#broker rate negotiation

[artisticdivasworld]

How to Earn Trust and Get Better Loads: Tips for New Truckers

Here is the sixth part in our series to help new truckers start off on a positive footing. We hope you are finding the information in these posts useful and that we are enabling our newest truckers to be successful in their businesses. When you’re new to trucking, one of the most important—and sometimes most challenging—parts of the job is building strong relationships with brokers and shippers.…

[sherunsittt]

Understanding Freight Rates

When you need to shift things, you'll have to pay for it, and it's called a freight rate.

These rates can change because of things like gas prices, how many trucks are available, and how much people want to ship.

You can sometimes negotiate a good price if you know how.

[jerzwriter]

It's Kiss-mas! A Carrick Family Holiday

Once again, @/artbyainna (IG) hits it out of the park! I have not done many commissions lately, but I wanted something special for my OTP for the holidays, and she delivered! Look at my babies with their babies!!! ❤️I'm simply in love with this!

I wrote a story to accompany it below.

Book: Open Heart (Post-Series) Pairing: Tobias x Casey Carrick (F!MC) Featuring: The Carrick Girls: Samantha, Brooke & Kayla Rating: General Words: 1,300 Summary: The Carrick family has opted to have a quiet Thanksgiving at home, and the girls have unknowingly started some new traditions.

Thanksgiving Morning

Thanksgiving morning was finally here, and the Carrick household was buzzing with activity. Tobias and Casey were in the kitchen perfecting their holiday meal while their daughters were in the adjoining family room. Toys were scattered about as Samantha read a poem about being thankful, Brooke busily colored decorations at the coffee table, and little Kayla sat nearby, babbling with delight. Casey watched the peaceful scene with a full heart; this was exactly the kind of holiday she had hoped for.

A short time later, Kayla’s sweet babbling stopped, and she waddled toward the kitchen with her dark curls bouncing and the look of joy that could only be found on a child’s face this time of year in place.  

“It’s Kiss-mas!” she announced triumphantly, beaming as she raised her arms in the air.

Samantha, who remained on the couch, rolled her eyes in true big-sister fashion. “It’s not Christmas, Kayla. Today’s Thanksgiving.”

Brooke looked up from her coloring, her brow slightly furrowed. Ever the peacemaker, she wanted to settle things quickly. “It is Thanksgiving,” she agreed. “But we can start celebrating Christmas today, too.”

Kayla’s tiny body appeared to tremble with glee. “Kiss-mas!”

Tobias scooped his youngest into his arms, pressing a kiss onto her chubby cheek. “You know what, sweetheart. We can start celebrating the Christmas season today.”

“Really?” Brooke gasped, her eyes wide. She had been trying to broker peace before but never imagined they’d get this lucky. “Does that mean we can put up the tree today?”

Casey joined the conversation, a soft smile on her lips. “We don’t have big plans,” she reminded Tobias. “Just us and the girls. So I think we could start decorating, don’t you?”

Tobias turned to her, Kayla wriggling happily in his arms. “I don't see why now. After dinner, we’ll make it happen. Tree, stockings, the works!”

“Yey!!!” Brooke squealed as she danced around the living room. Even Samantha couldn’t help but smile as Kayla happily declared, “It’s Kiss-mas!” once more.

Dinner Time

The house was filled with the aroma of roasting turkey. Samantha helped Tobias set the table, and Brooke and Casey were finishing up in the kitchen as Kayla chased the family cat, Pietro, all around the room. While Tobias and Casey were eager to dig into the delicious meal, the girls were more focused on the promise of Christmas decorating to come.

Samantha was the first to push her plate forward. “I’m done!” she announced with a broad grin.

“Done?” Tobias asked with a raised brow. “You barely touched your food, hon. You’ve gotta eat more than that.”

“Daddy’s right,” Brooke chimed in, clutching a dinner roll. “We need energy for decorating!”

Casey laughed softly, sharing an amused glance with Tobias. “We do need energy,” she agreed. “But there will be no decorating until after we have the pumpkin pie. That’s non-negotiable.”

Kayla sat tall in her high chair, clapping her hands. “Pie! Pie!” she giggled, pointing to the dessert on the counter.

“You can have pie, sweetie,” Casey promised. “As soon as you finish that turkey.”

Despite the older girl’s minds already being set on the tree, the meal was filled with tender moments, especially when they shared what they were most thankful for. Samantha had a long list prepared, covering everything from her family to her books and dolls. Brooke quickly added Mommy’s bedtime stories and Daddy’s pancakes as Tobias playfully whispered into his wife's ear, “Note, it’s not your food,” he laughed. Kayla’s contribution was a little less cohesive—“Cat! Turkey! Kiss-mas!” She yelled as Tobias grinned and told her that was a perfect list.

Decorating the Tree

The girls had barely cleared their plates before they asked their father to get the tree. Almost as eager as they were, he needed little prodding. He returned from the basement with plastic storage bins containing their decorations before Casey finished clearing the table. The girls squealed when he placed them next to the fireplace, where their stockings would soon hang.

Casey knelt beside one of the bins and pulled out their beloved angel tree topper, holding it up with a smile. “Remember this?” she asked Tobias, gently taking his hand. “We bought it our first Christmas together.”

“Before you had us?” Samantha asked, seemingly shocked that her parents had a life before she and her sisters entered it.

“Yep,” Tobias laughed. “Mommy and Daddy actually did things before you were all born, too, you know.”

“But I’m sure they weren’t as fun!” Brooke giggled as she pulled their stockings from another bin.

“Daddy, you have to start with the lights!” Samantha called out, already wrestling with a tangled string. Casey chuckled as Tobias groaned. She knew this was his least favorite part, but Samantha had already assigned the job to him.

The room quickly filled with laughter as holiday music played softly in the background. Brooke worked diligently on the lower branches while, with Tobias’s help, Samantha worked on the higher ones. Casey watched with a smile as she kept Kayla occupied, and they both kept Pietro away from the tree.

“Can we do the stockings next?” Brooke asked eagerly.

“Of course,” Tobias replied, then he helped Brooke hang them carefully along the mantle while Casey added the finishing touches to the tree.

With everything finally in place, they stepped back to admire their work - their faces aglow from the tree’s twinkling lights. It felt like magic. Tobias wrapped his arm around Casey, placing a kiss on her head. “This is perfection,” he whispered, and nearby, Kayla apparently agreed. “It’s Kiss-mas!” she yelled, bouncing up and down with delight.

The End of the Night

“What can we do next?” Samantha asked, hands on her hips.

Tobias exchanged a look with his exhausted wife. “I say we watch some Christmas movies,” he suggested, settling back into the couch.

“Can we have popcorn?” Brooke asked, though her tone left little room for negotiation.

“There’s no other way to do it,” Casey laughed, and as the girls piled onto the couch, Tobias joined her in the kitchen to make popcorn. With the quiet hum of the microwave filling the space, he slipped an arm around her waist, pulling her close.

“Do I tell you how thankful I am for you often enough?” he asked, his voice low and filled with emotion.

She tilted her head to meet his gaze, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “You tell me quite often,” she replied. “Do I do the same for you?”

“Yes,” he smirked. “But feel free to lay it on me more often. My ego isn’t as big as you think.”

Casey’s laughter filled the room as she gently smacked his chest. “Oh, please. Your ego couldn’t possibly get any bigger.”

They glanced into the living room, where the girls were snuggled under a blanket. Samantha and Brooke already bickering over what to watch first, while Kayla, nestled between them, looked completely unphased by the commotion.

“Our lives have sure changed since our first Thanksgiving together,” Casey said, leaning into Tobias’s chest.

He nodded, his voice full of reverence. “You can say that again, and they just keep getting better.”

“I love you,” she murmured.

“I love you too,” he replied, pressing a kiss to her temple before they carried the popcorn into the living room.

Settling onto the couch, Tobias announced, “All right! It’s Kayla’s turn to pick!” The toddler squealed, pointing at the screen. “Kiss-mas show!”

“Well, that narrows it down,” Casey laughed.

“Don’t worry, girls,” Tobias assured. “We’ll watch all of our favorites tonight.”

A gentle snow began to fall outside as Rudolph appeared on the television screen. Snuggled under the blanket with their daughters on their laps, Tobias and Casey’s hearts couldn’t have been more full. They shared a quick kiss before they turned back to the TV, basking in the glow of their tree and the simple joy of being together.

It was the perfect Thanksgiving, after all.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @openheartfanart

@choicesholidays New Traditions, Cuddling by the Fireplace @choicesmonthlychallengenov2024 thankful, television, pies, happiness

Tagging others separately.

[democratthatlovesguns]

How greed is the main factor driving inflation.

And why didn't the Biden administration rollback the tariffs that the Trump administration set in place, if it would have reduced inflation?

Okay so, unlike MAGA republicans, the Biden administration knows that it's important to listen to expert economists on topics in which they recognize they have a great deal of bias. And the Biden administration knows how to weigh the options available and determine what is best for everyone regardless of political party.

The truth is, removal of the Trump tariffs would only have improved inflation slightly and temporarily, but the cost of removal would possibly come at great risk to the American people. That is what the experts said, and their expertise was what Biden trusted in keeping the tariffs; it was not because they were the magic potion solution to a recovering economy that Trump would have you believe.

Biden's actions, of course, are in great contrast to Trump and let's state just one example, Obamacare. Trump was shown and told many times that repealing Obamacare would result in very negative outcomes for a lot of Americans. Did he give one fuck about that? NO. He tried multiple times to repeal the law completely, and replace it with "a concept of a plan."

Back to inflation.

In the last three years, late 2021 to present, many people saw themselves rethinking their careers and their choices in life - without taking money too much into consideration. Great news for opportunist assholes like Kevin O'Leary.

What happens when a large portion of the population decides to "reinvent" themselves? Usually it means they're willing to take a pay cut to obtain an entry level position in a career they always wanted or wanted to at least try OR it means that they take a leap and try to run their own business.

That's great news to owners and shareholders of large corporations: A large wave of entry level applicants to non-union jobs. Greed dictates, as Kevin O'Leary does, that you should fire the guy working forty-hour weeks and earning his living wage after twenty years of consistent quality work; greed says "fire that guy and hire two new guys at minimum wage and if you can, no overtime pay."

And the greed does not end there.

Using "inflation" as a pretext large corporations were able to drive down the price of labor across the supply chain. Look at how many owner operators in the trucking business went out of business ... Look at why Yellow Logistics went bankrupt - they could not pay the living wage "rate" that the union needed for it's workers. A surplus of available labor in the industry resulted in starvation wages, literally. Read some of the stories out there, there were truckers literally paying to take loads instead of earning from taking loads.

And it wasn't just the truckers, people in the background like freight brokers also took big hits "because ... inflation."

So what did assholes like Kevin O'Leary do to help consumers and small businesses?

Owners and shareholders were enjoying substantial savings in manufacturing labor, transport, retail workers, all granted because "inflation" and people became scared of losing their jobs. Did they pass on the savings to consumers? Sure, in the MAGA world with alternative facts (fiction) that's presumably what they did. In the real world, they jacked up prices ... "because ... inflation."

