#lots of winners to make up for the drought

[stockcarbaby24]

💙 / 💗 for any pato and whoever youd like for the little prompt!

Thank you so much for the prompt! I wasn't sure if you wanted both or me to pick one so I just kind of combine them. 😵‍💫 Hopefully that's okay!!

Also as usual this was longer than I meant to do, but fork found in kitchen. Palex as well because spoon also found in kitchen. 😭🤭

💙Drunken Kiss & 💗Slow Kiss

“Pato come here.” Amusement laced through Alex’s voice, even if he tried to sound firm. It was hard as he watched Pato dancing around with so much joy, not following the beat of the music even a little. Their sketchy looking parking lot bonfire- one of those shitty appliances you could get from freakin' Walmart just for this- was sputtering out and casting sharp contrasting lights all around their little circle. They danced over Pato as he moved, trying to lap at his heels and chase him to move faster. Alex was more scared he was going to fall over his own drunken feet though. 

Felix quickly moved his legs in so Pato didn’t trip, laughing with Hinch at the sight of the young driver. “Alex you gotta just let him go,” Hinch said after a swig of beer. “He already won, if he trips and breaks an ankle that’s just a better chance for you at Iowa.”

That was a fair point. Alex didn’t want to win because his teammate couldn’t race though, where was the fun in that. “Come here,” he tried again, reaching a hand out as Pato stumbled past him. 

“Rossiiiii~” The Mexican teased out, his accent strong and drawing out Alex’s name. His eyes were glassy as he looked over at him, a loopy smile painted along his cheeks. Pato was high and happy off his victory; it made him look so good. The smile was infectious, making it hard for Alex to be mad. First race win in two years… Pato was a killer- he deserved this. 

It was almost enough to make Alex forget about his own two year drought. Almost.

Nolan and David were giggling, whispering to each other and pointing at him completely unsubtly. Alex knew he was getting clocked for losing that mask of indifference and boredom, but he didn’t care. He had watched Pato win. After everything that happened after the 500… How could Alex not be happy for him. 

“Yes, yes, now stop before you-” Alex stood up, successfully grabbing Pato’s wrist as he swayed back to this side of the fire pit. He tried to wrangle the man, drunk off champagne and the beer that had followed, into his abandoned seat next to Alex’s but Pato had other plans.

As Alex sat down, Pato did too; side saddle over his knees.

Instead of throwing Pato off, Alex focused more on panicking over the fact that this chair was 100 percent going to fall apart right under his ass. He tried to protest the move, over the laughs of the other four men around them, but all of it was drown out by Pato’s soft happy giggles. 

“Rossiii~” he trilled again, closer and quieter. “I won, Rossi.” 

Unfortunately, Alex was not immune to sappy, sweet Pato. Especially when he was in Alex’s lap and warm and happy. “You did.”

“Heehee~ I won and got another trophy.”

“Yes you did,” the world around Alex was falling away as he stared so closely at Pato’s face, thrown into dark sharp lines from the night time shadows. He was gorgeous and so damn happy.

But Pato was always a champion at ruining the moment. 

The younger tipped forward, making Alex throw out an arm so they didn’t completely flop back and hit the concrete. Pato’s lips smashed into his uncomfortably, with a loud accompanying ‘mwaaaah’ sound effect from him. “¡Gané!” he yelled, pulling back and now practically toppling them forward.

Alex was gonna strangle him when they were sober. 

Felix was laughing behind his hand, David was on the ground cackling, and Nolan was bright red looking anywhere but at Alex and Pato. Hinch was the only one taking pity on Alex- but definitely still chuckling. “Alright, I think it's time for our race winner to head to bed then.” 

While Pato stayed in his lap, nuzzling into Alex's neck and babbling Spanish at him, Alex and Hinch made a plan for cleaning up the space and getting the bus lot cleaned. Hinch would hold Alex's chairs and get them back to him later, while Felix would get Pato’s stuff and make sure his trophy wasn't lost to this drunken celebration. 

Pato was a lost cause, but Alex made sure to wish the other's a good night, before hefting Pato up in his arms, desperately holding on for dear life as the driver just giggled and wrapped his legs around Alex’s middle. He took them to Pato's bus near by, letting himself in to walk the familiar hall to his bedroom.

Thankfully Pato let himself be dropped onto the bed, giggling like a lunatic still and trying to grab at the front of Alex’s shirt. “Rossiiii~” he sang again, making Alex roll his eyes, but still crawl into bed next to him. They were both already in casual clothes, long since changed from the race suits of the early afternoon. “Let’s do it. You can sleep with a race winner.” Pato’s hands were trying to grab anywhere they could on Alex, but the older shimmed away. 

“Oh no. You’re going to bed. Maybe tomorrow morning.” 

“Rossiiiii,” he whined, but was ignored as Alex reached to his nightstand and got Pato a water. He insisted the younger drink it, while he sorted them out, untangling the covers to get around them. Settled in, Alex placed a hand on Pato’s hip, and moved them back close together.

“I’m very proud of you, baby, but you need to sleep, okay?” After Pato nodded, pouting, Alex rewarded him with a kiss to his forehead. “You did so well today.” He kissed his cheek. His nose. Then leaned in to kiss his lips. It was much slower than out at the fire. Soft, unhurried, and letting Alex take a minute to savor the noises Pato made against his own mouth. The little licks he gave Alex trying to deepen it were nice, but Alex didn’t let him take it too far. Just soft, hands holding each other gently. Until finally Pato’s movements got slower, his hand clutching at the front of Alex’s shirt uncurled a little. Alex hummed against his mouth and pulled back to see his eyelids drooping. 

“Good night, Pato,” he huffed, giving his little race winner another kiss to his forehead.

--

CONGRATS ON OHIO PATO HEEHEE 🤭

[darcytaylor]

There's an additional element to this where these supposed fans (they're moreso trolls) are monetizing this "content". Or even if they aren't rn, it's easy to build up a following on a platform on a certain topic and then sell the account and nuke all the previous content. They're taking advantage of the drought of official info, but they're also harming the people they're claiming to be fans of, so... There are literally no winners here, the fandom has been cannibalizing itself for a while now. I don't know where any of us go from here tbh.

Navigating the world of a fandom can be complicated, especially with the rise of monetized content and speculation. Personally, I will avoid paywalls because I prefer to access information and engage with content that is free, and I want the same for people who follow me. However, I do recognize that there are some benefits to monetizing content.

Creating and sharing content (news, speculation, or fan related material) can be time-consuming and demanding. (I post things when I have free time, I don't make this my life and I don't want it to be my life).

For some creators, putting up a paywall or finding other ways to monetize their work can provide extra income for their efforts. It can also incentivize them to produce more content and invest in better tools or research. So hopefully you can see creators putting in the work for the added monetization and not just doing it because they can. For me (I want to state this again), I view this as a hobby and prefer to keep content accessible and I can't see that changing anytime soon.

That said, the rise of monetized content can lead to a lot of misinformation and speculation, which doesn’t always serve the best interests of the fandom or the individuals involved.

Finding a balance between supporting creators and keeping information accurate is really important. By promoting transparency and building a positive community, hopefully that can hinder some negative aspects while still appreciating the value of the work creators do. And hopefully that's what the creators are aiming for too.

[nancypullen]

Monday

I can see August from here, and that’s just fine with me.  Though I’m not a fan of wishing my life away I surely won’t cry if summer hurries up and makes an exit.  The only way out of it is through August.   Let’s go that-a-way. July has been dandy, though hot.  I’ve learned that gardening here is vastly different than in Tennessee and I can’t expect anything to show off until mid-July.   Well, I’m not talking about veggies, just flowers.  Our Crape Myrtle is just now blooming.  That seems awfully late.  We were in drought conditions most of June so that may have something to do with the tree blossoms. 

The sunflowers are blooming in spurts.

This one by the front steps has SIX heads on it!

These are outside my kitchen window and are just a couple days from showing their faces.

Another view of the kitchen window garden - it’s a jumble, but it’s there for the grandgirl’s picking. 

There was a hummingbird in this shot right before I clicked, I swear. Imagine him there, bouncing bloom to bloom. This photo was snapped a couple of days ago when the Crape Myrtle was still naked. 

If you think those sunflowers are scrawny, take a gander at the crop by the front porch. Is this the saddest bunch you’ve ever seen?

Believe it or not, those spindly plants on the left actually bloomed.  I’d go ahead and just pull them up but the yellow finches are enjoying snacking on the drying heads.   This is our second summer here and I still have a lot to learn about what will thrive and what won’t.  I’m going to hit up the arboretum’s autumn native plant sale and fill a large part of the gardens with various perennials.  Purple Coneflower, Black-eyed Susans, that sort of thing.  Less for me to do, less to worry about.  There’s only one other house on our street that has a few flowers and they’re mostly in pots. I don’t think it’s a big deal around here.  Even with my failures we have the prettiest yard on Kathryn Court (it’s a low bar).   I’m declaring myself a prize winner.  It’s a participation trophy, but still a prize.

