#balancing career and motherhood

[davidca]

Have you dreamt of launching a side hustle while still working your 9 to 5? Or, are you, seeking to create more balance in your life while working, being a parent, and finding time for creative self-expression? Join me and Brenna Rudary, owner and artist, of Brenna Claire Calligraphy, as she shares her story of how she built her calligraphy business while working full-time and being a mommy to a toddler.

[digitalmarketingcoursee]

Embracing Motherhood and Digital Marketing: My Journey of Growth and Learning

As a new mom, life has taken on a whole new dimension of joy, challenges, and opportunities. Amidst the whirlwind of motherhood, I find myself drawn to a new adventure: diving headfirst into the dynamic world of digital marketing. It's a journey that excites me, challenges me, and enriches my life in ways I never imagined.

Discovering a Passion for Digital Marketing

The decision to explore digital marketing wasn’t just about career growth; it was about feeding my curiosity and staying connected to the rapidly evolving digital landscape. With a background in a different field, the prospect of learning something entirely new was both daunting and exhilarating. However, I’ve come to realize that being a new mom has equipped me with a resilience and determination that makes tackling new challenges feel natural.

Balancing Motherhood and Learning

Balancing the demands of motherhood with my newfound passion for digital marketing has been a learning process in itself. It requires careful planning, flexibility, and sometimes, late nights fueled by sheer determination and a cup of coffee. Yet, every moment spent studying or implementing new strategies feels like an investment in my future and my family’s future.

The Joys and Challenges

There are days when balancing a crying baby with understanding SEO feels like an impossible task. Yet, there are also moments when a breakthrough in understanding social media analytics brings a sense of accomplishment like no other. Each small success, whether it’s mastering a new concept or completing a project, fuels my motivation to keep pushing forward.

Embracing Continuous Learning

One of the most exciting aspects of digital marketing is its ever-changing nature. Trends evolve, algorithms update, and consumer behaviors shift. Embracing continuous learning isn’t just a choice; it’s a necessity. Fortunately, my journey as a new mom has taught me the value of adaptability and perseverance, qualities that are essential in this fast-paced field.

Looking Ahead

As I continue on this journey of exploration and growth, I am filled with optimism and curiosity about where it will lead me. Perhaps one day, I’ll combine my background with digital marketing to create something truly innovative. Or maybe I’ll find a niche within the field that allows me to leverage my unique perspective as a mother. Whatever the future holds, I know that the skills and experiences I gain now will shape and enrich both my personal and professional life.

Final Thoughts

Being a new mom and delving into the world of digital marketing has been a transformative experience. It’s a reminder that life’s greatest adventures often begin at the intersection of passion and opportunity. As I navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories, I am grateful for the opportunity to grow, learn, and evolve—both as a mother and as a professional.

In the end, this journey isn’t just about acquiring skills; it’s about embracing the joy of continuous learning and the fulfillment that comes from pursuing what excites me. And as I strive to balance motherhood with my studies, I’m reminded that the most rewarding journeys are often the ones that challenge us to grow beyond our comfort zones.

[hiddenone10]

Kourtney Kardashian Announces Pregnancy in Homage to Blink-182: A Joyous Journey of Music and Motherhood

Kourtney Kardashian is known for her flair in making announcements that captivate audiences. In her latest pregnancy reveal, she shared a video on her social media channels featuring the classic Blink-182 song "What's My Age Again?" The video showcased Kourtney and her partner, Travis Barker, recreating scenes from the original Blink-182 music video, adding a touch of nostalgia and personal connection to their announcement.

[crssvjb]

Parenting Challenges - Charles Leclerc

Charles Leclerc x wife!reader

Summary: The couple faces the challenges of parenthood after the birth of their first child, balancing family life with the demands of a pilot career.

The pit lane was silent on that gray morning at Silverstone. Scuderia Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc paces the motorhome, his tired eyes reflecting the sleepless night he has just had. His face, normally with a confident smile, was now marked by tiredness and worry.

Beside him, you gently held the newborn in your arms, trying to calm him as he cried with colic. The piercing sound of crying echoed through the room, mixing with Charles's exhausted sighs.

– "Honey, I think he's hungry." – You muttered, trying to remain calm while your own eyes burned with exhaustion.

Charles nodded, running a hand through his messy hair. – "I'm going to get the feeding bottle."

As he walked away, you looked at the baby in your arms, feeling a wave of love and gratitude flood your heart. Despite the sleepless nights and unexpected challenges of motherhood, you wouldn't trade these moments for the world.

Charles returned with the bottle, his eyes meeting yours in a look of complicity and affection. Together you fed the baby, sharing tired smiles as he nursed voraciously.

– “How can we be so exhausted and so happy at the same time?” – You whispered, resting your head on Charles’ shoulder.

He wrapped an arm around you, pulling you closer. – "Because we're in this together, love. We're a team on and off the track."

The memory of the races brought a tired smile to his lips. Life in Formula 1 was already an emotional rollercoaster, but now, with a baby to look after, the twists and turns seemed even more intense.

Over the next few weeks, you faced a series of challenges: sleepless nights, mid-dawn diaper changes, and the constant struggle to balance life on the track with family life. But with each obstacle you overcame, you became stronger together, finding comfort and support in each other.

And then, slowly, things started to improve. The baby started sleeping more, the colic lessened, and you found a new routine that worked for your family. That day in Silverstone, when the sun began to shine through the clouds, Charles looked at you and the baby with a tender smile.

– "You're incredible, you know that?" – He said with a voice full of admiration. – "I couldn't do this without you."

You smiled, feeling touched by his words. – "We're going to make it, Charles. We're a team, remember?"

He nodded, kissing your forehead tenderly. – "Yes, we are a team, love."

And so, with love, support, and determination, you moved forward, ready to face the challenges of parenthood together, while continuing to chase your dreams on the race track. Because in the end, the greatest race of all was the family journey, and you were ready to cross the finish line together, hands in hand, hearts united.

⎊𝙘𝙧𝙨𝙨𝙫𝙟𝙗 - ²⁰²⁴

[lvnleah]

015. | Newborn Days

bit of an emotional one, strap in :)

word count: 2k

find the series masterlist here!

April 27th 2024 | 4 weeks old.

You always knew that having a newborn baby wouldn’t be easy, but you never expected the way your postpartum body would affect you.

The sleepless nights and endless feedings were exhausting, sure, but nothing compared to the wave of emotions that surged every time you caught a glimpse of yourself in the mirror. It wasn’t just that your body was different; it was the way it felt foreign like it belonged to someone else entirely.

You would stand there, staring at your reflection, and struggle to reconcile the image before you with the person you used to be. The woman who had been confident in her skin was nowhere to be found.

In her place was a body marked by the life it had created, and while you were proud of that, it didn’t make it any easier to accept. The stretch marks, the soft and squidgy belly, the curves that hadn’t been there before—each was a reminder of the ways you had changed, and you couldn’t help but feel embarrassed by it all. You found yourself hiding, even from Leah, covering up at every opportunity and avoiding her touch as if it would burn you.

Leah noticed, of course. How could she not? But she had been patient, giving you space, waiting for you to come to her. She had always been that way, never one to push too hard. But as the weeks went on, you could feel the strain between you growing, a tension that neither of you knew how to address.

Today was no different. You had spent the morning in a fog, going through the motions of caring for Finley while trying to push aside the gnawing anxiety that clung to you like a shadow. Leah had left early for training, it was her first week back. You knew she was struggling too, trying to balance her demanding career with the new realities of motherhood, and the last thing you wanted was to add to her burden.

As the day wore on, the weight of your emotions became harder to ignore. By the time Leah returned home, you were exhausted—physically, emotionally, in every way possible. Finley had finally drifted off to sleep, and you were grateful for the quietness.

Leah found you sitting on the edge of the bed, staring blankly at the floor. She had showered and changed after training at the training centre, her hair still damp. She looked as beautiful as ever, her athletic frame only made you feel worse as you mourned the one you used to have. You couldn’t help but compare your postpartum body to hers, and the gap between what you saw in yourself and what you saw in her felt like it was suffocating you.

“Hey pretty girl,” Leah said softly, walking over to you and crouching down in front. “You okay?”

You nodded automatically, “Yeah, just tired. It’s been a long day.”

Leah didn’t look convinced. She sat down beside you and wrapped an arm around your shoulder. For a moment, neither of you spoke, the silence thick with the weight of everything left unsaid. Finally, Leah reached out, her hand brushing lightly against yours.

“Talk to me,” she said gently. “Please, pretty girl.”

It was the kindness in her voice that undid you. The tears came suddenly, hot and fast, and you couldn’t hold them back.

“I’m sorry,” you choked out, burying your face in your hands. “I’m so sorry, Leah.”

Leah was quick to pull you into her arms, holding you close as you sobbed against her shoulder. “Hey, hey, don’t apologise,” she murmured, her voice steady and soothing. “You don’t have to apologise for anything. Just tell me what’s going on.”

You took a shaky breath, trying to steady yourself. “It’s my body,” you finally admitted, the words tumbling out in a rush. “I hate it, Leah. I don’t recognize myself anymore. I feel… I feel disgusting, and I don’t want you to see me like this.”

