#home sweet home 1914

[from1837to1945]

Home, Sweet Home (1914, D.W. Griffith)

[vintagedreamsofsennett]

Mr. and Mrs. Ford Sterling

[hometoursandotherstuff]

I like the restoration work on this 1914 home in Newnan, GA. 5bds, 5ba, 5,753sqft, $1.39m.

They even beautifully restored the porch- new tile flooring and marble.

The cloud ceiling, antique chandelier and columns as soon as you enter are just stunning. Also, look at the etched design on the pocket doors. Very classy.

They have a billiard room immediately off the entrance hall.

Look at the vintage pool table.

Across the way there's a reception room. Love the original lighting in this home.

Muraled walls and a magnificent fireplace in the sitting room, right next to the kitchen.

The kitchen was completely opened up and remodeled.

Look at the way they preserved the original radiator, w/a heat cabinet, by building the peninsula around it. That's very clever and cool. Not to mention useful, to keep food warm.

Beautiful modern/vintage kitchen. Nicely done and well thought-out.

This is nice- a built-in bench at the foot of the stairs.

Bedroom used as a playroom has a nice fireplace, closets, and an ensuite.

Nicely renovated vintage bath.

Spacious bedroom has a nice fireplace. All bedrooms are large and have fireplaces.

Interesting ensuite has been updated in the same style as the others. They've all been expertly preserved.

It appears that this floor is the domain of the primary suite.

Very large room w/space for a loveseat at the foot of the bed, before the fireplace.

Another beautifully remodeled ensuite with the addition of a shower.

And, it looks like they turned a sun porch into a walk-in closet.

The unfinished attic that's spacious and has lots of potential.

The basement isn't finished, but they put a new shower by this vintage sink. A little creepy, but I guess it works for them.

This is too cute. There's a little house on property, too.

How sweet is this?

They have a fabulous yard with a pool and covered patio with a fireplace.

There's also a playground.

And, a patio with a pond.

This home is on a 1.1 acre lot.

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/88-E-Broad-St-Newnan-GA-30263/14417564_zpid/

[morrieandlicky]

Sweet Moments Between Maurice and Alec That You Have Not Seen Before (From E.M. Forster's 1st Draft for Maurice)

Context: Forster's first version of Maurice, finished in 1914, has a rather different ending than the final published version (no hotel scene, and no boathouse reunion). See here.

Forster's first draft for Maurice is, in my opinion, the rawest in terms of boldly displaying the love shared between Maurice and Alec. This version shows much more of Alec's emotion and tenderness, as well as of Maurice's sentiments and affection towards Alec. It is definitely not as subtle as the final version, with quite a few straightforward declarations of love.

Hence, I'm disappointed that Forster did not manage to integrate at least some of these 1914 texts into the final version: it would've made the love between Maurice and Alec much more pronounced and convincing, as well as made Alec a character with more depth and feelings.

Having read Forster's first draft for Maurice, I share below some of these moments between Maurice and Alec that are not in the final version (ordered on how lovely I think each moment is. Bolded texts are the highlights).

1. After running into Mr. Ducie in the museum and Maurice bursting out to Alec.

M: "I'd possibly have blown out my own brains."

A: "Why?" he asked, stopping dead.

M: "I should have known by that time that I loved you."

A: "You can't, sir, you couldn't."

M: "I love you, sir be damned."

A: "Maurice"—never before had the word been spoken—"you're an angel."

M: "I don't want to hear that."

A: "Maurice, Maurice" his voice failed also; he had once said the rest to a woman. "Maurice - what you've said I feel. Understand?"

M: "I think so, but I want to be sure. Remember those rose bushes in the other rain? - Look at me hard - That's right. That'll do. It's settled." (Maurice is referring to the moment when Alec ran in the rain across the rose bushes at Penge just to see Maurice's face.)

2. The conversation after Maurice refuses to stay the night with Alec—a scenario that only happens in the first draft in 1914. Be prepared for tears.

A: "Come just for a little to me."

M: "If I came it would be for ever."

A: "Ever's the best."

M: "Why, man, you sail Thursday."

Alec found no answer.

...: here's when Maurice explains in a long paragraph why they can't be together because of their class difference and the fact that they're both men. But in this long paragraph Maurice pretty much brings up wanting to marry Alec—"We can't have the particular thing we want (which is roughly speaking marriage) unless we sacrifice something else"

M: I thought from that letter of yours you might want me to come. But, Alec, come where to?"

A: "I'd know if you weren't a gentleman," Alec said. "We'd a' found work together as mates."

M: "Yes, and if you were a gentleman, I'd take you this minute to my home.

A: "I'd a' been what young Clive was to you, then."

M: "He's a saint and we aren't. Leave out him."

A: "I'd a' been yours till death, then." ("I would've been yours till death, then")

M: "Out there if you get a chance to marry, take it. That's what I wish.

A: "Maurice, what'll you do without me, dear? Have you no other friends?"

Maurice dared not look forward to his own future. He rushed on the parting.

M: "And if there's ever a child, I shan't ever have that, so remember me."

A: "I'll remember you, child or none. God bless you. O God bless you, and be with you if I can't."

3. Right after Maurice puts his hand on Alec's back in the museum

"Yes, awfully serious," remarked Maurice, and rested his hand on Alec's shoulder, so that the fingers touched the back of the neck, doing this merely because he knew that he loved Alec, that he loved him not as a second Dickie Barry, but deeply, tenderly, for his own sake, beneath weakness and vulgarity.

4. In the museum, Alec in pain and acting cute

[Alec] had bitten his lip, his eyes were red too; face and body were cramped with pain.

M: "Alec -"

A: "Alec am I?"

M: "I'm sorry I used that other name of yours."

A: "Don't speak to me," he growled, "let me go, you calling me Alec when I"

M: "Did you give me away then on purpose?"

A: "You're correct.

M: "Was it to get money - or only to do me harm?"

A: "I couldn't say."

M: "Come, let's get away where we can finish our talk."

A: "What? What do you say?"

M: "Come along, Alec."

A: "Do you call me that still?"

M: "Come away, man, don't break down for God's sake...." He took hold of [Alec's] arm. The touch was not reminiscent; it hinted at a relation to come.

A: "Oh but you must, I want it." Alec yielded.

5. Maurice at night thinking about Alec's letter

He tried to forget the treacherous letter, but it stole back to his mind, and he suffered most during moments in bed, when it masqueraded as a real love letter, and offered him the completeness that Clive enjoyed with Anne.

(This is brilliant writing because we, as readers, know that Alec's letter is a love letter, yet Maurice's "muddles" prevent him from seeing it as a love letter, and it is only at night, when he's craving Alec's presence, that he's able to allow himself to see the truth and succumb to his feelings for Alec.

Here, again, is also a suggestion of Maurice wanting to marry Alec, like how Clive married Anne)

6. One version of Maurice's and Alec's first night together

A: "Good evening - sir, said the low voice. Was you wanting something? Couldn't you sleep?" It was the gamekeeper.

On your rounds? gasped Maurice, trying to sound natural, and felt corduroys. Their touch disconcerted him. Whither was he tending from Clive into what companionship?

A: "Just wait till I've set down my gun - eh aren't you trembling?"

M: "So are you - ah don't."

A: "Don't you like that?"

M: "I don't know."

A: "Christ you're fussy. Don't you like me to touch you."

M: "That's you lad."

A: "Yes."

Side notes: hopefully these will shut all the detractors (of the relationship between Maurice and Alec) up—namely Clive apologists, Clive+Maurice shippers, and all of those dark academia classist out there.

[thepathwechooseif]

DEMO

In the English countryside in 1914, you live with your two children on your late husband’s grand estate. Two years have passed since the tragic sinking of the Titanic, from which you became a single parent.

