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puppetsoftomorrow · 4 years ago

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the avalance news reader au

hey who said peer pressure doesn't work. anyway i made this post and y'all seemed to like it so here we go!! might post to ao3 later on idk...

It had been a truly terrible day.

Ava considered, in the moment that her coffee machine spluttered coughed up coffee grounds over her last clean shirt, that maybe she'd just had a truly terrible year. All her dreams about finally moving to television after being stuck in the doldrums of local news media for six years had been slashed when she'd been placed on the graveyard shift - sure, Ava was finally reading the news, but her shift was from 1AM until 4AM, so her only audience was long-distance truck drivers and new parents.

Still, she persevered, with the slightly foolish belief that if she worked hard enough, she could be promoted to a primetime slot. Or at least a slot that didn't require her to be making coffee at 10:45PM.

Her day had started off badly - she'd barely slept, as the sound from the construction work three blocks away rattled her windows, and she’d woken to find that her cat, Merlin, had kicked his litter halfway across the house in a fit of pique. Ava couldn't even have her normal oatmeal, as she was out of oat milk, and now she was having to drink her coffee black.

After changing her shirt to a dark dress and grimacing as she choked down the coffee, there was a knock on the door, and Ava groaned as she realised she was running late.

"Hey, Sara." She sighed.

Sara stood in the doorway, hair wavy over her shoulders, hands shoved in the pockets of her hoodie - the same grey hoodie she wore every day, branded with their news station's logo.

"Woah, a dress?" Sara said, eyebrows raised appreciatively, as Ava grabbed her coat and bag and they moved to go down the stairs.

"Don't mention it." Ava grumbled, pulling the coat around her shoulders.

"It looks good on you." Sara said, and Ava shot her a look. Sara mimed zipping her lips. "Do we have to time for Starbucks? I had to have black coffee; my mouth tastes like something died in it." Ava muttered, and Sara shrugged.

"I mean, we've arrived half an hour early for every shift for the past year -"

"Do you want to go back to taking the bus?" Ava said, looking over at her as they reached the lobby. They'd discovered they lived in the same building almost accidentally in Ava's first week, awkwardly meeting across the hall in the early morning, until Sara had realised that Ava had a car and they'd started riding in together.

"Fine, if you're happy with having bad angles." Sara said, holding the door open for her, and Ava rolled her eyes.

"Are you saying I have bad angles?"

"Oh, I'll find one." Sara muttered, and Ava snorted with laughter and unlocked the car. One of the benefits to giving her camera operator a ride every day was always having excellent angles.

After a stop at Starbucks, Ava rolled along the dark, quiet roads, sighing deeply.

"What's up?" Sara asked, sipping her drink - black coffee, which she somehow enjoyed.

"Nothing." Ava muttered, but it only took one look at Sara for her to come out with the story of her crappy day. Sara laughed.

"So that's why you're wearing the dress."

"That's what you're focusing on?" Ava said, focusing on the road with a small smile on her face. "I have to go back to my apartment at 5AM and clean up kitty litter and coffee grounds."

"Not to mention getting coffee out of your shirt." Sara snorted, and Ava groaned, loud and over the top.

///

They always split when they got to the studio, Ava marching off to make-up to get ready, and Sara taking the elevator to the studio floor to set up her camera. The studio was always dead past midnight, just a skeleton crew left, which Sara found she enjoyed - it was easier to know everyone that way. She waved at Nate, distracting him from where he was running through the weather, muttering under his breath and checking his perfectly coiffed hair in the camera. He waved back, a bright smile on his face.

Careful not to trip over any of the wires on the floor, Sara made her way up to the box above the studio, the cramped room filled from head to toe with blinking lights and buttons, with a large window so they could look down on the studio. The techs – Behrad and Charlie - were sat with headphones on, running through sound checks, so Sara just waved to them as she found who she was looking for.

Zari, the studio runner, was running through her clipboard, muttering under her breath. When she saw Sara coming, she rolled her eyes. "Back again?"

"What have you got for her today?" Sara asked, keeping her voice nonchalant.

"The usual. Some city councilor has been embezzling funds, Star City is readying to bid for the 2028 Olympics, and former mayor Queen is opening a patisserie down-town. It's been a quiet week."

"Exactly." Sara said, her grin widening. "You've got to add the cat one."

Ray, their head writer, had found a story a week ago about a fat cat attending the Star City pet spa to lose weight, and Sara had been tracking down clips of the poor thing, bribing the editor, Nora, to pull them together. She'd even written a script. Zari looked at her with an eyebrow raised.

"Seriously?"

"Yes! I have a bet going with Mick - if I can get Ava to break on camera by the end of the month, he's got to give me $50." Sara said. It was ridiculous, she'd started the bet - truthfully, she found it endearing how Ava read the news with the same abject sternness whether she was covering a political scandal or a dog who'd learnt to surf in Star City Bay. She'd only broken her composure once - a smile creeping on her face when reporting on the 5th birthday of a crocodile at Star City Zoo named Snaps. From that day on, Sara had vowed to make her laugh, properly, live on air.

"I don't have any time to make up." Zari said, and Sara sighed.

"Yeah, but you know Ava reads quick enough. Please? For me?"

Zari seemed immune to the puppy eyes, so Sara sighed. "And I'll give you $20."

Zari snorted. "Do you have $20?"

"I'll have $50 when I win the bet." Sara countered, and Zari sighed.

"Fine. I'll see what I can do."

"Z, you're the best." Sara said with a grin, and turned to return to the studio floor.

///

The program went smoothly, like always. Sara liked her job, the focus of filming and the pride she got when she saw her own work on TV, but she liked it better when she was filming Ava, who had pretty much insisted from day one that Sara be her primary operator.

Ava looked especially pretty today, someone in make-up evidently having convinced her that she didn't need the bun today, and instead curled her hair over both shoulders, which didn't completely cover Ava's defined arms, visible in her sleeveless dress.

The night ran the same as most others, Ava transitioning smoothly between topics and engaging in light, courteous banter with Nate before he presented the weather. Sara looked at Ava during these moments, the five minutes she was off camera, where she looked down at her notes, worrying her bottom lip with her teeth.

Okay, so maybe Sara wanted to make Ava laugh because she looked so pretty doing it. Sue her.

They were coming near the end, and Sara was losing hope that the story would be included, until she heard the segue.

"Now, in lighter news," Ava started, her eyebrows suddenly shooting up as she read the prompter. Sara grinned; Zari had obviously left this out of Ava's notes to inspire more of a reaction.

"Cats," Ava blurted out, steadying herself before continuing, "they're not normally known for their love of swimming, but one feline in Star City is hitting the water instead of the gym in a bid to lose weight. Mr. Snuggles -" Ava bit her lip as the pictures played on the monitor - a black and white cat in a life vest, looking absolutely terrified, and Sara grinned. "Mr. Snuggles is a thirteen-year-old cat who - dislikes the outdoors and other physical activities."

Sara's grin widened as Ava lost it, barely making it through her lines through her giggles. Her face was flushing pink and she bit her lip to try and compose herself. "But with encouragement from his owner -" Ava pressed on, trying to hold herself together, "Mr. Snuggles had lost one pound in six months."

That was the final straw, as Ava descended into a full-on laugh, barely making it through her sign off. Sara was so distracted by the sound she nearly missed Zari's voice in her ear. "Camera 1 to Camera 3 in 3, 2, 1 -"

Sara switched off, but not before Ava snorted, flushing even deeper and covering her face with her hands at the sound, not disguised by the jingle from the lottery numbers playing across the screen.

///

Ava had bolted from the set, and Sara packed up her equipment as quickly as possible, ducking out just in time to catch Ava as she walked down the corridor to the lobby. Her face was now free of make-up, her hair tied up in a messy bun, but she was still in the dress that left Sara's mouth a little dry. She looked at Sara, blushing again.

"I can't believe you did that." She groaned, and Sara put on her most innocent face on.

"Did what?"

"Bribed Zari to put the cat story in! John in make-up said that Charlie had told him that you'd bribed Zari."

"To win $50!" Sara said, grinning. "And you have a really cute laugh."

Ava looked up; eyebrow furrowed. "Really?"

"Yep." Sara said, trying to play it cool. "Look, do you want half? I feel bad now."

Ava sighed. "No, it's okay."

"I could buy you dinner." Sara said, almost blurting it out, and Ava looked at her. "To make up for it."

Ava's mouth quirked up in a smile. "Uh - yeah, okay. I can do dinner."

~the end~

okay so this was fun to write and i kind of want to write more so uhh send me where u think this story should go. or ideas for a part 2 maybe. thanks for reading!!

