#florist freshwater

[poppiesandamber]

Discover the Best Florist in Freshwater: Poppies and Amber

When it comes to finding the perfect floral arrangements in Freshwater, look no further than Poppies and Amber. This local gem has earned a reputation for crafting stunning bouquets and providing exceptional service. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to brighten someone's day, Poppies and Amber is your go-to florist freshwater.

A Wide Range of Beautiful Flowers

At Poppies and Amber, you'll find a diverse selection of flowers to suit every taste and occasion. From classic roses to exotic orchids, their expert florists create breathtaking arrangements that are sure to impress. Each bouquet is meticulously designed to highlight the natural beauty of the flowers, making it a true work of art.

Expert Florists with a Passion for Flowers

The team at Poppies and Amber consists of passionate and experienced florists who take pride in their craft. They stay up-to-date with the latest floral trends and techniques, ensuring that every arrangement is fresh, vibrant, and on point. Their dedication to quality and creativity sets them apart from other florists in the area.

Customized Floral Arrangements

One of the standout features of Poppies and Amber is their ability to create customized floral arrangements. Whether you have a specific vision in mind or need guidance in selecting the perfect flowers, their team will work closely with you to bring your ideas to life. Personalized service is at the heart of what they do, ensuring that every customer leaves with a smile.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Poppies and Amber offers floral arrangements for a wide range of occasions. Here are just a few examples:

Weddings: Make your special day even more memorable with stunning bridal bouquets, centerpieces, and floral decorations.

Birthdays: Brighten someone's birthday with a vibrant and cheerful bouquet.

Anniversaries: Celebrate your love with a romantic arrangement that speaks from the heart.

Sympathy: Express your condolences with a tasteful and elegant sympathy bouquet.

Convenient Flower Delivery in Freshwater

Poppies and Amber makes it easy to send flowers to your loved ones with their convenient delivery service. Whether you're sending a last-minute gift or planning ahead, their reliable delivery ensures that your flowers arrive fresh and on time. They cover not only Freshwater but also the surrounding Northern Beaches area, making it simple to share the beauty of flowers with friends and family.

Why Choose Poppies and Amber?

Quality and Freshness: They source the finest flowers to ensure every arrangement is of the highest quality.

Artistry and Creativity: Their expert florists bring a unique touch to every bouquet, making each one special.

Customer Satisfaction: They are committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring that every customer is delighted with their purchase.

Local Business: Supporting Poppies and Amber means supporting a local Freshwater business that cares about its community.

Visit Poppies and Amber Today

Whether you're looking to brighten up your home, surprise a loved one, or plan an event, Poppies and Amber is the florist to choose in Freshwater. Visit their charming shop or browse their online store to discover the perfect floral arrangement for any occasion. Experience the beauty and artistry of Poppies and Amber, where every bouquet is made with love and care.

[pearlwithgirl]

Rendezvous

Kyle 'Gaz' Garrick - f!reader

Fluffy smut (smutty fluff?) - 1163 words

TW: Alcohol

~

Here's a second "first meeting" with husband!Gaz and a delicious hint of public play.

Days like these roll by so pleasantly, languid tranquility washing over you like frothy waves. Fresh, briny air tickles your nose and mingles with the hushed cacophony of the boardwalk one street over. There’s a buzzing drone of excitement in the air. 

The sun’s kiss is so gentle on your skin as it recedes toward the horizon, lofting the waxing moon into a cotton candy kaleidoscope. The tawny sparrows carry a particularly melodious tune that flutters softly on the mellow breeze.

Pearl chiffon flutters around your upper thighs, revealing a swath of smooth skin - a midnight snack for a certain lucky someone. This dainty little number is saved for special occasions, pulled from the longest shadow of your wardrobe when you want to really turn his pretty head.

It’s shaping up to be a perfect evening, but maybe everything just tastes sweeter when you’re expecting such a ravishing nightcap. Somehow, you already feel heady, floating on a foretold fantasy. You’re already dewy at the apex of your thighs - you know you’ll be left quivering and satisfied before you nod off against a broad chest. 

Your shoes clack along the bluestone as you pass fragrant window boxes and darling storefronts. A wine shop, a pâtisserie, a florist, a gelato bar. Your eyes flutter shut for a moment - it smells like raspberries and cream with an undertone of caramel and lilac. 

You stop in front of a green building, smooth viridian cedar framing a large window. Peering through the gleaming glass as you reach for the brass handle, your eyes wander over cozy booths and varnished portraits. It’s sultry and comfortable.

A tinkling little bell announces your arrival, but that dashing patron near the back wall already saw you the second you came into view. He’s been waiting patiently.

It doesn’t matter how long ago you declared your shared forever, how deeply familiar you’ve become - you still get butterflies every time he comes into view.

The quiet murmur of conversation is obscured by a velvety jazz tune, soft crooning and lightly syncopated trombone. Your feet move in time with the strum of a double bass, carrying you closer to the familiar stranger at the bar. You feel weightless. 

He appraises you, the corner of his mouth quirking up before he takes a long sip of his drink. He looks effortlessly put-together, top two buttons undone, just a hint of his well-muscled chest peeking out from behind the deep emerald cotton. 

Behind the smooth mahogany bar top, he wears those fine Italian brogues you got him two Christmases ago. He strains against the confines of his slate grey slacks, hard from the moment he sat down and let his mind drift to back you. 

It always comes back to you.