Though surrounded by wealth and community, you remain lost in a fog of grief. But with the arrival of summer, the neighbouring family prepares to host their annual month-long house party. Your curious children persuade you to attend, hoping the festivities will lift your sorrow.

Lucas/Lucia Bertham, the family's charming heir, bonds with your children and seems to understand you in a way others cannot. But will secrets regarding their family's future prevent love?

Azra Hays arrives, a traveling storyteller with a gift for magic in their words that soothes your soul. Gardner Isaac Hill has loved you in silence, finding joy through your children's smiles.

More suitors await too - brilliant sculptor Zephyr Langston, whose art mirrors your heart, and Doctor Henry Bellman, who ministers to the people with patience and good humor.

As festivities crescendo with masques, fireworks and more, you start to believe in love and laughter again. But which person holds your whole heart? And will dark forces from the past destroy this new paradise you’ve begun to build?

The summer promises intrigue, blessings, and maybe a sweet romance if you can let go of history and embrace the gifts of tomorrow.

Customise your character as well as your children’s

Choose where you live and how you dress

Your choices have an impact on how society reacts to you!

Uncover secrets from your past!

Pursuing different ROs with varying levels of affection leads to unique story endings that resolve the mystery

Lucas/Lucia Bertham (m/f/nb)

The Heir, 26, Lucas/Lucia Bertham is the only child and heir to the prestigious title and lands of Bertham. They are a successful businessperson, but relish returning to their ancestral home each summer. While other young people prefer to travel abroad, they prefer the simple pleasures of country life. They take their duty as head of the manor seriously, helping tenants with an approachable demeanor. Though destined to marry well for station one day, they remain single and enjoy lively flirtations. While others dance at balls, they are the happiest hosting gatherings under the stars or riding alongside farm laborers by day. Lucas/Lucia lights up any room with their charm, wit and easy smiles. But is there a lonely heart searching for more beneath this carefree facade? As always, only time will tell what develops between Lucas/Lucia and you over the magical summer months at Bertham.

Isaac Hill(m)

The Gardner, 35, Isaac Hill has lived and worked on your estate for years. His strong, weather-worn hands coax beauty from the soil. Gardenings comes naturally to gentle-souled Isaac, as does his way with any creature in need of care. The expansive gardens are his pride and joy, a wonderland open for all to enjoy. Despite his huge build, muscular arms and calloused palms, his demeanor remains soft-spoken yet self-assured. While most village maidens sigh for officers or heirs, Isaac's gentle soul and way with children has turned many a head. But he remains devoted to coaxing new life from the earth, finding solace in small things. Perhaps amid the Bertham's blossoms, Isaac's own heart may bud anew this summer as well.

Zephyr Langston(m/f/nb)

The Sculptor, 27, Zephyr Langston hails from one of London's most prestigious arts families. Though young, their sculptures have already gained fame across England. While many London soirees vie for their presence, Zephyr relishes escaping to the countryside each summer. Using moody landscapes as inspiration, they work tirelessly to capture fleeting emotions in stone. Some say their sculptures are too sensually lifelike, but the Berthams proudly collect their edgy works. Zephyr charms salon attendees but remains unmarried, focused solely on their "passionate mistress," their art. Though prone to brooding moody spells while working, they come alive at parties with a playful wit. Could this summer be when they find inspiration of the heart as well as hands among the Bertham estate's rolling hills?

Henry Bellman(m)

The Doctor, 29, though young, he runs the village medical practice with a maturity beyond his years. What he lacks in words, Henry more than makes up for with his compassionate bedside manner. He listens with steady brown eyes that seem to see into patients' very souls. While others chat idly, Henry prefers observing life unfold with subtle calm. An avid reader, he's as learned as any university man but without pretense. More than one farmer's daughter has blushed starry-eyed receiving his attentions, yet he remains a bachelor focused solely on his work. The Berthams value Lucas greatly for his discretion and healing touch. But does his solemn façade hide deeper passions waiting to emerge? As always, only time will tell what mysteries lie beneath the calm exterior of Doctor Henry Bellman, and what intrigues he may stir in your heart this season.

Azra Hays(m/f/nb)

The Storyteller, 27, Azra Hays is a free spirit , with mischievous eyes like the summer sky. While others settle, Azra is happiest wandering the countryside in their worn boots, flute in hand.They’re a jack of all trades but lives for their art - spinning spellbinding tales that transport listeners far from their daily toils. With their easy smile and flirty manner, Azra charms all they meet. Yet beneath this bohemian exterior beats a kind and generous heart, always helping travelers in need. An orphan from youth, they never take their freedom or talents for granted. Azra makes their coin sharing folklore, gossip and bawdy jokes in villages along their route. But they save their most magical stories for moonlit campfires, weaving magic that leaves audiences in awe. Some say their nose for intrigue could even rival the Sherlock Holmes tales. Will Azra linger longer this year among Bertham's gardens and party revelries? Is there feeling breeding beyond friendship beneath Azra's roguish charm? As always, only time will tell the true depth of bonds woven beneath the summer stars.

[whencyclopedia]

The Christmas Truce

The Christmas Truce of 1914 occurred on the Western Front during the First World War (1914-18). On Christmas Eve soldiers in the trenches spontaneously agreed to a ceasefire. Beginning with the singing of Christmas carols, the unofficial truce developed into soldiers meeting in no man's land, exchanging gifts, and even playing football together.

The Trenches in December

WWI began in July 1914 and quickly turned into a war of attrition, with frontline troops of the French, German, Belgian, and British armies subjected to the tribulations and horrors of trench warfare. The trenches were abysmal places: constantly flooded, thick mud everywhere, the men constantly subjected to shell fire, machine guns, and the stench of war. One brief respite came at Christmas time, the traditional season of goodwill to all. Pope Benedict XV (in office 1914-1922) had called for a truce on 17 December. The German government agreed to the ceasefire proposal, but the other nations in the war did not.

It seemed, then, that the only consolation and source of festive cheer for the troops on all sides would be their Christmas parcels sent from home. For British troops alone, well over 500,000 parcels were sent to the front in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Parcels from home included food, sweets, cigarettes, pipe tobacco, items of warmer clothing like socks and gloves, small gifts, and, perhaps from the more imaginative relatives, a few simple Christmas decorations. British and British Empire troops, in addition to charity and family parcels, also received a special gift tin from Princess Mary (1897-1965), daughter of King George V (r. 1910-1936). The embossed brass tin, one for every single soldier, contained a Christmas card, photographs of the king and royal family, pipe tobacco, a packet of cigarettes, and a tinder lighter. For those who did not smoke, there was a version with sweets and a pencil case. The king's photograph carried on the reverse the following message: "With our best wishes for Christmas 1914. May God protect you and bring you home safe" while the Christmas card read "With best wishes for a happy Christmas and a victorious New Year" (Brown, 124). Likewise, Wilhelm II, German Emperor (r. 1888-1918) gave a present of a cigar case and cigars to all German soldiers at the front. Wilhelm, German Crown Prince (1882-1951), gave everyone a souvenir pipe with his portrait on it.

Trenches were brightened up using candles, Christmas cards, holly and mistletoe scavenged from nearby forests, and perhaps a small Christmas tree or suitable substitute. German troops, in particular, received thousands of Christmas trees sent from home, and many were placed on the parapets of the trenches. On 23 December, as if in tune with the sentiment of the soldiers, mother nature contributed to the festive scene by ending the dreadful period of rainy weather that had bedevilled the troops since early November. Instead, snow began to fall upon many sections of the front line. The frost that night finally hardened up the mud. Next morning, as Rifleman Bernard Brookes noted in his diary, the effect was "a Christmas card Christmas Eve" (Brown, 60).

Princess Mary's Gift Tin, 1914

Imperial War Museums (CC BY-NC-SA)

Continue reading...

