#rough and tumble are a great example of that

[disabled-battlekukku]

Caught myself thinking about how much Post-SGW Archie and Sonic Forces had affected Sonic character design for the worst

[bookdragonideas]

Here's the thing. I'm a girl, and as a girl, I really like it when girls are portrayed in fiction. Especially fantasy.

But so much fiction/fantasy mixes up 'girls' with 'unstoppable forces of female badass' and there's not necessarily anything wrong with having a character who is an 'unstoppable forces of female badass'. But it gets old real quick. And it is not the same as portraying normal girls, or having good female characters.

And that's one of the many reasons I love Avatar the Last Airbender.

Because all the girl characters have flaws and weaknesses and sometimes act like idiots or jerks. They get emotional and make mistakes. They lose fights or arguments or are just wrong sometimes. Some of them are amazing warriors, and some aren't. Some are powerful or special and some are normal, with nothing special about them.

And I Love that.

I was around the same age as Katara when I first watched Atla. And I instantly connected with her as a character. I loved her optimistic attitude and her fighting spirit. And I could relate with her anger, and with her maternal instinct. I admired her fighting skills of course, but I loved how the show portrayed her compassion and kindness, the way she could both beat up a bunch of bullies AND enjoy a relaxing day at the spa. She was a baddass warrior that should never be crossed. But she was also a normal teenage girl who had a lot of the same internal struggles and problems that I did.

(I never connected to Toph on the same level, but I did relate to her on a few things. She's an adorable trash gremlin who would commit any crime for fun and I love that. But she struggles with being both independent and letting people help her, and I still struggle with that sometimes. I've learned that sometimes, you can help others by letting them help you.)

Yue is, in my opinion, a perfect example of a type of hero that seems to be disappearing. She is not a warrior. She is not a fighter. She's not even a bender.

Yue is a perfect princess, a perfect daughter. She is extremely feminine in a rather older sense.

And she was the only one who could save the world. She gave up everything for her people. She saved everything, everyone, the entire world. Without ever becoming a fighter.

Yue is a perfect example of a girl who was never more than a girl, and how that's okay. Not every girl has to be rough and tumble and fight for her rights in order to change everything. Sometimes it's okay to just be a quiet obedient girly girl. Sometimes that's all it takes to be a hero.

And I love that. Yue is strong in her own way. She is unique and interesting. She appears in only a few episodes and yet manages to be one of my favorite characters.

Song is another great example of this. Song is a healer in a small town. We don't see much of her but we see her compassion and empathy. She is gentle and generous. A healer not a fighter.

She watches Zuko steal her ostrich horse and does nothing.

Is that because she's kind and generous and knows he needs it more? Or is it because she's a healer girl who knows she can't actually stop those two from taking the horse? Maybe neither, maybe both. I have always thought that the scene where Zuko steals the horse and only the audience knows she saw it is one of the most thought-provoking in the series.

Suki is a badass warrior woman who is an awesome fighter and good leader. She is one of the best non bender fighter we see in the entire show. She was one of the smartest, most efficient, and powerful characters we ever saw.

She kissed a boy she had just met because she thought he was cute.

Now don't get me wrong I love SokkaxSuki. Its one of the best couples in the show.

But Suki totally did the old 'love at first sight' thing. And that is awesome. Because when she kisses him she delivers one of the best lines, not only from her, but, I think, in the entire show.

"I AM a warrior, but I'm a girl too."

Being a warrior doesn't mean that she isn't also a teenage girl. She might be a fighter, but she still gets crushes and likes to flirt with cute boys. And hey, she picked a good one. Not every boy is going to come break you out of prison.

Anyways, let's have more realistic girls in fiction. And please enjoy the next 24 hours.

[abbycadoodle]

baby Mayhem baby Mayhem baby Mayhem! (please share those hcs)

OKAY SO

I'll break these down by character!

1.) Baby Teeth:

His parents refer to him as "Junior", but everyone else calls him "Doc".

Aside from his parents, he won't respond to anyone who calls him Junior sjdjdkl

His purple vest + scarf are of his own creation! Most of the clothes his mother picks are rather drab, so he's taken to rummaging through closets, thrift stores, and the occasional dumpster to find materials/old clothes to decorate :)

Aside from Janice, he's very good at being a mediator (that is, when he's not butting heads with Floyd sjdkkd)

2.) Floyd:

Floyd is very rough-and-tumble, and most of his clothes reflect that lmao

He's very agile and active, and always quick to think up a new game!

Out of all the mayhem, Floyd is most prone to getting into trouble shdfjkgk

He's gotten stuck in trees, caught in playground equipment, lost on multiple occasions, yet often emerges without a scratch!

3.) Janice

Not surprising in the slightest, Janice is a sweetheart all around :)

She's very at one with nature, often playing with bugs and small animals on the playground (much to the horror of adults watching sjdkkd)

She once tried to sneak a squirrel she "befriended" into the daycare shdjdjkl

Along with Teeth, she's quite good at art, and enjoys painting and coloring (although, she's been known to stray from the canvas, often covering walls, floors, and even other people in her doodles)

4.) Lips

Lips is quite talkative, even if not everyone can understand him. This literally doesn't phase him though lmao as he will talk as long as you're willing to listen

He's a remarkable reader for his age, but his penmanship? Eh, he's doing his best :)

He's easily excited, and very energetic!

5.) Zoot

while everyone else is built for playtime, zoot is built for naptime sddgghjkl

His blanket means a great deal to him, even if he's prone to misplacing it. The mayhem is good about keeping track of where he leaves it tho :)

He's easily distracted, but surprisingly thoughtful at times. For example, he may not remember someone's birthday, but he knows their favorite flower :)

He's a good listener, even though he may fall asleep during the conversation sdfhgjkl

He's a little clumsier than the others, most likely because of the hair in his face + constant state of sleepiness

this is all I got for now, but if y'all have questions or stuff to add I'd love to hear it!! Here's a few more doodles in the meantime :)

[lenovo005]

FANFIC 101: Tips Me and A Friend Came Up With in A Very Math Class

🍿🍿

NO BLUE ORBS. Don't be scared to use the word EYES, trying to analogise it only makes you sound like a hater

dogs are great!! include them in your fic at all costs. preferably alive.

minimise heterosexuality in your fic. the more hetero it gets the higher chance it has to be made into a bad cringe Netflix movie no one wants to see. I don't care if it has Sydney Sweeney's glorious boobies

ANTAGONIZE redemption arcs, embrace the evil in people. sometimes it makes them hot.

if your work is over 100k words, get a ko-fi. you DESERVE to be paid, dont lie to yourself. PATREON at LEAST.

tags are not always necessary, sometimes they're for comedic purpose. for example: no beta we die like my dog.

RESPECT the haters. better yet. make a fic out of them. maybe you'll get a life long soulmate. at worst you'll get doxxed.

everyone should learn how to write a proper down and dirty scene. ROUGH AND TUMBLE SCENE. GAG AND WAG SCENE. otherwise known as a fight scene

all fanfics should be written in front of unjustifiable criminals as punishment for their sins

If you don't have a twitter don't get it. multiplies your debuffs by five.

