've found the right post, thank you! The best gift to make him feel like the luckiest dad in the world is one that has been customised.

For your father, who enjoys working with wood, we have compiled a list of more than 20 intriguing goods. The majority of them are tools for manufacturing wood, which allows him to complete his work much more quickly and conveniently than in the past.

These are some tools that the blog staff believes are excellent picks for Dad's woodworking to stay motivated! Describe your feelings towards your favorite craftsman. Father's Day presents a unique opportunity to show your dad how much you value him and his love of woodworking. We can assist you if you are having trouble finding a gift that is related to woodworking. You'll be satisfied and discover the ideal gift for your dad with the help of our suggestions. He undoubtedly enjoys your gift and values the careful planning and real love that went into it.

Whether you're looking for a gift for his birthday, Christmas, or Father's Day, this list of presents will provide you with the ideas you need to make this year's gift more memorable. Enjoy!

Here are the top woodworking presents for your skilled father.

Read more: https://avada.io/loveable/woodworking-gifts-dad/

[cruzloveable]

Here Are The Top 25 Woodworking-Related Gifts You Can Get Your Father

You should make a big deal out of this year for the papa bear in your life. And that's why you should honor him as the best dad ever with a token of your deepest gratitude. You've found the right thread then! A unique, handcrafted present will make him feel like the luckiest dad alive.

For your dad, who clearly has a passion for working with wood, we have compiled over twenty unique gifts. They are mostly woodworking tools that make his job easier and more efficient.

The site staff recommends the following items to keep Dad's woodworking passion alive and well: Give some proof of your appreciation to your favorite woodworker. Gifting dad something that speaks to his love in woodworking is a unique way to celebrate Father's Day and show him how much you care. We're here to assist you in your search for woodworking-related gift items if you're having a hard time finding what to get as a present. Use these suggestions to choose the perfect present for your dad and give him the joy of receiving it. He will adore the thoughtfulness and care you put into the gift you gave him.

This gift guide will provide you all the ideas you need to choose the perfect present for him this year, whether it's a birthday present, a Christmas present, or a Father's Day present. Enjoy!

Read more : https://avada.io/loveable/woodworking-gifts-dad/

[highqualitywoodworkingplans]

Top Woodworking Gift Ideas

There is possibly no better saying than, "Treasured are the gifts from the heart." How do you show someone that you truly care for them? You put your thoughts, time, energy, and most of all your love into a handmade gift. Click Here to read the article

[theyreonlynoodlesmike]

i have a mad thomas x reader request where reader is forced to marry thomas (idk how just-) and is disgusted about it but eventually ends up liking him.(? idk how to explain myself:’)

No one look at me,,,,,,,,,,also this is heavily inspired by the Scarlet Letter and was supposed to be a tad darker but I copped out (also someone asked for a pregnant reader recently so this + that = this fic)

A Lie They Would Believe (Mad Thomas x Fem!Reader)

Warnings: dark themes, 1600 standards, values, and laws, affairs/cheating, ex-relationship with the pastor is mentioned, Thomas is Thomas, mentions of drinking, webs of lies, public humiliation, AFAB and Fem reader, pregnant reader, pre-marital pregnancy solved a la shotgun marriage, twisted win-win situation turns into love?, slow burn(?),

Word Count: 3.7k

You could accept your punishment with a turned cheek, you told yourself over and over again.

You could stare out at the audience of towns people, even as the sun beat on your face. You could stare out into the angry faces of the elders, into the pitying faces of your friends. Into the ashamed faces of your parents. But, you could not look at Cyrus Miller.

You'd missed your blood two months ago. You'd begged, prayed, everyday that it would come. But, the only thing that came was the morning sickness. You'd tried to hide it, tried to think of what to do. But, when you placed your hand over your stomach, you couldn't bring yourself to find the hag in the forest. And, when your mother held your spotless, white sheets in your face, you'd crumbled. You confessed in the privacy of your room as if you were confessing in church. You told her everything.

Well, almost.

"Tell us his name!" Cyrus said, a voice that you couldn't force to fall into the background. "Tell us the name of your accomplice and you shall suffer no more." He said, and you wanted to believe him. You let your eyes close for a moment, but your lips did not move. Your mouth did not open. "Tell us the father's name, so that your baby will not be born a bastard!" He said, and his hand reached out to grab your arm. His grip was strong and tight, unlike the caresses you'd become so accustomed to with him. While his words begged you to say the name, his name, the action spoke differently. You peeled open your eyes and looked up at him, at his raven hair and kind face. His dark, soft eyes. Tears pricked the corners of your own eyes, hard and glassy as you looked up at him. But, you were silent. Even as some of the townspeople yelled for you to confess.

But, how could you tell them that it was your persecutor who was the father of your child? That your pastor, the leader of this town, had sinned so egregiously? He had a wife, a daughter. You'd known both of those things when you'd fallen for him, but it was harder to ignore in the harsh sunlight. When both of them stood in front of you.

You knew you'd have to face punishment. Sex before marriage was a crime after all, completely forbidden. To think they didn't know you were an adulterer also. You didn't know what it'd be, but you knew you'd have no option but to accept it when it came. You'd already made your peace with it, made your peace with whatever God could condemn you to. Perhaps, you'd have to live alone, wear a scarlet letter on your breast. Perhaps, they'd cast you out completely, and you'd be shunned. Perhaps, they'd hang you. You touched your stomach at that thought. Perhaps, there were certain punishments you couldn't bear.

Your lips only fell open when a voice yelled,

"It was I." And a gasp fell from your mouth. Your head turned, snapped towards the voice. Towards the sea of faces that was the crowd. But, you knew that voice. "It's my child." He said, and your eyes fell on a face you knew all too well. And, at that moment, you knew exactly what type of punishment God had set out for you.

Mad Thomas.

***

The day had gone by in a blur.

Over and over in your head, one question repeated itself. Why? It was almost loud enough to drown out the constant whispers, the stories being spun by every person who seemed to have a tongue.

Union couldn't seem to stop talking about it. Of when it started, how long it'd been going on, when the pair of you had even had time to sneak off. You'd even heard a young Constance Berman whisper about how she'd always known something was going on between the two of you, only to be shushed by her older sister as you passed. As you'd been let free of the top of the church steps.

You'd been left outside, left out in the sun. Inside the church went your father, the pastor, and Thomas. You had no idea what Thomas was going to say, what lies he was going to spin.

You couldn't bring yourself to leave, to speak. You felt as though a blanket of white noise had covered your ears, covered your mind. You were surprised, to say the least. You'd thought a wave of devastation had washed over you the first moment you'd realized you were with child, but this? It made it seem like ripples in a pond. The only thing you could do was stare at the church door and wait for them to come out. But, you felt a warm arm wrap around your waist and you turned to see the face of your mother.

"Come," She said, and you looked back at the door blankly. You didn't want to leave. You wanted to be there when they came out. But, you couldn't find the words to say or the strength to keep your feet firm. So, you let her guide you away from the crowd, and towards your house.

It was only later that you were told you and Thomas were to be married by the end of the month.

***

You and Thomas were never allowed a moment alone. You didn't know whether to be relieved or not, but Thomas, a man who you quickly found was far more confusing than you thought, was playing a charade. He brought you flowers, carried your water pail for you, and even took you on chaperoned walks. You, however, were stony and stiff, barely able to contain your disgust for him. It was on your first walk that you whispered,

"Why? Why are you doing this?" And, for a moment, the incorrigible man seemed to pretend not to hear you. He glanced over his shoulder, as if the wind was at his ear instead, and you saw him cast a sly glance to the man behind them. It was one of your father's friends, walking only about two yards behind you. Finally, when he decided he was far away enough, he responded,

"Would you rather I had let them cast you out? Let you and your child starve in the woods?" Thomas said back, the most sober you'd ever heard him. It seemed that apart of your father's deal with him was that he cut back on the drink. He didn't even stumble as he walked.

"Don't pretend you did this out of charity. Why, Thomas?" You asked, and you, for only a moment, reached out to touch his arm. You pulled it back just as quick, hoping that your chaperone hadn't seen. Thomas looked down at the action, before he smirked and shook his head.

