#especially not for a toy brand!!!! like what on earth!!!!!!!!!

[unfo11owmelol]

....

(I'm glad their making another Lego movie, but why not continue the original Lego movie storyline that has been in the hearts of tons of people for the last 9 years? (And before anyone comes screaming at me saying they can't because they don't have the rights to the characters, I know.))

[doshiart]

F1 AU // GALLAVICH

Ian Gallagher is a racing driver, a young star of the McLaren team. Mickey is just a car technician, who only recently joined the team as a trainee.

/long read backstory below/

Okay, I've thought about this a lot. So.. Shameless US but.. huh? living in UK?

First of all, because Formula 1 is more popular in Europe. Secondly, because I want to alter the story of Mickey's growing up. Make it a story about a little boy persevering towards his dreams. And how a simple childhood passion can grow into a potential job opportunity.

If briefly, below I talk about Mickey's developmental stages, along with his final emigration from Ukraine to the UK.

I'm not going into Ian's backstory here. But I'll mention this in more detail at the very end of the post, if you get to the end. Ha ha. Have fun reading!!

---------------

Mickey was six, just a little boy, when he first saw a F1 race on TV. And he was amazed by how quickly the cars could go and how quickly the mechanics performed at pit stops. (Are these even mechanics? Well, they turn the wheels, dad does the same thing in the garage and considers himself a mechanic).

When the next year he went to school in his first grade, then to all the teachers' questions or questionnaires with their “What do you want to be when you grow up?” he confidently answered as clearly as his childish language could, that he would definitely become a F1 mechanic. Even though he received only gentle smiles in reaction to his naivety of being a kid, the desire took root in his little head.

---

As he grew older, he continued to enjoy racing, watching every race weekend he could. And while he was a child this did not cause any particular problems. Mom encouraged him in his interests and every New Year gave him tiny branded cars of the teams he loved. But as he gets older, the more often he hears from dad that he is interested in some stupid things. And he didn't want to hear a word about racing at all. As soon as Mickey mentioned it even once, he was cut off mid-sentence.

These are not real cars.

Real mechanics work in a garage with real cars, not kids' toys for show.

Come down to earth. It’s all somewhere far away and you never even get to one of these races in your life.

---

Well, Mickey talks less about racing out loud anymore. Especially after mom's gone.

Tiny model cars disappeared into the closet's darkness.

His dad began to drag him into their garage more often so that he would get used to work and not wander around idle, lost in his stupid dreams. He had to skip live racing broadcasts as a result. It was sort of suicidal acts to turn this on in the garage on a small TV instead of some dumb music channel with hit songs. Mickey had learnt long ago to keep his mouth shut.

Just listen. Bring it. Grab it. Repair simple details. Don't go under the hood. Don't touch this, don't touch that. And especially don't break anything. Blah blah blah.

Jesus, are you even a man? Take your gentle hands away if you're not ready to get dirty.

---

Despite everything, Mickey still had a dream. One day, he hopes to watch a real-life race. Hear the noise of wheels flying over the track, the roar of engines, the screams of a supportive crowd. He prefers to never talk about his own desire to work as a car mechanic or engineer in F1.

---

Mickey was sixteen when he left after ninth grade for a vocational college to applied mechanics specialty.

Because, well, he had good reasons for leaving school two grades early. At the very least, he was already tired of going to school. He didn't even have any friends there. Yes, he communicated with classmates, but that's not it. It's forced. Just so as not to be an outcast and maintain the status of the Milkovich family by playing dirty tricks at school and bullying others. Did he like it? Absolutely not. These guys were idiots with stupid jokes and always picking on chicks.

They kept asking if he liked any of them and talking about how they looked all the time. Mickey never liked anyone. It wasn't that the girls were ugly, he just didn't find them attractive. But he pushed these thoughts away and ignored them. Left it somewhere near to the tiny race cars in the darkness.

Also, classmates called him into fights on regularly. Not that he was against kicking someone's dumb ass, but that he would prefer better reasons than just trying to prove whose class is above.

Another reason is that, in their family, working with their hands and having a real profession are more valued than going to higher education. Because this is a job for real men. Where will all these managers, lawyers, accountants, stupid psychologists be when their car breaks down? Mechanics will always have work and profit.

As well, Mickey is deeply curious about the workings of the engine and wants to fully understand its mechanisms. He will therefore be able to study this in practice with teachers, rather than with a psychotic bastard who screams at the slightest opportunity.

The only thing Mickey truly wanted to learn at school was English. Not because he loved it. This gave him at least some hope of "breaking abroad for the sake of a good life". Perhaps the main reason for his success was that he had a really great teacher who pushed and encouraged him. Sometimes he would stick around after class and stay just to talk with her. Mickey felt parental care, which he hasn't received lately.

“I believe that you can achieve a lot, Mikhailo. Just believe in yourself.” She told him and he believed her, hugging her a little longer so as not to show his wet eyes.

And well, after leaving school, these words sometimes came to mind during the saddest times, when he returned home after a long day of school combined with an exhausting shift in the family garage. Every time he spoke with his dad, he felt terribly devastated. The dream was literally slipping out from Mickey's hands. A pipe dream, is that what they say? Well, at least he'll try to do something.

---

Mickey was twenty when he graduated and by this time he was actively saving money, hiding it in different places. Also, he planned his escape from home, considered the best routes, and looked at what things he should take with him, confused about whether he would ever return home again.

As he approached his twenty-first birthday, he finally decided to do it. With only a spark of hope, he was ready to leave for nowhere. And okay, Mickey was a realist; he was aware that things might not work out at all and that he would have to return back eventually. But he'll do anything, though, to make sure that this doesn't happen, to avoid having to meet his dad's derisive gaze once more as his goal gets mocked.

After all, a dream is a dream, right? He also had skills and language abilities in his pocket. So he's really ready to do anything to attain even the tiniest success.

---

To get to UK, Mickey had to go through a long journey of transfers from bus to train, from train to plane. He's terribly tired, but here he is. He stands and watches as the new country greets him with heavy rain.

He first found it difficult to adjust to other people's smiling faces. There were a few times when he didn't feel at home because everyone was so friendly and lovely. And these people were incredibly talkative. He'll have to get used to this if he plans to stay here.

The first difficulties he encountered occurred at the department while filling out a form for migrants.

“Mik.. Mikai.. Mikaelo?”

“Mikhailo.” Mickey interrupted.

The employee's eyes stared blankly at him.

He sighed. “Ugh.. Mickey? Yeah, Mickey.”

“Okay, Mickey. Here you are.”

---

Mickey got a job as a mechanic for a small business fairly quickly thanks to his abilities. He was so easily and warmly accepted into the friendly team. Here he first felt respect while working. Mickey got assistance from the job department in extending his visa to stay in the country. His job also provided him with a tiny apartment, deducted from his paycheck.

After a while, feeling a little more self-assured, Mickey started saving money for qualifying courses that would help him in the future.

---

Mickey was almost twenty-four when he successfully obtained all the qualifications that were necessary for the job, as well as to be sure of himself and his knowledge. During this time two full racing seasons had passed. He attended only one race at Silverstone. This was his almost full year in the UK. His skin broke out in goosebumps when he saw the track in person. It wasn't quite what he expected. Mickey literally stood in one place and once in a while cars would drive by. On TV they show a larger overview, but still. He was excited. In this grand prix, a new young racer from the McLaren team took third place for the first time. His name seems to be Ian, and he likes to take risks on the track, driving the car while presenting a strong sense of confidence. And his hair perfectly matches with the team's car.

He missed the second race due to a qualifying exam. But he's not upset. Mickey is closer than ever to his dream. If everything works out, he'll see even more racing. If not, well, then he'll continue to work repairing regular cars. Perhaps he'll be able to attend grand prix events in other countries during his holidays?

But now it's the middle of the season and he's standing in the lobby of the McLaren Technology Center. He's trembling a little and his wild eyes are scanning everything in the immediate area.

Mickey can't believe the reality of what's happening. No he didn't become a mechanic. But.. it's still impressive. He was interviewed and tested to become a temporary vehicle technician for the team as an intern. He was told something about a possible career advancement and access to other things once he completed more qualifications, but he's not sure he heard everything correctly.

Later they tested him on team tests on the track. He's surprised that he was able to concentrate on his speed and did everything exactly as needed.

He actually became… exactly the one who changes the wheels and does minor repairs. He joined the technical team and will also work on pit stops during the races. And well, okay, if everything that's happening isn't a dream, he's really happy. Extremely happy. Of course, the longer he studied, the more he wanted to do engineering and development. But that's the tiny step, right? This is already more than anything he could have imagined. He saw the race in real life from the stands, and now he got the opportunity to see everything from the staff. He'll interact directly with the racing car. He might even hear how the team interacts with racers. Unbelievable.

Through the noise in his ears, Mickey hears someone standing beside him talking in a muffled voice.

“Hey! You're a new technician, right?”

The guy had already taken off his helmet when Mickey turned around. He softly smiles while stroking his fiery red hair.

Mickey stared at him. When he was brought to the track, he thought that some tester was sitting in the car, but not their young star.

“Yeah. Hope so…” He twitched his lip and scratched nose. “You're Ian, right?”

Of course this is Ian, what a stupid question. It's too embarrassing.

The redhead smile became even larger.

“Yeah…”

And just as he was about to add something else, one of the staff called Ian to go back and he hurriedly turned to Mickey and said quickly, “Oh, uh, see ya later then, gotta go.”

---------------

I'm glad I finally wrote and drew this. This idea has literally taken over my head so much that I don't have the energy to write Ian's backstory in the same way. Once again I am convinced that writing is hard work. And I want to say again about my love for writers. YOU ARE INCREDIBLE. For my brain, drawing is easier than writing. But it was fun!

!!!AND!!! THE MOST IMPORTANT THING! If someone suddenly wants to write a big multi-chap slowburn fic or little drabble or do anything, I'll be happy so much with absolutely anything!!

---------------

Let's talk about Ian now. I was actually going to write a backstory for him too. Maybe at least some minor notes, but I'm not quite sure how best to connect his bipolar with racing. Usually because racers drive go-karts from childhood, get into the junior league and generally build a racing career for years. Maybe he had a breakdown somewhere between seasons and it was quickly noticed?? I don’t know… And I think about how the team constantly checks him, which at times upsets him and forces him to prove to everyone that he is fine and able to drive the car.

