#shuttle dallas

[texasshuttle0]

Find Out Experience Taxi Service to Reach Airport at Right Time

To reach an airport at the right time is most important, so you must arrange an exemplary taxi service. Even though you can find out the airport taxi service number, most people wish to go with the Texas Shuttle. It has a lot of experience in offering excellent comfort service for the primary client without collecting the hidden charge with no risk.

They are complete defer from the other service for people who love to hire their service to reach the airport at the right time and at the same time, it offers a typical taxi company, so it assures to provides better service with no risk on it. Hence, it will be more comfortable for the client that let to the client to enjoy first-class service to meet the better solution for the client. The Dallas love field airport shuttle commonly offers service to the other airport, which will be more comfortable for the client to enjoy meet better support for the customer.

Applicable to book at all times:

It offers the primary service to significant airports such as downtown and suburbs, so people want to reach the airport at the right time. Then you have to with this taxi service to reach at any time. This company has many experience drivers that find out the significant short cut to reach the airport at the right time. They professionally take care of each customer, making it more comfortable for the customer with no risk.

Therefore, you must call in before to ensure that they fulfil your travel to the airport. For the event, you can go with the official website to gather all price tags from the different parts of the city so it will be easy to reach with no risk. It has the option to book online 24 hours and gives the best service at all times. Therefore, you have to go with the official website and get additional customer support to clear the significant ideas without risk. Our Dallas love field airport shuttle provides first-class pick-and-drop service in front of the door.

[avalonbus]

If you're considering a business trip to Dallas, keep in mind that the journey is just as important as the destination. Allow Dallas' business transportation services to transport you away from the everyday and into a world of luxury, convenience, and personalised experiences.

[auxriders]

Why Prefer Group Ride Share?

Choosing group ride share is an excellent option for those looking to enhance their travel experience while keeping costs manageable. Services like Dallas Premium Van Transport make it easy to accommodate larger groups, offering spacious vehicles that ensure comfort for all passengers. This convenience is particularly beneficial for events, such as weddings or corporate gatherings, where a coordinated transportation solution is essential.

One of the main advantages of group ride share is cost-effectiveness. Instead of each individual paying for their own transportation, costs are divided among the group. This is especially advantageous when using services like Private Event Vans Dallas, where groups can hire a dedicated van for their specific needs. By pooling resources, everyone can enjoy a premium ride without breaking the bank.

Traveling together also enhances the social experience. Sharing a ride allows friends, family, or colleagues to bond during the journey, making the trip as enjoyable as the destination itself. Services such as Dallas Group Van Hire provide the flexibility needed to cater to different group sizes, ensuring that everyone can travel comfortably and together.

Moreover, group ride share promotes sustainability by reducing the number of vehicles on the road. This eco-friendly aspect is becoming increasingly important for those who wish to minimize their carbon footprint. By choosing a shared ride, groups contribute to a more environmentally conscious travel option.

Finally, the convenience of group ride share cannot be overstated. With professional drivers and well-maintained vehicles, services like Dallas Premium Van Transport ensure a safe and reliable journey. This allows groups to focus on their event rather than the logistics of getting there.

In summary, opting for group ride share through services like Aux Riders not only makes travel easier and more affordable but also enhances the overall experience. Enjoy the journey together!

[victoriadallonfan]

Having re-watched Alien (1979) and Aliens (1985), I think I've realized what went wrong with the further expanded film universe on a thematic level (this is not accounting for AVP films, which seem to exist within their own continuity atm).

The main issue is that these films made 2 intertwining mistakes:

Making the Xenomorph too animalistic

Removing the mystery of space

For the first part, Alien and Aliens are quite vague about the Xenomorph mind. Alien treats it almost like a serial killer at times, including a particularly interesting moment where it disregards Jones the Cat entirely, despite making a very easy target, and how it will sometimes meander up to the crew as if it knows it's inflicting terror upon them. This Xenomorph even seems to only flee when Parker goes to kill it with a knife and hides within the evac shuttle when it realizes that Ripley was going there as well.

Aliens forgoes this in favor of showing how terrifying their numbers are even in the face of superior (if greatly mislead) fire power, but then pulls the rug under our protagonists by (seemingly) cutting the power and testing the endurance of the auto-turrets. While the drones are not individually as intelligent as the original xenomorph from the first film, this is instead given to the Queen, who understands not only the danger Ripley poses to her Hive but hostage negotiations of the most blunt variety. And, of course, incredible spite and vengeance when Ripley burns her eggs.

Basically, the two films do a good job of making you wonder... how sapient and sentient are the Xenomorphs? Do we take Ash's word and think of them as simply Hostile Weapons or do we see them for the adaptable and complex - if instinct guided - parasites just trying to protect their hive? This is further food for thought when we learn that one of the cut endings would have had the Xenomorph kill Ripley, tentatively use the shuttles control panel, and speak into the intercom with Dallas voice (ala Predator).

Imo, that goes too far into making them human, but we'll circle back to that later. The point is that the Xenomorph is never clearly one thing or another, but rather, something that constantly foils our attempts to understand them completely.

Aliens 3, Alien: Resurrection, Prometheus, and Alien: Covenant fail in that regard, because they take the firm stance that the Xenomorph is... an animal. A very, very, dangerous and hostile animal but an animal nonetheless. It's not some vague horror that we struggle to comprehend and reason with, because all the facts (as they are for now) are laid out: the Xenomorphs are weaponized animals that just kill, reproduce, and kill etc etc.

Nothing is entirely new about the Xenomorphs in these movies (beyond the forms and one part of Covenant, but we'll circle back to that as well), but rather trying to recapture the formula of Alien and Aliens. And even when the film isn't necessarily about the Xenomorphs like Prometheus, it still goes out of its way to copy the play by play of Alien to an almost hilarious degree (except, somehow, having a cast entirely of stupid scientists).

The Xenomorph is used as a toll for the films to talk more about the human threats who would use them, which is fine, except the same message of "Weyland-Yutani wants Xenomorphs, They Failed" over and over again (except I guess for Alien: Resurrection, but that had Walmart as a plot point so...) gets tedious. It's not longer about the folley of mankind, but rather this one company led by a man (or Android?) who keeps fucking up.

Ditto goes for the second part: removing the mystery from space. Alien and Aliens treat the Space Jockey and other (non-Xenomorph) alien life at an arms distance. They are large, grand, ominous, and vaguely defined. We don't know much about WY in either movie, nor how much is them knowing versus independent people within the company (Burke mentions cutting out his own bosses for profit for example, and Bishop the company Android is heroic and horrified at the situation they are all in, a big difference to Ash). The Xenomorphs having a Queen was a huge reveal, because we literally had no idea until then if those were actual eggs or simply pods artificially created.

