#e a sick leave program)

[alienaiver]

IM SO ANXIOUS ABOUT TOMORROW IM LOCKED IN PARALYSIS GOING INSANE

[qqueenofhades]

I am FULLY ONBOARD the Harris/Waltz train, tho before this i was leaning towards Mark Kelly (AZ is a swing state! He's an ASTRONAUT!) If you want or have time, no pressure, but any thoughts on what makes Waltz a better pick?

I like Mark Kelly too, and since he's married to Gabby Giffords (having run for public office after she got shot and could no longer do so) he would have been an amazing pick in terms of supporting the first female POTUS. But he is a less charismatic public speaker than Walz (for whatever that's worth, but politics is a mess of Aesthetics and Vibes that matter as much and/or more than actual facts) and more moderate/conservative. He's been a great senator and picking him would defuse some of the BORDER IMMIGRATION BLAH BLAH!!! scaremongering that Republicans love to run on, but it would also leave open the possibility of losing a special election and other dangers with the Democratic senate that we really need to minimize. So Walz is a better choice for that alone, but also:

He really has serious progressive credentials as governor, even if he was a fairly mainstream Democrat (who flipped a rural red House district in Minnesota that Democrats have not been able to win again after he left) during his 12 years in the House. This is an INCOMPLETE LIST of what he was able to do in two years with a one-seat Democratic majority in Minnesota:

A Climate Action Plan that included:

Investing in energy infrastructure

100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 goal

Transition off of fossil fuels and onto clean energy resources

Building more electric vehicle charging stations

Providing funding to help workers acquire new skills through apprenticeship programs in clean energy fields

Direct state funding for transit

Money for rail

Tax credit for e-bikes

Permitting form to fast-track clean energy projects

And that was in addition to:

Codified abortion access in Minnesota

Guaranteed paid sick time and paid family and medical leave

Funded replacing ALL LEAD PIPES IN THE STATE

Free school breakfasts and lunches for all

Made public college free

Stronger labor protections

Drivers’ Licenses for All

Voting Rights Act to reverse recent court rulings that make voting harder, including restored voting rights to convicted felons

Banning medical debt from credit bureaus

The "Taylor Swift Bill" requiring all ticket "junk fees" be shown up front

Banning most "junk fees"

No book bans

Protection for tipped workers

Banned non-competes

Legalized recreational cannabis

Gun control, including increased penalties for straw purchases of firearms, expanded background checks and enacted red-flag laws, passing gun safety measures that the GOP has thwarted for years

Made MN a Trans Refuge State, and required health plans to cover “medically necessary gender-affirming care.”

Pay increase for Uber and Lyft drivers

Elimination of the so-called “gay panic defense”

A ban on “doxxing” election workers

A prohibition on “swatting” elected officials

In March, during the height of the Gaza/uncommitted primary protests against Biden, Walz said that young people should be listened to and they had a right to be speaking up and the situation in Gaza was horrible and intolerable, without directly slamming Biden or getting involved in the issue in a way to draw negative headlines. Regardless of what you think about any of it, that is a very deft way to handle it and pairs well with Kamala's better responsiveness on the Gaza issue overall. That was a big part of the reason why Gen Z/younger voters were very excited about Walz despite him being an "old" (actually the same age as Kamala but he has joked that teaching high school for 20 years will do that to a guy) white guy. If half the battle in politics is making the right pick to excite your core voters and reach out to new ones, then Harris nailed it. As I have said in earlier posts, there was just too much energy with young voters FINALLY checking in when Harris became the candidate, to risk introducing a big ideological split with Shapiro.

Aside from that: the most insufferable Smart White-Bro Political Pundits (TM) are big mad about Walz, many Never Trumper Republicans thought they were entitled to a "moderate" in exchange for oh-so-generously lending us their vote against Trump and not run the risk that we might end up with someone *gasp* progressive, and the regular MAGA Republicans are hysterical, which means they're terrified. It's also incredibly hard to paint Literal Midwestern Stereotype Dad (football coach, social studies high school teacher, military veteran, etc) as THE EVIL END OF AMERICA in the way they desperately want to do, though the fact that they're trying shows that they've got literally nothing. The fact that Kamala picked Walz against the PREVAILING WISDOM!!! that she had to take Shapiro (for whatever reason that might have been) is also a good sign, because by far the most genuine and extensive enthusiasm that I have seen from Democratic voters, especially those feeling burned out or disillusioned or angry with specific policy choices of the current administration, was for Walz. Having everyone excited for the pick beforehand, effectively using the "weird" line, and rallying behind the guy, only for her to actually go for him, is inspiring. It makes people feel like they're being heard and the Democrats have decided to win by being progressive, and not just endlessly Catering To The (Imaginary) Middle as they have always been told to do (and often done). That alone is MASSIVE.

Walz is tremendously funny, personable, has Democrats from AOC to Joe Manchin praising it (again, shocking), was right out the gate supporting Kamala, has already been majorly successful on TV, was by far the most progressive-on-policy picks of the VP finalists, is incredibly, hilariously wholesome and small-town Midwestern (he's the JD Vance that they wish JD Vance was), and is already sending ActBlue gangbusters with donations again. And when you're getting this kind of response on the Cursed Bird Hellsite, just:

Just. I don't know what's happening either. But let's enjoy it, and then work hard, because we gotta fucking do this and for possibly the first time this entire year, I really think we might. Heck yeah.

[nimuetheseawitch]

SGA Summer Vacation Recs

So, a few weeks ago, a friend asked for longfic recommendations to read while on vacation, and I did not really realize how many I was recommending at the time. Seemed like a good idea to make a post about it.

Time in a Bottle by astolat, 14K (not originally on my list because it was too short, but it's too perfect for a summer reading list, so I added it), McShep, Rated E, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings To see a World in a Grain of Sand / And a Heaven in a Wild Flower / Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand / And Eternity in an hour.

The Long Dark (series) by @logicgunn, 141K, McShep, Rated G-E but the first is M, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings An astronomical event causes two strangers to crash land on a remote island in the frozen Canadian north. Cue a fluffy slow burn in a survival setting.

Lord John Sheppard Versus Earth by LitGal, 61K, McShep, Rated M, Graphic Depictions of Violence Canon diverged before Jackson found Atlantis. The IOC stepped in and decided to make things more efficient. A gene testing program brought Major John Sheppard into the program earlier, but budget constraints and international treaties have kept Dr. Jackson out of the antarctic. So now John has to find his own team--and his own geek--or he's in danger of being stuck in the mountain forever as a light switch. However, as the universe changes, fate forces some things to return to proper form, and other things… they get wildly out of control. John isn't sure how he came to be Earth's enemy, but he's going to have to deal with the cards he's dealt.

Teamwork by onthewaters, 24K, McShep and others, Rated E, Graphic Depictions of Violence There is an Earth where things have turned out a little differently, and the people who go to Atlantis aren't quite the ones we know. AKA The one where Rodney is a Mountie.

The Doctor and the Sheppard by @hero-in-waiting, 70K, McShep, Rated E They've been in Pegasus for a year before Rodney is finally allowed to go off-world to meet with the mysterious leader of a group of allies against the wraith. The first meeting goes well, sending them down a path none of them could've foreseen, and leaving Rodney with thoughts of the mysterious leader with his bright eyes and dark hair.

The Hard Prayer by Rheanna, 30K, McShep, Rated M One year after the end of the world, John meets another survivor.

In Sickness and in Health by @a-storm-of-roses, 31K, McShep, Rated E "So I told a little lie, just to get you back to Atlantis. It was the only way, so try not to get too mad. I told them we were married.” When John suffers a major, life-changing injury on Earth, Rodney must pretend to be his husband to ensure his return to Atlantis. As he struggles to navigate recovery and accept his new reality, John must also come to terms with his new role as Rodney's husband and the new dynamics in their relationship. A story of healing, recovery, loss, love, and acceptance.

Enigma by sgamadison, McShep, 32K, McShep, Rated E, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings During an off-world mission, a piece of Ancient technology transports Rodney and John on a one-way trip to a deserted airfield. Working together to get back, it takes a vivid dream to make Rodney realize what's been in front of him all along.

