#and when I say that you can ask me pretty much anything about the hygge timeline because I've outlined it all... I mean it

[jmflowers]

You said hit me with your prompts so…

I haven’t seen any fic yet explore Maya contemplating or wanting to carry their second child, now that she’s secure in her motherhood what it means to be a family.

Anon, I have been sitting with this prompt for, frankly, months. Just like… stewing it in my head because it’s so good. So good, in fact that it became part of the Hygge Universe “canon” timeline, where it will live for all eternity.

I had every intention of writing this one for you. I still want to. I still might. Life, however, decided that three of the women closest to me that wanted children would all get pregnant within a few months of each other and well, I’m going to be an aunt for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th time this spring.

With so many new lives anticipated this year, there are aspects of this story that I can’t write. Not right now. Maybe not ever. But certainly not until my nieces and/or nephews are safely in my arms. I have every faith that you will understand my reasonings.

I outlined this one, though, like much of the Hygge Universe still to come. And I know that one day soon, these stories will no longer be canon compliant and some or all of us will move onto new tales. It pains me to imagine this little bit never getting the light of day at all.

So, thanks to the urging of a couple of great friends, the answer to this prompt is outlined below the cut. I hope a tiny taste is enough.

prompt #1 | prompt #2 | prompt #3 | prompt #4 | prompt #5 | prompt #6 | prompt #7 | prompt #8 | prompt #9 | prompt #10 | expanded prompts: Hygge on AO3

prompt #11:

(For reference: at this point in season 6, Hygge Universe is still nearly 100% canon compliant.)

It’s 2024. Andrea has just recently turned 1. Maya and Carina have settled into that comfortable space of parenthood where you suddenly look around and go, “Holy shit, we actually know what we’re doing?” It’s a glorious place to find oneself.

That comfort in the routine is what starts the first spark of want in Carina. Or maybe it’s a comment made at Andrea’s first birthday party about what a great big brother he’d be. Either way, the desire begins to fester in her.

She dreams of another baby held in Maya’s arms, someone for Andrea to grow up with, a way for them to nourish the sibling bond that she so cherished with her own brother. Another chance to break the patterns of their own childhoods, knowing that their children will never be placed in competition with each other or separated or made to feel as though they aren’t safe.

It’s an intoxicating image.

Maya, however, isn’t quite as sure about this idea when the topic is broached. Not for the first time, they come to heads about it. Maya is still in therapy, still trying to work through the traumas of her childhood. Motherhood is amazing and wonderful and she’s so grateful for every moment of their family, but her career isn’t yet where she wants it to be. She isn’t where she wants to be. And so, she denies it. Snuffs out the dream, a little.

Tries to convince Carina that they can be happy with exactly what they have.

Carina tries to convince herself, too.

Only, Maya’s career goals begin to flourish shortly after. Something changes that allows her to get back onto the track she’d once been denied. She’s not a captain again – yet – but there’s signs that it’s coming and the future suddenly looks promised, hopeful even, again.

The proverbial cloud lifts and Maya can picture the years ahead. Can imagine their family of three becoming four. It’s like the first time; the flick of a switch and there’s suddenly nothing she wants more than to see Andrea as an older brother, Carina as a mother once more, their family completed.

So, they agree to start trying.

Trying, as a queer couple, means heading to the fertility clinic. Because the first time they did this, it took like 10 attempts of IUI to work and Carina knows that could mean something is wrong. She wants to be sure they’re making the most educated choices (even if she hates the idea of something as beautiful and romantic as creating their child becoming something clinical, ironically).

The doctor wants them to have the best chances. IVF, though expensive, results in a greater likelihood of a successful pregnancy. They could use the same donor sperm as before, have it injected into one of their eggs in the lab, and then implant one or more viable embryos. It’s all very medical and unnerving and not exactly their speed, but Carina agrees that it’s the best course of action.

Maya, however, gets a little stuck on the cost. They’d have spent more than $6000 on sperm to create Andrea. IVF is even more expensive. So, while Carina is toying with the idea of reciprocal IVF using Maya’s eggs or regular IVF with her own eggs, Maya is clipboard spiralling.

She spirals so hard, in fact, that she begins to weigh all of the possible options – including carrying the child herself so they can try IUI again instead. She’s younger and she remembers the heartbreak Carina had felt with each unsuccessful attempt and thinks, maybe, she could protect Carina from all of that if it was her body going through it.

But, she’s back on the career track and getting pregnant could derail that again. Even trying to get pregnant could derail it. She wants their family and she wants Carina to be happy and she wants her job and she can’t seem to make all of these pieces fit together in a way that makes sense. She mulls it over so quietly and so intensely that she makes herself a little crazy.

See, Maya’s in therapy and really, truly doing better, but she’s still kind of a dumb ass when it comes to communication. So, while Carina would notice that something was going on, it wouldn’t be given voice right away and would probably only spill out when Carina’s finally had enough and gone, “Seriously, what the fuck.” (Except she’d say that sentiment way more eloquently.)

Maya will have tried so hard to make herself want to carry their child that she will feel as though she’s failed when she still hasn’t managed to convince herself. That devastation at her own inability is what Carina will find when they finally crack the surface of clipboard Maya.

Ultimately, though, Maya doesn’t care if their children are biologically hers. She doesn’t care if they have any blood relation to herself at all. Because she looks at Andrea and sees only her son. He has the features of the woman she loves, yes, but he’s also just this little human being that they hoped and wished and fought for. (And, realistically, she knows it could be better for both their kids from a medical standpoint if they have more genetics in common.)

Which is what gets Carina responding along the lines of, “You fucking idiot (affectionate).” She tells Maya that it’s okay, even though it was difficult the last time. That she doesn’t need protecting. That, actually, Maya being the one to not get pregnant successfully when they try wouldn’t make it hurt less.