Most likely, in this AU, Gallaghers are either rich, or Ian has a sponsor, if you know what I mean… From this fact, a whole lot can change in story. And the second thing seems more likely to me.

I was thinking about how Ian joined the McLaren team at the age of 21, and by the time he first met Mickey he was 22. He had been stable for a long time on medication.

So I'm also considering the possibility that somewhere between his 17-19 years he disappeared from the radar and came back when he found a sponsor who could pay for everything he needed and help him get into the F1 league. At first it was the weakest team, until his potential was noticed and he was offered to move to another team. This fact with the sponsor will probably put a lot of spokes in the wheels (ha).

Racer's body is undergoing an enormous physical strain, so they spend a lot of time in the gym. And Ian really enjoys working out with his team.

Another interesting fact: racers have a super-strong neck to be able to cope with gravitational forces during the race. Therefore, special attention is paid to neck in training. (It seems from the moment I found out this my little fixation began…)

---------------

I think there's a lot of pining here or something. They seem to be nearby, but due to different job responsibilities, at completely distinct levels. And I really want to read something like this with so slow burning.

So, I guess you can consider this as a big prompt for writing, if it inspires you.

Thanks for reading! <3

[barbielore]

April 22 is Earth Day, an annual international observance to promote environmental protection, having run since 1970. 2024's theme specifically is "Planet vs Plastics".

Which brings us to Barbie.

There is no doubt that Mattel is aware of the issues of environmental protection, climate change and the impact of plastics on the environment. The 2022 Barbie "Career of the Year" was Eco-Leadership.

These dolls were advertised as being made from recycled plastic (with the fine print noting that this is true only of the bodies, not the heads or hair) and featured Barbie in various eco-themed careers (including what Mattel describes as an "advocate" but to me looks like a "protester").

The dolls are made of "certified CarbonNeutral products", as are some other Barbie products especially those themed around the environment, such as the Jane Goodall Inspiring Women Barbie (also described as being made from 75% recycled plastic, excluding the head, hair and chimpanzee... which you may recognise as being a pretty significant portion of what is available in this release).

In 2021, Mattel updated their website with a page on sustainability, featuring the tagline "The future of pink is green" and promising that they were "working towards a goal of achieving 100% recycled, recyclable, or bio-based plastic materials in our products and packaging." This page also provides links to a number of dolls in their line they are advertising as being made of recycled products, such as "Barbie Loves the Ocean".

They promise "more" coming in 2024, but ultimately I don't know if Mattel is really doing all that they can. I recognise that Barbie is a capitalist product i.e. a toy, a toy designed to be sold in as many numbers as possible, made of plastic and packaged in plastic. But if Mattel wants to make sustainability a cornerstone of their brand (which to be clear, I applaud), I wish we were seeing more.

[starrydaycare]

Can we have some CG! Earth headcanons please?

CG!Earth headcanons!!

��Here you go!!

👑Earth was programmed to be good with kids, she does work at the daycare after all! So naturally she's a great CG. Not too strict, yet not too lenient. The perfect balance. She's especially good with kiddos that have disabilities, whether mental or physical, kids that're shy, and kids with mental health struggles!

🩷She's like a mom to her kiddo(s). She has rules, of course. Rules are very important! But she's not near strict. She doesn't often punish her kiddo. She doesn't like doing so, and prefers to talk things out and figure out why they're acting out and disobeying. Though if she feels that her kid needs a punishment for disobeying, then she'll most likely either ground them for the day, or put them in time out for ten minutes. Of course, if her kid isn't comfy with punishments then she won't punish them!

👑She doesn't fall for puppy dog eyes, nor kids crying to get their way. Will not hesitate to bring her kid back home if they start throwing a tantrum in Walmart or somewhere, though once they get home she'll hug them (with their consent) and help them calm down, then explain to them why they went home and why they didn't get what they wanted. Then, she'll set up an allowance system for them if they do chores.

🩷Despite this, they're still spoiled by her 😭. She'll come pick her kid up from daycare or something and be like "Oh, sweetheart! I got you a new pretty/handsome/nice outfit, in your favorite color! And-and I saw this toy, and it just reminded me so much of you, and I knew you'd love it! Oh! And-"

👑Nicknames! Nicknames, nicknames, nicknames! (techincally pet names? Ig?) She loves calling her kid (with their consent, of course. She's always sure to get her kids consent before doing anything like calling them names, setting rules, ect,.) things like Sweetie, sweetheart, honey, baby, little one, precious, princess/prince/monarch, and so on.

🩷She pays attention to literally everything her kiddo says. They say they like this one specific type of candy that's this one specific brand in passing? They wake up to one on their bedside table/beside their bed/wherever they sleep + a note that says "A little birdy told me you like these, sweetheart! I love you <3"

👑She's great to play all types of games with. Doctors? She'll be their doctor or patient, whichever her kid wants. Royalty? She'll put on a crown and a dress and they'll go have a picnic in a flower field, where they can run and play royalty together. Just want to color? She's already gotten the crayons, washable markers and coloring books out.

🩷She's always making sure that you have what you need, always giving you forehead kisses and hugs (because those are important, too), always checking in with you to make sure you:re feeling good. ⚠️TW! Depression, anxiety and eating disorders! If her kiddo has depression/depressive episodes and struggles to do daily tasks, then she'll be right there with them. Struggle to leave your house some days, or do daily things because of your anxiety? She's helping you through it all. Eating disorder? She'll be patient with you, won't force you to do anything you don't want to and'll check in with you to make sure you're doing okay, both physically and mentally.

👑Overall she's an amazing caregiver, and you can count yourself lucky if she's your cg!!

🩷👑⭐

[blueikeproductions]

Transformers fans have been going over a new quarterly report and there’s good news and bad news. The former is Transformers is Hasbro’s strongest performing brand, the later is RotB and EarthSpark’s toy sales are stinkers. In particular, EarthSpark’s considered an underperforming product, with the show’s ratings in the smelting pool. As some of us anticipated, the second season is the most we’re gonna get, no third season or beyond.

So as much as some don’t want to hear it: EarthSpark is essentially a flop, and the second season coming at all is more because it’s too late to axe it.

What’s carrying the toys so far are the collector lines: Legacy and Studio Series. For better or for worse, do NOT doubt the power of nostalgia. Also pricing. A friend was telling me a parent audibly freaked out at the prices of the EarthSpark toys, so that’s keeping parents away.

Do kids still like Transformers? Well in my experience they do, but they largely liked G1, Prime, RiD15, Bayformers and Rescue Bots. They did NOT like Cyberverse (especially in Japan where I’m told toys are STILL rotting on shelves down there), and now apparently EarthSpark. I didn’t see RotB in theaters so I can’t speak for that, but I did see a lot of kids at Bumblebee when it was in theaters.

The easy answer on its failure, and we all know GriftTubers will latch on to it, is Nightshade. Transformers making it on to Fox News is NEVER a good thing… not helped as the owl continues to be controversial due to the Japanese dub deciding to make them male. (Personally I say split the difference if Nightshade ever reappears and make them he/they but still.) I’ve been clear on my stance that NS is fine and cool, but I’ve also placed more importance on their skills, interests and personality. Their gender is not important to me to get them to like them, but the unfortunate problem is too many people on both sides focus on their identity and it scared off normies and parents. Again, well meaning like the Blue’s Clues Pride Parade, but read the room. There was a way to make NS work and still let them be NB, but they didn’t do it, and I still say the old “they’re Terran because gender means nothing to them as a robotic life form” was the way to do it.

The more nuanced answer however is more complicated. ES wound up being another kids show that was actually for adult fans and not kids, choosing to instead focus on a sense of identity and HYUGE importance on family. Stuff that isn’t bad on its own, but most modern writers and executives don’t understand subtleties: resulting in a lot of Bludgeoning of well meaning ideas in a show that doesn’t feature the Master of Metallikato. Most kindergarten and elementary school kids aren’t THAT interested in that stuff, they like Pokémon, Mario, classic Disney, classic Star Wars and anime in my experience. And Transformers has a certain expectation among people, and while there’s been stuff in the past that involves talking about things (Rad having environmentalist tendencies and Optimus respecting his feelings on needing to protect the environment when a fire breaks out during a Mini-Con Panel hunt, with Tigatron, Optimus and Dinobot having a similar conversation more than once in Beast Wars), if the Autobots AREN’T waging their battle to destroy the evil forces of the Decepticons, most aren’t interested.

This feeds into the show’s writing which also I think killed it: the show’s writing is decent but it only gets weaker as it goes along. The overfixation on making the Decepticons into misunderstood bullies who need a hug, despite also showing them perfectly content to kill people, the mixed signals of all the known Earth Decepticons now being friends with the Maltos, Optimus being a doofus the longer the show went on, the heavy IDW slants that weren’t popular at all with general audiences like Autobot Megatron, and Fix Fic Blue Eyed TFP Starscream. There’s also lack of proper follow up on plot threads like Ravage and Mandroid’s friendship with Alex, Schloder’s reasoning for hunting Bee being stupid, mysterious Transformer artifacts, poor reasoning on Energon aliens running amuck, why Cybertron never re-established contact, the lack of understanding why Quintus Prime seems to have such an interest in Earth and why the Emberstone is even here at all and more. Sure some of this might be touched on better in season 2, but do I trust this writing team now? No. No I do not. I think this can be summed up by the rejected episode pitch with Ratchet and Drift. More focus was put on them being husbands, and while both tried offering their own reasonings for the Cyber Sleeves, there was no concrete answer provided on why the kids had the sleeves. Its especially odd in that I wager they would’ve played up Ratchet’s atheism from IDW, but never once have Quintus actually speak up through the sleeves, like a joke in Family Guy where Stewie calls out Brian’s atheism because Jesus crashed on their couch recently. The episode is just… more fluff. People don’t want fluff in Transformers, and we’re seeing that with how well the Energon Universe is continuing to kick everything’s afterburner in comics. IDW never did that. The best selling stuff towards the end was the Marvel G1 prequel and sequels, and the Beast Wars reboot and those were still low in the rungs.