His tasteful jewelry is washed bronze in the orangey glow of the pendant light. It clinks against his tumbler as he sets it down, licking an amber drop from his bottom lip and raising his fingers in a cheeky little wave. 

‘Come hither.’ 

Gladly.

You approach him, his eyes dragging a swooping line up your bare legs - you could get lost in those pools of cloying honey. They burn with a sinful fire already, but all you can feel is a simmering glow deep in your belly. 

You raise onto tiptoes and slide onto the plush stool, crossing your legs at the ankles and spinning to face him. He orders you a drink, something blush-pink and effervescent.

For the other patrons, the bar obscures everything below your ribs. His eyes stay just above that line, lingering on your chest before flickering up to the strand of freshwater pearls around your neck. 

He flashes a crooked smile, unashamed. He knows those pearls, and he knows what you’re here for. He’s well aware of this little game you find yourselves playing. 

He can see the minx beneath your coquettish façade. He’s perceptive, measured, with a gentle but firm confidence - that’s what originally drew you to him. The earnest charm, the devotion and witty humour - that’s what made you stick around, what firmly secured you to him with matrimonial silk.

It only took him 8 months to wrap a golden band around your ring finger, pale green moissanite and delicate filigree. The ring sits safe back home, right beside his own atop the vanity in your shared ensuite. 

“Lovely to finally meet you. It’s about time we ran into each other again. All those glimpses through the crowd - you look even better up close.”  He holds out a well-manicured hand, cool rings brushing your palm. “I’m Kyle.”

The fun begins. 

You introduce yourself in return, playing along, acting like you don’t know each other inside-and-out already. Every inch, every last dip and swell.

Conversation flows smoothly. “How’ve you been?”, “How long are you in town?”, “Have you been here before?” - standard fare. The real conversation lies between the lines. It plays out as batting lashes, shared sensual glances, and eventually, a hand creeping up past your knee. 

Long digits skate up your naked thigh, pausing just as he brushes against your soaked centre. Pearly canines emerge as he smiles, and his expression warms up as he dips two slender fingers into you.

Your breath is caught in your throat, the moment hanging hot and heavy. He pulls them out, glistening, and raises them up to his lips, sucking them clean with a pop. The bartender catches the noise, and he turns his attention to Kyle just as he pops a maraschino cherry into his mouth. 

He chews, swallows, and gives his compliments to the bartender before asking for the joint bill. 

“Absolutely delicious.” He raves, one hand still gripping your thigh. The dapper man behind the counter is none the wiser.

Kyle stands up and sneakily adjusts his growing bulge, peering down at you, wordless. He grabs your hand and raises it to kiss the silky skin right above the naked area that’s usually sheltered in gold. Leisurely, he pulls the same hand down to his side pocket, and you reach in. 

Your fingertips brush the crinkly foil packet of a condom, and just beyond it, the polished plastic of a room key. His stare locks onto you, cat-like, and those sly eyes trace a path to the picture window behind two oblivious revelers.  You follow the line, half-lidded gaze landing on the ritzy hotel across the plaza. You pluck out the smooth key and he tips his head to you, a brief farewell. 

He struts around the bar and out the door with a ringing chime, and you watch him stride across cobblestones and around the glittering fountain, coming to a stop just before the threshold. He swings his head around slowly and instantly finds you through the pane, now transparent with the withdrawn sun. 

Just close enough to perceive, you catch a wink before he turns back around and pushes through the oak double doors, disappearing around a corner and up to his suite to await your arrival.

[sugcrpill]

introducing maren... 

BASICS:

NAME: Maren Reiher

MEANING: Maren meaning “star of the sea” and Reiher, which translated in English means Heron, which is a freshwater bird.

NICKNAME: None, but she wouldn’t hate to have some, especially if they’re nice nicknames from friends. 

GENDER: Cis-Female (She/Her)

HEIGHT: 5′9″

AGE: Old, but right now she looks about 24.

ZODIAC: Pisces

SPOKEN LANGUAGES: English, Ancient Greek.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

HAIR COLOUR: Very blonde

EYE COLOUR: Blue

VOICE: Elle Fanning

DOMINANT HAND: Right

POSTURE: Relaxed, nothing too strictly proper but not sloppy either.

SCARS: None

TATTOOS:  None

MOST NOTICEABLE FEATURE(S): None

ADULT LIFE:

OCCUPATION: Florist

CURRENT RESIDENCE: A small cottage on the edge of town, with a beautiful kept and cared for well that lives on the edge of her land.

CLOSE FRIENDS: TBD???

RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Single

FINANCIAL STATUS: She has enough money to be comfortable.

DRIVER’S LICENSE: No

CRIMINAL RECORD: No

VICES: Chocolate & Wine

SEX AND ROMANCE:

SEXUAL ORIENTATION: Pansexual

ROMANTIC ORIENTATION: Panromantic

ABILITIES:

Maren is a Naiad, these are a type of female spirit, or nymph, who are known to preside over wells, springs, streams, brooks and other bodies of fresh water. Nymph’s aren’t immortal beings but live especially long lives, spanning over many millennium's if they remain well taken care of. There are sub divisions of Nymph’s, the Naiad are Nymph’s who reside of bodies of fresh water. Nymph’s are spirits that are bound to specific places in nature, and while they often dwell deep in unpopulated areas in nature they’re often described as being beloved creatures.