"Aren't we a perfect match?" He asked, and you gave him a look of confusion. He continued with, "You think I don't know what people say about me? Don't you see, girl? It doesn't matter if your father is the best woodworker, or the richest in Union anymore. No one would have you, or your bastard child. Except me." He said, and you almost couldn't believe the words coming out of his mouth. He continued, his words a whisper now, "Besides, it's a lie they would believe." You stared at him, flabbergasted by his words. Flabbergasted by how right he was.

Thomas had, well, a reputation. It wasn't out of character for his wedding to be one out of necessity, and perhaps it earned you some pity from the townspeople. How many women had Thomas seduced? And how many of them could truly judge you? Not to mention, his words left one thing clear.

So, it was my dowry, you thought. It wasn't an unheard of reason, and it made sense given the man you were talking to. Your father had been avoiding selling you off, even as you reached far into your womanhood. And, surely, your father would never have considered him under any normal circumstance, but now...You didn't seem to have much of a choice.

Thomas paused, picking up one of the wildflowers and handing it to you. You took it, knowing now that you had to play along. That you had to act as if he truly was the father of your child, and not someone as foreign to you as the land outside of Union.

"Your father was going to start building us a house. I was thinking right here," Thomas said, his voice only slightly louder for the chaperone to hear, but you barely paid attention. You were staring down at the yellow flower in your hands, before you glanced up at the man in front of you.

He was tall, but his hair was lighter. His cheeks were stubbly and his eyes- They were a clear blue. Almost the same shade as the sky above you. You watched as he talked, as he laid out his plan. And, while the idea of being married to anyone that you didn't love sickened you, you tried to tell yourself that it wouldn't be as terrible as you felt it would be.

***

You and Thomas sat out in the sun, where you were making a flower crown and he was rambling about one thing or the other. You'd gotten very good at pretending to be in love, even in the span of only a couple of weeks.

You gave him smiles and laughter, and he gave you gifts or stole a caress. It was enough to stir the people of Union so no one would be the wiser. And, with your father at his station a short way across the field, the pair of you could be somewhat alone. But, still within viewing distance.

"You're not listening." Thomas said, and you smiled to yourself for a moment. You looked at the finished crown, before you looked up and reached over to where he was laying on the blanket. He was half-sitting up, and you placed the flower crown atop his head as you said,

"Yes, I was." You replied simply as you adjusted it, and Thomas stared at you and gave a small scoff. He caught your hand as you went to pull it away, his grip loose. He held it almost gently, and said,

"Then kiss me." And your brows drew together. A quick,

"What?" Fell from your lips, and you watched how Thomas smiled. He laughed, letting your hand go as he said,

"So, you weren't listening-" But you were quick to interrupt him.

"Why would- Why?" The idea- the simple idea was preposterous. Why would you kiss him? In broad daylight no less? The suggestion made you nervous, made a weird feeling start in your stomach. And, you ignored how this feeling wasn't entirely unfamiliar.

"They're going to expect us to kiss on our wedding day, girl. Shouldn't we have some practice?" He said, and you thought perhaps the first time he proposed it had been kinder. You stared at him, thinking over his words. Thomas waited, reaching out to touch your skirt. It was only to pick at it for a moment, before he drew his hand away.

You couldn't tell if that was the only reason Thomas wanted to kiss you, if there wasn't some ulterior motive somewhere. You wouldn't put it past him. But, really, he was right. Not to mention, while the pair of you had been affectionate, had you been affectionate enough?

That's what was so aggravating about Thomas. He was always right. He saw clear through whatever facade anyone put up, and saw the truth. Perhaps, that's why he was such a good liar.

Perhaps, that's why he was staring at you.

"Fine." You said, before you looked over your shoulder. You were in the field, but you were more or less a public spectacle. You could hear Thomas draw closer, feel the warmth of his hand reach for your arm.

"Let them look." He said as he gave a tug on your arm, and you turned back to face him. It was strange to hear him say that, such a stark difference from what you were used to. To have him so close was different than before, but Thomas didn't close the gap. You supposed he was waiting for you to do that. He whispered, "Well?" And, finally, you did. It was a short kiss, a quick stolen one. Still, it made Thomas smile. "So chaste." He let out a small laugh, and it was your turn to scoff. "Are you sure-" And you could guess what he was going to say. You kissed him again, if only to silence him. It was deeper, firmer than your last had been. And you hated to admit that you didn't hate it. Thomas was well-practiced, and the feeling of his thumb grazing your cheek was nearly as warm as the feeling of the sun on your back. It made another feeling start, one that you tried to stamp out that very second. You pulled away again, cutting it short. Thomas, for just a moment, tried to follow you before he pulled back. He had a small smile on his face, one he didn't try to hide as he pushed his hair back.

"You're practiced." You said quietly, the closest thing to a compliment you could give him. You'd heard rumors of him galavanting with the likes of Abbi Berman and some of the others. Perhaps, there was some truth to them. Thomas glanced over, and returned the words,

"Aye, so are you." When he smiled and glanced down at your belly, you knew the jab had been intended. And, unfortunately, he'd managed to make you laugh.

***

You knew it was coming. You had prepared yourself for it. Before the wedding, the pastor would counsel both of you. And, he was going to counsel you first.

You stood in a dress your mother had made, with your corset done loosely as not to press on your stomach. You'd been staring out the window, at the cloudless day and the happy faces of your town. Why shouldn't they be happy? It was the day for a celebration.

You'd even caught glimpses of Thomas. Your mother was fussing over him, and Issac had swiped his pouch. He looked- Well, you could tell he'd been scrubbed down. Most of his teeth were still black, but in clean clothes and with a clean face...Perhaps, he didn't look terrible. You tilted your head, and, almost as if he could feel you staring, Thomas' head turned. He caught your eyes, and reflected your posture with a tilt of his own head. It made you smile, something you found was less forced the more time you spent with him. Your head turned from him when you heard someone come in.

"Wonderful day for a wedding." Cyrus said as he closed the door to the chapel, and you tried to manage a smile. "Sit." He said, and gestured to one of the pews. You did, and you both kept your distance. The chapel was dim, only lit by the light outside. The pair of you were silent for a moment, before Cyrus said, "The magistrate is here. He seems eager to start. Do you," He paused for a moment. "Do you have any doubts?" And you felt that the question was not quite as empty as anyone else would think.

You'd been staring at your hands, and you finally lifted your gaze to him. To his deep, dark brown eyes. After a moment, you found your voice.

"None at all. Thomas is- He shall be the father to his child, and he shall be my husband. I shall do my duties, and, I- I love him." It was hard to say, at least when Cyrus sat in front of you. "What is there to doubt?" You asked, your question equally as heavy. While none of you would say it plainly, you knew from the way he looked over your face that he understood you perfectly. The pair of you would never confess your secret, and you'd let the hatchet be buried. Forgotten.

"Does he know?" Cyrus asked, and you knew what it sounded like. In case any of the others were listening. Like he was asking if your soon to be husband knew you loved him. The question couldn't be more disguised. Really, his eyes said, Does he know about us?

"Yes. Or, I think he does." You replied, and you watched how Cyrus reached to touch his clean-shaven face. His face was half hidden by his hand, but you could see his eyes were disturbed. A secret was harder to keep the more people knew, but you said, "And he loves me. He'd do anything to keep this union." You told him, and you hoped he got your meaning. When Cyrus glanced at you, you guessed he did. Silently, your eyes said, If he does, Thomas won't tell. And, after a pause, Cyrus let out a sigh.

"Then, there seems little I have to counsel you on."

***

"Have you thought of a name?" Thomas asked you, and you hummed.

You were picking at your sheet, looking towards the window. It had been months, five if not nearly six. Your baby was due in only a few weeks now, and you still hadn't decided. Your husband, a word to describe him that didn't seem so weird now, laid besides you facing up towards the roof.

Thomas, well, he was not what you thought. He had a good, if not sometimes strange, sense of humor, and did not bruise easily from even the harshest words. He could take care of himself, after years of doing so, and, subsequently, you as well. Your mother and the mid-wife still came by to make sure you were in good health, but Thomas had most of it handled. He was a little lazy when it came to work, especially the work your father tried to give him, but he seemed to find that the work that came with having his own house agreed with him. The pair of you had become- Well, familiar. That was the word you would use. You couldn't say, nearly six months later, that it was still just pretending.

Still, Thomas didn't touch you in any way you wouldn't want him to, and you had to lift your head to throw a glance back to him.