She would also point out that Maya wouldn’t be able to guarantee no miscarriages or negative pregnancy tests just by the sheer will of it being her own body. There’s no control, really, in instances of trying to procreate. No matter the methods involved.

(This is where my own brain gets stuck because Carina wants to carry their children and trying to communicate that desire in a way that is authentic is challenging. And while I am writing this fic universe for representation’s sake and showcasing queer families that are simply soft and lovely and safe… this whole wanting kids thing is not actually on my own radar. Hence some of the stewing that has occurred. I really, really love being an aunt instead.)

Anyways, they proceed with IVF. They utilize the same donor as they did with Andrea – someone who looks a bit like Maya, though I haven’t really said that anywhere in Hygge thus far. They opt to use Carina’s egg again, which means the whole messy process of hormones and egg retrieval and the shit that both sucks and is a privilege all at once.

And the first implantation takes.

They settle into that cozy, quiet reality of discovering something you’ve dreamed of is coming true. Where no one knows but the two of them. They whisper about it between the covers, hands gravitating to Carina’s abdomen though nothing noticeable is there yet. They share giggly kisses. They bask in the wonder of the life ahead.

Until Carina miscarries.

This… this is the part I cannot write, anon. But it needs to be there.

Because this grief? It is quiet and it is loud. It is secret and all-consuming. It is a grief we are expected to tuck away into corners and overcome in silence. But it is a grief that more parents face than we speak about. It is the harshest reality of creating children. And it is the reality most of us will face at some point, whether we are dreaming of children of our own or loving someone who is.

Maya, in the devastation, will attempt to shoulder the loss. Only, she can’t. She can’t take the pain of it away. She can’t fix it and she can’t control it. This, I think, would be the first time in their motherhood that Maya would have to just… completely let go and have faith.

She’s been close once or twice by this point… when she rushed home after a difficult call to hug Carina in the early days of their pregnancy with Andrea. Those first six weeks of his life, when she’d taken the time off work and attempted to be still with them. Even the decision to try for a second child amidst the fear has been another step towards her growth. But this… the aftermath of grief over their loss is a really big turning point. How could it not be?

Maybe that’s what makes the next implantation feel so different. Maybe that’s why they’re tentative and calm when it takes, when the pregnancy test is positive. When the promise of a future starts to appear before them again.

This little embryo becomes Beatrice. They whisper about her beneath the covers, hands gravitating to Carina’s abdomen as she grows within. They share giggly kisses and quiet tears. Bea moves, more than Andrea ever did, and Carina calls her, “your daughter” so many times that Maya can’t imagine her being anything but.

And yeah, she couldn’t make herself want to carry her inside her body physically. But she carries in her heart and in her arms for the rest of her life. Just as she does with their son.

You see, Maya is already a mother – biology be damned.  

And all of that is why, on the day of Beatrice’s birth, Maya thanks Carina for doing this again.

[spenseipreqook1975-blog]

So many hobby composers complaining about not getting any streams on the first and last track they ever published on spotify. Well duh, there are gazillions of different tracks, you barely started out doing stuff, nobody going to find your song and talk about it on top. I know plenty of pretty unknown arists who still get millions of views yearly, ranging in the thousands or even tens of thousands USD.. Nostradamus put out recipes later, as did many others over the centuries. Some were for lightening or darkening the hair, others for faster growth, and some for 하남출장마사지 cleaning of 하남출장마사지 course. Fortunately for us, the De Ornatu Mulierum has been translated to English. Not all antifungals can penetrate and disperse biofilm. Ketoconazole has been proven to be antifungal to malassezia but has not been proven to disperse the biofilm. Selenium Sulfide Zinc Pyrithione are both antifungal and biofilmAnother explanation is a neurogenic malfunction. As for her physically being around you, if she asks to come around I would say things along the line of 'Sorry, I don't think today, I'm really tired/ill/busy' etc. If you can't avoid her I'd be polite but not engage too much where she makes comments about just the grand baby and not you. And if she does start playing up by touching you I'd say in a firm way 'we have talked about this. I don work at Walmart (don ask me how I found this sub, lol) but I part time cashiered for a while at a different place and some lady caused a scene and loudly accused me of being racist to her because I couldn give her a big bag. Our entire store was out of big bags. I not white. That adds up to 36,000 extra beats per day. Smoke can also cause an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia. The oxygen level in your blood is reduced because the carbon monoxide produced when you smoke tricks the body into thinking that it's oxygen. I not using anything for now from actives until someone helps me figure out what and when. My routine is currenlty in the morning: cleanser + sunscreen and in the evening cleanser + stridex + moisturizer. My skin feeling dry. If the feminist struggle is a war, then this Finnish island is the boot camp of its elite forces. Think of it as Navy Seals training for feminists with a bit more in the way of yoga mats and hygge. Peer between the island silvergreen pine trees and you can see them: crack troops, working hard at improving body and mind for the fight for equality. The internet didn exist yet, and in the 70s gays were coming out of the closet for the first time. In some places, gay sex was illegal, and gays were harassed and discriminated against. His relationship with B being made public would ruined his business, destroyed his extended family, gotten him kicked out of the church, and made him lose all his friends. We live in society where everything is owned by old white men. I not going to make myself miserable by cutting out every single organization that is owned by someone with less than desirable views. Hobby Lobby still has the best discounts, Chic fil a has the best nuggets, Jimmy John delivers to my campus. I even said I mail back all my add ons and the glam bag (which was free to entice me to stay) and got an automated response yesterday but no official reply in almost 24 hours. When I complained about the brush missing the first time, I got an automated and human response within hours. If I don hear anything by tonight, I going to email and let them know I going to do a charge back dispute and send everything back regardless if i don hear from them by Monday evening.