#phoebe lifeblogs #avalance #legends of tomorrow #my writing #this is almost Too cute lmao

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swanqueeneverafter · 4 years ago

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The Once & Future Queen Pt.23

Smuggler's Camp. (Having woken both Ella and Henry, Lancelot is searching for answers.) Lancelot: "Has anyone heard from Guinevere?" Henry: (Shaking his head:) "No, the last I saw of her was after we freed Merlin." Lancelot: "Damn. We were set upon by Morgana. I told Guinevere to run while I tried to hold her off, but she got by me." Henry: "I'm sorry, Lancelot. Did you manage to get anything useful from your mother?" Lancelot: "Yes, but Morgana's already retaken Camelot. I'm afraid all is lost." Ella: "You can't know that. You mustn't give up hope." Lancelot: “Agravaine and his men have been sent to find me. In all the confusion I got turned around. Where are we now?” Henry: “We’re heading north towards Lot’s kingdom." Lancelot: (Nods:) “With Camelot in Morgana’s possession, that’s as good a safe haven as we’re likely to find. I can only hope the knights who escaped will meet us there. (Looks around the camp:) Who are these people?” Henry: “They’re, er…smugglers.” Lancelot: “Smugglers?!” Henry & Ella: “Shhh!” Ella: (Whispered:) “Yes and they’re not too thrilled about Camelot’s laws either. So if I were you I’d try and keep my true identity a secret.” Lancelot: (Nods:) “I spent years moving from place to place avoiding those who’d like nothing better than to see me dead. Compared to them, these smugglers shouldn’t be a problem.” Henry: (Pats him on the back:) “I wouldn’t count on that.” Elsewhere In The Woods. (Agravaine rides along the forest path, the soldiers bearing torches follow behind him on foot.) Storybrooke. Swan-Mills House. Morning. (Emma pads downstairs towards the kitchen. Hearing Regina speaking to someone on the phone, Emma leans on the door frame and waits patiently for Regina to finish her conversation.) Regina: (Agitated:) "Oh all right. But if they ask my opinion on you, don't expect me to hold anything back!” (Regina tosses her phone across the counter.) Emma: "Wrong number?" Regina: (Scoffs:) "I wish. Your mother, in her infinite wisdom, has agreed to allow that idiot reporter to cover the search for Storybrooke’s next Mayor." Emma: "Well, I guess it would be in the public interest?" Regina: "Really? And what do you call agreeing to have that same reporter follow us around all day? Because I call it bullsh-" (The doorbell rings.) Emma: "That'll be them now, I guess?" Regina: "So much for enjoying a nice lazy morning, huh?"

Emma: "I'll get the door, you go upstairs and take Maria her bottle." Regina: "All right." (She leaves.) Emma: (Calling after her:) "And change into your happy pants while you're up there! (Attempting to put on a brave face, Emma walks across the hall and opens the front door. However, upon being blinded by the Reporter's camera flash and bombarded with questions before she can even manage to fully open the door, Emma's relatively good mood falters. Forcing a smile, she stands aside:) Won't you come in?" (The Reporter enters and continues to chatter excitedly as Emma rolls her eyes and closes the door.) Smuggler's Camp. (Lancelot stands talking with Henry when he's spotted by Tristan.) Tristan: “You. (Lancelot turns around:) Do I know you?” Henry: (Thinking on his feet:) “Er... this is our friend... Jack. We were supposed to meet up yesterday but he got lost.” Tristan: “Simpleton are you, Jack? (Before Lancelot can reply:) We leave as soon as the horses are watered. Explain it to the simpleton, would you? (Tristan walks away while Lancelot looks at Henry who smiles sheepishly. Lancelot readjusts the sword he acquired from the Lady of the Lake and this catches Tristan and Isolde’s attention:) Simpleton.” Henry: “He’s talking to you.” Lancelot: “I don’t answer to that name.” Henry: “You’re not you, remember?” (Tristan looks down at the sword.) Tristan: “Impressive piece.” Lancelot: (With a slight accent:) “Thank you, sir.” Tristan: “May I? (Lancelot allows Tristan to handle the sword. He examines the blade. Scoffs:) Magnificent. Usually the only place you find workmanship of this quality is the royal forge of Camelot. (Tristan puts the sword to Lancelot’s throat:) Tell me, how did you come by it?” Lancelot: (Without flinching:) “I won it in a card game.” (Tristan narrows his eyes suspiciously then hands the sword back to him.) Tristan: “I hope for your sake that’s true. (Lancelot takes the sword:) I’d hate to think that I was riding with a knight of Camelot.” (Isolde giggles.) Isolde: “Knight of Camelot? Look at him.” (Henry chuckles as Lancelot plays along and pretends not to know how to put the sword in his belt.) Tristan: “You’re right. Their knights may be stupid, but they’re not that stupid.” (Lancelot puts on a big smile and chuckles with the rest of them until suddenly a man walking past them gets shot with an arrow. They turn and see soldiers charging the camp. Henry grabs Ella and pulls her out of harms way. An arrow lands in the tree next to Lancelot’s head and they run to take cover behind the wagon with Tristan and Isolde. Lancelot takes charge.) Lancelot: “Head for those trees, we’ll cover you. (Tristan and Isolde exchange a confused look:) Do you want to live or not?” (Tristan steps forward to question Lancelot, but Isolde grabs his arm and they run off. Lancelot, Ella and Henry fire crossbows at the soldiers through the wagon. Henry tosses Lancelot another bolt and reloads his own crossbow.) Henry: “Now what?” Lancelot: “Now it’s our turn.” Henry: “Who’s going to cover us?” Lancelot: (Smirks:) “Don’t be a simpleton, Henry.” (They take aim and hit another three soldiers, but more keep coming. Lancelot grabs the sword from the wagon and they run off. They take cover behind a fallen tree with Tristan and Isolde. Agravaine directs the soldiers by the wagon.) Isolde: “They haven’t found the cargo.” Tristan: “They will. Besides, they weren’t after the cargo. They were after you. Who the hell are you?” Lancelot: “My name is Lancelot.” Tristan: “The bravest knight in all of Camelot!” Lancelot: “At least I was.” Tristan: “I’ve lost everything I’ve worked for because of the Queen’s good for nothing consort!” Lancelot: “That’s quite something coming from a smuggler.” Tristan: “Well, I wouldn’t have to be a smuggler if it wasn’t for your damn taxes, would I?!” Lancelot: “Those taxes help protect the people of this land.” Tristan: “My people are dead. You call that protection?”

Ella: “Excuse me, sorry to interrupt, but…” (Ella directs their attention to the soldiers charging them from behind. Lancelot and Tristan charge the soldiers and fight side by side. Ella, Henry and Isolde fight more soldiers. One soldier elbows Isolde in the head and slashes her sword arm, kicking her to the ground. The soldier poises for the final blow, but crumples as Lancelot stabs him in the back. Tristan runs to Isolde and holds her. Henry and Ella watch over them ready to defend them from attack.) Tristan: (Whispered:) “Isolde. We had a deal. Partners for life, remember?” Isolde: “When have I not kept my promises?” (Tristan kisses her forehead.) Lancelot: “We need to keep moving. There’ll be more coming soon.” Tristan: “Then go. There’s nothing stopping you.” (Lancelot rolls his eyes.) Henry: “We’ll be safer if we stick together.” Tristan: “I’m choosy about the company I keep.” Isolde: “He saved my life, Tristan. (To Lancelot:) Thank you.” Tristan: “None of this would’ve happened if it wasn’t for them.” (Isolde sighs at his stubbornness.) Lancelot: “She’s injured. She needs shelter and rest.” (Tristan sighs, looks at Lancelot, then back at Isolde. Isolde nods.) Tristan: “Very well. But know this, Lancelot, I do this for her. You and your kind bring nothing but misery to this land.” Camelot. Council Chamber. (Soldiers shove Xena into the middle of a fighting circle where Morgana stands. She smiles at their rowdy enjoyment.)

