#south solitary

[blistering-typhoons]

my brother in christ (granada holmes), his ass is not american

[herbalnature]

A lone mushroom stands out amidst the scatter of dried leaves and twigs in the quiet underbrush of Mpumalanga, South Africa. It's like a tiny umbrella in a miniature forest world, basking quietly in a sliver of light.

[julieconnelly]

Nostalgic Walks

 Nostalgic walks Going on nostalgic walks isn’t something I usually do. This is a deeply unashamedly nostalgic walk.  Starting from the West end of Newcastle to the suburbs of Jesmond Dene, I managed a 10-mile walk. The past is a different country.  A place is sometimes worth revisiting. As Nostalgic walks go this was the best. A tale of remembering Starting from Newcastle Central Station…

[florida3exclamationpoints]

Dear tumblrinas I beg you to manifest that I see Him 🖤 while im on vacation bc if I don't I might die

[artifacts-and-arthropods]

Wool-Carder Bees: these solitary bees harvest the soft, downy hairs that grow on certain plants, rolling them into bundles and then using the material to line their nests

Wool-carder bees build their nests in existing cavities, usually finding a hole/crevice in a tree, a plant stem, a piece of rotting wood, or a man-made structure, and then lining the cavity with woolly plant fibers, which are used to form a series of brood cells.

The fibers (known as trichomes) are collected from the leaves and stems of various plants, including lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina), mulleins, globe thistle, rose campion, and other fuzzy plants.

From the University of Florida's Department of Entomology & Nematology:

The female uses her toothed mandibles to scrape trichomes off fuzzy plants and collects a ball of the material under her abdomen. She transports these soft plant fibers to her selected nest site and uses them to line a brood cell. Next, she collects and deposits a provision of pollen and nectar into the cell, enough pollen to feed a larva until it is ready to pupate. Lastly, she lays a single egg on top of the pollen and nectar supply before sealing the cell. ... She will repeat this process with adjoining cells until the cavity is full.

These are solitary bees, meaning that they do not form colonies or live together in hives. Each female builds her own nest, and the males do not have nests at all.

Female wool-carder bees will sometimes sting if their nest is threatened, but they are generally docile. The males are notoriously aggressive, however; they will often chase, head-butt, and/or wrestle any other insect that invades their territory, and they may defend their territory from intruders up to 70 times per hour. The males do not have stingers, but there are five tiny spikes located on the last segment of their abdomen, and they often use those spikes when fighting. They also have strong, sharp mandibles that can crush other bees.

There are many different types of wool-carder bee, but the most prolific is the European wool-carder (Anthidium manicatum), which is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, but has also become established as an invasive species throughout much of North America, most of South America, and New Zealand. It is the most widely distributed unmanaged bee in the world.

A few different species of wool-carder bee: the top row depicts the European wool-carder, A. manicatum (left) and the spotted wool-carder, Anthidium maculosum (right), while the bottom row depicts the reticulated small-woolcarder, Pseudoanthidium reticulatum, and Porter's wool-carder, Anthidium porterae

Sources & More Info:

University of Florida: The Woolcarder Bee

Oregon State University: European Woolcarder Bees

Bohart Museum of Entomology: Facts about the Wool Carder Bee (PDF)

Bumblebee Conservation Trust: A. manicatum

World's Best Gardening Blog: European Wool Carder Bees - Likeable Bullies

Biological Invasions: Global Invasion by Anthidium manicatum

[esotericalchemist]

𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 - 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐠𝐨 𝐨𝐟 ⭒❃.✮:▹

Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

The South Node in astrology symbolizes the traits, habits, and behaviors we've brought with us from past lives or early experiences. It's our comfort zone, the familiar ground we often retreat to because it feels safe and natural. However, while the South Node reveals our inherent strengths and tendencies, it also shows us what we need to release in order to grow. Holding on to the patterns tied to the South Node can keep us stuck, preventing us from evolving into our full potential. True growth comes from recognizing these tendencies, understanding how they impact our lives, and consciously deciding to let go of what no longer serves us. By doing this, we open ourselves up to the lessons of the North Node, embracing new paths that lead to deeper fulfillment and personal development.

✫ 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

Your soul's growth in this lifetime requires you to release the intense drive for independence, impulsivity, and self-centeredness that has characterized your past experiences. Holding onto these tendencies can keep you stuck in patterns that no longer serve your highest good. Instead, your journey towards your Libra North Node is about learning to embrace balance, diplomacy, and the importance of relationships. It’s time to recognize that true fulfillment doesn’t come from going it alone but from connecting with others, finding harmony, and understanding the value of collaboration over solitary pursuits. As you move toward this more relational and balanced way of being, you'll find a deeper sense of purpose and peace.

Aries South Node in the 1st House: Release the constant urge to assert your independence; instead, prioritize partnership and shared decision-making.

Aries South Node in the 2nd House: Shift your focus from accumulating material wealth and self-sufficiency; learn to value and share resources with others.

Aries South Node in the 3rd House: Move away from impulsive or domineering communication; work on fostering balanced and thoughtful interactions.

Aries South Node in the 4th House: Let go of the need to control your home environment; instead, focus on creating harmony and collaboration within your family.

Aries South Node in the 5th House: Stop seeking personal recognition in your creative pursuits; appreciate the value of shared creative experiences and collaborations.

Aries South Node in the 6th House: Move beyond working in isolation and focusing solely on personal tasks; embrace cooperation and teamwork in your daily life.

Aries South Node in the 7th House: Release the tendency to dominate relationships; concentrate on building partnerships based on mutual respect and balance.