Aliens 3 tries to add some mystery with the prison colony, but it's also hamfisted and given a lot of exposition to explain the situation they are in, but I will give it kudos for making Weyland (???) look like Bishop as a twist. Aliens: Resurrection... yeah, no.

Prometheus and Alien Covenant gave us a plethora of seeming mysteries, but also gives us really super simple answers. Basically, Space Jockeys are just super humans seeding life across the planets and they wanted to bomb Earth into oblivion because we killed Jesus Christ (who was a Space Jockey). And one of our androids then - possibly - goes to their home planet and bombs them to oblivion thus wiping out the human race. And they made Xenomorphs yadda yadda.

Prometheus in particular seems to despise the idea of space being a mystery, with the conversation David has with a scientist being plainly spelled out as the theme of the film: "Sometimes, humans/space jockeys just build shit, and it goes wrong I guess. No gods or mysteries here, just hubris."

Which, if handled well, is still a fascinating idea (I think it's a pretty interesting 'take-that' against the stupidity of Ancient Alien Conspiracy Theorists)... but it's not handled well. At all. And certainly doesn't work well when trying to write Xeno-Horror.

So, what COULD work?

Well, I think we need to look at how Alien and Aliens made the Xenomorphs, Space Jockey's, and Space itself all work.

For the xenomorphs, I think back to one scene I actually thought was interesting in Alien: Covenant; as a chestburster is born from a hapless scientist, it lays its eyes (???) on David and replicates his movements, mimicking the first living thing it witnesses. Nothing is ever done with this (of course), but think about the potential that could be used! Plenty of animals like crows, ravens, dolphins, octopi, killer whales etc etc can use mimicry in voices and actions, and that includes things like tool-use! And of course, the fact that they take on new forms from hosts helps with that.

For the Space Jockey's: scrap them. They had their time, the mystery is basically solved. Show us new and different alien civilizations long past. Were they also victims of the Xenomorphs? From some other threat entirely? Surely, there are extraterrestrial predators out there that don't follow the Xenomorph formula. Why not have them share the splotlight, with just as little explanation?

For space itself: stop with trying to recapture Alien and Aliens. Alien: Isolation is the only successor specifically because of the format of the medium. Alien and Aliens rely heavily on the shock factor of sudden reveals. Remove that, and you are given "bug hunt" games and movies ala discount Starship Trooper. Focus more on making human space feel almost alien and beyond our understanding as well, but just enough that we can recognize the purpose that we would have them for our society.

How I would write an Alien Story:

(This would all be backstory and setup for the actual story)

I would set it within a colony satellite with an explicit task: a skyscraper ecological time-capsule for deep space experimentation of wildlife.

It would have levels, with humans situated at the second uppermost and an AI as the manager at the top level of the satellite, with all the other animals in different levels fit for their habitats (including some non-earth, non-xenomorph aliens). It's a religious sponsored and run organization, offshoots of [Insert Church Here] that is trying to get good press with cutting edge AI and biological research.

The prize is an alien lifeform that looks like a cross between a crocodile and a panther. Usually docile when fed, it has been growing more and more agitated, harming several workers on the job. Most assume it may be some late-stage degenerative disease within it's brain.

Not all things are as it seems, as at the bottom of the station, a location no one but a select few faithful engineers are sent to maintain, a pod is damaged. A young attendant watches in shock and horror as a bloody and maimed chest burster crawls out of the pod, possibly having injured itself to burn through the lock. The creature is mewling in pain, but the young attendant makes a choice: leaving food, water, and blanket for the creature. Watching as the creature watches them, before going to feast. All under the gaze of a camera.

The xenomorph grows and grows, eating more, getting bolder and allowing its "caretaker" to feel more comfortable. Soon it begins to recognize certain sounds as they pray when he feasts, and association occurs. One day, its hiss sounds suspiciously like "Lord".

This is when the young attendant reaches out to higher, but trusted, priests to share this miraculous revelation. The first one is shocked, terrified, but intrigued as the creature mimics words like "Lord" and "Mighty". Barely audible, some would say hallucinatory, but they believe they can here this humanoid creature speak their language.

The second is equally shocked, terrified, but listens and becomes a believer.

The third one does not believe. Rightfully horrified and full of questions. Their arguments in front of the beast escalate into violence and when the young attendant shoves the priest to the ground, it is the Xenomorph that pounces. Blood is shed. the creature rises in front of it's faithful, and the Xenomorph uses the same sounds it heard over the fight. Lord. Mighty. Here-tik.

They can't be delusional or driven by guilt! This is a sign... right? This creature is speaking to them!

The faith grows. Never large. Can't risk word getting out or people noticing too many missing priests. The satellite is just barely large enough that people can excuse going missing for a few days between objectives.

But key individuals are brought in. The creature is worshiped. Animal offerings are delivered. It's changing, slowly. Growing larger (not a Xenomorph Queen, it's too maimed, but adapting to a steady diet).

Things might have escalated, had one of the priests killed not had an estranged sibling/spouse/loved one who had the pull to make a formal investigatory complaint.

The investigator arrives with his repertoire, this supposed garden of eden in deep space, none the wiser to what he would uncover. (Again, this would be the backstory, not revealed except through character investigations and evidence found during that. Defeats the purpose if it's spelled out like this).

It would play with the idea of how sapient/sentient the Xenomorphs are (do they care? do they understand? if not, why act like this? if yes, what does this mean for their continued slaughter), how much one puts into faith versus delusions, and leaves lingering questions: who put the xenomorph on the ship, why is the AI so complicit with the deaths and disappearances, and why is the one non-xenomorph alien acting so dangerously agitated despite being far away from the xenomorph's quarters?

[reijnders]

TRAINS! TRAINS!

Train systems and public transport in general are not handled by the Coalition, even on their stations, and thus have different organization and ranking. while trains with faces are not actually In my canon, its fun to draw em >:) these two trains do exist in my world tho

bottom one is inspired by @charseraph 's use of nonhumanoid(if a train can even be humanoid) trains. i'll say more about that later below the cut :)

Ti Mañorrosn'sit

AKA The Tomorrw-Sunset. This train was named and drafted in the futureEarth nation of Texas, but constructed in the Venusian nation of Dallas, so the train as a whole is named in Earth Texan, while the faces are nicknamed in Venusian Texan and Vietnamese respectively. Tomorrow-Sunset is a passenger train, operating on a planetside waystation that acts as the main transport hub between the surface of Venus and the VOIS station in orbit around the planet itself. Trains of the Namgheen classification utilize a (very handwavey) magnetic pole to accelerate. Having the train use a tube to suspend itself allow it to "dodge" potential obstacles by tilting, or, in emergencies, doing a lil 180. To ensure as many eyes as possible are on the lookout for danger, these trains have two faces, along with a conductor, to give practically 360 degrees of vision. Right and Left get along pretty well, and they both have a dry sense of humor.