[popblank]

Thoughts/notes after seeing Frozen on Broadway, including performance details:

This is the first time I have been to the St. James, and it resembles other Broadway theaters I have been to in that its lobby area is relatively small  and consequently trying to move around anywhere just before the show, during intermission, and just after the show is kind of unpleasant. (Better than the Neil Simon Theatre, though.)  But other than that it seems quite nice.

I was sitting pretty close to the stage, just off-center house left.  It was expensive (considerably more than I usually spend for tickets) but I don’t regret it in this instance.  

Pluses: being very close to the action; being able to see the actors’ expressions and costume/set details; physical effects were much more impressive.  

Minuses: from that distance and angle, the projections didn’t look nearly as good as they would have from a different place in the audience.  I was about eye-level with the stage if I sat up straight, so l couldn’t see any of the floor projections.  Being so close also meant that I had a limited field of view, so in order to see what some other actor was doing or to see a scene as a whole, I’d have to constantly scan the stage. If I was focusing on something in the foreground it was easy to miss something happening in the background.  It’s probably a good thing that this wasn’t my first viewing.

At the Buell Theatre I sat in the back half of the orchestra (row Y, roughly center), and the projections and ice effects looked comparatively great. This may work out well for when the show tours in larger theaters.

Audience in general: clearly excited to see the show, but maybe not quite as excited as in Denver (where it seemed like a constant low-level hum).

Only saw a few audience members in princess dresses this time, though that could have been because children are short and the lobby was wall-to-wall people.

A kid a few seats away from me brought her Elsa doll with her to watch, which was cute.

“A Little Bit of You”

Young Elsa and Young Anna appear to have dolls of each other in the bedtime scene; looked like the ones they sell in the lobby. (Not missing an opportunity with the merchandise tie-ins.)  Text of the tag attached to the dolls:

Sir Jorgenbjorgen from Olaf’s Frozen Adventure gets pulled out of a toy box during the Olaf-building scene, though not used as part of the construction. Young Anna grabs him at some point and puts him back in the box, then he shows up again with bedhead-adult Anna.

“Hidden Folk” - hadn’t remembered it before, but this scene is where (Young) Elsa first sings the “Monster” theme

“For the First Time in Forever” 

Particularly effective from near the stage.  

It is pretty neat to be close enough to feel the rush of air from the dancing. When people started running around in this song and the coronation songs, all of the swirling skirts blew leftover “snow” from “A Little Bit of You” into the front row.  

Sven was very impressive from my seat angle.

“Queen Anointed”/”Dangerous to Dream” -

Still my favorite sequence of the show.

Caissie Levy’s expression as Elsa visibly softens as soon as Anna runs into the scene.

Elsa's first "Hi!" to Anna is high-pitched and a little too loud, which amused me.

The Duke of Weselton didn’t suggest marriage (as in Denver), but it was fun to watch Elsa try to maintain her Diplomatic Queen Face through their conversation while Anna doesn’t hide her feelings at all.  In general it was entertaining to watch Patti Murin in the background of any scene in which she wasn’t the focus.

I think this is the only time in the show where Elsa relaxes enough to be funny.  

“What Do You Know About Love?”

Improved by being up close, was actually more effective when I couldn’t see the stage.  

“In Summer” - This was a very pro-Olaf audience.  I think he was the only one who got entrance applause.

“Let It Go” 

Better this time, when I wasn’t expecting crazy effects.

The expression of ice in the musical is a bit different than in the movie, in this song in particular.  Where in the movie it becomes all solid planes and facets and architecturally imposing monoliths, here it's all about details and light (e.g. the crystalline curtains, the dress).

I like Caissie Levy’s version better than Idina Menzel’s movie version, particularly the first verse and chorus.

“Hygge” - Still kind of WTF but funnier up close.  One of the ensemble (I want to say Jeremy Davis based on the Playbill pics) made eye contact with a woman in the front row and managed to crack up several people in the vicinity with his expression.

“For the First Time In Forever” (reprise)

The ejection from the ice palace looks better than I remember - it seemed to be more Elsa-focused rather than on Kristoff/Olaf/Anna, though it may have been that I only looked at her because of where I was sitting. It does seem like it would be easier to show someone wielding magic through lighting/projection effects, vs. showing people thrown off a cliff.  The projection behind her resembled both snowstorm and static, which seemed appropriate for the character’s state of mind.

“Fixer Upper” - no marriage pronouncement as in Denver

“Kristoff Lullaby” 

In Denver this was a private/contemplative moment, on Broadway this was Kristoff having a sudden revelation in the middle of the action while time slows around him.  The setup resembled the scene in the Legend of Korra S3 finale post-Zaheer fight, with Pabbie as Su Beifong, Anna as Korra, Kristoff as Asami.  I think it worked better this way, because the Denver version both slowed things down and was more intimate than the state of the character relationship would have warranted.

Bad audience behavior: during this song I heard and saw two people (adults!) in the front row talking to each other. They were probably a few feet from Jelani Alladin; if I could hear them, he probably could too.  What was so important that they couldn’t wait until a scene change to say it?  

“Monster”

The pants are a fine idea, but I feel like the boots deserve more attention.

Caissie Levy hit the line “before I fade to white” really well.  No crazy riffs or anything, but it stood out to me.

When Elsa asks her parents what to do (”Father, you know what’s best for me” etc.), she kneels in a pose resembling prayer - looking upward, hands out in supplication. More on that later.

“Colder by the Minute”  

An example where sitting up close might not be as good.  The freezing scene worked better when I couldn’t see the individual actors (or their involuntary motions when “frozen”) so clearly.  From that particular angle I couldn’t really see Hans striking, either.

