#Ultimate Hoops Challenge

[wiiroms]

(via Basketball Hall of Fame: Ultimate Hoops Challenge)

[princess-of-the-corner]

I've been thinking about some of ML's most questionable writing choices, and from what I've kinda pieced together it seems like, at least regarding the stuff around Adrien, the writers prioritize what will make Adrien both static and happy the fastest over what makes sense for the characters to do or what actually would make the story feel the slightest bit satisfying.

((This is not me bashing Adrien as a character, but the writers for their inability to use him as an actual character and not barely more than a prop that can talk))

Like, Adrien learning that Gabriel was Hawkmoth and that he's both a Sentimonster and that his very existence was what kinda started everything from his mother's death to him becoming a superhero fighting his own father would, realistically, screw the kid up for a good long while. With very good reason, imagine getting something like that dumped on you.

But, that would make Adrien upset, it would take time to work past, and it would challenge the writers Perfect™ sunshine macguffin. Challenging characters is what causes them to go through arcs, confront their own flaws and mistakes, and ultimately change, whether for better or worse depending on the author and what story they wanna tell.

But the writers don't seem to want to change Adrien from the character they made all the way back in S1. So they never gave him an arc, and jump through hoops to ensure nothing that would truly challenge him as a character, like keeping Maribug from telling Chat Noir the truth about Hawkmoths identity for no reason, bc all of their trust issues were dealt with by that single hug at the end of S4, remember? That plot line is over, all their issues with Maribugs Atlas complex keeping her from fully trusting her partner were fixed by...losing every ally she had except the one she had specific trauma around and then getting a hug.

But hey! Fixing everything with a single hug means Adrichat can go back to being happy with his lady, and that's what matters, right?

And that's why I'm 100% positive that, if Adrien ever does discover the truth about his family in a later season, if we have most of the same writing team still, Adrien will immediately forgive everyone who hid everything from him, and probably even instantly forgive his father for *gestures at cannon* that whole situation.

Bc Adrien is Perfect™, so of course he'll brush off all of those massive violations of trust, he understands they all came from a place of love! And him brushing everything off instantly means he can instantly go back to being happily in a relationship with Ladybug, like he's wanted since Origins.

Bc that's what makes a good story, right?

I love how you said "the writers don't seem to want to change Adrien from the character they made all the way back in S1" when they very much /have/ changed Adrien from his Season 1 self, just not through character development!

Because Season 1 Adrien was rebellious as hell, disobeying Gabriel's orders and sneaking out all the time. He loved his father and wanted his love and attention, but he was also aware that things were a little fucked and he deserved better.

By Season 4-5, he's so obedient and it's not even the Amok doing it most of the time it's just Gabriel giving him A Look™ and he shuts down.

But yeah anyway!

If Adrien ever finds out in Canon? It's gonna matter for a single episode. Maybe he'll even get Akumatized about it. Assuming it doesn't get erased by Bunnyx so he doesn't know anymore, Adrien will instantly forgive everyone who lied to him and even agree that Gabriel 'was a Hero in the end' and all and be totally cool with all of this and it never comes up again.

[squadrah]

got inspired by the awesome dilf post, so please: la squadra as milfs???

I'M SOBBING, here we go I guess!! I'm dialing this one to eleven!!

Risotto: She's giant in every way so everyone else appears quite small next to her. She's usually in the kitchen or her kitchen garden, picking fruit from her trees without needing so much as a stool to reach most of them. Rumor has it she once slapped a wild bear in the face with her chancla to defend her family, and if asked about it, she will modestly look away and murmur, "Anyone else would have done the same." (The bear never came back, by the way.)

Formaggio: You can tell she used to be a hardcore punk: she still sports a buzz cut, with red lipstick and golden hoop earrings to add some bright colors. She's top heavy and proud of it, so she makes sure to show ample cleavage and likes to wear leather jackets. She loves to go out and constantly organizes outings for her friends and family; has never missed an event, and has never left an event without drinking something. A dangerous flirt.

Prosciutto: She's extremely overcommitted, and how she hasn't gone insane yet from micromanaging everything from work to her entire family's smallest concerns is a mystery. Her children are still affected by her leaning in and papping their cheeks, and the impression is even stronger on covetous strangers. Only ever lets her curly hair down for evening parties, at which point she basically transforms into into a femme fatale. Pegs like a battering ram.

Pesci: Always overcome by severe gender dysphoria whenever she compares herself to her more feminine peers, but she makes do with cute and novel ways of styling her scant hair, nice patterned tops and trouser skirts. She's often shy, but sometimes has her bold moments that suggest she could be a real firecracker if properly encouraged. Does a lot of heavy lifting that reveals ridiculous core strength and flexibility. Loves dancing and rhythm games.

Ghiaccio: The only one in yoga class who wishes you were allowed to scream out loud, and the only parent who, if their child takes up a sport, will take up that sport herself both as a form of support and as a means of bonding with her child and people her age. Is a health freak and makes kale smoothies, but since her legs look great in tight pants and her tits are rock hard, she's clearly winning. Has probably never had an orgasm, so there's a good challenge.

Melone: How is she still alive, and why does she still look like a barely aged scene girl? Nobody knows, not even her, but she's happy to lounge on her designated bean bag chair in cute pajamas and her laptop always on. Be careful around her: her brain is oversaturated with niche Wikipedia articles and she'll tell you all about them as soon as you're near enough to hear, and you might in ten minutes find yourself painting her toenails while she's reading your horoscope.

