#or try to signal to the friendly locals that you need help

[3liza]

https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/theyre-not-human-how-19th-century-inuit-coped-with-a-real-life-invasion-of-the-walking-dead

Indigenous groups across the Americas had all encountered Europeans differently. But where other coastal groups such as the Haida or the Mi’kmaq had met white men who were well-fed and well-dressed, the Inuit frequently encountered their future colonizers as small parties on the edge of death.

“I’m sure it terrified people,” said Eber, 91, speaking to the National Post by phone from her Toronto home.

And it’s why, as many as six generations after the events of the Franklin Expedition, Eber was meeting Inuit still raised on stories of the two giant ships that came to the Arctic and discharged columns of death onto the ice.

Inuit nomads had come across streams of men that “didn’t seem to be right.” Maddened by scurvy, botulism or desperation, they were raving in a language the Inuit couldn’t understand. In one case, hunters came across two Franklin Expedition survivors who had been sleeping for days in the hollowed-out corpses of seals.

“They were unrecognizable they were so dirty,” Lena Kingmiatook, a resident of Taloyoak, told Eber.

Mark Tootiak, a stepson of Nicholas Qayutinuaq, related a story to Eber of a group of Inuit who had an early encounter with a small and “hairy” group of Franklin Expedition men evacuating south.

“Later … these Inuit heard that people had seen more white people, a lot more white people, dying,” he said. “They were seen carrying human meat.”

Even Eber’s translator, the late Tommy Anguttitauruq, recounted a goose hunting trip in which he had stumbled upon a Franklin Expedition skeleton still carrying a clay pipe.

By 1850, coves and beaches around King William Island were littered with the disturbing remnants of their advance: Scraps of clothing and camps still littered with their dead occupants. Decades later, researchers would confirm the Inuit accounts of cannibalism when they found bleached human bones with their flesh hacked clean.

“I’ve never in all my life seen any kind of spirit — I’ve heard the sounds they make, but I’ve never seen them with my own eyes,” said the old man who had gone out to investigate the Franklin survivors who had straggled into his camp that day on King William Island.

The figures’ skin was cold but it was not “cold as a fish,” concluded the man. Therefore, he reasoned, they were probably alive.

“They were beings but not Inuit,” he said, according to the account by shaman Nicholas Qayutinuaq.

The figures were too weak to be dangerous, so Inuit women tried to comfort the strangers by inviting them into their igloo.

But close contact only increased their alienness: The men were timid, untalkative and — despite their obvious starvation — they refused to eat.

The men spit out pieces of cooked seal offered to them. They rejected offers of soup. They grabbed jealous hold of their belongings when the Inuit offered to trade.

When the Inuit men returned to the camp from their hunt, they constructed an igloo for the strangers, built them a fire and even outfitted the shelter with three whole seals.

Then, after the white men had gone to sleep, the Inuit quickly packed up their belongings and fled by moonlight.

Whether the pale-skinned visitors were qallunaat or “Indians” — the group determined that staying too long around these “strange people” with iron knives could get them all killed.

“That night they got all their belongings together and took off towards the southwest,” Qayutinuaq told Dorothy Eber.

But the true horror of the encounter wouldn’t be revealed until several months later.

The Inuit had left in such a hurry that they had abandoned several belongings. When a small party went back to the camp to retrieve them, they found an igloo filled with corpses.

The seals were untouched. Instead, the men had eaten each other.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Someone New 6

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include angst, pining, romcom tropes, and some darker elements later in the series. Some triggers may not be specifically tagged. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This fic will contain explicit content. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: You’ve had a crush on your best friend for years, but you’re slapped in the face with reality when he takes things to the next level with his girlfriend.

Characters: Steve Rogers, Thor

Note: Thanks as usual for reading.

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me.

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Please do not just put ‘more’. I will block you.

I love you all immensely. Take care. 💖

Things don’t become comfortable, but familiar. You get into a routine, one which smears the days and nights into the other. The landscape helps with that. The sun is fleeting, even in July. The days are longer but it’s not anywhere as stifling or humid as New York. Like everything else, it’s different. 

The man at the fish place, Frederik, knows your name. His wife, Inga too. When you walk in the door, they put your order to fry before you even get to the counter. They’re friendly and warm. It’s nice to have some smiling faces when you can hardly muster the same.  

They like to ask you about New York; they’re finally planning a big trip to America after twenty-five years together. They remind you of Marigold and her bakery. You long for one of her eclairs and her chatty demeanour. Just another thing to miss. 

As you sit down at a table near the window to eat in, your phone goes off. You answer as you read Sam’s name across the screen. He’s the only one you’ve talked to in the last month. Nearly two now. August is close. 

“Yo, yo, girly pop,” he sings from the other end. 

“Girly pop? Sam,” you chide as you hover a thick cut fry before your mouth. 

“Chicky poo, nope. Girly pop, nope. I’ll get there,” he teases, “finally got a hold of you.” 

“Uh, yeah, the site is far. No signal,” you shrug and take a bite. 

“I know, I'm just needy,” he kids. “So, you hitting the spa? Summer’s going fast.” 

“Not yet,” you swallow. “Sam, there’s a lot of work here and it’s just me. The only help I get is from a local student volunteer and they do three hours a week.” 

“Oof, why does your work sound so boring?” He groans 

“Hey!” 

“Well, I mean, digging up dirt all day, tell me you’re not going mad. You making friends? No one to cool, I hope. I’m still your number one guy.” 

“Not really. It’s tough. Long hours. I don’t know,” you stare out the window as you toy with the bamboo fork.  

“If you were going to hide all day in a hovel, you could’ve stayed in New York,” he sighs. 

“Sam, I’m trying. Really. It’s... It’s going to take some time.” 

“Right,” he agrees grimly. “Time. A year is not that long.”  

You hum and lean back in the chair. You’re not as hungry as you were. You close up the container and stand. 

“I know, alright?” You sniff as you tidy the table and grab your food, “but this isn’t a vacation.” 

“It’s also not a missionary trip,” he retorts. “I’m not tryna be a dick here, I’m helping. You need this.” 

You push out into the street and cluck. Silence. You don’t know what to say. He’s right and just like ever day, the conversation is the same. Over and over. It’s going to drive you crazy. 

“More sunlight this time of year, good for work--” 

“No more work talk,” he interjects, “if you don’t got anything fun going on, I'll just have to make you jealous. Some good old fashioned FOMO. Hm, me and Bucky went to Jersey.” 

“Jersey? Why?” You take the bait, happy for the distraction. 

“Oh, yeah, I told him there was a vintage bike for sale there.” 

“You told him that but...” 

“There wasn’t. I just wanted to see him interact with the locals. The old ladies love him but the men... well, I think he might have a warrant out now.” 

“No, Sam, what the hell?” You exclaim as you stroll along. “Are you trying to get him killed?” 

“Hey, I got his back. Just like I got yours. It was just a prank.” 

“Wait, Sam, where exactly did you take him in Jersey?” 

“Some cribbage club, I don’t know. I saw a page for it online. Thought he’d fit in--” 

“They were old?” 

“They match his energy,” he snorts. 

You can’t help but laugh. It feels good. Just that little bit of home. Your amusement is dampened as your heart sinks. You really were so stupid. You didn’t see what you had all around you; Bucky, Sam, more than just Steve. Now it’s all behind you and going back won’t be the same as before. 

💟

There’s tension in the air. It’s going to rain. You suspect your day will be cut short by the gathering clouds but your persist. No use in running. Again. 

The last time you left in fear of a storm, it waited until the next day. So you sit, boots set in the dirty, hunched over as you carefully trace out the strange lump. It’s more than sediment. Bone but not a skeleton. Likely animal and bent into some tool. You have to be delicate. It’s not like the movies, you can’t just dig your hand in and rip it out. 

Your earbud drones as a retro R&B playlist keeps your mind at focus. You wipe your forehead with the back of your glove, feeling the flecks of dirt cling to your skin. You ignore it and press on. Just a little more, a little more. 

It’s bigger than you expect. Just as you think it might come free, you find it goes further down. You can make out the jagged break and the hide wrapping at it’s base. A spear of some sort.  

You roll your shoulders out and put your tools down on the open role. You peel of the gloves and reach for the tall insulated bottle of water. You gulp, your throat cooling nicely at the flow. You cap the bottle and clear your throat, listening to the silence of the mountain. 

Yet it isn’t quiet. You glance around at the subtle scratching, a strange tapping across the ground. It could be vermin. It’s not unusual to disturb a nest of one thing or another on a dig but they usually leave early on. 

You put the bottle down and shove your hand back into a glove. A puffy breath comes over the scratching. Several breaths in quick succession, as if there’s something sniff. You keep your other glove in your grip and stand. Your legs are so cramped that your steps are stiff and stunted. 

As you search for the source, there’s a yipe and a fuzzy shape catches your eye. You tilt your head, thoroughly confused at the barking beast. You’re not certain that chihuahuas are native to Norway. At least, you wouldn’t assume so. 

The ashy blond dog has longer fur along its ears and chest and a white bolt down its chest. You can tell it isn’t wild despite its behaviour as it is finely groomed and wears a bright red collar. You approach the fence as it hops, stopping only to try to dig beneath with its dirtied paws. 

“Hi, buddy,” you near the eager dog, “how’d you get up here?” 

You stop just across from the dog and poke your fingers through the fence. It stops, you think a ‘he’, and sniffs your fingers. His cold nose tickles you and you wiggle until you can pet his head. The little thunderbolt emblem on hiss collar peeks through his mane. There might be some information there. 

“Thunder!” The booming voice sounds like the very thing it decries, “Thunder, you pest, where’re you off too?” 

There’s a crunching of soil and rock along the mountain pass as the dog growls and barks again, turning to face the skewing of a towering shadow. You watch in shock at the approach. You didn’t think there was life so far up. That or someone has chosen a rather treacherous hiking trail. 

The dog, you assume ‘Thunder’, bounces back and forth in anticipation of his own, calling to him with his pitchy yaps. The man appears around the jagged rock and you feel the air knocked from your chest. You slowly reach to take out your earbud and tuck it in a pocket.

Wow. You blink to make sure it’s real. To be certain this isn’t some trick of the mind or this ancient land. Maybe the gods are real here. 

He’s tall and broad and handsome. His canvas jacket does little to conceal his muscular build as his jeans are snug to his thick thighs. You think he’s even bigger than Steve. You wince at the reminder of the man but it quickly flits away. You can’t ignore the man before you with his golden tresses twisted back into a low bun, stray strands wisping forward to frame his stony jaw and stormy blue eyes. 

You stand gaping through the fence as the man flinches in fright. His gaze meet yours and his cheeks tinge pink as he gives a crooked grin, “ah, Thunder, my darling, you’ve found a friend.” 

He whistles and the dog lunges forward. He picks up the chihuahua, their size difference almost comical as he cradles him in one arm. You can’t think of a thing to say. You can barely think.  

You snap your mouth shut and clear your throat. Work. That’s what you should be doing. 

“Hello,” the man nears the other side of the fence before you can move away, “I’ve been wondering what this is all about. The signs...” he points with his thumb over his shoulder. 

“Oh, uh,” you peer around as if lost. You sort of are. “A dig. Er. Grant,” you stammer out. You take a breath and still your mind, “I work with an archeological society in New York. We’ve been sponsored by your national board to exhume this site.” 

“Ah, yes, makes sense,” he lowers his brows thoughtfully as the dog squirms in his hold, yiping and biting at his sleeve. “Forgive me, she is rather uncouth.” He raises the dog higher and she wiggles in his arm. You see it now, definitely a pampered girl. “This is Thunder. She lives up to her namesake, eh?” 

“Uh, yeah,” you give a brittle smile, unsure. 

“Thor,” he dips his chin down, “I live just up the pass.” 

“You do?” You wonder curiously. “All the way up here?” 

“Oh yes, if you saw the old haunt, you might just want to dig that up too,” he jokes. “We usually go up the pass, towards the river.” 

“The river?” 

“Yes, you mustn’t stray far from here,” he remarks as he raises a hand to lean on the fence, only to nearly tip the unanchored grating. “Oooh, apologies,” he rights himself with a laugh, “anyhow, it is nice to see a new face around here. Better to have a name for it.” 

“Right, uh,” you offer your name and giggle nervously, “it’s just me on-site, guess I forget my manners.” 

“Not to worry. As the resident mountain man, my etiquette does lack,” he winces as Thunder chomps on his thumb knuckle, “eh, you monster, alright.” He holds her up and she pokes her nose through the fence, “she loves new people. Not so keen on the old.” 

“She's cute,” you scratch her nose and she licks your fingers. “Not exactly a native species.” 

“Who knows where she came from? Found the little dragon in the woods. Suppose someone left her there. She was covered in mud, so small I though she was a bloody toad,” he muses as he brings her back against his chest and rocks her, “it was only her thunderous barks which told me otherwise, isn’t that right, darling?” 