If you've checked all the boxes so far, CONGRATULATIONS, you're ready to take on the most harrowing, hated on, thankless job in the universe. An ao3 mod.

[bigtreefest]

Your writing inspires me and I've a lot of ideas for fics and such just swimming in my head, but I ain't able to put anything on paper, and I really just wanna share my thoughts with the world.

Ya got any tips?

Hi, nonnie! Thank you so much! I can’t believe what I share is so inspiring and I’m so happy you want to write! Idk if I have tips, but I can give you an example of what writing can look like? I guess my mechanism of action could be the equivalent of a tip.

To give some insight to my process, it usually starts with swirling thoughts in my head. It’ll be a certain scene or a line of dialogue, so I write it down as soon as I can so I don’t forget it.

From there, as the thought continues to tumble, I get more details that are thrown in, so I write those in, too, which helps the story start to take form. This is sentences instead of fragments, and actual interactions or thoughts or movements of the character.

Then I start to think about how they got there, where they’re going from this one moment I was able to think up. That gets written down, too. It doesn’t have to be pretty, or have perfect grammar, but anything you deem worthy of note should be put down. Sometimes, you have multiple scenes you want in the same fic, but they’re written in different places. I combine them and shift them around for the order of events I intended to get a rough draft. Then I go through and proofread and add more details- facial expressions, sounds, setting pieces. I probably proofread like two more times, make sure it says what I was trying to, then will post.

For an example, in my first Jake fic, ‘Touch My Butt,’ I literally only started with the title. I knew I wanted an awkward Jake, who was afraid of pushing things too far. Then I asked, ‘okay, why is he afraid?’ That came with, maybe he accidentally said something that could’ve been taken the wrong way when they met. And then that led to ‘well, how did they meet? What exactly did they do?’ And the fic spiraled from there. Once you start to get into writing a certain idea, the words will flow, you just have to start somewhere and be alright with the choppy beginnings. That’s where the hard effort is, then the additions are easier.

The biggest thing overall is, don’t be afraid to make mistakes or take as long as you need to post. Writing takes time and practice. The first thing you post might not be great, mine sure as heck wasn’t, but I look at what I write now and what I wrote then and I’m astounded by the growth. And I m sure the same will happen when I look back in the future.

In summary, start with the thoughts you have and put them down. They don’t have to be pretty. Then fill in the gaps from there. Make sure all the details that were in your mind have a way to fit in and then proofread.

Anyone else who has tips, feel free to add!

[nyxnightshade1332]

Expectations When Expecting (Book 1)

Chapter 7

Chapter 8:

Yuu and Grim ceased their bickering once Trey cleared his throat to speak. As much as she hated to admit it, Yuu was curious about the school she'd be stuck in. She leaned forward with interest.

"As Cater mentioned earlier, the dorms of this school are themed after the Great Seven. We have our dorm, Heartslabyul, modeled after the strictness of the Queen of Hearts. To run down the rest of them for you, we have..." Trey began to explain, Yuu listening as she began to recognize the different dorms:

Savanaclaw, based on the persistent spirit of the King of Beasts.

Octavinelle, based on the benevolent heart of the Sea Witch.

Scarabia, based on the mindful personality of the Sorcerer of the Sands.

Pomefiore, based on the tenacity of the Fairest Queen.

Ignihyde, based on the diligence of the king of the underworld.

And finally...

Diasomnia, based on the noble spirit of the Thorn Fairy.

Yuu remained quiet for a moment, an attempt to take in the new information, trying to make her brain remember. Finally, she spoke, a little overwhelmed. "Wow... that's definitely a lot to take in."

"All those names are way too long! How's anyone supposed to remember 'em?" Grim agreed, splaying himself onto the table dramatically.

Cater gave an amused laugh at Grim's antics. "Well, you get the idea. Want to or not, you'll learn them soon enough."

"At orientation, the Dark Mirror picks a dorm for you based on the essence of your being. As a result, each dorm ends up with a distinct sort of... flavor, we'll call it." Trey began, simplifying the rules of the school for her.

"That is sooo true. I totes see it." Cater agreed.

"'Flavor,' huh...?" Deuce muttered, trying to understand it.

Yuu, however, chose to catch everyone off guard, "Wow, we've only just met, and you've already called me taste-less." She joked, recalling the mirror's words of her soul being shapeless and colorless.

This lovely joke caused Trey to stumble across his words, attempting to explain how he didn't mean it that way, while Ace choked on the water he was drinking and Deuce attempted to cover his laugh with a cough. Cater looked at her, his eyes twinkling with amusement. Yuu gave a nod of satisfaction, finally choosing to calm Trey down.

"Sorry, I saw the opportunity." She said, awkwardly laughing as Trey finally took a breath, nodding.

"Y-yeah, I knew that." His voice cracked before he cleared his throat. "Anyway, take that guy, for example." Trey gestured to a very tall, tan and muscular fellow with very large ears on the top of his head.

Yuu's eyes widened in surprise, slamming her hands on the table. "He has dog ears?!" She yelped before clearing her throat, before attempting to play it cool. "Muscly dog man, sure why not."

"That rough-and-tumble vibe he's got has Savanaclaw House written all over it." Trey said. Yuu noticed how the boy's ears perked slightly.

"No doubt. That dorm is full of scrappy guys who are into, like, working out and fighting." Cater said, leaning closer to Yuu, who now seemed to be a bit less tense with him. "How should I describe the vibe...? Macho dudes? Gruff big brothers? Something along those lines. The black and gold armband is another giveaway." Yuu nodded, understanding.

"He's a lot like one of my cousins. That man looks scary, but he was a pretty nice guy. He even has a daughter now." Yuu said.

Grim lifted his head, pointing to a familiar gray-haired boy. He looked to be rather frail and wore glasses. Yuu looked to see that the boy had pale, very shiny skin.

"He's gotta be from Octavinelle House." Trey mentioned, motioning toward the happy-looking white haired boy from the entrance ceremony, and a very pretty dark-haired boy who seemed to be internally dying.

"And the student sitting at the table in front of him has a red and gold armband- Scarabia colors."

"They look like the sun and moon." Yuu remarked.

"Those dorms are for the smart students. They're always neck-and-neck in the academic rankings." Cater said, pausing for a moment. "Ah, but the current housewarden of Scarabia doesn't seem to be all that great of a student..."

"And here Cater goes off on some tangent." Ace rolled his eyes.

"Ha. You learn fast. Let's get back on topic." Trey said, dismissive of Ace's behavior.

"You see the flashy one with the purple and red armband? Those are Pomefiore colors." Trey pointed toward a very pretty-looking group.

"Whoa! The girl with the potion books, I really like her!" Yuu did a double take, the surprised meme sound effect playing in her mind as her eyes landed on a purple haired, delicate looking girl.

"What's she doing in a boys' school?!" Deuce yelped, looking suddenly nervous.

"You two are such morons. There aren't girls officially enrolled here." Ace said, poking Yuu in the side. "Right, Yuu?"

