#and also many late night service chats for work

[curiosity-killed]

things I am boomerish about:

ballet etiquette (specifically spacing/where you stand in center)

not everything needs to be an app. in fact, mostly, i would like them not to be apps

sometimes i just want to Talk to A Person instead of having a shitty automated bot tell me "I know you want to talk to a person BUT" and then proceed to completely fail at solving the issue despite the fact a human could solve the issue in approximately 90 seconds

[happy-hokkyokugitsune]

Tendou broke his phone and instead of buying a new one he just got his teammates walkie talkies.

- Semi huffs and accepts the walkie talkie with an eye roll. But, after the first week, pure childhood nostalgia has him in it's grips. It has him and Tendou routinely staying up till three chatting together.

He'll whip out his guitar when inspiration strikes and strum a new tune just to get everyone's reactions.

He had to use it for an emergency, he didn't have service at a party that got busted and luckily the walkie talkie worked. Reon went and got him out of there. The others were seen carrying theirs more often after that.

- Ushijima gives the team a morning announcement every day around six to tell them of the volleyball agenda.

He uses it when he can't find his phone, which happens more often than one would think, but his teammates are the only people he really needs to speak with so it works.

He doesn't converse much, but he enjoys hearing the others talk. Sometimes he lays in the dark, the walkie talkie resting on his pillow, his ear pressed against it, just listening to the comforting sound of Semi and Tendou talking until three am.

- Hayato grinned wildly when he received his, held it in the air, and cackled maniacally.

He always says the word "over" when using it and has given everyone code names. According to him, it's a crime not to do so.

He's constantly telling them puns he thought up and laughing afterwards without pause.

He is the resident gossip and information hub, many a conversation from him is started with "Guys! Guys! You'll never guess what just happened!"

- Reon tapes the button down around seven so they can all listen to his new morning mix together as he gets ready for the day.

He's known for trying out new restaurants on the fly so he'll shoot a quick message out to see if any of them want to join an impromptu meal with him.

Sometimes he leaves the volume up too loud, it can get really embarrassing, especially when Hayato says his puns and cackles like a hyena over the line.

Reon always wishes everyone a good night.

- Goshiki is excited, but he doesn't want to seem childish. It's only after Ushijima accepts his with a nod that he lets the stars fill his eyes as Tendou hands him one as well.

Semi doesn't know, but sometimes Goshiki will make up song lyrics for his tunes.

His first year friends are quite jealous that he has a direct line to Ushijima through a walkie talkie.

Goshiki loves his so much that he made a special spot for it on his bed side table and covered the back in stickers.

He even named it.

- Kawanishi leaves his off for the first three days before he gets an idea. His teammates aren't aware, but Kawanishi is amazing at impersonations. He strategically uses this ability to pull pranks on the others as he perfectly copies their voices.

Shirabu and him also use it for studying when they don't want to leave their dorm rooms. But they use a private channel. They aren't sure why they use it instead of their phones, but neither is willing to ask the question first.

He would never in person, but alone in his room he laughs hysterically at Hayato's puns and Tendou's ridiculous stories.

- Shirabu thinks its stupid. At first he just diligently listened to Ushijima's announcements. He started listening to Reon's morning mix. Then he learned that he felt less drained studying with Kawanishi this way. Now he actively absorbs all of Hayatos juciy gossip and always pauses if he can to fully focus on Semi's music. He even finds himself listening to Tendou and Semi talk till late into the night as well.

Shirabu ends up loving the damn thing. He really hates whoever is impersonating him though.

He's one hundred percent sure it's Tendou.

Eighty year old Shirabu finds the walkie talkie in a box in his attic.

[bonvoyagenoona]

Is the SO the pseudo-Yoongi???

Lol the SO is not the pseudo-Yoongi that I was posting about from a couple of years back, but I met him around the same time, and he is arguably even more Yoongi-esque!

Please forgive me, as I will take any and every opportunity to gush about this wonderful human:

He's an old soul, super gentle and very bashful.

He says he's not an audiophile, but that's just because he's humble. He knows a lot about music, recently got me new speakers, and even used to DJ!

His love language is acts of service. Especially cooking.

He's an amazing listener, and he gives me such helpful perspectives on things.

His baseline is stoic and professional unless he's getting really into a song, amped up by a video game, or playing with his/our sweet old man dog!

When we first started dating, we were in the checkout line at the grocery store, and I saw a magazine with BTS on the cover. By this point, he already knew about our beautiful fanfic bubble and my experiences writing and posting, but he didn't really know much about BTS. So I motioned to the magazine cover and asked, "Which do you think is Yoongi?" And he immediately, effortlessly, wordlessly pointed Yoongi out. I asked him how he knew, and he said, "Well, I looked at them all and just kinda picked the person I thought was most similar to me?" 🤣

Our strong compatibility makes life very easy. We've been together for nearly 2 years now. We have lived together for a year and 4 months, and we love each other very much. We're very happy. I'm very, very happy 🥹

In some ways, I feel like writing my stories manifested him? Whatever fantasies I have are more quickly brought to reality because he brings them to life. One day, we'll be entertaining Countermelody Yoongi sexy fun times 🤣😜 and another day, it's more Kittenfishing Yoongi best friend vibes, Arizona Iced Teas in hand as we stroll around and have one of our philosophical chats.

I'm also learning so many new things. I get wisps of inspiration to share more of what I'm experiencing now, in this chapter of my life. But I suspect that before I write a big project again, I need to live more of it.

The works I wrote from 2020-2022 were all these stories that had been piling up in me up until that point, like my experiences in academia, or my switch to industry, or how my experiences as a woman and as an immigrant intersect with those other life themes. So you could say that I'm almost doing another round of life research, making observations and processing new and even bigger emotions.

One really cool thing that he always does is check in with me to make sure I have creative time set aside. And he'll even build story prompts with me the way I used to. I have notes on my phone of one-liners and banter he's shared with me that I think would be particularly nice to sprinkle into a work, haha.

He cheers me on, too. Something funny or interesting will happen, and then he'll say something like, "That's a good one. You could even get pretty smutty with it. You should write it!"

Anyway lol. Thanks for indulging me and my late-night thoughts about my SO, lol. I feel very lucky. I am following where this is leading me. And I can't wait to share more of what I'm experiencing through writing again!

[tcwmatchmakingau]

The Beauty In All, Part Two

Editor's note: written by @deejadabbles Pairing: Echo x GN!reader Rating: General Audience (but minors DNI) Summary: Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice- still shame on you, don't take advantage of my kindness! After so many times of falling for people who mock and manipulate your kind nature, you thought that love, true love, was simply not in the cards for you. Thankfully, Right to Love is here to make sure you and a lucky ARC trooper get your happy ending together. A.N: For some clarity: in my take on this AU, Palps had his "unfortunate accident" pretty late into the og clone wars timeline, so Echo was still rescued from the techno union and was rolling with the bad batch for awhile. And of course, since this is an everyone lives AU too, Tup's chip never activated so that whole thing never went down, Everyone lives, everyone's rescued, happy endings all around! Also....if you guys read this chapter closely, you'll see references to more stories I have planned for this AU *wink wink* Lastly, Daria is @blueink-bluesoul 's wonderful OC, who you will find in other works of this AU! Word Count: 2,742

Warnings: Mentions and discussions of ableism

Part One

With all her appointments taken care of for the day, Maura sat at her desk and got to work with the stack of profiles under her care. With her favorite playlist starting in the background and a shawl wrapped loosely around her shoulders, she started sorting today’s new clients. She used her own little “personality-type” system to highlight and sort each of them, which made it easier to draw up a short list of possible matches for each client, which were then looked into deeper from there.

She had gotten this process down to a nice, practiced rhythm and had just begun drawing up the ‘maybe-matches’ for the first new client, when there was a knock on her door. As usual, she gave a distracted noise to whoever was on the other side, and most people at RTL would know it meant a cheerful, “come in”.

“I come bearing gifts,” came an almost light tone, and Maura didn’t have to look up from her desk unit to know it was Kix.

Still, because it was Kix, she tore herself away from her work and smiled up at him. He was holding two togo cups in his hands, both bearing the logo of the tapcaf down the street that many at the matchmaking service frequented nowadays.

Kix was giving his most charming smile as he handed the cup to her, “One hot cocoa, with extra whipped cream and caramel drizzle. And yes, hot cocoa, because I know that, even if you like it, caf this late in the day makes you stay up all night.”

His smile was very infectious, not that she needed much reason to smile, but it was easy around a man like Kix. “You are the actual sweetest,” she said as she took the cup, waiting till she removed the lid and swiped some of the cream before adding, “even if it is just a bribe.”

Kix didn’t even flinch. He was still smiling as he put a hand over his heart, “But I bring you drinks all the time without ulterior motives.”

Maura leaned back in her chair and narrowed her eyes playfully at the medic, “In the morning, yes, not in the afternoon. Come on, Kix, out with it.”

He at least had the decency to look like he was thinking his answer over, even though she knew he had whatever he wanted to say planned down to a T. Finally he sank into her chair, instantly grabbing the tooka plushy and holding it aloft. “So, I had a lovely chat with one of today’s clients in the waiting room and I was thinking that they would be perfect for…you know who,” he moved the tooka’s head as if it agreed with him. Dang it, he was bringing out all the cute charm today

Honestly, she should have expected this, especially since she knew exactly who he was talking about…and that the thought crossed her mind too. How could it not? You were charming and sweet and obviously cared deeply about people, especially clones. One of her previous clients, Tiio, had sent her a long, detailed letter of recommendation the moment you signed up for RTL. Everyone knew about the whole flower crown event now and, according to Daria, even Fox was fond of you and the way you treated his brothers.

And, as for ‘you know who’, Maura had met the stubborn brother in question a few times now, when Kix invited her along to 79s. Even when she wasn’t working, Maura couldn’t help but to read people, to think about and observe them, and that man may benefit from someone like you.

But, in the end, none of that mattered. Not until Echo came to RTL himself. 

“Kix,” it was undoubtedly a warning, though it had no real teeth since she knew he was a good enough man not to make her resort to that. “You know I can’t do anything until he comes to us. And even then, I can’t set them up on a date just because you got a feeling or a vibe.”