Bridges by bussaiko, 52K, McShep, Rated E Engineer Rodney McKay went to North Carolina's Crystal Coast to help his sister design a series of bridges. He hoped to rebuild his career following a professional disaster; he didn't expect to be drawn into the small community of Athos Island, where he found friendship and perhaps something more with helicopter pilot John Sheppard. But when Rodney tries to learn more about John's past, what he discovers might tear them apart. (non-Stargate AU)

Apocalypse Rising by sian1359, 81K, McShep, Rated M, Graphic Depictions of Violence The Goa'uld are not the only ones who covet Earth.

Zen and the Art of Jumper Maintenance by Indybaggins, 39K, McShep, Rated M The one where Rodney gets sucked in and John… follows. Featuring a quirky John, Rodney in orange robes, crazy Ancient-worship, sheep milking and jumpers that aren't broken but need to be fixed anyway.

Black Helicopters (series) by whizzy, 141K, McShep, Rated T-E but the first is M, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Screw the bet. Rodney was going to prove the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence. Oh, and incidentally, he might just catch the United States Air Force with their pants around their ankles.

Pegasus Purgatorio by MrsHamill, 127K, McShep, Rated E, Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings It is difficult to write a paradise when all the superficial indications are that you ought to write an apocalypse. It is obviously much easier to find inhabitants for an inferno or even a purgatorio. (Ezra Pound) Yeah, I'd say that about covers it, Ezra. John and Rodney are left behind when Atlantis (and, by extension, Pegasus) is evacuated. While returning to the Milky Way, they decide to bring a few friends along.

What A Wonderful Bunker You Would Make by ocdindeed, 50K, McShep, Rated M Summary in simple words: Rodney is recluse and John has a kid. Summary in not so simple words: Rodney McKay has given up on the world, living a simple life up on a mountain devoid of people. He likes it that way, at least he did until a kid with a full head of dark hair ambled up his dirt driveway and changed his sequestered life forever. (AU - Set during SG1 & Pre-SGA timeline.)

G******, Tramps, and Thieves* (series) by auburn, 372K, McShep and a whole lot more, Rated T-M, Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Rape/Non-Con, later fics Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Vala Mal Doran and her partners, renegades Jehan abd-Ba'al and Meredith McKay, hijack the Tau'ri ship Prometheus and leave the Milky Way behind in search of the Lost City of the Ancients, Atlantis.

*I censored this title due to a common racial slur

[rowdyluv]

Peter

based off of Taylor Swift’s song from The Tortured Poets Department

warning: a bit sad, longing for ex-lover, use of y/n

Ethan Edwards x fem!Reader

summary: Ethan and reader childhood friends —> lovers —> break up —> reader heartbreakingly waiting for his return.

author’s note: the photos are intended to tell the story them growing up. the last last picture are two quotes from the book “better than the movies” by Lynn Painter. (can be found on Amazon, books a million, barnes & noble, etc. links were too long to post)

Ethan and (y/n)’s older childhood friends always joked the two would fall in love one day. It was always a big laugh between the two of you because what business do 8 year olds have thinking about love?

In a blink of an eye you’re dancing at your end of the year eighth grade formal together, your heart has never reacted the way it was at that specific moment. Confused and a bit scared you kept your head staring at the floor while your hands were firmly placed on Ethan’s shoulders. His hands placed awkwardly on your waist. He cleared throat and paused both of your movements. “Hey (y/n)? Can I do something and you promise you not get mad if you don’t like it? We can just forget about it after if it’s weird.” His words were rushed and hands shaking. Your eyes connected with his, a slight nod yes to confirm you were okay with whatever it was he was asking for. As if the world moved in slow motion and no one else was in the school’s lobby, where the formal was happening but the two of you, Ethan ducked his head down just the few inches he needed to in order to give a quick kiss.

The first kiss for both of you.

Awkward, yet not weird for either of you. The beginning of what turned into a long beautiful journey. Until it wasn’t beautiful.

꧁꧂

“(Y/N) I am so tired of this repetitive argument. It happens over and over. I got accepted to Michigan and I got a scholarship for hockey. Their program is notorious for building up their athletes and getting them drafted. Drafted! You’ve known since we were kids that the NHL is what I wanted for myself.” Ethan tried to keep himself composed until he couldn’t. His desire, compassion, and dedication to chasing his dream often overshadowed his love and dedication to you. His childish mannerisms peaking through. “I just want to know where I fit into this plan? This future of yours.” You tried to keep your voice strong and unwavering but just like each time before the lump in your throat prevented you from even being able to breathe properly.

He sat down on the edge of your bed. Quiet minutes passed before he finally spoke again. “Maybe there isn’t an us in the future..” His words are so quiet you aren’t sure if you heard him correctly. “E?” You whimpered. Tears streaming one after the other. He didn’t look at you right away. Knowing if he did his resolve would shatter.

Taking a deep breath, starting over. Looking at you after a couple minutes had passed by and leaning over to wipe your cheeks dry. “I know this is going to be hard to hear. It’s killing me to even say it. It killed me to even think about it recently. I’m going to be gone for a long time for school. I won’t be returning home. My parents will be coming there over the holidays. It will be easier with training. I can’t ask you to sit here while you’re going to school yourself and be tied to me. Especially when we will never see each other. Neither of us have the money for traveling to and from. I’ve been so physically sick thinking about leaving you. We’ve only argued since I decided but honey this is what’s best for me and my dreams. I’m sorry I’m being so selfish but I can’t pass this up. If I stay here I take a chance at never having an opportunity at the NHL at least I know I’ll have an opportunity there.” Your tears stopped at some point. Sadness turned to numbness. Lost to the words he was saying.

“(Y/N/N). I can go and grow up while I’m gone. Get drafted. Or not. Then I’ll come find you if you’re still single. . We can live our dreams then. I just can’t ask you to sit here and be miserably alone.” Pressing a quick kiss to your forehead he left your house. That was the last thing he said to you in person. You didn’t see him again before he left. He tried but you declined. Not wanting to hurt anymore than you already were.

꧁꧂

You just watched Ethan’s NHL debut with the New Jersey Devil two weeks ago. Pride swelled in your heart for him but heartbreak also overtook you. He never came back for you. You’re both 24 now, he could’ve come back after college since he was drafted pre-degree but he never did. Since ‘goodbye for now’ turned into ‘goodbye’ you sat down at your desk and started writing him a letter. You were going to mail it to his mom’s house. She can mail it to him.

Dear Ethan,

I hoped you'd return with your feet on the ground, tell me all that you'd learned because love is never lost when perspective is earned and you said you would come and get me, but we were only 17. My shelf life on the fantasies has expired. Please forgive me, Ethan, I really tried to hold on to the days you were mine. But the young girl turned into a woman who sits by her window has turned out the light.

You said you were going to grow up and you were going to come find me. Promises that were oceans deep, but never to keep.

Sincerely,

(Y/N)

Little did you know he was back in town at his parents’ house and received the letter himself. He was there to see you. He was back for you now that he was settled and could care for you both properly. But he was too late. You had shut the door on him. You stopped supporting him quietly. Stopped following the scores of the games and watching. . Ethan played the rest of the season terribly, not having his number fan, supporter there. It didn’t matter if he knew or not that she was always cheering him on. It just solidified for him, he no longer had his rock. His reason for being. That he fucked up all those years ago. That he no longer had a reason for what he thought was his dream. His dream was really your dreams. He wanted the future you wanted with him and now he will never have it all because of his selfishness back at 17.

[y2katsuki]

shy!konig x bold!reader

short drabble - 703 words (i will be making a masterlist as i update more)

that one tiktok sound heh :)

sorry for the delay, i was finishing my application for my master's program (pls...i hope i get in) and i got really sick, but i'm feeling better now.

you walk down the halls of the barracks, looking for one person. you had always had your eyes on the big fella when you got contracted to work for kortac. it was difficult to break his tough shell but you managed. you thought your feelings were one-sided until you noticed him staring at you more often. the one clue that gave it away was that he always managed to slip away from you, ignoring you and making silly excuses to leave.

konig on the other hand was avoiding you all day. it was the team's day off, which meant one thing. you were in search to find him. he didn't know whether you truly liked him or liked to tease him. he didn't mean to fall in love with you, but you were the first person to ever come up to him and talk to him. most people tend to stay away due to his quiet personality and big frame. as much as he would like to sit in the same room as you and stare at your beautiful face, he couldn't. you always sat next to him, teasing him and making conversation. his heart couldn't handle it. he thought he found the perfect place to avoid you, the messy hall, the one place you hated to go. but at last...he was wrong.

"so konig, what do you have planned on this lovely day?" you sat right across from him. as you looked at him with your beautiful eyes.

