#got inspired by my friend’s colored version of Mary so I decided to give the palette a shot myself

[just-a-boxx]

Been busy recently so art’s been slow; so feel free to this moron

(Mary, They/them/any)

This ver. colored by @miniartsblog ⇧

[unmaskedagain]

Worse than the Devil

Hey Everyone, I got really inspired by the amazing response to my first fic Queen Of Mean. I decided to write a follow up. Its to Selena Gomez’s version of Cruella De Vil. I loved it when it first came out and it sent shivers when I realized it was perfect for my follow up.

Looking back the missing pigtails in the bluenette’s hair when she walked into class Monday morning, dressed like she just got off the runaway, flanked by Chloe at her side, should’ve been the first warning sign.

But in the class’s defense, it had been a crazy weekend. The fireworks that came with Ladybug’s video, Alya’s meltdown, and Lila being outted as a liar didn’t die down after class ended that day.  No. The weekend had been filled out a never-ending stream of group texts, complaining of hurt feelings, nasty little liars, and why, or why wasn’t Marinette replying to their texts? Answering her phone? Didn’t she know they were sorry? Didn’t she know they needed their everyday Ladybug now more than ever? Alya in particular.

Alya, who had spent the entire weekend, nearly 24/7, trying to save her blog; defend her life’s work against the avalanche of criticism that had come it’s way; even the most loyal fans screamed of betrayal. She had released a dozen video explaining what happened and begging her viewers to understand that people make mistakes. Calling Marinette with no answer, texting her best friend for help only to get no reply. Texting Marinette that Lila was a dirty, rotten, liar in over a hundred different way, in over a hundred different texts; only to never get a reply; which Alya never understood. Marinette was right. Lila was a liar. Alya and Marinette should be teaming up to bring her down like their brought down Chloe; stand together like best friends do.

As Alya sat patiently at her desk, with Nino holding her hand in support, waiting for Marinette to arrive so she could find comfort in her bestie, never once did an apology cross her mind. Alya was too indignant, too self-righteous, convinced the Ladybug was victim-blaming. It wasn’t Alya’s fault. Her boyfriend agreed. Her entire class agreed. She just knew, soon, all of Paris would agree.

           When Marinette casually strolled in, talking animatedly with Chloe about their week, she left the other students stunned. Gone was the pintails. Gone was the easy-going, simple, practically trademarked pink pants and grey flower decorated shirt. Gone was the happy smile that the students had always remembered was there to greet them and bring them cheer on a sour Monday, like the day was.

           Instead, Marinette’s hair was down and flowing down her shoulders, longer than they could ever remember it being (though granted they hadn’t paid much attention to their once friend in last few months, except for giving her a few quick glares and sneers) and was perfectly coiffed with strands pullback in braids that would’ve made Daenerys Targaryen take notes. She was dressed in all black; a cropped leather jacket, a sparkly black halter top that tied around her neck in a pretty bow, her jeans black and skin tight, and killer high heels that would make most girls envious. The only color Marinette wore was the sliver bracelets adorning her arms and the classic movie star red lips she sported. Marinette looked a supermodel.

           And if Marinette’s new look didn’t stunned them. Then the look on her face when she glanced at them sure did. Move over Hawkmoth, because if Marinette didn’t scare you, no evil thing could.

It was like the entire classroom went colder. Maybe it was because of the ice in Marinette’s stare, her curved red-stained smirk that screamed: beware. The way everything about her just screamed predator, alpha, top of the food chain. Queen.

           Alya blinked hard. Nino blinked hard. Adrien blinked hard. Too stunned at the sight to even remember to badger the bluenette.  She and Chloe, also dressed like a runaway model, flounced to the back of the class without a hello, a smile, a wave; anything friendly. It was like they were too insignificant for the girls to notice. If they had an ounce of luck still in their lives, that would’ve been so.

           Unfortunately for them that wasn’t the case.

           The girls were painfully aware of their existence; of every move they made over the week, every stupid text they sent, every false apology uttered. Because the downfall of the Ladyblog was just a taste of what was to come. At this point, Marinette and Chloe was just Spiders waiting for the kill.

“Girl, you don’t have to sit with Chloe,” Alya exclaimed.  “We’ll make room, right?��� Nino nodded quickly, eager to give his childhood friend an olive branch.

“Why wouldn’t I want to sit with Chloe?” Marinette asked nonchalantly. “She’s my best friend.”

           What happened next was similar to what, Marinette, thought happened in movie; where the main character says something shocking at a dance, there’s a sound of a record scratch, and silence as all eyes turn to the speaker.

           The smirk the spread over Chloe’s face, the glow that filled her, the thought of the havoc she was about to help commence practically made her purr.

“Best friend?” Alix asked, her pink hair pulled back and her face skeptical. “Last I checked, you were mortal enemies.”

“Last time you check was not long after Lie-La came to class,” Marinette retorted.

“Which is the last time you’re opinion matter to us,” Chloe added. “Or well to Mari here. I never paid you peasant any mind.”

“You can’t be best friends,” Alya jumped up. “You shouldn’t even be friends. I can’t believe it? After what she did to you?”

           The other students nodded.

“She stole your design.” Rose put in.

“Bullied you for years,” Max said.

“Ruined your present for teach!” Kim added.

           Alya nodded smugly at the class backing her up, and gave Marinette a bright smile and an expectant look that always used to work on cowing the other girl.

“Bygones,” Marinette sighed. “I forgave her. And we bonded over how stupid you were at believing Lie-La.” Marinette leaned back in her seat. “Besides it’s not like she ever called me a jealous bitch? Told me to check my sources? Ditched me a million times. Whispered mean words about me right in front of me. And even crueler words behind my back. Chloe would never do that.”

“You know who would?” Chloe grinned. ‘You.” She pointed at Alya. “And you.” She pointed at Alix. “And you!” At Nino “And you, you, you, you. And well everyone here really.”

“Chloe maybe be mean; in fact the greatest mean girl Sharpay,” Marinette smiled lovingly at the blond who preened at the praise.

“But at least I’m not a bad friend,” Chloe snipped viciously.

“Now Chloe that would imply I’m still friends with them at all.”

           At the statement, students wilted into themselves. Their misdeeds weighed heavily on them. They had been so upset at Lila for lying to them, at themselves for believing her, kicking themselves for not listening to Marinette, they never once considered how Marinette felt about the whole mess. But now they knew, she wasn’t happy.

           Little did they know just how furious the once sweet girl was.

           The two girls turned their attention to each other.

“Wasn’t this week just amaz!” Chloe said easily. “Fashion shows are always just so spectacular.”

“Your mom is, like, the best,” Marinette nodded eagerly. “I still can’t believe we got to model.”

           Chloe side-eyed the students, pretending they weren’t listening. “And why not? They were short. And just look at us. We’re beautiful. We deserved to be on that runway.”

“Runaway?” Mylène asked, awed. “You were in a fashion show.”

           Marinette nodded, kindly, though inwardly smirking. “There are pictures from the show online. They’re trending.” So was Marinette’s social media accounts. “We got to model with Kate Upton and Bella and Gigi Hadid.”

“We’re all the rage!” Chloe stated. “Mommy’s thinking of making us the faces of her new line. We’ll be in next week’s issue of Teen Vogue.”

“I posted a few photos on my Insta,” Marinette shrugged. “You can look if you want, I guess.” It was said with a faux unsure, insecure, unassuming voice; a voice that even the most terrifying vampire bat could have even the smartest of victims dancing to it.

           With that the girls went back to their conversation. Pretending they didn’t notice their classmates whipping out their phones to verify.

“WOW,” Rose beamed. “They do have pics with the Hadid sisters. Oh you look so pretty Marinette.”

“Dude is that Kendall Jenner?” Kim asked.

“Beyoncé!” Alya yelled. “Beyoncé was there. You met Beyoncé.”

“Chill,” Chloe snapped. “We didn’t meet her. We just waved. Jay-Z was there too btw.”

“Jay-Z,” Nino whispered in awe.

Before befriending Marinette, Chloe was have gladly lied and said they met the goddess, that was Queen Beyoncé. But Marinette wouldn't suffer liars. And hated anyone who lied about her. Chloe was smart enough to know losing Marinette as a friend would be costly to her; both personally and professionally.

           The blond refused to toss away the blessing that was Marinette’s friendship. Not the like fools before her. They didn’t know what they lost. But Chloe would make sure they did.

           It had taken weeks of slowly inching her way to being Marinette’s friend. The girl had been untrusting the blonde’s actions at first. But eventually, Chloe won her over, proved she could be a good friend, if not the best friend Marinette ever had.

           And the best part? Chloe didn’t have to change. Granted she had to dull unsavory traits like lying and stealing but it was worth it.

“Tony. Stark.” Max gulped like he was just told Santa was in fact real. “You are in a picture with Tony Stark; Iron Man.”

“Pepper Potts wanted a vacation,” Marinette said. “Peter, their son, is a friend of mine. We met last summer when he was visiting England with his class. I was there with my grandma. We hit it off. He knew I was nervous about going on stage so he got his mom to come here so he could support me. It was just supposed to be the two of them. Until Mr. Tony realized and followed along. Swore up and down they were trying to ditch him,” Marinette laughed.

“Oh please,” Chloe huffed. “He was proud that his kid was hanging out with a gorgeous French model.”

“Two gorgeous French models,” Marinette corrected. “The three of us got ice cream afterwards, remember? I can’t wait for this summer. Peter said we can spend of three weeks at Stark Tower; interning. PR for you. You’ll be amazing at it. God knows I could do, though.” She said glumly. Though her internship was going to be assisting the Pepper Potts on her day to day life.

“Ridiculous!” Chloe snapped. “Utterly Ridiculous. You know you can’t wait to get your hands on Thor’s cape to find out what material Alien princes use. Not to mention the plans I saw for a potential Captain America supersuit.”

Marinette crossed her arms, and huffed. “Hey that man is walking around dressed like America’s drunk prom date. Someone has to step in.”

“It’s a classic look,” Nathanial told them.

“It’s a crime against fashion,” Marinette hissed.

           With that, the girls went back to talking about their weekend and bickering over summer plans. Or at least they tried to.

“You could’ve invited us,” Alya snapped. “Or at least told us.”

“Why?” Marinette asked. “We’re not friends. Why don’t you ask Lila how it was? I’m sure, she’ll happily spin you a yarn about how amazing everything was. And promise you’ll meet them next time.”

           It was like a slap to the face. The entire class quieted back down; wishing the bell would ring already. And wondering where Miss Bustier was.

           Unfortunately for the teacher, quite a few concerned parents and staff members had taken issue with how Bustier had been running her class. Bullying, students being constantly turned into Akumas, why Lila could miss so much school without it being a major issue.

“Don’t you think you’re being harsh?” Adrien asked. “They’re sorry.”

No, Marinette thought darkly. They weren’t. Not yet. But they would be soon.

“Okay,” Marinette shrugged, carelessly, inhumanly. “I don’t see why that matters. I accept their apology but it changes nothing. Sorry doesn’t fix anything. It doesn’t magically make every alright again. It’s no Ladybug charm. Let it go.” She warned.

           While Marinette did have plans to bring down Adrien, they were for a later time. And when she did, it would be painful. And it would break him. Like he helped break her.

           For months Adrien had stood by, remained silent as Marinette was made into an outcast, bullied, lost all her friends… when he knew. Knew Lila was lying, knew Marinette was just trying to help. After he promised, vowed to have her back. Instead, Adrien let them deface her sketchbook after Lila accuse Marinette of yet another bullying incident; destroying all of Marinette’s hard work. Despite knowing Marinette couldn’t have possible done what Lila said she had. He just let it happen, too afraid to stand up and tell the truth.

           Adrien didn’t take the hint. Or didn’t recognize a warning when he heard it.

“Their hurting too!” The blond boy defended, outraged at how his everyday Ladybug

“How?” Marinette asked curiously, innocently reminiscent of the girl who had been their friend who had existed when the world was still a wholesome place. “You said it yourself it’s not like Lila was hurting anybody. At least that’s what you told me, remember? You knew Lila was lying since like forever and you’re just fine.”

           It went silent again. Adrien paled. Marinette could barely stop the smile from slipping onto her face. If she wasn’t careful, they might combined their collective ten brain cells and catch on. See that she was a monster that should’ve never been released.

“You knew?” Nino asked in horrified disbelief.

           Dozens of hurt filled eyes trained on Adrien. It was at that moment Ms. Mendeleiev walked into class. “Students, I’ll be filling in today and possibly for the rest of the week. Everyone in their seats. Class is about to begin.”

           It was the smoothest devastation Chloe had ever witnessed and grew up with her mother and Gabriel Agreste as role models.

           In few years, the blonde knew there would be few would who hesitate to call Marinette, or herself, the devil. Too stunned to realize just how much worse either girl was.

           Chloe glanced at the girl who had become her best friend, and fellow mean-girl-in-arms. Marinette had her bluebell eyes trained on the chaos she had just unleashed, once again, on her fellow classmates.

           A lessor man, woman would’ve shivered. Chloe had shivered and had nightmares the first time that gaze rested on her.

           However, when time wore off the shock; Chloe realize she’d only see those type of eyes watching from underneath a rock.

           If you weren’t scared of the New Marinette, then you hadn’t met her yet.

Look out world, Chloe thought. Long Live the Queen.

[papermoonloveslucy]

MARILYN MONROE

June 1, 1926 - August 4, 1962

Marilyn Monroe (born Norma Jeane Mortenson) was an actress, model, and singer. Famous for playing comedic "blonde bombshell" characters, she became one of the most popular sex symbols of the 1950s and early 1960s and was emblematic of the era's changing attitudes towards sexuality. She was a top-billed actress for only a decade, but her films grossed $200 million by the time of her death in 1962. More than half a century later, she continues to be a major popular culture icon.

"When I was five I think, that's when I started wanting to be an actress. I didn't like the world around me because it was kind of grim, but I loved to play house. When I heard that this was acting, I said that's what I want to be. Some of my foster families used to send me to the movies to get me out of the house and there I'd sit all day and way into the night. Up in front, there with the screen so big, a little kid all alone, and I loved it.” ~ Marilyn Monroe,1962

Lucille Ball never worked with Marilyn Monroe, but meet her in 1953 at Ciro’s Nightclub on Sunset Strip, along with Betty Grable, and Red Skelton. Monroe’s immense popularity permeated Ball’s work none-the-less. 

At the start of “Changing the Boys’ Wardrobe” (ILL S3;E10) the gang is heading to the movies to see “That picture we’ve been trying to get to for weeks with Marilyn Monroe.” The movie is likely Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, which premiered in New York City in July 1953. On November 5, 1953, the same day the episode was filmed, Monroe’s new film How to Marry a Millionaire was released in the US. 

The November 1953 cover of TV and Movie Screen Magazine saw Lucy (in “The Camping Trip”) and Marilyn wearing the dress she wore on the May 1953 cover of Life Magazine promoting Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. 

Also on November 5, 1953, the town of Monroe, New York (60 miles from New York City) was temporarily renamed Marilyn Monroe.

The film later inspired much of the plot of “Second Honeymoon” (S5;E14), Lucy’s failed attempt to make their transatlantic crossing to Europe more than just a working vacation.    

Monroe’s dinner companion turns out to be a seven year-old boy, just like Lucy’s ping pong partner turns out to be young Kenneth Hamilton (Harvey Grant). 

Lucy gets stuck in a porthole just as Monroe did, also draping a blanket around her shoulders so passersby wouldn’t know what was really going on.

The idea for the burlap potato sack dresses in “Lucy Wants A Paris Gown” (ILL S5;E20) comes from Monroe’s real life. 

In 1951 Marilyn Monroe took a series of high fashion photographs wearing a potato sack as a response to a journalist who said that she might look sexier in a burlap sack than her usual fashion choices. 

Lucy first wore burlap at the end of “Mr. and Mrs. TV Show” (ILL S4;E24) as her scary version of a Phipps make-over.

In “Ricky’s Movie Offer” (ILL S4;E5) Lucy and Ethel argue about who looks more like Marilyn Monroe. 

While Lucy has the facial features, Ethel has the blonde hair. 

Fred (hilariously) settles the argument!  

In “Ricky’s Screen Test” (ILL S4;E7) a long list of Hollywood names are dropped in anticipation of hobnobbing with celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe. 

In “Lucy and Harpo Marx” (ILL S4;E28) Lucy wonders if Ethel might pass for Monroe to a near-sighted Carolyn Appleby. After Ethel tries to walk like Marilyn Monroe, Lucy decides that “nobody is that near-sighted!” Fred says that he looks more like Marilyn than either of them! 

In “Lucy and Superman” (ILL S6;E13), the Appleby’s come over for a social evening that Ethel calls “the bore war” because the couples only talk about their children. As the scene opens, Caroline is in mid-sentence talking about a Marilyn Monroe film.

CAROLINE: “...and he picked up Marilyn Monroe, slung her over his shoulder and carried her off!”

Although the title is never mentioned, the film they are discussing is Bus Stop, starring Marilyn Monroe and Don Murray. It was released in August 1956, two and a half months before this episode was filmed.

When “Lucy Does the Tango” (ILL S6;E20), she stuffs eggs down her blouse and Ethel stashes a some in her back pockets. Lucy tells her, “Whatever you do don’t try to walk like Marilyn Monroe,” but the ‘yolk’ is on Ethel when Fred suddenly enters through the kitchen door! 

In “Lucy the Gun Moll” (TLS S4;E25), Lucy plays Lucy Carmichael and Rusty Martin. The name Rusty Martin was probably derived from Lucy’s hair color and the surname of Mary Martin, who introduced the song “My Heart Belongs to Daddy” (music and lyrics by Cole Porter) in the 1938 Broadway musical Leave It to Me. Marilyn Monroe sang it in the 1960 film Let’s Make Love.  In that same film, Harry Cheshire, who played Sam Johnson in “Oil Wells” (ILL S3;E18), played Monroe’s father. Jerry Hausner (Jerry, Ricky’s Agent) and Joan Banks (Reporter Eleanor Harris in “Fan Magazine Interview”) played uncredited supporting roles. 

Lucy and Marilyn shared a leading man in handsome Keith Andes. Andes was Lucy’s male lead in Wildcat on Broadway, and later played was featured on three episodes of “The Lucy Show.”  

In 1952, he played opposite Marilyn in Clash By Night, an RKO picture. 

In “Lucy Gets Ricky on the Radio” (1952), the June 3, 1952 of Look Magazine actually had Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe on the cover!  Monroe was promoting Clash by Night, and Desi had written a feature on his wife for the magazine. So Marilyn actually did appear on “I Love Lucy” - if only in a still photo. 

