#and yet we are still experiencing our winter weather as they begin to get snowed in

[shayberri789]

I cannot believe it's fucking December and I STILL spent all day in leggings and a long sleeve. Summer was meant to have arrived two months ago. What the fuck

[the-bau-quinjet]

The Perks of Cold Weather

Hello! This is just a whole lot of fluff because I need some positive vibes this week. Feel free to send some requests my way if you’d like! They can be as specific or as vague as you want and I’ll do my best. None of my ideas are currently working for me.

Summary: Reader and Spencer have some fun in the snow in a small town in Alaska.

Words: 2996

Warnings: none I think

When you first started at the BAU, you were quick to realize the group was more like a family than coworkers. It was clear in the little things they did for each other on case, like the way JJ and Spencer would comfort each other on particularly difficult cases to the slight bickering that would inevitably start up between Derek and Emily about anything that didn’t really matter.

 You were quick to find your place in the little family as well. Well, not find it so much as fall into it, but you didn’t mind. You were only 28 years old, meaning you were the youngest member of the BAU. Being the youngest meant a lot of teasing from the “older sibling” personalities of everyone except Rossi and Hotch. Their personalities were much more parent-esque. With how much they’d tease you, you were always quick to jump on the chance to tease them for a change. The perfect opportunity arose when a case came up in Alaska.

Penelope walked through the bullpen, calling you all into the roundtable room right before you left for the day. “Hello my wonderful crime fighters. I wish I had better news, but this case is a real whammy. Three women have been found stabbed to death in a small town in Alaska.”

 The collective groans of just about everyone in the room were quiet, but obvious.

 “I know, I know. Another freezing cold case. I wish I could send you to LA all the time, but alas bad guys aren’t deterred by freezing temperatures.” She went on to explain the details of the case before Hotch dismissed everyone with his typical “Wheels up in 30.”

 The team dispersed to collect their go bags- and winter items for the cold weather they would surely be facing in Alaska- before meeting on the jet. When you got there, everyone else was already boarded, and you couldn’t help but feel the low energy of everyone on the plane.

 “Don’t tell me the lot of you are afraid of a little snow?” You can’t stop the smirk from appearing on your face as you sit down across from Spencer and adjacent to Emily, Derek, and JJ.

 “Big words from someone who hasn’t been on a case in Alaska yet.” Derek’s reply comes without hesitation. The grin on your face only grows when you realize that everyone really is feeling low because of the impending winter wonderland.

 “Don’t tell me you’re excited for the cold weather?” JJ shivers just asking the question.

 “Of course I am! I’ve always loved the cold. There’s something so magical about watching snow fall. It feels like Christmas!” The four of them stare at you like you’ve lost your mind. “You are seriously telling me none of you like the snow?” You scan all of their faces in disbelief, eyes landing on Spencer last.

 “Don’t look at me. I’m from Nevada, it’s basically the desert. Winter in Las Vegas is comparable to fall in DC. The last time it snowed with any significance was in 2003 and that was only an inch.” Spencer nearly starts rambling about weather patterns across the US, but cuts himself off.

 “You all are seriously killing my good mood with your bad vibes. I will change at least one of your minds by the end of this case” You say in a huff while putting your headphones on. You try to catch up on some sleep before you all reconvene to discuss the case.

 After the briefing and right before landing, everyone starts bundling up in layers upon layers of sweatshirts, jackets, coats, gloves, scarves, and hats. You pull a sweater on over your long sleeve and zip up your FBI jacket, adding a cute beanie more for aesthetics than warmth. You’ve never been one to get overly cold, so you skip a few layers everyone else put on.

 The rest of the team marches off the jet as if they would rather be anywhere else, but you don’t let it deter you. You exit the jet with a smile on your face, taking a deep breath of the cool Alaskan air.

 “You really are enjoying yourself?” Spencer asks with a small smile. You meet his eye, the look on his face giving you butterflies, before responding.

 “Of course I am. It smells like winter!” The two of you share a laugh as you get in the SUV headed to the police precinct to actually get to work.

 --

 The case only lasted two days. You were glad to have solved it so quickly, but you would be lying if you said you weren’t going to miss the snow. After the case files are all packed away and Hotch goes off to coordinate the jet, you head outside to absorb every last ounce of winter possible.

 “I thought I might find you out here.” Spencer sits next to you on the bench as you stare at the flakes falling from the sky.

 “What can I say, I just really love the cold.” You reply without turning your head. “Maybe it’s weird, but I would pick cold over hot any day.”

 “I don’t think it’s weird at all! I think it’s kind of cute actually.” That gets your attention and you turn to see he’s looking at his hands in his lap, fiddling with his thumbs. “I like how happy you are when you look at the snow.”

 Of course, that makes you smile again. “Thank you, Spence.” You can feel your cheeks heating up, but you’re quickly distracted by the sound of Derek calling the two of you back into the station.

 “Hey lovebirds, Hotch needs us.” You roll your eyes at Derek before standing up, offering your hand to Spencer to help him up. He takes your hand, squeezing it slightly as he rises from the bench. He only drops your hand when he goes to hold the door open for you, leading you back inside. The team gathers in the conference room, Hotch walking in with a grim expression.

 “I’ll cut to the chase. We won’t be able to fly home until this evening. The snow from last night on top of the storm that’s about to pass through is too much to clear right now.” Everyone, including you, sighs before nodding in understanding. As much as you would love to stay longer, you know it sucks that everyone can’t go home to their families. “This case is wrapped up, so feel free to just explore the town or relax in the hotel. We should be able to take off at 9:00 pm, so I expect to see all of you on the jet by 8:45.” Those words were music to your ears. As everyone begins to pack up to head out, you turn to Spencer.

 “I can’t believe this. It’s like a snow day! I’ve always loved snow days! We would always go outside, have a snowball fight, build a snowman, and try to build an igloo but end up giving up when it collapsed for the third time.” He chuckles at your enthusiasm, but nods along as you both walk out of the precinct toward the hotel just down the street. “Then we’d go in for lunch, make hot chocolate and cookies, and watch all our favorite movies.”

 “Is that what you want to do today?” Spencer asks as you both walk into the hotel lobby.

 “I mean, in a perfect world, yeah. That is exactly what I would want to do today.” You smile wistfully as you think back to your childhood snow days with your siblings.

 “Well then, let’s see how perfect we can make the world, just for today.” Spencer’s smiling as he says it, taking in the confusion and shock on your face.

 “You mean… You want to build a snowman? With me?” Your heart is beating so forcefully, you wouldn’t be surprised if it flew right out of your chest.

 “Yeah, and all the other things too.” Spencer’s words are soft and unsure, contrasting the confidence of his previous statement.

 “But you don’t like the cold weather…” You simply can’t fathom why he would volunteer to do these cold weather activities when just two days ago he was talking about how little snow he experienced when he was younger.

 “But you do, and we’re stuck here anyway. So, why not?” Hearing that he would spend his day off playing in the snow simply because you want to does things to you that you chose to ignore for the time being.

 “O- okay… yeah, let’s do it! ” The two of you smile at each other for a few seconds before you each bring your things to you respective rooms with a plan to meet in the lobby in fifteen minutes.

 When you get to your room you pull out the warmest clothes you brought to Alaska. Although it would suffice for walking down the street, it’s not exactly made for playing in the snow. After getting dressed you meet Spencer in the lobby. He is dressed in warmer clothes than you, but still not snow proof.

 “I don’t know if this is a good idea…” Your excitement to start this day with Spencer has dwindled since imaging the cold, wet clothes you’d end up in. “The key to a good snow day is waterproof clothes and we definitely don’t have any. How am I going to make you like snow if you’re freezing and wet at the end of the day?” You would expect the resident genius to agree with you, but instead of a grim expression and a nod in agreement, Spencer’s smile grows.

 “Don’t worry about it. Just come with me.” He leads you outside of the hotel with his hand on the small of your back all the way down to the town store. “What needs to be waterproof? We can find snow pants, jackets, gloves, and boots right here.” He looks so pleased with himself as he leads you around the store to collect all the items you’ll need. He even picks out a sled for the two of you.

 After checking out, he leads you back outside where you pull the waterproof gear on over your warm layers, tossing the tags into a nearby trash can. Before you can say anything, he is again leading you through the town with his hand on the small of your back. He stops when he reaches the park, turning to you once again.

 “Where do you want to build the snowman?” You mirror the grin on his face as you run across the park to a flatter area.

 You begin compressing the snow in your hands to form the ball that would eventually become the bottom layer of your snowman. Spencer copies your actions, forming a lopsided ball for the middle. You leave Spencer to work on the head while you search around the nearby trees for sticks to use as arms and rocks to use for the eyes and buttons.

 After finding the perfect set of sticks, you return to see Spencer adding a carrot nose right in the middle of the head.

 “I didn’t even see you buy carrots!” He laughs at your childlike enthusiasm, moving aside so you can add the sticks to the middle. You also add the rocks you gathered for the eyes and buttons. Spencer surprises you again by pulling out a hat and scarf to add the finish touches.

 After forcing him to take a selfie with you and the snowman, you walk across the park to find a good sledding hill. You find the perfect hill, and offer to go down first since it’s going to take some effort to form the path. Spencer watches you scooching your way through the snow, forcing the sled down the hill, laughing hysterically. You haven’t been able to enjoy snow like this for years.

 Spencer was hesitant to sled down the hill together, but one pout from you and he climbed on right away. The sled picked up pace is you barreled out of control, flipping and rolling down the hill.

 You took the opportunity of a distracted Spencer to form a snow ball, waiting until he was only a few feet away to throw it at him. Of course, as soon as it hits him it’s game on. The two of you are running through the park, hiding behind trees, and dodging each other’s snowballs. Spencer, being uncoordinated, mostly missed you. That is, until the very end of the snowball fight when he hits you right in the face, the surprise causing you to fall to the ground.

 “Y/N! Are you okay! I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to-” He’s cut off by your laughter.

 “Relax Spence, its fine! It was powdery snow. It’s not like you hit me with a chunk of ice.” You smile at him as he helps you to a standing position. You’re so focused on standing up without slipping on the compressed snow beneath your feet, you don’t realize how close the two of you have become.  When you look up to meet his eyes, your noses are nearly touching.

 Without much thought for the consequences, you lean a few inches forward, ever so slightly brushing your lips against his.

 Spencer is so stunned, it takes him much longer than he’d care to admit to reciprocate your affection. So long in fact, that you’ve pulled away and are frantically trying to think of something to say to save your friendship when he pulls you back in.

 The two of you don’t pull away again until the need for air overpowers your need for each other. You stay close though, foreheads pressed together.

 “Let me take you on a date. A real one where we go into knowing it’s a date.” Spencer says it all in one breath.

 “Oh, Spence. This whole day has been a perfect date, even if we didn’t say it at first. But I would love to go on another with you.”

 The two of you are all smiles as you walk back toward the café near your hotel. You’ve been outside so long it’s nearly dark- granted it gets dark around 4:00 this time of year in Alaska. Upon entering the café, Spencer is quick to order two hot chocolates and cookies to go.

 “I know it’s not the same as baking them ourselves, but we don’t have access to an oven in the hotel.” He says, squeezing your hand before leading you out of the café.

 You would blindly follow Spencer anywhere, but that doesn’t stop you from asking him about it. “Where are we going now? I thought we were going to eat…”

 “Back to the hotel. We have one more thing to check off the list for your perfect snow day.” Of course he would remember your list from earlier in the day. “So tell me, what’s your favorite snow day movie?”

 “That’s actually a tough question. It changes depending on the mood.” You are genuinely trying to think of the perfect movie to end the perfect day as you walk back into the hotel.

 “I’ll tell you what, why don’t you go up to your room and pick out a movie that fits ‘the mood’, and I’ll meet you there in a few minutes?” You simply nod in response, too lost in thought to contemplate where he could be going.

 15 minutes later you have finally picked out a movie to watch when Spencer enters your room, carrying a takeout bag.

 “I finally found a movie!” You smile at him as you show him your computer screen. Anastasia is queued on your Disney+.

 “Perfect. We can now officially start our date.” He smiles, pulling the food out of the bag, he hands you a cup of tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. Your heart warms at the sight of it. You know Spencer has an eidetic memory, but you still get butterflies at the idea of him remembering your favorite cold weather food.

 The two of you sit against the headboard, setting the computer between you to play the movie. After you’ve finished eating you shuffle around on the bed, moving the laptop so you could cuddle with Spencer.

 “I’ve got another reason for you to like the cold weather.” You state matter-of-factly, eyes still trained on the movie.

 “Yeah? What is it?” Spencer’s eyes are trained on your face.

 “It’s better for cuddling.” A small grin appears on your face at the sound of Spencer’s airy laugh. He pulls you closer, both of you completely content.

 --

 As much as you love the cold and snow, dragging yourself out of Spencer’s arms and into the cold air to get to the jet on time was not an exciting task. In fact, it put you in a slightly sour mood, something Morgan was all too quick to pick up on.

 “What’s the matter L/N? The cold weather got you down?” He laughs at your annoyed expression.

 “Not a chance, Morgan. I quite enjoyed our little snow day actually.” You smile at Spencer as you pull your blanket from your go bag and sit on the couch.

 “You actually played in the snow? It was only 22 degrees today!” You can’t help but shake your head. 22 degrees is cold, but nothing compared to how bad it can get in Alaska.

 “We did indeed. I think I managed to turn Spencer on to the cold weather too.” Spencer sits down next to you encouraging you to share your blanket.

 “How’d you manage that? I’ve been to on enough cases with Pretty Boy here to know he prefers the warmer ones.”

 “It’s actually rather simple.” Spencer replies, shifting his arm around you on the back of the couch. You smile as you close your eyes and lean into his touch. “Colder climates make for better cuddles.”

tag list:

@mac99martin​ 

[anistarrose]

Summary: Winters running the Mystery Shack are difficult, but two unexpected guests improve Stan’s day.

Characters: Stan Pines, Mabel Pines, Dipper Pines, Ford Pines

Relationships: Mabel Pines & Stan Pines, Dipper Pines & Stan Pines, Dipper Pines & Mabel Pines & Stan Pines

Happy Holidays, @halogalopaghost! I'm your Secret Santa, here to mash together a couple different prompts through the power of time travel (and Mabel)!

***

It doesn’t take Stan many years to learn that winter’s no good for the rural Oregon tourist business.

Granted, he can hardly blame the tourists — he has to drive on Gravity Falls roads himself, much to his disgust. Between the paved, plowed streets that always turn slick with ice where you least expect them, and the winding gravel roads that you might as well ignore when road and wilderness alike are under identical four-inch blankets of snow, he knows no gallery of fake haunted paintings or taxidermied coyote’s ass is worth the trip in these conditions.

He’s on his third winter in town, now — not counting the first, worst one he arrived at the tail end of — and if there’s a right way to run a business this time of year, he hasn’t found it yet. He always scrapes together just enough to pay his bills, thanks the occasional local who wanders over to purchase a seasonally appropriate if overpriced snow globe — but he’s lucky if he breaks even in December, and knows January through March are a lost cause before they begin. He’ll make it back within the next year, sometimes even before summer ends, but it stings to know he’s about to fail at his one goal for the next three to four months straight, and there’s nothing he can do to change it.

It might sting less if he had another way to spend these winters — if he had a good reason to formally close the Shack for a few months, like an experienced business owner making a grounded and responsible decision. But he can’t even search for Ford’s journals in this weather — he’s learned from his mistakes, his countless brushes with frostbite, throughout those cold, desperate months in the wake of the portal shutting down.

He’s useless right now, and worse, this season’s shaping up to be the bleakest yet. His usually-scammable neighbors have already lined their shelves with winter knicknacks from Mystery Shack visits past, and the bulk of Stan’s meager sales have come from shivering out-of-towners who’ve never tried to take a Pacific Northwest road trip in December before, and probably won’t be keen to try again.

What seasonal merchandise hasn’t he sold yet? Bumper stickers for miscellaneous holidays, maybe — but neither timely bumper stickers nor the usual selection of tchotchkes will convince people to visit the Shack in the first place, under these road conditions. He can’t even walk around selling merch door to door, for the same reason he can’t look for the other journals — he’d freeze to death, presuming he could make it through the snowdrifts to somewhere worth visiting in the first place. Even with snow chains on the Stanmobile’s tires and a bucket of salt in her trunk, grocery runs alone are perilous enough.

Damn it, Ford, he thinks, why couldn’t you have gone missing in Florida?

He could always do what he does best and lie, maybe — send out word that there’s free hot chocolate or something with every purchase at the Mystery Shack, and hope that people hand over their hard-earned cash before they pick up on the false advertising. He might draw in some local customers that way, and even if he loses their trust for the next few months, they always seem to forget about his cons eventually — as if he never scammed them, and they’ve never so much as heard the words caveat emptor.

He’s just about to dial the local paper’s number on the phone, hoping to flatter Toby into letting him run another ad for free, when he hears a telltale knock at the gift shop door. The bell atop that door doesn’t ring, which means that despite the hostile winds and snow they braved to get here, his visitors are still out loitering on the porch — or so Stan thinks for a moment, before it dawns on him that he doesn’t even remember unlocking the door this morning. He’d just been that pessimistic about even seeing a customer.

“Hello?” someone calls — a fairly young voice, probably approaching the tail end of puberty. “Are you there, uh…Mr. Mystery?”

“On my way!” Stan shouts, throwing on his fez and bolting for the door. His neighbors in Gravity Falls might forget and forgive a lot, but he doesn’t want to risk the wrath of a parent whose teenage kid froze to death on the local grifter’s doorstep, so he unlocks and flings open the door as fast as he can. “Welcome, travelers! Prepare to be baffled and bemused by our mind-boggling boreal mysteries, here at this last refuge at the edge of the Arctic we like to call the Cryptid Cabin!”

His visitor — no, his two visitors — both blink slowly, proving to at least be baffled, if nothing else. Both are bundled up in what Stan assumes to be several sheep worth of wool garments, lovingly knitted into sweaters, hats, and scarves.

“But you call this place the Mystery Shack,” the girl speaks up, and the boy nods.

“Yeah, and we’re nowhere near the Arctic! This is Oregon, not Alaska!”

Stan groans — the only customers he might see all week, and of course they’re teenagers. “Look, punks, business is slow these days! I’ve had a lot of time to think about a seasonal rebranding, and not a lot of chances to workshop it, alright?”

The teens’ expressions instantly soften, and the girl exclaims: “Well, you can workshop it with us!” She grabs the other kid — her brother? — by the hand, and pulls him into the gift shop.

Maybe Stan’s judged them too quickly — he’s still not thrilled to have strangers pitying him, of course, but he’ll take it over strangers mocking him any day of the week.

“Dang, you’re right,” the boy comments once inside, and face-to-face with shelves of untouched merchandise. “It really is empty in here in the winter.”

With little light coming in from the windows, and a flickering bulb overhead that will soon need replacing, the often-bustling room is now dim and eerie — aside from the junk food wrappers on the floor, which Stan hastily kicks under his desk.

“Look at all the lonely snowglobes in need of homes!” the girl pipes up, swiping a glass-encased antelabbit off the shelf and giving it a hearty shake. “Good thing I’m here to adopt this lucky little guy — how much is he?”

Stan takes a second to run the numbers — the maximum amount of money a teen would have on hand, versus what Stan needs to charge to make a profit — and replies: “Twenty-nine ninety-nine and nothing more. We don’t do sales tax here, ‘less you’re a cop.”

“Bet there’s a lot of other taxes you don’t do, either,” the boy snorts, rummaging through a shelf of hats until he unearths one with the old Murder Hut logo on it. “Aha! Now here’s a collector’s item!”

“Oh, did you come here before the rebrand and forget to grab a souvenir?” Stan asks. He doesn’t remember these two, but it’s been a couple years since he painted over the last Murder Hut sign — and they do seem pretty familiar with the building, not to mention Stan’s whole… business model.

“Oh, uh, that’s a funny story, actually! Real funny!” the boy stammers with a whole lot more trepidation than the topic should’ve warranted, and looks to his sister for help.

Sure enough, she steps in. “We lived here for a while — in Gravity Falls, I mean! Not here in the Shack, obviously — wouldn’t that be ridiculous, if we lived in your house for months without you knowing? Could you imagine —”

“That is to say, we still visit sometimes!” the boy supplies. His eyes are a whole lot more fixated on the snowglobes than with anything in Stan’s general direction. “You probably don’t remember us — we weren’t in town for very long, or anything…”

Stan sighs. They’re lying, obviously — but hey, there’s no cops in the Mystery Shack, and he doesn’t have a dog in whatever fight compelled the duo to spew this bullshit. He’ll keep an eye on the cash register, of course, but these kids are tolerable company when they’re not being suspicious as hell — so if they want to invent a bad cover story for a low-stakes tourist trap visit, more power to them.

“Well, the hat’s vintage, so that’ll be double price. Twenty bucks,” he announces matter-of-factly, and the boy groans — but there’s a smile behind it, like he’d expected this and now he’s just playing along. If there’s one thing Stan’s willing to believe, it’s that these kids have been to the Mystery Shack before.