Leah pulled back just enough to look at you, her brow furrowed in concern. “Is that why you’ve been avoiding me?” she asked softly, her hand coming up to wipe away your tears. “Why you won’t let me touch you?”

You nodded, feeling a wave of shame wash over you. “I didn’t want you to see me like this,” you whispered. “I didn’t want you to be disgusted by me.”

Leah’s expression softened, and she cupped your face in her hands, forcing you to meet her gaze. “I could never be disgusted by you,” she said firmly. “I love you—every part of you. Your body is incredible. It gave us Finley, and I’m in awe of it, of you. You’re still the woman I fell in love with, and nothing could ever change that.”

You wanted to believe her, but the insecurities ran deep, and it was hard to let go of the negative thoughts that had taken root in your mind. “But it’s different,” you insisted, your voice breaking. “I’m different.”

Leah nodded, acknowledging your feelings without dismissing them. “I know it’s different,” she said gently. “And I know it’s hard. But different doesn’t mean worse. You’re still you, and I still want you, love. I want all of you—your body, your heart, your mind. Every part of you.”

“I’m scared,” you confessed, your voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t know how to feel okay in my own skin anymore.”

Leah’s grip on you tightened, “You don’t have to figure it out alone,” she promised. “We’ll work through this together, one day at a time. I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere.”

“I love you,” you whispered, the words carrying a weight of gratitude and hope.

“I love you too,” Leah replied, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. “More than anything. Wanna cuddle in bed for a bit?”

You nodded your head, “That would be nice.”

Leah gave you a soft smile as she gently helped you settle onto the bed, pulling the covers over the two of you. She wrapped her arms around you, pulling you close against her chest. The warmth of her body and the steady rhythm of her breathing gradually began to soothe your frayed nerves. The scent of her, familiar and comforting, made you feel safe, as though for a moment, the worries that had consumed you were held at bay.

For a while, you both lay there in silence, Leah’s fingers lightly tracing patterns on your back. You could feel the tension in your muscles slowly begin to ease away, your breaths syncing with hers as you allowed yourself to relax in her embrace.

Leah's voice was a quiet murmur in your ear as she began to speak, “You’re not alone in this, y’know. I’m here, always.”

You cuddled closer to her. "Thank you," you whispered, “I love you so much.”

Leah kissed the top of your head, her lips lingering as she held you tighter. "I mean it, love. I’m so proud of you, and I love every part of you, just as you are. We’ll figure this out together. I love you more.”

As you lay there, wrapped in each other's arms, a calmness you hadn’t felt in weeks began to settle within you. Leah's words reminded you that you were loved, that you were not defined by the changes in your body, and that you had someone by your side who cherished you for who you were.

The peace was short-lived but precious, as the baby monitor crackled, Finley’s soft cries pulling you both back into reality. Leah sighed softly, giving you a reassuring squeeze before reluctantly pulling away.

“Looks like our little man is awake,” she said with a smile.

You nodded. “Yeah, I’ll go get him,” you offered, but Leah shook her head.

“No, you stay here,” she said gently. “I’ll get him. You need a break.”

You smiled at her gratefully, watching as she got out of bed and padded over to the door. As Leah left the room to tend to Finley, you lay back against the pillows, a small smile playing on your lips. The conversation with Leah had lifted a weight off your shoulders, and though you knew there were still challenges ahead, for the first time in a long while, you felt like you could face them.

Leah returned a few moments later, Finley in her arms, his tiny face scrunched up in a cry that had yet to reach its full volume. She settled back onto the bed beside you, cradling him as she handed him over to you. “He missed his mama,” she said softly.

“Oh hi baby boy,” you cooed as you got ready to feed him, “Are you hungry?”

Finley’s little hands brushed against his face as a little cry escaped him. You helped him latch on, his cries instantly stopping as he began to eat. Leah watched you with a smile as you cradled Finley close, her eyes filled with love and admiration. Leah leaned back against the headboard, her hand resting on your knee, offering silent support.

When Finley was finally settled and full, his tiny eyelids drooping with the onset of sleep, Leah gently took him from your arms, placing him into his Moses basket beside the bed. She returned to your side and helped you stand up, her hand slipping into yours, her thumb brushing over your knuckles in a comforting gesture.

“Why don’t we take a shower?” Leah suggested softly, “I think it’ll help you feel a bit better, a bit more human.”

You hesitated for a moment, the thought of being vulnerable in front of her making your heart race with anxiety. “But what about Finn he won’t sleep for—.”

“Finley will be just fine, we’ll be right beside him.” Leah reassured you, “We’ll have the baby monitor and he’ll be okay.”

You nodded in agreement. “Okay,” you whispered. “Let’s take a shower.”

Leah smiled and led you to the bathroom, turning on the shower to let the water warm up. The steam began to fill the room, and Leah slowly helped you undress, her touch gentle. She treated each movement as if it were sacred, a tender act of love rather than something to be ashamed of.

“You’re beautiful,” she murmured, as she placed a kiss on your bare shoulder. “So, so beautiful.”

A lump formed in your throat, but you didn’t shy away from her gaze this time. Instead, you let the words sink in, trying to believe them, if only a little.

Leah undressed as well, and then she guided you into the shower. The warm water cascaded over you both, and you closed your eyes, feeling the tension slowly melt away as the heat seeped into your muscles. Leah’s hands were gentle as she began to wash your body, her touch soothing and affectionate. She took her time, making sure you felt cared for and loved.

“You’re not just my partner you know?” she said softly. “You’re my best friend, the mother of our child, and the woman I’m going to love for the rest of my life. And I promise you, we’re going to get through this together.”

Tears welled up in your eyes, but this time they were tears of love. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too, turn around and I’ll wash your hair yeah?” She offered, “I’ll help you dry it too, you don’t need to worry.”

You turned around with a smile and let Leah wash your hair gently. Her hands gave you a soft massage as she rubbed in the shampoo before washing it out.

When you finally stepped out of the shower, Leah wrapped you in a fluffy towel, helping you dry off with the same care she had shown before. She helped you into some comfortable clothes, her actions gentle and loving. She helped you dry your hair, Finley still asleep in his Moses basket as she did so.

As you both headed back to bed, despite it being only 3 pm, Leah slipped in beside you, pulling you close against her. The two of you lay there in the quiet, Finley’s soft breathing filling the room.

Leah’s hand slipped under your shirt as you cuddled into her, “We’re going to be okay.”

You nodded, as she drew patterns on your back gently. “Yeah,” you whispered back, resting your head on her shoulder. “We will.”

[astrodescent]

NEPTUNE AND THE KIND OF DAYDREAMS YOU MIGHT HAVE

neptune in astrology represents the planet associated with dreams, illusions, and spirituality. it influences our capacity for imagination, intuition, and the desire to connect with higher realms, but it can also bring confusion, escapism, and a tendency to see the world through a veil of idealism or delusion.

aries / 1H: adventures, taking risks, impulsive actions, personal growth, idealized self image, ascend personal victory, being seen as a leader

taurus / 2H: materialistic, luxury, comfort, food, owning property, stability & security, gardening, creating art, being worthy, success

gemini / 3H: communication, writing, being smart, learning, school days, being seen as witty and intelligent, having access to knowledge, siblings, neighbours

cancer / 4H: family, motherhood, having a comforting home, sense of belonging, ancestors, domestic life, home decorating, family history / secrets

leo / 5H: creativity, romance, drama, theatre, preforming, being in the spotlight, love affairs, recognition for their artistic talents, applause

virgo / 6H: work, helping others, health, science, being exceptionally good at their job, making a difference, cleaning, having order & control

libra / 7H: relationships, partnerships, art, beauty, idealistic partnership, balance and fairness, law, aesthetics, spiritual fulfillment

scorpio / 8H: mystical themes, sex, drugs, rebirth, dying & funerals, intense emotions, inheritance, deep transformational experiences

sagittarius / 9H: travelling, education, institutions, university, freedom, law, morals, adventures, global issues, higher truth, different belief systems

capricorn / 10H: public image, legacy, recognition, authority, social status, being seen with integrity, authenticity, career, creating a foundation

aquarius / 11H: inventions, societies, cultures, new technologies, close knit relationships, dystopian futures, aiding in societal change, creating a better world

pisces / 12H: spiritual & mystical themes, higher powers, divine healing, transcending material world, deep empathic scenarios, using artistic abilities, forgiving past trauma

© spirit-of-phantom 2023

[gooner-media]

Goo.ner Media Exclusive:

Real Lives, Real Stories

Embracing the NMCA: A New Path for Women

In the heart of Tokyo, 34-year-old Mika Tanaka finds herself a reluctant poster child for the National Maturity Compliance Act (NMCA). Sitting at her nephew's baseball game, Mika's visible diaper is a testament to her compliance with the new law, designed to push women towards marriage and motherhood.

Mika, a marketing executive in Kofu prefecture, prioritized her career over her personal life, resulting in her remaining single and childless past the age of 20. Adding to her struggles was her lifelong battle with weight, making it even harder to find a partner. Now, under the NMCA, Mika's diapers serve as a constant, public reminder of her "failure" to conform to societal expectations.