[mydaddywiki]

David McCullough

Physique: Average Build Height: 5' 11"

David Gaub McCullough (July 7, 1933 – August 7, 2022; aged 89) was an American popular historian. He was a two-time winner of both the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. In 2006, he was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States' highest civilian award. McCullough's two Pulitzer Prize–winning books—Truman and John Adams—were adapted by HBO into a TV film and a miniseries, respectively.

Beyond his books, the handsome, white-haired McCullough may have had the most recognizable presence of any historian, his fatherly baritone known to fans of PBS’s The American Experience and Ken Burns’ epic Civil War documentary. Making me wanting to blow him all night long… although you probably didn't need to know that last bit. Just pretend you didn't read that. Anyway

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, McCullough earned a degree in English literature from Yale University in 1955. After working for twelve years in editing and writing, including a position at American Heritage, McCullough wrote in his spare time for three years. The Johnstown Flood was published in 1968 to high praise by critics. Despite rough financial times, he decided to become a full-time writer, encouraged by his wife Rosalee. He wrote nine more on such topics as Harry S. Truman, John Adams, Theodore Roosevelt, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Panama Canal, and the Wright brothers.

McCullough also narrated numerous documentaries as well as the 2003 film Seabiscuit, and he hosted the PBS television documentary series American Experience for twelve years.

Personally, all I know about him is that he was married to his childhood sweet heart, Rosalee Barnes (aww). They had five children, which goes to my "loves to fuck" theory. While at Yale, he became a member of Skull and Bones. And his interests included sports, history, and visual art, including watercolor and portrait painting. And he had a face that would've looked great on my cock. Again… pretend you didn't read that.

After a period of failing health, McCullough died at his home in Hingham on August 7, 2022, at age 89. Less than two months after his beloved wife, Rosalee. He was survived by his five children; 19 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Works The Johnstown Flood: The Incredible Story Behind One of the Most Devastating Disasters America Has Ever Known (1968) The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge (1972) The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870–1914 (1977) Mornings on Horseback (1981) Brave Companions: Portraits in History (1991) Truman (1992) John Adams. (2001) 1776 (2005) In the Dark Streets Shineth: A 1941 Christmas Eve Story (2010) The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris (2011) The Wright Brothers (2015) The American Spirit: Who We Are and What We Stand For (2017) The Pioneers: The Heroic Story of the Settlers Who Brought the American Ideal West ( 2019)

[dixonsstinkysock]

THE LEOPARD.

(Pre-Season 1 Intro)

Women.

Some say they are God’s most beautiful creation, others say they are the Devil in disguise. Women are everything a man isn’t. They are compassionate, understanding, bewitching, intelligent, adaptable…

When thrown into a world of evil, conniving, men, women stick together. When one falls, the other picks up. It's a necessity, especially in a world like this. The 1900s is no good place for a lady. Women would never have the reputation a man could…or so they say.

It was 1914. The Shelby brothers had just been seen off to war and it was up to you, Polly and Ada to pick up what they left behind. It wasn’t easy, especially with young Finn. He was a sweet boy but that didn’t mean he always listened. Honestly? You were surprised he hadn’t lost a limb yet. He wanted to be like his brothers, playing with the other children, pretending they were off at war. A few eyes were lost…”It was an accident!” Finn had claimed.

During the second and third year you realized this Shelby business was falling to the ground. You were struggling with quite literally everything. You brought it up to Polly a few times, that you should just scrap it and start a bakery or something. She refused and Ada wasn’t any better. You didn’t expect them to give up this…family business easily. After a while you kept your mouth shut about it and did what you were told, while doing other things on the side. You didn’t need to prove anything, this was mostly for you. For every woman from Birmingham to London. You all could do just fine without men and men’s business if you put your heads together. And that is exactly what you did.

After the third year had passed and the letters had stopped. You assumed that was it, they were dead. Polly refused to think the same, said she had a feeling. As always, you listened, Polly was always right.

Pol would sit you when you were younger, around your pre-teen years. You were around Tommy and Arthur’s age which meant you grew up with them. Very quickly you learned to listen to Polly. Look in between the lines of everything she said. Soon enough, a year later, she was proven to be right again. The three brothers made it home, but they never truly left France.

You live in Small Heath, Birmingham. As close as you can be to the Shelby Family. You are a part of them after all. But your true home? Your true home is in London.

[thisisyourdriverspeaking]

Well, this took me a lot of online digging & a lot of patience but this is the top songs in the charts/most popular songs for each of the winners of the Indy 500. I hope you guys enjoy the effort 😂

30th May 1911 - Ray Harroun - Arthur Collins - Steamboat Bill

30th May 1912 - Joe Dawson - Enrico Caruso - Dreams Of Long Ago

30th May 1913 - Jules Goux - Harry Lauder - It's Nicer To Be In Bed

30th May 1914 - Rene Thomas - Heidelberg Quintet - By The Beautiful Sea

31st May 1915 - Ralph DePalma - Alma Gluck - Carry Me Back To Old Viginity

30th May 1916 - Dario Resta - John McCormack - The Sunshine Of Your Smile

31st May 1919 - Howdy Wilcox - Henry Burr & Albert Campbell - i'm Forever Blowing Bubbles

31st May 1920 - Gaston Chevrolet - Al Jolson - Swanee

30th May 1921 - Tommy Milton - Marion Harris - Look For The Silver Lining

30th May 1922 - Jimmy Murphy - Al Jolson - Angel Child

30th May 1923 - Tommy Milton - Carl Fenton - Love Sends A Little Gift Of Roses

30th May 1924 - Lora L Corum & Joe Boyer - Al Jolson - California Here I Come

30th May 1925 - Pete DePaolo - Ted Lewis - O! Katharina

31st May 1926 - Frank Lockhart - Gene Austin - Five Foot Two, Eyes Of Blue

30th May 1927 - George Soulders - Ben Bernie - Ain't She Sweet?

30th May 1928 - Louis Meyer - Gene Austin - Ramona

30th May 1929 - Ray Keech - Rudy Vallee - Honey

30th May 1930 - Billy Arnold - Rudy Vallee - Stein Song (University Of Maine)

30th May 1931 - Louis Schneider - Bing Crosby - Out Of Nowhere

30th May 1932 - Fred Frame - Louis Armstrong - All Of Me

30th May 1933 - Louis Meyer - Leo Reisman ft Harold Arlen - Stormy Weather

30th May 1934 - Bill Cummings - Duke Ellington - Cocktails For Two

30th May 1935 - Kelly Petillo - Guy Lombardo - What's The Reason (I'm Not Pleasin' You)

30th May 1936 - Louis Meyer - Benny Goodman - The Glory Of Love

31st May 1937 - Wilbur Shaw - Teddy Wilson ft Billie Holiday - Carelessly

30th May 1938 - Floyd Roberts - Shep Fields - Cathedral In The Pines

30th May 1939 - Wilbur Shaw - Benny Goodman - And The Angels Sing

30th May 1940 - Wilbur Shaw - Bing Crosby - If I Had My Way

30th May 1941 - Floyd David & Mauri Rose - Deanna Durbin - Waltzing In The Clouds

30th May 1946 - George Robson - Denny Dennis & The Skyrockets - Mary Lou

30th May 1947 - Mauri Rose - Bing Crosby - Among My Souvenirs

31st May 1948 - Mauri Rose - Bing Crosby - Galway Bay

30th May 1949 - Bill Holland - Burl Ives - Lavender Blue

30th May 1950 - Johnnie Parsons - Billy Eckstine - My Foolish Heart

30th May 1951 - Lee Wallard - Les Paul & Mary Ford - Mockin' Bird Hill

30th May 1952 - Troy Ruttman - Jo Stafford - A-Round The Corner

30th May 1953 - Bill Vukovich - Frankie Laine - I Believe

31st May 1954 - Bill Vukovich - Doris Day - Secret Love

30th May 1955 - Bob Sweikert - Eddie Calvert - Cherry Pink And Apple Blossom White