Illuso: Oh, she is the ultimate Karen. Luscious hair styles, immaculate manicures, the latest mom fashions, and a holier-than-thou smirk that instantly makes the manager homicidal. Knows her coupons and discounts more than the Bible but she's dressed to the nines every Sunday flashing that mass stipend to let everyone know she's more generous of heart than they could ever be, then whines at the barista about her order. Teases her children mercilessly.

Sorbet: That one esoteric plant witch who loves her orchids more than her own children, and would become a certified hermit if she could. Since she's stuck with her family, however, she stalks around her home like she's embodying Morticia Addams, and talks to everyone in a dry and ominous tone. Watches too many murder mysteries and cooks mushroom stew right after. You are welcome to indulge her obscure opera obsession, but watch out.

Gelato: The whimsical happy-go lucky mom that every fanciful child dreams of, the type who builds blanket forts in the living room, thinks that everyone deserves a little treat always, and actively assists whenever anyone around her wants to try something new and possibly dangerous. Has nearly burned down her house a dozen times but she keeps toasting marshmallows in bed with a blowtorch. Hope you have insurance if you decide to engage.

[ser-zoras]

Making this one (1) post so I don’t piss people off. So here’s me writing ASOIAF characters into a bunch of Really Stupid Movies that I like because it’s fun. MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL - Oddly this one is tricky. I think the narrative itself probably best fits Dunk and Egg, but I haven’t gotten to read that yet. So obviously Arthur is Robert Baratheon. Barristan Selmy is Lancelot, and I think Bedivere should be Jon Arryn for no real reason other than that it’s funny. Jaime is Galahad because in a theoretical sense they’re both formidable but in a more practical sense, very useless. I don’t know any other edits I would need to make according to this but replacing the rabbit with like. The Hound’s horse. That would be fantastic. And the Black Knight is the Smiling Knight, just because.

BLADES OF GLORY - ok credit to @jackedup180 on this one and also as inspiration for the whole post. So Sansa and Dany get kicked out of international figure skating singles due to getting into a fistfight on the podium and are forced to team up in the doubles division to skate again. This means challenging the throne of the reigning international champs, Cersei and Jaime, who are not fucking but have just as much creepy sexual tension. I’m not kidding this is the actual plot of the movie. Instead of Jenna Fischer’s character, I want Tyrion to be an accountant with zero sexual tension with either of the girls and who Jaime keeps convincing to spy on other teams. TALLEDEGA NIGHTS - Ultimate Jaimecore. So Jaime is a NASCAR driver who gets dragged into a competition with a younger, gayer driver (Loras) and ends up getting horribly injured and can no longer drive. For some godforsaken reason he was still living with Cersei and her kids and she kicks him and all the kids except Joffrey out of the house and hooks up with either one of the Kettleblack brothers or Taena. Jaime and co have to move in with Genna, who sets about whipping the kids into shape, and Jaime has to learn to drive again, from like Arthur Dayne or somebody. He eventually befriends Loras but decides to race him again anyway.

ANCHORMAN - I’m sure people think I’m lying when I say this, but this is just if JB were local news co-anchors in the 70s. There’s even a scene where they end up in a pit with a bear!

BAD MOMS - Yet another difficult one. Our charming, recently divorced heroine could be Cat if we’re doing exclusively the main series but I think drawing from all eras of Westeros is funnier, so it’s Rhaenyra, with Rhaena and Daella as her backup, taking on Alicent, the head of the local PTA, who is allied with Cersei and Alysanne.

ONE CRAZY SUMMER - Okay I am just saying that Jon and his Nights Watch boys take on the roles of Hoops and company. Sam is the character with the father who teaches children how to set off grenades. Grenn and Pyp are the twins, and Tormund is the kid whose place they’re staying at. Val or Ygritte is Demi Moore’s character. The real estate company they’re fighting is just the fucking Others.

[zestykim]

DAY 8 - The Meddlers - If they aren't actively ruining the main hero's plan then they're ruining the killer's plan, all in the name of fun.

Miko, Kory and Samir have been bestfriends since freshmen year, getting into all kinds of trouble together, like the one time they set the fire alarm off, by setting the staff bathroom on fire. (ahhh good times) "困った (Komatta)" is their group name and Miko is the self-appointed group leader. They are daredevils and aren't afraid of causing mayhem nor getting caught. Down in the school's basement is where their hangout spot is, with a mini fridge fully stocked with beer, knowing damn well none of them are legal enough to drink. Kory and Samir have an on going rivalry on who can win Miko's heart. Miko knows this, so she takes advantage of it, making them do unhinged things just so she can get a good laugh out of it.

News of a serial killer excited the group, 困った (Komatta) knew they had a new goal. KILL THE KILLER! An ambitious goal honestly speaking, but Miko was sure that three against one would be an easy matchup. Kory and Samir now competed against eachother to see who could kill the killer first. Their plan was simple; lure the killer into the school, block off all the exits ultimately trapping him, sneak up on him and kill him with knives or die trying. (Hey atleast they'll have fun doing it)

DAY 7← →DAY 9

(individual bios below the cut)

Miko - The Leader:

Miko (1/3) originally from Japan, was a menace at her old school in Japan. The one time she made cookies laced with laxatives, and sold it to all her classmates. Let's just say they had a pretty sh*tty day. Her strict parents had enough of her antics and sent her to boarding school in the States. Little did they know, this would just give her even more freedom to cause chaos at her new school. She met Kory and Samir in detention, after she was caught graffiting the girls bathroom. The boys had never met somebody like her, someone who was just as delinquent as they were. The three immediately hit it off. It was good she made friends so quickly as those three would be spending many more detentions together.