"uh...nothing much. and you?" he cleared his throat, trying to avoid from tripping on his words.

"well...i was hoping you would spend time with me." you gave him a pretty smile as you leaned in closer.

you watched as he picked up his water bottle, noticing how it shakes a tad bit. your eyes never leave his face, as he nervously looks anywhere but you.

"why are you avoiding my eyes, konig?" you leaned closer, looking up at him through your eyelashes.

"i...um...i'm not?" he says it as a question before finally meeting your eyes as his heart beats fast in his chest.

"there's thoses pretty eyes." you teases. "so how about it? wanna spend your day off with a lonely gal." your lips curled up into a teasing smile.

"a-are you joking?" he asked. throughout his childhood, many people would like to invite konig to hang out only to ditch him. he would really hate if that was the case with you.

"oh come on, i'm not playing any games with you, am i?" you leaned closer, noticing how his eyes start to wander again, nervously.

"heh," he lets a nervous chuckle, "not any that i know of..." he rubs the back of his neck, nervous that you are looking right through him.

"you see so nervous...what's the matter?" you grab his hand that sat on the table. his eyes shoot down to see your hand grasping him and before he can think he lets out a nervous laugh. "what's so funny, konig?" you say with a teasing smile.

"no nothing." he can hear his blood pumping in his ear. he looks at you one more time before finally falling into your antics. "uh, sure. i would...e-enjoy to spend my day off w-with you." he avoids your gaze once more.

you leaned closer, your face mere inches away from his. loving this nervous demeanor of his. you had a big goofy grin on your face before whispering, "it's a date." you leaned back, standing up as you looked at his red face. "let's go." you held your hand out for him to grab.

he still can't believe someone like you could possibly like him, yet you finally crack his shell. he grabs your hand and lets you pull him away. everyone eyeing the big austrain man being dragged by your smaller frame like a love-sick puppy.

it’s been since about 3 months since that interaction. konig blushes every time you bring it up. you two were happily together. it took awhile for konig to finally accept that you really liked him back, but he was the happiest he’s been.

even if you still tease him on the regular, but he just allows you.

[angelsaxis]

"...[W]e must continue to challenge the societal arrangements that leads to preventable pain and suffering. Marriage can be quite beautiful and sacred, for example. Marriage can also privatize dependence: it encourages people to enter relationships for resources and benefits, like health care, savings, and tax deductions. I was nineteen years old when I got married, mostly informed by my faith tradition. I was also in love, but very poor, and marriage offered me a stability that I never had as a child. I was so lucky that the person I married was kind, thoughtful, and also very much trying to figure out his relationship to Christianity and his evolving manhood.

When we divorced nine years later and became friends and co-parents, I realized how the marital benefits I once aspire dot have did not make sense. I could remove him from my health insurance to account for the divorce, but I couldn't add any of my uninsured siblings, whom I would be related to forever. And our children had two options for insurance because they had parents who went to college and worked jobs that offered it, but independent contractors in my family did not have an option that wasn't a financial sacrifice.

If we focused on meeting the healthcare, employment, educational, and housing needs of people in society, then those who want to marry could more freely enter those relationships in their terms, and people who needed to escape because of violence could more easily leave without worrying what will happen if they get sick and need to see a doctor.

We should heed to calls for investment in the programs, opportunities, and laws that make everyone free and safe. Here too, universal basic income can help, allowing people to meet their basic needs and not rely on potentially sexually exploitative intimate relationships for income. Removing benefits from marriage accomplishes this, too. With universal health care, and other programs like free and quality childhood education, people vulnerable to violence have more free range to move, live, and practice healthy lifestyles."

-- Becoming Abolitionists: Police, Protests, and the Pursuit of Freedom by Derecka Purnell

[docholligay]

Shamash Answers: Miscellaneous Final

This question was: You're coming to my house for Shabbat! What are you requesting? THis I make a shamash question every year, because it's always so much fun.

3rd place, for making me think about mushrooms (also my favorite vegetarian answer to anything)

Afraid I'm going to be boring and/or difficult with this! I would love to see your take on a vegetarian main, preferably something with mushrooms, because I'm sick and tired of the non-meat options being "tofu" or "veggie patties" type stuff. Portobello burgers are the bomb! Mushrooms are delicious and have nutrition in them! Anyway, chef's choice, but a non-meat main (dairy and eggs are a go), would love to taste your mac and cheese for the side (I've been using the recipe forever, but would like to know what I'm actually aiming for haha), and a pie for dessert - again, chef's choice on the filling. I don't eat a lot of desserts, and even less frequently do I eat pie, but mainly because I don't know a good place that serves them by the slice. Given that you have won awards with your pie, I would love to try this from the state champion baker!

@vassekocho, this made me have to think because if mac and cheese is the side, the main has to be someting not pasta or otherwise carbohydrate based. So, I think I'd take a really good blend of mushrooms: Portobellos, maitake, oyster, shiitake, etc, and then saute them in olive oil or butter until they've got some nice crisp on them, and serve them over a white bean puree and wilted greens. The beans will give it good protein and creaminess and body, and the greens will offer a nice contrast to the weightiness of everything else. The pie depends so much on personal taste! My peach pie is very popular though. So's my key lime.

2nd place, because I've never gotten a chance to make this cake and I really want to:

I'd want something I can't get so easily in my area for the side- duck or game meat or something, made however you think will show it off the best. Jet's talked up your mac and cheese so much that I'd have to have it how you make it (I know you've shared the recipe but still). Dessert would have to be one of your… I don't want to call them experimental, but some of the stuff you've talked about with character ideas. Like a few years back you had… I think it was like a champagne mousse cake for a Michiru idea, and I find that absolutely fascinating and would absolutely want to try it before daring to look up how that's supposed to even work.

@katrani, I think I would do an elk tenderloin served with a huckleberry reduction for something VERY local, hard to get elsewhere. Also I want to make that cake!!

And 1st place, for bringing out the ARTIST in me:

At this particular point in time (and I reserve the right to change my mind, because there are SO MANY amazing possibilities), but:

A themed meal! Specifically, Angela and Fareeha's first date.

@seolh I love that you kno me well enough to know I would love this. So their first date I had set at a now-closed restaurant called Orfano--I actually took @sailorsunspot and @moonlight-frittata there before it closed--which was a really cute, upscale Italian place with an excellent drinks and wine program, intimate environment, and many, many choices that did not contain pork*.

Angela gets the Cacio e Pepe because she is a basic bitch at heart, and Fareeha immediately regrets not ordering first even though she thought it wouldn't be gallant, because she assumes Angela picked one of the cheapest things on the menu for the benefit of Fareeha's pocketbook. She thinks the whole night how she should have ordered first and she should have ordered the most expensive thing on the menu, but she orders the swordfish and then immediately follows it with ordering ordering an 80-odd bottle of champagne.

Which leaves her with a concern that it looks like boasting, and she didn't even ask Angela if she liked champagne, and perhaps lena was not all wrong when she said Fareeha's problem was she had no idea how to relate to a human in a way that wasn't giving or receiving orders.

Angela, meanwhile, finds her obvious attention to detail contrasted with equally obvious nervousness very charming indeed, and suggests they order dessert as she tries to lengthen the night. (They get the chocolate cake for two, and though Fareeha does not normally eat much in the way of sweets she would do anything to keep talking to this beautiful, intelligent, kind woman who looks so cute with truffle mousse filling stuck to the corner of her mouth, her lipstick smeared a bit from the pasta) They are idiots and they are born to be together.

*Fareeha, of course, investigating everything to within an inch of her life**, asks Lena about Angela's "level of religious observance" despite the fact that it is absolutely killing her to know that Lena is the best and most at hand source of this information, Lena, being as annoying as she can possibly be, telling Fareeha that's it's not as if they had deep conversations about the philosophical existence of God while sitting in Eichenwalde, but she did pray a time or two, which Lena herslef is not really given to, but it's still nice to think that someone's watching out, isn't it? Meanwhile Fareeha finally barks out, "A kosher restaurant! Does it need. to be. A kosher restaurant." Lena all, "why didn't you just ask that, instead of nattering on about religious observance, then?" and Fareeha is exactly one half second from snapping her neck before Lena says she was perfectly happy to eat Reinhardt's stroganoff, so take that as you will, and it's not an answer but Fareeha will explode if she has to ask Lena one more question and get a rambling Canterbury fucking Tale as a response. (Later, she will come to find Lena's highways and byways method of storytelling charming, in its way, but now is not later and Fareeha rues the day she came to work in Egypt)

[allwaswell16]

A fic rec of One Direction fics with a long distance relationship in an alternate universe as requested in this ask. If you enjoy the fics please leave kudos and comments for the writers! You can find my other fic recs here. Happy reading!