So what can be done to get kids more on board with new TF content? Go back to basics. Transformers desperately needs a new Beast Wars style show to give it a kick in the pants tv show wise. Earthspark I think fancied itself as that but was not meant to be. The Energon Universe is a good start: the true Neo G1 successor to the 80’s cartoon canon so far. The easy joke me and a friend have made is to just adapt the Energon Universe for tv, but it’s not ready yet. I think using it as a spring board would be useful and having the Void Rivals be supporting characters would help expand their exposure. But the simple matter is this: absolutely under no circumstances use IDW/MTMTE post war stuff. I’m willing to go as far as using characters like Adaptus, Nova Prime, Nominus Prime and the Guiding Hand for certain things but that’s it. Classic good Autobots vs evil Decepticons. Megatron is full on evil like in G1, the movies & Unicron Trilogy: no more of this making him into a repentant Anakin nonsense. More of stuff like Optimus’s friendship with Sparkplug and Spike and his consoling of the deer. Earthspark was on the right track making him more lighthearted and closer to the well meaning dad he was in G1, but they pushed it too far the other way like Cyberverse did. Maybe ease back on Bumblebee a smidge, that worked with ROTB and Energon Universe so far, and other than maybe a little mixing and matching (Like Strongarm, Iguanus, Fixit, Barricade, Blackout and other guys being main Bots and Cons for a change), stick to the basics.

Edit: adding more because I had to go run an unexpected errand. Not only the basics, but let’s revisit the idea of a proper anime again. It’s the second major modern anime boom in the States, why DON’T we have a new RiD or Unicron Trilogy type thing? And no I refuse to consider Prime Wars and War For Cybertron anime. I don’t care what Netflix calls it. The fact we don’t have a TF anime currently is baffling; the last time we had an anime was Transformers Go!, and that was more of a one off spiritual Brave successor. I’d rather at this stage Takara commission a new kids anime for Transformers with writers over in Japan scripting the premise who know what they’re doing to make a fun children’s show. Then it can be dubbed and we get Blum, Kaplan, Zeno and other popular/veteran anime dub voice actors to reprise roles/do new ones. I don’t care if Trigger, Toei, Polygon, Science Saru or whoever animates it, my stipulation going forward is 2D animated TF anime, but with designs that are easier to hand draw. Like somewhere between G1 and Transformers Animated. I liked the Armada designs but I can see why Energon and Cybertron opted for CGI for the robots because they became way too technical to draw outside of very specific scenes. If full on 2D robots wasn’t acceptable, the CGI technology used for SSSS. Gridman and Bravern is acceptable, but a full return to 2D animation is preferable.

As for a setting: Earth. Autobots protecting their human friends against the Decepticons. A new gimmick properly implemented from the toys into the show, with the Quintessons as a villainous third party with a stake in the affairs, hiring Mercs like Devcon, RoughEdge, Lockdown and Rampage, or freelancers like the Skuxxoid and villainous Void Rivals to do their dirty work.

Something like that, but above all else cast wise: Blaster and his Cassettes MUST return. And to acknowledge EarthSpark, Hashtag can be his kid sister, with Twitch as one of Hashtag’s own cassettes. Everybody wins.

[showrunnerihardlyknowher]

Any advice on how to write overprotective giants or other large monstrosities? How do I make them strongly morally gray, know when to limit the dehumanization and adoration of tiny person of interest, and how the giant seems to believe they are in the right with detaining a tiny person? Asking for a friend! Definitely not me, a lurker questioning if I should start writing on tumblr or any other writing websites....

Ooooh, fun!!

It definitely all boils down to what your giant views their brand new tiny as and whether or not they can understand each other. You can take Edix and Jacob, for example, where Edix solely sees Jacob as a pet which is heightened by the fact Jacob cannot verbally stand up for himself to disprove that. Of course Edix loves him and would never intentionally hurt him, but that love is only as strong as that for a puppy at best. It's pure adoration at the cost of being a plaything and because Edix assumes that Jacob is so weak and helpless, he fully believes he's in the right to do whatever he feels is necessary to protect him.

Comparatively, you have Ben and Milo, who can perfectly understand each other and have a tentative parent-child relationship. The problem is that Ben doesn't know how to be a legit parent, especially to something so small and foreign to him, so he has to rely on what he knows as an exterminator to keep Milo safe (trapping and caging). He's not trying to be cruel on purpose or upset him, but he can only use what limited knowledge he has at his disposal until Elysie can put him on the right track. In that case, the dehumanization can't really be helped, but Ben still recognizes it for what it is and feels guilty all the while.

Then you have someone like Taiyo who is more morally grey. His mission is to destroy all the parasites festering on Earth, which will in turn save humanity, but if humans also happen to get caught in the crossfire of a fight, well...oh well. He doesn't go out of his way to hurt them, but he's not too pressed if they are, and the only human he actively protects is Kumiko for his own personal reasons. He respects her boundaries for the most part, but that doesn't stop him from grabbing her, moving her, or shielding her when she's in immediate danger, despite what she might protest. That's an example of balanced adoration and dehumanizing, in which he'll give her some of the space she asks for to keep her content, but he'll be damned if he ever lets her try to hold her ground even though she's more than capable of doing so.

All in all, it really depends on how the tiny is first viewed by the giant. A pet, a toy, a friend in need, a crush at first sight? What kind of love are they blinded by that would make their morally grey views shift in favor of keeping this tiny from harm, and is there any real harm to begin with? Do they think the tiny needs defending simply because they small and weak in comparison to the giant, or is it because they're young, or injured, or recently defenseless?

Can the tiny ever sway their opinions that they don't need to be coddled either by telling them or showing with their actions, or will there always be some reason that the giant won't budge on despite conceding on other points? Does the giant feel guilty for their behavior, are they able to imagine themself in the tiny's shoes and knowing they'd also detest the same kind of treatment, or is it still a necessary evil in the grand scheme of things? Are they worried for the tiny's safety, or are they just possessive and want them all to themself?

If the tiny is deemed a pet or a toy, the giant probably isn't going to care much, maybe even joke about how much tiny puts up a fight despite living a new life of snuggled, babied luxury. If the tiny is something of a platonic or romantic interest, the giant might be more willing to meet them halfway on some treatments, even if they can never fully give in on leaving them totally alone in fear or something happening.

[ourolite]

𝓒ONCEPT.ㅤ some professional boyfriend headcanons featuring xīn’yuè and a few others he figured imperative to receive attention in his overview. lil' commanding, he is. can you already imagine, or are you invested to see for yourself? if you're staying, may we interest you in a fragrance sample or two, free of charge? ℘RECAUTION.ㅤ switch fem reader, daddy kink, toys, condescending praise, slight bantering, implied exhibitionism.

༺ ceo!boyfriend who is the Chief Executive Officer of an intercontinental brand with the hall and trademark “Anzhong”; a subsidiary worldwide fashion industry with product lines that also include accessories, handbags, footwear, cosmetics, clothing, adult toys, and other minor trinkets such as writing utensils or home decor. The industry was also founded in 1928 in Lhasa, Tibet by Chagmo Kyi. You may also infer that the headquarters is located there as well, which is where the CEO in question dabbles a majority of his life besides with you or his two daughters, Maju and Blumei. There are over hundreds of active boutiques worldwide, at least 15,000 active employees, and their headquarters, which Xīn’yuè works at, is located in Lhasa, Tibet. The revenue of this company is at least 9.35 billion, making Xīn’yuè one of the richest CEOS any business has to offer. Similar to most compassionate businessmen, they soften up when it’s safe to, as it’s not considerably so in a workplace. Have to stay firm towards your subordinates, after all.

༺ ceo!boyfriend who is a spoiler as much as he doesn’t want to admit. Considering that he’s rather emotionally constipated, he utilizes his affection through quality time, affirming words, and gift showers. There are times where you receive the secretary treatment despite being the girlfriend, but he’s communicative enough to apologize for such. While the apology would always seem half-hearted and awkward, he redeems himself with a list of things since he knows the apology wasn’t the best; he truly cares for you but is only capable of showing it appropriately when he deems necessary. Relationships aren’t his forte, after all. Not only he has to worry about his career that takes up too much of his time, but his girls that also take up the little time he possesses when he’s on break. You get him to unwind often which he secretly appreciates, but outwardly he playfully reprimands or mocks you for catering to him like he’s some sort of child. You ignore him however, proceeding to give him head massages as the two of you binge your favorite show as the girls sleep. He feels safe with you. Always. But you’ll have to squint to conclude such.

༺ ceo!oc who canonically has two boyfriends. Yes, two. The phenomenon has yet to process ‘til this day, for he not only received the term and accurate accusation “bicurious” from his workout partner, Zolene Irene, but growing up in a judgmental household closes your mind in a negative manner (shout out to his strongly traditional parents that projected their opinions onto him, especially his homophobic father). Both are also spiritual entities, by the way, and as a human, it’s… overwhelming. One is a curt, cupidity maneki-neko with the name Indigo who happens to also be his financial advisor and natural migraine inducer. His other lover is a sasabonsam, a vampiric tree dweller who has yet to conclude the consequence of skipping out of work constantly just to do what he desires. Oh, I forgot to mention that they’re two Taureans. Taureans. The most obstinate Earth sign, let alone one of the three most in general. In summary, order is the last thing that household needs.

༺ ceo!boyfriend whose sex drive is on the low side of the spectrum, so you’re usually the one either engaging in sexual activities first or engaging in them by yourself; graysexuality is no joke. Generally however, he understands that you have needs, so he doesn’t mind pleasuring you when he feels comfortable despite him not feeling anything in return but genuine entertainment. Though, on another note, when you voice your outwardly desires, he not only gives you a captious expression that corresponds with his sardonic reassurance, but claims that some of the things you want from him are completely unethical. Naturally, you didn’t like this response, let alone his inability to take a moment to put himself in your shoes, so you left the idea alone. Naturally again, he felt a subtle sense of regret a while after that discussion, so he planned on how exactly he should make it up to you without giving into your desires…

ℌ Side note, for the most part, it didn’t work. He gave in.

