#but that one specifically sets you up with a rock solid foundation for you to build on with whatever you like

[rad-roche]

getting the writing itch again. i have too many things to do atm to jump on that, but i'm really glad, and i'm looking forward to getting to it eventually. i'd kind of made peace with the idea of retiring from the hobby after dead woman walking because i put so, so much time and effort into it and it kind of pan fried my brain with onions, so this is a welcome surprise. i've been very lucky to hear from people who've enjoyed what i write, and the technique i use, so i'd like to say thank you. i try very hard, and even if you don't grok with the prose, the style, any of it, i'd like to think that always shows

[theresattrpgforthat]

I feel like this may have been asked before but: recommendations for a D&D player looking to branch out into other games (no genre preference) but with the caveat that they want to keep using most of their weirdly shaped dice? Systems that utilize just one type of dice (Shadowrun, WoD, etc.) are scary.

THEME: All The Dice

Hello friend! You are somewhat correct in that I've made recommendations similar to this before, so keep an eye on the rec list at the bottom. This is the first time however, that I'm specifically looking for games that use most of the polyhedral dice. I hope you find something that fits your taste in this list!

Shattered: A Grimdark RPG, by Never Dark Enough.

Shattered is a self-contained tabletop RPG that is built on a unique die system providing players with a tangible sense of growth. Inhabit one of eight distinct races and explore the dangerous post-apocalyptic world of Feneryss.

Millennia ago, millions sacrificed themselves in a ritual to the dark god, Ragnarok. The blood rite failed and rebounded on the planet, capsizing entire tectonic plates, replacing once plentiful oceans with molten rock, and calling down catastrophic storms to ravage what remained.

If you want gritty fantasy, steampunk and horror, Shattered might be for you. There’s biological mutations, vampires, gunpowder, sentient fungi… and more! Shattered’s game system is pretty crunch-heavy, giving your player different dice to roll depending on the rating of their character’s skills. There’s also plenty of rules for attacks, reactions, damage reduction, and other conditions that may pop up in combat, such as disease. If you want to pull in a lot of the granularity that existed in D&D, but you also like the idea of rolling multiple dice for any given attack, you might want to check out Shattered.

24XX: The Last Order, by S.A. Young.

After the Fae Courts were ravaged by a primordial evil known as The Dark Well, they went to seek out help from the Realm of Man. Sadly, many centuries have gone by since this many Fae have been in the Realm of Man. Modern and strange, the only ones that can help fight back the evil are fledgling mages. Now Fae and mages join forces to form The Last Order.

24XX games exist on a solid skeleton, even if it’s only a few bare bones. Your players will use d6’s, d4’s, d8’s and occasionally d10’s, while you, the GM, will use a d20 for the random roll tables that exist in pretty much every iteration of this game. I find 24XX games to be quick and easy to teach, as well as either affordable or free. They’re also reminiscent of the OSR style of play, so learning 24XX might be the first step into a much larger world of OSR games. The Last Order focuses on a world of faerie magic, warped by a primordial evil, so if you want to include a familiar feeling of fantasy along with your bundle of polyhedral dice, this game might be worth checking out. (If you want a different genre, just check out the abundance of titles under the 24XX tag on itch.io)

Children of the Apocalypse, by Happy Monster Press.

In the ruins of an ancient city, a band of treasure hunters seeks ancient artifacts to fuel the creations of a powerful Tinker Mage.  Armies trade musket fire across rolling hills as pikemen brace to receive a charge of monstrous shock troops.  An assassin in the service of the Goddess of Death and Disease sets a gunpowder charge beneath the foundations of a rival church.  A wizard faces down a psion in an arcane duel for possession of a trove of ancient texts.  All these adventures and more are daily occurrences in the world of Children of the Apocalypse, a post-apocalyptic fantasy setting for Savage Worlds.

Savage Worlds uses different size dice for different skills, which is why I’ve recommended it as a D&D substitute in the past. But what it also has going for it is a broad community of players and game designers such as Happy Monster Press, with various settings available all for the same rules system. Children of the Apocalypse combines mythology with an apocalypse, with fantastical civilizations rising from the ashes of the old world. The biggest downside to games such as this is that you’ll likely also need the Savage Worlds Adventure Edition in order to play the game.

Old Gods of Appalachia, by Monte Cook Games.

In the mountains of Central Appalachia, blood runs as deep as these hollers and just as dark. Since before our kind wandered into these hills, hearts of unknowable hunger and madness have slumbered beneath them.

These are the oldest mountains in the world. How dare we think we can break the skin of a god and dig out its heart without also calling blood and darkness?

Venture into the dark, eerie past of an alternate Appalachia and enjoy a fluid, story-based roleplaying experience with an intuitive, concept-driven character generation system that gives you limitless options. With loads of lore, dozens of creatures and NPCs, and two complete adventures to launch your campaign, the Old Gods of Appalachia Roleplaying Game has everything you need to experience your own stories of horror, hardship, and heart in this immersive, narrative, and deeply chilling setting.

The Cypher System primarily uses a d20 and d6’s, with d10s and d100s used occasionally. I’ve run games such as Numenera for many a former D&D player, and it was quite easy for folks to put together a character concept, even if the rules were a bit of a shift. Old Gods of Appalachia is one of Monte Cook’s newest games using the Cypher System, and it’s cultivated a great amount of acclaim due to its link to the podcast of the same name. If your group wants to keep rolling a bunch of weird dice and also wants a link to a popular, well-loved piece of media to inspire their stories, them I definitely recommend this game.

I am Furious, by Brabblemark Press.

I Am Furious (Pink) is a dramatic tabletop roleplaying game that takes you through the events of one terrible day and then—reborn with the power of a goddess—retraces your story so you can unleash vengeance or bestow mercy on those who did you wrong.

At its most fantastic, the game may resemble a big-budget superhero franchise, where you transform into a black-winged Fury with a glowing blade and strike down your enemies. However, to reach that peak you start with smaller scenes like escaping a prison, avenging a murder, restoring a lost treasure, or more realistic play exploring the darker sides of your family, romantic, business, or other relationships.

This is a really unique game that I stumbled onto when I was browsing through the latest releases on Itch. It carries many of the same elements of sci-fi and superhero settings, giving your characters impressive powers that are linked to a goddess specifically in a way that allows them to carry out vengeance. It’s designed to tell personal stories, and requires each player to have at least one of each polyhedral dice. The full game is $5 but there is a bare-bones and dyslexic-friendly version that you can download for free if you want a taste before you put your money on it. If you like games of resistance and personal catharsis, you might want to check out I am Furious.

Recs Posts to Check Out

Tactical Combat Games

Fuck Wizards of the Coast

D&D-Level Crunch and Structure

Character Customization

Echoes of D&D

Games I’ve Recommended in the Past

Lex Arcana, by Archeron Games.

Kids on Bikes, by Hunters Entertainment.

Mausritter, by Losing Games

[artificialgrassblog]

installing artificial grass for pets in sydney

Installing artificial grass for pets in Sydney can be a game-changer for pet owners seeking a practical and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. With its diverse climate, which can range from hot and dry summers to wet and humid winters, Sydney presents unique challenges for maintaining natural grass. For pet owners, these challenges multiply. Dogs and cats can easily wear out a natural lawn, leading to muddy patches, dead grass, and a less inviting yard. This is where artificial grass comes in, offering a durable, low-maintenance solution that can withstand the antics of your furry friends.

When considering artificial grass sydney, it’s important to choose a product designed specifically for pets. Standard artificial turf may not hold up under the wear and tear caused by active animals. Look for options that are made from high-quality materials that are resilient and durable. Pet-friendly artificial grass installation typically features reinforced backing and UV protection to prevent fading and degradation from sun exposure. Additionally, many pet-specific turfs include enhanced drainage systems that allow liquids to pass through easily, which is crucial for keeping the area clean and odor-free.

Preparation is key when installing synthetic turf, and the first step is to assess your yard. Begin by determining the area where you want to install the turf. Clear the space of any existing grass, weeds, or debris. This step is critical because any remnants of natural grass can hinder the installation process and may cause uneven surfaces over time. Once the area is clear, it’s advisable to level the ground. This not only ensures an even surface for the turf but also prevents water from pooling in certain areas, which could lead to drainage issues.

After leveling the area, you may want to consider adding a base layer. A combination of crushed rock and decomposed granite can provide the stability and drainage needed for your synthetic turf installation. Spread the base material evenly across the area and compact it thoroughly to create a solid foundation. This step is especially important in Sydney, where heavy rainfall can lead to drainage problems if the ground is not properly prepared. A well-compacted base layer helps mitigate these issues, allowing for efficient water runoff and maintaining the integrity of the turf.

Once your base is set, it’s time to lay down the synthetic turf sydney. Unroll the turf and allow it to acclimate to the ambient temperature. This can help prevent any warping or shrinking that might occur after installation. As you lay the turf, ensure that the fibers are all facing the same direction for a more natural look. When cutting the grass to fit the area, take your time to ensure that the edges align perfectly, avoiding gaps that could detract from the overall appearance.

Securing the artificial grass is an essential part of the installation process. You can use landscape staples, adhesive, or seam tape to keep the turf in place. If you’re working with multiple pieces of grass, ensure that the seams are joined securely to prevent any lifting over time. It's advisable to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines closely during this stage, as proper installation will enhance the longevity and appearance of your new lawn.

One of the most significant benefits of artificial grass is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike natural grass, which requires regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing, artificial turf demands far less attention. However, it is important to clean the surface regularly, especially in a home with pets. Routine waste removal is essential, and a simple rinse with a hose can help eliminate odors. For added freshness, consider using a pet-safe cleaner designed specifically for artificial turf. This can help maintain a pleasant environment for both your pets and your family.