Some Like It Hot (1959) is arguably one of Marilyn Monroe’s most popular films. What does it have in common with Lucille Ball? In 1958, both Lucy and Monroe were depicted at San Diego’s famous Del Coronado Hotel. It is the hotel that the Ricardo’s and Mertzes stay at in “Lucy Goes to Mexico” (LDCH S2;E1) as well as the backdrop for much of the film. Although Desilu filmed establishing footage of the hotel, the cast stayed in Hollywood, while Monroe went on location (as seen above). In “Lucy Goes to a Hollywood Premiere” (TLS S4;E20), Mr. Mooney says he wouldn’t buy a second hand nightie if it had been worn by Jack Lemmon in Some Like It Hot.

The Irving Berlin song “There’s No Business Like Show Business” was sung on “I Love Lucy” and “The Lucy Show.”  Although it was originally from the Broadway musical Annie Get Your Gun (1946), it also served as the title and was performed (by Merman) in the Marilyn Monroe film There’s No Business Like Show Business in 1955. 

In 1952, Marilyn co-starred by Richard Widmark (”The Tour” ILL S4;E30) in the film noir drama Don’t Bother To Knock. The film also featured “Lucy” players Lurene Tuttle (Fine Arts League President), Verna Felton (Mrs. Porter), Gloria Blondell (Grace Foster), as well as Harry Bartell, Olan Soule, Robert Foulke, and Bess Flowers.

That same year, Monroe starred in We’re Not Married! opposite Lucy’s friend and former co-star Ginger Rogers, as well as Eve Arden (”Hollywood at Last!”), Paul Douglas (”Lucy Wants a Career”) and Eddie Bracken (Too Many Girls). 

One of Monroe’s most iconic moments came in March 1962 when she sang “Happy Birthday” as a birthday present to President John F. Kennedy in a public birthday celebration also attended by Lucy’s friends and co-stars Jack Benny, Jimmy Durante, Henry Fonda, Danny Kaye, Shirley MacLaine and Elliott Reid. A year later, Lucy Carmichael also gave Kennedy a present, a sugar cube replica of the White House on “The Lucy Show” with Elliott Reid doing Kennedy’s offstage voice as well as playing a small on-camera role! 

"I never quite understood it, this sex symbol. I always thought symbols were those things you clash together! That's the trouble, a sex symbol becomes a thing. I just hate to be a thing. But if I'm going to be a symbol of something I'd rather have it sex than some other things they've got symbols of." ~ Marilyn Monroe, 1962

Monroe was married (and divorced) three times: 

James Dougherty, Merchant Marine & Policeman (1942-46) 

Joe DiMaggio, Baseball Player (1954-55)

Arthur Miller, Playwright (1956-61)

In “Lucy is Enceinte” (ILL S2;E10), Fred gives Lucy a signed baseball for his future 'godson’. When he asks Lucy to read out the signature, she at first says “Spalding,” the ball’s brand name, but then finds it is signed by Joe DiMaggio.

In “Ragtime Band” (ILL S6;E21), Little Ricky asks his Uncle Fred: 

LITTLE RICKY: “Who’s Joe 'Maggio?” FRED: “'Who’s Joe 'Maggio?’ You talk more like your father everyday.”

In “Sales Resistance” (ILL S2;E17), Lucy compares herself to Willy Loman, the title character in Death of a Salesman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Arthur Miller first produced on Broadway in 1949 and made into an Oscar-nominated film in 1951.  

Speaking of husbands, Desi Arnaz has something in common with Marilyn Monroe, too. Both of their souses were accused of being Communists by the House Un-American Activities Committee during the 1950s. Both Lucille and Arthur Miller were cleared of charges and their careers continued, although that was not true for many celebrities of the time. 

Monroe died on August 4, 1962. The toxicology report showed that the cause of death was acute barbiturate poisoning. Empty medicine bottles were found next to her bed. The possibility that Monroe had accidentally overdosed was ruled out because the dosages found in her body were several times over the lethal limit.

The character of Ginger, the movie star castaway on “Gilligan’s Island” (1964-67) was described during casting as a combination of Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe. Tina Louise had Lucy’s red (ginger) hair and Monroe’s shapely physique. The series also featured Natalie Schafer (Phoebe Emerson) as Mrs. Howell, and Alan Hale Jr. as the Skipper. Hale performed on “The Lucy Show” and “Here’s Lucy”. Series creator Sherwood Schwartz was a Lucy fan. His brother Elroy Schwartz actually wrote scripts for Lucille Ball. 

In the 2013 web-series “Ryan & Ruby” both Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe are given special thanks for their inspiration. The last name of star and creator Ryan Burton's character is "Carmichael", the same as Ball's character on the "The Lucy Show". In Ryan’s kitchen there are fridge magnets with photos of both Lucy and Marilyn.  

Lucy and Marilyn are street characters at Universal Studios theme parks, their iconic hair and costumes making them instantly recognizable.

The same day Marilyn Monroe was born in 1926, another Hollywood icon with connections to Lucille Ball was also born, Andy Griffith.  To read his birthday blog, click here! 

[too-queer-to-live]

I know pride month is literally almost over but I was inspired by this post to compile a list of songs that Hit Differently when covered by a queer artist/interpreted as explicitly queer:

“Accidentally in Love” by The Counting Crows (yes, the one from Shrek)

“So she said, ‘What’s the problem, baby?’ What's the problem? I don't know, well maybe I'm in love... How much longer will it take to cure this? Just to cure it cause I can't ignore it if it's love”

Cover by Mia Wray

“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri

“Heart beats fast, colors and promises, how to be brave, how can I love when I'm afraid to fall? ... time stands still, beauty in all she is”

“A Whole New World” from Aladdin

“When did you last let your heart decide? ...  A whole new world, a new fantastic point of view; no one to tell us no or where to go or say we're only dreaming”

Cover by princepeterwolf | Violin Cover by The Shirtless Violinist (ft. gay music video)

“Boys” by Charli XCX

“Don't be mad, don't be mad, not like I had a choice, I was busy thinking 'bout boys”

Cover by gay artist Sakima (with modified lyrics) | Cover by Alex Heart

“Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon

“I can't fight this feeling any longer, and yet I'm still afraid to let it flow, what started out this friendship has grown stronger, I only wish I had the strength to let it show... I can’t fight this feeling anymore, I’ve forgotten what I started fighting for”

Gay Music Video

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley (insp)

“Shall I stay? Would it be a sin if I can’t help falling in love with you?”

Cover by The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Choir | Cover by Pentatonix

“Cut to the Feeling” by Carly Rae Jepsen

“I've been denying how I feel, you've been denying what you want, (you want from me) talk to me baby”

“Delicate” by Taylor Swift

“Is it cool that I said all that? Is it chill that you're in my head? 'Cause I know that it's delicate”

“Dirty Little Secret” by The All-American Rejects

“When we live such fragile lives, it’s the best way we survive... you are the only one that needs to know; I’ll keep you my dirty little secret; don’t tell anyone or you’ll be just another regret”

“Don’t Matter” by Akon

“Nobody want to see us together, but it don’t matter, no... cause we gonna fight... fight for our right to love”

“For Good” by Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel - From Wicked

“I’ve heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn... I do believe I have been changed for the better, and because I knew you... I have been changed for good”

“Girls” by The 1975

“I'm worrying about my brother finding out; what’s the fun in doing what you're told?”

Cover by Daisy Clark

“Grand Theft Autumn / Where Is Your Boy” by Fall Out Boy

“Where is your boy tonight? I hope he is a gentleman, maybe he won't find out what I know: you were the last good thing about this part of town”

Cover by headlesscabbage

“Heaven” by Julia Michaels

“Love's my religion but he was my faith, something so sacred so hard to replace; falling for him was like falling from grace... no need to imagine, ‘cause I know it’s true; they say all good boys go to heaven, but bad boys bring heaven to you”

Cover by Mark Jeffcoat

“Heaven’s Gate” by Fall Out Boy

“In the end if I don't make it on the list, would you sneak me a wristband? Or would you give me... a boost over Heaven's gate? I'm gonna need a boost ‘cause everything else is a substitute for your love”

“If It Kills Me” by Jason Mraz

“Well all I really wanna do is love you, a kind much closer than friends use... This double life I lead isn't healthy for me, in fact it makes me nervous; if I get caught I could be risking it all”

“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz

“It's our God-forsaken right to be loved... so I won't hesitate no more, no more, it cannot wait”

“Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield

“Jessie's got himself a girl and I want to make her mine... I wanna tell her that I love her but the point is probably moot ”

Cover by queer artist Mary Lambert

“Let it Go” by Demi Lovato - From Frozen

“Couldn't keep it in, heaven knows I tried; don't let them in, don't let them see, be the good girl you always have to be; conceal, don't feel, don't let them know, well, now they know; let it go, let it go, can't hold it back anymore”

“Like Real People Do” by Hozier

“Honey just put your sweet lips on my lips; we should just kiss like real people do”

“Make You Miss Me” by Sam Hunt

“Every boy you ever met was too easy to forget, well, I ain't going out like that”

Cover by Sophia Scott

“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers

“Coming out of my cage and I've been doing just fine”

ps: It’s a Bisexual Anthem

“Never Stop” by SafetySuit

“And with this love song to you, it’s not a momentary phase”

“Night Changes” by One Direction

“She's falling, doesn't even know it yet, having no regrets is all that she really wants; we're only getting older baby”

Cover by Georgia Merry

“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

“We are still kids, but we're so in love, fighting against all odds; I know we'll be alright this time”

Cover by Hannah Trigwell | Cover by Luciana Zogbi | Cover by The Shirtless Violinist ft. Tom Goss | Gay Music Video

“Rainbow” by Kesha

“You'll find a rainbow, rainbow, baby trust me, I know life is scary but just put those colors on, girl, come and play along with me tonight”

“Reflection” (Pop Version) by Christina Aguilera - From Mulan

“You may think you see who I really am, but you’ll never know me; every day it’s as if I play a part... I can fool the world but I cannot fool my heart... Somehow I will show the world what's inside my heart and be loved for who I am; who is that girl I see staring straight back at me? Why is my reflection someone I don’t know? Must I pretend that I’m someone else for all time? When will my reflection show who I am inside?”

“Rude” by MAGIC!

“Don’t you know I’m human too? Why you gotta be so rude? I’m gonna marry her anyway... no matter what you say”

Cover by Kina Grannis | LGBT Cover w/ altered lyrics: “It’s not a phase, can't live without her; love me or hate me we will be gay standing at that altar, or we will run away to a more accepting place”

“She Looks so Perfect” by 5SOS

“Let's get out, cause this deadbeat town's only here just to keep us down... You look so perfect standing there in my American Apparel underwear”

Cover by Against The Current

“Shut Up And Dance” by Walk The Moon

“Oh don't you dare look back, just keep your eyes on me;  I said you're holding back, she said shut up and dance with me; this woman is my destiny”

Instrumental Cover by the Lesbian & Gay Big Apple Corps | Cover by Natalie Joly

“Single” by The Neighbourhood

“I don't know if we should be alone together, I still got a crush, that's obvious, if nobody's around, what's stopping us?”

Cover by NeLLa

“Something to Talk About” by Bonnie Raitt

“They keep saying we laugh just a little too loud, we stand just a little too close, we stare just a little too long-- maybe they're seeing something we don't, darlin... let’s give ‘em something to talk about, how about love?”

“Take Me to Church” by Hozier (official video features gay couple)

“The only heaven I'll be sent to is when I'm alone with you; I was born sick, but I love it, command me to be well”

Cover by gay artist Jonathon Royse | Cover by Ellie Goulding

“The Only Exception” by Paramore

“Maybe I know somewhere deep in my soul that love never lasts, and we've got to find other ways to make it alone but keep a straight face”

“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran

“People fall in love in mysterious ways, maybe just the touch of a hand... maybe we found love right where we are”

“Out and Proud” by Gangsta Gudiya feat. Nikhil D’souza and Ugoeze - w/ altered lyrics: “People fall in love in every which way, whether it’s a woman or man; doesn’t really matter if I’m straight or gay, I don’t want my love to be bad, so honey now please accept me for who I am; let me live life the only way I can”

“This Is What You Came For” by Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna (inspired by this post)

“Everybody’s watching her but she’s looking at you”

“Thnks fr th Mmrs” by Fall Out Boy

“He tastes like you, only sweeter”

“Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes

“I know I can treat you better than he can” (and, as I used to mishear it, “any guy like you deserves a gentleman”)

Cover by gay artist TheVloggingNook | Lesbian Version w/ altered lyrics: “any gay like you deserves a lesbian”

“Video Games” by Lana del Ray

“They say that the world was built for two, only worth living if somebody is loving you; baby now you do”

Cover by The Young Professionals (the main reason this song made the list)

“You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift

“You say you’re fine- I know you better than that, hey whatcha doing with a girl like that?...  Dreaming about the day when you wake up and find that what you're looking for has been here the whole time”

Gay Music Video Re-Make by The YellowJackets

“You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins

“Why can't they understand the way we feel? They just don't trust what they can't explain; I know we're different, but deep inside us we're not that different at all... don't listen to them, ‘cause what do they know? We need each other, to have, to hold”

(Feel free to add more!!)

[ilovemesomekillianjones]

All Aboard - A Holiday Epilogue

Merry (Way Late) Christmas @xhookswenchx ! Please accept this humble offering from me, Mrs. Secret Santa, although not so secret now. I hope you enjoy this fluffy and smutty follow up to All Aboard. 

For those of you who don’t know, the original story was based on this post by @xhookswenchx and therefore, the story was only possible because of her. What better way to help me continue to say thanks for the inspiration than to dedicate this holiday epilogue to her. 

Part 1     Part 2     Part 3     ao3     ffnet     Rated M     4.8K

I love writing this version of Emma and Killian simply because they are gone for each other and need each other like all the time. They started off hot and heavy, and even though they aren’t on a train this time, they are still at it. Thank you again to @hookedonapirate for beta reading and feedback!

Epilogue

Several Years Later…

Emma wanted nothing more than to take a nap, but she needed to be ready to volunteer in thirty minutes. This year they were going to the local orphanage to help serve a family style dinner, give out presents, and spend time with the children. Maybe she’d have time to nap afterward.

It had been a busy day already, what with waking up early (on a day off from patrolling Storybrooke as David’s second in command) to brave the throngs of last minute holiday shoppers for the gifts she and Killian had waited until the last minute to procure for tonight’s Dirty Santa gift exchange.

They were attending a holiday party thrown by Mary Margaret’s and Elsa’s co-worker Ruby Hunter and her husband Graham, who was also one of David’s deputies. Killian and Emma were going to pass on the party, but when they found out the Nolans, the other Jones family, as well as new friends from the shipping business, Will and Belle Scarlet, and David’s other deputy, Robin Locksley and his wife, Regina were all attending, they didn’t want to be the only Christmas Scrooges, so they’d decided to go.

Looking into the vanity mirror, Emma finished her makeup with a layer of color to her lips. Rubbing them together and popping them open, she smiled at the decadent holiday color Killian had picked out while they’d been out shopping earlier.

“Ah!” Emma yelled when Killian snuck up behind her and tickled her waist before wrapping his arms around her and resting his chin on her shoulder.

Killian nuzzled his nose between her hair and her neck and inhaled deeply. “You smell divine,” he told her, then proceeded to plant a line of kisses along her neck and down her shoulder.

“Stop it, we’re going to be late.” She shivered just a bit when she felt his cock pressing into her backside. She really could go for a good fuck right now.

“I don’t care if we’re bloody late, I want my wife,” Killian growled into her ear. “I couldn’t have you this morning because we had to wake up and shop, now we have to volunteer, then we have a party. What if you’re too drunk after?” He smirked at her as he cocked an eyebrow, knowing she would remember the incident he was referencing.

“I promise there’ll be no tears shed over not getting to suck your cock, because I don’t plan on being drunk.”    

“What if I’m too drunk?” He kissed up her neck and attempted to reach her mouth.

“Killian, I just put on my lipstick,” she half whined and half sighed. She really did want him; maybe they had a little time?

“Aye, Candy Cane Red, I love that shade on you, darling, but I think it’d look even more magnificent on my cock. Don’t you?”

Emma’s eyes focused on her husband of four years and four days  - they’d gotten engaged over their first summer together and married on December 20th, the one year anniversary of meeting at the King Street Train Station in Seattle, Washington - he’d been absolutely insatiable this holiday season. A vice-like yearning came over her as she turned in his arms. “I don’t know, perhaps we should find out?” she suggested, brushing the hair from his forehead.       

“Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!” a loud voice boomed from the front of their home. Emma and Killian had stayed in the little seaside cottage Liam had set up for his brother’s arrival five years ago. It was perfect for the two of them.

“Shhhhh, maybe they’ll go away if we’re very quiet,” Killian whispered. He smiled as Emma rolled her eyes at him.

“We’re not going away, you two!” Liam shouted. “Stop making out, it’s time to go you concupiscent adolescents.”

Emma’s eyes went wide and she burst into giggles. “I never thought I’d hear the word concupiscent from another living soul.”

“It’s the highbred vernacular ingrained in us dashing Brits, darling.”

“Oh, shut up,” Emma snorted. “Highbred my ass, two seconds ago you wanted to know what Candy Cane Red lipstick would look like on your cock.”

“Gentleman on the streets, rapscallion in the sheets?”

Emma’s eyes sparkled with love for her ridiculous husband. She pecked his lips through her smile. “Whatever you say.” She patted his chest placatingly before walking out to greet Liam and Elsa.

Walking to the front of the house Emma greeted her sister-in-law and brother-in-law with a hug. “He’s not very happy with you,” she told Liam.

“He never is.”

“Good afternoon, sister,” Killian said pulling Elsa into a hug. He narrowed his eyes as he acknowledged his brother, “Liam, you cockblocking sod, haven’t you heard of knocking?”

“Aye, but we’re family, there’s no need to knock among family.”

“That’s it, Swan, we’re changing the locks. Whose idea was it for him to have a key, anyhow?”

“Yours,” they all answered in unison. “So we can feed Nemo when you two travel,” Liam added.

Killian and Emma loved to drive along the coast finding secluded destinations to escape to, and just have each other. They were also the proud owners of a formerly stray black kitten, who needed to be cared for when they were gone. Killian had decided to call him Nemo after the Latin term meaning nobody. He’s nobody, from nowhere, Killian had told her when she’d gotten home from work one day, and he and the kitten were curled up on the couch.

Killian muttered under his breath about pisspoor timing as he and Emma bundled up in their winter gear. This winter was proving to be one of the bitterest on record, with temperature breaking lows and high winds to boot. Walking out the door and loading into Liam’s car, the four headed to meet David and Mary Margaret for their Christmas Eve tradition of volunteering.  