—Louis/Harry—

✈️ Darling, so it goes by @disgruntledkittenface

(E, 195k, Grace Kelly au) Harry Styles is a world-famous actor at the height of his career but a personal low point when he meets His Serene Highness Prince Louis of Monaco by chance. 

✈️ Hold You Now by solvetheminourdreams / @cursethedaylight

(M, 131k, ex-fwb) When he accompanies his best friend to a family wedding across the Atlantic, he'll be forced to reopen old wounds and face his past—one that no one wants to hash out, but may just have to.

✈️ Heading for Limbo by @kingsofeverything

(E, 100k, friends to lovers) When Harry discovers some life-changing things about himself, Louis is there for him, however he needs. But it’s all temporary because Louis has plans that will move his life from New York all the way to L.A. and the distance isn’t the only thing between them.

✈️ Old Photographs & Times I'll Remember by @jaerie

(E, 54k, time travel) A camera, a suitcase, and a relationship forged through time.

✈️ Without you it's a season I ain't needing by @perfectdagger

(M, 38k, fashion designer Harry) A long distance relationship au in which Harry is away for a year and Louis is left to pick up the pieces.

✈️ Up On The Shore by wordsnnotes / @quelsentiment

(M, 33k, Eroda) Louis hides his feelings under sarcasm, Harry is too sweet for his own sake, everyone is a rebel, the mums are amazing, Harry's dad is a jerk

✈️ wait up, i'm coming home by @hattalove

(T, 28k, Italy) the one where louis finds harry, then loses him, then finds him again. a flawless performance from fate featuring some penguins, some celestial bodies, and a whole lot of tea.

✈️ some things fade (some never do) by we_are_the_same / @so-why-let-your-voice-be-tamed

(T, 25k, magical tattoos) Three years after their break up, Harry calls.

✈️ Play (series) by @taggiecb

(E, 19k, famous/not famous) Right now he is working towards his before twenty five bucket list, and fate must have been smiling on him the day he won tickets for a show at Wembly, getting into one of the locker rooms is something he will have to think about later.

✈️ You're A Universe by Jiksa / @jiksax

(E, 15k, kid fic) Louis’s a stay-at-home dad in London and Harry’s a business expat in Qatar. Louis doesn’t know how much longer their marriage can survive the distance.

✈️ Paper Houses by @allwaswell16

(E, 11k, famous/famous au) When model Louis Tomlinson admits to having a celebrity crush on a very famous actor in an article in GQ magazine, he has no idea it will lead to anything.

✈️ Baby, I'm Right Here by @fallinglikethis

(E, 8k, drunken confessions) Harry and Louis are best friends who live on different continents and may or may not be in love with each other.

✈️ What Goes Up by LadyLondonderry / @londonfoginacup

(NR, 5k, space) The six month program at the space station means a very long distance relationship and a very nervous Harry back on earth.

✈️ Talk the Night Through by @lululawrence

(NR, 4k, chat rooms) It's 1995 and a chat room is the last place Harry ever expects to find the love of his life.

✈️ With All My Surrendered Hearts by softandslow

(E, 4k, pwp) the one where they're long distance boyfriends, and Louis rides Harry while wearing his snapback.

✈️ Follow the sun by momentofclarity / @gaycousinlarry

(T, 3k, light angst) Louis feels like last night’s Skype call changed something though, even if the emotional distress is pretty common during their talks. 

✈️ It's All Mixed Up! by orphan_account

(G, 2k, deck officer Louis) 4 times Louis' crew mates get sick of hearing about his "girl" and the one time when they finally meet the mystery lover.

✈️ until you’re home by @nouies

(E, 1k, pwp) Louis lives in London, Harry lives in Tokyo. They make it work.

✈️ Looking for Life Out There by QuickedWeen / @becomeawendybird

(T, 1k, girl direction) Doctoral candidate Harry Styles moves to Boston to complete her Ph.D. leaving her professor girlfriend behind in London.

—Rare Pairs—

✈️ The New Posh and Becks by mistresscurvy

(E, 28k, Liam/Louis) 2016 is a big year for solo artist Liam Payne. After his amazing experience on X Factor, releasing his own album and touring with Little Mix seems like the height of success. Then he meets Arsenal midfielder Louis Tomlinson at a charity event, and suddenly everything else fades into the background.

✈️ Oceans and waves and wires between us by becka

(E, 8k, Niall/Zayn) Niall wants to meet his online girlfriend, Veronica, and enlists the help of MTV's Catfish to do it.

[longcovidshortstories]

Long covid has meant seeing lots of doctors, lots of times. I've met some amazing people. Doctors with empathy and curiosity. A long covid clinic doctor started our appointment but just telling me, "you're not crazy" and I burst into tears. A pulmonologist assured me that even if he couldn't figure out what was happening to me, he wouldn't let me leave his care until he'd exhausted his options and he felt he knew where to refer me next.

But seeing so many people, I can't help but have experiences that hurt. I've joined the chronic illness community; the invisible illness community. Long covid is new, poorly understood, and has the fun addition of having a political toxicity attached to it.

A bad doctor's appointment really stings. It holds onto me. It haunts me. Sometimes, it makes me angry. Why am I not being heard? Why am I being treated like my disease isn't real. Why is this doctor making recommendations that I couldn't possibly physically accomplish? I explained my physical limitations. They're real. I know that they're real.

It brings back all of the doubt that i already carry under the surface. Maybe I'm being dramatic. Is long covid even really a thing? Am I making this up? Maybe I just need to try harder. Have I tried yoga? Positive thinking?

Sometimes, it's small and inconsiderate things. Recommendations that ignore physical or financial circumstances that i just talked about in that same appointment. Test results read in snide tones alongside the "normal" range.

Sometimes, it's big and brash things. Recommendations of surgeries or programs that are extreme or inappropriate. Making me fight for my medical care.

Being sick is exhausting. Having long covid is exhausting. Having some kind of medical appointment nearly every week is exhausting. I live in a rural area and have to drive about an hour to reach any of these doctors. I don't want to feel like the expert on my disease when I go to the doctor. I'm tired. I have nightmares about hospitals. I want to at least know that when I give everything I have to be in that doctor's office, they will believe that I'm sick.

ENT 2021: No one really knows what's causing taste and smell changes in long covid, so there's not much I could really do for you. If it's really hard to live with food tasting like trash, I could sever your olfactory nerve. Then you shouldn't smell or taste anything. Maybe that's better? Although, if long covid is actually neurological, that might not actually help you at all!

Nutritionist 2021: Maybe try (insert very expensive home delivery food service).

GP 2021: Are you really, really sure you want to remove your IUD? Your insurance probably won't pay for another one for a while. The ultrasound showed it was still in the right place, so I can't imagine it's what's causing you any problems.

A Different Nutritionist 2022: I think you should sign up for an online eating disorder program. It's not long covid specific, so it'll mostly be group therapy with people with traditional eating disorders, but I'm just not sure how much I can help you.

Orthopedist 2023: You wrote "long covid" under preexisting conditions. What is that? I've never heard of it.

Speech Therapy 2024: Breathe out saying "e" for as long as you can....Hmmm, that was 4 seconds. You know the normal average for that is 20 seconds.

[multifandomfix]

Jude Martin Fluff Alphabet

A = Affection (Are they physically affectionate in public or just in private?)

Sister Jude is reserved in public due to her position. However, in private, she can be deeply affectionate, holding you close and showing you her softer side.

B = Babe (What would they use as pet names? Do they use them a lot?)

She prefers classic pet names like “darling” or “dear.” She uses them sparingly but each time with a warmth that makes you feel cherished.

C = Cuddles (Do they like to cuddle? How would they cuddle?)

Jude loves to cuddle in private. She likes to be the big spoon, wrapping her arms around you protectively, holding you close to her chest.

D = Domestic (What’s it like living with them? Do they do their share of chores?)

Living with Sister Jude is structured and orderly, but not without a little fun, like middle of the kitchen dancing in the evening. She ensures that chores are done efficiently and believes in sharing responsibilities equally.

E = Easy (What is the easiest way to win their heart?)