Nymph’s powers vary depending on what elements in nature they’re in control of. Maren’s strongest abilities are underwater resuscitation, pressure resistance, cold resistance, enhanced durability, as well the ability to control the flow of water.

There are some shared abilities & weaknesses when it comes to Nymphs. They have the ability to undergo changes to their appearances, though the divinities can only change their form to that of other maidens, a form that is always described as fairy-like, and fair. Like all the nymphs, Maren also possesses the gift of prophecy. This being the reason for which why many of the springs and fountains over which they presided were believed (by ancient humans) to inspire the mortals who drank of their waters with the power of foretelling future events.  

LIMITATIONS:

Maren’s life force is directly linked to the part of nature in which she’s in control of. Her life will most certainly end if this specific part of nature were to die out. Maren specifically is tied to a fresh water well that sits on the edge of her property in Babylon, so if this well were to be destroyed it would inevitably end Maren’s life as well. This doesn't mean that the nymph cannot leave her environment but if one of the two is injured or damaged, the other will also suffer the effects, including death.

Like many Fay Folk, she can be harmed by things made of iron/steel, it would burn her flesh. Another common weakness of the Fay are milks and creams, which are intoxicating to them, causing them to behave as if they’re drunk on alcohol, which does not effect them as strongly.

Maren would never die of old age nor illness, but she’s not necessarily immortal, and could be acquiesce to death in various other forms.  

PERSONALITY:

For all her years Maren still seems quite innocent. She is kind, gentle, and unabashedly loyal to those who hold meaning in her life. Nymph’s are often described as living legends of eternal beauty and grace, existing as the ideal image of perfection in the imaginations of mortals. Maren is no exception to this. While she is quite beautiful she’s also childlike in her playful, generous behavior. She feels her every emotion with intensity, even the ones she wishes she could not feel at all. Anger, jealousy, and even great sadness.

BACKGROUND:

Maren has been living on the lands of East Texas long before the settlements, developments, even before religion. Promised to the land she presides over, protecting a nurturing the well that she’s been bound to. A millennia was spent staying out of sight of humans, and other beings, tending to the land that she called her home. Long over are the days when Nymph’s were worshipped, the days when the ancient’s would pay tribute to the Goddess Artemis, and the Nymphs in ceremony. The days of going to the fountain Nymphaeum, and praying to the water spirits, all over. The survivors of Nymph kind are spread out now, much like Maren, staying near to the land they’re charged with caring to.

Many of Maren’s sisters have died. The American industrial revolution brought about many of their deaths as forests were knocked down to make way for great new roads, rivers drained and bodies of water polluted with factory waste. There were however a lucky few, like Maren, who were bound to things that remained far out of the way of human kind, and their unforgiving need for advancement.

Luck would have it that when people began settling into Babylon that the land where Maren had been living went untouched, for many, many years. On rare occasion she would be met with men who tracked her lands, finding themselves at the natural well that she loved and looked over so dearly, replenishing themselves with its water before returning to their hunting. Maren would stay out of sight, simply watching and observing human kind, and the non-humans which seemed so drawn to the land alike. It wasn’t until the 1960′s that Maren found herself ‘coming out’ introducing herself to the town and it’s occupants, disguised as a human woman. It was easy, nobody ever asked too many questions. When it came time that she might be caught through deception by her lack of aging she would simply change her appearance, the way many nymph’s would when they found their simple lives being disturbed.

In the years since introducing herself into the public, and the lives of those who inhabit Babylon, she had built herself a “proper” human dwelling on the property of the well she’s bound to. She looks over the land, and all nature fiercely, as she has done since the beginning. Maren has merged herself into the town, even getting herself a simple yet humble job working at a florist, arranging bouquets of flowers and ringing up customers. She’s aware of the presence that supernatural beings have in town, and feels safer knowing that she’s not alone in an endless sea of humans here. There’s however, an element of survivors guilt that she holds within her knowing that so many of her kind are gone while she still lives, it can at times become overwhelming to think how one thing in this world is keeping her alive and how vulnerable it is. Though, these are things she tries to not often dwell on for too long.

[captainshop]

Choose flower bouquet that you like for your special one and make the booking by communicating with us by phone at 02 9905 3577 or through email at info@captainshop.com.au.

[adrienagrestesadoptivemum]

Day 1

Theme: AU

Title: Starstruck Flowers

Adrien Agrete was busy rearranging a flower bouquet that someone had ordered from the florist he now worked at as part of necessary work experience for school, when the doorbell jangled; announcing the arrival of another customer. He’d just about managed to tie the bouquet together with a satin bow and set it aside in a box for packaging later, before she was in front of him and he had to look up. Instantly, his heart skipped a beat and his breath caught in his throat. For it was the most prestigious, but also the newest and youngest fashion designer in all of Paris; Marinette Dupain Cheng!

“Hello there. I’d need a bouquet with 30 of your finest red roses, please” she smiled politely, pushing up her sunglasses so that Adrien could see her summer sky blue eyes. They were so dreamy, he could stare at them all day…

Adrien shook himself visibly and forced his gaze away. It was rude to stare at people, no matter how incredibly beautiful they were. He had to clear his throat, before replying, for he’d somehow lost the ability to speak within a second.

“Erm…yes, of course!” He grinned sheepishly, rushing off as quickly as he could to the roses section to try and find only the finest and very best roses for her.

But somehow none of the roses they had in the store seemed to be good enough. Even though they were all kept in freshwater that was changed everyday and fed flowering nutrients, most of them were already wilting or had a few chips in their petals. The rest weren’t even blooming yet.