Small retail business didn't stand a chance either. Large retailers could always negotiate massive discounts on wholesale purchases that mom and pop shops could never leverage to compete with. Anybody starting a small retail business soon found it was better to go out out business than continue to lose money.

So corporate leaders enjoyed substantial savings across the board and continued to raise prices for consumers ...

AND THEN THEY REPORTED RECORD PROFITS! IN SOME INSTANCES, MANY TIMES THEIR WILDEST PROJECTIONS.

Look at the collusion in the meat industry and companies like Pepsi and Coca Cola if you need more details.

Yet, Elon is able to convince half of the American people that "big cuts" are necessary to reduce America's debt. He's certainly not going to cut money that gets funneled to his pockets, for sure. He is going to cut social security and Medicare because we all know how frivolously old people spend their money. I mean, I understand.

It's like Senator Ron Johnson said, "Senior citizens have misused social security and that's why I want it to sunset."

TBH, many a time, I have had to drive to the club ... the strip club ... to drag grandma out of there. She's in there all like "make it rain bitches" while tossing fitties and hundeds in the air and buying everyone round after round of cognac. Grandma is all like, "fitties for them titties"! And I'm all like, "Grandma you incorrigible lesbo! What about your insulin and your rent?!" [I can use the word lesbo because I have zero lesbian friends ... That's not my preference, I just have a "military look" and people make assumptions (not unfounded).]

Anyway, so what do they do when Kamala Harris states that safeguards against price gouging should be rolled out to help the American people, and that corporations should be taxed more to pay for social benefits like health care and education (that will never be paid through bullshit trickle down economics)? They send a complete dumbass anti-Semitic asshole like Mel Gibson to call Kamala Harris low IQ and stupid when it comes to economics.

To clarify, Kamala Harris understands economics much better than Mel Gibson ever will. She also understands greed and what it can drive innocent sounding people to do.

Yes, ideally, corporations would pay zero tax ... But in such an ideal world, everyone employed by the corporation from the janitor to the CEO would earn enough from a forty hour work week (not a one hundred hour work week as proposed by Elon) to afford housing, food, health care, transportation, and everyone would still have a little left over for a Sunday steak dinner with the family and a little entertainment. This ideal world will never come to be, not because it's impossible, but because greedy assholes like Elon don't believe workers "deserve" such an existence as lowly employees.

WE DON'T TAX CORPORATIONS TO BE ASSHOLES, WE TAX THEM BECAUSE WE WANT THEM TO PAY THEIR FAIR SHARE OF THE SOCIAL SERVICES THEIR WORKERS AND THEIR FAMILIES HAVE EARNED.

The people that will suffer the most under Elon's rule on government spending will be the children, the elderly, the mentally or physically disabled. When you cast your vote, have them in mind, and ask yourself how much should they suffer so that Trump, Elon, and their billionaire friends can grow their "ego" wealth.

[bearsbeetsbeskar]

Sheep Days with Joel (post outbreak)

Word count: 5.9k (im so sorry i genuinely can't believe I wrote this much about an old man taking care of livestock) Rating: swearing, descriptions of an animal birth (I tried to make it not too gross or explicit), traumatic animal birth, discussions of labour and stillbirths Summary: At Tommy and Ellie's insistence of him finding a routine, Joel is appointed as the sheep caretaker in Jackson. After all, sheep are quiet, and do what they're told. How hard could it be? A/N: this is purely self indulgent, peepaw playing with animals. No romantic interest or pairing, just wholesome father daughter interactions, along with some other characters. Something about the holidays made me think about that conversation that Joel and Ellie had over the fire, and his dream of owning a sheep ranch, and before I knew it 5k was written. If you have read all of this, please know that I love you so incredibly much and you make it worth it to keep writing these silly little stories that bring me so much joy. main masterlist

Life in Jackson had a way of moving at the speed of molasses, while also propelling itself further into the future at the speed of light.

Some days were syrupy and slow, thick with palpable moments of survival, tension and freedom. Memories of what life was like before the outbreak. Other days however felt like the course of an electric current, with glitches and shocks jumping from one event to another, one threat to another in the span of a few hours in a day. Attacks from raiders during ambushes in the early morning, a group of coordinated clickers just outside patrol borders when dusk set in.

Even just the day to day events in Jackson could make one feel that life seemed to pass by at a static, yet dynamic pace, regardless of what routine you had fallen into in the modest settlement.

Joel was still getting used to it. The staticity, as well as the dynamism. Life before Jackson was nomadic. Rootless. Constantly on the run.

Endure and survive. That’s all that really mattered at the end of the day. The words bore a penultimate weight akin to the wartime motivational phrase, ‘keep calm and carry on.’ 

Well, that’s all Joel knew how to do.

Carry on.

Not so much the keep calm part, but he was no stranger to putting his head down and pressing forward when things got tough. Carrying on also meant being strong for others. Something which Joel is constantly reminded that he need no longer do now that he and Ellie are in Jackson. Now that they are safe.

And there is no shortage of people who tell him the same, including Tommy and Maria, and even Ellie.

“You gotta find something to do, man,” Tommy sighed and crossed his arms, leaning into the doorframe of the kitchen. “Something to help you get into a routine y’know.”

Joel glared at his younger brother. “The hell d’you mean I gotta find something, Tommy? I already have a routine.” He scowled and shifted his jaw.

This is the 3rd or 4th time the subject has been brought up and Joel’s just about had it. He doesn’t get it. He does things. He does stuff around the commune. He goes on patrol shifts, helps with the woodworking and labour jobs. He goes to some of the community events, like game nights held at the dining hall or movie nights- even though it takes a good 30 minutes of Ellie’s begging for his resolve to crumble, and he grumbles throughout the entire movie. 

As if Tommy can read his mind, he responds. “Going on patrol doesn’t count as routine, Joel.”

Puffing out his chest and mirroring Tommy’s body language, Joel glares at his younger brother.

“And here we go again,” Ellie quips from her seat at the kitchen table.

There’s a smirk plastered across her face despite her gaze, focused intently on the weathered pages of an old astronomy book.

“You stay outta this.” 

Joel’s clipped tone brokers no room for negotiation, Ellie’s known him long enough to recognize that. But that doesn’t stop her from pushing him, just because she can.

“You stay outta this. Rah rah rah. I’m Joel and I hate everything.” She mocks his deep southern drawl with exaggeration, continuing to look down at her book. 

“Tommy’s right, Joel. Say whatever you want but you can’t just fill your days with the odd jobs around here. And going on patrol. And hanging with me.”

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Joel exhales, his nostrils flaring. “Ellie-”

“Look, dude,” she cuts him off, “I love you, but it wouldn’t kill you to find something else to do with your time. It’s not the end of the world. I mean, it is but c’mon. It’s like you’d rather get killed by a fucking clicker than step outside your comfort zone.”

At that, Tommy snorts and shakes his head. 

“It’d be a hell of a lot less painful than this conversation, that’s for fuckin’ sure.” Joel huffs and puts his hands on his hips. 

“There’s lots of other jobs in the commune that you could help out with. Jobs that you don’t even need skilled labour experience for.”

“Like what, Tommy? Teachers at the school? Volunteers for movie night?” His scowl deepens, as does the crease between Joel’s brows. 

“Like training newcomers on patrol shifts, working at the clothing shop, working with the livestock-”

“Livestock? What kinda livestock?” Perking up in her seat, Ellie pushes the book away and turns to face Tommy. 

“Just for the horses, chicken, sheep and pigs. Well, it’s really for the sheep ‘cause we came into a decent sized herd in the last couple months, and they’re a bit tricky to look after.” 

Tommy runs his hands through his raven curls and chuckles. “No one’s been able to quite figure them out yet, and they don’t trust Jake- the caretaker for the horses and pigs.”

“Sheep?” Ellie’s mouth gapes open, her bright mischievous eyes finding Joel’s.

“Joel. Sheep.”

Already knowing where the conversation was headed, Joel tips his head back and looks up at the ceiling. “Jesus fuckin’ Christ.” 

__________________________________________________

And that is precisely how Joel finds himself knocked on his ass, after getting headbutted by one of the older lambs, in an attempt to get their halter on and bring them into the barn.

“You little shit, get back here!” he barks at the young sheep as it trots away from him towards the food trough. 

Rubbing the right side of his jaw and grimacing, he sits back on his hands, looking at the rest of the herd a few feet away from him. “I’ve a right mind to tell them to serve lamb for the rest of the month at the dining hall. How’s that sound?”

A few sheep at the hay bale turn to look his way, chewing absentmindedly before ignoring him again.  It had been about ten days since Tommy enlisted Joel as the sheep caretaker, or as Ellie had so lovingly called him, Jackson’s resident shepherd, and Joel had to admit, the job wasn’t half of what he expected. 

It turns out sheep weren’t quiet, and they certainly didn’t do what they were told. Sheep were actually a pain in the ass to keep. A royal pain in the ass. Much different than cows and horses, despite being herd animals. 

Not to mention that they were creative, escape artists, always jumping over the fence of the pen or squeezing in between the slats of the fence. It was a regular occurrence to hear the phrase ‘loose sheep’ or ‘the sheep are out again’ being hollered across the main street, as a handful of them skittered across the main road, Joel out of breath as he jogged after them, the stitch in his side burning through his abdomen, while he knees ached incessantly.

His first week was spent just getting close enough to them so that he could tag their ears for the breeding records. Not that he could manage to even get a hand on any, especially the young lambs.  As soon as he got within 8 feet of the herd they would scurry away, kicking and bucking into the air, or run right past him, as he keeled over trying to catch them. Needless to say, Joel didn’t manage to avoid getting headbutted and kicked a handful of times during those days. 

Cursing, he dusted off his pants and leaned against the fence of the pen. 

“How’s it coming?” Tommy’s voice called out to him from the opposite end of the pen.

Narrowing his eyes in response, Joel hunched over to rest his hands on his knees.

“Easy my fuckin’ ass you liar. These little shits are demons.”

Stifling a chuckle, Tommy rests his arms over the fence and looks down. “Like I said, it takes some time to get to know ‘em. 

It was wrong to laugh at his brother’s misfortunes but he couldn’t help it as he watched Joel’s hulking figure tentatively approach the herd again before pausing as they all scattered around him.  

“S’that why you haven’t been able to recruit any other unfortunate souls for this torture?” Placing his hands on his hips, he shifts his weight from one leg, appraising the herd. 

“No,” Tommy huffs out an exhale, “most folks don’t have the time to commit or they don’t have an affinity for animals.”

He looks out at the horizon, scanning the snow covered peaks of the mountain range bordering the settlement, before his gaze returns to Joel. He smirks as that familiar scowl settles onto Joel’s face. 

“I do not have an affinity for animals.”

Snorting, Tommy looks down at his feet again, nudging the toe of his boot into the hardened ground. “Is that so? That why no one else has been able to ride Callus out on patrol?”