Morgana: “Behold! Xena, the Warrior Princess. Famed as the greatest warrior to ever live. (Morgana grabs Xena’s face:) Let’s see if that fame’s deserved, shall we?” (Xena scoffs with a smirk and glares at Morgana who walks to sit on the throne. A soldier steps forward, brandishing a couple of weapons while Xena looks around at the braying mob.) Storybrooke. Daycare Centre. (Speaking with the Reporter, Regina talks about a typical day in the life for herself and Emma.) Regina: "Aside from the occasional witch or warlock attempting to take over the world, our days are pretty normal. As Mayor, one of my duties is to ensure that all aspects of the community are catered for. Luckily, we have some very conscientious people in this town. A prime example of that can be found here, at Ashley's Daycare Centre. Now Ashley's story is one you should definitely take the time to explore. A young mother herself, Ashley saw a need within the community and brought people together to share their experiences. What you see here today is all down to her hard work and dedication. Ashley's joy for what she provides to the community really shines through." Reporter: "Are Emma and yourself members?" Regina: "We were for a short time. Emma thought it would be a good idea to get opinions from other 'first time' mothers. Of course, while Maria isn't Emma's first child, she did miss out on raising Henry herself." Reporter: "That's interesting. Having raised Henry alone, did you see the need to attend Ashley's classes?" Regina: (Smiles:) "Initially I didn't quite see the point, having already been there and done it, but I knew it was important to Emma. So we came for the first few weeks and it was actually a lot of fun." Reporter: "So what happened after those first few weeks?" Regina: (Hesitates:) "Apparently I was a little too forthright in giving my own opinions on how to raise a child and I was quietly asked to leave." Reporter: "I see." (Writing some notes.) Regina: (Hastily:) "But, during Emma’s absence, I made a request to return for Maria’s sake. And for myself, if I’m being honest. So today is the first time all three of us are attending in quite some time.” Reporter: “So you would recommend the daycare centre?” Regina: “Absolutely. I highly recommend the centre for all first time mothers." (Regina smiles, a little uncomfortable at how much she’s just shared.) Camelot. Council Chamber. (Xena fights one of the soldiers, dodging blow after blow until finally she is shoved backwards into the surrounding circle of soldiers. Upon being pushed back towards her opponent, Xena is knocked to the floor. Spinning her legs in the air to gain momentum, Xena jumps to her feet and avoids catching a mace to the face. Disarming her opponent of one of his weapons, Xena taunts him.) Xena: “That all you got? I was promised a decent fight. (The man pulls out another weapon from his belt and disarms Xena:) You’re a very angry man, I can see that. Must be hard being so ugly. (The man swings wildly at Xena as she continues:) Children crying, women screaming. (The man attacks again with an overhead swing but misses:) Come on, you can do better than that.”

(Completely unarmed, Xena knocks the soldier to the ground. Her opponent rises to his feet with one weapon left. Xena lets out her battle cry and climbs on his back after punching him in the stomach. The soldier rams Xena into a column, but she dismounts, punches and kicks the soldier against the column. Xena picks up the mace and knocks out her opponent with it in the now silent council chamber. Morgana stands, clapping slowly.) Morgana: “Congratulations, Xena. An admirable display. You’ve earned your reward. (She indicates to someone and they toss a half-loaf of moldy bread at Xena’s feet:) But you’re going to have to do better if you want some more.” (The gathered soldiers chuckle darkly and Morgana motions for two more warriors to step forward. The chanting begins again as Xena prepares for their attack.) Storybrooke. Daycare Centre. (At the end of the day's session, Ashley talks with Emma.) Ashley: "So it's true, you and Regina are really retiring?" Emma: (Nods:) "As soon as we can find a candidate for Mayor, yeah. Maybe you should think about it?" Ashley: "Me? Mayor? I wouldn't know where to start." Emma: "I don't know, look at what you've done with this place. I think you'd make an excellent Mayor." Ashley: (Smiles:) "Thanks, Emma. But I don't think people see me as the City Hall type." Emma: "Hey, remember what I told you the day we met?" Ashley: (Nods:) "People are going to tell you who you are your whole life. You just gotta punch back and say, 'No, this is who I am.' I remember. (Considers:) All right, I'll think about it." Emma: (Smiles:) "You'd get my vote."

Abandoned Farmhouse. Village. (Ella checks on Isolde who is sleeping on the bed while Tristan and Lancelot eat.) Ella: “I’ve cleaned the wound. There’s no sign of infection. So as long as she gets plenty of rest, she’ll be fine.” Tristan: “Thank you, Ella, for everything you’ve done for her.” (Ella nods and leaves.) Lancelot: “I’m sorry I brought this…misfortune upon you.” Tristan: “Well, I may have lost my cargo, but I still have my beloved Isolde.” Lancelot: “Then you’re richer than you know.” (Tristan considers Lancelot and then looks to Isolde. Lancelot watches them sadly, his thoughts turning to Guinevere. In another room, Ella tends to Henry's injuries.) Henry: (Watching her:) “Where did you learn that?” Ella: “Ah, books. I read a lot about medicine in my father's library as a little girl. The books would always stress that a good bedside manner was very important, so whenever some of the local bards would visit the castle, I'd try and remember some of their stories." Henry: (Smiles:) "A writer and a storyteller huh? Well aren't we the pair?" Ella: (Laughs:) "I wouldn't go that far, but there is one story I do remember." Henry: "I'd love to hear it." Ella: "Hmm, okay. Once upon a time, a young woman went into the woods to hunt, but lost her way. For days she wandered in the forest, disorientated and confused, desperately trying to find her way out. She was hopeless. After some time, she saw a man approaching in the distance. At last, she thought to herself, ‘Someone who knows how to get out of this forest.’ When they met, she asked the man, ‘Kind sir, can you please tell me the way out of this forest? I have been wandering for days, but have been unable to find the way.’ But the man answered, ‘I’m sorry. I do not know the way out either. I, too, have been wandering about these woods for days. Let us journey on together. Perhaps, side by side, we can figure a way out.’ After that, the woman was no longer hopeless.” (Timing her story to finish with her ministrations, Ella looks up at Henry who is smiling at her in complete adoration.) Storybrooke. Daycare Centre. (Emma sits down with the Reporter.) Reporter: "How does it feel to be back here after what you went through? I suspect there were times when you thought you'd never attend one of these sessions again?" Emma: "It feels great. That's what most people don't understand about the seemingly mundane aspects of their lives. To be able to have a routine, to have that consistency is something people take for granted. Growing up in the foster system, I was constantly trying to follow someone else's rules or guidelines in order to fit in with the latest family. Now that I have a family of my own, I realise that having that stability is what we're all searching for. Regina and I have always been the outsiders, that's part of the reason we get each other so well. But now that we have everything we've ever wanted, it's time to really enjoy it." Reporter: "My sources tell me that retirement was your idea. Is this true and was there a particular moment that lead you to your decision?" Emma: "Well I don't know who your supposed sources are but yeah, it was my idea. As far as one particular moment goes? I think what really made me decide was watching Regina in situations like this. I mean, look at her. (Emma and the Reporter turn to watch Regina talking and laughing with the other mothers in the group:) A few years ago, that would never have happened. Regina would never have felt comfortable enough to just sit and chat with people without feeling as though they were saying one thing to her face and something completely different behind her back. I love that she's finally at peace and is able to open herself up to new friendships. That's why I suggested we step back and let someone else take the reigns. So that last remaining barrier can come down and she can just be herself. Not Madam Mayor. Not the Evil Queen. Just the woman I love, Regina."

Abandoned Farmhouse. Village. Night. (Henry and Ella hear screams as they sit talking. Henry stands and sees the soldiers’ torches surrounding the village.) Henry: “Agravaine. He’s found us.” (Lancelot, Henry, Ella, Tristan and Isolde watch as Agravaine and the soldiers harass the villagers.) Tristan: “Any suggestions?” Henry: “I might have something. Ella, you with me? (Ella nods:) Everyone else, round the back.” (Henry waits for the others to leave, then he and Ella run towards a cart at the top of the hill. Grabbing a torch and holding against the cart, they start rolling it towards Agravaine. Turning, Agravaine and the soldiers dash out of the way of the flaming cart just in time, but Agravaine looks up to see Lancelot’s party escaping.) Agravaine: “There! Get them!” Forest. (Soldiers chase Lancelot’s group through the woods, Tristan supporting Isolde as they go.)

#sq #swan queen #swanqueen

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lamesiscanon · 5 years ago

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lily + james if there wasn’t a war? (if you like

YES. Seren I’d literally do anything for you ((Though I am a fool, I thought I posted this a week ago and logged into my computer today to find it waiting so please forgive the tardiness))

At the beginning of the summer holidays, Petunia had reluctantly approached Lily with the invitation to spend the rest of the warmest months with Vernon and their parents on a trip to Spain with Vernon’s family. It was some dumb plan of Petunia’s to get the families closer together, before the wedding next year that would most likely result in some bullshit conversations that would be too safe and not at all interesting. Or worse, she knew she’d have to keep up some lie about her “private boarding school for troubled youth”. And so no matter the amount of begging her parents had resorted themselves to, to get her to come along, Lily’s response was an easy Hell No.

Consequently, her parents were never going to let her stay home alone for two and a half months, so she was arranged to stay with the Lupins. It was the best thing to ever happen to her, until James Potter found out.