She jumped slightly, giving Ace an awkward thumbs up. "Y-yep!"

"WHAAAT?!" Deuce and Grim cried, the young boy turned around, confused.

"Speaking of girls, there's a portrait in the west hall who's a real beauty. Name's Rosaria." Cater teased. "If you'd like to meet her, I'd be happy to introduce you. Maybe we can set something up?"

Yuu furrowed her brow.

"A painting? Hard pass! I don't care how cute she is if she's two-dimensional!" Ace remarked, making Yuu poke Ace in the side. He jumped, glaring.

"Whaaaat? It's true. You're telling me you'd date a 2D girl?" He asked, defensively.

"I'm just saying, don't be rude. The paintings here have feelings." She said, turning her nose up at a very confused Ace. Mission: Dodge the question was successful.

"Come on, man. Who cares how many dimensions she's got!" Cater said, agreeing with Yuu. Yuu gave him a thankful nod as he began to continue speaking.

"Anyway, they take vanity pretty seriously at Pomefiore. It's basically a dorm full of models. Their housewarden has 5,000,000 followers on Magicam." Cater said, dreamily.

"Oh, I would definitely die there." Yuu muttered. She did like makeup as much as the next girl, but she didn't really have much of a sense of style.

"Hey now, they're not all just pretty faces. The students at Pomefiore are among the best at potions and casting curses." Yuu shuddered, reminding herself not to go too close to Pomfiore.

"Heh heh. True dat." Cater chuckled at Yuu's slightly disturbed expression. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed a single, gloomy-looking boy. He seemed on edge with all of the people around, and Yuu pouted sympathetically. It took her years of training from her friends to get used to talking at all. She noticed him scamper away upon grabbing his food.

"Next, we have Ignihyde... Their armbands are blue and black, but I don't see any around here." Cater said, looking at Yuu. "They tend not to be the most outgoing of students. Even I don't have a single friend from that dorm. They're kind of the polar opposite of us sunny, fun-loving Heartslabyuls."

"So they're gloomy and miserable?" Grim asked, Yuu shushing him.

"Not everyone who's quiet is miserable, Grim. They're just more comfortable with alone time. I would know, I was like that when I was younger."

"Exactly!" Trey agreed. "They just have a reputation for being quiet and serious, is all. That dorm tends to attract magical-energy engineers and students who are good with tech."

Yuu grinned at Trey. "They'd be good with my family. Most of us have engineering degrees."

"And that just leaves... Diahonyalara, was it?" Deuce asked, making Cater snort in amusement.

"You were off to a good start, and then you rammed right into the guardrails. It's 'Diasomnia.'" Ace corrected.

"I know that! I just misspoke, all right?" Deuce snapped back, making Yuu pat him as a way to say she understood.

"Diasomnia House is, hm... Ah, look over there. Those guys in the special seating area." Cater nodded in the direction of the far end of the cafeteria. Yuu had to squint to see the boys.

"You can tell from the neon green and black armbands. They're basically campus celebrities. The vibe they give off makes it real hard for regular schmucks like us to even approach them." Cater stated before adding, "And their housewarden is that times a thousand."

Ace stood up, very obviously pointing with wide eyes, "There's a little kid in that group!"

"Ah, we do get some child prodigies here." Trey explained awkwardly, a forced smile on his face. "But that guy there is no kid. He's a junior like us. Name's-"

"Lilia. Lilia Vanrouge." A deep, playful voice sounded from behind her, making Yuu turn around so fast, she was almost dizzy.

"H-he just teleported!" Grim cowered, suddenly wrapped in Yuu's arms. How he'd managed to get there without her knowledge, Yuu would never know. She simply stared, bewildered at the young looking man.

"I understand my apparent age interests you? As this bespectacled fellow accurately noted..." Lilia flipped over, dusting himself off and flashing a fanged smile. "Despite my fresh-faced, boyish good looks, it would be inaccurate to call me a 'child.'" He paused, noticing Yuu.

"'Fresh-faced,' he says..." Trey said awkwardly.

Yuu became nervous when Lilia's eyes quickly flashed down to her abdomen and his gaze seemed to soften a bit. He walked up to her, offering a hand as he smiled once more. "You need not gawk at us from afar. You may feel free to speak with us directly."

Yuu was completely speechless at the strange behavior. "I- Well..." She stammered, making Lilia give a hearty laugh.

"Why... We are schoolmates, are we not? All of us at Diasomnia House welcome you without reservation."

Can he tell...? Yuu thought to herself, making a note to herself to find him later and ask.

"And yet, those guys over there aren't exactly rolling out the red carpet in terms of approachability..." Deuce said, shrinking in his seat. Yuu looked over to where Lilia had been sitting, noticing two, very serious looking boys eyeing their table. She herself felt like shrinking back.

"Forgive me for appearing above you during your meal. I do hope we can speak again." Lilia chuckled as he bowed before taking Yuu's hand in his own and placing a kiss on it. Yuu looked bewildered, blushing at the gentlemanly nature, yet entirely confused.

Once Lilia had left, Ace gave Yuu a semi-disgusted look. "What the heck was that...? Nevermind." Ace cut himself off before continuing. "Their table has got to be over twenty yards away from ours. And they overheard our conversation? That's WAY creepy!"

"Well... Diasomnia House does have a bit of a reputation for having lots of special students. Some of them are extremely talented at magic." Trey explained, dismissingYuu's first encounter with Lilia. "Their housewarden, Malleus Draconia, is considered to be one of the five best mages in the world."

"Malleus is reeeeeal bad news." Cater said, pausing before he added, "Though I suppose the same could be said of our own dear housewarden."

Yuu noticed a familiar-looking red-head coming their way just as Ace went off on a tangent. "No kidding! He collared me for eating one slice of tart! All his rule obsession is outta control!"

Yuu, in a pathetic attempt to get him to shut up, glared at him with wide eyes. She failed to recognize that Ace was a very reckless idiot, as the shorter boy glowered at Ace from behind.

"My 'rule obsession' is 'outta control,' is it?" He asked, his voice dangerously calm.

"Ace..." Yuu said, trying to direct Ace to look behind him as he continued.

"You bet it is. Riddle's just a petty tyrant who leans into the whole 'rules' schtick as a pretext to keep everyone under his puny thumb!" Yuu, knowing she could no longer save Ace, proceeded to shove her elbow into his side, making Ace squeak in surprise. "Ow! Yuu, what the hell?!" He began to ask before Deuce cut him off.

"Ace! Behind you!" He said.

Ace suddenly paled, slowly turning to face the sudden visit. "Bwah?! Housewarden!" He yelped. Yuu watched the young man as he gave a sicily sweet smile for a moment before his face erupted in an angry crimson tone.

"Oh boy..." She muttered. 

Chapter 9

[idw-sonic-fan-blog]

So if they can't be redeemed what do you believe Surge and Kit's fate to be? Just show up as recurring villains with the same "I reject the world" shtick or death like Starline?

I am sorry that I am late in answering this.

