#charmed advent day 6

[futuristicson]

[allwaswell16]

❤️ Heart Beat ❤️

An Advent Fic by @allwaswell16

Hideaway Haven is the place that Louis has always called home. It's also the place that Harry had tried to leave behind him. When Harry returns to start a music academy in his hometown, he finds himself face to face with his high school crush—and his charming daughter who wants to learn to play the drums. 🎄 35k ~ Now Complete! 🎄

🥁 1 🥁 2 🥁 3 🥁 4 🥁 5 🥁 6 🥁 7 🥁 8 🥁 9 🥁 10 🥁 11 🥁 12 🥁 13 🥁 14 🥁 15 🥁 16 🥁 17 🥁 18 🥁 19 🥁 20 🥁 21 🥁 22 🥁 23 🥁 24 🥁 25 🥁

Now with a bonus chapter... ❤️ 26 ❤️ A Valentine's Day time stamp

{ Incredible moodboard by @nouies }

[dramioneasks]

Christmas Fics (2024) (Part 1):

Last Christmas by cleotheo - T, 8 chapters - When Ron, Lavender and Ginny get a chance to spend Christmas at the launch event of a fancy new hotel, there are festive surprises and shock reunions in store for the trio. Reunion style Christmas story.

All the Way by augustaoctavia - E, 12 chapters - Two Parents. One Toy. No Prisoners. When Draco Malfoy makes a promise to his son to buy him the holiday season's hottest toy, he didn't anticipate that every store in Wizarding Britain would be sold out. Worse still, the last thing he would have expected was becoming a reluctant ally to Hermione Granger in their mutual quest to do what ever it takes to give their sons a Merry Christmas.

Dramione Christmas Advent Calendar 2024 by Hyemi_28 - E - Hi everyone! ⭐ It’s December, and I’m thrilled to share my little Dramione Christmas Advent Calendar with you! 🎄 Every day until 24th December, we’ll open one door on the calendar, and behind each one, you’ll find a delightful Dramione drabble filled with festive magic, romance, and Christmas cheer. Whether it’s a cosy moment by the fire, a snowy adventure, or a romantic celebration, there’s a little something special waiting for you each day. 🎄Let’s celebrate this advent season together and count down to Christmas with our favourite pairing! 🎁 Wishing you a joyful Advent and a very Merry Christmas! Hyemi

The Binding Charm by yourstruly_quin - E, 6 chapters - Ginny grinned, eyes lighting up. “We made some plans tonight.” Hermione’s skepticism was evident on her face. “Plans?” “We won’t hear any excuses, Granger. Theo Nott opened a pub a few weeks ago. Very exclusive. He reserved a private area, just for us.” Pansy leaned in, a conspiratorial look on her face. “And we may have invited a few old friends. One of whom might be interested in… helping you move on.” Hermione narrowed her eyes. “Helping me move on?” Ginny placed a reassuring hand on her arm. “Just humor us for one night. If you hate it, you can leave.” Hermione pretended to consider for a few moments. In all honesty, she was ready to have a night of fun, to stop moping around feeling sorry for herself while Ron was out traipsing the world with his mistress. She could have just as much fun as him. “Fine,” she conceded. “But he better not be a Weasley—no offense Gin. Or a quidditch player.” Pansy and Ginny exchanged another look. “Maybe just… recreationally a quidditch player,” Ginny mumbled. Or a cutesy holiday special where Draco and Hermione agree to help each other move on.

Nott A Typical Slytherin Holiday by QuinnSnow37 - M, WIP - It's the holiday break and Hermione is dreading spending her eighth- and final Christmas at Hogwarts- alone, until Theodore Nott invites her on a ski trip to France with the Slytherins. This is a cozy fluffy smutty story about second chances and the magic of Christmas.

Charm Offensive by karma_cookie - G, one-shot - Draco Malfoy is having a bad week. His magic seems to be going out of its way to embarrass him in front of his boss, who he is still trying to impress, and who he's got more than just a little crush on.

gifts to be given by coldbrewcalico, virgo_puff - E, 6 chapters - Hermione convinces the gang to play Secret Santa for their first Christmas together after graduating from eighth year at Hogwarts. Everything does not go according to plan.

Cold Moon by maraudersaffair - E, WIP - It’s Christmastime, and Malfoy wants to court Hermione. In fact, he seems rather insistent about it, even though they are virtually strangers. What Hermione doesn’t know is that Malfoy is a werewolf in need of a mate. And the wolf chose her.

Dreomione christmas advent calendar or how Hermione survived living with two Slytherins by Nottromi - E, WIP - Hermione’s life was peaceful—until she started dating Draco Malfoy and Theodore Nott. Now, chaos is her constant companion, with her friends inevitably dragged into the madness. Or how her boys are using their animagus skills to annoy her endlessly. [Draco x Hermione x Theo]

Under the Mistletoe by angeadhglas - E, WIP - At a Hogwarts Faculty Solstice Party, Draco and Hermione accidentally find themselves trapped under enchanted mistletoe. The spell only breaks when they kiss, but it leaves both of them wanting more than just one kiss.

Smaller Acts by Molivier - M, one-shot - “You know,” she says, her voice a little too tender, a little too honest, “I’ll allow you to be rude to me. Just once. Tell me how you really feel.” He hesitates, his gaze dropping to her lips and then back to her eyes. “I don’t think you’d like it.” “Try me.”

thread of silk by euphrasie_pont - E, one-shot - “You’re just…dating her,” Narcissa said slowly, her face contorting around the word as if she had never spoken it in her life. “That is…fine.” “But marriage isn’t, right?” Draco retorted. Her eyebrows shot up in surprise. She seemed to catalog him with new eyes, as if she had never noticed all the tiny ways in which he had become a man. “Draco…is it really like that?” she asked quietly. Draco shrugged and glanced back to the tapestry, eyes unseeing as he recalled a memory of wayward curls blowing across Hermione’s face, her lips curving into an unrestrained laugh. “I love her,” he whispered plainly, feeling like he was revealing his most treasured secret. ~ Draco lives two discrete lives: the one in which he’s in love with Hermione Granger, and the one in which he’s his mother’s perfect son. He keeps them separate because he’s bone-shakingly afraid that if they ever meet, he’ll lose one or both of them. They end up meeting anyway.

Happy Christmas, Granger by allofthelights11  - E, one-shot - She nestles her head back in the pillows and resigns herself to being patient. She ought to have known this would be part of it – not the blindfold, which is a new element, but Draco making her wait. Wait for the surprise he told her about over a week ago, and wait for him to gradually work his way through it step by step. Her anticipation about what else he might make her wait for swells. She wouldn’t have initiated this herself, which Draco knows. He also knows exactly how to please her, if she just relaxes enough to let him show her. Draco prefers to show, not tell. He pulls her bra cup beneath one breast so he can tease the nipple with his finger, and surely he can see her heart beating, the skin of her chest rising and falling. Draco traces his fingers down her stomach, playing with the hemline of her knickers, which he’s left on her – for now. She’s thrumming with want, now, and she wrestles with a desire to spread her legs for him or let him manoeuvre her however he likes. Hermione breathes in deeply. Her breast meets his mouth and she’s never been good at being this patient.

[klaineccfanficlibrary]

Any suggestions for multi-chapter fics with an alternate meeting and happy ending

So many great fics! I have tried to give you a selection, the first few have a festive theme; then some recent fics; and some old classics. Let me know if you like them! ~Jen

Here is our alternative meeting tab.

A boyfriend for Christmas by @caramelcoffeeaddict CoffeeAddict80

When Kurt takes his 6-year-old nephew, Caleb, to see Santa, he's mortified when Caleb asks Santa to give his Uncle Kurt a new boyfriend for Christmas; Blaine - who is working as one of Santa's helpers - however, is eager to help Caleb get his Christmas wish.

~~~~~

The Christmas Guest by @lilyvandersteen

Kurt goes home for the holidays and finds out a fellow passenger will have no-one to celebrate with, so he invites him to spend Christmas with the Hummel-Hudsons. Somehow, Kurt's family thinks the guy he brought home is his boyfriend. As the days go by, and his Christmas guest proves enchanting in every way, Kurt finds himself wishing they truly were dating. Could his wish come true?