The mister is upstairs on a Zoom call, a photography meeting, of course. I’m keeping one eye on my laptop while typing this blog and the other on Glass Bottom Boat starring Doris Day.  I never tire of her old movies. This one has Paul Lynde and Dom Deloise too. Solid gold. If you ever need a lift watch her in That Touch of Mink or Pillow Talk.  Pure fun. It’s been pretty boring around here, and I’ve been fairly mum about the boys’ trip to Berlin and Prague.  They’re having a ball.

I have laughed every day at the “proof of life” text, and have appreciated it as well.  They are the best brothers, there’s such a bond - my mama’s heart is so at peace knowing they’ll always have each other.  Those two wonderful humans are my whole life. Alright back to Doris Day for me.  I may even go hog wild and have popcorn. Livin’ on the edge here in Podunk.  I hope your day has been delightful.  If it hasn’t, take heart - it’s almost bedtime and you can start fresh tomorrow. Little Orphan Annie, Scarlett O’Hara, Ann Shirley, anyone will tell you that that tomorrow is a fresh start.  You can count on that. Sending out oodles of love tonight, take some if you need it. XOXO Nancy 

[steelycunt]

hi lovely ridi! hello!! dropping in for tea and a catch up (how’s the journal coming along? how are the boys in the jar??…how’s it going back at uni…) but also because i heard you’re looking for new music and er more importantly…you’ve been getting into more belle and sebastian!?!!

i’ve definitely been feeling the new music drought too except it hasn’t been bothering me because i’ve been so stuck on like 3 artists currently—been having a waterboys moment all summer and they are like THE band of the 80s for me because when i used to think (misguidedly) that the 80s was just a decade of one hit wonders and otherwise a musical wasteland it was the waterboys that changed my mind,, and maybe a dodgy comparison to make because truly what compares to mull of kintyre, but every time i listen fisherman’s blues and this is the sea it does remind me of paul’s glorious whoo-hoo at the end…but otherwise i’d rec a girl called johnny, glastonbury song and the big music. 

and b&s!! there’s honestly too many songs but if you haven’t heard it already you absolutely need to listen to lord anthony!! this is a ridi song if i ever heard one! also le pastie de la bourgeoisie and lazy line painter jane…um they all remind me of your special someone so you might enjoy that…

a few more i’ve been obsessed w lately: enola gay, sprawl II, my land is so green and getting away with it all messed up—actually i would just recommend James as an artist on the whole sooo many ***** ***** songs (sit down+say something) and also everyone’s heard Laid i’m pretty sure but it just happens to be THE */* song to me as well :|

HIII MY SIMMY HELLO!! always a joy to see you in my inbox or my notifs or on my dash...how are YOU my dear!! sorry i am so late to get to this but please accept the mug of tea and plate of biscuits i am holding out to you xx i am alright!! the journal is coming along very well im still at it still sticking things in her and writing things in her and taking great satisfaction in seeing her get fuller and fuller..the boys in the jar are equally well!! have made it more cozy in there to prepare for the coming winter months of course. added some more moss and some nutshells to drink from etc. uni is not too bad either...not yet at least...

thank you so so much for the song recs!! have noted them ALL down and started listening to them...particularly the belle and sebastian ones which i very much appreciate as i am currently on a project to get through all their discography in the next few months (it feels like the right time of year for it..). ur so right about the eighties also like i know weve talked about it before but i truly cant believe i ever dismissed it as a musical decade...ihave truly been made to eat my words as time has gone by there is so much good eighties music...although i hadnt heard of waterboys so that is exciting!! anything mentioned in the same sentence as mull of kintyre is frankly on to a winner with me. really like sprawl ii also ive been listening to that a lot...and was not familiar with james before!! much to explore...thank you so much...

[zoeology31]

The MLB season is well underway and I’m back into the seasonal swing of baseballposting! The Twins have invented new and unusual ways of being confusing and frustrating this year, so let’s not talk about that. Instead, here is a complete team of all my favorite non-Twins current players.

C: Salvador Pérez Holds the single season home run record for a catcher, was an integral part of both Royals World Series runs, and balled out in the WBC this year. Probably not a Hall of Famer, but my perception of his ability is certainly skewed by the fact that he wrecks the Twins every year.

1B: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. How is this guy still only 24??? A true generational talent (literally) and he knows it. One of the most fun power hitters to watch in MLB, and his other tools are a lot better than most in that profile. Also mad respect for his eternal hatred of the Yankees, I live vicariously through that.

2B: José Altuve A really stand-up guy and the beloved face of a franchise that’s been through a lot, only some of its own making. A ridiculously consistent .300 hitter, now with some leadoff home run power too, and even has an outside shot at 3,000 hits. I’d love to see him get there, he deserves it.

3B: Eugenio Suárez Good vibes only! I love his energy, I feel like he contributes so much to the Mariners’ great team culture. A true TTO player and has probably one of the lesser known 49-homer seasons, definitely underrated overall. Also, really good hair.

SS: Francisco Lindor My favorite player on Cleveland and I am very glad he’s elsewhere now so I can root for him wholeheartedly. Super well rounded player with a ton of baseball style and personal style. Another guy who balled out in the WBC, his inside-the-park home run was absolutely electric.

LF: Randy Arozarena Big Game Randy! It was crazy watching his run in the 2020 playoffs, and then he went and became a Mexican folk hero. The man is pure concentrated highlight reel, from stealing home in the 2021 ALDS to the crazy catches in the WBC, and with plenty of swagger to boot.

CF: Julio Rodríguez New face of baseball, anyone? He’s really got it all: talent, charisma, looks, athleticism, youthful energy, ambition, team loyalty, branding. Plus showing out at the Home Run Derby, challenging Mike Trout’s rookie records, and breaking the playoff drought. Yeah, he’s got a bright future with those Mariners.

RF: Juan Soto A ridiculously min-maxed combo of power and plate discipline that makes his numbers seem unreal. Super fun to watch at the plate with the swag and the patented shuffle. Plus he's got the Narratives of being forged on a World Series winner and traded to a superteam in his prime.

DH: Yordan Álvarez Just ridiculously good. Hits for unbelievable power and solid average, and already has a laundry list of all-time iconic moments. A historic walkoff and a World Series winning home run in the same postseason, and that's not even the year he won ALCS MVP.

SP: Max Scherzer A consistently great pitcher who finally stopped being underrated as a centerpiece of a great Nationals team with a storybook World Series run. Classic super intense SP but in a fun way and not an asshole way. Also a players' union leader for years, we love a workers’ rights king.

SP: Shohei Ohtani Top 20 hitter. Top 10 pitcher. No comparison. He’s also a superstar in Japan to a magnitude baseball hasn’t seen in the US in decades, and lives up to the hype with charisma, leadership, and the clutch gene. Also him closing out the WBC by striking out Mike Trout was so freaking badass.

SP: Framber Valdez A model of consistency for pitching, with a distinctive skillset and also fashion sense. The most square shaped man in baseball. He’s gone from an inspirational backstory to a true Cy Young caliber pitcher and an absolute stopper in the playoffs, also proof that Therapy Works.

SP: Sandy Alcántara A throwback to the days when they let pitchers throw until their arms fell off, except his doesn’t, and he’s still elite. There’s something so satisfying about complete games, and he’s the guy for ‘em. Also a great leader for Miami’s young rising pitching staff.

SP: Luis Castillo An underrated guy who’s very good at what he does and a giant slayer against tough lineups. The perfect ace for one of baseball’s best pitching staffs, with his immediate commitment to the team and the Mariners’ culture. Also his strikeout fist pump is super cute.

RP: Edwin Díaz Just absolutely dominant last year, completing his redemption arc under the NYC spotlights. His entrance song and the hype around it has done wonders for growing the game and kickstarting an incredibly fun trend. Super passionate and upbeat guy too, wishing him the best in his recovery.

RP: Andrés Muñoz Oh look, another Mariner! I love guys who throw heat and are effective with it. Super young guy with a ton of potential, would love to see him and Duran battling it out for reliever of the year for years to come.

RP: Emmanuel Clase I can somewhat respect the game of a division rival, and Clase is as good as it gets. Any AL Central team that goes into the 9th trailing knows the game is already over. He’s Mariano Rivera-esque with that dominant cutter, and his save in the All-Star Game was absolutely electric.

RP: Devin Williams If you throw the best pitch of its kind in baseball and have a cool name for it, you’re automatically so badass. He’s pretty underrated being on the same team as Josh Hader for 2.5 years, but as the primary closer and with a handful of accolades already, I expect that to change.