It's simple: Be nihilistic villains.

They do not have to die or be "redeemed."

Look, in all of Sonic's rogues galley, we have characters like Blaze, Shadow, Knuckles, Jet the Hawk, and Metal Sonic. Knuckles was misled and now fervently on the side of the good guys, but you'd be lying if you said the character did not lose his appeal when he made that transition to merely disliking or tolerating Sonic. Metal Sonic can't verbalize and even when it does, it's just Eggman as Sonic anyway. shadow literally is what Surge would become if turned good and thus would be redundant. Jet is already the cocky Sonic but actually a criminal thing going on, but not as evil as Eggman or Zavok. And Blaze already fills the niche of an alternatively good Sonic in her own dimension and the cast. Sorry, Surge and Kit must stay antagonists and actually bad guys because that is their lane that makes them different from anyone else. They don't want to conquer the world. They want to destroy everything. In between villain characters that are world conquerors like Eggman and the Zeti and kingpin-esque characters like Clutch or straight up criminals like Rough and Tumble, that is a great niche to have,

Part of the appeal of Surge is that she is evil or in the case of Surge, she is an sympathetic but nonetheless a villian. Venom of Spider-Man was haphazardly redeemed as an anti-hero and as a Spider-Man fan, I can tell you that took a lot of the edge away from Eddie Brock. His best work was when he directly antagonized Peter Parker and redeeming him via excusing that the reason he was after Peter Parker in the first place was because Daredevil with Spider-Man correctly identified a serial killer vigilante in hold-up while Eddie tried to lie and withhold the identity of the serial killer for clout which the serial killer that Eddie turned in was just a copy cat. Eddie was at his best when he was villain. When he was up in Peter's shit. Another example is Harley Quinn. Part of her appeal aside from her design and concept was that she was evil like Joker, but writers hammed up the domestic abuse angle and that is now her identity. That is all she is known for aside from being in a throuple with Poison Ivy(who is also redeemed but time and overall view of politics redeemed her so that is different).

As much you want to redeem characters like Surge, that is the point. You want to redeem her, but you can't. That is Arcane's and LoL's Jinx. That is Juri Han from Street Fighter. You are supposed to look at characters like Surge who have something off about them and think, "Okay, how can I make her worse?"

Surge puts on the most visually engaging fights with the titular character since the fight with Neo-Metal Sonic. She is the one character outside of Metal Sonic who will throw hands with anyone without the slightest provocation. And it is always with malintent. Not some misunderstanding or whatever cop-out to just make her one of Sonic's friends. She wants to kill them and dammit she won't stop until they are dead. If Surge sees Blaze, we are going to have a fight. If Surge sees Knuckles, we are going to have a fight. If Surge sees Cream, best believe she will throw hands with the rabbit and her Chao.

Why make her like everyone else when she can be her own thing? She destroys cities, burns down forests, damn near killed Sonic, and her justification for it all is society let her down.

Y'all look at this and think, " Let's save her."

She don't wanna be saved. Same with Kit. They made their stance clear. It's not because Starline conditioned them to do it(Surge actively gives herself her own purpose to hate Sonic when Starline failed to provide for her and Kit does the same with the bonus of hating Eggman). It's not because she and Kit don't know who they are before Starline. They don't care. It's the fact that it happened to them in the first place that makes them so angry and they believe the heroes and Eggman only care about them to only fortify their own ideological positions. This is deeper than Mecha Sonic or Metal Sonic. This is deeper than Shadow's memory and past directly his enmity because it's their lack of past and the lack of connection to anyone that cares for them prior to those horrific experiments that drives them. It's the fact that she and Kit were specifically made to be Sonic's and Tails' doppelgangers and that eats at them and unlike Meta and Mecha, these are people. Can you imagine the existential grief of knowing that you had your life ruined to validate the existence of another person. That is different from cloning. That is different from being created to be evil. You were altered to be more like someone else. These are characters that Sonic can't make amends with. And that is what makes it great. Because for once, Sonic and the fanbase that likes this comic are on the same page. You want to redeem her and Surge and Kit don't want to be and any attempt to do so only makes it worse.

[ghostlycorvid]

So I was doing another professional pin design today and started trying to do some research on the topics involved in the design to see what history there was behind it. I usually try to design a backing card with a little bit of relevant information about what is depicted and wanted to tie a cute design into some historical fact.

I know there have been railway dogs, or famous dogs that existed around railways, but here in the USA most of the stories I find are either sad or about scrappy rough and tumble pups. Dog waited forever for his deceased owner to come back until it was old and deaf and didn’t hear the train coming one day. Or ornery little scamp who just vibed with train crews and rode all around all the time, getting hurt a lot but bouncing back from it.

While doing a little digging, I found out that in Great Britain, during the Victorian era and up until a little before WWII, there were a number of well known charity dogs. Dogs that had little harnesses with money drop boxes that walked around  train stations (or were on a tether for safety) to collect donations to fund various things. Sometimes it was for the railroad, sometimes it was for other causes.

Some had little jackets that they would get medallions attached to for every $100 and $500 they reached??? 

The article I found with the most examples has some photos of (surprisingly well done) taxidermied dogs, so don’t click through if that bothers you, but I thought it was neat! Especially the bit that shows one of the dogs after years on display to the point that it faded from black fur to looking like a light golden retriever and then was restored. That’s a really cool little example of taxidermy over time.

[hansuoddie]

Have you seen Adrenaline Dubs's vids about the IDW comics? Their voices for Rough and Tumble are accurate and really good!

They've dubbed up to the end of the metal virus arc and they always put in music and voice effects, stuff's great, makes me cry every time!

Oh hell yeah, the example you sent is VERY close to what I imagined Rough and Tumble sounding like, tho I also imagined them having Brooklyn/New Yorker accents. "IM WALKIN' HERE" Is so something they would say.

This video here has some REALLY great suggestions to what some of the IDW characters could sound like. I love the Rough and Tumble ones but I also think Starline is SPOT ON. Clutch sounds a bit too young tho and some of the female voices could sound a tad bit more unique to one another, but its still great!