He makes a kissy noise at her and her fluffy tail wags wildly against him. You smile more genuinely. It is nice to have another living thing around after digging up the broken and dead for so long. 

“So you’re from New York?” He asks abruptly, his blue eyes rolling over you like a tide. 

“Yeah,” you utter breathily, “yes, New York.” 

“You’ve been here a while?” 

“Couple months,” you shift and twist your glove. 

“Wonderful, and you’ve done much exploring? You must live in town.” 

“About three hours,” you point towards the gravelly road, “haven’t had much time for sightseeing but I found a good fish shop.” 

“A shop? That’s no good. We catch our own fish, fry ‘em up over the pit,” he says, “that’s the way we do it up here.” 

You nod, “sounds fun. Well, er,” you turn halfway and look around, your eyes skimming up to the cloudy sky, “I should probably hustle. Looks like rain.” 

“That it does but it won’t be ‘til midnight,” he assures. 

“You think it’ll hold out?” 

“I know so,” he affirms and lingers by the fence, trying to see past you, “what exactly are you uncovering over there?” 

“Not much so far,” you pull on your loose glove. 

“You must know what this place was. A raider’s camp.” 

“Is that so?” 

“Mm, yes, the raiders would camp upon the pass away from those who might come ashore, then go off themselves to find a coast to reap,” he explains. 

“And how do you know all that?” You ask as you tramp back to your place in the dirt. 

“Suppose some of my ancestors camped here with them,” he offers casually, “for so long as we’ve been up here. Once the viking scamps settled, they had to find a home somewhere. Some fellow named Agmundr or another built a stone house further up.” 

“Admundr? Family?” You prompt. 

“Distant,” he assures, “been some time and that stone house is now a foundation.” 

You get down to your knees as you grab your brush and peek over at him, “thanks for the information. I’ll have to add it to the land report. Have them crosscheck in the archives.” 

“Not at all. You won’t find it all on your paper, you know? We carry or history on our tongues here.” 

“Sure,” you say as you bend over the spearhead and start again. 

“You don’t mind if I watch? I always did love history and I’ve never seen a proper dig before.” 

“Not much going on, I’m afraid,” you shrug, “but if you want.” 

“Thunder will have a tantrum if I go,” he chuckles, “she likes you.” 

“Hm,” you scoff, “she is very outspoken.” 

You set your eyes on your task but can’t shake the awareness of your audience. It’s not too unusual. There were a few digs you did early on in the heart of the city and people loved to ogle you. This is different. Just the two of you. A stranger even. Friendly as he is, you’re happy for the fence, even if it is rather flimsy. 

“Those bones aren’t for you,” he says to the dog as she wriggles in his grasp. “Let’s find a stick then, you little pest.” 

[jrswritings]

Tingles and Giggles - Chapter One - Tyler Owens x Reader

Chapter One - Nice Try, Owens

It was the end of the second tornado-chasing season for (Y/n) and the Storm Riders. A couple of years ago a local bar in Oklahoma named the Dust Devil Dive hosted a yearly celebration party for all the storm chasers to relax and share stories from the year's chases. 

Granted, most times it was just your team, a few from Storm Par, another smaller team named Atmosphere Aces, and the Tornado Wranglers. Thankfully when the owners, Kathy and Randy, threw this party they closed the place down to outsiders, which included all of the Tornado Wrangler fans. You and your team got tired of having their fans around constantly just because the leader, if you could call him that, was good-looking and charismatic enough to make any girl who looked at him melt. That man is Tyler Owens. 

While, yes, he is good-looking and a smooth talker, he was also reckless and annoying. There were numerous times you had watched him and Boone drive into the middle of a storm in that old red truck of his and put it in park to then shoot fireworks up into the tornado. You’d have to admit that his bravery and respect for the storm were admirable; driving into the middle of a tornado was not as admirable. 

You smirked to yourself while sitting at the bar while sipping your whiskey and diet coke thinking of all the crazy stunts the Tornado Wranglers have pulled. You turned your barstool slightly to watch the teams intermingle on the dance floor, forgetting about all the turbulence everyone had gone through the last few weeks. 

As Rodney Atkins played throughout the bar, you turned back to the bar and finished your drink hearing everyone sing along at the top of their lungs. 

“If you’re going through hell, keep on going, don’t slow down!” They all sang, “If you’re scared, don’t show it, you might get out ‘fore the devil even knows you’re there!” 

In the corner of your eye, you could see Tyler playing pool with Dexter while trying to teach Ben, a journalist from a city near London. You smirked while watching Ben try to use the cue to hit the white ball on the table which was basically lined up with the seven ball and one of the corner pockets. 

While he took his shot and missed horribly by barely hitting the white ball and almost falling onto the table, you couldn’t help but let out a laugh. That caused Tyler to look up from under his cowboy hat and make eye contact with you. 

For a man you didn’t necessarily enjoy talking with, he sure did something to your brain chemistry. You lifted your new drink and slightly tipped it toward him in a cheers manner. He did the same with his beer bottle, the two of you both took a drink and you turned back to the bar where the bartender was asking if you needed anything else. 

“I’m good, thanks,” you said, placing your glass back on its chintzy bar coaster. You took your phone out of your pocket and scrolled Facebook for a minute or two to catch up on your family's lives that you had been missing for the last few years while out storm chasing. 

“It’s hard for you, too, huh sweetheart?” A voice you knew instantly asked from beside you. 

You glanced over and saw Tyler sitting on the stool while putting his bottle on the bar to signal the bartender for another. 

“I wish I could go back more and- wait. Why am I telling you my sap story of not seeing my family for the last couple of years?” You laughed, putting your phone down and grabbing your drink. 

“Because I’m just another friendly face at the bar?” He said, looking over at you and smiling slightly. 

“I don’t know about friendly, but definitely another face,” you said, stirring your straw around. 

“Ouch, okay, (Y/n)’s in that type of mood tonight,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck. 

“I’m in no mood, Tyler,” you stated, “Just stating a fact.” 

“I see how it is,” he chuckled, “And to think I was talking to quite a beautiful face.” 

This statement took you back slightly, you were used to Tyler picking on you and calling you other things like your last name and calling you Salado, which is the town in Texas you’re from that’s about 45 minutes away from Waco, Texas. Salado is a quaint village with what you can call an artistic flair. While your parents were cattle farmers, you did your chores and spent time with a few favorite cows; you also liked going to the heart of the small town and enjoying the artists painting and sculpting in the parks and the numerous bands playing around the town in the little saloons. That’s where you fell in love with music and tried to pursue it as a second job aside from helping out on the farm as that was a full-time job. 

When that fell through, you moved up to Oklahoma to try storm chasing as you had always been in love with storms when you were little. Instead of hiding under the covers or running to your parents, you were at the big picture window in the living room watching the lightning and trees blowing in the wind. 

You were jolted from your thoughts by Tyler nudging your elbow with his. 

“Hmm?” You asked. 

“Dance with me?” He asked, standing up and holding his hand out to you. In the mirror behind the bar, you could see the teams paired up in couples to do their best slow dancing. 

You laughed slightly, “Nice try, Owens.” 

“Please? We’re the only ones not dancing right now,” he said, taking your hand off your glass and pulling you to the dance floor to the tune of ‘Made For You’ by Jake Owen. 

He didn’t give you much of a chance to say no as he pulled you to his chest, his right hand going to your waist and his left finding your hand. You sighed to yourself and put your left on his bicep, which was more muscular feeling than it looked. You figured as long as you were here, you might as well enjoy the dance since the last time you slow danced was with your dad at a friend's wedding. 

You weren’t sure if he was just that intoxicated or if he was fully coherent, but he was rubbing small circles with his thumb on your hip while you both swayed to the music. While your body relaxed you took a deep breath in, smelling the mix of leather, dried rain, an almost musky smell, and a hint of sweat. All of it combined made your heart swoon for this crazy cowboy. 

“Hey (L/n)?” He whispered in your ear, holding his head close to yours. 

“Yeah, Owens?” You whispered back. 

“Think maybe sometime I can take you out?”

You looked up at his blueish green eyes that looked down at you with the most sincere look. 

“Why?” You asked, giggling slightly, “Why would Tyler Owens want to go out with someone like me?”

“Because the girl I’m holding in my arms is the best woman I’ve met in my years of livin’,” he stated, pressing the bridge of his nose to the top of your head. 

“Yeah right, Tyler,” you said, sighing, “Everyone knows you got a thing for Kate.” 

“But she is nothing compared to you,” he said, pulling you closer slightly, “Call me crazy, but I fell in love with you when we first met and I knew I’d have to try and get closer to you somehow. I just hate that it’s taken me this long to finally say somethin.” 

“I guess I don’t believe you?” You said softly, taking in the scent you’ve grown to want more of.

“I mean it, sweetheart,” he said, “It might be, well, I know it’s the beer talkin’, but everything I’m sayin’ is true. You’re one of the smartest and most beautiful girls I’ve seen. And that’s sayin’ a lot since I’ve seen my fair share of gals.” 

“I can’t tell if that last part is an insult or a compliment,” you whispered, Tyler kissing the top of your head softly. 

“Always a compliment when it comes to you, baby girl,” he said, pulling away and twirling you as the song ended and ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ by Luke Combs started. 

You looked back up at him, his eyes looking back at you with happiness sewn in them.

“I suppose one wouldn’t hurt, just no YouTube star Tyler, got it?” You said, walking back to your seat at the bar. You could feel his eyes on you as you walked away. 

“Yes, ma’am,” he said, following you to the bar. 

“You should probably get back to your game of pool before Ben hurts someone,” you giggle, Tyler looking over and seeing Ben almost hit Boone in the gut with the end of the cue. 

“Good call, I’ll be back once we win,” he said while grabbing his beer. 

“If you win,” you state, taking a drink of your now watered-down whiskey coke. 

“Don’t test me, sweetheart,” he mumbled against your head, kissing it before walking back to Dexter and Ben. 

You shook your head and laughed softly. If the tornadoes you chased didn’t do anything to you, this cowboy definitely would. 

Want more? Here's Chapter Two! Masterlist :)

[hellenhighwater]

This may be a mildly weird question, and I apologize if it is, but do you have any advice for how to figure out if a person (specifically oneself) would be a good cat owner? I love cats, and a lot of my future dreams involve owning one (or several). However, I often worry that I wouldn't be a good cat owner. When I was a kid, I was often nervous/skittish around animals because I couldn't predict them and was afraid of getting scratched or bitten. I'm a lot better now than I used to be (will actively seek to interact with my friends' pets, have been trusted to look after peoples' dogs for short periods of time), a lot of my instinctive reactions to being startled by animals are still . . . not entirely helpful. (Not directly harmful! I would never! But stuff like freezing up or pulling away in such a way that it can give the wrong signal to animals.) Plus, I'm not always great at picking up cues/body language from people, and based on what I've read, that's about 75% of how animals communicate, so even during good interactions, I'm always a little worried that I'm doing something wrong because I'm missing some cue.

Again, I love cats and would very much like to have one or more someday. But I only want to do that if I can be sure that I'm going to be able to give any cats of mine a good life, and I don't want to get a cat only to have to rehome it a few months later. Any tips on how to handle all this?

Thanks so much for your time and, more generally, for the delight of seeing Malice and Vice (and the kittens!) periodically on my dash. Your posts about them always brighten my day. <3

It sounds like you'd be a good owner to the right cat, and that you may want to find someone who can help you pick that cat out when you're in a position to adopt one. If you're lucky, a local shelter or rescue may be able to help you with this. If you can, call ahead and explain that you're looking for your first cat, and would like some help finding that one; ask if there's a good time to come meet some cats where someone who knows the current cats well could maybe point you to one that might be right. Also, if a personality profile for a cat includes "good with kids," that probably means they're going to be tolerant of any mistakes you might make re: body language.

You should definitely look for an adult, at least six years old, maybe even a cat in the senior category (which, depending on how a shelter or rescue categorizes cats, can be any cat over the age of 10. Cats can live a long time, so 10 is really not that old.) Try to not get attached to specific looks and just go by personality.

Cats have a lot of personality variety, and there's tons of cats out there that are truly very friendly and cuddly, and really just need someone to meet their basic needs and shower them in affection. An adult cat that has lived with people before, or who was just a friendly stray is probably going to take it fine if you freeze up or pull back suddenly, and if they're old enough to have become chill, will just walk away if you're bugging them. Crucially, you do not want to try to take a difficult or traumatized cat as your very first one. Those cats need help, true, but you need to learn first.

You can learn a lot about body language for cats online, but mostly you learn it by exposure. Plus, cat body language can be very individual-specific, so it's fine to just learn over time what your cat is saying.

There's tons of cats that are just sweet-natured. A'Tuin, my momma foster, would make a great first cat for someone! She's not shy about coming up and asking for attention, and will even use her paws to pull my hand to her face for ear scratches. She's good with not using her claws, has never tried to nip or bite, and mostly just wants to be looked after and cuddled. And there's tons of cats like her out there.