⛄️ ❄️ ⛄️

The afternoon had been amazing, getting to help out on such a special day. The group had stayed later than they’d realized, talking with the children and playing games. Emma’s heart felt full as she remembered how wonderful Killian had been with the little ones, making them laugh hysterically at his antics.

“We will see you at nine, you better not bail!” Elsa said when they pulled into the driveway to drop off Killian and Emma back at home.

“We might,” Killian threatened.

“We won’t,” Emma corrected, running her hand up and down his arm.

The door hadn’t even shut when Killian was pulling Emma into his embrace. He kissed her hugnrily. “I have waited so patiently…”

“Oh, yes, just like a good boy. You must be on the nice list?” Emma rubbed her hands up and down his chest, kneading it ardently.  

“Aye.”

“And what is it you want this year?”

“All I want is my wife,” he purred while kneading and squeezing her ass much like she was his chest.

“I think that can be arranged.” Emma dove back in to continue their kiss when an irritating siren-like sound began blaring from Killian’s cell phone.

“Shit,” Killian cursed, separating from Emma and scrubbing a hand down his face.

“What is it?”

“The alarm was tripped down at the warehouse.”

“Do you have to go?”

“Aye, love. Leroy and Anton have the next two days off for the holiday. I took today to cover if anything happened, and Liam has tomorrow.”

“I could go with you?”

“No need, I’ll be twenty minutes tops, it’s probably just a bird or small animal of some type that tripped the system.” Killian leaned in to peck her lips and bit down on her lower one, “I will see you shortly.”

“Hurry back,” she said breathily, wholly affected by the promise of sin in his words.

Sixteen minutes later…

“Did you get started without me?” Killian asked as he walked down the hall to their room. He couldn’t help but smile at the sight that greeted him. There was his lovely wife, snuggled into the blankets of their bed, and the low vibrating he’d mistaken for one of their toys was actually her snoring as she slept soundly. He decided to let her get the rest she’d been craving.

⛄️ ❄️ ⛄️

“Come on love, time to rise and shine.”

Emma whined as her husband shook her shoulder. She was so comfy, and just five more minutes, that’s all she wanted.  

“We’ll be late for the party if you don’t get up soon.”

Bolting upright and gave her husband a pout. “How long have I been asleep?”

“A couple hours.” He rubbed his arm up and down her shoulder and leaned in to peck her lips.

“I’m so sorry, babe!”

He smiled at her sincerity. “No need to apologize, Swan. I can wait.”

Emma threw the blankets back to reveal her naked form. “I really was intending to, I just decided to lay down to wait for you… and I guess I knocked out before you got back.”

Killian let out a frustrated moan, “Darling, you are killing me.” He stroked his hand over the contour of her bare hip.  

“Why didn’t you wake me up sooner?”

“You’ve been exhausted all day and it wouldn’t have been very gentlemanly of me to selfishly wake you, just for a roll in the sheets.”      

“It’s not selfish if we both get something,” she purred.

Killian smacked her ass lightly. “Mmm, indeed, I guess I didn’t look at it that way. Too late now, we’ll be even more late if we don’t get ready. As it is, Dave is already texting me to find out what time we will be there.”

Emma rolled her eyes at her brother and Mary Margaret, and their penchants for punctuality. “Fine.”

They were ready in record time. Emma wore a strapless, red dress with black jewelry and accessories, including a shawl and stiletto heels, while Killian wore a black button up shirt and black slacks, and a red vest to match Emma’s dress.

After touching up her makeup and curling her hair quickly, they grabbed their Dirty Santa gifts and headed out the door.

The party was actually a huge undertaking. At least half of Storybrooke inhabited the beautifully decorated home, every surface was covered with food, gifts, or alcohol. After eating and mingling Ruby announced that it was time for the Dirty Santa game. There were gifts that ranged from classic, to practical, to sexual, to humorous, to downright weird, and the group shared many laughs as presents were picked and stolen, and guests cheered or pouted.

Once the massive gift exchange was over, an area of the great room emerged as a dance floor, and the kitchen became the place for beer pong and shots. Emma was feeling a little suffocated as she sat in a corner conversing with her closest girlfriends. The music was blaring, she’d eaten just a little too much, and the house had become overly warm as people danced and partied. The windows were now open, and hopefully the chilled winter air would permeate the room soon. She excused herself to the restroom to take a breather. Grabbing a bottle of cold water she headed upstairs to Ruby’s private bathroom so she could rest and clear her head.  

She sat on the extravagant gold chaise lounge that adorned the far wall of Ruby’s mansion sized restroom. She wondered if she’d be able to get away with a bath, then chuckled at herself. She was 33 years old, it wasn’t even midnight and she was ready to be at home. Home in bed with a certain rapscallion, she thought, and suddenly her stomach was churning with a different sensation. A raw need for her husband.   

E: Meet me upstairs. Last room on the left. Now.

K: You want my candy cane?

E: my 👄 on your candy cane

K: 💨

Emma laughed at her phone as she pictured Killian sprinting toward the stairs knocking over anything and anyone in his way. She’d just finished applying a fresh layer of lipstick when the door burst open behind her. “Lock the door,” she commanded in a low voice as she stalked toward him.

Killian complied then turned around and roughly pulled her against his body. “My cock might actually break, it’s so fucking hard.”

His words were a dirty caress and she bit down on her lip to keep from moaning. “I can feel that, babe,” she whispered as she rubbed against him. Emma dropped down to her knees, intent on showing Killian exactly what his cock would look like with Candy Cane Red lipstick painting it. She masterfully unfastened his pants, pulled down his fly and freed him. “I told you I wouldn’t be too drunk,” she smirked before clutching his ass in her hands and sucking his length into her hot mouth.

Normally he’d insist on lady’s first, but Killian was so ready he couldn’t bring himself to halt her ministrations. He grabbed a fist full of her hair on each side of her head and grasped tightly. “Yes, Swan, suck my cock. I’ve been half hard all evening just thinking about your delectable mouth.” He marveled at the way he slid in and out of her pretty lips, and she had indeed painted his cock that delicious shade of Candy Cane Red.

Emma moaned along his shaft as she looked up at him to appreciate his beauty. He was an absolute wreck, hair falling just above his hooded eyes from the way she was working him, cheeks flushed a deep red, the line of his jaw flexing as he gritted and clenched his teeth. He whimpered as his peak crept up on him faster than he wanted, and Emma’s clit sparked with want. “I need you, Killian.”

“Fuck,” he panted as she withdrew her mouth. Dragging her up from her knees, he stole her breath with a desperate kiss. He tore the top of her dress down, exposing her breasts, and hiked the tight skirt up over her ass, all while ravaging her mouth. Killian slapped his palm against her ass cheek and squeezed it with one hand while weaving the fingers of his other hand tightly into the hair at the base of her skull.

Emma moaned when he bit down on her lip. Maybe she should keep him waiting more often; she liked the desperate need in his touch tonight. She slipped her own hands into his pants which loosely hung unfastened on his hips and kneaded his ass. “Someone’s feeling a little vigorous tonight,” she said breathily as she broke the kiss for much needed air.

“Did I hurt you love?” He released the firm hold he’d had on her hair and guided her to sit on the chaise. His ardor immediately cooled, and his concern genuine, he knelt in front of her and smoothed his hands up and down her thighs lovingly.

Emma just laughed. “No Killian, you didn’t hurt me. In fact,” she leaned in, and placed her mouth at his ear, “I like it.” Emma leaned back and bit her lip, waiting on his reaction; even after all this time she could still feel a little bashful with him.  

Killian’s cock jumped as her warm breath caressed his ear. He waggled his eyebrows at her and smoothed his tongue along his bottom lip. “I do love when you tell me secrets, darling.”

Emma giggled at the way his eyebrows danced as he lewdly licked his lips. Biting her nail she asked quietly, “Want to hear another secret?”

Her bit of shyness and the pink on her cheeks was quite arousing for Killian. Pinpricks of sensation broke out across his skin as he watched her bite on her nail and try to act innocent. “Aye,” he replied with a lust fueled timbre.

Emma wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him senseless before trailing her mouth along his jaw and back up to his very sensitive ear, so she could whisper to him. “My panties are all wet.”

“Fucking Hell,” Killian gasped. He could have guessed at that, but hearing her say those words had his cock aching to be buried.

Emma spread her legs wide, grasped one of his hands and pressed it against the thin material of her panties. “See, you make me so wet, Killian” she purred.

He growled at how she uttered his name, and how easily his fingers slid over the soaked silk as he rubbed her clit through the material. “Goddamn love, how long have you been like this?”

She shrugged her shoulders as a small smile pulled at the corner of her mouth.

“Tell me,” he coaxed as he continued to circle her sensitive flesh.

“Just since you came up here.”

“All this,” he emphasized by cupping her sex, “just since I got up here.”

“What can I say? I enjoy blowing you.”

“That arouses you?”

“Does it not arouse you to… go down on me?” Emma asked, unsure if she wanted to know the answer.

“Gods above, I love pleasuring you with my mouth, Swan.”

“Then why would you think it was different for me? Have I ever done anything to make you think I don’t enjoy it?”

“I suppose not. I guess most women just make it sound as though it’s a chore.” Bending down he latched onto a breast - one of Emma’s favorite erogenous zones. Over the years he’d committed to memory the erotic noises she made when he teased and laved her nipples.

Emma laced her fingers into his hair, holding him to her breast, loving the way he feasted on her pebbled flesh. “Well, I guess I’m not most women, because I love sucking your cock. Making you come down my throat as you call out my name and your cock spasms against my lips, fuck,” she panted as she ground her core against where his hand still rubbed her.

Killian swallowed hard as she waxed poetic on giving him head. Grasping his straining cock and stroking languidly for just a second of relief, he beseeched his wife, “Emma, I need you, love.”

Scooting up the long chair, Emma removed her panties before laying back and letting her legs dangle over each side of the chair so she was spread wide for Killian. “Then have me.”

He sprung to action, stripping off his clothes and then engulfing her body with his. Laying claim to her mouth, he nestled his cock between her folds and glided back and forth. The warmth that coated him as he teased her clit with the head of his cock was almost enough to have him coming, but he found some semblance of control as he worked her closer to the edge.

Placing a hand on Killian’s chest, Emma pushed him back a little, she situated her legs against his shoulders, then reached down between their bodies and lined him up.

The heat of her core beckoned him the instant his tip nudged her entrance. Wrapping a hand around each of her ankles he sunk into her depths, moaning at the sensation of finally being enveloped. He had to fight to keep upright, the feeling so overwhelming he wanted to slouch against her and just rut to a quick completion. Breathing in deeply, he focused on only Emma and bringing her pleasure.

“Oh, yeah,” she sighed when he finally slid into her and began thrusting in and out. The sound of skin meeting skin as he plunged into her wetness echoed through the powder room. Emma’s legs were being stretched, burning deliciously as they rested on his shoulders and he leaned into her seeking the deepest of thrusts.    

Killian looked into her eyes, deep green and blown wide, willing her to fall apart so he could let go. Her mouth hung open and small puffs of air escaped in time with his movements. Her cheeks were bright pink with the exertion and her hands played with her breasts, she was gorgeous all the time, but he loved watching her draw to the edge as they connected on this level.  When he felt like he actually might explode, finally he heard his his angel’s voice, breathy with gratification.

“Oh fuck,” she breathed out on a long moan. “So good, Killian, so good.”

Her fresh wave of arousal rushed over him warmly and her walls pulsed around his cock, evoking his climax. His stomach tightened and every muscle in his body went rigid as he spilled his release deep into her.

Body weak with pleasure, Emma threw her forearm over her face as she smiled into her arm, euphoria stealing over her. “God, I’ve needed this all day, so fucking good babe.” She let her legs slide from Killian’s shoulders so she was laying spread wide.      

“Allow me to clean you darling?” He cocked that hyper eyebrow of his and delved between her thighs.

Emma tightened her arm over her face, particularly her mouth as she whimpered when his warm hot tongue met her sensitive flesh.

“Knock, knock,” came a loud voice, followed by a few raps of knuckles against the door.

Emma and Killian both jumped a mile high, apparently forgetting they weren’t in the privacy of their own home. “Shit!” Emma cursed.

“Eh, just a minute, Ruby. I’ll be finished shortly,” Killian called. “To be continued,” he whispered to his wife, giving one final swipe of his tongue through her folds.

“No rush, no rush. As long as she’s finished, Jones, it’s not proper to leave a lady wanting. Emma, if he leaves you high and dry, you let me know.”  

“How about I let Graham know?” Killian shot back, wondering what the deputy would think about his wife propositioning Emma.

Emma smacked his chest as they righted themselves on the chaise. “You know she loves fucking with you more when you give her the reaction she wants.”  

“Oh, he’ll be so happy you asked, Killian!” Ruby laughed through the door.  

Before he could clarify what he meant, Emma leaned forward and kissed him. “Let her have her fun,” she told Killian so only he could hear. “Don’t worry Rubes, Killian knows how to give it to me just how I like it.”

“Ooooh, hot damn!” Ruby laughed. “You two just make sure to clean up any mess, then get your asses downstairs. David is wondering where his sister is, and Liam is trying to bet him that you’re up here doing exactly what you’re doing.”

Killian rolled his eyes. He and Liam didn’t have a sister, so it was impossible for Liam to know what kind of hornet’s nest he was stirring. They got ready in short order and headed down the stairs hand in hand, if they thought they didn’t look thoroughly fucked, they were mistaken.

Most everyone was still carrying on and partying. David however was glaring daggers between Liam and Killian.

“Bloody hell.”

“Come on, David will get over it.” Emma pulled Killian forward with a serene grin on her face.

Mary Margaret was attempting to reason with her husband as they greeted the group at the bottom of the stairs. “She’s an adult, David.”

David’s expression lightened infinitesimally. “They could’ve waited till they got home.”

“We are right here,” Emma cut in, feeling a bit feisty.

“You could have waited till you got home,” David directed at her.

“I didn’t want to,” Emma sassed. “Sometimes needs must be met,” David’s face contorted into that of a man hearing too much information, “and we were already interrupted by one brother this morning, and a fucking alarm system this afternoon. So forgive me if I needed a little instant gratification.”

“Little?” Killian questioned. David definitely shot him the evil eye.

“A lot,” Emma smirked, leaning in to kiss him. “Huge gratification,” she added, playing it up for her brother’s reaction.

Elsa, Liam, Graham, and Ruby burst into laughter at the look on David’s face, while David himself shuddered and looked to his wife for support.

“Hey, you asked for it the moment you tried to lecture a married adult about sex,” Mary Margaret chuckled.

“Someone get me a shot!” David called out as he walked away from the bunch. They continued cracking up even after he’d gone in search of alcohol.

“You are going to be in trouble tonight,” Emma told Mary Margaret.

“Nothing a little physical activity won’t alleviate,” her sister-in-law replied, waggling her eyebrows.  

The party got smaller and smaller until it was just the close knit group of them visiting. Emma tried, but failed to stifle a yawn as everyone chit chatted.

“Tired again, sleepyhead?” Killian whispered.

“I guess you wore me out,” she giggled quietly. “Take me home?”

⛄️ ❄️ ⛄️

Emma tickled Killian’s belly, his most ticklish spot, as he slept, eliciting a grunt of dissatisfaction from him, and then quickly turned over and pretended to sleep.

Last night had been a blast. After saying Merry Christmas and good night to everyone the evening before, they’d driven home, showered - where they got down and dirty one more time before getting clean - and then hit the sack. Emma was asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.

She felt as though she must have caught up on sleep as she was wide awake this morning. That and she was crazy excited to give Killian his Christmas present. She huffed out a sigh as she heard her husband’s breathing even out again. Rolling over, she gently tickled him again, but this time he captured her wrist before she could pretend to sleep again.  

“Is someone excited for Christmas morning?” he asked in his gravelly morning voice. Her joyous laughter was answer enough. “One day our children will be tickling us awake bright and early Christmas morning and I don’t want to hear any complaining from you, love.”

Emma’s smile was brilliant and her eyes a little glassy as she pictured it. “Come on!” She pulled Killian by the hand, almost dragging him out of their bed. She threw on her big fluffy robe and practically skipped to the basin to brush her teeth.

“How much coffee have you had?” He rose from bed and stretched before throwing on his flannel pajamas - she had the temperature set to arctic chill again. Joining her to brush his teeth, he watched as his wife exuberantly went through her morning routine. “Let’s remedy that, I’ll start the coffee, you turn up the furnace.”

No sooner had Killian filled the coffee pot than Emma was at his back, arms wrapped around his midsection. “Heater is on. Presents!”

“Don’t you want coffee?”

“Later,” she whined pulling on him.

Killian turned in her arms and was smitten by the joy on her face and the excitement dancing in her eyes. He wasn’t sure what she had in store for him, but his curiosity was now officially piqued. He kissed her gently. “All right, coffee later. Presents now.”

“You first!” Emma demanded. Pushing him onto the sofa, she handed him an envelope and practically bounced on her toes as she waited for him to open it. Her hands were clasped together and she was biting her lip in anticipation.

He considered drawing it out to get a rise out of his wife, but her excitement must’ve been contagious because he decided to skip teasing her in favor of finding out what was in the envelope. He opened the flap, careful not to rip any of the contents, and pulled out the card. Killian read the front cover aloud:

“The best gifts don’t come under a tree…” He opened the card and finished reading, “You, me, and Baby Jones will make three,” before he even noticed the grainy black and white image framed on the other side.

Emma watched as her husband studied the ultrasound photo and different emotions crossed his beautiful face. His eyes had gone from normal, to bugged out - is it happening too fast for him? she worried - to glassy - are those happy tears or sad tears? she panicked - to crinkled at the corners as a brilliant smile took over his face.

A sigh of relief flew from her mouth as she witnessed her husband having the same reaction she had when she’d taken her first pregnancy test two weeks ago. They hadn’t necessarily been trying, but they’d decided to forego preventative measures a couple months ago.

“We’re going to be parents,” he murmured. His fingers traced over the image of their baby as realizations dawned on him. He couldn’t remember the last time she’d had a cup of coffee, between that and the baby, no wonder she’d been so tired lately. And this was why she knew she wouldn’t be drunk last night, and why she’d egged her brother on feistily. He stood up and pulled her tightly to his chest, hugging her as if she might disappear. “Emma,” he whispered as he became utterly overwhelmed with emotion.

And then Emma was crying as her husband was brought to tears by the announcement of their baby. Grabbing one of his hands, Emma placed it over her belly, and covered it with hers. “We love you, Killian.”

He kissed his wife soundly. “And I love you.” Kneeling down, Killian whispered, “And you as well, little love,” before placing a kiss to her belly.