~~~~~~

It's who I'm with by hundredindecisions

In an attempt to make industry connections (and pay rent), Kurt gets a job as a nanny for the daughter of a Broadway producer. When bringing her to a piano lesson one day in December, he meets Blaine Anderson, personal assistant to a famed pianist. (For Klaine Advent 2021)

~~~~~

Leaps and Dives by @annepi-blog

As the 2024 Paris Olympics unfold, gymnast Blaine Anderson and diver Kurt Hummel find themselves navigating more than just their athletic dreams. Blaine, focused on his second chance at Olympic glory, crosses paths with Kurt, a newcomer to the world of professional diving with extraordinary talent. What begins as a chance encounter blossoms into something neither of them expected.

~~~~~

Sonder by @gleefulpoppet

[AU] Kurt is one of the most respected and talked about men in the fashion industry and business world. His app Style•Revolution is the fastest-growing app in history, still rising after three years. Recently, he moved the company to Seattle to be at the heart of the newest technology epicenter in the United States. Yet, with all his success, experience keeps teaching him to be wary of people’s motives who want to be close to him, and he wonders if he’ll be alone forever. Or maybe this city has plans for him that he can’t imagine when his gaze locks with a mysterious, honey-hazel-eyed busker.

~~~~~

Swords and sands by exquisitetragicthing

Ancient Rome AU, 73 years BC.

Blaine and Kurt are enslaved in the same grand villa in Capua, 125 miles south of Rome. Blaine is a renowned gladiator known for his unmatched skill in the arena. Kurt is their master’s treasured body slave and performer. In a time where their love could be as dangerous as the sword, they find themselves instantly and irrevocably drawn to each other.

~~~~~

Crema verse by twobirdsonesong (Main verse plus 65 one shots!)

Kurt’s just landed a job at Vogue as Carrie Bradshaw’s assistant. One of his tasks is to bring her coffee in the morning. Enter Blaine, the barista. This is the story of how they change each other’s lives.

~~~~~

Syrup and Honey By @heartsmadeofbooks

Kurt Hummel is 25 years old when he finds himself being the owner of the bakery he had been dreaming about his whole life, just in time to sweeten up Blaine Anderson's days.

~~~~~

Barking up the wrong bakery by maanorchidee @forabeatofadrum

Kurt is the biggest dog party planner in Los Angeles. When his usual dog bakery cancels on Kurt, he’s in the dire need of a last minute replacement. Luckily, he comes across the Dalton Doggy dog bakery, which is run by Blaine and Cooper Anderson. Cooper’s a mess, but Blaine manages to charm Kurt. Will Kurt be able to keep it professional?

~~~~~

The Symphony verse by Shandyall

Blaine has spent most of his life feeling like the only thing people notice about him is that he stutters. He’s working hard to overcome his (mostly self created) roadblocks when he meets Kurt in an online class the summer after his freshman year of college.

~~~~~~

Westerville Abbey verse by @hkvoyage

Blaine is the second son of the earl of Westerville, and is considered the spare heir. After his 18th birthday, he attends the London Season to fulfill his duty of finding a wife. He soon realizes he is more attracted to the new footman. Kurt, who has just arrived at Westerville Abbey to work alongside his father, becomes equally as smitten with the earl’s youngest son. Will Blaine and Kurt be able to overcome their class differences in 1910s England? Will their forbidden love survive WW1? A Downton Abbey inspired historical Klaine AU.

[bucky-barnes-diaries]

Day 6 — Christmas Goodies

Pairing || TFATWS!Bucky x Female!Reader

Word Count || Around 700

Contents & Warnings || Fluff, very mild Smut — mild explicit content/language.

Disclaimer || English is not my first language so I apologise for any mistakes or misunderstandings!

Advent Calendar 2023

Flour.

Eggs.

Sugar.

Butter.

“What more do we need?” you pondered, glancing over the recipe to ensure all the ingredients were ready for the cookies you were baking.

“Lots of kisses,” Bucky mumbled, wrapping his arms around your waist from behind and peppering your cheek with sweet kisses.

“Yes,” you giggled, leaning into him, “lots of kisses.”

“And sex. Lots of hot sex,” he whispered against your neck as the sweet kisses turned into more passionate ones.

You groaned in fake annoyance at Bucky’s distracting tendencies, his sultry words, and fiery kisses. He was always tempting, always so goddamn compelling, but you fought to suppress the effect his actions and words had on you—a nearly impossible task.

“Stop thinking with your dick for a moment.” God, that glorious dick. “And start being useful by mixing the wet ingredients,” you quipped, playfully pushing him away with your ass.

“Hmm, do I make you wet, baby?” he murmured in your ear before stepping aside.

You gave him a blank glare, trying to be serious. “I’m as dry as these dry ingredients I’m about to mix into this bowl,” you teased, fighting to maintain your facade. But with a tilt of Bucky’s head and a smirk on his lips, you lost in, bursting into laughter, with him following suit.

Still chuckling, Bucky reached for the wet ingredients. “All right, all right,” he said with a grin, returning to the task of making cookies. “Let me focus on these wet ingredients while you handle the dry—no more distractions, doll. I promise,” he said with a twinkle in his eyes.

“Good,” you nodded in mock seriousness. “We’re making cookies, not babies,” you smirked, though you were sure there would be plenty of baby-making practice later in the evening.

After completing your separate tasks, you and Bucky combined all the dry and wet ingredients, creating the perfect dough. Bucky sneaked a taste, and you lightly swatted his hand, resulting in a pout from him and a demand for a kiss to make it better. You gladly obliged, moaning at the taste of both him and the cookie dough.

With the cookies on the baking sheet, you and Bucky shared a satisfied glance before sliding them into the oven.

As the cookies were baking, you and Bucky went to work assembling and decorating a gingerbread mansion kit. Sat at the kitchen island, you worked together.

It was always an adorable sight watching Bucky do arts and crafts. He always approached it with seriousness and professionalism while still maintaining his cute charm. As you assembled the structure, his tongue poked out while piping icing on the edges before carefully adding pieces to the rest of the house.

It was a comfort to watch him. It always was. No matter where or what you were doing, it was always a special moment to cherish, especially when it was just the two of you—playful and intimate. When Bucky could feel human for a moment with such mundane activities.

The sound of the oven beeping pulled you out of your daydream. You got the cookies out, and the aroma of freshly baked treats wafted throughout the kitchen. Bucky set aside the gingerbread mansion, and you gathered around the cooling rack together.

Bucky’s eyes lit up at the sight of the crispy cookies. “Ooh, cookies!” he cheered as you assembled a plate to share. The two of you sat down, and the room echoed with delighted moans as you took your first bites.

“These are amazing,” Bucky exclaimed between bites, a satisfied, boyish smile on his face. You beamed with happiness at your successful baking venture. You leaned into him, sealing the accomplishment with a deep kiss, tangling your fingers at the hairs of his nape, savoring the taste of cookies and him.

With the flavors lingering on your tongue, you returned to the gingerbread mansion, finishing the construction before moving on to decorating. As the final touches were placed, the mansion stood as a testament to the evening’s second successful mission.

“Another successful mission,” Bucky declared with a grin, and you couldn’t agree more. You celebrated with sweet kisses and bites of delicious cookies, enjoying each other and the treats for the rest of the evening.

Feedback through a comment is highly appreciated! Or let me know through an anonymous ask if that feels more comfortable. As well as a reblog to share my work with other people!

I don’t do taglists so please follow @bucky-barnes-diaries-library and turn on notifications to never miss out on my writing!