The perspiration bubbling in the subtle arch of your back was prompted by the sudorific vibrations that emanated from the personalized bullet vibrator that was buzzing against your clit. Your tumescent bud pulsated effervescently as your hips scoured against the trembling surface, forcing moans to elude from your tepid, lazily parted lips. The vibrations were mellow and arrhythmic, hence your relatively desperate mannerisms, as you failed to reach the orgasm that was nearing, evading, nearing, and evading. With unreliable assistance, that is, seeing as the tip of the device was stagnant and pressed against your soppy clit, vibrating louder due to its inundation. If only the vibrations were just a little stronger, but even you understood that this behavior was well deserved, for you believed that guilt-tripping him for not utilizing your idea sooner was the best route.

“Can I finish now? Please? Jebel? Bài tuō?” You implored sycophantically, your blissed-out gaze imbued with lechery as your dampened lashes fluttered upwards at the one who was torturing you on the frigid surface. Obstinacy is nothing but a drug with no ideal remedy; this was evinced with the way the asshole you were star-fucking merely hummed dismissively in response, lightening the pressure from your clit just to watch the vulva quiver. The lack of the response immediately influenced your obsequious actions to falter with a miffed pout and a hip gyration; if you possessed the ability to trade places with this individual within seconds he would’ve been cumming and hyperventilating right about now.

“Sweetheart, don’t leave me like this.. Don’t you feel sorry for me? Hm? Mmmh-maybe even horny for me for once? Hm, daddy?”

The left curve of the well-adored and cross-country CEO’s lip quirked up for a moment in acknowledgment, but also derisive, once you mockingly quiered him. Everything was a muddle, a concupiscent muddle. There was no recollection of the prior events; all you remember is what’s happening now and later. What now consists of a yukata-wearing billionaire looming over the desk of his office, the glass surface besplattered with crumpled papers, prurient excretions, and excessive handprints. Then later that said inspirational figure will leave you knee-buckled and exhausted over the desk as he roughly persuaded you on why disobedience was never an option to begin with. An intense idea to state, but you’ve been through much worse, believe yourself.

“I figured it was prudent to continue stalling,” Xīn’yuè clarified vaguely in a collected tone; the eloquence parroted the tone of him relaying messages to one of his many, many subordinates despite you being nude from the waist down, tainting the glass below your ass. He predicted your protests, hence the immediate impulse to slide the bullet vibrator back inside of you, earning a sharp, shaky whimper that was immediately muted by him. He already wasn’t fond of the idea of making you cum in such a vulnerable setting; it was a miracle that neither of you were caught by a frantic employee with effervescent news. “Not only for ‘efficiency’s sake’, but to assure that any potential slip-ups—notably from you—remain a simple mystery.”

Your plush thighs trembled harshly in response, plus the clicks of the vibrator that indicated that the volume was being turned up was just as inebriating as his sardonic statements. You still couldn’t wrap your head around the fact that this was custom made for you, but you could definitely wrap your legs around his waist for ultra stability. Merino white rings enveloped around the midnight-hued toy as he fucked you with it in a gradual pace, not to mention that the name “Anzhong” was embedded within it in bullion only to be sealed with sticky cum created by you. Even the mere thought of that brought you closer, which was also determined with the way your drenched walls embraced the toy with fervor and the sibilated mantras of pleads that escaped your throat.

After acknowledging that you're close, and also annoyingly and worriedly loud, he slipped the object back out, earning not only exasperated insults disguised as guileless complaints, but an abundance of clenches that yearned for the nostalgic repletion. With a miffed, critical look, he took the cum-coated object before tapping your lips with it in order to interrupt your objections, taking the moment to keep you temporarily silenced by pushing it inside of your mouth, his fingers holding onto the ends so it doesn’t slide down your throat and asphyxiate you. His free, clammy hand however, was now placed on your exposed hip, grasping onto the flesh softly before the veins of the exterior emerged from the epidermis. Xīn’yuè’s bored look now embodied some remnants of puckishness once your silence managed to be the only thing that excited him tonight, which was concluded by the twitching awakening of his semi-hard dick.

“Now, be a good, sweet puppy and clean it up. Intractability, by definition, is something I don’t get along with often, so behave accordingly and quit whining.”

⑅ neso productions. all rights fucking reserved, do not plagiarize.

[softness-and-shattering]

So Im watching The Marvels Idk when this is set in the MCU so we're just going with it. I love Kamala. I didnt finish her show because the structure was just, we were at end of Act 1 and there were two episodes left and I just stopped, but I am glad to see her again. There's some fun hijinks going on between her and monica rambeu and carol danvers. Theres some plot things that dont make sense but Im wondering if its just the excuse for hijinks so I should let it go, or is it going to become irritating.

The Kree lady was obviously strongarming the Skrull into "negotiations" but then the skrull....emperor??? was like, the talks were going great and you fucked it up we dont want your help. She said she was draining the atmosphere, and that hexagon shape thingy has always been the teleport symbol, why is it now an artificial atmosphere? How was she draining it? Why did destroying it cause landslides? Why is it that the skrull have a uniform, and how come their ships are all identical, and most of the inhabitants of this planet = one city = were just in close proximity to the ships? They just run for the ships and it looks like most of them got on ? And then this woman I definitely recognise but cant work out if its Valkyrie or someone else shops up on the rainbow bridge and teleports the skrull of that one ship away? What about the other ships? Carol said her friend would find them a place to stay, how did they know to line up neatly behind her for teleport? And then Kamala's comforting the kid - of course there are kids for this scene when there havent been any before - with what looks like a brand new earth toy. Where did that toy come from? Its just very. All this plot stuff at light speed smushed together, bare minimum set up before immediate pay off one thing to another its makes sense but only just, it feels very disjointed. The previous swapping place sequence was a lot better done. IDK why Goose is swallowing furniture but its kind of fun, I dont mind it. Also.....Carol shot up into space and then swapped with Kamala who was falling. That means Carol should have been where Kamala was where Carol had been ie the Kree ship. Then Monica and Kamala swap so Carol's back on earth. And then Carol just flies in behind them? How fast can she go exactly? What are the distances involved? I guess Im ok putting that down to ok shes super powerful, but the sequence of events is just really janky. I just put it on to have something to watch while I eat, so Im gonna stop for now. Not sure if Im going to go back to it or not. The fun parts are fun, the trying to plot is a mess. Im not sure which emotional response is stronger rn. IM definitely not going back to avatar way of water though. I got 1/3 hours into that and it was already so much longer than it needed to be and the pacing was all over the place. If you've seen the Marvels, especially if you think it gets better and is worth watching, let me know!

[loquatenjoyer69]

a get to know you better meme

I was tagged by @qserasera, what a surprise and kind of an honor, thank you

do you make your bed? No lol I sleep in a nest of blankets

what's your favourite number? My "favorite" I guess is 7, but "my" number has always been 4 so that's what I (usually) pick for everything. Sending 4 emojis, picking the fourth thing, etc.

what is your job? I teach metalsmithing (jewelry, not blacksmithing)

If you could go back to school would you? (smiling through tears) I'm still there (college) but no. I have regarded school as the house of the devil and a factory of suffering for many years now. I'm just trying to get my degree so I can get better jobs lol

can you parallel park? No, I don't like cars or driving so I don't partake.

a job you had that would surprise people? Idk, I think many people are often surprised by my current job, but other than that I don't think there is one.

do you think aliens are real? Yeah in a sense, like it's more likely than not that other lifeforms exist in the universe. But I don't think any have come to earth sadly :(

can you drive a manual car? See above lol. But my mom wanted to teach me once

what's your guilty pleasure? I try not to be ashamed of things I like but one thing I regard as a guilty pleasure is like, sometimes I listen to music that I don't think is very good but it's catchy and I just like it. Usually it's like new pop hits and stuff. I don't consider it to be representative of what I listen to and I don't play it around other people lol but yeah

tattoos? Yep, I have two, both done by myself when I was fifteen LOL... But I've been thinking about doing another one because I had another idea and I don't have money ha ha ha....also I just like doing it I like doing art who woulda thunk

favourite colour? I feel obligated to say red (and its associates) here since it's literally the only color I wear that isn't black...but it's just because that's kind of my brand. I like most colors, it would be easier for me to say which colors I don't like.

favourite type of music? I like all kinds of music, but the categories the music I listen to the most fall into is like, rock/metal (stuff with really nice guitars and drums), folk/indie, and electronic. I like music with good lyrics, and if it doesn't have good lyrics it has to sound good to me.

do you like puzzles? Does anyone not??

any phobias? I don't think so, just icked out by normal stuff like mold and spiders and stuff sometimes.

favourite childhood sport? I didn't get to do sports when I was a kid, that's why I do them now B-)

do you talk to yourself? Nope, and for a long time I was convinced that talking to yourself was just something that was done in movies and TV to show what a character was thinking. I didn't believe anyone actually talked to themself in real life, when no one is around. I also didn't talk/narrate my play as a kid if I was alone because well...I know what's happening, I know what my toys are saying, why do I need to speak it out loud? But I narrate my actions when I'm around other people, that's separate.

what movie(s) do you adore? I really like Peking Opera Blues, it's probably my favorite movie of all time...or at least my favorite live action movie. Also I like JCSS (the 1973 film), and as for animation, all the Cartoon Saloon movies, but especially Secret of Kells which pretty much shaped me as a person and Wolfwalkers which I've always kind of wanted to do like, an essay on but never got around to.

coffee or tea? I drink tea the most, I really never drink coffee but I like the taste. Just, caffeine makes me really shaky and sweaty and doesn't actually make me feel more alert so the drawbacks are not worth it most of the time.

first thing you wanted to be growing up? When I was in preschool I said I wanted to be a firefighter but that wasn't something I held onto long term. I don't think I really had a childhood dream occupation.

tagging @joelletwo, @versaphile, @treecakes, and @ladsofsorrow24 if you guys haven't done this already/want to do it

[chefgretamorrison]

GRETA MORRISON

Born under the glimmer of Hollywood's golden era, with a name inspired by screen legend Greta Garbo, Greta Morrison came from the lush comfort of her privileged upbringing to the rigorous kitchens of Le Cordon Bleu. She's traded opulence for the heat of the stove and the zest of innovation. As the soon-to-open La Boheme's heart and soul, she marries her passion for exquisite cuisine with a dash of rebellion. Amidst personal awakenings and culinary conquests, Greta wants to remain a steadfast in her commitment to authenticity, love, and the creation of unforgettable experiences. She aims to weave her own legacy in Covington, Georgia.