“I know I know,” he set the tooka plush on his lap so he could hold up both hands to her, “Obviously you know more than I do, I just had a short conversation, but,” he shrugged, “I don’t know, I just got this feeling when I talked to them. You’re the expert but, if I can finally drag him in here, will you at least give their compatibility a look over?”

Maura quirked an eyebrow, “You think you’re wearing him down?”

He ran a hand over his neatly designed hair, looking a little smug now, “You know not to underestimate my skills. We’re going out tonight, a bunch of us and a lot are bringing their partners. I bet the morning caf that Echo’s name will pop up in the appointment requests by this time tomorrow.”

All she could do was wave her hands, “I won’t promise anything, but, if he submits his profile, I’ll keep all possible matches in mind.” Oh, he was practically beaming now. “But Kix, don’t expect me to wait for him if you still haven’t convinced him,” her tone was firm, but he knew she was only saying it as a professional reminder.

“I wouldn’t expect any less,” was his pleased reply, “I won’t even say I told you so when he signs up.”

“No.”

Kix looked quite affronted, “You don’t even know what I was going to say!”

Echo’s eyebrows climbed up his forehead, “You mentioned Right to Love, I know where this conversation is going.”

As if he couldn’t be bothered with his brother’s offended look, Echo simply took another drink of his Bespin brandy as Kix recovered himself. Currently, between everyone who had shown up tonight, Echo, Kix, Tech, and Hunter were the only ones still sitting at the booth and table they’d claimed. Fives always made sure to include Echo when the old 501st gang went out, and in turn, Echo tended to drag clone force 99 along with him. It had taken…a while for the two teams to get used to each other, but they'd managed something of a relationship by now.

Kix leaned back in his chair, “All I said was that there’s been another influx of new clients recently.”

“And,” Echo said in a bored tone, “that was your attempt at shifting the conversation so you can try to convince me to sign up, again.”

“There’s something wrong with that?” Kix shrugged, unbothered by the resistance, “It’s kind of my job to pester my brothers into taking care of themselves.”

“I don’t see how getting set up on a blind date is ‘taking care of myself’.”

“You know it’s more than that.”

“Kix,” Echo’s voice was a rumble now, but made it a little less barbed at the edges when he said, “why are you so set on this?”

The other man couldn’t help but sigh. He cast a look around the table, Tech was engrossed in his datapad while Hunter leaned back with his eyes closed. Hopefully, they would use the loud music as a way to turn a blind ear.

Still, Kix leaned in and lowered his tone when he said, “Vod, I see the way you look at them.” 

Even though he certainly didn’t need to, he nodded his head toward their brothers. To Fives who was dancing with his once shy partner. To Tup who was cheering his girlfriend on at the billiards table. To Rex who, while never having been a client, still found love at the little service devoted to it.

“It’s okay to want what they have, Echo,” Kix said, and he hoped the sincerity in his tone came through.

Echo didn’t look at him, at first he seemed to stare at nothing in particular, but Kix knew his eyes were drifting between the pairs. He saw the way he watched Fives tease a blush out of his cyare, or Tup smile when his girl leaned her head on his shoulder, or Rex and his little matchmaker staring at each other with pure adoration.

Kix took a sip of his own drink before adding, “Look, I’m not saying love’s going to make life perfect or anything, but, I think they could find someone who could really make you happy.” He waited a beat, then nudged his old friend in the shoulder. “Hell, I’m sure they can even find someone who can handle how grumpy you are. And when that happens, I know you can make that person happy too.” This time he didn’t give Echo a chance to reply, instead, scooting his chair back from the table as he took their glasses, “Think about that while I get us another round.”

  Still there, at the table, Echo watched the medic go and released a long breath from the depths of his chest. Yes, Echo had thought about Right to Love many, many times. Every time one of his brothers gushed about their partners, he would feel a small, short tug in his chest. Echo never had been, nor ever would be, the type of man who needed to be in a relationship, but, there was still a longing there. A pining, almost. And he supposed he owed it to himself to finally acknowledge its existence.

“I think it’s a good idea.”

The voice startled Echo out of his thoughts and he turned to find Hunter, still sitting with his head tilted back and eyes shut.

“All you can lose is time, Echo, so why not try it?”

“There’s more to it than that,” he grumbled.

Hunter finally opened his eyes and looked at him. “So? Since when have you backed down from anything? I would have thought the ARC trooper in you would like the risk.”

Echo knew what Hunter was doing, especially since Hunter was observant enough to realize what he meant by ‘more to it’. Still, he had to admit that Hunter's challenge was working.

And, once Echo thought about it with a little more grace, he supposed Kix had a point. If there was anywhere that could help him find someone who was nothing like his previous dalliances, it was probably RTL.

Kix was making his way back to the table now, and got a thankful nod from Hunter when he handed him a fresh drink. Before the medic could even settle back in his chair, Echo knocked him off balance with his next words.

“Alright, you win.” 

  If Echo wasn’t so hardwired to see things through, he might have walked out the door during the time he waited in the lobby. Filling out the profile questions had made this all feel a little too real all of a sudden and a part of him still couldn’t believe he was actually doing this.

Still, seeing the look on not only Kix’s face, but the way Fives’ lit up when he heard that Echo was coming here, made it all a little easier. Kix at least had the decency not to keep harping on the matter after he ‘won’ so to speak. Fives, on the other hand, couldn't stop going on about how excited he was that Echo was ‘getting out there’ again and would finally find someone they could go on double dates with.

It was half endearing, half annoying as all kriff.

Now, Echo was being led into a cozy little office by a woman who put the casual in business casual. A part of him was glad it was Maura who took him on, at least he knew her, even if they weren’t necessarily friends. Though, he supposed if they were, that would be some kind of conflict of interest.

“So, how does this work?” he asked after settling down in the chair across from her.

“Right now? We talk so I can get to know you better, so I can understand your needs and what you’re looking for better.”

To the point, but not unkind, Echo could respect that. “What do you want to know?”

For a moment she simply looked at him, considering and he felt a little uneasy under the gaze, not that he would let it show. Then, “I want to know why you were so reluctant to come here.” Her eyes softened a little, though she didn’t take them off him, “You don’t strike me as someone who balks at love, or even what we do here. And yet, Kix has spent many a lunch break complaining about how you brushed him off every time he brought it up to you.”

Alright, diving into the deep end. At least she didn’t waste time. Still, he needed a moment to think, to collect himself and she seemed patient, settling back in her chair to relax a little.

“It’s not just Right to Love," he started after a while, "it’s not as if I have some weird prejudice against this place. It’s just, dating in general, I suppose.”

“A bad history with dating?”

Echo scoffed, “Yeah, you could say that.”

She didn’t reply, just continued to look back at him, only now she gave him a small, encouraging smile.

Again, he waited a moment, falling back on some of his strategic tendencies before he even thought about it. Old habits died hard, but, he did want to think his answer over carefully. It’s not as if he kept these things secret and, if he was going to tell someone, it should be the woman responsible for finding him someone who wouldn't repeat the mistakes of lovers past.

Echo shifted in his chair, eyes drifting down to the dark wood of her desk. “In the past, when I’ve tried to date, I either get one extreme or the other.” He lifted his prosthetic hand and waved it over the rest of him, over every cybernetic detail. “A lot of people can’t handle this. They act like they can at first, but I see the way they look at me before eventually forgetting my comm number. Or, they’re at the other end of the spectrum. They see all this and think that they need to ‘fix’ me.” The word was bitter in his mouth, and his eyes snapped up to meet hers again, “I don’t need to be fixed, just like I don't need someone who can't stand the way I look. I don't want either of those. I want someone to look at me and…”

His voice trailed off, which was a little unlike him. Echo was usually so sure in his words and actions.

“To look at you and just see you?” Maura finished for him, and the words struck home.

Echo found himself taking in a breath, then, he almost let out a huff of a laugh, “Yeah. Just me. I’m not saying that these aren’t a part of who I am, they are, but there’s so much more to me than that.” He sighed, "So yeah, that's why I'm a little reluctant on dating."

That small, encouraging smile got wider and warmer as she straightened up in her chair, “Thank you for being so honest with me, Echo. Being hesitant to put yourself in our care is understandable, given all that.” It was only then that her eyes left him, instead focusing on her datapad as she typed away. “I’m not going to belittle the trust you’ve put in me by making flowery promises. I can’t guarantee that whoever I match you with will undoubtedly see you the way you deserve to be seen. I will, however, promise that I won’t give up until we find someone who does.”

Echo chuckled at that, “So, you’ll take on my high-maintenance case?”

Maura smiled at him, “High-maintenance? Oh, dear Echo, don’t flatter yourself. If you were truly that, we probably would have sent you to Daria. I don’t think there’s ever been a challenge that woman didn’t want to tackle." She winked at him, "You’re stuck with me instead.”

“You’re at least honest with me,” Echo shrugged, “And Kix seems to have faith in you, so I’ll trust his judgment.”

“I’m so glad I have glowing recommendations,” she drawled as she finished her notes.

He actually found himself smiling and almost, almost felt like something in his chest lightened. Alright, Echo wasn’t too proud to admit when someone else was right and, somehow, he actually had a good feeling about this.

 .

[wildshona]

Chris is Away, Toni Isn’t

So it was obvious that I would get a Sunday invitation to Toni’s. Amelia and Zoe are staying there while he’s away and anyway it has become part of the Sunday routine. So I turn up after lunch in casual clothes and something nice for later. A cocktail dress will be nice she had said when she invited me, something short. Well, I have a number of those.

The afternoon was swim time as usual with much splashing in the pool after a proper swimming lesson for Zoe from Ina. Toni and I naked as the Goddess intended, Amelia in a bikini bottoms that were so small I don’t know why she bothered and I na in a little black bikini. Zoe of course was in her float suit. Zoe and Amelia had moved in on Friday and this made Zoe’s fourth lesson and you can already see the beginning of a breast stroke.

And later, after cocktails for the non-staff adults, it was time for dinner with Zoe babbling on about living in a palace and Amelia and me playing up to it and Toni watching with amusement. Mrs Lewis and Ina efficient as ever with Ina wearing the shortest maid outfit so far.