[obitez]

After the Fire

For @bucktommywinterfest

Round 6: Post-holiday Blues

Rating: G | Word Count: 702

Warnings: None

Additional Tags: Established relationship, Fluff

Buck liked to keep his place clean - nice and tidy. Everything was organized and everything had its place. It was one of the first things Tommy noticed about him, after his beautiful body, his charming personality and deep caring heart, that was.  It wasn’t that surprising, Tommy thought, considering the very open-concept layout his loft had and the fact you could see his bed from the front door. Anyone who lived in a place like that would need to clean up after themselves constantly.  When Halloween had come around, Tommy had noticed the lack of Halloween decorations around the place and managed to convince Buck to put some up. The same thing happened come Christmas time.   By the time Christmas Eve came around, Buck’s loft had a nice, relaxing, cozy Christmas theme going on with Christmas lights, window stickers, stockings, some throw blankets, and a little Santa napkins holder on his table. Tommy had worked hard to decorate his boyfriend’s place with Christmas decorations, and if he had to say for himself, he was successful in doing so.  Which is probably what made the sudden clean up so jarring to Tommy.  It was three days after Christmas that Tommy went back to Buck’s place after he just finished his shift to find that Buck had pulled out the storage boxes they had gotten for the Christmas decorations they had bought for his place last month.  “What’s this?” Tommy asked as he watched Buck scurrying around the apartment.

“Hey!” Buck smiled at him from where he was reaching for the lights they had strung up around the kitchen. “Just cleaning up.” “Cleaning up?” Tommy repeated, slightly confused until he noticed that by ‘cleaning up’ Buck was taking down most of the Christmas decorations. As his gaze traveled to the living room, Tommy noticed that most of the decorations over there had already been taken down and put away. “As in… putting the Christmas decorations away?”  “Yeah,” Buck shrugged, as he pulled the last bit of Christmas lights down and started winding them up in his arms. “Christmas happened three days ago, so… should clean up now, right?”  Tommy blinked, and he felt like he almost had to take a step back. It seemed his boyfriend was one of those people that took down all of their decorations right after Christmas. He needed time to process this information.  “But… it’s only been three days,” Tommy said, still in somewhat of a daze.  “Yeah,” Buck shrugged as he set the string of lights in one of the storage boxes. “What’s that look for? How long do you leave your Christmas decorations up?”  Tommy blinked, and then blurted out. “Until New Years- at least!”  “What do you mean by ‘at least’?” Buck asked.  Tommy was silent for a second, his right hand fidgeting with the fabric of his pocket. “Until like… mid January.”  Growing up, Tommy’s grandmother was a devout Catholic who always insisted on keeping the Christmas decoration up until Candlemas with the argument “the Christmas season only starts on Christmas, before that it is still Advent.” Tommy had accepted that reasoning growing up, and didn’t put an argument with the very opinionated woman. But as an adult who hadn’t been to Church since he was nineteen, he thought leaving things up until February was a little excessive and always ended up taking them down sometime around mid January. And all that being said, Tommy thought the people who removed their Christmas decoration on the 27th or 28th of Decmber were absolutely insane.  Tommy guessed he would need to put his boyfriend into that ‘insane’ category now. Shame. Tommy looked up from where his gaze had traveled down to the floor, looking up at Buck’s face that had a mix of shock and disbelief painting it.  “Evan?” Tommy said his name tentatively.  Then Buck sighed and dropped the Christmas lights onto his kitchen countertop. “Fine,” he said.  “Fine?”  “The rest of the stuff can stay up until New Year’s, but then it’s coming down,” Buck said as he walked over to Tommy and wrapped his arms around Tomm’s torso in a hug.  Tommy smiled as he wrapped his arms around Buck as well. “Okay, deal.”

[miumura]

( 🎞️ ) LOVE EASILY CRUMBLES — TAEHYUN SHORT FIC

[ DAY FIVE ] of the advent calendar !

( 🎞️ ) SYNOPSIS . . how easy it is to lose love for a season.

( .𖥔 ݁ ) PAIRING . . classmate!taehyun x classmate!gn-reader

( 🎞️ ) GENRE . . fluff, angst | FT. K + NICHOLAS ( &TEAM )

( .𖥔 ݁ ) WARNINGS . . profanity, miscommunications, someone kinda being a douchebag, taehyun is kinda frustrating ngl bc he holds GRUDGESSS 😪 — WORD COUNT : 1.1K+ ( 1139 )

( 🎞️ ) NOTE . . omg is this the start of soph FINALLY working on smth for txt 😱?? LMAO trust i have been trying for the past months but the ideas never got finished so </3 so im def proud of myself for getting this out n finished for u guys 🤍

"Come on! Ask him out!" K whispered, nudging you in Kang Taehyun's direction.

"I can't do this right now! I'm nervous—seriously, calm down!" You attempted to hold your ground, even pushing back, but the inevitable draw towards your crush seemed unstoppable.

"Stop playing matchmaker at the moment!"

"You need to make a move! You both complement each other so well! You, the energetic one, and him, the quiet one—it's a perfect match, if you ask me!" After a final nudge from K, you found yourself right next to Taehyun, who was seated at his desk, engrossed in a book with earbuds in. Well, fuck.

Sensing your presence, your crush, Kang Taehyun, glanced up, his eyebrow arching in mild surprise. Cursing your nerves, you hastily fished out a folded piece of paper from your pocket. Placing it on his desk, you offered a fleeting smile before dashing away.

You locked eyes with K, shooting him a fierce glare. "K, you're in trouble."

"Hey! I helped you—" K's protest was cut short as you chased him out of the classroom, eliciting a yelp. "I'm sorry!"

Meanwhile, Taehyun observed the scene, a small smile gracing his lips at the commotion. Returning his focus to the piece of paper, he carefully unfolded it.

"Here’s my number: XXX-XXX-XXXX.

Let’s go out?"

Despite his typically reserved and aloof nature, Taehyun found himself smiling, a faint pink tint gracing his cheeks—an unfamiliar but welcome sensation for him.

"And then—holy shit!" You exclaimed, eyes widened as you stared at your phone screen. Your heart raced far faster than usual, but who wouldn't get excited over something like this? "He actually texted me!"

"Who?" Nicholas barely showed any reaction but was still curious about the source of your unexpected excitement. “The quiet loser?”

You playfully hit his arm, causing him to wince and rub the spot. “No need to diss my future boyfriend now.”

“Okay, now you're delusional—and your taste in men is terrible too?”

“Oh fuck off, Nicholas,” you retorted, your eyes fixed on your phone, a smile spreading across your face as you read Taehyun's messages.

Hey YN, it’s Taehyun.

So, where do you wanna go?

You quickly typed up a response, “There’s a lovely spot not too far from here. Beautiful trees and a bench made for two. Oh, and there's a chance of snow today! It could be the perfect moment…unless you're not a fan of snow?”

He read your messages, and at this point, you were practically biting your fingernails, hoping he shared your affection for winter. It was your favorite season, with its enchanting snow and the opportunity to wear layers of cozy clothing.

That sounds wonderful. I love the snow :)

When?

With a sense of relief, you quickly arranged for the date to happen today, and you couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement when Taehyun agreed. "I can't believe I just set up a date."

“I still don’t know what you see in him.”

“Stop being a mood killer, Nicho.”

You were spot on—tonight, snowfall was abundant, and Taehyun faced biting winds that blew the snowflakes into his face. Extending his hand, the snowflakes delicately settled in his palm, melting at his touch. At least the snow was pretty today.

Glancing at the time on his phone—6 PM, precisely on schedule—he approached the location. It was indeed a charming sight. The lights cast a soft glow above the bench, creating an atmosphere purposefully crafted for a romantic encounter for two. A smile graced his face; everything seemed just perfect, tailored to his ideal kind of date.

Sitting down on the bench, he looked around, hoping to catch a glimpse of you at any moment. He waited.

And waited.

An hour had passed, and you hadn’t arrived. Taehyun was puzzled; where could you be? He was confident about the time—6 PM and the location you had chosen. His phone suddenly chimed, a notification he hoped was from you, but instead, it was a text from an unknown number.

You really think YN would go on a date with someone like you?

The text hit him like a ton of bricks.

She's popular, you're not. Why would she waste her time on a loser like you?

Doubt crept in, making his heart sink.

He felt a wave of nausea rising, his grip on the phone tightening, his fingers nearly turning numb. Did he raise his hopes for nothing? Did he really think that you were going to be different from the rest? The biting cold made it increasingly hard for him to catch his breath—how he despised the sensations coursing through him.

Nervously, his fingers hovered over your contact, finally pressing the call button. He didn’t know what he was doing, but it just felt like the right thing. Anxiously, he chewed on his lip while waiting on the line, and soon, he heard shuffling in the background. His eyes widened at how quickly you picked up the phone.