"I have some ideas. Perhaps, if it's a girl," You paused, a sly grin coming to your face, "We could name her Abigail." And you watched him scoff and roll his eyes, even lift his head off of his arm for a moment as he said,

"Absolutely not." And you snickered to yourself as you went back to facing away from him. It was just a jest, a reference to an old dalliance of his, but Thomas, if anything, was fun to tease. The only issue was that Thomas was just as sharp when it came to his wit. "Y'know- Fine. Then, if it's a boy, we shall name him Cyrus." And you let out a noise of protest. You tried to roll over, declaring,

"No!" And now it was Thomas' turn to laugh. He placed a hand on your shoulder, trying to ease you back down. You let him, and even reached to hold his arm. To pull him closer. He followed, and you guided his hand above your bulging stomach as the pair of you adjusted. "Fine- Neither of those names. But, we must think of something." You told him, feeling as he stretched his fingers over where your baby grew. He held you, his warmth against your back. His hand rubbing your stomach lightly.

It made a strange sense of warmth fill you, one you couldn't blame from body-heat. And, it wasn't so terrible that you tried to push it, or him, away.

***

"She cries like no other child in Union." Thomas said as he climbed into your bed. You were supposed to be resting, healing, even weeks, nearly two months, after your child's birth. You felt like you'd been confined to your bed for so long that you were starting to become a part of it. Thomas was only here for the break your father gave him half-way through the day. Still, you smiled to yourself from where you laid on your side, and said,

"Perhaps, it is your smell that disturbs her." You said, your voice thick with sleep but a cheeky grin working onto your face. You shouldn't have prompted him, because he took the opportunity to drape himself heavily over your back.

"Oh, should I sleep outside tonight then?" He asked, and you giggled when you felt his stubble tickling your cheek.

It was already long into the day, and you'd become lazy from bed-rest. It felt far too nice to have his warmth wrapped around you, to where you nearly wanted to fall asleep. You had grown too used to it now, and you could barely imagine a night without it.

"I never said that." You responded, and turned your face back towards the softness of your pillow. You felt Thomas' hand raise, his fingertips brush against your cheek. He was being brave, especially when you felt his lips brush against your neck. It made you bite your lip, a twinge of something not so unfamiliar swirling in your belly. You wondered if he would continue. Hell, you wanted him to. But, it was nothing more than that.

Thomas, to your surprise, had more restraint than you would've assumed. He kissed your cheek, went to stand, and excused himself with,

"Your father will begin to wonder where I am." And you lifted your head to watch him step away, before you settled back down. He was clean, cleaner than he had been when he'd been sleeping in the outhouse. His hair was softer and longer, tied away from his face. And his arms seemed stronger, perhaps from the days of working with your father. He was, if you dared to think so, a kind sight to your eyes now. "Sleep. I'll be back by the time you wake." He told you, and, as he left, you found yourself hoping he was right.

[lifeofkaze]

Owl & Eagle

Even though you're not celebrating, I want to wish you a very merry Christmas, @pathofstars! You're one of the most kind-hearted, genuine, lovely and caring people I've had the honour of meeting this past year.

Every time I see your artwork on my feed - may it be this fandom or another - it makes me smile from ear to ear, and I feel in awe of your talent. You've made me so happy with the two amazing gifts you made me, so it is only right and proper to give you something back.

I'm sorry I had to spoil the surprise early for you, but you know why.

Merry Christmas! 🎄❄️

There was a cold wind coming from the East, bringing with it the smell of snow. It blew across the frozen grounds of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, making the dark surface of the Black Lake ripple in the afternoon sun.

Kiara Fair had no eye for the beauty of the frosty landscape below. She set her feet carefully on the stairs leading towards the Owlery, so as not to slip on the thin layer of snow covering the steps. Stopping to catch her breath, Kiara tipped her head into her neck, her eyes wandering over the long icicles hanging from the protruding roof of the tower above her. 

Shuddering at the thought of what might happen should they fall on her, Kiara clutched the bag of bird treats she was carrying tighter to her chest. Ignoring the burning in her thighs from making the long journey through the snow, she continued her way towards the top.

"What a great idea to get attached," she huffed to herself, her breath forming in front of her mouth and nose in clouds. "Perfect weather to go outside and feed a bird that's not even yours. Why stay by the cosy fireplace when you could freeze to death over some owl treats?"

Her muttering ceased as she took a quick step to pass beneath the icicles and dived into the dim half-light of the Owlery. As soon as she did, the howling East wind ceased, and quiet wrapped around her, only broken by the soft hooting of the owls and the occasional rustle of straw and feathers. 

Wary amber eyes watched Kiara from all sides as she made her way to the big table in the middle of the room, which was perpetually covered in feathers, bird food, and a thick layer of droppings. She sat her bag down onto it and softly clicked her tongue.

"Hello, it's me. Come on, I brought you something."

No sooner had she spoken than a small barn owl floated into view from up above. As it landed on the table before her, Kiara’s face split into a smile.  

"Hello, beautiful."

The owl hooted absentmindedly, curiously eyeing the bag of owl treats. Kiara chuckled to herself.

"It's alright," she said and opened the bag a little wider. "Tuck in." 

The little owl lost no time burying its beak in the sack of bird treats. Her lips still curved into a smile, Kiara watched it gulp down beak after beak of food, when suddenly a big shadow perched on the wooden beam above them caught her attention.

Directing her gaze upwards, Kiara froze. There in the woodwork, an eagle was sitting. It was looking down at them with mistrustful golden eyes, and even from a distance, Kiara could see how sharp its beak and talons were. She furtively moved to the side, and the eagle's eyes followed her, the only thing about it that seemed to be moving at all. Shuddering, Kiara’s eyes flicked between the happily munching barn owl and the bird of prey.

"Hey buddy," Kiara whispered in a cheerful but urgent voice. "Look, there's a great spot to snack over here. Let's move a little, shall we?"

The only reply she got was the rustle of the bag as the owl dipped its head back into it. Stifling a sigh, Kiara tugged on the sack of treats.

"Come on, we really need to go eat somewhere else now."

Not the slightest bit impressed with having its food taken away, the owl hooted in protest and flapped its wings. One of them hit Kiara in the face, and on instinct, she stumbled backwards. 

A stir went through the Owlery as more and more owls began to shuffle on their perches. Kiara swallowed heavily. If the owls woke, there would be chaos. She didn't want any of them to get hurt, so she had to get this eagle away from the Owlery somehow. She gave the bird of prey a stern look. 

"Shoo," she told it, her words accentuated by a wave of both her hands. "Shoo!"

Its golden eyes now fixed on her, the eagle remained right where it was. A frown crossed Kiara's face. If she didn't know any better, she could have sworn that it almost looked amused.

"Shoo!" she repeated, louder this time, wincing as the flutter around her intensified. The first owls were leaving their sleeping nooks and making their way outside through the openings in the walls. The eagle watched after them before returning its unnerving stare to Kiara. She gritted her teeth. 

"Shoo, I said!" she yelled, grabbing a fistful of bird treats and - under the protest of the little barn owl - hurled them at the eagle. 

Upon being hit square in the face, the eagle let out a scream that cut through Kiara's eardrums, and flapped its impressive wings. Thinking it was about to tear down on her and the little barn owl, Kiara did the first thing she could think of. She reached for her wand and pointed it at the eagle.

"Stupefy!"

The spell hit the eagle right in the chest. Its wings froze mid-motion before it went limp and dropped from its beam, hitting the ground with a dull thud. As the dust slowly settled around it, Kiara took a cautious look at the motionless bird. She inched closer, a sigh of relief leaving her lips as she saw the eagle's chest rising and falling, if only slightly.

"Hey," she said, carefully touching the bird with the tip of her boot, "it's alright. You can get up now. I'll just turn around, and you go and flutter off."

As expected, the eagle didn't react. With a jolt of worry, Kiara knelt before the animal, lifting one of its wings with her finger. When she retracted it, the wing slumped to the ground again.

"I hit it pretty hard, didn't I?" she muttered to the little barn owl, who sat perched on her shoulder and hooted in confirmation.

Reaching a resolution, Kiara scooped the eagle up into her arms. Hagrid and Professor Kettleburn were out to hunt for Christmas trees and escaped Chimaeras, respectively; that left only one person capable of helping her. 