The easiest way to win Jude’s heart is through acts of kindness and understanding. Show her you see beyond her tough exterior and appreciate her more vulnerable side when it peeks through the cracks.

F = Fun (Where do they take you for fun? Are they flirty?)

Jude enjoys simple, quiet pleasures. She might take you on serene walks or to a cozy spot for a quiet lunch. She’s can definitely be a flirt, but it’s usually conveyed in whispered innuendos and knowing looks.

G = Gifts (Are they a gift giver? What kind of gifts do they give?)

Jude is a thoughtful gift giver, favoring meaningful over materialistic gifts. She might give you something with sentimental value or a book she thinks you’d love.

H = History (What’s their relationship history like? Do they have any plans on settling down?)

She has a complicated history, and prefers to leave it all in the past. Despite seeming cold, she does have the desire to settle down with someone who understands her and offers her peace of mind.

I = I Love You (Who says I love you first?)

You’d have to. She isn’t about to break that wall of hers without knowing how you feel about her first.

J = Jealousy (How jealous do they get? What do they do when they’re jealous?)

Jude can get quite jealous, though she tries to hide it. Her jealousy manifests in subtle, possessive gestures and a protective demeanor.

K = Kids (How are they around children? Would they want some of their own?)

Jude is surprisingly good with children, having a nurturing side that emerges around them. She’d not really want her own however, too damaged to think she’d make a good mother, even at this point in her life.

L = Love Language (How do they show their love to you?)

Jude shows her love through acts of service and quality time. She takes care of you in small, considerate ways and cherishes every moment spent together, almost clutching onto it like she fears it’ll come to an end any moment.

M = Meet (How did they meet you?)

You met Jude through a volunteer program at Briarcliff, where you were struck by her commanding presence and the glimpse of vulnerability in her eyes.

N = Nurture (Are they good at taking care of you if you’re hurt/sick?)

Listen, she’ll ensure you get better, but she can get impatient as a caretaker. It’s better if you aren’t the whiny and demanding type when you’re sick, but she’ll do her best regardless. She just might keep her distance from you emotionally until you’re better. She doesn’t want to lash out.

O = Options (What are some things they would like in a partner?)

Jude values honesty, resilience, and compassion in a partner. She needs someone who understands her complexities and offers unconditional support in those moments where she wavers and doubts herself and her path.

P = Protective (How protective are they? How would they protect you?)

Jude is fiercely protective, both emotionally and physically. She would stand up to anyone who threatens you and make sure you’re safe and secure.

Q = Quirk (What small habit/feature/quirk do they have that you find especially endearing?)

You find her habit of absentmindedly humming old tunes while doing chores especially endearing. It shows a softer, somewhat nostalgic side to her that she rarely reveals.

R = Realization (When and what makes them realize they’re in love?)

Jude realizes she’s in love during a quiet evening when she catches herself lost in thought about you and the future you might have together. It’s a moment of clarity and peace for her.

S = Sentimental (Are they the sentimental type? What things hold sentimentality for them?)

Jude is quite sentimental. She treasures personal mementos like old letters, photographs, and any gifts you’ve given her that remind her of the love you share. But she’ll keep them all locked up and tucked away, only to view them in private since she’d prefer you not know just how sentimental she can be.

T = Try (In what ways do they support or help you?)

Jude supports you through her strength and wisdom. She helps you face challenges, offers sage advice, and is always there to listen and encourage you.

U = Unique (What’s something they’d only do for you?)

Jude would sing for you. Her reserved and stoic nature would lead you to believe that she wouldn’t like to sing, she has a beautiful voice and would serenade you in a rare, intimate moments.

V = Vacation (Where would they take you on vacation? What would you do?)

Jude would take you to a quiet, picturesque place like a cabin in the woods or a secluded beach. You’d spend your days relaxing, enjoying nature, and savoring each other’s company.

W = Wardrobe (What would they wear to impress you?)

Jude would dress elegantly, opting for classic, timeless pieces that highlight her natural beauty and strength. She’d choose a dress that makes her feel confident and alluring. And of course, it would most likely be red. She loves to dazzle in the color and the look in your eye always tells her you think it suits her as much as she thinks it does.

X = XOXO (How do they kiss?)

Jude’s kisses are intense and passionate, filled with emotion, longing and a bit of pent up lust. She kisses you in a way that occasionally makes your head spin and every one is memorable.

Y = Yes (How do you/they propose?)

It would be at home with her, no grand public displays, knowing she wouldn’t want that. You’d lay out your intentions of spending your life with her and she’d humbly accept your proposal, sealed with one of her softer kisses.

Z = Zzz (What are their sleep habits?)

Jude has a somewhat restless sleep pattern, often staying up late with her thoughts. However, when she’s with you, she finds peace and sleeps more soundly, often cuddling close for comfort.

For anon

Forever Tag: @baubeautyandthegeek, @ghostsunderstoodmysoul, @immyowndefender, @valencethefriendlychangeling, @crimsonwidow666, @rebelbossheart, @thedailyspiritualist, @orangeisnttheonlyfruit, @woman-simp, @aperol-with-izzy, @leonoralessoem, @ellepossum69, @lakita-fisher, @nclgsticore, @analuw, @luvlesavyy, @malfoyfeed, @aliciabrower, @bitchr-mkay, @sparrowspixie, @imaginationismyworldlypleasure, @og-kxsh-420

Jude Martin: @brienneseveruscalaway, @derry-n, @bluenystic-blog, @peggycarter-steverogers, @mars-rivers, @gothtrash6969, @callsigncrash, @somelonelywriter, @babygirlscout

[larcenywrites]

Talk more about the whole Tony Stark and the couch/guest bedroom thing? Like when and how does he decide that he's gonna sleep there, and is it just for a day or like how long does it last? Would you ever send him to sleep on the couch? (if yes, under what circumstances, like, why would you send him to the couch? And for how long?) And how does he feel about getting kicked out, how does he react, how does he try to be accepted back into the bedroom?

Idk I kinda got carried away-

I’m sure it doesn’t happen very often aside from the fact that Tony does occasionally fall asleep on the couch, bathtub, office chair, snd of course in the lab (and maybe even on a table in the lab), whether it’s because he’s kept working through his exhaustion or because he’s sick or sometimes because he’s been drinking too much. I’m sure he’s even fallen asleep in a chaise lounge by the pool some nights! Probably even in or on a floaty in the pool!

But moving on, there’s some occasions where it’s not an accident :( or an innocent decision where he was just in the lab and he was too tired to even go upstairs, or on the nights he felt a bit insecure about that arc reactor and felt bad that it was so bright. Now, Tony is… a lot of things. A lot of difficult things… one of those things being that he’s difficult! He can be pissy, stubborn, snappy, sarcastic, passive-aggressive, and snarky, which means that when fights do happen, they can probably get out of control rather quickly when he’s feeling defensive and attacked, and that’s the only way he knows how to respond. It’s not entirely his fault, but he should also probably learn to grow out of it too, and that’s not anyone else’s fault. He’s definitely not as bad the older he gets, but pre iron man between becoming CEO and Afghanistan will probably be the hardest time to be in a relationship with him, and early stages of post iron man will also be difficult when you include his lack of self-preservation and erratic and dangerous new behavior. Oh, and he’s always right.