End

[mariposalass]

F/O Christmas Gifts Ideas

So I came across an idea from @husband-of-lucoa at the self shipping server at Discord of what kinds of gifts he’s planning to give his f/o family and friends. I couldn’t help but to feel fuzzy warm to do it as well. So here are the stuff I’m planning to surprise to my fam bunch this year: 

Issa and Kairi: For my little sister and my dearest BFF, I actually got the three of us matching necklaces that was actually based an Esty creation that took its inspiration in Vampire Dairies’ Caroline Forbes (the TV show version).

Harry: I was surprised to learn that among the stuff the PokéBirds made a mess of was an old mug Harry used to have before after returning from the Battle of Hogwarts. So I am bestowing him the #1 big brother mug ever!

12th Doctor: Fun fact: The Doctor has some mean guitar skills courtesy of Peter Capaldi’s boy band days, hence a couple of the scenes of him performing a rock guitar solo. But where to keep those extra guitar picks when he doesn’t need them? Why, give him a big old guitar pick shaped guitar pick storage pack!

Belle: Oh dear old Belle, we bookworms can’t seem to have too many books in our shelves, lol! I decided to give her an interesting on the Mitford Sisters with the book The Sisters: The Saga of the Mitford Family by Mary S. Lovell.

Moana and Maui: I decide to pay tribute their Pacific Islander/Polynesian roots with adjustable puka shell bracelets. Nothing too fancy.

Karina/Blue Rose: My NEXT heroine loves to get glammed up whenever she isn’t fighting crimes or going further in her singing career. I actually decided to surprise her with Too Faced’s Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar Palette. It’s actually a duplicate gift I got from my birthday, and I just so happened to own it, so I thought of giving her the gift of makeup. Don’t want to waste it.

Michiru/Sailor Neptune: Sailor Moon fans would know that the Sailor of Embrace’s favorite gemstones are also her birth stones for March, aquamarines. These light blue gems were said to be lucky charms for sailors in the past. I went for a pair of simple aquamarine stud earrings, she’s really that elegant and refined, I don’t want to make her feel cheap by giving her something iffy.

Ahkmenrah: Poor Ahk has a hard time explaining to skeptical neighbors about the mythology/religion of Ancient Egypt these days, so I’m giving him this book in hopes that he can give these skeptics a good lesson on Egypt’s ancient religion without boring them to death.

Margo, Edith, Agnes, and Lucy: I wasn’t too sure what to give them, especially the girls, and it doesn’t help that Agnes has been begging her folks for more friends for her unicorn plushie. Luckily, these Christmas-themed colored bead bracelets surely do the trick well. Come on, we girls needs some jewelry here.

Vinny: I decided to make fun of him this season by giving him a chemistry themed spice rack to see his reaction. The last time he did it, I nearly freaked out about the gag gift he gave me first in a box of pranks! With a surprise appearance of Mole.

Kirby: Kirby’s a creature of simple needs: since he’s still a little baby puffball, he doesn’t want that much stuff other than something to eat. Guess what, a box of mochi sweets is the perfect gift for our little round hungry puffball!

Gru: I thought Gru would like a neat upgrade to his old mug, and since he has tons of Minions to deal with, a BOSS mug should do the trick.

[crispsevans]

Films in 2019

Woah, it’s been a while since I actually wrote some reviews to my seen movies. My current count is at 21/150 for 2019, 12 out of 21 seen in theatre.

filmpage - filmlist - suggest a film

CAN CONTAIN SPOILERS.

Vice (2018)

seen in theatre production country: USA OV: english seen version: german Starring: Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Sam Rockwell, Steve Carrell Director: Adam McKay Plot summary: The story of Dick Cheney (Bale), an unassuming bureaucratic Washington insider, who quietly wielded immense power as Vice President to George W. Bush (Rockwell), reshaping the country and the globe in ways that we still feel today.

Review: I went to see this one before Oscar night, so I actually have seen most of the nominated movies of the year. 

I don’t know how much of this movie is actually true, but I left the theatre quiet shocked, because somehow most of those things just passed me. It may be, because I was a child when Bush and Cheney ran the US politics, but looking back a lot of it made sense to me. 

Now however much of it is true, it was a very ... entertaining movie. I really love McKay’s style of directing and story telling, also the cinematography and the final cut of the movie were really good. Bale’s performance is outstanding, as always, and I am still mad he didn’t win that Oscar. 

If you’re into political movies this is a Must-See. Rating: 4,5/5

Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)

seen in theatre production country: USA OV: english seen version: OV Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Richard E. Grant Director: Marielle Heller Plot summary: When Lee Israel (McCarthy) falls out of step with current tastes, she turns her art form to deception.

Review: This was part of the Oscar night double feature that I attended.

SUCH A POSTITIVE SURPRISE!!!!

Never heard of Lee Israel before, since this movie is based on her own book. I was so curious to see which role it was that brought McCarthy to her Oscar nomination and I was pleasantly surprised by her performance and also by Richard E. Grants performance in this movie. It was so serious but had so many funny moments - it’s a very authentic piece of film. I loved it a lot and is such an underdog movie. Very entertaining and well played. I also loved the color grading of this film. Rating: 5/5

If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)

seen in theatre production country: USA OV: english seen version: OV Starring: KiKi Jayne, Stephan James, Regina King Director: Barry Jenkins Plot summary: A woman in Harlem (Jayne) embraces her pregnancy while she and her family struggle to prove her fiancé (James) innocent of a crime.

Review: Also part of the Oscar night double feature.

Very good and very important movie, though I had the feeling it could’ve been a little shorter. I have not read the book this film is based on so I cannot judge how good the adaption actually is, but I enjoyed watching it. Some serious issues are talked about in this movie, but at the same time it has so much love in it. Also a lot of naivety, but that’s probably because of the age of the protagonists. Rating: 4/5

Anon (2018)

streamed on Amazon Prime Germany production country: USA / Canada / Germany OV: english seen version: OV Starring: Clive Owen, Amanda Seyfried Director: Andrew Niccol Plot summary: In a world without anonymity or crime, a detective (Owen) meets a woman (Seyfried) who threatens their security.

Review: I still don’t really know what to think about this one to be honest. It was part of the 99ct-Prime Deals over here in Germany and I’m usually really into futuristic movies like this, e.g. I loved “In Time”, which was also directed by Niccol and the reason I really wanted to see this one.

The entire atmosphere of this film was very dark and mysterious. I don’t really know if I understood the movie right, to be honest, not because I don’t know what they’re saying in the movie but some scenes were kind of a mystery to me.  Rating: 3/5

Isn’t It Romantic? (2019)

streamed on Netflix Germany production country: USA OV: english seen version: OV Starring: Rebel Wilson, Liam Hemsworth, Adam Devine Director: Todd Strauss-Schulson Plot summary: A young woman (Wilson) disenchanted with love mysteriously finds herself trapped inside a romantic comedy.

Review: I had high hopes for this one (I love romcoms), but I was let down completely. It was over the top, tried to be super funny when it actually wasn’t and I just sincerely didn’t like it very well. Poorly written, I’m sorry.

I loved the fashion of the movie though and another plus for Rebel Wilson and Liam Hemsworth, because I love them anyway.

Rating: 2,5/5

Captain Marvel (2019)

seen in theatre (twice, soon thrice) production country: USA / Australia OV: english seen version: german Starring: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson Director: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck Plot summary: Carol Danvers (Larson) becomes one of the universe's most powerful heroes when Earth is caught in the middle of a galactic war between two alien races.

Review: SALTY AF AND I FREAKING LOVED IT.

I can see why so many men dislike this movie, but I loved it so much, because it’s so salty and Carol is the hero we deserve. Here we go, new strongest avenger. Who’s Thor and who’s Hulk? HAVE YOU SEEN CAROL FLYING THROUGH SPACEEEEEE????

Loved the message of this film so much, probably my most favourite Marvel movie with Black Panther. Higher, Further, Faster BABY.  Carol as a character is a very strong woman, not giving up ever since her childhood. Very inspiring character and character development.

I had literally zero expectations, because I really disliked the trailers. They don’t do this film justice. If I wasn’t into the MCU already, I wouldn’t have joined after seeing those trailers. But what a shame it would’ve been, if I hadn’t seen it.  Shoutout to my friend to paid my ticket the first time and went to see it with me again like two days later lol. Yes, I saw it two times already and I plan to see it a third time in OV - can’t wait for that one.

Also Goose is the best thing about this movie. 

Midway through the film I saw the twist coming, though, but I really liked it. Would I see it again? A billion times yes. Rating: 5/5

The Imitation Game (2014)

streamed on Amazon Prime Germany production country: USA / UK OV: english seen version: OV Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Mark Strong Director: Morten Tyldum Plot summary: During World War II, the English mathematical genius Alan Turing (Cumberbatch) tries to crack the German Enigma code with help from fellow mathematicians.

Review: I missed seeing this one back in 2014 when it hit theatres. So I was very happy when it was part of the 99ct Prime Deals and I got it immediately. I wasn’t let down, what a great movie. I did a little research and even though the movie is different to Turing’s actual biography written by Andrew Hodges, I really liked it a lot and Cumberbatch’s performance is really amazing. His portrayal of Turing came across as very authentic and believable. 

Cracking a code is really a thing of impossibility for me so it was very interesting to see the process of cracking Enigma. Turing’s legacy still lives on ‘til this day with every new computer that is build - we really owe him a lot. It makes me sad to have found out he most likely committed suicide after his hormonal ‘therapy’ that he had to go through. 

Very touching.

Rating: 4/5

Monsieur Claude 2 (2019)

seen in theatre production country: France OV: french seen version: german Starring: Christian Clavier, Chantal Lauby Director: Philippe de Chauveron Plot summary: Claude (Clavier) and Marie Verneuil (Lauby) face a new crisis. The four spouses of their daughters, David, Rachid, Chao and Charles decided to leave France for various reasons. Here they are imagining their lives elsewhere.

Review: Sneak monday, luckily we only paid 2,50€ this time. 

This film is a disaster, building up on ‘humor’ that is based on homophobia, sexism, racism and many other bad things. I did laugh, but not because I thought it was funny, but because there was so much reality in it that I used the laughing as a way to cover up my disbelief in this. 

If people seriously think this is funny then I don’t know what’s wrong with them, I’m sorry. I don’t know if the intention of the movie was to actually show people how stupid it is to be THIS political incorrect or if they were actually thinking this is genuinely funny. However, just don’t watch it - it’s a waste of time.

Half of a point for the beautiful french countryside shots and the whole location setting plus the fashion in this movie. 

Rating: 0,5/5

[yoiotdfics]

Fic Rec List August 2017

The Complexities of Eros

FullBladderLemons (orphan_account)

Summary:

Yuuri has to pee and can’t get out of his Eros costume…Victor helps. That’s about it. Pre-relationship/pre-canon.

Red As Carnations

v_larr

Summary:

“You made flowers grow in my lungs, and although they are beautiful, I can’t breathe.” ~~Unknown

Pillow Case

Creep

Summary:

He checked that he has all his stuff and he was about to leave when his eyes caught the pillow on the bed. It still had the imprint of Yuri’s head. On impulse, Otabek grabbed the pillow and took the pillow case, putting it on his bag.

He left his room and wondered what the fuck he had just done

sweet citrus scented sin

Yasuo_Karada

Summary:

Yuuri’s first mistake was consulting Chris for advice.

Yuuri’s second mistake was clicking on the link that was sent his way.

His third mistake was allowing the ‘Well…’ to pop into his head, as if that was enough to justify things, and before he knew it he was packing up two grapefruits into the cart, tossing in some oranges and a handful of random other fruit to make it less conspicuous. Viktor didn’t even bat an eye at the checkout.

Promises, Promises

mousapelli

Summary:

They really shouldn’t, but that never stops Yuuri and Victor.

Bachelor Party

justrae2010

Summary:

It’s not every bachelor party that you’re treated to a strip tease from your fiancee.

set my heart on fire

FunnyLittleOwl

Summary:

In a world where a broken heart was a literal condition, it was unbelievable to think any owner could be so careless with their own beating organs.

Victor Nikiforov was.

So it wasn’t the least surprising when his Heart decided to take matters into its hands.

(Inspired by the short In a Hearbeat.)

Jokes

kiazareni

Summary:

“Beka,” he says his name again and plays with the longer strands of black hair, strokes his nails against the bristles of his undercut, “you’re the worst best friend ever. Pay attention to me!”

Based on the tumblr prompt: things you said when you thought I was asleep

St. Petersburg is for Layers

Perpetual Motion (perpetfic)

Summary:

Otabek vs. the Russian Winter goes exactly how you’d expect.

he took me to my knees (and now he’s got me prayin’)

orphan_account

Summary:

Viktor and Yuuri try out something new: cockwarming.

your warmth is home

DefiantDreams

Summary:

Viktor Nikiforov would give Katsuki Yuuri the world, whether he asks for it or not. He wants to love Yuuri, and this is simply just one of the ways he knows how.

aka:

Viktor the service sub, ft. cock warming

in which otabek is a (dog loving) criminal

sshibal

Summary:

“I can’t believe you were getting dicked and didn’t tell me,” JJ says when he catches Otabek sneaking out of Seung-gil’s hotel room.

Seung-gil kind of/sort of runs illegal dog cuddling sessions during competitions; Otabek is his unlikely partner in crime. Or three times Otabek introduced people to Seung-gil’s dog on accident and one time he does it on purpose.

But Sometimes Family Picks You (goodbyes)

FyreFaerie

Summary:

He hadn’t been stupid. He’d known that his grandfather was getting old and worked too much for his age. He just hadn’t been ready to say goodbye

Warning: Character death (I feel like the summary kind of explains it though…)

Social Network Cinderella

Lanerose

Summary:

Yuuri calls Phichit the morning after the Sochi Grand Prix Final to let him know that he has found (and lost?) his soulmate.

Phichit comes to the rescue the only way he knows how.

The Perils of Praises

WinterSky101

Summary:

Mari and Minako were Not To Be Trusted.

call me!

its_nochillforov

Summary:

There’s a beautiful stranger on Yuuri’s train so of course the only practical course of action is reading over this beautiful stranger’s shoulder. In Yuuri’s defense, it’s actually a really good book. And the stranger’s cologne smells really good.

And in that moment, Yuri realized: he fucked up.

SparkleMeow

Summary:

{{inspired by}}

“At the hospital:

*Viktor wakes up from an accident*

Viktor: Where’s Yuuri?

Yurio: Who do you think gave you this heart?

Viktor: *starts tearing up* no…

Yurio: JK he went to the bathroom”

Honey, Bee Mine

emeraldonyxdragon

Summary:

Inspired by a silly discord chat. Yuri loves going back to visit Gramps’ farm over the summer, but not so much when his indoor cat Potya decides she likes life outside better. After some fruitless chasing, Yuri decides that he might have to let Potya out more often if it means getting to talk to the young beekeeper next door. Also includes art!

[Art] Honey, Bee Mine - An Otayuri Beekeeper AU

thisiseclair

Boys & Their Toys

orphan_account

Summary:

“Yūri!” Phichit exclaims, picking up the phone on the third ring.

“What does it mean when your neighbor gives you a dildo?” Yūri asks without preamble.

On the other end of the line, he hears something that sounds like choking, followed by a series of violent coughs.

Idol Eyes

Sotakura

Summary:

Yuuri begins packing up his life in Japan, preparing for his upcoming journey to St. Petersburg.

Victor offers to help, but finds some surprises buried in Yuuri’s closet.

(or: Victor finds some hidden merch with his face on it.)

Intoxication

Zetal (Rodinia)

Summary:

After the short program in China, Chris goes out to dinner with a group of friends. Masumi, after spending months avoiding Chris, goes with them.

Katsuki “PDA Monster” Yuuri

Adrianners

Summary:

When he kissed Yuuri for the first time, Viktor assumed that would be the end of any public romantic gestures between them. Yuuri, however, had other plans.

Five times Viktor was surprised by Yuuri’s penchant for public displays of affection, and one time he wasn’t surprised at all.

Late-Night Drive-Thru

domokunrainbowkinz

Summary:

Victor gets hungry at 3 am and goes to McDonalds

Late-Night Drive-Thru (Cursed Version)

domokunrainbowkinz

Summary:

Victor gets hungry at 3am and goes to McDonalds. Yuuri is also hungry, and works at McDonalds. What happens next will blow your mind.

Mint Chocolate Chip

CrystalizedCherry

Summary:

Yuri’s never had ice cream before. Otabek remedies that.

Those Deadly Creatures

ilien

Summary:

Their human is moving in with Christophe. He should have warned them that Christophe lives with a monster.

As A Rule of Thumb

agroovymutation

Summary:

As a rule of thumb… good Catholic boys don’t try and summon demons. As a rule of thumb… 700 year old demons don’t entertain the summons of a 19 year old.

Otabek is a demon, summoned by good boy JJ.

burning in her firelight

TheCookieMonster77

Summary:

Sara likes dresses. She likes them vintage or off the runway, sleek or flowy. Mila’s seen the inside of Sara’s closet, bursting at its seams with endless colorful skirts and lacy necklines. Mila loves Sara in dresses, loves the way Sara loves herself in dresses, but never has Sara in a dress knocked the air out of Mila’s lungs like this.

Because this is Sara, wrapped up in a suit that’s all pinstripes and crisp lines.

“Surprise~”

two gay gals do some shopping

ItadakimASSu

Yuripaws

Summary:

Viktor has a special request involving sushi. Yuuri just rolls with it.

Ways to Love

Viktuurious (Sourwoif)

Summary:

Based on the writing prompt: “different ways to say I love you”

“Hey,” Yuuri returned, unaware of his interruption. He balanced two plates in his hands, smiling up at Viktor, “I got you some samosas and those shrimp wraps that you like.”

Viktor grinned and pressed a kiss to Yuuri’s temple.

“There’s more than one way to say it,” Viktor offered.

Yuri watched them, unsure how to respond. He settled with scoffing and walking off to find someone who made more sense.

call of the wild

thishasbeencary

Summary:

After his failure at the Grand Prix Final in Sochi, Yuuri goes home, but home isn’t back to Hasetsu. Home is the sea, where Yuuri lives as a siren, who feels as though he’s a failure to his family because he’s yet to place a successful Call on a mortal. It reaches Yuuri that Viktor Nikiforov has shown up in Hasetsu to coach Yuuri, and Yuuri doesn’t understand why, and doesn’t feel worthy. He’s not even human, but for some reason, Viktor has chosen to coach him. Nonetheless he goes back to shore.

For some strange reason, Viktor Nikiforov seems unbelievably attracted to Yuuri.

(Or: The canon divergent au where Yuuri is a siren.)