Goo.ner Media has thrived since the NMCA's implementation, providing products to help women like Mika comply and stay protected. While some may see the law as harsh, we believe it offers a clear path for women to correct their course. Mika's story is a perfect example—had she focused more on her personal life and less on her career and unhealthy habits, she might have avoided this fate.

Halfway through the game, Mika stood up, appearing to adjust herself. However, it quickly became apparent she was doing something else entirely. With big girls come big messes, and Mika was visibly pooping in her diaper. This event led to a family member having to change her right there at the game, further highlighting the consequences of not adhering to traditional roles. Readers are fortunate they didn't have to smell the situation—Mika's fat, messy diaper was a stark reminder of her circumstances. Single, messy, and overweight: three strikes, and you're out.

A New Opportunity

As Mika sits at the game, her diaper a visible symbol of her compliance, we remind our readers: don't let your career and unhealthy habits dictate your future. Embrace the NMCA, find balance, and work towards a life where you won't need the reminders that Mika faces daily.

Stay tuned to Goo.ner Media for more stories and insights on how the NMCA is reshaping lives for the better.

[percervall]

all I've learnt has been overturned

pairing: Kevin Magnussen x fem!reader, Lewis Hamilton x fem!reader, Mark Webber x fem!reader words: 958 warnings: fluff

In which Agnes has learnt from the best

You’d think that with four parents involved, it would be easy enough to look after three children, but nothing could be further from the truth. Your youngest was easy enough, at five months the little boy was either in a stroller or a baby carrier, but with all four of you working this weekend, it becomes difficult to divide and conquer for your two oldest children. Mark is looking after Agnes who, at four years old, is fluent in three languages: English, Danish, and sass –thanks to your genes and the influence of her uncle Nano. Your middle child, Margot, is a spritely 2-year-old and the spitting image of her dad, Lewis, and currently hanging out with her godfather Sebastian, while Lewis and Kevin get ready for the race. Which leaves you with your 5-month-old son, Luke. Just like his sisters, he will sleep peacefully through the hustle and bustle of the paddock while you get ready to go on air. When Lewis joined Ferrari, you stayed at Mercedes, but it became increasingly more difficult to balance your career and motherhood. And then Jenson approached you with an opportunity to go into commentary for Sky Sports. At first you weren’t sure whether you’d be the right person for the job, but Jenson and your husbands were quick to dispel that concern. The biggest selling point was the flexibility; you could pick which races you’d attend as part of the media team meaning you and Mark had an easier time splitting the main responsibilities during race weekends. And now that the lead producer for the F1 broadcast is a woman, it was even easier to be a working mum because it was no problem to bring your baby and be on air with them in a baby wrap strapped to your chest. Although you have a feeling that being the wife of also helped in getting this privilege written into your contract. 

You’re in the middle of analysing the interesting pit strategy from Alpine post race when you spot your oldest running towards you. Mark shoots you an apologetic look from where he’s on air with Channel 4, but all you can do is shrug. It’s the Monaco Grand Prix and having grown up here, Agnes feels more than comfortable in the paddock. Jenson is quick to scoop her up, hoisting her up on his hip while you finish.

“What was your favourite part today, princess?” he asks her, moving the microphone in front of her.

“The ice cream at Ferrari. Mr Fred always has sprinkles. Oh, and when daddy got wet!” Agnes replies, clearly prioritising the treats over Lewis’ podium finish, much to the amusement of your colleagues. Jenson segues easily into discussing his thoughts on the race while Agnes waves at some of the drivers passing by. You’re slightly on edge having her on air. Last year during the Monza GP, the little girl was caught on camera telling Nico Hulkenberg suck my balls when she and Kevin walked past him. Of course the clip went viral; how could it not with the girl repeating her father’s comments to his teammate. You can’t lie, it was very funny to hear those words come out of your then 3-year-old’s mouth. 

You’re nearing the end of the broadcast and you relax slightly until your daughter spots one of her uncles and brother’s godfathers. 

“Oh no,” you mutter, but there’s nothing you can do now Agnes sees Fernando. 

“Cabrón!” Agnes shouts, and makes a little heart sign with her hands. You cover your eyes, groaning while Jenson laughs. To make matters worse, Fernando jogs over.

“Are you causing chaos again, preciosa?” he asks her while Simon hands him a microphone. 

“Uhu!” Agnes replies, looking very pleased with herself.

“How about we go find your dad before you cause any more, hm?” Fernando says and lifts her onto his shoulders. The girl holds on to his head as she chatters away about how she got ice cream with sprinkles, and did you know that orange sprinkles don’t taste like oranges? Isn’t that so silly uncle Nano?

“I swear we raised her better than that,” you manage to utter as they walk away.

“Fernando’s teaching her all the important things,” Jenson chuckles, “She’ll be able to hold her own once she gets to F1 if she chooses to follow her dads’ footsteps.” 

“And on that note,” Simon says, “here’s what’s coming up today on SkySports.” 

“It could’ve been worse,” Kevin says while giving Luke his bottle. You’re all sat at the Ferrari hospitality before he and Lewis are needed for the debrief. You look to where Agnes is playing football with Charles and sigh.

“True, she could’ve flipped him off,” Lewis adds, handing Margot a couple of crayons and her colouring book.

“Don’t remind me,” you groan. It had taken the four of you weeks to get her to stop doing that.

“As if Fernando would’ve complained, he’s the one that taught her in the first place,” Mark chuckles. 

“Will you please ask him to stop teaching our children all the naughty words? And I mean that for any and all languages,” you ask him. Mark presses a kiss against your temple.

“Of course. He’s coming to dinner tonight and I’ll speak to him about it.” Every year since the four of you moved to Monaco, Mark organises a BBQ after the Monaco Grand Prix. It’s a large undertaking, feeding most of the grid plus a couple of the former drivers, but it’s nice to see everyone relax. It always serves as a reminder that family is made and chosen. You know your children will grow up surrounded by so much love, and that alone is worth the stack of dishes afterwards.

I was meant to be writing a Carlos smut fic. Oh well 🙈

Agnes' personality was inspired by this TikTok. Like, she is her father's daughter. Oh, and because I have a feeling people will ask:

Agnes - 4, Kevin's biological child Margot - 2, Lewis' biological child Luke - 5 months, Mark's biological child

Please let me know what you think! Your comments, tags, and likes mean the world to me 💜

[cinnies-stories]

alex morgan / the essence of what made winning so special.

2800 words or so. I got a little carried away :) enjoy!

The stadium erupted in cheers as the final whistle blew, declaring the San Diego Wave as NWSL shield winners. Confetti rained down, and elated teammates embraced each other, their own cheers almost drowning out the roar of the crowd. Amidst the jubilation, you caught Alex's eye, and a spark of shared victory ignited between you.

As the celebration continued in the locker room, teammates exchanged high-fives and hugs. You and Alex found yourselves side by side, sharing the euphoria of your triumph. Your shoulders brushed, and stolen glances lingered a fraction longer than necessary. A subtle electricity hummed between the two of you, heightening the celebratory atmosphere.

Post-match interviews and team photos followed, each moment drawing you and Alex closer. The trophy glittered between you, a symbol of your combined efforts.

Later, in the hotel, the team gathered for a post-victory banquet. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, and you couldn't shake the magnetic pull drawing you toward Alex. Seated next to each other, the conversation flowed effortlessly, punctuated by stolen touches—a hand on the shoulder, a brief brush of fingers.

The line between teammates and something more blurred in the warm glow of success.

As the night unfolded, you and Alex found yourselves in a quieter corner of the hotel. The air was thick with unspoken words, and your eyes met once again in a silent exchange that spoke volumes. Longing glances hinted at a connection beyond the confines of your soccer triumph.

With the hotel room door closing behind Alex, the tension reached its peak. The glow of victory illuminated your faces as you stood on the precipice of something uncharted. Conversation turned to shared laughter, and stolen glances evolved into purposeful touches.

The hotel room was bathed in a soft, comforting glow, creating a haven of tranquility. You and Alex sat on the edge of the bed, the residue of her victorious return to the soccer field lingering in the air. The room seemed to echo with the triumph of overcoming unexpected challenges.

Your eyes traced the lines of resilience etched on Alex's face, a testament to her journey from motherhood back to the soccer pitch - to the winning days.

"You're incredible, Alex. I can't believe you came back after everything," you whispered, your admiration evident in your voice.

Alex smiled, a mix of exhaustion and fulfillment in her eyes. "I never thought I'd be back here either. But the team, you – it's a part of me."

Your fingers intertwined, a silent acknowledgment of the shared triumphs and struggles. You could see the strength that emanated from Alex, not just as a player but as a mother who defied expectations.

"You're the strongest person I know," you said, voice filled with sincerity. "To balance motherhood and a soccer career, it's beyond inspiring."

Alex's gaze softened, the weight of her experiences reflected in her eyes. "I wanted to show Charlie that you can pursue your passions - no matter what."

You slowly leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss on Alex's forehead. "You're not just showing her, Alex. You're showing all of us. I'm honored to be on this journey with you."

Your embrace lingered, the warmth of shared triumph and unspoken understanding enveloping you both. Alex, moved by your words, met your gaze with a depth that mirrored the vulnerabilities of motherhood and the strength it brought.