Aries South Node in the 8th House: Let go of the need to control shared resources or power dynamics; instead, build trust and share power in your intimate relationships.

Aries South Node in the 9th House: Shift from a narrow focus on your own beliefs and philosophies; open yourself to other perspectives for a more balanced worldview.

Aries South Node in the 10th House: Stop striving for success through self-reliance alone; cultivate supportive relationships that can help you achieve your professional goals.

Aries South Node in the 11th House: Release the desire to lead or control group dynamics; focus on fostering equal and cooperative relationships within your community.

Aries South Node in the 12th House: Move away from facing challenges in isolation; learn to build supportive partnerships and rely on others for mutual growth.

✫ 𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

For your personal growth, it's essential to release your strong attachment to material security, comfort, and resistance to change. These familiar patterns may feel safe, but they can also hold you back from reaching your full potential. Moving towards your Scorpio North Node invites you to embrace transformation, engage in deep emotional connections, and have the courage to explore the unknown. This journey is about discovering that true security comes not from clinging to what’s familiar but from evolving and allowing yourself to be transformed by life’s challenges and mysteries.

Taurus South Node in the 1st House: Let go of the need for a comfortable, predictable self-image; instead, embrace the transformative journey of evolving your identity.

Taurus South Node in the 2nd House: Release your attachment to material possessions and financial security; focus on cultivating deeper emotional and spiritual values.

Taurus South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond surface-level communication and routine thinking; engage in conversations that lead to deeper understanding and personal growth.

Taurus South Node in the 4th House: Let go of the need for a stable, unchanging home life; embrace emotional transformation within your family and personal relationships.

Taurus South Node in the 5th House: Release the focus on creative endeavors solely for self-gratification; explore artistic expressions that bring deeper emotional fulfillment and shared experiences.

Taurus South Node in the 6th House: Move away from rigid routines and an overemphasis on physical health; embrace holistic practices that address emotional and spiritual well-being.

Taurus South Node in the 7th House: Let go of the need for stable, predictable relationships; learn to value intimacy and the transformative power of deep connections.

Taurus South Node in the 8th House: Release the fear of losing control over shared resources and emotional ties; focus on building trust and embracing transformative partnerships.

Taurus South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond the comfort of familiar beliefs and philosophies; seek transformative experiences that challenge and expand your worldview.

Taurus South Node in the 10th House: Let go of the desire for material success and a stable career; embrace opportunities that lead to profound personal growth and transformation.

Taurus South Node in the 11th House: Release the comfort of familiar social networks; engage with groups and causes that push you toward deeper, transformative connections.

Taurus South Node in the 12th House: Move away from seeking comfort in solitude or avoiding deep emotional challenges; confront your fears and embrace spiritual transformation.

✫ 𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

To foster your personal growth, it’s important to move beyond your attachment to superficial knowledge, scattered thinking, and the constant need for new mental stimuli. While these traits may have served you in the past, they can now limit your potential. Embracing your Sagittarius North Node requires you to seek deeper wisdom, cultivate broad perspectives, and focus on meaningful goals and experiences. This journey is about shifting from a surface-level engagement with life to one that is richer, more purposeful, and grounded in lasting understanding.

Gemini South Node in the 1st House: Let go of the habit of constantly adapting your identity to fit in; instead, embrace a more stable, authentic sense of self that reflects deeper wisdom.

Gemini South Node in the 2nd House: Release the focus on accumulating trivial knowledge or material possessions; shift towards cultivating values that have broader, long-term significance.

Gemini South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond the need for surface-level communication and mental stimulation; engage in deeper, more meaningful conversations that explore philosophical ideas.

Gemini South Node in the 4th House: Let go of focusing on mundane family matters or small talk; instead, nurture deeper emotional bonds and create a home environment that encourages growth and understanding.

Gemini South Node in the 5th House: Release the habit of engaging in creative activities purely for fun; explore artistic expressions that convey deeper truths and reflect broader perspectives.

Gemini South Node in the 6th House: Move away from routines filled with distractions and trivial tasks; focus on work that aligns with your higher ideals and contributes to meaningful growth.

Gemini South Node in the 7th House: Let go of relationships that are based solely on intellectual stimulation; seek partnerships that challenge you to grow and explore deeper, more meaningful aspects of life.

Gemini South Node in the 8th House: Release the tendency to avoid deep emotional issues or focus on surface-level matters; engage in transformative experiences that lead to profound emotional and spiritual growth.

Gemini South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond a narrow focus on everyday concerns and trivial knowledge; seek out higher education, travel, and experiences that broaden your worldview and understanding.

Gemini South Node in the 10th House: Let go of the need to be recognized primarily for your communication skills; focus on building a career that reflects your deeper purpose and philosophical beliefs.

Gemini South Node in the 11th House: Release the habit of forming friendships based on shared trivial interests; instead, seek connections with those who share your higher ideals and aspirations.

Gemini South Node in the 12th House: Move away from intellectualizing your spiritual experiences; embrace a more intuitive, expansive approach to spirituality and personal growth.

✫ 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

To truly grow and evolve, it's essential to release your attachment to emotional security, dependency, and the tendency to remain within your comfort zone. These patterns, while familiar and safe, can prevent you from achieving your full potential. Moving toward your Capricorn North Node requires embracing responsibility, leadership, and a focus on long-term success and recognition. This journey is about stepping into your power, taking control of your destiny, and striving for achievements that bring lasting fulfillment and respect.

Cancer South Node in the 1st House: Let go of defining yourself through your emotional needs and family ties; instead, cultivate a strong, independent identity rooted in personal responsibility and professional achievements.