Then it was brandies in the lounge after Amelia and Ina had taken Zoe to bed and Mrs Lewis had returned to her domain. After Amelia returned we just drank and chatted, Toni stretched out on the sofa looking beautiful and Amelia an me looking like the sub we are.

It was really pleasant. I was told to take my dress off and Amelia was told to strip take off her blouse. (I was in a dress and Amelia in a blouse and skirt.)

How about a drink Amelia, suggested Toni and her tits were available to feed Toni and me side by side. I suggested that Toni get Amelis one of those sex cow outfits and got a very hard slap on my arse for my pains that really left a mark and a retort not to be so trashy.

Then Toni had her dress up round her waist and I was required to service both her and Amelia in turn.

It wasn’t all that late when Toni announced that it was time for bed and kissed Amelis good night, a long lingering kiss that Amelia would never have dreamed of taking or giving when she arrived in November. You are staying the night, says Toni to me, a royal command rather than a question or statement. She took me by the hand

I had never been in Toni’s bedroom before not even when she gave us the full tour of the house after she invited us to live with her. Very elegant in a dark sort of way. An enormous bed – a four poster in dark wood with deep purple curtains. Lots of mirrors. A cage in the corner large enough for a good sized dog or a girl my size lying in a foetal position.

The bed also had some interesting extras. Wrist shackles on all of the bed posts positioned for standing or sitting. The bed, by the wat was big enough for six.

Welcome to my play room, I actually have another bedroom for sleeping when I am on my own or in a soft mood.

What mood are you in now.

Well, kitten, I am in a soft mood but I wanted you to see this too.Now come to bed. No shackles for you. Not tonight anyway.

We played. I have no idea how many time I came on her fingers and tongue and on dildos. There was a butt plug naturally. And I serviced her with an eager mouth and everything I had learned from Glenys when I was growing up refined by practice and experience and teachers like Bai and others.

The next morning, drinking tea in bed provided by Mrs Lewis (how did she know I drink Jasmine Pearl?) Toni asked me about my experiences with BDSM. She triggered me then and she held me as I sobbed out stories about growing up she had not yet heard.

Eventually I left to go back to the empty flat having said goodbye to Amelia and Zoe, who was having a swimming lesson. Toni had gone to work by then.

[autisticlifelessons]

Tips from an autistic teacher about communicating with education professionals

So, some context: I taught Primary for 1 year, and had lots of interactions with parents with all kinds of concerns about their kids. I also remember being in high school and college/university and being too nervous to approach my teachers/tutors with any problems I had until the situation was dire.

For those who don't work in education, I can appreciate how needing to speak to your child's teacher about something can be intimidating, especially if your and/or your child are neurodivergent. And if you are a student, it can be equally as scary.

It's true many teachers are overworked and underpaid, but the vast VAST majority would move heaven and earth to help you. However, there are lots of things you can do to help them to help you, so here are my top tips.

Tell them ASAP if there is a problem - alerting the teacher to a problem or concern as soon as it arises gives them the chance to nip it in the bud before it becomes a big deal. If there is a bullying concern or something you don't understand, they would much rather you told them straight away so they can do something about it than have you or your child suffering in silence for weeks or months. We are generally an observant bunch and are looking out for issues, but some things do fly under the radar. Even if it's not something they can do anything about straight away - like if you think your child is showing signs of autism or adhd but they mask heavily at school - they can bear this in mind and pass it onto other relevant members of staff so it is 'flagged' up for the future.

If your issue is complicated, be sure to put it in writing - chances are you have access to a messaging service or at least an email address. Even if you have raised your concern with the teacher face to face, having it in writing is helpful for both parties. It provides a record that the issue has been raised and passed along as appropriate, and it helps remind the teacher about what has been discussed so they don't end up forgetting about it among the million other things they have to do.

Be specific - it may seem obvious, but there is no point in having a casual chat and then throwing in a bombshell at the end. Make sure to give as much relevant detail as you can about what your issue is, and if you want to raise multiple concerns then it is doubly beneficial to put them in writing.

Think about what your desired outcome is and come with a proposed solution - this is a psychological thing, apparently, but people are more likely to be sympathetic to your concerns if you can demonstrate you have thought about how you would like it resolved. If you want your child put forward for an autism assessment, make sure you actually say this. If you know you are going to be late handing in an assignment but can give your teacher an alternative date you will hand it in, tell them this. I can't guarantee they will always be able to fulfil it, but knowing what you would like to change or happen makes it much easier to sort things out rather than just guessing.

IF THERE'S SOMETHING GOING ON OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL THAT'S HAVING A NEGATIVE IMPACT, TELL THEM!!! - I CANNOT stress this enough, especially when it comes to little ones or neurodivergent children who may have limited means of both communication and emotional regulation. Being hungry, tired, stressed etc can have an enormous impact on behaviour/ability to learn. Even a simple message or email giving the heads up your child has had a poor night's sleep because the house flooded or whatever and might be a bit grumpy that day can be a huge help to the teacher, who as a result of having this information will be in a better position to be patient with a child who is struggling. For bigger life changes such as divorce, birth of a new sibling etc, this is even more important so that your child's teacher and the school can, if necessary, put measures in place to support your child through this transition. Communication really is key.

Remember to be kind and considerate - teachers are humans and make mistakes like everyone else. Equally, there are many circumstances they have to deal with that are totally out of their control and frustrate them just as much as they do you. As I said at the beginning, the vast majority want to help you and/or your child in any way they can, and being kind can make what is a very stressful job just that little bit less.

So, there you have it! I hope these tips gave you an idea for how to communicate with teachers effectively.

Oh, here's 1 more bonus tip - if you have anything to ask that is more than just a quick question, be sure to schedule a meeting with the teacher to ensure they can devote enough time to deal with your issue. Catching them at the beginning or end of the school day generally isn't a good idea as they're very chaotic times and they likely have other meetings/appointments/deadlines they will be thinking about.

Your support is much appreciated xx

[cherryxblossxms]

Masturbation May - Day 1b: On Video/Sexting (Nanami Kento)

A/N: This is part 2 of day 1 of the On Video/Sexting prompt for Masturbation May! An anonymous sender suggested the dear husband Nanami. These were so fun to write. This ended up being so much more dialogue heavy than I expected whoa

Featuring: GN reader || Nanami x reader

Warnings: Sexting, talk of masturbation obviously, Kento is pent up; reader is also a sorcerer (but not relevant); pet names (darling, love); technically mutual masturbation but shhhh. Edited at 5am so ignore any mistakes....

Word count: 1812 (wtf—)

��═════════════════

Looking at Kento, you would never guess that he could be into sexting. But during your relationship, he surprised you many times with how much of a tease he could be, the way he joked with you, the saucy photos he occasionally sent, and the suggestive yet elegant words he'd use when he wanted to play with you.

Sexting was one such surprise, but given the numerous times you two were separated when sent off on important missions, it was a big way for you two to connect over the distance. Although Nanami didn't like saying it explicitly, feeling it was a little vulgar, fighting always seemed to make him hunger for you. Maybe it was just primal instinct, or simply a side effect of the blood pumping in his veins going to sensitive areas. But he often found himself in want of you after a fight, and when you weren't physically available, sexting was the next best thing.

Today was one such exception as Nanami entered his hotel after taking care of a particularly difficult curse. He'd quickly showered and got some room service to sate his appetite, but a different type of hunger was lurking just below. No matter what show or movie he put on, he couldn't seem to get his mind off of you, wondering what you were up to, what you were wearing at that moment, how you were faring without him.

In all honesty, he didn't often fully indulge when you two did sext; he still let you have your fun and worked you through your orgasms, your pleasure was so important to him. But he'd rarely get himself off, instead preferring to satisfy himself fully once he was with you. However, he couldn't seem to shake the neediness emanating from himself tonight.

It felt a little silly, but you were always understanding and indulging in him as he opened up to his more passionate feelings. The time had become late after the fight, but he knew you would likely still be up. It took a moment of mental fighting before he finally unlocked his phone to send you a text. Something simple, he'd never be so vulgar as to jump out the gates with an explicit text; he always tested the water first, your comfort was his first priority, his dick could wait.

You responded promptly, as he'd imagined, just asking him about his mission and making sure he was okay. But as he continued responding, you seemed to show that you knew something was up, about some ulterior motive for his late night contact. Your responses became more teasing, gauging how he was feeling as you let things become a little more risqué. Nanami always thanked the fates that you knew him so well and finally unleashed a little of his hunger into the chat.

He could feel himself getting hard against his thigh, a tent forming in his soft pajama pants as he let his imagination wander, but he ignored it for now, just letting the temperature turn up between you two naturally. However, he did slip off his sleep shirt, feeling too warm suddenly. Finally, an innocent looking text at first glance but with deeper meaning that he expected:

(9:36PM) You: What are you thinking of?

He couldn't help but chuckle at that as he typed out his response.

(9:39PM) Nanami: You are asking something you already know the answer to.

(9:40PM) You: And? I'd still like to hear it in your words. Or read i guess

He thought for a moment over your choice of words. To be honest, he hadn't expected to really get anywhere with the chat. But the aching in his groin was reaching an annoying level, and you seemed interested in continuing. More than that, he needed to see your face, wanted to see the one he loved.

(9:45PM) You: Kento? Are you still there?

(9:47PM) Nanami: Yes, sorry, I'm still here.

(9:48PM) Nanami: I know it is late. But would you be interested in doing a video call?

He could just picture you raising your eyebrows at him, he so rarely initiated like that; now that he thought of it, he's not sure he ever initiated over video before. But a second later, his question was answered as a call came in from your number in place of a response. He quickly accepted, and he couldn't help the smile that formed when he saw your face. You smiled back immediately. He could see you dressed in your pajama shirt with the sheets visible in the background, lying back against your shared bed.

"Hi, Kento."

"Hello, darling," he responded. His brows furrowed a little, worried he'd caught you too late. "Are you going to bed soon?"

You shook your head, your smile teasing. "No, I'm not tired yet. But with the way our conversation was going, I thought the bed might be the best place to get comfortable."

Nanami raised an eyebrow at that. Knowing full well what you were implying, he straightened his face as he questioned, "Oh? Get comfortable for what?"

"You know full well what for," you responded, frowning at him. But he could see the playful, fiery look in your eyes, showing you were far from upset. "I think someone needs some stress relief, and I'm here to help."