Kory - The Brawns:

Kory (2/3) , was practically raised by his cousins since his parents were too busy. A lack of parental guidance allowed for Kory to show his rebellious side and would make some big mistakes like; almost impregnating a girl, and sneaking out late at night with his cousins to go drinking. At school it was no different, on his first day he bunked school and went to the arcade to play "Hoop Master" which he had the highscore in. It was at the arcade where he met Samir who just like him was bunking his first day as well! The two challenged eachother trying to beat eachother's scores at every arcade game. This was the begining of an honest bromance, they told eachother everything and would even create a hangout spot in the basement of the school. When they met Miko in detention, they both thought "Damn, she fine as hell.", and then tried to see who could win her over first.

Samir - The Brains:

Samir (3/3) the only child to some very religious parents. He doesn't want to conform to a belief, as he believes it's just a waste of time and causes one to live a boring life. He believed more in science because he was naturally good at it. Sometimes he wishes his father didn't convert to get married to his mother, because then he wouldn't have to live under the iron fist that is his parents' beliefs. Samir still tried his best to rebel, but obviously not at home. Never home. He would often bunk school and it was no different for his first day of high school. He rather went to the arcade where he met Kory. Kory was like a breath of fresh air to be around, Kory introduced him to the many joys of life. (that being girls, alcohol and just yolo'ing life) Samir had his first beer, thanks to Kory. After just a few weeks, Kory became the brother Samir never had. At first Samir felt that Miko's arrival was a threat to their bromance. It took some convincing from Kory for him to begin to trust Miko but ever since then "困った (Komatta)" has been going strong.

[melmellisuk]

Introducing Mel Mellis Jewellery, your ultimate destination for affordable solid gold jewellery. With our commitment to quality and affordability, we bring you a stunning collection of solid gold pieces that effortlessly fuse style and value. Whether you're looking for a dainty necklace, hoop earrings, or a timeless bracelet, our brand offers the perfect balance between luxury and affordability.

Why choose Mel Mellis for your solid gold jewellery needs? Firstly, our collection is meticulously crafted using only the finest materials, ensuring the longevity and durability of each piece. You can rest assured that your jewellery will withstand the test of time, retaining its charm and beauty for years to come.

Secondly, we understand that finding affordable solid gold jewellery can be challenging. That's why Mel Mellis is committed to offering competitive prices without compromising on quality. By working directly with trusted artisans and removing unnecessary markups, we are able to bring you stunning solid gold jewellery at prices you won't find elsewhere.

Moreover, Mel Mellis takes pride in our timeless designs that cater to all tastes and styles. From classic and minimalist to bold and contemporary, our collection features a diverse range of styles to match every individual preference. Whether you prefer a delicate piece for everyday wear or a statement item for special occasions, we have something to suit your needs.

Not only do we offer affordability, quality, and style, but we also strive to provide exceptional customer service. Our knowledgeable and friendly team is here to assist you throughout your shopping experience, ensuring that all your questions are answered and your needs are met.

Experience the joy of owning affordable solid gold jewellery without compromising on quality. Discover the exquisite collection offered by Mel Mellis and adorn yourself with timeless elegance. Shop with confidence, knowing that you are investing in affordable luxury that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Visit our website today to explore our exclusive collection of affordable solid gold jewellery and find your perfect piece.

[whiskeyswifty]

Adele being in the top 3 most successful female artists got me thinking about how insane her success is when taking into account how little people care about her as a Celebrity and how comparatively little she appears to be in the public eye. It feels very "organic" in that way, which is not to say that she is a better artist than Taylor or that Taylor's success is manufactured, but Taylor is actively hustling for those numbers. Which is core Taylor Swift modus operandi and her work ethic and business mind is awe-inspiring. I just sometimes feel like Swifties act like everybody wants to be as successful as Taylor but only she is able to achieve that, which... doesn't feel true? Obviously she is a once in a generation talent, but idk if every artist is automatically envious of her level of success, if that makes sense. But maybe that is also me projecting my anti-grindset on other artists lmao

haha i'm also exhausted by her grind, don't worry. i know i sound like a broken record, and a coward maybe, but i think even throwing adele in there, the three of them are incomparable. I totally get the urge to compare them 1:1:1 but it's nearly impossible to do so fairly. you say taylor is a once in a generation talent.... and she is.... but so is beyonce... so is adele. the key thing is each of them have talents the others don't have. I guess bey and adele are the most comparable because they have exquisite voices, but also very different voices even within that parameter. i'm not a vocalist so i can't give you an expert breakdown of all the technical terms for what make them unique and yet still exceptional in their uniqueness, but even i can hear it as a layman. I've seen Adele in concert too and it's mind blowing just to hear her booming voice reverberate through an arena. but yeah, i can see how her success may look like it just "happened" to her while taylor had to claw her way. idk if that's the reality though!