SELF

NICKNAMES: G, Chef G AGE: 40 BIRTHDAY: May 5, 1981 SEXUALITY: Lesbian GENDER: Cis Female PRONOUNS: She/Her PROFESSION: Owner & Chef of La Boheme (opening soon) LOCATION: Orchid Park, Covington, Georgia FACE CLAIM: Danielle Savre RACE/ETHNICITY: Caucasian NATIONALITY: American HEIGHT: 5'6" BUILD: Slender and fit HAIR: Blonde, often styled in a casually elegant manner EYE COLOR: Blue ALLERGIES: None, but has a peculiar dislike for cilantro DISORDERS: Mild anxiety FASHION: Rustic elegance combined with a touch of Southern charm. Blend of comfort with a hint of sophistication. Fitted blazers, soft flowing blouses, occasional statement piece like bold, patterned scarf. Earth tones and textures, leather boots and artisan jewelry that add personality to her ensembles. NERVOUS TICS: Taps her fingers rhythmically on surfaces when deep in thought HOBBIES: Antique shopping, especially culinary tool collecting INTERESTS: Sustainable farming, culinary history, poetry POSITIVE TRAITS: Creative, empathetic, ambitious NEGATIVE TRAITS: Impatient, self-critical, struggles to ask for help MBTI PERSONALITY: ENFJ (The Protagonist) ZODIAC CHART: Taurus Sun, Scorpio Moon, Virgo Rising CORE VALUES: Integrity in culinary creations, community engagement, sustainability PERSONAL CHALLENGES: Finding a balance between work and personal life, overcoming childhood neglect PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENTS: Establishing a successful culinary career independently, nurturing meaningful relationships, successfully breaking from her family’s traditional expectations to carve out her own path, creating a loving and chosen family LIFESTYLE: A blend of culinary innovation and quiet, quality time with loved ones QUIRKS: Small whisk tattoo on the side of her left ribs, bursts out French when cooking or overwhelmed or angry FUTURE ASPIRATIONS: To expand her culinary brand focusing on sustainable practices for fine cuisine, write a cookbook intertwining recipes and narratives, and share cooking tips online, reaching a wider audience with her culinary philosophy and skills.

FAMILY

MOTHER: Julien Morrison (deceased, was a socialite and philanthropist, with a fondness for old movie stars, which influenced the naming of her daughters) FATHER: Peter Morrison (successful businessman, often distant) CHILDREN: Step-daughter, Emilia Parish SIBLINGS: A younger sister named Katharine Morrison, after Katharine Hepburn. FIANCÉ: Laikyn Parrish, a novelist and the adoptive mother of Emilia

BIOGRAPHY

tw: cancer, death

From the opulence of her birthright to the culinary heights of Le Cordon Bleu in France, Greta Morrison was always a vivid canvas of what a life lived under privilege looked like. Born into a wealthy family, to Peter and Julien, Greta's early years were marked by the kind of advantages that most could only dream of.

Since she was a child, Greta had everything her heart could desire. A pony? Her father would make sure hers was the most prized and that she had the best instructors. The latest toy? She would have two, for the sake of never to worry about losing it. A trip to Disney World? Greta would be at the best hotel, with all at her disposal. She had everything, except what she truly desired—present parents.

Their wealth permitted them to provide the best tutors, and nannies, but nothing replaced that abandonment in her heart. Because their life was so busy, her dad with work and her mom as a socialite, Greta was rarely in their home in Georgia. Always traveling with them and the staff, or being sent away on her own. Her educational began at an all-girls boarding school in Switzerland, and Greta, having learned ways to get her parents attention, was never afraid to get herself into trouble. She quickly carved out a reputation for herself there.

The privileges that surrounded her seemed only to fuel her defiant spirit, and Greta never shied away from pushing boundaries. Troublesome incidents and clashes with authority figures peppered her adolescence, all that deviated from what her mother had expected her privileged upbringing to be. The structured environment of the boarding school struggled to contain her free spirit, and Greta's endeavors became a defining feature of her youth.

Around that same time, Greta grappled with the exploration of her own sexuality. It was during these formative years that she first began to realize and understand her attraction to women, thought it wasn’t until many years later that she began identifying herself as a lesbian—as the conservative environment of the boarding school provided no sanctuary for such self-discovery.

After graduation, Greta took a gap year to travel Europe and that’s when the culinary world beckoned, which Greta answered the call with gusto. Her culinary adventurous in Europe took her to the laps of many women, which she greatly appreciated the mixture. Beautiful women and excellent food were Greta’s kryptonite. It wasn’t until later into her gap year, unsure what to do with her life still, that her path crossed with Marie DuPaul, a lover much older than her, who managed to get Greta a spot to study in the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in France.

Her time there broadened not only her palate but also her appreciation for love and romance. She learned with the French that any woman could be romanced by their stomachs, if cooked the right food.

Greta's culinary prowess and insatiable curiosity for the world led her to work under the best chefs in Paris, where she honed her skills and refined her craft, aside from working her ass off. For almost a decade, she wandered far from her country, embracing the world as her home instead. Yet, despite the allure of exotic locales, her roots remained tethered to the small town of Covington, Georgia.

Tragedy struck when her mother became sick with cancer, pulling Greta back to her home. Reluctantly, she left her work, her friends and a few lovers and returned to the States. Her arrival felt more like a bittersweet farewell, as her mother's passing cast a somber shadow over the reunion. The anchor of her family, the very force that had nurtured her extraordinary spirit, was gone, leaving Greta adrift in a sea of grief.

Five years later, Greta finds herself at a crossroads, ready to embark on the journey she promised herself she would undertake – building her own fine cuisine restaurant in her hometown. The years, and her hard work in kitchens all over, taught her to be more humble and less entitled, but she’s still the same stubborn girl she was when she first left Covington.

Since last October she's been engaged with Laikyn Parrish. They moved in together quickly when they started dating, and they've been like that for around three years. Lake and her met through Greta's younger sister and Lake's daughter, who happened to be best friends and in the same cheering squad together—the one Lake coaches. They did a whole plan to get Greta and Lake together, parent trap style, and even though it almost went sideways a first, it worked out in the end. Greta is head over heals for Lake, she'll do anything for her woman. From bringing her midnight snacks when she's writing up her next novel to praising and supporting every single endeavor she joins in.

Pinterest board: https://pin.it/2kgZffq0q

[toastess-with-the-mostess]

Let's Rewind! Toast watches Voltron: Defender of The Universe (1984)

I now have access to pretty much every animated version of Voltron and now after around 7 years of being a Voltron fan and amateur archivist, I'm finally sitting down to watch (or rewatch) every Voltron show to see how it's grown over its legacy, starting with Dotu!

Season 1, Episode 1 - Space Explorers Captured

Starting off strong, the intro is pretty cool in my eyes, no wonder this was burned into so many kids heads when it was airing It also reminds me of Danny Phantom and how the backstory was in the opening, same thing here to get into the action lol

It's Hunk and Keith! NOT, the first shots we "see" of them aren't actually them! It's reused footage from Vehicle Voltron of the characters Jeff and Rocky, you can tell by the uniforms (and y'know faces)! This feeds my hc that the boys originally were part of the explorer though >:D

I love the way this art style, or like any 80s-90s anime, draws space, it's so pretty like CMON Also, I never realized that the boys got to Arus WHILE it was being taken over, I swear I remembered that Arus was already a wasteland so-to-speak by the time they got there

GOD SVEN'S DOPEY ACCENT IS SO NICE TO HEAR, I'VE MISSED IT SO MUCH I did notice that the city destruction image was later reused for Balto, which in the original GoLion anime is from Earth's destruction! NOT THE EIFFEL TOWER JUST BEING DESTROYED WHILE KEITH IS SAYING THE ARUSIANS GOT TO SAFETY MY GOD I KNOW TOO MUCH

First look at the pilots! Very 80s from what I think the vibe is, but also very personalized! Knowing their character traits, it fits them pretty well for the most part

"This isn't the first time [the team] has been in a tight spot" NOT THE FIRST TIME, YOU SAY? INCH RESTING

"[There was a legend that a castle of lions] held the secret of the super robot Voltron, Voltron could save them" YOU'RE PUTTING YOUR FAITH IN A LEGEND THAT MAY NOT EXIST?? LIKE EVENTUALLY THEY'RE RIGHT BUT OOOOO IS THE GARRISON USELESS, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE THEY ONLY SENT A TEAM OF FIVE INTO AN ACTIVE HOSTILE TAKE OVER ignoring the fact that they said they were too far to help anyway

The team literally got captured and yet the dialogue they chose was "we need to eject, it's better than crash landing, let's go!" ??? I think this was reused dialogue from episode 2 that they just plugged in

What a rad design for a villain, like he looks so fucking cool. I generally forget that he's reptilian almost vs his barbie doll looking son Maybe the subspecies of Drule he's a part of is reptilian! Holy shit Zarkon's eyes started flickering, is this guy cybernetic too??

