#design your shed online

[nationalshedshelters]

Barn Beauty: Artistic Approaches to Rural Shed Design

Rural sheds represent essential structures that play a pivotal role in the fabric of countryside landscapes. These sturdy and practical buildings are designed to meet the unique needs of rural environments, offering versatile solutions for storage, shelter, and agricultural purposes.

[rederiswrites]

You can train your tastes. You can choose what you see beauty in.

Lemme go further, actually. You are constantly doing so--or letting others do it for you.

Nearly two decades ago, when we were planning our wedding, I made a very firm decision not to look at any wedding planning magazines or anything with marketing material for wedding products. I wanted our wedding to be uniquely us, and I also wanted not to be bombarded by product advertisement and beautiful photo shoots of very expensive weddings. Consequently, maybe we wasted a little bit of time reinventing the wheel, but we had a wedding we were very happy with that only cost perhaps four thousand dollars at most, probably not that much, spread out over our finances and those of both our families. Our guests went home with live potted plants that we'd paid pennies for at end of season, our florist had a great time getting to design a bouquet that tested her skills because I didn't have any preconceived ideas, my dress was utterly unique--and I really do feel that those magazines would have had a corrosive effect on all that.

When we moved to this property three years ago, I spent a LOT of time looking at images online, trying to form a coherent vision for a property that was at the time a fairly blank slate. I found myself scrolling through a lot of Russian dacha Instagrams, of all things, and they unlocked something for me. Seeing the same homey make-do decorations and techniques I grew up around a continent away, the same plywood cutout old ladies and tractor tire flower planters, somehow chewed through that last binding cord of classism, and suddenly I saw the art in it. The expression of a desire to embellish and beautify, even when you have very little, even when all you can afford is things the more well-to-do consider trash. I saw the exuberance of human love for beauty in a brilliant flower bed planted next to a collapsing shed--it didn't need to be perfect to be worthwhile. They didn't wait til everything was pristine to start enjoying things. And now I earnestly and unironically covet my own version of the tractor-tire Christmas tree at the farm down the road.

We've spent centuries now idolizing the manicured estates and quaint country retreats of the European wealthy elites. We've turned thousands of miles of living ecosystem into grass deserts in service of this vision. We need to start deliberately retraining our tastes. Seek out images of a different idea of beauty and peace. I'm not telling you what it'll be. I'm telling you this is not involuntary. You can participate. You can look at the many beautiful examples of native xeriscaping for arid climates, or photos of chaotic tangles of wildflowers, tamed by narrow paths, a bench under an arbor overwhelmed with wisteria. Maybe instead of trying to get lawn to grown under your mature trees, you'd actually get far more joy out of a patch of dirt. A hammock. A firepit ringed with log sections for seats.

You can free yourself from harmful conventions of taste and beauty, and you do it through imagining something better.

[fratttymatty]

Influenced

(All characters are 18+)

Elliot Turner had always been the kind of guy who thought three steps ahead. He was clever, witty, the kind of kid who spent his time buried in books and online articles about philosophy, science, and the complexities of human nature. At 18, he was getting ready to graduate from his small town in England, a place where he knew everyone but had always felt like an outsider. Being gay wasn’t the issue; he’d come out years ago and had the support of his best friends. But it was the rest of his life that always felt a little... off. His intellect set him apart from others. It made him feel different—and sometimes, alone.

Lately, though, Elliot couldn’t shake the feeling that maybe he was tired of being the smart, introspective guy. He envied those people—those influencers, effortlessly cool, living these perfect, carefree lives. He’d always thought they were shallow, superficial. But now? The idea of shedding his complex self and becoming someone who just fit in seemed more and more tempting.

Then, one day, he saw an ad pop up on his screen. “Want to become who you were always meant to be? Unlock your true potential with the Perfect Persona Transformation!” It promised something extraordinary: a complete transformation into the person of your dreams. The ad had a picture of a glowing, confident guy with perfect teeth and an even more perfect smile. It was tempting, irresistible in its simplicity.

Elliot wasn’t someone who typically fell for gimmicks, but lately, he felt desperate for change. He clicked the link without thinking.

The process was straightforward—too straightforward. Fill out a form with some vague questions about your goals, desires, and personality. He answered quickly, not really caring about the specifics. He was after a life that wasn’t so... complicated.

He clicked "Submit." Paid with his card. And within minutes, he received an email with a link to begin the transformation.

What did he have to lose? Maybe it was a self-help app, maybe some guided meditation, but he was curious now. So, he clicked.

The transformation came fast.

It started with a tingling, a pulse of static electricity that crawled beneath his skin. He felt dizzy, lightheaded, like his body was being rewired from the inside out. His fingers twitched, his chest constricted, and before he could process what was happening, the world around him went white.

When the whiteness cleared, he wasn’t Elliot Turner anymore.

The first thing he noticed was his body—taller, broader, with wide, muscular shoulders and smooth, golden skin. He was... beautiful. His reflection in the mirror was almost too perfect to believe. He ran his hand through his hair and immediately felt it part perfectly down the middle, a tousled, effortlessly styled middle part that framed his face like he was straight off a magazine cover. It was exactly the kind of hair that made people want to touch it.