[chaos-and-recover]

1, 7, 25, 43, 50, 84, 92, 121, and 135 for the book asks!

Oooh some of these are gonna be hard!

a book that is close to your heart

The Angel Riots by Ibi Kaslik

This book came into my life by accident when I stumbled across it in the library and was intrigued by the plot summary. I love it so much. This is not the last time it's gonna appear here lol.

7. a book you did not finish

I started Infinite Jest once a long time ago and just... drifted away from it. I don't even think I know where my copy is anymore. Oops.

25. a book by your favourite author

House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski

Another one of my favourite books in the world. I also absolutely adore his Familiar series but cannot in good conscious recommend that since he got 5 volumes in (of a planned 27) and is now on hiatus because those books were expensive as hell to publish and just weren't selling enough.

43. a book that you have read more than three times

The Angel Riots. I revisit it at least every year or two? It's just so good. On the surface it's about the life of a band on tour but it's actually about a group of deeply dysfunctional people running from various things and has some incredibly beautiful prose. It'll also make you fall in love with Montreal even if you've never been there.

50. a book that made you cry a LOT

The Winners by Fredrik Backman.

It's the third book in a trilogy so it's the culmination of a lot of things that are set up in the first two and I bawled like a baby for the last like... 100 pages.

84. your favourite dystopian read

Y'know, I don't really read that much dystopian fiction tbh but the other day I was thinking about The Crystal Drop by Monica Hughes, which I loved as a kid. It's not so dystopian as it is... sci-fi/spec fic? But in a terrible future (in the distant, distant year of... 2011) during an apocalyptic drought and there is one part involving their dog that haunts me to this day, a solid 25 years later.

92. a book about a redeemable villain

Gonna go a little out of left field here and go with the Walking Dead comics, because Negan is truly one of the greatest villains but is so goddamn likeable by the end.

121. a book that makes you nostalgic

Naomi & Ely's No-Kiss List by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan

It's YA and seems quite young but it also makes me nostalgic for a very specific period of teenagehood. I think it's because I was already well into my 20s when I read it and I was like "Ah yes I remember when I thought these were real problems :)" I don't know, I just really like this book and it deserved a WAY better movie than it got.

135. recommend any book you like!

I am TELLING you if you can find a copy of The Angel Riots, find it and read it. I need to read it again too. It's not even that long!

Thank you!

[a-week-of-formula-1-reviews]

Round XII - Silverstone, Great Britain 🇬🇧

Hello and welcome to Great Britain! 🇬🇧

Football might not be making it's way home this summer, but Formula One definitely did. 74 years after the first lights out in Silverstone, we went racing again. And it was bound to be amazing from the start. A British 1-2-3 on the grid (the first time in GB, second time ever) meant for a great race start. But, by the end of the race, the British magic had wavered. George Russell, starting on pole, ended up DNF'ing following an issue with his car, and Lando Norris fell down the order to a mix up with strategy.

But, undeniably, and whether you love or hate him, Lewis Hamilton (definitely one of the all time greats of the sport) ended his winless drought, winning his 9th race at his home track, the most wins at any track by a single driver. It is also his 104th career race win, his 15th podium at the track, and he became the oldest race winner of the 21st Century, at 39 years and 182 days old. So, an all round solid performance from an F1 veteran.

Another race veteran, Fernando Alonso - alongside Lance Stroll - overturned Aston Martin's recent bad fortune. A P7 for Lance and P8 for Fernando was the step in the right direction needed, following both men failing to score in the past two Grand Prix. It seems as if their new upgrade package was the boost needed to strongly end a difficukt triple header.

However, it wasn't all smiles in Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire on Sunday. Ever since his historical win at home in Monaco, Charles Leclerc has been in a downward spiral, mostly due to the lack of competence at Ferarri. In the last four races, he has only managed to score points once. For a driver of his capability, he should easily be finishing in the points every race. But when the team don't make the right calls when the rain falls, no wealth of experience will help you.

And when rock legend Brian May swung the chequered flag on Sunday, the 2024 season reached it's half way point. 12 down, 12 to go, and a hell of a lot of points to play for (1,224 to be precise). Until we meet again in Hungary in two weeks..

Goodbye for now! 🇬🇧

[gloveblazarrye]

^^^ THIS ^^^ Holy smokes folks

I don’t often feel the need to go out of my way to write anything but this first semi final was SO UNCOMFORTABLE to watch, and the other shows are likely to get even worse.

The UK was supposed to be a gracious helping hand to a country that is - rightfully so - too preoccupied with a literal war to host ESC. Surely the UK are eager to host, since their last time was in 1998, but they’d understand they are simply subbing, right? They’d understand this is not their spotlight to steal, wouldn’t you think?

They have installed 2 UK hosts and only 1 Ukrainian: Julia Sanina, who is placed next to Hannah Waddingham and only gets a few words in edgewise every now and then. Alesha Dixon roams the green room and chats elaborately with the artists. In the final this team will be expanded with Graham Norton, a third UK host.

While we wait for the votes to come in, we see a beautiful performance by Ukrainian artist Alyosha, BUT: she has to share the stage with a UK singer! It’s a duet, cause god forbid the focus isn’t at least partly on the UK for one song! And after that, another interval act: UK (again) artist Rita Ora with a splashing army of dancers.

Finally, though, we seem to get a moment to look at Ukraine: a video segment about Ukraine’s history in Eurovision. Julia announces: “Time for a look back through Eurovision history now. When Ukraine won the contest last year it meant a lot to so many people. But our story began 20 years ago...” And then we get the most horrendous Graham Norton-narrated whiny little video essay. I’ve written the transcript below, word for word. I’ve made actual info about Ukraine’s ESC history bold.

“...over in Latvia, one country was making its Eurovision debut (Ukraine), while another country (UK) got its first ever null points. What followed was two decades of high achievement and success... for Ukraine :( *insert shot of UK getting 0 points again* And the exact opposite for the UK. Well, it was time to give the newbies a chance, wasn’t it? *images of UK acts* Until 2003, the UK were the kings and queens of Eurovision! *more footage of UK acts* Five wins and twenty-three top three finishes! Then... for years... a Eurovision drought hit the UK, with only one act in the top ten. Go on Jade. In fact, while the UK clocked up 5 last place finishes, Ukraine had 5 top three finishes. Including 2 wins! And another fun fact, they are the only country to have a 100% qualifying rate from the semi finals they entered. Take that, Sweden. But then we come to Turin, 2022. *Sam Rider footage * The UK’s space man, Sam Rider, was gonna turn our fortunes around. And he did! It was the UK’s best result for twenty-four years. After coming top in the jury vote, they came a brilliant second place overall... *footage of Ukraine act 2022* Behind Ukraine. Again. Kalush orchestra’s victory, then Ukraine became the first country in the 21st century to win three times.”

Fucking stunning. The rest of that is misplaced self-pity for continuously losing ESC in the shadow of a country that has been at war for over a year. You can call it self-deprecating humour but if only 20% of your video is about Ukraine and the rest is about you, be it positively or negatively, you're missing the point.

OH and then we get to the final results! Surely Julia and Hannah will just take turns announcing qualifiers, right? WRONG. No, even in this the UK need their little ego-boost and get a 1-up on Ukraine. Hannah announces 6 out of 10 qualifiers, leaving only 4 for Julia.

UK. I don’t care about saying it nicely. Shut up and let the stage be taken by the proper winners. And I know, they put a lot of money and effort into the organisation, blah blah blah, sure sure, they’re doing a good job at the technical side of things. But that doesn’t mean this isn’t still tasteless.

how do i say this nicely. uk. sweetie. this year isn't about you

[stateofsport211]

Bratislava 2 Ch F: Gabriel Diallo def. Joris de Loore 6-0, 7-5 Match Stats

📸 ATP Challenger Livestream (via website)

De Loore tried his best to hang on, but Diallo eventually took control of the flow despite the closer encounter in the second set compared to the first set's demolition. Diallo was totally aggressive, had most of the situations under control through his shots, predominantly his forehands despite sometimes he had working backhands as well, making de Loore stay back most of the time and passed him more often in the crucial moments. De Loore did not get any chance to create or convert his chances, while Diallo converted only 26% of his 15 opportunities to break, most of which were created thanks to his shot winners.

Diallo's dominance was further confirmed in his service games. His first and second serves appeared consistent with a 78% average, with him having his first serves winning percentage more than the second by 3%. This was further confirmed by Diallo's aces, where he scored 4 aces to 2, while de Loore had some troubles with his second serves with only having a 27% winning percentage despite double-faulting thrice compared to Diallo's 76%. That's one statement title after a lot of digging in some previous rounds.