***

Professor McGonagall was in her classroom, poring over the latest assignments of her N.E.W.T class when the door crashed open and Kiara stumbled in. Her eyebrows rose over the rim of her spectacles when the flustered Ravenclaw student dropped what she had held cradled to her chest onto the laden desk. 

"Miss Fair," she said and drew a deep breath, "what is your explanation for… this?"

She pointed at the bird, whose feathers were now sprawling over the half-corrected essays. Taking a closer look at it, she paled and rose to her feet in an abrupt motion. The eagle gave a miserable squawk as she examined it. Kiara watched her quietly. If she hadn't known better, she could have sworn that McGonagall was talking to the eagle. 

"I must ask you to leave, Miss Fair," she presently said, her lips pressed together in a fine line.

"What?" Kiara spurted out, half in fear for the eagle, half in indignation at being sent away.

"This bird requires my immediate attention. Thank you for bringing it here, but there is no further reason for you to linger. Five points to Ravenclaw."

Kiara was too confused to thank her. "What are you going to do with it? Hagrid and Professor Kettleburn are somewhere on the grounds."

"Believe me when I say that I'm perfectly able to handle this bird myself."  

She pointedly looked at the door, making it clear that it was time to go. Once outside of the classroom, Kiara paused. Not feeling like returning to the Ravenclaw common room just yet, she looked around the half-lit corridor. Something gleaming on the ground by a suit of armour caught her attention. Wandering closer to inspect it, Kiara found the source of the reflection to be an old yet well-polished key. A smile of delight forming on her features, she bent to retrieve it for her collection when the door to the Transfiguration classroom opened and someone stepped outside.

The moment Talbott Winger saw her, he froze. Kiara stared at him with wide eyes, her new key momentarily forgotten.

"Winger," she said in astonishment, "where did you come from?"

"None of your business," Talbott replied curtly. He tried to push past her, but Kiara moved in his way.

"You weren't in there when I was just now," she said, her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Were you hiding?"

"Don’t be ridiculous."

"I'm not!"

They continued arguing back and forth until the door to the classroom swung open once more and Professor McGonagall appeared in the doorway. Upon seeing Talbott and Kiara, she glanced left and right before placing firm hands on both their backs and ushering them back inside. 

"What's going on, Professor? Where has Talbott come from?" As soon as she saw that the desk on the raised dais was empty, Kiara turned to Talbott with flashing eyes. "Where has the eagle gone? What have you done with it?" 

"Nothing," Talbott rolled his eyes. "Tell her that I didn't do anything," he added in McGonagall's direction, but she shook her head at him. 

"It's not my responsibility to get you out of the trouble you summoned, Mr Winger."

When it was evident that there was no support to be gained from her, Talbott raised his hands in exasperation. 

"Alright, Fair. Promise that what I'm about to tell you is going to stay within this room."

"I'm not promising anything," Kiara replied angrily. "What happened to the eagle?"

"Nothing," Talbott repeated. "The eagle is me."

Silence followed his words. Her mouth having dropped open, Kiara blinked in confusion. 

"Is this some kind of joke?"

"I can assure you, it’s not. I am the eagle. I'm an Animagus." 

Still dubious, Kiara looked Talbott up and down. Upon closer inspection, she thought his nose looked slightly swollen, a bruise forming around it right where the eagle’s beak had hit the ground. She swallowed heavily. 

"You really are an Animagus?"

Talbott nodded. "I'm not registered with the Ministry. No one but Professor McGonagall knows. And you," he added, giving Kiara a taxing look, "so don't go blaring it out to the whole school."

Kiara felt her cheeks grow hot, partly from his assumption that she would do any such thing, and partly from knowing that she didn't have anyone to tell such a secret to even if she wanted. As much to show Talbott that she wasn't intimidated by him as to push away the feeling of loneliness rising in her, Kiara crossed her arms in front of her chest.

"How does one become an Animagus anyway?"

"By performing the proper rites and spells."

"And how do you do that?"

Talbott raised an eyebrow. "Not like I'm going to tell you."

"Why not?"

"Because it's bad enough that I had to trust you with my secret. No way that I'm going to let you share it." 

Kiara opened her mouth to protest when McGonagall cleared her throat. "Mr Winger, Miss Fair, I believe you can continue your discussion on your way back to Ravenclaw Tower. Miss Fair, I expect you to honour Mr Winger's wish to remain quiet about his… abilities. Mr Winger, you will come and see me after class tomorrow. One more thing," she added as the two of them turned to leave. "Until further notice, both of you are banned from visiting the Owlery."

Talbott and Kiara froze.

"But why?" 

"Professor!"

"I didn't even do anything!"

"I was only protecting the owls!"

"Mr Winger, you chose to transform without need despite me telling you not to. As for Miss Fair, did you really think I didn't notice I was short an owl?"

Kiara felt herself blush. "I don't know what you mean, Professor." 

"I assure you, you are neither the first student to take a liking to an animal from this classroom, nor will you be the last. Do try to refrain from coming for the ferrets next, please. There's a reason they've been banned as pets."

"But about the Owlery…"

"Good evening, Miss Fair."

Hanging their heads, Talbott and Kiara trudged from the room. They walked to their common room in silence, where they found quiet corners for themselves as far away from each other as possible.

They did their best to avoid crossing paths for the next few days, but eventually, Kiara decided that her punishment had been enough. She missed her little owl friend, and what had she done wrong, anyway? She had wanted to protect the birds, nothing more. Surely that wasn't a reason to condemn her?

When she made her way to the Owlery, at last, her spirits lifted with every step she climbed towards the top. Once she ducked through the doorway, however, her good mood vanished when she saw who was standing at the table in the middle of the room. 

"What are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same," Talbott said, narrowing his eyes at Kiara. "You're forbidden to enter the Owlery."

"As are you," Kiara raised her chin. "I could report you to McGonagall."

"Not without admitting you were here, too."

They stared at each other until Talbott dropped his eyes. "Looks like we're both flouting our punishment. How about you go and do your stuff, I do mine, and we both pretend this never happened?"

After a moment, Kiara nodded. "Fine. But no weird tricks, you hear me?"

Talbott rolled his eyes for an answer and returned to the parchment he had been scribbling onto. Kiara turned away to find the little barn owl already sitting behind her. With a smile, she ran her hands over the owl's soft feathers, trying to ignore the scratching of Talbott's quill behind her. 

They spent several minutes in silence until Talbott eventually cleared his throat.

"Thank you for not telling anyone what you saw the other day."

Kiara didn't look up from where her fingers were resting on the owl's back. Her shoulders tensed. "No need."

"No, really. Anyone else would have shouted it from the rooftops, or told their friends, at least."

"I'm not like anyone else."

"Not a gossip, you mean?"

"Not a person with friends." 

Her snappy reply was met with silence. Talbott nodded his head.

"I see."

When he didn't continue, Kiara raised her brows. "That's all you have to say?"

"What more is there? You're a loner, just like me. Nice to know there's others who prefer not to be babbled at all day." 

Despite herself, Kiara's lips curved into a smile, albeit a small one.

"I guess so." 

When Kiara packed up her things and made her way to the exit, Talbott sighed and called her back.

"Hey Fair, wait. Did you really mean what you said about wanting to be an Animagus?" 

Kiara frowned. "Of course."

"I could show you if you like."

"Really?" Kiara called out, her mouth suddenly dry. She must have spoken louder than she had realised because the little barn owl almost tripped over its own two feet. Talbott pulled a face. 

"Lesson number one - don't screech at me like a rabid owl. Once I have everything we need, I'll contact you."

He answered a few more of Kiara's questions, and by the time she was ready to leave, she was giddy with excitement. As she was about to pass through the doorway, Talbott called after her.

"Just so you know, it's not going to be easy. I hope you're not afraid of a challenge."

Kiara flashed him a grin over her shoulder. "Here’s a lesson for you, Winger. I'm never afraid of a challenge."  

[coeurdastronaute]

Xmas Day 37: 12 Days of Christmas, Part II

Day 36

Secret Santa Continuation

Previously on 12 Days of Christmas

12 Bells A-ringin’

At first, Lexa wasn’t sure what to do. 

She stared at the gold envelope on her workbench for a full minute before looking around at the shop, it functioning as it always did, the noises all the same, everyone milling about in the same manner as always. But this was different. There shouldn’t be a golden envelope on her workbench. She kept her workbench pristine, even in the middle of a big project, and she certainly hadn’t left an envelope in the middle. 