Pre-Iron Man, an argument could really be around anything and he might start acting out, especially when he’s so young and fiery and confused and depressed and a whole list of problems. He doesn’t like feeling controlled, so stop confronting him about the drinking and asking him to stop. He doesn’t like feeling like he’s in the wrong, so stop probing about the weapons program and making him think about what and who they’re being used on. He gets testy and flighty, and while you may think he’s just mad snd doesn’t want to see you when he doesn’t come to bed or find him getting blankets on the couch or settling in a nearby guest room, he just doesn’t want to confront you. Because you’re probably right, first of all, whatever it was about, and seeing you kinda makes him face whatever demons the conversation brought up :/ and he’s scared you’ll bring it up again :/ so, even tho it honestly sucks and maybe he’s a little scared of the dark because he’s never actually been in this room properly before now, he’s going to be dramatic and sleep in another room. Well, probably not much sleep. And he also doesn’t wanna face you because he does feel guilty, believe it or not. He’s sparing you from having to look at him! He’s giving you your own space and leave and quiet! At least, he tells himself that to feel like he’s doing something right, and something right by you. It typically won’t last for more than that night, and maybe two if he unintentionally falls asleep elsewhere, but while he may apologize, he’ll probably never say that you were right. Once he comes back from work the next day, probably really late if he can get away with it tbh (and otherwise he’s just super quiet and keeps to himself where he can) he’ll stalk his way into the bedroom and carefully climb back into bed. He does hate it when you’re mad at him, and may just try to act like nothing has happened and try to cuddle 🙄 And while that’s pretty toxic of him, sometimes it’s easier to go along with it and move on until next time :/ though, he might still say he’s sorry, at least? If you do bring it up again, try to do so pretty quietly and gently. He’ll still probably just say he’s sorry and try to move on, even though that’s not entirely the point. Now, if it’s a situation where the argument ended in him being pretty mean, and you definitely tell him that you don’t even wanna look at him and to fuck off somewhere else, he’ll definitely realize his mistake right then and there and try to fix it. Probably to no avail, however. Because when he gets mean he can definitely push it too far. Talking about how you’re being nosy, controlling, finding a problem in nothing. Oh, you’re concerned about the weapons program? You sure don’t have an issue with spending the money it brings in. And ya know, he can’t really blame you for kicking him out. He’ll stutter your name and struggle to find anything to say but maybe he’s just stalling time. He’ll still feel shitty when he’s lying wherever he’s gone alone, but the difference is that now he’s kinda holding a grudge because you kicked him out! But he probably won’t last the night :( he’s restless and anxious and guilty (as he should be!) and he’s really gotta get it off his chest (as if he’s the victim too!). He’ll trudge in rather loudly and stand over you and say your name until you wake up, and that probably has you even grumpier now… but he will apologize and even admit you were right. He gets carried away, and his aggressive defensiveness isn’t exactly his fault, but that also doesn’t exactly excuse it either. He does try to do more of the things he probably used to do more often, like bouquets with promises of love written on them or spending more time upstairs. And he really wouldn’t blame you if you needed a break from him at this point, and maybe it would even be a good idea, but he’s really not sure if he could take it right now :( of course. He’s not always like this! In fact, it is probably not that often! But maybe that’s what makes it so much worse when it does happen.

Though, when he’s older and closer to that momentous trip overseas, still just a businessman, he’s definitely not going to be as bad. But just as he seems to be getting better, of course now there’s whole new problems. Those early stages of being a superhero will bring plenty of strife, and bring back plenty of that stress-induced defensiveness that’s meant to be his protective barrier for a few minutes that causes more harm than good. He’s being reckless! He’s being obsessive! Isn’t this a little crazy? It’s stressing you out more than anything, and he’s not really paying any mind or to his health, his property, his life, you! And he never has a proper answer, just more excuses and combative words. He’ll just stay down here in the lab for your sake. He’ll keep working on it and prove it’s fine! It’s going to help everyone! You, him, the world! Wasn’t that what he was supposed to do? He even shut down the weapons program! Wasn’t that what you wanted? Again, he’s confused and frustrated, and now he hurts everywhere— can’t you cut him some slack?! Everyone’s a victim here tbh, so it’ll probably end with you both apologizing. You may not understand fully yet as to why, but obviously this whole thing means a lot to him, but also he means a lot to you! He probably been avoiding you down in this lab for days, and now he’s just tired :( just take him to bed. Tony’s been through way too much by now, and you’ve both been through a lot together, so there’s probably not going to be many more escalating fights after this, and definitely no kicking him out. It would really take a toll of him, and now there’s no telling what he’ll do out there with an unclear head and those feelings he hates so much. Besides, there are definitely better ways to handle these things, especially when the problem is not longer his pettiness. If anything you’ll be begging him to come to bed! Which may still result in an argument, but something will sort of suddenly changed? It’s not like it used to be. In fact, it’s probably almost a little sad. It’s still the same bouquets with love notes and warm baths, but it’s… different. And unfortunately, it may have taken a near-death experience to get him to finally mellow out.

But from here and on, he definitely learns to be more communicative. If something is wrong, it finally gets talked about. It’s still not very easy for him to find words, nor is it easy for him to admit he’s wrong, but he’ll do it! He’s worked on a lot of things by now, and has more symbolically moved on from things, such as finally removing the arc reactor. He definitely doesn’t purposely hide anymore! And he’s learned to control his temper and bite his tongue— with you, at least 😅

[autobot2001]

I'll Take Care of You

Author: Autobot2001 Genre: Fanfiction Fandom: Transformers Rating: E Warning: None pairing: Drift X Jamie (OC) Description: Drift taking care of Jamie who has a cold.

@theocxcanonweek day 4; caring for one another

With Crosshairs, Lightning, and the terror twins on a mission, Drift and Jamie are staying at their friends Cade and Vivian’s house in Texas. They dislike going unless invited. Drift didn’t expect Vivian to propose staying at the house while the others went on the mission.

After three great days, Jamie woke up unwell this morning. Drift watches her try to get warm under the blankets. He already knows Jamie has a terrible cold yet again. “Twice this winter,” he jokes. “Shut up.” “I’m going to get the thermometer.” Jamie knows Drift worries she might have the flu. They came from the N.E.S.T. base in DC. Whether Jamie has a cold or the flu, the two know she got it from a soldier. Unless there’s an Autobot who’s waking up feeling sick today and might not pleased Ratchet programmed the holoforms to allow Autobots to get sick.

“As I thought, a terrible cold again with a 102° fever. I want you to eat before I give you medicine. I’ll go make toast.”

Drift knew the silver human-sized Cybertronian, Cogman would insist on making the soup Drift does when Jamie is sick. “I don’t care if I’m overreacting, but making the soup takes a while and I don’t think we should leave Jamie alone for long, even if she is sick,” Cogman argues. Drift understands how worried Cogman is about Jamie, everyone is. Drift knows he’d be worrying about leaving Jamie alone if he was making the soup. Drift makes tea and breakfast.

Drift does his best to make Jamie comfortable while sitting up to eat breakfast. He kept it simple. Making one bowl of scrambled eggs and three pieces of toast. Knowing getting Jamie to eat one piece and some eggs will be difficult. With the focus on getting Jamie to eat, Drift feeds Jamie eggs. Relieved she’s not pushing his hand away until he gets a few forkfuls of egg in her mouth. “Ok, that should be enough.” Drift gets the cold medicine and gives it to Jamie before finishing the eggs and three pieces of toast. Jamie gets comfortable to go back to sleep, which results in Drift looking at her back. Drift would rather Jamie wasn’t sleeping on her right side in case she needed to throw up. Uncertain if she’d realize there’s a trash bin by the bed. He finishes his breakfast and moves the bin before taking care of the dishes. Jamie didn’t have any tea, so it’s a second cup for him.

Drift returns to the room, and retrieves the cup of tea. He sits on the rocking chair out on the balcony. He finds the view of the field leading to the woods relaxing along with the rocking chair.

Drift didn’t realize how long he had been sitting on the rocking chair until Jamie walked outside with a blanket wrapped around her. Indicating he had been outside for at least two hours. He finished the tea. Drift puts the cup on the floor and picks Jamie up. She coughs before leaning on Drift who lets Jamie stay outside here for a while. Even though Jamie will be asleep for most of the duration of her cold, Drift wishes Crosshairs wasn’t part of the mission, but he knows the team of Autobots needed Crosshairs’ skills as a sniper. He doubted Crosshairs’ skills as a paratrooper were needed, as the skill hasn’t been needed on Earth. Drift knows Crosshairs misses paratrooping. Drift suspects Jamie misses Crosshairs. The three are like a family — or as odd as it is, a family within a family with how close the Autobots and some humans are. He decides twenty minutes is enough outside time for Jamie. He knows Cogman will have a fire going in the living room. He carries Jamie downstairs to the living room.

Drift gets comfortable on the lounge part of the sectional with Jamie lying on him. Jamie feels the warmth of the fire and goes back to sleep. Drift turns on the TV, not looking to move Jamie off him. He knows it’s better to avoid him getting sick, but he’ll be careful to wash his hands. He knows Jamie would take care of him if she had to.

Jamie slept until four, which doesn’t concern Drift. He figured the medicine would have worn off, but he dislikes how awful Jamie feels. Getting her to eat soup is out of the question, but he worries about her throwing up if she doesn’t eat first. Jamie is coughing while trying to clear out her nose. Fearing Jamie’s potential vomiting, Cogman hastily grabs a nearby trash bin. He puts it by the sectional. Once she thinks she’s done coughing, Jamie lies back down under the blanket. “No,” she says, seeing Drift sitting on his knees by the sectional. Drift sighs and rubs Jamie’s back. He wants her to have some soup before giving her medicine, but it appears out of the question. He has an idea.