[smoshyourheadin]

STOP you write for bob floyd? he’s my babygirl. could i request a first meeting w/him like on the beach or at the hard deck? 🩵

too sweet

pairing: robert bob floyd x f!reader

a/n: HIII RORYYY i love this requests and ofc!! bob is husband tbh!!!

the warm buzz of conversation and laughter filled the hard deck, the familiar navy bar that offered a haven for pilots and locals alike. you pushed open the door with your hip and stepped inside, immediately greeted by the scent of sea salt and the sound of clinking glasses that you’d become so familiar with, your mom being a pilot. it had been a long day, and you were looking forward to unwinding with a drink.

as you made your way to the bar, you spotted a group of pilots in their beige button ups, their pins and lapels proudly displaying their calls and their ranks. among them was a tall, handsome man with an easy smile and kind eyes, and glasses. just your type. he caught your gaze and, to your surprise, began making his way towards you after a few glances.

"floyd," he said reaching his hand out for you to shake, his voice warm and friendly, a twinge of something southern hidden in there. "bob floyd."

you couldn't help but smile back, taking his hand in a gentle shake, as you introduced yourself. “nice to meet you, bob.”

he pulled out a stool and sat down next to you, his presence instantly putting you at ease. the bartender, recognizing him, nodded and quickly prepared his drink of choice. bob turned his attention back to you, his eyes sparkling with interest.

"so, what’s a pretty girl like you doing here tonight?" he asked, leaning in slightly to hear you better over the noise.

you’re taken aback by how bold this innocent looking guy is. when you first saw him, he was sat quietly watching some of his crew mates play pool. that paired with his sleek hair and birth control glasses made you assume he’d be a bit more timid, but he was confident. not that you were complaining.

“i just needed a break,” you replied. “it's been a crazy week.”

he nodded, his expression understanding. "i get that. sometimes it's good to just unwind and enjoy the moment."

as the evening went on, you found yourself engrossed in conversation with him. he was not only charming and handsome but also incredibly polite and considerate. he listened attentively to everything you said, making you feel like the most important person in the room. you learnt about his role in the navy, his stories about flying as a WSO. he was fascinating, and he had a way of making you laugh with his quick wit and humor.

at one point, he noticed your drink was nearly empty and signaled the bartender for a refill. "this one's on me," he said with a grin. "consider it a thank you for the great company."

you felt a warmth spread through you that had nothing to do with the drink. "thank you, bob. you’re too sweet."

he shrugged modestly, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "just trying to be a gentleman."

as the night wore on, you found yourself wishing the evening wouldn't end. bob was everything you had hoped to find in a person: charming, handsome, polite, and all-around lovely. when it was finally time to leave, he walked you to the door, his hand gently resting on your back.

"can i see you again?" he asked, his eyes hopeful.

you smiled, feeling a flutter of excitement. "i'd like that, robby. i’d like that a lot.”

you scribbled your number down on an old receipt from your pocket, and passed it to him. you then pulled him down by the collar to give him a deep kiss, breaking away with a smile.

with a final, lingering look, he watched as you stepped out into the cool night air, a promise of more wonderful evenings together hanging in the air.

[51faces]

From Shadows to Shining Moments

Dreamcatcher's Kim Bora (SuA) x Female Reader

One late afternoon, sunlight filtered through the tall windows of Dreamcatcher's practice room, casting long shadows across the polished wooden floor. SuA sat alone on a bench, her gaze fixed on the mirror in front of her, but her mind was far from the routine practice she had been so dedicated to. The announcement from the company had come just hours ago: Siyeon, her best friend and cherished groupmate, was taking a hiatus due to severe stress and exhaustion.

The room was silent except for the faint hum of the air conditioning and the occasional distant sound of a passing car. SuA’s heart felt heavy with a mix of guilt and frustration. She had always considered herself to be in tune with her members' needs, but this time, the signs had eluded her. The pang of guilt settled in her chest like a stone. She replayed conversations and interactions in her mind, searching for clues she might have missed.

Her phone buzzed on the bench beside her, snapping her out of her thoughts. It was a message from the company, reminding her of the upcoming schedule changes due to Siyeon's absence. SuA sighed, her shoulders slumping. She felt like she was being crushed under the weight of responsibilities and emotions that she couldn’t seem to manage. 

With a sense of frustration, she stood up and paced the room. The usual energizing atmosphere of the studio now felt stifling, the walls pressing in on her as if they were closing in with every step. SuA needed a distraction, something to take her mind off the turmoil that was consuming her.

She grabbed her bag and decided to visit a local art supply store. Art had been her new sanctuary, a place where she could express emotions that words couldn’t quite capture. Maybe losing herself in the world of sketches and colors would offer some respite from the relentless anxiety she was feeling.

As she walked out of the studio and into the crisp evening air, SuA hoped that immersing herself in drawing might help her process her feelings. She found herself walking faster than usual, driven by an urgency to escape her own mind and the suffocating silence of the practice room. The art supply store was only a short drive away, but it felt like a journey toward a semblance of normalcy.

The store was a cozy haven, filled with shelves of colorful materials and bathed in the warm glow of overhead lights. The gentle instrumental music playing in the background added to the store’s serene atmosphere. The smell of fresh paper and paint hung in the air, offering a sense of calm.

SuA entered the store, the soft chime of the bell signaling her arrival. She paused for a moment to take in the comforting environment, hoping that the act of picking out new supplies would provide a temporary escape from the turmoil she felt over Siyeon’s hiatus.

She wandered through the aisles, her mind preoccupied. As she reached for a set of high-quality graphite pencils, she accidentally bumped into a display of sketchbooks. The resulting clatter drew the attention of Y/N, a young woman who was arranging some supplies behind the counter.

Y/N looked up from her work, her eyes bright with curiosity. “Oh, are you alright?” she asked, her voice warm and friendly. She moved toward SuA to assist, her smile never wavering.

SuA, slightly taken aback, glanced at Y/N with a mix of surprise and irritation. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just a bit clumsy,” she replied tersely, trying to brush off the incident.

Y/N, unfazed by SuA’s curt tone, continued to approach with a helpful demeanor. “No worries. If you need any recommendations or help finding something, just let me know. I’m Y/N, by the way.” she says pointing at her name tag

SuA gave a small, non-committal nod, her gaze returning to the pencils she had initially been interested in. “Just looking for some supplies,” she said, her voice lacking warmth.

Y/N’s cheerful persistence remained undiminished. “I can totally help with that! We have a great selection of sketchbooks and pencils. Are you working on a particular project or just stocking up?”

SuA, feeling a bit of her frustration softened despite herself, replied, “Just stocking up. It’s been a long day.”

Y/N picked up on the subtle hint of weariness in SuA’s voice. “I hear you. Art can be a good way to unwind, though. Sometimes it’s nice to just focus on creating and forget about everything else for a while.”

SuA glanced at Y/N, surprised by her genuine empathy. Despite the store’s calming atmosphere, she found it hard to fully relax. She continued to browse, trying to ignore the fact that Y/N’s friendly demeanor was starting to chip away at her emotional walls.

As Y/N continued to assist other customers, she made sure to periodically check on SuA, offering helpful tips and engaging in brief conversations about different art supplies. Though SuA tried to maintain her distance, Y/N’s unwavering kindness began to create a small, unexpected sense of comfort.

The interaction was brief but left a mark on SuA. The warmth of Y/N’s presence, though initially met with resistance, began to offer a glimmer of solace amidst her turbulent emotions.

The days had passed, each blending into the next, with moments of quiet reflection and subtle healing. The late afternoon sun now cast a serene glow over the art supply store, a stark contrast to the storm SuA had weathered. Y/N moved with practiced ease, arranging a fresh shipment of sketchbooks on the shelves, her movements rhythmic and calm.

As she placed the last sketchbook on the display, the soft chime of the doorbell broke the stillness of the store. Y/N glanced up, expecting another routine visit. Instead, she saw SuA standing in the doorway.

The warm light filtering through the windows caught on her tired features, highlighting the vulnerability that had become part of her recent days. Y/N’s heart ached at the sight, recognizing the depth of the struggle that lingered behind the idols weary eyes.

Y/N greeted her with a warm smile. “Hey, It’s nice to see you. Are you looking for more supplies today?”

SuA returned a faint, tired smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Yeah, just picking up a few things. I’ve got a lot going on right now.”

Noticing the strain in SuA’s voice and the weariness in her posture, Y/N gently extended her offer. “If you need any help finding something or just want to talk, I’m here. Sometimes, talking can be a good distraction.”

SuA hesitated, her eyes scanning the art supplies but not really focusing on them. Finally, she sighed deeply, a sound filled with heaviness. “Actually, I could use someone to talk to. It’s been… really tough lately.”

Y/N led SuA to a quieter corner of the store, away from the usual traffic. As they stood by a shelf lined with art materials, Y/N spoke softly, “I’m here to listen. What’s been going on?”

SuA’s composure began to crack as she spoke, her voice trembling. “My friend, is taking a break from work. She’s been struggling with stress and exhaustion, and it’s been taking a toll on me, I feel like I’ve failed her. I should have been more aware, more supportive.”

Y/N listened with empathy, her heart aching for SuA. “It sounds like you’re carrying a lot of responsibility. It’s hard when you feel like you haven’t done enough for someone you care about.”

SuA’s eyes filled with tears as she continued, her voice breaking. “I’ve always been the mood maker at my job, the one who lifts everyone’s spirits. I feel like I’m supposed to be strong and keep everyone positive, but now… now I’m the one who feels like I’m falling apart. It makes me feel like I’ve lost my value as a person. If I can’t even support my friend when she needs me the most, then what good am I?”

Her voice trembled with raw emotion, and Y/N gently placed a comforting hand on her arm. “You’ve been doing your best, and that’s all anyone can ask for. Sometimes, even when we try hard to help, we can’t control everything. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to admit that you’re struggling.”

SuA looked at Y/N, her face a mixture of sadness and relief. “I feel so guilty for not being able to handle everything. I’ve always been the one everyone relies on, It’s hard to accept that I can’t always be the strong one.”

Y/N’s voice was soft but reassuring. “It’s important to remember that you’re human, too. You have limits, and it’s okay to acknowledge that. Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean you’re failing anyone. It means you’re being honest about what you can handle.”

SuA’s tears finally spilled over, and she wiped them away with the back of her hand. “Thank you for listening. I didn’t expect to break down like this, especially not to someone I barely know. But it helps to have someone who’s willing to listen and understand.”

Y/N smiled gently, her eyes full of understanding. “Sometimes, just sharing what you’re going through can make a huge difference. I’m glad I could be here for you. If you ever need to talk more or just need a distraction, don’t hesitate to come by.”

As Y/N rang up SuA’s supplies, the atmosphere between them felt lighter, though SuA still carried the weight of her struggles. SuA offered a small, appreciative smile. “Thanks, Y/N. I really needed this. It feels like a weight has been lifted, even if just a little. I'm SuA by the way, I should have mentioned it sooner, I'm also an idol”

Y/N chuckles, "Ah that's why you look so familiar, I've probably seen you on TV or something, Thank you for trusting me with that information."

She watched SuA leave, feeling a deep sense of fulfillment. The connection they had made, even in such a brief encounter, was significant. Y/N was glad to have offered some comfort and understanding during SuA’s difficult time.

A few weeks had passed since SuA’s last visit to the art supply store. The rain had been replaced by crisp autumn air, and the store had a fresh, vibrant feel with seasonal displays. Y/N was busy arranging new canvases when the doorbell chimed, signaling SuA’s arrival.

Y/N looked up and smiled warmly. “Hey, SuA! It’s good to see you again. How have you been?”

SuA returned the smile, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Hi, Y/N. I’ve been okay. Just… trying to manage. I came by for some more supplies and, well, I guess I could use a bit of company.”

Y/N guided SuA to the art supplies, noting the tiredness in her eyes and the way her shoulders seemed to carry a heavy burden. “Of course. Feel free to take your time. If you want to talk, I’m here.”

As they walked through the aisles, SuA seemed to be seeking a moment of normalcy amidst her ongoing struggles. Y/N watched her with concern, sensing that SuA was wrestling with something deeper.

SuA finally picked out a few items, her hands lingering on a set of pastels. “I’ve been performing and doing interviews without Siyeon, and it’s been really hard. It feels like a part of me is missing.”

Y/N listened intently, giving SuA the space to share her feelings. “I can imagine how difficult that must be. Siyeon must have been such an important part of your performances and interviews. How are you managing without her?”

SuA’s gaze was distant as she spoke. “It’s not just the performances or interviews; it’s the little things too. The inside jokes, the shared glances that we used to have. It’s like a void that nothing can fill. When we’re on stage or in interviews, it feels like a piece of me is left behind.”