It looked familiar, and she smiled at the memory. Two years ago exactly, she’d had a similar envelope delivered to a girl in a bar. Two years ago she had a crush on the office manager. Not much had changed. 

“Wow, looks like you’ve gotten yourself a secret Santa,” Clarke murmured into her coffee cup, staring at the letter as well. 

Lexa jumped slightly before rolling her eyes. Clarke had a knack for just sneaking up on her. Too quiet and aided by the loud machines in the shop. She had a mischievous little smirk before taking a sip and looking at her girlfriend finally. 

“I wonder who it could be,” Lexa deadpanned. 

“I don’t know, but I think I should give them a talking to. You’re spoken for. And though this is an obscenely romantic gesture--”

“Obscene?” 

“Kind of over-the-top, if you will,” Clarke shrugged, as if she hadn’t swooned for nearly two weeks at the idea of a golden envelope and the next great adventure. 

“Noted,” Lexa nodded, looking back at the envelope. She smiled to herself and felt a shoulder nudge her arm. 

“I just don’t want anyone trying to romance you.” 

“You’re really going to play this up, aren’t you?” 

“Maybe,” she shrugged as the woodworker picked up the envelope finally. “What does it say?” 

“Like you don’t--” she earned a look and sighed. “On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me--”

“See, I have a problem with the wording,” Clarke began, mimicking her boss, though it was ignored rather easily. 

“Twelve bells a-ringin,” Lexa finished and held up two tickets. “A boxing match?” 

“Not just any boxing match,” her girlfriend explained. “Holiday-themed amateur wrestling.” 

“What could that even mean?” 

“Guess we’ll just have to go and find out.” 

Lexa smiled and looked back at the tickets. She felt a warmth blossom in her chest and looked back at Clarke, eagerly waiting for some kind of reaction. 

“Seems like whoever got me this must have known that me and Anya were obsessed with WWE when we were kids.” 

“Hmmm,” Clarke hummed and took another sip. “Who would know that personal and embarrassing fact about you? We can really narrow down who is sending you these amazing secret Santa gifts--”

Lexa stopped her with a kiss. She leaned forward and bent down, finding her mouth and shutting her up from being too cute and perfect. Still not one for the holidays, Lexa did have a fondness for the season because of this girl. 

“You don’t have to do this,” she murmured, wiggling the envelope. “We already live together.”

“Maybe you deserve to see some magic this season.” 

“I have you. I don’t need anything else.” 

It wasn’t a line, and Clarke knew it. Lexa was insanely easy to shop for and wanted for little more than a tattered sweater to be mended instead of a replacement bought. 

“So you don’t want to go see Santa beat up Frosty with me tonight?” 

“Oh no, we can go,” she hurried, earning a chuckle. 

11 Ladies Dancin’

With a sigh, Lexa stretched as she woke, searching for the other body in her bed. She smiled into her pillow as she thought about Clarke and sleeping with her every night. That was a wonderful feeling-- one she hadn’t ever expected. But three months ago Clarke’s lease was up and Lexa built her a dresser to welcome her. 

But she was not met with skin as she’d grown accustomed. The warmth was gone from the other side of the bed, and she lifted her head, squinting and finding it empty save for an envelope. 

For a moment she was grumpy. For a moment she pouted because she was alone and a little naked and wanted to kiss her girlfriend. But then she smiled and flopped back down, holding the envelope in front of her face, refusing to put her glasses on just yet. 

“On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…” she read, singing it slightly, “Eleven ladies dancing.” 

There was a map, hand-drawn, with instructions on what to wear and what time to show up. For a moment, Lexa wondered if this was how Clarke felt, except it couldn’t be too similar, as she had no idea it was Lexa the whole time, even though she insisted she did consider it and certainly hoped it was her. 

With a sigh, a lovelorn, smitten, altogether taken sigh, she pushed herself out of bed and padded into the kitchen. Her loft had changed quite a bit since Clarke moved in. She’d referred to it as spartan-- austere, altogether empty. Lexa wasn’t offended in the slightest because it was true. She liked space. She liked the huge windows and little else. But Clarke didn’t. So there were plants now. Green popped up in the fairly colorless space in all directions. There were leaves hanging from shelves Lexa was requested to build, and there was a giant tree, or at least what Lexa thought was a tree, in the corner. It felt warmer. It felt nice, to have a used coffee mug in the sink that wasn’t her’s. It felt even better to trip over Clarke’s shoes, which she left wherever she was standing when she decided to take them off. 

Now, there were Christmas decorations. Garland hung from shelves and stairs, while two stockings were tacked up from the TV drawers. A small tree sat in the corner, a few presents already piling there. 

Normally they walked to work together, but Lexa was assuming that Clarke was enjoying the game of playing the secret Santa this time. 

Her day flew by with nothing else happening save for her sister mocking her envelopes. But Lexa took it because she had never been someone to make the big gesture, and now it felt like she’d done something very, very right. 

At the designated time, Lexa found herself standing out front of a somewhat familiar gay bar they’d gone to a few times. She shoved her hands in her pocket and tried to hide the ugly Christmas sweater she’d been instructed to wear. 

“You found it,” Clarke greeted her. 

She was wearing Lexa’s hat, the one Lexa had been looking for. This was the perils of dating Clarke Griffin-- she’d never own anything of her own ever again. The thought made her warm again. 

“How could I not? This is a well-drawn map.” 

“Thanks-- I’m thinking of doing my next installation on printer paper.” 

“I’d be there.” 

Lexa earned a smile as Clarke grabbed her coat and tugged her closer. Clarke did things like that, so naturally, too-- just grabbed her lapels and tugged her into a kiss because she wanted it. Lexa was still learning, it felt like, still unsure. But she didn’t have to be with Clarke. 

“Are you ready for the eleventh day of Christmas?” Clarke asked as she pulled away. Her cheeks were apples. 

“I think.” 

“Good. Let’s go. It’s a festive drag show.” 

“I love this.” 

“I know-- don’t worry, Anya and a few others are here too.” 

“You’re the best.” 

“Don’t thank me yet. You can’t know for sure I’m your Secret Santa.” 

“Fine. I’ll just have to ask everyone.” 

With a shove, Clarke tugged her back, grabbing her hand and leading her inside. 

10 Ships Sailing

“We’re supposed to be shopping for Christmas gifts,” Anya groaned as Lexa squinted at the map and directed them to the museum. 

“And we will, after lunch. You agreed to come with me.”

“Yeah, so I can make sure you get me the right purse I wanted, not go to the damn museum.” 

“I love a good museum. Me and Clarke went to one last month about a mile outside of town about primitive woodworking instruments.”

“God, you’re both so boring.” 

Lexa smiled to herself because she wasn’t going to tell Anya about the car sex on the way back. That’d be impolite. Something about an antique lathe just got her hot though. Maybe Clarke knew that. That’d explain a lot. 

“Shut up. You loved this movie when we were kids.” 

“I still do.”

“Well, my true love got me tickets to the sold out exhibit of the Titanic, and I thought you’d want to come.” 

“You mean Clarke.” 

“TBD, as she would say,” Lexa shrugged. 

They both knew it was Clarke. Anya rolled her eyes. 

“You’re both insanely mushy. It’s disgusting to watch.” 

“I’m not…”

They showed their tickets and made their way into the crowded museum. Lexa smiled and tried to take it all in, nudging her sister along as they chatted about the holiday and what the plans were coming together. 

“So this thing with the secretary--”

“Office manager,” Lexa corrected as they maneuvered around a display case of pristine dishes. 

“It’s serious?” 

“It always was to me.” 

Anya nodded and thought about it for a moment, unsure of what to say or do. 

“She’s pulling out all the stops to make you love the holidays, huh?” 

“If I’ve learned anything about Clarke, is that she is maybe the only person more stubborn than me, so I know she’ll win.” 

“What’s the plan? Settle down, work at the shop, grow your business, sell her art, work together every day? Pop out a few kids and move to the suburbs?” 

For a moment Lexa thought about the words seriously, not as a joke as her sister had intended before turning back to her and smiling. 

“Yeah. I’d be okay with that. With Clarke.” 