Cancer South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of seeking comfort through material possessions or financial security; focus on building lasting stability through disciplined effort and strategic investments.

Cancer South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond emotionally driven communication and a focus on the familiar; embrace clear, purposeful communication that supports your long-term goals.

Cancer South Node in the 4th House: Let go of over-identifying with your home or family life; instead, pursue success in the public sphere and build a career that brings you recognition and respect.

Cancer South Node in the 5th House: Release the need for emotional validation through creative pursuits or romantic relationships; channel your energy into disciplined work that contributes to your long-term ambitions.

Cancer South Node in the 6th House: Move away from nurturing others in your daily work; focus on efficiency, discipline, and professional growth in how you approach your responsibilities.

Cancer South Node in the 7th House: Let go of emotional dependency in relationships; seek partnerships that are grounded in mutual respect, shared goals, and long-term success.

Cancer South Node in the 8th House: Release the tendency to rely on others for emotional or financial support; focus on building your own resources and stepping into a position of power and authority.

Cancer South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond emotional attachment to familiar beliefs or cultural traditions; embrace the challenge of expanding your horizons through education, travel, and new experiences.

Cancer South Node in the 10th House: Let go of seeking emotional validation through your career; focus on achieving success through strategic planning, hard work, and dedication to your professional goals.

Cancer South Node in the 11th House: Release the desire for emotional security within social groups or causes; instead, focus on forming connections that support your professional aspirations and long-term ambitions.

Cancer South Node in the 12th House: Move away from emotional retreat and escapism; embrace the discipline required to face your challenges and pursue your ambitions with determination.

✫ 𝐋𝐞𝐨 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

For your personal growth, it's crucial to release your attachment to seeking personal validation, being the center of attention, and focusing exclusively on your own ambitions. These tendencies, while they may have brought you recognition in the past, can now hold you back from a deeper sense of fulfillment. Moving toward your Aquarius North Node encourages you to embrace collective efforts, innovation, and working towards goals that serve the greater good rather than just your own desires. This path is about shifting your focus from self-centered achievements to contributions that uplift and benefit the community as a whole.

Leo South Node in the 1st House: Let go of the urge to always be in the spotlight; instead, develop a sense of self that is more collaborative and aligned with the needs of the community.

Leo South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of measuring your self-worth by material wealth and personal possessions; focus on how you can contribute to shared resources and community prosperity.

Leo South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond the need for recognition in your communication; focus on fostering collaborative dialogues that inspire innovation and collective advancement.

Leo South Node in the 4th House: Let go of dominating your family life for personal acknowledgment; instead, create a home environment where equality and collective well-being are prioritized.

Leo South Node in the 5th House: Release the need for personal glory in creative projects; channel your creative energies into endeavors that uplift and involve the community.

Leo South Node in the 6th House: Move away from seeking individual recognition in your daily work; focus on how your contributions can improve the lives of others and advance common goals.

Leo South Node in the 7th House: Let go of the tendency to dominate in partnerships; cultivate relationships based on equality, shared responsibilities, and mutual respect.

Leo South Node in the 8th House: Release the desire to control shared resources for personal gain; instead, focus on fair management and distribution of resources for the good of all involved.

Leo South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond asserting your beliefs for personal validation; embrace a more open and collaborative approach to sharing knowledge and exploring new perspectives.

Leo South Node in the 10th House: Let go of striving for personal fame and status; focus on building a career that makes a positive impact on society and contributes to the greater good.

Leo South Node in the 11th House: Release the habit of seeking leadership roles in groups for personal recognition; instead, engage in collective efforts that prioritize the welfare of the community.

Leo South Node in the 12th House: Move away from self-centered isolation; embrace spiritual practices and activities that serve the collective and benefit the broader community.

✫ 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐨 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

For your personal growth, it’s important to let go of your attachment to perfectionism, over-analysis, and the need to control every detail. These habits, while they may have provided a sense of security, can now hold you back from experiencing a deeper, more fulfilling life. Moving toward your Pisces North Node invites you to embrace intuition, compassion, and a trust in the natural flow of life without overthinking. This path encourages you to find peace in the unknown and to connect with others and the world around you in a more fluid and empathetic way.

Virgo South Node in the 1st House: Let go of the need to perfect your self-image; instead, present yourself with a more intuitive and compassionate approach that reflects your inner wisdom.

Virgo South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of meticulously controlling your finances and possessions; trust in the universe’s abundance and adopt a more relaxed approach to material security.

Virgo South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond overanalyzing every conversation or piece of information; focus on developing a more intuitive and spiritually connected way of thinking and communicating.

Virgo South Node in the 4th House: Let go of the desire to keep your home life perfectly organized; instead, create a warm, emotionally nurturing environment that fosters spiritual growth.

Virgo South Node in the 5th House: Release the need for perfect creative expression; allow your creativity to flow freely, embracing the beauty in its imperfections.

Virgo South Node in the 6th House: Move away from obsessing over daily routines and health habits; focus on a holistic approach to well-being that includes your spiritual and emotional health.

Virgo South Node in the 7th House: Let go of critiquing and trying to perfect your relationships; focus on nurturing connections that are rooted in empathy, understanding, and emotional depth.

Virgo South Node in the 8th House: Release the need to control shared resources or emotional dynamics; trust in the transformative power of deep emotional and spiritual connections.

Virgo South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond a narrow, analytical approach to learning and belief systems; embrace a broader, more spiritual perspective that trusts in the mysteries of life.

Virgo South Node in the 10th House: Let go of striving for a flawless career or public image; instead, focus on contributing to the collective good and allowing your professional life to unfold naturally.