When Hans draws his sword, Elsa glances back at the sound, then turns back to face the audience; the impression I got was that she clearly knew what he was about to do.  Then she repeats the pose from “Monster” where she addresses her parents, while silently mouthing words.  I didn’t catch what she was saying but I assume it’s the same as in “Monster.”  Except in that case, what happens immediately afterward is that she resolves to fix the problems she’s caused, while in this case it’s Anna throwing herself in front of a sword and turning to ice.  So if Elsa thinks the result of her prayer for guidance/help is her sister’s death... well ouch.

“Finale”

When Kristoff asks Anna if he can kiss her, Elsa's eyebrow goes up as if to say, "well this is interesting.” Very different from her first encounter with Hans.

If I remember correctly (it’s been almost a year so I could be wrong), the order of events in the finale is slightly different, i.e. the kiss is before the quick “Let It Go” reprise. 

While exiting, I overheard a comment (paraphrased): “the kids in the audience were well-behaved; it was the adults that were the problem.” 

At least I didn’t hear any cell phones during the show.

Cast was excellent.  IMO they sounded as good as or better than on the recording.

Finally, a punny ad in the Playbill that made me laugh:

[king-of-snow-and-iceland]

OOC

Y'all probably knew this was coming eventually. But like, yea. My blood family isn’t the greatest, and for the past few years I’ve taken in friends and called them family. Most of them have left and forgotten about me. But I have a new family now. A better one.

Let’s start with @latin-prophet my little brother. Even before I actually started talking with Lukas, I considered him a friend. I sent in as many anons as I could trying to cheer him up or give advice. And I do have to admit, I’m still a bit guilty for sending in a particular MA. But Lukas is absolutely amazing. He’s patient, and even when he’s upset he’s willing to forget his problems and help you.

Then there’s @shayhammowolf you’re like a really awesome cousin. You have the greatest way of cheering me up. And. You listen to my problems. And you help. You help so much. You say things when I’m too scared to say them. You’re absolutely amazing.

Then we have @hygge-dansk we haven’t talked for that long, or that much. But you helped me through something and let me vent, even when we barely talked. You gave me the courage to actually talk more about what happened to me. I instantly felt like I could trust you. Also, I may sorta kinda refer to you as my therapy dog to myself. I’d say you’re like a brother, but that’d make things a bit awkward.

@sinnyclair I know we don’t talk much. And I’d like to talk more. Most times when I’m upset, you’ll ask me how I am. Or you’ll just wordlessly send in an ask. Even though I’m (pretty sure) I’m older than you, you’re like an older sister.

@tired-viking yea! You give me anxiety! But you’re really cool! And you don’t hate me! And, it’d be fuckin Awesome if we could talk more. But…. yea���.i….*awkward noises*

Best for last! Best for last!!!!!!!

@nyo2p-norways-googlesearches aaaaaaaaaaaaa do I even need to say anything? No? Well, I’m gonna anyways. You are the most patient, and kind, and understanding person I have ever met. You make me feel important. And loved. And happy. Even when you’re not online, you bring me so much joy. No matter how upset I had been before, talking to you can fix that almost instantly. I hope I can make you as happy as you make me~ I love you so much.

Now, if you weren’t includes… please don’t get upset. These are the people I can talk to, with barely any fear. This is my family. My brothers. And sisters. My lover. This is my family. No distance could ever change that.

[pictureofsoph1sticatedgrace]

Frozen the Musical - My Act Two Thoughts

Sorry this has been such a long time coming. Been a crazy week! But, without further ado, here are my thoughts from Act Two!

Act One Thoughts: Here

- So. Act Two opens with a little ditty called “Hygge” (pronounced HUE-ga). And when I say little, I mean it’s an almost 10 minute long explosion of nonsense. Friends... I hope you’ve enjoyed life without having this song stuck in your head 24/7/365. It is the ear worm to own all ear worms.

- The number starts with Oaken casually walking in through the audience, which made everyone go nuts. Kevin Del Aguila gets the accent down PAT... he sounds legit exactly like the movie.

- I will also say that when this number started, I was 100% not convinced. I thought it would be campy, silly, and totally ridiculous. And it was, but in the best way. 

- It starts off with just Oaken, but then we meet his family, nude in the sauna (which is in the corner of the stage and they just kind of pop their heads out). Then our crew enters... There’s a really cute part where every time Anna opens the door, the sauna crew pops their head out and sings. Oaken explains that they need Hygge and Anna jumps right in on the fun, ditching Kristoff’s clothes for a towel. We then see the ENTIRE ENSEMBLE spill out of the “sauna” in clown car fashion (hilarious). We get a drinking song. Kristoff is unamused (what else is new) and he interrupts to inform that “a future that’s cold and dead and bleak” is not, in fact, hygge. Anna gets her signature winter gear, and off they go.

- BUT NOT BEFORE WE GET THE ENTIRE ENSEMBLE ONSTAGE IN NUDE BODY SUITS WITH LEAVES COVERING THEIR BITS. I’ll just let that sink in for a moment. The choreography here is BRILLIANT. Hard to describe, but they move the leaves around so that they’re covering themselves, each other, etc., there’s a kick line... it’s insane.

- With that insanity out of the way, we move to the ice castle. This scene remains largely unchanged from the movie, including the flashback of Elsa hitting Anna with her magic - the young girls come back out. One thing that is a bit different is that Elsa tells Anna that the mark in her hair was given to her because of the accident and that she almost killed her.

- Caissie and Patti play off of each other so well in the reprise of For the First Time in Forever, and Caissie’s voice SOARS on the last note.

- Unlike the movie, Elsa acknowledges Kristoff when he comes in as Anna is hit. She tells him to help Anna climb back down the mountain. A nice touch, I thought.