Nenyu Nuyuyu

AKA The Long Story is a yotavuș-built train. It's very small, and fully automated, so has no conductor. It's used for short distance transportation on the Darheiszing space station, orbiting the yotavuș homeworld Taŧeșě. The doors use a pulley mechanism so that the bottom of the door is in sync with the top, and you pull at one of them to open the shuttle body. Unlike the face and head of a regular yotavuș, the train faces have no ears, and within the mouth there are no venom fangs. The matti is present visually, but functionally is very different in that it is used to regulate internal temperature of the shuttle, rather than detect external changes in temperature.

[darkenedreaper]

ripley x fem reader

fluff, angst if you're feeling spicy ig

can it be reader hiding feelings for a long time but then like the alien comes (first movie) and she ends up confessing? idk maybe it could take place after Dallas gets taken by the Alien? i figured the tension could escalate with Lambert being Lambert lol

also the reader probably shouldn't confess in front of everyone but just with ripley that would be awkward af

sending love and good vibes :)

Pairing: Ellen Ripley x GN!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, angst

Summary: Your feelings for Flight Officer E.R have been bursting to get off of your chest (reference intended), but will you tell her before its too late?

A/N: I love this request. Send more Ripley requests :) Also I did not spell check so don't be mad, Check out my masterlist to read more Ellen Ripley!

Before We Run Out of Time

Everyone was all out of odds. Parker had lost his bestfriend and was ranting and raving while pacing around. Ash was doing what he does best; nothing at all. Dallas had his head in his hands, trying to at least maintain some structure and leadership, you were his crew and team after all. Lambert had tears falling from her eyes every minute, she was sweating like the rest of you, hyperventilating and eager to take the shuttle. Ripley was sat a little bit away from you, leaving one empty seat between the both of you. She sat contemplating her next words and Dallas' next decision. Her eyes occasionally flickered to you and the table. She was trying to read you, trying to block out the noises of her frantic crewmates arguing, just so she could get an idea as to how you were coping with the out-of-space intruder. You were sat quiet, sat with your hands linked and looking at the table. A million thoughts were racing in your head; 'who's next, Lamberts gonna go into shock, when do I tell Ripley, what's the game plan'.

Your thoughts were disturbed when Dallas harshly shouted at Parker and Lambert who were bickering about the plan, that shut them both up and drew all attention to Dallas. Ash had left, no one cared were he went or what he did, but you made a mental note to check on his sneaky behaviour. "I'm taking the flamethrower down to the vents. I want Lambert and Parker monitoring where I'm going but I want Lambert Parker, Ripley and L/N all on comms. Is that clear?" You lifted your head up with a confused look as there hadn't been any proper discussion as to who was going. You couldn't let the Captain go without offering yourself up first, you weren't that kind of person.

"Hang on a second-", you debated but was quickly interrupted, "Just leave it L/N." Ripley harshly cut in without looking at you. You looked at her for her rude interruption and tension increased as you retorted back, "Ripley you don't need to be so-", you tried but Ripley was quicker, "Look if you can't go along with this then stay out of the way." Tension had been escalating between the both of you when Kane first woke up, you were adamant about checking him but Ripley brushed off your concerns and told you to question the science officer. The two of you were more distant than ever before. You were always attached at the hip, when you woke up from hyper-sleep she walked over to your bed, a little wobbly, but sat down next to you and gave you a tired smile while running her fingers through your messy hair. You liked Ripley, you were even internally considering if you'd fallen in love with her. It was hard not to like her; her eyes, her caring and loving heart coupled with her feisty personality. But right now you were at odds, you stood up after Dallas had stood up on his way to the vents and made your way to the positions Dallas gave you, leaving Ripley deflated and staring after you as you walked with a purpose, away from them all, even ignoring Lambert calling for you.

You took your places, sitting on the floor or balancing your bums on the edge of the short walls. Lambert and Parker had made their way to a room just around the corner, so they wouldn't have any interference with the tracker. On the cold hard floor of the Nostromo you were sat fiddling with the wires of your headpiece. You didn't bother to look up to know who walked round the corner to sit in front of you, you could already feel her brown eyes piercing your skin. But you knew there was no malice, and certainly no hate, never. You put on your earpiece, staring intently at the floor and watching the faint shadow of Ripley do the same.

When Ripley commented on your attempted debate of who was going in the vents, she said what she said in the heat of the moment. She didn't ever doubt your skill and she never doubted that you did things for your own benefit, you offered to go in the vents after all. She knew she hurt you from the moment your face twitched to a drop. She watched you wipe the sweat from under your eyes before walking off, she never meant to hurt you. So when she sat down she never took her eyes off of you, waiting for the right moment to apologise, perhaps even the right moment to tell you her feelings. Ellen Ripley was a headstrong confident woman that was not easily scared, but being rejected by you was possibly causing her more fear than coming face to face with this Xenomorph. She just took whatever time she had to look in adoration at you, She didn't want to admit it, neither of you did, but in 10 hours, an hour or one minute, you may never see each other again. She was so lost in thought she missed Dallas calling her the first time, she only heard when Dallas and Lambert called her, she replies, "I'm right here".

It wasn't long before chaos erupted. Lambert was shouting directions at Dallas and how quickly the second blip was closing in on him. You heard Dallas' heavy breaths and the occasional sound of the flamethrower. You sat up and stood up pacing anxiously around when Dallas said, "I wanna get out of her", in a tone of voice that wasn't fit for a Captain, he was scared and panicking. All of a sudden, Lambert was shouting at him to go right before you heard Parker and Lambert scream from the other room. You and Ripley ripped off your headsets after the high pitched noise buzzed through. "Goddamn it!" You shouted. "Lambert where is he?" Ripley questioned shouting to her and stood up after hearing her cries. You spun round to Ripley, "He's not anywhere! He's dead!" Lambert could only get louder by panicking forcing Parker to be louder than her so she could hear him over her own voice trying to calm her down. "We don't know that Y/N! How the hell do you know it!?" Ripley shouted back at you after watching Parker almost carry the frantic Lambert away from the shouting match you were having.

Back at Ripley you gave a quick response, "That thing has probably chewed him up and spat him out already Ripley! This would never have happened if you would've let me go in the first place!" Ripley lowered her voice from shouting and let out a deep and heavy sigh, "I was trying to protect you Y/N, trying to keep you safe". You were still agitated, your voice still louder than hers, "Another one, gone! Who's next Ripley!?". She saw you were beginning to crack, beginning to show your first signs of panic so she slowly took footsteps towards you, "I won't let it be you, I won't let it be any one of us". You tried to take some deep breaths and when you saw her coming closer to you you shut your eyes tight and hid your face with your hands, making your speech a little muffled. "I can't lose you Ellen, I just can't... I...I really, I..."