This title ended Diallo’s title drought since the Granby Challenger 2022, where he won his maiden Challenger title. As a result, he won his career Challenger title after 3 finals, which raised his rank to a career-high to 130 live. On the other hand, de Loore also reached a career-high rank of 155 thanks to his runner-up placement, and he will take a special exempt to the Olbia Challenger, where he faces third seed Thiago Agustin Tirante in the first round. Could be tough, but should be a fun encounter to follow (with fitness in mind!).

[nbmsports]

Rory McIlroy Just Misses a Hollywood Ending at the U.S. Open

It might have been fitting if someone from Holywood won this year’s U.S. Open at Los Angeles Country Club. But Rory McIlroy, born in the Northern Ireland town of Holywood, is not having that kind of year.On Sunday, McIlroy was chasing his first major championship title in nine years, a drought that continues to shadow a luminous career that began with four major titles from 2011 to 2014. In April, he missed the cut at the Masters Tournament. A month later, he finished tied for seventh at the P.G.A. Championship.Then, on June 6, McIlroy, the most vociferous loyalist supporting the PGA Tour in its feud with the Saudi-back LIV Golf circuit, learned only a few hours before news broke that the two tours had shockingly formed a business partnership.McIlroy, like almost all of the PGA Tour’s players, felt blindsided.But on Sunday, a buoyant, smiling McIlroy, 34, was again enthusiastically chasing another major title, in the final round of the 123rd U.S. Open. He birdied the opening hole and for most of the next four hours seemed poised to reel in the eventual tournament winner, Wyndham Clark, the third-round co-leader with Rickie Fowler.McIlroy, however, never birdied another hole, and in the end, Clark, after some nervous closing moments, outlasted McIlroy by a stroke as both golfers shot even-par 70s. It was McIlroy’s third runner-up finish at a major and his 10th finish in the top five of a major since 2014.“I fought to the very end, and I’m getting closer,” McIlroy said Sunday of his chase for a fifth major title, adding: “I just got to keep putting myself in these positions and, you know, sooner or later it’s going to happen for me.”McIlroy said he felt a link between his performance on Sunday and his second-place finish at last year’s British Open at St. Andrews.“The last two real chances I’ve had at majors have been pretty similar performances,” he said. “Not doing a lot wrong.”McIlroy’s pursuit went down to the final strokes of the event, as Clark, playing in the final group of the day, was forced to execute a two-putt from 60 feet on the 18th green to clinch the championship.McIlroy conceded that he was hoping for a miscue.“You don’t want to wish bad on anyone, but you’re really hoping for a three-putt,” he said. “You’re hoping to somehow get into a playoff to keep giving yourself a chance. You’re rooting for one guy, and that guy is yourself at that point. A mistake can give you a glimmer of hope.“But Wyndham was pretty much rock solid all day, and that was a great two-putt at the last.”McIlroy’s fourth round began auspiciously as he reached the green on the par-5, 585-yard first hole with his second shot and two-putted for an opening birdie that briefly moved him into a tie for the tournament lead.But he struggled to capitalize on that early momentum even as he registered par after par — a streak of 12 in all. He showed nerve in sinking several tense four-foot par putts but failed to get his approach shots close enough for easier birdie attempts.McIlroy was hanging on but could not convert any putt longer than seven feet throughout the middle of his round. On the eighth green, he pulled an eight-foot birdie putt well left of the hole, a missed opportunity that McIlroy specifically mentioned in his post-round news conference.At the par-3 ninth hole, McIlroy’s towering approach shot with an iron came to rest 14 feet from the flag. As he walked onto the green, fans in two packed grandstands implored him to make a fairly straightforward putt that would have put him in a tie with Clark, but again McIlroy could not seize the moment.McIlroy’s run of consecutive pars ended at the par-5 14th hole after his tee shot bounded into the rough left of the fairway. He was forced to lay up short of the green with a second shot, although he then faced a short wedge shot to the green.McIlroy later said he was choosing between two clubs for the shot, but he felt a wind gust just before he began his swing, and that impeded the shot’s momentum.“I had the right club, but I might have just had to wait an extra 15 or 20 seconds to let that little gust settle,” he said.McIlroy’s golf ball landed about a foot short of perfect and failed to clear a large bunker protecting the front of the 14th green. The ball embedded in a grassy bank between the sand and the green.He was granted free relief in the grass to the right of the bunker, but his dicey, downhill chip to the green rolled 26 feet from the hole. That led to bogey, and McIlroy fell to nine under par, which extended Clark’s lead to two strokes.McIlroy closed with four routine pars.He was asked at the conclusion of his Sunday news conference if he was growing weary of answering questions about the nine-year wait for a fifth major championship victory. He conceded that it was exhausting but added: “At the same time, when I do finally win this next major, it’s going to be really, really sweet. I would go through 100 Sundays like this to get my hands on another major championship.” Source link Read the full article

[kpopgerapitico]

Song of the Week

On time, by like maybe an hour . . .

ALSO, 1thek and other k-pop aggregate posting on YouTube: STOP POSTING OLD VIDEOS!!! It makes it so hard to sort through and find the new music, especially when you repost stuff that doesn’t obviously look old from the thumbnail, with still relevant artists.

Honorable Mentions:

There is a person out there who would love Lee Eun Sang’s Lemonade, and I really hope they find it. If you like stuff like Dancing on Butterfly Wings by ATEEZ, I bet this would be a hit for you. I really like the pre-chorus even if the rest I could take or leave.

Idol Roundup:

- Blooming by Sungmin: SM DIDN’T DROP SUNGMIN?!?!?! I’m so confused, and hopefully suju ‘stans’ wont be assholes to him (it’s a ballad, I’m bored)

- Talk & Talk by fromis_9: I cannot decide, and I think I will have to wait to be in a bubblegum pop mood to give it another try

- Life is Beautiful by ONEUS: I’ve heard this idea and style before, so it doesn’t really get me (and it didn’t when it was newer)

- Not Friends by LOONA: Not my style, and my fav girl Chuu isn’t there, so I will be leaving it behind.

- Movin’ by MCND: Another not my style track, though this time with a style I’m sure you have heard before.

- Outsider by BtoB: Fun and a solid track from them, and worth a listen

The energy that AOMG as a whole is putting out into the world these last few months is so fucking tasty. Jay Park has spent years building a reputation as a rapper and an executive at a label, and now the newest strategy seems to be picking off idol cast offs. And by idol cast offs, I mean what the big three leave behind when scandal, or maybe just contracts are up. He picked up Yugyeom and JB (that’s some energy right there, taking a JYP group leader), and now Lee Hi is thoroughly out of the YG dungeon. Now he just needs the last jewel in his crown: an SM child.

Anyways, Lee Hi has had a comeback with some powerful energy. Only came out last week, and has LEE JEHOON and WON JIN?!?! Like that’s some star power. And then this week, she has a collab with BI, and he is in the video? She is really out here feeding us with star power. I’ve never been a huge Lee Hi fan, and these two tracks don’t really change that, but you have to respect her game.

Speaking of powerful collabs, this week saw Key and Taeyeon together in I Hate that . . . It took the chorus to really get me to buy in, but I’m all in now. I love how Key’s voice is utilized here, and especially how well the duet portions with Taeyeon go. The vibe is slow and chill, like a lot of Key’s solo work, but still has enough drive to keep me interested. And I was worried Taeyeon would be a little to clean and pretty for this, but her voice fits the vibe really well. It gets the first win.

So, there are serious winners for this week, but also one very very very very important less serious winner. In that this song is maybe the most fun I’ve had today, but it is definitely a guilty pleasure sort of fun. Please go watch Park Hyunho’s Money Money Money, because I need other people to see what the average between idol culture and trot culture is. The guy is styled like an idol, with the dances, sets, and frankly MV budget of an idol singer, but he is singing some sort of trot/pop fusion, that, while incredibly repetitive, is also so damn addictive. So it is the fun winner of the week. Also, side note: Park Hyunho smiles like a creep, or a person who never learned to smile, for many shots in the video, which just sort of brought the whole thing to a new level. And thus, the second win.

My posts the last couple days probably show what the last winner is, because A.C.E really continues to feed us, huh? Changer straddles the line of fanservice track and new ideas, with a sound that they haven’t necessarily done before, but that A.C.E unsurprisingly kills. The chorus is addicting, the whole thing is fun and happy. It is a great way to send two members to their military services. Of the groups currently going through service, I have the most hope in A.C.E surviving it, because they’ve had members out of the group for months at a time before. This break will be longer, but they left us with a banger before their enlistment, so I don’t have a whole lot to complain about. Also, they really fed Wow stans for the first time in a while, which I adore Beat for.

[shinymooncolor]

Sweater weather chat #12 part 2

Hi all!!! 

As promised - here’s part two to chat #12!