He stared at himself. His face was chiseled now—strong jawline, sharp cheekbones, lips that looked like they were made for smirking. The kind of face that made people stop and stare.

“Okay,” he muttered, his voice sounding lower, more assured. It had a hint of an accent, Swedish, maybe? And when he looked down at his phone, it wasn’t his old phone. It was new, sleek, almost too shiny, and filled with notifications.

His name wasn’t Elliot anymore.

“Lukas... Vikström?” he said aloud, his lips forming the name like it was part of a new persona that fit him perfectly. Lukas Vikström. Lukas. It rolled off his tongue effortlessly, like it had always been him.

The memories hit him, flooding his mind like a storm. His old life, his real life, seemed so far away now. He was Lukas Vikström, a popular 18-year-old influencer from Stockholm. He was carefree, charming, the kind of guy who posted selfies in designer clothes, surrounded by beautiful people at parties, on yachts, in the best clubs.

He didn’t question it. He didn’t need to. His new life was easy. The weight of his old self, the thinking, the analyzing, the searching for meaning—it was all gone. All that mattered now was looking good, feeling good, and being admired.

The notifications on his phone were endless. Brand deals, new followers, dozens of new comments saying, "Lukas, you're perfect!" "Goals!" "I want to be you!"

He felt something warm spread through his chest. Pride? Maybe. But it felt more like... freedom.

The next morning at school, Lukas walked down the hall, effortlessly gliding through crowds of students. The whole school practically stopped to stare as he passed, everyone whispering about him, wanting to get close.

“Lukas, you’re the best! Let’s take a selfie!” someone shouted.

He grinned. His old self—Elliot—would have rolled his eyes, maybe even scoffed at the idea of taking selfies like it was beneath him. But Lukas? He didn’t even think twice. He struck a pose, effortlessly pulling a perfect, playful smile for the camera, like he'd done it a thousand times before.

He checked his Instagram as he walked, seeing his latest post racking up thousands of likes in a matter of minutes. He didn’t need to think about captions anymore—he just knew what people wanted to hear. A picture of him looking effortlessly perfect, his tousled hair falling just right, his grin radiating the kind of carefree energy people craved.

"Feeling amazing today, guys," he typed, his fingers moving quickly, instinctively. "Hope you’re all living your best life! Be happy, be hot, and don’t let anything hold you back! Love you all ❤️"

And that was it. Lukas Vikström didn’t care about deep thoughts or complicated ideas. He was who everyone wanted to be, and that was enough.

As he walked into his next class, Lukas was already thinking about what brand deal he’d sign next, what he’d post later, who would tag him in their story. It was a game now, and Lukas was playing it better than anyone.

Then came Sofia.

Sofia Johansson was the kind of girl everyone talked about. Her Instagram was practically a shrine to fashion, perfect selfies, and vacay pictures. Blonde, tan, and impossibly beautiful, she made her living out of posting sponsored content for beauty brands and posing at luxury events. But, like many influencers, she was... a bit ditzy.

Her captions were short, often full of emojis and half-thoughts. “Chillin’ at the beach with my fave bikini 💖🌴” or “Can’t believe how amazing this pizza is!!! 🍕😍 #sponsored.”

But despite her ditzy ways, Sofia had a magnetic charm. She didn’t need to be deep. People adored her for it.

The first time Lukas met Sofia, he was at a party—of course, it was a glamorous influencer event. There she was, draped in a designer dress that seemed to sparkle even more than her smile, her hair a perfect cascade of waves. When their eyes met, Lukas felt something stir inside him, something that wasn’t just admiration for her beauty.

She flashed him a playful grin, tilting her head like she was trying to figure him out. “You’re Lukas Vikström, right?” she asked, with a hint of excitement in her voice.

He nodded, offering his most charming smile. “Yeah. And you must be Sofia Johansson.”

“Oh my god, yes! I love your Instagram. You’re, like, totally goals 😍. We should totally collab sometime!” she said, practically bouncing with energy.

Sofia was everything Lukas now wanted—effortlessly glamorous, always in the spotlight, and completely free from any complicated thoughts. She was living in the moment, with no care for deeper meanings. And, to Lukas, that seemed perfect.

Within a week, they were an inseparable duo. Lukas would post pictures of them together, each shot more polished than the last—at parties, at luxury resorts, in the best clubs. Sofia was just as carefree as he was now, matching his vibe perfectly. They were a power couple—beautiful, sought after, adored by millions.

Her ditzy, bubbly personality fit perfectly into Lukas’s new world. They spent hours taking selfies together, posting stories, and planning brand deals. At first, Lukas had thought she might be a bit too... air-headed for him. But he quickly realized—she was perfect. She didn’t question anything. She didn’t think deeply about anything. She just enjoyed life.

And so did Lukas now.

By the time school ended for the day, Lukas was more than just the guy everyone talked about. He was the guy everyone wanted to be.

And as he and Sofia posed for yet another selfie, Lukas couldn’t help but smile.

This was it. This was his life now. The life he was always meant to have. Carefree. Perfect. Hot.

And he wasn’t about to change it for anything.