- And then we have the scene where Elsa makes the gang leave. Obviously, there’s no giant snow monster (RIP Marshmallow, I miss you). What we get instead is... some projections on a screen? The music and lighting are very dramatic, but I’m not 100% sure what actually happened. Did Elsa just like... blizzard them off the mountain? Idk. I’d like to see this get a bit more specific.

- The projection screen goes up at this point and we see Olaf in pieces... begin “When Everything Falls Apart”. Anna picks up his head... at this point, Patti is operating the puppet. A few moments later, his butt starts rolling around the stage until Anna accidentally chucks his head offstage... at which point he comes back on as usual.

- Omg I almost forgot. This song also has one of my favorite lines in the entire show, courtesy of Olaf: “one arm has flown off, and another’s in the grass, I’ve got one foot in my mouth, and the other in my aaaaaaaaaaaaa...bdomen.” Reminded me of “here’s my daughter, she has aaaaaaaa... wonderful disposition!” from BOM. Thanks, Bobby Lopez.

- The only thing that confuses me here is that it’s awfully sudden that Kristoff is an optimist... but I’ll let it slide because this song is cute AF.

- The song ends... except they then come back onstage and start to sing that they went the wrong way. Cute.

- We then see the Duke, Hans, and co trying to find Elsa via the bridge. Nothing really of note here - filler scene.

- Time for the trolls not trolls! We still get the “he’s crazy” scene because Kristoff has to chant to summon them, which made me happy. It’s cute - Olaf makes a remark about how it’s been a short life but a good one.

- Fixer Upper has more of a... tribal feel now, I guess? Not sure how to describe it. There’s even a dance break where we get to see Kristoff join in the fun with his family. Jelani dancing = heart eyes.

- Kristoff’s Lullaby. Dear. Lord. I wanted a lovey Kristanna duet, but I think this is better. Kristoff places Anna on a stretcher type thing and covers her with her cape, and a blanket. I’m assuming everyone reading this has also read the lyrics because it has like a bajillion notes at this point, but omg. The feels are SO REAL, guys. “You’re what I know about love”, but by that point she’s asleep. RIP ME. Thanks, Lopezes! I’m emotional again.

- Monster. THIS SONG. Far and away my favorite of the new stuff... probably because it’s a little dark, but that’s exactly what Elsa’s feeling. I know there’s already talk about them toning down the “would the world be better off without me” feels, but I really hope they don’t. I love that we’re getting a more in depth look at what Elsa’s feeling, and that despite this being a Disney musical, it’s DARK. That’s how life is... particularly if you’ve just cast your land into an eternal winter and possibly fatally hurt your sister.

- Let’s talk about Elsa’s costume here. It’s a pale blue, tattered and torn dress with very few sparkles, and she’s not wearing shoes. I get what they’re going for here - the dress/her magic is reflecting her mental state - but I’m not sure I like it? It was more of a distraction than anything else, and she’s in it for the rest of the show until curtain call. Meh. There’s gotta be a better way to do this.

- This is also when the guards come in to attack Elsa. She makes ice shards pop out of the floor, and they spin, which is REALLY cool.

- Caissie’s voice here is RIDICULOUS. Just insane. She could not be more perfect. Fight me.

- A lot of people have messaged me asking if they still capture her in the iron mitts. No, they do not. After the last note of Monster, we get a blackout, and after that, she’s being dragged forward by two of the guards. Hans orders her to be returned to Arendelle, and that’s about the end of that.

- Kristoff then returns Anna to the castle. It’s just as heartbreaking as in the movie. More feels, hooray!

- Hans’s betrayal. Hoooooly shit, I didn’t think it could get more cringey, but then he gloats in SONG FORM! And not only that, but it’s the same song he used to woo her earlier in the show, but in a creepy minor key. Rough times.

- Ready for your heart to be ripped out of your chest a bit more? Good, because it’s time for Anna to sing True Love. This song... ugh. It’s so beautiful, and the lyrics are GUTTING. She talks about how she’s been alone in this room before, and that she knows this loneliness and cold, but she always believed true love would save her... and here she is. “I was looking for a fairytale, and dove headfirst into his. Turns out you can’t find love if you don’t know what it is.” WTF BOBBY AND KRISTEN?!?!

- Not to worry though, because Olaf is here to save the day! Again, this scene is pretty much word for word from the movie.

- Time for “Colder By The Minute”. This is basically the blizzard scene from the movie. In a nutshell - Hans explains that Anna is dead, but they said their marriage vows. He’s now in charge. He orders the queen be brought forward, and he sentences her to death. To which (obviously) Elsa freaks out and somehow basically blasts the guards holding her back and she escapes. What follows is a chaotic scene that involves Elsa running, Kristoff looking for Anna, Anna looking for Kristoff, and Hans looking for Elsa.

- The freezing scene! I’ve also been asked about this a bunch, and I’ll try to explain it as best I can. Basically, the ensemble is in white coats. As the scene progresses, we see Anna’s cape get progressively more silver and sparkly. We see Hans draw his sword. Anna makes the decision to save her sister, and with the help of some projections, turns completely silver. The ensemble is behind her in a sort of formation that goes from her height down to the ground, and they also turn into ice via projection. Again... really hard to explain, but it’s VERY cool. Hans is basically forced to jump backwards as his sword hits Anna.

- Then Elsa cries and just... ouch. Enough with the pain, guys. Enough.

- We know how the story goes at this point. Love will thaw, the day is saved! As Anna unfreezes, so does the ensemble - they’ve somehow managed to replace her cape AND her wig at this point (?! I have no idea!), and they also shed their white coats as Elsa unfreezes the town (and the proscenium which is still my favorite part).

- Kristoff at this point is like “You’re alive... you’re amazing.” And I died. And then the kiss... SO cute. Anna does a little fist pump and it’s adorable.

