#cheap moving companies san diego

[elitefurnituremoving]

Internal Moving in San Diego - Elite Furniture Moving

What is an internal move?

An internal move, in the context of employment, refers to an employee transitioning from one role to another within the same organization or company. This movement can occur within the same department or involve transferring to a different department, team, or location within the company.

Internal moves are often encouraged by employers for several reasons:

Retaining Talent: It helps the organization retain experienced and skilled employees who might otherwise seek opportunities outside the company.

Career Development: Internal moves allow employees to explore different roles, gain new skills, and broaden their experience, contributing to their professional development.

Utilizing Existing Knowledge: Employees who are already familiar with the company's culture, processes, and systems can quickly adapt to new roles, making them valuable assets.

Boosting Morale: Providing opportunities for internal career progression can boost employee morale and job satisfaction, leading to increased motivation and productivity.

Cost-Effectiveness: Internal moves can be more cost-effective for organizations since they save on recruitment and onboarding expenses associated with hiring new employees externally.

Encouraging Loyalty: When employees see a clear path for growth within the organization, they are more likely to stay loyal to the company.

Internal moves can involve promotions, lateral transfers (moving to a similar level position in a different department), or even demotions if an employee chooses to take on a role with fewer responsibilities for personal or lifestyle reasons.

Employees interested in internal moves typically need to express their interest to their supervisors or human resources department, and the organization may have specific procedures or policies in place to facilitate such transitions.

[bestbetmovers]

How Do Affordable Movers Maintain Quality Without Compromising on Service?

Moving can be a stressful task, whether you're going just down the street or all the way across the country. Choosing the right mover is essential to make sure your belongings are safe and that you don't spend too much. Affordable Movers in San Diego and other cities have become experts at offering quality services while keeping prices low. To know more visit our website: https://bestbetmovers.com

[paradiseisinthemind]

Brinco

2005, Judi Werthein

Argentinian artist Werthein set up a trainer brand, Brinco (‘jump’ in Spanish) in 2005. She distributed the trainers free of charge to people attempting to cross the border illegally in Tijuana, Mexico. At the same time, just over the border in the US city of San Diego, she sold the shoes as ‘limited edition’ art objects for over $200 a pair. Werthein donated part of the money she raised to a Tijuana shelter helping migrants in need.

The trainer’s design includes eagle motifs inspired by American and Mexican national symbols, and an image of Saint Toribio Romo, the patron saint of Mexican migrants. The shoes also feature a torch, a compass and pockets to hide money and medicine. Printed on a removable insole is a map of the border area around Tijuana.

Werthein had the Brinco trainers produced cheaply in China. Many global companies manufacture products in countries where labour is cheap and often poorly regulated. The artist hopes to draw attention to how easily goods move between countries, compared with the strict regulations around the movement of people. The same governments that allow the import of cheap goods from overseas often strictly control, and actively discourage, migrants from entering the country in search of better living conditions.

"Goods can cross any border that people cannot"

[aboynameddash]

I can't believe the last time I had an entry was when the first time I caught gabe gaslighting me. I really should've just called it at that but NOPE I kept it going because I thought having company and help with moving would've been grand. and it truly was but the truth is, the guy was borderline bipolar and crazy. And I think I knew that front the start but told myself that if I just censored myself and understood that he was crazy, maybe it won't be so bad because it was temporary. But I mean...he said some pretty unhinged things. To this day, I'm here sitting like "did he really think he was fooling anyone but himself? I think he actually thought people believed all the stupid things he said like how international tickets just so happened to be cheap the day I leave san diego and that I shouldn't compare my move to his "life changing trip" Not sure what he means by that but I'll never forget what he said.

So I'm not gonna lie. I've been here for almost a week and it's been lovely don't get me wrong, but I kind of miss my routine back at home. I thought I would be better at spanish by now but here I am burnt the fuck out. I dont want to speak english but I just feel like I've plateaued in my learning and I borderline think the teacher's teaching style sucks. Like she's not making learning creative or fun and I can almost feel the same from Rico and Fritz who have been around with different teachers. So here I am trying to get a spanish teacher. I can afford her 3 times a week thank god, but we'll go ahead and give it a try Thursday first and then I'll go ahead and pause next week. Luckily, its moderately affordable living out here so I'm not exactly in a rush to go back. In fact, yesterday I did laser hair removal and surprisingly the lady spoke really good english. so here she is lasering my arm pits and it was legit nothing. So much so that I decided to do my legs also and it came out to fucking $11 USD. for both. I think I'll spend less money lasering my whole body than I do with one session of waxing back at home. I'll be here for the next session but I want to do my brazillian and since I JUST waxed a few days ago, I wasn't able to do it until next month. So I guess I'll just start here and either decide to stay another month or head home to continue my (more expensive) sessions there.

[hargrove]

.·:*¨ ✘♚✘ ¨*:·. The 'nice car' comment caused Billy to shoot a threatening glare towards Eddie. He wanted the company, but not the shit for the state his prized possession was in. The expression quickly dissipated, though, when Eddie explained that he wasn't being sarcastic. On the contrary, the long haired boy was completely sincere in his praise for the Camaro. The fact that he even knew the year impressed Billy. "Yeah. '84," he answered as he wiped his greasy hands off on a rag. Then he took a seat in one of the cheap lawn chairs and polished off the little bit of beer left in his can. "Pretty much took five years. I got a job when I was fourteen but it didn't pay much." A sly smile crawled across his features as he added, "Of course, I always had side gigs." He knew for a fact that Eddie could relate to that.

Back in San Diego, Billy might not have been the complete menace that Hawkins knew him as, but he sure as hell was no saint. He always had some scheme to get more money for his Camaro fund. All the work finally paid off a year before his move to the midwest. Glancing across the way to where the black figure of the van was parked, he gestured to it. "I wouldn't knock the weed wagon. It can't be all bad, right? I bet you get loads of pussy with that thing." He smirked wide at Eddie as he opened a fresh can of beer.

Eddie gave a small nod and a grimace, figuring was about as cordial a deal as he could have hoped for. In spite of the empathy, curiosity, he didn’t pay Billy another thought once they parted ways. Not for several hours, at least - when he came home from practice at Gareth’s and his neighbor offered him a beer in acknowledgement. For a moment he must have seemed like a deer in the headlights, but after a mental ‘ah, what the hell?’ he strode over to watch the other work. Better to be amicable than slight the guy, right?

“Nice car.” Putting his hands up, he bowed his head before taking a beer. “Not being a smart ass. Even in its current state, it’s better than my weed wagon.” From what he could recall, Neil had junked the thing when Billy was ‘recovering’. Eddie supposed he didn’t think it worth the time, or work, the repairs would take. Or maybe he just didn’t want the reminder of his son, and what had happened to him. He wasn’t quite sure what the deal was there; he knew that their relationship was strained, and that the elder Hargrove had taken off in the aftermath of the Starcourt incident. That was about it. He hadn’t any inclination to needle Max about it - if they had heard from him at all since. He was even less inclined to ask Billy. Wasn’t his business, and knowing how he’d be if someone got on him about his dad? He imagined Billy would be even less pleasant - which wasn’t surprising, but was saying something.

“‘79 Camaro. They made you come to town… ‘84, was it? How long it take you to save up for it, not the full five years…?”

[calimovingsd]

Beat the Stress With a Professional Moving Company

Moving саn bе a stressful event. Arrangements hаvе tо bе mаdе fоr travel, expenses, еtс. If thе mоvе іѕ job related, thе person moving іѕ probably pre-occupied wіth professional worries, like making a good impression оr just getting tо thеіr new work location оn tіmе. Whеn оnе throws іntо thе mix thе task оf having tо pack uр a house аnd load еvеrуthіng thеу оwn оntо a truck, thе аmоunt оf stress thаt thе person experiences саn increase. A professional moving company саn help decrease thе stress оf a mоvе.