30th May 1956 - Pat Flaherty - Ronnie Hilton - No Other Love

30th May 1957 - Sam Hanks - Andy Williams - Butterfly

30th May 1958 - Jimmy Bryan - Connie Francis - Who's Sorry Now

30th May 1959 - Rodger Ward - Elvis Presley - A Fool Such As I

30th May 1960 - Jim Rathmann - The Everly Brothers - Cathy's Clown

30th May 1961 - AJ Foyt - Temperance Seven - You're Driving Me Crazy

30th May 1962 - Rodger Ward - Elvis Presley - Good Luck Charm

30th May 1963 - Parnelli Jones - The Beatles - From Me To You

30th May 1964 - AJ Foyt - Cilla Black - You're My World

31st May 1965 - Jim Clark - Sandie Shaw - Long Live Love

30th May 1966 - Graham Hill - The Rolling Stones - Paint It Black

31st May 1967 - AJ Foyt - The Tremeloes - Silence Is Golden

30th May 1968 - Bobby Unser - Union Gap - Young Girl

30th May 1969 - Mario Andretti - The Beatles with Billy Preston - Get Back

30th May 1970 - Al Unser - England World Cup Squad - Back Home

29th May 1971 - Al Unser - Dawn - Knock Three Times

27th May 1972 - Mark Donohue - T.Rex - Metal Guru

30th May 1973 - Gordon Johncock - Wizzard - See My Baby Jive

26th May 1974 - Johnny Rutherford - Rubettes - Sugar Baby Love

25th May 1975 - Bobby Unser - Tammy Wynette - Stand By Your Man

30th May 1976 - Johnny Rutherford - J.J Barrie - No Charge

29th May 1977 - A.J Foyt - Rod Stewart - I Don't Want To Talk About It

28th May 1978 - Al Unser - Boney M - Rivers Of Babylon

27th May 1979 - Rick Mears - Blondie - Sunday Girl

25th May 1980 - Johnny Rutherford - Hot Chocolate - No Doubt About It

24th May 1981 - Bobby Unser - Adam & The Ants - Stand & Deliver

30th May 1982 - Gordon Johncock - Madness - House of Fun

29th May 1983 - Tom Sneva - The Police - Every Breath You Take

27th May 1984 - Rick Mears - Wham! - Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

26th May 1985 - Danny Sullivan - Paul Hardcastle - 19

31st May 1986 - Bobby Rahal - Peter Gabriel - Sledgehammer

24th May 1987 - Al Unser - Starship - Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now

29th May 1988 - Rick Mears - Wet Wet Wet - With A Little Help From My Friends

28th May 1989 - Emerson Fittipaldi - Gerry Marsden, Paul McCartney, Holly Johnson & The Christians - Ferry Cross The Mersey

27th May 1990 - Arie Luyendyk - Adamski - Killer

26th May 1991 - Rick Mears - Cher - The Shoop Shoop Song

24th May 1992 - Al Unser JR - KWS - Please Don't Go

30th May 1993 - Emerson Fittipaldi - Ace Of Base - All That She Wants

29th May 1994 - Al Unser JR - Wet Wet Wet - Love Is All Around

28th May 1995 - Jacques Villeneuve - Robson & Jerome - Unchained Melody

26th May 1996 - Buddy Lazier - Buddiel, Skinner & Lightning Seed - Three Lions

27th May 1997 - Arie Luyendyk - Eternal ft Bebe Winans - I Wanna Be The Only One

24th May 1998 - Eddie Cheever - Tamperer ft Maya - Feel It

30th May 1999 - Kenny Brack - Shanks & Bigfoot - Sweet Like Chocolate

28th May 2000 - Juan Pablo Montoya - Sonique - It Feels So Good

27th May 2001 - Helio Castroneves - DJ Pied Piper - Do You Really Like It?

26th May 2002 - Helio Castroneves - Eminem - Without Me

25th May 2003 - Gil De Ferran - Justin Timberlake - Rock Your Body

30th May 2004 - Buddy Rice - Frankee - F.U.R.B (F U Right Back)

29th May 2005 - Dan Wheldon - Akon - Lonely

28th May 2006 - Sam Hornish JR - Gnarls Barkley - Crazy

27th May 2007 - Dario Franchitti - Rihanna ft Jay-Z - Umbrella

25th May 2008 - Scott Dixon - Rihanna - Take A Bow

24th May 2009 - Helio Castroneves - Dizzee Rascal & Van Helden - Bonkers

30th May 2010 - Dario Franchitti - Dizzee Rascal - Dirtee Disco

29th May 2011 - Dan Wheldon - Pitbull ft Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer - Give Me Everything

27th May 2012 - Dario Franchitti - Fun ft Janelle Monae - We Are Young

26th May 2013 - Tony Kanaan - Naughty Boy ft Sam Smith - La La La

25th May 2014 - Ryan Hunter-Reay - Sam Smith - Stay With Me

24th May 2015 - Juan Pablo Montoya - OMI - Cheerleader (Felix Jaehn Remix)

29th May 2016 - Alexander Rossi - Drake ft Wizkid & Kyla - One Dance

28th May 2017 - Takuma Sato - Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee & Justin Bieber - Despacito

27th May 2018 - Will Power - Calvin Harris & Dua Lipa - One Kiss

26th May 2019 - Simon Pagenaud - Ed Sheeran & Justin Bieber - I Don't Care

23rd August 2020 - Takuma Sato - Joel Corry ft MNEK - Head & Heart

30th May 2021 - Helio Castroneves - Olivia Rodrigo - Good 4 U

29th May 2022 - Marcus Ericsson - Harry Styles - As It Was

28th May 2023 - Josef Newgarden - Calvin Harris & Ellie Goulding - Miracle

26th May 2024 - Josef Newgarden - Sabrina Carpenter - Espresso

And yes, this wouldn't be a post from me if I didn't create a playlist 😂

[scotianostra]

Charles Hamilton Sorley was born in Aberdeen on May 19th 1895, he became a soldier and lay dead in a field in France in his 20th year.

The son of a William Ritchie Sorley, a professor of moral philosophy, Charles was a precocious and academically gifted child. The family moved to Cambridge when he was five, and Sorley attended King’s College choir school and Marlborough College, with some study in Germany. He began publishing poetry in the school journal and won a scholarship to University College, Oxford. Sorley was in Germany in 1914 when World War I broke out, and he was interned for one night in prison at Trier.

Making his way back home, he enlisted in the Army and served in the trenches in France. Sorley was killed in action near Hulloch during the Battle of Loos, on 13th October 1915, shot in the head by a sniper. His last poem, When You See Millions of the Mouthless Dead, was found in his kitbag, it is a heart-breaking piece of prose, and I admit the first time I read it in 2012 it brought a tear to my eye.

A collection of Sorley’s poetry was published posthumously as Marlborough and other Poems and went through six editions in the first year. Because of his time in Germany, Sorley’s attitude toward the war was deeply conflicted from its start. His small body of poetry is ambivalent, ironic, and profound. Sorley has been described as “one of the three poets of importance killed during the war,” the others being Wilfred Owen and Isaac Rosenberg. His other works include The Collected Poems of Charles Hamilton Sorley.

Such, Such Is Death.

Such, such is Death: no triumph: no defeat: Only an empty pail, a slate rubbed clean, A merciful putting away of what has been.

And this we know: Death is not Life, effete, Life crushed, the broken pail. We who have seen So marvellous things know well the end not yet.