Nanami's cock twitched in response, and he held back from reaching down just yet to relieve the ache that had built up. He hummed instead, pretending to think.

"And how do you intend on doing that?"

"I thought maybe a little video sex would be good. If you're feeling up to it, of course," you quickly added. "But if you're tired, then we can just talk."

Nanami shook his head almost too quickly. "No, love, I'm alright. I think you're exactly what I need right now."

"Good."

The look in your eyes was captivating, and you angled the camera down to where your hand rested on your chest, before slowly trailing it down your front to your groin followed by the camera, revealing a lack of bottoms. Your thighs were pressed together, your hand covering your groin as the camera aimed down, before slowly opening your thighs to expose yourself.

Nanami couldn't help but groan, wanting nothing more than to be buried between your thighs. It was times like this that he hated having to travel and be away from you, his favorite form of stress relief was pleasuring you. He knew all the ways to unravel you, had your reactions down to a science; it was torture not to be able to deliver this pleasure to you himself.

Your arousal was obvious, your essence already leaking and catching the soft glow of the lamp light, and he watched as you traced a light line along the inside of your thighs, seeing the way your body twitched from the teasing. He repeated the action on himself over his pants, now fully hard, shivering as he felt the soft material rub against him.

As you worked your hand towards your center, rubbing slowly, Nanami tugged the hem of his pants down, freeing his aching cock. He was normally a patient man, working up his pleasure slowly to fully enjoy the experience. But seeing you work towards your own pleasure and knowing he couldn't touch you seemed to be doing all sorts of things to his body.

He quickly spit on his free palm as lube and wasted no time in stroking his shaft in time to your own movements. He couldn't help but imagine it was his own fingers that were stroking you, too, doing it just the way you like.

As things grew hotter and more desperate, he could start to hear your voice more, panting and soft moans coming from his phone's speaker. Suddenly, you swiveled the camera back up to your face, lust evident in your eyes but a frown on your lips, making Nanami stop in his tracks.

"What's wrong, darling?"

"I want to see you too, Kento," you replied. "Please?"

He immediately understood what you meant. This was another rarity for him, that even when you two did engage in phone sex, he didn't really like having the camera on himself. But that seemed unfair to you, especially when you asked so nicely, and he did want to show you how much he needed you right now. How could he not indulge his lover at least this once?

"Sorry, darling, of course," he said, and changed the camera to the back camera on his phone.

As the image changed from his face to his cock instead, he heard a breathy "fuck" come from your lips. Your camera view went back down as you resumed your movements, and Nanami continued as well. As he grew closer to climax, little groans began to spill from his lips, and you were being just as vocal; you both just needed a little push to fall off the edge together now.

"Are you close, my love?"

"Yeah, I'm almost there."

"Good. You're doing so well." Nanami worked his hand over the tip of his cock, squeezing and rutting his hips. "I'm almost there, as well. I want you to come with me, please."

"Yes, oh, fuck—"

Nanami had barely gotten your response before he saw your body twitch and tremble as you came. The sight of you cumming was enough to push him over the edge too and he joined you in climax, aiming himself towards his chest so as not to dirty the hotel sheets, covering his chest and hand with his release instead.

His thighs gently shook from the aftershocks of pleasure, and he hung his head back, just catching his breath. He heard your giggle and the camera went back up to your face, a sleepy but satisfied smile on your face.

"That was so hot, Kento," you said, lying back against your pillow. "Was it OK for you?"

Nanami switched the view to his front camera again, his face filling the video thumbnail once more, and smiled back at you. Oh, it was more than okay. However, now something in him craved your touch, your physical presence, even more than earlier, but he kept that part quiet.

"It was perfect, love, thank you," he said. "You always know just what I need. I should be able to come home soon, so I'll make sure to repay the favor to you when I get back."

"Ooh, I look forward to it," you replied, wiggling your eyebrows at him suggestively. "I love you. I'll let you get your sleep now. I can't wait to see you soon."

"I love you too, darling. Good night."

You two exchanged air kisses before ending the call. Nanami had never felt so satisfied, physically and mentally restored just upon experiencing that mutual bliss with you. Although the distance was difficult, he was glad you two could make something work on the phone, and couldn't wait until he could be back in your arms again.

[invisibleicewands]

[...] Sheen—a man already well known for portraying real-life people onscreen—has outdone himself this year by playing two of the U.K.’s most famous figures, though the men in question could not be more different from one another. His leading role in the National Theatre’s Nye saw him transform into Aneurin Bevan, the beloved Labour politician who spearheaded the creation of Britain’s National Health Service and an icon to many throughout the United Kingdom. But for the actor, portraying the two men fairly close to one another led to the realization of some unexpected parallels. 

“It was interesting because I did literally go from finishing filming on this into rehearsing Nye,” Sheen tells Paste. “And so I was thinking about both of them at the same time, and it did make me think about the idea of the pursuit of power and the opportunities of privilege, and how differently you can use those things, and what you can put them to the service of. It was quite striking.” 

To say that portraying two men as different as Bevan (a Welshman from a Tredegar mining family) and Prince Andrew (the second son of Queen Elizabeth II) is a challenge feels like a massive understatement. But for Sheen, much of the work, at least from a character-building, was the same. 

“With Aneurin Bevan, there’s very little footage of him, so there was very little to go on,” he says when asked about his approach to playing two such very different men—with such very different legacies. “There’s lots written about him but very little to look at. And so piecing both of these characterizations together were very different kinds of processes. But I think what informs them both is—you’ve got to put your personal opinions aside, your judgments of characters you’re playing. Because, ultimately, you have to be looking out from behind their eyes and playing a rounded, complex character rather than an editorialized version of them.”

And to hear Sheen tell it, his performance—even when playing someone more like Andrew than Nye Bevan—still comes from many of the same places, both as an actor and an individual.

“[The performance] has got to be coming from somewhere. There’s got to be some compass that is guiding you in… I look for vulnerability, I look for contradiction. I look for when a person is getting in their own way, that kind of stuff. That’s my compass as an actor,” he says. “But then, there’s also my compass as a citizen, which you’re also putting into it. Your performance sits in the context of certain things you believe about the world and how things work in it. Inevitably, those two things, they’re sometimes the same compass and sometimes not. But they work the same for whatever character it might be.” [...]

“The car-crash nature of the interview itself and the memes that it feeds and the late-night chat show host opening monologue gags and all that sensationalized circus aspect obviously feeds our cultural appetites in huge ways,” Sheen says. “There’s a huge appetite for that. But the issues it also raises about privilege, exploitation, sex, and people in positions of power being able to silence people who don’t have a voice, it seems to explore a lot of areas we are culturally both fascinated and compelled by at the moment all in one story. Certainly, that’s what it speaks to for me.” [...]

“There’s been an ongoing debate, hasn’t there, about how you interview certain kinds of politicians and how difficult it has become to question certain kinds of people in positions of power and whether the media is somehow falling into traps being laid by those people,” Sheen adds. “That’s been an ongoing debate for about the last ten years or so, I’d guess. Particularly in the U.S., but also increasingly so in the U.K. as well.” [...]

“We’re used to the idea of politicians not answering the question and saying what they want to say regardless. But then, there’s a new wave of people who seem to have confounded a lot of journalists and sparked the debate of how you go about handling that,” Sheen says. “And [this interview] is an instance where someone voluntarily put themselves in a position of being exposed, and a journalist of great craft and skill did a masterclass on [how to do] that. I think that’s particularly… It speaks to something of now as well. That we will probably never see something like that happen again.”

[blackr23]

240918

Rollingstoneuk p3

“The first phase was the most awkward one,” says HAN, who perhaps is best speaking on the subject. He has opened up in the past about how he and Hyunjin didn’t initially get on, which almost resulted in a physical fight during practice. “We had to meet and [get to] know each other. But once that first phase was over and we first lived together, it is a precious thing that we can enjoy. At first, it was very, very hard.”

Seungmin switches from comedy to philosophy with his take on the group’s relationship dynamic. “It didn’t change, but it got deeper. We live together, we play music together, we dance and sing together, enjoy the stage together. We talk a lot… about what we have been doing recently, what thoughts we are thinking about these days. These kinds of talks get deeper.”

Changbin articulates what is very evident: the band’s unwavering hive mentality when it comes to success. “Sharing the same goal and dream with seven other people is something that’s not small,” he says. “The strongest friendships are honed with fights. I’m happy to have gone through the process because now we can say our bonds are stronger.”

Throughout their time with Rolling Stone UK, their unspoken connection is evident. When they arrive on set and are told their mark, they each get into formation without discussion. It’s one hive mind that knows where to go seemingly telepathically. It’s fascinating to watch them move as if they are one organic being.

Their shared experiences have definitely brought the group together, and they have had to navigate some choppy seas. One hurdle for the band was the pandemic lockdown which began in 2020. The group were just catching light, but everything ground to a halt. “COVID was horrible. There were so many things that we couldn’t do because of lockdown,” reflects Bang Chan.

“The weird thing was after performing in front of so many people, then having a concert without people was hard,” adds Felix. “We were performing in front of cameras. That was one of the moments that was really hard for us. And now we’re finally performing in front of fans.” That first time they performed in front of a crowd again at the end of 2021 instantly galvanised them. “It was amazing and so different. It’s like we got all shy! It was like, ‘Ohhh, a crowd! What do we say? What do we say?’”

Unable to follow their usual unrelenting schedule, the group used the period to spend a lot of time online, cultivating a relationship with their fanbase, which is now very loyal and active. The connection forged has proved to be iron-clad.

K-pop ‘idols’ (the term for a music star in Korea), as the name suggests, are treated like demigods by their fans, and the group have to strike a tricky balance between being unattainable yet also relatable. There is a whole ecosystem that Stray Kids exist in, producing content to allow their fanbase to connect with them. Like The Truman Show, they document every aspect of their lives. But unlike the Jim Carrey movie, Stray Kids are in on the whole thing and carefully curate what they show of themselves. Nearly every member struggles when asked to share something that we don’t already know about another band member. Quite simply, they have already laid all their cards out on the table. 