[rubykgrant]

I was thinking about my next-gen Kanto Gym Leaders again, so I'll just ramble about them haha-

Sam; new Viridian Leader, and the original Rival's grandchild (he's now Prof Oak, and the one who gets called Gramps~). She began training early, and became a Leader at age 12. Rather than focus on one specific Type, she trains multiple Pokemon, to represent everything found on earth, so it suits the Earth Badge! Usually, she battles new Trainers with something that counters their Starter with her own Bulbasaur/Charmander/Squirtle plus her Eevee. For more advanced Trainers, she has stronger teams. She's not quite as antagonistic as her grandpa once was, but she's very head-strong and pretty rough-n-tumble (her name is an homage to her great-grandfather, Sam Oak)

Cassandra; Brock's daughter, new leader of the Pewter Gym! Like her dad, she trains mainly Rock Types. She's got an easy-going personality, but is also very confident and determined in a casual way. The area between Pewter City and MT Moon has been expanded after the discover of Fossils (similar to the desert areas in Hoenn and Unova), and she helps introduce new Trainers to the concept, as well as giving them a tour of the Pewter Museum (her name includes the pun "sand")

Chelsea; new Cerulean Leader, no relation to Misty, but learned from her as an apprentice before taking over the duties. The Gym has moved to the Cerulean Cape, using the lighthouse as a location. She waits at the top, and challenger battle her Junior Trainers on the way up (the former building for the Gym has now become an Aquarium, where people can look at various Water Types from other regions). She's a charming young lady, very compassionate and takes great care to set a good example as a Gym Leader (her fashion style is a vintage sailor-style dress, and a beach sunhat, and her name includes the pun for "sea")

Victoria Surge; the grandchild of LT Surge, and new Leader of Vermilion! Decidedly more of a punk than her grandfather, she's every bit as intimidating as he can be, but embraces the idea of being wild and free, like a storm (her Gym is no longer a puzzle you solve with methodical trial-and-error, but instead different little tricks that encourage challengers to think outside the box and do the opposite of the obvious). The Gym building has also been re-designed to include a roller-rink and skate park! She's a skatergirl (her name is meant to symbolize "victory", one her grandfather definitely picked out for her)

Heather; the new Gym Leader for Celadon! No relation to Erika, but clearly loves gardening just as much as her predecessor. When she isn't at the Gym, she's working in Celedon City's new Musical and Contest areas, and preparing the famous Celadon Shopping Mall to include spaces for Avenues! (she likes to combine casual clothing and "grunge fashion" with pretty floral accents. her name is both a pun on the heather plant, and with added letter rearranged a bit, it become "wreath")

Hattori and Kotaro; twin great-grandkids of Koga, and the grandkids of Janine! They are the new leaders of Fuchsia, and challengers must Double-Battle them for a Badge (they have 3 main Pokemon each, so use 6 all together). They're both fun-loving little pranksters, and being trained as ninja by their family makes them very good at sneaking around (they aren't mean, but they can be annoying). Hatori is a bit more talkative, but better at staying hidden. Kotaro is quieter, and will openly show himself, usually as a distraction/deception (their names are inspired by Hattori Hanzo and Fuma Kotaro)

Charlie; the new Cinnabar leader, no relation to Blaine, but initially helped build a new permanent place for Cinnabar Island that was a safe distance from the volcano, and eventually took over as leader. The location for Cinnabar is now on that stretch of land near where Pallet Town opens to the ocean (in one of the last eruptions, Moltres was seen flying through the explosion of lava, seemingly enjoying the volcanic activity. when the Legendary Bird landed to rest for the night, it created a trail of lava that cooled in the sea, making a small archipelago and expanding some land mass). Before retiring, Blaine created a new Game Corner for Cinnabar, and Charlie designed a re-creation of the famous Mansion to hold his new Gym. He's a very responsible young man, a bit more serious than the original Leader, but also very motivated and encouraging to others (his name contains the pun for "char" or "charred")

Benjamin and Matthew; a duo who are joined Leaders for Saffron City, now the location for the final Badge. After Sabrina retired, a Fighting Type Trainer worked hard to be Saffron's Leader again, as it once had been before Sabrina. Later, a Psychic Trainer took their place, creating a pattern... because Benjamin and Matthew had always worked together, they decided to share the Gym Leader title, and use BOTH Types of Pokemon! Benjamin uses Psychic, and Matthew uses Fighting. After some remodeling, the two buildings at the top Northen entrance to Saffron function as the Gyms (former Sabrina's Gym on the right, and the Fighting Dojo on the left). They have no Junior Trainers, but each use full teams of 6 Pokemon. You must Defeat them both to earn the Badge. Benjamin is very cheerful and a little brash, while Matthew is more calm and reserved (their names are a pun on "mind over matter", BnejaMIN and MATT hew)

[divyeshd]

The Benefits of Cotton Breeze Tank Tops for Every Workout

When it comes to workout gear, many things decide your performance and how enjoyable the exercise was for you. Among many available options, the cotton breeze tank top is a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts. With this top's lightweight fabric and breathability, these have become reservoirs of many benefits that will enhance your workout experience. In the next blog post, we shall look at the benefits of cotton breeze tank tops, why they are suitable for exercise, and how to choose the right one.

What is a Cotton Breeze Tank Top?

Before listing the advantages, knowing what a cotton breeze tank top is essential. Generally, these tank tops are composed of the primary material: cotton, among others, and its lighter variants are used in its composition. These specific tank tops are designed to have maximum breathability and comfort. The term "breeze" denotes that this fabric is airy, with freely flowing air along its passageway, which is essential when engaged in highly intensive body movements.

Benefits of Cotton Breeze Tank Tops

1. Breathability

One of the notable features of cotton breeze tank tops, is the ability to let air in. Thus, it ensures your body temperature, during exercises is usually well regulated. During a high-intensity workout, a lot of body heat is produced; you will avoid overheating and remain cool by wearing breathable clothing.

2. Moisture Absorption

Cotton absorbs moisture; thus you are guaranteed a sweat-absorbing tank top while working out. Because sweat always happens when working out, a tank top that absorbs the sweat keeps you dry. Synthetic fabrics feel tacky and stick to the skin when wet; thus this makes it unpleasant. Cotton gives room for evaporation because it allows the sweat to evaporate, so you will not be uncomfortable and will not get chafed.

3. Softness and Comfort

Comfort is the best consideration for any gym wear. Cotton breeze tank tops feel soft and quite comfortable without irritating your skin. This is great for longer workouts, where chafing from rough clothes can easily be a distraction.

4. Lightweight and Versatile

This is due to the lightness of cotton breeze tank tops, which gives them a wide usability. It is just as appropriate for yoga and pilates as it will be for running or weightlifting. Their easy packing also allows for traveling, so one will not miss sweating out during business trips.

5. Durability

Cotton is a tough fabric that can be worn for many washes. While some might worry about how well the cotton tops would be after much use, breathability tank tops are usually made with quality in mind. You can still use them for your workouts and get their shape and comfort.

6. Style Options

Another fashionable reason a person would love wearing cotton breeze tank tops is their stylish designs. They come in various colors and different cuts. They can be as casual as your whole gym get-up, or something chic, which can be easily transferred from the gym to casual outings. You can feel fabulous and fashionable, whether sweating it out in class or grabbing a post-workout smoothie.

7. Eco-Friendly Choice

More about the sustainable option: tops in cotton are a more intelligent choice for the green-conscious consumer. Organic cotton does not use anything that can be harmful to kill pesticides, or even other chemicals so that it will be good for the planet, and your skin also. Purchase cotton breeze tank tops for that perfect example of sustainable fashion.

8. Great for Layering

Cotton breeze tank tops would easily layer great. You may want to wear it with a long-sleeved shirt or over the sports bra; this versatility allows you to layer in many ways, particularly useful for transitional weather or seasons.

9. Easy Maintenance

Cotton workout clothes are usually a breeze to clean. Most cotton breeze tank tops are machine washable and can be placed in the dryer on a tumble dry cycle, and you have nothing to worry about on laundry day. With this convenience, you can spend less time thinking about your exercise clothes and much more time engaging yourself in meeting your fitness goals.