Victor and vanquished are a-one in death: Coward and brave: friend, foe. Ghosts do not say, "Come, what was your record when you drew breath?" But a big blot has hid each yesterday So poor, so manifestly incomplete. And your bright Promise, withered long and sped, Is touched, stirs, rises, opens and grows sweet And blossoms and is you, when you are dead.

[from1837to1945]

Mae Marsh in Home, Sweet Home (1914, D.W. Griffith)

[elsalouisa]

Grand Duchess Tatiana. Diary, Winter 1914:

"13 February. Thursday. Zolotarev Lessons in the morning. We 5 had lunch with Papa, Mama and Veselkin. In the afternoon, the 3 of us walked with Papa. Then we built a tower out of snow. I had tea upstairs. There Was a music lesson. Dined 2 with Mama, Papa and Veselkin. At 9 o'clock, we 2 along with Papa and Mama went to St. Petersburg to Grandmamia’s, where there was a ball. There were a lot of people. I danced the 1st quadrille with Khvoschinsky and the 2nd with Voevodsky of the cavaliers, terribly good-looking. The Vis-a-vis with Khvosch[insky] and Tata. The 3rd with Vikt[or] Erlastovich]. Then there was a mazurka and dinner with Boris Golitsyn of the Hussars. A[unt] Olga sat at dinner, From the right: N[ikolai] P[avlovich] Olga, Boris Gol[itsyn], myself, Przhezdetsky, Manet, Malenich Malevsky, Sasha, Struve, A[unt] Olga. The Cotillion with Yuzik and Shvedov. There was a very handsome cavalier (illegible) He and Voevodsky are so awfully sweet and handsome. Remained up until 3 1/2. It was incredibly good fun".

"16 February Sunday. Shkuropatsky In the morning we were at Liturgy. We had breakfast with everyone. In place of Bilibin, ND Demenkov!! entered the Black Sea consolidated regiment. At 3 1/4, we 4 with Papa went to Aunt Miechen’'s in Petersburg for a ball. There were a lot of people. I danced the first quadrille with U[ncle] Kirill; the 2nd with Nikolai] Plavlovich], the mazurka with Sergei Stepanovich Voevodsky, the same person who I danced the 2nd quadrille with at Anitchkov. How awfully sweet and handsome he was. | waltzed of course with many - Vasya, Shvedov, Yuzik, Vikt[or] Erlastovich], Skvortsov, Zevrshchikov, with many cavalry guards, sailors, etc. I had sucha terribly good time, it was so awfully good. From there we 4 went with Papa to A[unt] Olga's for dinner. There were all these Cossacks and Baron Dina, Nikolai] A[lexandrovich] and three boys. The little ones went home after dinner, while we 2 went with Papa to the Mariinsky Theatre. They performed Sleeping Beauty. Returned at 12 1/2. | was very pleased with today, especially the mazurka with the cavaliers."

[saintsir4n]

19

WARNINGS: MENTIONS OF WAR

1914

"YOU'VE got a what?" Finn asked, the expecting couple.

Isaiah's gasped, "In where?"

Days had passed since the celebratory drink in honour of another Shelby baby and the boys were still confused about all of it, so Tommy and Eden pulled them aside from their learnings to explain as much as possible, considering he and his brothers would be leaving in very soon.

"How is a baby in there?" Isaiah turned to his best friend.

"Sex," Finn answered, despite not knowing what he was saying.

The couple looks at each other in shock watching the two interact.

"How does he..." Eden was too stunned so Tommy took over.

"Boys, Eden's got a baby in her tummy, just like Martha did –"

"-- she might again," Eden mumbled, luckily only Tommy heard but she gave him an 'I'll tell you later' look and he continued.

"The baby will come when I'm not here, so you two need to be on your best behaviour," Tommy instructed, leaning down as they stared up at him with their innocent faces, "no messin' around, no gettin' on her nerves, just be good, alright?"

His words went straight over their heads, "Does that mean I still get sweets?" Finn asked no one in particular.

Tommy pinched the bridge of his nose, "Finn you've been told you're gonna be an uncle for the second time and you're worrying about sweets."

The Shelby boy awaited an answer.

"Yes, you'll get sweets Finny and another niece," Eden reassured him.

His brows pinched together, "What's that?"

Finn understood that he was an uncle but nothing more than that.

"Is it a girl?" Isaiah questioned, folding his arms, when he received a nod, the boys exchanged grimaces, "Ewww."

Immediately they ran off and went back to their books, leaving the couple alone.

"What the fuck?" Eden blinked rapidly.

Tommy took her hand, before palming her stomach once again.

"Now that's done, let's go," he said, nodding to the basket on the floor.

"But what's up with 'em?"

"Fuck knows."

__

Two days, the lads were leaving in two days. Tommy's heart hammered in his chest at the thought, nevertheless, he promised Eden a perfect day, filled with chocolate slices, sandwiches and a flask of tea. She wore the sweetest frock she could dig out of her closet, it was cheery red, matching the colour of her lips. He adorned a crease-free shirt which was concealed by his favourite navy blue jumper, his shoes were polished, and the gifted horseshoe and box were in his slacks.

Despite not carrying his gun with him, he decided the blades in his cap would suffice and along with the knife he knew that clung to Eden's thigh, they would be safe.

They rode Shadow once again, this time Eden was much more relaxed and free, the light wind combed through Tommy's hair and luckily didn't move a strand of hers, being that she styled it into a low bun.

After tying the horse to a nearby tree, they found the spot overlooked the city, allowing them to spread out the blanket and sit down, basking in the heat.

The sun felt like hot kisses against Eden's skin, leaving her with tints of amber, drawing Tommy's attention as he pulled out all the food he'd spent making up that morning. She was everything he dreamt of and more, the very thing that he yearned for in both body and spirit, she challenged him in ways he hated to love and often drove him to madness, but brought him back with only the right sequence of words. Eden bloody Dawkins, she was his home.

"What?" she felt his stare.

Tommy simply cocked his head to the side, raising his brow at her as a smile tugged at his lips.

"Aren't I simply a dream Tom?" she teased, winking at the man.

"That you are my love."

Eden bashfully laughed at his response and started to dig into the spread, she carved anything and everything, the previous night she'd woken up Tommy so he could make her some rose tea, he didn't have a clue of what she was on about and cautiously told his aunt about it. Polly wasn't pleased with being pulled out of her slumber but aided him anyway.

"How's the little one treatin' ya?" he gently palmed the slight swell of her stomach.

"Can't feel much, bumps don't show properly for another two months," when you're away, she wanted to add, but decided not to, "nausea's died down for now."

"Can see that," he nodded to a half-eaten sandwich in her hand, making her snort.

"And you can say it's a girl, Tom unless you don't believe your aunt," she gave him a pointed look.

"I believe her, things might change, just being realistic."

"'Cause you want a boy?"

"Did I say that?" his hand didn't leave her stomach as he picked up the flask.

"Y'know she's a girl, so you're not havin' a peaky blinder," she narrowed her eyes at him, "but by the grace of god, we have a boy he ain't becomin' a blinder Thomas alright? Promise me." he shrugged, making her hit his forehead, "You promised a perfect day so promise me."

He nodded after gulping down some tea, "Alright, I promise... if it's a boy he ain't becoming a blinder," he paused, "I'll make sure he goes to London and becomes one of those established toffs."

She scrunched up her face, "Ugh, I think I'd prefer a blinder."

They both started to laugh, but in truth wanted a bright future for their child, their children, not wanting them to be subjected to the same misfortunes they inherited, but it was a lot to ask for, let alone dream about. Money could change a lot, but it couldn't change blood.

"You thought of any names?" she asked, as he rested his head in her lap.

His eyes fluttered shut, "A few."

She gently patted him, "Spill."

He inhaled sharply, "It's a lot to ask..."