Joel grunts. “That’s different. I wasn’t taking care of him, I was only riding him cause everyone else had their designated mounts.”

Lying through his teeth was easier than admitting that Joel actually loved having a special bond with the chestnut gelding that seemed to hate everyone else. 

It took time.

Lots of hushed murmurs and praise for the gelding to learn to trust again. Not to mention that Joel seemed to have endless patience for the imposing gelding, never getting frustrated with him or upset when their progress seemed to regress. Plus, he had that quiet commanding authority that seemed to ease Callus’ nerves whenever he became frantic and anxious.

Before he knew it, Callus was following him around the paddock, poking his head out of his stall and nickering whenever Joel stepped foot in the barn. 

“Whatever you say, Joel. Whatever you say.” The younger Miller shook his head and stepped back from the fence. “I’ll let you get back to it, since you got your hands full,” Tommy squinted and peered around Joel’s figure, “or, rather, your pockets full, I should say.”

Before he can even glance behind him, Joel feels a harsh tug on his back pocket, stumbling backwards as one of the young lambs tears a shred of the bandana in his pocket.

“Oh, for fuck’s sake! Gimme that back you piece of-” he bellows as the lamb prances away with the scrap of faded red cloth in its mouth, echoes of Tommy’s laugh fading into the background as he walks away.

_____________________________________________

A couple months later …

It had been roughly over a month since Joel started taking care of the sheep. Their upkeep became somewhat easier as Joel figured out their quirks and tricks to working with them, but the real difference was that Joel did indeed fall into a routine with them. 

Everyday he got up before Ellie had to be up for school, and headed over to the barn to give them their morning feed. Then, he’d come home, eat breakfast, and walk Ellie to school, shortly before returning to clean their pen and stack hay bales in the barn loft. Sometimes he would even shear some of them when their coats became too thick. At the end of the day, he’d pick Ellie up from school and they’d have dinner together in the evening, then he would pop out again to feed them dinner and do a final night check before lights out. 

They were surprisingly curious creatures, and smart. While he would mill about his different chores, they would follow him as he walked around the outskirts of the pen. When he was cleaning up the pen, they would nudge the wheelbarrow, knocking it over in the process.

Eventually, they stopped running from him and would eagerly approach as he walked through the barn into the outside pen, carrying a heavy hay bale for their breakfast or dinner.

When he’d get lost in his aimless thoughts, or stuck on paralyzing flashbacks, a panic attack brewing under the surface, he’d feel a tug on his sleeve or the back of his jacket.

Pairs of deep brown eyes surrounded by a halo of soft cloud like wool would simply stare back at him. Calmly grounding him back to reality. Not that he encountered those very often. What was even more surprising to Joel was that he had panic attacks way less often these days, his brain seeming to allow him some rest and solace from its usual fight or flight status. Even Ellie and Tommy noticed too, with Ellie pointing out that he was ‘less of a grumpy motherfucker than usual.’

He never named them, though. He wouldn’t allow himself that liberty.

They were just animals. Creatures.

Creatures, who in the beginning were ‘little shits with crack for brains and body padding like the Michelin man,’ according to Joel. Soon, however, ‘little shits’ turned into ‘little devils,’ which eventually turned into ‘little buggers,’ with an affectionate lilt behind the nickname. 

It was Thursday today and the vet was coming by to look after the horses and give them their seasonal shots, along with the sheep, too. With temperatures dropping, the animals had to be prepared for the harsh onslaught of cold weather that was native to Jackson winters. Although the commune was prosperous and there was no shortage of food and supply, or need to ration, the animals were always of high concern. 

“How much are you feeding them nowadays?” Dr. Joyce, the local vet, asked as she placed her stethoscope to the belly of one of the mature ewe’s.

“‘Bout 25 pounds of hay a day, and 15-20 pounds of grain on top of that.”

She hummed contemplatively as she shifted the stethoscope knob throughout the mass of wool covering the sheeps’ belly. “That’s quite a bit considering the size of the herd you have here.”

She nods to the rest of the herd munching away at their breakfast in the pen.

Joel shrugs in response. “That’s what Jake was feeding them beforehand but he suggested I up it as we come into winter, to help ‘em keep weight on.”

“Well, he’s certainly not wrong.” She reaches into her kit to pull out a packaged syringe, ripping open the wrapping and flicking the end of the needle two times. Small droplets of liquid ricochet out as she pinches the skin of the ewe’s neck, not covered in wool, and gently inserts the syringe. 

“Is there anything else I should be doing? Or anything else I could do to help them more when winter hits?”

While Joel would admit that he still really has no idea what he’s doing taking care of these animals, it doesn’t mean that he won’t give his all in providing care to them. He’s come to realize he actually likes learning about the sheep, aspects of their care, behaviour and physiology. It scratches parts of his brain that were only really activated when he was contracting, woodworking, or other technical jobs. And he doesn’t half ass jobs, no matter the nature of them.

Dr. Joyce swiftly removes the needle within seconds, and smiles warmly at him. 

“Nothing in particular, Joel. You’ve done a great job taking care of these guys so far, I know they’re not easy to look after.”

At that he chuckles and shoves his hands in his pockets as he leans against the stall door. “You could say that. There’s been a deep learning curve with ‘em that’s for sure.”

She nods and opens the back stall door that leads out to the pen, the ewe trots out to return to the herd. “Well, like I said, you’ve done a good job so far. Aside from keeping up with shearing them, although you won’t have to worry about that too much come winter, they’re pretty low maintenance. Keep them on lots of hay throughout the winter, and give them more grain to supplement for the colder weather. And some of them may need more than others, especially the pregnant ones.”

He nods along, running through the mental checklist of things he’s already been doing to increase their food supply, when he looks up at the vet.

“Pregnant?”  His brows furrow and he frowns. 

“Oh boy. I guess Jake left that part out when you took over?” The vet chuckles again as she takes in the dazed look on his face and scans the herd briefly.

“You do have a couple pregnant ewe’s here, probably at least 3 or 4. But that one,” she points to a particularly large sheep under the shelter that’s lying down, unkempt wool and hay covering half her face. “That one, 1633, she’s the furthest along. Probably another week or two before she pops.”

“A week?” Joel repeats it, disbelief still laced in his tone. “Shit, I thought she was just really fat. And lazy.” He narrows his gaze at the ewe, tilting his head slightly as he takes in the obvious rising and falling of her midsection, her legs barely tucked underneath her. 

“Don’t worry, Joel, I know easier said than done,” she reassures him after clocking the worry etched into his features. “But sheep births are often fairly quick and easy, not as intense as horse or cow births due to their smaller size. I’ll be on call over the next week in case anything happens but just put more bedding in the stall here during the evenings for her, and keep her feed the same. She will handle the rest.”

Inhaling sharply, Joel nods, processing it all. She tells him what signs to look out for that indicate early labour, and gives him a brief list of things he can do to prepare, as well as supplies that could be helpful during the birth and afterwards. At least the doc will be there to help out so that he’s not completely on his own, despite being very out of his league. 

“Sounds good, doc, I’ll call ya if I notice any changes in her or when she does drop.”

“Please, do. And I’ll see if Jake can come in for an hour or two during your off hours in the event she does go into labour then.”

__________________________________________

Three days after Dr. Joyce’s visit, 1633 goes into labour. Nearly 10pm, just as the settlement tucks in for bed and night shift patrols begin. Dr. Joyce was busy with another animal emergency, of course. Just his luck. 

So, he recruits the next best thing, and gently wakes Ellie up after rushing back to the house after a night check. He hands Ellie the list of supplies that Dr. Joyce gave him and she blitzes throughout the house, gathering the different things in a box.

Of course, the curiosity, fear and excitement over an animal being born was not lost on his teenage daughter. She fired off a barrage of endless questions as she was right on his heels, following him throughout the house.

“Has her water broken? Is she in pain? What direction is the baby gonna be facing when it comes out? Did you call Dr. Joyce?” 

“You bleat more than the damn sheep these days, y’know that? C’mon just get that stuff together for me.”

Joel huffs as he grabs a bucket from under the kitchen sink, thinking of what else he could grab. It had to be the night when Tommy and Maria were both out on patrol as well, leaving just him and Ellie. 

God help him.

When they returned to the barn, the ewe was in the stall, lying on her side, bleating out her obvious discomfort. He quickly takes his thick jacket off, hanging it on a nearby post before stepping into the stall. 

“Alright, honey, alright, it’s okay.” The low murmurs of his voice only seem to agitate the ewe more, as she bleats repeatedly while he approaches and crouches down beside her. His eyes never leave the ewe’s body.

“Ellie, hand me a couple big towels.” She reaches into the box of supplies and hands him two fluffy towels, crouching down beside Joel slowly. The ewe continues to let out loud long bleating groans, huffing as her body starts preparing for labour and her water breaks with an audible slosh.

“Shit. Well, there goes her water.” He huffs, his mouth pressed into a straight line as he tries to peek and see any signs of a muzzle or cloven hooves coming out. 

Gagging and turning away slightly, Ellie groans.

“Ugh, okay that’s fucking gross!” 

He gives her a disapproving frown. “You’ve seen worse before, calm down.”

“A clicker brain and exploding guts is not nearly as gross as this. How are you not freaking out? 

Suddenly, the ewe lets out a long bleating groan again and thrashes her hind legs, in an attempt to get up frantically. 

“Shit. Whoa, whoa, whoa, mama. Easy there. Y’can’t get up just yet.” He hovers over the sheep and tries to coax her back on the ground.

“Ellie, come around here, help me keep her on her side.”

She shuffles around to Joel’s other side and buries her hand into the soft thick wool, gently pressing down. “Have you ever done this before?”

Joel grunts while he tries to contain its flailing legs, preventing the ewe from rolling over or getting up.

“Nope,” he strains. “I’ve seen one or two cow births, long time ago when I was growing up in Texas.”

“Shouldn’t be too different,” he says breathlessly, saying a silent prayer as he pulls the sheep away from kicking at the stone wall of the barn. “As long as she stays on the ground like this, she should be okay, she can’t get up or roll over though ‘cause it could hurt or suffocate the baby.”

“Okay, okay,” Ellie exhales shakily, wincing as the sheep bleats loudly.

“Hey,” he turns to gaze down at the teenager, his voice quiet but authoritative. “It’s gonna be okay, look at me.” Her dazed gaze snaps from the ewe up to meet Joel’s big brown eyes. Anxious. Focused. “It’s gonna be okay alright? She’s gonna be okay?”

Ellie nods her head, the hint of a smile tugs at the corner of her mouth as she looks down at the ewe again. “It’s okay, momma, you’re okay, just breathe.”

No later than 5 minutes after do a pair of hooves and a muzzle appear. Ten minutes of pushing after that, the tiny lamb is lying sprawled out on the ground, Joel rubbing the remnants of placenta off its body and face.

“Joel.” 

It’s barely above a whisper as Ellie hovers over the baby, crouched on the balls of her toes. 

“Joel. It’s - it’s not breathing.” 