“You’re a highway robber, old man, and I’m the coward who’s gonna let you get away with it,” the boy declares, and Stan can’t help but laugh. The kid reaches under several layers of sweaters to pull out a wallet, with a blue pine tree embroidered on, and miscellaneous charms of fantasy characters hanging off a chain on the side. Stan doesn’t recognize any of them, but they still tug at his heartstrings, because he can tell they’re the exact kind of nerdy references Ford would love.

He does take note of the pine tree design, though — it’s generic enough that slapping it on some shirts and hats wouldn’t quite be plagiarism, and in Stan’s eyes, those are always the best souvenir designs.

The kids put their money forward, hovering awkwardly as Stan rings up their items — the girl busies herself attacking a loose string on her brother’s scarf, nimble fingers tying it back in its approximate place, while the boy twiddles his thumbs and stares at the snowy, gray scene out the window. At the moment, only light flurries fill the air, but tomorrow night promises a blizzard… and Stan, grump with a soft side that he is, can’t help but hope that if these kids are really on vacation, then they aren’t planning to drive anywhere tonight.

With it being winter, and him running the business that he does, he doesn’t have much charity to give — but, if he’s going to play along with his customers’ little lie, then he should probably at least bring up the topic.

“You’re not hittin’ the road any time soon, are you?” He makes eye contact only with the green illustrated presidents in his hands, so not to come across as overly invested. “Weather forecast says tonight’s gonna be a doozy.”

“Aww, you’re worried about us?” the girl coos, because apparently both parties here are damn good at picking up on each other’s lies. “That’s so sweet — but you don’t have to be! Our great uncle’s waiting for us in town, and he’ll… well, let’s just say he’s planning to bring us back home before the blizzard hits.”

“He’s, uh — he lived here back in the seventies, so he knows what he’s doing,” the boy adds. “On the roads, that is. Mostly.”

“Well, you two take care,” Stan tells them, hastily adding on: “So you can come back when the weather isn’t terrible and buy more keychains, that is.”

“Oh, we will.” The boy grins, sharing a conspiratorial glance with his sister. “Maybe don’t count on it being next year — or the year after that, even — but you can count on it.”

“Well, uh…” Stan stops himself, resisting the impulse to divulge things he really shouldn’t. “You just shouldn’t count on me running this place forever. Be sure to get your novelty cryptid pins while they’re hot, y’know.”

He’s never really wondered what he’ll do with the Shack when he gets Ford back — and yes, he has to believe that statement deserves a when, not an if — but he figures the Shack’s fate will depend more on Ford’s own whims. If reality lands somewhere between the nightmares of Ford wanting him gone and the fantasies of finally sailing around the world, if Ford doesn’t hate him but still wants to spend more time with Important Science Experiments than with his brother, then Stan could see himself returning to a mediocre life in his moderately successful tourist trap… but with the search for the journals still coming up empty, Stan can only try not to think about the future, and accept that he’ll just cross — or burn — that bridge when he comes to it.

“Okay, Mr. Mystery,” the girl suddenly declares with a tone that frankly reminds Stan of his mother, “you look like you could use a pick-me-up!”

“What?” It’s starting to freak Stan out how well she can read him, and there’s no telling whether it’s just a sharp intuition, or something significantly more Gravity Falls-y. “If I look tired, kid, it’s because it’s December in Oregon, I haven’t seen the sun in a week, and I am tired. Only pick-me-up I need is for you to get out of my hair, and let me go back into hibernation like nature intended.”

“Okay, but counterpoint: you hear us out,” the boy insists. “We’ve got a little something up our sleeve to really light up your winter —” He winks at his sister. “Don’t we?”

“You bet we do!” She pulls a bag of marshmallows out of not her sleeve, but her backpack, and grins. “Prepare to be amazed and astounded by the natural wonders of this town, and also the miracle that is processed sugar and gelatin!”

“Are you imitating my sales pitches?” Stan asks, dumbfounded. “And do you carry those on you at all times?”

“In winter in Gravity Falls, I do!” the girl replies, already heading for the exit with her brother. “C’mon! If this doesn’t put a smile on your face, nothing will!”

“We all know you’ve got time to spare, Stan,” the boy adds, cracking open the door. “Get a move on!”

“Spare time doesn’t mean I’ve got spare limbs to lose to frostbite,” Stan grumbles, but follows them anyway. There’s something captivating about these little punks — not so much this mysterious phenomenon they’re trying to sell him on, as if they could really out-charlatan Mr. Mystery himself, but rather the way they’re not put off by his frigid facade. They see right through him, showering him in alternating kindness and acerbic wit.

Stan can’t help but wonder if their uncle’s kind of like him — tired, bitter, and pretending to be indifferent, but secretly soft on the inside, like a marshmallow that’s burnt on the surface but melted within. It would explain why they’re so good at calling him on his shit — but then again, Stan and this mystery guy can’t be too alike, because if Stan had a niece and nephew like these two, he’s sure he’d be living his life a whole lot differently.

He exits the Shack, and all his questions are immediately replaced with new ones when he sees the teens just hurling marshmallows towards the edge of the woods. The wind’s in their favor, so some of those sugary little fuckers fly far.

“Okay, so I’ve already got a couple concerns,” Stan tells them, shivering. “First off, what the hell?”

“It might take a couple minutes before one shows up,” the girl admits, as if it’s a totally reasonable stand-alone explanation for whatever the hell’s going on here. With about a third of the marshmallows now blending into the snow on Stan’s lawn, she and her brother stop with the throwing, though they still hold onto the bag. “Our grunkle theorized that they move slower in winter, to save energy — oh wait, never mind! Here comes one now!”

“Sorry, what? And where?” Stan squints out into the woods, terrified to lay his eyes upon a woodland monster these kids just lured to his doorstep — but all he sees, at first, are a few wisps of smoke dispersing in the wind above the trees. He’s not even convinced it’s smoke, really, because these aren’t the right conditions for a fire — but to his surprise, he glimpses an orange light within the woods, glowing steadily brighter until the trees and bushes around it are all casting faint shadows.

When it steps into the clearing, Stan realizes he has seen something like it before, albeit only from the overcautious distance he tries to keep from all anomalies. It’s an otherwise normal campfire perched on wooden, spiderlike legs, and it melts a path in the snow as it trots forwards, then lowers itself to the ground to absorb the first of a dozen marshmallows.

It lets out a satisfied little sound — a low, steady crackle that sounds almost like a purr — then scampers up to the next morsel of food to repeat the process.

“It’s called a Scampfire!” the girl explains, beaming. “There’s a bunch of them out in the woods, and they’ll always wander over if you leave out enough campfire food — especially sugary stuff! Isn’t that cute?”

“Our great uncle figured out this amazing trick when he used to live here, and he passed it down to us!” the boy adds, practically bouncing up and down in place. “If you leave them a trail of food, they’ll follow you around until you run out — which means they can clear your driveway, warm your hands, even save your car if you drive into a snowbank! Or help you make s’mores, of course.”

“Our grunkle says he even skipped paying his heating bill a couple winters,” the girl adds with a grin, “but I dunno if we can recommend that in good conscience.”

As the scampfire draws a closer, continuing to purr as it consumes more of the sugary trail, the boy slaps a handful of marshmallows into Stan’s palm. “Give it a try!”

Stan’s not thrilled about bringing a fire onto the wooden porch attached to his wooden house, even as cute as said fire is, so instead he tosses his ammunition at something much more disposable — the golf cart, since if this one croaks, he can always just steal another from the insufferable rich family up on the hill. His aim isn’t great — he blames his cold fingers — but exactly one marshmallow lands right in the cart’s driver seat.

The scampfire breaks course from its path towards the Shack, clearing a path through the snow before it crawls into the cart, absorbing the final morsel and curling up atop crossed legs. Nothing explodes, and in fact, a few of the icicles on the awning start to melt, dripping water into the patch of bare muddy ground surrounding the cart.

“Huh,” Stan mutters. Dozens of harebrained schemes flash before his eyes — if he could find a slingshot, or even better, some kind of cannon to mount on the cart’s front hood, then he’s sure that with practice, he could entice some scampfires to clear a path through any snowdrift…

But no matter his exact solution, it’s a way to get into town consistently. He can finally go door-to-door selling knickknacks, instead of sitting in the gift shop every day and hoping some poor soul would get bored enough to brave the roads and visit. He can actually work out a way to line his pockets even in the winter, instead of constantly waking up from nightmares about getting foreclosed on —

“See? They get food, and we don’t freeze — classic mutualistic symbiotic relationship!” the boy declares, and his sister gently socks him in the arm.

“Nerd!”

“Hey, you knew that too! We’re in the same biology class!”

It’s familiar, but the kind of familiarity that Stan doesn’t treasure anymore. It’s more like the kind that he hides in the basement or in boarded-up rooms whenever he can, and grins and bears with a heavy heart when he can’t, like every time he looks in the mirror or hears someone call him Stanford. He comes so close to asking these teens if they’re twins, because he figures the answer can’t be worse than wondering — but the question dies in his throat, and he tells himself it’s for the best.

“Is your uncle who invented this trick the same one who’s waiting in town for you?” he asks instead.

“Yep!” replies the girl. “He probably won’t get worried about us for like, ten or fifteen more minutes, though — I’m sure he’s got his nose buried deep in a book right now.”

“Do me a favor and let him know he’s a lifesaver,” Stan says. “Also tell him I’m glad he moved out, because he sounds a little too smart to fall for the fake monster wares that I peddle.”

The kids exchange a look that Stan can’t even hope to comprehend, though he’s damn sure it’s worth a thousand words to the two of them. Twins or not, he’s getting an “inseparable” kind of vibe from these two, that’s for sure.

“I’m not sure he’d like the Shack at first,” the brother muses, “but I’ve got a hunch it would grow on him.”

“He does like cryptids — sometimes even fake ones!” the sister chimes in. “Oh, shoot — we still need to grab a souvenir for him! I knew we were forgetting something!”

“Huh.” Stan throws a few more marshmallows in the direction of the woods, and the scampfire stumbles off the cart before trotting along on its merry way back to the forest. “I can get you something, no problem — I don’t call this place a gift shop for nothing, y’know. But for the love of Paul Bunyan, let’s talk about it inside.”

He’s not great at mental math, but he doesn’t have to be to know he owes a lot to these teens and the mysterious uncle he might never meet. Hell, even forgetting the business perspective — he can actually look for the journals in winter without risking frostbite, if he gets one of his fiery neighbors to tag along. Even if he finds nothing, even if he only winds up with more failures to contend with, he’d rather rule out locations than be useless to Ford for months at a time.

None of this weird family that he might never see again, these three benevolent strangers that he can only put two faces to, could possibly know how much they’ve just changed for him — and he can’t tell them, as much as his oversized heart promises he can trust these snarky kids who remind him so much of himself. But he does owe them, so when he reenters the gift shop, he goes straight for a seldom-opened and never-advertised box of knickknacks that he has no intention of charging them for. It’s got the dimensions of only about two side-by-side shoeboxes, so he lifts it onto the counter with hardly a grunt, and opens it up.

“Got lots of goodies in here — mostly stuff that I made or, ahem, acquired in bulk, so they never quite sold out by the time everyone and their mother in town had already bought their own. Take a gander.”

He knows that gander will reveal some Murder Hut-branded shirts with the words written on in marker, plastic six-sided dice with a different cryptids pictured on each side, cheap whistles purported to attract Bigfoot, cheap flashlights once advertised for attracting Mothman, exactly three cool rocks that Stan found in the woods… and the pièce de résistance, a little wooden Mystery Shack-shaped music box, which chirps out a pleasant tune when Stan flips up the roof. That last one’s a rare knickknack that Stan really put effort into personally crafting, back at the height of last winter’s monotony, through cannibalizing parts of premade music boxes and sticking them into brand-new shapes — but he couldn’t sell them for enough to be worth the cost of making more, and could never sell this last one at all.

“Oh, wow!” the girl gasps, clearly delighted. “How can I even choose between —”

“No, take it all. It’s on the house — but don’t you dare tell anyone about this, you hear me? I’ll know if you blab, ‘cause people will start asking me if they can get free crap, too, and I don’t wanna hear a word of that nonsense.”

“Free stuff at the Mystery Shack?” The boy narrows his eyes. “Are you feeling okay, old man?”

“Kid, stuff only goes in the Free Bullshit Box when I can’t sell it anyway.” Stan crosses his arms with a huff, even though he’s technically telling the truth. “The only catch is take it before I change my mind.”

A sudden spark of recognition in the brother’s eyes morphs into a grin on his face, and he nods. “Oh, we will. Don��t worry.”

“I think our grunkle will love this! Especially the dice,” the sister adds. “Hey, maybe we could give all this to him piece by piece for Hanukkah! There’s enough here for a new surprise every night!”

“Whoa, there is! Man, the look on his face the first time we bring out a Bigfoot whistle is gonna be great —” The boys eyes dart to the watch on his wrist, and he coughs into his hand. “But we should probably get a move on, huh? Don’t want to get caught in, y’know, the blizzard tonight.”

“Yeah, no kidding.” Stan returns the lid and hands the box over. “You, uh, need a ride back to town? ‘Cause being a man of mystery and all, I know this neat trick to clear a whole road with just a bag full of marshmallows —”

The kids both start cackling, so hard that the box almost escapes the girl’s hands, and Stan laughs with them — not because he thought his joke was that funny, but because the kids’ laughter is absolutely priceless. The isolation’s definitely getting to his head and his heart, but he’ll take whatever reprieve he can get.

“I think we’ll manage on our own,” the boy finally wheezes out, “but thanks for the offer, Mr. Mystery. Thanks for everything, really.”

“See you later!” his sister adds as they leave. “Don’t let the feral gnomes bite!”

“You take care, too,” Stan replies, not nearly as loud — but he figures that the kids can read his lips. They can read so much about him, and know so much about the town, that he’s honestly a hair’s breadth away from assuming they’re two more anomalies from the woods themselves, just in more recognizable shapes than most…

Though if Stan’s honestly considering that theory, then more of Ford must’ve rubbed off on him than he likes to think about — which is to say, it’s a good a reason as any to stop thinking about it. What or whoever they were, the duo were actually pretty tolerable for teenagers, and Stan’s pretty sure they didn’t put a curse or whatever magic mumbo jumbo on him — because if they could manage that, they could definitely tell some less conspicuous lies, right?

He kinda likes the idea of one goddamn supernatural force in this town that’s actually benevolent, actually watching his back when his mood’s at its bleakest, and coming to his rescue with — no, he’s dropping that train of thought. No baseless hoping, just letting himself down easy before he gets up.

It does occur to him, several minutes after the gift shop door swings closed, that Hanukkah has already come and gone this year. Which probably just means the kids are prepared to hide that box for another twelve months… but maybe, when Stan finds the other journals, he’ll double-check for entries on helpful teenage cryptids who can’t lie. Just to be sure.

***

Mabel, Dipper, and Ford barrel into the living room so suddenly that Stan almost drops his mug of hot chocolate. They’re all covered in a ridiculous amount of snow, considering how briefly they were just outside, and Ford looks awfully delighted for someone whose glasses are someone whose glasses have just turned opaque with fog.

“Grunkle Stan!” Mabel shouts. The cardboard box in her arms has seen better days, but she’s cradling it like an infant. “You’ll never guess when we just were!”

Dipper points a gloved finger in the air. “You mean, when we just — oh wait, did you already —”

“Yeah, I beat you to it this time!” Mabel pumps her fist. “Anyways, Grunkle Stan — you’ll never guess who we just visited!”

[onahikesomewhere]

We scrambled down the mountain, sunset was at 4:30. Getting up there took a while, but I thought I’d have just enough time. Koda attached to me, dragging me with his quick pace. I reminded him many times to slow down but a husky doesn’t truly know what that means. 

We chased the sun the whole way down. Frantically I checked my phone for the time, worried we wouldn’t make it. One foot in front of the other, big fast steps. My crampons gripping to all the snow and ice. In the distance I see more layers of mountains, changing colors from a dreamy blue to a soft orange and then pink. I stop every so often to snap a photo with my phone. But it’s no good, a photo will never replicate what I see and what I’m experiencing in this very moment. Being here fills my heart up to full. 

We return to the car, Koda’s legs with spots of frozen mud. I clean him up as best I could and we chug water and head to the rest stop where we will be car camping for the evening. 42 minutes said my GPS. The evening slowly fades and it gets dark quick. I soak up every turn and peek of mountains. When we arrive I keep the car on for a while to keep it warm. This is my first time car camping in the winter and I have no idea what I’m doing. I eventually make it to the back where I will be sleeping and where Koda is currently resting, spread out and exhausted. A happy sight to me. I try to use my JetBoil but have no luck getting it to light. No soup tonight I guess. Damn, I was looking forward to the soup to keep me warm throughout the evening. Cold tamales it is! I give Koda his dinner, and he eats it up quickly. Mostly eating the sausage topper I put in there. I crawl into the back and begin spreading out my stuff and mapping out my plan for the evening. Sun sets early in winter and I have a few hours to kill. I Brought plenty of reading material. I quickly grab Carrot Quinns zine about long distance hiking. Something I day dream about quite often. I love her writing and how her words sound just like her. Even though I have never met her. I still find comfort in this. The heat from the car fades fast and I start to feel cold. I spread out my sleeping bag and wrap myself in a wool blanket. Hoping it’s enough. I crawl in and realize I need a hat and gloves. I begin reading and constantly need to readjust. Anywhere but inside the sleeping bag is frigid. 

I occasionally check my phone and message my partner about my day. I stop to day dream about living in my car this summer. Still contemplating if I could do it and how I will do this. My mom calls me to wish me a happy new year, I don’t tell her where I am, if she knew I was sleeping in my car right now at some rest stop in the mountains of New York I think she would have a melt down and that is the last thing I want right now.  I glance over at Koda, still asleep, exhausted from our hike. I look up at my string lights and they are a soft warm color and they are glowing in the night. This makes me feel less cold as I begin to prepare to sleep. I feel tired yet awake.  Restless but exhausted. I go to the restroom one last time for the evening, there is no one inside the reststop. But it’s clean and warm in there.  The weather tonight calls for snow, freezing rain and sleet. It’s 9pm and hasn’t started snowing yet. I worry as I’m in a place I do not know very well and the roads will be dangerous. I keep checking my weather app as if it were going to clear up the more I check it. I turn my lights off and begin to fade. I am in and out of sleep as I try to get comfortable and the sound of freezing rain wakes me every so often. I don’t want to move, any movement lets more cold air into my sleeping bag. One big downside of this bag is that it does not zip and I can only sleep on my back or my right side and I can’t seem to get completely comfortable. I feel lonely and cold, I think about my apartment and how warm it is and how it holds people I love. How I can’t wait to be in my warm living room. But then I think about the adventure I had earlier today and I’m happy, floating. I drift back to sleep. 

I’m stirred awake by Koda who keeps trying to get comfortable but can’t. He keeps getting up and pacing around. There is limited space and he tries to get up front. This annoys me and I yank him back towards me. He sits and I get him to lay down, somewhat in my sleeping bag. He seems pleased with this arrangement and I nozzle my frozen nose in his fur, my arm around his side. We drift back to sleep. I wake up hours later, light slowing finding it’s way through my curtains. I wonder what time it is, I didn’t set an alarm last night. It’s 7:45. I rise quickly and pull back the curtain.. It’s snowing now and it looks as if it’s snowed quite a bit. I turn the car on to warm it up for a little while. I put on my jacket and shoes and prepare to take Koda out. He is ready and immediately jumps out before I’m completely there. We both drink water and I quickly run to the restroom. Contemplating how my car will handle all the snow, I worry what the roads look like. I return and clean all the snow off my car. I rush for some unknown reason, like I have somewhere to be but I don’t. Maybe it’s just my nerves. I slowly exit the rest stop and find my way on the desolate highway. It’s covered in snow and I’m uncertain if there’s ice underneath. I drive slow. The view outside is breathtaking. Everything is covered in snow and it’s magical. The mountains hiding behind patches of fog, showing themselves every so often. I wish to capture this with my camera but I can’t pull over anywhere. Everything looks icy and messy. I decide to change my hike to something a bit shorter. I exit the highway to take other smaller roads to my destination. Cars too close behind me, I grow increasingly nervous as I feel my car drifting now and again. I get closer to my destination, the sun comes and goes intermittently and it lights up the mountain tops and I am in awe once again. I’m so happy to be here, even though I’m scared if I will arrive in one piece. I decide at the last minute to change my mind again and I put my home address into the GPS. I didn’t want to risk getting stuck out here. I’ll be back.

[thumbgarden]

How To Care For Raspberry Bushes In Fall

Whatever one may say, but autumn is on the doorstep, a month or two will pass and it will be possible to slip on the first frozen puddle. So why not start preparing our favorite plants, which gave us the harvest in the summer, for the real winter? Today, we will try to tell you in as much detail as possible about preparing raspberries for winter.

THE TWO FALL CARE PERIODS FOR RASPBERRY BUSHES In general, the autumn period, in any case, in relation to raspberries, can be strictly divided into two periods early and late. The first period, the early period is the end of August, when the weather is still quite warm. It begins immediately after the raspberries are harvested and have stopped growing, and although the wood can still show some growth activity, it is already in full swing for maturity to survive the cold winter. The second period, which begins when the first leaves fall, lasts until a very real frost when you certainly wouldn't go out in the street without a warm coat and hat. During this period, either the snowball actively molds or the soil freezes very deeply, if this very snowball has not yet appeared. What do raspberry shrubs do during this period? They try to complete the process of all the activities that occur to them as quickly as possible.