Ripley had closed off the decreasing distance between you by inching closer and closer. She tilted her head and spoke in a quiet, ever so softly placing her hands on top of yours and pulling your hands away from your face, "What are you trying to say?" As a single tear ran down your face, your hands were safely held in hers, her voice was the only thing you heard. You didn't dare look at her, your heart was about to jump out of your throat, you had to tell her. "I really like you Ripley. I really do, I've liked you for some time now... maybe I love you. But I didn't want to tell you incase and now this thing is-", shh shh shh. Ellen softly cut in to your rambling, trying to ease you with a small smile on her face. She gently lifted her hand up to your face as wiped away your tear before brushing some hair behind your ear. She looked deeply into your eyes, hers flickering down to your lips before she finally leaned in to kiss you.

You shut your eyes as her soft lips touched yours. The kiss between the both of you was a promise. A promise of unconditional love, care, and protection. She rested and cupped your cheek where she wiped your tear away. She brought her other arm up to tickle the baby hairs on the back of your neck while resting her arm across the spread of your back and shoulders. You sunk into her touch and became closer when you wrapped your arms around her back and waist, promising to keep her safe. You both pulled away just to relax and relish in each others embrace, her face was close to yours, noses touching as her eye were shut. You notice a tear fall down her face and as you gently wiped it away she sighed a breath of momentarily relief before wrapping herself in your enveloping embrace.

Neither of you said anything. You rested your head on hers after kissing it and held one another. She almost curled herself into you, gripping your shirt. You didn't know if you were both going to be okay, but for now you were and that is all that matters.

[countrymusiclover]

40 - Newest Dutton Baby

Country Rancher

This is the final chapter ❤️ thank you for reading

Tags @whateverthecostner @rosie-posie08 @kayceduttonn @kcloveswrestling @the-morning-star-falls @kaymudd @hcwthewestwaswcn

I gasped seeing water coming from between her legs since she was wearing just a dress and some socks after her shorts were tighter. “Oh my god. I think the babies coming.”

Kayce and I frantically turned our head towards one another sharing the same terrified look that we weren’t expecting this yet. Her due date wasn’t supposed to be until the rest of the family got back in town. “Call the helicopter!”

Kayce carried his first born daughter in his arms while we had someone else flying the helicopter for us. Carter had grabbed the baby bag. With the rest of our kids piling into the truck. “I’ll follow behind ya’ll. You stay with our baby girl.” Kayce told me when I climbed into the helicopter shutting the door behind me.

“Mommy, I’m scared.” Bree winced reaching for my hand when we rose off the ground flying as fast as we possibly could.

Grasping her hand in mine I sniffled through tears, remembering what it was like when I had her around my early 20’s. I still felt like I was a kid back then but nowhere near as young as she is. “I’m here, B. I’m always here. It’s you and me against the world.”

She sucked in a breath closing her eyes. And she remained that way for the rest of the flight. Finally we landed on the hospital building. Some medics rushed outside, rolling her into an elevator. I never let go of her hand even when her doctor came into the room. “Ms. Dutton, you are almost ready to push. But we will check up on you in a few hours.”

“Thanks doc.” I told her simply before she left the room leaving us alone.

Bree croaked through tears when she had some more contractions in her lower back. “Mommy, what if I can’t do this?”

“Don’t worry, baby girl.” Brushing hair out of her face I blinked through tears. “You are the strongest person I know. Heck when you were five years old you fell off my horse for the first time. But you wanted to get back on the second it happened.”

The door opened where I saw Carter and the others coming in. Kayce shut the door gently behind him. “How’s she doing? I called my dad and told him what’s going on. Unfortunately he can’t be home until the end of this month. So it will be a few weeks before he sees the new grandkid.”

“The doctor said she’s almost ready to deliver. But it would a few hours before she’s fully given the green light.” I shrugged my shoulders at my husband.

Carter went to her other bedside taking her other hand that I wasn’t holding. “Bree, I’m here. Uh…whatever you need from me.”

“Thanks Carter.” My daughter mumbles squeezing his hand.

Tate was helping Dallas and Elsa playing some games on the iPad we had got recently. Kayce walks over to me removing his hat where I got to my feet since he clearly needed to say something privately. “Little B, we’ll be back in a few minutes.”

Bree just nodded where we stepped out into the hallway shuttling the door behind us as we went. Wrapping my arms around myself I sighed heavily. “So what’s going on, Kayc?”

“I just needed a minute. Cause when I look at her right now I…it makes me think back to when I left you and how scared you probably were.” He ran a hand down his face.

Holding my hands I shake my head not being able to handle him crying right now. “Kayce, please don’t cry right now. Okay we’ve gone past this. Was it hard, yes. But you are here now. And I know you’re scared for our girl. But you aren’t alone. We’re in this together.”

“I just….feel like such an ass. For abandoning you for years because I chose Monica first over you. When it’s always been you who holds my heart and no one else will ever be that for me.” He sniffs through tears until I tug him against my chest. He buried his face into my neck where I ran my fingers through his hair.

“Kayce, I’ve forgiven you. Now we have to be there for Bree.” Breaking the hug we went back into the hospital room and just waited for about two more hours before the doctor came back in and said we had the green light.

Bree had asked that me and Kayce be in the room while she delivered even though we knew she loved Carter. So he stayed outside with Tate and the twins. “Alright Ms. Dutton. I need you to start pushing for me.” The doctor instructed her while she clasped our hands in hers.

She bared her teeth down while she began pushing as hard as she could until she threw her head back needing to rest. ��I can’t do this, daddy…” She began panicking with her chest heaving up and down.

“Hey, hey, Little B. You are as strong as your mama. If she could get through this, so can you.” Kayce kisses her forehead holding back tears hating to see his daughter in pain and he could really do anything about this.

She gulped, gripping our hands tighter than she already had. She screamed while she was pushing with everything she had left in her. After a few more long pushes she threw her head back in relief hearing a baby’s cry filling the room. “Ohhh…” Leaning forward I kissed her forehead, smiling through tears.

The doctor handed the crying infant over to a nurse. She wrapped the baby in a soft blanket before he delivered the news. “Congratulations Ms. Dutton, you have a beautiful baby boy.”

“Have you all picked out a name yet?” The nurse asked Carter and her.

Carter chuckled nervously. “Uh no we haven’t.”

The nurse nodded gently, handing their baby boy over to them. “He’s perfect.” Bree began crying while she held her baby closer to her chest crying through happy tears.

Covering my mouth with my freehand Kayce moved around the bed. He wrapped his arms around me crying through tears. “Looks like we’re grandparents now huh Kayce. I…I can’t believe it. We’ve got a grandson.”