[luminalunii97]

Civil disobedience, act 4: art and symbols

Demonstration art could be one of the most powerful ways to convey your message. Iranians have been making art all over the cities these days.

Painting the city with blood: Putting red color in water bodies around the city. throwing red color at street signs specially those that reads Velayat (supreme leading system), hijab, and Kurdistan. putting red blood on pictures of Khamenei, Ghasem Soleimani, and police or judiciary signs. Coloring the university classes and corridors with red. One art classroom door in Alzahra university read "this classroom is covered in blood". These red colors represent the blood the regime has shed.

Pictures on the walls: Faces of our fallen martyrs. Anti regime pictures. They read: "you kill our love, you are our ISIS" "women life freedom" "women of Iran and Afghanistan against the violence of Talib and mullah" "fuck compulsory hijab" "from 2017 to 2022 this regime would fall like dominos" "ambu-lice (ambulances are being used to move policemen)". A religious figure hide behind religion playing his anti riot forces. On an alley named Azadi (freedom) someone has written "there was so much bravery hidden in this land".

(It's important to know that in Iran, mullahs don't represent religion as much as they represent the regime. For 40 years the turbans have been the heads of political powers. Most of those mullah pictures are directly targeting Khamenei the supreme leader)

Slogans on paper money: these ones say "women life freedom" "queer life freedom" "Baloch life freedom".

Khodanoor Lejei, symbol of the islamic republic cruelty: The bloody Friday in Zahedan was one of the darkest spots in Islamic republic brutal history. Opening fire on a crowd of praying Muslims before they even start protesting. Killing about 100 people of Baloch. But one picture stood out and stood as the face of inhumanity of the regime. Khodanoor Lejei was one of the victims of bloody Friday in Zahedan. An old picture of him went viral after his death. He was arrested a couple of months prior to Mahsa Amini murder and was treated with no dignity. Bound to a pole. water in front of his thirsty body but out of his reach. So in universities, sport games, streets and alleys people have been posing Khodanoor in bound to protest the cruelty. In the last two pictures, the signs read "political" (سیاسی) and "justice" (عدالت)!

Students sing revolution anthems. Artists make digital arts. Musicians make revolution songs. People dance and the security forces attack and arrest them.

There have been balloons flying over the cities with banners containing slogans on them. There have been banners on footbridges situated so that drivers would see them. People also have been writing slogans on billboards especially those that promote regime propaganda.

Azad university art students gathered in their campus, painted their palms red and raised their hands to the sky.

Meanwhile the regime forces broke into dormitories and stole students.

Some universities including mine design their campus trees and buildings with names of the murdered protesters or captured students and other revolution symbols (red tulip represents martyrs in Persian literature). The uni authorities take them down but the art students do it again.

After Kian Pirfalak, all over the country you could find paper boats and rainbows. Kian was a 10 year old boy who was murdered by the regime. There's a video of him starting with "in the name of the god of the rainbow" and continuing to explain his crafted boat. He wanted to become an engineer. Now paper boats are banned in universities.

One of the murdered protesters, Hamidreza Rouhi, loved riding motorcycles. He had a video online of him on a motorbike lip syncing to a song and pointing to the camera. A group of motorbike riders in Tehran, 7 day after his murder, gathered in front of his house, their motorbikes lined nearby, with pictures of him on each bike.

And in a recent symbolic act, a woman walked around Tehran streets as The Handmaid's Tale cosplayer. Very on point.

Don't think for a second that these civil ways of protesting are safe or easy. People have been arrested or shot in the head doing these.

People are capable of beauties but the regime can only make ugliness. That's the summary of this revolution.

[mitigatedchaos]

I think we need to consider the possibility that overuse of the "school" format may be detrimental to personal development.

This would be a high-dimensional problem, and difficult to measure.

The high social conformity of the 2010s created a low-friction environment that allowed a flourishing of bad ideas. My experience has involved encountering a lot of people online who are technically smart, but narrow. They appear to have difficulty thinking broadly, connecting problems across different contexts.

Normally, I would think that this is just how their personality is. You have narrow but deep thinkers, you have wide but shallow thinkers, and if you're lucky, you find someone who is good at both narrow and wide thinking.

However, I've had multiple kinds of schooling. What if it isn't just how their personality is? What if it's the result of overtraining in a low-dimensional context, with worksheets and even essays being relatively well-defined problems, and not training enough in a high-dimensional context, where the problem is not well-defined at the outset, and there are questions about what you should even be doing in the first place?

This would suppress agency and increase reliance on social approval. The teacher says whether the output is correct, not the compiler. You're not designing and building a shed from scratch, and getting burned by your prior design decisions.

I'm not sure I buy this theory. I may be a natural outlier.

[differenteagletragedy]

I'm imagining that even in a poly relationship between MC, Cove, Derek, and Baxter that Derek would still want a lot of kids. That house would be very packed.

Me too! I get why the whole thing is that Derek wants kids if MC does, but in his heart of hearts, I think he'd want to be a dad. There is no quiet space in that house lol. Derek's gonna have to build a shed out back where everyone can take turns having a moment to themselves.