"Go on."

"Somethin' to do with my mum," his reply had her intrigued.

"Mara Shelby," he stiffly nodded at her mention, "it's a pretty name," she said smiling.

"Esme too," he added, recalling how he and John were up a couple of nights ago talking about it. Arthur joined in, and so did Ada before they passed out in the front room.

"Esmerelda," she liked how it rolled off her tongue.

He chuckled before saying the next, "Pollyanna, but don't tell Pol 'bout that."

"Secret safe with me," she giggled.

"You thought of any?"

"Nothing's come to mind, none have felt right, my mum told me that she spent months thinkin' of what to call me and then changed her mind on the day," she said, combing her hand through his thick locks.

"Really?"

"Yeah, spontaneous thing right?"

"Sounds it," as a man who made part of their child, he didn't want to influence Eden too much with the name of the baby, but the fact she was taking his input made him grateful.

"Just picturing the little girl, runnin' 'round, with a dog chasing her..." her eyes fluttered shut at the image.

"A dog, what one?" he questioned, envisioning the image also, it made his heart swell.

"Bullmastiff," she breathed out.

His eyes fluttered open. "Those big dogs?"

"Yeah, family dogs apparently, but can be brutal when needs be," she continued with the vision, believing it would be the perfect addition to the home they already dreamt of.

"Ballmastiff it is, anything else Mrs Shelby?" and with that question her eyes snapped open, glancing down at the smirking man.

She swallowed the lump at the back of her throat, "Not Mrs. Shelby yet, haven't even popped the question."

"That's true," Tommy sat up, then rose on one knee, rendering Eden to softly chuckle behind her shaking hand, "Now, I was gonna do this a while ago, back when I got permission from your parents. And yes even your dad gave me 'is blessin', a shock to me and all, but I promised I wasn't gonna fuck this up, and I'm not am I?"

"No, you aren't, keep it up."

"Been thinkin' of all the ways I was gonna ask you this, dreamin', talkin' talk my self 'bout how I was gonna ask you to be my wife, did it so often Pol thought 'bout 'avin' me admitted," a teary laugh escaped her at his confession. "So I thought what would my Edie do when she's stuck? She'd write it down wouldn't ya love?"

"I would," she admitted.

"But I couldn't do that," he jokily tutted, making her laugh even more, "I scrapped the paper and thought speakin' from the heart was better, even though I think I'm doin' a crap job at it, but you're smilin'" her smile reached her teary eyes, making his heart hammer once more, "best smile I've ever seen, the brightest too," his voice cracked slightly, "and a great woman once said 'you have to be a bright ball of fire to be seen' and I've never not seen you, Eden. You're everything to me, my bright ball of hope, Christ how sappy is that?"

"Keep goin'" She softly nudged him, despite her tears.

"Oh right," he reached into his back pocket, "even before that little one starting growin' inside you, I was gonna propose. We speak about the future and mine wouldn't be right — it couldn't be without you in it. You've always been in it, so Eden Mary Dawkins would you –"

"Yes," she practically fell into his arms, covering his face with kisses.

"Darlin' I 'aven't shown you the ring yet or properly asked the question."

"Fine, ask me," she playfully rolled her eyes, not letting go of him.

"Will you marry me?"

"Yes, it was always gonna be yes," she exclaimed.

An uncharacteristically wide smile broke out on his face as he produced a small box, but that didn't stop her from kissing him and he immediately kissed back, flooding her with feelings that burst through his chest and she did the same, swirling his mouth with the joy that took over her.

Pulling away, he presented her with a ring, that she squealed out, much to his shock, sure it shone in the sunlight, but he didn't think it was much, in honesty he thought she would hate it, but it was the best he could do.

"Brought it for cheap, don't be mad," he said, settling down onto the blanket again.

Her brows furrowed slightly, "And why would I be mad?"

"You deserved better."

"It's perfect," she wasted no more time and slid it onto her finger.

She even laughed when he fitted his cap onto her head.

My secret blinder, he thought.

She wouldn't stop looking at the ring, so he took his time to speak again, "I want us to have the best weddin', but can't do it now only when I come back, so promise me you'll tell people we're married."

"For protection?..."

"Exactly, protection, our little Shelby needs it, just like you," he and his family agreed to it as well, making sure to spread the word that they'd wed, so no one questioned it. Even asking Jeremiah to pretend he performed the ceremony and Polly to put together a fake marriage certificate.

"'Course," she smiled at him, watching as he slipped on a wedding band of his own. "Should we make up our own vows then?"

"If you want," he couldn't stop smiling.

"Well, I... promise to be loyal to you, always, mind body and soul."

He let out a nervous chuckle, "Not to love ey?"

"You can love someone and hurt 'em right?" she blurted out, eyes widening at the words she spoke. It was out of experience she wanted to be cautious, she loved Tommy and he loved her, but the future they planned wouldn't be plane sailing. "I promise to always love you, also, but loyalty, our loyalty to each other can't be brought, or made, it was always there, alright?"

Tommy couldn't disagree despite himself.

"I promise to be loyal to you, always, mind body and soul."

They sealed that vow with a kiss, arguably far more meaningful and sacred than the last.

The sun brightened, bearing witness to the faux wedding, shining down on their rings with its harsh rays, before Tommy turned to whisper something to her bump, putting on voices for his daughter to hear, making his fiancé laugh at his utter foolishness as she ran her fingers through his hair. Thirty weeks left of her pregnancy to go and Tommy had to make the most of this moment, imagining what their child would look like before she popped out.

He was about to go through the flames of war, but right now all he could think of was his family, and how he would make sure to cherish them, despite how little time he had.

▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃

a/n:

for a while, i was trying to figure out how far along eden is and she's roughly two months pregnant, give or take a week.

we all know when it comes to tommy loyalty is more vital than love, merely because he's committed atrocities in the name of love and family, so he's really not one to be trusted.

how did you find this chapter? the proposal? the happiness between teden?

next time chapter will be the last before the epilogue and bonus chapter, guys so might want to bring some tissues.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Whipped Cream Day

Picture the scene: you have been cooking some delicious pancakes for yourself and your family to enjoy for breakfast or brunch. Some family members smother their pancakes in butter maple syrup, while others prefer to eat them with a pile of cut fruit. But the thing is, you know that you want something different.

So, you decide to bring out some whipped cream and gently apply a beautiful dollop to the top of your pancakes. All of a sudden, the room goes silent. It is at this point that you know you have stumbled upon the perfect accompaniment to a stack of pancakes. And now, everyone wants to get in on that whipped cream game too!

There is no denying that whipped cream has the power to transform many different sweet treats, desserts and even hot drinks. The sheer simplicity of it has the power to turn almost anything into a culinary work of art.

Now it is time to celebrate the very essence of whipped cream on this day, National Whipped Cream Day!

History of National Whipped Cream Day

For those who have never sampled the delight that is whipped cream, they have certainly missed out on something great! In a nutshell, whipped cream is a type of sweetened cream that gets “whipped” by a whisk or mixer until it becomes light and fluffy. The air that is added through the whipping process creates something that is altogether unique and delightful.

To achieve the best results, a cream that contains no lower than 35% fat is getting whipped. The process of creating whipped cream is simple, involving either a hand whisk or mechanical agitation with a high-speed mixer, although hand whisking would certainly be a lot of work.

While some people prefer the plain taste of whipped cream, others take things a stage further. It is often possible to find whipped cream that is flavored with ingredients such as cinnamon sugar, vanilla, or chocolate.

Today, there are also dairy-free variants of whipped cream for people who struggle with milk intolerances or do not eat dairy for other reasons. Most of these are marketed as vegan-friendly and can still be delicious.

Many people might think that whipped cream is a relatively modern culinary invention. But, believe it or not, the origins of this tasty treat date back to the 16th century!