Adrien let out a hefty sigh as he began selecting the few red roses that had some form of potential. He’d have to give her a discount, given that they wouldn’t make a satisfactory bouquet, though he probably would’ve done so anyway. Though there probably wasn’t even any point in trying to win her heart, when it clearly already belonged to someone else. 30 red roses weren’t exactly a bouquet you’d tend to give to your best friend.

“Who's the lucky person?” He asked through gritted teeth, as he brought the bouquet over for trimming. He hoped his jealousy wasn’t too apparent, for he’d just met her a few minutes ago in person, so it would be quite humiliating. But the fact of the matter was he’d liked Marinette for years; since she’d released her first design till today. Then again it shouldn’t be too surprising that he didn’t know of her suitor. Given her status, Marinette was a very private and selective person. Her social media was all privatised and maintained, and she hardly went anywhere without her bodyguard.

It was miraculous that she was here alone after all.

Marinette gave him a quizzical look. “Excuse me?” She squeaked, wide eyed.

“Well, I can only assume you’re dating someone, given what flowers you’ve requested in your bouquet. Roses are usually given to romantic interests.” Adrien explained bitterly, wrapping the bunch of roses in matching red tissue paper and a ribbon, before bringing it back to the counter.

“Oh no!” Marinette now chuckled, her expression relaxing. “These aren’t for a lover. I don’t have one yet anyway. No, these are for my mum. It’s her birthday tomorrow and red roses are her favourite, so I thought it would be a sweet gesture.”

He hadn’t wanted to be embarrassed and yet he’d managed it anyway. Adrien flushed scarlet, so much so that his face matched the roses he was giving her. “O-oh…m-m apologies for presuming…” he stammered, looking down at his feet.

“It’s okay,” Marinette laughed again, shyly tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

“As an apology, I’ll give you the bouquet for free.” He told her, once his face had resumed the correct colour once more and he felt it was safe to look up at her again.

“Absolutely not!” She gasped, clearly mortified.

“But I insist” Adrien persisted.

Marinette sighed. “Fine. But at least let me give you something in return,” She pleaded.

Her previous words suddenly repeated themselves in his head. These aren’t for a lover. I don’t have one yet anyway.

It was a long shot, but…

“How about your number then?” He asked, eyes hopeful, although he was already wincing at himself. What on earth was he doing?! Was he already assuming again that she’d willingly give him her number? Given who she was — the best fashion designer in all of Paris who strictly kept her life under lock and key? And given who he was — just a florist boy?

But he was about to be pleasantly surprised.

Marinette raised her eyebrows in surprise at his forwardness, but then shrugged and beamed brightly. “Sure, why not?” She giggled, pulling out one of her professional cards and a pen from her bag.

She scribbled another number on the top of the card, before sliding it over to his side of the counter. “That’s my personal number. So you can reach me and not my agents. But please, don’t share it with anyone else.” She instructed.

Adrien took the card into his hands and gently held it as if it was made of gold dust.

“Of course,” he promised solemnly.

“Good. Well, thank you for the flowers. It was lovely meeting you, er…” she trailed off.

Adrien realised he hadn’t even introduced himself. “Adrien. Adrien Agreste.” He told her, showing off his name badge proudly.

“Adrien.” Marinette finished softly with a smile so wonderful, it was as if Adrien was looking at the face of an angel. It was the most perfect smile in the world. “I look forward to your call. Bye.”

“Bye!” Adrien waved, grinning excitedly from ear to ear.

Marinette left the shop, leaving him standing there wondering if the exchange had even happened. But glancing down at his hand, he saw that he had proof enough that it had. Marinette's card, with her personal number written in her perfect loopy writing across the top. Now having more time to have a closer look, he saw that she’d also written 2 x’s next to it.

Adrien let out a squeal of excitement. He actually had Marinette Dupain Cheng’s number! And it seemed that she liked him too! This was the happiest day of his life!

[she-obj]

Future heirloom: fine porcelain, 44 carat gold, freshwater pearl & an automated ad for a florist that doesn’t exist anymore.

Made by me, more on @votstudios on ig

[clonerightsagenda]

#recently read 9/2021

Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia. Responding to her cousin’s mysterious letter, Noemi travels to an isolated house in the Mexican countryside, but she may have more trouble leaving. Gothic horror, reminiscent of Get Out.

The Five Wounds by Kirstin Valdez Quade. A dysfunctional family copes with the matriarch’s brain cancer, a teen pregnancy, and more. Note - heavy on people making bad decisions and hurting each other.

The King of Infinite Space by Lyndsay Faye. A particularly chaotic modern  Hamlet retelling starring physics enthusiast Ben Dane, his florist ex Lia, and his best friend Horatio as they prepare for a gala honoring his dead father.

The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo. A magic-infused retelling of The Great Gatsby centering Jordan Baker, who in this version is a queer Vietnamese woman adopted (taken) by an American missionary.

Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi. An autofiction coming of age novel narrated by the different selves or spirits within the Ada, a young Nigerian whose trauma intersects with Igbo spirituality. 

The World Gives Way by Marissa Levien. Myrra's ancestors sold themselves for tickets onto a generation ship. But when her employers kill themselves because the ship's hull is cracking irreparably, Myrra will have to decide what to do with the time she has left.

Short stories/collections:

Guardian Angels and Other Monsters by Daniel H. Wilson.