10. Enhanced Mobility

You surely do not want to be restricted during any workout. Cotton breeze tank tops allow you to have an unrestricted motion range. Sleeveless and flexible fiber clothing is made so that you can do stretching, weight lifting, and exercise in any cardio with no restrictions.

Suitable Workouts for Cotton Breeze Tank Tops

1. Yoga and Pilates

The softness and breathability of cotton breeze tank tops make them an excellent choice for yoga and pilates. These workouts frequently incorporate a variety of postures and movements, which require comfort and flexibility. You could focus on the form instead of your clothing with a cotton tank top.

2. Running and Cardio

Of course, a cotton breeze tank top is perfect for those who like running or doing some cardio-intensive exercises. Its moisture-absorbing properties will make you dry while the lightweight fabric won't weigh you down as you finish your routine.

3. Weightlifting

If you are a person who loves getting particular sports gear at the gym for lifting, then it is OK to wear your cotton breeze tank top. It is strong enough to endure the exercise and lifting that you would be engaging in, and at the same time, breathability keeps you cool during those intense sessions.

4. Casual Sports

For casual sports like tennis, basketball, or cycling, a cotton breeze tank top will do you all justice in comfort and flexibility. Pair it with proper shorts or leggings, and you are ready to have a fun day of playing around.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cotton Breeze Tank Top

When selecting a cotton breeze tank top, keep these tips in mind:

1. Fit Matters

Select a fit that suits your body type. One likes a looser fit for breathability while the other an even more fitted style to emphasize sleekness.

2. Check for Quality

Go for a quality cotton blend that can hold up well with regular wear and washing. Inspect for seams and construction overall to ensure it will last.

3. Consider Length

This is because the length of the tank top depends on what you prefer to wear when working out. Some may like them cropped, while others would like the added length to give them extra coverage.

4. Choose the Right Color

Choose colors that would look good but hide sweat stains. Darker shades tend to be forgiving.

5. Read Reviews

Research on what other customers have to say about it before buying. Their experiences will be able to give insight into how the tank top will function and feel when in use.

Conclusion

Cotton breeze tank tops are excellent upgrades for a fitness wardrobe. Its breathability, moisture-absorbing properties, and soft texture make it perfect for most workout activities, whether yoga or running. Their versatility and style options make you feel good in and out of the gym. Remember the benefit of a quality cotton breeze tank top when considering your next workout outfit. You'll improve your performance but enjoy the comfort and confidence of wearing it simultaneously. So, gear up, hit the gym, and enjoy the numerous benefits of cotton breeze tank tops in your fitness journey!

[7r0773r]

Atlantis by Mark Doty

A Display of Mackerel

They lie in parallel rows, on ice, head to tail, each a foot of luminosity

barred with black bands, which divide the scales' radiant sections

like seams of lead in a Tiffany window. Iridescent, watery

prismatics: think abalone, the wildly rainbowed mirror of a soapbubble sphere,

think sun on gasoline. Splendor, and splendor, and not a one in any way

distinguished from the other —nothing about them of individuality. Instead

they're all exact expressions of the one soul, each a perfect fulfilment

of heaven's template, mackerel essence. As if, after a lifetime arriving

at this enameling, the jeweler's made uncountable examples, each as intricate

in its oily fabulation as the one before Suppose we could iridesce,

like these, and lose ourselves entirely in the universe of shimmer—would you want

to be yourself only, unduplicatable, doomed to be lost? They'd prefer,

plainly, to be flashing participants, multitudinous. Even now they seem to be bolting

forward, heedless of stasis. They don't care they're dead and nearly frozen,

just as, presumably, they didn't care that they were living: all, all for all,

the rainbowed school and its acres of brilliant classrooms, in which no verb is singular,

or every one is. How happy they seem, even on ice, to be together, selfless, which is the price of gleaming.

***

In the Community Garden

It's almost over now, late summer's accomplishment, and I can stand face to face

with this music, eye to seed-paved eye with the sunflowers' architecture:

such muscular leaves, the thick stems surge. Though some are still

shiningly confident, others can barely hold their heads up;

their great leaves wrap the stalks like lowered shields. This one shrugs its shoulders;

this one's in a rush to be nothing but form. Even at their zenith,

you could see beneath the gold the end they'd come to. So what's the use of elegy?

If their work is this skyrocket passage through the world,

is it mine to lament them? Do you think they'd want to bloom forever?

It's the trajectory they desire— believe me, they do desire, you could say they are

one intent, finally, to be this leaping green, this bronze haze

bending down. How could they stand apart from themselves and regret their passing,

when they are a field of lifting and bowing faces, faces ringed in flames?

***

Breakwater

After the crowded houses disperse, after the bleached condos of the summer millionaires accentuating the beach

like stress marks pencilled on a line of verse, after the squared lawns and hedges watered into emerald, and the final, fascist architecture

of the motel, suddenly, uninterrupted horizon: a long exhalation of marsh greening out to —there, that far white line,

salt or spume or dune disturbed, sometimes, by hurrying Euclidian sails, or the whale watch boat chugging its load out to hover

over the feeding depths. Here, curving out to the farthest reaches, the breakwater's a causeway of huge stones. Hard to think these were placed,

these drowsy, inland boulders awakened, all century, by the seawater's moon-driven alarm. Who piled them, one atop the other,

into this enormous arc? It seems impractical: a simple straight line could shield the shellfish fields

and erasable dunes. Instead, this great stone eyebrow raised above the bay; fluid, slim curve slung across the hard glint

of radiance this morning, and yesterday into the smudged pastels of fog. Toward-what? I have been to the end, once:

after the casual walkers turn back, after the few fishermen cast their vanishing silvery hopes across the acid gardens of sea lettuce,

the stonework's rough and tumble, less neatly arrayed, and thick with the bleached wicker of tidewrack where gulls leave the shattered evidence

of mussels. Either because you must concentrate on your footing, or because the curves so subtle, you hardly know you are turning

until you're at the marshy, other end, where eelgrass scribbles the boundary between bay and shore, and sea lavender bursts in little violet explosions

over the shivering water. No one's there. Or almost no one— I saw three ducks, poised in a kind of Chinese stasis. A solitary hiker, resting

on the lee side of the stones, read a novel, the solid book positioned comfortably between himself and the landscape. I envied him, a little, the heavy,

absorbing certainties of his book, his carefully directed attention. There was so much to see, and at the same time so strangely little:

the world reduced to elemental, almost abstracted planes of color and light. How much further could there be to go? Here, one turns around—and there's

the same line arcing back to land, glorious, undisturbed by having been traversed. An architecture—no, more pure, the sheer principle of curve:

the flaring, imagined shape between then and now, now and the future, a flung silken gesture made into the space

between reader and book, uncertainty and knowledge. We did not know we had come so far. What did you see along the way?