SKZ’s connection with fans goes way beyond TikTok videos and Instagram Live chats. YouTube is home to an entire video series that follows a gameshow-style format where they play games with forfeits, dunk themselves in swimming pools and dress up in costumes. They open their birthday gifts and blow out celebration cakes (usually alone) in front of their fans and have late-night chats with them, answering scores of questions while eating room service alone in their hotel rooms. It lends a very intimate feel to their celebrity, bolstered by shared confessionals that act almost like a therapy session where they dissect their relationships with each other and work through any hurdles. All this helps consolidate their pristine on-stage and music video personas.

Sharing a constant flow of information appears to have developed into a sort of stream of consciousness for them — so much so that they forget that everyone knows their every move. Hyunjin is genuinely shocked that I know about him losing Felix’s bank card in Paris a few months ago. He laughs and lets out an “Arghhh… you saw that?!” His head snaps back and he laughs, before sheepishly grinning and saying, “Erm… I’m sorry to Felix…”

When I ask Felix about a particular video where he is told by an expert that he doesn’t suit his favourite tone of icy blue, he launches into his answer, before double-backing like Hyunjin, surprised that I would have ever known about it. ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah… oh, you’ve seen that!?” The RACHA LOG video I am referring to has been viewed 2.3 million times in the past few months. But if they do forget that the cameras are almost constantly on them, Bang Chan tells me that their youngest member is always lurking, checking in on what their fans are up to: “I.N, he’s always monitoring everything that’s going on. He’ll send us the link on the group chat. All these memes and stuff.”

Their private jokes do not go undetected either: a current favourite with the group and the Stay is “That’s not very noice” delivered in a thick Aussie accent. I.N, with his evergreen smile and low chuckle, explains how it started. “That was Felix,” he says, before Felix takes up the story.

“I was recreating a moment where I was talking with my mates. If they would say something funny or in a funny way, dissing like ‘That’s not very noice,’ as a joke, then this guy,” says Felix pointing to Hyunjin, “picks it up, that way of saying it, and then everyone starts saying it too.”

“Noiceeee… Aussie accent!” Hyunjin parrots, almost instinctively, and just as you do with best friends, the rest of the group descend into a chorus of “very noice” that sounds like a flock of seagulls.

“We show a lot of brotherly love,” says Felix. “Fans can see us as neat and calm and cool, but even off-camera it’s two times more crazy. We are more physically active. We’re more [the] brotherly, kind of wrestling type!” 

They display this on set when the photographer asks the group to do some more rough and tumble movements for a particular shot, instantly snapping out of their icy cool poses to tussle, laugh and joke. It ultimately ends with Seungmin purposefully jostling Changbin out of position, eliciting a strangled cry from him that soon turns into laughter.

“when I think of England, the first thing that comes to my mind is rock and punk. So, I want to dive into the culture”

— Hyunjin

When I next meet the group, almost a week later in London, it’s the day of their gig at BST Hyde Park. I am guided through a gate at the opposite area of the vast grounds and wade through barrier after barrier blocked by pass access, as well as groups of fans who have been waiting there since early afternoon (the earliest time they were allowed). Finally, I arrive at the meeting point, hoping I am not late. It’s a very covert operation as I am ushered backstage.

Hyunjin gives an enthusiastic wave while standing on his tiptoes, beaming at me when he spots me as if he has just seen an old friend. Before I know it, I’m enveloped in a huddle of incredible energy. I can see what Hemsworth was on about when he met them at the Met Gala.

“Oh, look who it is!” jokes Bang Chan.

“Long time no see,” Felix chimes in

[safereturndoubtful]

Fetlar

Wednesday 26th July

I spent five days on Fetlar in the end, the van not moving from its wonderful setting just above he beach, and in that time probably met most of the islanders. Each day I wandered past the cafe, which acts as a shop, post office, and information centre also, and sat inside for a coffee and a chat with whoever was around. The owners are typical of islanders, from the south of England, in their late fifties, and taken to Fetlar as an escape from the noise, pollution and lack of space in England. Only five of the sixty seven residents are from Shetland since birth. The English have brought with them a high level of organisation. Despite the remoteness of their residences things happen efficiently; the food deliveries to the shop from the mainland, the postal service, the regular meetings at the community hall. The arrival of strangers, or rather tourists, is noticed by all. It’s not possible to creep in undetected.

The island is well-supported in terms of infrastructure, probably too much so. For its regular postal service, the island has its own red Royal Mail electric van, which four islanders work in shifts with deliveries, and get paid to do so. The ferry, which is free for island residents, calls at least four times a day, which seems quite unnecessary, as most times when I was there it was empty, but the crew come for their lunch at the cafe. Garbage is collected by a truck that comes from the mainland once each week. A mobile library, hairdresser, and various other services call in for a few hours fortnightly. A doctor or nurse will visit when requested, and a dentist calls in monthly.

In that sense, it’s not as remote as other mainland communities.

Though I knew nobody by name, everyone knew me, the guy with the red dog and the porthole van on the beach.

Though the first days I was there were fine, the second half of my stay on Fetlar the weather turned wild. There were occasional showers, but the wind howled and came from the north. Rather than gusty, it was a steady thirty five mile per hour gale, and as it was from the north it took the temperatures down to single figures, with an added chill factor. These are the most unwelcome conditions for outdoor activity, and even indoor activity is with an unsettling rocking and a constant reverberation.

On the windy days Roja and I headed out in the morning as usual, but no further than the couple of miles to the cafe and back, then settled into an afternoon of reading, podcasts, and even completing the VAT return for work..

A few locals walked their dogs on the beach, and over the days Roja got to know them all. There weren’t many visitors, but two young women came over to say hello one afternoon, sheltering from the wind behind my van. They were students from UCL, a woman of Sudanese descent, and a Nepalese lady. The former was a geography student hoping to be a lecturer, hence the reason for the visit. They were on Shetland for two weeks, and were tough enough not to even mention the weather.

We were one of just two vehicles on the 3:30 pm ferry to Unst earlier today, the wind had at long last dropped, and the sun broke through. I drove to Baltasound, Unst’s equivalent of a metropolis, and stocked up on water, and from the supermarket. At the leisure centre I paid £1.50 for my weekly shave and shower, and the guy told me, at 5 pm, the showers would need to run a bit as I was the first person in today. Unst has as many visitors in Fest week (last week), a few hundred, as it does in the other 9 weeks of summer put together.

I drove to Uyeasound to park-up, at the far south west of the island. I had hoped to visit here, but it had quite a few people around the marina last week, so I had postponed it. From that howling three day northerly wind to a completely calm night - it was appreciated.

[clarklovescarole]

September 1941: Divorce Rumors Strike Again

September 5, 1941 – The Bakersfield Californian

Look Girls! Here Comes Mr. Gable!

Girls, just imagine Clark Gable walking into the room while you’re eating breakfast. That’s what happened yesterday for a dozen shopgirls and stenographers having their morning toast and coffee at a drugstore near the Clock Tower. The Hollywood film star, a frequent visitor to Kern on hunting trips, had almost finished buying an electric razor before his presence was discovered by the feminine fans. 

When somebody said, “Look, it’s Clark Gable,“ the script called for the star to make a hasty exit, clutching his razor in one hand, as the ladies threatened to create a minor “mob” scene. 

Gable was attired in a well-cut gabardine hunting outfit, with his dove-shooting license pinned on the front of his tarpaulin cap. With his wife, Carole Lombard, he has been staying at the Harry Fleischmann Ranch, a popular hunting spot, in the old swamp off Highway 99, 12 miles south of the city.

September 5, 1941 – Santa Rosa Republican

Speaking of another Carole, Miss Lombard, to be exact, she and Clark Gable have picked out the spot for their long fall vacation at roughing it. They are going to Arizona. They tell their friends they have picked a spot where there are no telephones in miles.

September 12, 1941 – Los Angeles Evening Citizen News

Hollywood is my beat and I may be sitting in Chasen‘s chatting, playing gin or even eating, and I see people I know and overhear a bit of conversation the same as you do when you go to lunch or dinner. The other night I was sitting in a booth minding my own gin game when Mr. and Mrs. Clark Gable and another couple – they have friends outside the picture business - walked in and took a booth in the bar end of the room. I was pretty busy playing gin and had forgotten about Mr. and Mrs. Clark Gable when I heard Carole loudly say: “All right. So ‘They Met in Bombay’ made a lot of money. I still say it was a ‘badie.’"

I have always liked Carole Lombard. She speaks freely and loudly. Carole is a good businesswoman and she knows the picture business. She may sign her autograph Carole Lombard, but her checks are signed Carole Gable…

September 16, 1941 – The Cincinnati Enquirer

Carole Lombard’s screen layoff of almost a year is for the express purpose and fervent desire of having a little baby with big ears just like Clark’s. The Lombard lovely has given many reasons why she has not worked in this long time. She’s claimed she couldn’t find the right story. She turned down pictures because they interfered with her vacation plans with Clark Gable.

But her best friends – those who know the desire closest to her heart - agree that she’s taking it easy on her doctor’s orders so the next time the “big bird” circles for a landing over her ranch home he’ll not change his mind.

September 19, 1941 – The Daily Courier

Carole Lombard and Clark Gable trying out their new bicycles in the San Fernando hills. Carole is cool and comfortable in light blue sharkskin shorts and shirt with a large patch pocket in red on the back of her shorts.

September 20, 1941 – Porterville Recorder

Famed Picture Couple Stop In Porterville

Carole Lombard, motion picture star, and Clark Gable, her husband and likewise known to the flickers, stopped in Porterville a couple of times this morning, en route to Kings River, to have their car serviced and to eat a late breakfast. 

At the Standard station at Main and Garden, Dan Wuertley, attendant, chatted briefly with them while the two-toned sedan was being serviced. 

Miss Lombard said they planned to go first to the ranch they own near Lemon Cove and then over to the Kings River Canyon country for a few days hunting. The widely known couple stopped at the Big Orange, on North Main, and told of their vacation plans there also, in response to questions. 

September 24, 1941 – The Calgary Albertan

If you’ve been wondering what happened to Carole Lombard, idle for a year, here’s the dope: she hasn’t liked any of the scripts offered her, so she has bought an original story, hired a writer to adapt it and plans to offer it with her services.