- Anna clocking Hans... MORE satisfying than the movie. Bless.

- After that, we get our finale. The sisters get to talk (sing) a bit about how they’ve always had true love. The youngins and Agdar + Iduna come out to start the reprise of Love Is An Open Door that I was so desperately hoping they’d keep from the DCA production because I love that they get to reclaim that song for themselves. And that open doors are now a thing, because well... you know. The entire cast ends up on a turntable that spins around so you get to see everyone, which was very cool and got applause both nights.

- TBH, I think the finale is a SMIDGE underwhelming for such a grand show. I’m not sure what they could do to make it bigger, but it just kind of suddenly happens and is just... not enough? As I was leaving the first night, I actually passed two members of the creative team in their box and they were talking about the end, so I’d expect to see this change a bit.

- Right at the very end, Anna and Elsa do the little “We Know Better” handshake that they did at the beginning of the show. PERFECT touch.

So... there you have it! I’m hoping to continue getting my hands on audios so I can keep tabs on all the updates as they happen. It’s so fun to watch a show grow and develop right before our eyes. They’ve got an incredible base to work with, and it’s only going to get better. I can’t wait to see this take off in NYC. You can see the blood, sweat, and tears that have been put into this production with every note, and I’m so excited to see it pay off. See you in NYC, Frozen! <3

[greg38mcall]

Our HGTV Urban Oasis Experience

Did you all see that this year's HGTV Urban Oasis giveaway house is located right in my backyard? That's right! This year it is located in Minneapolis, MN and you are going to want to hurry and enter to win this beauty!

Photo Credit: Tomas Espinoza for HGTV

I know many of you come here for our organizing and house projects, but this quick story is just too great not to share! And I would be beyond thrilled if one of my readers happened to win this amazing home.

I have really gotten to know designer Brian Patrick Flynn over the past few years, and he is one of the most generous and kind humans I have ever met. He is ridiculously encouraging, really supports independent artists and small businesses, has an impeccable design eye, and can find beauty in just about anything.

Brian is the designer of the HGTV Urban Oasis home and he asked ME to be the organizing stylist! Organizing a house that no one actually lives in is slightly different than my typical duties; it has its own set of challenges but it is a bit of a dream at the same time. You have to work within the parameters of specific sponsors and design styles and be sure it is editorial, while also being able to use beautiful props. The ideas still have to be relatable and sensible, which of course is my favorite part! I wanted the folks that are entering the giveaway to be able to see the organization as possible solutions that they would be able to incorporate into their daily lifestyle.

Photo Credit: Kelly Christine Photo for HGTV

After the organizing was complete and the Urban Oasis was being prepped for media, Brian asked me back again. This time he had me bring my crew to be photographed enjoying the Hygge lifestyle at the house! My oldest son had college prep and work so he couldn't be there, but my younger boys were absolutely thrilled to take part of a really fun HGTV photoshoot. These pictures were such a treat and we will cherish the opportunity forever. Kelly Christine was the photographer behind the camera and she did such a great job of capturing us as a family pretending to live our best Minnesotan lives. As you can see, they definitely wanted to show the relaxed, comfortable, family-friendly lifestyle that this home provides. My son couldn't believe that he had a once in a lifetime opportunity to jump on a sofa and get away with it!

Photo Credit: Kelly Christine Photo for HGTV

This year's Urban Oasis is a Modern Scandanavian Farmhouse, which is an extremely popular design aesthetic around here. It is not necessarily my personal style (I lean more colorful and traditional), but I was still able to find so much inspiration throughout the entire home. It instantly hugs you when you walk through the front door and the entire place feels like a cozy nordic sweater. It is layered with plush and textural textiles and has art sourced from really incredible talent. And don't even get me started on the finishes and hardware and oak kitchen cabinets... #sigh

Photo Credit: Rustic White Interiors for HGTV

You can tour the entire house here, and enter to win here (GO DO THAT NOW!). Although this post is somewhat of a "check out this cool home and our awesome experience", I also wanted to share some images of my favorite no-fuss organizing tips that anyone can incorporate into their living spaces.

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As soon as I was hired, I searched Overstock.com (the sponsor website) to recommend some of my favorite organizers ahead of time and crossed my fingers that everything would be fluid enough to work when I was finally able to see the home in person. My first day on location everything was a blank slate of freshly painted walls and empty cabinets and drawers. It was an experience in itself to watch the house transform as the team worked to install and style all of the rooms. TIP #1:  SELECT VERSATILE ORGANIZERS

Photo Credit: Tomas Espinoza for HGTV

My biggest money-saving tip is to try and source products that are versatile enough to work in a variety of spaces and can move and evolve right along with you. I knew I would be tasked with organizing the master bedroom closet and bedroom, the studio armoire, and many of the kitchen cabinets/drawers. The key items I sourced were a mixture of wire and woven baskets, spring-loaded drawer dividers, clear bins, wooden hangers, and glass jars. I was able to mix and match these items in each area that I touched, which made my job much easier in the end. I do believe in measuring and purchasing storage that makes sense for each project, but by selecting items in basic and natural finishes, you are guaranteed that they will stand the test of time. TIP #2:  SPRING LOADED DRAWER ORGANIZERS ARE AMAZING

Photo Credit: Rustic White Interiors for HGTV

I have mentioned before that sometimes I am the last to hop on any trend train, and for some reason I wasn't quick to take advantage of spring-loaded drawer dividers. This experience flipped me completely. I am IN LOVE. I used the dividers throughout the kitchen and I now want to be the poster child for these special organizing tools. They were so easy to use (ANYONE can install them in a jiffy), and they instantly created flexible drawer dividers for all the things.