Professional movers оftеn arrive іn teams, splitting uр thе task оf аn entire house іntо manageable portions. Large items аrе carried bу multiple individuals, tо reduce thе risk оf damage. Packing materials аrе supplied аnd utilized correctly tо prevent damage tо household goods оn thе drive tо thеіr new home. Thеѕе аrе аll things thаt thе homeowner оr renter does nоt hаvе tо worry аbоut аt аll іf thеу hire a professional moving company.

Thоѕе whо hire a professional moving company don't hаvе tо worry аbоut hurting thеmѕеlvеѕ frоm lifting ѕоmеthіng thаt іѕ tоо heavy fоr thеm tо lift оn thеіr оwn, nоr dо thеу hаvе tо worry аbоut running tо thе store tо track dоwn mоrе boxes оr packing peanuts іf thеіr оwn supply runs lоw.

Whеn a person leaves a home, thеу generally want tо leave іt іn аѕ good a condition аѕ possible, whісh іѕ especially true оf apartments іf a security deposit іѕ оn thе line. Untrained movers аrе mоrе likely tо damage аnd scratch walls аnd paint аѕ thеу maneuver large items thrоugh thе home. Thіѕ risk decreases wіth a mоrе experienced moving team.

Thеrе іѕ аlѕо a lot оf stress associated wіth keeping thе household goods safe аnd secure whіlе оn thе road. Nоbоdу wants tо open uр thе bасk оf a truck tо fіnd broken glass аnd chunks оf furniture еvеrуwhеrе. In mоѕt cases, thе traditional insurance thаt homeowners аnd renters carry іѕ nоt еnоugh tо cover damage tо household goods whіlе іn transport. Professional moving companies, оn thе оthеr hаnd, аrе specially licensed аnd insured tо cover just thоѕе types оf accidents.

Anуоnе facing a mоvе usually hаѕ mоrе important things thеу want tо worry аbоut bеѕіdеѕ getting thеіr stuff frоm point A tо point B. Family аnd professional obligations mау cut dоwn оn thе tіmе thаt a person moving саn spend dedicating tо thеіr mоvе. If a person hаѕ tо wait untіl thе lаѕt minute tо mоvе thеіr items аlоnе, thеіr stress level wіll nо doubt skyrocket. Thе fact thаt thе person moving саn саll оn a professional wіth verifiable experience, credentials, аnd references tо handle thе task оf moving іѕ usually еnоugh tо help thе person breathe a sigh оf relief. Letting a moving company work оut thе details оf packing, loading, аnd unloading leaves thе client wіth mоrе tіmе tо deal wіth оthеr details оf thеіr mоvе. Thіѕ іѕ especially helpful fоr families wіth children оr pets, whо wіll require a little extra attention durіng thе mоvе оut аnd mоvе іn process.

Contact US

Cali Moving & Storage

13899 Carmel Valley Rd #244, San Diego, CA 92130, United States

Phone: +16197642680

Email: info@calimovingsd.com

Website: https://www.calimovingsd.com

Company Hours:

Monday – Sunday:- 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

External Links:

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[movecentralsandiego-blog]

Best Rated Moving Companies

Hire an affordable movers in San Diego. Move Central is one of the top rated San Diego moving companies. Our professional movers and packers or moving helpers help to relocate your house furniture, piano and appliance at affordable rates. Call us at 858-230-8281. Move Central is fully licensed and insured and follows all laws and regulations related to moving, employment, vehicle maintenance and otherwise.

For more information about our services please visit at https://move-central.com

[wikifeedz]

Hiring Cost Of Cheap Movers In San Diego | Call To Professional One

Hiring Cost Of Cheap Movers In San Diego | Call To Professional One

Cheap movers in San Diego are usually less expensive than hiring a full-service moving company. Moving is a wonderful option if you have few possessions (no major furniture and only a few boxes). And, only a few kilometres to cover! However, if this isn’t the case, we strongly advise you to use expert movers. How much does it price to rent local movers? Local movers bill by the hour. So, hiring…

[bestbetmovers]

Moving Without Breaking the Bank: Expert Tips and Cheap Movers Revealed

Managing your budget while moving to a new home is necessary. Many people worry about the high costs associated with hiring help to move. However, it's entirely possible to relocate without spending a fortune. You can significantly reduce your expenses by choosing the right strategies and understanding how to find affordable moving services. Taking control of your moving costs doesn't have to be difficult; with some insights and planning, your transition can be smooth and budget-friendly. In this article, we'll guide you through expert tips on making your move economical while ensuring everything goes smoothly.

Plan to Save Money

One of the most effective ways to reduce moving costs is to plan your move well. Early planning allows you to compare prices and services from different companies, giving you the flexibility to choose the most cost-effective options. Booking movers in San Diego or elsewhere early can also lead to lower rates, as last-minute bookings often come at a premium. This secures you a better deal and gives you ample time to prepare other aspects of your move, reducing last-minute rushes and expenses.

Declutter Before You Pack

Before you even start packing, take the time to declutter your home. Selling, donating, or throwing away items you no longer need can reduce the volume of things you have to move, which can lower your moving costs. This process not only makes the move cheaper but also quicker and more organized. A lighter load means fewer trips and potentially smaller trucks, which further decreases your expenses.

Find the Right Movers

While hiring cheap movers San Diego or other cities might be tempting, it's crucial to ensure they are reliable and have good reviews. Spend time researching different companies to find a balance between cost and quality. This research ensures that you hire movers who are not only affordable but also trustworthy and efficient. Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals or check online reviews to get a sense of their reliability and customer service.

Pack Smartly

Packing can be one of the most time-consuming parts of moving. By packing smartly, you can save both time and money. Use materials you already have at home, like newspapers, old rags, and suitcases, to pack your items. This reduces the need to buy expensive packing supplies. Labeling each box clearly by room can also make unpacking in your new home much faster and more organized. Efficient packing reduces the risk of damage and lost items, saving additional costs on replacements.

Move during Off-Peak Times

The timing of your move can significantly affect its cost. Moving during off-peak times, such as mid-week or mid-month, can be cheaper than moving on weekends or at the end of the month. Since demand for the best movers in San Diego or somewhere around is lower during these times, you might get better rates. This timing strategy can be especially beneficial if you have a flexible schedule.

End Thoughts

Relocating doesn't have to drain your wallet if you know the right strategies and whom to contact. With thoughtful preparation and the right help, you can transition to your new home smoothly and affordably. Remember, finding a mover who offers both quality and value is your best partner. Speaking of bets, a company like Best Bet Movers can be a discreet yet excellent choice to ensure your move is both economical and seamless. With the right approach, your move can be more about the excitement of a new beginning and less about the stress of expenses.

[eckertsmoving]

Whether you’re relocating interstate or to a distant place, it is important to ensure your belongings are safely packed and relocated during your move.  Opting for one of the best interstate moving companies in San Diego to pack and move your valuables is a great solution.

If you are searching for movers and packers that offer cheap moving services in California, feel free to contact professionals at Eckert’s Moving and Storage. We have the necessary licenses, insurances, workforce, and equipment, to complete any move without fail.

[marmolady]

Home for Christmas (Estela x MC)

Main Pairings: Estela x (f)MC

Summary: Endless Ending.  It's Taylor's first Christmas off La Huerta, and the beginning of new traditions with her found family.

Word Count: 6127

Chronology: carries on from ‘Date Night’, and  ‘When the Fight is Over’, precedes ‘A Proposal’.