September 25, 1941 – Chicago Tribune

Then there is this amazing explanation of Carole Lombard’s reluctance and downright refusal to write letters: “Carole Lombard chews more letters than she writes. When she sits down to write, she chews the edge of the stationary while she is thinking, and by the time the letter is finished, it is so chewed up that she throws it in the waste basket and goes out to feed the chickens. That’s why you don’t ever get letters from Lombard.”

September 27, 1941 – The Spokesman Review

Clark Gable made his wife, Carole Lombard, sell her convertible sedan. Said he feared she might turn over. Two weeks later Gable bought himself a new car – a convertible.

September 28, 1941 – The Star Press

Circus Is Attractive to Many Movie Stars

Hollywood went en masse to the circus. In its five-day stand, Ringling Brothers played to more open-mouthed movie stars than any show in the history of Hollywood. In the front row facing the center ring at one evening performance were Clark Gable, Carole Lombard, Robert Taylor, Barbara, Stanwyck, Ann Sothern, Bette Davis, Mickey Rooney, and Linda Darnell. Two aerial artists who couldn’t keep their eyes on their work plunged into the net. Otherwise, the circus folks enjoyed a great show as they staged a better one. 

Clowns along the promenade played havoc with Gable. Once a couple of them attempted to make off with Carole. It was Bob Taylor, not Clark, who finally rescued her. 

September 30, 1941 – The Republican

Clark Gable and Carole Lombard have gone to North Dakota to price a farm with a view to buying a cow ranch…

September 30, 1941 – Daily News

Clark Gable and Carole Lombard are rumored divorce court bound again, but if personal denials mean anything you can forget the old thing…

September 30, 1941 – Elmira Star Gazette

Dorothy Kilgallen: Clark Gable and Carole Lombard are splitting, and their pals are heartbroken…

September 30, 1941 – Chattanooga Daily Times

Rumors spring out of nowhere in Hollywood and traverse the town’s grapevine routes like wildfire. A report that Clark Gable and Carole Lombard were splitting up had the town on its ears one day last week. Gable, it was said, had quit home and gone to live with George Raft. After MGM’s phones buzzed for hours with queries, the matter was put squarely up to Gable.

“Jimminy Cripes,“ he said, using much stronger language than that. “What have I done to get this! And I don’t even know George Raft.”

September 30, 1941 – Albuquerque Journal

Clark Gable, Carole Lombard Besieged By Film Fans Here

Actor–Couple Sign 150 Autographs Before Hiding In Hotel; On the Way to Hunt in Canada

Two old hunting pals spent a few hours in Albuquerque Monday, after their eastbound plane was grounded by bad weather – and Alvarado hotel employees were almost swamped by a rush of autograph seekers. 

The reasons: one of the hunters is Clark Gable, picture star, who was accompanied by his wife, Carole Lombard of the screen. 

Gable’s hunting pal H.H. Fleischmann, of MGM Studios, who also was accompanied by his wife. 

Going to Canada

The party was on its way by air to Manitoba, Canada, for 10 days of big game hunting when the TWA plane on which the group was traveling, was grounded in Albuquerque by bad weather conditions to the east. Airline officials made arrangements for the four to continue by train, and they went to the Alvarado hotel to wait. 

Although airline and hotel officials tried to keep secret the news of the stars being in town, Gable and Miss Lombard were spotted entering the hotel. The new spread and within a short time several hundred movie fans gathered to the hotel, all seeking autographs of the stars. 

To Dining Room

Cable and Miss Lombard signed their names about 150 times, then retreated with the Fleischmanns to a private dining room, where they remained until time to board their train. In the meantime, about 100 autograph seekers waited in vain for them in the hotel lobby.

The party left about 8:30 o’clock, planning to go to Minneapolis and on into Canada, where the group will remain about 10 days. Gable will not return to work on a new picture until January.

“He makes no pictures during the hunting season. That’s in his contract,” smiled Fleischmann, who said he had been accompanying the star on hunting expeditions for the past 14 years.

September 30, 1941 – Argus Leader

Screen Stars Hunt Pheasants in S. D.

A report that Clark Gable and his wife, the screen star Carole Lombard, were supposed to be in Roberts county with the opening of the pheasant season, was received today by York Sampson from Al Adams, Siseton Editor.

Adams wired that a five-room house near New Effington had been fitted out for the screen celebrities. 

A young man named Quaal, a former New Effington boy, is a member of the Gable studio force, and it was through him that Gable was induced to come to South Dakota to hunt. 

Mrs. Math Brandenburger, farmer’s wife near New Effington, has a letter from Gable accepting an invitation to Sunday dinner.

[lily22223]

How Do On-Demand Food Delivery Apps Generate Revenue?

If you’ve ever thought about launching your own food delivery app or partnering with one, you’ve probably asked yourself: How do these on-demand food delivery apps actually make money? I’ve been digging into this lately, especially after chatting with a few restaurant owners and entrepreneurs who are exploring this space. So today, I want to break it all down for you — in simple terms — whether you’re running a cozy café, a buzzing restaurant, or managing a large-scale food business.

And if you're seriously considering getting into the game, I’ll also touch on how working with a Food Delivery App Development Company can help you build a smart, scalable solution that’s tailored to your needs.

1. Delivery Charges — The Classic Revenue Stream

Let’s start with the obvious one: delivery fees. Most food delivery apps charge customers a flat fee or a variable fee based on distance. That fee either goes directly into the app's pocket, gets split with the delivery driver, or is shared with restaurant partners in some way.

From what I’ve seen, this is one of the easiest ways these apps create a predictable income stream.

2. Commissions from Restaurants

This is where things get interesting if you’re a restaurant owner. Most apps take a commission on every order placed through their platform — usually anywhere from 15% to 30%. It’s the price of reaching more customers without hiring additional staff or building your own tech infrastructure.

Now, I get that this can feel steep, especially for small businesses. But in many cases, the increased visibility and sales can more than make up for it — especially when supported by the right Food Delivery App Solution that helps optimize operations.

3. Subscription Plans and Loyalty Programs

Some apps (like Uber Eats and DoorDash) offer subscription plans for customers. These subscriptions often come with benefits like free delivery or exclusive deals. And guess what? That recurring revenue adds up fast.

If you’re thinking of launching your own food delivery app, incorporating a subscription feature could be a brilliant move — and something a seasoned Food Delivery App Development Company can build right into your platform.

4. Promoted Listings & Advertising

This one’s a favorite among the big players. Restaurants can pay to get their listings featured at the top of the app or in special promotions. It’s like Google Ads, but for food.

If you’re running a restaurant and want a little boost in exposure, this can be a smart investment. And if you’re building the app, it’s an extra revenue stream that can scale without much overhead.

5. Surge Pricing & Convenience Fees

Ever tried to order dinner on a rainy Friday night and noticed the fees were suddenly higher? That’s surge pricing at work. It’s not super popular with customers, but it’s undeniably effective for boosting revenue during peak times.

Convenience fees, service charges, and small-order fees also sneak in a little extra profit on each transaction.

6. White-Label Solutions for Other Businesses

This one is often overlooked but super important. A lot of food delivery platforms actually license their technology to other businesses. For example, a Food Delivery App Development Company might create a white-label version of an existing platform and customize it for a specific brand or market.

So, if you’re dreaming of launching your own branded app, you don’t have to build it from scratch. You can use a Food Delivery App Solution that’s already tested, secure, and scalable — and make it your own.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, food delivery apps are about convenience, speed, and smart tech. They make money in a bunch of ways — some obvious, others more behind-the-scenes. But no matter what, it all boils down to providing value: to customers who want food fast, and to restaurants and businesses looking to grow.

If you're a restaurant owner, small business, or enterprise looking to jump into this space, I’d highly recommend partnering with a Food Delivery App Development Company that understands the market and can help you launch a custom Food Delivery App Solution that actually works for you — and brings in real revenue.

[77755558845]

Smooth, Safe & Affordable: Nashik to Pune Taxi Services

Are you planning a trip from Nashik to Pune and looking for the most convenient, comfortable, and cost-effective mode of transport? Look no further than a dedicated Nashik to Pune taxi service! Whether you're traveling for business, education, a medical appointment, or just a weekend getaway, booking a taxi offers you the perfect blend of flexibility, speed, and peace of mind.

In this blog, we'll explore everything you need to know about traveling from Nashik to Pune by taxi—distance, travel time, benefits of choosing a cab, pricing, types of vehicles available, and some handy travel tips!

The Route: Nashik to Pune Distance and Time

The distance between Nashik and Pune is approximately 210 kilometers, depending on the route taken. The most common and fastest route is via NH60, which is well-maintained and offers scenic views of the Sahyadri ranges.

Travel Time: By road, it typically takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours to reach Pune from Nashik, depending on traffic conditions, weather, and time of travel. Hiring a taxi allows you to enjoy the journey without worrying about driving fatigue or navigating unfamiliar roads.

 Why Choose a Taxi from Nashik to Pune?

With several modes of transport available—buses, trains, and self-driving—why do so many travelers choose taxis? Here's why:

1. Door-to-Door Convenience

When you book a taxi, you get picked up right from your doorstep in Nashik and dropped off at your exact location in Pune. No need to haul luggage around bus stands or railway stations.

2. Comfort and Privacy

Enjoy the ride in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle with complete privacy. Whether you want to rest, work, or chat with your family, a taxi gives you your own space.

3. Flexible Timings

You choose the pickup time that suits you best—early morning, late night, or anytime in between. No fixed schedules like trains or buses.

4. Multiple Vehicle Options

From hatchbacks for solo travelers to sedans for families, and SUVs for groups—taxi services offer a variety of vehicle types to suit your needs and budget.

5. Professional Drivers

Experienced, polite, and trained drivers ensure a safe and smooth journey. Most taxi services now also offer GPS tracking and 24/7 customer support.

 Round Trip Option: Planning a short return journey? Opt for a round trip and get discounted fares with driver waiting included.

 Types of Cabs Available

To meet the needs of all kinds of travelers, reliable taxi services offer a wide fleet of vehicles:

Hatchback – Perfect for solo or duo travelers looking for a budget-friendly option.

Sedan – Comfortable for small families or business trips with ample legroom and luggage space.

SUV – Ideal for group travel, weekend getaways, or carrying extra luggage.

Luxury Cars – For premium business travel or special occasions.