Safety is another critical factor to consider when choosing artificial grass for pets. Most high-quality artificial turfs are non-toxic, meaning they won’t harm your pets if ingested in small amounts. The fibers are typically designed to resist wear and tear, providing a durable surface for pets to play on. Nonetheless, it's wise to check with the supplier regarding specific safety features, especially if your pets have any known sensitivities or allergies.

In terms of aesthetics, artificial grass offers a variety of options that can enhance your outdoor space. With numerous shades of green and different pile heights available, you can easily find a style that complements your home and garden. Many pet owners appreciate the year-round beauty of a lush, green lawn, especially in a city where natural grass can suffer due to heavy usage or seasonal changes. Artificial grass provides the opportunity to maintain an inviting outdoor space without the constant upkeep required by natural grass.

In Sydney’s vibrant outdoor culture, having a well-maintained yard is often a crucial aspect of home life. An artificial lawn can provide a safe and enjoyable space for pets to run, play, and relax. The worry of muddy paws or grass stains becomes a thing of the past, allowing you to enjoy your time outdoors without the associated mess. Whether you’re hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet moments with your pets, artificial grass creates a welcoming environment for everyone.

Moreover, investing in artificial grass can also increase your property’s value. Many homebuyers today seek low-maintenance landscaping solutions, and a well-installed artificial lawn can be a strong selling point. This upgrade not only reduces ongoing landscaping costs but also enhances your home’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

As you consider the installation process, you may face the decision of whether to tackle the project yourself or hire a professional. While some homeowners feel confident in their ability to manage the installation, others may prefer the expertise that professional landscapers bring to the table. Professionals can ensure that every step of the installation is done correctly, providing peace of mind that your investment will stand the test of time.

In conclusion, installing artificial grass for pets in Sydney can greatly enhance your outdoor living space. With its durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal, artificial turf offers a practical solution for pet owners who want a beautiful yard without the hassle of traditional grass care. By taking the time to properly prepare the area, select the right materials, and follow best installation practices, you can create a safe and inviting environment for your pets to enjoy year-round. Whether through a DIY approach or by hiring professionals, you’ll be investing in a space that both you and your furry friends can cherish for years to come.

[academiesofmusic]

Mastering the Saxophone: A Journey Through Saxophone Lessons

The saxophone is one of the most versatile and expressive instruments, with its soulful sound resonating in jazz, rock, classical, and pop music alike. Whether you’ve always been intrigued by the smooth, sultry tones of John Coltrane or the dynamic riffs of Clarence Clemons, learning to play the saxophone opens up a world of musical possibilities. Saxophone lessons offer more than just learning an instrument—they are a gateway to exploring different genres, honing your ear for music, and gaining confidence as a performer.

Why Take Saxophone Lessons?

Learning the saxophone on your own can be challenging, especially when it comes to mastering proper embouchure (the way you position your lips on the mouthpiece), breath control, and finger coordination. Saxophone lessons provide structured guidance, ensuring that beginners get the right foundation while more advanced players can refine their technique.

A good saxophone teacher will tailor lessons to your specific goals and musical interests. Whether you want to dive into jazz improvisation, improve your tone quality, or learn how to play in a band setting, personalized instruction is key. Lessons will also cover essential skills like reading sheet music, understanding scales and modes, and developing a good ear for intonation and phrasing.

The Benefits of Learning the Saxophone

Versatility Across Genres One of the most exciting aspects of the saxophone lessons is its versatility. The instrument fits beautifully into a wide range of genres, from jazz and blues to classical, pop, and even funk. When you take saxophone lessons, you’re not just learning how to play one type of music—you’re gaining access to a multitude of styles. With the saxophone’s ability to switch between soft and mellow tones to powerful and piercing notes, you can explore various ways of expressing emotion through music.

Improving Breath Control and Lung Capacity Playing the saxophone requires significant breath control, which in turn strengthens your lung capacity and diaphragm. Learning to manage your breathing while playing can also lead to improved posture and better overall health. Musicians who play wind instruments often experience increased lung strength and endurance, which can benefit activities outside of music, like sports or yoga.

Developing Coordination and Cognitive Skills Saxophone lessons playing involves a high level of coordination between your fingers, mouth, and breath. As you progress, your brain forms new connections that improve multitasking and fine motor skills. These benefits extend beyond music, enhancing your cognitive abilities and sharpening focus.

Boosting Confidence Through Performance As with any musical instrument, learning the saxophone can be a rewarding way to boost self-confidence. Performing in front of others, whether in a recital, band, or even a casual jam session, helps musicians develop stage presence and overcome performance anxiety. Saxophone lessons often incorporate opportunities for students to showcase their progress, creating moments of pride and achievement.

What to Expect from Saxophone Lessons

In the initial stages of saxophone lessons, you’ll focus on developing a solid foundation in sound production and technique. This includes learning the correct embouchure, finger positioning, and breathing techniques to produce a clear, consistent tone. You’ll also learn how to assemble and care for your instrument, which is crucial for maintaining its longevity and performance quality.

As you advance, lessons will cover more complex aspects of playing, such as sight-reading, playing in different keys, and interpreting music with emotional depth. Improvisation is a big part of saxophone playing, especially for those interested in jazz. Many saxophone teachers will introduce improvisational techniques, teaching you how to build melodies and riffs spontaneously.

In addition to one-on-one lessons, practicing outside of class is essential for improvement. Saxophone students are encouraged to practice daily, focusing on scales, tone exercises, and repertoire. Your teacher will likely assign pieces that challenge your skills and encourage growth while keeping your musical interests in mind.

Finding the Right Saxophone Teacher

When looking for a saxophone teacher, it’s important to find someone who understands your musical goals. Some teachers specialize in classical music, while others might focus on jazz or contemporary styles. Be sure to communicate your interests upfront so that your lessons align with the genre and techniques you wish to explore.

Also, consider whether you prefer in-person lessons or online instruction. Many saxophone teachers offer both options, allowing flexibility depending on your schedule and location.

Conclusion

Saxophone lessons are more than just a technical journey—they’re an opportunity to discover your musical voice. Whether you aspire to play in a jazz band, a classical ensemble, or simply want to enjoy the instrument for personal satisfaction, learning the saxophone opens up a world of creative expression. With dedication, practice, and the right guidance, you can master the instrument and bring the rich, dynamic sound of the saxophone into your life. For more details visit our website www.academiesofmusic.com

[auckland-drum-studio]

How To Build Speed And Accuracy In Drum Lessons For Beginners?

Ever found yourself tapping away on the steering wheel, dreaming of being the next big drum sensation? Whether you aim to rock out in a band or just want to impress your friends at the next jam session, building speed and accuracy in your drumming is key.

Fear not, fellow rhythm seekers! This guide will explain how you can supercharge your drum lessons for beginners and become the drummer you've always wanted to be.

Start Slow and Steady

Drum lessons for beginners are like laying the foundation of a house. If the base isn't solid, the rest won't stand up. Start by practising your drum patterns slowly. This might sound counterintuitive, but playing slowly helps you focus on hitting the drums precisely and ensures that your form is correct.

Use a metronome to keep a consistent pace. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Speed will come with time, but accuracy must be your priority.

Master the Basics

Before you can blaze through complex rhythms, you need to master the basic drumming techniques. Basic beats, rudiments like paradiddles, and simple drum fills are the building blocks of more advanced skills. Ensure your drum lessons for beginners cover these fundamentals thoroughly.

Practising these basics will not only improve your speed but also enhance your accuracy. It's like learning the alphabet before you can write a novel.

Incorporate Drumming Exercises

Regular drumming exercises are crucial in developing both speed and accuracy. Exercises focusing on stick control and hand coordination will help build muscle memory. Some effective exercises include:

Single-Stroke Roll: Alternate between your left and right hands as quickly and accurately as possible.

Double-Stroke Roll: Play two strokes with each hand in rapid succession.

Paradiddles: Combine single and double strokes to build coordination.

Include these exercises in your drum lessons for beginners' routine and see your skills improve.

Play Along with Music

Playing with your favourite songs is one of the most enjoyable ways to build speed and accuracy. This approach allows you to apply what you've learned in your drum lessons for beginners in a real-world context.

Start with slower songs and gradually work your way up to faster tracks. Playing along will also improve your timing and rhythm, making you a more versatile drummer.

Focus on Hand and Foot Coordination

Drumming isn't just about your hands; your feet also play a crucial role. Practice coordination exercises that involve both your hands and feet, such as playing a basic beat while incorporating the bass drum.

This will enhance your overall drumming skills and smooth transitions between different drumming patterns. Many beginner drum lessons overlook this crucial aspect, but it's essential for developing a well-rounded skill set.

Set Goals and Track Progress

Setting specific goals and tracking your progress is a great way to stay motivated and measure improvement. Break down your practice into short, manageable goals, such as mastering a particular drum pattern or achieving a certain speed on a rudiment.

Review your progress regularly and adjust your practice routine as needed. Seeing tangible improvements will boost your confidence and keep you motivated.

Stay Consistent and Have Fun

The most important tip of all is to stay consistent with your practice. Building speed and accuracy takes time, but you'll see significant improvements with regular practice.

Enjoy the process - play along with your favourite songs, experiment with different rhythms, and have fun with your drum lessons for beginners. Your enthusiasm and dedication will be the driving force behind your progress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, becoming a speedy and accurate drummer isn't an overnight achievement, but with these tips and a solid drum lessons for beginners approach, you'll be well on your way to mastering the drums. So grab those sticks, hit those drums, and let the rhythm lead the way!

[maharghaideovate]

Skills You'll Pick Up in the Sikkim Manipal Distance MBA Marketing Program

Contemplating diving head-first into marketing? Sikkim Manipal Corresponding Courses in MBA(Marketing) has some pretty useful stuff to share. This chapter will elucidate on the types of skills and knowledge you will acquire, and why.