Tagging: @saivilo, @edgydepressedchoicesthot, @sceptilemasterr, @greengroove​ 

“We’re home!” Taylor called as she stepped through the front door, immediately hit with a wall of warmth and the smells of spiced candles and fir tree. “Happy Christmas Eve, everyone!”

Diego practically bounced to the door, and wrapped his friend in a hug. “Wait, does this mean you’re the gift? Talk about cheap.”

“Hahaha, you’re hilarious. Actually, you should be grateful to have me. I could be helping myself to seconds of Tio Nicolas’ natilla right now. Sadly, airlines don’t tend to let you bring custardy leftovers on board.”

Estela grinned, wiping her snow-covered boots on the mat. “It’d be mush by now anyway. I’m sure Tio will take much better care of it.”

A year ago, everything was so different. Christmas had been, at best, a bittersweet occasion, the shadow of all that had been left behind in a burning world. It had been Taylor’s consolation prize; she’d die in a matter of weeks, but at least she had a semblance of a proper holiday season with the ones she loved.

The share house, purchased by Estela with what had been Aleister’s inheritance passed on, had been somewhat emptier than usual; most of the Catalysts had been desperate to spend the season close to family after having thought them lost forever for so long. With all the space going spare, Aleister and Grace had taken up residence, forsaking their apartment so they could keep Diego company during what was a difficult time for him. Estela and Taylor had, of course, been in San Trobida with Nicolas, sharing a family Christmas Eve-- the first Estela had actually celebrated with her uncle since just a few short days before her mother’s murder. It had been strange to let the occasion be happy, but as the day wore on, she settled into the feeling, warmed by the clear joy in Nicolas. By the time they’d flown all the way back to the States and driven back from Northbridge airport, it was getting on for midnight… almost Christmas Day.

Grace came skipping down the hall, Aleister a little way behind her.

“Merry Christmas, you two!”

“Happy Christmas!” Taylor opened her arms wide, accepting another tight hug. “I can’t believe you guys all stayed up. We said it was gonna be late….”

“Oh, don’t be silly! We’ve missed you. So much I almost don’t feel bad about tearing you away from all that San Trobidan sunshine.”

Estela hugged Grace, who barely came up to her chin. Her sister. “Christmas is for family. Tio is Colombian, so it’s all about Christmas Eve for him… it kind of works well now that my family’s a little bigger.”

There was sadness in Grace’s eyes… deep and profound. Estela saw it there, and it made her heart hurt. She had a lot of things she’d like to say about Grace’s mother, but none that had their place here and now. How anyone could remain cold after over a year of separation-- a disappearance no less-- boggled her mind. But Grace was Estela’s family now, and that came with no expectations, no strings attached. Perhaps someday Blaire Hall would see what exactly it was that she’d been missing out on, but in the meantime, Grace would be given all the familial love she could ever need.

Taylor turned around from hugging a typically awkward Aleister to catch Diego’s eye. “Hey, if you want to check out your actual gift, try the back door.”

“Uh, Tay… what have you done?”

“Just go look! Jeez, so ungrateful….” Taylor exchanged knowing glances with the rest of her companions once Diego was safely down the hallway.

“Oh. My. God!” came a cry from the back room. “Ohmygod. I think I’m gonna cry… oh my-- Varyyn!”

Grace chuckled. “I think you guys just won Christmas!”

“I know, right?” Taylor said, grinning broadly. Having brought Varyyn to San Trobida a couple of days prior so he could fly into the States with them for Christmas was a big undertaking… but somehow they’d managed to keep the secret. “Whoever’s got Diego for Secret Santa is gonna have to bring it.”

Grace and Aleister followed after Diego, excited to reunite with a friend they’d not seen in months. For all intents and purposes, Varyyn was the thirteenth Catalyst-- and as far as anyone was concerned, as part of the family as anyone else. It would take some assistance from Iris’ wizardry with holographic disguises, but Varyyn would be kept safe, and given a holiday to remember.

Listening to the joyous chattering of her best friend as he hurriedly got the full story of Varyyn’s surprise visit right from the source, Taylor smiled to herself as she slumped against the wall, exhausted. Late nights were something she still struggled with since her recovery from Vaanu’s essence leaving her-- though the slew of parties that came with moving into a house with half the Catalyst gang had built up her resilience a little. She noticed a sprig of mistletoe hanging over the doorway to the hall, and sidled over. All those kisses she’d shared with Estela last Christmas… they’d been goodbyes. Taylor didn’t ever want to kiss Estela goodbye again; she wanted to kiss her to say ‘I love you’, or  ‘I’m yours, forever’, or ‘sling me over your shoulder and carry me to bed’. Anything but ‘goodbye’.

Estela caught Taylor’s eye, and a smirk. Just a flash of a tease-- a dare. Such a freaking dork. And, of course, she had to go to her. She would always go to her.

Taylor swayed exaggeratedly, a pout on her lips, as she glanced --with all the subtlety of an army tank-- at the mistletoe above their heads. “So… are you gonna ki--?”

No further prompting was needed; Estela covered Taylor’s mouth in a searing kiss, while her hands roamed along her sides and back, holding… feeling. It was all she could do not to quirk a satisfied smile at the moan against her lips as her tongue swirled against Taylor’s. She could do this for… well, she could go without breath for fourteen minutes, but that could never be enough. How could she need air when she had this?

“I fucking love you, Taylor….” she gasped when she finally came away.

“...Buh…?” was the wordless sound that fell out of Taylor’s mouth as she wobbled on the spot. It took a moment for her to bring herself back to her senses, to return to earth from whatever heavenly realm she’d just been swept into. “I love you, Estela. I love you.”

She took Estela’s face in her hands, and kissed her hard, relishing the force, the passion with which her lover reciprocated. It was fierce and triumphant, all theirs after coming so close to it all being snatched away. My Estela. I’m yours, forever.

“Aw, what?” Diego exclaimed as he came into the hall, Varyyn’s hand clasped in his. “We’ve got a mistletoe traffic jam! Come on, Tay-- I haven’t seen him in weeks. Pretty, pretty please?”

Coming away with a little groan, Taylor looked into the disgruntled face of her best friend, at had to smile. It wasn’t possible to resent the interruption when She gave an exaggerated sigh. “Someone should’ve bought more mistletoe….”

“Hey! My expectations for kissing were so low--”

Taylor laughed, perhaps a little intoxicated by the lingering buzz of that kiss. “Oh, we’ll get out your hair. There’s some things best done with a little more privacy.” She wiggled her eyebrows at Estela, who was still looking at her as if oblivious to the presence of anyone else. All shining tenderness. It made her damn near melt on the spot. “Shall we?”

Estela nipped in for one last quick peck to her wife’s lips. “Okay… done.” She glanced to Diego and Varyyn with a slight smirk. “You two have fun. Before you have to fight off Grace and Aleister.”

 Having dumped their backpacks unceremoniously to the floor, Taylor and Estela fell onto their bed in a mess of loving touches and joyous giggles.

“Happy Christmas, sexy lady,” Taylor purred.

Estela blushed, glancing away momentarily before stealing another kiss.

“Te deseo con el fuego ardiente de mil soles. Eres mia, amante. Mi todo.”

“I have no idea what you just said… so why do I have shivers going up my spine?”

With a breathy laugh, Estela snuggled into the crook of Taylor’s neck. My everything. She could never take for granted what she had, some miracle that had meant Taylor could stay, that this was not, in fact, a dream. But she woke up each morning, and there Taylor was, and it was a balm for every hurt she’d ever been dealt.

“Hey?” she murmured.

“Yeah?”

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

“And… before we went to sleep… I wanted you to have something. Seeing as we’re actually doing gifts this year.”