[bunny-wan-kenobi]

Bunny Reviews: Star Wars The Last Jedi *SPOILERS*

**spoilers abound!** You’ve been warned…

So I finally saw The Last Jedi today after DAYS of scrolling through my dash and seeing every possible reaction along the spectrum of outright loathing and disgust to adoration and glee. So basically, I went into the film nervous, skeptical, but hopeful. 

To give some background, like many of you reading this, I’ve been watching Star Wars since I was a toddler laughing as my dad acted out scenes as Jabba and the Emperor. My sister and I staged lightsaber battles when we were 8 and my library bag was filled with books from the now “Legends” era. I love Star Wars, I love its characters, and I’ve enjoyed it through its many iterations, including the prequels (I will defend them to death so don’t start), the animated shows (I still remember how awesome those first shorts were), the comics, the EU books, and The Force Awakens. 

Now that we’ve established that, here is my opinion of The Last Jedi in a nutshell: It’s a beautifully shot film with some poignant character moments draped over an uneven plot and some disheartening characterization choices. 

Okay, that’s out of the way *exhales* 

Now let me say this: I get it. There’s a lot of good in this movie, a lot of genuinely evocative material and solid performances to praise here…but I also understand the complaints because this movie does have A LOT of problems. So here’s my (fair as I can be) take:

The Great (like I teared up and it was so GOOD)

- Mark Hamill’s performance. Whatever script he was given, he still shone and gave this role his all–as always. He was wry, anguished, conflicted, and strong, and you believed every single nuance of emotion he imbued this film’s Luke. The gravitas and dedication he brought to this character intensified my already deep love for Luke Skywalker, and nothing can change that. I felt his despair, his bitterness, but there was also fierce pride I felt when he chose to take a stand and defend what he believed to be right, leading to…

- Luke vs. Kylo. Any fight that starts with Luke Skywalker giving you sass is a win in my book, no matter how it ended. I just enjoyed seeing Luke as I know him best: self-assured, unflappable, and utterly human. The fight was well-shot and I have to say I got chills when Luke declared “And I will not be the last Jedi” and then cutting to the shot of Rey being a Force boss. Everything right with this movie can be encompassed in that one sequence about courage, persistence, and hope, which is at the heart of Star Wars. 

- Carrie Fisher. Every scene with her carried more weight knowing she is no longer with us, and her last conversation with Rey especially made me tear up. We do indeed have all we need. Her Leia remains in this film as beloved, strong, and defiant as always, maybe a bit worn and weary, but still every bit a Princess–our Princess, and this film allowed her to captivate us once more. 

- Luke and Leia’s reunion. I wanted MORE of this, so much more, but this quiet scene of a brother grieving with and loving his sister was beautiful. 

- Yoda shows up. Guys I NERDED OUT here, like to have Frank Oz come back and play ROTJ!Yoda was the perfect surprise I needed. And to have him show such understanding and affection for Luke during one of his lowest points felt fitting and was another lovely character moment. 

- Luke’s final scene. Context aside, the way his passing was framed against the double sunset and the Force Theme wrung tears out of me and I couldn’t help it because it’s LUKE and all of my love for this character just streamed out in this moment. 

The Good (it’s solid, thumbs up)

- The female characters. This film is still very much Rey’s story, and I still appreciate the innocence, compassion, and thoughtfulness Daisy brings to this protagonist. And now she is joined by more of Leia, Admiral Holdo (a role that really surprised me–in a good way), aaaand…

- Rose Tico! I love Kelly Marie Tran, and her Rose is adorkable, caring, and endearingly noble. It’s unfair that we haven’t had another Asian lead in Star Wars until her, but I’m glad she’s here now. I like that she does get a bit more narrative heft with her love for her sister and desire to see the oppression of the First Order end. And she’s an animal lover! And frees exploited creatures! She is actually the best. 

- Finn’s arc. I will disagree with some people by saying that he actually has an arc, but I believe he does. In TFA, we meet Finn as a former child soldier escaping from the First Order and trying to just survive. He’s inspired and encouraged by Rey and is determined to stay with her and protect her, and so he helps out the Resistance towards that goal. But he hasn’t actually joined in the Resistance–he still believes their cause is pretty futile because he KNOWS how vast and awful the First Order is. And so in TLJ, he has to process all of that and decide whether he wants to commit to this effort for the long haul. In being exposed to others like him also exploited by the First Order and working with Rose and Poe, he comes into his own and chooses for himself to be part of this, and that’s a big step for him. It could have been executed better, but there was a discernible change by the end of the film, and we see a Finn who is more settled in his decisions and less afraid. He has never been a coward, and now he’s showing more courage in choosing to stand against those who used and harmed him. 

- The opening sequence. It was frenetic, desperate, and moving, similar to the feelings I got during the opening of the new Star Trek film during Kirk’s birth–the same sadness and sacrifice permeates this scene. 

- The cinematography. I have to give this film props for some gorgeously framed shots and good use of color and atmosphere. There were a lot of moments that stayed with me simply because of how they were captured. 

- The acting. Everyone here is dedicating themselves to these characters, and it shows. This is a truly solid cast, and I appreciate them so much. There is a true sense of camaraderie among these characters, and they have good chemistry together. I also have to give a shout-out to the visible diversity evident in the different worlds visited, the Resistance pilots, and even the casino scene. That matters, so keep it front and center. 

- The PORGS. Y’all knew this was coming but how could I NOT mention my precious smol birbs with vacant, souless eyes and pudgy tummies? I just…love them (and we got to see baby Porgs OHMYGERSH) 

The Problems

- This does not feel like a proper sequel to The Force Awakens. There are so many major plot points and themes developed in TFA that are either tossed out or wrapped up messily in TLJ. Rey’s parentage being a significant struggle for her character and alluded to symbolically through her connection to the Skywalker lightsaber and other motifs? Nope, she’s an abandoned nobody (Kylo’s words, not mine) and we should all just leave that question in the past like it doesn’t matter who would make you think that? Snoke being a major villain player behind the scenes? Nope, he’s axed off in the height of anticlimax before we even find out who he is and where he came from (not all of us should need to read EU books to understand a movie plot y’all). Rey and Finn having an immediate connection with romantic dimensions? Nope, let’s throw in a last-minute love triangle! (everyone LOVES those). You can really feel the tension of the writing and directing problems plaguing this sequel trilogy because it’s so apparent in the lack of continuity. It’s like several interpretations of Star Wars got mashed together and this is what happened…

- Luke Skywalker. Oh Luke, what have they done to you? Look, I am not against seeing Luke struggle with failure, despair, even loss. We’ve seen it, and it can certainly be part of a character’s journey. I could even appreciate it in this movie…if it was detached from the larger context and motivations of this character as established by previous canon. In TLJ, I’m supposed to accept that Luke Skywalker, who could not even bring himself to kill his father because of his compassion, would attempt to kill (even on “impulse”) his unarmed nephew because of his dark potential? I’m supposed to believe that Luke, stuck in a depressed and bitter stupor, would exile himself for more than a DECADE and abandon his beloved sister and friends while KNOWING they were suffering? I’m supposed to accept this bitter, Logan-ized version of Luke for two hours and then watch him die without ever truly forming a connection with Rey or reuniting with his loved ones? He dies alone, and I’m not okay with that. Yes, characters change, but it’s not always necessary to make a character suffer and harden to make them interesting. We’ve already seen Luke fail. We’ve already seen him suffer. I didn’t need nor want to see Luke, defined by his compassion and optimism and openness, portrayed as cold and closed off from the world and calloused from pain. As I said, Mark played him beautifully, but he deserved a much better story than this–and I think the fans did too, leading to…

- The overall treatment of the original trio. So TLJ is on one level about accepting failure and making peace with the past while moving forward. But the thing is, the sequel trilogy has so far piled SO MUCH FAILURE onto our original heroes that the original trilogy begins to leave a bitter taste in hindsight. Every single thing these characters we love fought and struggled for is rendered broken and scattered here, and then they die with their aspirations tragically unrealized. Star Wars is predominately a space fantasy opera with hope at its center, but it takes a fatalistic edge when you look at what they did with Luke, Han, and Leia. Not only do we NEVER get to see these characters all reunited, but their sendoff is tragic and more bitter than sweet. Han is separated from Leia and killed by his son. Luke lives alone for years in self-loathing and bitterness, and after his glorious re-entry into the world and knowing another Jedi is out there, he still dies alone. Leia loses her husband, son, brother, the Republic and only really gets to say goodbye to one of them. This is depressing as hell and not the note you want to end on for some of the most iconic characters in cinema. And if this all was meant to service the theme of “failure is part of life,” it did it in the most unwieldy way possible by reaching the suffering threshold that tested the limits of not only these characters, but also fans. It honestly would have been better if these characters were dead from the outset, legacy intact, and the sequel trilogy focused entirely on the new characters. 

- The fact that the entire Canto Blight subplot could be excised from the movie and little would change. It gave us more time with Rose and Finn, which was good, but it didn’t further the plot, especially given that it takes up a good 20-30 minutes of screen-time. It felt unnecessary, and I wish it had been better woven into the main plot rather than as a side adventure. 

- With that comes also the issue that the Resistance plot…doesn’t really make much sense. So this handful of ships are just cruising along on fuel and the First Order is just…not destroying them all? Like they HAVE smaller ships to destroy them with…why not just be done with it already? Why are all the Resistance’s plans failures because of simply poor logic? That undermines one of the main themes of the movie because this failure doesn’t hold much weight if we know it’s mostly plot contrivance rather than a genuine character struggle! Like…many of the conflicts in this movie feel engineered by plot need rather than organic. 

- The Rey/Kylo dynamic. This was by far one of the most problematic aspects of the movie for me and the part I found most disturbing. In a year that saw the visible emergence of neo-Nazism and the #MeToo movement, the way the scenes of Kylo and Rey were framed felt downright uncomfortable. Kylo is a space Nazi–let’s just own that. He already contributed to genocide of several planets, believes in the First Order’s cause which has oppressed so many vulnerable peoples, and uses manipulation and torture to reach his ends. And Rey knows that. He tortured her in what must have been only a few days ago in this timeline AND murdered his father and her new father-figure. Not only that, but in THIS movie we see Kylo manipulating her further by calling her a nobody, outlining everything wrong about her, and then coercing her to join him. What kind of messed up BS is that? I’m angry about this because this is not okay. Luke tried to save Vader because he believed love could turn his father’s heart. Though it proved that Vader still had the capacity for good, it didn’t absolve Vader of his previous crimes. Rey barely has any real connection with Kylo and then suddenly in this movie wants to redeem him and put the rest to the side. This is not the same situation because it is framed with a romantic tension in this case as if we are also supposed to feel really bad for Kylo and want him to get together with Rey on Team Good. Do I see Kylo’s complexity? Yesss….but he also made choices that brought him to this place, and the movie made Rey look foolish in light of diminishing the weight of Kylo’s previous atrocities. The Light Side is NOT equal to the Dark when the Dark is defined by its selfishness, corruption, and persecution of others–don’t use the Force to make your “both sides” argument. 

- That’s not how the Force works! Okay, so apparently the Force really DOES give one unnatural abilities because there were many scenes in this film that strained my credulity–think mountain of salt, not the grain. Even my mom (not too big of a Star Wars fan) was like “She [Leia] CANNOT survive in space like that–that seemed unbelievable.” That and Luke’s astro-projection were jarring plot conveniences that did not feel consistent with the logic of the Force that had been established so far and also felt kind of cheap in the way they were used. Using the Force does have limits, but here Force abilities were treated like a crazy AU mod. 

- This film rides on plot conveniences rather than characterization. The story works by stringing set pieces together without giving enough heft to the characters’ development. The side characters and even Rey’s arcs are left strangely underdeveloped alongside these big battles and scenes framed as epic (like Finn’s battle with Phasma), leaving some moments oddly hollow. I honestly can’t say much about what Rey’s arc was…failure? Letting go of the past? Becoming a Jedi? Not enough was explained to chart a significant internal change in her, an issue that plagued other characters like Poe as well, who suddenly was framed as this hot-headed aggressive man in contrast to his buoyant but level-headed presence in TFA. Leading to…

- The treatment of the POC characters. There were a lot of moments that felt sadly tone-deaf for our current time. We didn’t need to see Rose tase Finn for laughs and then see both of them get stopped by white police telling them to put their hands up. We didn’t need to see Poe slapped and shot by white superiors and alluded to as this seductive “bad boy,” fitting neatly into certain Latino tropes. We didn’t need the total erasure of Finn’s backstory and past trauma, which was completely unacknowledged in this film, which spent more time lecturing him about being a coward (again–he’s not). As a woman of color, these moments irk me because it’s been so normalized to treat POC this way, and I don’t like seeing a franchise that boasts about its new progressiveness take advantage of that goodwill by sidelining its few main characters of color. 

The Whole Nutshell

There was much of TLJ that I enjoyed, but by the end, I left the theater in much of the same state that I arrived: confused, conflicted, and yet hopeful. I’ll be honest and say that this was not the sequel to TFA I would’ve liked to see, and it will probably go down as the most mixed bag of Star Wars movies for me. The fact that my father, decades-long Star Wars lover, said this movie “was disappointing and didn’t emotionally connect to him” speaks volumes. This is the only Star Wars movie he has EVER described in that way–he didn’t even say that for Phantom Menace! Again, reactions to TLJ span widely, but even that is telling. 

Considering everything that has been going on behind the scenes, I think TLJ represents a failure to realize a cohesive vision for the next chapter of this space saga, and a failure to understand and honor the characters who built it. There’s a solid movie still in there, and it has its flashes of brilliance and beauty, but its overshadowed by the continuity issues and divisive characterization decisions. It’s better than what I expected, but it’s not one I’m looking forward to re-watching anytime soon. 

Bunny’s Grade: 6/10

[toshootforthestars]

From the report by Michelle Ruiz, posted 28 Oct 2020:

The 2020 horse race may be between two white, male septuagenarians, but it is a millennial Puerto Rican Democratic Socialist who produced a seminal political moment.

Her Yoho rebuke inspired a fresh wave of awe for the youngest U.S. congresswoman in history and cemented her status as neopolitical icon—not just good on Twitter (where she schooled her congressional colleagues in a tutorial) and Instagram Live (where she gave an impromptu address on the dark night of Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death), but a skilled orator with the power to move even her most cynical congressional colleagues.

“They were like, ‘I didn’t know you’re that eloquent,’ ” Ocasio-Cortez says with a wry smile. “ ‘I’m so pleased and surprised by your restraint.’ ” Ocasio-Cortez does not name Speaker Nancy Pelosi and, in a separate conversation, rejects reports of a clash, calling it media-manufactured misogyny. “Two powerful women coming from different perspectives,” she shrugs, “and there has to be a catfight.” Still, “House leadership is, sometimes, a little wary of me speaking on the floor. Not that I’m not allowed to, but it’s a little more dicey,” says Ocasio-Cortez. “I think a lot of people, including my Democratic colleagues, believe the Fox News version of me.”

[...]

From her swearing-in in January 2019, Ocasio-Cortez became the de facto spokeswoman for the historically diverse 2018 midterm class, including a record 36 women and 24 people of color as freshmen in the House.

Yoho’s outburst on the Capitol steps was a painful illustration of how some in the entrenched ruling class greeted their arrival—a finger in the face of change. AOC’s status as overnight sensation unsettled some in Washington. “I’ve never seen folks who were in the gallery get all excited about seeing a member of the Oversight Committee,” says Representative Peter Welch, a Vermont Democrat and friend. “Other members are jealous.”

She has demonstrated a special talent for triggering white-male fragility on both ends of the political spectrum.

Three months after her 2018 primary, Andrew Cuomo dismissed her victory as a “fluke.” Ron DeSantis, a congressman at the time, called her “this girl…or whatever she is.”

That demographic of politico are allowed to be wunderkinds—Joe Biden was 29 when he first won his Senate seat; Mayor Pete Buttigieg launched a presidential bid at 37, the same age as Tom Cotton when he ascended to the Senate. But “we are not used to seeing young women of color in positions of power,” says journalist Andrea González-Ramírez, an early chronicler of AOC’s rise.

[...]

Her aspirations are a matter of endless speculation: New York Senate (sic) (Me: U.S. Senator for New York State?), House leadership, a Cabinet post?

“I don’t know if I’m really going to be staying in the House forever, or if I do stay in the House, what that would look like,” she says. “I don’t see myself really staying where I’m at for the rest of my life.”

This is one of the few times AOC seems guarded and cautious about her words. “I don’t want to aspire to a quote-unquote higher position just for the sake of that title or just for the sake of having a different or higher position. I truly make an assessment to see if I can be more effective. And so, you know, I don’t know if I could necessarily be more effective in an administration, but, for me that’s always what the question comes down to.”

She does not believe in political messiahs, nor does she see herself as a “hierarchical, power-based person.” At the beginning of her first term, her staff still called her Alex. It was only when journalists on the Hill started to follow suit that her team collectively decided to address her as Congresswoman. She blends into the crowd at Pelham Bay Park, even though she’s the only one in a suit. When a nearby gender-reveal party pops a blue confetti cannon, she throws her hands in the air and cheers.

When I ask Pressley what the popular narratives miss, she cites humility. “She certainly did not set out to be an icon or even a historymaker. I think it was her destiny, but there is no calculation.”

As Ocasio-Cortez puts it, “I don’t want to be a savior, I want to be a mirror.”

[...]

My interviews with Ocasio-Cortez come at a precarious moment in history—before Election Day 2020, during a series of news cycles that are stunning even by Trumpian standards.

When we first sat down in her Bronx office, the New York Times had just published its bombshell investigation of Trump’s taxes. Talking about it winds up Ocasio-Cortez, her tie-dyed mask pulled down to eat a sandwich.

“These are the same people saying that we can’t have tuition-free public colleges because there’s no money,” she says, “when these motherfuckers are only paying $750 a year in taxes.”

Within a week Trump was in the hospital with COVID-19 and Mitch McConnell was plowing ahead with Amy Coney Barrett’s hearings.

“Trump is the racist visionary,” AOC says, “but McConnell gets the job done. He doesn’t do anything without Trump’s blessing. Trump says, ‘Jump.’ McConnell says, ‘How high?’ Trump never does what McConnell says.”

“This is not about a decision between two candidates,” Ocasio-Cortez says solemnly. “It’s about a decision between two countries.” A Biden win gives her district, which is dominantly made up of Latinx, Asian, and Black people and had been the epicenter of the epicenter of the pandemic, a fighting chance. If it’s Trump, “I cannot honestly look them in the eye and tell them that they will be safe.” To that end, AOC spends the final days of October drumming up blue votes by playing “Among Us” with supporters online while more than 400,000 people watch via the livestream platform Twitch, demonstrating yet again that she is the party’s singular communicator.