Flowers and stones, strangers and books, water and light... That path looked so different, so particular, while we were travelers, and it arcs,

now that we have come to rest, as mysteriously as ever, as nearly perfect a shape as ever we'll discern.

***

Two Ruined Boats

Here, at the edge of immensity, they seem the axis of the harbor, my twin derelicts, destinations of every morning's walk, center

of a composition made vaster by the startling appearance of sun, this first day of spring, on snow the tide is busily erasing. First,

the Sarah Lynn (she was called something else once, another name looming beneath peeling letters, unreadable palimpsest). Look

at the sheer intricacy of wreck, somber, self-shadowing; how many colors rust is, all vaguely luminous, like fifty shades of eyeshadow.

This drenched failure suggests a whole aesthetic of ruin: salt patinas, flecked and scoured exactitudes, a history of color: Venetian reds,

brazilwood, cochineal. Here, morello, the color of ripe Italian blackberries, here the berrettino of raw silk. And though it all seems to be

approaching dissolution, all going blank as the dank interior glimpsed (chinablack, like antique ink) through the shattered hatch,

how various and complicated these frettings are en route to nothing. The mast lies prone across the sand, striped with yellow.

A hundred yards up the shore, the Diane S. is optimistically propped on the sand, though her underside's split out like a tired accordion's. Dry,

upright, one side bleaches to a lush indigo; the other's lustered in crocus tones, layers and layers the colors in old Woolworth's watercolor boxes.

Across the prow, a hand-lettered sign, in jonquil: Wanted: Artists actors and musicians to restore the Diane S. and sail to China. I would, myself,

avoid that passage: this decline's too steep to fix, and my art could only articulate the sheen, or chronicle the fashion in which

the world gains luster as it falls apart. Besides, I like this inhospitable shore, this coastal snow warmed, on shingled roofs, to gleaming eggwhite. I don't need to go anywhere.

Description is itself a kind of travel, and I can study all day in an orient of color. A ruin in shadow and a ruin in sun, a light-shivered companion

and another which hurries inward toward whatever looms in the hull's blank interior. Two ruined boats —like myself, my lover,

twin points we thought fixed coming all undone, though in flaring spring sun the world's a single dazzled silver. That's all I can do, describe.

I've nowhere else to go, nothing else to make. This poem's a distillation of a thousand morning walks, and by the time I wrote this down,

in truth, my twin tokens, my brave figures of persistence were swept clear away, some misguided civic gesture

to make the beach a cleaner place. I didn't know it was coming. Who ever does? Who'd have thought those grand lexicons of color would be

hammered by the backhoe to wrack and powder? Fallen down, broken apart, carried away: things are lovely, late, in the last hour we'll see them. This year? Next month?

I watch him failing and there's nothing to do but describe—a mode of travel, but not a means of repair. That morning, on Pearl Street,

beneath the thin spray of sand a town truck had sown, the pavement shone like a mackerel's back, and slick puddles marbled our reflections

(old red coat, sleek black dog tending slightly to the portly) until they were refracted and reassembled, melting in—what would you call this color?—gorgeous disarray.

[bestgamingitem]

Finding the Perfect Throne: The Best Gaming Chairs for Kids

In today’s digital age, Best Gaming Chairs For Kids has become a staple activity for children of all ages, offering not just entertainment but also avenues for learning, creativity, and social interaction. As such, ensuring that young gamers have a comfortable, supportive chair that can keep up with their gaming adventures is crucial. A good gaming chair for kids not only needs to offer ergonomic support and comfort but also be durable, adjustable, and appealing to its young audience. This comprehensive guide dives into the world of gaming chairs designed specifically for kids, highlighting the top options that blend functionality, comfort, and fun.

Ergonomic Support and Comfort

When it comes to gaming chairs for kids, ergonomics takes the forefront. Children spend considerable time in their chairs, not just gaming but also studying and engaging in other activities. Therefore, a chair that supports proper posture, reduces the risk of back pain, and can be adjusted to fit their growing bodies is paramount.

Adjustable Features

Look for chairs that offer adjustable seat height, armrests, and backrest angles. These adjustments ensure that the chair can grow with your child, providing proper support as they age. The RESPAWN-200 racing style gaming chair is an excellent example, offering an ergonomic shape and adjustable features tailored for younger users.

Lumbar Support

Adequate lumbar support is vital for maintaining a healthy posture. Chairs like the SitRite Kids Desk Chair not only offer ergonomic lumbar support tailored for children but also feature a depth-adjustable seat.

Durability and Safety

Kids are known for their boundless energy and, sometimes, their lack of gentleness with possessions. Therefore, a gaming chair for kids needs to be built to withstand a fair amount of wear and tear.

Materials

Look for chairs made from durable materials that can withstand spills, stains, and the inevitable rough-and-tumble nature of kids at play. The X Rocker Pro Series H3, for example, combines a heavy-duty vinyl cover that is easy to clean with a robust wooden and metal frame designed to last.

Stability

A good gaming chair should have a stable base to prevent tipping over during exciting gaming moments. Wide bases and chairs with a lower center of gravity, such as certain models from GT Racing, are designed with safety in mind.

Design and Fun Factor

A chair that captures the imaginative spirit of childhood can turn an ordinary gaming session into an extraordinary adventure. Bright colors, themes from popular video games, and interactive features can all contribute to a chair that kids will love.

Themed Chairs

Brands like AKRacing and DXRacer offer chairs in vibrant colors and themes that appeal to young gamers, including options modeled after popular video game characters or racing cars.

Interactive Features

Some chairs come with built-in speakers, vibration, and even connectivity options for a more immersive gaming experience. The X Rocker Pro Series 2.1 Vibrating Black Leather Foldable Video Gaming Chair, for instance, includes speakers and a subwoofer for an immersive audio experience, making it a hit among kids.

Size and Space Considerations

A gaming chair for kids should fit comfortably in their play area or bedroom without taking up too much space. Compact designs that are still adjustable offer the best of both worlds.

Compact and Foldable Designs

For those with limited space, foldable chairs or compact designs such as the Homall Gaming Chair offer a practical solution without compromising on comfort or durability.

Price and Value

While investing in a high-quality gaming chair for your child is important, it doesn't have to break the bank. Many options offer great value, providing the necessary features at a reasonable price point.

Budget-Friendly Options

Brands like GTRACING and RESPAWN offer models that are not only affordable but also come with many of the ergonomic and design features found in more expensive chairs.

Conclusion

Selecting the best gaming chair for your child involves considering a variety of factors, from ergonomics and durability to design and value. The ideal chair will support your child’s posture during long gaming sessions, withstand the rigors of daily use, and spark joy with its design. Whether your child is a casual gamer, a student who needs a comfortable chair for studying, or somewhere in between, there’s a gaming chair out there that’s perfect for them. Remember, investing in a good gaming chair is not just about comfort or aesthetics; it's about supporting your child’s health and well-being as they engage in the digital worlds they love. With the right chair, you can turn their gaming experience into an adventure that’s both enjoyable and ergonomically sound.