Taylor has a once in a generation songwriting skill maybe.... idk if i feel comfortable even saying that. There are songwriters out here that blow me away all the time and for me, taylor's lyrical hit ratio is not high enough to say she's the ultimate and nobody can compare. i think it's tricky to talk about what her talent is exactly, compared to how easy it is to talk about the other two women, because it's a combination of not easily meritocratic things. bringing up her work ethic and business acumen is a huge component i think. Songwriting alone doesn't make her a once in a generation talent, which she's in the top echelon for absolutely but has many peers at the top, no matter who you ask. In my opinion, her "talent" is the combination of her ear for melody and pen for lyrical deftness that is also achingly sincere, a charisma that is utterly charming in irresistible to most, her acute understanding of how to market herself and her personality, her strategic approach to nearly everything to maximize profit and all the hoops one must jump through to achieve that (maintaining relevance, operating in multiple sectors, etc), and her burning desire to prove.... something idk what but it fuels her to keep pushing herself and challenging herself. i totally agree it's not manufactured, thats not the right way to put it. but it IS a hustle and by that i mean it's hard work! she puts in an INSANE amount of work to get where she is today, every single day i'm sure. and her team is incredibly small for someone at this level, which means she and her family shoulder even MORE of the work than a typical popstar would. i think what makes her once in a generation is that she possesses all of these traits at the same time, at a young age as well giving her acres of a head start, making for a deadly combination that has kept her a permanent fixture in the pop music world, and at this current time, the main fixture of the pop music world.

so in that way i'm not sure other pop stars want to be on that particular grind as hard and as constant as taylor is. it's admirable absolutely! and many of them sing her praises for how hard she works. but yeah, id say most singers know what it takes to have what taylor has, and they don't want to sacrifice certain things to get it (down time with their family/kids, work/life balance, constantly being on trial in the court of public opnion etc). i'd venture to agree that most singer/songwriters just love the creative expression and have no desire for giant lumps of money or smothering fame. that's also not to say that even if they hit the grind as hard as her, that they could achieve what she has. again, she has that deadly combo that makes her uniquely apt.

but i'd say one correction to the notion that "taylor is the hardest working person in music" and that's that many artists do work just as hard as her, just in other ways. what taylor does is not the only way to be a musician and her success is not the only kind of success that matters to an artist. since she's already in the mix, particularly Beyoncé. she works just as hard if not harder in certain areas, depending on what they're both working on. bey is equally as in control of her creative vision as taylor is, and there are hundreds of accounts for both women that can attest to their work ethic. They're both the hardest working women in music, in their respective ways. You may hear taylor brag about it more maybe, or show off more of her work ethic i guess, but i think you also may not be paying enough attention to beyonce who has countless docs and behind the scenes pieces that show how she is in total control. the shitty anon who brought up beychella ironically brought up a great example of that in action. the interludes show months of preparation, rehearsal, reworking choreography and the logistics of the stage. all for just two weekends of performance. all the ways beyonce crafted that performance to be exactly what she wanted, convey exactly what she wanted to say, and was fine tuning it down to the last second. Taylor has the chronic Good Student desire to show her work, which is relatable, and also her process is fascinating to watch! but other artists not exactly willing to show their work doesn't mean work isn't being done of the same caliber and effort. idk it just really is a thorn in my side when people say taylor works hard and other artists don't work as hard as her (which is not really what you're saying, i'm just bitching in general). I'm sure there are other artists who also work incredibly hard to achieve their versions of success that i'm not aware of, Adele for one i'm sure, I just don't know much about her processes. Just because they aren't working as visibly or working on the same pieces of their career as taylor is doesn't mean they're not working hard in other areas! areas you might not be privy to or aware of or know how hard it is to pull off so it might look like they're not working as hard. but they most certainly are and imo it's an inaccurate thing to say so generally, that taylor's success is cuz she works hard and everyone else doesn't lol.

one final little general tidbit i can't resist adding; as someone adjacent to her world and in the visual media world myself, just know that if it looks seamless or like it just came together organically... that doesn't mean that it did. it's actually much harder to achieve the illusion that something just happened, fully formed, organically like that. it incredibly tricky to pull that off and fully immerse you in it to the point that you don't notice the wires and the seams and the brush strokes holding it all together. it takes incredible skill and that just means those artists are VERY very good at their jobs and they actually had to work even HARDER to make it look that way.

[miazims]

Here is the 27th prompt of @hauntedtrait's "Fangs 31 day challenge" It's emotions and I decided to do two sims one for happiness and one for sadness.

CC links under the cut.

Happiness:

Highlights: The Sims Resource - #MaxisMatch Highlighter| N1

Hair: zell hair; | Patreon

Sunflowers: The Sims Resource - Sunflower Headband

Earrings: The Sims Resource - Retro ReBOOT - 60's Hoops Earrings

Necklace: TEARDROP NECKLACE | CandySims

Eyeshadow: The Sims Resource - Tenshi Eyeshadow

Eyeliner: The Sims Resource - Eyeliner N26

Flower cheeks: Crossings Face set | Patreon

Lipstick: The Sims Resource - Endocrine Lipstick

Top: MAGNOLIA V2; cropped eyelet top | Patreon

Skirt: Rings Set | Patreon

Ring: The Sims Resource - Alba Ring

Rings: The Sims Resource - Lovely Rings v2 (right)

Nails: The Sims Resource - Trixie Nails

Sandals: *Download* Vacation Collection 04 | Patreon

Sadness:

Hair: nyx V1 & V2 hairs | Patreon

Earrings: The Sims Resource - Zaire earrings

Necklace: Wanderlust Set (11 items) | Patreon

Eyeshadow: The Sims Resource - Black Veil Eyeshadow

Eyeliner: The Sims Resource - Eyeliner N16

Glitter: The Sims Resource - Glitter Blush N28

Lipstick: shego lipstick. | Patreon

Dress: The Sims Resource - Female Clothing

Bracelet: ARM + HAND JEWELLERY Ultimate Collection | Patreon

Bodysuit: Dentelle Bodysuit | renorasims

Rings: The Sims Resource - Ventris rings

Nails: The Sims Resource - Round Nails

[max--phillips]

https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/hallielieberman/grow-your-clit-reddit-clitoral-enlargement-surgery hope this doesn’t seem weird but i’d love to hear your thoughts on this article given all your posts about gender and stuff! a lot of the comments bring up the fact trans folks have to wait forever before being approved for surgeries and these cis women are able to just get them done. hope you don’t mind, i want to talk about this but i have no friends 🥲

Not weird at all !! I’m happy to talk about this stuff :0

So I don’t think there’s a black and white answer to this. Ultimately, I think it’s very very cool that people are taking control of their own sexual pleasure and desires and doing what they want to do to make them happier. I think it’s even cooler that it’s something that is perhaps a little challenging to social norms—there’s some stigma attached to larger clits, whether that’s because the person it’s attached to is likely trans, or because they’re intersex (or both!), or some other situation. It’s not really mainstream for women to have much like… mass down there, if that makes sense.