But the ending of this story is the same, no matter which man wins.

America is “still in a lot of trouble,” warns AOC. There is a temptation to view Trump as an aberration, she says, rather than a wake-up call to failures of American government at large.

Under a President Biden, “if his life doesn’t feel different,” she points to a cab driver whizzing by our table, “if their life doesn’t feel different,” she gestures to people walking by the beauty shop and Bengali Halal Grocery, “if these people’s lives don’t actually feel different”—now she is giving a stump speech over her omelet—“we’re done. You know how many Trumps there are in waiting?”

She is tired of incremental change, of “bullshit little 10 percent tax cuts,” she says. “I think, honestly, a lot of my dissent within the Democratic party comes from my lived experience. It’s not just that we can be better, it’s that we have to be better. We’re not good enough right now.”

A new crop of AOCs is popping up across the country—young, progressive, working-class candidates of color who sought seats of power by her example. “I wouldn’t have run for office if it weren’t for AOC and the Squad,” says Jamaal Bowman, a former New York City principal. Of the many knocks on Ocasio-Cortez, one of the most prevailing is that she drives the political conversation but lacks a substantive coalition in Congress. “They’re four people and that’s how many votes they got,” Pelosi once quipped of the Squad. But the potential addition of Bowman, fellow New Yorker Mondaire Jones, Cori Bush from Missouri, and Marie Newman of Illinois to the House would mean “the Squad just doubled up,” Bowman says. Ocasio-Cortez gets animated as she imagines the rest of this “Squad-plus”: Nebraska’s Kara Eastman and current Illinois representative Chuy García, with Sanders, Warren, and Ed Markey (“Tío Markey”) as Senate allies.

“You keep telling me I’m just four votes,” AOC says, “so I’mma go get more.”

[resiliency20]

managed IT services

Magic swords, secret potions, holy grails - these are a number of the objects that color most fantasy-adventure novels where the purpose is just to weave an incredible tale. But what happens when marvels and magic, secrets and spiritual beings represent real-life events and emotions? The story that evolves represents feelings about friendship, perseverance, and about accepting help from someone larger than one's self along the way. this is often the story managed IT services, author Mark Boliek shares in his new novel for young and young adult readers entitled, "The Mahogany Door."Boliek, a 41-year-old North Carolina native and statistical programmer by day, released his first novel this summer. Published by fence rail Books LLC, it's the primary book during a series he calls The Bruinduer Narrative.

In the book, three 20-something friends, separated by tragic events, must reunite to travel back through the good Mahogany Door within the basement of a coastal mansion to finish an unfinished destiny. Becoming kids once more as they enter the Vryheid world of Bruinduer beyond the Mahogany Door, the buddies must work fast to stay this phantasy world from collapsing. they need to also come to terms with a seemingly monstrous spirit guide named Billy.

Fantastical because it is, the book actually parallels Boliek's life - a fact he didn't realize until after years of writing and revising. "It wasn't until the third draft that I began to think, you recognize what, this story is about me," he said as he sat right down to discuss the genesis of the book recently.

With that realization, this big man during a jockey cap , who looks more like an NFL linebacker than a writer, decided to run with the chance to inform his biography -- disguised as a fiction-fantasy-adventure tale for teenagers .

The Vision

The son of veteran broadcaster Dave Boliek, Mark Boliek's creative self emerged in junior high school school. Absent from school for 3 weeks thanks to an illness, Boliek completed his Language Arts poetry project reception together with his mother, a former teacher. "I really enjoyed performing on it with my Mom, and that i liked the entire creative process," he said "After that, I wasn't into poetry much, but I did start writing short stories."

Boliek kept his raid creative writing covert through highschool , however. He was a footballer , and jocks weren't alleged to be known for writing fairytale stories.

It wasn't until 1994 that his creative juices really started flowing again. Although he received a full athletic scholarship to travel to school , he opted instead to travel into the Navy. By 1994, he'd just finished his four-year tour of duty, which he served during Operation Dessert Storm. So he enrolled during a creative writing class at Appalachian State University in Boone, N.C.

"I was never as creative because the other students. it had been just something I enjoyed doing," he said with a smile . "My professor was really instrumental in giving me confidence. She was motivational and complimentary." So complimentary, in fact, that Boliek was inspired to be the sole man to submit a brief story to a women's writing contest that year.

Boliek's idea for a fantasy story began two years later in 1996. But it wasn't until 9/11 , 2001, that the story percolating in his mind took on much greater meaning.

"After 9/11, everything began to inherit focus," he remembered. The parallel between Americans' reactions to 2 national tragedies -- Operation Dessert Storm in 1991 and therefore the surprise attack on ny -- immediately struck this military veteran. And one question reverberated in his mind, he said: How do adults tell children about war?

"Having been within the military and knowing that a war would little question happen , 9/11 was really on the brink of me," Boliek said. "There were tons of questions from kids, and that i just wanted to write down about it."

A fantasy novel became his way of answering those questions. He wrote for the youngsters who lost loved ones on September 11; for those that had relations getting to war; and for those that were simply confused about the tragedy and tensions afflicting their nation.

"I wanted to write down a book for teenagers to allow them to know that everybody goes through tough, sometimes even tragic, events or moments. But with a touch perseverance and faith, you'll get through it."

Faith had a deeper meaning for Boliek. In 1997, he went through a difficult divorce that appeared to come "out of the blue," he said. That followed his parents' divorce seven years earlier. During those times, Boliek struggled together with his faith, and within the early versions of "The Mahogany Door," his unrest transmitted to his writing and to the creation of the character "Billy."

Billy, the book's all-powerful spirit guide, was initially a daunting , clown-like character. "Billy was my perception of God," says the large man with the soft voice. "At the time, i used to be seeing God as big, scary, and mean since tons of bad things were happening in my life. As I got older and tried getting back to my faith, i noticed that God hadn't change. What had changed was my perception of Him."

At now , Boliek was quickly unearthing the vision for his story and decided to form his fantasy-adventure novel as relatable as possible. Specifically, he wanted to weave a life lesson into the plot that he's learned as a young boy.

"My parents told me that I had to hike up my very own belt and obtain through life," Boliek said. So during adversity , "there was nothing I could address except my spirituality and my faith to urge out of my issues."

Boliek's memories of twiddling with friends as a toddler also became inspiration for the novel. Growing abreast of a double dead-end road, he and his neighborhood friends created their own fantasy adventures outdoors. "We would go up and down the road and make our own world. it had been something that we created. It wasn't something that anyone else created for us to emulate. and that we didn't do 'magic spells' or something that we weren't. And if we got hurt while we were pretending, we were really hurt."

So he decided to bring that idea into the story. "There's nothing my characters can use to urge out of their predicaments aside from their own imaginations, their own ingenuity, and, ultimately, some spiritual help," he said. "And one among the principles in Bruinduer is that if you bleed there, you actually bleed."

After a couple of drafts, Boliek's characters began to parallel people from the writer's life, including himself. The brave and composed antagonist, JT, represents the person Boliek said he subconsciously strives to be. The "emotionally unbalanced" Michael represents how Boliek felt about himself as he went through his painful divorce. and therefore the fearless and clever girl, Kali, represents three special women in Boliek's life. "They've always been strong women," Boliek said of his mother, his younger sister, Mary Alice, and his second wife, Jill.

[drag-family-trees]

Wreck Room Idol Meet the Performers (Part 1 of 3)

In NO PARTICULAR ORDER, here are the contestants for the comeback of WreckRoom Idol! Do you have early favs?  

Alexander, age 21

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  What attracted me to drag was the Glamour and beauty of everyone even the king's I started doing drag as a queen and found myself as male being transgender female to male it makes me feel like I belong somewhere.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?:

My drag Persona is kind of dark kinda nerdy kind of cool he tries too hard to be liked by everyone. My stepdad influence is my drag he's always trying to win the favor of my brother and sister. Also music helps me feel secure. 

How has drag impacted your life?: 

  Drag has impacted my life in helping me gain a family and great friends. It has also helped me become more true to myself and showing me that it doesn't matter who you are or what you do but you can be what you love.

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  I wanted to get into Idol because I know I will do well at it I feel like I can showcase myself and be true to myself..

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Expect more than you bargained for with Alexander you will see me and expect some punk rock songs but I will pull pop or even classic rock.

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, why?: 

I haven't honestly watched any of the previous Idols I don't want to psych myself out. 

 Quick catchphrase: GO!:

My catchphrase would probably have to be “oh shit!” because I don't really pay attention a lot of the time. 

Porcelain Vahjeen, 22 

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  I’ve always been attracted to drag because of the glamour and because the confidence that the Queen’s exuded. I always wanted to be able to have that confidence and really to be able to push myself and do things that made me uncomfortable and drag was a way for me to be able to do that and also to grow as a person along the way.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

   If I had to describe my drag persona I would say porcelain is a space alien who came down to be a Stepford wife, It didn’t really work out so she took up stripping to raise money for the hungry orphans on her planet. I take a lot of my inspiration from either men or women really who either exuded the confidence that I want to show, had/have a glamorous lifestyle that I want or they’re just particularly funny. I would say other drag queens are where the majority of my inspiration comes from. I don’t particularly look to any specific person or group of people. It’s just always inspiring for me to see a queen go out in an unconventional outfit and a song the audience barely knows and turn it into something beautifully entertaining. 

How has drag impacted your life?: 

   Drag has made me more confident as Tyler, it has also made me more aware of the way women and the LGBT community get treated negatively. I believe because of drag I have learned more of the important political parts of the LGBT community and it has given me a whole new meaning as to why I do drag. It makes me want to get involved and stand out in the community. All to further not only LGBT rights but also women’s rights. Drag has also been a way for me to find other people who are like me and who are interested in the same things that I am. it has built friendships are strong and valuable to me that I never would have had them without some heels and a wig.

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  I decided to compete because the Wreckroom is where I started and I would like to show my appreciation for the Wreck. Once it closed myself and other underage queens and Kings really had nowhere to go. I would like to be able to do my part in making the WreckRoom be successful and to stay that safe haven for those underage baby Kings and queens who can’t get into the 21+ bars yet. 

. Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Do you remember the first time you tried to make an omelette and it turned into scrabbled eggs, but you ate it anyways? I am scrabbled eggs and this is going to be delusions.  

 Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:

  Season 3, Alotta Vahjeen. For obvious reasons. Without Alotta I wouldn’t be where I am today. Not only is she my drag mother, but she’s also my roommate and one of my best friends. Without her I don’t believe I would be able to show the confidence that I have now. My face would probably still be a big mess as well. 

Quick catchphrase: GO!:

 If at first you don't succeed, destroy the evidence...

Jupiter Marie Halliwell, 21

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?:  

Since I was young I always enjoyed dressing up and being someone I wasn’t. I mean everyone loves playing pretend and playing dress up when they are kids and to me drag is the adult version of that. It’s about letting my creativity shine and spreading love through breaking societal rules.  Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?:

 My drag persona is a character in and of herself. She’s a character from a novel series I’m writing. She’s queen of a planet who lost her husband on an interstellar honeymoon and got stranded on Earth. Rock and Roll is the bigger influence as far as aesthetic goes. My biggest local influences would be queens like Jak’Kay Monroe and Alotta Vahjeen. Overall, my main inspirations stem from rock and roll artists, like Maria Brink, Lzzy Hale, Dorothy, and tons more. 

 How has drag impacted your life?:

 Its been a negative and a positive, I’ve met a ton of amazing people through drag and I’ve grown some much as a person. On the negative side, I’ve definitely made bad choices spending money I shouldn’t have on drag. Over all it’s been most definitely a positive experience that I wouldn’t ever change. 

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

it’s been a lot standing dream of mine since I first stepped on the WreckRoom stage in 2015 as Franchesca. I have heard so many amazing stories about the competition and I’ve know plenty of former competitors who have gone on to do amazing things with their drag career.  Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

A glimpse of what people should expect me from? As I said, I love Rock and Roll, but I’m more than meets the eye. As they say, “Expect the unexpected.” Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?: 

Overall, no, specifically because I loved each winner for their own unique reasons, and I can’t say one is better or more my favorite than any of the others.

 Quick catchphrase, GO!!: I’m out of my world. I’m out of my mind. Running through space and running through time.

Mikayla Kanielle, 26

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  The escape from the "normal" world is why I enjoy it most. I love being different. My friend Phillip, aka Gizele Monáe inspired me to do it most. He painted me for my first show and let me teach myself from there. A main reason why I started and continued doing it is that I want to be leader for the community. To build myself into a respectable entertainer. Thats something I think Gizele has done and I'd like to make her proud and be the best I can be. 

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

   I say this from time to time but I'm the "Kakashi" of drag. Simply put, anything I see someone do and I want to do it, I will! Most of the inspiration I get comes from my sisters, Lyza LaRue, Krystal Naomi, Shalula Minaj(Queen), and Iman Naomi. Just by watching them I've learned how to better my makeup skills, crafting, and my performances. 

. How has drag impacted your life?:

  Drag has given me this kind of purpose. I've tried a few other things in my young life but nothing makes me as happy. Crafting and creating things makes me feel almost best. But when it all comes together perfectly on stage, there's no better feeling! 

  Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  Having seen Queens and Kings compete, whether they won or lost develop into a better performer. Also building a platform and proving to myself that I can do this. I can rise to the challenge. 

  Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Effort, Vigilance, and Expression. 

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?: 

  Mine would definitely be Season 3 winner, Alotta Vahjeen. Even though she calls herself a trash monster she's still consistent, evolved and polished for her craft. She knows she is and her worth as an entertainer while still encouraging us that are still learning.

Quick catchphrase: GO!

 "I'm Mikayla Kanielle baby, and I Can·yell"

Dahlia Black, 19

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  Pretty much the first time I ever got attracted to drag was the Halloween show two years ago.  For me it's like for one night a week, I can be whoever I feel like.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

  My drag persona is pretty much a combination of the powerhouses in the pop music industry.  You know who they are,  Britney spears,  Katy Perry,  Beyonce, etc.

How has drag impacted your life?:

Drag has impacted my life by boosting my self esteem,  also it's a place for me to blow off steam.

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?:

I decided to compete in WreckRoom Idol because I've always had a pep in my step. I figured I could let that rub off on other people.

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Hmmmm.. A glimpse of the competition... color.  Lots of color.  Oh. And many many many impersonations.

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:

Honestly I don't have a favorite idol, they're all huge influences and it wouldn't be fair to just pick one.

Quick catchphrase, GO!:

Too much glitter in this room I presume.

[justanothercinemaniac]

Epic Movie (Re)Watch #123 - Back to the Future Part III

Spoilers below.

Have I seen it before: Yes

Did I like it then: Yes!

Do I remember it: Yes.

Did I see it in theaters: Yes.

Was it a movie I saw since August 22nd, 2009: Yes. #385.

Format: Blu-ray

1) I like really enjoy this film and I don’t know why. In some ways it is my favorite of the trilogy (but not really, the first one is my favorite). There are just so many things I love about it. The Western genre, the greater emphasis we get on Doc, Thomas F. Wilson as Mad Dog, there are just a lot of things about this film that really work for me on a base level. Outside of the original, this is the one I watch most of the trilogy.

2) Universal decided to unveil a new logo at the start of this film because 1) it was the studio’s 75th anniversary and 2) this was their most popular series at the time. It is the rare occasion when a logo actually adds to the weight of a film, as it feels more magical and we have a greater sense of time than we did with past logos.

3) Because the last film ended with the climax of the first film, and because this film’s opening scene was the ending of the last film (kudos if any of that made sense to you), this means that the end of the clock tower scene is the only sequence to appear in all three Back to the Future films.

4) The film’s opening theme actually introduces a new love theme from composer Alan Silvestri. A lighter melody which reoccurs throughout the film which I always tied to Doc and Clara’s relationship. But in hindsight it could just as easily be used to relate Doc and Marty’s friendship.

5) I mentioned in my post about Back to the Future Part II that the sequels play with the idea of history repeating itself by recreating scenes from the original in new circumstances. This trend continues in Part III immediately when Doc doesn’t believe that Marty actually came back FROM the future and refers to him as, “future boy,” only for Marty to talk to Doc through a locked door and convince him otherwise.

6) Doc reading the letter his future self wrote to Marty from 1885 is great. We get to see a lot of fun from 1955 Doc in reacting to ideas like the flying Delorean and briefly thinking that, “Einstein,” was someone other than his own future dog. Also it makes both Doc & Marty tear up. I’m all for tearful bromances.

7) As I mentioned before, this film does succeed in some nice emphasis on Doc’s character. Before he was a funny enthusiastic scientist and we didn’t get MUCH of his backstory, but here we get nice little details which flesh out his character more. Notably, his love for Jules Verne inspiring his desires to be a scientist. We also learn that he LOVED the Old West and as a kid he wanted to be a cowboy. That’s such a fun idea!

8)

Marty [after finding a picture of his great-great-grandfather Seamus McFly, also played by Michael J. Fox]: “That’s him. Good looking guy.”

9) So Doc is about to send Marty into the old west dressed as a “cowboy” and Marty points out he never saw Clint Eastwood dress like this.

Doc: “Clint who?”

Marty [looking at the movie posters]: “That’s right. You haven’t heard of him yet.”

The movies featured at the drive-in - Revenge of the Creature and Tarantula -both actually feature a young Clint Eastwood in them!

10) According to IMDb:

The drive-in theater was constructed specifically for this film. It was built in Monument Valley, and demolished immediately after filming. No films were ever screened there.

I would have LOVED to go to that drive in. Like that would be a must see destination for sure.

11) This is a nice callback to the original:

1955 Doc (telling Marty about how he’ll have to drive through the desert): “Remember where you’re going there are no roads!”

12) The gag with the Native Americans is pretty clever. For those of you who haven’t seen the film: Marty is concerned about running into the drive in wall with the Native Americans on it but is concerned he’ll hit them, but Doc points out he’ll travel back in time when there was no wall. Except when he travels back in time, there’s a group of (possibly stereotypical) Native Americans charging right at him (because they’re being chased by the cavalry).

13) Michael J. Fox as William McFly.

Fox continues his excellence of acting out multiple characters from the first film with his performance as Marty’s ancestor Seamus. He plays it totally different than he does Marty. Quieter, kinder, a little less brash, and with a killer Irish accent. Like his acting in the previous film, you never feel like you’re watching Fox play against Fox. They’re two totally different characters and he does well to show that.

14) Not only does this film play well with preexisting gags, but it also adds to them.

Marty: I had this horrible nightmare. Dreamed I w-... dreamed I was in a western. And I was being chased by all these Indians... and a bear.