After eating some soup for dinner, Drift takes Jamie back upstairs to the bedroom.

He lies her on the bed but waits to cover her with the rest of the blankets. Then he retrieves the syringes full of hot chicken broth, but not too hot to consume from his subspace. Hoping to get Jamie to drink the two sixty milliliter syringes of broth. He figured this would be easier than a cup. He knows this isn’t much, but likely the best he’ll get Jamie to have. Drift gets the medicine ready to give after Jamie finishes with the broth. Jamie disapproves of Drift’s intentions. All she wants is the medicine and to sleep. Drift gets the pillows on the bed and positions them behind Jamie to sit her up. Jamie drinks the broth from the syringes. “Good, now you can have the medicine,” Drift praises. Jamie knows Drift wouldn’t refuse to give her medicine if she didn’t have the broth. Drift ensures Jamie is comfortable. With Jamie asleep, Drift cleans the syringes and cup and washes his hands. He checks Jamie’s temperature, still 102°. He knows it’s too soon for Jamie’s temperature to go down. He’s relieved it’s not going up. It’s bad enough Jamie has a seldom occurring fever when sick with a cold.

Drift gazes at the stars from the rocking chair for a while. He then showers and goes to sleep. He sleeps on Crosshairs’ bed as a precaution.

Drift watches Jamie before he gets out of bed. She stands next to the bed with his water bottle. Drift smiles, believing this is Jamie’s idea of taking care of him. At least while she’s still sick. He knows how unwell she feels now that the medication has worn off. Though Cogman might handle the cooking, Drift knows Jamie would take care of him. Drift gets out of bed to put Jamie back in bed. After taking Jamie’s temperature — which remains at 102° — Drift makes breakfast. Aware that Jamie won’t want to eat and the days will be a repeat of yesterday until Jamie gets over her cold. Drift doesn’t mind taking care of the femme he loves.

[polishedforsurvival]

in levi's modern au, in terms of career i've always had him start off as a police officer, going from that to k-9 officer specifically, before getting sick of the corruption and leaving the force, taking his german shepherd with him (idk how realistic that is, i've read of retiring officers sometimes being able to have their k9 partner retire with them, this is a bit different but w/e it's rp right lol) and from there becoming a kickboxing/self-defense instructor. it's been that ever since i since i first came up with his au

recently though i've liked the idea of him working with at-risk youth in some way, it seems fitting for him especially since he himself could've easily been one growing up

so part of me's thinking to changing it just slightly. he was still a cop for a while, but instead of switching to the k-9 unit, becomes a juvenile probation officer for a bit instead, and gunner (his german shepherd) is just a regular pet dog lol. he still eventually leaves the whole realm of law enforcement to become an instructor, but maybe volunteers occasionally at youth programs for at-risk kids

or maybe we toss out the whole probation officer idea and have him go straight from cop to gym guy who volunteers lol

i just really like the idea of him working with troubled kids in some way. he probably sees his younger self in some of them.

[unfoldnaturally]

This mom has S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goals.

Let’s get into it.

We’ve all heard of S.M.A.R.T. goals, right? Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound. And sure, that’s cute. It’s organized. It’s neat. But sometimes life, especially mom life... is anything but.

What happens when you’re trying to keep a toddler from painting the dog’s eyebrows while also wondering when you last had a real moment to yourself? When the house is quiet and it’s suspicious? When you’re straddling the line between postpartum fog, a tween’s sudden attitude, and your own unmet dreams?

Enter: S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goals.

Yes, honey. We leveled up.

S.M.A.R.T.E.R. stands for:

Specific

Measurable

Achievable

Relevant

Time-bound

Evaluated

Revised

Because sometimes, we start with a goal like “I’m going to work out every morning before the kids wake up,” and then…reality hits. Someone wakes up screaming about a nightmare, someone else wants breakfast at 4:53 a.m., and you? You just want to finish your lukewarm coffee in peace.

Let's break it down, mama-style:

💡 S - Specific

Old you: “I want to feel better.”

New you: “I want to take 15 minutes each evening to stretch, journal, or just sit still in silence—without a child touching me.”

REBT (Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy) would say: Challenge those vague shoulds and musts. You don’t need to do it all... you need to do something on purpose.

📏 M - Measurable

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is big on tracking thoughts, behaviors, and outcomes. Why? Because you need to see your wins.

Goal: “I’ll journal 3 times this week for 10 minutes before bed.” That’s trackable. That’s measurable. And no, brain-dumping on Facebook doesn’t count.

✅ A - Achievable

Let’s be honest: “I’m going to declutter the whole house this weekend” sounds good…until someone gets sick, soccer gets rained out, and Grandma FaceTimes for an hour.

DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) teaches radical acceptance. So let’s lower that bar to something sustainable: “I’ll clear one junk drawer each week.” Small wins add up. And your nervous system will thank you.

🎯 R - Relevant

Ask yourself: Is this goal aligned with the woman I am and the woman I’m becoming?

Don’t set goals that don’t fit your season. If you're in the thick of newborn life, this ain’t the time to train for a marathon. Let relevancy keep you grounded in your reality, not your Instagram envy.

🕒 T - Time-bound

Deadlines matter. But so does grace.

Instead of saying, “Eventually, I want to go back to school,” say, “I will explore online certification programs for 30 minutes every Sunday for the next month.” No perfection required. Just momentum.

🪞 E - Evaluated

Did the goal feel good? Was it doable? Did it leave you more depleted or more alive?

Here’s where REBT kicks in again: Challenge your beliefs. If you didn’t meet your goal, it’s not because you “suck” or “can’t stay consistent.” Maybe the goal wasn’t realistic for right now. Evaluation is not judgment... it’s adjustment.

🔁 R - Revised

You are allowed... encouraged, even to pivot.

Maybe you planned to meditate each morning, but you realized you hate silence and your brain goes chaotic neutral at 6 a.m. Cool. Switch it up. Try walking meditations or listening to gospel or lo-fi with intention instead.

Your goals should evolve with you, not box you in.

How this applies to motherhood at every stage:

Pregnancy: “I want to move my body gently 3x a week” becomes S.M.A.R.T.E.R. when you evaluate and realize a 30-minute walk ain’t realistic with sciatica but a 10-minute prenatal yoga video? That’s a win.

Postpartum: “I want to bond with my baby” becomes “Each day, I’ll do one skin-to-skin moment and one non-baby self-care action—like brushing my hair. Yes, that counts.”

Toddler years: “I want a clean home” becomes “I’ll pick one zone a day and involve my child so we learn together.” They might put a toy in the right bin. Progress.

School-age: “I want to be more present” becomes “From 6-7 p.m., I’m off my phone and we do something together even if it’s just watching them do cartwheels.”

Empty Nest or Teens Who Ghost You in the Hallway: “I want to reconnect with myself” becomes “Every Sunday morning, I’ll go to a coffee shop and write, read, or plan my week. Non-negotiable.”

The Bottom Line?

You don’t need to become a different woman to reach your goals. You need goals that honor the woman you already are.

Goals that evolve. Goals that breathe with you.

Goals that take into account your whole self... your faith, your fatigue, your fabulousness.

And if you need help setting or refining those goals with some psychological strategy and spiritual seasoning?

Let’s work together.

Email me at Unfold.Coach@gmail.com and let’s build a S.M.A.R.T.E.R. motherhood strategy that fits YOUR life, not the one you think you “should” have.

You don’t need to “fix” yourself you need to unfold into who you already are.

[sankhlaco]

Understanding the Shop and Establishment Act: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

The Shop and Establishment Act is a critical piece of legislation in India that governs the working conditions and operational guidelines for shops, commercial establishments, and businesses. Enacted to regulate workplace compliance, this state-specific law ensures employee rights, workplace safety, and fair business practices. In this blog, we explore the Act’s key provisions, its significance in 2025, and how businesses can stay compliant, incorporating trending keywords like labor laws, employee welfare, and business compliance.

What is the Shop and Establishment Act?

The Shop and Establishment Act is a state-level legislation that regulates the functioning of shops, commercial establishments, restaurants, theaters, and other businesses. Each state in India has its own version of the Act, tailored to local needs, covering aspects like working hours, wages, holidays, and employee benefits. The Act aims to protect workers while ensuring smooth business operations.