WHAT DO RASPBERRIES NEED IN THE FALL? I would like to start with autumn fertilization: the shrubs are exhausted and they give us a rich harvest, so why not thank them in return? The second action is, of course, pruning the knotty shoots and thinning them after eating the entire harvest. The third is mandatory preventive treatment against various pests and diseases. The fourth is watering, but watering with culture, watering - as needed, not every year. The fifth is shelter, where everything depends on the region, and in the middle of the United States, where raspberries grow, there is no shelter. But I will still explain how to do it correctly, at least in two sentences. The whole of these five points, that is a raspberry! They say plant and forget. But still, these five points should not be afraid at all. The raspberry is a strong crop that can withstand many vagaries of the weather, and it can come out of the woodwork even without human help.

Care for raspberry bushes in early autumn

1. Autumn feeding of raspberries It depends on the care of many things, such as the soil. If you have bad soil, it is perfectly possible to make potassium sulfate, you don't need much - only one teaspoon per square meter of raspberry soil. This may seem like a small thing, but if the same potassium sulfate is dissolved in water, on soil not characterized by fertility, it is likely to accelerate the maturation of the trees before a violent frost. Regarding fertilizer for raspberries: if you fertilize the soil well at planting, for example with humus or humus, then maybe you don't need a fall fertilizer? Limit it to potassium and that will be enough? Raspberry is a strong, tough plant, and it certainly prefers tasty and nutritious soil to poor soil, but also without excessive amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and I will tell you that it grows and sets quite well. If your plot has loose, fertile, permeable, permeable soil, then generally speaking, why spend the effort and money to apply additional fertilizer. Excessive fertilizers can cause mediocre stress on Raspberry bushes plants and will not strengthen their immunity, on the contrary, their immunity will be reduced, and therefore - and various diseases. So, let's do potassium, the dose we have already said. Let's go further - micronutrients, which is a rather different hypothesis. In winter and under the immunity of Raspberry bushes, the introduction of micronutrients will strengthen, and winter tolerance will increase. I safely recommend taking 3 grams of zinc sulfate and 5 grams of manganese sulfate (all this, of course, in 1 square meter of soil), surely without overdose.

2. Pruning raspberries Some people are afraid of this dreaded word - "pruning". And what's so scary about it? Well, the shoots of raspberries bear fruit, do their work, cut it to the level of the soil, so why take care of it? Besides, all the green shoots can be removed because they don't have time to mature and they will all freeze. Excess growth is also likely to be cut off. Those who work with raspberries have a golden rule: in addition to leaving the most powerful and strongest growth, shorten it by about a quarter (everything is clear here - so the raspberries will be lush), so also leave the same number of shoots as they cut off as a result, plus 20% (to be on the safe side). This is the tricky part. What are we trying to achieve with this method? We get a reserve, which is necessary for further growth of the Raspberry bushes bush to increase productivity, and if there will be heavy frosts and light snow, there will be a small reserve, which can always be removed in the spring.

Important note: the fruiting branches of the raspberry should be cut off below the roots, sometimes you can even dig it out a little and remove it and cover the area with fresh soil.

3. Watering raspberries in autumn In early autumn, the watering of raspberries should be reduced to a minimum until it stops completely. This is necessary for the shoots to lignify and not to freeze, otherwise, nutrient-rich soil is abundant water and they will still grow into the New Year. It is important to stop watering raspberries only when it starts to rain or when the soil freezes, but if the weather is dry and there is no frost, then you can give a bucket of water per square meter every other day. In general, it all depends on the season; here I am referring to watering: if it is said to be dry and rainy in August and September, then it is worth watering a bucket per square meter twice a month; never allow the root ball under the raspberries to dry out completely. When light frosts start to fall, it is advisable to treat the raspberries with a 2% Bordeaux mixture and to sprinkle some snow on the bushes if it has already fallen (just in case).

CARE FOR RASPBERRY BUSHES IN LATE AUTUMN

Temperatures here no longer exceed 32°F (0°C), the sun is further away, nighttime frosts are no longer rare, and leaves either fall off entirely or shrivel strongly - which means it's time to winterize your raspberry trees. Don't rush to deal with them, winter doesn't come suddenly or once and for all, everything happens in stages. For example, we mulched raspberry trees in cooler areas: a little cooler, but the sun came and looked, so it began to burn, that mulched with wood for those two or three days, soot may. Phase 2: Prevention - expel parasites and diseases that lurk over the winter.

1. Prevention of pests and diseases of raspberries For this, it is necessary to: remove all the garbage from the Raspberry bushes, burn all the broken branches, collect all the rotten berries and leaves in a pile and burn them too, as well as the ashes, which can be used as fertilizer with at least 5% of potassium, but still. If you are 100% sure about your plants and their health, then the leaves of raspberries should not be burned, but sent to the compost pile: decompose, well, and most importantly, the natural fertilizer will turn out. In the same period, you can re-treat the raspberry bushes with Bordeaux mixture, but rest assured, do not use two or three percent, take five percent of Bordeaux mixture and treat everything from bottom to top so that no pests remain (for example, the same aphids or spider mites). For maximum results, it is best to treat raspberry plants with Bordeaux mixture in sunny weather and without rain, preferably with dry shoots, and also without rain for at least a day after the treatment. Of course, if resources allow and there is no internal objection to treating plants with an approved insecticide, then it seems to work better for me.

2. Removing immature shoots from raspberries At this point, everything is easy and quick: take a sharp pruner and a cloth soaked in alcohol and remove all immature green shoots from raspberries, which have certainly not experienced winter, from shrub to shrub, wiping the alcohol leaves of the pruner to avoid infection. If they are not removed, they will freeze in the winter and start to rot in the spring, covered with mildew and the plant's immunity will be reduced.

3. The last watering of raspberries Yes, you could say that - farewell to the season of watering raspberries when the soil has not yet frozen. It is necessary to catch a warm day, and yes, according to forecasts, seeing that after a few days there is still no frost, it is simply pouring the soil, pouring out two-three buckets per square meter of Raspberry bushes. Why? Such watering will help to survive a severe frost, because we know that for a moisture-loving crop like raspberries, too much water in the soil increases winter hardiness, although not significantly. But sometimes even 30-40°F may be enough to keep plants intact and unharmed. If there is a long period of time, say a week, when it doesn't rain at all, then a few buckets of room temperature water can be safely poured under each bush and be fine - if it rains.

4. Mulch raspberries for the winter Now is the time to think about winter mulching of raspberries, which makes more sense for those areas located north of the U.S. central belt. Of course, here, it all depends on the variety - after all, it's not difficult to read whether it's winter hardy, but also on the winters in your area, and the amount of snow. After all, there may be nothing else to shade than snow. For example, you live in an area that is characterized by very snowy winters and moderate temperatures. So, is it necessary to cover raspberries or not? We see no such need. If it is possible, and the branches are neatly bent, you can bend them closer to the ground so that the snow covers them just right, and tie them to any vertical nails to secure them, which they suddenly do not unravel during the winter.

UNDER WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES DO RASPBERRIES NEED TO BE COVERED? First of all - you managed to buy a variety with very large fruits, a high yield, taste - very good. Then it is obviously thermophilic. Second - you have a very cold winter. Third - the winter is not characterized by critical temperatures, but almost no snow, and even when it does snow, it either melts or sweeps over somewhere under the fence or through the yard (kind of like an American winter). Fourth - you managed to buy a species without thorns - which is great, but the rodents will be happy too. Therefore, if you need to cover a bush, it is best to bend it and then evenly cover the top. In frosty weather, bushes should not be mulched; they will burst like matchsticks. Also, you can't bend it to the ground; in my opinion, it should be at a 45-degree angle, so that's a good compromise. Before bending a raspberry bush, I recommend hammering the most basic wooden hook into the ground, then simply wrapping the bush with twine and tying it to the hook, slowly bending and pulling up the twine. Give it a day to rest and "get used to it" literally and try pulling up the twine after a day or two, and if it goes and you get an extra 1 inch or so, that's great. If not, you should first cover the raspberry with fleece and then protect it from mice with a net, or at least put in spruce branches, but that won't help much if they are fresher and more frequent, otherwise, the needles will fly off quickly. People living in northern areas who want to grow raspberries have no choice but to simply cover them with soil and make a kind of mound. Perhaps on the ground and in the snow, raspberry bushes will survive your extreme winters. In the event of snowfall, but it can be less, build a sandbox-like thing while hiding around the Raspberry bushes so that the snow fills all the gaps and piles up without running off. You can use old plywood, honeycomb polycarbonate, or whatever you have on hand as a barrier. If there is a risk of a mouse infestation, you may want to stock up on poison bait and fir wood. Of course, the last ones we listed are for very severe winters. I'll say it again: there's a whole raspberry in the middle of the US that winters so well and produces so well that she needs minimal care, but still needs it.

#ThumbGarden #Gardening Tips #Fruits #How to grow #Raspberry #Bordeaux Mixture #Bushes #Fall #Autumn #Tips #Shrubs #Trees #Orchard #Garden #UrbanGarden #LargeGarden #MediumGarden #SmallGarden #Outdoor Garden #Pests #Fertilize #Watering #Pruning #Plant Care #Care

Author: Ms.Geneva Link: https://www.thumbgarden.com/care-for-raspberry-bushes/ Source: ThumbGarden The copyright belongs to the author. For commercial reprints, please contact the author for authorization, and for non-commercial reprints, please indicate the source.

[sciencespies]

Giant Panda Cub Xiao Qi Ji's Best Moments—in Video

https://sciencespies.com/nature/giant-panda-cub-xiao-qi-jis-best-moments-in-video/

Giant Panda Cub Xiao Qi Ji's Best Moments—in Video

Smithsonian Voices National Zoo

January’s Best Giant Panda Moments—In Video

February 10th, 2021, 8:44AM / BY Laurie Thompson, Marty Dearie and Mariel Lally

January was a month full of firsts for giant panda cub Xiao Qi Ji. The growing bear played with enrichment toys, took his first bites of sweet potato and bamboo, and had his first encounter with snow!

January was a month full of firsts for the Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s giant panda cub, Xiao Qi Ji. The growing bear played with his first enrichment toys, sampled his first sweet potato, took his first bite of bamboo, let fans into his habitat during his first livestream and experienced his first encounter with snow! Through each of these milestones, giant panda assistant curator Laurie Thompson and keepers Marty Dearie and Mariel Lally helped keep fans at home connected to our cub.

1. Tumbles and Toys (Jan. 11, 2021)

Spending more time out of the den presents our cub with more opportunities to explore — and play! While we have presented Xiao Qi Ji with enrichment items before (most notably a pumpkin for Halloween) we have seen his interest in them grow exponentially since the beginning of January. These items encourage our giant pandas to keep physically active and mentally sharp; they also give the bears an opportunity to use their natural behaviors and choose how to spend their time.

With Xiao Qi Ji becoming more aware of and interested in his surroundings, keepers gave him two toys to investigate: a small red Jolly Egg (perfectly sized for a panda cub) and an empty PVC puzzle feeder. When Xiao Qi Ji is exploring the habitat and happens upon them, he usually stops for a few minutes to paw at them, pick them up and give them a nibble.

Some toys built for cubs are made from softer materials to help the animals grasp or chomp on them. Our team is very careful to watch Xiao Qi Ji as he plays during the day, since Mei Xiang’s more powerful teeth and jaws could damage the toys. Before we leave for the day, we remove these toys from the enclosure. Neither Mei Xiang nor Xiao Qi Ji seem to mind, content to eat or play with their bamboo overnight.

Personality-wise, Xiao Qi Ji seems to take after his mother. Like Mei Xiang, he is careful and cautious when it comes to exploring his environment. Now that he has mastered walking, he has started to practice his climbing skills. He is very deliberate about the paths he takes when traveling up or down the rockwork—more so than siblings Tai Shan, Bao Bao or Bei Bei were. He has taken a few tumbles here and there, but not nearly as many as his brothers and sister did at this age. Luckily, these bears are built to be robust and have thick, wooly fur to cushion their fall.

2. A Playful Panda Cub (Jan. 15, 2021)

Giant panda cub Xiao Qi Ji’s word of the week seems to be: play! Our 4.5-month-old cub’s interest in his surroundings really took off this week. He seems to explore the world with his mouth. He nibbles on everything from his paws and enrichment toys to mother Mei Xiang’s ears. While she is eating bamboo, we often see Xiao Qi Ji try to initiate a play session with a few not-so-ferocious bites. After Mei Xiang shifts outside in the morning, he often emerges from the den to “supervise” the keepers as they clean and get the habitat ready for Mei Xiang’s return.

Xiao Qi Ji received his first enrichment toys a few weeks ago and plays with them whenever they catch his attention. Those who have followed his siblings’ stories have asked when Xiao Qi Ji will get a rubber tub. With the adults, we often put leaf-eater biscuits or sensory enrichment (like bubbles) into these tubs. Cubs, though, seem to enjoy the exercise of climbing in and out or just sitting in this cub-sized space.

We weigh Xiao Qi Ji in one such tub. This week, he tipped the scales at 19.8 pounds (9.04 kilograms). He also receives tubs to play in during the day. He is not quite big enough to get out from underneath a tub if it were to overturn on top of him, so he only receives this enrichment during the day when we can keep an eye on him.

3. A Parcel of Sweet Potato (Jan. 22, 2021)

Just like his mother, Mei Xiang, our giant panda cub Xiao Qi Ji is curious yet cautious about the world around him. Yesterday — the day our cub turned five months old — we decided to introduce him to something new. Using a piece of bamboo shred as a spoon, we scraped some cooked sweet potato onto the end, then handed it over to Xiao Qi Ji. He grabbed the bamboo in his mouth, paused for a moment to take in the new taste, then lay back and licked the remainder. When we offered him more, he wouldn’t stop nibbling on it!

Xiao Qi Ji clearly enjoyed this new treat, which is not surprising since both Mei Xiang and his father, Tian Tian, are also fond of sweet potatoes. In addition to bamboo, nutrient-rich biscuits, carrots and apples, sweet potatoes are part of our pandas’ balanced diet.

Even though Xiao Qi Ji is beginning to sample some new foods, Mei Xiang’s milk is still his main source of nutrition. Around 1 year old, bamboo and other solid foods make up the majority of a panda’s diet. However, Xiao Qi Ji may nurse for comfort up to 18 months of age. He typically nurses at night and in the early morning. On Wednesday, Jan. 20, he weighed 20.79 pounds (9.45 kilograms), and continues to make good gains.

4. Livestream with Xiao Qi Ji (Jan. 27, 2021)

This was a big week for our little panda cub! On Wednesday, Jan. 27, the giant panda team hosted our first-ever virtual encounter with Xiao Qi Ji. An important part of saving species is being able to tell their stories, and it was wonderful to see in the comments that many of you are as enamored with our adorable ambassador as we are. Your kind words and support for our bears and our team are much appreciated, especially as the Zoo remains closed and we continue to navigate this “new normal” brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Xiao Qi Ji’s newest enrichment toy made an appearance in Wednesday’s broadcast. This week, we gave him a bright green ball with a small handle. Since it is made from a softer material than the adults’ toys, it’s perfect for him to chew on and sink his claws into. It is also scented like green apple, providing some olfactory enrichment, too!

During the livestream, this ball was at the center of a friendly game of tug-of-war between Xiao Qi Ji and keeper Marty Dearie. Don’t let Xiao Qi Ji’s small size fool you—he is remarkably strong! Just before Xiao Qi Ji stole everyone’s hearts — and wrestled his new green ball away from Marty — we placed him on a scale for his weekly weigh-in. Since his last measurement seven days prior, our 5-month-old cub gained another two pounds. This week, he weighed 22 pounds (10 kilograms).

5. A Bear’s First Taste of Bamboo (Jan. 29, 2021)

This week, bamboo was on the menu. We saw Xiao Qi Ji munching on some of his mother Mei Xiang’s leftover leaves. As Xiao Qi Ji’s walking and climbing skills improve, we are starting to see him explore more and more of his habitat. Yesterday, he walked out of the den, through both indoor enclosures, and over to the opposite den. He sat up and pressed his face against the “take out window” where we routinely feed Mei Xiang. It was hilarious to see our curious cub waiting at the same window for us!

6. First Encounter With Snow (Jan. 31, 2021)

(Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute)

As snow blanketed the Washington, D.C. region, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s animals woke up to a winter wonderland. With this weather event came another significant milestone—giant panda cub Xiao Qi Ji’s first encounter with snow! Keepers say although he seemed nervous at first, eventually he worked up the courage to take a little nip at the fresh powder.

7. Mei Xiang and Tian Tian Enjoy the Snow (Jan. 31, 2021)

Slides, somersaults and pure panda joy. Happy snow day from giant pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian!

8. Tian Tian Has a Ball (Feb. 2, 2021)

Giant panda Tian Tian had a ball in the snow. Literally.

This story was featured in the February 2021 issue of National Zoo News. Behind these ‘aww’-inspiring moments, an expert team works tirelessly to provide our panda family with everything they need to thrive, ensuring a bright future for this species. If this cub sparks joy for you, please consider making a donation to the Zoo. On behalf of the animals we care for and protect: thank you! Please note that the Zoo is temporarily closed as a public health precaution to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

#Nature

[mintylilacs]

Ramble post: magic calendars

So like everyone knows the Wheel of the Year, it’s nice and neat and based of the sun cycle and everything is exactly this many days apart and so on

It’s convenient to be sure, that’s why people like using it. It makes sense, the solstices and equinoxes and the midpoints add up to just enough evenly spaced holidays to add a nice structure without having them so often that you get overwhelmed. And every one is thematically unique yet work together!

But it doesn’t really mean anything to me.

I have my own Super Important Days

My SID’s happen to usually line up with the US’s national calendar holidays a lot because that’s when my family has time to do things.

The first one that comes to mind is a Beltane-like holiday that happens around the same time, but not as strictly.

It’s the first weekend after the ground hardens enough to park a trailer on our property, and we call it the Burning Days. It just so happens to be around early May usually.

We go and rake up huge piles of pine needles and set them all on fire in these HUGE bonfires that don’t go out for the entire weekend, I’m talking non stop blazes.

We have to do it because pine needles when dry are extremely flammable, and either we burn them in the spring or they burn themselves in the summer. But why not make it a party too? I associate it with cleansing since we’re quite literally cleaning up the property.

After that is Memorial Day, which is basically the first time my family all gets together for the summer. It’s a feast and a family day. Everyone brings food and we celebrate the start of camping season!

By contrast Labor Day is the last big camping trip of the year, it’s kind of my New Years in a way. Probably cause I associate it so strongly with the start of a new school year.

Fall is like 80% holidays, because my dad’s side of the family hunts. Rather than harvest holidays in fall I have hunting ones, in which I theoretically would give offerings in exchange for whatever my dad killed... but he never gets anything. :(. So it’s also a time to appreciate the beauty of nature at what I’ve always considered to be its most vibrant. If you’ve never been to Red Top in fall I just don’t know what to tell you.

Also Halloween. Duh.

We have a Yule/New Years thing too, but it’s getting harder and harder to enjoy it because the part of my family I see during that time is just annoying as hell.

it’s in late January and into February when I really get to enjoy the winter, my family goes to the mountains and snowmobiles and it’s really fun! I associate that time of year with remembering to enjoy yourself, to let yourself have fun and be playful! Nothing will make you feel like a kid again quite like flying down a hill on a cheap plastic sled!

So if I take Labor Day as New Years it kind of looks like this

New year- start of strong by working for your food during Hunting Season (October/November ish? I think?) learn the beauty and treasure of nature by experiencing all it has to offer, be humbled by your reliance on it and recognize both your worth and the worth of the world around you

Winter trips (anywhere from December to February depending on weather patterns), Hunting season is over, the growing season has not begun, there is no more work to do so now we can play! the snow is a playground! You can shape it, dig in it, ride on top of it, and more! Learn to play, and see the world not as it is, but as it could be!

Burning Days (Late March to early May) let go of what’s holding you back, clean house and burn away the weight that holds you down and could endanger you in the future! Plant a garden in the newly uncovered soil and watch it grow!

First Camping Trip (end of May) reunite with your family and share the first fruits of your garden, make food and laugh and celebrate the warmth of the end of the spiritual year!

Last camping trip/New Years (beginning of September) summer is ending and the world is hot and dry and tired, waiting with baited breath for the start of the wet season. Get together again, but this time reminisce. Take time to go to a special place, perhaps a lake your grandfather loved. Relish in the fact that you still have time to spend together and prepare for the incoming fall.

[searchingwardrobes]

Start of Time: 1/?

Happy birthday, @teamhook​ ! You have been a faithful reader of my fics from long before I came over to tumblr, and I appreciate your support so much! As a matter of fact, you were the first one to encourage me to get a tumblr blog. Anyway, I hope you have a marvelous day, my friend.

You told me this Gabrielle Aplin song was one of your favorites that reminded you of CS, so I wanted to incorporate it into a fic. Then, just a few days ago I watched a Hallmark Christmas movie (yes, I’m already watching them, don’t judge) called a Christmas to Remember. It had Elle McKinnon in it, who played young Alice Jones on Once, and the whole thing gave me CS vibes. Then I realized the song really fit the movie’s plot, and this fic was born. Unlike the movie, however, this doesn’t happen at Christmas. I also couldn’t finish it in a one-shot, so here we go, another MC/WIP. It’s worth it for you though, @teamhook​. I hope you enjoy it!