The mind of James Potter was able to come up with many excuses as to why he was constantly visiting the Lupin cottage, and increasingly become more and more ridiculous.

“Remus! I need that book you promised to let me borrow.”

“Remus, I am here to plan a prank against Peter. He sent me explosive confetti in the mail.”

“Remus, I need the stitching repair charm. Padfoot chewed up all of mum’s pillows.”

“Remus, I need your help with this job application, I’m having a hard time understanding what they’re asking for here.”

“Remus, I need you to help me shop for an outfit to Alice’s wedding.”

Each time James popped in through the floo, or crash landed in Hope’s tomatoes, Remus invited him to stay and go to town with them, or hang by the pond. Lily tried her best to not act annoyed.

It was obvious James was coming just to see her, no matter how brief. And it was obvious how he was much less subtle about his liking her, after finding her notebook in potions at the end of term and seeing that her last page included his name along with various attributes she and her friends “liked” about him. Yes, it was childish. Yes, it was the most embarrassing moment of her life when he returned her notebook.

Lily only had her Head Girl badge to blame, since it matched along with James’ Head Boy one and they had been forced to spend more time together during their last year at Hogwarts. It made her notice that he wasn’t just some immature boy. He was a kind, cute, and talented young man, and Merlin, Lily hated to admit it.

Now, however, as she read her book and listened to the storm, Lily had to strongly disagree with Mary and how she wrote “fashionable” when asked to describe James Potter. Her opinions were backed up by the bag of pink shirts he had slung over his arm as he walked in through the front door. The bag of horrid pink most likely had to do with his daily excuse to see Lily.

“Remus! I found some of your things in my trunk!”

Lily set down in her book, and looked at James with mild annoyance.

“Do you ever knock?”

“I don’t need to. Hope and Lyall have made it known their house is open to all.” Though, his clothes were soaking from flying, and he dripped water all over the cottage.

“Well, I can’t believe graduation was three weeks ago and you waited until now to unpack your trunk.” Lily cringed on the inside, knowing at this point she was trying too hard to be annoyed and disinterested.

“I didn’t wait three weeks, I unpacked two weeks ago but just now remembered to return these. I just barely gave Sirius his Robert Plant posters back.” James said, taking off his shoes and flying gloves, before carrying his bag onto the lounge chair across from Lily.

“Robert Plant? Are these posters for Sirius’ hair aspiration, or fantasy boyfriend material?”

“It’s most likely an equal mix of both.”

Remus came into the room then, asking about the stuff he left in James’ trunk, until he saw the bag of pink.

“What the fuck is that?”

“Your Madam Pudifoot’s merchandise!” James pulled out a shirt with the words “Love is the way” printed on the back.

“I don’t own any merch. This is all your-”

“Now, Remus, there’s no need to be embarrassed about your interests.” James looked at him pointedly, and Remus sighed in defeat.

“The things I do for you.” Remus muttered, as he shook his head. James mouthed a ‘thank you’ in return, before turning back to the bag.

“AHA! And here’s your hat!” James draped the shirt over Remus’ shoulder and put the pink bucket hat on his head. Remus looked close to punching him.

Lily couldn’t help but laugh loudly, and the look Remus gave her only made her laugh harder. Poor Remus, he needed to be put out of his misery.

Lily got up from her spot on the couch and walked over the bag herself. Inside, she found many fabrics of pink and purple, and even some with feathers. The first thing she pulled out was a shirt with a much brighter, atrocious shade of pink than the last, with hearts and the Madam Puddifoot logo.

“No, I think Remus is right. I was working the day James bought this. Though, I never would have thought he’d be buying it for himself.” Lily turned to face the two boys, grinning wildly and holding the shirt up against her. “Besides, Remus’ merch of choice is Celestina Warbeck pajamas.”

If Lily had a camera, she’d take a picture of both their blushes and keep it in her room forever. There was no greater feeling, Lily decided, than the feeling of knowing she caught James in his act.

“Yet, I have to admit. This is an excellent choice of pink, Potter. I can see it really clashes with the hair.” She held the shirt out in front of him, faux contemplation all over her face. She was really enjoying this.

“Oh, do you mean the hair that ‘looks so soft you could run your fingers through it’? Or did you write the part about how good it looks during quidditch?”

Now it was Lily’s turn to blush, knowing he was referring to the things written in Lily’s notebook. Seeing how the tables had turned, James was back to all confidence and esteem, as if he hadn’t just been exposed and embarrassed.

“Your clearly imagining things, the only thing I wrote about you was how difficult it must be for you to get through doorways with that incredibly big head of yours!” Lily was a great liar, but she knew already. She knew James read everything on that page.

“Oh, that’s right! Now I remember! Just below that bit was the part about how hot the ‘post-sex’ nature of my hair is.” James stepped closer to her, pink t-shirts and Remus forgotten. “In your same handwriting.”

“The only reason my handwriting is so recognizable to you is because you spent weeks in third year copying it and writing love letters to yourself, pretending they were from me.”

James’ grin fell, and he took a step back before turning an accusing glare at Remus.

“I wonder how you found out about that.”

Remus did his best to shrug innocently, barely controlling his laughter as he made his escape out of the room and up the stairs. They listened together as the muffled guffaws of laughter leaked through the ceiling’s boards.

“Well,” James began, trying to break the silence “I think my head just got deflated quite a bit.” His hand rubbed at the back of his neck, and he avoided eye contact by staring at his shoes.

“It’s a good thing to have your ego taken back down every now and then.” Lily agreed.

“Although it sucks to happen,” James admitted “I guess we’ve both done some... very embarrassing things in the past.”

They could still hear Remus laughing upstairs.

“I think...” Lily drifted off, swallowing hard and begging herself to gather up the courage. “I think a deflated head is all it would take for me to say ‘yes’ to a date with you. You know, if you’d ever ask.”

James snapped his head up, and it made Lily wish he hadn’t. His eyes were too intense, and she blushed remembering she wrote something about how she could stare at them all day. She wanted to drown knowing James also read this.

“You r- you wha- Really?”

Lily shrugged, still holding the pink shirt as she turned to sit back down on the couch.

“Well then, please excuse me for a minute.”

Lily’s brows furrowed in confusion as James rushed out of the room and into the kitchen. After a couple minutes of drawers opening and closing, she heard his footsteps on the stairs, then heard James talking to Remus, and finally, his footsteps came back down the stairs and he was in the room again. Though, this time he had flowers in one hand, and chocolate in the other. The flowers were dripping water on the floor, like his clothes had earlier and it made Lily laugh.

“Did you seriously take those out of Mrs. Lupin’s vase? And did you take Remus’ chocolate?” She was laughing again, clutching her stomach as James stood in front of her, confident and embarrassed at the same time.

“I’ll put these back! And Remus said it was fine.”

Lily laughed harder, watching water droplets glide down the stems and hit the wood.

“Would you just... just let me ask you already?” James sounded exasperated, but his smile and shaking shoulders betrayed how funny he found her laugh. It made her insides warm.

“Okay, okay. I’m listening. Go ahead.”

“Lily Evans...” He managed to begin, before she was laughing hysterically again.

“Oh, come on.” James gave up, throwing the chocolate in her lap and falling onto the couch next to her.

“Sorry! I’m sorry, please continue.”

“Mmmm, now I don’t think I can go out with someone who laughs as bad as a hydrangea.”

“You mean a hyena?” James was never good at knowing “muggle” animals.

James turned his face to look at her, ignoring the correction and moving the flowers so they were closer to her.

“Lily. I’d like to take you on a date some time, if you’ll let me.”

Lily enjoyed how quickly he could go from joking and playful to sincere and serious. She smiled, and took the flowers. Then she vanished them back into the vase in the kitchen before she slid closer to him.

“I haven’t spent years embarrassing myself in front of you to say no.”

James smiled and leaned in to kiss her.

After what felt like hours of fireworks and electricity running through her body, she broke away to give another tiny laugh. “Too bad you can’t fly home in this storm, you’ll have to stay here for the night.”

“My, my, Evans. Making the moves already?”

She huffed, and hit him on the shoulder.

“Git. What I’m saying is, the only other clothes big enough to fit you in this house are the Madam Puddifoots t-shirts, and I’m so looking forward to seeing you in neon pink.”

The look on Jame’s face was priceless.

BONUS:

The next morning found Remus at the kitchen table peacefully drinking tea and reading the paper. He read about Celestina Warbeck’s recently announced tour, and took a sip of tea only to promptly spit it out as Lily walked into the kitchen in the over-sized pink t-shirt. James followed with a bright smile and real post-sex hair.