I used them for the maintenance drawers, utensil drawers, and even to hold pots, pans, and lids in place. A bonus is that the natural finish of these particular dividers fit right in with the custom wood drawers. Swoon. TIP #3:  FILE YOUR CLOTHING

I know that most of you know this by now but it is always worth mentioning. File your clothing. If your clothing is filed, it is always easier to see exactly what you have. It is also infinitely easier to take clothing out and put it away.

BONUS TIP: Use small bins and baskets inside of your drawers to corral the little things like undergarments and accessories. Sometimes the most obvious ideas are the most helpful. TIP #4:  MATCHING HANGERS

Hangers have come a long way over the years. Wooden and velvet options are both readily available and are fairly inexpensive in bulk. Anytime you can, swap out all of your mismatched hangers for ones that match. It will instantly take your closets up a notch and help them feel more uniform and calm. BONUS TIP: Color blocking the items hanging in your closet will have a similar effect. I like to hang items in order by type first (jackets/cardigans, long sleeve, short sleeve, sleeveless), and then color within each category. TIP #5:  USE DEEP BINS IN DEEP CABINETS

Organizing deep cabinets and pantries is always perplexing. It is truly wonderful to have all of that extra space, but making sure items are not being lost in the back can be a major problem. It is my goal to find the deepest bins possible in this situation because they turn into instant drawers. These bins not only categorize everything, but they also take items from the back to the front in a single motion. Also, whenever possible I like to organize from shortest to tallest. If space permits I will also add lazy susans to the mix.

Photo Credit: Rustic White Interiors for HGTV

Another tip is to place your small appliances inside of the deep cabinets and relocate your more frequently used items and foods into your standard cabinets and drawers. Small appliances are generally only used on occasion, so it may make more sense to store them in places that aren't as easy to access as the items you use every day.

TIP #6:  A+ ARMOIRE

This house didn't have closets in the two main bedrooms (one styled as an office, another as a guest room), so armories were added in their place. We use armoires in our own home where we are lacking in built-in closets also, and I love that they can offer customized and space-saving storage opportunities.

I especially appreciate the option of adding them to a home office, as they are an ideal way to conceal anything from printers, electronics, and craft supplies, to cozy sweaters and work totes. A clear workspace translates to a clear mind.

TIP #7:  CLEAR SOLUTIONS

Speaking of clear... I love a good woven basket when I am actually trying to conceal and streamline visual clutter, so I find they are a great option for open shelves and in open areas. But when it comes to organizing behind cabinet and fridge doors, I say the clearer the better. Anytime you can quickly see what you have on hand, you are one step ahead of the game. It also allows you to identify items without the need for fussy labels. Heading to the grocery store? Clear jars and bins will give you a quick look at what you have and what you may need. TIP #8:  PRETTY AND PRACTICAL AT THE SAME TIME

Photo Credit: Tomas Espinoza Interiors for HGTV

If you are limited on space, or even if you just love to keep things right within reach, find creative ways to use the walls as both decor and storage. Just off of the mudroom, Brian installed the most darling rail system and I was absolutely obsessed over how it was used to display and organize the ordinary in such a beautiful and organic way.

TIP #9:  ENTERTAIN THIS IDEA

Dedicate a spare cabinet or drawer to entertaining essentials. Our homes are best when filled with folks we love, so be ready to entertain at a moment's notice by keeping a drawer stocked with your favorite linens, candles, vases, napkin rings, serving dishes, etc...

This eliminates the stresses that come with hosting last-minute dinner dates and happy hours, or at the very least, quickly and easily elevates the setting for a nice mood boost. TIP #10:  DRAWERS ALWAYS GET MY VOTE

I was recently having a discussion with a friend about kitchen planning and storage and whether she should install lower cabinets or drawers. Drawers always get my vote if there is an option between the two. I typically find that lower base cabinets are a recipe for that deep and dark area of doom (standard depth is around 24"). Sure, you can add pull out drawers and mechanisms inside of the cabinets, but you have to open the cabinet doors all of the way, navigate around them, and then pull out the contents. A drawer is a quicker way to access everything while ensuring nothing is getting lost. Drawers are also much easier for kids to use and maintain while maximizing overall space (no need to install any extra components).

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Last but not least, let's just celebrate this amazing backyard moment. I am so envious of this year's lucky winner!!

Photo Credit: Kelly Christine Photo for HGTV

Photo Credit: Rustic White Interiors for HGTV

Photo Credit: Kelly Christine Photo for HGTV

ALL STORAGE SHOWN WAS PROVIDED TO URBAN OASIS BY THE SPONSOR OVERSTOCK.COM. IN THE EVENT OVERSTOCK NO LONGER CARRIES THE SPECIFIC ITEM, I SOURCED A SIMILAR ALTERNATIVE

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ENTER TO WIN THE GIVEAWAY HERE

TOUR THE ENTIRE URBAN OASIS HOUSE HERE

SEE MORE OF OUR FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT HERE

Brian and I had such a great time working together that he invited me to take part in another HUGE project last month. I can't wait to share more!

from IHeart Organizing http://www.iheartorganizing.com/2019/11/our-hgtv-urban-oasis-experience.html

[thehappymessproject]

I have been struggling lately. Struggling to stay present, focused, in touch with my values and priorities. My anxiety and addictions harassing me. That means it is the perfect time to write about how I am dealing with struggle. 

Right now, procrastination seems to be my go-to move. I have some work to do, and instead of doing it, I am super distracted, get lost on social media scrolling mindlessly, everything seems more important and interesting than what I have to do. 