I agree that it’s frustrating, as with many other gender affirming treatments that both trans and cis people can get (breast augmentation/mastectomies, hrt, other cosmetic surgeries, etc), that cis people can just get it done & trans people have to jump through hoops. That said, as someone who follows both r/BigClit and r/GrowYourClit, a lot of these women are going about getting the non-surgical treatments through… perhaps not the safest channels. They’re buying T from online international pharmacies and they’re not having any sort of medical professional keep an eye on their blood work or anything. This is also something trans people could do if they wish, granted there is plenty of risk involved.

At the end of the day I just wish everyone had complete autonomy over their own body. I’m of the mindset that you should be able to do whatever you want to your body, especially if it’s going to make you happier in the long run. That goes for anyone of any gender, cis or trans, binary or no. Go nuts. Get nuts. Whatever. So yes, it’s frustrating that the medical establishment is gatekeeping these surgeries and treatments for trans people. But, at the same time, I’m not going to get angry at these women for seeking something out that’s going to make them happy or more comfortable in their own skin or have better sex. (And like, speaking from experience, I’ve had. Not insignificant bottom growth since I’ve started T (almost a year ago ??????? Holy shit) and they’re definitely on to something!!!!!!!! You couldn’t pay me to go back to where I was at before this!!!)

[minutia-r]

Nor: 🍰

Denetha: 🍋

Brink: 🍾

Viv: 🍟

Squeaker: 🍕

Goilin: 🍩

Nitry: 🍪

For the ask list!

🍰: What's something your OC counts as unforgivable?

I don't know if there's anything Nor counts as unforgivable? What matters isn't how bad the thing you've done, but have you put in the work to fix it and yourself to the extent you can. I mean, this is a setting where people are murdering their own children and then turning their lives around and becoming avatars of the goddess of love or whatever, so, you know.

🍋: What is your OC's most painful memory?

I'm gonna say the time she lost her mentor and almost drowned. Both emotionally painful and physically really scary.

🍾: Does your OC believe in luck? If so, do they have any charm or ritual they do before a stressful event?

I was going to say no, Brink believes that you make your own luck. But while that's kind of true, he's also aware that there have been and still are plenty of people in the same circumstances he was in, and just as stubborn and determined, who did not manage to escape them. So, ultimately, yes, he would have to give some credit to luck. He doesn't really have like charms or rituals that I know of yet, though.

🍟: What does your OC admit to be their guilty pleasure? What actually is their guilty pleasure?

I don't know that Viv feels all that guilty about his pleasures. I guess sometimes when they "borrow" stuff with the intent to take it apart and see how it works and then put it back together and return it with no harm done, but then it doesn't quite work out that way, they feel kind of bad about that. But it usually works out! And it's definitely going to work out this time! So it's fine.

🍕: How does an OC spend a lazy day?

Probably like, doing stupid physical challenges, like trying to beat her best time hula hooping on a trampoline or whatever.

🍩: What's a crime your OC is most likely to commit? What's a crime they're most likely to get arrested for?

Goilin has gotten into plenty of bar fights and such, but usually in places where the cops don't come. If she gets arrested it's probably going to be for like, mutiny or high treason. Go big or go home.

🍪: What is something that's sentimental to your OC?

Sentimentality is stupid and for losers. It's not like she always wears a necklace made out of a portion of one of her friends' shed carapaces or anything.

[albertfinch]

EATING FROM THE TREE OF LIFE

If we limit God by what we see in the natural, we can easily become double-minded concerning our future and God's promises. James 1:8 speaks about those who are double-minded as being "uncertain" (unstable) in all their ways. When we are unstable and not completely focused on God's Word, we can fall or stumble along the way. With today's challenges, we must have supernatural vision to remain in a position of faith and breakthrough.

 We must eat only from the Tree of Life. If we eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, we will become double-minded and stumble.

 Paul warns as he wrote to the Galatians in Galatians 3 -- they had been "bewitched" and were reverting back to religious performance and legalism rather than being led by the Spirit.

 A works mentality believes that we have to twist God's arm or beg Him to heal us or bless us. No! This is completely opposite of eating from the Tree of Life! The Tree of Life offers complete freedom in Christ.

Our walk with Him is meant to be on the Freedom Road and not the Guilt-Shame path. Guilt and shame will rob us of our freedom in Christ, and the thief is ever ready to lead us in that direction.

THE THIEF TODAY

John 10:10 (NIV)  - "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

John 10:10 gives us a current perspective for a supernatural shift out of a performance mentality and legalistic thinking.

The thief in the garden is the same as the thief that we battle today. When we are engaging in legalism we are referring to believing that we are righteous because of what we do rather than focusing on what Christ accomplished at the Cross.