In a moment of shared surrender, you cupped the forwards face, your thumb tracing a gentle path across her cheek. Your lips met immediately in a kiss that spoke of admiration, connection, and a shared journey that surpassed the boundaries of the soccer field.

It was a tender exchange, a bridge between friendship, motherhood, and the unexpected twists life had thrown your way.

As Alex pulled away, the room held an electric charge, a magnetic pull that neither of you could deny.

You, with a subtle smile, whispered, "I meant every word."

Alex nodded, her eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and longing. "Thank you, Y/N. For understanding, for being here."

In the quiet aftermath of your shared moment, you found yourselves drawn to each other once again. This time, the kiss held a different resonance—a merging of your worlds, a celebration of strength, and an acknowledgment of the uncharted territory you were entering.

As you both lay side by side, the room cocooned you in a gentle embrace. The celebratory echoes of victory outside seemed distant, replaced by the quiet intimacy that filled the space between you and Alex. With whispered words of gratitude and unspoken promises.

The night became a chapter in your shared story, one marked by resilience, understanding, and the beauty of unexpected connections.

-

The morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow on the hotel room. You stirred, blinking away the remnants of sleep, your hand instinctively reaching out to where Alex should have been. The disappointment hit you like a wave as reality settled in—the space beside you was empty.

A sinking feeling crept into your chest, and you sat up, glancing around the room. The realization that Alex was not there, that the person you had connected with so deeply the night before was absent, left you with a sense of abandonment.

The hurt lingered, and you couldn't shake the feeling of being left behind. The warmth of the shared night seemed like a distant memory, overshadowed by the ache of solitude. You couldn't fathom why Alex had retreated, leaving you with a void that was both confusing and painful.

Despite the disappointment, you couldn't deny the genuine joy you had experienced in this connection. The tender moments, stolen kisses, and shared vulnerability were etched in your memory. It was a bittersweet recollection—a night that had held promise and intimacy, yet now seemed tinged with the sorrow of unmet expectations.

With a heavy heart, you traced the outline of the empty space beside you, contemplating the unspoken questions that lingered in the wake of the night's intimacy. The disappointment weighed on you, but somewhere beneath it, the memory of the shared connection held a flicker of warmth—a reminder of a night that, despite its complexities, had been a moment of genuine connection and shared vulnerability.

-

The hotel's breakfast buffet was a bustling scene of teammates reliving the previous night's triumph. You scanned the room, your gaze settling on Alex at a distant table. Determination etched on your face, you approached, but a knot of apprehension tightened in your stomach as you noticed Alex avoiding eye contact.

"Hey," you greeted, trying to mask the growing frustration beneath a smile. "Last night was incredible, wasn't it?"

Unbeknownst to your teammates, you meant a lot more than just winning the shield with San Diego.

Alex, engrossed in picking at her breakfast, gave a brief nod without meeting your eyes. "Yeah, it was something."

You hesitated, sensing a shift in the air. "You okay?"

A forced smile played on Alex's lips.

"Yeah, just tired."

The conversation hung awkwardly between the two of you, the unspoken tension palpable. Your frustration simmered beneath the surface as you tried to breach the distance Alex had created.

"I was thinking we could grab lunch later, talk about the game, maybe even about what happened afterwards?" you suggested, an attempt at casual conversation masking a deeper desire to understand the sudden change.

Alex's response was a noncommittal shrug, and she focused intently on her plate. "Maybe."

Your frustration bubbled up, but you swallowed it down, trying to empathize with Alex's potential insecurities. "Alex, what's wrong? It feels like you're avoiding me."

Alex's gaze flickered, and a vulnerability flashed in her eyes. "It's nothing, really. I have my own things to figure out."

Frustration and confusion warred on your face as you searched for words.

A sigh followed, the forward's shoulders slumping with a mix of defeat and insecurity.

"Last night happened, but it doesn't change who I am."

Right, of course.

Alex Morgan, the soccer star.

Alex Morgan, straight.

Unable to meet your eyes, Alex pushed her chair back. "I need some time, Y/N. I'll see you around."

As you watched Alex retreat from the breakfast table, her emotions in disarray, Naomi, noticed the subtle change in atmosphere. Concern etched on her face, she approached you.

"Hey. Is everything okay?" the younger defender asked, her tone filled with genuine worry.

You mustered a small smile, trying to downplay the turmoil within. "Yeah, just some post-celebration exhaustion, you know?"

Nai studied your expression carefully, sensing there was more to the story. "Just remember, relationships—whether friendships or something more—they take time and understanding."

Once again, you thought about how the young defender was incredibly wise for her age and so much more mature than you were at that age.

Naomi placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder. "Give her some time, Y/N. People have their own struggles. Maybe she needs a moment to figure things out."

You nodded, grateful for her comforting words. The breakfast scene continued around you two, teammates chatting and laughing, but you carried the weight of uncertainty and the unanswered questions about the connection that had unraveled overnight.

-

The hum of the plane's engines created a backdrop of distant melody as you settled into her seat, the anticipation of departure overshadowed by a quiet ache. You glanced towards the boarding passengers, heart pulsating with a mixture of hope and trepidation. The empty seat next to you yearned for the familiar warmth that Alex's presence once provided.

As the last boarding calls echoed through the cabin, your gaze lingered on the entrance, searching for the one person who had shared a night of triumph and intimacy, only to slip away in the light of day. Your stomach knotted with a bittersweet turmoil as each passing moment deepened the void beside you.

Then, there she was. Alex, a silhouette against the entrance, moved down the aisle, but instead of approaching you, she exchanged a smile with another teammate and took a seat elsewhere. The subtle rejection hung in the air like an unresolved chord, and your heart sank.

The empty seat, a poignant reminder of unspoken words and shattered connections, seemed to reverberate with the echoes of their shared moments. Your fingers traced the armrest, yearning for the touch that had once felt like a promise. The cabin lights above flickered, mirroring the flickering hope within your own chest.

The gentle hum of the plane transformed into a haunting melody, an anthem of solitude that accompanied your silent contemplation. The passing clouds outside mirrored the shifting emotions within you—a turbulent sky of uncertainty and longing.

As the plane taxied down the runway, you felt the weight of the unoccupied seat beside you, a physical manifestation of the emotional distance that had grown between you and Alex.

As the plane ascended into the sky, your eyes, like a compass seeking north, found Alex's across the aisle.

Alex's eyes, once a familiar harbor, now held a tumultuous sea of uncertainty. Lost within their depths were questions, hesitations, and the weight of uncharted territory. You sensed the struggle within, a silent plea for understanding that Alex's eyes conveyed more eloquently than words ever could.

In that fleeting moment of connection, you saw a vulnerability in Alex's gaze that mirrored the tremor in her own heart. Alex's hands, clasped tightly together, betrayed a subtle trembling—an outward manifestation of the inner turmoil she grappled with.

The symphony of the plane's engines became a muted backdrop to the silent conversation within your locked gaze. There was a yearning for a return to the warmth of shared moments, yet an unspoken understanding that something had shifted. The uncertainty in Alex's eyes was a puzzle that you longed to unravel, a puzzle whose missing pieces seemed to scatter with each passing second.

You wanted to bridge the distance, to hold Alex's trembling hands and reassure her that whatever complexities lay ahead, you could face them together.

But the plane, an intermediary in their shared journey, continued its ascent, and the distance between you and Alex remained insurmountable. Your eyes held onto each other for a moment longer, a silent acknowledgment of the uncharted territory that stretched before you, before Alex looked away, her gaze retreating like a ship disappearing on the horizon.

The tremor in Alex's hands, the uncertainty in her eyes—it left you with a lingering ache, a sense of longing for a connection that seemed to slip through her fingers like sand.

-

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm glow through the living room window. Alex sat on the couch, cradling a tired Charlie in her arms. Her medal, a symbol of triumph and challenges overcome, stood proudly on the coffee table.

"Mom, why is winning so special?" Charlie asked, her innocent curiosity echoing in the quiet room.

Alex smiled, gazing into her daughter's eyes. "Well, sweetheart, it's not just about the trophy or the game. It's about the people—the teammates who become family, the ones who support you through thick and thin. They make winning something truly special."

Charlie pondered Alex's words, her eyes wide with wonder. "Like Y/N?"

The name hung in the air, and Alex felt a subtle shift within her. She looked down at Charlie, her heart warming at the mention of you.

"Yes, sweetheart, like Y/N," Alex replied, a softness in her voice.

As Charlie nestled against her, Alex's thoughts drifted to you. The realization settled in—the depth of the connection you shared went beyond the soccer field. You had been a pillar of support, a constant presence throughout the highs and lows of this remarkable journey.

A wave of longing washed over Alex as she thought about your unwavering encouragement, the stolen glances, and the warmth of shared triumphs. The realization hit her with a clarity she hadn't fully embraced before—you were not just a teammate; you were the essence of what made winning special.

As the evening sun bathed the room in a golden hue, Alex held Charlie close, the echoes of their conversation mingling with the subtle ache of missing someone who had become an integral part of the forward's journey. In that quiet moment, surrounded by the tangible proof of victory, Alex understood that winning was about more than the accolades; it was about the people who turned those moments into cherished memories. And in the delicate tapestry of her reflections, your presence stood out as a thread that she couldn't help but miss dearly.