PIDGE'S SQUEAKY TOY VOICE IS STILL SO FUNNY TO ME AND IT'S EVEN BETTER BECAUSE HIS VA (Neil Ross) ONLY TOSSED IT OUT FOR SHITS AND GIGGLES BUT THE PRODUCERS LOVED IT SO MUCH THEY FUCKIN KEPT IT

My god is the voice acting funny, Commander Yorak's weak grunt when slashing at slaves is everything

The Doomites are VERY different looking compared to Zarkon or even Lotor, probably another subspecies of the Drule race This time they look kind of batty? Yeah, that's it

I wonder what era their clothing is inspired by, obviously there's some creative liberty, but a lot of these clothes scream nobility to me also screams clowns but shhh lol

"What should we name this new robeast your Majesty?" "Uhhh Blue" Really had no creativity with this robeasts name guys

More really cool alien designs, I have to remember I can let loose when designing other species lol

Oh interesting, I thought the team fought alongside the rest of the slaves in the ring but Zarkon saved em for last Also, the fact that the guys were legitimately branded is insane, the dialogue makes it seem like they were all separated for it, but I refuse to think they'd let any of each other get taken away for it also they're called tattoos not brand, definitely censorship

ah yes Pidge's mad hops. Knowing he's from Balto, this is just telling me that my high gravity hc for the planet was right because there are only a few but very specific reasons why he'd be able to do that and being human ain't one of em

"Ugly virds" -Sven again some of these line deliveries are so funny, like every single one of svens just makes me laugh

the sound effects for Pidge jumping back down is also peak comedy oisndv

Lance's sass is always welcomed on this blog omg, the moody tendency is showing from his GoLion counterpart

"We're space explorers and we need space!" CATCH ME CRYING MYSELF TO SLEEP, THERE'S A REASON WHY THAT'S ON THE DESC OF MY BLOG NOW

If you hear laughing it's me LMAO

But actually, though, they're being treated kind of well in terms of being captured. The team never fights in the arena and when they're pretending to sleep as the guards are coming to take them over they just leave them be and reason that the boys will fight better tomorrow

those are some weak ass bars if Hunk can bend them

[Lance hands Keith a rock] "Don't miss" my humor is broken, and I'm laughing too much at a simple line

Hunk being afraid of heights is such a human characteristic to give him, and I mean that like it really feels like he's a person by giving him something that lots of people find silly or even relatable! (like me ha)

Their plan to escape was going level by level down with rope, except Keith fucking GETS DOWN WITHOUT THE ROPE It's ok, they hitched a ride ON A GIANT FLESH EATING BIRD THAT SWOOPS AT THEM

Hunk slips off his bird and reaches for PIDGE OF ALL PEOPLE TO GRAB HIM, but somehow that doesn't dislocate the poor boy's shoulder and they both go PLUMMETING TO THE GROUND AND SOMEHOW SURVIVE THE FALL Hunk lands in a pile of bones which OW and Pidge BOUNCES OFF THE GROUND BECAUSE OF HOW HARD HE HIT IT if that doesn't kill em, fucking nothing will good god Everyone else lands fine though, bastards lmao

Keith is Catholic™️ confirmed

Animal lover Keith over here being kind to mega vultures "I'll alvays think they're veutiful" -Sven You literally just called them ugly but ok

PIDGE'S KAZOO PANTING I CANNOT LMAOO They're running in formation (kinda), how cute!

Oh they really are all trained Sven and Keith knock out some guards with kicks Lance straight up tosses one without a sweat Hunk is also kicking but he's taking more down by himself AND PIDGE STARTS CHOKING A GUY OUT FROM BEHIND 10/10 would love to see more hand-to-hand combat

Straight up murdered a few guards by taking off in the slave ship, but shh they're robots it doesn't matter AND THEN THEY DESTROY PART OF THE CASTLE WHILE TAKING OFF AMAZING

Pidge sees a lion statue with a castle behind it and immediately just solves part of the legend that really shouldn't be a legend, the part with the castle anyway

So the team knows of the legend, meaning they were sent on a wild goose chase for basically nothing except that they did FIND IT Fun.

I think it's funny that they're describing Voltron before the split as a defender of justice but in GoLion he was literally the most egotistical bitch that after taking down basically everyone in a fight to prove his strength he got nerfed into those five lions

Episode over! Looks like I'm doing one episode per post with how much I'm talking lol That's all the time I have tonight for the rewind, but tomorrow I have a lot more free time, so maybe I can get like 2 more episodes at the very least

[sins-of-the-sea]

"Guy?"

"(G) Please go away, Captain. I'm trying to sleep!"

"I got word from La Demonia that you and Phoebus got into a fight."

"(G) Splendid, Captain. Did she also get news that water is wet?"

"The fight had you say something that really broke Phoebus."

"(G) Big news! Congratulate me for not doing so literally by sneezing on him!"

"Guy… tell me what happened, friend."

"(G) I told him he's a useless piece of shit who should stop fucking things up."

The walls and floorboards of the ship groan.

"(G) And those too, but I was giving the summary."

"…Guy. Do you know why you are finding yourself sleeping all day?"

"(G) Because my brother is so useless, he can't even even lift a drinking straw without a golem doing it for him."

The Captain sighs. "I would have thought you'd have more empathy for your brother than this…"

"(G) Empathy… empathy?! Let me tell you something about empathy, Captain--

"(G) 'Empathy' plagued me my entire life when it came to my brother, from when our stepfather tried to force conversion onto him, to when I stepped up to continue Phoebus' studies in the university so he could become a doctor when he was ready to return. 'Empathy' turned me into a kept man for a lord who wanted me dead. 'Empathy' had me agree to follow my brother to the ends of the earth was filled with starvation, mutinies, and battles we didn't win. 'Empathy' gave me a fever that would have killed me. 'Empathy' sold my soul to the Master.

"(G) I don't want to hear a lick of a lesson on 'empathy' when all it did is fuck me over harder than any toy up my orifices! I don't care if he's my brother! I don't care if you're my Captain!"

"……"

"(G) …. I did it again, I'm sorry, Captain! I didn't mean-"

"Guy. You don't have to apologize for feeling alone and that what you've done is not appreciated. You are in your right to be angry, even with me for approaching you like this. I didn't come to chastise you for being bitter, or for wanting to get away from your brother's shadow."

"(G) ……………"

"I wanted to let you know…. that your brother had a chance to make things right with Miss Taryn. He had the choice to do whatever he wanted with your body given you are much stronger than he is.

"He decided against it, knowing full well it would be against your consent. The bar may be low on what Phoebus can do as an accomplishment--but remember you are identical, especially genetically. He could have kept silent about the body swap and did whatever he wanted because you are the stronger, more physically capable brother. No one would be the wiser--not to you or Miss Taryn. But he still decided against what would essentially be assault on your end. Not only because it's wrong--but because he thought of your well-being."

"(G)……………."

"Of course, he still got slapped for thinking with the head between his legs instead of the ones on his shoulders, but I can't blame him given 1.) he got body swapped, 2.) he got body swapped with the Sin of Lust, and 3.) this is Miss Taryn we're talking about. So it seems the two of them aren't going to-"

"(G) Wait, he was slapped?! Is he okay??"

"Why don't you ask him?"

"(G) …………………………."

"I know you don't want to forgive him for what he's said the past winter. I know you don't want anything to do with Phoebus ever again. You are in your right to do so. But now that you are in his body and he has suffered enough in yours-

"Know there is a reason you are sleeping all day and cannot get up. Know there is a reason you are feeling deep dread and guilt for something you didn't do. Know there is a reason why Phoebus is scared to do anything. Know there is a reason why he is unable to improve and change. And above all…..

"Know you just fought with Phoebus using his face, his voice… directed at him. After he came to you not to scold you for having a brand--but out of concern as to why you didn't trust him enough in the first place when it mattered the most."

"(G) Captain, I-....."

"I'll see if I can talk to him if he's okay. You have maybe three hours left to the body swap. Go ahead and rest. It'll be over soon."

[harleiquina]

I've seen this for a very long time and I smile everytime because yes, it is fun because it is real.

However... do you know why is it real?

*cracks her knuckles while dusting Ye Old Knowledge of Advertising in her brain*

Short version:

At least when I was in College 12 years ago, it was a fact (one studied and taught) that men and women* shop differently.

Men tend to be more self-indulgent and literally buy anything that will make them feel wanted/horny/powerful. They pretty much live in a fantasy-land created by Advertisers and their own macho-brain.

Women are more practical, we live on this very real earth and we are used (by society's pressure) to care about Home Economics more. If we buy something we expect to have a product that is in a good price and will do what promises to do. We don't care that much about the concept of a product but the reality behind it.

*I'm not alienating the Queer community, I honestly do not know how their impact is measured or taught at this moment in College (as I said my formation was 12 years ago, in Argentina, were the LGBTQ+ community at the time wasn't thought of regardless of its size -maybe because my teachers were 50+ at the time-. My guess is that these 2 concepts still apply and probably align more with the "female" mindset of "I better get my money's worth for it" but thats a blind guess on my end). For simplicity's sake I'll keep talking about men and women.

Disclaimer: by no means I am saying that women will never be self-indulgent. But it is a fact that we usually put other's needs before our own, especially a mom (who would be buying things for the entire household and not just for herself).

First things first: How are Ads made?

Think of it as an assembly line.

You have the Company that has created a product but they need people to buy it. So they go to an Ad Agency.

In there they'll met the Accounts Team. The Company shares the information needed on a Brief and Accounts does the Briefing (analizing the info and creates an audience for that product).

This new Brief will go to the Media Team that, based off the audience, will think of the better outlets to buy Ad spaces.

Once everything is planned out it is time for the Creativity Team to take over and create the Ads needed. (After the creation the Company returns and if they like the ideas presented then the Production Team takes over and shoots the commercials/takes pictures and prints, edit and all that jazz).

Of course this is an oversimplification, processes takes time and if it is anything similar to my experience in College, many nervous breakdowns.

Get to know your audience

The most important part of the process is to create an audience and to do so we usually have two sets of information.

Hard Info (to give it a name): age, gender, social status, degree/studies, geographical location, income (if applies).

Soft info (idem): ideology, what music/movies/tv/books they like, food and brands they already consume, sports they play/like... pretty much anything that helps to identify a type of person that will buy whatever product we are presented with.

There isn't just one audience, there can be 2, 3, 4... you name it. The easiest example to show you that is a toy commercial: of course it is aimed at kids but it is also aimed at their parents (mostly moms).

Send in the Psychologists!

One of the reasons why I decided to walk away from my career was that we are the Psychologists Gone Bad. You know how any kind of Counselor or Therapist is not allowed to meddle and is just supposed to guide you so you can find the answer yourself? Well... we will tell you that whatever issue you have will be solved with X.