Maggie McFly: Well... you're safe and sound here, now, at the McFly farm.

Marty: McFly farm? (Marty jolts out of bed to see Maggie) Why, you're my, you're my, my...(realizes he’s never actually met this woman in his whole life, as opposed to all the times he’s done this with his mom.) Who are you?

15) Just as Fox plays Seamus well, Lea Thompson does a great job as Maggie McFly.

Maggie is so different from Lorraine or...huh, I guess she’s only played different versions of Lorraine before. But she’s a little fiercer, being an immigrant at all, is able to hold her own with her husband, and again the Irish accent is great! I very much enjoy Maggie.

16) Robert Zemeckis directed Who Framed Roger Rabbit before the two Back to the Future sequels...

17) Think about this: we have seen seven full generations of Marty’s family.

His great great grandparents, Seamus and Maggie.

His great grandfather, William (as a baby).

His grandparents, Sam and Stella (in the original film)

His parents and his mother’s siblings (in the original film)

His parents.

Him and his siblings.

His children.

That gets to an excellent point about this series: it’s not about random time travel, it’s very much about family and the relationships we form between blood and friends. The fact that we meet seven generations of one kid’s family I think illustrates that perfectly.

18) Marty wandering through town illustrates how he wanders through town in the earlier films, giving us some nice throwbacks/foreshadowing (I don’t know which it is in a time travel movie) when we see A. Jones Manure Company.

19) The three bar patrons:

Dub Taylor, Harrey Carey. Jr., and Pat Buttram made careers out of playing sidekicks, town drunks, and colorful townsfolk in hundreds of westerns and television shows. Buttram in particular provided memorable voice over work in The Fox & The Hound as Chief and Disney’s Robin Hood as the Sheriff of Nottingham.

20) Bufford ‘Mad Dog’ Tannen.

This was Thomas F. Wilson’s favorite film to shoot out of the Back to the Future trilogy because he got to be a cowboy pretty much. Wilson is truly underrated throughout this film. In so many ways Mad Dog is a wildly different character from Biff and Griff. He’s more of a classic thug, he feels like he’s straight out of an old western and Wilson is chameleonic in the part. You don’t see Biff or Griff or any of other Wilson’s work, you just see Mad Dog and I will forever shout to the heavens that Thomas F. Wilson does not get enough credit for his work in this film.

21) These films really lucked out in their pop culture references. From the original we’ve had references to films, TV and music which have stood the test of time. These include Star Wars, “Star Trek”, Jaws, and - in this film - Clint Eastwood and Michael Jackson. Marty’s Michael Jackson dance when Mad Dog asks him to Dance is great!

22) In each film Marty pisses off a Tannen family member in a place to drink and is chased through town by him and his gang. This film is a bit more serious with that idea, as Mad Dog and his crew ride their horses and practically hogtie and lynch Marty. It’s the one time the town chase has not ended with Marty coming up on top, needing Doc’s sharpshooting to save his life. According to IMDb:

Thomas F. Wilson who plays Buford Tannen, performed all his horse riding stunts himself. He also did the trick where he lassoes Marty just before we meet the 1885 Doc.

When "Mad Dog" tried to lynch Marty, Michael J. Fox was accidentally hanged, rendering him unconscious for a short time. He records this in his autobiography "Lucky Man" (2002).

23) I never knew how amazing Doc Brown as a badass gunslinger would be until I saw this film.

24) It’s interesting to note that Doc does not remember helping Marty get to the Old West when he did so thirty years earlier. My working theory is this: we know that Doc hit his head a lot, so I’m guessing at some point he just banged himself up so much he forgot his own future in the Old West.

25) The Mayor in Part III was a part which was offered to Ronald Reagan after his presidency, as he was a fan of the original film. He ended up turning it down.

26) The whole idea of an act committed by Marty and Doc changes the name of Clayton Ravine to Shonash Ravine then to Eastwood Ravine is basically a more obvious version of the Twin Pines/Lone Pine Mall joke in the first film.

27) Clara Clayton.

With the exception of Lorraine, the Back to the Future films don’t exactly excel at representing female characters (they literally left Jennifer on the porch in the middle of the last film and she won’t show up again until the end of this film). Mary Steenburgen as Clara Clayton is a nice change of pace for that. Although largely introduced as a love interest for Doc Brown, she is developed into an interesting character to match Doc’s. She has the same love for Jules Verne and science as he does (a rarity in the Old West), she’s able to fend for herself around Bufford Tannen, but she and Doc also connect on a really fascinating level. Even though they just met, the chemistry between Lloyd and Steenburgen make you really believe that these two love each other (the scene where Doc agrees to fix her telescope is so cute!). I love Mary Steenburgen in this film, and she’s a worthy addition to the trilogy.

28) With the extension of the story to a trilogy, we get to see when the famous Hill Valley clock starts clicking in 1885 (in Part III) and when it stops clicking in 1955 (in the original film). Thinking it through, you can figure out exactly how long the clock ran. The clock in the clock tower started running at 8:00 p.m. on September 5, 1885 (the date is provided by the caption on the photograph Doc gives Marty at the end of the movie). The lightning strikes the clock tower at 10:04 p.m. on November 12, 1955. This means that the clock tower operated for exactly 70 years, 2 months, 7 days, 2 hours, and 4 minutes.

29) Much like how Huey Lewis made a cameo in the original film, ZZ Top (who sings the song “Doubleback” which plays during the credits) cameos as the 1885 town bad during the dance.

According to IMDb:

According to the book "Billy Gibbons: Rock & Roll Gearhead", ZZ Top was hanging around the set and was asked to be the town band. During one take, the camera broke. While waiting for the camera to be repaired, Michael J. Fox asked if they would play "Hey Good Lookin'" which they did. Afterwards, more requests were played. Two hours later, someone inquired if the camera had been repaired. Robert Zemeckis replied that it had been fixed for quite a while, he just didn't want to stop the party that had evolved.

Also the song they’re playing is an acoustic version of “Doubleback” from the film.

30) I’m sharing this largely for the first 22 seconds.

After watching the modern “Doctor Who” series I immediately think of this:

You Whovians get me.

31) I’ve seen this film probably around ten times (maybe eleven now) but this was the first time that the actor playing the Colt salesman looked familiar to me.

Well that’s because the last time I watched this film and my most recent viewing I’d see Blazing Saddles twice and, well...

32) And of course this has to continue because it wasn’t resolved in Part II:

Mad Dog [to Marty]: “You yella?”

Again, I don’t have an issue with this as much as other people do, but it’s hardly my favorite aspect of the trilogy.

33) This part makes me laugh every time:

Mad Dog: Then let's finish it, right now!

Gang Member #1: Uh, not now, Buford. Uh, Marshal's got our guns.

Mad Dog: Like I said, we'll finish this tomorrow.

Gang Member #2: Tomorrow, we're robbin' the Pine City Stage.

Mad Dog: What about Monday? Are we doin' anything Monday?

Gang Member #1: Uh, no, Monday'd be fine. You can kill him on Monday.

Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen: I'll be back this way on Monday!

34) Doc and Clara stargazing melts my cynical heart.

(GIF sources unknown [if these are your GIFs please let me know].)

35) The only time in the entire trilogy when the catchphrases are flipped!

(GIF source unknown [if this is your GIF please let me know].)

And I laugh every time.

36) It is a truly fascinating scene to watch when Doc tells Marty he wants to stay in 1885, but Marty knows Doc so well he is able to pretty easily convince him otherwise (mainly by appealing to the scientist in him). It shows just how great a friendship these two have.

37) You know what I never got: why does Doc not want to take Clara with them to 1985?

SHE’S SUPPOSED TO BE DEAD ANYWAY!!!!

38) My heart breaks every time Doc tries to tell Clara the truth about himself, and each time I watch this film there’s a part of me that thinks it won’t happen this time. I’m always wrong.

(GIF originally posted by @whatshouldwecallme)

39) This fucking scene:

Doc [after a traveling salesman tells him you never know what the future holds]: “Oh...the future. I can tell you about the future.”

(Feel free to stop watching after 1:44)

40) I’m starting to realize this film has some of my favorite gags in the whole trilogy.

Marty [after Doc faints after taking a shot]: “How many did he have?”

Bartender: “Just one.”

Marty: “‘Just one’?”

Bartender: “Now there’s a man who can’t hold his liquor.”

41) Marty realizing what we all should when dealing with someone like Tannen:

(GIF source unknown [if this is your GIF please let me know].)

42) If I didn’t ship these two enough, just listen to how Clara describes Doc:

Clara [asking about Doc]: “Was this man tall, with great big brown puppy dog eyes and long silvery flowing hair?”

I love it!

43) Originally Mad Dog Tannen (after falling in manure) was arrested for killing Marshal Strickland and this was said by the deputy. However, this scene was deleted as the filmmaker decided it was too dark. They pointed out the fact that no one dies and stays dead in the Back to the Future films. Hence the re-dub.

44) When Doc blows the train whistle he gleefully exclaims, “I’ve wanted to do that all my life!” This sentiment would be repeated by the main character in 2004′s The Polar Express, also directed by Robert Zemeckis.

45) The entire climax with the train - while no Clock Tower scene from the original - is a great ride! It keeps the film’s standard for exciting and well done action in check while also feeding in incredibly into the western genre. It’s just a lot of fun!

46) This moment:

(GIFs originally posted by @gif-weenus)

HIS FACE! HE’S JUST SO HAPPY AND I LOVE IT! YES!!!!

47) It’s so sad when we think that Marty will never see Doc again because the Delorean is destroyed. Thank god for time travel.

48) Needles looks like a moron. Did people really dress this way in 1985?

49) In the last film it was established that Marty got into a car accident with a Rolls Royce after being called chicken, a decision which sent his life spinning down the toilet. This time we see the scene itself and while Marty decides not to race Needles (and in doing so he avoids the accident), because of time travel something is different this time:

JENNIFER IS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT OF THE CAR! JENNIFER WOULD’VE FREAKING DIED!

That could’ve been very bad for Marty.

50) I have a lot of fan theories in my head that fill up a lot of plot holes, but one thing I can’t figure out is how did Doc get the barriers to the railroad to drop before he traveled back in the time train to meet Marty & Jennifer?

51) Jules & Verne.

If you watch carefully, you can see the younger of the two - Verne - doing random stuff with his hands during the wide-shot. That’s because a crew member was in charge of doing things with his hands that the child actor would mirror, mainly with petting the dog. But when the crew member started gesturing for someone to come by them Verne continued mirroring him. And it’s in the final film.

52) This is a great closing message for the entire trilogy.

I love Back to the Future Part III. I love all the Back to the Future movies honestly, but something about Part III just really does it for me. I love the Western setting, I love the emphasis on Doc, I think Lloyd and Wilson get to really shine, and Clara is such a wonderful addition to the story. It’s just a really great way to close out one of the best film trilogies in movie history! So go watch it! Not just this film, the whole trilogy. You won’t be sorry.

[nikfix]

Musical Romanticism with Ahmad of We Are Imaginary

Photo by JLE Music

Ahmad is one of those cool dudes who play awesome pink guitars, and of those people keep it simple with their music and gear. His band We Are Imaginary recently celebrated their ten years in the industry by releasing their newest single, Dekada. We look a bit into Ahmad’s gear and his humble beginnings.

Photo by Nestor Domingo Jr./The Slickmaster’s Files

How did you start making music and playing guitar?

Ahmad: Making music, it came first, even without an instrument. I was changing the lyrics of Andrew E’s songs, while in 4th grade. That dream was scrapped when I heard Guns N’ Roses’ “Use your Illusion II.” I think Khalid (WAI’s guitarist) was responsible for that borrowed cassette. Then I was introduced to the grunge movement and the genius of The Eraserheads courtesy of my older cousins from Manila. During those times, I was so inspired that I would fill up notebooks with songs I wrote with matching album covers.

Plus it was the 90s! Everyone was learning guitar. I was envious that my cousins can play and was determined to learn. My parents were persuaded to buy an acoustic guitar made by a local luthier. It was pretty heavy and has high action and big frets, but I didn’t care. They then enrolled me in this summer guitar tutorial class where I learned how to strum, pluck, then transpose chords (handy when I can’t play the bar chords version of my favorite songs). I attended more or less 8 hours’ worth of exercises. I would go home and teach Khalid what I’ve learned. That was the summer before high school. Also, Hothits played a big part in learning new songs.

Photo by Mary Whitney

How did your band start out?

Ahmad: Before I went to Manila in 2008, I already expressed to my brother and Eric Po (former drummer) that I wanted to form a band that focuses on “real” songwriting and is inspired by the sound of the British and Swedish indie-pop bands I love. I used to play for this rock/blues band in Legazpi (Albay), but they don’t want to leave for Manila and test the waters. I was having a quarter-life crisis then, so I just left. The move I guess was expected and needed for my growth since I was already writing differently. Luckily, my (new) bandmates all trusted my material, which eventually became our 1st EP.

Photo by JLE Music

Who are your main influences? And how did they inspire you to play better?

Ahmad: I am very much into Weezer and Nirvana – bands from that era. But my timeless favorites are The Smiths and Death Cab for Cutie, which I discovered when I was already out from college. Just proves that your sound doesn’t stop evolving. So for me, it’s more about the songs than technical proficiency – and yes, that’s a good excuse to justify that I’m the most untechnical guitarist out there LOL.

I call my style “kanto guitar” because what I learned in Grade 6, I still use now. I can’t shred to save my life. I’m more of an open chords guy so if you hear some repetitive melodic riffs in our songs, that’s probably me as I got that from listening to a lot of 90s Britpop and new wave bands.

If I force myself to dissect my style, it’s more like marrying the dynamics and chordal elements of Kurt Cobain with a bit of Robert Smith and Billy Corgan. Just way sloppier I guess.

I enjoy making up chords and building the song from there. When it comes to words, I always ping-pong between Ben Gibbard and Rivers Cuomo (and apparently failing on both counts) so marrying those elements I think makes up my style.

Tell us about your music. 

Discussing how to define our sound with my friend, Jon (of The Strange Creatures), I realized that we are in that tiny grey area where we can’t decide to be purely indie (the genre!) or pop. I mean I don’t think about it when I am writing songs but I can relate to The Cure or The Smiths' repertoire, where you’ll hear some jangly happy tune then you get this morose sounding ditty on the next track. I guess that’s what defines the We Are Imaginary sound too.

My band is currently in the process of arranging songs for a new album. We have enough material to fill another release, but time constraints and invoking that right headspace can be quite a hassle.

Cover Art for the song, Dekada.

And oh, we have just released the music video of our latest single Dekada. A new single will be out probably this October.

Tell us about your guitars. Which is your favorite one and why?

My main guitar has always been this 1984 Squier Telecaster (MIJ) which I had repainted to pastel pink (courtesy of Sir Max Rufo). I called this one “Areola” and was used to record our 2 EPs. I think Khalid got it from a trade and he let me use it ever since I moved here. It was also modified to house a DiMarzio pickup and double rail pickup (forgot the brand). Safe to say, it is not your usual Tele sound.

I then used a Peavey JF-1 Black Hollow Body. It was Khalid’s, and he used it for our 2 EPs too. I used it for recording Death to Romanticism along with a frankenstein Teisco EP2-L (which can’t seem to stay in tune out of old age). Sold both to get a 90’s yellow Danelectro ‘59 (MIK). I love this Dano guitar as it got this sick twang plus I am really biased towards pastel colors. I call her “Nana.” I miss the Peavey guitar though.

This Cort guitar is a favorite since I do acoustic sets from time to time. It just got that warmth that not most guitars have.

I still dream of owning a Guild Starfire IV and a Fender Mustang. Soon I guess.

Let’s take a look at your pedalboard. What effects do you use live?

I just assembled my first pedal board a year ago. I used to be contented with a Zoom G3 ‘cause it’s just neat and practical. Now I have a Caline Pure Sky for my main drive, Proco Rat II (a gift from good friend/bandmate Siopao Chua of Taken by Cars/Olympia Maru) for additional heavy boost, a Rowin mini tuner and the aforementioned Zoom G3 for modulation, pre-amp, and EQ. Khalid’s hibernating Boss DD3 will soon join the pile as well as an EHX Holy Stain – after it gets modded by Howard Luistro’s (of Oh, Flamingo!) dad. I am currently gas-ing over this local brand PedalBot’s Royal Grit. It may soon replace the Pure Sky, but let’s see.

What amps do you use at home and live?

I don’t own an amp at the moment. I used to have a 15-watt Vox and a Guyatone practice amp but sold them when bills were piling up. I guess I am one of the few guitarists who prefers a solid state than a tube amp.

Favorite amp? I dream of owning a Roland JC-120 though I am not sure if it will work with my sound yet.

Photo by JLE Music

What are you listening to right now?

In heavy rotation are Young Scum’s self-titled LP, Sobs’ Telltale Signs, Wild Nothing’s Indigo, as well as Vansire’s old LP Reflections and Reveries. I can’t wait to hear Death Cab for Cutie’s new album.

What advice can you give to your fellow guitar players and musicians who want to play like you do?

Never stop discovering new music. Everyone has a favorite era, but when you stop appreciating new bands and keep insisting that there’s nothing new or exciting out there, you will realize soon enough that your learning is stalled. We belong to this weird ecosystem where we feed off from each other’s spark of creativity, so don’t be a dead end.

Check out We Are Imaginary’s newest single, Dekada.

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[stellacarrierimaginationbuilders]

Five Times The Muse Inspiration From Heaven Visits Freestyle Story by Stella Carrier

Five Times The Muse Inspiration From Heaven Visits Freestyle Story by Stella Carrier

Time started once I continued to finish the story after referencing Angela’s parents and more on them later 1240 pm

End Time;

           Angela Collins is enjoying volunteering with helping the cooks and chefs at Coachella make different food creations that were featured in the Delish website that also made its way through msn mainstream news and gave her and everyone involved with those creations national media coverage. She was actually surprised when a modeling agent also approached her and offered her a modeling shoot once the Coachella festival is over. Angela asked the modeling agent named Miles what caught his attention about her and he said it was the fact that she resembled the female singer Saabi in the music video for You Make Me Feel by Cobra Starship feat. Saabi. Angela found this entertaining because her husband Charlie James was happy for her when he found out the good news. They both are temporarily living in Los Angeles for the summer before they head back to Northern Virginia to volunteer and go to work for Angela’s biological parents-more on them later.