-- If you can and want to get pregnant, then that might be the way to go! Just you pregnant with your three guys to dote all over you, lol, what a big ol lovefest

-- Cove is glued to your side for the whole nine months (well, he's always glued to your side, but he's going to be extra close now just in case you need anything)

-- Derek has the prenatal care under control. He's got your vitamins, all your doctors appointments memorized, he's reading the baby books, he is prepared.

-- Do you need a massage because being pregnant hurts? Baxter's right there.

-- But somebody is gonna have to keep an eye on Baxter too because he is Very Emotional at the prospect of starting a family. He is very tender.

-- Derek's building the crib, Baxter is designing it. Cove is watching, eating snacks and rooting them on.

-- Does the hospital not want to let all three of them into the delivery room? Baxter would like to have A Word.

-- Of course adoption is another option! You had a great experience with it and your moms can maybe help you figure some stuff out.

-- Either way, you are parents now!

-- Cove, Derek and Baxter are all going nuts shopping. That kid has more clothes than all four of you put together. More toys than you could possibly believe.

You: Cove, the baby already has like five teddy bears.

Cove (quietly): But this one sings a song.

-- Cove and Derek are early birds and Baxter is a night owl, and you're there too, so looks like some of you might get to rest sometime!

-- Derek's in charge of installing the car seats in all the cars. Don't test him on this, he read the manual ten times and watched a couple of hours worth of youtube tutorials.

-- Cliff is going to be over all the time, hope that's cool.

-- Cove is so excited to take the kid to the beach, but he's going to have to wait because Baxter ordered the baby sunscreen with the highest ratings online and it'll need time to get delivered.

-- Baxter is making his own baby food. You can call him silly for it, he doesn't mind.

-- Derek and Baxter at least will definitely want at least two kids.

-- Derek bought a minivan.

-- Cove cries a million times more as a parent than he did before. He just loves his kids so much and that love unlocked all sorts of new feelings. And they are very big feelings.

-- Baxter really loves being a dad, but he's worried he won't do it right because his own dad wasn't great. He'll do everything to make sure the kids feel accepted and appreciated and seen like he never did.

-- Derek is thrilled and confident and having the time of this life. Maybe a third kid would be fun!

[visit-new-york]

Is there a fee to walk or drive across the Brooklyn Bridge?

The iconic Brooklyn Bridge stands as a testament to engineering prowess and connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Its majestic towers and web of cables make it a must-visit landmark for tourists and locals alike. However, a common question arises among those planning to traverse this architectural marvel: Is there a fee to walk or drive across the Brooklyn Bridge? In this article, we'll explore the details surrounding access fees, if any, and shed light on the experience of crossing this historic structure.

Walking Across the Brooklyn Bridge:

One of the most popular activities for both tourists and New Yorkers is walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. The good news for pedestrians is that there is no fee to walk across the bridge. The pedestrian walkway is suspended above the traffic lanes, providing stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the Statue of Liberty. Walking across the bridge is not only a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery but also a great form of exercise.

Biking Across the Brooklyn Bridge:

Similarly, biking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a popular choice for cyclists. The bridge features a designated bike lane, allowing riders to enjoy the journey between Manhattan and Brooklyn with ease. Much like walking, there is no fee for cyclists to cross the bridge. Biking provides a unique perspective and a quicker mode of transportation, making it a favorite option for commuters.

Driving Across the Brooklyn Bridge:

Unlike walking and biking, driving across the Brooklyn Bridge does not come without a cost. There is no toll for vehicles heading from Brooklyn to Manhattan. However, vehicles traveling from Manhattan to Brooklyn are subject to a toll. It's essential to note that toll policies can change, so it's advisable to check with the relevant authorities or online resources for the most up-to-date information.

Tips for a Memorable Brooklyn Bridge Experience:

Timing Matters: Consider walking or biking during less crowded times to fully enjoy the experience without the hustle and bustle of heavy pedestrian traffic.

Photography Opportunities: The Brooklyn Bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the breathtaking views, the intricate architecture, and the cityscape from different vantage points.

Weather Awareness: Be mindful of the weather, as the experience can vary significantly based on conditions. A sunny day might provide clear views, while a foggy or rainy day can add a touch of mystery to your journey.

Conclusion:

In summary, there is no fee to walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable activity for residents and visitors alike. However, drivers heading from Manhattan to Brooklyn should be aware of toll charges. Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or a scenic drive, the Brooklyn Bridge offers an iconic and memorable experience for all.

[edensrose]

˚◞❀˳ a proper farewell

god that title sounds dramatic as fuck so let me just clear things up immediately: no, I'm not leaving tumblr, I will still be very manageable to reach and interact. what I am drifting away from is the tolkien fandom — and since this place, despite my hardships, has meant so much to me - I decided to give it a proper little farewell, to the people who made everything count. along with a little explanation for my decision while shedding light on my experience. ( I'll try to be brief )

I joined the tolkien fandom while writing for thranduil, it's here I gained my following in the fanbase and things went quite smoothly. however, upon beginning to write for mairon, then melkor and then later the ainur — I saw an increase in hate anons. something I have experienced before, natural of a multi fandom blog, but never to this degree. initially I assumed it was because I was simply growing larger as a blog, and perhaps that is the reason — but from what I noticed, I was battling with a bunch of chronically online people who simply could not handle my love for. . . "problematic characters"

I never understood it, really. I never saw other ainur blogs getting the hate I did - I guess I'll truly never know. had I done something? was my writing just not good enough? were my vibes off? over the time I've been called things like two faced, fake, a romanticiser of abuse, lazy for not filing out requests, been told I shouldn't write reader inserts, told to kms and other graphic incidents ( such as people sending death threats and actual gore to my inbox ). this branched from burner accounts to anons, and I could just never understand why me. a quick gander at the #clownon tag and you'll find some of the instances in which I've been harassed.