"He DOESN'T look happy..." 🤦🏻‍♀️

In order to do so we not just analize the hypotetical audience but also use some tools like the Mirror Stage

TL;DR babies usually think themselves as a part of a whole (a part of their mom or the same unit as other kids/babies -reason why if one cries everyone else cries-) until they realize that they are a single individual after discovering themselves in a mirror. Thing is that a mirror shows us just a part of ourselves (you can't have a 360° image so you only see the front or the back or the side) and that is where Advertising jumps in and replaces the mirror.

Advertising is not about selling a product (that depends on the stores and the Company that makes it) we sell an idea... a concept... a lifestyle.

Other main tools that probably you know well are the Color Theory and Significant/Signifier and all of this is used to create the "perfect" Ad for the audience.

Quick thought before continuing: According to my Psychology teacher there is no Subliminal Advertising because an Ad needs to be perceived to work and in the moment the Ad is noticed it stops being Subliminal. What you can find are inside jokes or Easter Eggs among creatives, nothing else.

SEX!

Now that I have your attention, read my blog...

Everybody knows that "sex sells" and sadly it is true. However it doesn't necesarily means that all Ads should present an orgy to be noticed... sometimes a hint of an idea is all it takes. But of course it doesn't work for everyone (Ace speaking here).

There is a cleaning products brand called Mr. Muscle (Mr. Músculo in Argentina) that used to look like this back in the '90s

The concept was that there was no need for you to be physically strong because the product itself was strong enough to get rid of the grime.

And now he looks like this because is a lot easier on the eyes...

My Marketing teacher pointed at us that when the character runs towards the camera at the end of the Ad you have a few seconds (less than that, actually) when his crotch fills the screen and now I can't unsee it.

"I am not that dumb, you can't make me buy something with all those tricks"

Oh, my sweet summer child, you probably already have.

Even if these tools are the most common, Advertising relies A LOT on Emotional Manipulation and nobody can escape it.

Once you know what triggers an emotional response on your audience, you got them.

Maybe you grew up with parents/family that always had X coffee for breakfast, or Y cookies remind you of your time in school, or Z soap always left a nice feeling on your skin... we are connected to brands either by first-hand experiences or we inherited them from our family or friends. This is what brands look for, a captive audience that will always buy them (until they experience something else or the company changes the product and "is not the same" lowering sales).

So how do brands compete with each other to either steal customers or get new ones? Through ideals and concepts shown in Ads.

A concept is the first thing a Creative (like me) has to come up with because it will reing everything that we will do for that product. It can be either a single word or a short sentence (that might become the slogan). Creatives beware, it is not easy to find it but once you do you're unstoppable.

This Concept is the door to the Fantasy.

Bursting bubbles

Sorry... I had to... I love Labyrinth

As I said in the short version of this... essay?... men and women perceive and buy things in different ways.

Mom worked in Walmart for 27 years (I believe) and during her time as cashier she noticed this as well.

Men usually buy the exclusive wines, exported cheese, fancy lotions probably because they think "I work hard, I deserve it" while women always look at the price first and then buy it because "you can't allow yourself to spend this amount in something like this". Of course I'm speaking of working-class people, those who are not poor but are not rich either.

It has being said before that men are more visual than women (reason why p*rn is usually aimed at men regardless of who is it really meant for) and they have a delusion of grandiosity that comes of centuries of being on top of the world (I'm so done with this word, but yes... due to Patriarchy). So they already think that are quite a catch for all women so what Advertising does is pump-up that fantasy. If you buy A, smell like B, use C jeans and have D women will flock towards you.

One of the examples we were given was of a female lingerie ad. Usually a girl wearing whatever ensamble in a bed or in a sugestive position. Is clothing for women, will (most likely be) on a women's magazine but it is an ad for men. Because the husband/partner will buy it (or give her hints about it) because he thinks that his wife/partner will look just like the Ad, and even if she doesn't he will remember the model.

What about the counterpart? So a male underwear ad. It will show a six-pack guy in nothing but briefs and a dominant position. Yes, it is eye-candy for women and it is also a fantasy for men that are absolutely convinced that they will look just as good as the model (so it is not an ideal to achieve... they are convinced they are irresistible). The men will just buy it because that image is who they are: powerful, manly, sexy, you name it. But a woman... will see if it is of good quality, if it streches enough, how can it be washed, and so on... and maybe won't even buy it.

This is not a new phenomena nor necessarily attached to Misoginy. My aunt was reading Ernesto Sábato the other day and read me a fragment of an essay where he also speaks about the difference between the male and female mind. His angle was something like "there are not female philosophers because women will always care more about what they can see and touch, they don't waste time in assumptions".

Again, this doesn't mean that all women are like this, it is a generalization, but it has been seen coming over and over again for enough time to make it the rule of thumb.

Yes, of course, Ads do affect women as well because unlike men, women do see them as an aspiration "I have to be thinner/younger/blonder/etc" to be attractive... but is not the Ad that determines who is attractive or not, is the men. As I said before, men are more visual than women, they "buy" the images and look for them in their surroundings making women put on an effort to be preceived desirable by them.

Small parenthesis before you get the torches. I am Aroace, straight. My life does not depend on whether I can "get a man" or not, I was taught to be independent. So no, I do not care if I look "cute" for a guy but when you sit down and analize everything that we women have available (clothing, make-up, hairstyles) and why is it popular among us is most likely because it fullfills a man's fantasy. Eyeliner to make our eyes look bigger, lipstick and blush are born out of the physical signs of a woman's orgasm; high heels to make the but bigger; bras with any kind of wire or padding to make boobs bigger... just look at anything and you'll see it. Yes, some women enjoy those things but eventually the questions "are you doing this for you? Why do you like it? And why?" will appear and it will lead to a big journey of self discovery and yes, most likely will finish with the realization that we didn't have much of a choice. Everything that we can buy to use in ourselves will respond to someone's fantasy of how someone should look like. There is no escape. Sorry.

Not all men

Mmmm... debatable.

I mean, yes, there are men that are not as basic... although it is a basic instinct.

We (humans) are still animals, we evolved but some wild instincts still remain. Our education will limit our reaction to certain triggers but it doesn't mean that we won't feel anything deep down because of them.

Advertising just takes advantage of it.

Welcome to the jungle, baby.

[watchworldlive]

How Much Is Miss Rachel Worth? The Viral Star’s Shocking Net Worth Revealed!

Miss Rachel, the beloved creator behind "Songs for Littles," has become a household name for parents and toddlers worldwide. Her educational videos, catchy songs, and down-to-earth teaching style have captured the hearts of millions. But with all her success, the big question everyone’s asking is: How much is Miss Rachel worth? You may have seen her cheerful face across YouTube, or maybe your little one is already singing along to her melodies. Either way, there’s no denying that Miss Rachel is a sensation.

The Rise of Miss Rachel: A Journey to Fame

Miss Rachel’s journey to fame didn’t happen overnight. In fact, like many content creators, she started small. Born Rachel Griffin Accurso, she was a passionate educator who sought to help kids learn and develop, especially those with speech delays. What began as a simple idea has since transformed into an international hit.

How Did She Start?

Back in 2019, Rachel decided to upload her first YouTube video. Little did she know, her heartfelt content would resonate with so many parents looking for interactive ways to engage their toddlers. As her channel, Songs for Littles, grew, so did her fanbase. Parents loved her relatable teaching style, and kids couldn’t get enough of her fun, musical lessons.

It wasn’t long before Rachel became a staple in the world of children's entertainment. But let’s get to the juicy part—how much is Miss Rachel worth after all her hard work and viral success?

Miss Rachel’s Income Sources

Miss Rachel's net worth doesn’t come from just one place. Like many digital creators, she’s got her hands in several pots! Let’s break down the income streams that contribute to Miss Rachel's impressive earnings:

1. YouTube Revenue

A huge chunk of Miss Rachel’s earnings comes from YouTube. With millions of views on her channel, the ad revenue alone is likely bringing in a nice paycheck. The more views her videos rack up, the more ads YouTube serves, leading to bigger revenue. According to estimates, YouTubers can make anywhere from $0.01 to $0.03 per view. With videos on her channel reaching millions of views, you do the math!

2. Sponsorships & Collaborations

As Miss Rachel's popularity has skyrocketed, it's no surprise that brands have come knocking. From children’s toys to educational tools, there’s a lot of potential for lucrative sponsorships. While Miss Rachel tends to stay true to her educational mission, carefully chosen brand partnerships can significantly add to her overall income.

3. Merchandise Sales

If you thought Miss Rachel was just about videos, think again! The Miss Rachel brand has expanded to include a wide variety of merchandise, from educational tools and books to clothing and accessories. Her fans (both big and small) love the opportunity to support their favorite teacher. And let’s face it—merch is a fantastic way to grow a brand’s income!

4. Streaming Platforms

While YouTube is Miss Rachel’s main platform, she’s also made her content available on streaming services like Amazon and Roku. These platforms open the door to an even broader audience, and let’s not forget the potential for royalty payments.

5. Crowdfunding & Patreon

Many creators turn to platforms like Patreon for support, and Miss Rachel is no different. With the help of her loyal fanbase, crowdfunding has likely played a role in sustaining her brand’s growth and financial success. In exchange for a small fee, fans can gain access to exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and other perks.

So, How Much Is Miss Rachel Worth?

Now that we’ve covered her income sources, the question remains: How much is Miss Rachel worth in total? Though she’s not one to flaunt her wealth, estimates suggest that her net worth is anywhere from $5 million to $10 million. That’s right! Miss Rachel has built a small empire, and it’s only growing.

Between her YouTube channel, brand deals, merchandise, and other revenue streams, her fortune continues to increase. It’s truly inspiring to see how a simple passion for education has turned into a multi-million-dollar success story.

What’s Next for Miss Rachel?

Miss Rachel shows no signs of slowing down. As her audience grows, so do the opportunities. With more parents seeking high-quality, educational content for their children, Miss Rachel is in the perfect position to expand even further. Whether it's more merchandise, collaborations with other educators, or even TV deals, the sky’s the limit for this superstar.

Here are a few potential areas Miss Rachel could explore next:

Educational Apps: Given her expertise in teaching, a Miss Rachel app could help kids learn through interactive games and lessons.

Book Deals: A series of children’s books authored by Miss Rachel? Yes, please! This would be a natural progression for her brand.