“It’s... about time?” Remus offered.

Lily just smiled. Yeah, it was about time. But now they had all the time in the world.

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magic-and-moonlit-wings · 6 years ago

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I did a full-series rewatch of Trollhunters

In the course of this rewatch, I made the following observations:

A shop called “Bella’s”, with a picture of a flower on the sign, is seen four or five times when Bular is chasing Jim and Toby around town. Either they were going in circles or it’s a chain store. (Yes, I understand that animators recycle backgrounds.)

AAARRRGGHH carries Toby on his shoulders in the following scenes:

the first time Bular is chasing Toby and Jim,

the first time goblins are chasing Toby and Jim,

while chasing down Grit-Shaka’d Jim,

when Toby and AAARRRGGHH spot the Amulet flying from the museum to Jim in the woods,

during the fireworks fire,

when Toby is talking about taking Darci to play laser tag,

and in the Geode Caverns looking for Merlin’s staff.

Not Enrique climbs onto AAARRRGGHH’s shoulders in Bittersweet Sixteen and Recipe For Disaster. AAARRRGGHH rebuffs him both times, but allows it when Not Enrique climbs onto his head in Party Monster, by which time Not Enrique is more of a friend to the group.

Nomura’s grey-skinned lookalike can be seen at these moments:

when Toby first notices the Heartstone,

when Grit-Shaka’d Jim summons the armour at the ‘tattoo parlour’,

when Claire first enters Trollmarket,

at Not Enrique’s party (twice, first when AAARRRGGHH is asked about his injury, and then when Not Enrique climbs onto AAARRRGGHH’s head),

during the initial cut to Trollmarket during the time-stop,

when Vendel first announces the Pyrobligst match,

when Jim pulls injured Barbara out of the wrecked car and calls for help,

when Jim tells Trollmarket that Angor Rot has a horngazel,

during the preparations for Angor Rot’s attack as Claire practices with the Shadow Staff,

during the preparations for Jim’s trial when Blinky and Claire begin searching for leads,

and with Not Enrique during the Gumm-Gumm attack on Trollmarket;

last seen in the crowd at the gyre station during the escape.

Barbara and Nomura never speak to each other onscreen. (I had noticed this before, but the rewatch confirmed it.)

They speak about each other to other characters, and speak in each others’ presence. They presumably had conversations at the police station when Nomura had Jim and Toby arrested, at the Lake house when Nomura brought tea as a pretext for getting close enough to Jim to attack him, and at some point during the lead-up to the Eternal Night, but these were all off-camera.

The only women Barbara talks to are Nana, Ophelia, and Claire (and possibly whoever she was on the phone with in Bad Coffee).

Unless you count Nomura’s speech to the students at the museum in her introductory episode, the only woman Nomura is seen speaking to in the entire series is Usurna.

(At least, I didn’t notice Nomura saying anything to Claire. When the other museum lady tells Nomura it’s nice to have her back, Nomura just nods silently. She must have had an off-screen talk with Gladys, the Changeling dental hygienist who told Toby that Nomura ‘warned’ her about Toby and Jim, but we don’t see that so Gladys being a Changeling can surprise the audience.)

There are actually two animation models for cats: a grey cat (Claire’s cat, the one in the Troll Pub after the first visit to Gatto’s Keep, and the one eaten by blood goblins), and a Siamese cat (has its food hover when Jim first summons the armour, and hisses at Morgana-possessing-Claire). I had previously only noticed the Siamese, which also appears in 3Below.

I’ve made this point before but don’t recall if I did so publicly: for a cat-lady, we sure never see any cats in Nana Domzalski’s house.

Toby is seen wearing his Chubby Tracker outside the Vespa dealership in Bittersweet Sixteen.

Why do the Lakes (and the Palchuks - it looks like the animation team used the same garage layout) have a refrigerator in the garage? Not a mini-fridge, a full-sized one.

At the end of Recipe For Disaster, Strickler stops Not Enrique from eating a pen.

Regarding the Spring Fling:

Coach Lawrence describes the dance as the “year end Spring Fling” when he first announces it, although there appears to be another term left between the dance and summer break.

Coach also says the candidates for King and Queen are “faculty nominated”, which might explain how Eli got nominated when he doesn’t seem to be popular.

Jim, Mary, and Eli were all in the school play (Mary isn’t seen on-stage but she is present during auditions and tells Toby she’s in the play when he tries to ask her out in Young Atlas), Steve is on a school sports team (do they ever say which sport?), Shannon is Student Body Treasurer, and the teachers would know Darci is the school mascot even if the other students didn’t yet.

I literally just realized a few days ago that the reason we only saw three ‘dance themes’ presented could be because the girls’ theme suggestions happened off-camera, not because only the boys suggested themes - but this does not explain why the girls weren’t out there with the boys in the line of ‘candidates who are not presenting a theme right now, but either had or are waiting for their turn’.

Angor Rot killed at least four Trollhunters. That’s the greatest number of soul-lights onscreen at once after he dies the first time and their souls are freed. (There are actually five soul-light right before Ghost Kanjigar appears, but one of those was presumably Kanjigar, who we know was killed by Bular.)

Hunter Jim stomps on Jim in the same pose that Merlin and Gunmar later use.

I finally caught the joke when Toby tells the Tribunal, “Please have it noted for the record - and the MP3!”

I’ve been assuming Usurna used Creeper’s Sun to kill Vendel, but her knife wasn’t green so she might’ve just stabbed him. (That said, it appears to be the same knife Nomura stole and used to turn her restraints to stone so she could shatter them, so it might’ve been poisoned.)

When Strickler tries to stab Morgana-possessing-Claire, his knife is poisoned with Creeper’s Sun, seen in the green glow and confirmed when Blinky cuts the chains and they turn to stone. If Strickler knows the antidote, he might’ve seen that as a way to halt the threat of Morgana without actually killing Claire, in case they could later save her.

There’s been some talk that Strickler was pulling his punches fighting Jim. Possible evidence: some of Strickler’s knives end up stabbed into the breastplate of Jim’s armour when they train together. That never happened when they were enemies. (Alternate theory, Jim wasn’t giving his all to shielding himself from an ally like he was when he actually expected Strickler to kill him.)

This one is pure speculation on my part: what if the reason Strickler tried to have Nomura killed by Bular in Season 1 was because he was angry she attacked his students? It could add evidence to why Bular thought Strickler was going soft.

The real plans for how the amulet is put together, seen in Merlin’s workshop, look exactly like the notes and diagrams seen in Strickler’s office when he was crafting the fake - did he acquire Merlin’s actual schematic?

It’s been commented that the Staff of Avalon’s “human wielders only” rule was foolish of Merlin to use as a safeguard because Changelings, Morgana’s creations, can use it, but if Morgana really was Merlin’s apprentice once, it is both possible and probable that the staff predates Changelings. Maybe it was even one of her motives in inventing them.

Why did Strickler not at least attempt to steal the Staff of Avalon while escaping Trollmarket with Barbara?

I get that Troll Jim is stronger, faster, and more durable than Original Jim, but it was quite a gamble.

He’s also taller and longer-limbed and heavier now, not to mention the horns, which should all throw off his balance and make him clumsy, requiring a learning curve to become a good fighter again.

Even if trolls have better reflexes than humans, Jim’s not used to that and would overcompensate.

I get that the writers couldn’t fit in that plot arc with only three episodes left in the series, but it would be nice if the risk had been addressed, even after the fact.

We never saw where the portal went that Claire was trying to convince her parents to go through during the goblin attack, but we can assume she was trying to send them somewhere safe. We also don’t know where Enrique was, but can assume he was home with a babysitter.

What if Claire’s portal went to the nursery, so that’s where she sent the goblin that got knocked through it?

Tie it in to Wizards and have one of the wizards be the babysitter, thus equipped to deal with an unexpected goblin and not likely to tell their employer about it later: crossover episode!

Why would the earthquakes damage the Darklands? That makes about as much sense as all the Gumm-Gumms exploding when Gunmar died. Which is to say, I can come up with an explanation if I work at it (Killahead Bridge was being built in Arcadia in the first place because that’s the epicentre of where the Darklands’ dimension matches up to the surface world; Gunmar’s death created a fatal magical backlash against everyone he was mind-controlling), but it doesn’t flow logically based on information provided in the show.

Speaking of information provided in the show, this reaffirmed my belief it makes no sense for Jim to know Angor Rot used to be a hero because there are no scenes of Jim acquiring that information, which presumably would have been an emotionally charged and thought provoking discovery and thus should have been on-camera if it ever happened.