Market Research: Getting to Know Your Customers

Learn to make questionnaires people actually want to answer

Learn the reasons behind customer purchasing behavior

Turn data into decisions that make sense

Use tools that pros use to dig deep into market trends

Why it's a cool program? You will be the go-to person to understand what customers really want.

Digital Marketing: Mastering the Online World

The Sikkim Manipal Distance MBA does not lag in digital skills. You will learn to do:

Social media marketing that creates a buzz

SEO tricks to be seen

Email campaigns that move out of the spam folders

Paid ads that work, and then some

No bullshit, these are marketable skills. The world is online. So are you.

Brand Management: Helping Brands Stand Out

Develop brand personalities that resonate with millions

Make sure brands stay meaningful as the world changes

Help people connect with brands in meaningful ways

At the end of the day, good brands make money. You'll learn how to build them.

Marketing Strategy: The High-Level Stuff

Here is what you could learn in Sikkim Manipal Distance MBA while thinking about how a boss would think.

Identifying the strengths and weaknesses in a business

Cooking up marketing plans that work

Setting goals and actually measuring if you are hitting them

Making smart choices about where to spend marketing money

Why it matters? Companies need people who can see the forest and the trees.

People Skills: The Secret Sauce

Tech skills are good, but people skills pay the bills. You will be working on:

Communicating well by email, letters or speeches

Getting along with people (on the court as a team)

Coming up with ideas that start just as the boss says "we need" something

And not freaking out when things change

Like Seriously—These are the skills that separate a great marketer from a good one.

We Are Business—Real World Preparation Pulling it all in

The Sikkim Manipal Distance Education MBA isn't exactly an 'after school special'. You'll receive:

Industry experience through internships

Work on real marketing problems in case studies

Test your skills in marketing simulations

Pull everything together in a big final project

Why this rocks: You'll have stuff to show off in job interviews, not just grades.

Breaking It Down: What You'll Actually Learn

Let's get specific about some key areas in the Sikkim Manipal Distance MBA marketing program:

Content Marketing

Creating stuff people actually want to read or watch

Getting your content in front of the right eyes

Measuring what works and what doesn't

Analytics

How to make sense of all those numbers Google throws at you? Use data and spot trends before your competitors do.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

How to avoid going crazy while monitoring customer interactions, how to utilize CRM tools for a simpler life, and how to transform customer data into satisfied customers.

Product Development.

How to work out what products people actually need; how to work with designers and engineers to make cool stuff; how to launch products without face-planting.

Pricing Strategies

Setting prices that make sense for your product and market

Using pricing to stand out from the competition

Knowing when to offer deals (and when not to)

The Bottom Line

The Sikkim Manipal Distance MBA in Marketing is not about cramping books. It's all about picking up the skills that one could use from day one at the marketing task—an opportunity for one to build a toolbox of requirements by the employer.

Remember, marketing is changing at the speed of knots. Sikkim Manipal Distance MBA equips you to build a solid foundation for lifelong learning and adaptability over your career. Ready to level up your marketing game?

[music-industry-updates]

Music Theory 101: Build a Solid Foundation

The global pandemic has dramatically changed our daily lives, forcing many to stay at home. While this has brought numerous challenges, it has also provided a unique opportunity for self-improvement and personal growth. One of the most rewarding ways to use this time is by mastering a musical instrument. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced musician looking to refine your skills, mastering an instrument can be a fulfilling and enriching experience. This ultimate guide will help you make the most of your time at home by providing a step-by-step approach to mastering an instrument.

Choosing the Right Instrument: The first step in mastering an instrument is choosing the right one for you. Consider the following factors:

Personal Interest: Select an instrument that you are genuinely interested in. Your enthusiasm will keep you motivated.

Physical Considerations: Some instruments require specific physical attributes. For example, the size of your hands may affect your ability to play the guitar or piano comfortably.

Practicality: Consider the space you have at home and your budget. Instruments like keyboards and guitars are more space-efficient and affordable compared to grand pianos or drum kits.

Genre Preference: Think about the type of music you enjoy. If you love classical music, a violin or piano might be suitable. If you prefer rock or pop, consider the guitar or drums.

Setting Up a Practice Schedule: Consistency is key to mastering any skill. Setting up a practice schedule will help you stay disciplined and make steady progress.

Daily Practice: Aim to practice every day, even if it’s just for a short period. Consistent daily practice is more effective than sporadic long sessions.

Time Management: Decide on a time that works best for you. Some people prefer practicing in the morning, while others might find evenings more suitable.

Goal Setting: Set specific, achievable goals for each practice session. This could be learning a new scale, mastering a difficult piece, or improving your timing.

Breaks and Rest: Avoid burnout by taking regular breaks during practice sessions. Short breaks help maintain focus and prevent fatigue.

Utilizing Online Resources: The internet is a treasure trove of resources for learning and mastering an instrument.

Online Tutorials: Websites like YouTube offer countless free tutorials for all levels and instruments. Channels like JustinGuitar for guitar or Piano Lessons on the Web for piano are excellent starting points.

Virtual Lessons: Many professional musicians offer virtual lessons. Platforms like Lessonface and TakeLessons connect students with qualified instructors for one-on-one lessons.

Sheet Music and Tabs: Websites like MuseScore and Ultimate Guitar provide free access to sheet music and tabs for various songs and genres.

Practice Apps: Apps like Yousician and Simply Piano offer interactive lessons and feedback, making practice more engaging and effective.

Tracking Progress: Keeping track of your progress is crucial for staying motivated and identifying areas for improvement.

Practice Journal: Maintain a practice journal to record what you practice each day, what you achieved, and what you need to work on next.

Recording Yourself: Regularly record your practice sessions. Listening to these recordings can help you hear your progress and identify areas that need improvement.

Performance Milestones: Set performance milestones, such as playing a piece flawlessly or performing in front of family and friends. These milestones give you something to strive for and celebrate.

Feedback: Seek feedback from more experienced musicians or instructors. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights and help you improve faster.

Staying Motivated: Maintaining motivation is often the hardest part of mastering an instrument, especially when progress seems slow.

Variety in Practice: Mix up your practice routine to keep things interesting. Practice different pieces, scales, and techniques to avoid monotony.

Join a Community: Connect with other musicians through online forums, social media groups, or local music clubs. Sharing your journey with others can provide support and encouragement.

Set Long-Term Goals: Think about what you want to achieve in the long run. Whether it’s performing at a concert, joining a band, or simply playing for personal enjoyment, having a clear goal can keep you motivated.

Reward Yourself: Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Rewarding yourself for reaching milestones can make the learning process more enjoyable.

Mastering an instrument while being stuck at home can be a deeply rewarding experience. It not only provides a productive use of your time but also enhances your creativity, discipline, and emotional well-being. By choosing the right instrument, setting up a consistent practice schedule, utilizing online resources, tracking your progress, and staying motivated, you can make significant strides in your musical journey. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process and celebrate every bit of progress along the way. So pick up that instrument, start practicing, and unlock your musical potential!

We’d love to hear about your musical journey! What instrument are you learning, and what progress have you made so far? Share your experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the comments below. Let’s support each other in our quest to master our instruments!

If you found this guide helpful, Follow us for more tips and resources on mastering your musical skills.

[seodon]

Unlocking the Secrets of Superior Ready Mix Concrete in West Drayton

When it comes to construction projects, one thing is certain: the foundation of success lies in the quality of your concrete. Whether you're building a towering skyscraper or a humble home, the reliability and strength of your concrete can make or break your project. This is where "Ready Mix Concrete in West Drayton" steps in, providing you with a rock-solid solution to elevate your construction endeavors to new heights.

The Power of Ready Mix Concrete

Concrete is the backbone of modern construction. Its versatility and durability are unmatched, making it the go-to material for builders and engineers. However, the key to achieving perfection in your concrete structures lies in the preparation of the mixture. This is where ready mix concrete shines.

Ready mix concrete, often abbreviated as RMC, is a pre-mixed and precisely formulated blend of cement, water, aggregates, and admixtures. This innovative approach to concrete preparation ensures consistent quality and strength in every batch. It saves you the hassle of on-site mixing and minimizes the chances of errors that can lead to structural issues in the long run.

Why Choose Ready Mix Concrete in West Drayton?

West Drayton, a town in Greater London, boasts a rich history and a vibrant future. As the demand for infrastructure and real estate projects grows, the need for top-notch concrete solutions becomes more critical than ever. Here's why opting for ready mix concrete in West Drayton is a game-changer:

1. Consistency in Quality: Ready mix concrete is manufactured in a controlled environment, adhering to strict quality standards. This means that every cubic meter of concrete is consistent in strength and durability, ensuring your project's stability.

2. Time Efficiency: Traditional concrete mixing on-site can be time-consuming and lead to project delays. Ready mix concrete, on the other hand, arrives at your site ready for immediate use, saving you valuable time.

3. Reduced Labor Costs: With on-site mixing, you need a team of skilled workers to handle the process. Ready mix concrete minimizes labor costs and allows you to focus on other aspects of your project.

4. Environmentally Friendly: Using RMC reduces waste and minimizes the carbon footprint associated with transportation and on-site mixing.

5. Customization: Ready mix concrete can be tailored to meet specific project requirements, such as strength, workability, and setting time. This level of customization ensures that you get the perfect mix for your project.

Applications of Ready Mix Concrete

The versatility of ready mix concrete knows no bounds. Here are some of the key applications where it excels:

1. Residential Construction: Whether you're building a single-family home or an apartment complex in West Drayton, ready mix concrete is the ideal choice for your foundations, slabs, and even decorative elements.

2. Commercial Projects: From shopping malls to office buildings, RMC provides the strength and consistency required for large-scale commercial developments.