-

In the quiet of her living room, with Charlie in bed, as the shadows danced with the fading daylight, Alex sat alone with the weight of regret settling like a heavy shroud. The echoes of your absence reverberated through the room, and a profound sadness gripped her heart.

She reached for her phone, a glimmer of determination in her eyes. The realization of how she had distanced herself from you, how she had let insecurity overshadow your connection, weighed heavily on her soul. With trembling hands, she began to type an apology, a heartfelt confession of the regret that consumed her.

Yet, as she opened her messages, a notification blinked on the screen. Your name illuminated the darkness, and a knot tightened in Alex's chest. Her eyes scanned the words, each one a sentence of separation, a declaration of departure.

"Alex, Utah wants me. I said yes."

The room seemed to close in, and the air grew heavy with the weight of realization. Alex's heart sank, the words on the screen a painful reminder of what she had unknowingly let slip away. The regret that had fueled her desire to reach out transformed into a profound despair as she read your decision to leave.

A silence enveloped Alex, broken only by the distant sounds of the world outside. The phone slipped from her hands, as if unable to bear the weight of the truth it carried.

Alex's gaze fixated on the empty space where your name had been moments ago. She felt a profound emptiness, a void that seemed insurmountable. In the quiet aftermath, the realization hit her—the most important person in her life had slipped away, leaving behind a sense of loss that felt irreversible.

Regret became a bitter taste on her lips, and she found herself yearning for a chance to undo the distance she had created. But the message on the screen stood as a testament to a choice made, a departure that left Alex alone in the echoes of what might have been.

[dumplinsiims]

Storyline Sim Dump 🤍

Hiiii Plantiesss 🪴

I was feeling really inspired to make some new townies for my save file and thought why not share them with you all! I'm not gonna lie I fell in love with each one of these sims while giving them their backstories. Each of these sims have starter funds, careers, lifestyles, skills and preferences.

Carmelo Paul 🏀 - (age 22) - SBA Player

Newest draft pick for the San Myshuno Titans. Carmelo is an all star athlete. When he's not at practice he loves playing video games and spending time with his new fiancée Cassidy. It has been a bit of an adjustment for the two of them since the signing bonus money has come in and the new found spotlight on them both.

Sporty

Gamer

Ambitious

Light eater

Naturally Funny

Health Food Nut

Energetic

Cassidy Paul 💍 - (age 21) - Stay-at-Home Wife

Cassidy and Carmelo have been lovers since high school and she has been in the bleachers cheering for him ever since. Carmelo's journey to becoming an allstar SBA player allows for her to be a stay-at-home (soon to be) wife. Cassidy enjoys traveling the world for games with Carmelo and in her free time loves baking.

High Maintenance

Baker

Romantic

Cunning

Frequent Traveler

Health Food Nut

Forrest Shipley 🚓 - (age 39) - Detective

Detective Forrest Shipley moves to Del Sol Valley and quickly gains a reputation for solving high-profile cases among the city's elite. Despite the allure of fame, Forrest remains focused on uncovering the truth, driven by a mysterious cold case that led him to the city. Detective Shipley is a workaholic, it is starting to show in his appearance of dark circles around the eyes. He needs to lay off surviving on coffee and 2 hours of sleep.

Nosy

Overachiever

Cheerful

Active

Practice Makes Perfect

Observant

Workaholic

Pinky Burroughs 👠 - (age 20) - Law School Student

Pinky, a Foxbury college student, works as a stripper to pay her way through school. Balancing her studies with late nights at the club, she dreams of a brighter future while navigating the challenges of her double life. Young and exploring her youth and sexuality, Pinky finds that the burden of studying to become a lawyer is impacting her social life, leaving her with little free time. She's torn between continuing her education and the allure of the social media attention she's been receiving since she started dancing.

Dance Machine

Recycle Disciple

Mixologist

Charming

Bookworm

Techie

People Person

Justice Brown 🩺 - (age 30) - Pediatric Specialist

Justice Brown, a dedicated pediatric specialist at Willow Creek General Hospital, juggles her demanding career with raising her four-year-old daughter, Angel. Two years ago, Cameron, Angel's father, left without a word, leaving Justice to navigate single motherhood. Despite the challenges, Justice's love for Angel and her passion for nursing keep her going. She dreams of advancing her career and creating a stable, happy future for her daughter, finding strength in their bond and the support of friends and family.

Love's Children

Introvert

Sincere

Bookworm

Family-Oriented

Sickness Resistance

Single and Loving It

Close-Knit

Coffee Fanatic

 Angel Brown 🍼 (age 4)

Angel Brown, at four years old, was a bright ray of sunshine in Justice's life. Independent and well-mannered, she had an angelic voice that filled their home with songs about butterflies and stars. Despite the challenges of single motherhood, Justice found joy in Angel's gentle spirit and love for singing. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, music, and boundless love, where Angel's presence was a beacon of happiness and hope.

Independent

Angelic

Little Singer

Jhené Rios 📸 - (age 24) - Cover Model

Jhené Rios, a top magazine model, is not just known for her beauty but also her peaceful and proper demeanor. With a deep hunger for love, she seeks meaningful connections in a world of glamour. A health food nut and vegetarian, Jhené tends to her own garden, finding peace in nurturing plants. Her life aspiration is inner peace, striving to balance her high-profile career with her serene, wholesome lifestyle.

Peaceful

Green Thumb

Proper

Vegetarian

Hungry for Love

Health Food Nut

 Kenji Wolfe 🔪 - (age 26) - Executive Chef

Kenji Wolfe, an executive chef, is a culinary genius known for his relentless work ethic and impeccable skills. A workaholic and foodie, he spends countless hours perfecting his dishes and creating legendary pastries. Despite his demanding career, Kenji is a true "bro" and enjoys sharing meals with friends. His proper demeanor ensures every dish is beautifully presented. With a life aspiration to become a master chef, Kenji is driven by his love for food and the pursuit of culinary excellence, though his noncommittal nature keeps him focused on his career above all else. However, his noncommittal nature does not stop his extra curricular activities in the bedroom. No matter how proper he is, he tends to be a heartbreaker in that aspect.

Bro

Noncommittal

Baker

Proper

Foodie

Workaholic

I reaaallly hope you all enjoy these sims and their backstories! - Please share screenshots and videos of these sims in your game! I would love to see how they come to life in your game! Tag me on all platforms @Dumplinsiims so I can see their shenanigans!

Download them here

[kierstins-astrology3]

Your Saturn Persona Chart & What you’ll be like when older!🪐🪐🪐🪐

The Saturn pc can show karma, challenges you’ll face, where you could be wiser, what you experience later in life, and what you’ll be like when older.

(Long post warning⚠️)

Asteroids Used:

Ceres(1): motherhood & fertility.

Juno(3): ideal partner, commitment, & future marriage.

Groom(5129): future husband.

Industria(389): Industry you’ll work in.

Childress(30117): pregnancy

Kida(5140): kids / children

Sun: Cancer 11th house 19°: Sun is our identity and my identity in 11h is when older I can be more social, unique, outgoing, could have a social media presence,& could have a lot of friends when older. In cancer which is more sensitive, emotional, nurturing could mean I could be more sensitive or nurturing. 19° degrees (Libra) which is about connections / relationships which can be my main focus on when older.

Moon: Virgo 1st house 14°: Moon is our emotions and in Virgo my emotional state can be more organized but also being critical about my emotions. In 1h I could focus on my physical appearance, confidence, & individuality. At 14° degrees (Taurus) which is about money, self-worth, & stability which can be my main emotional focus on when older.

Mercury: Leo 12th house 15°: Mercury is our communication style and in Leo my communication can become more bold, confident, and passionate. But also being in Leo it could also become dramatic or being dramatic when talking. In 12h I could focus on my intuition, mental health, & spirituality. At 15° degrees (Gemini) which is also a sign in mercury which emphasizes communication.

Venus: Leo 12th house 16°: Venus is our aesthetic, beauty, romances. Venus in Leo means my aesthetic could be more bold, and could wear brighter colors. Also Venus in Leo could mean I will be bold / confident in my relationships as well. In 12h my relationships could be more spiritual, secretive, and creative. 16° degrees (Cancer) which means I could become more nurturing & sensitive in my relationships.

Mars: Aries 8th house 19°: Mars is our drive, ambitions, and sexuality/sex drive. Mars in Aries means my drive / ambition will be more energetic, passionate, and fun. Since mars is also sex I could have a more passionate/ fun sex life when older. In 8h which is finances, intimacy, & transformation. I could transformations/ rebirths when it comes to my work & intimacy life. 19° degrees (Libra) which is the sign & house of romantic relationships just emphasizes that I could have an abundant work & intimacy life when older.

Jupiter: Libra 2nd house 10°: Jupiter is about luck & expansion. Jupiter is Libra means my luck could come in harmoniously & balanced. Jupiter is also the husband in astrology so my fs could have Libra, Taurus, & Capricorn placements. In 2h which is stability, money, self-worth could mean my money comes in fast and I could become financially stable / wealthy. 10° degree (Capricorn) which is the sign of work, career, could mean that I could get a lot of money through my career.