Many thanks to the CSRT discord chat for helping me brainstorm parts of this, especially @shireness-says​ for giving me the idea to make Emma part of a rock band. I was having a very difficult time coming up with a band name that hasn’t been used yet in the fandom, when the name of a band from my college came to mind - Wendy Sews it On. It suddenly hit me what that band name is a reference too, and I was giddy with excitement!

Summary: Killian and his son are driving through a bad snow storm when they find a disoriented woman walking down the road. The question is, how can they help her get home when she has no idea who she is?

Side note: Has anyone else written from the point of view of someone who can’t remember her name? Well it’s hard, ya’ll - lol!

Rating: T

Trigger warning: Alice Jones appears in this fic and both Alice and Henry are both Killian’s adopted children with Milah. Henry isn’t Emma’s. Positive past Millian. No Neal.

Words: about 2,500 in this chapter

Also on Ao3 and part of my Fandom Birthday Playlist

Tagging the usuals::@snowbellewells @kmomof4@jennjenn615 @kday426 @let-it-raines @teamhook@kmomof4 @bethacaciakay @profdanglaisstuff @resident-of-storybrooke @thislassishooked @tiganasummertree​@whimsicallyenchantedrose @snidgetsafan​ @delirious-latenight-laughs​ @winterbaby89​ @distant-rose@shireness-says​ @xhookswenchx​ @optomisticgirl​ @spartanguard​ @branlovestowrite​ @welllpthisishappening​ @stahlop​ @hollyethecurious​

Oh today I’m just a drop of water and I’m running down the mountain side. Come tomorrow I’ll be in the ocean. I’ll be rising with the morning tide.

The road stretched before Emma’s tiny yellow bug, she was sure, for miles upon miles of the thick forests of northern Maine. Yet all she could see out her windshield was about a car’s length in front of her through the thick swirling snow. Her tires kept sliding on the slick roads, and more than once she had trouble keeping the car pointed in the right direction. It didn’t help that she was completely and utterly lost, her GPS losing signal at some point miles back.

Emma cursed rural Maine, cursed the snow, and even cursed Regina for suggesting this week of r&r to begin with. A cabin with all the amenities next to a spa sounded like heaven. Or maybe anything secluded sounded like heaven - a place to get her head on right again, maybe even write a new song.

She just wasn’t sure it would be a love song like Regina and the record label was hoping for. She added Walsh to her list of stuff to curse.

Her headlights, for a brief moment, illuminated a sign up ahead: “Welcome to Storybrooke.” She cursed again as she squinted down at her phone which still mocked her with the little swirling icon and the word “buffering.”

“Come on,” she muttered. She started to type in “Misthaven Resort and Spa” again, glancing from her phone screen to the road and back again. She knew it was dangerous to use her phone while driving, especially in weather like this, but if she didn’t figure out where the hell she was, she might run out of gas and die out here in the snow anyway.

It was a cost benefit analysis, really.

God, she needed to start spending time with people besides Regina and Walsh. She hadn’t even seen her former bandmates since this solo career train had catapulted out of the station.

Anna would have loved that mixed metaphor. It was the kind of line Emma’s red-headed, bubbly, almost little sister would have put into a song. Like the Beatles, every member of Wendy Sewed it On wrote songs for the band. Anna’s were quirky and upbeat, Elsa’s were soaring, epic ballads, Ruby’s were tongue in cheek and driving.

And Emma . . . well, fans said her songs were sad and haunting, but deep. Wendy Sewed it On had their biggest hits with Emma’s songs, even though it was Elsa who belted them out. Being all alone on that stage, laying her soul bare with those lyrics . . .

Emma’s thoughts were cut off and a scream flew out of her mouth as a wolf bounded onto the road in front of her. It was all a blur after that: breaking glass, her continuing screams, pine trees surrounding her on all sides as she plowed off the road and down an embankment of snow.

There’s a ghost upon the moor tonight. Now it’s in our house. When you walked into the room just then it’s like the sun came out.

A severe winter storm warning has been issued for central Aroostook County. Visibility will be extremely low, roads impass-

Killian switched off the radio in his pickup, not wanting to alarm Henry. His windshield wipers were on the highest setting, his lights on bright, and for now, he could still make out the road far enough ahead of them that he was fairly confident they would get home long before the storm reached its peak. Part of him was second guessing bringing a ten year old along on this call, but Henry had been so excited at the prospect of helping deliver the foal at the Nolan farm.

“Dad,” Henry said, picking at the aluminum foil Mary Margaret had used to wrap up a plate of her famous chocolate chip cookies, “why doesn’t Uncle David work with you anymore?”

“Well, he and Mary Margaret had been saving up for years to buy that farm. I always knew horses were his dream, not the animal shelter.” He glanced from the road to grin at his son. “And you’re dying to have one of those cookies, aren’t you?”

Henry’s eyes widened. “How’d you know?”

Killian laughed. “I’ve been a dad for a decade now. I have a sixth sense.”

“So can I have one?”

“No, you have to share with Alice.”

“Aw man,” Henry pouted, but it was short lived. Both of his children were extremely curious and regularly peppered him with questions. “Why couldn’t Uncle David just deliver the foal himself? He knows animals.”

“Because it was breech - that means it was upside down inside the mother horse. David’s not a vet, so he called me.”

Henry arched his brows. “And they pay you in cookies?”

Killian chuckled again. “David and Mary Margaret, yes.”

“They are good cookies,” Henry agreed, taking a big whiff of the plate in his lap. “Maybe Alice wouldn’t mind if we - DAD!”

Killian saw the figure in the road at the same moment his son did, so before the word even left Henry’s lips, Killian was swerving to avoid the person. The roads were wet and slick enough to send his tires sliding, and if Killian didn’t have so much experience driving in such dangerous conditions, they may have ended up in the ditch. When the truck finally came to a stop, he turned first to Henry.

“Are you okay?” Killian asked him, running a hand nervously over the boy.

“Yeah,” Henry gasped, “I’m good.” The boy twisted around in his seat. “What was that?”

That was a good question. It had looked like a person, but who would be out in this weather? Unless they were in trouble. Killian quickly unbuckled his seatbelt.

“Stay here,” he instructed Henry, giving him a steely look lest his overly curious oldest child be tempted to disobey. Thankfully, Henry nodded, his face a mask of intensity.

After Killian exited the vehicle, he could clearly see a woman stumbling around in the middle of the road. He approached her cautiously, fully aware that a man appearing before the woman in the middle of the forest could be frightening to say the least.

“Are you okay?”

She turned then, and he could tell from the blank expression on her face that she was in shock. She had obviously experienced some sort of trauma, and his heart plummeted at the thought. He walked slowly closer. The woman was now turning in a circle, unsteady on her feet as if she might be inebriated. Her gaze was lifted to the tops of the trees, as if she were trying to make sense of her surroundings. When he was close enough, Killian reached out tentatively to rest his hand on her upper arm. She was wearing a red leather jacket; not the smartest choice of outerwear for snow like this.

“I’d like to help you,” he said in the same gentle voice he used on injured animals. “What are you doing out here?”

She blinked, as if trying to focus on his face. Her skin was almost alabaster, her hair completely coated in a layer of snow, and he wondered how long she’d been out here in the elements. He shrugged out of his coat and draped it over her shoulders. She looked down at it, almost in confusion. When she did, he noticed the blood matting the top of her head.

“You’re hurt,” he whispered.

“I - am?” she whispered back.

He smiled, relieved to hear her voice finally. “Aye, you have a rather nasty gash on your head there. Were you in an accident?”

“Was I?” her voice sounded thready and far away as she reached a trembling hand up to touch her head. “Ow, that hurts,” she gasped. Yet she kept patting at the wound frantically.

“I’m not surprised, so let’s stop touching it shall we?” he took her slender, ice cold hand in his to still her nervous movements. “What’s your name? Can I call someone for you?”

“I . . . I . . . “ she began to sway as her words turned to incoherent mutterings, then she crumpled against Killian’s chest. He scooped her up in his arms, turning his gaze nervously to the sky as the snow fell in fat, thick flakes. He followed the tail lights back to the truck. He had no choice but to take the mysterious woman home with him before the storm got worse.

**********************************************************

She awoke in a strange bed in a strange room with a strange little girl staring at her. She hurt everywhere, but her head especially throbbed with a sharp, jabbing pain. The sunlight pouring through the window made her wince, and the image of the little girl sitting at the end of the bed went fuzzy.

“This is my room,” the child told her, “but you can use it until you get better.”

She looked around her, evidence of a child everywhere from the dollhouse in the corner to the childish artwork tacked all over the walls. What was she doing here?

“My name is Alice,” the girl continued, bouncing on the bed a bit, making its injured occupant wince. “I’m seven. How old are you?”

“Alice,” another voice gently rebuked from the doorway, “let our patient rest, please.”

“Okay, daddy,” the little girl sighed, but obeyed, skipping out of the room.

A man drew closer to the bed, and her heart thudded wildly in her chest, the urge to flee overwhelming. He lifted both hands, slowing his approach, a gentle look in his eyes. It didn’t help - she didn’t know this man or where she was.

“I’m not going to hurt you,” he said gently.

“Where am I?”

“You’re in my family’s home,” he explained, “my name is Killian Jones and my son and I found you wandering in the road. We’re in the midst of a bad storm, so I had no choice but to bring you here.”

She had never been so confused in her life, and she let her head fall back on the pillow. A sharp pain caused her to cry out, and she reached up to find a bandage on the top of her head.

“What happened to me?”

“Well,” Killian told her patiently, “you had a gash on your head and some other cuts and bruises. I bandaged you up.”

“You’re a doctor?”

He smiled, and despite the situation, she found it charming. “A vet, but the principles are largely the same. Nevertheless, I’ve called the town doctor and he’ll be coming out once the roads are cleared.”

“The roads?”

“We’re snowed in.”

She moaned. Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, and shame washed over her. She couldn’t let this stranger see her cry.

“Listen,” he said softly, “you were hurt and wandering around. Do you remember what happened?”

She lifted both hands to cover her face. “No, I have no idea where I am or how I got here.”

“Well, how about your name? Let’s start there.”

“My name is -” Suddenly, her chest tightened and she couldn’t breathe. The room was spinning. “Oh my God. I don’t know! I don’t know my name!”

“Shhh, shhh, it’s okay,” Killian soothed, laying a hand tentatively on her shoulder, “you hit your head, so it’s understandable. I’m sure it will all come back to you soon.”

How could he be so damn calm? She didn’t know who she was!

“I . . . I . . . “ she looked down at herself and saw a pajama top covered in pink roses, “I’m in pajamas.”

The man smiled again in that way that made her heart flip like a damn teenager. “And you look good in them, so that’s a win.”

“I hate pink,” she said with a wrinkle of her nose. “And flowery shirts.”

Killian’s eyebrows quirked up. They were quite expressive, she noticed. “Well there you go, you remember that!”

“Wait,” she said, narrowing her eyes at him, “how did I get into pajamas?” Surely she wasn’t wandering the road in her pjs.

His eyes grew large and he lifted both hands in a defensive gesture. “It wasn’t me! My friend Mary Margaret did that. She’s a volunteer down at the hospital.”

“I helped!” Alice called out, popping up from the foot of the bed. “Cause I want to be a nurse. Or an artist. Or a pilot.”

“Alice Milah Jones,” her father scolded, “I thought I told you to give our patient some peace and quiet?”

“Sorry, Daddy.”

Killian looked back at her, his brow furrowed with concern. “Is there anything I can do for you in the meantime? Anything I can get you?”

She bit down on her lip, those damn tears threatening to spill over again. “No. I think I just want to go back to sleep.”

He frowned, the pity on his face clear. She hated pity. How did she know that? And that she hated pink? And flowered shirts? But not her own damn name?

“Okay,” he told her softly, patting her foot gently through the down comforter on the bed. He was handsome too, she noted. Dark hair, a strong jaw covered in nicely trimmed scruff, bright blue eyes tinged with a bit of sadness that somehow made them more piercing. Suddenly, taking him in from head to toe and thinking of quirky but sweet little Alice, she was sure that she was in a safe place. How she knew she wasn’t sure, but it settled deep within her and took root.

Killian left, closing the door silently behind him. She slid beneath the warm blankets as her eyes fluttered closed. She dreamed of snow and blue eyes and strong arms but not of who she was or where she came from.

[loretranscripts]

Lore Episode 27: On the Farm (Transcript) - 8th February 2016

tw: murder, incest, abuse, gore

Disclaimer: This transcript is entirely non-profit and fan-made. All credit for this content goes to Aaron Mahnke, creator of Lore podcast. It is by a fan, for fans, and meant to make the content of the podcast more accessible to all. Also, there may be mistakes, despite rigorous re-reading on my part. Feel free to point them out, but please be nice!

In 1943, Abraham Maslow gifted the world with his list of five core essentials that every human being has in common. Today, we call that chart “Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs”, and it’s still a framework for how we understand and study much of human behaviour today. That list includes a few obvious entries, such as our psychological needs and our desires for love and affection. There are deeper concepts, too, like self-actualisation and esteem. They’re just as important, but a bit harder for many people to understand at first glance. But it’s the last item on the list that I want to focus on. It almost seems too obvious to be there, but at the same time, it has a bit of everything. It’s basic yet complex; it straddles the line, and maybe that’s why it’s so important to all of us. What is it? Safety. Humans like to feel safe. Our pursuit of safety is core to who we are as people. It’s not unique to humans, for sure – animals are very good at finding and building homes wherever they can, but it’s undeniable that safety drives a lot of our decisions, and rightly so. We deserve to feel safe – one could argue that it’s a subset of freedom. When we are fully in control of our own lives, a portion of that control will always be diverted towards safety. We find safety in many different places, though. We find it in a group of friends because, as every horror movie has taught us, there’s safety in numbers. We find it in places like our work or schools and religious buildings, although those are admittedly much less safe today than they were a generation ago. But it’s in our homes that we find the most safety. We nest there, in a sense – we build a cocoon around ourselves that protects us from the weather, from outsiders, and from harm. But tragically, sometimes that’s not enough. I’m Aaron Mahnke, and this is Lore.

No one liked Andreas Gruber. They thought the old farmer was greedy, and the public perception of the man was that he was rude and cranky. He was an old, crusty farmer, and no one around him appreciated that very much. Gruber was 63 and his wife, Cäzilia, was 72. They lived on their farm, about 40 miles north of Munich, between the small, German towns of Ingolstadt and Schrobenhausen. It wasn’t their farm, though. No, it belonged to their daughter, 35-year-old Viktoria, who lived there on the farm with them, along with her two young children. Her daughter, Cäzilia, was seven, and Josef was two, and it was Josef’s birth that really got the neighbours talking. Viktoria’s husband, Karl, had left to serve in the First World War in 1914 while she was pregnant with their daughter. According to all reports, he died there in the trenches and never returned – so who fathered Josef? Local gossip, fuelled by a dislike of Andreas Gruber, claimed the boy was a product of incest between Viktoria and her father. The birth certificate, though, simply listed the initials “L.S.”, leaving the boy’s paternity a mystery to wonder and whisper over. The farm provided ample privacy from the gossip, though. It sat in a large clearing in the thick, German forest, close enough to nearby Kaifeck to be part of the village, yet far enough away to be outside the normal flow of life there – hinter, as the Germans would say. The farm was hinter, or behind the village of Kaifeck, so most called it Hinterkaifeck. They still interacted with the village, though. Young Cäzilia attended school six days a week there, the postman delivered mail to the farm regularly, and a local woman even lived with the Grubers as their maid. From everything I’ve read about the family, the seemed to be nothing more than ordinary. Sure, they were broken in certain ways – Viktoria’s lost husband, Andreas’ reputation as a greedy crank were hard to miss – but overall, they were just one more German farm family, doing their best to get by.

In the Autumn of 1921, the Gruber’s maid quit her job there on the farm. She claimed, of all things, that the farm was haunted. She’d heard noises when no one else should have been around; she noticed items that had been moved, items that no one else would admit to; she never felt alone. It took a while to find a replacement, and in the meantime, winter arrived. Life on the farm became more insular. There were no crops to tend to, so the Grubers cared for their animals and stayed warm. But little things were beginning to happen that caught their attention, things that shouldn’t be happening, and it made them wonder if maybe, just maybe, their old maid had been right. They began to hear those same noises in the attic. Andreas even found a newspaper in the house that he had no memory of buying. When he asked his wife and daughter, they were just as baffled. And then, one of the house keys went missing. It was unsettling to say the least. In late March of 1922, though, Andreas noticed the most unusual thing of all. He’d been outside the house to fetch something, perhaps firewood, or to check on the exterior of the house. The night before had given them another fresh layer of snow on the ground, so perhaps he needed to inspect the roof – we don’t really know. But as he walked from the house to the barn, Andreas claimed he saw footprints in the snow. They started at the edge of the forest and covered the distance between the trees and the house, ending there. Perhaps a traveller passed through in the night, maybe a local had been walking through the snow and gotten lost – it happened from time to time. But what was odd about the tracks was that they didn’t go back, they just… ended there. We know all of this because Gruber himself told some of the locals while he was in town that next day. He was clearly disturbed by the things he had seen, but none of his neighbours had experienced anything similar. And that was the last time anyone saw the old farmer alive.

The first clue that anything odd was going on, at least to the people of Kaifeck, was when little Cäzilia failed to show up for school on Saturday, April 1st. The next day, the entire family was absent from church where they attended – pardon the pun – religiously. Cäzilia missed school on Monday as well. Finally, when the postman arrived on Tuesday, he found Monday’s mail still on the porch where he left it. This drew his suspicion, and he mentioned it back in the village. The people there put the pieces together and decided that something had to be amiss, so later that day, a group of neighbours gathered together, and they quickly set off to visit the farm. You know how muffled and quiet it can get outside when there’s been a lot of snow, as if the sounds of the world around you have been muted and hushed? I imagine that those men were keenly aware of that unnatural silence, standing there outside the Gruber farmhouse that day. One of the men shouted out for Andreas, or anyone else in the house, to come out and speak with them. They just wanted to make sure everyone was safe and well, but no one answered – just more of that muted, snow-covered silence. Not giving up, one of the neighbours – a local man named Lorenz Schlittenbauer – led the group to the barn. It was daylight, so perhaps Andreas could be found working in there with the animals, but when they opened the door they were greeted by a grizzly sight. There, on the straw-covered flaw, lay the bloody bodies of Andreas, his wife and daughter, and young Cäzilia. It was clear that something horrible had happened to the family, and Schlittenbauer quickly walked from the barn to the house, which were connected by a door. Inside, he found more bloodshed. Maria Baumgartner, the new maid who had started work on the farm just the previous day, lay dead in her own bedroom. Little Josef, last to be found, had met the same fate. It was a scene of devastation and gore, and it left the men stunned. Within a matter of hours, investigators from Munich arrived to go over the scene and gather evidence. They wanted to piece together what had happened, to discover the story, to find clues that might point to the person, or people, responsible. What they did uncover, though, was far more disturbing than answers.

It appeared that each of the adults in the barn had been led there, one at a time. Whoever the killer had been, they had appeared to call each person into the barn alone, where they executed them with a farm tool known as a mattock, a sort of pickaxe used for cutting. Each blow to the head was powerful and deadly, and each victim most likely died instantly. The bodies inside the house had the same type of wounds: Maria and Josef were found in pools of their own blood, their skulls crushed by their attacker. As far as the police were concerned, whoever wielded the weapon knew how to use it, and they did so without hesitation. This was cold-blooded murder, without a doubt. The trouble was, the weapon seemed to be missing, it was just gone. Other aspects of the crime didn’t seem to line up with logic. For one, there seemed to be no motive behind the actions of the killer. It was known to a few in the village that, just weeks before, Viktoria had withdrawn all of her savings, borrowed more from her dead husband’s sister, and brought the cash home. She told people that she planned to invest in the farm. She even made a large 700-mark donation to the village church. All of the remaining money was still there in the house – the killer hadn’t taken it, nor had they taken any of the other valuables that filled the farmhouse. Nothing was stolen. Whoever had called the Grubers into the barn, whoever had swung the pickaxe and ended all of their lives, they weren’t interested in money. Another detail that seemed odd was the condition of the house and the farm. In most instances, a killer will flee the scene after the crime has been committed, but here, there were signs to the contrary. The animals in the barn appeared to have been fed and watered throughout the weekend, and not by an amateur, either. Whoever had tended them knew his way around a farm. Most disturbing of all, though, were the reports from neighbours that smoke had been seen rising from the chimney of the farmhouse all through the weekend. Food had been eaten, and one of the beds had even been slept in. It was hard to believe, but the facts didn’t lie. The Gruber family’s killer didn’t run; instead, he stayed in the house long after the bodies had turned cold, as if nothing had happened at all.