It left Anya surprised, but Lexa was moving onto the next display case, hurrying her to come look at some facts printed beside mementos. She made a note to herself to check in with the office manager, because now she knew how serious it was. 

9 Drummers Drumming

“Thank goodness you found it okay.” 

“I don’t usually get lost on my way home,” Lexa grinned, tugging the scarf from around her neck and shoving her hat in her pocket as she stamped her boots before tugging them off. 

“Or was it because of my expert mapmaking skills?” 

“You truly missed your calling as a cartographer.” 

The loft was glowing, gentle and soft, only Christmas lights twinkling as the source of light. Lexa hung up her gear while her girlfriend hovered, waiting for a proper greeting. 

“So you got another envelope.” 

“I did,” Lexa waved it before hooking an arm around a waist and kissing her despite being cold and earning a shiver. “Something about nine whole drummers.” 

“Okay listen, I’m doing my best, but it’s hard.” 

“So it is you?” 

“I mean, your secret Santa,” Clarke rolled her eyes. “So I made us this.” 

With a quick turn she showed off the fort in the living room, sheets hung up and all the furniture making a tall tent that even encapsulated the television. 

“We’re going to have take out and watch at least nine Christmas movies, some of which will include drums.” 

“I take it back. You should be a fort designer,” Lexa let out a low whistle as she opened the flap and found lights strung up inside with a bed of pillows and blankets awaiting. 

No wonder her girlfriend left work so early. 

“Would you care to join me?” Clarke offered, slipping inside. “But go change first. I left you a present on the bed.” 

Lexa held up the Christmas themed pajamas and sighed before taking off her clothes and changing. This is who she was now. 

8 Maids A-milkin’

Somehow, without even noticing, an envelope and a coffee cup appeared on her workbench. Lexa looked around, oddly alarmed at how absorbed in her work and ear plugs she’d become. But somehow Clarke appeared and disappeared without her even noticing. It seemed impossible. She always knew Clarke was near. It was a Spidey-sense. 

Without taking her headphones out, Lexa picked up the envelope and smiled as she sniffed the tea. 

“On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me-- eight maids a-milkin’-- like milk. For Chai. Your favorite. This is hard.” 

Lexa grinned and took a sip of her favorite drink from their favorite café a few blocks down the road. She sympathized. She knew how hard it was and how absolutely frustrating it was to try to do this and to try to make the other person happy. 

She still got a tiny thrill when she saw an envelope. It wasn’t about the gift or the interpretation. It was about the thought, and she was happy to be thought of by Clarke in such a way. With another sip of her drink, she leaned there and swooned. 

7 Swans A-swimming

“So it’s getting pretty serious with you and your boss, huh?” Raven asked as she watched her friend struggle terribly to fold a paper crane. The four she’d already made were… very un-swan-like. 

“What makes you say that?” 

“You’re learning origami to make her seven swans because you two are obsessed with probably the lamest Christmas song around?” 

Clarke nodded and wanted to disagree, but at the moment she’d wished Lexa had gone with something a little easier, like maybe “All I want for Christmas is You.” That would have been easy. She could have worn a bow and nothing else. Lexa would have liked that. 

With a nod to herself she made a note to remember that gift idea for all future holidays. 

But she couldn’t really regret the choice. Lexa was thoughtful. She didn’t share it, but she was. She was the one who made them coffee in the morning before work. She was the one who built Clarke a desk. She was the one who knew to put on a rom-com during Clarke’s period and to always have a pack of gum in her pocket because Clarke asked non-stop. Lexa was her person, and she deserved some sort of romantic display, even if Clarke was unsure of how to do it. 

Lexa was thoughtful, yes, but she was also insanely hard to be thoughtful for. She needed for nothing. She literally loved going to farms and weird sales and buying pieces of wood. How do you shop for someone who likes wood so much? 

“We live together, and you’re just now considering it serious?” Clarke rolled her eyes and gave up, retreating to another new piece of paper. She was going to hang them up in the loft, so Lexa saw them right as she walked in, like they were flying. She just had to actually make them. 

“I don’t know,” she shrugged. “I guess it would pass.” 

“Why?” 

“Because she’s your boss.” 

“She needs me more at work than I need her,” Clarke snorted. “She can’t even find calipers without a flashlight and a neon sign. Plus, that job just pays the bills while I paint. You know this. You’ve been to my show.”

“But you’re doing the big gesture. It’s serious. You’d tell me if it were getting more serious, right?” 

“What’s more serious than origami swans?” 

Raven gave her a knowing look. 

“She’s it for me. I don’t get any more serious. This is it.” 

The news was surprising, and Raven wasn’t sure why. It made sense. It just wasn’t something she’d considered. She nodded and wondered when they’d retire to the suburbs with three kids and a mutt, but didn’t say it. 

“At least let me help. This is pitiful.” 

“Fine,” Clarke sighed, handing over some paper before the two got to work. 

6 Geese A-Layin’

The company Christmas party was different this year, and it took a small golden envelope at her seat at the table to explain why. But still, Lexa sat there and smiled, watching her girlfriend bring out the giant dinner, setting the table for everyone. 

“On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me,” Clarke began, earning a drumroll from the rest of the giant table. “Six geese a-laying.” 

“There’s only two!” someone piped up.

“It’s six in spirit,” she snapped quickly before pushing hair from her face. 

Lexa chuckled and stood as everyone moved to their seats. It was a fancy formal dinner, much different than the liquor infused ones Clarke planned in the past, but no less magical. The shop had been transformed, lights hung everywhere and candles carefully adorned the table. It felt like Christmas. 

“I guess it’s up to me to say something, or so I’ve been instructed by Anya,” Lexa began with some laughs. “I want to thank everyone for your work and for your time. I know we wouldn’t be as successful as we are without all of you. And I know sometimes family is hard, but you have become my favorite family. This shop-- a pipe dream I never let myself think would be true-- it’s been wonderful to me. So thank you all, and I hope you enjoy the bonuses.” 

“Here here!” an echo ran out as glasses were tapped and clanked. 

Clarke smiled over the candlelight at her girlfriend, letting her know it was good before Lexa wiped fake sweat from her brow and let out a breath. 

“My secret Santa sure does put out all the stops, huh?” 

“I’m sure they spent a lot of time learning how to prepare a traditional Christmas goose. They sound amazing,” Clarke grinned. 

“I’ll say.” 

5 Golden Rings

The map was misleading. 

Lexa furrowed as she tried to follow the envelope to her five golden rings but failed miserably. For hours she frustrated herself, trudging around the city until she finally thought she’d figured it out, ducking into a café three blocks from the shop. 

But the shop was closed and it seemed like a lot of work for some donuts. Frozen to the bone, she hadn’t expected to get a map that led her to said closed shop. She hadn’t expected to not get any donuts either, much to her chagrin. 

It was already dusk when she arrived, the light fading quickly in the winter. She tossed on the familiar lights except they didn’t turn on the loud overhead lights, just the twinkle lights from the dinner the night before. But the shop was clear, only Clarke was standing there waiting. 

Lexa smiled to herself and unwound her scarf and shoved her hat in her coat before peeling them off and tossing them on someone’s bench. 

“I ran all over the city today.” 

“Good-- you needed to work out after that dinner last night,” Clarke chided, earning another smile. 

“What are you doing here? My secret Santa is going to be coming in at any minute,” she whispered when she got closer. “I don’t want them to get jealous or anything.” 

“Shut up. You know it’s me.” 

“Yeah, well. It’s been really cute. You’ve done a good job. I never… no one’s ever done this.” 

Lexa was wearing the sweater Clarke had given her two years ago. There were new holes in it that would need mended, but neither minded that. Lexa decided it was the most important sweater in her entire wardrobe. Clarke thought she just looked plain cute in it and she was right. 

“I’m glad it’s made you happy,” Clarke said earnestly, playing with Lexa’s hands between them. “But this is the last one.” 

“What? I was kind of curious as to what my colly birds and turtle doves might be.” 

“The point of this entire scavenger hunt has always been this moment.”

Music started playing, a soft familiar song that’d been their song, somehow inherited as they made breakfast one morning and it played on Clarke’s phone. Lexa grinned as she realized it. Snow started to fall inside, or at least what seemed like snow, but was, in fact, shredded paper, making her laugh. 

“Do you have elves?” 

“Secret ones, yeah,” Clarke nodded. 