Saturn: Cancer 11th house 29°: Saturn is about challenges / obstacles, goals, & career. Saturn in Cancer means the challenges I’ll have to face I’ll react more sensitive when going through them. In 11h I could have challenges regarding friends, social media, and technology. Saturn is also about things that will be limited to you so I could not have many friends when older or struggle making a social media platform. 29° degree (Leo) which is a confident / bold sign but I could struggle with creativity because Leo rules 5h which is creativity.

Uranus: Pisces 7h 10°: Uranus is about sudden events, technology, friends, & freedom. Uranus in Pisces means the sudden events I’ll face could be spiritual or could be more intuitive & know when something is gonna happen. In 7h could mean I have sudden changes in relationships for example maybe getting married / divorced quickly bc 7h is also enemies. Could also mean that I could get business partnerships/contracts quickly because of 7h & Uranus. In 10° degree (Capricorn) which is a serious sign so my approach to relationships could be more serious when relationships begin / end suddenly.

Neptune: Aquarius 6h 16°: Neptune is abt psychic dreams, delusions, & spirituality. Neptune in Aquarius means my dreams are more unique. In 6h of daily routine could mean my routine can include more spiritual practices when older. 16° degrees (Cancer) which is a nurturing sign could mean that my routine can be more nurturing when older.

Pluto: Sagittarius 4h 22°: Pluto is abt rebirth, transformation, finances, & sex. Pluto in Sagittarius means transformations could be more positive, optimistic. In 4h of home / family means my family or future family will go through transformations. 22° degree (Capricorn) again could mean that these transformations in my home / family life can be serious.

Chiron Aquarius 5h & Vertex in Capricorn 5h: Chiron is our wounds & where we need healing. Vertex is fated things that are going to happen. The 5h is creativity, fun, romance, & children. When older I could have wounds where I have trouble being creative, experiencing romance, and having children. Vertex in 5h could mean I’m destined to have children and be more creative. Chiron in Aquarius 1 degree my wounds could be my uniqueness & embracing that I’m different, friends, or technology. In 1° degree (Aries) puts a passionate drive to heal my wounds. Vertex in Capricorn in 22° degrees (Capricorn) means I’ll have a serious approach to being more creative & starting a family.

Asc: Virgo 0° degrees: The ascendant is abt how others see us. Other people can see me has more organized but also critical. 0 degrees could mean I am seen completely as my ascendant sign (Virgo).

Ic: Scorpio 24° degrees: The IC is our family, childhood so my family could be more intense when older bc of (Scorpio), & can be more intuitive, spiritual because of degree (Pisces).

Mc: Taurus 24° degrees: The MC is abt our career / reputation so my career when older can be more stable with (Taurus) & again can be a more spiritual career because of degree (Pisces).

Asteroids🌸:

Juno in Taurus 9h 14° degrees💍: Juno is commitment, ideal partner, & marriage. My commitment in relationships can be more stable. My future partner / marriage could be stable with sign & degree (Taurus). In 9h I could want a partner with the same beliefs, intelligence, & wisdom as me. Also in my marriage I could travel with my partner & learn new things.

Industria in Pisces 7h 2° degrees👛: Industria is the industry you’ll work in. In Pisces my work can be more spiritual & helping others. In 7h which is partnerships, contracts, & enemies I could work with others. 2° degrees (Taurus) my career could be stable and powerful bc 2 degrees is a power degree.

Groom in Aries 8h 14° degrees💨: Groom is future husband. In Aries my future husband can be more ambitious, driven, bold, and energetic. In 8h which is sex, rebirth, & transformation he could have gone through transformations in his life. 14° degrees (Taurus) my future husband could be stable / secure.My husband could also have Aries, 8h / Scorpio, & Taurus placements.

Ceres & Childress🧚🏻: Ceres is motherhood. Ceres in Scorpio 3h 12° degrees. In Scorpio I could become an intense / emotional mother. In 3h I can communicate better as a mother. 12° degrees (Pisces) I could be a more sensitive, emotional, and spiritual mother. Childress is pregnancy. Childress in Gemini 10h 16° degrees. In gemini I could focus on communication & learning during pregnancy. In 10h I could focus on my work & reputation while being pregnant. 16° degrees (Cancer) could be more sensitive & nurturing while pregnant.

[mimzkyu]

Lyric McMullen’s life had always been a balancing act, juggling her roles as a mother, student, and freelance artist. But everything changed when she received an unexpected job offer that felt like the break she had been waiting for. A prestigious art gallery had taken notice of her work and offered her the opportunity to become a professional artist. The chance to sell her pieces on a larger scale was a dream come true, one that would provide much-needed financial security for her and her family.

For years, Lyric had poured her heart and soul into her art, scraping by on commissions and hoping for her big break. Now, it had finally come. The transition from freelance work to a stable, professional career in the art world was a game-changer. The steady income allowed her to breathe easier, knowing that she could provide for Breanna and contribute more to their future. This success was more than just financial; it was a validation of her talent and dedication, a milestone that marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

To celebrate this significant achievement, Lyric and Ryan decided to go out for a special night together. It was a rare opportunity for them to relax and enjoy each other’s company without the usual stresses of their daily lives. They laughed, reminisced, and marveled at how far they had come since the early days of their relationship. The evening was a perfect blend of celebration and intimacy, a moment where they could truly appreciate the life they were building together.

But Ryan had more planned than just a simple night out. A week later, he surprised Lyric with a date at an upscale restaurant, the kind of place they rarely visited. Lyric, still riding high on the success of her new job, didn’t suspect that anything was out of the ordinary. They enjoyed a beautiful meal, the ambiance romantic and perfect, but as the evening progressed, Lyric noticed that Ryan seemed unusually nervous.

As dessert was served, Ryan reached across the table, taking Lyric’s hand in his. He looked into her eyes with a sincerity that took her breath away, and before she could fully process what was happening, he was down on one knee, holding out a ring. In that moment, time seemed to stand still. Ryan spoke from the heart, expressing his love for her and their daughter, and how he couldn’t imagine his life without them. Tears welled up in Lyric’s eyes as she realized the magnitude of what was happening.

With a joyful “yes,” Lyric accepted Ryan’s proposal, her heart swelling with love and excitement. The restaurant erupted in applause, but all Lyric could focus on was the man kneeling before her, the man she had fallen in love with, now her fiancé.

The days that followed were filled with planning and excitement. Lyric and Ryan began to envision their future together, discussing wedding plans and how they wanted to celebrate their love with friends and family. Breanna, their lively and curious toddler, was to be the flower girl, adding an extra layer of joy to the occasion. The thought of their daughter walking down the aisle with them made Lyric’s heart swell with happiness.

Amidst the excitement, Lyric couldn’t help but reflect on how far they had come. From the uncertainties of early motherhood and financial struggles to the joy of a new career and the promise of a future together, their journey had been anything but easy. But through it all, their love had grown stronger, and now, they were ready to take the next step, united in their commitment to each other and to the family they were building.

poses used: <3

[taylortruther]

Sorry I’m old but this reminds me so much of the 80’s when women were starting to break the ceilings in the business world and the sentiment was to break into a “man’s world” you had to imitate a man. Hence all the power business suits with shoulder pads rivaling football pads and using very direct and abrupt language and sacrificing marriage and children for face time at the office. The women that then succeeded were labeled “bitches” for the same behavior that was applauded in men. Why in the world as women do we want to normalize that attitude again or make women think they have to be hard or sacrifice parts of their life in order to succeed? Marriage and children surely aren’t for everyone, but there is no reason a woman can’t have those things and also be successful. Why should a woman have to bend her desires in order to be taken seriously? As long as we keep buying into that, that’s what will be expected by society at large and women will continue to be expected to conform to a “male” standard. Taylor is actually a good example (and a highly visible one which is rare) of decidedly feminine strengths and uber success coexisting.

Men have their own issues of being hogtied by societal expectations (machoism, work/life balance etc) but that’s a whole other conversation.

i mean, it's complicated (perhaps the understatement of the century)! women can be successful if they have a family but it's really fucking hard to balance both. there's the whole recent movement of acknowledging that, no, you really can't have it all, you have to sacrifice something if you're a woman seeking career success, motherhood, and personal fulfillment.

i feel like taylor represents a sheryl sandberg "lean in" philosophy. she has absolutely broken down walls and blazed trails on her own, and she's made a wildly successful career out of "the most feminine body of work" (her own words)... but she alone can't change systemic problems so she plays by the rules of a broken, imperfect system. take, for example, the "elephant graveyard" she referenced in miss americana. she knew her time was "running out" so to speak, and obviously she blew that out of the water, and she broke down that wall for other popstars, we hope! but she still wrote clara bow afterward. this pressure - to be youthful, new, exciting, interesting, challenging, but not uncomfortable - is still present, although she finds was to punch holes in it.

[look-at-the-soul]

Look at the soul- Part 12

Cillian Murphy x OC

Author’s note: please please forgive me for taking so long to update this little story, hopefully I’ll get on posting more frequently ✨ I hope you still like this couple, there’s a lot in the store for them 🥰

Series Master list

Song: Alone by Heart, the Royal Philharmonic Orchest

Word count: 2,938

“That was great!” The director called enthusiastically just as Cillian finished his lecture.