“Our little girl is just as strong as you are, darling.” He kisses my forehead watching the doctor and nurses leave the hospital room giving us time alone together.

Carter shifts his gaze down to the infant in his girl's arms. “He’s so tiny…”

“Can we meet the new baby now?” Dallas burst into the room.

Tate came in with Elsa dragging him behind her. “Are you going to name it after grandpa or daddy?”

“Kiddos enough with the questions. Alright your sister has been through a lot tonight. Let’s let her get some rest now.” Kayce looks down at the rest of our kids who were being impatient.

Tate dropped his smile. “Awe come on, dad.”

“Tate, don’t push it.” I warned him with a glare.

Bree cleared her throat causing all of us to turn our attention to the teenage couple. “Mommy, I think I might actually have a name for this little guy. Because I have been reading some letters from 1923. And I found a name I rather liked.”

“Honey , you don’t have to rush into this. It took me a while before I found the perfect name for you.” I reassured her by squeezing Kayce’s hand in mine.

Bree shook her head glancing over at Carter. “It’s okay, mom. The name I want is Spencer. Spencer Kayce Dutton.”

“Are you two going to get married at some point?” Kayce asked his daughter, blinking through tears while a grin was plastered on his face at hearing his name being the boy's middle name.

Carter rubbed the back of his neck avoiding his gaze before Bree sent him a grin. “Uh no sir. But I ain’t going anywhere, Mr. Dutton.” I laid my head on Kayce’s shoulder where he tugged me closer to his embrace, happy that we were all okay.

Comments really appreciated ❤️

[victusinveritas]

The crossover nobody asked for, but we got it anyway.

h/t Robert Consing.

In case you can't read the panels...

Here's a transcript below the cut.

intro (panel "0"):

The hibernation pods open.

panel 1: Dallas (Linus) meets Ash (Schroeder) and Kane (Charlie Brown) at the mess-room table.

Dallas: "Mother found a signal. We should check out."

Kane: "S.O.S.?"

panel 2:

Ripley (Lucy): "That signal looks like a warning."

Parker (Franklin): "I just wanna go home and party!"

panel 3: Kane is in the hatchery, examining an egg.

Kane: "It seems to have life..."

panel 4: The facehugger jumps out, onto Kane's faceplate.

Kane (screaming): "AAUGH!"

panel 5: Ripley, Ash, Dallas, and Parker are in Sickbay, examining Kane.

Ash: "Molecular acid. It must be using it for blood."

Parker: "Wonderful defense mechanism."

panel 6:

Ripley: "Ash, why did you break quarantine?"

Ash: "What would you have done?"

Dallas: "Good grief."

panel 7: Kane sits up, minus one facehugger.

Kane: "I sure am hungry."

all the others: "YAAAY!!!"

panel 8: Parker and Kane are eating in the mess room.

Kane (screaming): "ACK!"

Parker: "The food ain't *that* bad!"

panel 9: The newborn xenomorph, fashioned after Snoopy (with the ears and nose) does the Snoopy happy-dance while erupting from Kane.

Lambert (Sally) (screaming): "EEEW!"

panel 10:

Parker: "We need to find it and kill it!"

Brett (Pigpen) "Right."

panel 11:

Ripley: "Whenever he says anything, you say 'right'."

Brett: "Right."

panel 12: The xenomorph grabs and kills Brett. [sound effect: CLOMP!]

panel 13: The xenomorph grabs and kills Dallas. [sound effect: CLOMP!]

panel 14: Ash is threatening to beat Ripley with something resembling a rolled-up paper. Parker is about to whack Ash with a length of pipe.

Ripley: "Ash! What are you doing?!"

panel 15:

Parker (beheading Ash): "Ash is a goddamn robot!"

panel 16: Ripley and Parker have set up Ash's dripping head on a table.

Ripley: "Ash! Can you hear me? What is Special Order 937?"

panel 17:

Ash: "Bring back life form ... all other priorities rescinded. I won't lie to you of your chances. You have my sympathies."

panel 18: Ripley is holding a gun, standing by Parker and Lambert.

Ripley: "We can take the shuttle and blow up the ship."

panel 19: The xenomorph grabs and kills Parker and Lambert.

panel 20: Ripley is running for the shuttle, carrying a birdhouse.

Mother: "T-MINUS FIVE MINUTES..."

panel 21: Ripley is on board the shuttle; the Nostromo explodes in the background.

Ripley: "Whew! ...Huh?" as she sees the silhouette of the xenomorph.

panel 22: Ripley hits the emergency hatch-open button; the xenomorph is blown into space.

Ripley (singing): "Lucky star..."

panel 23: Ripley is preparing for hibernation, cuddling Jones (Woodstock).

Ripley: "This is Ripley, the last survivor of the Nostromo, signing off."

[my-shields-are-down]

You’re allowed to feel however you feel, and watch or not watch. Everything is valid.

But what Melissa said Eric was pushing for and what Eric himself has been open about wanting since before the season started, was for Chenford’s relationship to be messy. He didn’t want it to be smooth sailing and he wanted them to face struggles like a real couple. Melissa said they were surprised the writers took it that far.

But no one has ever said that Eric specifically wanted a break up. Nor has there been any implication that it’s what his wife wanted. You’re putting words in real people’s mouths.

There’s also no implication that Chenford won’t work their way back together. All Eric said is that he and Melissa still have fun scenes together and that there isn’t a ‘guarantee of anything, but it leaves it in a place where there’s stuff to talk about’ in the finale. That in no way sounds like the door is shut on Chenford. Obviously I don’t think they’re going to get back together by the end of the season, because there’s only 4 more episodes and they have a lot of work to do. But assuming the show is renewed for season 7, I can pretty much guarantee Chenford isn’t done.

Side note— If Eric or Roselyn truly did have a problem with Chenford and brought it forward to the show, The Rookie instagram page wouldn’t still have ‘#Chenford stan account’ in its bio.

++++++++++

Hello Anon - thank you for the message.

This is the first tv show that I’ve ever actively participated in the online fandom side of things. I never knew all of this existed until I stumbled upon a critique of an Arrow episode on Twitter that led me here to tumblr.

I grew up before streaming existed. I’m older than Google and MTV and cell phones 🤭. I took a typewriter to college. 80s new wave music speaks to my soul - Top Gun came out my senior year in high school, not long after the Challenger Space Shuttle exploded. I also have an MBA in Marketing so I get how tv shows and cast members market the shows to get people in the seats.

Why do I mention this? Because my perspective is different than yours.

Oh my god, between here and Twitter, IG, tiktok, etc. I’m exhausted. I rage posted for almost 48 hours straight because of a fictional couple on a tv show. I have never been so intensely angry in my life - ever.