But since I have no choice today but to get to it (a girl gotta eat!)… 

Here are my 10 favourite battle field tricks : 

1. I make it real. I mention my struggle to my gang, loved ones who are safe. How it feels and what I am struggling with. They won’t judge, they won’t advise strategies right away, they know the drill : they also suffer form it. They are the empathetic ones, the good listeners, the ones that can make me smile in the midst of the worst.  Each of us has his/her own way to procrastinate and get out of that funk. It helps so much to know I am not alone, the only one struggling.  Also, in procrastination, you have only one enemy : your own mind. If you keep your struggles for yourself, it will make them way more powerful. 

2. I summon my secret identity. I am playing the most awesome game I’ve ever played. It’s called SuperBetter and helps making a game out of personal development, wether it’s to help you tackle a challenge or recover from depression or addiction, you can create a world for yourself, where you learn to have fun facing your fears. That’s a huge motivator for me. I LOVE the idea that it necessitates a secret identity. So when it’s really hard, I let my super hero identity take the lead. She knows. She’s a badass, nothing can stop her, she’s all strength and love. Fire and cotton. 

3. I am visualising. I was stunned learning in the SuperBetter book, full of science backed up tiny magical tricks to get happier and stronger, that the most efficient tool against procrastination is as simple as : visualise yourself doing what you want but struggle to do. It works for your future and we will talk about that, but also, it makes your brain believe that it’s already done, already hooking it on the sweet molecules it creates to reward yourself when you finished a job. Dismissing right away all the “this is too hard/I can’t do it” BS. Just close your eyes, and imagine yourself doing the thing you are dreading.   

4. I am squeeeeezing tight. Another SuperBetter trick : squeeze your whole body very tight for a moment. Everything, your fists, your face, your jaw, your brows, toes EVERYTHING. Feel the tightness. And then release and feel yourself relaxing, kind of like rebooting physically. You’re kind of refreshing your whole body. I do that a few times to make it more powerful. 

5. I reward myself. Anytime I am doing something that is really hard for me to do, I make sure I celebrate my victory by doing something I really love but don’t do often. A huge part of why I am procrastinating a lot is because I was raised in a perfectionist paradigm : I am therefore rarely happy about anything I have done. It is something I have to learn how to do for myself. And it’s crucial in fighting against procrastination. Celebrate even the tiniest victories. I am about to type a report (which I hate) by making of each big part of it a quest on SuperBetter, so I can feel my progress. I wouldn’t be able to do it if I would keep the focus on finishing. And afterwards, I am going to order from my favourite restaurant and cuddle in front of my favourite TV show afterwards, perfect foodie introvert incentive. <3 

6. I work with time, not tasks, and am pacing myself. I use the pomodoro technique whenever I can : 25mn work, 5mn break, 25mn work, 5mn break, 25mn work, 15mn break. And so on. If I have to do more, I will do it another day, or during the next cycle. One of the pitfalls of procrastination is that we tend to abuse ourselves when we actually do stuff. Therefore, we make sure our brain remembers how fucking awful it is to do those dreadful things. Getting out of that by breaking things into manageable pieces, and giving yourself permission to not finish is crucial.  As stress free productivity guru David Allen says “your productivity is directly linked to your ability to relax”. We aren’t wired to work like dogs. We need to pace ourselves in order to be able to persevere. 

7. I bring out the hygge factor. Hygge is about cosiness, comfort and warmth. I am about to light some candles, the music is soothing, I am under a pile of blankets and surrounded by pillows, some tea is brewing. I isolated myself and my senses from the outside world. That time is going to be tough for my Little one inside, but bringing more hygge will help alleviate how I don’t want to do it and am avoiding this moment. 

8. I practice presence. I take tiny breaks to breathe deeply. I spend my breaks by myself. I daydream, read for 5mn, let my curiosity fire and wander by looking through the window (seriously, 30sec of watching inside from outside, or outside from the inside is a great tiny power boost for your curiosity, another courtesy from SuperBetter). I don’t interact with people (or at least I limit +++) when I am working. I am introverted, like 50% of the population, interacting socially will be draining. And I need my energy. I switch off the Internet, I put my phone on airplane mode. It’s so much easier to stay focused when we are not harassed by notifications. 

9. I tend to myself, I self care, I love myself. I am pretty sure it will get hard during that session to stay focused. In case it does get harder, I prepares 3 major self love weapons, backed up by science of course!  - journaling is a meditative practice, it is so soothing to pour out the content of an anxious brain on to paper. It’s so much easier to have some perspective and distance too. Whenever I feel lonely, lost, confused, I try to grab my journal and write about it. It is helpful in so many ways.  - yoga is your easiest door to get connected with your body and learn to love, respect and celebrate yourself. Eg, more and more trauma specialists are slowly realising the power of that practice to overcome traumatic events, PTSD etc. Magical things happen when you start treating your body and listening to it like it deserves. Here is my favourite 10mn sequence for focus and productivity.  - in the same vein, the easiest door for an appeased mind is meditation. Right now, I am doing the Anxiety pack from Headspace which is awesome. Love and kindness meditation can be tremendously helpful too. 

10. I embrace my emotions and my humanity. Sometimes, my emotions are just too intense, keep staying in the way, no matter what I do. I repeat myself that it is ok to not want to do it. I journal about it. I face myself. I basically let myself have a tantrum about not wanting to do it. It’s even better if I can ask someone to listen to me and then hug me tight afterwards. Sometimes, all we need is to lash out in a safe place for a while. If I am by myself I really let myself go. Sometimes it’s so intense that I cry. Sometimes I feel the need to yell (yelling in a pillow, or mute yelling -do everything as if you would yell from the top of your lungs, but just don’t let any sound come out- can be an excellent stress relief).  I also embrace the fact that it’s ok to struggle. And to go slowly. As long as I don’t give up yet. I won’t be doing everything right. I won’t do it all. So what? That just means that like all my fellow humans, I am struggling. That’s ok. 

Ok, after that very productive procrastinating detour, let’s fucking do this.