"Hey Taehyun?" Your voice sounded surprisingly calm on your end.

"Where are you?" he asked, trying to maintain composure, but the cold and wind were beginning to make him sound shaken up.

“I’m here with Nicholas—why do you ask?”

Taehyun should’ve known.

“So I’ve been waiting out here in the cold for no reason?”

“Huh?”

“The date you wanted to go on, YN. God, can you stop acting oblivious and tell me how you actually feel about me?” Taehyun feels the anger getting to him, his voice already rising.

“But the date is set to 8 PM? Wait, did I not tell you that?”

“That’s just a fucking excuse, isn’t it?”

“No, I thought I told you 8 PM? Oh my god—Taehyun, I’m so sorry. It’s a mistake, I swear!” You felt panicked, re-reading the text message you sent, realizing your mistake.

“Yeah right.” he just couldn’t help but chuckle at his situation.

“Taehyun, you have to believe me—” But he cut you off, “I already know how you feel. Thanks for playing with me—oh, and most important, thanks for ruining winter for me.”

“Wait—” But Taehyun hung up before you could continue. He had too many thoughts swirling in his head to deal with everything at that moment.

Taehyun sat alone on the snow-covered bench, the bitter cold seeping into him as he felt the disappointment and frustration swirl within. His emotions were a chaotic mess, a blend of anger, hurt, and the numbing chill of the winter night. The twinkling lights above seemed to mock his shattered hopes.

As he walked away, his shoulders weighed heavy with a mix of resentment and sorrow. Winter, once his beloved season, was now tarnished by this painful memory.

With a heavy heart, Taehyun knew this winter would forever hold a bitter taste, a season stained by a shattered promise and unfulfilled expectations.

SEND AN ASK / COMMENT TO BE ADDED!

TXT PERM TAGLIST — @flwoie @haruavrse @bearseulgs @ilovewonyo @bubblytaetae @ineedaherosavemeenow @ml8dy @wonioml @xiaoderrrr @neozon3nha @ja4hyvn @thia-aep @vampcharxter @sleepymoon27

[plusultraetc]

WOW please ignore how much this brush in red looks kind of like blood upon closer inspection. I was trying to do Christmas colors with the green background + red & white letters and it went... questionably.

Anywho, here is the promised advent calendar recap/review (part 1!! to be followed by a very brief part 2 on or after Christmas lol) I've been having a really lovely time opening these every day, and I'm really excited to see what the final four pockets contain 👀

Day 1: All Might pin | Okay, so I actually knew about this one in advance--when I was reading item descriptions on different websites, trying to figure out whether or not I wanted to buy the advent calendar, someone posted a picture of this pin in their review 😭 Which, like, rude ig but it was a selling point for the calendar itself, so I really can't be mad about it. He looks like he's going for the world's greatest fist bump.

Day 2: Iida sticker | Iida truly said everyone out of the way, I have to appear in this advent calendar before Midoriya and Bakugou, and I love that for him. I am a very big journal & planner person so I'm always looking for more stickers, and I already have a small MHA collection where this one can live until I find a permanent place for it!

Day 3: 1-A pencil | Pretty self-explanatory, but I am like. Stupidly charmed by this. It's a really cute addition to my pen cup.

Day 4: MHA keychain | This has been one of my favorite items in the advent calendar. I've actually been needing a new keychain, and I really love the crest-like design. 10/10, flawless.

Day 5: MHA magnet | The first of the magnets! Love love love the color palette of this one, especially the hint of purple in the outline around the letters.

Day 6: Tsu & Uraraka to/from gift tags | These are also super cute, and such a great idea for an advent calendar!! Unfortunately, I don't know many MHA fans irl, so I doubt I'll be using them unless I plaster, like. Two people's gifts with four labels each 😭 One of my friends did dress up as Tsu for Comic Con this year, so she may be about to have A Very Froppy Christmas 🐸 🎄

Day 7: Hawks sticker | HAWKS STICKER MY BELOVED. This one is actually a puffy sticker, which can be a bit of a pain to place in a journal when you want to write on the following page, but they also add some fun dimension so I use them anyway lol. Needless to say, I Love Him.

Day 8: Endeavor puzzle | Everyone I've asked has concurred that this is indeed meant to be a puzzle!! Regardless of one's opinions on Endeavor, it is objectively hilarious that the makers of this advent calendar said 'here is a small picture of this man. Destroy Him.'

Day 9: Midoriya & Bakugou door hanger | Another incredibly amusing inclusion. Midoriya, who is supposed to be the 'welcome' side, looks like he's about to punch you across the continent. Meanwhile, Katsuki "Stay Out" Bakugou looks like he wants you to try it, actually. Make his day.

Day 10: Aizawa & Present Mic bookmark | My personal favorite, the erasermic bookmark. I'm currently using this for book club, and I have zero notes. They bring me inestimable joy.

Day 11: Shigaraki magnetic bookmark | Much like stickers, I always, always need more bookmarks. This one is kinda heavy, but not so much that it's cumbersome to use. However, my dog Hates Him--I say him, not it, because she was also Not A Fan of my Shigaraki figure when I unboxed him, which is weird because she's largely uninterested in the others except for the most recent addition to the collection. I think it's because their more dynamic poses are supported by an extra stand--they're definitely a little shakier and less stable than the others, but that still doesn't explain the bookmark. ANYWAY I've already started using this for my current non-manga read, go little rock star, no ragrets.

Day 12: All Might sticker | TRULY so many W's in a row. I do wish we'd gotten a little more creative with the pose here (it's the same as the one on the pin), but I Get It and I'm pleased with this one anyway.

Day 13: Toga pin | So I actually really love the look of this kind of pin on tote bags, and while I do already have a few of those, this was the point that I became Very Tempted to buy an MHA-themed tote and start yet another collection. Which, I haven't. Yet. Either way, she's very cute.

Day 14: Dabi holographic card | Dabi is the clear favorite villain of whoever designed this calendar, because this little card is literally so cool. Fittingly, he gets ✨dramatic effects✨ and ✨two poses✨ (the second pose is pictured below). I'm not yet sure if I'm going to use double-sided tape to turn this, too, into a sticker, but I think it's really fun either way.

Day 15: Midoriya tree ornament | Cute in theory, but admittedly very flimsy. It is however very seasonally-appropriate and therefore the flimsiness is excused.

Day 16: UA magnet | THIS IS SO CUTE. I absolutely love this kind of 'in-universe' merch, so this is another favorite advent calendar item.

Day 17: Tokoyami magnet | I was surprised that, of all the characters they chose to dedicate a magnet to, it was Tokoyami & Dark Shadow, but like. Surprised (affectionate). Surprised (positive). A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one, etc. This did get stuck to the table while I was taking pictures, but ain't that just the way. Go little rock star x2.

Day 18: Character cards | I don't have a lot to say about these, but they were fun!

Day 19: Kaminari note cards | Again: SUPER cute, and I love the pose they chose (lol), even though I personally don't have much of a use for them.

Day 20: UA sticky notes | ANOTHER FAVORITE, because I Love Stationery, so this is like the UA magnet but better. I would have paid the full price of the advent calendar for these + the erasermic bookmark because I am insane. Okay that might be an exaggeration, but still. Everything else is just almost-as-delightful gravy.

Day 21: Todoroki cardboard standee | Adorable!! I can definitely find a place for this on my bookshelf, so I'm really happy with this one too!

[optimysticals]

Gear Up for the ADVENT(ure)-een Event!

Calling all adventurers, treasure seekers, and fandom enthusiasts!

Our ADVENT(ure)-een Event is just around the corner, and we’ve got something special in store for you every single day! From epic sales to fantastic freebies, this is your chance to grab treasures that fuel your adventures both in-game and in life.

Items on Sale During the Event:

All Class Rings (Arcane, Martial, Divine)

Boss Fights

Wondrous Items

Adventure Charms & Earrings

Ancient Chromatic Dragons

Doctor Who Collection

Boldly Going Collection

Hair Sabers & Saber Pendants

Valid Representation Jewelry

Science, Literature, and History-Inspired Jewelry

Not all items will be discounted every day, so check in daily to see what’s on sale!