The show and Chenford have taken over my life and not in a good way.

At this point, I am unfollowing the fandom in Twitter, I’ve unfollowed the cast on TikTok and IG. I unsubscribed from podcasts that don’t get me to a better me.

I don’t want to see any bts, read any more interviews, see any more cameos. It’s all noise to me and I need to focus on me and get back to being excited about the show. Going in blind with no expectations, excited to see new stories (well, not Nolan being a dad again 🤢).

Back to your post - I read the same interviews you did. The cast comments about Chenford were all past tense. I didn’t see any sorrow or regret about the demise of the couple by either Mel or Eric. They both prefer angsty scenes. I didn’t see ANY hope expressed by either that their individual stories would lead them back to each other. Alexi has been silent - and I have never trusted him to do right by Chenford.

Eric has repeatedly said this was never planned for - meaning in the whole overall arc of the show this fan based couple threw a major wrench into the original story arcs for both characters. With Tim reverting back to tough guy Tim from the early seasons, I take that to be like a do over to redo the show the way Alexi intended WITHOUT Tim and Lucy as a couple.

So no, I don’t think they will get back together. Definitely not by the end of the season. I don’t believe Alexi - who was very vocal during the early seasons about never putting these two characters together - has any intention to bring them back to each other. Hopefully, he won’t treat Chenford like Dallas treated the whole Bobby Ewing death thing (making a whole season a dream).

Maybe I’m wrong, I’ll find that out by watching the show.

- Andrea

[fregolicotard]

24.09.2024

Remember when I complained yesterday about my "uber adventurous and packed day". 💀 Such a sweet sweet summer child I was...

07:00 am – Wake up, bleary-eyed, and drag ourselves to the airport. Completely unaware that we won a ticket for an obstacle course disguised as air travel.

12:30 pm – We finally take off from Berlin, fashionably late by an hour. No big deal—just leaves us with a razor-thin 40 minutes to catch our connection in Madrid for Dallas. Who doesn’t love a little adrenaline with their layover?

15:30 pm – Land in Madrid and immediately get an email: Good news: we’re rebooked! Bad news: it’s to New York at 16:20. Because why go straight to your destination when you can collect cities like trading cards?

15:40 pm – Andrzej calls Iberia, and they inform him that, surprise, the New York flight is also cancelled. Meanwhile, the monitor insists it’s boarding. Who do we trust? The airline or reality?

16:00 pm – We run to the gate for New York like two racehorses. The gate agent tells us we can board… but our luggage isn’t coming with us. So we’d have to file a claim in New York to get it to Dallas. Hard pass. She sends us to customer service to get rebooked instead. Because clearly, that’s where all problems are solved.

16:10 pm – Join the purgatory that is Iberia’s customer service line. Forty people ahead of us, two agents “helping” with the kind of enthusiasm you’d expect from people about to perform a root canal on themselves. Meanwhile, Andrzej is calling Iberia and then British Airways, trying to find a way to Dallas.

17:30 pm – Victory (ish): Andrzej books us on a new flight… to Chicago… in two days. I suggest we keep waiting in line, just in case customer service has something earlier up their sleeve. Maybe they'll take pity on us?

18:00 pm – Eighteen people still ahead of us. Food and water? Nonexistent. Assistance? Please. No one gives a tossing fig about us.

18:10 pm – Just as I start wondering if I’ll grow old and die in this line, the agents announce their shift is over and walk out. Mayhem. Everyone starts screaming. We’re directed to another desk—because why stop at one disaster when you can have two? It’s a 30-minute hike across the airport, because of course it is.

19:00 pm – Desk #2. We split up: Andrzej tries to file a luggage claim, while I get in yet another line. I sweat these are actually East European post offices disguised as customer service desks.

20:00 pm – After what feels like eternity, the desk agent tells me to go to bus stop #7 for the hotel shuttle. Which hotel? Who knows. Apparently, that’s classified information. I try to ask, and she snaps at me to “just go to the bus stop.” Customer service is dead, and she’s the one who killed it.

20:20 pm – Standing outside at bus stop #7, surrounded by luggage, rushing vehicles and men who look like they will say at any time: "Hey, gorgeous". A bus finally pulls up, but the driver looks at us like we’ve asked for a free ride to the moon and refuses to take us. So Andrzej heads back inside, leaving me to babysit 123 kilos of baggage, increasingly convinced I’m living in some twisted social experiment. Maybe I died on the flight to Madrid and this is purgatory? Straight to hell old girl?

21:20 pm – An hour later, Andrzej returns, saying the bus stop is somewhere else and that “Jorge” is waiting for us. Whoever Jorge is, he’s our only hope.

22:30 pm – We’ve now been waiting an hour, and shocker: Jorge hasn’t shown. Our fellow passengers are skedadling one by one, calling Ubers, tired of the lie that Jorge is coming to rescue us. What if I made Jorge up?! Maybe I'm so hungry that I'm imagining Jorges is shining armour coming up in a shuttle bus??

23:45 pm – We join the others, booking a hotel ourselves because dignity is for people who didn’t trust this airline. I call an Uber van big enough for our suitcase bonanza.

00:30 am – Arrive at the hotel, a hollow shell of my former self, wondering if life was ever anything other than an endless airport queue. Energy depleted.

00:45 am – Tapas. Flavor profile: Optimal. Resource expenditure: Excessive. Emotional satisfaction: Temporary. Take a selfie because surely they don't allow you selfies in hell?

#268of366

[mylesvogh]

The trouble with trains is...

My sister’s home screen is a picture of her with a friend, smiling happily, cheek to cheek, their happiness a grapefruit colored glow. My home screen is a red freight train rounding the bend of a green mountain. There is nothing deep to say about this. I just like trains. 

Twice a week, I tie my shoes in bunny ears, one childhood habit of many I have been unable to break, and wait in the frosty dawn with my fellow commuters for the train, with its blue vinyl seats and slightly sticky metal poles. Sometimes, police will board, not sensing, or just ignoring, that they are not wanted, and call for valid forms of payment. What they don’t know is that I almost never tap my student ID at the platform kiosk, because students ride free. 

This morning as they breathe down our necks, someone is talking off the ear of the man next to him.

“This is kind of fun!” he says, squirming to look around him. “Everyone is so quiet. It’s like group meditation.”

When we spill out at our station, I don’t bother checking which way he goes. I think about calling -----. She would laugh at this. But Utah is huge and desolate, and no train tracks stretch far enough to meet her where she has landed. 

To get to President’s Circle from the football stadium, you have to trek past hundreds of lonely parked cars, then cut through the humanities buildings to reach the lush island of pines and yellowing grass, an oasis in the maze of campus’s scorched pavement. I think if a satellite photographed it, this part of my life would be one big circle of gray.