           Angela’s husband also understood because he himself was also a model part time as he was discovered by a modeling scout that liked that Charlie James looked like one of the actors featured in the music video for Counting Stars by One Republic. Charlie James was going to meet Angela for breakfast in the morning before she heads back to volunteer on the 2nd day for Coachella. As Angela retires to her tent on the campsite of Coachella and grabs stuff for the shower. However, 8 minutes later after walking to the shower and stripping herself for the shower,Angela goes back to her tent and realizes that she forget her hair conditioner to take to the shower. She is less than a few feet from the front of her tent when she hears and sees the silhouette woman laying down on the tent with her knees up, feet seemingly planted from the floor and moaning from a neighboring tent despite the song Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars blaring loud. Angela then notices a silhouette of a male figure leaning forward towards the female figure and decides to leave them alone but hopes that they will quiet it down by the time she is finished with her shower and back to her tent.

           During the shower, Angela plays one of the local radio stations that play the songs California Girls by the Beach Boys as she remembers what brought her to California at least temporarily in the first place. Angela Collins is 31 years old and is fortunate to have parents that have been married for 33 years. Angela Collins was actually born 9 months after her parents first year wedding anniversary, so it is pretty much little mystery when she was conceived. Angela Collins father   Dean Murphy is a 50 year old intelligence specialist officer in the U.S. Navy and stationed in Virginia Beach Virginia. Dean Murphy is a prior-enlisted officer who got his bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University and his master’s degree from Georgetown University in Applied Intelligence. Dawn Thomas is a 49 year old former navy culinary specialist turned public affairs officer who is also prior-enlisted. With Dean’s support, she temporarily left the U.S. Navy when Angela was 8 years old and obtained a bachelor’s degree from the Merchant Marines academy and even served in the Merchant Marines for two years. However, Dawn missed the Navy and eventually went back into the U.S. Navy  before her 39th birthday and obtained a Master’s Degree in Global Strategic Public Relations at Georgetown. The Navy also paid for her to attend a week long course at the Robert H. Smith Business School at the University of Maryland College Park campus.

As a result, it is little surprise that Angela’s parents have high expectations for her. Lucky for Angela, her mom Dawn was able to help her get the volunteer opportunity with Coachella and a paid for temporary position at two of the Smithsonian museums in D.C. after Angela is finished with her volunteer stint at the Coachella music festival. As Angela enjoys her music in the shower, she understands that she is fortunate to have parents who set the bar high for her as she has known women who society andor family/friends around them do not take seriously when they discuss their school and career plans. Angela is even close friends with a 41 year old female named Mary who rejoined the military after being out for some time and came from a family where women were only allowed to belong to the family if they agreed to be homemakers andor stay at home mothers (there is nothing wrong with a woman wanting to be a stay at home or a homemaker but not every woman would be happy living that way). Mary saw her stay at home mother miserable and miss her work life after giving up her dreams to be a homemaker and Mary promised herself that she would live life on her own terms when she reaches her 18th birthday and as the years go by regardless of what her family andor her critics think. It helps that Angela shared with Mary how her own mother Dawn successfully juggled a navy career and motherhood while seeming happy and fulfilled despite the challenges that came with it.

           Less than 18 minutes after the shower, Angela steps out of the shower and notices a female with waist length long hair and insists to Angela that she call her Joy O’Neill up on a makeshift stage created near the tents, with the front of her tent being one of them. Angela is even more puzzled because all types of flowers sprang up near the tent and the sun is back up when she could have sworn that the sun was starting to set when she went to take a shower.

           Before Angela could ask any questions, she notices five spirits dressed in various colored robes on stage with peach masks. The first spirit dressed in a blue aqua robe waves a neon white saying five urgent reality creation ideas; as he walks up to Angela and gives her two books by I.C. Robledo and Bergat Bogner titled imagination ideas. The second spirit dressed in a yellow robe and peach mask gives her a paper from the Multi-millionaires Spending Game of pages 122-123 of the Feel it Real book by Denise Coates, except this paper shows three spending games of 1500 dollars after taxes each month representing the words, secret email, public blog, and the words outside work life 2 months. The third spirit comes up to her in a purple robe and peach mask and touches Angela’s arms as she remembers a collage project that she did in high school where she also charted words close to what excited her enough to dream yet still have some realistic elements under it and much of the stuff she put for fun in it came to pass and she intuitively realizes that she must do this both offline and on a blog online. The fourth spirit comes up to Angela off the music stage in an orange robe with the words etched on his robe fictional dream journal nine years ago as he gives her a hug. Instantly, Angela realizes that she must start a fictional dream journal with the first entry on her blog when she senses very few people are watching online with the first entry being a little bit of what actually happened over ten years ago while keeping her current work life out of it. The fifth spirit, dressed in a pink and light green robe also touches her arm and she remembers an article she read about a stay home dad who has a popular blog that is popular with many people. Angela intuitively realizes that this spirit is gently suggesting to her that she must try to set aside time to look at some of the well-known blogs to give her ideas for her own writing and law of attraction activities.

           The female spirit who told Angela to call her Joy O’Neill gently explains to Angela that she is a creative muse from one of the happy realms who was also one of multiple benevolent spirits who provided creative writing inspiration for the following songs; This is What You Came for by Calvin Harris and Rihanna, Sugar by Robin Schultz and Francesco Yates including the song versions of Sugar by Baby Bash,  and Shelter by Madeon and Porter Robinson. Joy O’Neill then lovingly explains that Angela could also utilize her for both her writing work and assistance in using law of attraction principles. Joy O’Neill then gives a flashcard to Angela titled Volunteer before she wakes up and wakes up in the shower as she realizes that she accidently went to sleep when she laid on a nearby picnic beach after her shower near the tents as she was deciding to wait for the couple in the tent next to her to finish with their intimate activities before she was going to head to sleep in her tent.

    Resources

 Songs for todays Freestyle Story; From the Dance Hits playlist of Amazon; Sugar by Robin Schultz from Francesco Yates, Shelter by Porter Robinson and Madeon, This is What You Came For by Calvin Harris feat. Rihanna, from Amazon Classic Hits Radio Station; You Make Me Feel by Cobra Starship feat. Saabi, California Girls by The Beach Boys, From Pandora Venus Make You Move radio station; Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars,Counting Stars by One Republic

 Affirmations For Today

I have extra time that I fill productively and in line with my life purpose

I intuitively pay attention to both the questions and answers that are given to me.

I wisely pick my starting time as I have everything I need to get a certain job done and under budget.

I contribute my best creatively to a collaborative project regardless of the outcome of obscurity or fame.

I can utilize the most powerful environmental influences to my advantage.

I seek and I shall eventually find. It is only a matter of time before I uncover what I am looking for regardless of how long it takes for me to do so.

My natural magnetism and charm come in handy in both familiar and even challenging and beneficial situations.

I put my best foot forward as I have a lot to offer.

I trust in my bright future and the goodness of the universe as I have powerful spiritual helpers and a resilient higher self who watch over me.

I benefit both from familiar venues and a change in venue. I also attract/manifest inspiration from the most unusual sources.

I am in the process of becoming a fast learner who comes to understand multiple things presented to me quite well.

I wisely take advantage of opportunities both created by my creativity, imagination, and intuition as well as those uncovered for me by others.

Unique and Beneficial Opportunities in Various Forms Come My Way.

Information at my fingertips provides me answers both questions I have asked recently and for a while.

What I accomplish on my own and through positive inspiration from others makes a positive difference to everyone around me, regardless of how I am perceived.

I successfully use yesterday, today, and tomorrow to think about what’s next in my bright future.

I start strong and as early as possible to ensure a superb and clean finish.

I forge a new path in a unique way.

I wisely know when to make decisions that will send me in a new and beneficial direction and when to persist and stay the course.

I rationally and intuitively am in the process of learning how to use both the possible and impossible to my creative advantage.

I wisely know when to take charge of my destiny and shape things and circumstances towards my goals and when to adjust accordingly and allow situations to take shape naturally in an organic fashion.

I am in the process of learning how to both be a better friend and attract an abundance of both spiritual and resilient friends into my life.

My psychic and intuitive abilities are expanding each day.

I am creating heaven on earth.

https://www.orindaben.com/pages/rooms/affirmations_room/

I am in the process of learning to love my work.

I draw to myself many wonderful opportunities to make a difference in the world.

I support other people in feeling good about themselves.

I honor my dreams.

I lift the veils of illusion. I can see clearly.

I am linked with the higher forces of the universe.

I have all the energy I need.

I have joyful pictures of the future.

I accelerate my spiritual growth by living in higher purpose.

I ask for and receive a seed of inspiration that brings courage and fearlessness. I now act with courage and create my goals.

I give myself permission to have what I want.

I choose to follow my higher path today.

  http://observer.com/2017/04/emma-roberts-home-michelle-obama-tahiti/

  Emma Roberts’ Décor Habits; Michelle Obama Is Paddleboarding

  https://www.yahoo.com/news/selena-gomez-weeknd-cozy-coachella-162011571.html?soc_src=community&soc_trk=tw

Selena Gomez and the Weeknd Get Cozy at Coachella

 http://www.msn.com/en-us/music/celebrity/coachella-2017-vanessa-hudgens-alessandra-ambrosio-and-more-stars/ss-BBzS7at?li=BBnb2gh

Coachella 2017: Vanessa Hudgens, Alessandra Ambrosio and more stars

 http://scs.georgetown.edu/departments/44/executive-master-of-professional-studies-in-global-strategic-communications/about-the-program/industry-and-careers

Georgetown University Executive Master of Professional Studies in Strategic Communications

http://scs.georgetown.edu/departments/51/master-of-professional-studies-in-applied-intelligence/industry-career-outlook

Georgetown University Applied Intelligence Program

https://www.smith.umd.edu/news/washington-posts-capital-business-2017

University of Maryland College Park Robert H Smith School of Business Washington Posts Capital Business Links;

https://www.smith.umd.edu/news/washington-posts-capital-business-2017

http://writingexercises.co.uk/random-name-generator.php

chef jobs in yahoo search

https://www.navy.com/careers/business-legal/food-services-hospitality.html#ft-key-responsibilities

Food Services & Hospitality

 I know about the religious program specialist field from my time in Yokosuka Japan. I admit that there was a time that I wanted to go into this field (around 2000/2001)but the CMC of my ship (Command Master Chief (E-9) at the time told me that he would have a hard time letting me go to school in the states for this field if I tried to pursue it because there were no religious program specialists that were permanently based on the destroyer class ship that I was stationed on. He did let me know that he would consider sending me to school for the supply rating (storekeeper) if I made E-4 my first time taking the navy advancement test. When I did actually achieve making E-4 my first time up (including scoring among the top 32 percentile navywide in the test) the CMC took back his word with the similar reason that he gave me for why he could not let me train to be a religious program specialist (even though he let a male who had about the same time on the ship as me and was even the same rank permanently leave the ship and cross completely over to another rating). It was then my 21 year old mind realized the hard way that nothing truly has to be honored unless it is in writing and maybe even then the person will change their mind depending on the law. Anyhow, I eventually forgave the CMC who took back what he said, but at least on the bright side, I met my now husband a few months after I made E-4 so at least what was a setback at that time turned out to be a blessing for my personal/love life. On additional positive note, that experience also taught me to understand and see that both good fortune and challenging circumstances happen for reasons that facilitate a person’s positive spiritual growth, which is why I do believe strongly that things happen for a reason and when  one door closes multiple and other beneficial doors open.

https://www.navy.com/careers/chaplain-support/religious-program-specialist.html#ft-key-responsibilities

https://www.navy.com/careers/merchant-marine.html#ft-key-responsibilities

 I confess that I easily know about this job field in the navy because there was a first class (E-6) intelligence specialist on the ship (USS O’Brien) that I was on when I was stationed in Yokosuka Japan. Around 2001, this E-6 saw potential in me and did his best to try to encourage me to consider going into the Intelligence Specialist field. However, I admit that I did not and went into the storekeeper rating  by the summer of 2002(which is now logistics specialist) because I admit that I was unsure if I was ready for that job and I was hesitant about the time that it might take away from my then fiancée (I admit not the same man that is fortunately now my husband). Looking back, I admit that I now realize that if someone sees potential in you and offers you an important professional opportunity that you must seriously go after it because of the chance to be regret-free that you at least went after it.

I googled intelligences specialists navy

https://www.navy.com/careers/information-and-technology/intelligence-specialist#ft-key-responsibilities

The Mindset to Apply Magick Without Exercising: True Magic Without Rituals

Bernat Bogner

http://www.odu.edu/

Old Dominion University Norfolk Virginia

Idea Hacks: Come up with 10X More Creative Ideas in 1/2 the Time Kindle Edition

by I. C. Robledo  (Author)

http://www.womansday.com/relationships/a58592/stay-at-home-dad-sticky-note-observations/

This Stay-at-Home Dad Writes Hilarious Parenting Observations on Sticky Notes

 Some of the tents look similar to the tipis that I saw Yesterday at the Smithsonian American Indian Museum

https://www.coachella.com/guidebook/on-site-camping/

On-Site Camping

Inspiration Info from the Museums I Went to Yesterday

http://americanhistory.si.edu/

Just yesterday, around early Saturday afternoon, was when my husband and I visited the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. One of the things that I enjoy about the visit is that there is so much to see, a variety of exhibits to see each time I visit. Among some of the multiple sights available that my husband and I had a chance to see; First Ladies exhibit including the inauguration gowns of Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, Michelle Obama and of course there are also the other inaugural gowns from other first ladies including a 1990’s quote by the Washington Post pertaining to the inaugural gowns, Julia Child’s exhibit including a kitchen pertaining to her life, supermarket exhibit within the Food section, Women in Uniform exhibit, Wizard of Oz exhibit inside the museum store, Innovations in the Vineyard, Innovations in the Wineyard, stories on Money exhibit, an display where a person can drop a penny and vote on whether or not the penny needs to be kept as U.S. currency, Women on American Money exhibit, American stories, and of course much more exhibits available. My husband pleasantly surprised me by getting me a Smithsonian ball cap and t-shirt from the museum store.

http://www.nmai.si.edu/

My husband and I just went to the National Museum of the American Indian yesterday; Among some of the following sites that I had a chance to take photos of and see; Horace Poolaw exhibit, Future Clone exhibit by Fritz Scholder, Imaginations Activity Center for kids including a model of a tipi and a model of a stilt house, Global Conflicts in the 21st Century exhibit feat. the late Lori Ann Piestewa (she was a member of the Hopi tribe) and the late Joshua Wheeler, Our Spirits Will Protect You exhibit, World War II exhibit all in the Patriot Nations section, and more. I mean only disrespect-free intent  with saying this; However, one of the caveats of this museum is that not every American Indian tribe is featured in the museum. I was curious to see if the Menominee Indian was featured inside this museum (my late maternal grandmother and my late biological mother had Menominee Indian ancestry) since the museum seems to pertain to different Native American tribes across the U.S. , but it was not yet listed at the museum from what I saw.

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[verymary-kate]

Mary-Kate in Love Me Trender Ruffled Red Dress .

Beauty queen and actress Mary-Kate FitzPatrick has a lot to celebrate this year. She is having a successful acting career in Los Angeles and recently has been named Miss Beverly Hills in Miss California International Pageant. Soon she will be competing for Miss California International title.

This spring, the gorgeous beauty queen took a minute out of her busy life to talk to lovemetrender.com founder Yeva Syslo about fashion, pageants and her go-to looks.

What is your background? Where did you grow up?

My background is rather exotic - my mom is from South America (Colombia), and my dad’s family is from Ireland. I grew up in northern California in a small town called Danville - not too far from San Francisco. To sum up Danville, I would say there is minimal traffic (if ever), deer crossing, and Cheesecake Factory.

How did you get started in TV/Pageant industry?

When I was 12 years old, I took my first video production course. My heart always knew that I wanted to be an actor, but I was too overweight to even feel remotely comfortable on camera. Thus, I got my entertainment fix by working behind the scenes. During that time,  I was so insecure about my body that I secluded myself from everyone, had little to no friends or social life, and focused on only my school work. After reaching such a decline in my health, I realized if I didn’t make a change, I was going to spend the rest of my life unhappy. I changed my diet, learned how to exercise correctly, and by the time I was 18, I had lost 60 pounds. I decided that I wanted to showcase my new lifestyle by competing for Miss Teenage California; and in 2010, I won. From there on out, I developed confidence in myself for the first time and realized how much I truly loved to perform. Pageants have lead me to entertainment connections I wouldn’t have made otherwise, and continue to keep me at my sharpest in everyday life.

What is your favorite part about pageants?

The women that I have met in pageants are women that I am friends with for life. It’s amazing because every single girl competing simply wants to be the best version of themselves, and to be somebody; to make a difference. They say that as individuals, we become like the five people that we spend the most time with. To be around these go-getters on a consistent basis is inspiring for me, and holds me accountable to be the best version of Mary-Kate that I can. The women are kind, they genuinely support and are proud of each other, and we can count on each other.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced in your career and what did you do to overcome it?

Thousands of hopefuls come to Los Angeles to pursue their dream of acting. Most actors don’t make it in the industry because they don’t stick around long enough to succeed; they give up. Every time I step into an audition room, I’m surrounded by girls who look like me, and are dressed similar to me.The biggest challenge is to remind myself that I have a skill and a uniqueness that separates me from anyone else in the room. The biggest challenge is mastering the skill of not letting your mind control every thought and every action. It takes strength of body, mind, and soul to be told “no” a thousand times, before you get the one “yes” that changes your life.

How would you describe your fashion style?

I tend to gravitate towards edgy/chic, and pieces that no one has, or has the courage to wear. I love to start trends, rather than only follow them. I rarely ever wear flat shoes - boots are my go to because I love to be tall. So you’ll probably find me in high waisted distressed jeans with a classic bodysuit and black knee high boots. Sometimes I even top it off with a backwards hat on a bad hair day!

Do you look up to anyone for style inspiration?

I’m inspired by people who make bold outfit choices and don’t care about what anybody thinks. I admire the ability for someone to be able to disregard others’ face value judgments, and wear what makes them happy. I do find that my edginess and style can be similar at times to America’s youngest Kardashian/Jenner star, Kylie. Although she and I are completely different people, our style seems to be on the same page- Glamorous and edgy bold choices. The ultimate happy medium in fashion.

It is going to be summer soon. What are your summer fashion tips?

Nude colored wedges are everything - they go with shorts, jeans, dresses - you name it. Having a couple pairs goes a long way, and you’ll find yourself wearing them everywhere. Also, having a nice tan (Neutrogena makes a great Spray Tan In A Can if you’re not into baking under the bulbs) compliments pastels like teal, mint, coral, and yellow. And finally, having 3 maxi dresses is life saving - you throw it on and look like you actually tried - win win!

You can keep up with Mary Kate on Instagram - @mkfitzzz, or on her website www.mary-katefitzpatrick.com.

Don't forget to check out lovemetrender.com for U.S. made, on-trend women's clothing.