Virgo South Node in the 11th House: Release the habit of micromanaging or critiquing social groups; embrace a compassionate, inclusive approach to community involvement and collective progress.

Virgo South Node in the 12th House: Move away from self-criticism and isolation; instead, surrender to spiritual growth and embrace the flow of life with compassion for yourself and others.

✫ 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

To grow, you need to release your tendency to rely on others for validation, avoid conflict, and overcompromise in the name of harmony. While these behaviors may have provided comfort, they can also prevent you from fully embracing your individuality. Moving toward your Aries North Node involves embracing independence, assertiveness, and the courage to pursue your desires without needing constant approval.

Libra South Node in the 1st House: Let go of defining yourself through others' opinions or relationships; focus on building a strong, independent identity based on your own values and desires.

Libra South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of valuing yourself based on how others perceive you or your ability to maintain peace; instead, cultivate self-worth through personal achievements and assertive action.

Libra South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond avoiding conflict in communication; embrace direct, honest conversations where you confidently express your own ideas and opinions.

Libra South Node in the 4th House: Let go of the need to keep peace at home at the expense of your own needs; focus on establishing a household where your voice and desires are equally respected.

Libra South Node in the 5th House: Release the tendency to seek approval in your creative and romantic endeavors; instead, pursue your passions boldly and without concern for others' judgments.

Libra South Node in the 6th House: Move away from trying to please everyone in your work or daily routines; instead, take initiative and pursue what you believe is right, even if it means standing alone.

Libra South Node in the 7th House: Let go of losing yourself in relationships or making excessive compromises; focus on maintaining your independence and asserting your needs within partnerships.

Libra South Node in the 8th House: Release the habit of relying on others for emotional or financial support; instead, develop your own resources and power, embracing self-sufficiency.

Libra South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond the need to follow others' beliefs or philosophies; embrace your own truth and the courage to explore and stand by your personal convictions.

Libra South Node in the 10th House: Let go of seeking validation through career achievements or public approval; focus on pursuing a career path that aligns with your personal goals and ambitions.

Libra South Node in the 11th House: Release the tendency to conform to group norms or seek approval from social circles; instead, lead with your vision and assert your individuality in social settings.

Libra South Node in the 12th House: Move away from hiding your true self to avoid conflict; embrace your individuality and the courage to express your true identity, even in spiritual or introspective matters.

✫ 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

To foster personal growth, it's essential to release your need for control, emotional intensity, and the tendency to dwell on the darker, more complex aspects of life. While these traits may have provided depth and insight, they can also lead to unnecessary complications and emotional turbulence. Moving toward your Taurus North Node invites you to embrace simplicity, stability, and a more grounded, peaceful approach to living. This path encourages you to find contentment in the present moment, cultivate inner calm, and appreciate the beauty in life’s simple pleasures.

Scorpio South Node in the 1st House: Let go of projecting a controlling or intense image; instead, focus on cultivating a calm, stable identity that radiates peace and simplicity.

Scorpio South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of obsessing over financial security and material wealth; instead, find contentment in simplicity and adopt a more relaxed approach to resources.

Scorpio South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond the need for intense or secretive communication; embrace clear, honest conversations that build trust and openness.

Scorpio South Node in the 4th House: Let go of emotional entanglements and power struggles within your family; focus on building a nurturing, stable home environment that promotes peace.

Scorpio South Node in the 5th House: Release the need for drama or control in creative and romantic pursuits; enjoy the simple pleasures of creativity and love without the need for intensity.

Scorpio South Node in the 6th House: Move away from obsessing over health and routines; adopt a balanced, grounded approach to daily life that supports overall well-being.

Scorpio South Node in the 7th House: Let go of power struggles and emotional control in relationships; focus on cultivating stable, respectful partnerships that bring mutual peace.

Scorpio South Node in the 8th House: Release the habit of trying to control shared resources and emotional dynamics; trust in the natural flow of life and embrace a peaceful approach to intimacy.

Scorpio South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond an obsessive pursuit of deep truths and hidden knowledge; instead, adopt a practical, grounded approach to learning and spirituality.

Scorpio South Node in the 10th House: Let go of the need to manipulate your career path or public image; focus on building a solid, dependable reputation through consistent effort and integrity.

Scorpio South Node in the 11th House: Release the tendency to engage in power dynamics within social groups; instead, nurture genuine, straightforward friendships and community ties.

Scorpio South Node in the 12th House: Move away from lingering in past traumas or engaging in hidden fears; embrace spiritual practices that bring peace, grounding, and simplicity.

✫ 𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

To truly grow and evolve, it's essential to release your tendency to chase grand ideals, avoid details, and resist commitment in favor of constant exploration. While these traits have given you a broad perspective, they can also prevent you from engaging fully with the present and with the practical aspects of life. Moving toward your Gemini North Node encourages you to embrace curiosity, flexibility, and a willingness to engage with everyday learning and communication. This path is about finding meaning in the ordinary, being open to new ideas, and connecting with the world around you in a more immediate and tangible way.

Sagittarius South Node in the 1st House: Let go of defining yourself through expansive ideas or philosophical beliefs; focus on developing a more adaptable, curious approach to life and self-expression.

Sagittarius South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of pursuing grand, idealistic financial goals; instead, cultivate practical financial habits and appreciate the small joys in everyday life.

Sagittarius South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond the tendency to overlook details or dismiss local matters; embrace learning and communication that is grounded in practical, everyday experiences.