Daily Bonuses:

Each day, we’re also giving away PLUS Free Bonuses! Here’s a sneak peek:

Free earrings with every $30 spent

Free laser-engraved pocket journal with every $20 spent

Free shipping on orders over $200

Free sterling bracelet with orders over $500

Free gift with every $50 spent

Bonuses rotate daily, and not all are available every day. But rest assured, there’s always a freebie to make your haul even sweeter!

Shipping Options:

When placing your order, choose between:

Ship Now: Receive your treasures as soon as possible.

Ship at the End of ADVENT(ure)-een: Combine all your loot into one shipment at the end of the event. Plus, if you select this option, we’ll send you a coupon for the extra shipping costs you’ve paid. Use it on anything in our online shop within the next 6 months!

Prepare to embark on a treasure-filled journey with us. Start your countdown to ADVENT(ure)-een now, and make sure you’re ready for daily surprises that bring the thrill of the quest to life!

[avorbl]

Avor's Watchlist for weeks 48 + 49

We are in advent and the busy pre-christmas weeks dont leave much time for watching dramas. But looking at the list and the release calendars others are posting, there should be some time during holidays to catch up on the things I want to finish this year.

Currently Airing

Love Sick 2024 13/15 Lovesick has established itself as a solid weekly watch where I can just spend an hour of enjoyable television.

Fourever You 10/16 I should really check out the cut version of this because all the episodes have felt to long for the amount of plot they were conveying

Usotoki Rhetoric 8/10 The genre mix of episodic detective drama and fantasy apprenticeship really works. The theme of contrasting objective lies with harmful lies works well. Hopefully we get to know more about the detective’s background in the last episodes Suzuka Ouji’s acting is phenomenal but the character would remain a bit flat especially compared to the policeman.

Light of my Lion 7/11

See Your Love 8/13

Bad to Bed 6/10

Love in the Air Japan 6/10 The two part nature still feels a bit weird but the shorter runtime of each episode makes it more understandable along with the resulting highlight on the characters.

Our Youth / Miseinen 5/11 To see them so clearly needing each other but knowing that it wont last and the beautiful cinemaphotography really keep me enganged.

Fragrance you inherit 4/8 There is somthing explosive about this one. They are all so kind and thoughtful of each other but I cannot help to dread Kanae’ father.

Caged Again 5/10 Oh my sweet earbest children trying.

Your Sky 4/12 Oh my sweet earbest children trying.

The Heart Killers 3/12

Winter Is Not the Death of Summer but the Birth of Spring 10/21 So far this prison can proudly stand next to all the all boys school as the most BL setting ever created.

Seoul Blues: Spin-off 2/4 Seoul Blues needed a continuation but this is so different again that its probably better appreciated as a separate work. And then the second episode has us in full Battle of the Writers territory. It is really just them doing concepts is seems.

Spare Me Your Mercy 3/8 As long as we accept Tew being thoroughly charmed and fascinated by Kan from the first meeting this series works well enough

What I am catching up on

Unstoppable High Kick 29/167

The Princess Royal 27/40

Word of Honor 24/36

Playboyy 4/14

Still on my watch list

Fight for My Way 10/16

Tengu no Daidokoro Season 2 2/10

Polyethylene terephthalate 2: Even if it's just a dream that I'll forget when I wake up 5/8

Stealing from My CEO 16/61

Buddy Boy 5/?

Kiss x Kiss x Kiss: Love ii Shower 1/?

Secret Love 12/81

Finished in the last two weeks

Jack & Joker: U Steal My Heart! 25.11.24 6,5/10 Went out in a whimper. Too much of the resolution was put on a action packed finale which made the human and social endings feel rushed and like an afterthought .

The Nipple Talk 28.11.24 9/10 Queer community and three love stories. About choices we make to be happy. A celebration.

Latex 28.11.24 8,5/10 I am not sure how far I am supposed to interpret the central metaphor. But I am thankful that Matchbox still puts out these decidely queer stories.

Everyone Is a Stupid 30.11.24 8/10 Short film about the negative impact school has on (queer) youth an institution. In the form of two childhood friends finding back together and thereby finding confidence.

Blue Canvas of Youthful Days 01.12.24 9/10 This is probably the series I made the most notes for. Ultimately it fails at its success in getting released. For a series that so meticulously proceeds from one point to the next the happy ending time skip felt out of place and undermines the the cautionary message it means to convey.

Love is Like a Poison 03.12.24 8,5/10 Liked the colour story in the end. The actual ending felt too forced. Making it so personal strechted the believability too far.

Blue Complex 07.12.24 8/10 It builds up the relationship to the other two well. Their mental states are believable and well portrayed but it falls in the trap of the one saving moment. While tha might work for a mental block preventing you from swimming its ridiculous in the face of a suicidal depression the camaderie and saving moment have to be followed up by professional help to not ring hollow.

Let's Eat Together Aki and Haru: More Please! 07.12.24 10/10 The perfect slice of life about the importance of staying true to yourself . With strong colours. A wholesome story to pick you up.

[squibstress]

Writing Patterns

Rules: List the first line of your last 10 (posted) fics and see if there’s a pattern!

Thanks for the fun tag, @perverse-idyll!

1. It’s a grim little thing, the Sorting Hat thinks as she walks up to the dais.

[Hag Tales, HP, Minerva/Amelia, Minerva/Alastor, Minerva/Wilhelmina. The reader's introduction to Miss Minerva McGonagall, as seen through a variety of lenses, including the Sorting Hat's. Yikes!]

2. The body remembers.

[De Aegypto, Minerva/Rolanda. The frame for a short piece about Minerva's musings on Rolanda and their complicated relationship.]

3. The first time Florean Fortescue met Severus Snape, he was mid-charm, putting the finishing touches on his latest creation.

[The Ice Cream Man and the Potions Master, Florean/Severus (pre-slash). A little scene-setting for an episodic piece in which Severus alternately confounds and charms Florean Fortescue.]

4. "Imperio."

[Rest with Your Dream in My Dream, Minerva/Severus. A line stolen from canon, as were many of the lines from this piece in which I attempt to add a little backstory to some of the key scenes in the HP books. This one from the scene where Minerva (needlessly) Imperios Amycus Carrow.]

5. Mind the gap between the train and the platform.

[Mind the Gap, Minerva/Severus. A somewhat contrived frame for this short piece about the ramifications of the age-gap between lovers Minerva and Severus. Also, I had recently returned from London.]

6. What the hell am I doing here?

[Within a Forest Dark, Minerva/Severus. A question I think Severus must have asked himself several times per day. A little tunnel into the main character's mind.]

7. The children filed into the classroom, quieter than they’d ever be again, Albus knew. The first-years were always a little awed by their first day at Hogwarts.

[One to Keep an Eye On, Albus, Minerva. Some scene-setting for a short piece about how Albus and Minerva first met.]

8. Thorfinn McGonagall sat in his study answering some of the many letters of condolence that continued to pour in two months after his wife’s death, when a shriek from somewhere on a floor above pulled him out of his chair.

[From Jupiter's Head, OC, Minerva, Albus. A somewhat ham-fisted attempt to provide a bit of (canon-divergent) backstory for Minerva, introducing both her father and her magical prowess.]

9. Anyone who’d spent any time at all at Number 12 Grimmauld Place in the past weeks would not have been surprised to see an identical pair of ginger heads creeping down a creaky staircase at ten minutes past one o’clock on a July morning.

[The Perils of Eavesdropping. Fred, George, Alastor/Minerva. Distanced narrative-setting for a short, (hopefully) humorous piece.]

10. If anyone had asked the Reverend Robert Fingal McGonagall ten years ago what he’d be doing on the third Saturday of Advent in the year of our Lord 1990, he might have laid even odds on “thumbing the harp wi’ the angels.”

[Sufficient Unto the Day, Robert McGonagall, Sr, Minerva/Severus. An introduction to the main character, Minerva's minister father.]

As far as patterns go, I'd say I tend to open with short, simple phrases, often internal dialogue splashed right up front without any context. Since my stories tend to be character-driven pieces (fanfic, ya know?), I like to get into my characters' heads ASAP. It's a little odd, given that my overall narrative style leans (too) heavily on complex compound sentences. Or, it seems, I sometimes go in the opposite direction, opening with a line that establishes a more distanced narrative, sort of a birdseye POV, if you will.