Taylor quirked an eyebrow, playing cool when all she really wanted to do was dive in her drawer and bring out her own gift. She’d been working on it a long time. “Okay-- just give me a moment. I’ve got something for you too. I’ll just change into my PJs first; gotta be comfortable.”

While Estela quickly got into her pyjamas, she glanced over at Taylor, unable to hold back a smile. God, she was beautiful. Estela reluctantly turned away to rummage for her gift.  

“Happy Christmas, Taylor,” she said, leaning in to kiss her lover’s cheek as she handed over the carefully wrapped parcel.

A warm smile spread across Taylor’s face. After the heartache the previous Christmas had come with, this was so wonderfully comfortable.

“Happy Christmas, ‘Stel.”

Taylor delicately pulled off the tape, trying not to rip the paper, and revealed a fat hard-cover book. It was heavy in her hands, full to bursting, slithers of paper peeking out the edges. A photo album.

“Wow, Estela… how did you do this?” she asked as she began to turn the pages. On the first page, the group selfie Michelle had taken just before the confrontation with Rourke--  which had been recovered from IRIS’ data bank-- and what followed was a chronological record of Taylor’s two years on Earth. There she was… holding a mewing pink kitten, a Valentine’s Day present… wind-surfing with Varyyn… dressed up to the nines for what had become the traditional Catalyst New Years-Multi-Birthday extravaganza. She’d not even seen most of them before. This must have been the complete repository of every photograph her friends had ever snapped on their phones during their year on La Huerta. Beside the photographs, her friends had scrawled notes and captions.“I mean, how did you get all these? Was everyone in on this?”

“Yeah, pretty much. Of course, you ask for help with these people and they go crazy with it. So it’s a little bit bigger than I first had in mind.”

More and more pictures. More and more memories. Taking her back to herself at her most weak and vulnerable, recovering from the release of Vaanu’s essence that had almost killed her. Friends crowded around her sick bed… then the celebrations that followed.

“There’s still room in the back,” Estela said. “For whatever it is next year brings.”

“Bring on 2020,” Taylor laughed. “I don’t think there’s anything it could throw at me I can’t handle; not now.” I’ve got you, don’t I? She looked up into Estela’s smiling face and loved her, her own eyes welling. “Thank you-- so much. Looking at this… I must be the luckiest person who ever lived. Nothing’s ever gonna be the same-- thank god-- but this time in our lives has been incredible, and this is just gonna keep it all with me. I love it. I really love it.”

Estela’s cheeks flushed. She could never tire of making Taylor’s face light up like that; glowing with joy. “Good. Because I love you.”

“And I love you too-- my starlight.” Taylor edged closer until she could tug Estela into a tight snuggle, and planted a soft kiss to her lips. Bliss. Then, she reached behind her pillow and brought out a squashy-looking present. “For you, my lover.”

Estela giggled and stole another kiss before accepting the gift. “It’s okay, I won’t have a meltdown this time.” Out of the wrapper fell a soft woolen bundle of dark blues and purples, accented with stars. An infinity scarf, homemade and endearingly lumpy.

“Taylor, it’s beautiful.” Estela hugged the scarf to her chest. She could feel the love interwoven through the whole thing, and the symbolism of the stars… and their forever.

“I tried to arrange the stars roughly into our constellations. Limited success, but if you squint--”

Estela hooked the scarf around her wife’s neck and tugged her in for a kiss. “It’s perfect, you dope. I absolutely love it. And I love you-- to the furthest star in the universe and back.” She took Taylor’s hands, and saw those stars in her eyes, shining just for her. “This just… feels like a dream. Like if a year ago, we’d wished and prayed to who and whatever the hell might have been listening… this is more than I could have dared hope for.”

“A scarf?”

Estela playfully swatted Taylor about the head.

“No, I know,” Taylor laughed airily. She leaned in and kissed Estela’s nose, her cheeks, her full, tender lips. This holiday season wasn’t an effort in consolation, it was a foundation being laid for a full, human life. Moments that would become traditions. “It’s everything I never thought I could have,” she said softly. “And I am just so, so excited to have this with you, year after year.”

“Me too.”

Leaving her scarf on, Estela snuggled under the heavy blanket and nestled in against Taylor. She yawned, happy-tired. It was a wonderful feeling, running from her head to her toes. She let her hands roam; caressing Taylor’s chest, torso, then venturing beneath her pyjama pants to settle between her legs.

Taylor let out a pleasured hum, but kept herself together enough to reciprocate; she did love a challenge. Her movements were slow, purposeful; knowing exactly how to elicit the whimpers that told her she’d got Estela coming apart in the best way.

The two lovers touched, caressed, kissed, until they lay, spent, in one another’s arms. Estela surrounded Taylor like a blanket; a protective shield. She’d gotten… better. No longer did Estela hold her wife in a vice-grip through the night, fearful that she’d be somehow ripped away. But the touch, close and persistent… she couldn’t settle without it. Someday, they both hoped, the sense of security in their new lives together would be enough. In the meantime, Taylor could sleep safe and utterly loved, her Estela keeping her close.

“Mmm… you ready to call it a night?” Taylor murmured.

Estela closed her eyes and nuzzled against her wife’s neck. “Mmhmm.”

“Ha. Sweet dreams, babe. And Merry Christmas.”

“You too, querida… night-night.”

 _______________________

Christmas morning was slow and easy, with all three sets of couples content to take their time in rising. Between warm beds and tender arms… and no real reason to rush, it was inevitable that the share house would remain quiet long into the morning.

When everyone did rise, the atmosphere was incredibly relaxed; the quiet enjoyment of the company of close family refreshing. It would be soon enough that the share house would be once again bursting at the seams and pulsing with the sounds of another rowdy Catalyst gathering; saving up energy for what was to come was wise… and the pace suited everyone present. Rugged up in festive pyjamas and lounging before a roaring fire, the small family passed the hours with board games-- purposely bypassing the tantrum-inducing likes of Monopoly-- and giggling through ever more extravagantly acted out rounds of charades. It was all new to Varyyn, and he soaked it all up like a sponge, throwing himself into everything to the point where he was nearly matching Aleister for dramatic flair. Estela’s ability to act out absolutely anything with a perfect deadpan had the whole group in stitches.

This, Taylor was certain, was what her holidays were going to be all about. Her and her band of misfits had everything they needed in one another.

Taylor, dressed after having enjoyed a brunch so late it might as well have been lunch-- and not an early one at that--, found Grace on the front porch, sitting with a steaming mug of cocoa and just taking in the distant sounds of children at play a few doors down. On the snow-covered front lawn, Furball was gamboling around merrily. If Varyyn was going to be joining them for Christmas, it had only been fair to make it an open invitation, and the little magic fox had been too excited to see old friends to not be brought along. Taylor was now grateful that Grace had the company, even as she took a quiet moment.

“Are you okay out here? Al said you gave your mom a call earlier. I figured that might have been… stressful.”

A warm smile jumped to Grace’s face at the arrival of her friend-- her sister. The care there had the effect of lessening those stresses, fading them into the distance, where they no longer truly mattered.

“Hey, Taylor,” she said. “Yes, I got that call out the way; I didn’t want the worry to be hanging over me all day. We kept it short. It’s gotten more difficult to find an understanding, you know?” She gave a little sigh, and shook her head. “To Mom, it looks as if I’ve given up, stopped trying. But the only thing I’ve given up is chasing the approval I’ll never earn. All I can do is hope that someday, she’ll look and see the real me; and love that person.”

Taylor put an arm around Grace. “You know, I really think that will happen. Someday. It’s got to take a bit of adjustment for her….”