“Impressive. I should have recruited.” 

Clarke closed her eyes and took a deep breath, gripping Lexa’s hands tighter than before. 

“The first day I met you I knew that there was something between us. But you hired me, and you were my boss. And you’re technically still my boss, but that’s not the point anymore.” 

“True. HR would never like to hear the things you like me to do to you.” 

Clarke went redder than normal and took another deep breath. 

“I stopped the song here because I love you, Lexa. I always have. And you might never know how much, but I do. And I couldn’t afford five, but I thought maybe one golden ring might suffice, if it was the right kind.” 

In a slow movement, Clarke pulled the box from her pocket and knelt on one knee. 

“On the fifth day of Christmas, Lexa Woods, your true love wanted to give you her whole entire life, if you’d want it.” 

“Are you… is that?” 

Lexa held her hands over her mouth, completely shocked as the velvet box opened. 

“What do you say?” 

“Yes. Fuck yes. Of course yes. A million yesses,” She exploded, grabbing Clarke and kissing her until she was standing. 

Both broke apart, laughing and slightly crying until Lexa swallowed her in a hug. 

“You’re it for me, Woods.” 

“You’re everything,” Lexa whispered to her girlfriend’s neck.

Day 38 (Footy)

[stiltonbasket]

Nielan fathers day prompt! Sorry if its late, but how about finding out they're going to be parents on Fathers Day? (mpreg, adoption, surrogacy, your choice).

anon: the first fathers' day after jingyi is born, modern lxc and nmj both set up a present for each other "from Jingyi." It's very cute. Baby Jingyi magnanimously chews on his foot and accepts giving two presents and meals.

this is for the art thief au, so lxc is trans here!

(ao3 link)

----

What should I give Xichen for Father’s day?

Nie Mingjue has been puzzling over gift ideas for the past two weeks, with no luck whatsoever. Jingyi is still too small to make them gifts, so he and Xichen use the occasion to exchange presents with each other and label them with their little boy’s name; Xichen probably picked out his gifts already, since he knows Nie Mingjue’s tastes like the back of his hand, but Mingjue keeps flipping through mail-order catalogues and crossing off their entire inventory as he goes.

“I have present,” Jingyi insists, as Nie Mingjue carries him down yet another aisle of their local department store. “A-Die, look!”

Mingjue looks. A-Yi is holding a six-pack of orange bath sponges, since Xichen mentioned that they needed some more earlier that morning.

“That’s not a Father’s Day gift, A-Bao,” Mingjue chides, kissing Jingyi’s forehead. “Last year, I gave your Ba a brooch with his initials on it, remember? It has to be pretty.”

Jingyi wrinkles his tiny nose. “Starfish?”

“Mm, the starfish brooch.” Lan Xichen has an impressive collection of jewelry, with most of it coming from gifts Nie Mingjue gave him over the course of their fifteen years together; and nearly all of the pieces are sea-themed to go with his husband’s wardrobe and his clear, moon-white skin.

Perhaps he could buy pearls, this time?

“A-Yi,” he says slowly, “what do you think about going to the discount shop across town?”

A-Yi is happy enough to go wherever his father goes, so Nie Mingjue drives to the discount store--full of discarded, overstocked, and secondhand merchandise from all over the city--and digs through the bins of jewelry until he finds an antique bracelet, strung with pearls carved into the shapes of starfish and clam shells. Jingyi nearly loses his little mind at the sight of it, and he squeals at the top of his lungs while Mingjue pays for the bracelet and bundles him back to the car.

“I know them,” he declares, when Mingjue gives him the bracelet to play with on the way home. “Diedie, it’s a clam!”

Mingjue glances up at his son’s reflection in the rearview mirror. “Can you count how many clams there are?”

Jingyi flings himself headlong into the task, counting twelve starfish and eleven clams, and then he peruses the Learning Reader books Xichen keeps in the back seat until Mingjue carries him into the house.

His husband runs to meet them at the door, and it is this, not the driveway or their well-worn doorstep, that means Nie Mingjue has finally come home.

______

To Nie Mingjue, stepping into his woodworking studio feels like stepping into another world.

It isn't that the studio looks very different from the rest of the house--in fact, Nie Mingjue had a tiny nursery built into the north corner, since he set the studio up with A-Yi’s needs in mind--but Mingjue feels different here, more sure of himself, and aware of his own thoughts and hopes as he scarcely is anywhere else. He had only to enter, and he was changed: his hands steadier, his heartbeat slower, and his mind somewhere distant and immediate all at once. It is here that he pays homage to his heart, his muse, and the dearest friend he has ever had, or ever will. It is here that he pours pieces of his love for his husband into everything he touches, and everything he makes, and emerges with pieces of polished art like testaments to the husband he vowed his life to. 

“That isn’t a metaphor,” Nie Mingjue said once, when Huaisang asked what he meant. Mingjue has carved everything from furniture to lamps into shapes reminiscent of his husband’s lips, perfected the stems of wooden sunflowers to match the sweet arch of Lan Xichen’s neck, and burnished every last one of his creations until they shone like sunlight falling on the apples of his husband’s cheeks. He etches A-Huan’s expressions into the faces of statues intended for the foyers of upscale hotels, and into a thousand quarter and sixth-scale figures commissioned by model collectors, since he rarely has any excuse to sculpt his husband directly. But today he does, so he sits down at his bench and gets to work with a block of oak and his favorite gouge and chisel.

He will love this, Nie Mingjue thinks, as two bowed heads and a pair of smiles take shape under his hands. This is the most beautiful thing I have ever made.

He glances over his shoulder at Jingyi, fast asleep in the glass-walled nursery with his feet up in the air, and turns back to the sculpture with his heart quivering in his chest.

______

The sculpture takes about a fortnight to complete, almost exactly the span of time between the day Nie Mingjue begins working on it and the holiday it was intended for. Nie Mingjue wakes up early on Father’s day, leaving Xichen asleep behind him, and bundles A-Yi out of bed and down into the studio. They wrap the sculpture up together in Jingyi’s favorite gift wrap, and then Nie Mingjue carries him to the kitchen just in time to catch his husband as he comes stumbling down the stairs.

“Good morning, love” Lan Xichen sighs, burrowing into Nie Mingjue’s arms. “What should we have for breakfast?”

“Eggs?”

For some reason, Lan Xichen shakes his head.

“Noodles, then?”

This suggestion is met by a drowsy nod, so Mingjue goes to the fridge to dig out  a few ingredients while Lan Xichen hops onto one of the bar stools with Jingyi in his lap. He chops the scallions and garlic for plain noodle soup around their son’s little body, leaving Mingjue to boil noodles in one pot and stock with soy sauce and sugar in another until three blue bowls of yang chun mian are steaming on the counter.

“Smells yummy,” Jingyi yawns, while Xichen spoons fresh green onions into his soup bowl. “Baba, feed A-Yi?”

“He’s forgotten about the presents,” Lan Xichen mouths, as Nie Mingjue tries not to snicker. They eat quickly, slurping down the noodle soup with cups of soy milk on the side, and then Jingyi scrambles to the other side of the room before running back with Mingjue’s wrapped box in his arms.

“Father’s Day gift!” he squeaks, wriggling like a happy worm as Xichen laughs and tries to remove the gift wrap without tearing it; because Jingyi never lets either of them cover gifts with anything but Pingu penguin-printed paper, and he cries if anyone rips it up in front of him.

Mingjue used the weakest tape he could find, so that Xichen could extract the box with the paper left mostly whole. He hands the paper to Jingyi, watching as his husband’s slender fingers close around the base of the sculpture, and then--

“Oh!” Lan Xichen gasps, pulling it all the way out into the light. “A-Jue, I--”

The sculpture depicts him and Jingyi at the beach near their house--in fact, at the same beach where Mingjue and Xichen first met. Mingjue was sitting on a sandy rock, catching his breath after running around behind a hyperactive Nie Huaisang all day, and then he looked out over the foggy water and saw what looked like a water spirit drifting out of the darkness in a rowboat.

He sculpted Xichen seated on that very rock, with his long hair tangling in an invisible gale, and a little heap of shells (the pearls from the old bracelet he found at the discount store) piled up in his lap. Jingyi is standing on the ground at his feet with a wave of seafoam brushing his ankles; and in his hands is a small pearly starfish, offered up to his baba as Lan Huan leans forward to cup A-Yi’s cheek in his palm. Both father and son are smiling, with heart-breaking happiness in A-Huan’s eyes, and sheer pleasure at finding the starfish in Jingyi’s.