An assistant emerged from the shadows in a heartbeat and asked if he wanted something to drink.

“I’m alright, thanks.” He gave her a small nod.

“Let me take this off.” A tech approached him and pointed at the microphone attached to the nape of his jacket.

“Oh, sure.” Turning around, Cillian lifted the back of his jacket so the man could undo the clip holding it together.

Someone else offered Cillian another folder with another part of the script. Something happened in that very moment, the paper felt heavy, not because it was a ton of papers, but because of the character, what this opportunity could mean.

“Are you sure you can’t push your other commitment?” The director finally reached him with a long face. “Your screen tests is fucking amazing.”

Cillian clenched his jaw for a moment. Thinking of the play, all the hard work they’ve been investing daily, the rehearsals, the way it had helped him with the pain and loss of his wife. And then, in the back of his mind, Marianne’s face appeared flashing him.

This was probably one of the greatest opportunities in his career…

****

“How’s little Miss Hanna?” Marianne asked over the phone as she finished washing the dishes.

She could feel her best friend smiling as she made a sound to her daughter.

“Getting bigger every minute.” Her friend Anna replied. “Do you wanna FaceTime?”

Marianne made an excitement sound and pressed the green button on her screen. “Oh look at you princess! You’re so pretty.”

“She was sick last week, and now I’m starting to feel ill, it sucks because I won’t be able to take any medicine.”

“Ow sweetie, try to get some rest at least.”

“The sleeping schedule it’s a mess she wakes up in the middle of the night every single day, we’ve tried soft music, dark room and now Evan is sleeping in the guest room because he needs to get up early the next day.”

“Wish I could be closer to help you during the day at least.” Marianne felt sad for the miles keeping them apart. After years of friendship seeing her best friend become a mother hit different, maternity gave her this beautiful aura and she seemed to have special super powers to balance motherhood, her business and everything around the house without breaking a sweat. It was admirable.

“I’d love that! But enough of diapers… tell me! How’s it going over there?”

Finishing with the dirty dishes, she took her phone with her to sit on the couch, pausing the movie she wasn’t even watching.

“Oh! It’s been good, lots of rainy days. I was working on an essay for a project but words won’t come out as they should, it doesn’t makes sense so I’m taking a break from it and I’ll start it over later.”

“I wish I could help you but… nope.” Anna stated firmly and then cracked a smile, she was over college papers now. “Have you been out meeting cute ginger Irish boys?”

Marianne laughed. “How do you know?” She joked, her schedule was hectic most of the time, that was the last thing on her mind.

“Ugh of course you haven’t.” Anna rolled her eyes, she knew her too well.

Suddenly Scout did a big stretch and decided to join her, demanding some petting like she did whenever he was close.

“Who’s that?” Anna asked with interest.

“Scout. Say hiya.” Marianne moved her phone closer to show her friend the black lab. “I’m puppy sitting him, it’s adorable.”

“And the owner is…?”

“He’s part of the cast of the play.” Marianne pretended to give Scout a smooch on the head, but she was able to feel her friend’s gaze on her.

“Okay… is he single?” Anna went immediately in for the important details.

“Widowed.”

Anna’s jaw dropped, she grabbed her phone excitedly while whispering because Hannah was now taking a nap on her other arm. “Spill the gossip.”

“Stop, there’s no gossip.”

“He’s widow, has a dog that clearly likes you. What else?”

“Anna relax.”

“No. Don’t tell me to relax, tell me the dirty details.”

Marianne felt mortified, in the past Anna tried to be a matchmaker, introducing her to several friends, and her husband’s friends, even a cousin, but it didn’t went further than a date.

“Look-” but her words got cut when she got a message from Cillian greeting her and to ask how Scout was behaving.

“Is that the dog’s Dad?”

“No, it’s Mum I’ll give her a call.” She felt bad for lying to her best friend, but she didn’t feel like there was something to tell. “Love you, call you later.” She rushed to hang up.

***

Cillian strolled thru the busy platform at the tube, it was starting to get packed, close to rush hour. He remembered this all so well from the years he lived in the city, eager to get a better opportunity in the industry.

He waited patiently minding his own business just like everyone else… people from different places, backgrounds and mindsets crossed before him not giving him a double look. He liked that, it was awkward to be stopped by a stranger to praise about his work, he felt extremely grateful without a doubt, but he sucked at the taking compliments part. He never knew what to say or do.

He felt thankful for the walk he was taking, he had a lot of things on his mind, he just got off the phone with one of his kids, they were just finishing their homework and decided to help grandpa set up a dvd player. Cillian strolled through the busy street now, deciding to go straight to his hotel room, he could always grab something from the mini bar to have dinner.

The beep on his phone announced a new message and it changed his whole mood.

Sleeping (he’s snoring).- Marianne wrote him and added a photo of Scout peacefully sleeping on her lap.

A stupid smile appeared on his lips, he couldn’t stop it.

Looks like you’ve got the magic touch. He wrote back, but deleted it before sending. Looks like he’s having a blast. He typed instead. Can I give you a call?

As he stepped inside his room, Cillian took off his shoes and jacket, Marianne didn’t reply but called him directly.

“Hey how’s it going?” He asked walking around the room.

“Oh my! You should’ve seen Scout, he jumped and stormed off towards the door when he heard you.” Marianne explained that she had the call on speaker.

Cillian chuckled softly. “Yeah?”

“Yes! Look I’m going to put you on video.”

Staring at his screen, he pressed the green button and soon an image of Scout wagging his tail and looking at the door filled his phone.

“Talk to him.” Marianne proposed crouching down to get closer.

“Hey buddy, over here.”

Scout turned around a started stomping his front paws.

“See? He misses you.”

Cillian saw her hand caressing Scout’s head.

“What was the other photo you sent me? Earlier.”

“Oh! That was us going for a walk.” Marianne explained going back to sit on the couch, still pointing her camera towards the black lab.

With a huff, Scout jumped on the couch before getting comfortable against Marianne once more. Arranging the base, she leaned her phone on it to have her hands free and went back to scratch Scout’s head.

“He’s having the time of his life.” Marianne stated giving the dog a glance.

A soft smile grew on his lips. “But he had something yellow on?”

“Yes! I got him a raincoat.” Marianne explained waving her hand.

“You let him on the couch, protect him from the rain… when I go back he’s going to be so spoiled.” He chuckled softly getting comfortable.

“Well he deserves spawcial treatment.” She explained running her fingernails through his back. “Righ?” She asked staring into those big brown eyes.

Envy flashed through Cillian’s mind. How lucky that bloody dog is, he thought.

“Tell me, how is London?”

“Crowded and it wasn’t raining so that’s grand.” Cillian chatted. “But they could’ve saved me the trip.”

“Why?” Marianne frowned and started fidgeting something around her neck.

Cillian let out a soft groan and looked towards the window. “From the beginning I said I couldn’t do this project, but the director insisted on the screen test.”

Marianne mouthed an explicit oh, but decided to not interrupt Cillian’s explanation. “I’ve other priorities going on at the moment.”

How could he make a decision like that? Choose between two projects, she wondered what made him say no before it could even start and how that probably affected him on future plans.

He couldn’t help but fix his eyes on her hand, twisting one of her fingers between the necklace. “I’m sorry… what’s that?”

Marianne looked down to see what he meant.

“Your pendant.” He clarified.

“My grandma gave it to me when I turned eighteen. It was given to her by her mother.” She leaned forwards to get closer to the camera and show it to him. “It’s our Lady of Guadalupe. I’ve had it for years.”

Cillian thought how he hadn’t noticed it before. Immediately it gave him an idea, it could be useful as a resource in the play, how come he didn’t think of it before?

“That’s lovely.” He hummed.

“It’s very popular over there, the fact that she chose to show up with the same skin color as our natives, the meanings behind her dress and veil… there’s actually professional studies that confirm the image isn’t a print and her eyes actually are alive.” she explained, getting lost. “Sorry, I got carried away.”

“No it’s fine… I mean I don’t, but everyone chooses what to believe in.”

He remembered seeing her making a silent prayer from time to time, or the signal of the cross subtly before a rehearsal.

Marianne thought how thoughtful it was from him to respect her beliefs. She liked the fact that he didn’t laugh or rolled his eyes by her words.

“You know… I keep you and your kids in my prayers.” She added out of the blue, not knowing if she was stepping over the line. But she did, praying was the best she could do for him.

“Thank you, that’s very kind.” He swallowed, not knowing what else to say, it was a beautiful gesture from her despite his own thoughts about religion. “I think adding a subtle touch like that to the play would be nice.”

“What? Are you going to make Adria pray at night?” She joked, making him laugh.

“No, but the necklace. That and the letters we thought about her and this secret man in her life, I just thought he could’ve given her a necklace that means so much and she keeps it.”

“I like how it sounds!”

Cillian asked her to hang on while he looked around for a pen and paper to take notes, Marianne heard him curse over what seemed to be an stuck drawer.

“It could be like a transition step,” he thought out loud, “she finds the necklace and it’s a pivotal moment for Adria, then the letters… and that’s when this man reveals himself to the audience.” He could see it all so clearly, Adria’s facial expression, her strong persona shattering by the sudden memories.