First of all - massive thanks to @lumosinlove for giving us this world! 

Also thanks to @frombeauxbatons for giving me ideas, support and just generally letting me vent and rant <3 

the amazing @paulian03 cleverly came up with Sirius giving the boys the nickname O’Knutzy in the story and that features both in this chat and the next. :) 

link to part 1 here :) 

So, 

Sirius is hiding in a closet. Remus is sarcastic. Kris is worried. So much love for single dad Kris <3. Dumo wants to call PETA. Blizzard doesn't judge. Olli has opinions. Olli is the best. Timmy is offended. Alice is a boss. Finn has ideas. They involve glitter and rainbows. Mental health awareness is important! Natalie is precious. We establish that consent is EVERYTHING! 

Sweater weather chat #12 part 2

--

Tuesday 2.54 pm 

Sirius <3: re!!!!!! Help. I’m in the green closet. 

Remus ❤️: I’m not gonna make a joke. But. It’s right there. Which green closet? I lost you around the beds. Thought you were behind me. How’re you sneaking away so quietly? 

Sirius <3: someone put it on Twitter. That I’m here. These ladies followed me. Hat to throw my hat down on the floor as a way to distract them. Never seeing that again 😭 

Remus ❤️: sneaky....... you could just sign their bras and get on with your life.

Sirius <3: really? Sarcasm. I was being hunted by cougars re. It’s scary. Help me.

Remus ❤️: alright. Send me a pic. 

Sirius <3: *pic* 

Remus ❤️: I sent you to get a lamp. You ended up on the first floor somehow? In the kids section. And no we’re not buying that massive shark. 

Sirius <3: it’s for Ava. 🥺

Remus ❤️: really? 

Sirius <3: she told me Jackie is her favorite (I assume Jackie is Nado?) and I need to be the favorite. Logan already beat me with the Dumais’ kids. I need to win somewhere. 

Remus ❤️: and bribing her is the way?

Sirius <3: of course it is. How else? Can’t dazzle her with my hockey or money or fame. Need some real firepower and a big shark is a winner. 

Remus ❤️: I’m here now. Which closet are you in? 

——

Tuesday 4.31 pm

Nadotheman: guess who’s trending on twitter for hooking up in Ikea.

Blizzard: my first guess is always you? But as you’re texting you’re either oddly proud or it’s not you. Kuny? 

RussianGod: not me 

Timmyforrealz: @blizzard you’re not even thinking about me? Could totally have been me. Nado not the only one who’s got crazy girl skills. 

Ollibear: skills? Buddy you’ve had a three month drought. 

Timmyforrealz: DONT listen to Olli. He’s a baby. He’s still a little virgin. 

Ollibear: first of all. There’s nothing wrong with not being into sex. Asexuality is a valid thing. Also I’m not a Virgin. I just prefer a partner who either has no idea who I am or likes me for me. 

Ollibear: also, the three of you are easy @russiangod @nadotheman @timmyforrealz. You literally sell out for a pat on the ass and a wink. I could get with either of you with very little effort. 

Nadotheman: oi! I’m not easy. I have an acquired taste. 

Talkiewalkie: acquired taste = anything human with a pulse and the ability to consent. Literally. I’ve watched you pick up. 

RussianGod: as long as consent. What’s big deal? They say yes it’s ok. 

Prongstar: I JUST SAW THE PIC WTF?????

Prongstar: also, Olli? That’s the spirit. 

LeWilliam: cap?!!???? 

Logantremblayzzz: whattttt 

Talkiewalkie: HAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA WELL YOU CERTAINLY CAME OUT THE CLOSET..... LITERALLY

CarbO’Hara: damn!!! I was gonna say that 

Newt-leo: I said it first. You just type like a madman.

Krisvolley: is that the shark you dropped off for Ava? 

DumoDad: better call peta. Poor shark. 

Siriusly: it’s not whAt it looks like. Someone tweeted I was in there and the cougars descended upon me. I had to hide. Someone actually ripped my shirt and Remus was gone to look at pillows. I had to hide. It was scary. 

Blizzard: so you didn’t do a quickie in Ikea with a plushie shark watching? 

Siriusly: no. We didn’t, also, sirius had to put his shirt back on in a Hurry. Someone did rip it (re here) 

Blizzard: I’m not judging. Whatever makes your skates fly cap. Never had Re as an exhibitionist tho . 

Siriusly: he’s not. We didn’t do anything. Some lady ripped my shirt and I hid in the closet while the nice Ikea girl distracted them with some sort of family offer I think or free ice cream whatever. But they’d actually ripped my shirt. Re helped me put it back on... you guys are idiots. 

Logantremblayzzz: heheheh whatever you say. 

Krisvolley: so you didn’t do nasty things to or near the shark my daughter is now refusing to give up? She’s named it fluffy. I’m worried. She said it’s just smiling? Should I be worried? 

Siriusly: ew no of course not. Promise. 

Nadotheman: sure. Also I see what you’re doing cap. I’m favorite. Back off.😫

Siriusly: no idea what you mean. JACKIE 

Blizzard: Jackie? That’s cute. How’re you today Jackie? 😘

Nadotheman: shut up kasey. Or I’m gonna spank youuuu 

Krisvolley: you guys do realize she’s literally calling whoever gives in to her whims and tantrums her favorite right? Also I’m her dad. I’ll always be her number 1! ❤️

Nadotheman: awww we know. Best single dad!!! 

Siriusly: we’re not trying to steal her kris! You’re doing amazing! 

Ollibear: yeah man she’s so lucky she’s got you!!! 

Blizzard: we love you kris 💖💖💖

���-

Wednesday 1.33

Alice: alright. Ikea confirmed that there was a situation involving fans and we were able to mostly control the narrative. You have to prepare for some chirps and a few memes. 

Sirius: what’s a meme? 

Alice: I swear to god sometimes you’re a grandpa stuck in a young man’s body. Ask the rookies. 

Sirius: you’re really mean. 

Alice: I’m also really good at my job. So suck it up captain. You’re a hockey god. I’m a PR god. We work together and magic happens.

Sirius: I’d think that was flirting but I’ve seen you make heart eyes at frank. So. We’re good right? I swear I won’t roll my eyes for the next, like, three interviews 

Alice: you better not love. And yes, frank is rather into me, isn’t he? Time I put him out of his misery, I think. 

Sirius: good luck! (To frank) 

Alice: I’ll tell him 😜

—- 

Finn: hey Alice!! 

Alice: O’Hara, how can I help? 

Finn: I just had an idea ok? 

Alice: I hope it’s better than take your dog to work day. 

Finn: that was a great idea. Not my fault that skates and jersey are easily confused for chew toys. 

Finn: but I thought we could do a charity skate or something? (Need your brain here) so all Star was a massive success so maybe we could do like a charity thing soon and get money for like lgbt+ mental health awareness right? Like. Cap is of course new to this but I can speak up, my brother is happy to support too and I bet the team would too! We could invite young people on the ice and do like a you can play thing? I know it’s not pride but like. We could wear rainbows and glitttee and????  I really wanna support cap!! 

Alice: I like your enthusiasm and the idea. Give me a few days with my team and we can work on something? I also believe congratulations are in order? For your and your boys? 

Alice: also. you typed about 100 “like” in there. I’m worried about the state of the American school system. You're a Harvard graduate.... 

Finn: I love you! I’m terrified of you but I also love you and thanks. I want to get us jerseys saying O’Knutzy? That’s cute right. 

Alice: it’s easy to make happen but Finn, maybe sit down with your boys and heather first ok? Maybe cap too. Coming out is a lot and I want to make sure you’re okay with the consequences. There’s a lot of bigoted people out there and it breaks my heart I can’t protect you better than I do! 

Finn; hey we know you’ve got our back! 

Alice: I’ll see what I can do. Is the team ok with this? 

Finn: yeah most of them I’ve asked and the rest will follow I’m sure. 😀

Alice: you’re a good kid! I’ll do my best! 

Finn: 😘😘😘

Alice: I’d say that’s inappropriate but I know you mean well! 

——

Finn: NAT!!! She said she’ll look into it! 

Nat: I love you finn and we’re gonna make this event explode in a shower of glitter, love and rainbows. 

Finn: 💖🏳️‍🌈💖🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

Nat: 😘 also sent you some stuff on email about poly. 

Finn: wait? You and kasey???

Nat: No but I’m a musician baby, me being in a het relationship is the weird thing in our community 😜

Finn: maybe I hang with the wrong crowds. 

Nat: hopeless hockey boys ❤️

Finn: you’re dating one. 

Nat: I know. And I ship your poly arrangement harder than fangirls on tumblr. If anyone says anything tell me and I’ll relieve them of their knee caps

Finn: I get why you and kasey works. His threats are also oddly specific. He made the Boston rat cry when he detailed his imminent death via goalie pads. It was eerie. 