We know, as Christians, that Jesus Christ became the ultimate sacrifice for our sins -- being the Lamb of God crucified. And yet, somehow, we have been deceived into believing that His sacrifice was not enough to make us righteous – as if we have to jump through hoops to keep our salvation which has already been bought through the shed Blood of Christ. (This is where the thief comes into play.)

JESUS IS THE DOOR

If we back up a bit and look at the entire passage (John 10:7-11) leading to what Jesus is explaining, He is referring to Himself as being the Door – the only Door that gives life.

We want to eat from the Tree of Life today, but there is a thief who wants us to eat from the wrong tree!  The enemy attempts to seduce us in our thinking.

The antichrist spirit began its evil deeds in the Garden of Eden – it did not wait until the very end of times to appear! This spirit is targeting our minds today in many ways and robbing us (he is a thief!) of our dreams and abundance of life! How? By seducing us into believing that our own works, deeds, religious doctrines, or religious performance is our door to salvation and freedom.

There is nothing that we can do to get God to love us more than He already does.

Performance that is driven by our need to feel more holy, loved, or accepted is constituted as a works mentality or dead works. And, if we believe that we must perform in that fashion (religious works), we are eating from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.

TWO TREES IN THE GARDEN

We can elevate works or believing something opposite to what God says about us and it becomes idolatry and is tied to an Antichrist spirit.

Why?

Because we are coming into agreement with what the enemy says (i.e. "I'm not good enough"; "I'm not praying enough"; etc.) instead of what God says about our being completely righteous because of the finished work on the Cross and His shed Blood.

If we understand that, as a Believer, we are already righteous – no matter what your past sins were – you can also rest assured that you are completely forgiven and that we now have access to our royal lineage and God's PURPOSE for our life (our CALLING  in Christ).

Believing these things (concerning our righteousness in Christ) is part of eating of the Tree of Life!

We know we are secure in His righteousness because of Christ's finished work. We already have an inheritance because of that – we just walk in it!

HE IS THE CENTER OF LIFE

The enemy loves to provoke us with thoughts and deeds of self-righteousness, religious acts, self-imposed doctrines, and endless self-introspection. After Adam and Eve ate of its fruit, their first response was self-introspection. Their nakedness was not realized until after eating from the wrong tree.

For us, shame still clothes us when we eat from the lies of the enemy – the thief to whom Jesus refers – as he attempts to seduce us to believe that we have something to do with our righteousness. Again, entering into fullness of life by any other door is entering into a life robbed of its fullness.

We are under the New Covenant due to the Jesus' finished work at the Cross, but if we read the New Testament with an Old Covenant heart, it will also become law to us.

In other words, we will just have more dead religion with righteousness that is completely based on more written commandments instead of experiencing the fullness of life due to a living relationship with God. He must become the center – and He is the center due to His becoming the ultimate sacrifice, the Lamb that was slain.

Once we realize the price for sin was paid at the Cross, we can have confidence that when any death structure – sickness, disease, poverty, lack, etc – attempts to steal from us or rob us of our inheritance, the death structure (any evil assignment against us) has to recognize that there is power in the Blood of Jesus to protect you, provide for you, heal you, and deliver you. And, it's not just an inheritance for you – but also your family!

When we celebrate communion, it is an ongoing occasion to remind ourselves of what we have received and continue to receive through the body and shed Blood of the Lamb.

Aren't you thankful today for the obedience of Christ?

ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

[nothingtowear05]

Sweatshirt: Stine Goya Adrisa Cotton Hoodie ($190.00) | Skirt: Aya Muse Opal Pleated Cady Mini Skirt ($580.00) | Sneakers: Chanel TENNIS (1 300 €) | Socks: 靴下屋 リボン付き風ドットスニーカー用ソックス (¥385) | Handbag: Chanel POCHETTE AVEC CHAÎNE (4 700 €) | Earring: Reggie Lenny Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings ($70) | Cap: Ganni Software Cotton Baseball Cap ($105.00)

This week's outfit is inspired by Disney's All-Star Sports Resort, which has a tennis-themed area. As tennis is the only sport I follow, I decided to create a tennis-inspired outfit.

To start, I chose a classic pleated skirt, which is a staple in any tennis outfit. Finding a suitable top was a bit challenging, as I don't have many casual athletic-looking tops in my virtual closet. I ultimately decided on a purple hoodie, which athletes often wear to keep their muscles warm. It pairs well with the white pleated skirt and completes the athletic look.

Of course, no athletic outfit is complete without a pair of sneakers. Although I lacked athletic sneakers, I found a pair of Chanel sneakers that looked similar to what I was going for. I added a pair of cute socks that match the hoodie and the cap, which tennis players wear to protect their eyes from the sun.

The handbag I chose was perfect for the tennis theme I'm going for. It's from Chanel's latest Resort collection and adds a touch of style to the outfit. Finally, I added a pair of earrings for a little bit of sparkle. Although most athletes don't wear jewelry for security reasons, tennis players often wear earrings and necklaces.

Overall, I'm really happy with how this outfit turned out. It's a great way to show your love for tennis while still looking stylish and put together.

[misterjt]

An Accounting of 2022

family ties

I got invited to no funerals this year. Those nearest and dearest to me were healthy. In a year packed with tragic deaths in the news, it feels important to acknowledge that the grim reaper did not come this way.��

My family, in general, had a stellar year. Team Toney remains booked and busy. My mom has opted to shift her career away from touring and more events closer to home and US-bound. 

Dom's dog, Duke, has become our regular houseguest, and we love it. He seems to love it, too. Has his visiting scratched the itch for us wanting our own pet or just enhanced that desire? 2023 will tell.