Sagittarius South Node in the 4th House: Let go of the desire to escape or idealize your home and family life; focus on creating genuine connections and engaging in open, honest communication with loved ones.

Sagittarius South Node in the 5th House: Release the need for grand, adventurous expressions of creativity or romance; instead, find joy in the small, everyday moments and embrace a more lighthearted, flexible approach to creativity.

Sagittarius South Node in the 6th House: Move away from a restless approach to your daily routines and health; develop consistent habits and a balanced approach to managing your everyday responsibilities.

Sagittarius South Node in the 7th House: Let go of the tendency to idealize or seek freedom in relationships at the expense of deeper connection; focus on building relationships that are based on mutual understanding, communication, and shared experiences.

Sagittarius South Node in the 8th House: Release the habit of avoiding emotional depth or intense situations by focusing on grander ideas; instead, embrace the details of intimate relationships and the shared management of resources.

Sagittarius South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond the need to pursue distant, lofty goals or ideals at the expense of practical learning; instead, engage in everyday education and open yourself to new perspectives through local experiences.

Sagittarius South Node in the 10th House: Let go of the desire to achieve success through big, sometimes unrealistic, career aspirations; instead, focus on building a career that values communication, adaptability, and practical skills.

Sagittarius South Node in the 11th House: Release the tendency to focus on broad, utopian visions in your social groups; instead, cultivate friendships and community ties that are based on shared everyday experiences and interests.

Sagittarius South Node in the 12th House: Move away from escaping into grand philosophical or spiritual ideals; instead, ground your spiritual practices in everyday life and embrace the details of your inner journey.

✫ 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

To foster personal growth, it's essential to release your overemphasis on ambition, control, and the pursuit of external success. These traits, while they may have brought you worldly achievements, can also distance you from the deeper emotional connections and fulfillment that truly enrich life. Moving toward your Cancer North Node invites you to embrace emotional connections, nurture relationships, and prioritize the well-being of yourself and your loved ones over material accomplishments. This path encourages you to find balance by valuing the heart as much as the mind and by cultivating a life that is both emotionally and spiritually fulfilling.

Capricorn South Node in the 1st House: Let go of the need to project a strong, controlled image; focus instead on cultivating a more emotionally open and nurturing identity that reflects your true self.

Capricorn South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of measuring your self-worth by material wealth and achievements; instead, find security in emotional connections and the simple joys of life.

Capricorn South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond rigid, goal-oriented communication; embrace conversations that are emotionally engaging, compassionate, and focused on mutual understanding.

Capricorn South Node in the 4th House: Let go of the need to structure and control your home environment; focus on creating a warm, nurturing space that fosters emotional well-being and family connections.

Capricorn South Node in the 5th House: Release the tendency to approach creativity or romance with seriousness and control; instead, enjoy spontaneous, heartfelt expressions of love and creativity.

Capricorn South Node in the 6th House: Move away from a workaholic mindset and an overemphasis on discipline in your daily routines; instead, prioritize self-care, emotional health, and a balanced lifestyle.

Capricorn South Node in the 7th House: Let go of the need to dominate or control your relationships; focus on building partnerships that are emotionally supportive, caring, and rooted in mutual respect.

Capricorn South Node in the 8th House: Release the habit of controlling shared resources or maintaining emotional distance in intimate connections; embrace vulnerability and trust in your relationships.

Capricorn South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond a disciplined, rigid approach to spirituality and learning; instead, explore your beliefs through emotional experiences and nurturing wisdom.

Capricorn South Node in the 10th House: Let go of the need to define yourself by your career or public achievements; focus on finding fulfillment through family life, emotional connections, and nurturing your personal well-being.

Capricorn South Node in the 11th House: Release the focus on achieving status or control within social groups; instead, cultivate friendships and community ties that offer emotional support and shared understanding.

Capricorn South Node in the 12th House: Move away from a solitary, disciplined approach to spirituality; embrace practices that promote emotional healing, inner peace, and a connection to the divine.

✫ 𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

To truly grow and evolve, it's important to release your tendencies toward emotional detachment, rebelliousness, and prioritizing group ideals over personal connections. While these traits may have served you in maintaining objectivity and individuality, they can also prevent you from experiencing the warmth, creativity, and deep connections that bring true fulfillment. Moving toward your Leo North Node encourages you to embrace personal expression, creativity, and the importance of close, heartfelt relationships. This journey is about finding joy in being uniquely yourself and in building meaningful connections with those around you.

Aquarius South Node in the 1st House: Let go of projecting a distant, intellectual persona; instead, develop a warm, confident presence that values personal expression and connection.

Aquarius South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of prioritizing abstract ideas over personal fulfillment; instead, cultivate self-worth through creative endeavors and tangible accomplishments.

Aquarius South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond a detached, overly rational communication style; embrace expressive, heartfelt conversations that deepen personal relationships.

Aquarius South Node in the 4th House: Let go of maintaining emotional distance in your home life; focus on creating a warm, loving environment where personal connections are nurtured.

Aquarius South Node in the 5th House: Release the focus on group activities or intellectual pursuits; instead, explore your individuality through creative self-expression and personal joy.

Aquarius South Node in the 6th House: Move away from an impersonal approach to work and daily routines; instead, infuse your tasks with creativity and personal involvement.

Aquarius South Node in the 7th House: Let go of prioritizing intellectual compatibility over emotional connection in relationships; focus on building passionate, personally fulfilling partnerships.

Aquarius South Node in the 8th House: Release the habit of intellectualizing emotional and intimate matters; instead, embrace emotional depth and vulnerability in your closest relationships.