“And she’s not exactly used to being the one jumping through hoops,” Grace chuckled. “Even jumping through hoops that should take minimal effort. In the meantime, I’m happy. Really, truly happy. We never had Christmases like this-- she never had the time. This is nice. It feels like a real family Christmas… spending all morning in our pyjamas, siblings squabbling over something stupid….”

Taylor laughed. It was all good-natured, if occasionally little bit heated. Estela and Aleister were well-practiced at butting heads by this point, and Taylor had strong suspicions that Estela liked getting a rise out of him just to tease. She absolutely exasperated him. And they loved each other.

“Yeah,” she said, “maybe this is what our Christmases are gonna be. Our little family, glued together from all these broken pieces and somehow fitting just right. It’s weird; just about everyone has been shaped some way by their childhood memories of these holidays… I don’t have any of that nostalgia, or old sore spots… just this, now. I guess these days are what I’m going to end up all sentimental about.”

“I know it sounds strange, but… me too, Taylor,” Grace agreed, smiling as her husband’s voice floated out from the house, seeking her out. She couldn’t say when the last time was that someone had truly wanted her company at Christmas was, but those days were a thing of the past. “And right now, I think I want to be back in there, soaking it all up. Come on.”

 “Should we put a movie on while we’re waiting for everyone?”

“Tay, you know my response to that. Maybe Home Alone or something. Should go down better than Muppet Christmas Carol did the other day….”

“Good god,” Aleister scoffed, “that was a mistake. Poor Charles Dickens, rest his soul, his timeless tale could not have been more lost on--”

Estela strode into the room, as if on cue. “The fucker, Scrooge knowingly killed so many people-- including that future version of Tiny Tim, which we can safely assume because it was the bastard’s ‘change of heart’ bullcrap that saved him.”

“Well, Tim wouldn’t have lived if Kermit-- I mean, Bob Cratchit-- hadn’t embraced the changed man before him. The point is redemption. ”

“Yes, he would. Scrooge was so desperate not to die himself that he’d keep the whole damn town fed and housed. Doesn’t mean you’d invite the cockroach in and share dinner with him. Those people were idiots!”

“You might even say they were… muppets,” Diego piped up, a glint in his eye.

Aleister groaned heavily, so utterly done, while Taylor snorted with laughter.

“Home Alone it is, then,” he muttered.

The main event, the full Catalyst family gathering, would be taking place later in the evening. Even with families at home to re-connect with over Christmas, the pull to be together was present in each and every one of them. No one else-- no one at all-- could ever truly understand. The sense of belonging, of security found in those who’d weathered the same storms, created a need that was deep and profound. Stepping away would be gradual, and for this first Christmas home, that the twelve would not remain parted. Raj only had a short flight from his grandmother in New York, so he was first to arrive back home. Both the duos-- Craig-and-Zahra and Michelle-and-Quinn-- had longer flights between home and the families they’d shared most of the holiday with, but arrived in at Northbridge airport at near the same time, so Sean had pre-arranged to play taxi after a Christmas dinner with his mother and brother. Jake would be the straggler. Louisiana was rather more of a trek, and after all those years in forced isolation from his family, he would not be rushing for anyone.

 The backyard had been transformed into a nighttime winter wonderland, a snowy playground adorned with lights that changed colour to the beat of Christmas songs piped out into the winter air. A snowball fight stretched across the hours, and carols were easily drowned out by the accompanying shrieks and shouts of laughter.

When Taylor crashed down into the snow beside her wife, she was soaked and shivering from taking hit after hit, and still grinning from ear to ear.

“Well, you put up a valiant fight,” Estela laughed. “Especially because Sean is, you know, pretty much a professional at throwing stuff. If you like, I’ll get back out there and avenge your honour… for a price.”

“A kiss?”

“Well, that would be hard to resist.”

Estela leaned forward, catching the warmth of Taylor’s breath on her lips as she moved in for a tender kiss. When Taylor came away with a happy sigh, they pressed their foreheads together.

They settled down, side by side, looking out over their friends as they laughed and played. The energy was different. Emotions were running high, everything felt on a new level, one that no one beyond this found family could ever understand. No one else knew just how much was being celebrated that Christmas… no one else knew all that had once been lost.

For Taylor, it was validation for the leap of faith she and Estela had taken together, the one that very nearly had cost their future together.

“Michelle was just telling me,” she said, “her mom flew out to Colorado to have Christmas with Quinn’s parents. Quinn’s parents like… together, in the same room, actually getting along. And it was three years, Meech said, since she’s seen her mom at Christmas. She just looked so happy.”

She snuggled close, tucking her arm through Estela’s, and nuzzling against her cold cheek. On a night like this, she couldn’t have any regrets. On a night like this, she could rest her so often troubled mind and know, they’d made it. She whispered kisses through Estela’s hair, against her ear, red with cold, her rosy cheek, the edge of her knowing smile.

“It’s going to be okay now, Estela. My starlight,” she said softly.

“I know. It’s like something you can physically feel. Like everyone’s just floating on a cloud. That kind of pure relief.” Estela hadn’t even felt that when the war ended, when the son-of-a-bitch Salazar took his own life and in doing so set his country free. She’d had her own wars still to fight, both against Rourke and within her very soul. When Taylor had awoken after her sacrifice to save the world, the fear in her had lingered on. Time was Estela’s healer; time allowed her to trust that life could be kind to her, that she was not inevitably hurtling towards darkness and despair and loss. Sometimes, things just got better.

She found Taylor’s fingers, surely as painfully cold in the night air as her own, and squeezed.

Diego came running up to them. “Hey! I’m just about to head to the airport with Varyyn. I should be an hour, tops.”

Taylor’s face registered surprise. How late was it? “Shit, Top Gun’s landing soon!”

“Ha, yeah… that’s my point. Doesn’t time fly when you’re having fun?”

“We could come with if you like.”

“Thanks, Tay, but I actually wanted to take the time alone with Varyyn. Make the most of what we have-- and it’s dark out, and hardly any traffic; it’ll be nice for him to get out and see the town without too much risk.”

Taylor nodded, understanding. “Okay. But you drive safe, you hear? If you end up dead in a ditch because you can’t keep from kissing him for five minutes, I swear I---”

Diego cut her off with a hug. “And you, don’t drink too much. You are the world’s biggest lightweight.”

Estela sniggered. Taylor’s ability to stand up to the effects of alcohol had been one of the hits she’d taken as a side-effect of her giving back Vaanu’s essence. “I’ll say. Now the driving’s taken care of, I’m pretty sure I’ll be needing to hold her upright within fifteen.”

“Oh, you two are hilarious. Fine. I’ll be good if you will. Now get out of here and bring our pilot home-- Craig is desperate to get Secret Santa started!”

 Secret Santa was the big event. The one everyone had been waiting for. It had taken Taylor a good deal of scheming and bribing and trading, but she’d managed to secure for Estela the ideal Secret Santa recipient for the brilliant couples gift that she had in mind. For hours upon hours they’d toiled together on their secret project, with Taylor enthusiastically teaching Estela to knit for the purpose. It was only a couple of nights ago that they’d finally finished off their respective masterpieces.

Taylor was practically skipping when she presented her gift to a distinctly nervous-looking Zahra.

“Why do I have a bad feeling about this?”

“Open it, Z!” Craig exclaimed.

Estela hurried over, her own worryingly lumpy parcel in hand. “Hey, Craig! You should open yours too. It’s kind of a set.”

“Why do I have a very bad feeling about this?”

An eager crowd formed, jostling to see what it was Zahra was fussing about.

She pulled open the wrapping, determined to witness whatever disaster awaited her before Craig opened his… and found in her hands a very large bright red Christmas sweater, ‘Player One’ emblazoned in big woollen letters on the front, and ‘P1’ on the back.