Nat: that’s my man 😍

Finn: weirdos. I’ll let you know when Alice is back ❤️

Nat: 😜🏳️‍🌈💖🙏🏻🌍😇

[kikiskeysgame]

The Blackhawks ended their three-game road trip on a good note tonight as they defeated the New York Islanders 3-2 in a shootout.

Brandon Hagel scored the lead goal in the first period (with assists by Alex DeBrincat and Seth Jones); however, Jean-Gabriel Pageau tied up the game in the second period.

In the third period, Dylan Strome broke the tie with his second goal of the season, but as regulation was winding down, Noah Dobson scored to send the game into overtime.

After an uneventful (and boring) overtime period, the game went into a shootout in which Patrick Kane scored the winning goal.

Overall, I would say that the Blackhawks did quite well on their road trip. Even though the games weren't very high-scoring, being able to finish them 2-1-0 is good to see. Ever since Derek King took over as the Blackhawks' head coach, they currently have a record of 8-4-0 under them.

I would say that Marc-Andre Fleury was definitely on his "A" game tonight, especially in the first period when he made save that made me say, "Wow!" Fleury was outstanding on the road trip, especially against the Islanders and he was able to pick up his 499th NHL career win.

Fleury got praise from Coach King who said: "Marc-Andre, great game again. Especially the shootouts, he's doing a tremendous job" and from teammate Dylan Strome, who said: "He's unbelievable. Vezina Trophy winner for a reason. Without him, we're not in a lot of these games. He's a heck of a goalie, probably Team Canada goalie I'd say. ... One of the best teammates I've ever had, for sure."

Speaking of Dylan Strome, it was nice to see him get himself on the scoresheet tonight and he looked so happy when he scored his goal. It was good to see him back in the line-up during the road trip after being a healthy scratch against San Jose. I just hope that Strome continues to keep himself consistent in his games (and scores a goal against his brother, Ryan's team when the Hawks play against the Rangers at the U.C. this week).

Even though Kirby Dach had a couple of good scoring chances throughout the road trip, none of them panned out into goals. He had a good scoring chance tonight, but he looked so disappointed when Seymon Varlamov stopped it. I can only imagine how frustrated Dach must be feeling about not scoring goals and he's been trying to so hard to make it happen. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that Dach will find a way to break his scoreless drought once and for all.

After tonight's game, the Blackhawks are back in Chicago on Tuesday night as they play against the New York Rangers. The Hawks need to be maintain the momentum they gained from the Islanders game, put it to good use and not let it slip away from them.

Until then, go Blackhawks!

[gardenwerks]

Penstemon ‘Garnet’ aka ‘Andenken an Friedrich Hahn’

Penstemon ‘Firebird’ aka ‘Schoenholzeri’ 

The wonderful ‘Garnet’ Penstemon, together with its look-alike neighbor and offspring ‘Firebird’, have become stalwarts of our garden. They are huge for a “perennial”, easily reaching 2-3’ high and 3-4’ wide. They have abundant lovely, glossy, evergreen, narrow foliage, and are prolific bloomers. The mid-August photo (2nd photo) was taken two months after full-bloom in late June (top photo  They will keep this up until Thanksgiving. Each spike holds up a large number of brightly-colored, long tubular flowers, with cute “faces”, a floral form showing their relationship to snapdragons. The “faces” are called “two-lipped” having 2 lobes above the opening of the tube, and three below. They have interesting markings – bee guides – and fuzziness. These are hummingbird and bee magnets. ‘Garnet’ is purply-red, while ‘Firebird’ is crimson red. I realize those colors are not coming out that distinct in the photos.

Penstemons are native to North America – in fact, with about 250 different species, they are the largest endemic genus of plants native to this continent. Most of the species are native to arid and/or mountainous regions, and mainly west of the Mississippi and throughout highland Mexico. These two plants are hybrids, but with strong P. campanulatus (Bell-flowered penstemon) features. This species has lavender-purple flowers, and does not grow as large as the hybrids, but the foliage and plant form are very similar. It hails from highland areas throughout Mexico.

Technically, these two Penstemons are “sub-shrubs”, in that they have a woody framework of lower stems, supporting lush herbaceous spikes. In late January this year, I hunted down YouTube videos – from the UK – that showed major whack-back was useful for maintaining the health and floriferousness of the plants. So, I did that. Scary to look at, but as you can see they came back with a FLOURISH! 

Their cultural requirements are good drainage, lots of sun, and they tolerate fairly infertile soil. They are drought tolerant, but look better and bloom longer with summer irrigation. These two plants were originally in the South Side flower garden, but proved way too robust for that location. So, I moved them along the split-rail fence in the long Back Garden, behind the ‘Bakeri’ Blue Spruce. The soil there is very sandy and not very fertile, so is ideal for these. We see their lovely flowering from our dining room window for months on end – clear until very hard frost.

Ballyrobert Nursery in Northern Ireland provided the following info about ‘Garnet’: Penstemon 'Andenken en Friedrich Hahn', also known as 'Garnet', commemorates an 18th century German astronomer. It forms pinkish red, tubular flowers with attractive white striping on the inside. One of the oldest hybrid Penstemons, bred in 1918, it is still one of the best penstemon to grow. Its parent, P.'Southgate Gem,' was a very popular plant back in the early 1900s. It was a short-lived perennial, so the Swiss breeder, Hermann Wartmann, crossed it with either P. hirsutus or P. campanulatus. According to the oldest reference found, it's more than likely the parentage is P. campanulatus, since it's an easier cross to make between the species.

Debbie Teashon, the Rainyside Gardener, notes that Garnet is one of the most successful penstemons introduced in the Pacific Northwest. San Marcos Growers notes that it is long-lived, and very hardy, provided it has good winter drainage.

Digging Dog Nursery in California provides this information about ‘Firebird’:  Arising in Switzerland when Paul Schoenholzer crossed Penstemon ‘Garnet’ and Penstemon ‘Southgate Gem’ in 1939, the ample, hummingbird-friendly bell-shaped flowers are bright red, heightened by a fiery touch of scarlet plus pink-lined white throats. This shrubby AGM winner was bred for longevity, sprouting tall durable stems, refined semievergreen foliage and a somewhat lax, yet mighty manner.

So ‘Firebird’ is a backcross of ‘Garnet’ to it’s parent ‘Southgate Gem’. No wonder the plant forms are virtually identical, with only the color of the flowers being different. Both plants have received the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society in the UK.

[bunnieresources]

killing eve season 3 sentence starters part 1.

“ i am so much happier now that ____’s dead. “

“ this is my special day. “

“ ____ doesn’t joke. she’s/he’s too... constricted. “

“ divorces are easy. it’s marriages that are impossibly hard. “

“ we’ve been watching you since what happened. you know that, don’t you? “

“ you’re not easy to replace. “

“ what’s in it for you? “

“ whatever you want, i will do it. i will get you anything. “

“ power is there for the taking, ____. you just have to be smart about how. “

“ you can hide from it, but it won’t hide from you. “

“ nothing good comes fast, you know that. “

“ your work was always so inventive and fresh. almost as good as mine. “

“ i prefer things... buried. “

“ i’m totally done with ____. done with that. “

“ ____, i am serious. i am not going down that road again. it almost killed me. “

“ life is just a series of trade-offs, ____. for all of us. “

“ you might disagree with my decisions, but i will never be able to apologize for them. “

“ we are going to get through this. you have to know that. “

“ this isn’t something you can fix, ____. “

“ if we’re being honest, we’d both admit that i deserve more. and more than you. “

“ are you always this much of a dick? “

“ when a bullet goes through you, it leaves something behind. “

“ you know if you’d quit smoking, you’d look, like, ten years younger. “

“ winners win alone. you can’t go down that path anymore. “

“ i’m fully capable of doing my job without any approval from you. “

“ i know you think i’m a self-serving prick. “

“ some things are bigger than the job and this is one of them. “

“ you have to start taking care of yourself right now, or it’s going to catch up with you. “

“ i need you to keep an eye on things. “

“ i have to be discreet. i can’t let people know i’m looking into things. “

“ i think i have something that might interest you. “

“ management is not easy. it’s watching someone do the job worse than you. that’s why it sucks. “

“ i don’t tell people what to investigate. “

“ what’s important to you? “

“ just so you know, i’m kind of a big deal in this industry. “

“ you do everything i say, exactly when i say it. “

“ if you make me look bad, i will kill you. “

“ when you love somebody, and they don’t love you back it’s... shit. “

“ life’s shit. get used to it. “

“ this is everything i could find right now. the rest is going to take more time. “