[newsletterjabar]

NFL

Enthralling millions of fans worldwide with its unparalleled gridiron spectacle, the National Football League (NFL) is a shining example of athletic brilliance. The NFL, the world's top professional football league, is now widely associated with exhilarating athleticism, intense rivalry, and unmatched entertainment value.

The NFL has a long and illustrious history dating back to its founding in 1920. Over time, the league has transformed into a cultural phenomenon, moving from the days of leather helmets and rough-and-tumble field fights to the state-of-the-art stadiums and advanced technology of today. 

The 32 teams that make up the NFL are split into the National Football Conference (NFC) and the American Football Conference (AFC). 

The stars that light up the field are what make the league more than just teams. The NFL has seen the ascent of great players whose abilities and charm transcend the game, from explosive wide receivers like Randy Moss and Jerry Rice to renowned quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning.

The explosive play on the field is evidence of the athleticism and cunning that characterize NFL football. Every game is a display of physical power and ability, from jaw-dropping tackles to spectacular catches. 

https://newsletterjabar.com/nfl/

https://newsletterjabar.com/nfl/

[brutalgamer]

Blood West (PC) Early Access Review

Rising from an untimely end, Blood West’s gunslinger is sent into a haunted frontier, where death lurks around every corner. The Adventures of the Undead Gunslinger Premise - 75% Gameplay - 80% Presentation - 85% 80% Rough and tumble Wild West and horror themes seem to go pretty well together, and Blood West is a great example. A tough and brutal FPS, this game doesn't hold-hands and even doles out penalties for dying. But while it can easily not go your way, the combat is extremely satisfying, framing overall quality gameplay, with a terrific retro feel. User Rating: Be the first one !

[squadron-goals]

Summer 1916

14.7.16

At 2:30 in the morning I slept rather fitfully, I heard quite a racket outside. In a moment, the inevitable Paulicke rushed into the room and shouted: "Gas attack!” I grabbed my standby can and put on my boots. Vogel, who shares my dugout, couldn't find his gas mask because he had left it somewhere. He danced (Me, bad guy that I am, secretly gloated) from one corner of the dugout to the other shouting, "Oh my God, my gas mask, my gas mask." The first smells of hydrogen sulphide, which suggested phosgene gases, were already wafting through the door. I claimed to already have great trepidation. Vogel built a smouldering fire, sat behind it with a whining expression and sucked on a three-layer cartridge at the top of his lungs. In addition, the 23.5s from last night were banging around in the area, as well as bullets of all kinds. This got on his nerves again, he disappeared into a tunnel entrance and lit a fire there, but soon reappeared half-smoked. I increased his fear by saying: "What if we have to go to the front and you without a gas mask!” -- Finally he ran to the staff quarters to look for a gas mask. When the fire died down, I lay down again.

27.7.16

In the south, especially from the Douchy-Bienvillers road, the English fired bottle mines. Our artillery responded with shell bursts that it was a real pleasure to see the black, yellow and white clouds. By the way, I'm getting in holiday spirit now. But you don't know whether you might not think back later on this rough life among men with a feeling: Yes, life was rough then, but consecrated to a firm purpose and carefree. War also has its peaceful moods. Tonight, for example, the sounds of an ocarina flow softly into the mild air from a dugout and hardly a rifle shot disturbs the mood. Leaning against the trench wall, a pipe in his mouth, someone is dreaming of something here, a group is sitting there chatting about this and that. Everything is simple and natural. In any case, this time is better for those who survive it than if they had spent night after night bumming around in smelly pubs and strolling through the big city streets with their hats crooked on their heads and easy women on their arms. In the evening the company commander came to my dugout for a little chat. Yes, there are very pleasant moments in war.

28.7.16

I gathered people together for a patrol today. In the evening, the platoon leader from the 6th who relieved me, Lieutenant Brauns, came to my shelter for dinner with various good things. He wished me “a shot in the neck and stomach.” The English machine guns were firing until 11 a.m. At 11:30, Lieutenant Jünger, Ensign Wohlgemut, Private Bartels and Private Birkner climbed over the wire with a loud groan and stalked towards the English trench.

We were sitting halfway between both trenches when we heard a clicking of wire. Immediately afterwards the same noise sounded very close in front of us and we saw the inevitable dark figures. They disappeared and we crawled closer to a number of figures in front of the English trench. We had already gotten pretty close when the old figures appeared again and seemed to want to get in front of their wire. At the same moment we discovered an insulated conductor wire in front of us. I considered this discovery to be very important and commissioned Wohlgemut to cut off one end of it. While he was still struggling with his cigar scissors, the guys climbed over the wire and started cutting with wire scissors etc. 7 m in front of us. This had to be exploited. "Wohlgemut, hand grenade in between!" (I said this almost inaudibly because I had had enough from the previous patrol.). Rtch! He pulled the safety off and I had the feeling you get when something is absolutely unstoppable. In a very flat arc Wohlgemut threw the hand grenade after the guys. They didn't hear it fall. One second, but what a second that was - - - - - - Boom! A flash of lightning that illuminates tumbling figures. At the same moment I jumped up and with the attacking roar: "You are prisoners" I rushed against the guys. A wild scene now unfolded in a split second. I shoot my gun right in a guy's face. He fell with a hideous scream. To my left, Wohlgemut unloaded his pistol. Private Bartels threw a hand grenade between us at the wrong time, so that by a miracle we remained unhurt. That confused the whole thing. But what was even worse was that after the first shot the magazine popped out of my pistol. It was like a nightmare. I shot and shot, not a single bullet left the barrel, I tore open the chamber door, nothing helped. At the same time, to our left, an M.G. started. Unfortunately there was nothing left but an immediate retreat. I stopped again and fired my pistol at a figure following me. This time it was fortunate that no shot was fired, because it was Private Bartels. Wohlgemut shouted next to me: "Where is the fourth?" "Here he comes!" "Back quick quick!" We quickly made our way to the German trench via mine funnels and shell holes. In front of our wire the bullets hit so hard that I jumped into a filled mine hole that was full of water and blocked by wire. After about 20 minutes, I climbed over our wire with my pants in ruins and jumped into the ditch, greeted happily by our people. Wohlgemut and Bartels were already there, and after a quarter of an hour Birkner also appeared. The people said that they had heard the scuffle very well with all the orders and all the shouting and shooting and were already ready to support us with hand grenades. This is the third patrol I've made to capture a prisoner, but now I know about this too and I'll do it when I go out again. The participants all said that it had been a nice patrol. The main points on which I will make the next patrol are as follows: 1. Only the best people, the more the better. 10 men are not too many. 2. Very precise instruction and encouragement to the people in the resting place. Awakening the sense of sport. 3. Instruct each man what to do, e.g.: You seven kill everyone except the Englishman furthest to the right, who I will take prisoner with the three others. 4. Take a man with you who can speak English. 5. Only the best hand grenades, ball hand grenades from the “Wilhelm” brand 6. Weapons for close combat such as clubs, rubber clubs, sharpened spades. 7. Shortly before the attack, put white bandages around your arm. 8. Every man must know that only great courage can get him out of trouble, so: Parole Blücher!