“Um, Taylor… you remember when you almost killed yourself restoring the world, right?”

“Kinda sticks in the memory, so… yeah.”

“ I stayed up all night, with Estela in the worst possible mood-- have you met bad-mood-Estela?-- making sure you didn’t drop dead; three long, soul-destroying nights in a row… and this is the thanks I get?”

“Bro! I love it!” Craig hollered, holding up his ‘Player Two’ sweater. “Best freaking present ever-- when I die, Imma get buried in this thing!”

“So, uh… mixed reviews?”

“If you think I’m gonna wear this---”

“Put it on! Put it on! Put it on!”

Zahra glared at Taylor, then Estela, while Craig’s chants were taken up by the whole group. For fuck’s sake. I knew friends were a mistake. I should have stayed dead in that goddam temple.

“Put it on! Put it on!”

Jake barked a laugh, offering Taylor a gift of his own. “Nice one, Princess! You’ve set the bar high-- as if there was ever any doubt-- but I’m pretty sure you’ll like this.”

She opened her heavy present to find a gently-used old sewing machine. Her eyes lit up. It had been a passing, passing mention that with so much knitting under her belt that she’d wanted to give sewing a try as well, but apparently it hadn’t gone unheard.

“Oh my god!”

“Ma hadn’t used it for ages, and when I told her I was after something for you, she wanted you to have it. Consider it a thanks from both of us for all you did while we were dealing with the courts.”

Taylor found her eyes stinging. She didn’t need thanks, he was good as a brother to her. “Wow, Top Gun. This is…. surprisingly--”

“...surprisin’ly thoughtful?”

“That’s it. Surprisingly thoughtful,” she laughed. When she looked up and caught Jake’s eye, though, she knew he got it. There was nothing surprising about it, after all they’d been through together, she’d never expect anything less than thoughtful-- but she’d be damned if she let the old joke die.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the present-exchanging horde, Sean handed to Estela a small, soft parcel. “Happy Christmas! I hope you like it.”

“Thank you, Sean, I really appreciate it. I’d say you didn’t have to but… Secret Santa… I guess you’re probably expected to actually get your person something.” No doubt she was flushed red, awkward as ever, but accepting gifts was another thing she was slowly getting better at. She unwrapped her gift carefully, saving the paper and appreciating the care that had gone into the neat wrapping and embellishments.

Sean chuckled, not unkindly. “That is the general gist. But it’s my pleasure, really.”

Estela unfolded a lightweight muted green and grey Hartfeld University sweatshirt. She couldn’t help the smile that lit up her whole face. “I guess this means I’ve got to stick around?”

“You’d better.” Sean grinned as Estela put her arms around him, laughing. Damn, they’d come a long way. “I know you never intended coming here to be anything other than a means to get closer to your goal, but really, that’s why everyone comes here. If anyone’s a Knight, you are.”

“Thanks. Really… I love it.”

“KNIGHTS!” Craig boomed.

“Uh, yeah,” Estela said. “That.”

 With gifts and hugs exchanged all over the place, everyone began to wind down. For most of the gang, the day had been an exhausting one, crammed with emotional family get-togethers and flights across the country. As mattresses and sofa pillows hit the lounge room floor, there was a shared relief, and tired Catalysts began dropping like flies.

Huddled in a couple of beanbags, Taylor nestled into Estela’s chest and the soft fabric of her new sweater, wrapping her arms around her and sighing with contentment.

“Happy Christmas, lover….”

“Mmm…,” came Estela’s sleepy reply. “Happy Christmas, mi alma…. Love you.”

“Love you too. Always.”

Within moments, Estela was slumbering peacefully, her little snores making Taylor’s heart near burst with affection.

Through half-lidded eyes, Taylor looked upon her family around her, yawning or already dead to the world after one insanely hectic holiday. It wouldn’t always be this way. It couldn’t be. Over the years, they would drift their separate ways, cherish the time spent with loved ones elsewhere as old traditions and new played out. But Taylor was certain that they’d never truly grow apart. Some things were just far stronger than the tests of time.

From across the room, Varyyn exchanged a knowing look with Taylor, smiling wistfully as he continued to gently stroke his fingers through a sleeping Diego’s hair.

“G’night,” she mouthed, then let go of an exhale of contentment.

It didn’t matter how long this lasted; what was important would remain. As long as she had Estela in her arms, and her family loving her from however far they had to be, she’d always be home for Christmas.

[ortizobsessed]

Good Company

This one was requested by @oikwq!

Reader x Juice where you’re not American and you decide to teach Juice some words in your native language (in this case, Italian) but start to feel like you might be bothering him.

Warnings: None!

Word Count: 2567

Masterlist

California. You knew there must be something special about it because people talked about it often enough, and you wanted to see it for yourself. You loved the small countryside town in Italy that you grew up in, but the warm California sun was calling your name. After lots of researching, your heart landed on Santa Maria, California. A short drive from LA, and right near the water.

You took your time getting settled. The first few months were spent getting to know the area and meeting new people. You also used this time to travel and explore before your roots started to grow. One of the first weeks you were there, you took a short trip to LA and San Diego for a weekend, so heading North this time was a logical decision.

Making your way through San Jose and San Francisco, you headed towards Sacramento. Along the way you made a stop in a small city. You weren’t sure if it was the name of the city, or the fact that the hotels were cheap, but you had a good feeling about this place. That city? Charming.

You made sure to wake up early, knowing you only had a few hours before you were supposed to check out of your hotel room, but you remembered seeing a local coffee shop across the street you that wanted to try. It was a seemingly random choice, until you saw him. A cutie with a huge smile, sitting at one of the tables along the front window. Your eyes locked with his, and you felt your heart start to race. Who was he?

“I can help who’s next!” The gleeful sound of the barista’s voice pulled your attention away from the mystery guy. The look on your face made it clear that you had been focused on something else, and as you stepped forward the young guy standing behind the counter flashed you a smile. 

“Welcome! The name is Colby! What could I grab for you today?” His bubbly personality brought a smile to your face.

“Just a cappuccino, and a couple of those breakfast cookies!”

“You got it!” After pressing a couple buttons on the register, he told you your total. As you were digging through your change purse, Colby spoke up again, but in a slightly hushed tone, “He’s cute isn’t he?”

You blinked a couple times, not quite sure if you’d heard him right.

“The guy at the table over there,” he said as he motioned slightly with his chin, “that’s who you were checking out wasn’t it?”

Looking down at your hands for a second as you weighed your options, you decided to be honest and go with it. Making eye contact with him again, you confessed, “You caught me!” before letting out a light laugh. “I’ve just got a thing for bright smiles, you know?”

He winked at you knowingly. “He keeps looking over here, in case you were wondering.”

You felt your face flush, and you just looked at him not sure what to say next.

“His name is Juice. Well- it’s Juan, but everyone around here calls him Juice. And don’t let the kutte scare you off, he’s the sweetest guy you’ll ever meet.”

Trying to take some of the focus off of yourself, you suggested, “You seem to know a lot about him, maybe you should give it a shot!”

“Oh believe me honey, I have. I’m not quite his type,” he joked as he playfully ran his fingers along his impeccably trimmed facial hair. 

“You on the other hand, you should most definitely go say hi. Especially with that cute little accent of yours, he’ll be head over heals in no time.”

Rolling your eyes and laughing, you handed him your money before attempting to brush off the situation once more, “It’s too early for this. I haven’t even had my coffee yet!”

Giving you a playful, yet understanding nod, Colby took your money and said, “Suit yourself!” before winking at you once again.

A few short minutes later, Colby was handing you your drink along with a small bag containing your cookies. His grip on the bag was firm for a couple more seconds as he leaned in slightly and whispered, “You-know-who is coming this way.”