Everything speculated about when Bagdwella first barged into the Forge looking for help with a gnome problem ended up happening. The Heartstone was damaged and eventually destroyed, Jim had to fight a Stalkling, and ... well, Bular never got into Trollmarket, but Gunmar and Angor Rot both did.

Story idea that came about as a result of this rewatch:

Instead of going out to his backyard and summoning the armour, Jim puts the amulet up for sale online like he threatened to do if it didn’t talk again. Several Changelings independently find the Amulet of Daylight on eBay and a bidding war ensues.

#Trollhunters #commentary #Tales of Arcadia #spoilers #long post

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sundanceheli-blog · 7 years ago

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Top Ten Things to do in Las Vegas for the Holidays

1. Cactus Garden Lighting at Ethel M. Chocolates

If the idea of over half a million twinkling Christmas lights draped over three acres of cactus sounds exciting, then you must a visit the Chocolate Wonderland at Ethel M Chocolates Factory and Cactus Garden in Henderson, NV. Inspired by the kitchen of Ethel Mars (which date back to 1910), Forrest Mars Sr. created Ethel M Chocolates in his mother’s honor.

The huge Ethel M's cactus garden out front features a spectacular display of more than half a million holiday lights, chocolate houses and sculptures, and demonstrations of Ethel M Chocolate creations. The display will be open from Tuesday, November 7th - Jan 1, 2018. Admission to Chocolate Wonderland is free and includes a factory tour. Special seasonal chocolate collections are also available for purchase.

2. Vegas! The Show Holiday Spectacular Edition

Join our show partner this holiday season as Vegas! The Show presents a holiday rendition of the performance at the Saxe Theater located inside the Planet Hollywood Miracle Mile Shops. From November 20th – December 31st 2017, the show will include additional fun filled dance numbers and festive costumes, while celebrating the timeless Holiday music made famous by your favorite Las Vegas stars! Ticket prices start at $99.99 for general admission.

3. Modern Day Sleigh Rides with Sundance Helicopters

Bring your kids for their very first helicopter ride aboard our modern day sleigh rides with special child rates from $59 for kids up to 12 years of age for tour dates of Dec. 22 - Jan 7, 2018. Saint Nick will also be available Dec. 22-24, 2017 from 6pm to 9pm at the terminal for photo opportunities, hand out holiday goodies, and for story times.

4. Magical Forest at Opportunity Village Christmas is a time for giving. What better way to give this time of year than a visit to the Magical Forest which is celebrating another year of providing holiday joy to the Las Vegas community. Join the more than 150,000 people that visit the Forest every year. Feast your eyes at the more than three million lights on hundreds of decorated trees. Ride the Forest Express passenger train, take a spin on the Carousel or visit Santa. There is fun for the whole family and plenty of special events and offers throughout the Forest season. Children general admission ticket prices start at $10.00 and adult general admission ticket prices start at $12.00.

5. New Year’s Eve Spectacular with Sundance Helicopters Ring in the new year in the skies or atop a scenic overlook! We will be the only helicopter company flying on New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas. Let’s welcome 2018 in style by viewing the fireworks extravaganza by air or at our private Red Rock overlook for an exclusive party with amazing fireworks across the Las Vegas skyline! Hurry! Book now from $499! Limited seating. Tour almost sold out!

6. Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan

This holiday season, The Cosmopolitan transforms the Boulevard Pool into The Ice Rink. Located high above the Strip, guests will enjoy skating on over 4,200 square feet of real ice, roasting s'mores by the fire pits, and warm cocktails. The Ice Rink also features light snow showers which occurs every 30 minutes. Tickets from $10.00.

7. Scuba Santa at the Silverton Aquarium

Visitors can see Santa Claus dressed up in scuba gear and submerged in the Silverton's 117,000-gallon aquarium. Santa Claus will be swimming among the 4,000 sharks, stingrays and tropical fish this holiday season.

8. Mystic Falls Winter Wonderland

Considered one of the great Las Vegas attractions, the Mystic Falls indoor park at Sam's Town goes through a transformation at Christmas time. Marking the kick off of the holiday season this time-honored tradition goes back to 1994, with decorations beginning in Sam's Town's porte-cochere and decorative snowflakes leading guests through the property to Mystic Falls Park. Garland streams, wreath-adorned lampposts and snow-covered trees fill the atrium, and decor offers guests a glimpse inside Santa's workshop, from elves making toys to loading up Santa's sleigh with goodies for children. Bring your camera and enjoy this Winter Wonderland Décor.

Mystic Falls indoor park is a holiday haven this time of the year. A nine-minute laser light show is the centerpiece of the display featuring a variety of classic holiday songs, like "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," "Let It Snow," "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "Frosty the Snowman."

9. Tournament of Kings Holiday Dinner Show

Make 'tis the season for holiday cheer at the Tournament of Kings Holiday Dinner Show inside the Excalibur Hotel and Casino. Guests of all ages will take part in the festivities as The Tournament of Kings Arena is transformed into a medieval winter wonderland with décor, music, costumes, cheer and "snow." The show will feature magnificently designed holiday costumes, majestic banners, flags and new castle lights, which will be illuminated as Merlin conjures snowfall on the kingdoms.

Kings, queens, knights and maidens of all ages are invited to eat, drink and have a holly jolly time, while watching the legend of Prince Christopher's journey toward knighthood unfold. Tickets from $65.00.

10. A December to Remember at the Neon Museum

You don’t have to wait for the holidays to appreciate the Neon Museum’s amazing collection of vintage Vegas signage, but everything’s brighter with some extra holiday cheer (and live caroling by the Las Vegas Academy choir). Start with ornament-making and Santa snapshots, then at 5pm head into the Boneyard for hot cocoa and an after-dark stroll past the city’s illuminated history. This event is free and open to the public; reservations are not required.

Las Vegas is the place to be during the holidays as it offers a giant list of “to-dos” for the family. ‘Tis the season to create memories and experiences.

#holidays #holidays in las vegas #las vegas #vegas #experiences #things to do in las vegas #things to do in las vegas this holiday season #'tis the season

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digitalmark18-blog · 6 years ago

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How to choose a home-security system

New Post has been published on https://britishdigitalmarketingnews.com/how-to-choose-a-home-security-system/

How to choose a home-security system

Updated 7 hours ago

In 2016, there were an estimated 1,053,000 home burglaries in the United States, according to FBI data. That means there’s a burglary about every 30 seconds.

These numbers alone help build the case for implementing a good security system in your home, but they aren’t the only reason for the urgency.

After all, burglars don’t discriminate. “Criminals are creatures of opportunity, and wherever there’s an opportunity to strike, they will, be it in a big city or small suburb,” says Lee Walters, founder of Fortify MyHouse.com, a home-security education website. Even if you feel like you live in a “safe neighborhood,” you ought to have some type of security system.

Burglars tend to avoid houses with security systems. According to a University of North Carolina at Charlotte survey of convicted burglars, 83 percent said they would try to determine if an alarm were present before attempting a burglary, and 60 percent said they would seek an alternative target if there was an alarm.

You don’t have to be wealthy to afford a home-security system.

“Ten or 15 years ago, systems were at a price point where they were difficult to afford, but now there are a ton of affordable options for homeowners on any budget,” says Merlin Guilbeau, executive director and chief executive of the Electronic Security Association.

There also are financial advantages. Many insurance companies offer discounts on home insurance premiums when homeowners install an alarm system or security equipment.

Self-monitoring or professional system?

As more home-automation technology emerges, a growing number of homeowners are opting for self-monitored security equipment over systems that are monitored by professional security companies. Indeed, nearly half of Americans (49 percent) say they are open to installing their own home-security system, according to a 2016 LivSecure survey. Of course, there are pros and cons of taking this DIY approach.

Because there’s no monthly fee, many self-monitoring systems are cheaper than professional home-security systems. Proponents also say self-monitoring versions give homeowners a better sense of control over protecting their domain through access to live video feeds, mobile alerts, smartphone technology and other self-monitoring tools.

Still, a traditional, professionally monitored home-security system has advantages. Professional security systems will automatically alert authorities in an emergency situation, such as a break-in or a fire. (With self-monitoring systems, you have to make the call.) Also, with a security provider, “you have someone to contact should your system have any kind of service issues,” Walters says. A security company “can send out a technician to troubleshoot and fix a panel that’s gone bad, which you don’t have with a DIY approach.”

A security provider also can keep eyes on your house when you’re on vacation, Guilbeau points out. And security providers will often offer to have an expert assess your home to help you determine the most effective setup for your house.