Y/N nodded, trying to empathize with SuA’s experience. “It must be incredibly tough to navigate those moments without her support. It’s hard when someone who understands you so well isn’t there by your side.”

SuA sighed deeply, her frustration evident. “I feel like I’m constantly putting on a brave face, but it’s exhausting. The fans expect us to be the same as always, but behind the scenes, it feels like everything is falling apart. I’m trying to hold it together, but it’s hard to ignore the emptiness.”

Y/N reached out, placing a reassuring hand on SuA’s arm. “It’s okay to acknowledge that it’s hard. You don’t have to be perfect all the time, and it’s understandable to feel a sense of loss when someone so important isn’t there.”

SuA’s eyes welled up with tears, her vulnerability surfacing. “I’ve been trying to stay strong for the group and for the fans, but inside, I’m struggling. I miss the comfort and support that Siyeon brought into my life. It’s like I’m performing half of myself.”

Y/N gave SuA a comforting smile. “It’s important to take care of yourself too. It’s okay to grieve the changes and feel the loss. Your emotions are valid, and expressing them is a great start to heal.”

SuA’s shoulders relaxed slightly as she absorbed Y/N’s words. “Thank you for understanding. It’s hard to find someone who really listens and gets what I’m going through. Talking with you helps me see that I’m not alone in this.”

Y/N’s voice was gentle but encouraging. “I’m glad I can be here for you. My door will always be open, feel free to come by. You don’t have to face this alone.”

SuA nodded, her expression softening. “I really appreciate your support. It means more than you know.”

As SuA prepared to leave, Y/N felt a renewed sense of connection. The bond they had forged was deeper, and Y/N was grateful for the opportunity to offer comfort and understanding during SuA’s challenging time.

With a final smile and a promise to stay in touch, SuA left the store, feeling a bit lighter. Y/N watched her go, hoping that their conversation had made a meaningful difference.

Raindrops beat steadily against the window, creating a soothing rhythm that contrasted with the warmth inside the store. SuA stepped in, her rain-drenched coat clinging to her, and the gentle jingle of the doorbell marked her arrival. Y/N glanced up from behind the counter, her eyes lighting up at the sight of SuA.

“Hi, SuA,” Y/N greeted with a smile. “It’s really coming down out there. What brings you in today?”

SuA attempted to sound casual, though the anxiety in her voice betrayed her. “Just needed to pick up some art supplies. I’ve run low on a few things and thought I’d get them now.”

Y/N nodded, setting aside her tasks to help. “Sure thing. Let me get that for you.”

As Y/N gathered the requested items, SuA watched the rain streaming down the window, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination. She wasn’t really here for the supplies; she was here to see Y/N. The past few conversations they had made SuA realize just how much she had come to rely on their interactions for comfort and distraction from her mounting stress.

Once Y/N had prepared the supplies, she offered, “We still have some time before closing. How about a cup of tea? It’s been a quiet day, and it might be nice to relax for a bit.”

SuA smiled faintly, feeling a flicker of hope. “I’d like that. Thank you.”

They moved to the small kitchenette, the aroma of brewing tea mingling with the sound of rain. As they sat together, the warm tea in their hands, SuA felt a rising tide of emotions. The cozy ambiance of the store was a stark contrast to the turmoil she was feeling inside.

“You know,” SuA began hesitantly, “I’ve been feeling a lot of things lately, and talking with you has become one of the few things that helps me deal with everything.”

Y/N’s eyes softened. “I’m glad to hear that. Sometimes just having someone to talk to makes a big difference.”

SuA took a deep breath, her heart pounding. “It’s more than just talking. I didn’t realize how much I’d come to look forward to our time together. It’s been comforting, but it’s also made me realize something more...”

Y/N leaned in, her heart racing as she hoped that SuA's words would reveal something she had been longing to hear. “What is it?” she asked softly, her voice tinged with a mixture of anticipation and hope.

SuA’s voice wavered, and she looked away, unable to find the right words. “I... I don’t know how to say this. I’m normally good at expressing my feelings, but when it comes to you, it’s different. I’ve been feeling something more, but I can’t...”

Before she could finish, SuA felt overwhelmed. Her emotions were swirling, and she felt like she was on the verge of breaking down. She stood abruptly, her chair scraping against the floor. “I’m sorry. I can’t do this right now.”

With that, she hurried out of the store, the rain soaking her through as she dashed into the stormy night. Y/N was left standing in the kitchenette, her heart racing and her mind reeling from the abrupt end to their conversation.

As Y/N prepared to close up the shop, she noticed the rain outside had intensified. She was finishing up her tasks when she heard a knock at the door. She opened it to find SuA, drenched and holding her art book. The sight was both surprising and heart-wrenching.

“SuA?” Y/N called out, her concern evident. “What are you doing here?”

SuA, shivering from the cold and wet, stepped inside. “I had to come back,” she said, her voice trembling. “I’ve been thinking about what I wanted to say, and I realized I needed to be honest.”

Y/N led her to the counter, quickly grabbing a towel to help dry her off. SuA took a deep breath, her emotions laid bare.

“I’m usually good at talking to people,” SuA began, her voice steadying. “But with you, it’s different. I didn’t want to admit it, but I’ve been struggling with how to express my feelings. I think I’ve developed feelings for you—feelings that go beyond just friendship.”

She opened her art book, revealing a sketch she had made earlier. It was a drawing of the two of them, their figures intertwined with delicate lines and soft shades, a visual representation of the bond she felt.

“This drawing,” SuA said softly, “is my way of showing how much you mean to me. It’s not just about the art. It’s about how you’ve come to occupy such a special place in my life, and how much I care about you.”

Y/N looked at the drawing, her heart swelling with emotion. “SuA, this is beautiful. I’m really touched.”

SuA took Y/N’s hand in hers, her eyes filled with sincerity. “I know it’s been confusing, we've only talked a handful of times but I wanted you to know how much you’ve come to mean to me. I hope we can find a way to navigate this together.”

Y/N smiled, her own feelings mirroring SuA’s. “I’m glad you came back and shared this with me because, I feel the same about you.

Y/N and SuA walked side by side, their hands brushing gently against each other as they left the store. The rain poured down heavily, soaking their clothes and making their skin cling to the fabric. Yet, despite the chill of the downpour, they felt warm inside, comforted by the closeness they shared and the warmth in their hearts.

The lights dimmed, and the roar of the crowd surged like a wave. As the opening notes of their first song filled the venue, SuA stood center stage, her heart pounding with exhilaration. The moment was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of perseverance, friendship, and a return to something deeply cherished. Siyeon had finally returned.

SuA’s movements were filled with a vibrant energy, her passion shining through every step. Her smile was radiant, and her voice carried the strength of someone who had overcome obstacles and rediscovered her joy in performing. The stage lights illuminated her with a warm glow, and the connection she shared with the other members was palpable.

In the front row, Y/N watched with a mixture of pride and awe. As SuA danced and sang with renewed vigor, Y/N’s eyes sparkled with admiration and her heart swelled seeing SuA so alive on stage. The bond they had forged was significant, though the nature of their relationship remained somewhat veiled.

As the concert reached its peak, SuA’s gaze swept over the crowd. Amidst the sea of fans, her eyes caught sight of a poster being held up. The poster depicted an intricate, beautifully detailed drawing of the seven Dreamcatcher members, capturing their essence and the vibrant energy of the group. The drawing was stunning, and SuA was struck by the familiarity of the style.

She followed the line of the poster to its source, and a smile slowly spread across her face as she recognized the person holding it. There, in the front row, stood Y/N, holding the poster proudly. The drawing was Y/N’s work, a testament to their shared journey and a visual echo of the connection they had.

During a brief pause in the performance, SuA’s eyes met Y/N’s across the crowd. The recognition and silent communication between them spoke volumes but remained subtle and open to interpretation. SuA’s smile widened, and a wave of emotion surged through her. The support and love from Y/N had been a constant source of strength, though the nature of their relationship was left to the imagination of the audience.

As the adrenaline of the concert faded, the energy backstage remained electric. Amid the buzz, SuA and Y/N found themselves tucked away in a quiet corner. The distant hum of staff moving equipment and fans screaming from outside the venue created a backdrop to their own world, one where everything else melted away.

SuA’s eyes locked onto Y/N's, her gaze soft but filled with an intensity that sent Y/N's heart racing. There was a tenderness there, but also something deeper—an affection that had grown over the weeks they spent together, a longing neither of them had dared to voice aloud. SuA’s lips parted slightly as if she were about to say something, but the words caught in her throat. Instead, she simply smiled, the kind of smile that could break a thousand hearts.

"I can't wait any longer," SuA murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, almost drowned out by the distant sounds of the post-concert chaos.

Y/N’s breath hitched, unsure whether SuA’s words were meant for her to hear. But before she could respond, SuA took a step closer, closing the already minimal distance between them. The next thing Y/N knew, SuA leaned in, her warm breath brushing against Y/N's skin. And then, their lips met.

It was a soft, tentative kiss at first, both of them testing the waters, as if asking for permission without words. But as the seconds passed, the kiss deepened, becoming a sweet, heartfelt affirmation of everything they had shared—every late-night conversation, every stolen glance, every moment they had secretly cherished.

The world seemed to fall away entirely, leaving only the two of them wrapped in the glow of this long-awaited moment. SuA’s hand gently cupped Y/N's face, her thumb brushing softly against her cheek. Y/N responded, her fingers curling into the fabric of SuA’s jacket, pulling her just a little closer.

But just as they pulled apart, breathless and wide-eyed from the kiss, the door to the backstage room swung open with a loud creak.

"Oh," a voice gasped.

Both of them whipped their heads around, startled, to find the rest of Dreamcatcher standing frozen in the doorway. JiU was the first to react, her eyes widening comically as she took in the sight of SuA and Y/N standing so close, their faces still flushed from the kiss. Siyeon blinked, visibly confused, while Handong’s gaze shifted back and forth between SuA and Y/N, trying to process the scene. Gahyun’s jaw dropped open, and Yoohyeon exchanged a wide-eyed look with Dami.

“Uh… what’s happening here?” Yoohyeon finally blurted out, breaking the stunned silence, her voice filled with disbelief and curiosity.

SuA’s face turned crimson, her embarrassment as palpable as the tension hanging in the air. But beneath the blush was a flicker of resolve. She inhaled sharply, steeling herself for what was about to come.

"This isn’t how I planned to tell you all,” she began, her voice trembling slightly but growing stronger with every word, “but since you’re here…”

Y/N's heart pounded in her chest. She shot SuA a glance, silently asking if she was sure. SuA gave a small, reassuring nod before turning back to her bandmates.

"Everyone,” she said, her voice clear and firm now, “I’d like you to meet Y/N. She’s... she’s my girlfriend."

The room fell into a momentary silence as the members absorbed the information. JiU was the first to break it, her surprise melting into a wide grin. “SuA, seriously? You’ve had a girlfriend this whole time, and you didn’t tell us?” She let out a playful huff but then immediately stepped forward to embrace SuA. “I’m so happy for you.”

Siyeon, recovering from her shock, smirked. “You’re sneaky, SuA. I didn’t think you could keep a secret like this.” She crossed her arms but the warmth in her eyes was unmistakable. “But if Y/N makes you happy, that’s all that matters.”

Handong stepped closer, her smile soft and genuine. “It’s nice to meet you, Y/N,” she said warmly. “We’re happy for both of you.”

Gahyun, still a little dazed, finally spoke up, her voice full of excitement. “This is amazing! I had no idea, but… you two are so cute together!” She giggled, her joy contagious.

Yoohyeon grinned widely, nudging SuA with her elbow. “You really surprised us! But to be fair I kind of had an idea you had someone”

Dami, who had been quietly observing, gave Y/N a small, genuine smile. She stepped forward and extended her hand. “Hi, Y/N. I’m Dami. Welcome to our little family.”

Y/N smiled shyly, shaking her hand, appreciating the warmth in Dami's gesture. “Thank you… it's really nice to meet all of you.”

The group exchanged supportive glances before JiU spoke again, her tone serious yet gentle. “SuA, this is your life. Whether you want to keep this between us or tell the world, we’ll stand by you. You don’t have to decide now, but just know we’ve got your back no matter what.”

SuA’s eyes glossed over with emotion as she took in her members’ words, the overwhelming sense of support filling her heart. “Thank you… all of you,” she whispered, her voice thick with gratitude. She turned to Y/N, her hand squeezing hers tightly. “I don’t know what I want yet, but it means the world to me to know that whatever I decide, you’re all here.”

Siyeon stepped forward, placing a hand on SuA’s shoulder. “We’re your family. And Y/N’s part of that family now too. Whatever you choose, we’ll help you through it.”

Y/N, touched by the girls' support, smiled shyly. “Thank you… really. I wasn’t sure how this would go, but… I’m so glad you’re all okay with it.”

Gahyun beamed, practically bouncing on her toes. “Okay with it? We’re excited! You’re one of us now, Y/N.”