She inhales sharply and leans her head over the mouth, trying to feel or hear for a puff of air. 

He’s silent for a moment, and leans back looking at the tiny body covered in bodily fluids, and realizes there’s no movement coming from the lifeless body. No rising of its stomach, and its eyes are barely opened.

All of a sudden the vastness of the chilly barn shrinks to the size of a shoebox. The air suffocating, as if all the oxygen was sucked out of it.

“Fuck. Fuck. Get me another towel.” 

Rushing over to the box of supplies, Ellie hands him a smaller towel, as Joel leans down and wipes at the lamb's eyes, and around its nostrils. He tries to open its mouth to see if there’s any fluid trapped there but he can’t see.

“Get the baster. Hurry.” His clipped tone betrays his panic as Ellie places their turkey baster in his hand. 

It’s a poor substitution for an actual proper bulb syringe that is used to remove mucus and fluid from newborns’ mouths. He opens the lamb's mouth and inserts the baster roughly, pressing down on the bulb, as murky liquid is drawn through the clear pipette. He squirts the remnants of the baster out onto the ground and reinserts it into the lambs mouth, drawing more mucus and crap out a few more times until it’s empty.

They both wait a beat, panting heavily to see any sign of life on the little sheep. 

“She’s still not breathing. Fuck.” Ellie’s voice trembles. “She’s not breathing, Joel!”

“Okay, go into the feedroom and fill up the hot water bottle with warm water okay? Warm water, not hot, I’ll try to swaddle it in more towels, get some heat going.”

Immediately, she races to the feedroom with the rubber water bottle. As Joel hears the water running in the background, he wraps the lamb in two big towels. The ewe is now up and pacing frantically around Joel, sensing something is wrong. 

“C’mon baby, c’mon,” he rubs the covered lamb firmly, pressing his palm down slightly against the ribs and chest of the baby and shaking slightly. Nothing though, no sounds, no movement.

The ewe is now crying and bleating repeatedly as she paces circles around Joel, wanting to get to her baby. “I know, momma, I know. I’m trying. Fucking hell.”

The edges of his restraint and control start to fray. His heart is racing, chest tightening under the crushing realization that the lamb is a stillborn.  He cradles the lamb, swaddled in a mountain of towels now, squeezing his eyes shut and holding the tiny limp weight against his body. 

Moments later Ellie reappears at his side, sinking to her knees with the water bottle in both hands, the sloshing sound of the water drowning out the ewe’s crying.

Joel opens the folds of towels up so that she can place the flimsy warm pouch over top of the lambs side. Wrapping it up like a burrito again, he holds it up against his chest as if he was holding a baby, firmly patting and rubbing the little lump in his arms. Ellie fruitlessly tries to calm down the mother ewe but it’s no use as she continues to trot circles around Joel, weaving back and forth and trying to nose the little lump in his arms. 

He places the swaddled lamb on the ground, into the cushioned nest of shavings and straw bedding. Hovering over it on all fours, he places his palm over the swaddle again, applying pressure to the lambs back and rubbing circles, while opening its mouth with his other hand. 

“C’mon, little one, c’mon. Gimme something, c’mon. Please.” Joel leans down, his lips pressing against the towel as he murmurs.  The sound of his warm, deep voice breaking is barely muffled by the damp fabric as he squeezes his eyes shut. Another set of warm, small, clammy hands overlap his, as Ellie kneels beside him.

They huddle together over the lamb for another minute or two, the soft swishing of straw and shavings strewn about as the ewe continues pacing is the only audibly sound. Her cries for help softened to brief bleating.

Ellie intertwines her fingers with Joel, squeezing tight as she let’s out a quiet sniffle.

Then, a muffled sound. The smallest hiccup. 

“Joel.” She whispers and squeezes his hand again.

“Joel, look.”

He raises his head slowly, holding his breath as he hears the small noise again, before he carefully unwraps the swaddled material.  He cautiously rubs the lambs back again, as they watch as its bleary eyes blink open, slowly but surely.  It raises its head ever so slightly, dazed, before letting out the smallest bleat.

Choking out the breath that he had been holding in, Joel rushes to wipe around the lamb’s eyes and mouth again.  “There she is. Hey little one,” he coos at the small animal, afraid to speak above a hushed tone.

“Holy shit.” Ellie huffs in disbelief with tears in her eyes. “Dude, you fucking did it! Oh my god, look at her!”

She clutches the sleeve of Joel’s shirt, exhilarated and bouncing with adrenaline. “Do you think it’s a girl?”

Smiling to himself, he shakes his head, “not sure, but it doesn’t matter, s’long as it’s healthy. Right, little one?”  He slowly strokes the lamb as it starts bleating with more fervor, when he feels a bigger muzzle shoving his hand out of the way .

“There ya go momma, there she is.” 

He gets up, ignoring the groaning protest from his knees and steps back so that the ewe can see her baby, gesturing for Ellie to follow. 

“Here, Let’s give ‘em some space to breathe. Go grab the space heater and we’ll get ‘em nice and warm.”

Shooting to her feet, she scurries back to the supply room to retrieve the heater. Joel sits back against one of the stall walls, his head tipping back till it hits the wooden slats with a dull thunk as he takes the deepest breath he’s taken all day. The adrenaline is still coursing through his veins but he feels fucking exhausted all the same. Defeated but elated, he watches the mom lick and nudge the little lamb, before a voice rings out from behind him.

“Well, well, well, looks like we got a full house in here tonight!”

Joel turns to see Dr. Joyce striding through the aisle, a bright twinkle in her eye as she stops in front of the large stall, already stretching a pair of latex gloves over her hands. 

The corners of his mouth pull up into a small smile as he nods in her direction. “Hey doc, how’s it going?”

“I should be the one asking you that,” she chuckles with warmth, shimmying around the stall door slowly. “You’ve had quite the night from what I can tell. I saw the lights on at this hour and I could only assume it had finally happened.”

Snorting, he crosses his arms over his chest. “That’s one way of putting it.” He nods his chin as Ellie returns with the space heater in hand, “couldn’t have done it without this one’s help of course.” 

Ellie grins and hands the space heater to Joel. “If I’m being honest, it was probably one of the coolest and scariest things I’ve ever seen in my life. Especially when she wasn’t breathing. But it was all Joel, really. He brought her back, I just tried not to get in his way.” 

Rounding Joel’s other side, Dr. Joyce crosses the stall and crouches down and pulls out her stethoscope, winking at Ellie. “Is that so? Do I sense a future vet tech assistant that can help me with house calls?”

“Shit. Are you serious?” The teenager’s eyes nearly bug out of her head as a massive smile stretches across her face. “That would be fucking awesome!”

Joel doesn’t even have the energy to reprimand her for swearing, his mind and body drained as he snorts and shakes his head.

“Hey! Is there room for two more at this welcoming party?!” Another booming voice echoes throughout the large stone barn, similar in its Southern drawl to Joel’s but not as deep. 

Tommy and Maria round the corner with huge smiles, still in their riding clothes, fresh off the night patrol. 

“Just so long as y’all can keep quiet.” Joel grumbles, still sat leaning against the stall wall with his arms crossed, legs kicked out from underneath him. He looks over at the scene in front of him, warmth etched into his features as he watches Dr. Joyce check the lambs vitals while the ewe finally starts to munch on hay again.

“We couldn’t believe it, we had to come right away. Hell, I had half a mind to cut the patrol short when we found out.” Maria nods at Joel with a smirk. She glances over to the little sheep who has started to stand on all fours and nurse from its mom, wobbling on its nimble legs. 

“What’s the verdict Dr. Joyce?” Tommy sidles over to Joel, crouching down beside him and grinning. “All working organs? All ten fingers and ten toes?”

Joel sighs gruffly. “They’re hooves, not toes, genius. Jeez, you sure you’re expecting soon?”

Maria only smirks in response as Tommy mumbles and shoves his older brother in response. 

“Everything’s in order Joel, don’t worry.” Dr. Joyce smiles, taking one ear bud out of her ear as she continues to check the lambs pulse. “Her oxygen levels seem good, despite the rocky start and her lungs are clear of fluids, and she’s warm. You couldn’t have done a better job, really, you should be proud of yourself.”

He tries to hide his beaming smile he really does, but Joel grins. His bright eyes crinkle and his dimple pokes through his right cheek. “Thanks doc. I appreciate ya comin’ over here as soon as you could.”

“Her?” Ellie’s eyes widen as she clasps her hands together. “So it is a girl?!”

“Yup, definitely a girl.”

“Think she deserves a name, don’t you?” Tommy nudges Joel in the arm again.

Joel’s smile falters immediately. He shakes his head and looks down. “No. I don’t name ‘em, besides it’ll only be a couple of days before she’s gotta get tagged and registered in the breeding books too.”

“Oh come on Joel, please? She deserves one. After everything she’s been through…” Ellie’s voice trails off. 

Everything they had been through. She doesn’t need to say it for him to know. 

When she doesn’t keep going he looks up at her. Her eyes pleading, welling up with fragments of the pain and haunted memories that they endured over the last year.

He looks at Tommy and Maria, his eyes then falling on Dr. Joyce as she tends to the lamb. 

“Ellie’s right Joel. I know y’all don’t normally give them names, especially the young ones, but given the circumstances, this little lady oughta have a name.” The vets eyes are soft as she gives Joel a sympathetic smile. 

He’s silent for a moment, shifting his jaw. His gaze drops to the tiny lamb, white as snow, now that she’s been towel dried and cleaned, listening to her tiny bleats as she headbuts her mom for more milk. Instantly, his gaze softens, his big eyes rounding at the newborn.

New life. 

A breath of fresh air into the looming hollowness of the barn. A pulse. An electric current, melding into a comfortable, viscous, energy as Jackson’s population, well four-legged population, increases for another day. 

Sighing, he tilts his head in adoration. Filtering through the vestiges of his memory, he thinks back to the conversation that prompted this whole sheep herding fiasco. Him, Ellie, their tiny fire amongst the vast expanse of snow covered country, with nothing but the moon overhead. The comforting solace provided by its glowing illumination, letting them know they weren’t alone in their travels. 

“Well, she is a bright light, figuratively and literally,” he peeks his head out of the stall to find the moon, beaming down on the tiny settlement, before glancing down at the lamb again. 

“How does Luna sound?”

In that moment, the lamb trots over to Joel on its spindly legs, getting braver by the minutes after its birth. She bleats in his face loudly and headbutts his arm affectionately before circling back to her mom, stumbling over herself in the process.

“Well I’ll be damned, I think she likes it.” Tommy chuckles as Maria comes to stand beside him. 

Ellie snuggles up to Joel, her eyes starting to close as the evening's events catch up to her.  “It’s perfect,” she yawns and nuzzles into his broad shoulder, “our little Luna.”

Luna approaches Joel with more curiosity again, as he stretches his hand out towards her, letting her sniff and lick him. 

Despite everything that happened, the chaos, the panic, and near crisis with his first lamb birth, for the first time in a while, Joel feels whole. Fulfilled. Right where he's supposed to be, in this new world, this new life.