When I was a kid, I used to come to campus with my mother to get my father. I hated that I was too young to stay home alone, sitting beneath the wavy arms of the pines, the plastic jacket of a library book sticking to a sweaty arm or leg. Inside, my father is probably in one of the lecture halls that looks like it was hollowed out by an ice cream scoop, sides sloping down into a perfect circle. One of my old coloring sheets still resides on the wall, a pirate, stirring a bowl of green eggs. I wouldn’t color something like that anymore. Why? Because eggs aren't really green. What a stupid question.

Trains are meant to come every fifteen minutes, but there can be variables. When that happens, it means a mad dash to the 54 bus, where I sit in silence with the rest of the group until the mandatory fifteen minute wait ends, and we abandon any latecomers to their asphalt island. 

Last June, ----- and I went to the Grand Canyon on an old West themed train targeted at tourists, which was fine, because she was wearing socks with sandals and I bought a T-shirt specifically for the occasion. I want to go to Paris to see the Louvre. She wants to go to Idaho to see the world’s largest potato. Neither of us have considered anything past these goals, past this day, past this moment in time. 

The time between summer beginning and summer ending is fast. All I know for certain is that I refused to go down into the canyon, though we have come across the country for this express purpose. I do not like heights, and  I can tell that this bothers her, but she lets it slide. She goes down, I stay where I am. She moves across the country; I stake my claim to our hometown. Will she come back, or will I leave? Neither of us wants to be the first. 

In September, I don’t make it to the Louvre.

Winter comes again, the way it always does, bleeding glass. Holidays are happy everywhere else, but in airports, they are tense. There’s always the feeling that, if one more thing goes wrong, everyone will fight to the death over luggage tags and stale donuts. 

In Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport, there is a shuttle that ferries travelers between terminals, like the myth about a boat between life and death. I think purgatory is a layover in Dallas. It bothers me that I recognize Einstein Bagels and Dunkin’ Donuts, but I don’t know where I am outside of their familiar storefronts, glowing pink letters with donut sprinkles. Capitalism has won this round. When I lick the foamy cap off my drink, it tastes like plastic and whipped cream. I think about not getting on the flight back home. I don’t like heights. 

When we disembark, the girl from the seat beside me flashes me a brief smile. “Have a good break,” she says, and I watch her and her Baylor sweatshirt disappear into the crowd. I know that some people wear their school sweatshirts to airports to seek out people like them, leave the airport together, braced with companionship. I don’t have a college sweater because they’re over seventy dollars at the bookstore. 

I weave through Departures to meet the last of December outside. Soon winter will be over. I ponder this, and green eggs, as I board a bus, nothing like my 54, but even miles apart, they feel the same. If you are far from home, you seek out a Dunkin’, a chain restaurant, looking for something that reminds you of what you left behind. When I am far from home, I wait for trains. 

At my station, look up at the familiar board of flashing lights for my connection. I know her suitcase before I know her face.

“Hi,” she says, and I say it back. 

[texasshuttle0]

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[avalonbus]

When renting a charter bus, it is important to identify the number of passengers in your group so that the rental company can provide you with a properly sized bus that can comfortably accommodate everyone.

[sprinterbuzz]

Van Rental at DFW Airport: Sprinter Buzz

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of travelers each year. For many of those visitors, reliable transportation is essential, whether it’s for a family vacation, a business trip, or group travel. Renting a van from DFW Airport can be a smart, cost-effective solution for those who need more space, comfort, and flexibility than a standard rental car can offer. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of van rentals, the types of vans available, tips for choosing the right van, and the top rental companies at DFW Airport.

Why Rent a Van at DFW Airport?

Spaciousness: Vans offer significantly more room than sedans or SUVs, making them ideal for families, groups of friends, or business teams. Whether you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or just want extra legroom, vans provide ample space for both passengers and belongings.

Group Travel: If you're traveling with a group, renting a van allows everyone to stay together, rather than splitting up into multiple vehicles. This not only simplifies coordination but also makes it easier to enjoy the journey together.

Comfort: Modern vans are equipped with comfortable seating, entertainment systems, climate control, and other amenities that make long trips more pleasant. Whether you’re headed on a road trip or navigating Dallas traffic, the comfort of a van enhances the overall experience.

Cost-Effective: Renting a van can be more economical than renting multiple smaller vehicles, especially when traveling with a large group. You’ll save on rental fees, fuel, and parking by consolidating your transportation needs into one vehicle.

Flexibility: With a van rental, you have the flexibility to go where you need, when you need. Whether it’s a hotel, a business meeting, or a tourist attraction, you can set your own schedule without relying on public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Types of Vans Available for Rent at DFW Airport

There are various types of vans available for rent at DFW Airport, depending on your specific needs. Here’s an overview of the most common options:

Passenger Vans: These are ideal for transporting larger groups of people, typically seating between 7 and 15 passengers. Passenger vans are commonly used for family vacations, group trips, or shuttle services. They offer comfortable seating and sufficient storage for luggage.

Minivans: A minivan is perfect for families or smaller groups of up to 7 passengers. They offer a balance of space, comfort, and fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for road trips and airport transfers. Minivans also feature foldable seats for extra cargo space.

Cargo Vans: If you're traveling for business and need to transport equipment or goods, cargo vans provide ample storage space. These vans are also useful for moving furniture, catering supplies, or other large items. Cargo vans are spacious but still easy to drive.

Luxury Vans: For those looking for a more upscale experience, luxury vans come with premium features such as leather seats, advanced entertainment systems, and enhanced climate control. These are often rented for corporate events, VIP transport, or special occasions.

12-15 Passenger Vans: For large groups, a 12- or 15-passenger van is the best option. These vans are perfect for sports teams, large families, or company outings. They offer maximum seating capacity while maintaining comfort and legroom for passengers.

Top Van Rental Companies at DFW Airport

DFW Airport has several major car rental companies, many of which offer a wide selection of vans. Here’s a look at some of the top van rental providers you’ll find at DFW Airport:

Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise is known for its extensive fleet and excellent customer service. At DFW Airport, Enterprise offers a variety of van options, including minivans, passenger vans, and luxury vans. They also have flexible rental terms and a well-organized pickup process.

Hertz: One of the most recognized names in car rentals, Hertz offers a variety of van rentals at DFW Airport, including both passenger and cargo vans. Hertz is a great option for travelers looking for reliable, well-maintained vehicles and competitive pricing.

Avis: Avis is another popular choice for van rentals at DFW. They offer minivans and passenger vans with a focus on comfort and safety. Avis frequently provides discounts and promotions, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Budget Rent-A-Car: True to its name, Budget provides affordable van rental options for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality. They offer 7- and 12-passenger vans, ideal for family trips and group travel.