Selected works by Ursula Vernon/T Kingfisher

The Best of World SF vol 1 ed. Lavie Tidhar

[shining-ranch]

((Ooc fact babble))

More ooc fact babble: Fam Edition cuz I need to get stuff out and overthink tiny things about my characters ✌️😔

From the beginning, the Dracaena family aesthetic was vaguely based on fae/fair folk. I though it would be funny as all shit if the whole family’s outward appearance embodied the stereotypical, cute/attractive fairy archetype, expect for Nova who is a black sheep and is aesthetically more like darker fae

Prof Dracaena (Elder) - The obvi Fae Queen. Calm and dotting, but cold and judgmental. Curly, long, cotton candy pink hair. Fairy Type specialist, main Pokémon are Shiny Sylveon, Shiny Gardevoir, and a gaggle of Aromatisse and Spritzee

Mr Dracaena - Human sap that is happily married to the Fae Queen. Plain ass black hair. Pokemon Conservationist, but not a Prof. Dragon Type and Fossil specialist. Main Pokémon are Dragonite, Tyrantrum, Shiny Gallade, and a gaggle of Aerodactyl.

Sol - Eldest child, ~25 yo. Mysterious and strong Ace Trainer with a decent fan base for a pro trainer that always dips out of the league circuit before he faces the champion. Light pinkish-red hair. Globe trotter. Soft spot for Fire Types, main Pokémon are Flareon, Shiny Charizard, and Feraligatr. Rarely at the ranch

Nova - 23 yo. Dark, Spooky, Forest Thing. Thinks wrestling with their Obstagoon every morning afternoon is fun

Luminous - 21 yo. Pale orange hair. Wannabe rock star, decided to pursue a music career after his Pokémon Journey. The scene is better in Unova, and he’s doing pretty well. At least popularity-wise, financially, not so much. Favors Electric Types, main Pokémon are Jolteon, Shiny Exploud, and Joltik. Rarely at the ranch

Caldera - 18 yo, twinsies with Terre. Navy blue hair. Avid hiker and environmentalist. Ends up helping a lot of lost travelers. Has a soft spot for Ice Types, main Pokémon are Glaceon, Shiny Mamoswine, and Pidgeot. Lives full time on the ranch, but skips out to go on occasional weekend hiking trips.

Terre - 18 yo, twinsies with Caldera. Light burgundy colored hair. Wants to be a florist, but has settled for growing food/crops on the ranch. Practically runs the greenhouse, and has a near magical green thumb. Thinks Grass types are the Best, main Pokémon are Leafeon, Shiny Chikorita, and many Sunflora and Sunkern. Lives full time on the ranch.

Mare - 15 yo. Indigo blue hair. Avid fisher, recently returned home from his Pokémon Journey. Thinking about going into Freshwater Pokémon Conservation. Has an uncanny knack for understanding and caring for Water Types, and enjoys crafting Apricorn Balls. Main Pokémon are Vaporeon, Feraligatr, and Shiny Kingler. Currently lives full time of the ranch, but occasionally goes on week long fishing trips.

Albedo - 12 yo. Lavender hair. Currently on his Pokémon Journey. More book smart than street smart, but he’s doing just fine. Favors Psychic types, main Pokémon are Espeon, Quilava, and Shiny Xatu. Occasionally visits home.

Epoch - 9 yo. Cotton candy pink hair, but little dark than his mother’s. Quiet and slightly unnerving. Will start his Pokémon Journey soon, only has an Eevee at the moment.

[spyder-m]

Back Home to You

Summary: "It was in a cold, Spring rain, that she felt him disappear..." Prompt 'Total Eclipse of the Heart.' 

A/N: Originally written for Day 3 of the Cloti/Zerith Endless Summer Week, only sharing now because I’m bad at Tumblr.

Ao3 / FF.net / Twitter

.

It was in a cold, Spring rain, that she felt him disappear.

There was a time that she would be happy to see the rain. In the slums, freshwater was hard to come across, a needed nourishment for her flowers.

Now, the very sight, the sound, only served to remind her.

As the last living Ancient, Aerith knew that she shouldn't have felt sadness. She understood better than anyone that his life would return to the Planet, becoming the soil upon fresh flowers and plants would bloom. In Spring, a time of rebirth and new life, it seemed fitting.

As much as she wanted to forget, his presence still lingered.

Streams of light broke through the hole he'd left in the Church's roof, illuminating the darkened, drab pews. It drew her gaze upward, catching a glimpse of the sky. The colour of those eyes she'd lost herself in.

A reminder of the void left in her heart.

The ribbon holding back her hair, she couldn't bear to take out. The brightly coloured pastel she would dress in, hoping maybe one day it might guide him back to her. Holding up her end of the bargain for the next time they met.

The flower cart he'd built for her, now collecting dust in the attic. She still sold the flowers. Even if the idea had been his, it seemed a waste. The money she made was helpful to her mom, and the kids at the Leaf House. The flowers were popular around Midgar, they made the city brighter, the people happier.

.

With time, she'd come to appreciate the Summer more.

It might seem odd for a florist. Summer was a time when growing could be challenging, the earth was cracked and lacking in moisture. The harsh conditions often left plant life to shrivel and die, but it didn't bother Aerith.

She was confident and trusted in the resilience of her flowers.

But, most of all, she took solace in knowing that Summer was the furthest point from that cold, Spring rain that had taken him.