Aquarius South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond abstract ideals and philosophies; instead, embrace personal experiences and the joy of creative self-expression in your exploration of life’s meaning.

Aquarius South Node in the 10th House: Let go of seeking recognition through group efforts or intellectual achievements; focus on building a career that highlights your individual talents and creative contributions.

Aquarius South Node in the 11th House: Release the tendency to blend into group identities; instead, step into the spotlight and embrace your individuality and leadership.

Aquarius South Node in the 12th House: Move away from a detached, abstract approach to spirituality; instead, connect with your inner self through creative, heartfelt practices that bring joy and personal fulfillment.

✫ 𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐝𝐞 ✫

For personal growth, it's essential to let go of tendencies toward escapism, idealism, and avoiding practical realities. While these traits may have helped you connect with your imagination and spirituality, they can also keep you from achieving tangible success and stability in the material world. Moving toward your Virgo North Node invites you to embrace discipline, attention to detail, and a focus on practical solutions and tangible results. This path encourages you to balance your dreams with reality, creating a life that is both spiritually fulfilling and grounded in the here and now.

Pisces South Node in the 1st House: Let go of projecting an ethereal or dreamy image; instead, focus on developing a practical, organized approach to how you present yourself to the world.

Pisces South Node in the 2nd House: Release the habit of being overly idealistic or careless with your resources; instead, focus on building financial stability through disciplined management and practical planning.

Pisces South Node in the 3rd House: Move beyond vague or escapist communication; embrace clear, precise conversations that foster understanding and effective exchange of ideas.

Pisces South Node in the 4th House: Let go of the tendency to idealize or escape from family responsibilities; focus on creating a stable, orderly home environment that supports the well-being of all family members.

Pisces South Node in the 5th House: Release the need to lose yourself in creative fantasies or romantic illusions; approach your creative and romantic endeavors with practical planning and clear goals.

Pisces South Node in the 6th House: Move away from disorganized or inconsistent daily routines; instead, develop disciplined, efficient habits that support your health and productivity.

Pisces South Node in the 7th House: Let go of the tendency to idealize or avoid reality in relationships; focus on building partnerships that are grounded in mutual responsibility and clear communication.

Pisces South Node in the 8th House: Release the habit of avoiding deep emotional work or escaping into fantasy in matters of intimacy and shared resources; instead, embrace a practical, problem-solving approach to these areas.

Pisces South Node in the 9th House: Move beyond the desire to escape into abstract philosophies or spiritual fantasies; instead, focus on practical, real-world applications of your beliefs and seek knowledge that has tangible benefits.

Pisces South Node in the 10th House: Let go of the tendency to idealize or avoid taking concrete steps in your career; focus on setting realistic goals and working steadily towards achieving them.

Pisces South Node in the 11th House: Release the habit of losing yourself in utopian visions for social change; instead, focus on practical, actionable steps you can take to make a real difference in your community.

Pisces South Node in the 12th House: Move away from excessive escapism or isolation; instead, develop a grounded spiritual practice that includes daily routines and tangible acts of service.

Masterlist

[todaysbird]

the pacific parrotlet (forpus coelestis), also known as the celestial parrotlet, is a small green parrot originating from a limited range in south america. they are sexually dimorphic, and easy to differentiate; males have bright blue coloration on the wings that is especially visible in flight, while females are overall green. they have grown in popularity as a pet bird, and breeders have developed new color mutations for pet birds including white, turquoise, and marbled. despite being social in the wild, they are typically best kept without cagemates, as they are known to be territorial over their cage and outright aggressive to other birds. despite their small size, they are rarely a good ‘beginner’ pet bird, as they have stubborn personalities and can often be nippy, especially if not heavily socialized from a young age. although they thrive on solitary housing in captivity, they live in flocks of 40-50 birds in the wild. their natural diet is mainly berries and cactus fruits.

[uzumaki-rebellion]

Preview.... "Lick Back 2"

Lick Back 2 by Uzumaki Rebellion

Pairing: Terry Richmond x Black Female OC

Warning(s): 18+, Explicit Sex, Angst, Domestic Drama, Unprotected Sex, Breeding Kink, Blood & Violence, Drug References, AITA!Terry Richmond.

Summary: Terry Richmond didn't expect to become a father over night. A surprising photo in the mail reveals that an illicit affair he had with a married woman eleven months ago resulted in a baby girl named after him. Ecstatic to be a new dad, he races to South Carolina to reunite with Nova, and bring their new family to Louisiana for Christmas. Unfortunately, Nova's estranged husband Jordan has different plans.

Preview Word Count: 3.6K

Arriving in full on Christmas Eve! Tell a friend! Part 1 HERE.

"I took one look at you

And it was plain to see

You were my destiny

With you I'll spend my time

I'll dedicate my life

I'll sacrifice for you

Dedicate my life for you"

Method Man & Mary J. Blige—"You're All I Need"

Terry Richmond couldn't stop looking at the eight by eleven color photo he received in the mail.

Terrina Richmond.

He had a daughter. A two-month-old baby girl.

His mind raced with so many chaotic thoughts. He'd had an affair with a married woman and she left him to salvage her wreck of a marriage in South Carolina. Terry spent months trying to forget her, poured himself into his work, and blotted out the memory of Nova Patterson.

The last time they made love, he nearly broke the bed, pulling out his best erotic moves to keep her. By his calculations, that was when he impregnated her. They loved each other, but ultimately, he had to let her go. She belonged to someone else and already had an infant son. Who was he to prevent a reconciliation of a family?

He worked day and night, taking on extra hours, even requested deployment overseas to get away from Nova haunting him with her beauty, kindness, and intelligence. He wished the world for her, but couldn't bear to be in the states knowing he couldn't have her.