“ this is never gonna be solved without you, right? “

“ i can’t solve it, ____. i can’t investigate it. my hands are tied. “

“ you do not get to come here without an invitation anymore! “

“ haven’t you heard? i’m moving up in the world. “

“ you always said you were going to kill ____. “

“ if i killed everybody who betrayed me, there would be nobody left. “

“ ____ is alive. “

“ you really like that, huh? it’s not even yours. “

“ oh, get over it, ____. i have all my best thoughts in the bath. “

“ so, you thought this was a good idea? “

“ i’m practicing my characters, like you told me. “

“ if you want to amuse yourself, go crazy. but i will not have you put both of our futures at risk. “

“ you have to understand that once i tell you about this, your life is in danger. “

“ did you take this job thinking it would be easier? if you did, quit now. because it’s only getting tougher. “

“ you know what’s scary, ____, is how much i regret telling you its a date. “

“ if it makes you feel better, i’ve just had the novel experience of being stood up. “

“ it’s not fun, ____, using people you once loved. “

“ i should have shot you in the head. “

“ i can’t stop thinking about you. “

“ i’m not here for you! “

“ don’t wait for me in the dark like that. “

“ god, you’re boring. “

“ well, now you’re just looking for a reaction. “

“ i want to find my family. “

“ i’m wearing power. and to keep power, you need knowledge. “

“ admit it, ____. you wish i was here. “

“ ____’s a crook. like you. “

“ you’re so not over me. so not over me. “

“ you don’t deserve nice things if you don’t look after them. “

“ you’re so close to getting what you want. but you have to play by the rules. “

“ you are so annoying today. “

“ i am just trying to save you from yourself! “

“ you know, you really don’t have to be so dramatic. “

“ this would be a really bad way to go! “

“ are you upset because soon i’m going to be your boss? “

“ i got what you asked for. “

“ you know where my family is? “

“ just make it done, okay? “

“ you’re free now. you can be whoever you want. “

“ so, ____ was framed? “

“ if something happened to you, i would’ve only been partly responsible. that’s something i take very seriously. “

“ i do understand loss. “

“ you barely even look at me. “

“ i’m trying to tell you that i’m worried about you! “

“ you said you had everything under control. “

“ they told me you died. “

“ oh look, ____, it’s you punching me in the face. “

“ i know a killer when i see a killer, and you are a killer. “

“ ____, you are too naive. “

“ i missed you. “

“ just beat the crap out of people. it will make you feel a lot better. “

“ did you think i was dead, too? “

“ don’t you want to get out? “

“ i’m not like you. you’re always strong. “

“ don’t stay here for ___. she wants to control you. “

“ how many times have you been married? “

“ you don’t want to dance? “

“ you are freaking me out. “

“ am i supposed to be impressed by that. “

“ you always laugh at things that aren't funny. “

“ i don’t want you to be here anymore. “

“ this is my home. “

“ you’re not a part of this family. you do not belong here. “

“ don’t pretend that you were an angel. “

“ don’t pretend that you were a mother. “

“ you are the darkness. you have always been the darkness. “

“ i’ve killed a lot of people. “

“ you were bad from the beginning. “

“ you ruined me. you took everything from me. “

“ oh, i think i need to kill you, ____. “

“ i am my mother’s daughter/son. “

“ you’re not a child. “

“ i want to feel like a child. “

“ ____ must avoid all stress. you’re stress. “

“ it’s so good to see your eyes. “

“ i am going to find out why this happened to you. “

“ i’ve wanted to meet you for a long time. i’ve been watching you. “

“ you’re remarkable. “

“ are you trying to seduce me? “

“ ____. is that your real name? “

“ do you know why i wanted to meet you in-person? “

“ your first assignment in your new role is very exciting. a big job that will cause a great stir. “

“ i was told i’d be giving orders. “

“ this is the same stuff i was doing before. this is bullshit. “

“ you bargained for what you wanted, and we’re giving it to you. “

“ you know you can’t touch ____. “

“ maybe ____’s trying to torture you. “

“ why won’t you give me a break? “

“ sometimes you need to let it win. “

“ i’m afraid you’ve interrupted a rather delicate operation. “

“ drought can be endured, but rot is an instant killer. “

“ someone tried to kill you, i intend to find out who. “

“ just be very careful of ____. “

“ i’m coming with you. “

“ your plan to get out, i’m in. “

“ ____ deserved it. “

“ of course ____ deserved it, but you’re not supposed to do it. “

“ you are supposed to grow up and realize ____ isn’t actually evil. “

“ it’s too dangerous for us all to go together. “

“ we can’t go together. “

“ once i’m safe, you’ll come. i promise. but that’s the only way we’ll make it. “

“ you haven’t told anyone about this, have you? “

“ i don’t think you really want this. “

“ you know what it means? it means you have to leave everything, and ____. “

“ the plan only works if nobody knows there is one. “

“ are you... working for them, ____? “

“ i’m asking you for the same reason you asked me. because we don’t trust each other. “

“ should i... trust you? “

“ none of us are to be trusted, that’s why we work here. “

“ do you think i’m dumb? i’m not going anywhere with you. “

“ come on! it’ll be fun. “

“ you can do anything you want. anything. “

“ i know what you’re trying to do. you’re not coming with me. “

“ do you know how annoying it is when you have to be around two people in love? “

“ if it’s that bad, kill ____. “

“ you’re a real role model, you know that? “

“ you are totally delusional. “

“ i’m not in a rush, i’m just impatient. “

“ what did you want with my child? “

“ i’m going to ask you again, ____, and you’re going to answer correctly. “

“ get out. “

“ i know you don’t like me very much, and now you have to put up with me because you and i are all that’s left of this family. “

[askkrenko]

Krenko’s Guide to Pokemon: Poliwag Line

Ah, Poliwhirl, the main character of Pokemon.

...What, you thought it was Pikachu?

Well, sure, Pikachu became it, because people didn’t like Poliwag, Poliwhirl, and Poliwrath enough, but if you go back and look at the earliest Pokemon promotional material, you’ll find the Poliwag line everywhere, because Satoshi Tajiri himself wanted to push it as the big symbol of Pokemon and Evolution- the tadpole turning into a frog.

Back in the day, Poliwag’s line was inexplicably everywhere. There’d be toy lines of “Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, PIkachu, Meowth, and Poliwhirl.” Poliwhirl was on all the promotional material. Hell, when Pokemon was on the cover of Time Magazine, guess who was front and center.

But nobody actually liked Poliwhirl all that much so eventually the Pokemon company stopped putting it in everything. Eh, they can’t all be winners. DESIGN:  Poliwag is actually super cute. It’s a tadpole with a spiral reminiscent of real tadpole intestines (visible through translucent skin) but not gross at all. Feel free to google that on your own time. I’ve decided not to share the picture here. The little feet show it’s just starting to turn into not-a-tadpole and it’s got a cute little mouth for blowing bubbles. I love Poliwag. Poliwhirl is... fine. Trading the tail for arms makes sense, but what I don’t really get is losing any semblance of a mouth. It just looks weird. Incomplete maybe. There’s something inherently offputting about Poliwhirl’s appearance and I honestly think it’s that it has no mouth, so it’s not clear that that big swirly thing is supposed to be its tummy. 

Poliwrath is just a design I don’t like. It’s just Angry Poliwhirl.   It’s thicker and has bicep, but it still suffers from the weird mouth issue that Poliwhirl does, and it doesn’t actually look like a different creature. It might just be the least noticeable change in an evolution in all of Pokemon. Seriously, look back and forth between Poliwhirl and Poliwrath quickly and tell me those are two different Pokemon and not just, like, the male and female variant of one. At least with Poliwrath I think I see where its mouth is sort of SUPPOSED to be, but with it closed so tight I can’t really tell.  Its made even more confusing because Poliwag shoots “Water Gun” out of its mouth, but Poliwhirl shoots it out of its belly.

And then there’s Politoed. Politoed has a mouth! I approve.  Unfortunately, I feel like Politoed diverges too much from Poliwag and Poliwhirl. 

The coloration is entirely different, which would be fine if Poliwhirl wasn’t the exact same color as Poliwag, there’s suddenly a huge mouth, the hands and feet are three-fingered instead of whatever’s going on with Poliwhirl, and while there’s still a stomach swirl it’s not only less pronounced, it’s a different color. Now, I will say that overall I do like Politoed’s design. I think it’s a cool frog monster that’s clearly a frog but also has enough unique traits to be interesting. I just don’t feel that it looks like the frog Poliwag was destined to become.