3. Infrastructure: Bridges, roads, and other critical infrastructure projects in West Drayton benefit from the durability of ready mix concrete, ensuring the safety of commuters and residents.

4. Industrial Facilities: Industrial structures need concrete that can withstand heavy loads and harsh conditions. Ready mix concrete is up to the task.

5. Decorative Concrete: For architectural accents and decorative elements, RMC can be customized to achieve the desired finish and aesthetics.

The RMC Process

Understanding the process of ready mix concrete production is essential to appreciate its quality and reliability. Here's a glimpse into the steps involved:

1. Batching: The process begins with the precise measurement of raw materials, including cement, aggregates, water, and admixtures, based on the required mix design.

2. Mixing: These materials are then mixed thoroughly in a state-of-the-art plant to create a uniform and consistent blend.

3. Transportation: Once mixed, the concrete is loaded onto specialized transit mixers and transported to your construction site in West Drayton.

4. Pouring and Placing: Upon arrival, the RMC is poured and placed directly where you need it, eliminating the need for on-site mixing.

5. Curing: After placement, the concrete is carefully cured to ensure proper hardening and maximum strength.

Choosing the Right Ready Mix Concrete Supplier

Selecting the right ready mix concrete supplier is crucial to the success of your project. Here are some key factors to consider when making your decision:

1. Reputation: Research the supplier's reputation and read customer reviews to ensure they have a history of delivering quality products.

2. Quality Control: Inquire about the supplier's quality control measures, including testing and compliance with industry standards.

3. Timeliness: Reliable delivery schedules are vital to avoiding project delays. Ensure the supplier can meet your time requirements.

4. Customization: If your project has unique requirements, discuss the supplier's ability to customize the mix to your specifications.

5. Environmental Responsibility: Consider suppliers who prioritize eco-friendly practices to reduce the environmental impact of your project.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving world of construction, your choice of concrete can be the defining factor in your project's success. Ready mix concrete in West Drayton stands as a testament to innovation and quality, offering a superior solution that elevates the standards of strength, durability, and reliability.

When you choose ready mix concrete, you're not just getting a blend of materials; you're investing in a solid foundation for your dreams. With its consistency, time efficiency, reduced labor costs, and environmental benefits, it's clear that RMC is the future of construction in West Drayton.

Elevate your construction projects to new heights with ready mix concrete in West Drayton. It's not just concrete; it's a promise of excellence.

[concretecanberra]

Concrete Contractors – What Types of Concrete Are Available?

Concrete is a strong and versatile building material that can be used in a variety of ways. It’s great for creating driveways, garden paths and slabs for garages and extensions.

Find a concreting contractor that specialises in the type of work you need done. The best concreters have up to date training and knowledge of the latest concreting techniques.

Concrete Slabs

Concrete slabs are an essential part of any building project. They create solid foundations and offer stable support for structures like houses, sheds, carports and more. They also provide termite proofing and thermal properties for homes.

Almost every construction site needs concrete slabs, but there are many different types of slabs to choose from. Some are flat while others have a waffle design or are designed for specific uses.

Slabs are usually poured using reinforced concrete. This type of concrete is mixed with things like steel bars or welded wire fabric to give it extra strength. This gives the concrete tensile and compressive strength to handle the heavy load of a house or shed. It also makes the structure termite-proof and able to withstand the scorching Australian summers.

Stamped Concrete

Concrete stamping allows homeowners to choose from a wide variety of colours and designs. They can be used for patios, driveways and pool decks. Besides being durable, stamped concrete is also nonslip and resistant to humidity.

The pattern is created by pressing a rubber or polyurethane stamp against wet concrete to create the desired texture. The concrete contractor then adds a colour or pigment to the concrete before it sets, creating an appealing finish.

Many homeowners choose natural earth tones, such as grays or earthy browns. Others opt for brick, cobblestone or wood patterns. In addition, the concrete can be antiqued with stains or tints. The options are endless! This gives the homeowner a unique look that blends into the natural environment. It is also an economical choice compared to other paving materials like stone, granite or pavers.

Concrete Flooring

Concrete floor resurfacing can offer an attractive, functional and affordable flooring solution for your home or business. It is durable and easy to maintain, and it comes in a wide variety of textures, surfaces and colours.

The price of your concrete floors depends on several factors, including the size of the project and any custom work that is required. For example, a small area may cost more than a larger one because it requires more detail work and set-up time. The condition of the current floor also affects costs, as damaged areas will require repair before new concrete can be laid.

Look for a concrete contractor that specializes in the type of work you need. You wouldn’t want a general contractor to install concrete in your industrial warehouse, for instance.

Concrete Stenciling

Concrete stenciling is one of the latest trends in decorative concrete. It can make plain concrete look like brick, stone pavers, tile, or natural rock. It is also a great way to add texture and design to walkways, patios, kitchens, or living rooms.

Stenciling can be done on new concrete or over existing concrete. If the existing concrete is going to be resurfaced, it must be repaired first. If the surface is cracked, it will need to be fixed with concrete repair products that will be discussed with your concreter.

The best concreters are hard-working, innovative, and work to the highest safety standards. They offer a wide range of services and can help you with your concrete project. They can create beautiful driveways, patios, and garden paths. They can even do a slab for your garage or home extension.

Exposed Aggregate Concrete

Exposed aggregate concrete is an attractive and low maintenance style of decorative concreting that can add character to your driveway, patio or walkway. It is a mix of concrete and pebbles or other rock materials that can be chosen for their shape, size, texture and colour.

This type of concrete is poured into forms and smoothed with a bull float before the surface is covered with plastic and allowed to cure. The top layer of cement paste is then removed using a power washer or garden hose to expose the stones or pebbles in the concrete.

This technique can be done with new concrete or as a facelift to existing concrete surfaces. A Canberra concrete contractor can recommend the best way to achieve the desired effect.

source https://concretecanberra.wordpress.com/2023/07/24/concrete-contractors-what-types-of-concrete-are-available/

[goturff]

Pet Turf Installation Near Houston, TX | Pet-Friendly Turf Installation by Go Turf

Pet-friendly artificial grass is a need for many Houston, TX area households, and at Go Turf, we're here to meet that need. We are experts at installing pet turf, which consists of a variety of goods made to provide your pet with a comfortable, long-lasting, and easy-to-care-for outdoor environment. Our pet turf can handle the wear and tear of your furry pals, whether they be dogs, cats, or something else entirely.

Professionals that have pet turf installation near Houston TX area are well-versed in the specific needs of pet owners. To guarantee that our installations are both high-quality and pet-friendly, we think about things like drainage, odour management, and longevity.

To guarantee the best possible outcomes for your pet turf installation in the Houston, TX area, we adhere to a thorough procedure. An outline of our set up procedure is as follows:

The first step in our process is a consultation during which we learn about your individual goals and preferences. We think about things like how big the room is, how many pets you have, and whether you have any particular worries.

The first step in installing pet grass is for our crew to visit your site and measure the available space. We take into account the current landscaping, as well as the soil condition, drainage needs, and other factors.

We create a unique design strategy for your pet turf installation based on our consultation and site evaluation. We provide several types of fake grass that are safe for pets, and we took great effort in choosing them based on their longevity, realism in appearance, and other criteria. When designing for comfort and durability, we think about things like blade length, pile density, and backing materials.

We remove any existing plants and clean up the area before we begin installing. To guarantee good drainage and a level platform for laying the turf, we grade the soil.

Installation on a solid, well-prepared base is crucial for the pet turf's long life and optimal performance. To ensure that the turf has a stable foundation, we lay down a compacted base layer of rock or decomposed granite.

Installations of pet grass require a drainage system to prevent standing water and unpleasant odours. To ensure effective water management, we set up a unique drainage system that channels liquids beneath the lawn and into the subsoil.

When installing synthetic grass, our trained staff takes great care to provide a seamless appearance between seams and a snug fit across the area. For a more organic and visually attractive appearance, we pay close attention to details like blade orientation and how well one area flows into the next.

When properly placed, infill helps stabilise the lawn, improves drainage, and keeps the blades at the right height and resilience. The infill we use is completely safe for your dogs, as it contains no hazardous chemicals.

Putting the finishing touches on the turf by making sure it looks uniform and performs well. We clean up the area, make sure the blades stay in an upright posture by brushing them, and do a thorough quality check.

After an installation is complete, we remove any remaining waste and construction materials and give the area a thorough cleaning. We check everything one last time to make sure it's up to our standards of excellence and pet friendliness.

If you live in or around Houston, Texas, and are interested in having pet turf installed, we recommend working with Go Turf because of our commitment to providing superior customer service and high-quality goods. Because of its durability, stain resistance, and low odour, our synthetic grass is a great option for households with pets. You may have a lovely lawn that requires no upkeep and still keep your pets safe and secure.

We not only provide pet friendly turf installation near Houston TX area, but also provide pet-friendly grass supplies for those who want to do-it-yourself. You may buy our pet-friendly fake grass from us and set it up yourself whenever it suits your schedule. To ensure that your final product is up to par with industry standards, we give comprehensive instructions and advice.

Go grass is the go-to company for pet-friendly grass installations in the Houston area. We care about your dogs and want you to be happy, so we provide top-notch installations that improve the look and usefulness of your outside area. Learn more about the advantages of our pet turf solutions by contacting us now to set up a consultation.

[jasonbeblog]

Developing Your Guitar Tone: Tips and Tricks for Achieving the Perfect Sound

Every guitarist dreams of finding their unique tone—a sound that resonates with their musical style and personality. Developing your guitar tone is an exciting and ongoing journey that involves experimenting, refining, and understanding the components that contribute to your sound. In this blog, we will explore various tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect guitar tone that reflects your musical vision.