Rooted.

A lopsided smile stretches across his face, as his dimple pokes through his cheek. “Yeah, I suppose it is. Our little light, Luna.”

[darkside-writing]

Hashirama giving Madara his sister for peace:

Warnings: 18+ only, everyone is above 18, non-con themes, Incestuous relationship, grooming/predatory behavior, gang r*ape scenario, mentions of blood, forced impregnation, Female reader, dark content, do not like - do not read!

During the warring states period, negotiations for peace between the Uchiha and Senju were quickly deteriorating after the recent death of Izuna. The Uchiha demanded revenge for the brother of their leader, yet the loss of life and drastic drop in birth rates due to war has endangered the prestigious clan to becoming near extinct. With fertile women diminishing and the survival of the Uchiha doomed to almost certain death, the Senju would offer a treaty of peace brokered by Hashirama in order to preserve both clans. The contract would offer Hashirama’s own blood, his youngest sister, as a token for peace between the feuding clans. The contract would state that once the Senju woman was impregnated with the seed of an Uchiha then the two clans would be bonded by blood to bring peace. Hashirama offering his own sister to Madara would be the ultimate sign of trust and satisfies the Uchiha hunger for revenge of Izuna’s death. However, while Hashirama proposed this idea and the Elders approved of the contract - the Senju brothers still do not want their youngest and only sister to be used as a catalyst for retribution. It would be arranged that Hashirama will observe the rape of his sister in order to ensure her safety and the completion of the ceremony. After the ceremony, she will not be allowed back into her brothers home and must birth the new generation of Uchiha and Senju blooded children to ensure peace.

The partnership was celebrated by the newly formed Konoha and those who praised the transaction between the Uchiha and Senju. The ceremony of exchanging the bride from Hashirama to Madara would be widely celebrated with feasts planned in accordance. Everyone is already asking when the breeding will take place so that Madara’s virile seed will soon be planted in the bride’s fertile womb to ensure a successful pregnancy. The entire success of the peace treaty relies on the breeding of Hashirama’s sister. Weeks beforehand the young bride would be given fertility drugs in her tea and lavish foods in attempt to make her plump for carrying children. During the ceremony, people are praising the bride for taking on the honor to birth the mixed blood of Senju and Uchiha. While everyone pampers the young bride, exchanged words between Hashirama and Madara are whispered behind her back. Once the Elders declare the ceremony almost finished, it would be time to sweep up the young girl and take her to a reclusive area that was prepared in advance for the breeding. Hashirama comes along with his sister, cooing into her ear words of encouragement that everything will be okay. He would be lying if he did not admit that this entire ceremony has made him aroused - deep down wanting to be the one to impregnate the youngest Senju girl. Since an early age, Hashirama has desired his sister - even planning to marry her had the treaty not existed. However, he is willing to share his sister with his childhood friend for the sake of Konoha. Madara, on the other hand, has been eager to breed the girl since meeting her for the first time as children. His cock swells and balls ache at the thought of soon making her into his little housewife. She is the perfect wife - submissive, beautiful and trained since birth to be a homemaker.

The anticipation of spearing the young bride on his cock has Madara acting swiftly. His hands tear her silk kimono into tresses as his crimson eyes eagerly drink in the sight of the mousy girl. Hashirama has resigned himself to a chair in the corner of the room to observe the scene, his eyes never straying away from his baby sister. The observance of her assault is essential in order to ensure she is properly bred. The poor girl is unsure of what to do but luckily with her big brother in the room to orchestrate. She easily follows his orders and allows Madara to push her onto the plush bed. Being the youngest Senju sibling has led to years of Hashirama checking his sisters small pussy for signs of assault. Easily the Uchiha spreads her satin soft thighs apart, sucking in a breath at the sight of her swollen pussy and untouched hymen just waiting to be ruined. Hashirama, on the other hand, is practicing self restraint at the sight before him. His best friend about to devour his sister, one of his darkest fantasies about to come alive. Madara does not like noisy women and demands she keep her bubbling cries and whimpers to a minimum, now is the time to breed only. Without any preparation from the Uchiha, he takes his erect cock in hand and pushes his tip against her virginal hole. The wail from the young girl as her hole is violated causes Hashirama to pull out his fully erect cock and stroke himself to the rhythm of Madara’s thrusts. His mind is reeling and emotions seething at his young precious sister being raped by his best friend, but he can’t stop fucking his own fist. Madara is no better, his cock is being constricted like a vice and virginal blood coats his dick as he cruelly takes his new bride. The purpose is to breed, her pleasure is not important. However, Hashirama can no longer be the third wheel in this important ceremony. He rises from his seat and makes way to his poor, dear sister. Her face is coated in tears and lips trembling as she begs for help from her older brother. It almost breaks his heart at the sight of his sister begging for nii-chan’s help, but he knows this is necessary. With words of love spilling from Hashirama, he points his cock towards her trembling lips to ask for entrance. The poor bride is completely devastated that her older brother, once her protector, is now forcing his cock inside her cheeks and into her throat.

Madara is almost perplexed at the sight of Hashirama throat fucking his own younger sister, but he can’t deny that it makes his cock throb at the sight. Hashirama is begging for his sisters forgiveness as he fucks into her throat without self restraint. With the visual of his new bride’s mouth being assaulted, Madara pushes her thighs closely to her chest in a mating press. He needs to cum quickly in order to impregnate her before Hashirama changes his mind. Sounds of quiet sobs and glucking on cock resonates inside the room as the poor bride is pushed and pulled between the two men she once felt safe with. The older men look at each other as they reach their end quickly, a silent threat and promise to each other. Without restraint Madara empties his load into the broken bride, Hashirama quickly following by bestowing his own cum into her throat straight to her belly. The ceremony is complete with no chances of the young girl not being pregnant. With gentle kisses from Hashirama, he praises his sister for allowing him to love her in this way and claims he is proud of her. Madara cuts the loving moment short by carrying his new bride home where he plans to shape her into becoming his perfect little housewife. Soon enough the young wife will be heavily pregnant with the blood of Uchiha and Senju mixing together to create a new generation of strong shinobi. It would be no surprise that the pregnancy would be extremely successful, Senju women being known for their fertility. Hashirama wonders if it would be so bad if he impregnated his sister as well.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Riley Rogerson at NOTUS:

Ever since November, when Republicans swept both chambers of Congress and the White House, GOP lawmakers have been bullish about making the most of what they see as a clear mandate to reinvent Washington. But as Republicans try to shake off a close call with a government shutdown and prepare for Donald Trump’s first 100 days, lawmakers are starting to grapple with a simple reality: They may not be able to do much of anything. “They can’t even extend government funding,” a frustrated Sen. Josh Hawley told NOTUS in December, as the House GOP nearly imploded over a stopgap spending bill. “They’re going to do this all over again in March. There’s a debt ceiling fight coming up,” he said. “Good luck.”

Before Trump even takes office on Jan. 20, House Republicans must elect a speaker — a delicate, historically difficult task given the mutiny currently on Mike Johnson’s hands. Republicans then had to agree to a rules package, which was released on Wednesday. Those rules are rife with potential trip wires, like the nine members required to hold a vote to oust a speaker, and are already under negotiation as Johnson tries to secure the votes he needs for the speakership. These two items — electing a speaker and adopting a rules package — are supposed to be the easy part. They are more often perfunctory votes than hurdles for a new majority to clear. But in this Congress, the first day is just where the problems start. In Trump’s first 100 days, the Senate will attempt to confirm his cabinet — including controversial picks like Pete Hegseth, Tulsi Gabbard and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Then, leadership in both chambers intends to take up a sweeping package that addresses border security, energy production and defense via a complicated reconciliation process that lowers the Senate vote threshold to circumvent the filibuster. Or maybe Republicans plan to first do a tax bill through reconciliation. Or maybe they plan to do just one reconciliation bill for the whole lot. There hasn’t been clarity on the plan, but there’s already a lot of debate.

Either way, some of Trump’s 2017 tax cuts for individual rates and small businesses expire at the end of 2025. Republicans will have to act if they want to extend those rates, and many GOP lawmakers think of the tax bill as their lone opportunity to enact other tax policy changes. Throughout those early days, Republicans and Democrats will also be negotiating a larger spending package to carry the government through the rest of the fiscal year, until October. Government funding runs out on March 15, and Republicans have not passed a government spending bill without Democratic support since 2017. But there are already signs that Trump and Republicans plan to push for partisan policies, like a border wall and reduced domestic spending, that could lead to a shutdown in the president’s first 100 days.

Republicans offered a glimpse of their partisan priorities in their rules package, which lays the foundation for a floor vote on 12 much anticipated, conservative bills. Those bills would define sex as solely based on “reproductive biology” for Title IX purposes, impose stricter criminal penalties on migrants who illegally cross the border, restrict federal funding to sanctuary cities and prohibit a moratorium on fracking. Among the other measures are bills to mandate medical care for fetuses that survive abortion, sanctions for the International Criminal Court after the ICC was critical of Israel and proof of citizenship voter requirements. Of course, all of this is just the beginning. At some point this summer, Congress must also raise the debt ceiling. Due to a “handshake agreement” brokered between Johnson, Trump and House conservatives, the plan is to pair a $1.5 trillion debt ceiling increase with $2.5 trillion in mandatory spending cuts that target programs like Medicare, Medicaid and veterans benefits.

Such a feat, which would almost certainly have to be passed by Republicans alone, is unlikely to happen, but the discussions could be politically damaging. Plus, after extending the farm bill for one year, Republicans still have to deal with a rewrite of that legislation before the end of the year. If this all sounds difficult to accomplish with a bare-bones majority, that’s because it is.

[...] There is a certain miracle-working required to get Republicans to play nice, especially with a razor-thin House majority where lawmakers are regularly plotting to knife their own speaker. It’s true that, in the Senate, Republicans control 53 votes. That gives the upper chamber some wiggle room. But the Senate GOP will need near-total alignment to confirm certain Trump nominees and pass laws. That’s particularly tough with moderate Trump critics like Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins. Both have signaled they don’t plan to rubber-stamp the incoming president’s nominees or agenda. Still, even if laws advance in Majority Leader John Thune’s Senate, they must fly in the House, where the margins are even narrower and the conference is more unruly. Senators and Trump allies know that, even without a filibuster, the House is the toughest roadblock to the GOP’s agenda on Capitol Hill.

The House GOP’s nominal threadbare majority could be a big roadblock to implement Donald Trump’s vision this session of Congress.

[monsterkong]

Unlocking Real Estate Deals in December 🎄📊

Winter may seem like an odd time to buy real estate, but savvy buyers know it’s the season for major savings. 🌨️ While others are focused on holiday parties and shopping sprees, you could be securing your dream home for less. Let’s dive into why December is a goldmine for real estate deals.

Motivated Sellers: Your Key to Savings

Houses on the market during the holidays often belong to motivated sellers. 🎅 Whether it’s due to job relocations, financial pressure, or simply wanting to wrap up before year-end, these sellers are ready to deal. This means fewer bidding wars and more opportunities to negotiate price reductions or seller credits.