Tagging @writcraft, @bettsfic, @cailynwrites, @billsfangearring

[phanfictioncatalogue]

Slow Burn (6) Masterlist

Links Last Checked: February 13th, 2024

part one, part two, part three, part four, part five

A Stolen Ring (ao3) - orphan_account

Summary: Dan’s not normal. Why?

He's not human, he has a mysterious ring, and he hates Phil Lester. They have a strange past, one filled with bullying and avoidance, but when Dan turns into an incubus, everything changes. He struggles with his identity and cries himself to sleep most nights, yearning to be normal. And somehow the universe makes it worse by bringing him and Phil together - in the most literal sense.

Advent Calendar 2021 (ao3) - Phantje

Summary: Phil lives and works in a town in the North called Lylchester. Well, 'works'. He does charitable things in the name of being nice and his (adoptive) parents. Things are fine. Yeah. Fine. Meeting Dan who has strong opinions about peculiar things shakes up Phil's life and he is falling before he can help it.

Dan lives and works somewhere, or anywhere really. By fate, or call it the British Railway train running times, he ends up in Lylchester. Before he can help himself, he has made the first real best friend he has ever had - Beatrix. And suddenly, life does not seem so difficult anymore. Dan appreciates the work he can do, even if it has him interact with the rich idiot Phil more often that he would personally choose.

After All These Years (ao3) - jestbee

Summary: They met her after tour. Martyn’s friend’s dog had puppies and Phil fell in love at first sight. Dan did too, but he’ll deny it if you ask.

Dan tries to keep his distance, because she’s Phil’s dog not his, but she isn’t having any of it.

(and I spent all night) stuck on the puzzle (ao3) - carltzmann

Summary: It's Phil's first week of his final year of university, so really, he should be used to it by now. He should be able to behave normally when the cute guy down the hall is stepping out of the shower at the same time he's entering the bathroom.

Evidently not.

Baby, I'm a Star (ao3) - cactusgal

Summary: Phil is a lighting designer. Bored with the community concert gigs he has worked for a couple years, he applies at a touring company. He is assigned to a popular band, the dreamx, to cover a world tour. Getting paid to work on nearly every continent: how rad is that? Phil's excited until the first day of rehearsal when he learns something vital: the lead singer is a complete twat. Will Phil quit his job? Will Daniel, the lead singer, realize how much of a dick he's being? Will they eventually forget their differences and become friends? Who knows. Only time will tell.

Class of 1953 (ao3) - shutup_turd

Summary: It's the year 1950, and Phil is making a fresh start during his first term at the University of Oxford. He's found genuine friends, he's doing well in his studies, and he can finally be his authentic self...but there's one thing missing.

On a starry evening he stumbles upon a group of actors rehearsing Shakespeare in a sumptuous candlelit chapel. It's breathtaking sight... but it's not the scenary catching Phil's eye - instead it's a charming man with curly hair whose eyes seem to burn even brighter than the candles.

Dandelions (ao3) - throughtheirsnoses (det395)

Summary: Phil returns to his small town after studying how to improve his power that lets him grow plants with his mind. Phil is anxious and struggling with the expectations put on him to grow new plant-based medicine and on top of it all, his childhood best friend, Dan, gets his heart broken and turns to Phil as a rebound. Phil panics.

do you feel it too? (ao3) - heartsopenminds

Summary: A bad break-up has left Phil scared of getting his heart broken again. He’s not ready to date, but he’s missing the easy affection of a long-term relationship.

Cuddle therapy might be the perfect way to get what he needs, with no strings attached. But what happens when that’s no longer enough?

First to Listen (To Anything I Said) (ao3) - SylvesterLester

Summary: It's 2004, and Dan Howell is screwing up in school. He can't help that he's stuck in boring classes with boring people and just doesn't care. So when Phil Lester, one of the geekiest kids in school, is assigned to be his tutor, he's expecting this to just be another crappy part of his already crappy life.

But when it turns out Phil might be Dan's first real friend, his hormones threaten to screw all that up. Because that's all it is, right? Hormones?

home is where the heart is. (ao3) - orphan_account

Summary: 16 year old Daniel Howell had always felt out of place in his dad's fancy apartment or under the Singaporean sun. Life was not bad, but being the son of a British expatriate banker divorcee with commitment issues meant that there was never a home.

Inspired by the only constant in his life, a similar aged British youtuber by the name of Phil Lester, Dan decides to move to his supposed homeland Britain on a whim, in the hopes of escaping his bubble of isolation, and maybe find the place where he truly belonged.

Somehow Dan lands himself in one of the few notorious all boys boarding schools in Britain, one that has bizarre traditions, vicious inter-house competition and way too many attractive boys; and a roommate who had been Dan's best friend all along, even if Phil Lester hadn't known it.

Dan finally found home.

i don't know why (i can't keep my eyes off of you) (ao3) - orphan_account

Summary: Starting a new university is hard enough without Phil having to convince his best friend PJ he doesn't have a crush on their other flatmate, Dan. He definitely does not have a crush on Dan.

I Have My Freedom (but I don't have much time) (ao3) sierraadeux

Summary: Phil just wants to get away. To clear his mind of everything and reconnect with a long-lost passion. A certain horse and the rancher who comes to his aid have other ideas though - filling Phil's mind, and his sketchbook, with brown eyes and charcoal dotted freckles.

He only has the summer. And he's not here to make friends, human or equine.

Kiss From a Rose (ao3) - Nefertiti1052 (Succubusphan)

Summary: Phil is a hawker trading from town to town and looking for an adventure, but when he is caught out in a storm, a beautiful stranger becomes his only hope.

Laws Of Attraction (ao3) - strawberrysunflower

Summary: When Phil turned twenty-nine, he wrote out a list of all the things he had in his life. One terraced house in Manchester, rented. Two housemates who still buy the cheapest alcohol on offer in Tesco. Three failed long-term relationships.

After a spur-of-the-moment Friday night out on Canal Street, Phil ends up in the bed of a very handsome stranger. It’s a nice yet meaningless distraction from his directionless life. No big deal. Until he bumps into him again. And again. And again...

meet me at red dragon (ao3) - watergator

Summary: phil lester is a single 31 year old with a wild eight year old, ethan. dan howell is single 27 year old with a quiet five year old, noah.

when they meet at their son's swim lessons, for some reason phil can't get the pretty brown eyed stranger out of his head.

quiet on widow's peak (ao3) - dvp_95

Summary: Phil's got a list of paranormal experiences a mile long that he likes to share with the world. Abandoned buildings, cemeteries, and ghost stories have always called his name, and a particular fan of his has a really, really good ghost story.

Sparks of Light (ao3) - JudeAraya

Summary: In a world where some people had magic and some didn’t, Dan had always felt at odds. A boy whose magic was broken. The least gifted in his family. Dan’s only ability--being able to see auras--had done nothing but bring him pain, because in each aura Dan read, all he could see were the most depressing human emotions.

At twenty three, Dan was settled in London, resigned to a lonely life as a barista in a shared flat with no prospects and little hope, just trying to get by.

Until one day, he met a boy on the tube whose aura was so brilliant; so full of color and light, it changed everything.

The Canary (ao3) - galaxy_ash

Summary: Dan is a famous singer called The Capricious Canary, but known as The Canary by his fans and the public. Phil is a paparazzo who hates his job and is assigned to stalk Dan to get insider pictures.

The River (ao3) - Portia331

Summary: Dan arrived in Melbourne two weeks ago with just one suitcase crammed with running gear, psychology textbooks, and a mere fraction of his wardrobe especially curated to fit both his aesthetic and the Melbourne weather.

He's about to start in the role of a lifetime on a 12 month contract, but he's barely ready for the Australian summer heat, let alone what the world is about to throw at him.

what might come with the dawn (ao3) - cloud-gays (wind_brewed)

Summary: The Island has a Guardian, that's what people say. Phil doesn't know if this guardian is a mythical being or just a piece of gossip; a made-up story to make people feel safe during storm season. A made-up story just to make them feel secure.

Now that he decides to move in with his parents again, Phil needs the protection. Maybe he needs to reach out to this lonely, black-clothed being; reach out to the lonely man of winter.