Pulling the bag out of his hand, your eyes wide, you laughed lightly and purposely turned away from the counter with your back in Juice’s direction.

Taking the few steps around the side of the counter, you picked up the shaker labeled “cinnamon” and put a couple dashes on top of your cappuccino. As you turned around, you nearly bumped into someone and spilled your entire drink on them. Looking up, you realized that Colby wasn’t lying. There was Juice, and there was that smile again.

“Oh! So sorry. Clumsy me needs to watch where she’s going more often.”

As his smile grew even larger, he still hadn’t said anything in return. He reached past you to grab a couple sugar packets, and you caught a hint of the cologne he was wearing. He smelled SO GOOD.

“Not from around here?” he asked with a smirk on his face.

“What gave it away?” you asked teasingly.

“Well, certainly not the accent!”

His response made you giggle.

“Juan,” he said as he brought his hand up, “but everyone just calls me Juice.”

Setting your drink on the counter, you extended your hand, all the while thinking, “Yeahhhh I already knew that,” but responding with,“Y/N. Nice to meet you!”

“Likewise!” After a small pause, your hand still in his, he asked, “So, any chance I might run into you again tomorrow morning?”

A million things were going through your mind. Stepping out of your comfort zone and meeting new people, making memories, that’s what you wanted to do on this trip. Heck, it was the whole reason you made the move to California in the first place. On top of that, you knew you only had a little over 2 hours until you had to be out of your hotel room. Would you be able to extend your stay there? You were just going to have to hope for the best because before you knew it you were replying with, “Yeah, for sure! That sounds great.”

 As you felt your face flush once again, a small smile crept onto his face, as he nodded excitedly and finally let go of your hand.

“Okay,” he replied, his voice firm, but clearly thrilled.

“Okay,” you repeated through a smile.

“Okay then.” That was the last thing he said to you, before he turned around and walked back to his table, sugar packets in hand.

As you headed for the door, now on a mission to get back to your hotel and see if you could add on another night on to your stay, Colby caught your attention, “Guess I’ll be seeing you again tomorrow! Until then, beautiful lady!”

All you could do was laugh and shake your head.

It didn’t take long to sort everything out at the hotel front desk. Turns out not many people choose Charming as their vacation spot, so before you knew it you had 2 more nights added on. One for tonight, and an extra one, just for safe measure.

You spent most of your day wandering around the city, finding cute local shops who’s clothing was right up your alley, as well as a couple souvenir shops. Yes, Charming has souvenir shops. Though shopping gave you something to focus on for a little while, pretty much your entire day was spent thinking about Juice, and whether he was actually going to show tomorrow.

Sleeping that night wasn’t easy. Something about him made those butterflies come alive in your stomach, and you couldn’t wait to have a real conversation with him. Sometime during the night, sleep finally consumed you, and before you knew it you were waking up to the sound of your alarm.

Flipping through your clothes you found your favourite sundress and slipped it on. Giving yourself one last glance in the mirror, you took a deep breath and slowly breathed out. You felt your body relax ever so slightly, but those butterflies were still very much alive.

As you were walking across the street, you saw someone sitting on a motorcycle in front of the coffee shop, and it didn’t take long to figure out it was Juice; the tattoos on his head kind of gave him away. Seconds later he noticed you walking towards him and that smile of his melted your heart once again.

“There she is!” The excitement in his voice was obvious, and you couldn’t help but smile in return.

“Fancy meeting you here,” you replied playfully.

“Shall we?” he asked, swinging his leg from around his bike and standing up. As you got close to the door, he took a couple fast steps ahead of you and pulled the door open. “After you.” Motioning with his hand for you to step inside, you nodded your head in thanks and immediately locked eyes with Colby at the counter, who gave you a cheeky grin.

A few short minutes later you and Juice were sitting down at that same table by the window you saw him and some of the guys at the day before.

“So, is this ‘your table’?” you asked jokingly.

“As a matter of fact, it is. Colby has this booth reserved for me every morning from 8-10.” You couldn’t tell if he was joking or not, but a smile slowly crept onto his face and he broke, “Nah, I’m just kidding. I do like this table though, so if it’s free, it’s usually the one I grab.”

You laughed right along with him; you already really liked this goofy guy.

The conversation started out slow, neither one of you really knowing what to talk about, but once you found some common ground, there was no stopping you. How long had it been? Minutes? Hours? You weren’t sure, but you didn’t care.

Every once in a while Colby would come by and ask if you guys needed anything else. At first you thought maybe it was something staff normally did here, but you slowly realized that no, he was just snooping; wanting to make sure things were going “smoothly” between you two. A self-proclaimed wing-man of sorts.

“So, this might be a stupid question...but I have to ask. Was it hard to learn English? I- I just mean- you speak it so well, and I’ve always imagined that learning a new language wouldn’t be easy!”

You couldn’t help but smile at how caring he was. He truly seemed interested in getting to know you. “Oh no, that’s not a stupid question at all!” you shook your head lightly as you answered, “It wasn’t too difficult. English is one of the most spoken languages in the world, so you’re exposed to it fairly often. And my parents were really good about making sure my siblings and I understood it.”

“They sound like smart people. You must miss them.” His words really hit home. You did miss them, but you knew this was where you wanted to be. It may have only been a couple months, but California was really starting to feel like a second home.

After a slight hesitation, and a deep breath to keep the tears at bay, you confessed, “I do- I do miss them. But they know I’m happy here. And technology is a great thing. Staying in touch is pretty easy nowadays!”

Juice nodded, he knew this all too well. After all, technology was kind of his thing.

Something told you that maybe it might be fun to try and teach him some words in Italian. You reached over and picked up the small plate that his breakfast sandwich had been sitting on. 

“Piatto.”

He looked slightly confused for a second until he realized what you were doing. Trying to repeat after you, he stumbled a little bit, “P- pieddo?” He laughed lightly, “Is that what you said?”

A smile spread across your face as you repeated, “piatto.”

“Ahh okay okay, piatto?”

“Yeah! That’s it! Perfect!”

He repeated it a couple more times, and smiled wide once he felt like he had the hang of it.

You continued picking up the few items that were on the table, or pointing at things around the coffee shop and saying their name in Italian. Salt and pepper, “sale e pepe,” napkin, “tovagliolo,” sugar, “zucchero,” coffee mug, “tazza di caffe.” Each time, Juice would repeat what you had just said, sometimes taking a couple tries until it felt right.

A couple times you even tried saying words without pointing the objects out and getting him to guess what it might be. Clock, “Orologio,” plant, “pianta,” customer, “cliente.” Overall he did an amazing job, but you started to worry that maybe he wasn’t enjoying this as much as you were, so you decided to do one last one.

You pointed out the window at his motorcycle and said, “motociclo.”

Once again, he repeated what you said, “Motociclo.” That one he, not surprisingly, nailed on the first try.

You weren’t sure if you should continue, so you were silent for a few seconds, and Juice looked at you puzzled. “Is everything alright?”

“Yeah, I- I just, ah never mind, it’s stupid.”

“You can tell me!” His words seemed genuine, so you decided to let him know what you were thinking. “I just feel like this is maybe a little annoying. We can talk about something else if you want to! I don’t want to waste your time.”

As that smile slowly grew on his face once again, you got the feeling that what you were thinking had been completely wrong. Maybe he really was enjoying this; talking to you, learning your native language. “Oh hell no, are you kidding? This is great!”

His response surprised you, and a shy grin found a home on your face.

“Really?”

He paused, gazing at you with a caring and honest look in his eyes. “Yes, really.” The grin on your face turned into a full smile as you looked at your hands and your face flushed slightly. “Besides, I wouldn’t mind wasting my time on you.”