Aerith would still come to the Church each day, the place they had first met. Though, the sound of the doors being pushed open wouldn't tug at the pit of her chest, anymore.

She had learnt not to get her hopes up too much.

Usually, it meant another visit from Tseng or one of the other Turks. Sometimes, people would come to pray, or admire her flowerbed.

She had been selling quite a few flowers lot lately.

Today, after the creak of those old, worn hinges, the footfalls slowed to a stop, a presence lingering at the doorway in pensive silence.

Puzzled, Aerith glanced up from the flowerbed she had been tending to, wondering if something was wrong. As her lips parted to speak, she felt the breath torn completely from her throat.

His face might have hard to distinguish with all the ash and dirt clinging to their skin, but the glow of those blue eyes was all she could focus on.

Not the blood, or scars covering him, not the crumpled form of a blond Soldier slumped against one of the pews beside him.

Just an endless sky.

"Z- Zack?"

After so long, she had become terrified to hope.

Her heart swelled with the smile that crossed his lips, sheepish and familiar, a burning waking in the corner of her eyes.

"Hey there. Sorry to keep you waiti-."

Aerith crashed into his arms, the last trace of doubt alleviated as she felt him, solid and real.

He stumbled slightly, his body still wracked with pain and fatigue, but held steady, his arms settling against her back as he breathed her in. He sighed reverently, inhaling the scent of her hair and skins; cleansing his olfactory senses of the tang of blood, the sterile, recycled air pumped through their tubes.

Shifting in his arms, Aerith's hands lifted out to cradle his face. Not minding the grit that caught on her fingers, she was drawn to the warmth and colour in his skin, the distinct scar still lining his jaw. Wisps of his breath caressed her thumbs, as they carried over his cracked lips.

His heart was beating. She could feel the very life force that surrounded him, bright, and gleaming, and vital. All the while through her examination his eyes regarded her softly, eventually offering a silent nod when she looked back to him.

"But I thought you-" Her voice, barely a whisper, faltered. As if afraid that speaking the words would shatter the very image of him.

"Honestly, so did I..." He answered, sombre.

"How did you-" She stammered, as if only just registering the cuts, the traces of blood on his sword. He looked like he had been through hell. "What happened?"

"I knew I had to live. I had to bring Cloud back alive. I needed to get back to you..."

Zack's voice trailed off, his fingers clutching a worn scrap of paper. Aerith's eyes widened, catching the familiar handwriting.

It was her letter, the last one she had written to him, on the day she had given up hope. He was holding it, right in his hand.

Her eyes stung, an overwhelming relief coursing through her. It had been in vain, as she'd feared. Her words had managed to reach him, after all. They meant enough to carry with him, to keep his connection with her alive, even after all these years.

The rough pad of his glove covered her cheek, the soft curve of his smile shining through her blurred, glassy vision. Sunlight from the open roof flickered across his face, illuminating that familiar, easy expression she had been drawn to.

Aerith bit down a sob, sinking back into his embrace effortlessly, feeling as though she had never left his arms. That, even with the time and distance between them, they hadn't even been completely apart. His hand rubbed against her back, voice a low and soothing murmur.

She held desperately onto his words, the sentiment echoing in her own head. His apologies, his promises not to leave her again, his eternal gratitude to the Gods and Planet that he had found her again.

To the Summer had brought him back to her.

[poppiesandamber]

[acepalindrome]

I’m entertaining myself right now by thinking about the Fruits Basket kids getting married:

Kyo/Tohru

- They’re the first ones to get married. Kyo proposed one month after they got an apartment together, on the roof of their apartment building under a starry sky.

- They go for a more traditional Japanese style wedding, which probably had something to do with Kazuma’s influence on Kyo. Kyo asked Tohru what she thought about while they were brainstorming wedding stuff and Tohru got really excited imagining Kyo in a wedding kimono, and that was that.

- Ayame of course wanted to get involved but his specialty is more western clothes, so he called up every contact he has to be sure Tohru gets the most beautiful wedding kimono imaginable, all paid for by Ayame himself. Everyone was very careful to keep Tohru from finding out just how much he spent on it so she doesn’t have a heart attack. He got Kyo a very nice kimono too (also free of charge) but Ayame goes all out for Tohru.

- Yuki grew the flowers for their wedding himself. He wanted to do something personal for them and that’s the best he can think of. He asked if they’d be alright with that instead of getting their flowers from a professional florist, and Tohru was so touched by the gesture that she immediately burst into tears. She and Yuki spent a lot of time together talking about what kind of flowers they should have and she came to help out in his garden often.

- Kazuma was of course there as Kyo’s father, and Uo and Hana were there to represent Tohru’s family. Her grandfather was the only member of the Honda family to be invited, and he understood that her friends had been more of a family to her than he was.

- Tohru cried through the entire wedding. Kyo was pretty choked up and emotional but managed to keep it together, until Kazuma made a toast at the reception and talked about how proud he is of Kyo.

- Their wedding cake was topped with a tiny marzipan cat and riceball that Tohru made herself.

Yuki/Machi

- They don’t get married until after they both graduated college. Yuki proposed in his junior year, with an irregularly shaped freshwater pearl ring, and they were engaged for three years before finally getting married.

- Even though she was happy to be getting married, Machi was very stressed out about the wedding. It felt like so much pressure for everything to be perfect.