For an in-depth overview, refer to Sankhla & Co.'s Ultimate Guide to the Shop and Commercial Establishment Act.

Key Provisions of the Act

1. Registration Requirements

Every shop or establishment must register with the local labor department within a specified period (usually 30 days) of commencing operations. This ensures compliance with labor regulations and facilitates inspections.

2. Working Hours and Leave

The Act stipulates:

Maximum Working Hours: Typically 8-9 hours per day, with a weekly cap (e.g., 48 hours in many states).

Overtime Pay: Compensation for extra hours at a higher rate.

Holidays and Leave: Mandatory weekly offs, national holidays, and provisions for casual/sick leave.

Trending Keyword Alert: In 2025, work-life balance is a priority, with businesses adopting flexible work policies to comply with the Act.

3. Employee Welfare

The Act mandates:

Safe Working Conditions: Provisions for cleanliness, ventilation, and safety.

Wage Compliance: Timely payment of wages as per state regulations.

Protection for Women Employees: Restrictions on night shifts and measures for workplace safety.

4. Record-Keeping

Employers must maintain records of employee attendance, wages, and leaves, aligning with 2025’s focus on digital HR compliance through tools like payroll software.

For more on compliance requirements, visit India’s Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Why the Act Matters in 2025

With the rise of e-commerce, startups, and the gig economy, the Shop and Establishment Act is more relevant than ever. It ensures that businesses, from retail shops to tech-driven enterprises, adhere to labor compliance standards. The Act also aligns with growing trends like employee well-being, diversity and inclusion, and sustainable business practices, as companies prioritize ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals.

For insights on modern workplace trends, check SHRM’s Workplace Compliance Resources.

Recent Updates and Trends

In 2025, states are updating their Shop and Establishment Acts to address modern challenges:

Inclusion of Gig Workers: Some states are exploring provisions for platform workers in e-commerce and delivery services.

Digital Compliance: Online registration and record-keeping are being streamlined through HR technology.

Focus on Mental Health: States like Maharashtra and Karnataka are emphasizing workplace wellness programs.

Stay informed on labor law updates at Lexology’s Employment Law Updates.

How Employers Can Stay Compliant

To adhere to the Act:

Register Promptly: Complete registration with the state labor department.

Implement HR Policies: Ensure compliance with working hours, wages, and leave policies.

Conduct Safety Audits: Regular checks for workplace safety and compliance.

Use Technology: Adopt HR software for record-keeping and payroll management.

Seek Expert Guidance: Consult firms like Sankhla & Co. for tailored compliance advice.

Conclusion

The Shop and Establishment Act remains a cornerstone of labor laws in India, ensuring employee rights and business compliance in a rapidly evolving economy. In 2025, businesses must align with the Act to foster workplace safety, employee welfare, and operational efficiency. By leveraging resources like Sankhla & Co., employers can navigate the Act’s requirements effectively.

For practical compliance tips, explore Labour Law Advisor’s blog.

[coursecpe]

Form 941 IRS Compliance: File Accurately in 2025

As 2025 approaches, businesses must stay ahead of evolving tax regulations—especially when it comes to IRS compliance for employer tax filings. One of the most critical tax forms for employers in the United States is Form 941, the Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return. Filing this form accurately and on time is vital to avoid penalties, audits, and other legal complications with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Form 941 in 2025, including deadlines, filing tips, common mistakes, and how to ensure IRS compliance throughout the year.

What is Form 941?

Form 941 is a quarterly tax return filed by employers to report wages paid to employees and the taxes withheld from those wages. It includes:

Federal income tax withheld

Social Security tax (employer and employee portions)

Medicare tax (employer and employee portions)

Additional Medicare tax withheld from high-income employees

Every employer who pays wages subject to federal income tax withholding or social security and Medicare taxes is generally required to file Form 941 each quarter.

Why IRS Compliance Matters in 2025

The IRS is increasingly focusing on accurate tax reporting and timely submissions. IRS compliance is not just about avoiding penalties—it’s about maintaining good standing as a business entity. Non-compliance, whether intentional or accidental, can lead to:

Penalty assessments

Interest charges

Tax liens

Possible audits

In 2025, changes in tax regulations and digital filing expectations make it even more important to be accurate with Form 941 filings.

Key Changes to Form 941 in 2025

While the core components of Form 941 remain the same, 2025 brings a few updates employers should be aware of:

Updated Tax Rates: Adjustments may occur in Social Security wage bases and Medicare thresholds.

Electronic Filing Encouragement: The IRS continues to promote e-filing for faster processing and fewer errors.

Credit Revisions: If your business is eligible for certain employment-related tax credits (such as the COBRA premium assistance credit or COVID-era programs), updates may reflect in the form.

Schedule B Reporting: For semiweekly depositors, Schedule B accuracy is essential to avoid late deposit penalties.

Stay informed by checking the IRS’s official updates regularly.

Filing Deadlines for Form 941 in 2025

Here are the Form 941 deadlines for each quarter in 2025:

Q1 (January – March): Due April 30, 2025

Q2 (April – June): Due July 31, 2025

Q3 (July – September): Due October 31, 2025

Q4 (October – December): Due January 31, 2026

If the due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the deadline is extended to the next business day. Employers must file the form and remit any taxes owed by these deadlines to remain compliant.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Form 941 in 2025

Gather Payroll Information

Include total wages paid, number of employees, and all federal income tax withheld during the quarter.

Calculate Social Security and Medicare Taxes

Report both employee and employer portions. For 2025, ensure you use updated thresholds.

Report Tax Liability

Include information about your tax deposits. If you're a monthly depositor, you won’t need Schedule B; if semiweekly, include Schedule B with details of each deposit.

Claim Tax Credits (If Applicable)

Businesses eligible for credits (e.g., sick leave, family leave) should accurately report them.

Review and Submit

Double-check all figures to avoid common filing mistakes.

Submit the form electronically via the IRS e-File system or mail it to the appropriate address.

Common Mistakes That Can Hurt IRS Compliance

1. Miscalculating Taxes

Incorrect Social Security or Medicare tax calculations can lead to underpayment or overpayment, both of which can trigger an IRS review.

2. Missing Deadlines

Late submissions result in penalties and interest, even if the underpayment is small.

3. Inconsistent Employer Information

Make sure the Employer Identification Number (EIN), business name, and address are accurate and consistent across all IRS forms.

4. Improper Claiming of Credits

Ensure you understand eligibility for any tax credits before claiming them. Incorrect entries can lead to audits.

5. Failure to Match Deposits with Reported Tax Liabilities

Mismatch between Form 941 and IRS records (especially Schedule B errors) often leads to penalty assessments.

Tips to Stay IRS Compliant with Form 941 in 2025

Use Payroll Software: Automate calculations and reduce human error.

Enroll in EFTPS: The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System helps track and confirm timely tax deposits.

Set Calendar Alerts: Remind yourself of deadlines ahead of time to prepare.

Consult a Tax Professional: Especially useful if your business claims credits or has complex payroll structures.

Stay Updated: Regularly review IRS publications or subscribe to updates about Form 941.

Who Needs to File Form 941?

Generally, any business that withholds income, Social Security, or Medicare taxes from employee wages must file Form 941. However, there are exceptions:

Seasonal employers (only required to file for quarters wages were paid)

Employers who annually file Form 944 (used for small employers with limited payroll liability)

What Happens If You Don't File Form 941?

Failing to file Form 941 can result in:

Late Filing Penalty: 5% of the unpaid tax per month, up to 25%

Late Payment Penalty: 0.5% of the unpaid tax per month

Interest: Accrued on top of penalties until payment is made in full

Possible Legal Action: In cases of willful non-compliance

Avoid these consequences by planning ahead and staying organized.

Form 941 vs. Form 944: Know the Difference

Form 941 is filed quarterly and is required for most businesses.

Form 944 is filed annually and is for businesses with small payroll tax liabilities (under $1,000 annually).

If unsure which applies to your business in 2025, consult the IRS or a tax advisor.

Conclusion

Staying on top of Form 941 IRS compliance in 2025 is essential for any employer aiming to maintain a clean tax record and avoid penalties. From understanding quarterly filing requirements to avoiding costly errors and leveraging available resources, proper handling of Form 941 is a non-negotiable part of responsible business management.

With proactive planning, timely filing, and accurate data reporting, your business can stay compliant and confident through each quarter of 2025. Whether you're a small startup or a large corporation, mastering Form 941 is a key part of IRS compliance—and your peace of mind.