The question, of course, was a simple one: who could do such a thing? But this was 1922, CSI wasn’t a thing that existed yet, there was no DNA analysis available to the investigators. Even fingerprint identification was too young to have reached the farmlands of German Bavaria, but even if there had been better tools, there were other obstacles to uncovering the truth. The local men who initially stumbled across the bodies, led by Lorenz Schlittenbauer, had disturbed much of the crime scene. While the maid and young Josef had each been covered with cloth by the killer, the bodies in the barn had actually been stacked like lumber. On top of this macabre pile, the killer had placed an old door and then hay had been scattered over it in an attempt to hide it. So, when Schlittenbauer entered the barn with the others, he actually lifted the door and began to move the bodies, making a full and accurate investigation impossible. According to those who watched him, Schlittenbauer lifted and moved the corpses with no emotion or hesitation, as if the sight of it didn’t bother him at all – or, maybe, wasn’t new to him. And it was that, along with some other, subtle clues, that quickly moved him to the top of the list of suspects. Why would he do this, though? Well, he told one of the men that he moved the bodies because he was looking for his son. Think back for a moment. Remember the questionable parentage of young Josef, whose birth certificate simply listed one “L.S.” as the father? Numerous neighbour testimonies made it clear that Lorenz Schlittenbauer was L.S., and that went a long way to explaining why he led the men from the barn, into the house – he’d been looking for his son, Josef. But according to some of the men with him that day, the door between the barn and the kitchen had been locked. They knew that because Schlittenbauer pulled the key from his pocket and unlocked the door, which was more than a little curious, seeing as how Gruber had mentioned in town that one of his house keys had gone missing. And one final bit: the family dog was seen by the postman on the day before, where he had been tied to a corner of the barn outside. When the men arrived on Tuesday, though, they found it in the barn, wounded but alive. When it saw Schlittenbauer, the animal barked uncontrollably.

All of the clues seemed odd and out of place; they make your mind perk up and feel like something deeper was going on, but at face value they prove nothing at all, and that’s the frustrating part. The dog might have just been barking because of the bodies. Schlittenbauer might have had a key simply because he was the Gruber’s closest neighbour. Like I said, these clues were subtle, and that’s why he was never formally charged with the crime. As for motive, some people believe that Viktoria had sued Lorenz for alimony, and the man had refused. Clearly, Viktoria needed money shortly before the murders, as her bank withdrawal suggested, but historians are doubtful. The most likely reality, they believe, is that Josef’s father was none other than his grandfather, Andreas, and the arrangement with Lorenz simply an effort to save face in the village. Alternative theories have been suggested. There are some that believe that Viktoria’s husband Karl did not, in fact, die during World War I. No body was ever recovered or sent home, and a friend of Karl’s even testified later to seeing him alive in the mid-20s. Some people wonder, could Karl have had a hand in the murders, perhaps out of anger toward Viktoria’s relationship with Schlittenbauer while he was away at war? I’ve even read another theory that claims that Andreas had been waiting for an important letter of some kind. I can’t find more than a mention of it, but what if the killer and the letter were connected? That might explain why he stayed in the house for days after the murders – he’d been waiting to intercept whatever the letter contained. One last thought: by all accounts, the killer had been in or around the Gruber home many times before the events of March 31st. The Gruber’s former maid had quit her job because she said she felt the place was haunted. There had been the unrecognised newspaper, the odd noises, missing keys… weeks and weeks of unusual activity that eventually led up to the day of the murders. The day, mind you, that the new maid started working there. Maria Baumgartner had been killed just hours after arriving for her first day on the job. It makes you wonder: did her arrival upset the plans of whoever it was who seemed to be stalking the Gruber family? Did she see him, and pay with her life?

Hinterkaifeck has the feel of a cabin in the woods, the centrepiece of many a horror film and novel – a place of retreat, far from the demands and prying eyes of the outside world, where we could go to get away; a place where we can find safety in the middle of an unsafe wilderness; a home away from home. We want to feel safe, and thankfully most of us do, but there’s just enough risk on the outsides of the bell-curve that we’re always left wondering, what if? And that’s how fear works, it sits in a dark corner at the edge of our minds and watches. We know it’s not going to step out into the light, but we can feel it glaring at us from the dark. I can’t help but wonder if the Grubers ever had that sensation during those last few months, if maybe there had been moments when Andreas just couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was watching him. Did Viktoria have moments where she felt like she wasn’t alone? We’ll never know the answers to those questions, though. And one more tiny mystery: the physician who performed the autopsies on all six victims had their heads removed and sent to Munich for further study. Some reports claim that a clairvoyant was part of that research, but I can’t find proof of that. Their bodies were buried nearby in what is now modern-day Waidhofen, but their skulls remained in Munich and were eventually lost in the chaos of World War II. Today, the farm in the woods is little more than a memory. All that is left today is a small memorial, but over the year that followed the tragedy there, it stood empty like a crypt in the middle of that clearing in the forest – a constant reminder to the neighbours who passed by of all the people they lost and of the violence that had visited their small village, and maybe that’s why they finally tore it down in 1923. Maybe they couldn’t stand to look at it again. Maybe it needed upkeep that required going inside, but no one was willing to do that. Maybe they just wanted to move on and forget. Whatever the true reason was, it was only after the farm was torn down that the murder weapon was finally discovered. One of the men found it among the debris at the top of the pile, mixed in with items that had been in storage. It had been hidden inside the house all along, in the last place that anyone would look: the attic.

[Closing statements]

[layaltheblogger2019]

A compilation of your favorite songs this semester: what experiences do they remind you of? when you like to listen to them?

A year in music

Aka freshman year was pretty wild.

Note: I’ve linked the music that I mention to start at around the time the quoted lyrics start playing but feel free to listen to the songs from the beginning!

Music. Whether you’re the kind of person that rarely listens or the kind that always has a soundtrack playing in your head, you can’t deny that music is sort of everywhere you go. I myself am not a very regular listener, but I can appreciate a good chorus or beat when I hear it. When I listen to music, I close my eyes and allow myself to be carried away by the poetry of the lyrics and pulled under by the hidden meanings of certain verses. When I listen to music, I envelop myself in a song like a caterpillar in a cocoon, and invariably attach a feeling, person, or life event to it. Particularly when I am at the highs and lows of the sine graph that is my life do I look to music to find some way to explain how I feel.

Freshman year at MIT was one of the craziest sine curves I could have ever imagined; it was one of the most life-changing years of my life. I transformed so much that there were times I didn’t recognize the girl in the mirror. I morphed in such a way that sometimes others didn’t recognize me. I made a lot of mistakes. But I also grew up, became more experienced, found my identity, and blazed my own trail. This is my freshman year in music:

September – Phone by Mickey Singh Making new friends

I was in Aliza’s room. After a good venting session on my part and some delicious pudding, courtesy of her snack shelf, we each began to work on our own assignments and responsibilities, her at her desk, me sitting on her bed. She asked if she could play music, to which I agreed. There were awkward pauses in the flow of interaction between us, but it was endearing, as is typical on the path of new friendship. Everything was quite normal, until a song I didn’t recognize began to play. It was poppy; it was intriguing. And it was in a different language. ‘Do you want me to skip this’, she asked quickly. ‘My YouTube is on autoplay and it automatically played desi music’. As it stood in that moment, we were two people from unlike backgrounds who didn’t know that much about each other yet. I was an Arab from Florida, she, a Pakistani from New Jersey. I hesitated momentarily before I replied with ‘no, I like it’. And I did like it.

Little did I know that this would become a common soundtrack throughout my fall, a beat that reminded me of my first naïve but confident steps into independence. A beat that reminded me of true happiness and freedom. A beat that reminded me of my first, wonderful group of friends.

  October – My Blood by Twenty One Pilots Making a home somewhere new

Homesickness. If you asked me in December, freshman fall was like heaven on earth. At least that’s how it felt like when it was ending. But near its beginning, I wasn’t totally happy. I missed home, my family, and my friends. Everyone I loved was together back in Florida, I was much further north. It was colder here, lonelier here. Sometimes I got impatient that I wasn’t good at conversation, that I somehow couldn’t make as many friends, that I couldn’t figure out my academics, that I just couldn’t do anything—as well as my peers could.

I just felt at a loss sometimes.

Stay with me, no, you don't need to run Stay with me, my blood, you don't need to run

(I may be biased because I went to a Twenty One Pilots concert at the end of October)

 November – Still Feel by Half Alive Making it through

I was kind of killing it: getting psets done, practicing swimming (to pass the boat test), going to the gym. This was the beginning of what I guess I could call my sprint to the finish. I had my life together – for like the first two weeks anyway.

But then I was barely holding on. Psets were crammed hours before they were due, swimming turned into sinking, and things weren’t going too well. Then I found a medium place, where I was just making it. I was half alive, and I was okay with that.

I still feel alive When it is hopeless, I start to notice And I still feel alive Falling forward, back into orbit

That’s what November felt like.

  December – Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran Made it

December was hugs farewell and tying loose ends. December was last assignments and final exams. December was crossing the finish line with a second to spare. December was the feeling of belonging somewhere. (And then shortly after, having to leave it)

I said goodbye to a good friend, Samar along with a few others as we drove her to the airport, Castle on the Hill playing in the background. I made a semester recap video to the same song, which brought back nostalgia for times I had only experienced a few weeks prior.

Found my heart and broke it here Made friends and lost them through the years And I've not seen the roaring fields in so long, I know I've grown But I can't wait to go home

And going home for winter break, my last view of MIT in 2018 was a room filled with people I really cared about, all playing the same game, eating pizza and laughing, all smiling and waving back at me.

Since when could you feel homesick for two places at once?

 January –What You Know by Two Door Cinema Club Making a new path

I don’t remember much about January except that it was very cold and very dark. Over IAP, I was still surrounded by the warmth and light of friends who were here, and I was also taking more classes than humanly possible. This song reminds me of waking up on a lazy and dim IAP morning, looking at the gray sky and frosty-covered outside as it snowed, wrapped up in navy bedsheets.

  February –100 Bad Days by AJR Making mistakes

A rough start to a semester. But it’s too early to give up isn’t it?

When all is going wrong and you're scared as hell What you gonna do? Who you gonna tell? Maybe a hundred bad days made a hundred good stories A hundred good stories make me interesting at parties

  March – Connection by OneRepublic Making choices

Things are moving too fast, I’m changing too fast, there’s so much to do and so much to think about. I don’t know what I’m doing. I am an impostor.  I wish I could take a break. I need help. Who do I turn to? Why do I feel like such a burden?

Maybe I should try to find the old me Take me to the places and the people that know me Tryin’ to disconnect, thinking maybe you could show me If there’s so many people here, then why am I so lonely? Can I get a connection? Can I get, can I get a connection?

  April – Viva La Vida by Coldplay Making progress

There was one very special Sunday in April. I made time with some others to go to Revere Beach. And to say it was a welcome distraction from the stress is an understatement. We were there for maybe a collective hour, but the entirety of the trip gave me a feeling of love I didn’t know I needed. Self love. Love of nature. Love from others. Love for others. Loving the small moments of bliss and joy that I can get in these busy times.

On our way there, we sat in the car singing along to the sound of nostalgia, laughing our responsibilities away, and putting our arms out the window to feel the wind on our skin: all to feel something again.

And once we were driving on a bridge we heard this:

I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing Roman Cavalry choirs are singing Be my mirror, my sword and shield My missionaries in a foreign field For some reason I can’t explain Once you go there was never, never a honest word And that was when I ruled the world

For a brief moment, we did rule the world. All of us in that car. That is what happiness feels like when you most need it.

  May – Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol Breaking down

May was hugs farewell and tying loose ends. May was last-minute projects and final exams. May was crossing the finish line with two seconds to spare. May was loss, heartbreak, and unstoppable tears.

Aliza was killed by a drunk driver shortly after we all said goodbye to her for the summer. We didn’t realize how long we’d be saying goodbye for.

The night before she left MIT to go home we got late night from Maseeh dining and then, because of the beautiful weather, decided to sit on the sidewalk, right between Maseeh and McCormick. And we sat there for a wonderous half hour. I had a final the next morning, but the weather was too good, the company even better. We could see the remains of the full moon in our periphery. We didn’t know what would happen when the sun rose, but we focused on the cool breeze on our faces, the stars in our eyes. I never wanted to leave.

If I lay here If I just lay here Would you lie with me and just forget the world? Forget what we're told Before we get too old Show me a garden that's bursting into life

I am so lucky to have met her.

 June (encore) – Good Grief by Bastille Making it through life, one step at a time

A summer in Boston that I put together very last minute, my life is slowly rebuilding. It’s a mess, but what life isn’t? I’m nervous to see the outcome, and I worry about tomorrow before I get through today. What can I do except try my best then hope it all works out?

Watching through my fingers, watching through my fingers In my thoughts you're far away And you are whistling the melody, whistling the melody Crystallizing clear as day Oh, I can picture you so easily, picture you so easily   What's gonna be left of the world if you're not in it? What's gonna be left of the world, oh   Every minute and every hour I miss you, I miss you, I miss you more Every stumble and each misfire I miss you, I miss you, I miss you more

(I still miss you)

Since my freshman year has ended, I haven’t really been able to slow down and reflect on everything that has happened. Until I sat in front of my computer to write this.

From where I stand now, I know things will get better again. Then they will inevitably get worse. It’s kind of how sine graphs flow. But I am the producer of my own track, I am the composer of my life symphony. There are three more years of new people to meet, interesting classes to take, difficult problems to face, and melodies for me to piece together. And once it’s all over, I can’t wait to take a look at what has been created. Once it’s all over, I can’t wait to press play.

[millennium-thejiaqiverse]

Chapter 2: Past, Present and Future

Summary: This chapter is possibly the longest and most challenging to write in the Millennium series (I hope), because there are not one but THREE different time travelers each on their own merry way, one of them being a god. I tried my best to organize all the stuff from the past, present and future (no pun intended) for this to be easy to read. Hint hint, the main focus is still on Miles, main events are in the same universe on the same timeline, and the main points in time are one cool summer day (Miles’s past), then the day before Orientation Day (present), and a cold winter night (further in the past). Let’s see how the present shapes the past, which shapes the future thereafter (ties to Chapter 0’s cancerous plane of existence).

This is the last part of the 9th personal assignment, after more than a month’s hard work, Miles is more than ready for this stage.

Doing a last check then taking off when instructed with his small self-built aircraft, Miles relaxes a bit and smoothly makes the journey to the finish line—a small nearby airport. His class tutor is already waiting for him there. “I knew you would excel on this assignment,” the tutor says, “your results and feedback will be in on the 2nd day of next week. Good luck with your midterms!” “Thank you for the extra day of good weather conditions Ms. Sonmi, thank you so much for your help and understanding.” Miles goes to the tutor after parking his aircraft. “Of course, you were on sick leave Miles,” she says, “everyone has one of those days.” “Yep, one of those days...” to battle a parasite fungus that could kill you. Miles can’t help but think to himself as he replies.

It is around 18 in the VR simulation when Miles finished but in fact 22:26 in real life (he had also spent lots of time with his team to complete their group assignment). Miles goes to the toilet to freshen up and prepare to take the shuttle home.

“Heyyy...” Jason Finn Lee was looking into the mirror above the sinks when Miles enters the toilet, he quickly turns to greet him (but things get awkward fast because this guy can’t remember Miles’s name to save his life). “Hey Jason,” Miles breaks the awkward silence, walking to a sink to wash his hands. “There’s my favorite redhead! How was you day?” Jason inquires. Miles answers while washing his hands, “Well, I’ve finally got everything done. It was fun flying an aircraft for my PA (personal assignment), over some fields, and some red maple trees...” “You’re so organized man, my assignments are a mess, and I’m so stressed over midterms!” Jason just starts rambling on.

Miles’s mind wonders off. He thinks of the red maple trees around his parents’ house—well, it’s just his dad’s house now; Miles has a tent he would bring out to the maple trees every now and then, he remembers he used to carry this tent out there everyday when he was about 4 or 5, and hang out there for hours. Miles again recalls that one day, that day he had the strange encounters when he was 5.

That summer day started as normal, little Miles finished doodling some cartoony multicolored trains in his tent, he was walking up to the front door of the house to bring in his drawings when he just had this feeling he had to see something. He looked, only to see someone almost identical to his 5-year-old self, a little Miles #2 but with torn up cloth, leaves in his messy hair and an unexplained look of sudden realization in his eyes; he looked on as little Miles #2 ran to hide in the tent, pulling the zipper shut. He was about to go to the tent to confront this strange kid...

Right now, Miles’s recollection is semi-interrupted with utter silence and a feeling of dread his 5-year-old self had experienced at that very moment back then on that fateful day. “Jason?” Noticing that Jason has abruptly stopped making a sound, Miles looks over to him, only to see an apparition grabbing onto the nose and mouth of his struggling schoolmate.

“... The ghost!” Miles stammers, “not again!” Distorted frozen face, hateful eyes, it is the same apparition little Miles’d seen moments after seeing little Miles #2 that day! “You! I know what it means to see your doppelgänger!” What they said as they charged his younger self echos through his mind, “you are going to die!”

Miles is in shock. This apparition is very dangerous! Jason cannot breathe, he tries to fight back, but the apparition isn’t effected at all. Seeing the apparition hurting his schoolmate, Miles immediately snaps out of it and throws the apparition off of Jason then keeps them at bay, and as soon as Jason caught his breath, Miles pushes him out of the room, taking his memory of the attack and planting a sense that he’s done his bathroom trip on autopilot. “Ah, you’re stronger than I thought,” the apparition speaks. “I’m taking you off this plane of existence!” Miles says as he restrains them.

On that cool summer day, after little Miles was jumped by the apparition blocking his way home, he gave up on confronting little Miles #2, dropped his drawings and darted off running away from them. “Why would it turn out like this?! Everything is horrible!” The apparition screeched and chased after him with a machete, “why must I suffer? Why must we part? The love towards her was so much yet you’d never get to spend a life with her! Never even said ‘I love you’ before leaving!!” “Leave me alone!” Little Miles was very scared, he went off the neighborhood roads and ran into the red maple woods—bumping into low branches and tearing his clothes—straight to a cliff. “Stop this futile attempt to get away child, die for me!” Waving the machete, the apparition taunted him, slowly passing through the trees, “you are horrible, let me end this.” Running a little ahead of the apparition, little Miles’s legs were giving out, at that moment he wished so much that all this wasn’t happening and he was back at the front door, going back into the safety of his home—

—Suddenly, there he was, out of the woods, but at this strange train station, not at home. Parked at the platform he stood on was one of the cartoony trains he doodled whilst imagining it making a stop in the yard of his home some day. With no idea where else to go and this train being the relatively more comprehensible option, little Miles boarded it to test his luck. And before he knew it, he was there in the yard of his home again, and he saw “little Miles #2” going to the front door with some drawings, except he didn’t have torn cloth and... little Miles suddenly realized there was no doppelgänger little Miles #2 at all, it was just himself all along—somehow he time travelled through that strange train station! Remembering this was when the apparition would charge his past self, little Miles ducked into the tent and shut himself in, hugging his legs to wait it all out.

Right now, Miles is once more traveling with a train through the Junction—his strange train station—to the past. The apparition gave up on fighting him (they decided they are powerful enough and didn’t need to hunt to gain more power at that moment), escaped his grip and went on a volatile plane to crawl their way back in time to quote on quote “end their suffering from its beginning” (despite Miles telling them this is not how time travel works after he realized the apparition didn’t recognize him at the moment), so Miles now needs to track them down and make sure they don’t cause a ruckus for nothing.

Boom, the train shakes as it enters a field of light, Miles stops by to see what that was about.

This is a freezing snowy winter night. Miles meets a gang of robed sorcerers maintaining an intricate puzzle box of their design—a cluster of volatile planes of existence piled at one spot, like an invisible labyrinth, imprisoning a sacrificial lamb, a girl, pleading for her release. The sorcerers are repeatedly chanting something in Latin, something along the lines of “take this innocent sacrifice and bring forth the apocalypse”, classic stuff. Miles enters the puzzle box attempting to free the girl, it is clear this puzzle is not just a day’s work: Each plane there is built by the ghost who haunts it, judging from their robes they are from the same society of sorcerers, Miles has to fight constantly to survive their attacks. Miles plans to pull the girl out of the puzzle box before she is sacrificed, but after going through some layers of this puzzle, he realized this whole thing has to be torn down in order to free her—she would somehow always be on a different plane than Miles, and Miles’s magic is limited by the structure of this puzzle box therefore cannot reach through to her. Time is running out, her organs are bleeding, Miles blows the puzzle box apart, weakening the sorcerers around it tremendously; he heals the girl, she runs off screaming as soon as her feet touches the ground, scared out of her mind.

“You fool! You thought we didn’t know there would be time traveling fools like you who’d try to stop us?” Says the one who seems to be the head sorcerer with a weak but stern voice, “the apocalypse will be upon us regardless of you efforts. My daughter’s innocent soul is just one of many sources of the energy we’d use to grow our cancerous dimension, the energy you supplied to our labyrinth before destroying it was needless to say far more than what a few souls can provide, the cancer will now root on our universe and thanks to your little retaliation you kickstarted this process! You have achieved nothing! Oh well, another pawn of the Court will cease to exist in our hands!!” Miles has to think about this, meanwhile he’s just looking at the sorcerer. “Be surprise you idiot!” The sorcerer gets angry at Miles’s lack of proper reaction. Miles carefully words his sentence, “I can tell you first hand that your efforts here are not in vain.” “Hah,” the sorcerer lays his head down, “people will thank us for doing this.”