- Yuki tried very hard to do everything he could to help lower Machi’s wedding stress. He helped her make a little tear at the hem of her wedding dress, small enough that it wasn’t noticeable if you didn’t know it was there, but enough to sooth her anxiety. He grew all the flowers for their wedding too, and made sure her bouquet was asymmetrical. The little touches helped a lot, but she still didn’t really relax until the wedding reception when Yuki smashed cake on her face.

- They have a Western style wedding, and Ayame was so thrilled to get to help make the clothes. He spent ages designing Machi’s dress and Yuki’s tux and goes through many designs and revisions to be sure everything was exactly as they wanted it. Yuki and Ayame’s relationship had improved a lot by this point, and Ayame ended up helping Yuki a lot with the wedding planning in general. He cried when Yuki asked him to be his best man.

- Kakeru walked Machi down the aisle.

- They have their wedding in the fall, when the maple leaves are at their most beautiful.

Haru/Rin

- They got married after Kyo and Tohru but before Yuki and Machi. They were both in college and Haru just asked Rin very casually if she would marry him. He hadn’t bought a ring yet, but since she said yes they went out together the next day and picked out matching engagement rings.

- Hana somehow got wind that Rin liked the idea of an unconventional wedding dress and materialized at Rin’s side to let her know exactly where she could find a high quality gothic style wedding dress (Hana knows these things.) Rin ended up with a very cool dress, white but with black embellishments that really suit her style.

- They had a very small wedding, only inviting their closest friends. They tossed around the idea of just eloping, but decided on an actual wedding in the end.

- Yuki was Haru’s best man. Tohru was Rin’s maid of honor and Kagura was another bridesmaid. Tohru was initially worried that Kagura might get jealous about her being the maid of honor, but it ended up not being an issue and the two of them had a lot of fun together helping Rin get ready for the wedding.

- Kisa caught the bouquet at the reception and Hiro got very flustered about it.

[sweetboybucky]

Salt or freshwater? Rain or snow? Bath bombs or bubbles? Short or long haired Bucky? Has anything caught your interest lately? What’s the last thing that made you smile? Have you taken any pretty pictures recently? And are you as kind to yourself as you are to everyone else? Because I hope so. You know you’re my favorite, I love you to pieces 💕🌸

Oh hey, my favorite darlin’ in my inbox. My day is already a million times better 💗

Salt or freshwater?

Both!

Rain or snow?

Rain, but I do love some light snow around the holidays. Rain usually gets me in a writing/snuggly mood though, so it’s definitely my favorite of the two.

Bath bombs or bubbles?

Bubbles. I am still five years old and like to give myself a beard and mustache with the bubbles.

Short of long haired Bucky?

Long 👏 hair 👏 always and forever. I would die for my long hair baby.

Has anything caught your interest lately?

Yes - gardening! I know the flower baby nickname has been around for long time, but I usually like admiring plants rather than mothering them, aside from my few succulents. But I have big plans for a nice flower garden this summer. Also flower arranging. So I might just run off and be a florist. It’s obviously my destiny.

What’s the last thing that made you smile?

This ask 💕

Have you taken any pretty pictures lately?

This is the prettiest picture I’ve ever taken ✨

And are you as kind to yourself as you are to everyone else?

Eh, probably not. I’m working on it.

I absolutely adore you. Thanks for always being the best, my love 💗

[captainshop]

[scriptflorist]

My character's got a freshwater pond with no fish. What would occur if they buy aquatic plants and have no clue how to take care of them? Like submerging them too deeply, not enough, or even sticking in a saltwater plant? Or perhaps things like they didn't know their pond is too polluted for a very sensitive plant?

Hello Nonny,

Let’s make this quick and painless: they die. Maybe not right away, maybe there are symptoms of nutrient deficiencies or supersaturation of the same first, but eventually it’s all gonna wither and die. I may be a florist and not a gardener, and I’m supposed to primarily make things pretty but if I know one thing about plant care then it’s this. And you know why I know that? Because if a florist doesn’t take care of their plants they lose money and sales.

Of course, your character may find the dandelion of the aquatic plants that will grow anywhere remotely wet on last scraps of nutrients in the soil, but those chances are slim. Very, very slim. A plant that isn’t rooted sufficiently has trouble grabbing all the nutrients and water it needs, granted it may be submerged in water but water also has the tendency to rot things but since there are no fish it’s more likely to just float around till your character picks up its husk one day.

If they plant it deeper below the surface than they are supposed to, the plant will put any and all energy into reaching their required sun-intake. Depending on how deep your character puts them they might end up with a white-ish thin stalk of a plant that has all the chlorophyll (aka the green parts) stacked into the very top, as well as very thin and white-ish leaves as well.

Put a saltwater plant into freshwater or vice versa? I’m sorry but it dead. It’s not gonna make it long-term in that environment. There is a distinct difference in their nutrient intake that revolves around salt.

If the pond is polluted it is a surefire way to ensure poor plant growth no matter if they choose the right or wrong plants. Long story short, plants don’t thrive outside their comfort zone.

Then again some people are ridiculously talented at making anything thrive. So perhaps your character is one of them. The key is though, how willing your character is to learn from their mistakes. Be it recognising and treating their plants’ afflictions as they come or in retrospect when they buy new plants. Perhaps they have a black thumb anyway, but that’s not supposed to be the takeaway here. If your character really wants to have thriving plants at the end of it, they need to take a good hard look at what they’re doing maybe recognise something’s wrong already and then go ask either the internet or someone who definitely knows how to care for these plants. And that usually isn’t a florist but a gardener. Just because it doesn’t make it the first time doesn’t mean your character will never have a pond full of thriving plants.