Start with a Solid Foundation: Before diving into the world of effects and gear, ensure that your guitar is properly set up and in good condition. Consider getting a professional setup to optimize the playability and intonation. Experiment with different types of strings to find the ones that suit your style and sound preferences. A well-maintained guitar forms the foundation of a great tone.

Experiment with Pickups and Amps: Pickups and amplifiers are key factors in shaping your guitar tone. Different pickup configurations, such as single-coils, humbuckers, or P90s, offer distinct characteristics. Experiment with different pickup combinations and models to find the ones that enhance your desired sound. Similarly, explore various amplifier types and brands to discover the one that complements your playing style.

Understand the EQ Controls: Mastering the EQ controls on your guitar, amplifier, or effects pedals can significantly impact your tone. Take the time to understand the basics of equalization, including bass, mid, and treble frequencies. Experiment with adjusting these controls to shape your sound, emphasizing or reducing specific frequencies to achieve the desired tonal balance.

Explore Effects Pedals: Effects pedals open up a world of sonic possibilities. Start with essential pedals like overdrive, distortion, and delay to add texture and character to your sound. Experiment with different pedal combinations to create unique tones. Remember to use effects tastefully, ensuring they enhance your playing rather than overshadow it. Quality over quantity is key when building your pedalboard.

Consider Your Playing Technique: Your playing technique greatly influences your tone. Experiment with varying pick attack, palm muting, and fingerpicking techniques to achieve different sounds. Adjusting your picking location on the strings, playing dynamics, and using different strumming patterns can also add depth and expression to your tone.

Experiment with Guitar Settings: Don't overlook the importance of exploring your guitar's settings. Adjust the volume and tone controls on your guitar to find the sweet spot that enhances your tone. Rolling off the guitar's volume knob can create cleaner tones, while increasing it can add more bite and overdrive. Use the tone knob to adjust the brightness or warmth of your sound.

Explore Different Playing Styles and Genres: Expand your tonal repertoire by exploring various playing styles and genres. Experiment with different genres, such as blues, rock, jazz, or funk, and observe how different guitarists achieve their signature sounds. Analyze their techniques, gear choices, and settings to gain inspiration and adapt them to your own playing style.

Trust Your Ears and Personal Preferences: While it's valuable to learn from others, ultimately, developing your guitar tone is a subjective process. Trust your ears and follow your instincts. Experimentation is key, so don't be afraid to try new techniques, gear, or settings. Your personal preferences and musical identity should guide you in creating a tone that resonates with your artistic vision.

[septembersung]

Alright then (cracks knuckles) here we go:

I’m having trouble fleshing out the give and take of the dystopian future which is the setting for “the next great american (catholic) space novel.” My goal is have several clear factions, in the different parts of the society, with different goals and interpretations, and their fighting around the main characters is the context of the plot.

I’m going to lay out the narrative set up and the goal (so spoilers I guess) and would love suggestions on how to make this work in 3D. I’ve got a crystal clear vision of a hazy concept, as it were.

The year is 2100-something and over regulation and woke think prevails in the United States, politically and in the Catholic Church.

Politically: the government takes overpopulation very seriously, despite rock bottom birth rates; the bogeyman of “resource scarcity” does a lot of heavy lifting. Life and gender issues are legislated in ways that make it difficult to be a faithful Catholic openly or even to mind your own business. The kinds of things you see happening now in various places but ramped up and more universal.

Religiously, I think it would be neat if orthodox Catholics had to operate underground a la China but I need more concrete information to write that. How does one even learn what that’s like? This is a society where the woke version of the faith is the only acceptable one and because of equality and hate speech laws, society gets to enforce that in a way.

Part of the reason I’m having trouble is because I don’t actually care too much about the specifics, I just need an atmosphere of persecution because the protagonist and her people do a lot of “illegal” things and this interplay contributes to the climax. Like, the protagonist’s brother attends an underground seminary with a cover job and her sister is a reporter whose articles hide coded messages to the underground church in diaspora. I’m less interested in why it has to be that way than the fact that that’s just cool and I want to see their adventures.

Another reason is I want real and recognizable problems to illustrate the problem for the characters but I don’t have the political imagination to guess what that could look like. Really I just want a couple solid foundation concepts to set a backdrop for the action which until the very end is pretty much character based.

The story is actually in 3 parts. There’s the “present”, which I’m trying to flesh out politically here, the flashbacks to the founding members of the farm in pioneer days in the form of a rediscovered journal the protagonist reads, and the “future” which takes place in space with the protagonist’s descendant(s).

The arc of the “present” story is that the protagonist comes from a family farm with a long history which has withstood attempts to be bought out for generations and stayed in business by the skin of its teeth and adapting despite governmental overreach and other problems (what other problems? Idk.) She wants to take over the farm some day (her siblings are doing other things) but Something ?? forces her to go to the city and work there where she ends up doing secret pro life work. She wants to come back to the farm permanently. The big new thing is that “life ships” are real now and there’s government versions and private sector versions and deep space colonization is the exciting new frontier. Some people think this is a great win for freedom and some think the gullible are being rounded up for nefarious purposes; some that the government and private sector are in conflict and some think they’re cooperating behind the scenes. Huge ethical questions about governance and what’s real vs misinfo and prisoners and colonization and then there’s smaller but very focal faction that thinks humanity is a blight and shouldn’t continue or colonize, which turns to terrorism. The extended family has tensions within itself and different family groups don’t agree with or trust the others. The tension is, the farm is coming under scrutiny and probably going to be taken away from them; the world is falling apart with wars, famine that keeps coming closer, and then a plague; and the protagonist who wants to stay at home and farm ends up on a life ship against her will. By accident? Forced by the government? Kind of both? Idk.

This story has been in development since like 2017 and I’m a bit annoyed that real life events keep being a little too on the nose tbh.

Also the major fictional private sector life ship corporation is Star Tech, because I’m hilarious. (Don’t tell me if this already exists just let me have my fun.)

If you have fun thoughts to add to the mix feel free to reply here or message me!

For the record I absolutely intend to answer everyone’s questions about these sci-fi dystopian government concepts and generate discussion I’m just chained to real life for a bit and I’ve got to figure out how to make a nebulous concept do words

[deadcactuswalking]

REVIEWING THE CHARTS: 04/02/2022 (KSI, The Kid LAROI, Sam Smith/Calvin Harris)

“Flowers” by Miley Cyrus tops the UK Singles Chart for the third week in a row, and it’s kind of a slow one but welcome back to REVIEWING THE CHARTS!

Rundown

As always, we start with the notable dropouts, and other than some recent entries, there aren’t that many, given that notable dropouts are songs exiting the UK Top 75 – which is what I cover – after five weeks in the region or a peak in the top 40. We say farewell to “Nobody Gets Me” by SZA – thanks to the three-song rule, which will pop up later, as well as “Lift Me Up” by Rihanna, “Ghost of You” by Mimi Webb and “Bad Habit” by Steve Lacy.

What’s filling up the gaps then? Well, we see some bizarre returns for “METAMORPHOSIS” by INTERWORLD at #71 and thanks to... a Fortnite event, “STAY” by The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber is back once again at #37 after peaking at #2 in 2021, because... sure, I guess. More LAROI later on. As for our notable gains, we see “Just Wanna Rock” by Lil Uzi Vert at #51, “ceilings” by Lizzy McAlpine at #50 (looking good), “Shut up My Moms Calling” by Hotel Ugly at #47 (not anymore), “Here with Me” by d4vd at #51, “Never Not Gonna Dance Again” by P!nk at #40 (again, more on her later: it’s the week of the residuals), “The Color Violet” by Tory Lanez at #36, “Ready to Fly” by Sub Focus and Dimension at #35, “Lavender Haze” by Taylor Swift at #32 thanks to the video, and sadly, “Players” by Coi Leray at #19.

Welp, that was quick. Our top five once again consists of “messy in heaven” by venbee and goddard. at #5, “Anti-Hero” by Taylor Swift at #4, “Kill Bill” by SZA at #3, “Escapism.” by RAYE and 070 Shake at #2 (vying for #1 next week with the album release, I imagine) and of course, “Flowers” at #1. Now with that swept out of the way at rapid pace, let’s move onto our batch of new songs.

NEW ARRIVALS

#65 – “Us Against the World” – Strandz

Produced by Strandz and Blueboy

Strandz is a new UK rapper from South London who works closely with his producer Blueboy, with this new track being his breakout single, though he’s been putting out songs since 2017. I kind of had some hope for this given it starts with a chipmunk sample of the 1970 song “Who’s Gonna Take the Blame” by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles that sets up a great foundation for this kind of track as Robinson croons of youthful rebellion, which Strandz also raps about in his verse, specifically about his girlfriend that he puts over his friends and his money to face the world together. It helps that Blueboy is a great producer too, with a classic twinkling keys loop that sound straight out of Cam’ron’s back catalogue, and a solid, albeit stiff, groove to come with it. It’s not perfect though, mostly because of Strandz just sounding lacking in passion and not fully confident on this beat, to the point where his little ad-libs in the midst of the chorus sound kind of defeated and it really doesn’t work for this kind of content that needs a more fully formed and focused delivery. The beat doesn’t change that much either, which may be fine because it’s decently confrontational but the same piano twinkle and chipmunk vocal clip will only last a certain time before it gets a tad tiring, and I can see this souring on me more than growing on me... but for now, I suppose it’s got some potential. I’d like to see where both Strandz and Blueboy go from here.