Nie Mingjue looks up at his own flesh-and-blood husband, tearing his eyes away from the wooden figure, and finds Lan Xichen sitting there, frozen, with tears rolling down his face as he traces the tiny ridges and dimples of stone and sand and water.

“It’s beautiful,” he chokes, rounding the corner of the table to throw his arms around Nie Mingjue’s shoulders. “It’s the most precious thing you’ve ever made, sweetheart.”

“The most precious thing I helped make is over there,” Nie Mingjue teases, tilting his head at A-Yi. “But I think this one comes pretty close.”

Xichen opens his mouth, and then closes it again; but Jingyi interrupts before he can say anything else, impatient to present his diedie’s gift from his baba.

“Now this one!” he shouts, diving into Xichen’s pocket for a small present in a wooden box, labeled with Jingyi’s name just like Nie Mingjue’s gift was. He all but shoves it into Mingjue’s hands, leaping up and down on the spot while he snaps the lid open--and then he screeches with delight as Nie Mingjue goes crashing to the floor, staring at the contents of the tiny box until his eyes blur over.

He had expected some kind of memento or trinket, like he usually gives to Xichen. But the box was so light, impossibly light--and it holds a pair of hand-knitted baby socks, set neatly on top of a black and white photograph with his husband’s name printed in the upper left corner.

Nie Mingjue has already been a father, already accompanied his husband through the endless doctors’ visits and checkups that came before Jingyi was born. He saved all of Jingyi’s ultrasound pictures, even the ones where A-Yi looked like a chubby white bean on the sonogram, and he stared at every photograph for so long that reading them comes as second nature to him.

"A-Huan,” he says, after a long pause. “Please tell me I’m not dreaming this.”

“You’re not,” Lan Xichen laughs, wiping Mingjue’s face. “I had my first doctor’s visit last week when you and A-Sang took Jingyi to the park. And the clinic ran a few blood tests just in case, so I already know it’s going to be a girl.”

“And you’re okay? Both of you?”

“Very okay, darling. I haven’t even had any morning sickness yet, and the baby’s perfectly healthy.”

Nie Mingjue only cries harder, at that; but Xichen is crying too, clasped in his arms while A-Yi climbs all over them, so perhaps it doesn’t really matter.

All in all, this is the sweetest father’s day he has ever had.

[all-that-tmnt-jazz]

Valentine’s Day Challenge [14/14]

Warnings: None

Incarnation: Bayverse

Extra Info: Day 14 out of 14. None of the prompts/scenarios are related. This is the last post of my Valentine’s Day Challenge- I hope you all enjoyed it.

Posting: 3:30 PM Each Day

Prompt: Their First Valentine’s Day with Their S/O

Leo:

He had wanted to make you a gift

He didn’t want to have April/Casey/Vern get him a cheap card to give to you and call it a day

No, not this lad

He wrote out many drafts of a letter

Then drafted at least 4 sonnets

Then drafted at least 6 poems

He gave up, then trying to make an actual gift instead of something written

He tried to make a few different things

He borrowed some wood from Raph’s woodworking station to make a couple of carved trinkets

He borrowed some of Donnie’s vinyl mesh to make a messenger bag so you could carry your school books easier

He borrowed some spray paint and a small canvas from Mikey to try to make you a small portrait

All of these didn’t turn out as he planned, so he gave up on them

Valentine’s Day was creeping closer, and he had a blank slate

Nothing

No ideas

“Useless, empty brain!” he would often tell himself

“Wow, washed up. So sad,” Donnie said to him, sipping a cup of coffee

“I’ve got nothing! I’m done!” he groaned

“Hey, you got this. Shake it up, find a new angle.”

Leo chuckled dryly

“And what does that mean?”

“Look around, use anything to your advantage. I’m not giving up on you.”

With that, Donnie left Leo’s room

Leo just scoffed

“‘Use anything to your advantage,’” he imitated. “I’ve got nothing that’s inspiring…”

He looked around his room to confirm his theory

But then, something caught his eye

He saw something on the corner of his desk, and he had a thought 

He knew right then and there what to do

Then, Valentine’s Day came 

He arrived at your apartment and was quick to join you in making dinner

You had also gotten a small cake, which you two shared after dinner

You then gave him what you had gotten

You got him a bonsai sapling and a new blade sharpener- he had mentioned recently that his current one was becoming dull

He kissed you gently

He hesitated before pulling out what he had brought for you

But then, he placed his journal in front of you

“I… I know that I have trouble opening up about my emotions, but I’ve always written them down… I trust you with my heart, Y/n.”

You saw the look in his eyes

He was nervous, and you could see how much it took for him to do this

You hugged him, placing kisses all over his face

He flustered

“Thank you for trusting me.”

Raph:

This guy has everything planned out

He had never been as someone who is a romantic, but boy is he

He’s a sucker for romance 

For six months before Valentine’s Day, he found out your favorite dish

He had never told you his plan, of course

He also found a way to figure out your favorite love songs

And your favorite flowers

(Red Peruvian Lilies- image Here)

So, when he texted you to go to the roof of your apartment building, you were pretty shocked with what he pulled together

He had a speaker playing a playlist of purely love songs that he heard you say “I love this one” about

He figured out how to make your favorite dish from scratch and had it set up on a small table with two chairs

On the center of the table, he had a small bouquet of Red Peruvian Lilies

You were so flustered when you saw everything

“You really did this?”

“Well, I didn’t want to not do something,” he said a bit nervously

You couldn’t help but smile

“I cannot believe you…” you whisper

You approach him and wrap your arms around his torso

He wraps his arms around your shoulders

“I love you, Y/n.”

You just hold him a bit tighter

“I love you, too.”

Donnie:

He had every fine detail planned out

Every tiny thing that one normally wouldn’t find important

(he’s a perfectionist, cut him some slack)

He had turned your rooftop into a place that was equivalent to a movie set

He had his brothers help to install a “ceiling” and four “walls” that were painted to mimic a restaurant, but made sure there was still plenty of airflows

(it would get really warm in there if there wasn’t, despite the cold weather)

He made sure everything was perfect

He convinced Mikey to borrow a record player, then had Casey get your favorite albums

When you got home from work, you texted Donnie to let him know

He responded quickly, letting you know that he was already ready

You quickly got into a different outfit- one ready for a date

You made sure to grab the gift you had gotten him

It was a piece he absolutely needed for a gadget he had been talking non-stop about

When you got to the rooftop, you were shocked

Your jaw dropped, and you smiled

“Hey,” he said

His voice was shaking

“Hey,” you said, still looking around. “This is amazing, Donnie…”

He smiled.

“I’m glad you like it.”

“I love it, Donnie. Your mind never ceases to amaze me…”

He gently took the box from your hand and put it down, then taking your hands

You look up at him

He placed one of your hands onto his shoulder, then placed his onto your waist

You two just slow danced around the “rooftop restaurant” 

(as he called it in his mind)

“Happy Valentine’s Day, my love.”

You place your head into his plastron

“Happy Valentine’s Day.”

He kissed the top of your head, grateful to have you in his arms

Mikey:

He is the only one of his brothers who invited you to the Lair

He was able to convince Splinter to let him use the dojo

He set up several strings of multi-colored fairy lights around the dojo

He had printed out every picture you two took together and clipped them to the fairy lights

There were hundreds, so this took him several days

His brothers were almost uncomfortable with the silence in the rest of the Lair because of how much time he spent in the dojo

(Raph would actually go in there to “train.” In actuality, he just wanted to hear Mikey’s voice as he talked to himself- and occasionally to Raph)

Not only did Mikey do that, but he also spray-painted a portrait of the first picture you two took together

And he convinced April to get him a bouquet of roses to give to you

He was actually incredibly nervous before you arrived

He started pacing

He checked your location often, just to make sure you were safe as you walked over

His brothers had never seen him so high-strung

When you arrived, his eyes turned into hearts

You were wearing orange

His color

His heart would not stop pounding

When he showed you his setup, your heart swelled

And then when you saw the portrait he made, you could have married him right there

That night, his brothers had never heard him laugh so much

Neither of you could be happier.