The earliest known evidence of whipped cream appears in the form of recipes that hail from 1549. An Italian Renaissance cook, Cristoforo di Messisbugo, listed whipped cream as an ingredient in one of his recipes. His cookbook, Banchetti, Composizioni di Vivande e Apparecchio Generale, refers to something called “milk snow”, which is believed to be a primitive form of whipped cream.

Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, whipped cream was also known as “snow cream”, which is a delightful and endearing term for it. The earliest known literary references to whipped cream seem to date back to 1629 in France (crème fouettée) and 1673 in England.

National Whipped Cream Day is actually a nod to pay homage to the birthday of Reddi-wip founder Aaron Lapin, who was born in 1914. It was in 1948 that he invented Reddi-wip, which is now one brand name of the aerosol canned version of sweetened whipped creams and also non-dairy whipped toppings.

How to Celebrate National Whipped Cream Day

Get on board with enjoying National Whipped Cream Day using these ideas and more:

Enjoy a Dollop of Whipped Cream

Some people might need a dessert to enjoy whipped cream on top of, but others might be happy just to turn the Reddi-wip can upside down and squirt it into their mouths! Even folks who would not normally partake in dessert can use this day as an excuse to celebrate.

Plop a spoonful on top of a stack of pancakes, inside a rolled up crepe, on the side of a piece of chocolate cake or in a variety of other ways. Choose fresh whipping cream made at home or enjoy the premade versions. No matter what, the right way to celebrate this day will certainly include taking part in a breakfast, lunch or dessert that includes whipped cream!

Use Whipped Cream in a Favorite Recipe

Adding whipped cream to various recipes can change the whole thing into something more glorious. Try out these ideas for recipes that include whipped cream, whether of the homemade variety or in a frozen non-dairy form:

Lemon Curd Mousse. One simple dessert that will impress guests uses a jar of lemon curd (an English treat) that is carefully combined with a bowl full of sweetened whipped cream. Serve with fresh berries.

Fluff Salad. Quick and easy, this fruit salad makes a refreshing side dish or dessert that’s especially easy to put together for the hot summer months. It uses fruit, mini-marshmallows, nuts, coconut and, of course, whipped cream.

Oreo Trifle. Make it with Oreos or really any type of cookies. Trifles are easy to put together and don’t require baking. Simply layer whipped cream with cookies, pudding, fruit and more.

Chocolate Cream Pie. Well, it doesn’t actually have to be chocolate! Peanut butter, coconut cream, or Key Lime pie. Really, any cream pie will do, as long as it is piled high with a huge dose of sweetened whipped cream right on top.

Source

[leche-flandom]

Some neat finds

I can't remember if I got this at an antique or a thrift shop. I guess it doesn't really matter.

First, this extremely worn 1902 copy of The Countess of Monte-Cristo. Gosh, I think it's supposed to be dark teal or something similar, but mine is a sad grayish-brown. Mistakenly attributed to Alexandre Dumas, it was in fact written by Jean Charles du Boys. Therefore, I consider it the oldest piece of fanfiction in my possession.

I think it was inside this book that I found some postcards and one drawing. Or they might've fallen out of the Jane Eyre? Eh, things got all jumbled up in transit.

First postcard is from someone named Emila (? I can't tell) to Mrs. AG Alden in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. On the front is sepia picture a man and two women sitting outside an unfinished wall of a house. The man is holding what looks like a baby less than a year old and the middle woman is holding a slightly older child. The middle woman's right arm is blurry, maybe because she had to deal with the fussy baby. She wrote:

"March 26, 1914

Dear Dora,

You may address me now at 493 (?) Connecticut St Rochester Pa.

I thought perhaps you would like a visit from the Marvins (?) so here we are as we looked in January. A friend took it when we were visiting (something scribbled out maybe?) her house. Hope you are well. Emila"

And smaller, sideways paragraph at the top says: "Would like to have that little apron when I get to town." I loved that afterthought.

At my first glance at their clothes, I assumed the pic was much older, but then I read the year and realized this was the kind of stuff Anne Shirley would've been wearing. Then again, I'm not well versed in fashion eras.

Second postcard is short but sweet.

The front is a drawing of The Martinique, a hotel in NYC that is still there today. It was written from "Daddy" to "Master Alvin Fresh" at an address I can no longer find in Atlanta. (I googled a bit. There is a mention of a T. Alvin Fresh at a metro Atlanta Holocaust museum, who was a sound engineer or something for the Nuremburg trials and retired in Georgia, but his years don't add up to be this one, I think.)

He said:

"Dear baby:-

I hope you are well now and will never be sick anymore. Be a good boy and daddy will bring you a toy

Daddy"

It sounds very casual but then I remembered how different things were a hundred years ago (the post stamp says 1924). This would've been only a few years after the Spanish Flu wiped out hundreds of thousands in the US, and well before things like the polio, flu, or other vaccines were given to civilians. Being away from home when your baby was sick was no joke.

And then here's a presumably old doodle of a mom giving her kid lots of kisses

Is the mom wearing a corset or something? Or maybe it was just the color of the dress. Either way, I think it's adorable.

[scattered-irises]

Part V: Helix of Memories

Another prequel to the Dysonia AU.

More references to the Illusory Paradise...annnnnndd it's all Vocaloid characters. Whoops. Ah, well, you get a small paragraph on Christopher.

Rating: General

Word Count: 1914

Characters: Luka, Miku, Rin

Relationships: Background Luka/Gackpo

Warnings: Talks about human cloning

“Clones…? Count me out of it,” scoffs Rin. 

Luka looks at her sister in surprise. 

“I thought you, out of everyone else, would have been most excited about this proposal,” she remarks. 

Rin puts her hands on her hips. 

“On the contrary, if you actually thought about it,” she mutters. 

She gives Luka a sharp glare. 

“Human cloning is one of the things I would never support as a geneticist.”

“Why?” asks Miku, popping up from their sofa. “Wouldn’t it be nice to have a way to remember someone like that?”

Rin purses her lips and shakes her head. 

“There’s too many environmental factors to ensure a perfect clone. Plus, they won’t even have the original’s memories, so there’s no point,” she adds. 

“What if that was the only way for you to see them again?” ventures Luka. 

Her younger sister stares at the floor while Miku makes a humming sound. Rin’s eyebrows slowly furrow, a frown appearing on her lips. 

“Don’t tell me you’re seriously considering that man’s proposal,” begins Rin. 

A long silence fills the room. Luka feels Miku’s judgemental gaze on her, hot as coals. Many years ago, Rin had worked under Dr. Realist’s supervision alongside Luka. After a long argument on the ethics of experimenting on extracted human brains, Rin had left the lab in a furious storm. Even now, her name tag continues to stare at her from the breakroom’s fridge. 

“It’s impossible!” continues Rin. She takes off her red-rimmed glasses and looks directly at Luka. “They’ll send you off to who-knows-where! Your mind wouldn’t be able to last…!” 

“I agree,” adds Miku. “Being in space for that long…It would be far too isolating.” 

Luka wets her lips and looks at her sisters. Rin had just returned home from work, evidenced by her irritability. Her lab coat hangs from one arm, the bow on her head crooked. Miku meanwhile, seemed to reflect Rin’s inner worries. 

“I…it’s still a few years off,” begins Luka. “That’s why I wanted to ask now, if you were willing to donate some of your DNA samples…”

Making a sound of disgust, Rin turns away from Luka and begins to walk upstairs. 

“Count me out of it,” she snarls. “I’ll have nothing to do with that man.”

In the silence that follows, Luka slowly turns to Miku, who holds her with a stony gaze. 

“You won’t be able to change her mind, you know,” says Miku. 

Luka lets out a sigh and nods. 

“I know.” 