#59 – “TRUSTFALL” – P!nk

Produced by Fred again.. and Johnny McDaid

Welp, I suppose P!nk is raring up for yet another album release and I honestly don’t know how she continues to chart as well as she does considering she hasn’t released anything particularly interesting in around a decade now. Regardless, she’s hired Ed Sheeran’s producers – smart choice – and went full synthpop on this one, wherein she expresses very familiar generic and motivational platitudes of love in a not-at-all compelling metaphor... what a surprise at this point. I remember when P!nk had some grit to her delivery at least, and any of that is stripped out when placed against the oddly confrontational synth beat, that has a really distractingly intense house beat driving it, which just seems like a complete mismatch, especially since the actual synthwork is somewhat minimal, or at least appears as such since it’s very basic and airy. More than anything, I just don’t see the point in this existing, and for someone who used to make some of the most cathartic pop rock in the 2000s, that’s sad, but also sadly expected.

#56 – “Snooze” – SZA

Produced by Babyface, Khristopher Riddick-Tynes, Leon Thomas III and BLK Beats

I stand by that you can tell an album has legs in the UK not by the albums chart but by if it debuts another song weeks after release that isn’t being promoted as a single. “Snooze” seems to be the fan favourite from SOS and it appears that of all producers in R&B, Babyface still has some of his magic touch because this is great. Sure, the drums may be a bit heavy-handed over this wavy blend of keys and guitars, but it’s hardly noticeable when SZA is practically rapping with as much effortless confidence as she can muster about... well, a mutually-loving relationship in which SZA will do anything for this guy. I will say that it doesn’t seem all that mutual, considering SZA goes way over-the-top – she seems to like murdering people but this time it’s for this partner instead of her own self-esteem. In fact, the cracks in this relationship which SZA seems initially lenient about particularly come through in that bridge, where the impulsive thoughts come in showing her insecurities about the relationship, particularly how the guy is putting too much pressure on her when he’s the one not putting the effort in within the relationship. The filtered, Auto-Tune bridge ironically has her most impassioned performance and really won me over with the song, considering that it never renders the rest of that genuine loving feeling a farce as much as it acknowledges that it’s not all peaches and daisies, and that same Auto-Tune filter is all over the backing vocals to show those thoughts come seeping in during and after that final chorus. Maybe I should listen to this album in full after all.

#23 – “I’m Not Here to Make Friends” – Sam Smith, Calvin Harris and Jessie Reyez

Produced by Sam Smith, Stargate and Calvin Harris

I haven’t listened to Smith’s most recent #1 album Gloria – I just don’t care about Sam Smith, and this song doesn’t really convince me on it. I mean, sure, it’s produced in part by Calvin Harris and apart from some backing vocals is essentially a solo cut, so it’s at least coherent unlike the other singles have been, but the disco groove feels particularly cheap, especially with the bass guitar and slightly obnoxious chorus which does not great in Smith’s falsetto and especially not in Reyez’s nasal intermissions which sound oddly mixed and unnecessary, like they plopped in a reference track. The content is fine enough, if not compelling, where Smith is looking for someone to pick up from the club and bring home... but like they say, they’re not the exception: it’s just a kind of dull track with not much to do with itself. I’ll admit that Smith’s harmonies sound great as always and it kind of picks up steam against the strings in the outro, but from that point it’s too little, too late. Also, RuPaul samples in the top 40? We’re at that point? I’m not sure whether to be happy or deeply disappointed.

#18 – “Love Again” – The Kid LAROI

Produced by Cirkut and Omer Fedi

Do you think now that The Kid LAROI is making more serious music and has grown fully out of the emo rap lane that they regret their stupid-looking stage name? The nod to his indigenous Australian heritage is cool and all but why is it Stylised Like THIS? Regardless, this is kind of his comeback single, relying on a frolicking acoustic guitar, almost folk-like, behind LAROI’s typical whining about toxic love-hate relationships, desperately wanting to find love in what clearly shouldn’t work... and yeah, it’s pretty good. I don’t know, maybe the songwriting has gotten tighter in the years since “WITHOUT YOU” – I think it really has, since there are so many hooks to this – or maybe his voice has just gotten less obnoxious, but he shows some restraint here, especially amidst the bass and uncertain backing vocals in the second verse which show a genuine attempt sound design-wise to create a dichotomy between the constant acoustics and the intensity of the relationship being described. Sure, it ends way too quickly, which is disappointing because it seemed like it was gearing up for a bridge, but the fragment that we have is pretty good, if not great. I wish there was more of it, though. It’s still weird to think that only two years ago if that I was calling this guy the white-passing version of Juice WRLD and he’s finally made the full-on Post Malone leap into not even trying to rap. Once again, like with Posty, it’s probably for the best here too.

#11 – “Voices” – KSI featuring Oliver Tree

Produced by Digital Farm Animals and Mojam

This really is a nightmare of a collaboration... you’d think with KSI’s growing efforts to be taken seriously in some regard, he’d make himself less of an easy target for novelty like with this collaboration with enigmatic nuisance Oliver Tree and “Christmas Drillings”, but realistically, he can have fun and do whatever he wants. It just seems like the shadow of him being a YouTuber will constantly ring into the music and often does so very obnoxiously. This is particularly true with this Godawful song, as KSI and Mr. Tree have to layer themselves with a disgusting degree of vocal takes to make them sound listenable, drowning out nearly everything in the mix except a weirdly mastered bass and a couple lone trap hi-hats that have been lost and found in this indie rock percussion. KSI is a better singer nowadays at least, and the lyrics are just generic post-breakup fluff, sure, but it’s so inoffensive to the point of aggravation, especially once the Tree pops up, because his smug pop-punk murmuring has no place on a song already this flat. I just can’t stand this in any way, but it’s still not nearly as bad as it could have been. Regardless, can we not make Oliver Tree a hit maker? Please?

Conclusion

Worst of the Week easily goes to KSI for “Voices” featuring Oliver Tree, mostly for the latter, but it wasn’t a particularly bad week even if it’s not worth comparing to the past few in terms of quality or quantity. I suppose P!NK gets the Dishonourable Mention for “TRUSTFALL” whilst Best of the Week easily goes to “Snooze” by SZA, with an Honourable Mention to “Us Against the World” by Strandz just because I want to see where it goes and I think the sound is onto something that could be big or at least have a semi-revival. Regardless, we’ll see what happens next time with RAYE and... God knows what else. For now, thank you for reading, and I’ll see you next week!

[scarlettriot]

Mina Ashido Headcanons!

@jewel116 requested some headcanons of our Alien Queen and I am here to deliver!

Some of these also could be considered BakuSquad HCs, hope that's alright.

I also went ahead and included some Adult Mina and 18+ Mina Headcanons too. Both are below the cut and clearly stated. Warnings are posted at each header mark.

If anyone has any other requests, lemme know!

Basic Mina Headcanons

Warnings: It's as fluffy as her dang hair! (Swearing)

. Most definitely has ADHD! In class, she is constantly tapping her foot on bouncing her leg as a means of trying her best to keep focused.

. Has a collection of shirts that she has designated for sleep and loungewear because she's burned acid holes in them by accident. Sometimes she'll wear them to concerts and shows if the design is cool enough.

. Loves piggyback rides! Frequently will run and jump on the backs of the guys in the BakuSquad. Even Katsuki himself puts up with it after a while.

. While Katsuki is the 'mom' of the squad, Mina is the one everyone goes to when they need comfort. Denki will curl up in her lap after a long day, Eijiro frequently goes to her when his insecurities creep back in, Hanta shows up late at night and they talk in her room about nothing just because he doesn't want to be alone, and Katsuki, well, he shows up to her room, slams the door and complains for a solid half-hour after reading a particularly heartbreaking scene in a manga while she listens to every word and validates his feelings.

. Mina worries far more than people believe she does. Her bubbly, loud, personality usually masks it but she knows when people are lying to her about what's going on in their heads.

. Sitting properly in a chair physically bothers her. She'd much rather be hanging upside down off it.

. She lowkey likes that the boys get protective over her.

. Mina is the type of person who gets A LOT of random thoughts that pop up in her head and one of the few people who actually will engage with the sheer randomness of the ideas is Shoto. Not only does he engage, he comes up with his own! The two can talk for hours.

. Loves hosting 'spa parties' in the common area of the dorms, everyone is welcome to join.

. When road trips happen, she's making the playlists (technically, she and Kyoka switch off).

. Tries teaching Tenya, Izuku, and Shoto how to flirt. After a very embarrassing first hour, Shoto didn't learn a single thing, Izuku was only good at it when paired with Shoto and Tenya... Tenya had her SHOOK! Man has game and she made sure everyone knew!

. Has weekly meetings with Yuga where they drink tea and spill the tea.

. She is so damn ticklish. Hanta was teasing her one day, she warned him to stop, he received an elbow to the face for not listening.

. Tried to grow her hair out once but it didn't grow down... it grew OUT. Mina thought she rocked it, and she totally did but ended up having it cut back down so poor Tsyu could see in class.

. Wakes up early three days a week to practice her hand-to-hand combat with Eijiro. Mina wants to improve her technique and Eijiro needed to work on his mobility, it benefits them both.

. Just Dance is her favorite game, she dominates.

. Easily forms new interests.

. Won't admit it but she gets jealous super easily.

. Will be the first to attempt to throw hands for a friend! I HC she was picked on as a child for looking so different but it never really phased her too badly, she likes looking different but understands that not everyone thinks like she does. So, if someone were to say something about Mezo's facemask, she's stepping in to defend the guy without hesitation.

. Knows every TikTok dance EVER. If a new one comes out, she's mastered it by end of the day and her account is always up to date.

. (Popular idea but important to reinforce) Mina and Eijiro co-founded a club, Horn Buddies, specifically to make Eri feel more welcome. They take her on trips and group outings. The only horned person who's not allowed to join is Pony because she was rude as heck to Mezo.

. Mina gets extra competitive over board games.

. She can ice skate and roller skate like a champ.

. Mina is resilient, dedicated, and passionate. She has goals and the girl will achieve them.