I genuinely thought my writing was the issue.

which demotivated me from writing for quite some time. could I have turned anon off? sure, but that would have meant that the anons I'd frequently interact with would most likely not come around anymore. it meant a decline in requests, it meant just a crippling factor to my blog in general, so I chose to ignore. but it got hard to eventually. I was bullied for liking a god with big wings just because for crying out loud.

I've tried to fake being okay. fake being strong and unwavering about the hate, but I just couldn't anymore. and that's okay.

it wasn't all tears and hardships though. I have made very good friends through the tolkien fandom, many of which I consider close. from @bluezenzennie to @kiatheinsomniac — @a-contemplation-upon-flowers , @cilil , @someoneinthestars and so so many more. it'd take me forever to tag and honestly my heart is squeezing so much listing these few down already. they made fandom fun, whether it was our silly little play fights or collabs or you name it. those of you that have spent time to tell me about your day on anon or send in the nicest of things. I haven't forgotten them, and I cherish them, but it's time for me to go

am I sad? fucking of course. a part of me found so much comfort here and in these characters. I've spent hours on end developing lore for aus or designing aesthetics for writing — just writing and pumping out content or blogs, everything and anything I could do. and while I don't regret those times - the way I've been treated in response hurts. which is why I've made this decision.

I'm growing as a person too. I'm writing a book now, I've got an oc blog to promote that book that I'm working hard on ( @valentine-cafe ) , things are looking good. does this mean I'm just gonna disappear? of course not. I plan on staying around, getting back into request writing ( for other fandoms ) and still interacting and supporting my tolkien moots and friends. will I be writing or creating content for tolkien? probably not. at least not in the foreseeable future. the characters I once loved and cherished have now been ruined for me. I've been made to feel embarrassed for loving manwe and namo to the degree that I have, and I don't see myself being able to write for ainur without thinking of all the shit I've gotten for doing so.

regardless, I'll be here still. and while I might not be your local valarfucker anymore, I hope to be your rose still 🩷 thank you so much for two and a half years, I love you all dearly

[obsolescent]

No Longer Two, But One Flesh

Pairing: Simon ‘Ghost’ Riley x Fem!Reader

Author’s Note: Requested, ask at the end! Sorry this has been sitting in my inbox for a bit now, apologies. Not sure if this was the direction you wanted me to take this, but Soap is the only one I could see officiating a wedding, since you can get ordained online I feel like he would have for the hell of it. Also, sorry if this is short, I’m not feeling the best right now and haven’t been able to focus on much. 

Content Warnings: No use of y/n, emotional fluff, reader wears a dress and is referred to as Mrs. Riley, Simon’s a father and has a family, characters getting a happy ending.

The wedding is held in your hometown’s church. It’s quite small, being a hallway that leads to an auditorium, chandeliers scattered through the room, with a dozen pews lining the nave, a central walkway with two smaller aisles on the outside of the pews. Archaic curtains that were once white, now yellowed, are pulled closed in front of the baptistry behind the altar, where Simon stands.

The place is empty during the week besides the typical hours of worship, Wednesday and Sunday. It’s a Thursday, and he’s grateful as he stands there in his buttoned up shirt, slacks, sans mask. His blond waves are slicked back and his brown eyes brim with emotion. Price stands beside him, while Kyle stands on your side. Johnny is officiating the modest ceremony, surprising them all when he announced that he was an ordained minister.

The door to the entrance opens, and you step inside. You had your hair done nicely for the occasion, with a long sleeved white dress you had thrifted, the garment fitting you perfecting, intricate floral designs ran along the square neckline with the dress falling to your ankles, paired with a pair of closed-toed sandals. You both had been aiming for more casual attire, not wanting the stuffiness that came with a 3-piece suit and extravagant dress. 

Simon’s breath hitched as he saw you entering, his mouth parting in astonishment at you, taking in all your glory. You were ethereal to him, a divine being sent from the heavens was walking towards him, to join him in matrimony. Simon’s eyes continued to take you, until he made a nose in the back of his throat, when his gaze landed on what you held in your arms.

Your infant daughter, the two month old sound asleep while you cradled her. Her small form was almost obscured by the billowy orange dress she wore, her arms and head all that remained uncovered, blonde curls held down by a headband with a matching orange bow. The emotion Simon had been holding at bay finally broke through the dam, tears beginning to fall.