Handong laughed softly. “No pressure though. Just take your time.”

SuA chuckled, the tension finally melting away completely. She turned to Y/N with a loving gaze, her heart swelling with warmth. “I don’t know what the future holds,” SuA whispered, her eyes never leaving Y/N’s. “But whatever happens, I’m glad we’re in this together.”

Y/N smiled, her eyes reflecting the depth of her feelings. “I’m excited for whatever comes next.

Later that evening, as they walked back to their cars, SuA paused and took Y/N’s hand in hers, gazing up at the starlit sky. “No matter where we go from here, we’ve made it through so much together,” SuA said softly. “And that gives me so much hope for the future.”

Y/N squeezed SuA’s hand, her heart brimming with love and hope. “I feel the same way,” she replied, her voice filled with warmth. “I’ve never felt so supported and understood. Thank you for letting me be a part of your world.”

SuA smiled, her eyes shining with a mix of relief and affection. “I want to thank you too, Y/N. When we first met, you were my comfort when I needed it most. Your kindness and understanding helped me through some of my toughest moments. I’ll always be grateful for that.”

Y/N’s heart swelled at SuA’s words. “I’m just glad I could be there for you. You’ve given me so much in return—love, friendship, and a place where I truly belong.”

SuA leaned in, resting her forehead against Y/N’s. “We’ve come so far together,” she murmured. “And whatever comes next, we’ll face it together, with the same strength and love that got us here.”

Y/N nodded, her eyes closing as she savored the closeness. “Together,” she agreed softly.

The sound of distant laughter and the soft hum of the city around them created a comforting backdrop as SuA and Y/N stood in their own little bubble of happiness. The challenges and uncertainties of the future seemed distant and manageable, overshadowed by the love and support that surrounded them.

As they finally parted, a sense of peace settled between them. They both knew that no matter how the world changed, their bond would remain a source of strength and joy. 

With their hearts intertwined SuA and Y/N walked towards their future with confidence and hope. The night air was crisp and refreshing, a promise of new beginnings and endless possibilities.

As they approached their car, SuA turned to Y/N, a playful smile on her lips. “So, how about we celebrate tonight? We can get some food, just the two of us.”

Y/N laughed, the sound full of happiness and anticipation. “That sounds perfect. I’d love that.”

With their hands clasped together, they headed off into the night, ready to embrace the next chapter of their lives with each other by their side. The future was uncertain, but they faced it with a heart full of love and a sense of belonging that made every challenge seem conquerable.

[stemmmm]

how do you bike safely? i'd love to bike places but im so afraid of getting run over (american here)

(also american) unfortunately the best answer I can give you is that you need to live in a city that actually has good bike infrastructure 😭 and that's not something that's typically a choice people can make!!

In terms of things you can do to be safer, they're all pretty universally agreed upon so I'm sure you could find any bike resource or youtuber who can explain this all better than me, BUT...

Most importantly: Gauge your personal comfort with taking risks. I know from experience that if you aren't confident on the road, you aren't going to do well there. There is no such thing as being completely safe on a bike, but in that vein, you're also never completely safe from other drivers in your own car either.

Know your area and how bike friendly it is, know your local road laws. You are classified as a slow moving vehicle, you are legally allowed to be on the street.

Equip your bike with front and rear lights--preferably ones that flash, wear hi-vis, take up space, and make yourself visible. The safest biker is one that everyone knows is there. Also, learn hand signals to communicate with people on the road. Always move predictably.

Find routes that avoid cars. This can mean knowing where there are bike lanes or knowing quiet neighborhoods that you can take alternate routes through to avoid main roads.

Always be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you can look over your shoulders and use hand signals without swerving or losing control.

If you don't bike much, try leisure riding to get more practice. Join bike clubs and participate in group rides! These can be particularly good for road riding practice, as it's pretty common for groups to take to the road and there's safety in numbers.

I don't have resources to dig into on hand, as everything I know about biking was taught to me by my wife, but I highly recommend watching videos of what others do while road riding to emulate if you ever do try it. I hope... this information is helpful.

[sketchfanda]

Kirishima’s Mystique: Fun Times of the Chivalrous Stud Red Riot: Sexercise

It was another typical sort of day at the local Pinnacle of Physique gym, the sounds grunts and groans as iron was being pumped and man and woman alike, be they civilian or pro hero or students in training to become the latter. This fine establishment was noted not only for the top of the line quality services on offer for the Quirked and Quirkless alike to help keep in shape and maintain peak physical condition but was also, aesthetic wise, famed for its eye candy. Man and woman alike could enjoy not only great views of the city but thy could also relax during their workouts to enjoy patron and staff member alike as they worked out. Whether it was the power lifters and bodybuilders going at it with feats of strength with the weights, the yoga class enhancing their flexibility or really just the sight of a hot body in some very generous gym wear, this was the place to be. But don't go thinking that meant you could be a damn horn dog or anything, just ask one Minoru Mineta who got himself a lifetime ban trying to show off his boner. But for one Eijiro Kirishima, codename Chivalrous Sturdy Hero: Red Riot, the eye candy was something he was trying to not let get to him as he was currently focusing on doing the bench press. Currently on 20 reps and counting as he was fortunate the angle and position he was at kept his eyes from wandering. It's not that he didn't love or enjoy the sight of a nice pretty sexy lady in some tight spandex. Oh no, if anything it was all too easy for is eyes to wander and see something or someone that'd get his blood rushing to his little Riot. Especially given Mina and Maya were no doubt within range of his field of vision, wearing something so skin tight that it would seem painted on and moving in ways that were akin to a wild bitch in heat courting her mate for his sexual attention. But the main reason especially he was trying to focus...

??:"Hey now handsome, if you're feeling the burn let me know, I'm here as your spotter for a reason..."*A mature, sensual voice spoke up, breaking his train of thought as he shook his head, Signalling he was just fine as he was halfway up to 50 reps at this level of weight. The last thing he needed was to tilted his head and look anywhere up at the speaker, knowing he'd be treat to a silky set of white furry and black spotted hips and thighs on part with Mina's own healthy pair of legs or a pornographic bombshell body on par with Maya's. That's the because the moment he did, his gym shorts would be pitching a tent that'd be way too easy for her to notice,*

Kirishima:*thinking to himself,gritting his teeth as he continued his benchpress lifts,every rep bringing him closer to 50.*'Then again, who wouldn't get turned on looking at this woman..Midnight-sensei would call her a work of art. Starting to wonder if Mina and Maya got me this trial membership just to even meet her...'*pausing his self musing as he looked simply at the canine face of the furry woman serving as his personal training instructor. Her gentle ble eyes behind a snazzy set of green shades,a playful smile on her muzzle as the slight gleamed on her stunning body which was covered from head to toe in silky white fur with black spots.*

'Dal, Quirk:Canine!! A born heteromorph, Dal's quirk has seen her born with traits and qualities of a dog, in this case causing her to bare the resemblance of a humanoid Dalmation, hence her white spotted fur. In addition to sharper senses, Dal also enjoys above average speed and strength, making a comfy living as a fitness and workout instructor at the PoP Gym. Her exotic appearance especially makes her popular among the "furry fandom community" in addition to her firm but friendly manner of providing guidance and helping out patrons. Many a guy and some girl have cited her as jumpstarting their puberty on more than one occassion.'

Dal:"Annnnd 50, there we go tough guy.."*the canine fitness instructor playfully quipped, spotting Kirishima as she took the weight bar out and off from his grasp, hanging it back on its rack hold. Walking around to stand in front of the guture pro hero in training as he sat up to towel off his sweat from himself and from the equipment. Missing the mischievous twinkle in her eyes behind her jade emerald shades and the mix-like smile on her muzzled face as she took in the sight of his glistening,pulsing muscles. Looking over to Mina and Maya a few feet away as they shot her winks,smiles and thumbs. Time to make her move..*"Nicely done there Red,new personal best record."

Kirishima:*blushed at Dal’s modest but enthusiastic praise. Doing his best not to stare at her too much,he didn’t want to be rude after all. Seeing Mina among the crowd of exercising patrons as she shot him a wink and blew a kiss his way. Maya doing the same as she wore her quirkless look to play more low key while she hung out with and spotted her best friend Mona,who was visiting from Jagua on summer break.*”W-well you know how it is. I had a good trainer and got to live up to our school’s motto you know?”*he humbly responded with modesty, granted Dal reall knew how to boost his sense of self esteem and confidence. She rather reminded him of Mina and Maya in a way as the Dalmatian babe giggled, her tone playful and friendly.*

Dal:”Hey now don’t sell yourself short there Red,you’re a natural at this. Keep at it ad you’ll be setting and breaking records at this gym in no time. Matter of fact, I think you earned yourself a reward perk..” *the personal trainer quipped as she winked at him behind her shades. Giggling at the cute look of confusion and puzzlement on his face as he was no doubt wondering what she meant by that.*

Kirishima:”Uhm sure okay if you say so. Let’s see what you got…” *the delinquent looking hero in training responded, Dal gently taking his hand as she lead him off and way to a different wing of the gym. The sturdy chivalrous dude missing the looks and mischievous twinkling gleams in the eyes of the canine hottie and his girlfriend duo. He’d fallen for the bait, hook,line and hot damn sexy sinker.*

Eijiro didn’t realise the trap he was being lead to fall into of course as he followed Dal into another section of the PoP gym. This wing a corridor with rooms on either side. Doing his best and failing t not stare at the canine hottie’s backside. That tight aquamarine sea foam blue spandex one piece really hugging her torso in all the right ways. Th spotted furred babe had curves and meat in all the right places,her muscles flexing thanks especially to the bodybuilding and power lifting she’d taken up which was especially noticeable in her arms. But hot damn was her back hypnotic, her hips swaying and her furry tailed booty jiggling as sh sashayed. Missing the sensual expression she wore as she licked her lips at seeming him ogling her. No doubt mentally undressing her with his red eyes while she was glad the privacy function of the secret personal training rooms’ two way mirrors ensured her surprise wouldn’t be spoiled. A sigh of relief as they came to one such room,unoccupied as she brought hip him inside. Letting him take in the setup and decor as well as the five of the city outside. All the while she shut and locked the door and reached down into her leg warmer to fish out a cellphone. Accessing a certain pair of contact numbers as she prepped the video record and stream function and placed it in a spot and angle that would ensure no details would be missed before she put on a calm professional face and awaited him to start with the questions.

Kirishima:*as he looked around the room and enjoyed the view. Dal coming up behind as he spoke up.*"So what's this room for? Private workout for VIP members or something?"

Dal:*sensually licked her muzzle lips as she got his attention,gently cupping and turning his face to one of the two way mirror walls. As she walked over to a light switch,fingertip resting on the button.* "Oh something like that,private certainly and for a select few members only..."

A press and flick of the switch and Eijiro dropped his jaw,eyes bugging out as his face blushed a shade that matched his hair as the two way mirror wall revealed a sight of what was going on in the room next door. A pretty sexy thing naked save for her one piece gym leotard which had been shifted to expose her crotch and her tits as a behemoth bodybuilder was fucking her from behind. Grasping and using her arms like handlebars as she was clearly enjoying it, her tits swaying and bouncing without a care in the world as she got manhandled roughly, a female instructor standing by a few inches from them counting reps and providing guidance. Kirishima could only shake his head as he immediately forced his brain to focus on trying,and fail, to keep the blood from rushing down to his crotch. Just about ready to damn well punch and hammer himself in the groin as Dal laughed good naturedly, flicking the switch back on to bring the two way mirror back on to reflecting themselves as she ended his misery of unintented voyeurism. Taking a little guilty pleasure in the indignant look of betrayal she found him sending her way before she got around to giving him a due,fair explanation to what the hell he just saw and what exactly was going on or about to happen here in this very room with the two of them.

Dal:*her expression now one of not just playful friendliness but also seductive allure as she looked at the young gun with lust behind her shades. Casually hooking her thumbs on the strands of her leotard as she peeled off the spandex one piece and exposed her naked, furry form before him, save for her sneakers,wristbands and leg warmers. Her toned muscular bombshell self making her way over to him, giggling at his gobsmacked expression snd his eyes couldn’t look away from her bouncing tits.*”This is our specialty Sexercise wing, an exclusive little Rated R bonus for certain members in our gym. Three guesses whose idea this was, it’s a proven fact this keeps you in shape and helps with stress. And a certain pair of lovely,lucky ladies in your life knee YOU just had to try this out when they signed you up for the trial membership. So how about it Red? Want to show me what it means to get “Plus Ultra”? Show me you’re as much a riot in the sheets as well as on the streets?”