Live Events & Tours: Imagine Miss Rachel going on tour and performing for her young fans! This could be a massive hit with families who already adore her content.

Conclusion

So, how much is Miss Rachel worth? While her estimated net worth might range between $5 million to $10 million, the true value of Miss Rachel lies in the joy, education, and confidence she brings to kids and families around the globe. It’s rare to find someone who has managed to build a business while staying so true to their passion and values, but Miss Rachel has done just that. Whether you’re a fan of her work or just learning about her today, there’s no denying her impact. Miss Rachel is a reminder that success isn’t always about money—it’s about making a positive difference, one happy child at a time!

[scottjackson9]

Buzzing into Adventure: A Closer Look at the KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack

As the school bell rings and summer fades into memory, it's time for kids to gear up for another exciting year of learning and adventure. A trusty backpack is an essential companion on this journey. But not just any backpack will do. The KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack stands out as a perfect blend of fun and functionality, capturing the hearts of little ones while ticking all the boxes for parents. With its vibrant design inspired by nature's buzzing beauty, this backpack invites children to embrace their creativity and curiosity every day they head out the door. Let's dive deeper into what makes this bumblebee-themed accessory a fantastic choice! KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack

The Importance of Functional and Fun Backpacks for Children

Choosing the right backpack for children is about more than just style. Functionality is crucial in ensuring kids carry their essentials comfortably and efficiently.

A well-designed backpack distributes weight evenly, reducing strain on young shoulders. This feature is vital as it promotes good posture, especially during those long school days.

Fun designs, like the KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack, inspire excitement around learning. When kids are excited to wear their backpacks, they're more likely to take pride in carrying them and maintain organization with their supplies.

Additionally, a playful design sparks the imagination. It encourages creativity during playtime while providing a sense of individuality. Combining practicality with fun helps create positive experiences for parents and children.

The Impact of Sustainable Materials in the Production of the Bumblebee Backpack

Sustainability is more than just a trend; it's a responsibility. The KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack embraces this ethos by using eco-friendly materials in its production.

These sustainable choices reduce the environmental footprint, ensuring that our children's backpacks are fun and kind to the planet. Imagine your little one carrying a stylish and environmentally conscious bag made from recycled plastics or organic fabrics.

Using such materials also promotes young users' awareness of the importance of caring for our Earth. Every time they wear their Bumblebee Backpack, they're reminded of sustainability's impact.

This approach resonates with parents who prioritize eco-friendliness while shopping for their children. Choosing products like the Bumblebee Backpack supports a shift towards greener manufacturing practices, paving the way for future generations to enjoy a healthier planet.

Alternatives to the KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack

Parents have a variety of options when exploring alternatives to the KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack. Brands like Skip Hop offer whimsical designs that appeal to young children. Their Zoo Pack collection features playful animal motifs, making them fun and functional.

Another noteworthy alternative is the Pottery Barn Kids backpacks. Known for their durability and customizable features, they provide ample storage space for school supplies or snacks.

For eco-conscious families, consider brands like Earthwise. They focus on sustainable materials while still delivering vibrant designs that excite kids.

You might check out Target's Cat & Jack line. These bags are budget-friendly without compromising style or practicality—ideal for active little ones who love adventure in everyday life. Each option brings something unique to the table!

Practicality for Parents and Children

When it comes to choosing a backpack, practicality is paramount for both parents and children. The KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack strikes the perfect balance between fun and functionality.

Its spacious compartments provide ample room for books, snacks, and toys, so kids can easily organize their belongings without feeling overwhelmed by clutter.

Parents will appreciate the lightweight design. This makes carrying everything from school supplies to sports gear a breeze. Additionally, adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit for growing kids.

The easy-to-clean fabric adds another layer of convenience. Accidents happen, but with this backpack, cleanup is simple and quick.

This thoughtful design means less stress during busy mornings or after-school activities. It's all about making life easier while keeping little ones excited about their adventures!

Durability and Safety of the Backpack

Durability and safety are paramount when it comes to children's backpacks. The KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack excels in both areas, making it a standout choice for parents seeking quality.

Crafted from high-quality materials, this backpack is built to withstand the rigors of daily adventures. Whether it's school days or weekend outings, its sturdy construction ensures it can handle everything kids throw at it—literally and figuratively! The Bumblebee Backpack holds up remarkably well against wear and tear from books to snacks.

Safety features are also thoughtfully integrated into its design. The straps are padded for comfort, reducing strain on little shoulders during long hours of use. Additionally, reflective elements enhance visibility in low-light conditions—an essential consideration for busy families navigating city streets or parking lots.

Parents can breathe easy knowing they've chosen a product with non-toxic materials free from harmful chemicals. This commitment prioritizes their child's health and supports eco-friendly practices that benefit our planet.

The KIDDIETOTES Bumblebee Backpack combines fun aesthetics, practical functionality, and robust safety measures. It's more than just a stylish accessory; it's an investment in your child's day-to-day experience while providing peace of mind for parents everywhere. With all these strengths combined, choosing this backpack feels like an adventure waiting to happen!

[delusionalbitchinthehouse]

It's the way Enjolras and Grantaire present as total opposites but really, they're not. They share such a fierce loyalty, and no matter what Grantaire says, they both care so much. It's obvious with Enj because really, he wears his heart on his sleeve, even when he doesn't realize he does, but R cares too. Cares and feels so much he can't stand seeing his friends running full steam to their death. It might not be the only reason he drinks, but I believe drowning his feelings in alcohol is the only way he knows how to cope with the loss he can feel coming.

That's why I love the way he looks out for Gavroche in the musical - and that I'm pissed they gave that role to Courfeyrac in the movie, as much as I love Courf. It's proof that Grantaire does care for something else than what he claims are his only interest - his bottle and Enjolras. Still in the musical : the way he interacts with Les Amis, most of the actors playing him really understood the assignment and I love them for it. (I'm shit at remembering names, but the Grantaire I saw was amazing btw, i'll check my program for his name later). Like, the way he teases Marius during Red And Black - the R I saw laughed and said something along the lines of "c'mere my boy gimme a kiss" after the "I am agog, I am aghast" line, and it felt so on brand. I like to think of Grantaire as very physically affectionate, so seeing him give Marius a big smooch (and seeing Marius looking equal part embarrassed and amused) felt really right. It's the way he always speaks (well, sing, really, but you get my point) loud, looking around at the other students and raising his bottle at them - boisterous, delighting in every laugh he causes, like maybe making his friends happy, helping lifting the mood is where his worth lays.

And Enjolras. I don't know if it's always the case, but the one I saw checked on R a lot. Quick glances over his shoulder, lots of claps on the back, talking really close to his face during Do You Hear The People Sing (they were almost forehead to forehead, that's how close). Now that definitely speaks of care, right ? Sure, one could argue he's making sure R doesn't cause trouble, but really, that does not explain Enj's willingless to let him finish his clownery before telling him off, doesn't justify the lingering touchs - and there are a lot of those, if you pay attention ; doesn't explain why, if Enjolras truly cannot stand Grantaire and his antics, he hasn't kicked him out definitely yet. And we all know R wouldn't return if Enj told him not to. So why ? Why let him come back everytime ? Does Enjolras himself even knows ? Probably not. It's not like he's the best at understanding feelings and especially not his own. Emotional constipation doesn't even cover it. But he keeps R around, despite everything, despite the fights, despite the harsh words traded, the annoyed glares, the drinking, the jabs, the claims of uselessness.

Because, in my opinion, Enjolras needs Grantaire to poke and prod, to bring him back to earth in a way that may piss him off, but still benefits him - because i do believe it benefits him. Having someone questioning his plans, reminding him of the harsh reality of the world. Grantaire does that for him, conciously or not, and though his warnings are rarely heeded, I believe he needs to try and temper his friends' enthusiasm ; and there is no one as enthusiast as Enjolras.

Let's be honest, Enjolras does not mince his words, especially when it comes to R ; he can be cruel to him, even if not purposefully, for I do think he doesn't realize the weights of his words, nor does he sees the extend of Grantaire's reverent admiration - love - for him, and just how much it amplifies the effect those words have on him. Grantaire, with his self-deprecative sarcasm, his cynism and endless rambling, pushes it, toys with the limits of Enj's patience, and he knows it. It really doesn't help his case, but, for me ? In his mind, it's the only way for him to exist in Enjolras' world ; by being a mild annoyance hovering at the outskirt of his thoughts. Of course, with all the words of fury hurled his way by his beloved Enjolras, he doesn't see the way he is kept close despite it all.

And, well. You know. The whole "permets-tu" thing. Enjolras smiles. And it isn't because he thinks R suddenly believes in the cause they're about to die for. Enjolras may be oblivious, but he is far from stupid. No, he smiles and squeezes Grantaire's hand knowing R won't let him die alone. He smiles because he will die holding the hand of someone who could have chosen to lay low and live, but would rather die by his side. I saw someone saying that Grantaire chosing to die right there could be out of either extreme selflessness or selfishness, whether it was prompted by the desire not to let Enj die alone or not wanting to live without him - and his friends. I believe it's both, because R is contradictory as are all humans, and the way he's pulled between different things, impulses and wants makes him such a complex and interesting character. One that volunteers to help Enjolras, earns a chance to prove himself to him, but gets distracted and let him down. One that will squeeze Enj's shoulder and tell him to "be easy", but will later ramble about the uselessness of Enj's efforts. One that drinks every words dripping from Enjolras' mouth, only to spat them out like venom.

But Enjolras is too, isn't he ? Contradictory. A rich young boy ready to overthrow a system that benefits him - who's ready to die trying. A charming young man capable of being terrible. A driven, purposeful man, letting a drunk cynic disturb his meetings again and again and again. A compasssionate boy who executes a man on the spot. Someone with all his life ahead of him, pinned to a wall by eight bullets (it's eight, right ? I'm having sudden doubts and i don't currently have my book near to check) at twenty-something.

So, really, those two aren't that different ; it's no surprise their relationship fascinates, no wonder people are curious, no wonder people write about them, explore what ifs and could've beens.

Someone please ask me about Enjolras and Grantaire or just Les Amis in general. I swear i will be completely normal and won't rant for hours. I cannot be trusted about that.