But professional security providers tend to cost more. According to Consumer Reports, professional monitoring costs range from $100 to $300 annually, plus the cost of equipment. In comparison, DIY system starter kits start at about $200. Also, professionally installed systems typically offer less flexibility. If you move, you may have to pay to have the system reinstalled at your new place.

3 options for DIY-ers

Want to take home security into your own hands? Let’s narrow the options.

At the very least, you’ll want to monitor your home’s exterior using a smart camera, such as the Nest Cam, which sends live video to your phone and detects motion and loud noises. You can get two outdoor Nest Cams (one for your home’s front entry and one for the backyard) for $298.

Looking for a more comprehensive security system? Consider iSmartAlarm, a top performer according to CNET, Consumer Reports and PCMag. Its Shield Package ($613.90), which includes eight contact sensors, seven motion sensors and three remote tags, is well-suited for a three- to four-bedroom house, the company says.

Another DIY option is the Abode Essentials Starter Kit ($229), which includes one door/window sensor, a battery-powered security camera and motion detector and a key fob. The system integrates with Amazon Echo, Google Home and other home automations for voice-enabled arming and disarming.

3 options for professional monitoring systems

Many self-monitoring systems offer professional monitoring services for an additional monthly or annual fee. With its Nest Secure alarm system, Nest offers professional monitoring through Brinks Home Security; a three-year agreement costs $19 monthly and a month-to-month contract that’s $29 a month.

Frontpoint is a highly rated monitoring provider, according to security system review websites SafeWise and A Secure Life. The price ranges from $34.99 to $49.99 monthly — a tad pricey, but the system runs on cellular technology, which means you don’t have to worry about cut wires, loss of Internet connection or power outages.

Depending on where you live, you could choose a local security company for a couple of reasons. “A local company will usually respond quicker to issues with the security system than will a national company, and local monitoring will have a better understanding of local crime trends than will a national monitor,” Walters says.

Don’t forget basic security measures

A security system helps protect your home, but it also can create a false sense of security that might lead you to be less careful. Make sure you’re following these precautions:

• Lock all doors and windows when you’re out of the house. In about 40 percent of break-ins to unoccupied homes, offenders gained access through an unlocked door or window, the Bureau of Justice Statistics reports.

• Display security system yard and window signs. These signs can scare off burglars.

• Keep the lights on when you’re not there. On vacation? Try Ilumi lightbulbs ($19.99), which have timers inside that allow you to set the lights to go on and off at preset times.

• Don’t leave a spare key under the doormat (or another obvious place). This is home safety 101, but many people still make this mistake.

• Hold your mail at the post office when you’re out of town. If packages pile up at your door, burglars might see it as a sign that you’re not home.

• Avoid advertising your comings and goings on social media. Don’t share that you’re leaving for Bali on Facebook.

Daniel Bortz is a contributing writer for The Washington Post.

Source: https://triblive.com/lifestyles/morelifestyles/13923034-74/how-to-choose-a-home-security-system

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roamingmom · 7 years ago

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I’m a self-professed weather snob. This means I like being warm and dry while I look at the sun. We all know the UK does not score top marks for warmth, dryness or sunshine, so it was a bit of an odd choice for our midterm break. However, what Ole Blighty lacks in weather, she makes up for in rich history, dramatic landscapes, and elegant charm.

Warwick Castle

Our week began with a quick stop in London before heading to Warwick Castle. Warwick is an easy 1.5 hour train ride from Marylebone Station (central London), or a couple hour drive north of London.

Aside from being a top U.K. tourist attraction, we were lured to the castle for a little Halloween fun. No better place to spend Halloween then in a medieval castle which dates back nearly 11 centuries…and is rumored to be…. haunted.

Built in 1068 by William the Conqueror, the castle has survived attacks, besieges, and fire. It was rebuilt into stone in the Middle Ages and today stands as a regal testament of centuries past.

Highly recommend for families. We stayed in the Knights Village on the castle property in a cute cottage overlooking the River Avon. The boys loved it! Especially my 9-year-old. He couldn’t get enough of the spooky Halloween inspired attractions and the “plague infested” dungeons.

Things to Do

The castle takes a day to see so give yourself time. It is also a massive tourist attraction that is set up to keep you there and spending money. However, it’s well-organized and quite cool. The actors are fabulous and really true to character.

Birds of Prey Show

Horrible History Maze

Trebuchet – the most powerful working catapult shoots off twice a day

The Dungeon Tour – the castle’s bloody horrific past is recreated in a theatrical tour

Additional Halloween Activities

Thriller Dance Party

Doll House – super creepy

Outbreak – Plaque inspired…creepy.

Witches Tower.

Haunted Hollow.

Séance – too creepy for me.

Stratford-Upon-Avon

After our spooky night at Warwick, we took to the road and headed for Bath. En route we stopped at Stratford-upon-Avon for lunch.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic Elizabethan market town and the birthplace of William Shakespeare. I was there almost 20 years ago, and remembered it to be quainter than it is now. Aside from the well-preserved two-story, half-timbered home of Shakespeare, there is not much else to see. As a literary buff, I wanted to show the kids the house. Of course, they were less than impressed and we carried on.

Shakespeare’s Birth place….Stratford-upon-avon

Bath

Now Bath on the other hand was totally what I was expecting. This beautiful town famous for its 18th Century Georgian Architecture is the embodiment of lovely. Named a UNESCO Heritage Site, it is home to 2000 year old Roman Baths which are remarkably well-preserved and still flowing.

We stayed at the Windsor Town House – a perfect B & B centrally located to all the highlights.

Pulteney Bridge – romantic shop lined bridge in the middle of the city.

Bath Abbey – gothic cathedral, steps from the bridge.

Roman baths– a museum that steps you back to the time of the Romans.

Jane Austen Centre – a taste of the Bath through the eyes of Jane.

Thermae Bath Spa – meant to be lovely but you have to be 16….so not this trip.

Sally Lunn’s House – oldest home in Bath, known for Sally’s Buns….really good! It is also a museum.

Bath is a small walkable city with boutique shops and fun foodie places to eat. Bustling with University students, it is now a modern city with a charismatic vibe. Surrounded by rolling countryside, Bath is a quintessential English town.

Roman baths

Jane Austen Center

Tea at Sally Lunn’s

Pulteney Bridge

Bath Abbey

Roman Baths

Cornwall

Just a few hours south of Bath found us in Cornwall. The former Celtic Kingdom in the south-west of England, has a rugged wild coastline and nice beaches.

We stayed at the Bedruthan Hotel and Spa and it was perfect. The staff and the facilities were great and the views were exceptional.

We mostly loitered around the hotel while enjoying the many amenities. The boys even braved the frigid Atlantic for a little surf in Mawgan Porth. Ran by a guy named Nick, The Surf Club Cornwall, is a guaranteed way to enhance your time on the water regardless of your level.

Each day we took a side trip to explore one of the many scenic spots near us. Each Cornish town holds a distinct bit of charm. Be sure to try one of the local Cornish delights e.g. meat stuffed pasties, clotted cream, or one of the local micro brews.

Sunset over Mawgan North

Surfs Up

Sunset over Mawgan Porth

Tintagel Castle

The remains of Tintagel Castle are atop a steep cliff about 45 minutes north of the Bedruthan Steps. The castle is linked to the Legend of King Arthur. Once there, scrounge your way down the cliff to the waterfall (there is a path). From there, you’re just a short jump to Merlin’s Cave.

* Be mindful of the tides.

Padstow

What was once likely a sleepy fishing village is now a thriving tourist attraction Probably mostly in part to Rick Stein’s many restaurants. Locals refer to it as “Padstein”. Padstow is still a working fishing village and has a picturesque little harbour. We went in search of Rick’s Fish and Chips, and found it closed for renovations. There were of course loads of alternatives.

It’s a quaint little place where you can catch a boat or ferry to other seaside attractions. Kids can even crab in the Padstow Harbour. If you’re looking for a little exercise, you can hire a bike and ride the Camel Trail.

Padstow Harbour

Stonehenge

It only seemed fitting to visit Stonehenge before completing our southern England tour. I am conflicted on this one. One must see Stonehenge but one should not pay the exuberant amount of money charged to see Stonehenge. What a rip off and what the hell is it anyway?

What the hell is it? Clock? Grave? Calendar?

All in all, it was a good road trip and memorable midterm. We were off-season as the UK Schools have an earlier half term break. This meant crowds were minimal and rates were low season. The weather mostly cooperated and held around 15 C. When we left Heathrow it was 2 C and cloudy. Definitely time to head back to some southern Spain.

Hasta luego Inglaterra!

Did you enjoy this article? Something to add? What the f@ck is Stonehenge? Tell me more………….x

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U.K. Road Trip – Medieval Castles, Roman Baths, and a Little Surf. I'm a self-professed weather snob. This means I like being warm and dry while I look at the sun.