Kirishima:*in silent awe as he comprehended what Dal told him while having to see her get naked before him. Seeing her kick off her sneakers as she was soon right uo close and personal with him,peeling off his tanktop and throwing it aside. Unable to look away as the Dalmatian babe purred and moaned,striking some bodybuilder poses, showing off the stunning physique she’d been born with and enhanced with meticulous weight hauling and power lifting. Before she was soon pressing herself against him,the height difference between them hardly s few inches,give or take a foot. Her silky furry tits pressed and rubbing up against his pecs as sh caressed his face. Once again his kinky,loving ladies sprung another surprise on him snd who was he,as a Man, if not to bilge this stunning physical work of art before him. Determination burning in his eyes as as he cupped her muzzled face.* “Ms.Dal, Ma’am? Let’s get physical!!”

Soon as he said that remark,he pressed his lips to hers, her lovely blue eyes widening before she smiled and moaned with delight at the young buck seizing initiative. Retuning the kiss as their tongues pressed and mashed together, mutually inviting exploration of one another’s mouths. Dal shuddering as she felt and traced the sharp points of those shark like teeth, sensually panting as she felt her body go into heat just from the raw alpha male energy coming off this absolute unit in the making. A deep throated moan escaping her muzzled lips as his hands took a firm grasp and squeeze of her luscious furry booty. Making the canine fitness babe purr as her hands massaged down along his physique, feeling those firm sculpted muscles before she grasped the waistband of his shorts and boxers. Tugging them down and letting them fall down along his sculpted legs, gasping as she felt his cock sprung forth. The twitching,pulsing length and girth sandwiching itself between her powerful thighs and her slit. Warm, sticky nectar flowing along down on thst shaft as she pumped and stroked it, her silky spotted fur adding a little extra luxury to this reflexive thighjob. The gym trainer and the young future pro hero letting their passion take them along this momentum of desire flowing between them….

Dal:”An push it handsome..that’s it, just the right level of speed there…aaahn fuck you’re in deep,Red. 32,33…show me how many reps you can go before you cum…”*the fitness hottie quivered as she and Kirishima performed a standing fuck. His cock pumping away with the precious of a piston, his heavy balls smacking her jiggling asscheeks,her tail wagging with delight. A growing puddle of her juices on the gym mat as Kirishima held up one of her legs in a standing splits,hooked around his strong shoulder while their tongues danced together in the open air. Teal howing with delight as the sturdy hero in training hoisted her up into a a reverse full nelson, makin her howl as he increased the intensity of his pace,almost making her lose count.*

Kirishima:”Fuck ma’am…so tight…42,43,44,45…”*the punk delaiuint himbo groaned and shuddered as he laid on the floor,Dal performing squats as she rode and plunged with abandon onto his cock,making him count her reps to see how high she could get before he would blow his load. Arms behind her head as she flexed her wonderful biceps and ground her abs,making stomach crunches a she panted erotically at how deep the reach of his cock was.*

Dal:”Aaahn yeah push it baby,go Plus Ultra on this ass!! 51,52,..aaahn fuck,53545556…”*The Dalmatian sex bomb howled,having to count at a rapid pace as Kirishima fucked her doggy style. His cock switchung between fucking her pussy and ass as she kept track of his reps,wondering which one he’d cum inside of first. Panting like the bitch in heat she’d become as her upper torso laid at an angle akin to yoga’s downward dog. Her tits rubbing against the floor as her ass jiggled with every impact of the young stud’s pelvis.*

Kirishima:”71,72,…so damn good…hot and tight…”*the chivalrous studmumbled as he held Dal’s legs by the ankles as she bowled with rapture and erotic ecstasy as she was in a spread eagle. Before her delight increased as the plus ultra himbo shifted it into a mating press. Laying atop her as her tits pressed snd rubbed against his pecs,welcoming his lips with a passionate kiss as he fucked her deeper,hard snd faster. The gym mat stained with their sweat and juices as the walls and ceiling of the room echoed with the sounds of lust and the smacks of skin slapping fur.*

the Dalmation babe and the sturdy himbo went at their Sexercise session with gusto, shifting positions and sharing who took top or bottom though Dal personally relished when Kirishima was on top. Seated lotus,prone bone, missionary, not a single postion was being left out as they pushed one another to new limits and heights. Dal especially found thstat even when her young stud seemed like he’d be spent and need to recover,he’d focus his quirk to enhance his stamina and staying power, staying hard for a little while longer. Which proved to be a welcome challenge as she and Kirishima laid in a 69 position. Her young stud beneath her as she found her ass grasped and spread,his face pressed to her crotch as he rimmed her and ate her out. Those lovely teeth of his grazing her netherlips as his tongue probed away while she stroked and gave his cock a lusty,sloppy blowjob. Even using her titties for good measure as her emerald shades were askew. Lips kissing the tip as she shot a wink at the phone of her camera signalling to her voyeuristic viewer that the session was going even better than expected and she hoped they were enjoying the show…..

Maya:*grinning like the minx she was,one hand idly pumping a barbell as the other held her phone. Showing the screen off to her sexy,cute bestie Mona, who was blushing adorably as she couldn’t turn and look away from the secret porn stream. Mina leaning on Maya casually as she wore a cheeky grin of her own at the freckled dusky skinned hottie’s reactions.*”What do you think Mona baby? You interested?”

Mina:*her grin growing as she leaned towards Mona,gently cupping her face as she playfully squeezed it.*”Just name a time and place and I just know you and Eiji will get along famously…after all,got to make sure he’s keeping Maya good and happy right?”

Mona could only pout and blush adorably, her soft green eyes looking at the phone. Despite herself,she really couldn’t stop watching, witnessing a Kirishima flex those powerful muscles of his. It rather reminded her of her crush,they were even hung the same way in terms of length and girth. Looking at him performing s seated lotus position with Dal as the canine bombshell made out with him. Panting as she bounced in his lap on thst powerful cock of his as Mona found her mind wandering. Visualising herself in Dal’s place, fantasizing what it’d be like to have such a man ravish her as she sensually bit her lip. Feeling her loins burn with a distinct warmth as a primal part of her brain pulsed with desire and want. Looking at the grinning faces of her shapeshifting bestie and d her cotton candy l pink lover as she thought it over, her answer from her luscious lips making their smiles grow…

Mona:”So anytime and place you said…?”

[mistydeyes]

hii! i was wondering if i could get a pairing with one of the cod guys?

my pronouns are she/they and i’m bisexual. my love languages are physical touch and quality time. i like someone who i can joke around with and have a good time with but also chill and be comforted when needed.

i have anxiety and am shy when i first meet people, but when i become comfortable i can talk your ear off. i’m a little bit of a nerd as i like to read a lot and watch youtube videos on obscure topics.

i’m also chubby and 5 foot! i have medium length hair that’s like red/brownish and my style is very chill/outdoorsy. i love cats and dogs and i love being out in nature. tysm if you see this!!

Johnny "Soap" Mactavish

How you met: Civilian One of your favorite activities was going on walks on the local nature trail, especially with your active dogs. You had always loved animals so it was to no one's surprise when you adopted two golden retrievers that loved the outdoors. You were enjoying the nice spring day with a leisurely walk when you saw another person walking their dog along the trail. You gave a soft wave as you saw them approach and their dog excitedly ran up to you. "they stopped when your dogs excitedly walked up to him. "Well hello there," you said as you petted their head. It's owner was smiling as well and returned the friendliness to your two dogs. "Nice day for a walk," you said as he leant down to pet your small pups. "It's a tap aff weather day," he replied to you and you laughed in response. You spent the next few minutes making friendly conversation until your dogs started to tug on their leash, signaling it was time to go. "Well it was nice meeting you," you said as you tried to calm down your excited pets. You reached into your pocked and pulled out a small dog treat for the dog that was still trying to jump on you. "Here you go, girl," you said sweetly as she took it from your hand. With a goodbye, you both parted ways but it was clear Johnny had found a new path to walk in hopes of seeing you again.

A peek into your relationship: When Johnny came home, you fell into a comfortable routine of cuddling and watching Youtube videos on the living room couch. His hands laced in yours as you lay in between his legs and on his chest. Somehow one Youtube video had pulled you into a rabbit hole of theme park history. This new video was about Coney Island and how it used to be common place for restaurant owners to refuse to give back change. As you both watched intently, Johnny finally had something to say. "How'd we get to this?" he asked, laughing, and you couldn't help but join in. "I think it started with that video of women trying to give birth in Disney World and getting free passes," you replied as you looked up at him. "That's right, we should try that!" he exclaimed and you replied with a playful eye roll. "Alright then you give birth," you said and he shook his head at the thought. As you settled back down and returned to the video, his arms wrapped around you. He kissed your forehead gently before sighing in a moment of peace. "I love you," he whispered and what you thought was a cute moment actually allowed him the opportunity to reach and grab the remote out of your hand. "I think it's time we go back to the MRE unboxing videos," he exclaimed and you groaned before preparing for another relaxing evening of watching the weirdest things with your boyfriend.

[ny3mediafirm]

Top SEO Strategies for Ranking Higher in 2024

As the digital world evolves, so do search engine algorithms. To stay ahead in 2024, businesses need to adapt their SEO strategies to meet changing trends. Whether you’re a start-up or an established company, these SEO strategies will help you boost your rankings and attract more traffic.

Prioritize User Experience (UX)

Search engines like Google are putting more emphasis on user experience. Websites that load quickly, are mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate rank higher.

A great UX keeps visitors on your site longer, reducing bounce rates and increasing engagement.

Tip: Use tools like Google Page-Speed Insights to improve your site speed.

Focus on High-Quality, Relevant Content

Content is still king, but quality matters more than quantity. Create valuable, engaging, and keyword-optimized content that answers your audience's questions.

Search engines reward content that provides genuine value and matches search intent.

Content Tip: Use tools like Answer-The-Public, Quora to discover trending topics your audience is searching for.

Optimize for Voice Search

With the rise of smart devices, more people are using voice search to find information. Tailoring your content to natural, conversational phrases can boost rankings.

Voice search queries are usually longer and more specific, making them a great way to capture niche traffic.

SEO Tip: Focus on long-tail keywords and question-based phrases like "What are the best SEO strategies for 2024?"

Leverage AI and Automation

AI-powered tools can help you analyze data, predict trends, and optimize your SEO campaigns.

AI makes SEO tasks like keyword research, content generation, and performance tracking more efficient.

Tool Suggestion: Try platforms like SEMrush, Ubersuggest or Ahrefs for advanced keyword insights and performance tracking.

Build High-Quality Backlinks

Backlinks remain one of the top-ranking factors for search engines. Focus on earning links from reputable websites in your industry.

Quality backlinks boost your site’s authority and improve rankings.

Tip: Create shareable content like infographics, guest blogs, and case studies to attract backlinks naturally.

Optimize for Core Web Vitals

Core Web Vitals measure how users experience your website in terms of speed, responsiveness, and visual stability.

Google uses these metrics as ranking signals, making them critical for SEO.

Quick Fix: Work on improving your Largest Contentful Paint (LCP), First Input Delay (FID), and Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS) scores.

Local SEO is a Must

If your business serves a specific area, local SEO is essential. Optimize your Google Business Profile and use location-specific keywords.

Local SEO helps you appear in local searches and Google Maps, driving foot traffic to your business.

Action Step: Encourage customers to leave reviews and keep your business details up-to-date.

Use Video to Boost SEO

Video content is booming, and search engines are prioritizing video results in SERPs.

Videos keep users engaged and help you rank for both text and video-based queries.

Video Tip: Optimize video titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords to boost visibility.

Embrace E-A-T (Expertise, Authority, Trustworthiness)

Google values content from credible sources. Show your expertise, build authority, and establish trust with your audience.

Strong E-A-T signals improve your site’s reputation and ranking.

How to Build E-A-T: Publish detailed guides, add author bios, and secure reputable backlinks.

Stay Updated with Algorithm Changes

SEO is never static. Stay on top of algorithm updates to keep your strategies effective.

Understanding changes allows you to adapt quickly and maintain your rankings.

Tip: Follow trusted SEO blogs like Moz, Search Engine Journal, and Google's official blog for updates.

SEO in 2024 is all about creating a seamless experience for your audience, leveraging AI tools, and focusing on quality over quantity. By following these strategies, you can stay ahead of your competitors and achieve higher rankings.

Need help optimizing your SEO strategy. Contact NY3 Media Firm today for expert solutions to grow your online presence.

[muneebshah]

Discover the Power of an HD TV Free Antenna: Enjoy Crisp, Clear TV Without Monthly Bills

Are you tired of paying expensive monthly fees for cable or satellite TV? If so, an HD TV free antenna might be the perfect solution to cut costs while still enjoying top-quality entertainment. With advanced technology, these antennas provide a clear, high-definition signal, allowing you to watch local channels and broadcasts for free. Let’s explore the benefits, functionality, and how to get the most out of your HD TV free antenna.

What Is an HD TV Free Antenna?

An HD TV free antenna is designed to receive over-the-air (OTA) signals broadcast by local television stations. These signals are entirely free, and with the right antenna, you can access news, sports, weather, and popular TV shows in high-definition. HD TV antennas have come a long way from the bulky designs of the past. Today, they are sleek, compact, and can even be mounted discreetly indoors or outdoors to capture the best signal.