Tempo Traveller – Great for big groups, weddings, or corporate outings.

All vehicles are sanitized regularly and maintained in top condition.

 Popular Reasons to Travel from Nashik to Pune

1. Business Meetings & Corporate Travel: Pune, being an IT and manufacturing hub, attracts professionals from all over Maharashtra.

2. Education & Admissions: Pune is home to top universities and colleges like Fergusson, Symbiosis, MIT, and more.

3. Healthcare: Many Nashik residents travel to Pune for specialized medical treatments in hospitals like Ruby Hall, Sahyadri, and Jehangir.

4. Tourism: Whether it's the vibrant energy of Koregaon Park, the historical Shaniwar Wada, or trekking around the Western Ghats—Pune has something for everyone

 How to Book Your Nashik to Pune Taxi

Booking a taxi today is as easy as a few taps on your phone or clicks on a website. Here’s how:

Online Booking:

Most cab services offer 24/7 online booking through their websites or apps. Simply enter your pickup and drop location, date and time, and choose your vehicle.

Phone Booking:

Prefer speaking to someone? Call the customer care number to make your reservation. Instant Confirmation:

Once booked, you’ll get confirmation with driver details, car number, and tracking options.

 Pro Tips for a Smooth Taxi Journey

Book in Advance: Get better rates and ensure vehicle availability.

Travel Light: Easier to manage in smaller vehicles and saves space.

Carry Essentials: Water, snacks, chargers, and any medications.

Check Route & Traffic: Use Google Maps to get an idea of traffic conditions.

Verify Driver & Car Details: For your safety, always double-check the information shared with you.

 Who Can Benefit from Nashik to Pune Taxi?

Students traveling for entrance exams or college admissions

Business professionals attending meetings or conferences

Families going on vacation or weekend trips

Patients visiting Pune hospitals for consultations or surgeries

Wedding or event guests needing a group transfer

[nostalgiaispeace]

2325.

Have you ever been considered popular? not at all.

Favorite undersea creature? orcas

What types of things would you plant in a garden? food. 100%

Favorite type of fantasy creature? threstals from harry potter.

Are you short or tall for your age? normal i guess

Have you ever liked someone much older than you? not too much older.

What was your first favorite band? flyleaf.

Anyone’s grave you visit, regularly? no

Have you ever been seriously addicted to anything? yes.

Have you ever had a hamster? no

How many books have you read in the past YEAR? so far i've read 15

Are you popular on any websites? no

Ever been in the emergency room? yes

Are you subscribed to anything (magazines, monthly boxes, streaming sites, etc.)? yes. some book subscriptions.

Have you ever given a lap dance? not that i recall.

Do bats frighten you? Yes.

Are you a KPOP fan? no

Were you anyone’s first kiss? no

Will you keep your last name when you get married? I didn't.

Are you biracial? No

What is your most expensive piece of clothing? stuff from Drop Dead Clothing.

Have you ever started a rumor? no

Color of your bedspread? grey and beige.

Do you have a piggy bank? No

Did you ever skip a grade or get held back a grade? no but i almost skipped 2nd but i didn't want to.

What’s your favorite rock band? bring me the horizon.

What color(s) eyeshadow do you wear the most? i don't wear eyeshadow.

Do you identify with any organized religion? no

Have you read the book 13 Reasons Why or watched the show? both.

What is the sexiest part of the opposite sex’s body? arms and hands.

Are you confrontational? if i have to be i will.

Who was the last person you know (or that you know of) that died? my grandma.

Does your first crush know that he/she was your first crush? idk

Do you like your butt? sure.

Have you ever been to a night club? yes

Do you believe in reincarnation? no

Can your dog roll over on command, if you have a dog? n/a

Do you use any styling products on your hair? no

Do you have a favorite local band? Who are they? No

Do you use the Facebook chat often? not really since my friend Caitlin hasn't talked to me much lately.

Do you own a robe? What color is it? No

Who ended your last relationship? he did.

Have you ever been engaged? yes

Do you have any bug bites on you right now? If so, where? I don’t

What is the biggest problem in your life right now? Just no friends, work sucks, waiting on hearing back from grad school

How many pets do you have? one

Do you like tomatoes? not much but i'll eat them.

When was the last time you shaved your legs? idk. last week ?

Do you have any exes your parents never liked? no

Are you a fast or a slow eater? fast.

What was the last thing you purchased from a small local business? i'm not sure. probably a shirt from etsy.

Have you ever run from the police? no

What does your wallet look like? hogwarts express ticket.

Do you have any hickeys on you? no

If you had a son right now, what would you name him? I'm not sure. Maybe Joel.

Have you ever dated someone longer than a year? yes

Have you ever done ballet? no

When was the last time you consumed alcohol? idk

Are you interested in creative writing of any sort? No

Are any of your friends virgins? I don’t think so. But I’m also honestly not so sure, we never talk about sex…

Who is the funniest person you know? Hans.

Are you overweight? The opposite – I’m underweight.

Ever had a black eye? Have not.

Last person to cuddle with? My ex, a long long very long time ago.

Have you ever lost a friend to drugs or alcohol? Nope.

Have you ever read a play outside of school? Uhhh no. I’ve watched a musical though if that counts?…I saw Miss Saigon twice a few months back.

Do you listen to music while you sleep? Nah, I prefer having videos in the background as it’s the talking sounds that help me fall asleep much quickly.

Do you sell any products? If so, what? I mean, I’m in an agency so the job is technically selling our services but that’s as far as it goes for me.

Do you own a bobblehead? Nope, not my style.

Do you like scrambled eggs? Love them.

What is currently happening that is scaring you? The Taylor Swift-Vienna thing is pretty freaky tbh. I feel bad for the fans but seeing the outpouring of support from the local community to give the Swifties as best an experience as possible without the concert was very heartwarming.

What was the last movie you saw and who did you watch it with? My sister turned on Contagion when my cousin and grandma came over last week. I watched bits of it but mainly stayed for Kate Winslet’s scenes tbh hahaha.

Can you cry on command? If so, have you ever used it to your advantage? No I cannot.

Have you ever snuck out of your house? Nah.

Can you do any impressions? My Mr. Bean is pretty spot on. I know so because it sends my sister laughing every time I do it. Hahahaha

Have you ever been kicked out of a public place? Why? Not kicked out but my group has gotten stares for being too noisy. I was always the one trying to ask them to shut the fuck up but would get overpowered.

Do you have any important anniversaries you celebrate? [TW: SUICIDE] Yeah, there’s the day I decided not to push through with dying.

Do you know how to use a DSLR camera? Only if it’s in auto mode, which I know barely counts hah.

Are any of your friendships on a fine line? No, I feel very secure with the circle I have, as much smaller as it’s gotten over the years.

If I search your room will I find birth control? No but from my room you will hear my neighbors who for some reason seem to have 10 fucking kids under one roof just screeching all day, which also works as birth control.

Do you expect any of your ex’s to call or text you? Her, setting her pride down to reach out first? Not in this lifetime.

Have you ever witnessed a birth? Nope.

Where’s your favorite place to be when you feel depressed? I like being either in my bed, in my car parked somewhere away, or in a coffee shop.

Are you currently looking forward to tomorrow? Only because it’ll still be the weekend then, but we don’t necessarily have any plan set for tomorrow.

When was the last time you held someone’s hand? Maybe a few weeks ago when I held Angela’s hand.

Have you ever faked sick? Sure but very sparingly. I hate lying, and since I don’t file many leaves anyway I usually just use my normal vacation leaves.

Do you wear hoodies to bed? Absolutely never, unless it’s Jan/Feb.

Are you currently wearing jeans? No. The weather here is constantly hot and humid so after a day of wearing jeans I usually want them off of me as soon as possible lol.

Do you buy eggnog around the holidays? I’ve never had eggnog and it’s not at all a staple in this part of the world. I personally find it appetizing though and would like to try it at least once.

Have you gone to a coffee shop within the past week? [i.e. Starbucks] Yes, I was just in one a couple of hours ago.

Would you like to be able to read thoughts? It would be terrible if it ran 24/7 lmao, but it would be convenient to have that ability when I need to understand someone better.

Are you often the last one to understand a joke? Hehehe, sometimes yeah…

Your first black eye: Did you give it or get it? What’s with black eyes and why is this the second consecutive survey to mention them lol? Anyway, I’ve never had it and I’ve never given it.

Do you think baseball is a dying professional sport in America? I don’t think so? Isn’t the Ohtani guy still huge over there? In any case, at least in the eyes of a foreigner, American sports still scream baseball and American football to me.

Does playing the guitar make a guy more attractive? Not to me.

Have you ever slept in a tent, indoors or out? I’ve slept in a tent outdoors but it was super tame. It wasn’t in the middle of the forest or anything like that, and it was just held in school as an overnight activity lmao.

What does your hair look like at the moment? Acceptable.

Are you mad right now? No, just tired.

Who did you spend your summer with last year? My work.

Did you eat a cookie today? Not today but yesterday.

Have you heard of wreck this journal? Yes. I so wanted one when I was a teenager, but I never got one because I knew I was nowhere near creative enough to make something artsy out of it.

Do you know any one who lives in California? That’s like one of the migration hotspot states for Filipinos lmao. I know tons of people who’ve moved there or who vacation there.

Have you ever been told you were a good writer? Yes.

What do you put on your baked potatoes? Uh, just bacon and cheese. I don’t have baked potatoes much.

Have you ever been on a farm? Sure.

Last three texts on your phone are from? All related to work as I don’t use text for much else.

What are you listening to? I can hear my fan whirring and birds chirping while taking refuge on my aircon. :)

Are you one to take naps? No. I find sleeping to be a waste of time looooool; my free time is very very precious to me and I want to spend as much of it as possible catching up on the things I like doing the most.

Did you ever have braces? I had them but didn’t wear my retainers frequently enough so they got crooked again, so I currently have them again for round two lol.

Have you kissed anyone in the last five days? Nope.

Are you afraid of flying? No. I like being on airplanes. Of course watching videos of plane crashes makes me feel terrible, but I try not to think of the possibility when I do fly.

Do you have freckles? I don’t.

Do you have plans for today? Just this and maybe playing my game. I just want to do nothing for as long as I can hahaha.