Also called: Phil is a storm-chaser of sorts and Dan, a storm-magnet. In between running and hiding, they find each other inside the calm of the storm.

[aint-love-heavy]

I was well into my research on the saga of Fort Sumter and the advent of the American Civil War when the events of January 6, 2021, took place. As I watched the Capitol assault unfold on camera, I had the eerie feeling that present and past had merged. It is unsettling that in 1861 two of the greatest moments of national dread centered on the certification of the Electoral College vote and the presidential inauguration.

I was appalled by the attack, but also riveted. I realized that the anxiety, anger, and astonishment that I felt would certainly have been experienced in 1860–1861 by vast numbers of Americans. With this in mind, I set out to try to capture the real suspense of those long-ago months when the country lurched toward catastrophe, propelled by hubris, duplicity, false honor, and an unsatisfiable craving on the part of certain key actors for personal attention and affirmation. Many voices at the time of Sumter warned of civil war, but few had an inkling of what that might truly mean, and certainly none would have believed that any such war could take the lives of 750,000 Americans.

At the heart of the story is a mystery that still confounds: How on earth did South Carolina, a primitive, scantily populated state in economic decline, become the fulcrum for America’s greatest tragedy? And even more bewildering, what malignant magic brought Americans on both sides of the Mason-Dixon Line to the point where they could actually imagine the wholesale killing of one another?

This is a work of nonfiction. As always, anything between quotation marks comes from some form of historical document; likewise, any reference to a gesture, smile, or other physical action comes from an account by one who made it or witnessed it. In places I have corrected anachronistic spelling, capitalization, and punctuation to conform with modern usage. For example, I turned “&” into “and,” but only where that meaning was obvious. Lincoln’s charming misspellings remain unaltered.

I invite you now to step into the past, to that time of fear and dissension, and experience the passion, heroism, and heartbreak—even humor—as if you were living in that day and did not know how the story would end. I suspect your sense of dread will be all the more pronounced in light of today’s political discord, which, incredibly, has led some benighted Americans to whisper once again of secession and civil war.

Erik Larson's introduction to his new book is. Bleak.

[dramioneasks]

Christmas Fics 2023 (Part 6):

Warm For Christmas by MidnightPhilosopher - T, one-shot - Head Girl Hermione suddenly finds herself without plans for Christmas break during her eighth year at Hogwarts. Head Boy Draco doesn't have any plans either. Neither wants to stay in the cold castle for the holiday. So they run away.

Sounds Worth It by RoseHarperMaxwell - T, one-shot - The first time Draco seeks her out at the hospital is a crisp October day, which happens to be the six-month anniversary of her divorce. “Hello,” says Hermione, glancing up from her paperwork. “Draco. Can I…help you?” He’s well put together, dropping gracefully into the chair across from her desk without invitation. “Yes. I’m in need of medical attention.” “I see.” Hermione does not, in fact, see. This is quite unorthodox. There’s a triage procedure and rarely does it result in patients coming to her office. “Tell me more.” Five times Draco fakes an ailment as an excuse to visit Hermione, and one time he doesn't. D/Hr Advent 2023 🎄

A Family of Their Own by MarinaJune - T, one-shot - Draco is at St. Mungo's with minor injuries and Hermione means to go pick him up, except a certain little boy catches her on her way out.

grey clouds and cocoa cups. by crownedgrief - T, one-shot - “—I’ll fill your plate at every meal. I’ll carry you to every class. I’ll make sweet, sweet love to you every night.” Madam Pomfrey doesn’t ask how Draco’s face suddenly comes to be broken out in pus-filled hives. Hermione doesn’t offer any explanation beyond “he really should be more careful, Madam Pomfrey, don’t you think?” to which Draco responds with two fingers flipped up. - Hermione and Draco falling in love slowly.

Walking In A Winter Wonderland by potterhead25919 - E, WIP - Hermione Granger Portkeyed into France. Or what she thought was France until she looked around, pushing the hair being whipped around out of her face. Everything was blanketed in layer upon layer of snow, giving it an innocent, serene look. Trees stretched for miles, surrounding one solitary cabin. Well, the word cabin might have been an understatement. It looked like someone made the smallest mansion, at least 7000 square feet by the looks of it, and then dropped it in the middle of nowhere, sticking out like a sore thumb. Since she didn't have anywhere to go because technically she should be in a warm villa with Harry and Ginny for the holidays, she started the trek on foot to the front of the "cabin." When she reached the front door, she knocked twice, praying someone would be there. In the meantime, she cast a warming charm and huddled under the front stoop. A series of locking noises could be heard from the other side, and finally, a head peaked out of the door. A blond head, with silver eyes and a surprised expression on her face. "Granger?" Draco Malfoy stood in the doorway, looking very confused.

Penguins, Pebbles, and Other Reasons to Pursue Unemployment by mightbewriting - T, one-shot - “Is that…shit? On my desk?” Granger doesn’t so much as look up from her mountain of teetering parchments at Draco’s question. Her hair: frazzled. Her frown: ominous. The energy in their shared office: frantic. “Penguin shit,” she says. “Specifically, it’s penguin shit.” [In which a penguin-themed mishap at the Ministry nearly costs Draco his sanity.]

Family Christmas by Eldyra - K, one-shot - Draco and Hermione are married and just had their first child. Everything is perfect. Well, almost everything. With Christmas around the corner, can the complicated relationship with Draco's parents be salvaged? Are Lucius and Narcissa willing to overcome their prejudice now that they're grandparents?

A Perfect Christmas by cleotheo - T, one-shot - When Hermione's plans to host Christmas hit a snag, her husband, Draco steps in to give his wife the perfect Christmas she'd been so looking forward to. Fluffy, Dramione festive one shot.

To the future by Lunapon - not rated, one-shot - A very short story about Hermione’s eighth year at hogwarts which is filled with old friendships and new acquaintances, with Christmas just around the corner.

All Wrapped Up by Nusilverwolf - E, one-shot - She wanted him. This aggravating, arrogant, arsehole. This handsome, hypnotic, hopeless fool. “Granger, please.” Draco begged, head tilted back to expose the flush spread across his cheekbones and the lust in his eyes, “Just unwrap me.”

Snow On Snow by ifyouwereamelody - M, one-shot - “Alright, listen up, folks! Snow’s really coming down now, and I’m sorry to be saying it but the pass in’t safe to use. Looks like we’re all stuck here ‘til it can be cleared. That’s gonna be tomorrow at the earliest.” The rest of the pub breaks out into chatter, but Hermione just sits there, muted, struck dumb in more ways than one with not a thought in her head other than oh... god. All Hermione was looking for was a nice, Christmassy evening with Ginny in Britain's highest pub. Instead, she gets an ex, a snowstorm, and a whole heap of buried emotions brought back to the surface. Wrap up — there's a blizzard on the way.

In Perpetuity by loafy531 - M, one-shot - Hermione brings Draco to Christmas at the Burrow as her fake boyfriend. Christmas fluff with a side of post-divorce angst. “Who says you need to be your old self at all? How about, just be the version of yourself you are right now. Are we not perpetually destroying and reinventing ourselves with each passing moment? It’s practically the human condition, Granger. And anyway, who is he to say what, or who, is and isn’t right for you—Hermione Granger— the woman who single-handedly saved the wizarding world. Some nerve.”

Is That Mistletoe? by ohthedrarrydrabbles (ohthedrarry) - G, one-shot - Christmas Day arrives at Hogwarts with the sound of Draco trying, and failing, to win a war against an artificial Christmas tree in the Head Boy/Girl shared dormitory. Hermione is charmed to say the least.

[flavjourneys]

Christmas Around the World: Unique Traditions and Celebrations

Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration, but how people mark the occasion varies greatly across the globe. Each culture brings its unique flavor to the festivities, making Christmas a truly universal yet diverse holiday. Here’s a glimpse into how different countries celebrate Christmas.

1. Philippines: The Longest Christmas Season

In the Philippines, the Christmas season begins as early as September, known as the “ber” months. Festivities include the Simbang Gabi (a series of nine dawn masses) and the display of parols—star-shaped lanterns symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem. The season concludes with a grand feast on Christmas Eve called Noche Buena.