Just what kind of maniac would sacrificing his own daughter? Walking in the winter snow, Miles thinks to himself after he’s a distance away from the scene, “at least I saved the daughter and she’d be alright, that wasn’t all for nothing... wait, that reminds me—the thing, the real idiot I’m here to watch!”

A gust of summer wind blows through the air. Making sure the apparition wasn’t in sight anymore, little Miles ran through the front door, slamming it behind him. “Miles? Is that you?” It was his mom coming to the door. Little Miles panicked, he wrecked his clothes and he was a mess, mom would be so mad! That was when everything stopped, leaving little Miles puzzled. “This is quite an unconventional first meeting.” a voice came from the living room, “Don’t be alarmed Miles,” the words brought a sense of calmness, little Miles walked into the living room to see a man looking out of the floor to ceiling windows, “I’m Atlas, some guy who carries the cosmos. Good job throwing that thing off your trail.” Everything around them was frozen in time, little Miles saw his mom on the stairs, about to turn the corner to the living room. “Atlas? A titan?” Little Miles asked. “Yes, that’s me,” Atlas turned to face him, “furthermore, the information about me you downloaded into your head is quite correct—I must admit that’s a pretty handy way to acquire knowledge.” “But what about that angry man who chased me?” Little Miles wanted to know more, “he is strange.” “The apparition you encountered breached the veil which separates your plane of existence and another volatile one, and I’m here to capture them.” Atlas gave him an answer, “however, that’s not the purpose of our meeting. Miles Millward, you have a unique talent with magic. A long journey of self discovery and learning lies ahead of you, this journey wouldn’t be easy. I cannot tell you you’ll have no worries or fears in the future, but I will be there for you when and only when you need my help. You know where to find me, in here.” He gestured to his head. The next thing little Miles knew was that everything was back to normal, his mom greeted him with a raised eyebrow and a “what were you up to?” regarding his clothes and hair, Atlas was nowhere to be seen.

The snow is falling. “This is my chance,” the apparition bursts through the redwood gates of a mansion. “Stop it right there!” Miles yells. “There you are child, having fun lost in your thoughts?” The apparition takes notice of him. “For the last time, you can’t change what you wanted to change no matter what you do here! Think about it!” Miles tries to reason with them. “I’m not listening!” The apparition taunts him. “What in the world?” A maid has rushed to the broken down gates. Miles quickly shrouds himself and the apparition from her sight, not wanting to scare her. “I don’t know why, but you think of me again and again,” the apparition roars to Miles, “the more you think, the more you wonder about me you’d feed my power! I just never thought we’ll be here this soon. Now I’ll finally get what I want no matter what!”

“Eric?” A voice from the landing facing the gate, “Eric where have you been?! You can’t keep chasing after some ‘supernatural’ nonsense and running off disappearing like that, I worry!” That’s when Miles noticed a lady rushing down to a figure that appeared at the gate during this mayhem. “Yes, there she is,” the apparition cheers. Miles looks at the figure at the gate then at the apparition, then it hits him. That figure is actually the ghost of this Eric guy, while the apparition he’s been dealing with isn’t any ghost as he initially believed, but a mindless manifestation of a burning desire, they certainly have very little reason in them. “Don’t do that ever again!” She is crying with joy. “Come to us and be united!” The manifestation demands. Apparently this powerful manifestation worked a deal with Eric in Miles’s absence. Eric is lured back from the dead and made visible to the living, probably on the promise he could join his love forever, this manifestation possibly planned on binding this lady Melanie and Eric for eternity which will certainly fail at some point and further harm all that are involved! It is clear the apparition sees joining them together as their purpose and not completing this job as their torment.

“This is sick!” Miles is really close to just annihilating that manifestation at this point, but he was stopped. “Calm down Miles,” it’s Atlas, putting a hand on his shoulder. “They’re... Melanie and Eric are in a very bad situation!” Miles is confused. “You have a drive to help and save people, this is good, but you have to keep this in mind,” Atlas explains, “we learnt that history runs on cause and effect, the cause and effect that we’re not always a part of. This couple don’t really need any help you know?” “Huh?” Miles questions his mentor. Atlas points to Eric and Melanie to tell him to watch on. “I’m leaving you Melanie,” Eric says unexpectedly. “What?” Melanie’s jaw drops, “but after all that we’ve been through?” “We’ll never see each other again,” Eric keeps the now agitated apparition away from Melanie with all his might, “this is for the best! You shouldn’t have had faith in me!” “What are you doing?” The apparition is ready to pounce on everyone here, “we end this now!” Eric notices and runs out through the gates, leaving Melanie behind, now crying with heartbreak and anger. “What ever did I see in him?” Melanie shakes her head. The apparition of course chases him outside. “You know you love her! You wanted to say you love her, you wanted to be with her!” The apparition screams, “you wanted this so much you created me!! And I’ll never let you off with that! Even in death, I’ll make sure you never rest until you man up and fulfill your desires!”

Through the snow, Miles and Atlas chase after them. “The manifestation is distorting even more,” Miles refers to the apparition who’s growing increasingly grotesque, “the more this guy suppresses his feelings the more this manifestation has a reason to grow...” “Although it doesn’t look like it but Eric will prevail,” Atlas isn’t very worried, “marriage at this day and age is hardly about love, it is a union of two families. He’s done the right thing letting her go, all he has to do now is accept his sacrifice.” “Then I’ll tell him that!” Miles teleports in front of Eric, stopping him in his track. “Miles! He has to do this by himself!” Atlas informs Miles.

“This is all my fault...” Eric sighs, “you know, in fact I couldn’t give her the life she deserves in the first place, I’m just a nobody with no status. She is to be wedded to the Brickdales tomorrow, and that’s probably for the best.” “We’re not done, you are coming with me,” the apparition catches up with Eric. “I feel the most difficult thing isn’t the goodbye to my love, but to let go of the fact that we will part forever.” Eric continues. “But you don’t have to, it was a mistake, we’ll go back and fix...” the apparition is then cut off by Eric. “I know Melanie,” Eric stands against them, “she will moved on, and William loves her no less than I do, I would only have one last gift to her now that I’m dead. If this fiend is truly just my longing for Melanie, then I set it free.” “Well this is a load of crap,” although much weaker since Eric punched them by letting it go, the apparition isn’t finished, “but I’m not giving up on the reason I exist! I still suffer! I’ll just have to regain my strength and try again!”

The apparition disappears onto a volatile plane. “Unnatural! The manifestation survived being cut off, and now they’re traveling through time again!?” Miles jumps. “This is indeed unnatural. I’ll handle this Miles,” Atlas goes after the apparition. “Ahh, I’ve never been so at peace,” Eric finally relaxes.

Miles follows his mentor, “Atlas, I can help!” Hearing that, Atlas turns around to him, “Settle down Miles, you’ve had quite a long day, I came to your aid earlier because I sensed you’re already exhausted. I’ve got this. Here, you’ll be at home right on time if you exit the plane now.” “You’re right, my mind’s getting jumpy,” Miles agrees, “and it’s in my favor to take a break before midterms.” Atlas sees Miles off then continues after the apparition.

Arriving at the cool summer day, Atlas comforts little Miles who’s just been jumped at the front door of his home, and thereafter goes on to capture the apparition his after.

“So, Atlas, you’ve got another one.” Atropos greets Atlas, her eyes focused on her freshly completed tapestry, “know that the Court will be happy to take over this matter.”

@cadewrites

[voidequine]

The First Adventure of Team Seahorse

In which Horuss and Feferi are partnered together to assist with the incoming weather crisis relief.

@fishprincessofthelaw

Feferi

CC>AJ: ) (ey ) (oruss! So we're paired up! > Well that wasn't awkward. Not sure what to say are you.

Horuss

AJ>CC: 8=D Greetings to you Feferi. It would seem that we are insteed. 8=D Did you hoof a particular place you wished to start the relief efforts? > You are going to allow her to make the decision here as you hoof neigh idea of your own where to even consider beginning. Differing to the superior and all.

Feferi

CC>AJ: W) (ale I was thinking my old neig) (bor) (ood would be a nice place to start if you're okay wit) ( it!

Horuss

AJ>CC: 8=D That is certainly mare than agreestable with me, feel free to direct our course as you please.

Feferi

CC>AJ: Okay! I'll ) (ead to the precinct to meet up wit) ( you?

Horuss

AJ>CC: 8=D Of horse. I shall meet you there.

Feferi

CC: Sea you soon!!!

You are Feferi Piexes. You are ready to help your community! You just have to meet up with your winter storm safety buddy first. Horuss. The Zahhak you think you might have spoken to the least so far. Not from lack of want, after all he had amazing puns. Life has just left you two barely crossing paths. UNTIL NOW! You reach the precinct and you arm yourself with shelter information flyers and decked out in warm clothes you wait for him.

Horuss

You are the Horuss Zahhak in question and you are prepared to get to work yourself, garbed in your own thick winter gear to help ward off the cold you are still unused as of yet. You are currently waiting at the precinct for one Feferi Piexes, the one you hoof been assigned as the partner of for the duration of the storm relief efforts, someone you hoof spoken to very little, then again that could describe all your new workmates you hoof been very slow in your adjustment to the new climate, that is your usual though so you need neigh worry about it too much. You notice her stepping inside the precinct and collecting the information pamphlets for the shelters, so you stride forward to meet her. Calling a gentle greeting as you get within speaking distance of her. "Hello Feferi, are you ready to make hay?"

Feferi

You hear him speak and turn to flash a bright smile, "Whale hay! Yup! I am good to go! It's a pretty far walk from here but at least walking will keep us warm!"

Horuss

"We will be walking?" You are fine with that, walking is good exercise and will only help you accumulate to the weather quicker. "Alright, that is mare than agreeable with me. Let us set off then?"

Feferi

"Shore!" you beam. "Team seahorse is off!" you laugh as you lead the way to the door and hold it for him politely.

Horuss

'Team seahorse?' Well that is certainly an amusing way to view this. And then she's holding the door open for you which is neigh something you are used to, neigh so much due to blood colour or caste-system, but mare so due to your sheer size and the intimidation that affords. You follow her out of the precinct, stepping into the rapidly dropping weather outside, tucking your nose into the collar of your jacket momentarily before lifting your face to the world once mare.

Feferi

You follow after and brrrr! Cold! "Wow it's nippy! Hee hee! Maybe folks can make snow people when it warms up later!" you chatter as you start to walk the old familiar path to where you used to live.

Horuss

"Perhaps," you agree, falling into step behind her and allowing her to lead the hay to their first destination. You hope that you will neigh be finding any actual 'snow people' after the blizzards clear but it is neigh a very STRONG one, inevitability and all. "I am sure there will be many relishing in the chance to escape the confines of their homes and shelters once it is over."

Feferi

"For shore! I was always super happy to get out when the weather allowed during the winter when I was little," you say. "Were there bad winters where you grew up?"

Horuss

"Neigh," Alternian winter's weren't quite anything close to those experienced on Derse. "Winters on Alternia did neigh e%perience such storms, at least neigh for as long as is expected here, the sun is harsh throughout the entire year, even if a snowfall was to occur during the night it would be gone by the next midday." At least where you had grown up it had, the heat from the sun had been a constant all year round.

Feferi

Oh geez that's some intense sun. "Wowie! That's pretty strong sun. So... on Alternia it's switched right? People sleep for the day and do things during the night?"

Horuss

"Yes, it's much safer that way, hence our tendency towards nocturnal lifestyles," the sun was... neigh something to tread lightly with, neigh at all. "The night cycle is a much easier time frame to exist and work in."

Feferi

"Sounds interesting! And also explains why I'm not a morning person at all," you joke. "My lusus though, she's a morning gal through and though." You glance at the land marks and smile, "We're almost there."

Horuss

"My lusus used to be mare of an early riser as well, a great help during my youngest years, before I got settled into the training schedule given onto me." You take a note of your surroundings as well, mare to help your own mental map of the city than anything else. "Good, we will hopefully be able to get the information to everyone soon enough then?"

Feferi

You nod, "Since I used to live here till recently I know most of the homeless folks, so they'll listen to us. It's kinda why I wanted to come myself cause whale... I want them to be safe and okay..."

Horuss

"An understandstable motive and reasoning, people tend to listen mare to someone they know than a stranger," you take in your surroundings with a closer eye, it is neigh one of the better ones you hoof seen during your time here but that is fine, individuals should neigh be judged for where they grew up, else you would hoof to be judging your own diamond quite harshly. "Let us get to work then so that they can start their journeys to safety before the worst of the weather sets in, neigh?"

Feferi

You nod eagerly. "Yeah!" You lead the way to the places where those you know are at giving them the flyers and explaining the situation. One old man who's always loved to tease looks at you and Horuss and chuckled, "Traded in the lil fish for a side a beef, ay lil lady?!" You blush and tell him firmly no not at all this is your partner Horess. After he heads off you look at Horuss, "Sorry about him. He likes to think he's very funny."

Horuss

You give out flyers and though you can neigh make yourself appear smaller or less threatening, you offer close mouth smiles and allow Feferi to do mare of the talking, you are neigh the best with such situations anyhay. Neigh for you at all. You snort an amused noise at the elderly man's words, what a humorous thing to say. "There is neigh need to apologize," you assure once the man has left hearing distance. "I did neigh take offense to his joke, and you did neigh do anything to foster or encourage it, so you do neigh need to hay sorry. I do neigh mind."

Feferi

You sigh a little relieved. "I'm glad. He's nice fella. I've given him food before only to see him turn around and give it to stray animals," you tell him.  "There's only a few more places left here. Which is probably good cause we shouldn't stay out in the cold too late either," you admit. "Night's here are yeesh. Especially near the desert where the wind is the worst."

Horuss

"That certainly does sound like a kind individual," kindness and foalish often go hand in hand, you feel neigh need to point that out. "Let us continue then, as quickly as we are stable too," you admittedly do neigh like the sound of anyone staying out here when you two can at least give them the opportunity to escape the worse of the elements, whether or neigh they accepted it was aneigh-ther matter all together.

Feferi

Nodding you lead the way one last time. You are extremely glad you find everyone you know and a few people you didn't. One troll refuses to talk to you staring pointedly at your fins and will only deal with Horuss. You can't help but be crestfallen because of it as it's time to head back. You wonder how you went so long without noticing... Maybe it was because back then you'd been too busy with your own survival to pay attention.

Horuss

The two of you end up working through the entirety of the stack of flyers you had brought with you, which is a hopeful end to the task you and Feferi had set out to complete. You are neigh a praying type but you shall offer what little value your thoughts hoof towards a safe continuing to these individuals and their lives, insteed of the slow cold end at winter's uncaring claws. The troll that dismisses Feferi is beyond rude, towards her and then you in kind, you are cold enough to be distainstable but warm enough to be tolerstable to speak with. You give it neigh mind, you neigh-ver hoof, why would this nameless neigh-body be any different, but it seems Feferi does neigh hoof the same willingness to ignore and continue on that you do. "You need neigh pay mind to individuals such as that," you offer once the two of you hoof started the journey back to the precinct, your longer, STRONGER stride assisting you in traversing the snow already starting to build up on the streets. "It is their choice to see blood colour over an individual's own merits and baring, neigh-thing you need to be concerned with."

Feferi

"But... It feels like... I don't know... Like I'm trapped in the shadow of what people expect a fucshia to be..." you admit, feeling quite vulnerable. "Not everyone does that but... Cod it's not even just a troll thing. It's like I'm either a monster or a failure........ even someone at the Precinct thinks I could be a threat to his race... That it's in my nature to kill and conquer..." Looking away and down you say, "I think I'm most afraid they could be right on some level..."

Horuss

"Then do neigh let them be," it really is that simple, at least for you it is. If she does neigh wish to be those things then she should simply ignore what others wish and continue her life how she wants too. At least you believe it is that simple. Mind over matter and all that neigh-sense. "You will find it... difficolt to change what others believe about you so it is mare often than neigh better to simply stride towards actions that make you happy with your own self. They do neigh hoof to live with the person you become, only you really do." You hoof said similar words a number of times to your palemate, you do neigh understand what about the concept is difficolt for others to grasp but apparently it is.

Feferi

Glancing at him, you feel grateful for his words even if you're unsure how well that advice may work as if you choose the path to become empress, the feelings others have about you will matter a lot. "Thanks, Horuss," you say with a smile to him.

Horuss

You blink, "it is neigh matter," you do neigh think so at least. Either hay, time to drop the subject and continue back to the precinct. "We should hurry along before the streets become too untraversstable and I need to assist you over it." By that you mean carry her above the snow, something you are STRONGLY confident in your ability to do.

Feferi

You laugh, "Hey now, I'm not as tall as you but I've delt with this before." You forge your way past him to prove your point. "I am Derse hatched and scrappy!"

Horuss

"Of horse you are," It takes neigh effort and two-and-a-hoof paces before you past her. "I was marely stating a worry, neigh offense meant to you."

Feferi

You take this as a challenge and start trying to outpace him as you grin. "None taken. But I whale hoof to prove my stuff!"

Horuss

"I am sure you will hoof mare than enough opportunities to," you believe that your partnership with one Feferi Peixes will be a enjoystable one, for however long it lasts.

[roof1repair2-blog]

Some Easy-To-Do Roofing System Repair Work as well as Upkeep Tips for Winter

As the autumn starts getting colder and also the days begin obtaining much shorter, it suggests that the winter is practically at your door. Winter brings a great deal of house-related problems in addition to it, as well as roofing troubles are amongst them. Throughout the winter, home owners could face numerous roof problems, including ice dams formation, condensation, as well as damage to the property. These troubles are tough to cure in winter months because of the climate condition, however could be escaped if you take correct care of your roofing in loss.

Fall is the best time to prepare your house for winter months, but that does not mean these issues would stop haunting you. So, even if you did all the roofing system repair service as well as upkeep work prior to winter months, yet still dealing with concerns, do not anguish. You need to get these issues repaired quickly.

In this article, we will review some truly easy roof covering repair work as well as upkeep ideas that would certainly aid you to obtain with winter months without much trouble.

Fall roof covering maintenance

During loss, inspect your roofing system for any kind of damages or degeneration, and if you locate any, obtain them taken care of promptly. In wintertime, you have to be even more vigilant as well as aggressive. Inspect regularly for any signs of icicles accumulation and also ice dams - specifically after a snowstorm or windstorm, and so on. Make sure that your fascia as well as downspout are not obstructed with particles, ice, snow, dead leaves, etc. Utilize a roof rake to eliminate excess snow build-ups.

Flashing and chimney repair service

If you see any kind of leakage or droppings in your house, on the roof around the chimney location, that indicates the blinking of the smokeshaft is leaking. This can harm the smokeshaft in addition to the roofing. So, obtain your smokeshaft and also flashing correctly examined in the loss just, and also if something is incorrect, obtain it fixed. Your roof covering fixing firm must have the smokeshaft service also, otherwise, hire a smokeshaft repair work firm. If you plan to DIY the blinking fixing task, pay proper focus on the temperature, to make sure that the adhesive utilized in the repair do not ice up in cold weather.

Tiles Repair service

The shingles that make use of some metal fasteners or are pin down can be fixed or replaced at any point of the year. Nonetheless, you have to pay extra attention so that the roofing product do not fracture or break. If you recognize how concerning the buildings of your roof covering product and know the best ways to repair it, go ahead, get the job done. However, if you have no suggestion regarding it, do not jump on the roofing system as well as damage the roofing system also additionally. Call your roofing system repair specialist as well as let them fix it for you. Remember, you need a seasoned roof covering repair specialist to service your roof since an amateur service provider would be no better than you and could harm the roof covering much like you.

Gutter repair

Gutters are crucial, yet the majority of undervalued component of the roof covering, which plays a big function in saving your roof from wintertime by keeping it dry and clear. Keep a routine exam as well as cleaning timetable for rain gutters and if they damaged, obtain them changed promptly. Rain gutters also conserve your fascia board and also home wall surfaces from water damages and maintain the pathways dry and also clean. If your rain gutters are obstructed, they will not eliminate roof covering water effectively. Which means, there would certainly be overruning water throughout your residence, which might cause a lot of issues, consisting of damages to the foundation of your home. As long as your seamless gutters are clean as well as dry, they could be fixed or changed (if damaged), also throughout winter, equally as they can be repaired in summer. So, maintain your seamless gutters clear of any kind of debris to keep a great drainage system in your home, as well as save your roof.

Attic repair work

If you are instantly discovering any leakages in your home, it might be because of your attic. Your home creates a substantial quantity of warm every day in wintertime, which leaves through the roofing of your house. With time, this process deteriorates the insulation of your attic room, when the snow begins to melt on your roof covering, it leads to leak from the roof. It's your obligation to check the insulation in your attic on the normal basis, and when you locate a leak, recognize that it's time to re-do the insulation. If you put in adequate time, money and also financial investment to re-do your attic insulation into something lasting, you would certainly deal with much less of these leakage as well as other roofing problems.