I worried about my grandmother's arthritis, for which her complaints (and concerning mishaps) increased over the year, but she is otherwise doing fine. And continues to defend herself against giving up her independence despite the desires of her children.

Get Sun

This year, travel was increasingly back on the table with work trips to Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, and New York. Not quite back to my old and desired schedule of about once a month, but once a quarter—with colleagues also coming to LA several times—is a move in the right direction.

We also went to Greensboro, Minneapolis, Chicago, and San Luis Obispo, but more later.

Beyond that, though, I got out of the house! I saw live music for the first time in two years, with the Smoking Grooves festival on my birthday and a Hollywood Bowl show featuring Flying Lotus, Hiatus Kaiyote, and Miguel Atwood-Ferguson. We will close out the year with The Roots at Disney Concert Hall.

Friends came to town to visit. There was lunch and brunch and birthday get-togethers. I was back to doing many things I did before the pandemic began. I even went to relatively packed movie houses (though I'm much more of a matinee person now than before). 

We outside! 

ENERGY

Included in being outside was being inside for basketball. If meaningful women's basketball was being played, you could make a pretty good bet in 2022 that we were there. Those trips to Greensboro and Minneapolis were for the NCAA Women's basketball tournament regionals and Final Four -- the first I have ever attended. It was an outstanding experience that I'm confident we will do when the locations and timing allow it.

We upgraded to courtside seats for the Los Angeles Sparks in 2022. Unexpectedly, that meant sitting a couple seats down from Leslie Jones. Jones is a brand new Sparks fan who was encouraged to attend by the ultimately short-tenured Liz Cambage. The comedian also became our basketball friend throughout the season. I sat next to Tacko Fall, Carmelo Anthony, Cedric Ceballos, and a WNBA player agent. We got thanked by Kenan Thompson for giving up our seats so that he and his little girls could sit next to Ms. Jones the day before he got his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Sparks had a dreadful season, but the upgrade was a delightful splurge that was well worth the cost.

We also made our way to Chicago for the WNBA All-Star game. It was the first time we'd gone to All-Star where the location was more of an attraction than the festivities. The game was tremendous, and WinTrust is an excellent arena but our touristy Saturday away from all that was outstanding.

Over Thanksgiving break, we made an impromptu trip up the coast to watch the Gamecocks play Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. Despite all this travel, neither of us attended the University of South Carolina. Such is the pull of Dawn Staley and the program she's built.

It also reflects the importance of basketball—women's basketball, particularly—as a joy maker in our lives. Good things happen when we say yes to hoops.

BREAK MY SOUL

It feels weird to say it was a challenging year at work because so much of it was about progress and growth, but it was. I went through a couple months where Beyoncé's lead single from Renaissance was the mantra for the day. I felt him when Russell Westbrook came into a press conference early in the season like this. 

Part of what made the back half of the year hard was that I got promoted to VP in March. Title changes don't always mean new responsibilities and expectations, but, in this case, and at this Company, it very much did. At this point in my career, figuring out what it means and how to pivot is on my shoulders. No guidebook was coming. So I was uncomfortable, frustrated, and unsure for six months.

I still have those moments now but far less frequently. Something clicked in October. I shifted my approach, allowing me to find the path. I ended the year far more confident about where to go next than those days in August and September humming about people working my nerves.

I'm very proud of the work we accomplished this year and the value it provides. It's corny to say so, but I like what I do, who I do it with, and what we do it for. I have a very sober view of corporate work and the entertainment business, but I like this shit. Even when it's hard. It could be, especially when it's been hard, and I can see the fruits and growth of doing the hard things. 

About Damn Time

I quit Twitter. It's been nearly two months, and my brain is recalibrating. I'm a person who has focus. I no longer feel that twitch to scroll aimlessly. I have much more time than I thought I did. There's time for french lessons, letter writing, reading, walks, meditation, and planning.

There's also time for doing nothing. Like, for real, idle brain nothing.

Since probably 2017, I have felt the nudge to get off the bird app, but I was addicted to the dopamine rush. Musk buying the joint and following through on his trollish personality to make terrible choices was the push out the door I needed. 

I'm no longer seeking a replacement for the Twitter experience. I don't need it, and it's about damn time I realized that.

Thanks, 2022! It's been real! On to the next!

[mysteamgreenoc]

Leap Into Adventure at Big Air Trampoline Park in Buena Park, CA

For families and thrill-seekers craving a high-energy day out, Big Air Trampoline Park in Buena Park is the ultimate destination. This vibrant indoor park offers an array of exhilarating activities, from wall-to-wall trampolines to adrenaline-pumping obstacle courses. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking to burn off some energy, Big Air provides a unique experience packed with excitement and unforgettable memories in Buena Park, CA.

A Jumping Paradise for Everyone

Big Air Trampoline Park offers much more than just standard trampolines. The expansive main jumping area lets visitors bounce, flip, and fly through the air with total freedom. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Specialty zones add an extra layer of excitement, like the dodgeball arena where players can test their skills in a dynamic, bouncy game, or the slam dunk courts that make soaring above the hoop a reality. With designated areas catering to different energy levels, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, from casual jumpers to ambitious athletes.

Thrilling Challenges and Adventure Zones

Beyond the trampolines, Big Air is home to a variety of adventure zones designed to push limits and spark friendly competition. The obstacle courses, inspired by ninja-style challenges, invite participants to test their strength, agility, and balance as they climb, swing, and conquer each stage. For those seeking an extra rush, the launch pads provide a chance to leap to new heights, while foam pits offer a soft landing for flips and daring dives. These features transform the park into a playground for both kids and adults, ensuring non-stop fun and adventure.