2. Iceland: The Yule Lads

Icelandic children enjoy a quirky tradition involving the 13 Yule Lads—mischievous figures who leave small gifts in children's shoes placed on windowsills. However, naughty children might receive a potato! These Yule Lads descend one by one in the 13 days leading up to Christmas.

3. Mexico: Las Posadas

In Mexico, Christmas is celebrated with Las Posadas, a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. The nine-day celebration involves processions, caroling, and parties with piñatas. On Christmas Eve, families gather for a midnight feast and attend Misa de Gallo (Rooster’s Mass).

4. Germany: Advent and Christmas Markets

Germany is famous for its Advent traditions and enchanting Christmas markets. Many families have Advent calendars or wreaths, lighting a candle each Sunday leading up to Christmas. Markets like those in Nuremberg or Dresden offer festive foods, mulled wine, and handcrafted gifts.

5. Japan: A Festive Feast of Fried Chicken

In Japan, where Christmas is more secular, the holiday is associated with romantic dinners and a surprising tradition: eating KFC. This started as a marketing campaign in the 1970s but has become a beloved custom. Families also enjoy a Christmas cake, often a sponge cake with strawberries and whipped cream.

6. Australia: Christmas in Summer

Christmas in Australia falls during summer, so celebrations often involve barbecues, beach outings, and outdoor caroling. Cities like Sydney host spectacular light displays, and the iconic Carols by Candlelight bring communities together under the stars.

7. Italy: La Befana

Italian Christmas celebrations extend to January 6th, Epiphany. According to legend, La Befana, a kind old witch, delivers gifts to children. Italian families also enjoy a grand Christmas feast with traditional dishes like panettone or torrone.

8. Ethiopia: Genna on January 7th

In Ethiopia, Christmas, called Genna, is celebrated on January 7th, following the Julian calendar. The day begins with a church service, where worshippers wear traditional white garments. Feasts include dishes like doro wat (spiced chicken stew) served with injera.

9. Finland: Honoring the Departed

In Finland, families visit cemeteries on Christmas Eve to light candles in memory of loved ones. This creates a serene and magical atmosphere. Sauna visits are also a cherished tradition, symbolizing cleansing and renewal for the holiday season.

10. Brazil: Vibrant Celebrations and Midnight Mass

Brazilian Christmas is a colorful blend of European and local traditions. Ceia de Natal (Christmas dinner) includes dishes like roast turkey and rabanadas (Brazilian-style French toast). Families attend Missa do Galo (Rooster’s Mass) and enjoy fireworks displays.

Why Christmas Traditions Matter

These diverse celebrations highlight the cultural richness of Christmas and remind us of the universal themes of love, generosity, and hope. Whether it’s caroling in the cold or barbecuing in the sun, each tradition carries its unique charm, making Christmas a beautiful mosaic of global joy.

How does your country celebrate Christmas? Let us know in the comments!

Merry Christmas Everyone.

Thank tou for reading.

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DIY Christmas Decor Ideas to Add a Personal Touch to Your Home

The holiday season is the perfect time to add a festive touch to your home with Christmas decor ideas that reflect your personal style. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting a holiday party, transforming your space into a cozy, festive haven doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. DIY decorations allow you to create something unique that adds warmth and charm to your home. Here are some simple and creative DIY Christmas decor ideas that will make your space feel merry and bright.

1. Handmade Christmas Ornaments

One of the best Christmas decor ideas is to craft your own ornaments. This is an enjoyable and personal way to decorate your Christmas tree while adding sentimental value. You can use materials like wood, clay, felt, or even recycled items to create ornaments that suit your home’s style. For example, a simple DIY project like painting pinecones or using twine to make rustic stars can give your tree a personalized touch.

These ornaments also make for wonderful family projects, bringing everyone together to create lasting memories while decorating the tree.

2. Festive Wreaths for Doors and Walls

Wreaths are a classic Christmas decoration, and making your own allows you to add a personal flair. Use evergreen branches, ribbons, berries, pinecones, or even dried citrus slices to create a beautiful wreath for your front door or to hang on a wall inside your home.

You can customize your wreath with colors that match your home’s decor or create a bold contrast using metallics like gold or silver. DIY wreaths can also be made with natural elements, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels personal and seasonal.

3. DIY Advent Calendar

An Advent calendar is a fun way to count down the days until Christmas, and you can easily make one that’s both functional and decorative. Use small boxes or envelopes and decorate them with festive paper, ribbons, and even little notes or treats inside. Hang them on a wall or place them in a beautiful basket to display.

This Christmas decor idea not only brings excitement to the season but also gives you a chance to include little surprises or family activities each day. Plus, it adds a thoughtful, personal touch to your home decor.

4. Upcycled Christmas Stockings

Rather than purchasing store-bought Christmas stockings, why not make your own? Upcycling old fabric, sweaters, or even old jeans can create one-of-a-kind stockings that reflect your personal style. You can even get creative by adding hand-stitched names, embroidered details, or festive buttons to make each stocking unique.

These DIY stockings can be hung by the fireplace, on stair railings, or in other cozy corners of your home, adding a homey and customized touch to your Christmas decor.

5. Personalized Table Centerpieces

For a Christmas dinner or gathering, a beautifully crafted centerpiece can set the mood for the entire celebration. You can make your own festive centerpiece using natural elements like pine branches, candles, and dried flowers. Add a touch of sparkle with a DIY glitter pinecone or glass jars filled with fairy lights.

By using materials that align with your taste and incorporating meaningful items like family heirlooms or sentimental decorations, you can create a Christmas decor idea that feels both personal and festive.

6. Creative Gift Wrapping Ideas

Gift wrapping is an essential part of Christmas celebrations, and putting your personal touch on it can enhance the experience. Instead of using generic gift wrap, consider making your own with brown kraft paper, twine, and handmade tags. You can even incorporate fresh greenery, like sprigs of holly or rosemary, to create a rustic look.

Customizing your gift wrapping not only adds to your Christmas decor ideas but also shows thoughtfulness in the presentation of your gifts, making them extra special.

7. DIY Christmas Tree Skirt

A Christmas tree skirt is often overlooked in holiday decor, but a homemade one can be a show-stopping addition to your tree setup. Use fabric that fits your style—whether it’s plaid, faux fur, or burlap—and sew it into a tree skirt. Add personal touches like embroidery or patches that reflect your family’s traditions.

This is a great Christmas decor idea that adds a customized feel to your holiday tree while serving a practical purpose of covering the base.

8. Twinkling Light Displays

Nothing says Christmas like twinkling lights, and with a DIY approach, you can create light displays that are as unique as your home. String lights can be used creatively throughout the house—around windows, along stair rails, or in mason jars to make glowing lanterns. You can even repurpose old jars or bottles as lanterns to add a vintage touch.

Using lights in your DIY Christmas decor not only adds warmth to your space but also creates a magical atmosphere that feels both festive and intimate.

9. Christmas-themed Pillows and Throws

For a cozy, personalized touch to your living room or bedrooms, create DIY Christmas-themed pillows and throws. You can use fabric markers to add holiday messages like “Merry Christmas” or “Let it Snow,” or choose fabrics that showcase festive prints like snowflakes, reindeer, or Christmas trees.

These Christmas decor ideas are simple to make and immediately enhance the warmth and comfort of your home while bringing in a personal touch.

10. Personalized Holiday Signs

Create your own holiday signs to display around your home. Whether it’s a rustic "Merry Christmas" sign for the front porch or a personalized sign for your kitchen, these decorations can easily be made from reclaimed wood, canvas, or even cardboard.

These DIY signs are the perfect Christmas decor ideas for adding personality and charm to your home, and they can be made to fit any style, from rustic farmhouse to modern minimalism.

Conclusion

DIY Christmas decor ideas not only save you money but also give you the opportunity to infuse your home with personal touches that reflect your family’s unique style and traditions. From handcrafted ornaments to personalized table centerpieces, these DIY decorations will elevate your holiday season and create a festive atmosphere in every room of your home.

By using these Christmas decor ideas, you can transform your space into a warm and inviting haven that reflects your personality while celebrating the joy of the season. Happy crafting, and may your home shine with the spirit of Christmas!