The big bosses denied his request. They wanted his skills building up their elite soldiers in Oceanside. Make more war machines. Oorah.

Terry booked a flight to Charleston the moment he hung up the phone with Nova. An hour later he still sat on his couch wondering who to confess his shocking news to. His first inclination was to reach out to his family, but he wasn't ready to explain the circumstances of fathering a child with a married woman to his parents just yet. His closest friends Von and Bethany were next in line, but he could already hear Bethany chewing him out for being no different than Jordan, with Von nodding his head in agreement. Telling his homegirl Angie would only result in a flying fist socking him in the jaw.

He had accrued ninety days of leave time that he planned on using up for Nova and Terrina. His godson Junior, too. He stroked his chin. Junior would become his stepson now. A bonus child. Nova gave him purpose. He had a family to care for.

Terry cancelled his flight.

Nova would have a ton of things to bring back with the children. He would drive there instead of flying and rent a U-Haul cargo trailer in Charleston. Nova could take what she wanted and he would buy anything else she needed once they returned to Oceanside. He glanced around his condo. They could stay in his place until the lease ended the following summer and then look for a new home big enough for the four of them.

Four.

How strange. He woke up that morning a single man living a solitary life. Now he was responsible for three other people. He wanted to marry Nova as soon as possible, that way he could get them on his health insurance. Terry grinned. He moved like a man with a plan.

Packing more clothes for an extended trip, the reality sank in further. He was a father. He stopped to look at his daughter again. She had his ears. Funny how he hadn't noticed it before. Terrina's eyes struck him first, but then all the other little details jumped out. She was his mama's color. Terry got his eyes from his maternal grandmamma and his ears from his paternal grandpa. Terrina repped both sides of his family like him. He sat down on his bed and rocked his body, staring at her picture like it was going to disappear if he stopped looking at her.

That was his baby girl.

Nova carried her while enduring the stress of an unraveling marriage. His woman needed peace and a home fit for a queen. He was determined to give it to her. Texting his parents, he sent them a quick message that he had to postpone coming to Louisiana because of work.

He stopped by his local coffee shop and loaded up on an egg white breakfast sandwich and coffee. Hitting the road by noon, he headed east after texting Nova that he was driving and would arrive in Charleston within two days. She sent him another picture of Terrina and Junior. He smiled so hard in his truck after taking a restroom break. Junior was nearly two years old, and it shocked Terry that he didn't look like Jordan anymore. The boy had Nova's face dipped in milk chocolate. He noticed that she'd typed the names Terrina and Novan. He typed the name Novan with a question mark. A minute later, she sent a message that she legally changed her son's name to hers. His nickname was Van-Van. Yeah, she was really done with Jordan if she yanked his son's name away from him. That shit was tough.

"My baby girl will never have that problem," he muttered, heading onto the freeway again.

Terry drove non-stop, only taking breaks when the truck needed gas. He loaded up with a bunch of Big Macs from McDonald's in Dallas, and his heart started beating wildly. Sitting in the parking lot, he inhaled deeply several times and listened to one of his meditation apps. On the verge of a panic attack unless he spoke to someone about his sudden anxiety at meeting his daughter, he called Bethany and confessed everything.

"I'm sitting here freaking out, Bethany. I just want to get to South Carolina and see Nova…hold my baby, but right now I'm losing it. Cuss me out, yell at me, I don't care…I just needed to talk to someone I trusted who knows me…knows I wouldn't do anything to hurt anyone on purpose. Not even Jordan."

Bethany gave a long sigh. He waited for a shrill tone to rip his ear apart.

"Terry, I have to be honest with you. Nova called and told me everything a month ago."

"She what? A month ago?"

"Don't be upset. She was scared and didn't have anyone supporting her. Her family flipped out…Jordan's family flipped. Jordan is on a downward spiral. It's a shitshow out there…but I promised her I wouldn't say anything until she was ready to face you. Go easy on her, okay?"

"I'm glad she has you," he finally said after a long pause.

"You should be glad to have me, too. I should kick your butt, though."

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you anything about her…and me."

"Didn't have to. I already knew something was up. I just hoped you two would've ended it quietly without all this blowback. You make a pretty baby, though. She looks just like you and your mom."

"I'm nervous Bethany…a little scared. I'm thrilled to have Terrina…it's just…I'm halfway across the country ready to uproot Nova from her hometown. Am I doing the right thing for her and the baby? I mean…she has Junior…Van-Van. Can I take him away from his father like this?"

"She reached out and wants you to come for her. That's all you need to concern yourself with. I'll let her tell you herself what's been going on, but that is your family now. Jordan should be an afterthought in your mind."

"I want to marry her."

"Get her out of Charleston first. Text me when you get there."

"Does Von know?"

"No. This is something he needs to hear from you when you get back."

"Thank you for being there…for the both of us."

"You have a darling little two-month-old who needs her daddy. Drive safe, Terry. Love you."

Terry sat in the truck, feeling better. Bethany didn't hate him. He texted Nova despite the late hour in her time-zone.

He started the truck and drove closer to his love.

Terry sat in a parking lot of a Target store in a town just outside of Charleston on Sunday morning. He wanted to buy gifts for Nova and the baby, but the store didn't open until seven. The weather was already hot, and he rolled the windows down to wait three hours. He contemplated waiting at a Jack in the Box parking lot, but there were two cop cars there and the last thing he wanted was to attract the attention of the police outside of a fast-food joint at four in the morning.