Alamo Rent-A-Car: Alamo is a great choice for international travelers, with a wide range of van rental options. They offer quick check-in services and have a reputation for providing clean, comfortable vehicles.

National Car Rental: National caters to business travelers and those who prefer a premium rental experience. Their selection of luxury vans and passenger vans is perfect for those needing extra comfort or high-end features.

Things to Consider When Renting a Van at DFW Airport

Size of the Van: Determine how many passengers you’ll have and how much luggage or cargo you’ll be bringing. Choose a van that accommodates your group comfortably, with enough storage space for your belongings.

Duration of Rental: Rental companies at DFW offer flexible rental periods, from a few hours to several weeks. Be sure to consider your travel itinerary and whether you’ll need the van for just the airport transfer or for the entirety of your stay in Dallas.

Rental Price: Prices for van rentals at DFW vary depending on the type of van, rental duration, and demand. Booking in advance can help you secure better rates, especially during peak travel seasons. Be sure to compare prices across different companies to find the best deal.

Insurance: Rental companies offer various insurance options, including collision damage waivers and liability coverage. Make sure to review your existing auto insurance policy or credit card benefits to determine if additional coverage is necessary.

Airport Pickup: DFW Airport has a dedicated Rental Car Center, accessible via shuttle from all terminals. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the pickup and return process, as well as shuttle schedules, to avoid delays in your travel plans.

Extras and Add-ons: If you're traveling with children, you may need a van with child safety seats. Some rental companies offer add-ons such as GPS navigation systems, Wi-Fi hotspots, or additional driver options, so be sure to inquire about available extras.

Benefits of Renting a Van at DFW Airport

Convenience: Having a van ready for you as soon as you land at DFW saves time and simplifies logistics. You can hit the road immediately and travel without any delays.

Wide Selection: With several major car rental companies operating at DFW, you have a wide variety of vans to choose from, ensuring that you find the perfect vehicle for your trip.

On-site Support: Most rental companies have customer service representatives and support staff at DFW, ensuring that any issues or questions can be resolved quickly.

Conclusion

Renting a van from DFW Airport is a practical and convenient solution for families, groups, or business travelers needing extra space and flexibility. With a range of van options available—from minivans to luxury passenger vans—travelers can easily find a vehicle that suits their specific needs. Whether you're visiting Dallas for business or pleasure, a van rental will enhance your travel experience, providing comfort, convenience, and cost savings throughout your trip. By considering the type of van, rental terms, and the best rental companies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey from the moment you arrive at DFW.

[boricuacherry-blog]

Dopamine is named for the emotional rollercoaster of her last several years, the peaks and valleys of a life she has mostly kept private. In 2020, Normani's mother was diagnosed with breast cancer for a second time after being in remission for 19 years. The following year, just when Andrea had finished chemotherapy, doctors found a lump in her father, Derrick's, prostate: He had cancer, too. Normani considers herself closer with her family than her friends. "I needed to be at home, with my family," she says. They both urged her to keep working on her album though, and not to defer a dream they'd all participated in since Normani was 3 years old.

Normani Kordei Hamilton was born in 1996 to a mother who was a flight attendant and a father who was a union official. The family moved from Atlanta to New Orleans in 1999, and whenever her parents were away for work, her grandmother, Barbara, would take care of her. She was 3 when she fell in love with musicals. She remembers watching John Huston's 1982 film, Annie, and turning to look at her mother, saying, "Mom, I want to do that, I want to be in the TV." Her parents took her seriously and enrolled her in dance classes; it was Barbara who paid for them and sewed all of her costumes. By the time she was 8, she'd grown fond of the dance-focused music videos she'd see on BET's 106 & Park and would do the choreography for Destiny's Child tracks with her friends at birthday parties. (They were partial to "Soldier" and "Cater 2 U.") Ordinarily, Normani was shy and quiet. But when she performed, she would become someone else.

When they snuck back into the city to recover some of their belongings, her parents found the neighbor's shed in their pool. Their family photos were all destroyed. They took what they could, left behind the pet turtles, and decided to start over in Texas. "We were in the car," recalls Normani, "and my mom asked, 'Do you want to go to Dallas to see your godmother? Or to Houston? I hear Beyoncé is from there.'" She laughs. "That was the deciding factor." In Houston, they stayed in a hotel for four months, deleting their savings and stretching their food. Normani, who was entering the sixth grade, struggled to adjust in school before deciding to be homeschooled. This gave her the space to commit more fully to dance, gymnastics, and singing. Her mother would crisscross the states every weekend to bring her to dance competitions and shuttle her to Los Angeles for various auditions. (At 13, she briefly appeared on HBO's Treme, as a child caught in a post-Katrina New Orleans.) At 15, she got on X Factor. The judges (Britney Spears, L.A. Reid, Demi Lovato, and Simon Cowell) didn't think she was ready for a solo career, but Cowell and Reid thought she had potential in a five-piece outfit. They merged her with four other young women, Dinah Jane, Lauren Jauregui, Camila Cabello, and Ally Brooke, who had also auditioned as solo artists, and had them sign a joint record deal under Reid's label Epic Records via Syco Music, the same Cowell-owned label that backed Little Mix, CNCO, and One Direction.

Fifth Harmony became one of the most commercially successful girl groups of all time over a span of six years, selling 33 million records. For Normani, the group was a blessing that also traumatized her. She refers to her "time in the group" like a prison sentence ordered and duly served. But she says she was grateful for her ability to hide. "I didn't want to be at the forefront," she says. "It wasn't until later that I started feeling like a token."

When Normani came out with her single Wild Side, it was nocturnal and assertive, but with a hint of playfulness. Normani believed in the song enough to fund the music video herself, which cost upwards of $1 million; it's a psychedelic, gravity-defying montage of leopard print, crushed velvet, and acres of glistening skin that sees the singer phasing through cielings, doing the splits in full leather, and dancing with a doppelganger like the closing scene from Annihilation.

"My mom says she wants a tattoo," Normani shares with a flutter of laughter. "It's funny because growing up, she was always like, 'It's not worth it to get your bellybutton pierced or to have tattoos. Your body is a temple.'" Normani has two: the bootlike outline of Lousiana on her right ankle, and the phrase "God's Daughter" in script on her clavicle. Both were impulsive decisions. "Because I think so much and I'm so intentional when it comes to music-related things, or anything to do with my career, when it's something outside of that, I allow myself to move before I can second-guess myself," she says.

[noahdawson1]

Dallas Charter & Shuttle Bus Rental Company

Dallas Charter & Shuttle Bus Rental Company is your premier choice for reliable and comfortable transportation in Dallas. Our fleet of modern charter and shuttle buses is perfect for a variety of events, from corporate meetings and school field trips to family gatherings and special occasions. Visit us: https://dallascharterbusservices.com/