Case Study: The Sacramento Win

Let me share a real-life example that underscores winter’s potential. A home in Sacramento started at $745,000. After two price drops, my client purchased it for $615,000—an incredible $130,000 reduction. But the cherry on top? $155,000 in seller credits, which bought down their interest rate and reduced monthly payments significantly. 🤯

Deals like this are rare in spring or summer, when sellers are confident and buyers are plentiful.

Seller Credits: The Hidden Advantage

Why aim solely for price cuts when you can negotiate seller credits? 💵 These credits can cover closing costs, reduce your loan principal, or buy down your interest rate. It’s like finding an extra gift under the tree! 🎄

For instance, if you’re eyeing a $600,000 home, asking for $15,000 in credits can save you more than simply lowering the purchase price to $585,000. With the right mortgage strategy, you can create a win-win situation.

Don’t Wait for Lower Rates

It’s tempting to delay buying in hopes of lower interest rates. But consider this: when rates drop, competition increases. More buyers enter the market, driving up home prices and reducing your negotiating power. 🔄 By acting now, you can capitalize on today’s favorable conditions.

Preparation Is Everything

Don’t let a lack of preparation cost you a deal. Pre-approval ensures you’re ready to act when you find the perfect property. 🛠️ Start gathering your financial documents and work with a trusted mortgage broker. Need help? Visit GreatMortgageBroker.com to connect with experts who can guide you through the process. 🌟

Winter Wisdom for Buyers

If you’re willing to shop for homes in December, you could score deals that others miss. Sellers listing between Thanksgiving and Christmas are often eager to close. Their motivation, combined with fewer competing buyers, creates a perfect storm for savings. 💨

Final Words: Take the Leap

Winter is where real estate dreams come true—for those bold enough to act. Start your journey today, and let the season of giving bring you the home of your dreams. 🏠✨

[buyresidentialpropertiesindubai]

Top Tips for Choosing the Best Mortgage Broker in Dubai

Securing a home loan in Dubai can be a complex process, and choosing the right mortgage broker can make all the difference. This guide provides top tips for selecting the best mortgage broker to help you navigate the home loan process in Dubai.

Importance of a Mortgage Broker

A mortgage broker acts as a bridge between borrowers and lenders, helping you find the best mortgage deals and guiding you through the application process. Here are some benefits of using a mortgage broker:

Expert Knowledge: Brokers have extensive knowledge of the mortgage market.

Access to Multiple Lenders: They work with multiple lenders, giving you more options.

Personalized Service: Brokers offer services tailored to your financial situation and needs.

Time Savings: They handle the paperwork and negotiations, saving you time and effort.

For more information on home loans, visit home loan dubai.

Steps to Choosing the Best Mortgage Broker

Research and Recommendations: Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues. Check online reviews and testimonials.

Verify Credentials: Ensure the broker is licensed and regulated by the relevant authorities in Dubai.

Interview Multiple Brokers: Speak with several brokers to compare their services, fees, and expertise.

Evaluate Experience: Choose a broker with a proven track record and extensive experience in the Dubai mortgage market.

Understand Fees: Clarify the broker's fee structure and ensure there are no hidden costs.

For property purchase options, explore Buy Houses in Dubai.

Questions to Ask Potential Brokers

What types of mortgages do you offer?

Which lenders do you work with?

What is your fee structure?

Can you provide references from previous clients?

How will you help me find the best mortgage deal?

For expert mortgage advice, consider Mortgage Broker UAE.

Benefits of Using a Mortgage Broker

Access to Exclusive Deals: Brokers often have access to deals that are not available to the general public.

Expert Negotiation: They can negotiate better terms and rates with lenders.

Stress Reduction: Brokers handle the complex paperwork and administrative tasks, reducing your stress.

Comprehensive Financial Advice: They provide valuable financial advice, helping you make informed decisions.

For rental options, visit Apartments For Rent in Dubai.

Real-Life Success Story

Consider the case of Sarah, a first-time homebuyer in Dubai. With the help of a mortgage broker, she secured a favorable mortgage rate and purchased her dream home. The broker's expertise and negotiation skills saved her time and money, making the home-buying process smooth and stress-free.

For selling your apartments, visit Sell Your Apartments in Dubai.

Conclusion

Choosing the best mortgage broker in Dubai requires careful research and evaluation. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can find a broker who will provide expert advice, access to the best mortgage deals, and personalized service. For more resources and expert advice, visit home loan dubai.

[mariacallous]

Amid rising expectations of a negotiated end to Russia’s war in Ukraine, Russian President Vladmir Putin declared last week that “nothing has changed.” He reiterated his maximalist demands for a peace deal: Ukraine must cede additional territories to Russia, abandon all hope of joining NATO, demilitarize, and “denazify”—Kremlin code for replacing the current government. These demands, which are unacceptable to Kyiv, suggest that Putin is confident that the war is trending in his favor.

If U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is to succeed in brokering a peace deal, he must change Putin’s perspective that he has the upper hand, or Trump’s diplomacy will backfire. To go into talks with a strong hand, Trump will need to bolster U.S. and Ukrainian leverage. And he must do so quickly, without the torturous delays and self-imposed red lines that have characterized President Joe Biden’s support for Ukraine over the last three years. The Trump administration should therefore formulate a maximum pressure campaign to convince Moscow to accept a good and lasting peace deal. By keeping his promise to restore “peace through strength,” Trump can give himself the best possible chance of stopping the bloodshed for good.

Any diplomatic effort will have to confront some unfortunate facts. First, Putin’s ambitions extend far beyond seizing a few Ukrainian provinces and their populations. For decades, he has fought to keep Ukraine within Russia’s sphere of influence and rewrite the broader security order in Europe. No matter how the current war ends, those ambitions will persist as long as Putin remains in power—and likely well afterward, given Russia’s entrenched imperial traditions.

Second, Ukrainian forces are on the back foot, struggling to hold their lines amid shortages of manpower and materiel. While the Russian military and economy have their share of problems, Kyiv’s war effort is on a more alarming trajectory. Ukraine’s mobilization rate has dropped, while too many newly mobilized troops are suffering casualties or going AWOL, largely due to insufficient training. Moscow’s forces continue to receive more artillery shells from Russian industry and North Korea than Kyiv gets from the West, while Russia’s air force is pounding Ukrainian positions and towns with well over 100 glide bombs per day.

Consequently, Russia’s rate of advance, though still incremental, has accelerated each month since June. Russian missile and drone strikes have decimated Ukrainian electricity production as winter approaches. As long as Kyiv cannot adequately defend against or deter attacks on its critical infrastructure, Russia can continue to squeeze Ukraine’s economy and scare off Western investment in reconstruction.

Putin likely sees the West’s growing interest in peace talks as a sign that its resolve is slipping, further incentivizing him to make maximalist demands. Although the Kremlin says it’s open to peace talks, the terms Putin has put forward would amount to Ukrainian capitulation. In addition to a formal ban on Ukrainian accession to NATO, he will likely insist on further concessions, including limits on the size of Ukraine’s military.

These terms would leave Ukraine highly vulnerable to future Russian aggression, inviting another invasion after a period of rearmament. For Washington, attempting to coerce Kyiv into accepting such a deal would be foolish—not least because China will be watching. If Putin is permitted to dictate terms to Kyiv, Beijing might feel more inclined to use military force against Taiwan or other neighbors.

Campaign rhetoric and comments from some of his advisors aside, Trump has not signaled any intention of abandoning Ukraine. In fact, many officials in Kyiv appear ready to roll the dice with Trump amid deep frustration with Biden.

The challenge for Ukraine and its Western partners is finding a way to turn the tables so that they’re negotiating from a position of strength. That means stabilizing the front. While the West cannot dictate a solution to Ukraine’s mobilization issue, it can step up military aid. Kyiv needs more equipment and a steady supply of munitions to replace losses, kit out new units, defend its cities and critical infrastructure, and holds its lines. When units are under-resourced, the infantry must shoulder a greater burden, leading to higher casualties.

Upon taking office, Trump should quickly begin tapping whatever remains of Biden’s congressionally allocated drawdown authority, which allows Washington to donate weapons from existing U.S. stocks. The new administration should also obligate any remaining funds under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which allows the U.S. government to provide Ukraine with new materiel procured from industry. The goal should be to surge supplies of artillery ammunition, anti-tank weapons, armored fighting vehicles, and other aid to alleviate the burden on Ukraine’s exhausted infantry.

At the same time, Trump must ensure U.S. assistance—and thus his and Kyiv’s leverage—does not have an expiration date. He should immediately lobby the U.S. Congress to pass a large Ukraine leverage package—but with much of the aid structured as a loan, similar to the Lend-Lease Act during World War II. He should firmly demand that European allies match or exceed this sum. In addition, Trump should publicly commit to fulfilling the U.S.-Ukraine security agreement struck last June, in which Washington promised to provide Kyiv with military and other aid for at least 10 years; similar agreements were struck with other Western countries. The new administration should also support the bipartisan congressional initiative to codify that agreement into law. By signaling to Putin that U.S. resolve will not waver, the United States can encourage Russia to negotiate on reasonable terms.

Furthermore, Trump should enable Ukraine to take full advantage of Biden’s belated decision to loosen restrictions on Ukrainian strikes in Russia with U.S.-provided missiles. Although U.S. dithering caused Ukraine to miss the moment when these strikes could have achieved maximum operational effect, they can still benefit Kyiv on the battlefield and at the negotiating table. However, Ukraine will need more missiles, a coherent plan for their use, and timely targeting data from the United States.

Whereas the U.S. Defense Department claims it is running out of spare ATACMS missiles to send to Ukraine, Trump and Congress would do well to press the Pentagon on whether it truly still needs its hundreds of older ATACMS that are past their service life. In addition, although the U.S. military isn’t procuring ATACMS anymore, they remain in production at Lockheed Martin, slated for export to other countries. The Trump administration could place a large order for Ukraine and bump it to the top of the list, as Washington has done for some other weapons. Biden has refused to do this for ATACMS, so this would be another pressure tactic for Trump to deploy.

Nor are ATACMS the only option. Washington has considered providing Ukraine with Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM), which can be employed from Ukraine’s F-16 aircraft or integrated with its Soviet-made fighters. These missiles have a longer range than ATACMS and are available in greater quantity. Trump could also press Germany to give Ukraine Taurus missiles.

What’s more, the incoming administration should consider dropping the remaining restrictions on where and what Ukraine is permitted to strike. U.S. timidity has hamstrung Ukraine’s war effort for far too long. In particular, intensifying the threat to Russian energy infrastructure would give Trump and Kyiv more leverage to secure a deal. Even if Western governments balk at letting Ukraine use missiles directly against Russian energy infrastructure, Ukraine should be allowed to strike air defense systems anywhere in Russia. Degrading Russian air defenses could improve Ukraine’s success rate when using its own drones to strike Russian energy infrastructure.