Simon cleared his throat and wiped his tears away with the back of his hand while Price clasped his shoulder, squeezing. You make your way down the aisle, coming to stand beside Simon. “Oh, honey,” You say, noticing the fresh tears shed. You reach up with your free hand and wipe them away, while Simon pulls you closer with an arm around your waist, leaning down to plant a kiss to the top of your daughter’s head.

“You look astounding,” He says to you, taking in the finer details now. “Lookin’ pretty sharp yourself, handsome.” You whisper back, leaning into him. “Hello, bonnie. Are ye and the little lass ready?” You nod, beaming at Johnny. He begins the nuptials, you both confirming your prompted answers, exchanging rings, before commencing the ceremony with a kiss. The men clap and cheer, startling your baby awake. She begins to wail and you shush her and begin rubbing her back. While she settles down, the group begins to make their way towards the exit, having all agreed to celebrate afterwards. 

That night, after all the excitement and festivities, you two put your daughter to sleep, before Simon leads you to the living room. Walking over to the record player, he puts a record on, the elegant classical music quietly resonating through the space. “We didn’t have our first dance,” Simon says, making his way back to you. “I reckon we can now, huh?” You reply, wrapping your arms around his neck. 

He envelopes you into his embrace and you both begin swaying to the music. Simon looks down at you lovingly, a smile adorning his features. You look back, nothing but adoration and love in your eyes. “I love you, Mr. Riley,” You whisper, cupping his cheek. “Love you more, Mrs. Riley.” He turns his head to plant a kiss to your palm, before leaning down to plant one on your lips. The two of you remain locked in your embrace for hours it seems, while outside, the cicadas join in with the music. The sounds create an ensemble just for the two of you, as you both savor the time alone, now as one.

Ask:

Tags: @caramlizedtomatoes, @dwkfan, @neondogs, @roseglazedlens

[tj-crochets]

Hi there! I'm just getting into sewing as a hobby, and I was wondering if you have any recommendations for where to buy fabric? I want to get into plushie making, so something like minky fabric or other soft (non-felt) options are what I'm looking for. I live in a pretty remote area so I don't have any fabric or craft stores close by, and I'm unsure of where to start shopping online! Any recommendations for shops that have good quality fabric at a decent price?

Hi! All my answers are US-based because I am, but I'll include a link to Cholyknight's fabric recs as well because she has some other options Okay I just went to get that link and it turns out since the last time I shared it she's updated it to include my favorite online minky store (CaliQuiltCo) so I'd just use her link, with two caveats: Joann's fabric is great in person if you have one locally, but their online inventory control system is SO BAD (which means they will sometimes cancel part of your order without warning and not let you cancel the rest of it, leaving you with half the supplies for a specific project) Additionally, I would avoid the "sew lush" fabrics from Joanns. Minky can be a little tricky to work with for beginners, and the sew lush version takes every negative thing about minky and makes it exponentially more difficult. This is a personal grudge against the fabric, it might not be universal, but I find it so ridiculously slippery and it's the only minky/faux fur I've ever, ever worked with that unravels at the edges. It's knit! It shouldn't fray but it does! It both sheds and frays, and it's regrettable because Joanns does have some very cute patterns in their sew lush stuff Other plushie specific advice: - if you want to learn how to use plushie sewing patterns, start here with Cholyknight's free plushie pattern pack. I have free patterns too, but hers are a lot more beginner friendly and explain how to actually use a pattern - Fleece is cheaper than minky but usually has a similar amount of stretch, so patterns designed for one can almost always be made using the other - if there are no craft stores near you but there's a dollar store or general store of some kind, you could try getting a fleece or like short pile faux fur blanket? The ones near me usually have cheap like throw sized blankets for anywhere between 5-20 dollars, and you can make a lot of plushies from a throw sized blanket

[acceptccnow]

Mastering Credit Card Acceptance: Best Practices for Merchant Accounts

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | Accept-credit-cards-now.com

In the ever-evolving landscape of commerce, honing the art of credit card acceptance emerges as a critical skill for businesses across the spectrum. Whether navigating the intricacies of e-commerce, steering a credit repair service, or daring the high-risk industry, the savvy utilization of merchant accounts and payment processing systems can redefine success. In this article, we'll explore astute strategies for merchant accounts, delve into the nuances of high-risk payment processing, and uncover tactics to optimize payment gateways for triumph.

Decoding Merchant Accounts

Merchant accounts play the role of a linchpin, intricately connecting your business with the dynamic world of electronic payments. The journey of credit card payments involves a ballet of processing, securing, and eventually channeling funds into your bank account. In the realm of high-risk enterprises, where challenges abound, specialized solutions come to the forefront, offering a lifeline to navigate complexities and ensure the seamless flow of transactions.

Strategies for High-Risk Payment Processing

Industries deemed high-risk, such as CBD sales or credit repair services, demand a bespoke approach to payment processing. High-risk merchant processing unfolds as a meticulous dance of risk assessment, unwavering compliance with industry regulations, and the fortification of robust fraud prevention measures. Our exploration will uncover expert strategies empowering high-risk businesses to traverse the intricate landscape of credit card processing successfully.

Revolutionizing E-commerce Payment Processing

In the era of digital dominance, e-commerce takes center stage, and the acceptance of credit card payments becomes a non-negotiable facet. Our expedition will unravel avant-garde e-commerce payment processing solutions, shedding light on cutting-edge payment gateways and merchant accounts meticulously crafted to cater to the distinct needs of online businesses.