Key Benefits of an HD TV Free Antenna

Cost Savings: One of the primary advantages of using an HD TV free antenna is the elimination of costly cable or satellite bills. You only make a one-time investment in the antenna, and after that, you can enjoy endless programming for free.

High-Quality Picture: Many OTA broadcasts deliver uncompressed HD signals, which means you may get a better picture quality compared to what cable services offer. Enjoy your favorite shows and sports events in crisp, clear detail.

Access to Local Channels: Depending on your location, you can access a variety of local channels that cover regional news, weather updates, and community programs. This connection to your local area is vital for staying informed about what’s happening near you.

Eco-Friendly and Energy Efficient: Unlike cable boxes that consume significant power, HD TV antennas use minimal energy. Making the switch to an antenna reduces your carbon footprint while helping you save on electricity costs.

How to Choose the Right HD TV Free Antenna

Selecting the best HD TV free antenna depends on several factors, including your location, proximity to broadcasting towers, and your home setup. Here are some tips to consider:

Determine Your Location: The effectiveness of an HD TV antenna depends on how close you are to broadcasting towers. Websites like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) map can help you find tower locations near you and determine the strength of the signal.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Antennas: Indoor antennas are ideal for those living in urban areas where broadcast towers are nearby. They are compact, easy to install, and blend well with home decor. However, if you live in a rural area, an outdoor antenna may be necessary to capture distant signals. Outdoor antennas are more powerful and can provide a more stable connection.

Range and Signal Strength: Check the range specifications on the antenna you are considering. Some models are designed to reach signals up to 50 miles away, while others are more suitable for closer broadcasts. Make sure to choose an antenna with a range that meets your needs.

Installation Tips for the Best Reception

Getting the most out of your HD TV free antenna requires careful installation and positioning. Here’s how to set up your antenna for optimal performance:

Choose the Right Location: For the best reception, place your antenna as high as possible and near a window. Avoid obstacles like walls, metal objects, or electronic devices that may interfere with the signal.

Experiment with Placement: Sometimes, it takes a bit of experimentation to find the perfect spot. Try different positions and scan for channels each time to see where the reception is strongest.

Use a Signal Amplifier: If you live far from broadcast towers or experience weak signal strength, consider using a signal amplifier or booster. These devices can improve your antenna’s performance, especially in areas with multiple obstacles.

Enjoy a World of Free Entertainment

By investing in an HD TV free antenna, you unlock the potential of free, high-quality television. Say goodbye to monthly subscriptions and enjoy a diverse range of programming without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a news junkie, or someone who loves classic TV shows, a high-definition antenna can provide the experience you crave.

At Unlimited Antenna, we specialize in providing expert advice and top-quality antenna solutions to help you achieve the best signal reception possible. Explore our range of antennas and discover how you can enhance your viewing experience today.

[webnseo1]

Local SEO Mastery: A Small Biz Owner's Guide to Dominating Search in Your Neighborhood

For small businesses, local SEO is crucial for standing out in neighborhood searches and driving foot traffic. Here's a guide to mastering local SEO and boosting your online presence within your community.

Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP) Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the most critical tools for local SEO. This free listing appears in search results and Google Maps, allowing local customers to find you easily. Make sure to:

Claim and verify your business on Google Business Profile. Keep your profile updated with accurate business hours, contact information, and categories. Add high-quality photos that showcase your business, products, or services. Use GBP posts to share updates, promotions, or events to engage local customers.

Focus on Localized Keywords Think about what your potential customers are searching for in your area. Localized keywords help narrow down your reach to nearby users. Here’s how:

Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or Ubersuggest to identify relevant local keywords. Use these keywords naturally on your website, including page titles, headings, meta descriptions, and content. Consider creating pages or blog posts focused on your area, like “Best Bakery in [Neighborhood].”

Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews Reviews are a major ranking factor in local SEO and can make a big difference in attracting new customers. Some strategies to encourage more reviews include:

Asking satisfied customers to leave reviews on Google and Yelp. Responding to reviews to show that you value customer feedback (whether positive or negative). Resolving negative reviews professionally, as it shows potential customers you care about customer satisfaction.

Get Listed in Local Directories Local directories boost your online presence and provide valuable backlinks for SEO. Make sure to list your business on sites like:

Yelp, Yellow Pages, and Better Business Bureau. Industry-specific directories, like TripAdvisor for travel businesses or OpenTable for restaurants. Niche neighborhood directories or business networks, which can be valuable in some areas. Ensure that your name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all directories to avoid confusing search engines.

Create Localized Content Content that is valuable and relevant to your local audience strengthens your local SEO presence. Ideas include:

Blog Posts: Write about local events, community news, or tips specific to your neighborhood. Community Spotlights: Collaborate with other local businesses to create content that showcases your community. Location Pages: If you have multiple locations, create dedicated pages with unique content for each one.

Optimize for Mobile Local search is often conducted on mobile devices, so your website needs to be mobile-friendly. Make sure your site:

Loads quickly (under 3 seconds is ideal). Displays well on all screen sizes, with clear calls-to-action. Has easy-to-find contact information and location maps.

Leverage Social Media for Local Engagement Social media platforms, particularly Facebook and Instagram, allow you to connect with local customers directly. Try to:

Share content that resonates with your community, like local events or partnerships. Use location tags and hashtags relevant to your neighborhood. Run targeted ads to reach users in specific areas.

Use Schema Markup for Local Businesses Schema markup helps search engines understand your business’s location, products, and services. Using Local Business schema can improve your visibility in search results. You can find schema generators online or ask your developer to add it to your site.

Prioritize Backlinks from Local Sources Backlinks signal trustworthiness to search engines, and links from other local businesses or news outlets can improve your local ranking. To earn these links:

Partner with neighboring businesses for cross-promotions. Sponsor local events or charities to get a mention on their websites. Reach out to local bloggers or journalists and offer to be a source for relevant stories.

Track and Adjust Your SEO Strategy Monitor your SEO performance to understand what’s working and where improvements are needed. Tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console can help track:

Local keyword rankings. Website traffic and conversion metrics. GBP insights, including search queries and customer actions. Bonus Tip: Engage in Community Building SEO goes beyond just online tactics; being actively involved in your community can naturally boost your local visibility. Participate in community events, offer discounts for local customers, or host events that attract foot traffic and social engagement.

With a well-optimized local SEO strategy, your business can stand out in local search results, making it easier for nearby customers to find and choose you over the competition.

[korshubudemycoursesblog]

SEO Course 2024: Unlock Your Success in Digital Marketing

If you’ve been searching for the perfect guide to mastering SEO and dominating the search results, then welcome to SEO Course 2024! This comprehensive course is designed to teach you everything you need to know about Search Engine Optimization (SEO) in today’s ever-evolving digital landscape. Whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade your SEO skills, this is the perfect place to start your journey.

In this blog, we will explore why SEO Course 2024 is essential for any online marketer or website owner and how it can help you rank higher in search engines. We’ll cover some of the most relevant and trending topics, with a focus on key phrases and strategies that will enhance your online visibility.

Why SEO Matters in 2024

SEO is no longer just about adding keywords to your website. It’s an essential digital marketing strategy that can drastically affect your site’s visibility, traffic, and overall success. If you want to ensure your website is easily discoverable by search engines like Google, mastering SEO techniques is crucial. And what better way to get started than with the SEO Course 2024?

This course is designed with the latest SEO trends in mind, helping you to stay ahead of the competition. As search engine algorithms evolve, so do the strategies required to rank on the first page. Our SEO Course 2024 provides up-to-date training that reflects these changes, ensuring you’re always one step ahead.

What Will You Learn in SEO Course 2024?

In SEO Course 2024, you will dive deep into both the fundamentals and advanced techniques of SEO. Here's a glimpse of what you will master:

Keyword Research: Learn how to identify high-value keywords that your target audience is searching for. Tools and techniques to discover relevant keywords, like SEO tools for 2024, will be covered in detail.

On-Page SEO: Understand the core elements of on-page optimization, such as meta titles, descriptions, URL structure, and content optimization. Learn to craft engaging and SEO-friendly content that will help you rank higher.

Technical SEO: From site speed to mobile-friendliness, technical aspects of SEO have never been more important. In this course, you’ll master technical SEO techniques that improve your site's performance.

Off-Page SEO: Master strategies like link-building to improve your domain authority. Learn how to create high-quality backlinks and partnerships that boost your online reputation.

Local SEO: If you run a local business, learning Local SEO is crucial for appearing in Google’s local search results. We’ll show you how to optimize your business for local searches and drive more foot traffic.

The Importance of Keywords in SEO

Keywords are at the heart of SEO, and that’s why they’re an integral part of the SEO Course 2024. We’ll show you how to effectively research, implement, and monitor the best keywords to ensure your website ranks for the right searches.

One of the most important things to note is keyword density. Including your main keyword, SEO Course 2024, within your content in a natural, readable way is key. Search engines are smart; they know when you're trying to "stuff" keywords. So, it’s essential to use the keyword strategically throughout the blog.

SEO Trends for 2024

As part of the SEO Course 2024, we’ll keep you updated on the latest trends. Here are some SEO trends you should focus on for 2024:

Voice Search Optimization: With the rise of voice assistants like Alexa and Siri, optimizing your content for voice search is essential. People are asking questions like “What’s the best SEO course in 2024?” and your content should cater to these queries.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in SEO: AI tools are changing the game for SEO by improving keyword suggestions, content optimization, and user experience analysis.

User Experience (UX) Signals: Search engines now look closely at user experience metrics, such as bounce rate and dwell time. Websites that provide an excellent UX will likely rank higher in search results.

Video Content: Video is continuing to grow in popularity. Incorporating video SEO into your strategy will ensure that your content is discoverable on platforms like YouTube, which is the second largest search engine after Google.

Mobile-First Indexing: Google has been emphasizing the importance of mobile-first indexing, meaning websites that are optimized for mobile devices will rank higher.

E-A-T (Expertise, Authority, Trustworthiness): Google is paying more attention to the content quality, especially for Your Money or Your Life (YMYL) websites. Showing expertise, authority, and trustworthiness is vital to ranking well in competitive niches.

How SEO Course 2024 Prepares You for the Future

The SEO landscape is constantly shifting, and SEO Course 2024 is designed to future-proof your strategies. As search engine algorithms continue to evolve, you need a solid foundation in SEO that can adapt to these changes.

Adaptable SEO Strategies: Learn techniques that will not only help you rank in 2024 but continue to drive traffic to your site well into the future. This includes staying updated with Google’s core updates and learning how to adjust your SEO efforts accordingly.

SEO Tools for 2024: Get hands-on training with the latest SEO tools, such as SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Google Search Console, which are crucial for tracking your performance and making data-driven decisions.

Actionable Tips for Beginners

If you’re new to SEO, don’t worry! SEO Course 2024 is designed for learners of all levels. For beginners, here are some actionable SEO tips to get you started:

Create Quality Content: The foundation of any SEO strategy is high-quality content. Make sure your articles, blogs, or videos offer value to the reader.

Use Keywords Naturally: Include your target keywords in the title, headings, and body of your content. Just like we've highlighted the importance of SEO Course 2024 in this blog.

Optimize Images and Videos: Make sure your images and videos are optimized with alt text and descriptive filenames. This improves your chances of ranking in image and video searches.

Build Backlinks: One of the fastest ways to improve your search engine rankings is by acquiring high-quality backlinks from trusted sites.

Conclusion: Why You Should Enroll in SEO Course 2024

In a world where online presence is more critical than ever, SEO Course 2024 offers the tools and insights you need to stay competitive. By taking this course, you’ll not only learn the most up-to-date SEO strategies but also gain the confidence to apply them across your website and marketing campaigns.

Remember, SEO is not a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process. With SEO Course 2024, you’ll be prepared to tackle these challenges head-on and drive consistent traffic to your site.

So, whether you’re looking to start your own business, grow your current online presence, or work as an SEO specialist, SEO Course 2024 is your roadmap to success.

By following the course and applying the SEO techniques you’ll learn, there’s no limit to how high you can climb in the SERP rankings

[micupgro]

Local SEO Best Practices for Saudi Arabian Businesses

In today's digital era, local businesses in Saudi Arabia must have a strong online presence to attract customers in their area. Whether you run a retail store, a restaurant, or a service-based business, local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is a powerful tool that can help you stand out in your local community and bring in more foot traffic and online inquiries.

Local SEO focuses on improving your business's visibility in local search results. When potential customers in your area search for services or products you offer, you want to ensure that your business shows up in their search results. This blog will walk you through some of the best practices for local SEO that can help your business thrive in the Saudi Arabian market.

1. Optimize Your Google My Business (GMB) Listing

A well-optimized Google My Business listing is the foundation of local SEO. GMB is a free tool that allows your business to appear in local searches and on Google Maps. To get the most out of it:

Complete your profile: Ensure all your business information—such as name, address, phone number, website, and operating hours—is accurate and up to date.