Your eyes slowly found their way to his, and you nodded your head slowly. “I’m enjoying myself, too. I wasn’t sure what to expect today, but you’re really good company.”

You could tell that your words were welcome to him. Truth be told, not a lot of people enjoyed his company, unless they needed something from him. So hearing someone admit that they enjoyed spending time with him was something he wasn’t going to let go of easily.

The two of you sat and talked for another couple hours, about anything and everything; truly enjoying spending time together.

You knew there was a reason you had waited to find a job in Santa Maria. You kept telling yourself it was because you wanted to find your footing first, make sure that this was really a smart movie, but now you knew what the actual reason was. Unbeknownst to you, and as much as you enjoyed the couple months you spent living there, it wasn’t where you were supposed to end up. Maybe Charming is where you were meant to be.

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You've decided to take your pet along on vacation. It will be more fun, and you won't have to worry about leaving a member of your family behind in an unfamiliar kennel. With some extra planning and forethought, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip with your pet.

Taking a Road Trip

If you're driving with your pet, you'll need to find a comfortable and safe way for your pet to travel. You can place your pet in a carrier and secure it in the car. Alternatively, you can purchase a seatbelt-like harness for your pet that will allow him to be out of the carrier but still safely restrained. It isn't safe to allow your pet to roam freely in the car. He can be seriously hurt in the event of even a minor accident, and he is much more likely to escape and become lost when you make stops.Don't leave your pet alone in the car, especially in hot weather. The heat can quickly become life-threatening. If your pet becomes carsick easily, you may want to ask your veterinarian for motion-sickness medicine before the trip.Carry some of your pet's food along with you, and feed your pet only small amounts of food at a time. If your trip is short, you may want to have your pet wait and eat when you arrive to avoid carsickness. You should also carry some of your pet's water along, or purchase bottled water. Local tap water may contain different minerals or sulphur, which might upset your pet's stomach.

Flying with your pet

Many pet owners do not like to fly with their pets because it can be traumatic for them, but sometimes it's unavoidable. Unless your pet is very small, he will fly as cargo and not in the cabin with you. Check with your airline to determine what type of carrier is acceptable and what rules apply to flying with a pet. Also ask what safety precautions are in place, what conditions the pet will fly in, etc. Ask your veterinarian if your pet is well enough to fly or if there are any special precautions you should take.

International Travel

Taking your pet out of the country requires careful planning. Check the regulations for the country you are traveling to and verify that your pet has the required vaccinations. In some cases, you'll need to have the vaccines administred weeks before your departure date.

Most countries will require a Rabies Vaccination Certificate and a Health Certificate. Your veterinarian can help you obtain both of these. The country you are traveling to may require that you complete paperwork gaining permission to bring your pet into the country. Also, some countries have quarantine regulations that may require your pet to remain in a kennel for up to several months.

Pet Friendly Hotels

A quick search on the Internet can help you find hotels that are receptive to pets. Many travel sites also allow you to specify only pet-frienly accommodations. Check with the hotel to find their specific rules regarding staying with a pet.

If your pet requires walks, ask for a room that opens on the outside. This will be more convenient for those late night trips outdoors.

Many alternative lodging sites, such as resorts, cabins and bed and breakfasts are also open to receiving pets. Check ahead of time for availability where you're traveling. Since many of these vacation spots offer outdoor activities, they can be great options for pet owners.

What Will your Pet do All day?

You know how you'll travel, and you've found a hotel that will welcome your pet, so now what? What will your pet do all day when you're out having fun?

An outdoor vacation is an ideal choice if you're traveling with pets. Consider renting an RV and taking a camping vacation. Many RV rental agencies allow pets with an extra deposit. A trip to the beach is another good choice for pet owners. However, keep in mind that sand can be irritating to some pets, especially dogs with deep skin folds. Some animals are bothered by long sun exposure as well.

If you're spending a lot of time outdoors, keep plenty of cold water on hand and watch your pet for signs of heat exhaustion.

Some restaurants now provide outdoor seating that is also pet friendly. Check ahead of time if any are available near where you are staying. If you'd like to spend mealtime with your pet and no pet-friendly restaurants are close by, you might consider takeout or even picnicing outdoors.

What if you're taking a more traditional vacation? Many tourist attractions will not welcome your pet, and it isn't a good idea to leave your pet alone in a strange hotel room all day. You may be able to place your pet in his carrier for shorter excursions, but for all day trips, consider researching pet daycare centers or kennels available in the area. You can leave your pet for a few hours in a safe environment but still enjoy his company on your trip.

What to Take Along

Bring your pet's food along or plan to buy it as needed. This is not a good time to change your pet's diet, and you should certainly avoid giving your pet any table scraps. Traveling can be stressful regardless of how careful you are, and you don't need the added complication of stomach upset for your pet.

Don't give your dog the local water, especially if you're traveling internationally. It's safer to give your pet only bottled water to avoid possible stomach upset.

Bring along any medicines your pet takes, including vitamins, flea medicines, heart worm prescriptions, etc. You should also bring some basic first-aid supplies in case of injury. Ask your veterinarian what should be included in your pet's first aid kit. These might include medicines for stomach upset and a mild tranquilizer in case your pet becomes extremely agitated. You can purchase pre-stocked pet first aid kits at many pet supply stores.

To make your pet more comfortable, bring along a few items from home. Bring some of your pet's bedding and a few of his favorite toys. Bring only treats your pet has eaten in the past with no stomach upset. Again, this isn't the time to try any new foods. The carrier you bring should be large enough for your pet to remain comfortably inside for a few hours. He should be able to stand, lie down and turn around easily within it. Also, be sure your pet has fresh water available within the carrier.

A Pre-Trip Checklist

Make an appointment with your veterinarian. Have your pet examined and any vaccinations done that are needed. Ask if your pet is healthy enough to travel, and ask for advice concerning any of your pet's health conditions. Remember that if you are traveling outside the country, you may need to plan weeks in advance.

Make sure your pet has current identification attached to his collar, and that it fits well and isn't likely to slip off. You might want to consider having an identification chip implanted before your trip, but you'll need to discuss with your veterinarian how soon your pet can travel after the procedure.

Gather phone numbers for veterinarians, pet emergency care facilities, kennels, etc. before you leave for each place where you'll be staying. If an accident or illness does occur, you'll be grateful that you don't have to take the time to find someone to care for your pet.

Make a packing list for your pet based on his needs and what your veterinarian recommends. Double-check it as you pack his things. Take your veterinarian's phone number along with you in case you need to call and ask a last minute question or have your pet's records sent to another clinic.

Take time to get your pet used to his carrier, especially if it's new. If you're driving, take your pet in the car for practice trips before the big day so it won't be so traumatic. Another benefit to this approach is that you'll learn if your pet become motion sick easily.

If you're traveling with your cat, bring a litterbox and litter along with you. It's easier to purchase cheap plastic litterboxes and throw them away rather than try to clean and transport them. If traveling with a dog, be sure to bring baggies to clean up after your pet's walks.

Embarrassing and Alarming Moments

Pets get stressed when traveling, so accidents can and will happen. Bring some disposable wipes and plastic baggies to clean up after your pet. Another good idea is bringing a small bottle of enzyme based cleaner. If your pet selects the hotel carpet as the perfect spot for his accident, this can remove the odor and stain before it has a change to set.

Never open your pet's carrier unless you're in an enclosed room. Pets can move much more quickly than you can, and nothing will ruin your vacation faster than losing your traveling companion.

Traveling with your pet can be challenging, but with some planning ahead, it can also be a fun and rewarding experience. Trying a short weekend trip before a longer vacation can also help your pet acclimate to travel, and you will learn how well your pet travels.

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