Pro Hero - Adult Mina Headcanons

Warnings - Mentions of alcohol use and swearing

. Gets several tattoos and piercings.

. Starts a roller derby club with most of the girls from 1A.

. Loves going out to the hottest dance clubs just as much as she enjoys staying in and munching on take-out food with friends.

. The Horn Buddies club she formed with Eijiro has now expanded into regular society and both young heroes couldn't be more proud. Together they've formed a foundation that strives to help those with non-flashy, unconventional, or misunderstood quirks feel welcomed and loved.

. Does her best to shop small whenever she can. Mina wants to help her community in as many different ways as possible.

. Becomes a fashion icon for many small, just starting out, alternative clothing lines. They love her look and the standard she sets.

. Goes to fashion and runway shows with Momo on the regular. While Momo prefers buying right off the rack, Mina goes to thrift stores and buys items that are coming back into style.

. Does her best to stay in touch with her classmates. She really cherished the friendships she made and goes the extra mile to make sure everyone stays connected.

. Has told off Shoto's father. Sent the man an anonymous bag of flaming dog shit as well for making his son so damn stressed. Sorry, not sorry.

. As long as she isn't in the middle of a fight, Mina will always stop to take a photo with a fan or sign an autograph. In or out of costume, she doesn't care.

. In high school, Mina's room was always decked out for the holidays. She goes decoration crazy and it is always done well. But, now that she's an adult with that pro hero money and her own place, she's the best house on the block decorated for each and every holiday! Inside and out! Also throws holiday-themed parties.

. Got absolutely trashed with the BakuSquad one night and taught them all how to twerk. By the end of the lesson, she deemed Katsuki was the best of her students.

. Loves to drink. Is a lightweight. Katsuki and Eijiro have carried her home more times than they can count.

NSFW 18+ Mina HC Below - Minors DNI

Warnings: Drinking, rough sex, mentions of orgies, handcuffs, impact play, and praise kinks. Subtle sexual relations with BakuSquad, Jiro, Todoroki, and Ochaco.

. The Queen of stripteases and lap dances.

. If any of her friends are at a party or some event and they need a fake date, Mina is their go-to person. She's handsy. She's flirty. And has no problem with platonic make-outs.

. Always encourages kissing-themed games at parties. Seven Minutes in Heaven, Spin the Bottle, those sorts of games. Mina also loves to play cupid and has rigged a game or two to get people together.

. Has made out with every member of the BakuSquad at least once as well as Kyoka, Shoto, and Ochaco simply because she was curious.

. Has attempted to start an orgy with the BakuSquad before when intoxicated. Still mentions it in passing just in case they change their minds.

. Has gone further with Katsuki and Eijiro though. Maybe both at the same time once or twice or several times...

. Wonderfully filthy dirty talk. Can even make Katsuki blush.

. (A personal favorite of mine that was in a previous post) When they were first years, Eijiro asked innocently enough, to touch her horns. He was gentle but that didn't matter. Our poor girl was so damn flustered! Her face turned red bright, she felt hot, and she had to go take a very cold shower!

. Ei felt terrible about it. It took them both maturing for her to explain exactly why she reacted that way... and then asked him to do it again.

. Is likely to send NSFW texts and photos while people are indeed at work. She is a Pro Hero though so only certain people are allowed to have those photos. A scandal is the last thing she wants.

. Very good at communication and is not afraid to speak her mind about what she wants and needs out of a relationship and her sex life.

. Loud, very loud, very needy.

. Fuzzy handcuffs in every color she can think of and adores impact play.

. Let her know she's doing a good job, Mina responds well to praise.

. Big cuddler after sex. Wants to snuggle into you and more than likely take a nap.

[hermette-historian]

It's important to look deeply at the near-death experiences that the series has had in order to understand how it has grown, why it has changed the way that it did, and the reasoning behind some of the decisions that the members continue to make to this day. In looking at history we also find the answers to some of the greatest mysteries of the series, as well as some of the most frequently asked and vaguely answered questions. With that in mind:

What Really Killed Hermitcraft Season 1?

Episode 1: Death of a Bachelor

If you ask Xisuma why the first season ended, he will say in no uncertain terms that it was the loss of their founder and leader GenerikB. And he's right.

GB's final episode of Hermitcraft aired on April 20, 2013; the same date as Jessassin's, though that seems to have been pure coincidence. In it he states that he is leaving because while he is still in love with the game, the vanilla version just..wasn't doing it for him anymore. He was done with that world, ready for something fresh and exciting to be added, and to him that meant mods. To this day, he still plays modded Minecraft over on Twitch! But after he left Hermitcraft, he never really went back to vanilla. More importantly, he also implies that while the server may go on in his absence, he finds it unlikely to continue long term-true to his prediction, the series floundered without direction for another month before Xisuma uploaded his final video on June 2 of that year. Hermitcraft officially died with the disappearance of its namesake.

Here's where we look deeper, because while GB's departure may have been the straw that broke the camel's back it was by no means the only reason the season ended. Just digging deeper into each of his reasons for leaving, we can see the storm brewing as far back as November of the previous year.

Episode 2: The Call of Cthulhu

What happened in November, you ask? Modded Minecraft happened. More specifically, the extremely popular modpack Feed the Beast was released beta at that time, and the Hermits at large wasted zero time in getting in on the action. There was within a month a dedicated "Hermitcraft Feed the Beast" server, from which a few hermits were added to the vanilla counterpart retroactively: Juicetra and Skyzm among them. Other members included Hypno, Topmass, DMAC, and of course GB...FTB quickly consumed the working lives of the Hermits; it was the first experience many of them had with a real modpack, and it introduced mechanics they could only dream about having in the survival game (like flying, for instance). Content on the vanilla server began to slow down. It didn't help that none of the hermits were full time creators in 2013-their time was limited, and when they were able to spend it doing the things they wanted to do that ended up being FTB. Some members such as DMAC promised more vanilla content once the craze was over, but the "craze" never stopped and he ended up going full months without putting out vanilla episodes. The FTB server had its own issues and ended up dying of technical problems and rollbacks later down the line, but it alone played a massive part first in boosting Hermitcraft Vanilla, then slowly choking it to death.

But there is one more unsung murderer when it comes to the grave demise of Hermitcraft Season 1: the game itself.

Episode 3: If I Die Young

When Dinnerbone joined Hermitcraft in summer 2012, he requested that they begin to update through snapshots instead of waiting for full releases-presumably so that he could use them as a test server. The decision to honor his suggestion, however, was a divisive one. Some members jumped on the opportunity! GB and Red3yz in particular were beyond excited to test everything from new terrain generation to redstone mechanics. Others like Xisuma and Biffa were more cautious, preferring to wait until the game was ready to play in a way that would be fulfilling to them. Still others-Joe Hills among them-were excited at first...then fell quickly into the opposite camp when half of their house spontaneously went missing and occasionally they couldn't craft anything with the wooden planks. The snapshots proved to be glitchy as all hell and an administrative nightmare, creating little but endless stress for GB on admin duty and Hypno in the world edit repair department. But they stuck with it! Hermitcraft continued to update through every single snapshot from 1.3 until 1.5, each new week bringing a new set of uncertainties and challenges to overcome. For a group of creators that were already fatigued with vanilla and focused on something more interesting, it's easy to see how this kind of thing would force a divide between them and the server...nobody wants to create content on a game that's unnecessarily difficult on a good day.

Of course, there were other little things that drove the Hermits away from its original phase. A big one for GB that goes unmentioned was definitely the state of his base: the original that he spent nearly a year building was burnt to the ground during the conflict with TEA and redone in creative mode by Topmass and the Pimp my Minecraft team. Not only did this cause controversy among the fans like you wouldn't believe, it left little for him to do in the world where his own creations were largely gone altogether. Other Hermits like Jess ran out of inspiration or burned out in a more typical fashion.

Thus in June of 2013, just over a year after its original inception, Hermitcraft died.

On the third day it rose again, dragged by the ears near single-handedly out of the grave by the person with the most determination to see it succeed. A new era began of rebuilding on a solid foundation, with dignity intact and lessons learned, a stronger brand, a clear distinction, and no snapshots. Eventually, they would have a new leader. But these things will all take time.

Hermitcraft beta was doomed by being built on sand instead of rock. It was strangled by the game itself, a victim of circumstance and false promises and opportunity. It died and came back stronger. And once every year or two, it feels the need to do so again.

Here's to Season 8, and many more to come.

[lavender-annd-lilac]

🎄BREAKING NEWS🎄

Has “𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆” unseated “𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒚 𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒐𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒄𝒐𝒂” as the current favourite in the Christmas saga?

We’re still counting the vote (one singular vote, from me), but there could be a chance… 🫢

In other news… inside sources tell us that trusted public figure “Science” made a startling confession earlier 😲 we’ll bring you more on this story as it develops.

(The most recent updates can be found in the comments section here)

Lee grumbles, his face set in a permanent scowl

Yaaasss we need more male representation of resting bitch face! Why should ladies have all the fun??

Christmas movie playing quietly on the screen

My brain for no reason: we must figure out this movie!!!

Clues

it’s boring bc reader fell asleep 😴

It’s long bc reader fell asleep 😴

It’s a serious, quiet movie, bc reader fell asleep 😴

*remembers reader is basically sleeping beauty and rarely wakes up*

Oh nvm scratch that 🙁

tugging lightly on your finger that hangs over the edge of the couch, glaring up at you. Daring you to wake up

This is the equivalent of putting oranges on your sleeping cat, just waiting for it to wake up and hit u with a Death Glare

Source 🥹

picturing the confusion in your eyes

Jokes on u dude, reader doesn’t get confused, bc she has no grasp of reality or any kind of internal danger sense. She just accepts the weird happenings around her and goes back to sleep like

Also I’m wondering like, if the elves like have locker room boy talk time where they tell each other about their adventures haha. 😂

But without specifics, so it’s like that comical situation where each guy is like ya, I went to this person’s house and blah blah blah, without realizing they are all visiting the same house lol

Lee begins to climb, gripping whatever material he can.