Add relevant categories: Choose categories that describe your business accurately. This helps customers find your services quickly.

Upload high-quality photos: Pictures of your storefront, products, or services give customers a glimpse of what you offer and make your listing more engaging.

Encourage customer reviews: Positive reviews build trust and improve your search ranking. Don’t forget to respond to reviews—this shows that you value customer feedback.

2. Build Local Citations

Citations refer to mentions of your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other websites, such as business directories, social media platforms, and local websites. These citations help search engines verify your business's legitimacy and improve local search rankings.

Submit your business to local directories: Listing your business on well-known Saudi Arabian business directories and review sites can boost your visibility.

Consistency is key: Make sure your NAP information is consistent across all platforms. Inconsistent data can confuse search engines and hurt your ranking.

3. Use Geo-Specific Keywords

Targeting location-based keywords is critical for local SEO success. You need to use keywords that reflect both your business offerings and the areas you serve.

Include location in your content: For example, if you run a bakery in Riyadh, use keywords like "best bakery in Riyadh" or "Riyadh cakes and pastries."

Optimize meta tags: Incorporate geo-specific keywords into your page titles, meta descriptions, and headers to enhance local relevance.

Create locally relevant content: Write blog posts or create pages that focus on local events, news, or services in your area, which can increase your website’s relevance to local searches.

4. Leverage Mobile Optimization

In Saudi Arabia, mobile internet usage is extremely high, so it’s important to ensure your website is mobile-friendly. A website that loads quickly and is easy to navigate on a mobile device will not only improve the user experience but also boost your SEO performance.

Ensure fast loading times: A slow website can drive potential customers away, especially on mobile devices.

Mobile-friendly design: Your site should automatically adjust to fit the screen size of any device, providing an optimal browsing experience.

5. Use Localized Backlinks

Backlinks from other local businesses or trusted websites signal to search engines that your business is an authority in the local community.

Collaborate with local businesses: Partnering with other businesses in Saudi Arabia for guest blogs, collaborations, or sponsorships can generate valuable backlinks.

Get featured in local news: If your business participates in local events or makes noteworthy achievements, try to get local press coverage and earn backlinks to your website.

Real-Life Success with Local SEO

At UpGro Digital, we have helped numerous local businesses in Saudi Arabia dominate local search results through strategic local SEO practices. One of our retail clients saw a 50% increase in local search visibility within just a few months after implementing local SEO strategies. This translated into a significant boost in foot traffic and in-store visits, helping them achieve their business goals.

Final Thoughts

In Saudi Arabia’s competitive market, local SEO is no longer optional it's essential. By optimizing your Google My Business listing, building local citations, targeting geo-specific keywords, ensuring mobile optimization, and earning localized backlinks, your business can rise above the competition and attract local customers effectively.

If you're ready to take your business to the next level, UpGro Digital is here to help you navigate the world of local SEO and drive success for your Saudi Arabian business. Reach out to us today!

[learnwithbeeka]

5 Ways to Improve Your Website’s Conversion Rate

In the digital age, it's not enough to just attract visitors to your website. Customers, subscribers, and leads are what count. Increasing competition and constantly changing customer behaviors have made conversions on one's website vital for the bottom line of a business. Whether you operate an e-commerce site, a service-based enterprise, or a blog of some sort, conversion rate optimization universally applies.

Let's learn how to enhance your website's conversion rate and the success of your business with these five tried-and-tested strategies. If you want professional advice, don't hesitate to look for a Kochi-based SEO service agency to help in optimizing your website.

1. Mobile Optimization

When mobiles account for more than half of all web traffic, your website needs to be optimized for mobile use. A mobile-friendly website adjusts its layout according to various sizes of the screen and offers one a seamless experience. Key areas to focus on include responsive design, easy-to-click buttons, and simplified forms. If your website is not mobile-friendly, then you'll certainly lose a good chunk of conversion potential.

Besides search results, Google also employs mobile-friendliness as a ranking factor, so an optimized site can further enhance your SEO, driving more organic traffic. Check how well your site performs on mobile by using Google's Mobile-Friendly Test tool.

Tips For Mobile Optimization

Use larger fonts for better readability.

Try to make buttons easily tappable on the small screen.

Reduce the usage of pop-ups annoying for mobile users.

Compress images to reduce the load time on mobile devices.

2. Clear, Compelling Calls to Action

A good call to action will have visitors chiseling away at whatever action you want them to do, whether subscribing to your newsletter buying something, or downloading an ebook. CTAs need to be not only seen but done and placed strategically about your site. Make them pop then with contrasting colors. Use clear, concise language too.

For example, rather than the generic word "Submit" do something a bit more specific like "Get Your Free Quote" or "Start Your Free Trial." The personalization of your CTAs along with user intent can do wonders for elevating conversion rates.

Tips to Create Effective CTAs

Use action-oriented words like "Discover," "Start," and "Get."

Position CTAs are highly visible on influential pages such as the home page or product pages.

Test different colors and styles and see what works best.

Align the CTAs with the user's journey. For example, you can use "Learn More" for visitors at an early stage of their journey and "Buy Now" for those closer to the conversion.

3. Speed Up Page Load Time

Page load time is an important factor that often falls out of the box as far as performance for a website is concerned, but it greatly influences user experience and conversion rates. In fact, a one-second delay in load time can slash conversions by 7%. Websites loading fast will keep visitors on-site longer, bringing down their chances of bouncing to another site owned by a competitor.

Some of the factors that can improve your load speed include reducing the size of large images, using a CDN, and enabling browser caching, among others. You can also check the loading speed, which problematic elements need changes, and many more from tools like Google PageSpeed Insights and GTmetrix.

To help you better with this, an SEO service agency based in Kochi can give you professional advice to improve the speed of your site and overall SEO performance.

Tips to reduce page load time:

Compression and optimization of images without any compromise on the quality.

Browser caching enables the holding of resources locally, hence enabling sooner loading.

Minifying CSS, JavaScript, and HTML files reduces the file size.

Consider a fast hosting provider or upgrade your hosting plans.

4. Trust Signals: Building Credibility

Trust is built with the visitor before it is ever converted into a customer. Trust mostly develops when a person believes the brand. Involving business, it has been found that people buy from and will interact with brands they can trust. Trust signals take many forms in the shape of customer reviews, testimonials, awards, certifications, and case studies. Security badges can be added too, especially on payment pages, to convey that data would be safe.

However, social proof such as a number of customers served or influencer endorsement can further build on the credibility of your brand. Such trust-building factors can help fight off hesitation and can act as a precursor to the final act on behalf of a user.

The Following Trust Indicators to Display:

You show verified customer reviews and ratings on the product page.

You include logos of big and important clients or partners.

You highlight industry certifications or awards.

You use authentic images and videos of happy customers or case studies.

5. Continuous A/B Testing for Enhanced Improvement

A/B testing is one of the most effective ways of determining how to work better for your target audience. Two versions of a page or element, a headline, a call-to-action, or even a layout may have different data on the version driving more conversions. A/B testing is not a one-off but a continuous process of refining your website based on actual user behavior.

First, work on the big things: variation of big elements like CTA buttons, form designs, and landing page copy. Wait for meaningful data, and then apply the changes and chase the rest. The point is to realize which variations are doing the best and improve the site according to that.

A/B Testing Ideas:

Test various headlines for clarity and emotional appeal

Test varying lengths of forms - short vs. long

Test different placements and colors for CTAs.

Test different product descriptions or images to see which versions work better.

Conclusion

There's no need to make overhauls for a better site conversion. Focus on mobile optimization, compelling calls to action, faster load times, building trust, and continuous A/B testing, and you will be on the way to making tremendous improvements in your webpage. The five strategies above will help you engage your visitors, reduce bounce rates, and convert traffic into tangible business results.

Conversion rate optimization is not a one-time task. Monitor your website performance all the time, analyze user behavior, and make necessary adjustments as per the data acquired. Over time, even tiny changes will lead to spectacular upticks in your website's conversion rates. To get the best advice on how to optimize your conversion rate and overall SEO, you shall seek the help of a seasoned SEO service agency in Kochi for the elevation of your website and business success.

[seocompany1010]

SEO for Non-Profit Organizations: Best Practices and Case Studies

In today’s digital age, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a vital tool for non-profit organizations seeking to increase their visibility, reach their target audience, and fulfill their mission. Whether you're trying to attract volunteers, donors, or spread awareness about your cause, effective SEO strategies can significantly impact your online presence. Partnering with a SEO firm Singapore can help non-profits navigate the complexities of SEO to achieve their goals. This blog explores best practices for non-profit SEO and presents case studies that highlight successful strategies.

1. Understanding the Importance of SEO for Non-Profits

Non-profit organizations often operate with limited budgets, making it essential to maximize every opportunity to connect with their audience. SEO offers a cost-effective way to increase online visibility without the need for expensive advertising campaigns. By optimizing your website for search engines, your organization can appear in relevant search results, making it easier for people to find you when they search for information related to your cause.

2. Best Practices for Non-Profit SEO

To ensure your non-profit organization benefits from SEO, consider the following best practices:

a. Keyword Research and Optimization

Identify Relevant Keywords: Start by identifying keywords that your target audience is likely to use when searching for information related to your cause. Tools like Google Keyword Planner can help you find relevant keywords with good search volume.

Optimize Content: Incorporate these keywords naturally into your website’s content, including headlines, meta descriptions, and blog posts. Avoid keyword stuffing, which can negatively impact your SEO.

b. Create High-Quality, Engaging Content

Educational Content: Non-profits often have the advantage of being able to create content that educates and informs. Develop blog posts, guides, and resources that provide value to your audience and address their needs or concerns.

Storytelling: Use storytelling to connect with your audience emotionally. Share success stories, case studies, and testimonials that highlight the impact of your work.

c. Optimize for Local SEO

Google My Business: Ensure your non-profit organization is listed on Google My Business. This will help your organization appear in local search results, making it easier for people in your area to find you.

Local Keywords: Use local keywords in your content, such as "non-profit organization in Singapore" or "volunteer opportunities in [city]". This will help attract local supporters and donors.

d. Mobile Optimization

Responsive Design: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly. With an increasing number of users accessing websites via mobile devices, a responsive design is crucial for providing a positive user experience and improving your search engine rankings.

Fast Loading Times: Optimize your website’s loading speed, as slow sites can lead to higher bounce rates and negatively impact your SEO.

e. Leverage Social Media

Engage with Your Audience: Social media platforms are an excellent way to engage with your audience and drive traffic to your website. Share your content on social media, and encourage followers to engage with and share it.

Social Signals: While social media activity doesn't directly impact SEO, increased visibility on social platforms can lead to more backlinks and traffic, which can improve your search engine rankings.

f. Build Quality Backlinks

Partnerships and Collaborations: Collaborate with other organizations, businesses, or influencers in your field to earn high-quality backlinks. This not only boosts your SEO but also enhances your credibility.

Guest Blogging: Write guest posts for other websites and include a link back to your non-profit’s site. This can help you reach a broader audience and improve your search engine rankings.

3. Case Studies: Non-Profit SEO Success Stories

Learning from successful non-profit organizations can provide valuable insights into effective SEO strategies. Here are a few case studies:

a. World Wildlife Fund (WWF)

Challenge: WWF aimed to increase its online visibility to attract more donors and raise awareness about conservation efforts.

Strategy: WWF focused on content marketing, creating a series of blog posts, videos, and infographics centered around their conservation work. They optimized this content with relevant keywords and shared it across their social media platforms.

Outcome: WWF saw a significant increase in website traffic and online donations, with several pieces of content going viral on social media, further boosting their search engine rankings.

b. Charity: Water

Challenge: Charity: Water needed to enhance its online presence to engage more supporters and raise funds for clean water projects.

Strategy: They developed a comprehensive SEO strategy that included keyword research, content creation, and link building. They also focused on local SEO to attract donors and volunteers from specific regions.

Outcome: Charity: Water achieved higher search engine rankings for targeted keywords, resulting in increased website traffic, donations, and media coverage.

c. The Red Cross

Challenge: The Red Cross wanted to improve its local SEO to connect with people in specific regions, particularly during emergencies.

Strategy: They optimized their Google My Business listings and created location-specific landing pages. They also implemented a content strategy that focused on local issues and how the Red Cross was addressing them.

Outcome: The Red Cross saw improved local search rankings, which led to more people finding and engaging with their services during emergencies.

Conclusion

SEO is an indispensable tool for non-profit organizations looking to increase their online visibility, connect with supporters, and achieve their mission. By following the best practices outlined above and learning from successful case studies, your non-profit can harness the power of SEO to make a greater impact. Partnering with a SEO firm Singapore can provide the expertise and resources needed to develop and execute an effective SEO strategy tailored to your organization’s goals.