You might also be interested in this ask about keeping fish and plants within the same aquarium space.

And this ask about an aquaponic greenhouse.

– Mod Jana

Disclaimer

This blog is intended as writing advice only. This blog and its mods are not responsible for accidents, injuries or other consequences of using this advice for real world situations or in any way that said advice was not intended.

[auburn-al-usa-daily-blog]

Auburn AL Daily

Auburn

the largest city in Lee County, is home to a wide array of native flora and fauna. Being situated in the state of Alabama, sighting an Alabama beach mouse is a common occurrence. An impressive array of freshwater mussels consisting of 180 species can also be found in its freshwaters and reservoirs. In terms of flora, Alabama as a whole is floristically diverse. It is composed of over 4,000 taxa including both native and naturalized species. An extensive collection of native gymnosperms, pteridophytes, lycopytes and flowering plants can be seen in the area which ranges up to 3,000 species.

Liberty Properties

Liberty Properties, an Auburn-based property management company, is managed by owner and founder Danny Phipps. He is currently managing several rentals including a service-oriented property management business. Phipps mainly focuses on providing small businesses and managing the commercial development in areas including Auburn, North Atlanta and Walton Beach, Florida. Liberty Properties, as a whole, acknowledges the importance of homes as much as how residents value it. They are taking pride in every homes, duplexes and condos they are leasing. Because of their unmatched efforts, the company became one of the most outstanding property management companies in Auburn, Alabama.

Auburn, where was this all season?

They played angry. Vindictive, even. Like an ambush of insane tigers uncaged and unhinged on a playground after being poked and starved for far too long. Purdue was a raw steak, and the boys from West Lafayette, Ind., didn’t last long. Final score of Friday’s Music City Bowl Massacre: Auburn 63, Purdue 14. Auburn was talking trash with a 35-point lead, and going for it on fourth down, too. Senior linebacker Deshaun Davis celebrated a sack up 56-7 with 15 seconds left in the second quarter. And that was all just the start. Read more here

Auburn Tigers defeated Purdue during the Music City Bowl Massacre on Friday, December 28, 2018. The football team gained a lead of 35 points that continued up to the third quarter. Deshaun Davis, a senior linebacker, recorded 56-7 sacks with a 15-second remaining time during the second quarter. The game concluded with a 63-14 points in favor of Tigers. Auburn's 63 points broke the previous all-time high record of an SEC team in terms of bowl games. Despite the divided fan base on coach Gus Malzahn, he displayed a good coaching that led to their victory.

Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center in Auburn, AL

Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center is a first class nature center managed by the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences. The center is offering educational programs for all ages which put emphasis on the environment and other related topics. Louise Kreher is a popular destination for outdoor activities with its well-maintained trails for walking, hiking and sightseeing. The system of trails leads to a pond, a butterfly garden or a waterfall which all provide serene and relaxing environment. It is also ideal for families with its nature playground that features a beaver’s lodge and an eagle's nest.

Link to map

Driving Direction

5 min (3.5 miles)

via N College St

Fastest route, the usual traffic

Louise Kreher Forest Ecology

2222 N College St, Auburn, AL 36830, USA

Head southeast on AL-147 S/N College St toward Tivoli Village Dr

1.7 mi

Continue straight onto N College St

Destination will be on the left

1.8 mi

Liberty Properties

"318 N College St

Auburn, AL 36830"

[melissadcruz]

How to Choose Cheap Wedding Flowers Sydney

When you want to have the most elegant and beautiful wedding flowers at your big day, then Sydney has a lot of choices. In addition to the famous Sydney Opera House, you will find the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Sydney Wildlife World among the other popular places to visit. There are also museums here that would be very interesting to visit. All these are just some of the places that you may want to see during your Sydney trip.

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Aside from cheap wedding flowers Sydney, you can also choose to send wedding bouquets online. Although this method may cost a bit higher than buying flowers in Sydney, you will never go wrong with sending your bouquets online. This is because most online florists deliver flowers with their outstanding quality, style and freshness. It is not surprising why most people choose to have their wedding bouquets and flower arrangements delivered in Sydney as it is one of the best flower delivery cities in Australia. Flower deliveries in Sydney can be made through Gardenia Australia, Freshwater Flowers, Raincoats, Exotic Flowers Sydney and More. Some of the most popular online florists include Gardenia Australia, Freshwater Flowers, Raincoats, Exotic Flowers and More.

Aside from cheap wedding flowers online, you can also purchase cheap wedding bouquets online without sacrificing quality and freshness. In doing so, you are assured that you are getting the freshest and highest quality wedding bouquet you can get. To do so, you will need to know how you can spot high quality bouquets online. One of the ways to find out if the flowers in a certain bouquet are topnotch is to look for comments left by previous customers. You will be able to find such comments in bridal forums where brides talk about the bouquets they received and the overall quality.

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In making your decision on where to buy cheap wedding flowers Sydney, you will need to consider the season when you are getting married. During the summer, you should opt for local wedding flowers while during the winter, you can have your bouquets delivered. You will also need to consider the location of the wedding. If you have a big day scheduled at the church, then you should get your bouquets delivered to the church. However, if it is a surprise wedding ceremony, like a destination wedding, you can choose to get your flowers delivered anywhere.

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