Tree upkeep

Yes, trees are an important part of our atmosphere as well as look so attractive when they are surrounding your residence. However, if by chance, a massive tree is hanging above your home, maybe dangerous for your roof. You need to take action to make sure that no such threat is hovering over your home roofing. Call tree service and also take their aid in resolving the problem. If they assume that the tree might be cut from over your residence and would not trigger any major issue in future, get it cut. If it's actually necessary to remove the tree to secure your household and home, after that just obtain it gotten rid of. Having trees around your house is a good thing as they keep the air fresh. But at the same time, you need to be a lot more cautious to keep your roof clear of all the particles like branches and dead leaves, etc.

Roofing system substitute

If your roof is made from metal or wood and also roof shingles, you could get it changed at any point of the year, despite the period. If you have a level roofing, made of rubber, you have to wait till springtime to get a replacement. This is particularly as a result of the adhesives utilized with flat roofing system material are mainly temperature level dependent and also might ice up and not work effectively in winter. Call your roofing repair work service as well as take their recommendations on the matter.

So, these were some easy ideas on roofing system repair service and also upkeep in winter season, to help you survive the period without many hitches. If you are encountering a lot more significant roof problems, contact your roofing system fixing solution promptly.

Do not await a correct time. To locate the very best and experienced roof repair service providers in your area, visit SameDayPros.

[tipsycad147]

FULL WORM MOON,– EMBRACING THE SEASONAL SHIFT

This moon is lovingly known as the full worm moon because this is the month in which earthworms start to emerge in our hemisphere.  The name originates from long ago, when Native Americans would give the moons names based on earthly activities.  s located in the northern part of the continent called March’s moon, the full Crow Moon as the constant cawing of crows was a sign that winter had ended and springtime had commenced.  It is also called the Sap Moon, Lenten Moon, Crust Moon, Chaste Moon, and Sugar Moon.

In order to perform this ritual as written, you’ll need the following items:

Quarter Candles (yellow, red, blue, green) Large White Goddess Candle – (We prefer a three wick candle to symbolize the triple Goddess aspect) Paper and pencil for each participant Fire pit or cauldron suitable for safely burning small objects and paper Altar

This is intended to be performed outdoors, under the light of the full worm moon – dress appropriately and use proper fire safety.

<Anything in the ritual that is contained with <> should be understood as instructional for the ritual leader and should not be spoken aloud>

Ritual Begins

This circle cast fills the space around, to the sky above and below the ground, this area now a sacred place, neatly wedged between time and space!

Calling the Quarters

We look to the East where the great spirits of Air reside; unseen but powerful and intelligent.  Since the beginning of time, the winds have moved the clouds, changed the landscape, and moved mighty objects.  We look to them for the sacred breath to clear the pollution from our mental plane and allow for true cleansing and clearing of our spirit.   <light yellow candle>

We look to the South where the great spirits of Fire reside; too bright and too majestic for our eyes to focus upon.   Humankind has relied upon the great gift of fire for many reasons.  We are blessed to have heat in the cold times, light in the darkness, and on nights as tonight, we burn away our troubles in the all-consuming flames. <light red candle>

Turning to the West where the great spirits of Water spill forth across the universe; fluid, solid, or as an ethereal mist,   We are eternally mesmerized by the swiftness, the fluidity, and the ability to change without warning.  Our lives are filled with emotional and spiritual debris which are realized as stones in the great rivers of our lives.  Yet by your lessons, we see that with foresight, we can adjust our flow to move past them with ease. <light blue candle>

And now to the North, the direction where the great spirits of Earth; those spirits who serve at the terrestrial level.  As we gather in nature to cleanse and clear under the light of this full worm moon, we are aware that humankind can be destructive to the planet.  We seek guidance to help preserve and protect that which has been given to us so freely.  <light green candle>

Great Goddess, she who is the mother to us all and mother to those who shall come in the future, we call for your presence in this circle tonight.  We seek your wisdom, your comfort, your blessings, and your companionship on this night.  Through your teachings we learn more about ourselves and the ways of nature so that both shall live harmoniously.  <light Goddess candle>

Musical Interlude

Music is an integral part of celebrating; a practice which dates back as far as humankind.  I like to pick a song that suits the particular season or event, just to make it a bit more thematic.  This month I’ve chosen a gypsy song by Shantel called Borino Oro; it’s a lively and fun piece that will get your blood pumping and you’ll feel like dancing around the fire.

Opening statement

The theme of our ritual tonight is analyzing the Seasonal Shift.  As human beings, its no secret that our moods change with the weather.  I’m not talking about a weather event, like a snowstorm, but a seasonal change, such as we are experiencing right now.  As winter starts to pass, leaving the occasional pile of snow or two in it’s wake, most people’s moods will improve.  Now before you start to say anything, that does not mean that everyone was a grumpy troll during the winter.  Even those folks who are super happy all the time, like my wife, will feel even happier.  It’s an amazing sight to see when people are just starting to get back to the great outdoors.

The Seasonal Shift & Better Moods Ahead as We Move Into Spring

Lat month we focused on coming out of the darkness of winter into the light of spring.  Everyone was on the edge of their figurative seats, just waiting for that one day they could walk around outside without the encumbrance of a heavy coat, hat, and gloves.  Fast-forward 28 days later, and we are there; not everyday, but many days.  Temperatures in the norther parts of the country are in the middle 50’s and although the deep south had a severe and unprecedented freeze, it’s starting to become a memory to most folks.  Spring has sprung and you can almost feel the excitement in the air.

Tonight we’ll discuss the shift in our emotional selves that coincides with the shift in seasons.  Warmer air, the sounds of new life, and more sunshine all have a positive effect on human beings.  With the Vernal Equinox in our rear-view mirrors, each day will get longer.  Combine that with the controversial “Daylight Savings Time” and suddenly we’re seeing daylight long into the evening.  Although it will take several weeks until we see light in the early morning,  everyone knows its coming.    And speaking of light, let’s talk about the benefits of getting more sunshine.

Sunlight is a critical component to our overall health as human beings; more proof that we were not destined to be cubicle-dwellers or in our basements all day playing video games.  Human beings need sunlight.  When we are exposed to the sun, our bodies naturally produce Vitamin D, which by the way is important for calcium absorption, bone growth, and overall healing.  Trust me, speaking from experience, Vitamin D helps you heal from injury or surgery.  It also naturally boosts the immune system.  Of course, I should be the first to say, don’t be that person who decides to get a suntan on day one of warm weather.  You’ll get burned to a crisp and hate life for a few days.  (Look here for tips on when and how to maximize your sun intake).

It seems strange to be talking about the value of sunshine during a full worm moon ritual, but here we are.  But, since we are on the subject, lets also think about what the sun brings us in the form of delicious fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other wildcrafted delicacies.  The seasonal shift causes a dietary change among most of us; usually one that is lighter, more nutrient rich, and has more water content.  As we shift to our spring/summer diet and start to get outdoors more, many of us will also start to shed those holiday pounds; you remember that extra helping of chocolate-covered cheesecake you had on Valentine’s Day?  Well it’s time to say bye-bye to it and fast.  Also we tend to drink more water in the warmer months, in part because we are hot or doing something which makes us thirsty, but the extra water does a body good.

Now if we take all these things and put them together; warm air, sunshine, less heavy meals, more water, and Vitamin D, it’s no wonder our bodies feel and perform better.  We get a reset to our biological clocks, see increases in our levels of serotonin and melatonin.  The former goes a long way to improving our mood and the latter helps with both our mood and sleep pattern.  So now that we understand the pathway to a happier self, it’s time to go outside and let Mother Nature lead us down the path of happiness.  With that covered, the only thing left to completely round out our selves is to release the last remnants of winter baggage through a thorough cleansing and clearing of our spiritual side.

Full Worm Moon Clearing, Cleansing, and Continuing

Every month we gather under the full moon to rid ourselves of unwanted baggage.  We take time in the days between to reflect and decide matters of the spirit and heart.  We seek to glean insight from the happenings in our lives and the world around us.  And for good reason.  For no event happens without a reason, nor does anyone enter or leave our lives.  We must always be observing and processing the great mystery of existence.  However on the night of a full moon, contemplating must eventually reach an apex and we need to make decisions.  Are there things which are hurting our personal growth that must be cast out?

The answer is most-always yes.  For negativity, anger, impatience, greed, manipulation, jealousy, lust, corruption, and laziness are always present.  We try to put up shields to defend ourselves from these loathsome traits, but sometimes they still slip in.  Likewise sometimes others purposefully inject them into our lives.  We may not understand how or why this manipulation is occurring, but it can be destructive to our spiritual growth.  Our minds become polluted and we can easily lose sight of our well-planned goals, and fall into a dark place.

Often times we know the exact root of our problems, but for some reason always hold back when it comes to clearing.  Other times we are almost-certain, but not one hundred percent sure.  Other times, we are clueless.  The best course of action is to start with the things we know are hurting us and clear them first.  In the time that follows, you can refocus on what is left and continue the process until all is right with your inner-you.  Cleanse, clear, and then continue – repeat as necessary.

If you are prepared to shed that weight, even a small portion of it, you’ll be back on the pathway of growth.  Spiritual growth surpasses any other kind of growth as it is the guiding force that oversees our existence.  It’s critical to keep moving forward.  So tonight, in the same way our ancestors did, we can wash away the negativity in our lives in the cleansing flames.  We can witness as the baggage of the past is completely consumed and the smoke travels far away.  What is great is that by burning the remnants of things useless and without value, we free ourselves to find new and positive things to fill those empty spaces.

<Offer each person paper/pencil to write things down that they want to rid themselves of forever>

Each of you may approach the fire when you are ready to cast the unwanted from your life and create an open space to fill with things that have meaning. As you burn each item, state the following, “I give up freely that which is no longer serving me”

<Once everyone has burned their items, have the group join hands and say the following>

On this night, under the light of the Full Worm Moon, we choose to rid ourselves of that which no longer serves us.  We feel the powerful lunar energy and how it supercharges our mind and helps to give us clarity of thought.  The cold reminds us that winter will remain, but it won’t remain forever, for as the great wheel turns, all things change.  Embrace the challenge of being a better you, tonight and into the future. As the moon above, so the earth below. So Mote it Be!

Cakes & Ale

Depending on the weather and the make-up of your group, you may choose to have a few libations and food at this time.  Talk, share stories, and get to know your fellow citizens of the earth.

Closing the Full Worm Moon Circle

Earth spirits, we offer our eternal thanks for joining us in our full worm moon circle.  Stand beside us as we prepare our lands for another season of growing.  Extend your blessings so that we shall have abundance and comfort. <extinguish green candle>

Water spirits, we wish you well as you take leave from our circle.  Leave each of us with the memory of adaptation, flexibility and the great understanding that all things can change, rearrange, and yet still remain the same deep within their core. . <extinguish blue candle>

Fire spirits, we bid you goodbye for now and again offer our highest and most humble thanks for all that you provide.  We have gathered on this full worm moon to burn away that which no longer serves us and are counting on your great power to consume and send them skyward and out of our lives forever. <extinguish red candle>

Air spirits, we bid you farewell as you take flight and ascend back to the realm of your existence.  We only ask that you convey the smoke to the furthest reaches of the universe as upon it rides those things for which we have chosen to release ourselves from tonight . <extinguish yellow candle>

Great Goddess, we thank you for your wisdom and love, for your guidance and comfort, and for your compassion and forgiveness.  At times, we find ourselves lost in the busy world around us, but even in that chaos, we know you are always there keeping watch.  Thank you infinitely! <extinguish Goddess candle>

This circle is now open!

By  Thegypsy

https://www.thegypsythread.org/full-worm-moon-2021-embracing-the-seasonal-shift/

[mcccleaningomaha-blog]

Best Snow Removal Services near Me and Cost in Omaha NE | MCC Cleaning Omaha

More Information: http://www.greencleaningomaha.com/snow-removal-services-near-me.html

Snow removal services near Omaha NE: Looking for Snow removal services near Omaha NE? MCC Cleaning Omaha is the source for providing state of the art snow plows. They can simply create a street view plow map of your sidewalk and driveway. Cost? Free estimates! Send us a message or call us today. Best Snow removal services near me Services around Omaha NE. Snow removal services near me specialized snow removal services provide innovative solutions and outstanding customer service. We serve Omaha NE and other areas. Get a Free Quote Now!

 SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE NEAR ME SERVICES OMAHA NE

OMAHA SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE NEAR ME

 Best Residential Snow Removal Services near Me

 Snow removal services near Omaha NE: There are many important factors that should be taken into consideration when searching for the best residential snow removal services near me.

To start with, some factors may not be as obvious as you might think about it.

That is why you should always look beyond a good personal impression of your contractor.

Still, it is the residential snow removal services that matter the most.

Yet, not all residential snow removal services and contractors are providing the same services. So, make sure that you are familiar with the logistical and legal sides of residential snow removal.

Speaking of which, you will have to make sure about the level of insurance coverage that the best residential snow removal companies are offering.

On the other hand, you will be faced with pricing issues. Always be alerted about the residential snow removal companies that have an attractive price up front and at the end are open for extra costs. Yet, accessibility of the residential snow removal service during peak winter season is an essential part to consider too.

So, let’s take a further look and get to know the best residential snow removal services near me!

On the other hand, their residential snow removal services include:

●       Snow Plowing;

●       Snow Shoveling;

●       Salting;

●       Ice Removal;

●       Ice Prevention;

 Simply said, their snow removal technology makes them one of the most efficient snow plowing companies in Omaha NE. As well as one of the best residential snow removal services near me. In addition, MCC Cleaning Omaha team is considered to be providing state of the art snow plows. They can simply create a street view plow map of your sidewalk and driveway.

MCC Cleaning Omaha without any doubt can take pride in being one of the most efficient and reliable residential snow removal companies.

 Omaha NE Snow Removal

 Snow removal services near Omaha NE: We all know how winter weather in the Omaha NE can be extremely unpredictable and wreak havoc on both your personal time and business. It is one of the reasons why you should start searching for the best residential snow removal services near me.

Speaking of which, MCC Cleaning Omaha snow removal is one of the companies providing the best residential snow removal services. To start with their trucks which are licensed, insured as well as bonded. Hence, besides offering residential snow removal services, MCC Cleaning Omaha is at the same time providing help to heavily traveled private roads and massive business parking lots.

 In addition, Omaha Handyman Service's team is constantly striving to exceed the residential snow removal services standards, by that to provide the highest quality service possible.

Moreover, if you choose the services that this company is offering then you will get to enjoy snow removal in a safe manner. Simply, you will be one step ahead of your winter needs.

This leading residential snow removal company is also offering storm pre-treatment services. Their pre-treatment services are recommendable for areas that are prone to ice buildup. Actually, their pre-treatment services can be seen as a barrier between the snow and ice. This treatment will prevent snow and ice from adhering to the surface.

 Winter Services

 Snow removal services near Omaha NE: Winter Services is known for providing best residential snow removal services.

This company was incorporated back in 2006. Since then it is constantly growing and has become an industry leader in residential snow removal services.

Moreover, Winter Services definitely has what it takes to handle any facility. Their facility is composed of a call center, corporate office, shop, and an operations command center.

In addition, Winter Services has as its mission to become industry leader which is committed to using the latest technology. They are continuously educating their employees to provide innovative solutions and outstanding customer service.

 Reliable Snow Plowing Specialist

 Snow removal services near Omaha NE: Reliable Snow Plowing Specialist is a unique company specializing in the best residential snow removal services.

As one of the best companies in this field of work, Reliable Snow Plowing Specialist providing the maximum value services to their customers.

Average snowstorms in the United States last between 2 to 5 days. There are typically 105 snowstorms a year.

If you have a lot of snow blocking the driveway, you might want to avoid the winter chill and rely on the experts to get the job done.

 Our Snow Removal Working Procedure

 ●       Fill out the contact form above to receive a free pricing estimate from Clean and Clear. From here, we will reach out to you to discuss next steps.

●       Property Managers and Landlords are particularly vulnerable to improper snow removal from roof. They are obligated to remove snow and create safe conditions for their residents. If driveways and walkways are not adequately cleaned and salted, a resident could slip and fall, which may result in injury and possible lawsuit of the owner.

 Why not relax comfortably in your warm home with a hot cup of coffee while we do the hard work for you?

 ●       A reliable service for removing snow is important for homeowners. That’s why Clean and Clear offers experienced and efficient snow removal, snow plowing services. We want to help you deal with the harsh winter weather stress-free.

●       Clean and clear also understands that your time is valuable, especially when snowy weather is already slowing you down. We pride ourselves on arriving on time and getting the job done as quickly and efficiently as possible. That way you can get out of the house with snow-free walkways and driveways as soon as possible

●       Our residential and commercial roof snow removal services within the Omaha NE Saint Paul, Omaha NE area includes walkway and driveway snow removal and salting. We will create a safe space on your property where you can walk without the fear of slipping and falling. If more attention is needed, we’ll de-ice your properties walkways and driveways as well.

●       The snow in Omaha NE can be unpredictable, and for that reason, we offer on-call availability, 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

 HOW MUCH WILL SNOW REMOVAL NEAR ME COST?

 For driveways the cost lies between $30 to $45 to plow snow.Here are some key considerations before hiring a snow removal company:

 1. Get Estimates Up-Front

 If the company you want to work with is reputable, they'll provide you with an estimate without any complaints. Compare with at least two other quotes to find a reasonable rate.

 2. Ask About Licensing & Insurance

 The right snow removal company near you will be properly bonded and insured. Plus, they might need to be licensed in your area.

 3. Be Specific about When They'll Plow

 Different companies plow when different amounts of snow on the ground. You'll have to be specific if you want to make sure that your company will show up when you need them.

 How Much Does Snow Removal Cost?

 A nice heavy snowfall can turn your home into a winter-wonderland, but with heavy snow comes some heavy lifting and back-breaking work. In areas where it snows regularly, many households and businesses prefer to sign a contract with a company that provides snow removal throughout the winter season.

 Cost of Snow Removal

 Snow removal services near Omaha NE: Costs for removal of up to six inches of snow start between $75 and $95. Some contractors will charge a lower fee for removal of smaller amounts, such as two inches. A good rule of thumb for any removal project over six inches is to add $30 per additional half-foot of snow. So, removal of six inches might start at $85, while removal of 18 inches would cost $145. Many contractors require a deposit, usually around $50 at the beginning of the season. This deposit is generally refunded at the end of the season if the customer does not cancel.

 Cost Factors of Snow Removal

 Snow removal services near Omaha NE: There are some important cost factors to consider when budgeting for a snow removal service. Below is a breakdown of what goes into the overall cost for a snow plowing service:

 The size of your driveway will greatly affect the overall cost of your snow removal. Expect to pay more if you have a longer driveway or even a four-stall garage. The larger the space, the more snow there is to remove; the more snow there is to remove the longer it will take. Also, if your driveway has any steep slopes or curvy cuts around landscape, expect your snow plowing cost to rise.

 Households with longer driveways and businesses with large parking lots are typically assessed additional charges based upon the total space in question. Most contractors define an overly long driveway as being 70 feet or longer in total distance. Additional treatments with materials other than salt may also be available, especially in regions that experience temperatures well below zero.

 Amount of Snowfall

 Snow removal services near Omaha NE: It can be tough to predict the weather, but the amount of snow you receive every winter will be the main cost factor for your snow removal project. The more snow you get, the longer the removal will take, the more it will cost.

Location

 The total snowfall tends to also be a factor. In most heavy snow regions, contracts may include higher rates for snow amounts greater than six inches. This is because the extra snow builds up faster in the plow and requires the contractor to take smaller swipes, ultimately costing the contractor extra time, fuel and wear and tear on equipment.

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 Does MCC Cleaning Omaha handle my snow removal?

 MCC Cleaning Omaha does not handle all of the snow removal for all of the properties we manage.  Depending on where you live, the snow removal process will differ.  This is due to us managing properties for other owners and for certain rules/regulations.

●       Apartments

Based on some owners’ choices, another vendor may handle your snow removal and not us.

●       Single Family Homes

Single family homes are in charge of their own snow removal.

 What does snow removal include?

 ●       In preparation for the snow, we may treat areas to help the removal process

●       If we handle your snow removal, if the snow is under 2 inches it will not be plowed (this is common amongst most snow vendors)

●       Depending on where you live, you may or may not have salting included with the snow removal

●       We work overtime and long hours to constantly be plowing.

 Do you work with the City on their plowing?

 No. The snow removal process is very complicated and it would be impossible for the City to work with every vendor. This means, once we are finished plowing, the city may come and plow over what we have done causing people to be trapped.  We have no control over the city unfortunately.

 Why can’t you plow right when I call?

 Every snow situation is different and we have to prepare for that.  We must adhere to a carefully laid out system for clearing the driveways/parking lots. If we allowed our plows to be diverted each time a special request was made, our system would be destroyed and it would take far longer to get all the snow cleared. To keep our snow removal operations as effective and efficient as possible, plows are not permitted to deviate from their assigned routes.  FYI – Our routes are on rotate for each snow so the order of the properties change each time.

 Can you tell me exactly when my parking lot will be plowed?

 As weather conditions change we often must alter our snow-fighting strategy in the midst of the snow removal operations in order to control drifting snow, ice or other special problems. We cannot give you an estimate of when it will be cleared due to ever-changing weather conditions.

 Why didn’t you plow next to my car?

 When cars are in the streets/parking lots, we cannot get within 2-3 feet of them due to safety/insurance reasons.  Since we cannot move the cars, we have to plow around them and so snow will be piled due to the lack of locations we can put it.