To maximize pressure on Putin, Trump should also take the fight to Russia’s economy. Earnings from energy exports, the backbone of Russia’s state budget, should be the primary target. The harder it is for Moscow to keep its economy afloat and fund its war effort, the more likely the Kremlin will be to accept a fair deal. Even before Trump takes office, his team could announce its intention to drive down oil prices—likely involving an agreement with Saudi Arabia, which has substantial idle crude production.

In addition, the United States should expand its use of secondary sanctions to bar Russia from evading the G-7 oil price cap. This mechanism imposes a price ceiling for Russian oil exports that use Western services such as insurance and shipping. But Russia has been able to use non-Western services, including a so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers, for much of its oil exports. Washington has sanctioned only a fraction of these shadow tankers. Imposing secondary sanctions against the rest of the shadow fleet—which would make it risky for any port to receive these ships, for example—could make it harder for Russia to elude the price-cap regime. The G-7 should simultaneously lower the price cap—currently at $60 per barrel—to squeeze Russian earnings.

The Ukrainians know they need leverage to persuade the Kremlin to negotiate on acceptable terms. This is the crux of the victory plan recently unveiled by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. But for Kyiv to gain that leverage, its Western partners must step up—including the United States.

As the co-author of The Art of the Deal, Trump knows that one negotiates best from a position of strength. If Trump wants a good deal to end the war in Ukraine, he should seize the opportunity to maximize pressure on Russia.

[ahb-writes]

Comics Review: 'The Grand Odalisque' & 'Olympia'

The Grand Odalisque & Olympia by Bastien Vivès, Florent Ruppert, Jérôme Mulot

anthology

burglary

European comics

thief

My Rating: 2 of 5 stars

Carole is the experienced thief; she's a skilled planner and knows precisely how to take control of the room. Sam is the muscle; she's practical, rides motorcycles for stunt work, and is good at pretending she isn't nervous. Alex is an irrepressible idiot. Insisting these three women broach some semblance of camaraderie to steal a few massive paintings from Paris' most respected art institutions is a difficult ask.

The Grand Odalisque and Olympia are an impatient gamble. These graphic novels feature art that teases beautiful colors and a remarkable architectural design aesthetic. The book also wields deliberately formless character art with washed-out facial expressions, which leaves readers with a plethora of continuity errors, awkward exchanges, and unintentional comedy. The graphic novels feed a duplicitous cycle of characters consistently bailing one another out of their own messes. Carole, Sam, and Alex comprise a fun but frustrating, exciting but chaotic cocktail of marginally plausible art thievery.

Stealing giant paintings from famous French galleries is all fun and games until your inexhaustibly simpleminded partner forgets her cue. Plundering the wealthy under the guise of party shenanigans is a daring enterprise until the French Special Forces raid the dang place. Plotting a massive, three-part heist of the Petit Palais makes for good exercise until you remember (a) one of your partners is nine months pregnant and (b) a mafia assassin is sleeping on your couch, just in case things go sideways.

The duology makes for a quick, enjoyable read. And although one might readily roll their eyes at the prospect of three bickering women being capable of pulling off such feats, the books' primary delights rest in the artful framing of each heist rather than their sloppy execution.

The books' occasionally spectacular environmental design come very close to convincing readers that each book's character development isn't as terrible as it really is.

The side-room to a flourishing European disco is flush with green lighting and floral ambiance. The glass ceiling of an art museum shatters, scattering thousands of shrapnel over twisted and expressionless marble statues. The background art is delightful. But it's a distraction.

In between detailed, wide-angle shots of grand museum architecture, one finds characters who stumble, repeatedly, and complicate an otherwise feasible narrative. Some characters are solid. Sam is tough but insecure, and despite regularly being labeled the crew's getaway driver, offers plenty of skill and support in the way of strength and flexibility. But on the other end of the spectrum, Alex is a waste of space.

The sad truth is that Alex is profoundly incompetent. Typically, the creative team weds her naïve and spontaneous disposition to the story's blunt humor (e.g., faking attraction to an assassin to get his guard down), but more often than not it sidetracks the narrative in excruciatingly cancerous ways. For example, Alex derails a plan to break into the Louvre by flying to western Mexico to save a gun runner she doesn't know but insists she's in love with, or, in the titles' opening scene, ignoring Carole's call for help because she's busy fighting with a non-boyfriend over a text message.

One finds it hard to trust the character dynamics when one-third of the equation routinely sabotages the remaining two-thirds.

To wit, Carole is the star: She gets the blueprints, she calls the weapons dealers, she negotiates with black-market brokers, and she's adaptable when her partners invariably screw things up. Where Alex privileges recklessness (e.g., alcohol, drugs, astonishing feats of clumsiness), Carole exerts impulse control. And where Sam goes wide-eyed with uncertainty (e.g., fretting over splintering the crew's goal), Carole reminds the women that levelheadedness typically wins the day.

If either The Grand Odalisque or Olympia narrowed their point of view to focus exclusively on Carole, then the narrative would've gained far more than it would have lost. The graphic novels conjure clever criminal activities beneath a colorful tapestry native to whatever French museum happens to be within the sights of these three ladies. Also, the comic books offer brief but kinetic action, as well as a few cool chase scenes, albeit relegated to each tome's Third Act. In the end, after arduously side-stepping Alex's rife stupidity, which tangles much of the narrative, one finds the books are quite entertaining.

❯ ❯ Comics Reviews

[artisticdivasworld]

How New Truckers Can Stay Competitive In this Market

One of the biggest hurdles you’ll face, as a new trucker, is competing in a crowded market and navigating the ever-changing freight rates. It’s no secret that the trucking industry is fiercely competitive, and it can feel overwhelming at first. But with the right approach, you can carve out a solid place for yourself, even as a new driver or owner-operator. The first thing to know is that…

[mansfieldmortgages]

Bad Credit Mortgages Explained: How Mortgage Brokers Can Assist You in Finding the Right Loan

Having bad credit can make securing a mortgage seem daunting, but it doesn’t mean homeownership is out of reach. While traditional lenders may be hesitant to approve a loan for someone with poor credit, there are still options available. A mortgage broker can be your best ally in navigating the world of bad credit mortgages, helping you find the right loan that aligns with your financial situation. In this article, we’ll explain what bad credit mortgages are and how mortgage brokers can assist you in securing one.

 What Is a Bad Credit Mortgage?

A bad credit mortgage, often referred to as a subprime mortgage, is a home loan specifically designed for individuals with a low credit score or poor credit history. Lenders view applicants with low credit scores as higher-risk borrowers, which can make it harder to qualify for a standard loan. Bad credit mortgages typically come with higher interest rates and stricter terms compared to conventional mortgages, reflecting the added risk to the lender.

 Factors That Affect Your Credit Score

Before diving into bad credit mortgages, it’s important to understand what affects your credit score:

- Payment History: Missed or late payments can significantly lower your score.

- Credit Utilization: How much of your available credit you’re using can impact your score.

- Length of Credit History: The longer you’ve responsibly managed credit, the better.

- Types of Credit: A mix of different types of credit (e.g., credit cards, loans) can boost your score.

- Recent Inquiries: Applying for too much credit in a short time can lower your score.

For those with a score below 620, finding a conventional mortgage may be difficult, but this is where a bad credit mortgage becomes an option.

 How Mortgage Brokers Can Help with Bad Credit Mortgages

 1. Access to Specialized Lenders

Mortgage brokers have access to a wide network of lenders, including those that specialize in bad credit mortgages. Unlike going directly to a single bank, which may reject your application based on credit alone, brokers can connect you with lenders who are more flexible and willing to work with low credit scores. This increases your chances of finding a suitable loan.

 2. Expert Guidance and Tailored Solutions

A mortgage broker can assess your overall financial situation, not just your credit score. They’ll take into account factors like your income, employment history, and any assets you might have. From there, they can recommend loan options that fit your circumstances, whether it's an FHA loan, a VA loan (if applicable), or another type of loan designed for borrowers with lower credit.

For example, FHA loans are government-backed mortgages that are more forgiving of credit issues, allowing scores as low as 500 (with a higher down payment). A broker familiar with these options can guide you through the application process.

 3. Negotiating Terms

Brokers often have relationships with lenders, which can help in negotiating better terms, even with bad credit. While your interest rate may still be higher than that of a borrower with excellent credit, a broker can work to find you a competitive rate and favorable loan conditions.

 4. Saving Time and Stress

Applying for a mortgage when you have bad credit can be overwhelming. You might feel unsure about which lenders will approve you or what documentation is needed. A mortgage broker can streamline this process by handling the research, paperwork, and communication with lenders on your behalf. This saves you time and reduces stress by letting the broker do the legwork.

 5. Improving Your Credit Profile

Mortgage brokers don’t just help you secure a loan—they can also provide valuable advice on improving your credit. If you’re not in a rush to buy, they may suggest actions to boost your credit score, such as paying off specific debts or correcting errors on your credit report. Improving your credit score, even slightly, can help you secure better mortgage terms in the future.

 6. Guidance Through the Approval Process

Getting approved for a bad credit mortgage often requires more documentation and proof of financial stability. Mortgage brokers can help you gather and organize these documents, making sure your application is as strong as possible. They’ll ensure you meet the lender’s requirements, increasing your chances of approval.

 What to Expect with a Bad Credit Mortgage

While a bad credit mortgage can help you achieve homeownership, it’s important to understand the trade-offs involved:

- Higher Interest Rates: Expect to pay more in interest over the life of the loan compared to borrowers with good credit. A mortgage broker can help minimize this by finding the best available rate for your situation.

- Larger Down Payments: Some lenders may require a larger down payment to offset the risk. A mortgage broker can explain the minimum down payment requirements for different types of loans, like FHA or subprime mortgages.

- More Fees: Bad credit mortgages may come with higher fees, including mortgage insurance premiums or origination fees. A broker can help you understand these costs upfront and compare them across different lenders.

 Can You Refinance a Bad Credit Mortgage?

One of the advantages of working with a mortgage broker is that they can help you develop a long-term strategy. If you secure a bad credit mortgage now but improve your credit score later, refinancing into a better mortgage with a lower interest rate may become an option. Mortgage brokers can monitor your situation and guide you through the refinancing process when the time is right.

 Conclusion

Having bad credit doesn’t mean you have to give up on your dream of homeownership. With the help of a mortgage broker, you can find a loan that suits your financial situation, even with a lower credit score. Brokers have the expertise and connections to find lenders who are more flexible and willing to work with you. They can simplify the process, negotiate better terms, and provide guidance to improve your financial future. If you’re concerned about bad credit, reaching out to a mortgage broker can be the first step toward owning your home.

[freight-brokerage-software]

What is Freight Brokerage & Freight Forwarding Software

What is Freight brokerage and freight forwarding software?