Would you rather date someone five years older or five years younger than you? Older. I don’t know if I can manage a 21 year old…

Why aren’t you texting the last person you kissed? We haven’t talked in nearly four hours; we just don’t need to anymore.

If you had to live off one type of fruit, which would you pick? Probably avocado.

What were you doing at 7:45AM this morning? Fast asleep.

What was the last thing you drank? Coffee that was way too strong haha. My chest was on overdrive for a while but fortunately it’s mellowed down a bit now.

Where did you get the shirt your wearing? Zara.

Do you plan on sleeping in tomorrow? No. 

How often do you drink Monster? I’ve never had it.

Are you easy to get along with? I try to be, but I understand how I could be difficult to crack at first. I’ve just learned to be more guarded with my boundaries, that’s all.

Are you short? 5'1".

Can you ever get enough of mac ‘n’ cheese? The taste does get tiring eventually, especially if I got a big serving; but it’s great while I’m still enjoying it haha.

Are you allergic to nuts or dairy products? Not allergic, but I am lactose intolerant so I always need to get alternatives for my milk.

Do you have trust issues? Yes.

Is there someone you want to let go of? Nobody. I’ve never had a problem cutting off who needs to be cut off.

Do you think age matters in relationships?  Personally, it does.

Do you have any regrets? Sure.

Has anyone ever called the cops on you? Nope.

How old are you? 26.

Did you talk to someone until you fell asleep last night? Nah.

Do you go to church every Sunday? I do with my family. I don’t really have a choice until I’m able to move out. I never pay attention though and just use the hour to daydream.

Can you recall the last time you liked someone? I guess, yeah. It was four years ago since I last had feelings like that.

Do you like your height? It’ll be cool to be a little taller, but it’s not something I’m actively conscious about.

Is the last person of the opposite sex you texted single? Discounting work texts, the last guy I talked to isn’t.

Could you go a week without brushing your teeth? Absolutely not.

What day is it? Saturday.

Are you usually awake at midnight? I am, yeah.

Does it get really cold where you live? Maybe in like January or February, but that’s it.

When you get home from school / work do you change into your pjs right away? Not always right away, because sometimes I’m too tired to do anything else. Those times, I’d just change right before I go to bed.

Have you ever been peer pressured to smoke pot? There was never any peer pressure; me trying it once was my own decision.

Have you ever played the game Sims 3? I don’t think I have.

What is the temperature currently in the town you live in? 29C.

Do you ever actually drink milk alone? Nope.

If you don’t have one already, would you consider getting an iPhone? Yeah, it’s what I’ve had since high school.

What year were you born in? 1998.

[apexart-journal]

Anna Louise Richardson in NYC, Day #16

It is the middle of the night and I cannot sleep, I am unused to the loudness of the city; I can hear my neighbours TV loud and clear through the wall by the bed playing incesent late night infomercials and roadworks seem to occur from 10pm in NYC specialising in jack hammers. I am finding the non stop nature of the city tiring. So I will write about my day and try to sleep in tomorrow instead. Today I went to a volunteer session at the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) helping prepare and write out resumes for jobseekers returning from incarceration. The organisation provides support for people through job coaching, CV writing, interview skills and attire. They also provide counselling and help support people connect with services they need. It was clear that the non for profit organisation was full of humanity and understood the unique issues facing the people they assist. CEO provide jobseekers with their first job when returning from incarceration in cleaning and maintenance around the city operating on a same day payment scheme. They host events throughout the year and a graduation and celebration for jobseekers at milestones through their employment, helping empower them in their new jobs. Running every Tuesday there were about 15 volunteers there helping people one on one craft their CV's and drawing out CV appropriate experience and skills from the conversations. Some participants needed a CV from scratch, others only edits or updates and some just needed to have it typed up. I typed up some previously submitted resumes as I was not confident with the terminology specific to American resumes and education system (custodial services, janitorial, acronyms everyone else seemed to know) and felt like I would make it more complicated rather than helpful.

I then rushed over to Long Island City to visit Greta Lin who works as Partnerships Manager at The Association of Community Employment Programs (ACE) a non-profit that works with New Yorkers who have histories of homelessness, incarceration, and addiction to provide job training, work experience, and a support network. They employ over 150 people with histories of homelessness in full time roles including insurance and super as cleaners around the city. Greta told me about the work that ACE do and the unique challenges they are currently facing with NYC Sanitation department over a petty argument about ACE using their rubbish bins in the work they do to clean up the city. American bureaucracy seems very overloaded and complex and stumbling blocks like this must be so frustrating when council fails to see the good that these organisation do on so many levels.

I was supposed to go to a Lindy Hop Swing Dance class in Harlem in the evening but I wasn't feeling well so instead I watched a film called 13TH about the history of the U.S prison system and racial inequality. It summed up so much of what I have been learning over the last few weeks and rather than me try and feed key bits back here I would just recommend watching.

It's pretty harrowing and the archival footage is very hard to watch but that's the point, it is supposed to shock us into action. It is so relevant today and highlights the absolute hypocrisies of creating division for political gain. It ends with a more positive tone but it was also thoroughly depressing and made me think about the horrendously shocking and harrowing footage we are seeing of genocide in real time and how despite that there is still political numbness and pervasive silence.

On a lighter note, as I was walking down the street last week I noticed I was following someone who kept stoping to take pictures so I said hello and asked them what they were photographing. His name was Ricardo and we had a nice chat and he told me about his travels and hobby photographing cities and then took my portrait. Here it is!

[jllucas25]

The Evolution of Remote Work Burnout: Navigating the New Normal

If you're like me, you've probably experienced the highs and lows of remote work burnout—especially as the lines between work and life continue to blur. Remote work used to sound like the dream: no commute, flexible hours, and the freedom to work in your favorite hoodie. But as more and more people (myself included) moved into the remote work world, we started to notice something unsettling: burnout.

Remote work burnout is real, and it’s not something that just happens in traditional office environments. It can creep up faster when you’re working from home, surrounded by your couch, your bed, and every other distraction. And let’s face it, we all know how easy it is to forget to take a break when there’s no one around to remind us or set boundaries for us.

The Remote Work Burnout Struggle

When I first started working remotely, I was so excited. I could finally say goodbye to the long commute and rigid office hours. But over time, the perks of working from home turned into a double-edged sword. I realized that working in the same space where I relaxed made it tough to switch off, and I found myself working longer hours just to “catch up” or prove my worth.

It didn’t help that when you're working remotely, especially in a freelance or contract role, it’s easy to feel like you need to be constantly available. I’ve caught myself answering emails late into the night or jumping into Slack chats on weekends because I felt guilty for not responding faster. It’s this constant cycle of "always on" that leads to remote work burnout.

And here's where it gets interesting: I’m not the only one experiencing this. I’ve seen similar patterns in the experiences of virtual assistants in the Philippines, a country where many remote workers thrive, especially in the virtual assistant space. Many of these talented VAs are often juggling multiple clients, which can quickly lead to the feeling of being overwhelmed and burnt out.

The Remote Work Burnout Shift

In the early days of remote work, burnout wasn't as widely discussed. It was easy to think of remote work as the ideal lifestyle, but as more people transitioned to remote settings—especially after the pandemic—the negative effects of long hours, lack of boundaries, and social isolation became much clearer. Burnout became a conversation that people couldn’t ignore.

But here's the good news: there's been a shift in how we approach remote work burnout. Awareness has grown, and more companies, clients, and platforms are recognizing the need to take care of their remote teams’ mental health. In my own journey, I’ve learned to prioritize time management, set clear boundaries, and invest in self-care practices like mindfulness and scheduled breaks. It’s not perfect, but it’s made a world of difference.

Virtual Assistants and Burnout: The Unspoken Battle

When I think about remote work burnout, I can’t help but think about the incredible virtual assistants in the Philippines who handle the bulk of administrative tasks, customer service, and social media management for clients all over the world. These VAs are often juggling multiple clients with demanding schedules, and burnout is a real concern.

In fact, many of these virtual assistants report feeling overwhelmed, especially when they don’t have clear boundaries or the proper support. The role of a VA can be incredibly rewarding, but it's also demanding, and without the right work-life balance, burnout is inevitable.

This is where platforms like Onlinejobs.ph come in, offering a lifeline to both VAs and employers. I’ve personally seen the positive impact of using this platform to hire virtual assistants. It provides an opportunity for VAs to connect with businesses that value their time and work-life balance, and it helps businesses find highly skilled professionals who are ready to take on tasks without the added stress of burnout.

One thing I really appreciate about Onlinejobs.ph is the emphasis on building long-term, sustainable working relationships. VAs can set their own schedules and workload, which helps them avoid overcommitting and experiencing burnout. This focus on balance not only leads to better work quality but also happier, healthier remote teams.

Fighting Burnout: Practical Steps to Take

While I’m not claiming to have all the answers to remote work burnout, there are a few things that have helped me and my fellow remote workers along the way. Here are some tips:

Set Boundaries: Create clear work hours, and stick to them. It's tempting to work outside your designated hours, but you need that time to recharge.

Prioritize Breaks: Take regular breaks to walk around, stretch, or even step outside. It’s amazing how much more productive you can be when you give your brain a chance to reset.

Use Tech Wisely: Don’t let email and messages control your life. Turn off notifications after work hours and resist the urge to check in when you’re off the clock.

Outsource When You Can: If you’re overwhelmed, consider hiring virtual assistants. Platforms like Onlinejobs.ph make it easier to find skilled professionals who can help take the load off, giving you more time to focus on high-priority tasks without burning out.

Mindfulness and Movement: Try incorporating mindfulness practices or light physical activity into your day. These habits can help keep your mind clear and reduce the stress that often leads to burnout.

In Conclusion

Remote work burnout is a challenge that many of us face in today’s world, but it doesn’t have to be the norm. By being more aware of the signs, setting boundaries, and creating systems that allow for a healthier work-life balance, we can fight back against the constant pressure.

And for all the virtual assistants in the Philippines out there: you're doing amazing work, and it’s essential to take care of yourselves just as much as you take care of your clients. With the right tools and support—like those offered on Onlinejobs.ph—we can all find ways to work smarter, not harder.

Let’s keep the conversation going about remote work burnout and continue to support each other as we navigate this evolving way of working.