Turning back to her computer, Miku continues typing up song lyrics. For a moment, Luka listens to the pitter pattering of her sister’s keyboard. Out of all of them, only Miku had pursued the arts. It never ceased to amaze Luka how easily lyrics flowed from Miku’s mind. And her voice…! Bright, warm and sweet, just like an angel’s. Their entire family was all good at singing, but Miku had long proven that she was the best. 

It seemed like everyone in her family had their own talents and their own destinies. Their oldest sister Meiko was a skilled manager, boosting Miku’s popularity to the top. Their older brother Kaito was a savvy businessman. Rin was one of the best geneticists in the city. Her twin, Len, was a renowned journalist. And Luka…her destiny was to the stars, far far away from everyone she knew and loved. 

Why did it have to be her?

“That Dr. Realist…How much do you trust him?” Miku asks suddenly. 

Taken aback, Luka runs her eyes across her sister’s screen. 

I gaze up at the stars in the transparent sky

I'm unable to fly, all I can do is cry

I've been wounded up alone, and whenever I feel lonely

"You came here to help me..."

The lyrics are oddly chilling, causing Luka to take a step back. 

Dr. Realist…She had been with him from the very beginning. They had their disagreements, but where it truly mattered, they were in lockstep. His dream was also her dream. In spite of his mercurial nature and carelessly dispensed insults about the human race, they shared a deep desire to save mankind. 

“I trust him with my entire being,” says Luka. “I know he doesn’t seem so, but he’s a true genius. He’ll be the one to save us all.”

Miku makes another humming sound. A pang twists Luka’s heart. On the distant STELLA colony, would there be anyone who would hum the same way Miku did? Surrounded by nothing but stars and the blackness of space, would there be anything remotely familiar? 

“I’m willing to give you the needed samples, but you must promise me something,” proposes Miku. 

“Yes?” 

Miku turns back, green eyes sparkling with amusement. 

“My clones are only allowed off of earth, alright? I don’t want to have to deal with an imposter!” she teases. 

Luka gives her sister an easy grin. 

“Of course. I’ll keep all your samples close to me at all times.”

Miku beams. 

“Good! Gumi’s songs about running into her clones always made me uneasy…”

Luka laughs at the mention of their neighbor. 

“I’ll be sure to ask her if she wants to donate,” she says. 

“You probably won’t have to ask…she’d volunteer!”

The sisters share an easy laugh. Their neighbor was always trying new things, it seemed. One time it was skydiving. Next, it was starting a podcast on kappa hunting. Yes, Luka definitely had to ask if Gumi wanted her clones on STELLA. She would add much-needed joy to the loneliness of space. 

Miku leans her head on the back of the sofa and looks back at Luka. A hint of sadness fills her expression. 

“In all seriousness…please treat my clones well…As you’ve done for me, I want you to watch over them and prevent them from falling into despair. Easy enough, right? ”

A nervous laugh crawls up Luka’s throat. She holds Miku’s gaze.

“That was a given,” says Luka. 

Happiness was so difficult to maintain and keep. 

Miku grins. 

“Does Gackpo know?”

Luka pauses. Her stomach does a small flip upon thinking about her fiancé. She looks down at her garnet ring. He had been so patient, waiting all of those years for her. Would he be able to bear the news that they would never marry, her body shipped off into the depths of space for eternity? 

“...Not yet,” admits Luka. 

Miku quirks an eyebrow. 

“You don’t want a clone of him on your colony?”

Luka looks out the window. A light drizzle has begun, dotting the window with small teardrops. 

“I don’t think so,” says Luka after a few moments. 

“Oh?” 

She thinks of Gackpo’s deep blue eyes and gentle smile. She thinks of running her hands down his chiseled jaw. His soft, purple hair and supple skin. His soothing, deep voice. Her lips tremble. She would have to leave him behind, along with all of her wishes and dreams on earth. 

A happy marriage. A normal family. A normal life. 

Having a clone of him would be a constant reminder of all she had lost. 

“He wouldn’t like the idea,” Luka replies quietly. 

“I see…”

To have a Gackpo that didn’t remember her, who couldn’t touch her, who couldn’t love her, would be merely a cheap copy. 

“What about your coworkers? Like that Christopher?” asks Miku. 

The thought of her coworker makes Luka pause. Whenever she looked at him, she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of pity. He always seemed so sad, his bangs framing his long face with its sunken eyes. Would giving his clone another life on her colony result in a happier Christopher? She doesn’t know what to think of the idea. What would he be if he hadn’t been a scientist? On the colony, would he gaze out at the stars, searching for the dilapidated earth? Would he sing beneath the stars, glad to be rid of the bright moon? 

A small smile fills Luka’s lips when she thinks of Christopher singing. 

“I’ll think about it,” she replies. 

Miku types up a few more lyrics, humming beneath her breath. Luka watches as she writes, the melody filling her with sadness. 

The wish constituting such a desire

was absorbed into the deep, deep, darkness

The words I muttered helplessly

resound aimlessly in this room

It seems like the only one left behind in this world is me

“What’s this song about?” asks Luka. 

Miku doesn’t turn back to look at her, intensely gazing at her screen. 

“The loneliness of a wish granter,” she replies. 

“Interesting…”

“Actually, I think you’d be perfect for the song,” she adds. 

“Me?!”

“Mmhm!” 

Miku turns back, beaming. 

“I’m thinking of naming it The Lone Cell of the Stella Theatre,” she declares. 

“Well…!” 

“Being surrounded by clones of all your loved ones…won’t you be sad that they won’t remember you?” asks Miku.

The faces of Luka’s siblings fill her mind. The countless memories they made of singing and laughing together would have to be enough to carry her into eternity. The things their clones would do without her would be a gentle reminder of those moments. As the STELLA colony’s mind, she would know them, yet they would only see her as a distant god. 

Luka’s throat is dry. As STELLA, she would become an onlooker, forever shut out of the human world. She needed something to remind her that she was once human. 

Luka forces a smile and tilts her head. 

“Only a little bit. It’s enough for me to see all of you smiling,” she replies. 

“You’ll be a benevolent ruler then,” says Miku with a small smile. “How many times do you think you’ll clone me?”

Luka gives a small shrug. 

“Every hundred to two hundred years or so…just enough so that the people there won’t notice I’m cloning my lovely little sister.”

Miku giggles. 

“Maybe in one of my clones’ lives, they’ll be an idol-nun,” she jokes.  

“An idol-nun?!” echoes Luka incredulously.

Her sister shrugs, rolling her shoulders and then humming. 

“That was the first thing that came to mind. She could be a nun by day, idol by night.”

“Life on the colonies isn’t going to be like a manga!” protests Luka. 

“Are you sure? It sounds a lot like one from all you’ve told me,” says Miku, unwrapping a candy bar. 

She breaks it in half and offers it to Luka. Taking the candy, Luka takes a nibble and sighs. To many, Dr. Realist’s proposal sounded like a sci-fi novel or a pipe dream. Only a few were truly willing to believe him. The idea of sending a lone human to control and become a space colony seemed absurd, after all. 

“Laugh at me all you like, but it’ll come true someday,” says Luka resolutely. 

A hint of melancholy fills Miku’s face. She contemplates her candy bar and then bites into it. She chews methodically, with Luka silently counting how many times her sister chews before swallowing. One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Swallow. 

Miku looks out the window, where the rain continues to fall. Meiko’s geraniums were starting to bend beneath the intensifying rain. Luka makes a mental note to heat up her sister’s favorite sake before she comes home. Miku was probably thinking the same thing. 

“I know,” sighs Miku after a moment of pondering the rain. “I’ll miss you when you’re gone.”

Placing a hand on Miku’s shoulder, Luka offers her sister a small smile. 

“We still have a few years left. Let’s enjoy them while we can.”