Innovative Credit Repair Payment Solutions

For credit repair agencies, the prowess to embrace credit card payments isn't merely advantageous; it's essential for elevating client convenience. Our discourse will span innovative credit repair merchant accounts, avant-garde payment processing systems, and ingeniously designed payment gateways aiming to streamline transactions and elevate the overall customer experience.

Selecting the Pinnacle Partner

The quest for the right partner in the realm of merchant processing unfolds as a strategic decision of paramount importance. The elements of reliability, security, and cost-effectiveness demand meticulous consideration. At Accept-Credit-Cards-Now Merchant Processing Services, our specialization in high-risk payment processing, avant-garde e-commerce payment solutions, and forward-thinking credit repair payment processing ensures a robust selection, instilling unwavering confidence in your ability to seamlessly accept credit cards, regardless of your industry.

[nationalshedshelters]

In this dynamic environment, having a well-designed farm equipment shed becomes more than just a convenience; it's a strategic necessity. This is where agricultural machinery sheds step in as silent guardians, shielding your tractors, plows, and other vital machinery from nature's unpredictable mood swings.By providing a dedicated space, these sheds extend the lifespan of your equipment, ensuring they remain in peak condition for years to come.

[shards-of-silver]

Thrawn RarePairs Challenge 2024: FAQ

While I'm online, I decided to post the answers to some questions I received in DM. I doubt the askers are the only ones wondering.

Who can participate in the challenge?

Anyone who wants to! Be they fanfic writers, fan artists, pod fic producers... Anyone who wants to increase the variety of ships in the Thrawn fandom or has a rarepair they want to shed light on is invited. I would have made a private event if the goal was to be selective about who can join.

With that in mind, anyone who wants to participate but has reservations CAN SUBMIT ANONYMOUSLY. They can post their work on Ao3 anonymously, request it be added to the collection, and I will upload it just the same (so long as it follows the rules of the challenge). If you don't have an Ao3 account, DM me. We will work out an appropriate arrangement.

How are OCs/Reader fics treated by this challenge?

They are allowed, with one caveat: all OCs count as a single character. Reader is a singular character of its own. OFC, OMC, and OGNC are all treated the same here. The point of the challenge is to increase the variety of ships in the Thrawn fandom. There are well over 100 Thrawn/OC fics. Thrawn/OC is not a rarepair. Similarly, there are already over 100 Thrawn/Reader fics. If you want to write, say Ar'alani/OC or Eli/Reader, however, that is allowed.

How will you treat incest/noncon/age gap/(insert other controversial ship type)?

Tag and rate your work appropriately. If you do that, you are allowed to join the challenge with any rarepair ship you want. My personal opinion about a ship does not determine whether it qualifies for rarepair status. I simply ask that all participants follow the "don't like, don't read/click" philosophy when it comes to perusing other people's entries.

That said, hate fics/troll fics/entries designed to bash a ship are not allowed. If someone wrote a (using this example for illustrative purposes only) Thranto fic about how toxic and awful they think the ship is and anyone who writes for it is stupid, one would be unlikely to consider that a true Thranto fic. Apply this logic to any ship you may be inclined to make works for. Don't create out of hate for this, please.

What if a ship gets over a 100 works over the course of the challenge? Can I still submit work for it?

Yes! The rarepair designation requires a ship have less than 100 fanworks on Ao3 as of the first day of the challenge. Some ships are very close, with over 90. If we are fortunate enough to have a lot of people participate and take some ships out of that category before the challenge is over, you can still submit works for that ship.

Are romantic ships and friendships treated differently for the purpose of this challenge?

Yes! Make sure to use the "&" instead of the "/" for platonic ships. So if a ship already has 100 romantic works and you want to write a friendship/family work (and the "&" pairing is under 100), go for it! This allows gen fics (my JAM) to be part of the challenge.

How will you treat threesomes/3+ character ships?

They are their own ship. For example: Thrawn/Eli/Faro is not the same ship as Thranto or Thraro. However, make sure you actually are writing/making a threesome and not a story about two people being together and hooking up with a third for a single paragraph. Honest tagging is important.

___

If you have any other questions, my messages/asks are open! Thank you for all the interest this event has already received. Dates will be announced after the poll closes.

[fereldancore]

Wooo, playing DATV - no spoilers.

No doubt it is a good RPG with excellent graphics, good gameplay design, charming aspects, updated super funky combat, a nice few callbacks etc, and those companions have so much potential. 25hrs in so far.

That is the thing when you buy a new game, you put your money down and roll the dice, sometimes you just don’t win a prize - you just get the experience, and for good or bad, it was just that. I am fine with that, but if I hate it - mmm just bad luck.

I really like the sidequests, but then again I am a freak that loves the Hinterlands, all fetch quests (and driving the Mako EVERYWHERE in Mass Effect). The main story I dislike.

I am not someone that warms to things in time, It’s how I am built, I do carry on to complete a book or game to think, learn and enrich my life experiences. But I know early on if I am going to carry a game, book or song in my soul to be rotated for eternity, and this isn’t it.