This is why every single furniture item in my apartment is made of 100% organic banana peels. (Including the apartment itself. I live in a banana). No tiny creature is going to climb up my couch and sneak up on me 😤😤😤

#BigBrainStuff

🤓🧠🍌

His chubby belly bulges against his sweater.

Lol so cute 🥺

Annoyed by the sweet scent of gingerbread filling his senses

Ok WHAT? *checks list*

…I’m not seeing “gingerbread” under the list of officially sanctioned Annoying Smells🧐 let’s see… we’ve got:

Sulphur

Wet dog

Cabbage

Skunk spray

Hm…. Yeah no gingerbread 🤔

he spies a half-eaten gingerbread house on top of the coffee table

My brain for no reason: which half

Me: … why

Brain: I need to assess the current structural integrity of the house

Me: …

Brain: if it’s the top half, the foundation should still be solid, safe to put up some scaffolding and begin repairs 👍

…but if it’s the left side/right side, it’s going to be a more dangerous job - there’s a higher risk of the entire house toppling over like a poorly made tower of Pisa 😬

Me: ok first of all, I don’t think tower of Pisa was that well made in the fist place since it’s leaning like that, and second of all… nvm I can’t do this anymore lol u go ahead with your construction plans, I’ll file for the building permit with the Gingerbread mayor

😮‍💨

grumbling before treading over and on top of your sleeping body

Me: the heck kind of sheriff is this guy? Shouldn’t he like, check if there are any casualties in the house? It’s half demolished 😧😧😧

Brain: oh we put up a danger sign and caution tape around it already. No one is getting on there ⚠️

He continues to grumble as he makes his way up your stomach and to your soft, plump breasts.

Me: Is he spider man?? How is he climbing up? She’s not a rock person, there aren’t any hand holds or foot holds 🤨

Brain: hey do u think 2 gumdrops an hour is a fair wage to pay the gingerbread construction workers or is that not enough? 🤔

he nuzzles closer to your erect nipple, lying flat on his stomach as he presses his face into your soft flesh

Me: This sounds like some cirque du soleil acrobat shit. Like, he’s balancing on the nipple and jerking off and doing whatever his face is doing? AND this is under the sleep shirt so there is like not a lot of lighting… kinda dangerous tbh.

Brain: ooooohhh ask if he can help rebuild the gingerbread house!! Gingerbread people aren’t very flexible, it will be hard for them to do some of the tasks 🫤

Me: ok dude, we HAVE to stop writing ourselves into the story😫.

Remember what happened last time??? When we tricked ourselves into thinking a certain story was about real magic and wizards when it was actually about a fake magician stalking and kidnapping a victim??

Brain: …. I don’t recall 🤥

His lips move off your nipple, placing rough kisses and bites around it.

Idk… I feel like the nipple would be one of the worse places to get a bug bite or mosquito bite, but then elves don’t have venom in their saliva right? They’re just full of… “Christmasy” flavoured fluid apparently haha 😆 which I’m sure is non-lethal

Lee mumbles into your skin, muttering words about how good you feel and how you are such a good girl for him.

Bro u can yell. It takes A LOT to wake this girl up apparently

Wondering how he could’ve kept himself away from you for so long

We love some good old self reflection. Maybe do some journaling about it even 🙏 namaste

Resting his forehead tiredly against your plump flesh, Lee grumbles

Grumpy gus over here lmao. Always grumbling😒. Hey man, just be grateful your house isn’t half eaten - that would be something to actually grumble about

He scoffs, shaking his head, “stupid bitch doesn’t know how to stay clean.”

Lol this is so

Dipping his hands into his cooling cum, he spreads it around and onto your hard nipple, marking you as his. 

Ok u know what, depending on the currently unknown composition of the elf jizz, this could potentially be a good moisturizer? Like that snail slime stuff people use for face serums

🐌🐌🐌

Lee’s eyes move to the opening of your shirt, slightly widening when they connect with your curious ones

Reader has no fear. Reader has no sympathetic nervous system to engage the fight or flight response. Reader would not have survived the process of natural selection back in caveman times 😔

Without knowing what to do, he runs toward your face.

Wow ok so he’s like the classic white girl in a horror movie…. instinct is to run towards the unknown danger huh

🫣🫠

swinging a tiny fist directly toward your chin, his face set into a deep scowl, and he glared when you didn’t react. He thought that would work. 

Ok and like, what would have happened if it “worked”?? Like, what is the best case scenario here??? What were u trying to achieve??

Also, I don’t endorse the bible, but David had the right idea when he went for the Goliath’s eye. Just saying, he didn’t win by hitting him in the chin with a rock.🙄

a spew of curse words flies out of his mouth

Do elves have any special curse words that are like specific to their culture? Idk like, if someone was showing off would they be like, “look at that pretentious Rudolph red-nose asshole, acting like he’s better than us, smh”

He makes sure to disappear before you think of getting off the couch and following him. 

Yeah he could have just walked it out of there. Reader isn’t following anyone lol.

Your eyes slowly flicker over to the Christmas movie playing

Oh shit this thing is still going? It must be like, the extended directors cut or something

not to notice the man in your dreams standing near your beautifully decorated Christmas Tree. 

GIRL pls… he’s not even hiding behind the tree. He’s just beside it 😭😭😭 use ur peripheral vision!! 😫😫😫

You didn’t know why but something seemed to be blocking you from freaking out.

Ooooh I see…. 420 blaze it 😎

Whatever it was seemed to bring forth your deepest desires. 

Omg true!!

That’s why she got the munchies and ate half the gingerbread house!!!

And licked her hand after Ransom did his thing!!!

Reader isn’t a ditzy airhead at all! She’s just a stoner!!

Wow. Suddenly everything makes sense… the slow reactions, the zoning out, the permanent state of chill…. cool cool, alright

𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆

🎄christmas masterlist🎄

warning - smut, swearing, nipple play, getting yourself off with another's breast, slight somno, human reader, tiny elf male, stalker behaviour, violence.

18+ only please, the gif and header aren't mine.

Warnings and Reminders - Please do not plagiarise, copy, repost/republish, adapt, or translate any of my work on any social media platforms, apps, or third-party sites. The only platforms I post my work on are: Tumblr and Wattpad. I do not own any character of any franchise (Marvel etc.) All my works are fiction and may be dark or triggering content: READ ALL WARNINGS BEFORE PROCEEDING.

Lee grumbles, his face set in a permanent scowl as he stares at your sleeping form. His icy eyes flicker over to the Christmas movie playing quietly on the screen before focusing back on what he came for. Lee walks over, tugging lightly on your finger that hangs over the edge of the couch, glaring up at you. Daring you to wake up, picturing the confusion in your eyes causes his cock to strain against his pants. 

Lee begins to climb, gripping whatever material he can. Pulling his tiny body up until he reaches the flatness of the couch, small huffs leave him as he tries to catch his breath. His chubby belly bulges against his sweater.

His little pointed ears twitch when he straightens, and his nose scrunches. Annoyed by the sweet scent of gingerbread filling his senses, he spies a half-eaten gingerbread house on top of the coffee table, grumbling before treading over and on top of your sleeping body, lifting your oversized sleep shirt and crawling underneath.

He continues to grumble as he makes his way up your stomach and to your soft, plump breasts. Untucking his hardened member from his pants, he nuzzles closer to your erect nipple, lying flat on his stomach as he presses his face into your soft flesh. Lee’s throbbing cock pokes against you as he begins to lick and suck parts of your nipple and breast. 

Lee starts to rut into you, stuffing as much of your nipple into his mouth as possible. Grunts and groans were freely leaving him, his thick tip leaking his creamy pre-cum. His lips move off your nipple, placing rough kisses and bites around it. His pace picks up, little hips thrusting rapidly into you, eyes rolling to the back of his head as the pleasure becomes too much for him, but it feels too good to stop. 

Lee mumbles into your skin, muttering words about how good you feel and how you are such a good girl for him. His eyes keep fluttering closed as your sweet scent fills his senses. Wondering how he could’ve kept himself away from you for so long, Lee moves his way back up to your nipple and latches on. 

He can feel his end approaching as his balls tighten, the heavy sacks desperate to release his warm cream. His bulging stomach rubs against you as he thrusts faster. Little whines and moans escape his puffy lips. Gripping your flesh between his chubby fingers, Lee groans around your nipple. His cock twitches as he releases all over you.

Resting his forehead tiredly against your plump flesh, Lee grumbles, getting onto his knees slowly before looking down at the mess he’s made. He scoffs, shaking his head, “stupid bitch doesn’t know how to stay clean.” Dipping his hands into his cooling cum, he spreads it around and onto your hard nipple, marking you as his. 

Lee’s eyes move to the opening of your shirt, slightly widening when they connect with your curious ones. Without knowing what to do, he runs toward your face. His chubby little body moved faster than ever before, swinging a tiny fist directly toward your chin, his face set into a deep scowl, and he glared when you didn’t react. He thought that would work. 

Quickly jumping out of your shirt and making a run for it down your body and off the couch, a spew of curse words flies out of his mouth. He makes sure to disappear before you think of getting off the couch and following him. 

You sit there, brows furrowed. You wondered if what you just saw was real. Your eyes slowly flicker over to the Christmas movie playing, confusion still set deep in your bones, causing you not to notice the man in your dreams standing near your beautifully decorated Christmas Tree. 

You didn’t know why but something seemed to be blocking you from freaking out. Whatever it was seemed to bring forth your deepest desires. 

thank you for reading!

feedback and reblogs are greatly appreciated.