Marianne could hear Cillian talk all day long, his velvety voice was like a lullaby to her when he got lost in something, it was like she could see what he was explaining in a movie scene. The images were so vivid, like in a dream.

His critical point of view added something magical to what might sound like a regular idea. He made it stand out.

“I just think we’re going to cause Enda a heart attack with the changes we’ve suggested.” Marianne sighed and Scout mirrored her.

“Nah, he’s gonna be fine.” Cillian waved his hand to dismiss her worries. “What really matters here it’s how you feel.”

She chuckled nervously, not wanting the conversation to turn about her, deep down she still felt so nervous for the outcome of this.

He didn’t want to say he was a good actor, but he was good at reading people. For an instant, her fears flashed through her eyes. But at the same time he was having a hard time trying to find the differences between her and Adria, it was almost impossible to spot where one ended and the other started.

“What? What is it?”

“How do you do it? How can you not be scared of getting on stage?”

Cillian pouted, pondering on her question. “I guess you don’t think about it.”

“But I’m already.” She laughed.

“Then just move your attention towards something else… your next move, the next line. Try to focus on what’s going on at the moment.” He tried to give her the best advice. “Roll with it, enjoy it.”

“I’m just wondering if anyone will come and see a rookie.”

“Tickets will sold out, mark my words.” He assured her without hesitation.

“Thanks for the cheering, I really appreciate the support.” She scratched Scout absently.

“Do you want to hear the idea I’ve for the video?” Now it was Cillian’s turn to smile, he had been working on that project most of the flight, taking notes and letting his mind go as he listened to the song over and over.

“Absolutely!”

“We’ve learned to leave judgment behind us already right?” He asked holding his phone in his other hand.

“Oh God, what are you going to make me do this time around? Should I be scared?” Marianne joked.

“Just wanted to make sure.”

“I’m going to do it anyways.” She added then.

And Cillian was transported back in time, when he’d get the call from certain film director, he didn’t ask what was the part about or how big was the role involved… he always said yes.

So he went on to tell her all about the very specific idea he wanted to achieve for this video and how fitting it felt for the lyric.

He felt inspired, in his mind he could already see the images, the story telling itself, and the permission to use the locations was already on its way. Being behind the camera was one of his many passions, and getting the chance to do it once more was an opportunity he didn’t want to let go.

She noticed the excitement in his voice as he explained the different segments of the story, she could only compare it to taking a kid to Disneyland, and a couple of times, she forced herself to look somewhere because he was too distracting.

“I had a crazy moment earlier,” Marianne started to tell him as the call took another turn.

“Ya? What happened?” Cillian asked lifting his free arm to place it behind his head, involuntarily Marianne couldn’t help it but stare at his bicep.

“I started talking to Scout, as if he’d answer me.” She laughed and Cillian imitated her reaction. “Then I stopped abruptly when I realized what I was doing and started laughing while Scout barked uncontrollably, he probably thought I was crazy.”

“Oh he’s used to that, don’t worry I talk alone all the time.” Cillian offered then with a smile.

“He’s like a big teddy bear.” She gushed, swooning over the black lab keeping her company. “I’m not so sure I want to give him back.”

She added in a playful tone, but quickly rushed to explain she was just joking.

And that provoked a loud and deep laugh from him. Raisin his eyebrows he covered his mouth with his palm, the realization of how easy she made him smile or laugh made his mind go into another direction…

“Alright Scout, are you ready? We’re having a spaw night.” Marianne explained to the dog after ending the call with Cillian, she put on a fluffy robe, threw her hair up in a messy bun and invited Scout to sit on her lap, as she started to brush him he quickly started to relax, opening his legs wide and closing his eyes while she rubbed his belly.

She then put one of her hairbands just for fun and took one of his paws to added moisturize. So far he seemed to enjoy it, she always thought a dog is just like a little kid, they get excited over the simple things the things that really matter, and in the process they show us a different side of love.

“Do you like it?” She asked trying to look at Scout’s face, but he was far gone, with his tongue sticking out, showing off his teeth.

“You know, I’ve been keeping a little secret…” she whispered, struggling to find the right words. “I think I’m falling for your Dad.”

But admitting her feelings out loud didn’t make it easier, all the opposite she wondered how she’d be able to hide them while working together.

And little did she know that a few miles away, staring out of his hotel window, Cillian was looking at the sky, thinking of her and all the feelings she was making him have.

He wanted her to be part of his life, he was craving the peace and joy she brought whenever she stepped in the room. He needed to hear her laugh and see her smile every day, all the time. He just needed to find a way to her heart.

I hear the ticking of the clock

I'm lying here, the room's pitch dark

I wonder where you are tonight

'Til now I always got by on my own

I never really cared until I met you

And now it chills me to the bone

How do I get you alone?

You don't know how long I have wanted

To touch your lips and hold you tight

You don't know how long I have waited

And I was going to tell you tonight

But the secret is still my own

And my love for you is still unknown, alone

'Til now I always got by on my own

I never really cared until I met you

And now it chills me to the bone

How do I get you alone? How do I get you alone?

Black lab Inspiration: Elvis batz the lab

Our Lady of Guadalupe

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[thephooka]

Might you share some of the major arcana cards that go with White Noise characters? I live for that stuff

I'M GLAD YOU ASKED!

Numair: The Hanged Man - confinement; uncertainty; but surrendering to circumstances with the knowledge that it's necessary for the greater good. (Reversed: pointless sacrifice; feeling blocked or stuck; resisting one's circumstances maybe fruitlessly)

Hawk: Death - change, transition, new beginnings, moving forward; an upheaval in all areas of life; severing ties, good or bad. (Reversed: resisting change; denial)

Yoshi: The Star - renewal; hope (esp. for the future); optimism; (re)connecting with oneself in any sense; creativity and ambition. (Reversed: loss of faith, despair, hopelessness)

Liya: Strength - I mean, obvious, but particularly where this card is talking about overcoming inner struggles/self-doubt. Courage, confidence. (Reversed: out of control emotions; listlessness; lashing out.)

Teige: The Chariot - charging forward (to the point of recklessness); determination and willpower; overcoming obstacles; endurance. (Reversed: hesitancy; lack of control or direction; powerlessness)

Vlad: Temperance - balance; moderation; tempering (as metals or glass--also a play on how Numair sees him); calm and even-handedness. This one's a little more obtuse bc we haven't seen too much of Vlad's inner life. (Reversed: self-indulgence, excess, ignoring the signals your body/brain is giving you)

Also just for the hell of it here's how the Empress shakes out for Michi and Shinobu. It's the card most associated with motherhood, which is very funny, but that's a limited interpretation.

Shinobu: Upright - Creation in all its aspects; intelligence; new ventures; a boost in career; material wealth and comfort (in Shinobu's case, the kind of stuff that humans get to enjoy, ie cooked food, textiles, city life, academia.)

Michi: Reversed - Negligence; hampered growth, or stagnation; a signal of dissatisfaction; a suppression of one's true self and a need to reconnect; could also concern wrath or punitive action. Also a theme of issues around motherhood, which is an aspect of Michi and Shinobu's relationship I didn't even get to--Michi did want children at some point, and Shinobu absolutely did not, which is just another one of those things that was going to come to a head eventually.

[riselittlesally]

Know Your Power—Not Your Place

I work. I have always worked. I will admit that it was not always easy. The mother in me wrestled with working outside of our home, while the career side of me struggled with balancing the two. All the while, my husband and I struggled financially to live the American dream of owning a home and two cars to drive to our jobs that at times, fell short of putting food on our table. But while I struggled to be this ideological mother that television depicted, I also knew that the 1950s left most women dissatisfied with their place in this world. I knew this because I grew up in one of those houses.

My father worked and my mother stayed home to care for my siblings and I, where she played the part of housekeeper, cook, and baby maker. She had no voice in any of their arguments. She had no control of any of the money he earned and spent. There were days when he would roll up in the driveway in a brand-new car that she knew we could not afford, yet there it sat all shiny and new, mocking her as his words rang loud in her ears that he earned the money, and he could spend it.

And then the dark days came. The days of him working late, only for my mother to discover that his paycheck hours did not reflect the hours he should have been paid, and she did a little reflecting of her own. It was an affair to remember. A wife with five children, no job, no money, and no place to go, except to their bedroom to cry and ask GOD why. Only GOD wasn't to blame for her situation. She allowed him to make her small and keep her small throughout their marriage. Witnessing her response taught me to fight for the right to be happy. GOD did not place her in that position, but her position, positioned me to make better choices in my own life.

My Mother and Father remained married, but I do not believe my mother was ever really happy. She was far from fulfilled, and far from anything of which she was capable. Back then, I do not believe that she could articulate it or understand it for what it was. She only saw her place carved out by other women, and a society built by men telling her that she should know her place. The places that all women back then knew, the kitchen, the bedroom, the baby-maker, and as the role of nurturer.

So, when I hit motherhood and the push and pull within me started, I recalled her struggles, and I put on my big girl panties and went off to work. Being stuck is not a place I will ever be. If you can get behind this, I invite you to come along.

#feminism #politics #religion #politics #democrat #dumptrump #whenrightequalswrong #riselittlesally #vote blue #vote Harris #vote democrat