Tailored Fun for Young Jumpers

Big Air also caters to its youngest guests with a special area designed just for toddlers. In this safe and supervised zone, little ones can bounce on mini trampolines and explore soft play features tailored to their size and abilities. Parents can watch with peace of mind as their children explore and enjoy age-appropriate activities. This thoughtful addition makes Big Air an excellent choice for families with children of all ages, ensuring no one is left out of the fun.

Non-Stop Action in Buena Park, CA

Big Air Trampoline Park combines the thrill of jumping, climbing, and exploring into one incredible venue. With a wide variety of zones and challenges, the park offers endless opportunities for laughter and excitement. Whether you’re tackling an obstacle course, perfecting your slam dunk, or simply enjoying quality time with family, Big Air in Buena Park, CA, delivers an experience that’s as action-packed as it is memorable. Get ready to jump, soar, and play your way through an unforgettable day of fun.

[skyzonesandiego]

Exploring Adventure Park in San Diego - A Trampoline Paradise

If you’re looking for an exhilarating way to spend your day in San Diego, look no further than Adventure Park, a trampoline park that promises fun for all ages. Nestled in the heart of the city, Adventure Park offers an exciting escape filled with bouncing, flipping, and soaring through the air. It’s the perfect destination for families, friends, or anyone looking to break a sweat while having a blast.

The Ultimate Trampoline Experience

Adventure Park San Diego is renowned for its vast array of trampoline attractions. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by an impressive layout that includes wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts. Whether you’re a seasoned jumper or trying it for the first time, there’s something for everyone.

One of the standout features is the open jump area, where you can bounce freely and unleash your inner child. The trampolines are designed for safety and fun, making it easy to perform flips and tricks without fear. For those who are more competitive, the dodgeball courts offer an exciting way to engage in friendly rivalry while getting in some exercise.

Unique Attractions

Beyond traditional jumping, Adventure Park in San Diego also offers unique attractions that elevate your experience. Try out the slam dunk area, where you can jump high and shoot hoops like a pro. It’s an exhilarating way to combine fitness with play.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the foam pit is a must-try. It provides a soft landing for your most ambitious flips and dives, allowing you to experiment with your aerial skills safely. Whether you’re a novice or a trampoline expert, the foam pit is a great place to challenge yourself.

Safety First

While Adventure Park is all about fun, safety is their top priority. The facility adheres to stringent safety protocols to ensure a secure environment for all jumpers. Staff members are always on hand to assist and supervise, providing guidance on proper jumping techniques and ensuring that everyone follows the park’s safety rules. So you can focus on enjoying your time without any worries.

Events and Parties

Adventure Park San Diego isn’t just a place for casual visits; it’s also a fantastic venue for events and parties. They offer customizable party packages that include everything from private jump time to food and drinks. Whether it’s a birthday party, team-building event, or just a gathering of friends, hosting at Adventure Park guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re planning a visit to Adventure Park San Diego, here are some tips to enhance your experience:

Book in Advance: To avoid long wait times, especially on weekends, consider booking your tickets online in advance. This way, you can secure your spot and focus on having fun.

Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable athletic wear and grip socks to ensure a good grip on the trampolines. If you don’t have grip socks, they are available for purchase at the park.

Stay Hydrated: Jumping can be a workout, so make sure to drink plenty of water before and after your session to stay hydrated.

Join the Fun Events: Keep an eye out for special events and themed nights. These can offer a unique twist to your visit and provide a different atmosphere.

Nearby Trampoline Places

If you’re looking for Trampoline Places near me  then there are several other trampoline parks in the San Diego area. One popular option is Sky Zone, which features similar attractions and a vibrant community of jumpers. Located in Miramar, it’s another great spot for those who want to experience the joy of bouncing.

Sky Zone offers various activities, including fitness classes, open jump sessions, and special events. Their engaging atmosphere makes it a fantastic complement to your visit to Adventure Park.

Adventure Park San Diego is more than just a trampoline park; it’s a place where fun, fitness, and friendship collide. With its extensive range of attractions and a focus on safety, it’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy an active day out. So gather your friends and family, put on those grip socks, and get ready for an unforgettable experience bouncing at Adventure Park!  

[sp3aking-now]

Haters Gonna Hate, But Should They?

Prompt: Erika Ramirez’s article highlights Earl Sweatshirt’s criticism of the “Shake It Off” music video as being inherently offensive and harmful. Reflect on how cultural appropriation is portrayed in this video (is cultural appropriation portrayed in this video?). How does this critique align with or challenge your understanding of cultural appropriation in the music industry? How should artists navigate the fine line between cultural appreciation and appropriation?

I love Taylor Swift. I am a self-proclaimed Swiftie. Still, she is undeniably a white woman. There is nothing inherently wrong with this, but in the case of the "Shake It Off" music video her lack of sensitivity is problematic to say the least.

Earl Sweatshirt calls Swift's 2014 video "inherently offensive and ultimately harmful," pointing to Swift's reliance on Black stereotypes to provide entertainment. In the above photo, Swift dons short shorts, large hoops, and flashy jewelry as she showcases her (noticeably smaller) backside. These visual cues are obvious callbacks to stereotypical garb of Black women, which Swift uses to make fun of herself. Ultimately, I find this to be insensitive.

Cultural appropriation in the music industry was present in 2014 just as it is today, but it is presently much more likely to earn recognition. While there is such thing as cultural appreciation, in this video Swift falls on the wrong side of the line.