Freight brokerage software allows a shipper to find carriers, manage the rates or tariffs as well as the contracts, and even track shipments. This eliminates the difficulties involved in the procedure and helps in making the admittance of new companies efficient as well as easy by automating these tasks. Freight forwarding software on another hand covers everything to do with shipping, from documents to storage and most importantly legal compliance with trade laws. Therefore, while brokerage software is primarily into matching shippers with carriers, forwarding is a software that handles the entire shipping process. Considering these disparities makes the functioning of transport brokers more effective and has a strong effect on the outcomes of their cooperation with clients. 

Differences between Freight Forwarding & Freight Brokerage

Aspect

Freight Forwarding

Freight Brokerage

Primary Role

Manages the whole shipping process

Connects shippers with carriers

Physical Possession

Takes physical possession of the cargo

Does not take possession of the cargo

Services Provided

Handles documentation, storage, and transportation

Arranges transport contracts between shippers and carriers

Scope of Operations

Provides end-to-end logistics solutions

Focuses on negotiating and arranging transport

Customer Interaction

Simplifies trade regulations and logistics for businesses

Primarily negotiates and arranges transportation

Benefits of Using Freight Forwarding and Brokerage Software

Operational Efficiency

Freight forwarding and brokerage software significantly streamline operations, automating tasks such as load board management and carrier selection, which reduces manual efforts and enhances efficiency. Real-time tracking and automated notifications ensure smooth operational flow, minimising delays and errors.

Cost Savings

Implementing this software leads to direct cost savings by optimising route selection and reducing idle times, thereby cutting down on fuel and maintenance expenses. Automated invoice management and accurate rate calculations prevent financial discrepancies and reduce administrative costs.

Scalability

The software adapts to business growth, allowing easy integration of additional modules as needed. This flexibility supports expanding operational demands without the need for significant system overhauls, making it a future-proof investment.

Improved Tracking and Visibility

Advanced tracking features provide real-time data on shipments, enhancing visibility across the supply chain. This transparency helps in better managing expectations and reduces the risk of shipment delays.

Better Customer Service

Freight software enhances customer service by providing detailed tracking information and efficient issue resolution processes. This increases customer satisfaction and fosters loyalty.

Data Insights and Reporting

Comprehensive analytics tools offered by these software systems enable detailed performance monitoring and decision-making support. Insights gained from real-time data help in identifying inefficiencies and improving overall business strategies.

Conclusion

All these digital solutions are not only expected to improve flexibility in the operational processes but also to maximise cost efficiency and customer experience. To them they hold the potential of offering even more optimization, helping logistics specialists fine-tune solution provision. It’s important for organisations to adopt these technologies as they provide a competitive advantage through optimisation and valuable business intelligence. In this case, the integration of such systems is a business strategy well embraced by companies in the transport commission agent business due to ever changing market opportunities in the expanding global economy. Overall, the use of advanced freight software is not a trend but a revolution for FDI that opens the future of global logistics facilitating transnational business.

[sunbeltcanada]

How to Sell Your Software Company: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selling your software company is a major milestone that requires careful planning and understanding of the process. Whether you're looking to exit the industry, retire, or pursue other ventures, knowing what to expect can help you navigate the sale smoothly and achieve a successful outcome. In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions about selling a software company, providing clear insights to help you through each stage.

1. What are the key steps to prepare my software company for sale?

Before listing your company for sale, it’s crucial to get your business in the best shape possible to attract buyers. Key steps include:

Organizing Financial Records: Ensure your profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and tax returns are up to date and accurate. Buyers will want to see at least 3 years of clean financial records.

Evaluating Growth Potential: Highlight future opportunities for growth, such as new markets, product developments, or untapped revenue streams.

Securing Intellectual Property: Ensure that all software, patents, and trademarks are properly documented and legally protected.

Stabilizing the Business: Make sure the company is running smoothly, with a solid customer base, strong recurring revenue, and efficient operations.

By taking these steps, you’ll increase your company’s attractiveness to potential buyers and ensure a smoother sale process.

2. How do I determine the value of my software company?

Valuing a software company involves looking at several factors, including:

Revenue and Profit Margins: Buyers will focus on your annual revenue, profit margins, and how consistent your earnings are. Recurring revenue from subscription models or long-term contracts will be highly valued.

Customer Base: A large, loyal customer base with low churn rates adds value to the business.

Growth Potential: Buyers will assess the company’s potential for future growth, such as new product lines or expansion into new markets.

Intellectual Property: Software companies with proprietary technology, patents, or other unique intellectual property are generally more valuable.

It’s recommended to have a professional business valuation expert assess your company to ensure you get an accurate figure.

3. What types of buyers are interested in acquiring a software company?

There are typically three main types of buyers for software companies:

Strategic Buyers: These buyers are often larger companies looking to acquire your software to complement or enhance their existing offerings. They are likely to pay a premium if they see strong synergies.

Private Equity Firms: These firms look for software companies with stable earnings and growth potential. Their goal is to improve the company’s value and sell it for a higher price in the future.

Individual Investors: Entrepreneurs or investors who are looking to enter the software industry may be interested in smaller, profitable software companies.

Understanding the type of buyer you want to attract will help you tailor your marketing and sales strategy.

4. Where can I find potential buyers for my software company?

Finding the right buyer requires a mix of industry connections and professional assistance. Here are some ways to identify potential buyers:

Work with a Business Broker: Business brokers specialize in helping you find qualified buyers. They can also assist with negotiations and the overall sale process.

Leverage Industry Networks: Attend conferences, events, or join industry groups where you can connect with potential buyers who are already interested in the software space.

Use Online Business Marketplaces: Websites and platforms dedicated to business sales are a great way to reach a wider audience of potential buyers.

A business broker can be particularly helpful in ensuring that you find serious buyers and avoid wasting time on non-committed parties.

5. What legal and financial documents do I need to prepare before selling?

Before the sale process begins, you’ll need to organize several important documents:

Financial Statements: Ensure your profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and tax returns are well-prepared and accurate.

Intellectual Property Documentation: Make sure any patents, trademarks, and software licenses are in order and ready for transfer.

Contracts and Agreements: Review and prepare any contracts with customers, vendors, and employees to ensure they can be easily transferred to the new owner.

Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDA): Protect sensitive business information by having potential buyers sign an NDA before sharing detailed company data.

Being well-prepared will make the due diligence process faster and give potential buyers more confidence in the deal.

6. How long does it take to sell a software company?

The timeline for selling a software company can vary, but it generally takes 6 to 12 months. Here’s what the process typically involves:

Preparation Phase: This involves organizing financials, securing intellectual property, and making sure the business is operating smoothly. This phase can take several months.

Finding a Buyer: Depending on your approach and the market, it could take a few months to find the right buyer.

Due Diligence and Negotiation: Once a buyer is interested, the due diligence process can take several weeks or even months as they review your financials, legal documents, and business operations.

Being patient and prepared for each phase will help ensure a smooth sale.

7. How do I negotiate a fair deal when selling my software company?

Negotiating a fair deal requires both preparation and strategy. Here are some tips:

Set Your Bottom Line: Know the minimum price you are willing to accept before entering negotiations.

Highlight the Value: Make sure to emphasize the company’s growth potential, profitability, and strong customer base during negotiations.

Consider Earn-Out Agreements: An earn-out is a payment structure where part of the sale price depends on the future performance of the company. This can be beneficial if your company’s growth potential is strong.

It’s a good idea to work with a lawyer or broker during negotiations to ensure you get the best possible terms.

8. What happens after the sale of my software company?

After the sale, there’s often a transition period where you continue to work with the buyer to ensure a smooth handover. This might involve training the new owner, introducing them to key customers, or helping with daily operations. The transition period can last anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the agreement.

Additionally, make sure to consult with a tax advisor to understand the tax implications of the sale and how to manage the proceeds from the sale effectively.

Selling a software company is a complex process that involves preparation, valuation, marketing, and negotiation. By understanding the key steps and having the right documentation and support in place, you can ensure a successful sale that meets your financial and personal goals. Whether you’re looking to sell now or just preparing for the future, the insights provided in this guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.

[lucaspaqueta007]

How to Find the Ideal Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me: A Step-by-Step Guide

Securing the right commercial real estate is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of your business. Whether you're a startup searching for your first office, a retailer looking to expand, or a business owner in need of a warehouse, finding the perfect commercial space requires careful planning and research. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to finding the best "Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me," ensuring you make an informed decision. Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me

1. Identify Your Business Needs

Before you begin your search, it's crucial to clearly define what you need from your commercial space. Consider the following factors:

Size and Layout: How much square footage do you need? What layout will best suit your operations?

Location: Which areas are most convenient for your customers, employees, and suppliers?

Budget: What is your price range, including rent, utilities, and other expenses?

Amenities: Are there specific features or services that your business requires, such as parking, security, or high-speed internet?

2. Research the Local Market

Understanding the local commercial real estate market is essential for finding the best options. Use the following strategies:

Online Listings: Start by searching online for "Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me." Websites like LoopNet, Zillow, and local real estate agencies often have comprehensive listings.

Commercial Real Estate Brokers: Consider hiring a broker who specializes in commercial properties in your area. They can provide valuable insights and help you find properties that meet your criteria.

Market Trends: Stay informed about local market trends, including average rental rates, vacancy rates, and new developments. This knowledge can help you negotiate better terms.

3. Visit Potential Spaces

Once you've shortlisted a few properties, schedule visits to assess them in person. During your visit:

Evaluate the Location: Is it easily accessible? Is there enough foot traffic if needed? How is the neighborhood?

Inspect the Property: Look for any signs of wear and tear, and assess the overall condition of the building.

Check Compliance: Ensure that the space complies with local zoning laws and building codes. You may need to verify if the property is suitable for your specific type of business.

Consider Future Growth: Choose a space that can accommodate your business as it grows. Flexibility in the lease terms can be beneficial.

4. Negotiate the Lease

After finding the ideal space, the next step is to negotiate the lease terms. Here’s what to consider:

Lease Length: Determine the ideal duration of the lease. Longer leases may offer stability, while shorter leases provide flexibility.

Rent Increases: Understand how rent will increase over time and whether there are caps on these increases.

Maintenance Responsibilities: Clarify who is responsible for repairs and maintenance—landlord or tenant.

Exit Clauses: Ensure there are clear terms regarding breaking the lease if necessary.

5. Finalizing the Deal

Before signing the lease, take the following precautions:

Legal Review: Have a legal professional review the lease to ensure it protects your interests.

Get Everything in Writing: Any verbal agreements or promises made during negotiations should be documented in the lease.

Insurance: Arrange for the necessary insurance coverage for your new business space.

6. Prepare for Move-In

Once the lease is signed, start preparing for the move. Consider the following:

Renovations: If the space needs modifications to fit your business, coordinate these before moving in.

Utilities and Services: Set up utilities, internet, and any other essential services in advance.

Furnishing and Equipment: Plan the layout and order any furniture or equipment needed for your operations.

Conclusion

Finding the best "Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me" requires time, research, and careful consideration of your business needs. By following these steps, you can secure a space that not only meets your current requirements but also supports your long-term business goals. Remember, the right location and setup can make a significant difference in your business’s success, so take the time to find the perfect fit.