#Bath #castles #cornwall #Family travel #halloween #History #padstow #roadtrip #Romans #stonehenge #surfing #Tintagel

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ivyabroadblog · 8 years ago

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Summer Trip:

Ireland [May 17th -20th]

Day 3: May 19th

We starting our day with a stop in Adare which is a quaint, little town. It had small cottages with thatch rooves and a nice park. It was a bathroom break/quick-walk around spot, so I went down the street and found a little cafe. I grabbed a chai tea latte and tried to catch up to the girls who were in the park. It had a gazebo and creek with a bridge running through it. I caught up to them eventually and we walked back to the bus.

The main activity of the day was driving to and then around the Dingle Peninsula. The day before, I thought I had seen the prettiest sights I had ever seen. Well, today trumped it. One the way there, we drove around the Valley of the Mad...

"Tobar na nGealt (The Well of the Insane) exists in the valley of Gleann-na-nGealt known as the valley of the mad. References to this well date back as far as 1584. The story goes that the King of Ulster, Gall, traveled down to this well, drank of its water and feasted upon the watercress growing from its death. Miraculously this cured him of his madness. Since then those who had a touch of the madness traveled from across all of Ireland seeking out this magical healing water. The tale of An Bhuile Shuibhne talks about Mad Sweeny the King Of Munster and his banishment from his Kingdom. He wandered around the whole of Ireland generally acting like a crazy person, until he found peace within this valley. Sweeny has often been said to be the inspiration for Merlin the Magician in the Arthurian legends. The book “On the Trail of Merlin” talks about Merlins adventures and wanderings throughout the British Isle and talks extensively of his stay at Gleann na nGealt."

Once we had driven around and taken in the views, we had made it to the city of Dingle. The city consists of townhouse-like shops, restaurants, etc. in bright colors that are situated right next to a marina. The town is known for many things, but the most peculiar must be Fungie, the bottle-nose dolphin. You can take a boat tour out into its territory and catch a glimpse. I don't think any of our tour mates went out. Our little group went to get lunch at Harrington's which is a local restaurant and all of us got fish and chips. After lunch, we walked around the town peaking into shops here and there. Gillian had told us about an eccentric record shop with an equally eccentric owner, so we were on the look out. We found it at the top of the hill and it was a little hole-in-the-wall shop. She was definitely an odd women. We made our way back down to the bus and hopped in to go drive along the peninsula using Slea Head Drive.

I cannot accurately describe the beauty of the amazing coastline. Rolling green hills met abrupt, cliff endings that fell into the Atlantic. It was view unlike any other I have ever seen. Along the way, we stopped at Mary's House which was characterized by the women who had once lived there. She welcomed the tours and let me look at her Beehive huts, an ancient part of Irish history. Unfortunately, Mary recently passed away and her home was taken over by her family which started charging money to see the huts and play with baby sheep. Although some went up and paid, Kayla and I took off down the road to were some sheep were standing in their completely inclined pasture. We tried to get them to come over, but I just ended up taking pictures of them. Then group got back in the bus and we headed to Coumeenole Beach which is a small beach that sits between two small cliffs. On the way, Jamie told us about hurling, one of the national sports, and had brought with him some of the equipment. So, when we walked down to the beach some people starting learning and playing. I went and put my feet in the other side of the Atlantic which played into another myth that Gillian told us about. The story is that if you dip your toes in the Atlantic, it takes a bit of your soul and you'll have to return one day to retrieve it.

As we drove and explored, Gillian told us stories about all kinds of mythology relevant to the area. The most intriguing was about a giant. Although I can't really remember the story well, it ended with him laying down in the Atlantic to sleep until he was need again. This bit of mythology was all based on an island that did really look like a giant man laying on his back. Just hearing these stories and the histories completely made Ireland such a rich place to be in. She began talking about all of the movies and TV shows that have been filmed in the area. The biggest and most recent being Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The final scene of the movie with Luke Skywalker was shot on a tiny island offshore the west coast of Ireland. It was a national trust landscape and so when they shot, they were to leave nothing beyond. Unfortunately. they messed it up and left behind some materials, so they got kicked off and told to not come back. This meant that the filming for the continuation of this scene in the next movie would have to be set up and shot somewhere else. Well, luckily for us, we were there the day before they began filming for the next movie. They were setup on a tip of the coast. We got out of the bus and used our phone camera's zoom and Jamie had binoculars to look at the set. So Star Wars filming was a little Easter Egg!

We continued our coastal journey back to Dingle with a quick stop at Inch Beach which was much longer than Coumeenole. We returned to Dingle and were given a bathroom break. Kayla and I went and got ice cream at Murphy's. They told me I had to try the Gin ice cream and surprisingly it was quite good. Kayla and I got our cones are went back the bus to head off to Killarney. This was our stop for the night. We got to our hostel, dropped our stuff, and went out for a group dinner. We went to a restaurant that had live music playing the whole time we were there. We sat with Gillian and asked her all kinds of questions. I got a Shepard's Pie that was absolutely delicious. After dinner, I ran back to the hostel to change since we were going out to The Grand Hotel which was hosting a live Irish band. Their band name is The Lolligaggers and they were a great time! We all danced and sang along!

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digitalmark18-blog · 6 years ago

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Home-security systems aren't just for the wealthy. Here's how to choose one.

New Post has been published on https://britishdigitalmarketingnews.com/home-security-systems-arent-just-for-the-wealthy-heres-how-to-choose-one/

Home-security systems aren't just for the wealthy. Here's how to choose one.

By Daniel Bortz, The Washington Post In 2016, there were an estimated 1,053,000 home burglaries in the United States, according to FBI data. That mea

These numbers alone help build the case for implementing a good security system in your home, but they aren’t the only reason for the urgency.

After all, burglars don’t discriminate. “Criminals are creatures of opportunity and wherever there’s an opportunity to strike, they will, be it in a big city or small suburb,” says Lee Walters, founder of FortifyMyHouse.com, a home-security education website. Even if you feel like you live in a “safe neighborhood,” you ought to have some type of security system.

You don’t have to be wealthy to afford a home-security system. “Ten or 15 years ago, systems were at a price point where they were difficult to afford, but now there are a ton of affordable options for homeowners on any budget,” says Merlin Guilbeau, executive director and chief executive of the Electronic Security Association.

There are also financial advantages. Many insurance companies offer discounts on home insurance premiums when homeowners install an alarm system or security equipment.

Self-monitoring or professional system?

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A security provider can also keep eyes on your house when you’re away on vacation, Guilbeau points out. And security providers will often offer to have an expert assess your home to help you determine the most effective setup for your house.

3 options for DIY-ers

Want to take home security into your own hands? Let’s narrow the options.

Another DIY option is the Abode Essentials Starter Kit ($229), which includes one door/window sensor, a battery-powered security camera and motion detector, and a key fob. The system integrates with Amazon Echo, Google Home and other home automations for voice-enabled arming and disarming.

3 options for professional monitoring systems

Frontpoint is a highly rated monitoring provider, according to security system review websites SafeWise and A Secure Life. The price ranges from $34.99 to $49.99 monthly – a tad pricey, but the system runs on cellular technology, which means you don’t have to worry about cut wires, loss of Internet connection or power outages.

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Don’t forget basic security measures

A security system helps protect your home, but it can also create a false sense of security that might lead you to be less careful. Make sure you’re following these precautions:

l Lock all doors and windows when you’re out of the house. In about 40 percent of break-ins to unoccupied homes, offenders gained access through an unlocked door or window, the Bureau of Justice Statistics reports.

l Display security system yard and window signs. These signs can scare off burglars.

l Keep the lights on when you’re not there. Going on vacation? Try Ilumi lightbulbs ($19.99), which have timers inside that allow you to set the lights to go on and off at preset times.

l Don’t leave a spare key under the doormat (or another obvious place). This is home safety 101, but many people still make this mistake.

l Hold your mail at the post office when you’re out of town. If packages pile up at your door, burglars might see it as a sign that you’re not home.

l Avoid advertising your comings and goings on social media. Don’t share that you’re leaving for Bali on Facebook.

By Daniel Bortz, The Washington Post In 2016, there were an estimated 1,053,000 home burglaries in the United States, according to FBI data. That mea

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We value your trust and work hard to provide fair, accurate coverage. If you have found an error or omission in our reporting, tell us here.

Or if you have a story idea we should look into? Tell us here.

Source: https://www.thegazette.com/subject/news/nation-and-world/home-security-systems-arent-just-for-the-wealthy-heres-how-to-choose-one-20180729

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