Now, Shiny Politoed actually goes a long way to fix this just by being the same colors as Poliwhirl, but my general feeling here is that if Poliwag to Poliwhirl’s transformation involves big gloved hands and raised eyes, then the Poliwhirl to Politoed evolution should’ve kept those.   Also, I don’t get why it has a single long hair. The Pokedex says that hair is proof of its status as a King, and it does evolve via King’s Rock, so maybe there’s some Frog Prince shenanigans going on there, but I just don’t see it. EVOLUTIONS:  I love Branching Evolutions, generally, especially ones where you just get a choice.  Poliwag to Poliwhirl is a normal level 25, and Poliwhirl to Wrath or Toed is Water Stone or Traded With King’s Rock... And I gotta say, I kind of hate “Trade with King’s Rock.” I don’t think I’ve gone into this yet but I’ll definitely say it a lot in the future: Trade evolutions that require additional items are a pain in the butt, a waste of everyone’s time, and there’s too many different items for them. Also, Trading is already a bit of a thing. Why not just make Poliwhirl evolve into Poliwag by using the King’s Rock like an evolution stone?  You know there’s like 40 evolution items and most of them only apply to one Pokemon?  And King’s Rock only applies to two. 

Look, I understand and begrudgingly respect that, until they came to their senses in Sword and Shield, Pokemon didn’t want to include evolution methods that were attemptable and failable in an earlier game, like using a Leaf Stone on Eevee, but I will never understand while Sneasel needs a Razor Claw but Gligar needs a Razor Fang even though both work by being held items that trigger evolution on level up. And King’s Rock, Metal Coat, Upgrade, and Dragon Scale were what started this mess.  And why the devil can’t Seadra become Kingdra with a KING’S Rock? Somehow Politoed is more king than Kingdra? Anyway, split evolutions are cool when they’re sufficiently different. Though Politoed and Poliwrath seem similar, they have a decently different move list and, most importantly, Poliwrath leans Physical while Politoed leans Special. TYPING:  Poliwrath is a rather unique Water/Fighting combo which gives it a whopping seven resistances. Sure, this comes with five weaknesses, but if you play smart it means you can switch Poliwrath into a lot of attacks.  Also, a Water/Fighting combo gives super effective coverage against seven types, and nothing resists both types.  This is a really comfortable place to be. Politoed is pure water, which is fine defensively with four resistances and only two weaknesses, but with only three types of STAB coverage and three types that resist all its STAB attacks it’s going to have a much harder time putting out damage.

STATS: You know what’s weird? Poliwhirl has speed 90. Both Poliwrath and Politoed have speed 70. While it’s not unheard of for a Pokemon to have a stat decrease, especially a speed decrease, on evolution, Poliwhirl is the only Gen One pokemon to have this issue, other than Caterpie and Weedle who lose Attack and Speed upon cocooning but got it back in their final forms. Some Gen One Pokemon retroactively got it later, like Onix and Scyther both losing speed when they become Steel types, but Poliwhirl was the first. Anyway, actual stats. Both Poliwrath and Politoed have above average HP and below average speed. Poliwrath has comfortable defenses at 95 and 90, and a decent 95 attack. It’s not exactly a heavy hitter, but it’s good all around.  Politoed has 75 Attack and Defense, just a bit below average, but a Special Defense of a good 100. Its Special attack at 90 is just a smidge lower than Poliwrath’s attack, but it’s still fine.

ABILITIES: For main abilities, both Poliwrath and Politoed have Water Absorb and Damp. Damp, as mentioned for Psyduck, is basically useless. It shuts off self-destructing moves, but those don’t really come up enough to matter. Water Absorb is just good. Water Absorb replaces their Water Resistance not with Immunity, but the ability to heal any time they’re hit by a water attack. In a normal battle, this lets them catch Water attacks even better than they’d be able to otherwise, and jump into them late game to heal. In a 2v2, this allows your ally to spam Surf, healing your Poliwhatever while also damaging both enemies. We’re going to see Water Absorb a lot in the future, and it’s always an entirely solid ability.... but both hidden abilities are worth talking about. Poliwrath’s Hidden Ability is Swift Swim, which doubles it speed in the rain, and it’s another ability a lot of water Pokemon have. Obviously this takes some setup to use, but Poliwrath’s speed is right at the level where it’s poor normally but suddenly really good with Swift Swim up. If your team can reliably trigger it, it’s a serious boost to Poliwrath’s overall effectiveness. Whether this is better than Water Absorb absolutely depends on your team. Politoed... gets one of the greatest abilities in the game. I said this when Ninetails came up, but if a has Drought, Snow Warning, Drizzle, or Sand Stream it’s automatically useful.  Politoed is one of only three Pokemon with Drizzle, and while Kyogre is the Obvious Best of the three, it’s a Legendary that’s banned in many tournaments, so the competition is just Politoed and Pelipper- and honestly, they’re both entirely reasonable options. Drizzle is a free action Rain Dance. That’s it. And that’s all you need. Politoed comes out and oh look it’s raining.  Now water attacks do more damage, fire attacks do less, and all those other fun rain abilities are triggered. Politoed is a strategy in himself, and even if his stats were much worse, Drizzle would still be reason to use him.

Unless you’re in a format where Kyogre’s legal in which case, to hell with the little frog.

MOVES: As always we start with our attacks.  Poliwrath has two main fighting options, the defensive Drain Punch or the offensive Close Combat.  As Poliwrath is a bit on the bulky side and not really strong enough to reliably one-shot things with Close Combat, I’d lean toward Drain Punch.  For Water, Poliwrath gets.... Liquidation. It’s not impressive, but it’s STAB Physical.  Poliwrath actually has a serious move problem in that many of its best moves are Special rather than Physical, but it’s physical attack stat is much higher.   With a Swift Swim Poliwrath, Waterfall becomes a lot more desirable than Liquidation, as it’s likely to outspeed its foes, but if your Poliwrath isn’t built for speed, that Flinch is unlikely to happen. Politoed has this question a lot easier. It can learn Surf, Hydro Pump, and Scald, depending on which better fits your tactics.

Poliwrath’s coverage options are Darkest Lariat, Earthquake, Ice Punch, Rock Slide, and Poison Jab.  Of these, Darkest Lariat works against Ghost and Fairy, Earthquake against Poison and Electric, Ice Punch against Flying, Grass, and Dragon, Rock Slide against Flying and Bug, and Poison Jab against  Grass and Fairy.  Obviously there’s no way to win them all, but Poliwrath can reasonably threaten a lot of types.  

Politoed’s coverage options are Ice Beam, Psychic, Earth Power, and Focus Blast... But with guaranteed Rain Dance and STAB, it’s better off using Water against anything that isn’t Dragon, Grass, or Water. Nothing it has hits water, so Ice Beam is the only secondary attack it needs to pick up. (Politoed would be utterly busted if it could learn Thunder, but it can’t so... Ice Beam it is.) And then there’s the question of utility, and Poliwrath has a lot of it. Option A is Belly Drum. Belly Drum punches your pokemon in the gut, hard, dropping their HP in half... and raises their Attack by six stages.  It’s a dangerous gambit, but Poliwrath is bulky enough and has enough resistances to give it a shot.  Option B: Rest.  Poliwrath can take a nap and heal to full. Lots of Pokemon can learn rest, but most Pokemon don’t have above-average defenses and seven resistances. Poliwrath can combine Rest with Sleep Talk (but don’t combine Sleep Talk with Belly Drum or you’ll just kill yourself,) in order to keep performing moves while asleep. Of particular note, Circle Throw changes from -6 Priority off of Sleep Talk to using Sleep Talk’s priority, making it a solid option that keeps your opponent from properly fighting back against your sleepy frog.  With this strategy, using Scald over Waterfall or Liquidation becomes reasonable. The damage is much less, but Burning an opponent cuts their Attack and deals damage over time. Option C: Bulk Up. If you’re worried about the HP loss of Belly Drum, just Bulk Up instead. It’s weaker, but it raises Defense too, and then you can get back to Drain Punching.  Politoed doesn’t have that much for utility options (though Perish Song, Protect, and Encore all have their uses) but that’s fine because the goal here is to just set up rain and then blast enemies with a water attack and  Ice Beam or switch out into something that can better take advantage of the rain. You don’t need other utility when you have Drizzle.  Take Splash for all I care. It doesn’t matter: Hydro Pump, Surf or Scald Ice Beam Whatever. Maybe take Rest and Sleep Talk, too. Politoed’s pretty bulky.  It doesn’t really matter. Drizzle means that Politoed is secretly one of the strongest Special Attackers in the game. Just make sure you have a Ground type on the team so you can safely switch when you’re staring down an Electric type, because you do not want to eat a Thunder. OVERALL:  Poliwrath and Politoed, despite being counterparts, are very different pokemon. Poliwrath’s near-unique typing, shared only with Legendaries, and solid bulk gives it an interesting defensive position, with a wide range of attack coverage. Meanwhile, Politoed has Drizzle, which makes a pokemon on its own. Everything else is just gravy.  And I seriously wasn’t kidding about Poliwhirl being on EVERYTHING.