I know it is Northern Thedas, but it is almost as if it is in an alternate timeline or AU. A single NPC comment or two line companion chat will not handwave solve lots of the issues enough for me to be satisfied. Satisfaction with lore is an important personal requirement for me, yes things change and I have disliked several changes in the DA world over the years, but have had to adjust and manage.

BUT this time some things have changed too much, retconned or invented but don’t fit well enough to be okay, I guess I have limits?. I wasn’t secretly hoping for old characters to come back or big flashbacks as somebody in my inbox suggested. No, their stories are told. Let them rest, they deserve it.

1 -I need more cohesion between the old and the new, the huge logic gaps healed over. Yes, I have ranted about things I don’t enjoy personally (as I do with all games) but I still want to like this game. I was an optimistic cheerleader pre-release, so it is a letdown for me, still have 80 plus hours of gameplay to enjoy and well it does have an ending of sorts, even if it doesn’t hit the heights I’d like. Tough nugshit love.

2 - I am very happy that many people love the game. I hope you to really find joy and excitement in this game, get fired up to create fanworks, cosplays and happy daydreams. If you still get butterflies in your stomach playing VG the same way I got prepping for the Battle of Denerim, bellylaughing like I did with the Kirkwall gang or shedding tears over veil decisions in Inquisition then EVEN BETTER!

3 - I am even happier that some people have said they are going to return to the older games when they finish, to either replay or have a new experience.

4 - Yes, I have ranted about the things I really hate in the game, but not much different to being an ‘Anders was Right’ apologist on LJ over ten years ago, I am an old lady who has had online firefights over Final Fantasy V and Runescape so I am a butthurt veteran of many fanwars. However, I have always made it clear that no matter how much I I like to vent, I won’t say a game is shit or bad or take the piss out of people who disagree. We will discuss, rant and wax for a long time, but I won’t hate a writer, creator or someone with a different POV, it is just the material and my personal opinions, and if I don’t like something it is not the end of the World.

[sunskate]

I can shed a little light on the packaging issues for smaller feds. Stretchy fabrics are finicky to work with and not everyone has the training or experience with them. For example, skaters from my country have to go to a neighboring one to work with a designer who makes primarily gymnastics costumes. A lot of fabric stores have disappeared and not a lot of options are available for the type of fabric that's needed. You can order online but you have no idea what it'll look like in person or what the quality will be, it may be flimsy or see-through. Also, not every talented seamstress/tailor is also a talented designer, or even good at turning a drawing into a dress - sometimes they're better at sticking to pre-made patterns. Of course, cost is another major issue, as COL and exchange rate can vary greatly even within a relatively small region. It comes down to resources, really. Countries like the UK have a thriving dance sport scene and therefore have designers who specialize in it, similarly to Mat Caron, so even if there aren't any skating costume designers, skaters can still go to them instead. Junior sports are much more recreational in Europe because attending high school is mandatory here, you cannot be homeschooled, so unless you're at a sports academy that can accommodate your training and competition schedule, it's really tough. As a result, they doesn't receive the funding one might get in America, let's say. Or any at all, especially for the individual sports. Kids tend to go into low-cost, potentially high-ROI team sports.

ohh thanks for sharing - i like hearing insights like this. i always wondered about someone like Ekaterina Kurakova, who never seems to have costumes as flattering or as beautiful as she deserves. idk if you're the original anon, but with Charlene and Marco training in Milan, their situation feels more like a taste issue, but maybe i'm wrong

most US juniors don't receive funding either. a handful of junior teams receive lower level funding from the fed for different reasons, and this season, some teams who are doing the best aren't funded. but i do understand that that and the support for the JGP and world championship trips is more than is available from many feds. i would like to learn more about the schools of ice dance in Europe - there's so much i have no idea about

[sophiyablogs]

Unlocking Success: The Affordable Path to Online Math Excellence with Takemyclasscourse

In today's fast-paced digital era, online education has become an integral part of academic growth. Students worldwide are embracing the convenience and flexibility offered by virtual classrooms. However, tackling complex subjects like math in the online realm can be a daunting task for many. There are some situations which make the students think who will Take My math class for me to complete my projects easily? Worry not! Enter Takemyclasscourse, your trusted partner in conquering the challenges of online math classes. In this blog, we'll explore the world of online math education and shed light on the affordability and excellence that Takemyclasscourse brings to the table.

The Challenge of Online Math Classes

Online math classes demand a unique set of skills and strategies to ensure effective learning. From algebra to calculus, mastering mathematical concepts requires dedicated effort, guidance, and a structured learning environment. Takemyclasscourse recognizes these challenges and has curated a platform specifically designed to assist students in navigating the complexities of online math education.

Unveiling Takemyclasscourse – Your Academic Companion

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Affordable Excellence: Decoding the Pricing Structure

Now, the burning question on every student's mind – How much does it cost to avail Takemyclasscourse for online math classes? The answer lies in the platform's commitment to making quality education accessible to all. Takemyclasscourse offers a flexible pricing structure that takes into account the diverse needs and budgets of students.

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Why Choose Takemyclasscourse?

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