 Why do you sometimes salt instead of plow, or plow instead of salt?

 Different types of storms require the use of different snow-fighting techniques. The decision whether to salt or plow depends upon the expected weather conditions. For example, if the temperature is below 20 degrees and not expected to rise, salt will not be effective. But if the sun is shining and the temperature is 20 degrees or more and expected to remain steady or rise, then salt would be more effective. The decision whether to plow or salt is made with great consideration and based on the latest weather information available.

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 BEST SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE NEAR ME SERVICES IN OMAHA NE

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REQUEST MORE INFORMATION. CONTACT US NOW!

[sweetsummersansa-blog]

Here is my first Jonsa fanfic called : Scars. I’ve had this idea in my head for a while now and finally finished writing it after foreeeever! Hope you guys like it! 

Winter was truly here. A snowstorm was raging outside Winterfell’s walls. It was the worst storm the North had seen since winter began… but there would still a many more to come before the arrival of spring.

Sansa thanked the Old Gods of winter that Jon had arrived home before the storm had begun. He had been gone for so long, she would have hated to be parted from him for even longer due to the weather. But he had made it back to Winterfell. Back to her.  Sansa remembered the day Jon returned from Dragonstone at last. She ran straight into his arms and they both instantly locked in a tight embrace. She was so happy.  Finally their family was whole again.

But so much had happened in the months they spent apart from each other. So much had changed. Bran and Arya were back - but Bran wasn’t Bran anymore and Arya was a faceless warrior. Jaime Lannister had come all the way from King’s Landing and pledged his life and sword to the Starks - alongside Brienne. Lord Baelish was dead, courtesy of Arya and herself. Jon had successfully forged an alliance with Daenerys Targaryen… and most shocking of all: Jon was no longer her brother… he was a Targaryen himself, the son of Lyanna Stark and Prince Rhaegar. Jon was now her cousin, and the one true heir to the Iron Throne.

But one thing that had not changed was Jon himself. Finding out he was a Targaryen did not change who he was one bit. He was still her Jon. The person she knew and trusted better than anyone. And Sansa was glad for it.

That evening, as the winter winds beat violently against Winterfell’s walls, Sansa and Jon had taken their dinner together in Sansa’s bedchamber. They had important matters to discuss as King in the North and the Lady of Winterfell. Yet, those matters had been taken care of hours ago, and they were now sitting close together in front of the fire, simply enjoying the pleasure of each other’s company. Sansa had missed Jon’s company very much when he had gone off to meet with the dragon queen. She had never felt more safe or happy as when Jon was around. He was the only one who could get a laugh out of her, or make her smile a true smile. When he was gone, Sansa’s heart ached. But having him beside her now…her heart finally felt whole again.

“I think we might have taken too much wine with us up here, my lady” Jon remarked as he poured them both another glass of Arbor Gold.

“Too much wine? Is there truly such a thing?” Sansa japed. She noticed a smile creep onto Jon’s lips. “Come on, we can finish it! You’re the King win the North Jon, not some green boy!” Sansa teased.

This time Jon gave her a real laugh.

“It would be a shame to waste such a fine wine” he agreed, taking a sip from his glass.

“Perhaps we could play the game of truths and wine to help us finish the flagon faster” Sansa suggested.

“The what?”

“The game of truths and wine! I ask you a question, and you must answer it in full truth. If you are not prepared to answer the question in all honesty, you drink. But if you do give me an answer, I drink. And so on“ Sansa explained.

“Alright. Seems simple enough to me… Where did you learn such a game?" Jon asked curiously.

"In King's Landing, when I was married to Tyrion. He would play it all the time with his hired sword Bronn" she replied, remembering all the times Tyrion stumbled drunkenly into their bedchamber after playing the game, and how he would then collapse into a drunken slumber on their couch.

Sansa began to wonder what questions Bran would have for her if he were to play- he already seemed to know the answer to every question in the world. She wondered what stories Arya would have to tell when giving answers. Yet they were elsewhere for the time being, and Sansa was secretly glad for it. In this moment, Jon was all hers.

"So, would you like to ask the first question, or should I?" Sansa asked.

Jon grinned and bowed his head. "After you, my Lady"

“Stop calling me that! You know how much I hate it!” Sansa pleaded, somewhat amused. “And alright i’ll ask the first question. But you mustn’t lie Jon, I will know if you are lying... you’re a terrible liar" Sansa giggled.

"Alright, I swear I won't lie to you" he replied, chuckling to himself.

Sansa started to think of possibilities for her first question. She had so much she wanted to ask Jon, there was so much she wanted to know about him. Yet, the questions she wanted answers to the most seemed much to personal to ask. 

He is the person I am closest to in this world, she told herself, the person whom I trust more than anyone... surely he would think the same of her...

“Alright, I've got one" Sansa declared, finally deciding on the question she was going to ask first. "What was, truly, the very first thought you had in your mind after Bran told you that you are the son of Rhaegar Targaryen?"

Jon half-laughed at this question.

"I thought every word of it was bullshit" he told her, looking straight into her eyes. "The idea of it... who would have ever thought this would come to be… Me…The son of Rheagar Targareyn” he said in disbelief.  “I mean, my entire life I never who my mother was…and after the truth came out… well it turns out I didn’t even know who my father was either”.

Sansa quietly sipped her wine. A strange expression had spread across Jon’s face… She could’t even begin to fathom how difficult all of this must have been for him to process. A part of her wanted to reach out and hold him in her arms and tell him that whoever his parents were, her love for him remained the same, and that everything would be alright.

“I don’t even know my own name anymore” Jon’s voice sounded both amused and exasperated. “What do I even call myself now? I don’t know… am I still Jon Snow or am I Jon Stark or Jon Targeryen… all three perhaps?”

“Well that’s it isn’t it! We’ll just have to call you Jon Snow-Sark-Targaryen!” Sansa japed in an attempt to lift his spirits.

"Aye that's a name!" Jon exclaimed with a laugh - it seems her jape had it’s intended effect. “And you?" He asked smiling. "What was your first thought after you were told of my true parentage?"

Oh no! Sansa’s stomach dropped. My first thought...Oh Jon you don't want to know what my first thought was. The answer was horrifying, she knew. I was happy, because I thought of how it was now possible for you to be mine.

She should take a drink of wine…Drink the wine or lie... Jon would never even know it if she told a lie; she was a much better liar than he was. But thankfully, Jon never gave her the chance to do either because he quickly followed his first question with a second.

"Were you shocked to learn that during all his years of disgrace, the bastard of Winterfell had been the rightful heir to the Iron throne all along?” Jon asked in a japing manner.

“I was shocked to the very bottom of my heart” Sansa replied smiling. “Although I suppose I should have known. You have always ruled as King in the North like you were born to it. After seeing that, I should have come to realize that you had royal blood in your veins"

“I thought it was against the rules to lie in this game” Jon said, taking a sip of his wine.

“I’m not lying!” Sansa exclaimed “You make a great King Jon, I wish you would believe me! And believe in yourself!”

“Thank you Sansa” Jon said, flashing her a small smile. “Who knows… Maybe, if by some miracle I manage to live through the long night, I could claim my new birthright and rule in King’s Landing for the rest of my days” It was meant as a sarcastic jape Sansa knew, but Jon seemed to consider that idea for a moment. “I think it would be nice to be warm for once” he continued “…and I no longer have any true rights to Winterfell-“

“You are still a stark to me Jon” Sansa told him, cutting him off. “Winterfell is your home just as much as it is mine" She shifted in her chair so she could be closer to Jon. "And Winterfell would not truly be home without you” she confessed, leaning over to get even closer to him, and staring deep into his eyes.  

Jon stared back at her for a moment, and smiled one of his rare smiles.

In the years she spent away form Winterfell, something inside of her had died. Joffrey, Cersei, Ramsay… they had all helped to kill a part of her, a part she knew she would never get back. She never thought she would feel happy or whole again in her lifetime, not after everything she’s suffered. But being there with Jon somehow made all that awfulness fade away; and the way he was looking at her in that moment… she had never felt more alive…

As they continued playing their game, Sansa began to study Jon’s face; now that it was known that he is not her brother, she let herself indulge in just how handsome his face really was. She took in his smooth skin, his hard jaw line, but most of all she gazed into his eyes. They were soft and warm and kind - the most beautiful eyes Sansa had ever seen. Yet, she could also see sadness behind those eyes, a sadness that came from living through tragedy. We have both experienced far too much suffering in our lives, Sansa thought. She wanted to help Jon through that suffering, as he had helped ease her pain, perhaps in more ways then he would ever know…  

It was now her turn to ask Jon a question.

“Jon..." she began slowly, “Ser Davos told me he heard you screaming in your sleep the other night… I ... if you're not comfortable talking about it I understand…” she didn’t know what she was saying, the words were spilling out of her mouth without sense. “I just want to tell you that I get them too -nightmares- and you can talk to me about them, or about anything else for that matter, if you ever need to"

Jon stared at her quietly. The glow of the fire was illuminating his face; he looked so solemn. For a moment Sansa regretted approaching this topic, she did not want to cause Jon any added pain. She had only wanted to help him ease the trauma she knew anguished him.

“I don’t want to burden you with my sufferings” he told her quietly. “They are not not yours to bear.”

“You can never be a burden to me. It’s not possible. Tell me Jon, What do you dream about?”

She placed a hand on his leg just above his knee as a gesture of support, and smiled a sad little smile. Jon took her hand in his own and smiled back at her. Her heart fluttered at his touch. His hand were incredibly soft for a man’s hands, she noticed.

Finally, Jon took a deep breath and started to speak

“Every night they come…” he began. “But each night they’re different... Sometimes I'm back at Hardhome running from the dead. Sometimes I'm watching Ygritte die again. Sometimes I’m watching Ramsay… never mind”.  Jon quickly dropped his gaze from Sansa's face to the floor. Sansa squeezed his hand, letting him know it was alright for him to go on; letting him know that she was here to help him, no matter how dark his dreams were.

"The one that comes most often though, is the one where my brothers are killing me, back at Castle Black . When that one comes... I can feel the pain of the knives in my body all over again, and then the cold comes and… well I wake up. I wake up, and see the scars the knives left on my body…  sometimes they scare me more then my dreams do. They remind me of what I am… I am half a corpse now” he said swallowing another sip of wine, his voice growing lower. “I don’t belong in this world”.

Sansa could not bear to hear him say that, or let him think that about himself for that matter.

“Yes you do” she told him, giving his hand a tight squeeze. “You belong in this world Jon. You belong in it here, with me” and she tried to make her words sound as earnest as possible. Can you not see how important you are to me?  

But Jon didn’t say anything back. He simply sat silently in his chair, a pained expression etched on his face, running his thumb back and forth across Sansa’s knuckles. Sansa stared into his eyes, searching them desperately for a way to make him stop having these awful thoughts of himself and to help him see himself for what he truly was: someone brave and gentle and strong.

“Jon, do you think I could see them? …the scars?”

Sansa didn’t know how the question came to slip from her mouth. She would never have asked it if it weren’t for the wine, but Jon didn’t seem to be unnerved by her request. Instead, he continued looking at her with a burning intensity that was making her heart race, and softly asked “Are you sure you want to see them? They’re … not very pretty”.

But she didn’t care about that. She did want to see, so she nodded quietly and watched as he stood up and began to remove his jerkin.

The leather doublet fell to the floor along with Jon’s undervest, and all Sansa could do was stare at Jon. Her eyes roamed over his unclothed body and she felt her heart drop to her stomach.

Seven hells, what had they done to him?!  

The sight of what truly rested underneath Jon’s clothes was both beautiful and terrifying.  His muscles were dense and defined; his skin was soft and smooth. But the scars… gods the scars!

There were over half a dozen of them, carved deep into his flesh. They were jagged and rough, the skin surrounding them was puckered and twisted. The half-healed scar tissue stretching over each one was coarse and an angry shade of red. Looking at them all made Sansa tremble.

Oh why were they so cruel to him?!  Was it really necessary for them to stab him so many times?

As Sansa continued to look at the wounds, her heart broke into a million pieces; she could feel herself imagining the pain of every blow. She wanted to weep for Jon and for all the suffering he had endured, but she willed herself to remain strong. Jon was the one who needed to weep and who needed to be comforted. I must be strong for him. Sansa told herself. I must be strong for Jon like he has always been for me.

She lay her palms on his abdomen and felt his muscles jump at her touch.  She ran her hands over his wounds, tracing each scar lightly with her fingertips.

“Oh Jon…” she whispered to herself.

“I probably look like some kind of monster”

“No” she told him pressing a kiss to the scar right above his heart “you don’t”.  But something in his face told her that he didn’t believe her.

She could never see Jon as a monster. She loved him better than anything in this world. How can I make him see that?  She pressed a slow kiss to another one of his scars then moved her lips to kiss another, and suddenly the answer came to her. The idea made Sansa very nervous, but she knew in her heart this was something she wanted to do. Her palms had grown sweaty, so she dried them on the skirt of her dress, and with a deep breath, she rose from her chair and started to pull at the laces on her sleeves. When Jon realized exactly what she was doing, a look of shock mixed with angst spread across his face and he quickly looked away.

“Sansa…” he muttered. But she had just finished wriggling out of the bodice of her dress and was feeling the fabric fall around her waist; Her torso was now completely bare.

“Jon please” she said, as she gently turned his face so he could look at her. “I want you to see me”.  

Holding his breath, Jon slowly moved his eyes over her scar-dotted body, and after letting his gaze linger a moment on her front, Sansa turned around so her back was towards him. Sansa knew by the way Jon was breathing heavily that he was taking in all of her scars, that he was truly seeing every single mark her torturers had left on her. That he was coming to realize just how much she had been forced to suffer.  

“Do you see now? I could never think of you as a monster Jon… I am the same” she said. She spoke the words with a half-laugh, but all she could feel inside was pain.

“Oh Sansa..” Jon murmured, sounding as if he were about to cry. She felt his hand trace one of the longer scars that ran diagonally across the top of her back.

“That one was from the night Ramsey decided to amuse himself with a whip” she told him, almost casually. She heard Jon’s breath grow louder as he moved his hand further down her back, touching a deeper scar at the base of her spine.

“That one was from the first time Ramsay pulled a knife on me” she continued. “He told me I squirmed too much when he was inside me…so he taught me to keep still by holding a knife to my back so the pain of it would keep me from moving around too much” She tried to recount those events as informally as possible, but her voice cracked and she let out a tiny sob at the memory.

“Sansa I am so sorry”  Jon said. “It’s not your fault Jon” she replied, regaining her composure. “I know but…I’m still so sorry”. He then moved even closer to her and wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close, pressing his chest up against her back.  “They will never touch you again” He whispered in her ear. “You are safe here with me”.  

Safe…she hardly knew what that felt like anymore, but the feeling she was feeling in that moment seemed pretty close. So Sansa closed her eyes, and took a moment to enjoy the feeling of being wrapped in Jon’s warmth. “I love you Sansa” Jon murmured, and he began to press kisses along her neck. Her heart began to flutter. Gods his lips are soft, she thought as she let him kiss her pain away. With each kiss Jon gave her, she felt her skin burn under his lips, as if she was being kissed by fire. Her heart was practically melting at his touch.

Finally it all became too much for her to bear and she turned around to face him. She moved her face closer to his and nuzzled his nose with her own. She was starring into his eyes now, her forehead pressed against his, and he was starring right back at her. I could look into these eyes forever, Sansa thought, he truly has the most beautiful eyes. And for a long time both of them just stood there, looking at each other, not moving one inch. Neither one of them could tear their eyes away from the other. It was as if Sansa’s eyes were locked to Jon’s by some strange intense force. They were both breathing quite heavily now, and Sansa felt as if her heart was going to beat right out of her chest. After a long time, Jon lowered his gaze from her eyes to her lips, and spoke.

“Sansa I… am not sure we should be doing this….” he told her, a look of apprehension and doubt spreading across his face. But Sansa reached up to cup his face with her hands, and replied:

“I am”.  

Taking a deep breath Sansa leaned forward and pressed her lips to Jon’s. Whatever reservations he may have had vanished the second their lips met, as he then pulled her closer to him and kissed her back with such passion that Sansa was certain that no kiss ever sung about was quite as fervent as this one.

Their lips crashed into each other over and over again with pure desperation. They barely stopped for air; Sansa grew utterly breathless, but she didn’t care. She could’t get enough of Jon, nor him her. She let herself drown in her desire for him. With each press of his lips, her hunger for Jon grew even larger. She basked in the feeling of his lips on hers. She relished in the taste of him. He tasted of water and salt and snow. Their hands ran up and down each other’s bodies, pulling each other closer, but they couldn’t get any closer. Sansa made sure to memorize everything about these moments. The feeling of Jon’s arms twisting around her. The feeling of his hands in her hair. The feeling of their bodies pressed firmly together as one. She took in every detail of it, and for the first time in the longest time she truly felt happy and loved.

They began to move backwards towards the bed, and suddenly Sansa became struck with nerves. She began to shake all over. When they reached the bed and sat down, Sansa’s anxieties intensified. She knew what Jon wanted now -he wanted her, all of her- but the idea of it made her shake even harder. She wanted to want Jon. She did want Jon…but she was also terrified. Memories of her nights with Ramsay began to cloud her mind. Jon isn’t Ramsay she told herself Jon is Jon and I love him. But she was still shaking, and tears were beginning to well in her eyes.

Jon must have realized what was occurring, because he broke apart from her, his face full of concern, and asked:

“Sansa, what’s wrong?”

“I’m sorry…” she replied, with a half-sob “I don’t know why I’m crying”.

“You never have to apologize to me Sansa, never” and he took her in his arms and held her tightly against him. “What is it love?” he asked softly.

“It’s just.. I …” but Sansa was at a loss of words… how could she explain?  She didn’t know if she even wanted to explain… she did not want to breathe life into Ramsay in any sort of way ever again. “It’s …Oh Gods! I try so hard to forget him and live as if it never happened…but I just can’t and I hate it!” Sansa cried quietly. “I feel so dirty when I think of his hands on me…I feel so broken down and damaged inside… and I just hate myself for feeling this way…I hate it so much”

“Sansa look at me” Jon asked, lifting a hand up to caress the side of her face. “You are not dirty, or broken, or damaged” he told her in all seriousness, “you are beautiful, and brave and strong… Gods you are so strong!”

And with those words, Sansa could’t help but smile the tiniest of smiles. Jon smiled back at her and moved his lips up to kiss her forehead. Jon’s lips lingered there for a while, and then he moved them down to kiss the tears on her cheeks,

“We don’t have to do anything you’re not ready for” he said, pressing his forehead to hers.

“I”m sorry Jon, I didn’t mean to disappoint you” Sansa said quietly.

“Stop apologizing to me Sans. There is nothing to apologize for. And I could never be disappointed by you, not ever” Jon assured her, an adoring look on his face.

“Come here” he said, laying down on the bed and pulling her in his arms. She rested her head on his chest, and finally, she stopped shaking. Her anxieties began to calm down as Jon soothingly stroking her hair.  “Do you know just how much I love you?” he asked her. “I would do anything in this world for you Sansa. I need you to know that”.  

“I love you too Jon” she told him, and she did. She loved him deeply and truly with all her heart. “Do you think our pain will ever go away?” she asked softly, “do you that we might be able to wake up one day, and live as if none of it ever happened?”

“We might one day…or we might not. I don’t know Sans….“  he answered, taking a deep breath. “All I know is that we’ve lost so much and suffered pain enough for a thousand lifetimes… but if none of that had ever happened, I wouldn’t be here right now, with you. And the way I feel when I’m with you Sansa… it makes bearing the pain of it all worth it”.  

Hearing Jon speak those words brought tears back to Sansa’s eyes. She squeezed Jon tighter, pressed a kiss to his chest, and let him go on.

“…And if my future holds only more death and loss, or if the only thing the gods have planned for me now is to die fighting in the war to come” he continued, “It’ll be alright, because in my life I’ve been lucky enough to know what it means to be loved by you”

Sansa pressed another kiss to his chest.

“Don’t you dare speak of dying Jon Snow-Stark-Targaryen. You will not be leaving me. Not until we live to be one hundred years old… and maybe not even then” she whispered, wrapping her arms even tighter around him. She heard him let out a soft chuckle.

“Alright. I won’t ever be leaving you. I promise”.    

She smiled at his words, but Sansa knew in her heart that could never be possible. She knew that soon duty and honour would call and take her love away. But for now she pushed that all out of her mind and enjoyed being with Jon in this moment; just laying there with him, both of their arms wrapped around each other. And for the rest of the night she lay there with him, cloaked in the warmth of his arms. Entangled in his embrace. Listening to the beat of his heart. Feeling his lips leave light kisses on her face, her hair, her neck. Hearing him murmur soft I love you’s over and over again…

Sansa’s heart had never been more at peace.  

—

When Sansa woke up the next morning, she immediately realized something very strange: she had not had a single nightmare that night.  She raised her head to look at Jon’s face; he was still sleeping peacefully. She smiled and laid her head back down on his chest and listened to the peaceful rhythm of his breath. Something told her he did not have any nightmares that night either.

The scars they both had on their flesh will be engraved in their bodies for the rest of their lives; Sansa knew in her bones. But while they might always have scars on their skins, Sansa also knew that together, she and Jon would help each other heal the scars in their hearts.