He spent time on his smartphone looking up all the things he had to do legally to establish paternity. DNA test. Filing the results with the court. It would probably be a hassle to take Jordan's name off the birth certificate, but Terry would spend whatever money it took to pay all court fees to do so. He'd need to get a lawyer in Charleston to navigate everything.

The store opened, and he grabbed a cart, rolling it to the children's section. There was no sales associate around to ask about sizes, so he looked at infant clothing that claimed to fit newborns up to two months. He bought a fancy box of chocolate for Nova's grandmother who she stayed with after leaving her brother's home. Flowers for Nova. Baby balloons. A clunky-looking Captain America action figure for Van-Van. It took him a minute to find the Black one. Sam Wilson. It was going to be all Black everything in their household. Terry paused in the toy section. He imagined his life being like Von and Bethany's, raising two children and being happy. Von always went home to a happy wife and happy children. Sending up a prayer to God, he wanted to provide the same life for Nova and his new family.

He paid for everything at check-out and rolled his cart out to the truck. Bethany was right about Target. You can't ever go inside and come out with the one thing you went in for. He spent over two hundred dollars on all kinds of toys for his daughter and bonus son.

Terry smelled like long hours on the road and stopped at a café to purchase a blueberry muffin that gave him access to the restroom. He washed up, brushed his teeth, and changed into fresh clothes he carried in a backpack. By the time he hit the road again, he was ready to face his future. Following the directions on his GPS, he admired the old buildings and the slow pace of Charleston's southern charm. That went out the window when a palmetto bug flew into the truck. A goddamn flying roach. Hell nah!

He rolled up his windows and put on the air conditioner. The directions showed that he still had an hour to reach Edisto Island. He leaned into the steering wheel once he started crossing the McKinley-Washington Bridge that led to Nova. The Dawhoo River below him looked like mysterious black water. The tannins seeping out of decaying trees turned the water a dark tea-color. Nova once explained that the word "Edisto" meant "black" and was also the name of the indigenous people who lived there, including her Gullah kin, from way back.

His heart palpitated, and he started breathing faster when he reached the street where Mrs. Mariam Walker, the matriarch of Nova's family lived. He smelled the heavy scent of the sea and the river. The house was only a few blocks away from Edisto Beach. Everything around him had been built by Gullah hands. Homes. The bridge. Docks. Churches. Everything.

He passed Mrs. Walker's house because there was no parking available on both sides of the street. Making a U-Turn, he found a spot where a driver left in a brown van. He glanced over at the large white house with the double stairs leading to another stairway that led up to a semi-wrap-around porch. Several older Black men and a couple of men Terry's age stood on the porch looking his way. They built the old house high to avoid flooding, and it seemed like it should've been on a heritage museum tour. He typed into his phone.

I'M HERE.

He put on a stoic expression to face Nova's male relatives. They probably weren't thrilled to see him approaching the house.

The front door flew open and Nova dashed out. She ran down the top stairs first and waited on the landing, her eyes searching the street. When she fixed her gaze on him, she covered her mouth and jumped up twice before running down the left set of stairs, hurtling forward like a comet to greet him. He moved so fast people could've sworn he had wings on his feet like Mercury.

"Terry!" she cried out.

A bunch of women exited the house to watch them.

The moment Nova reached him, he lifted her up high. She hugged his neck so tight that she almost cut off his circulation. He set her down, and they held each other. Embracing her was like having a missing puzzle piece slipped back into its proper place. It was hard to look at her without the tears in his eyes making it difficult to see. She trembled in his arms and every hitched breath she took tore at his heart. He had been a fool to let her go. Sparing another man's feelings in a wasted act of nobility cost him time with the woman he loved and a daughter he hadn't met yet. Lying to Jordan about not sleeping with Nova had been the wrong choice to make eleven months ago. He should've come clean and faced the music back then. It cost him his own happiness. Cost him sharing the journey of Terrina's birth.

He touched and smelled Nova's fragrant hair. She still carried the scent of sugar cookies and strawberries on her skin. Her cornflower blue wrap dress sat snug around her figure. Having babies just made her look enchanting to him.

"Told you…told you I would come the moment you needed me," he said.

She nodded, and they pressed their foreheads together.

"I love you," he said.

"I love you, too."

She burst into tears. He rocked her in his arms, saying her name over and over.

"Are the babies inside?" he asked.

"Van-Van is with Jordan for the weekend. Terrina is inside with my mother and grandmother."

Nova wiped her wet face and puffy eyes.

"Ready to meet your daughter?"

He laughed out loud, and then bit down on his tongue gently to keep himself from leaking more water out of his eyes. He wiped his face and glanced at the welcoming committee on the porch.

"Mawmaw cooked a big Sunday breakfast and invited the family over to see you," she said.

"See me, or beat my ass?" he joked.

Nova's eyes welled up. He stroked her arms.

"Baby, I'm sorry. Bethany told me you're having it rough here. I gotta take that weight off of you. I'm the one who got you pregnant…I'm the one who'll fix all of this, too."

He kissed her forehead. She kept her cute pixie cut and fixed her baby hairs to look like curling ocean waves. He rubbed her back. She rested her head on his chest, unable to look at him.

"Terry…I didn't know she was yours. Jordan and I got back together, and I tried to put you away in my heart. He started messing up out here…I left him…but I still thought she was his. I wasn't hiding her from you…I wasn't trying to keep her a secret from Jordan, either. I didn't realize until after she was born that she wasn't his. I was so frightened of what would happen to me and her when everyone found out what I did. People in my family called me a whore…and Jordan…"

She wept. He soothed her as best as he could.

"Just think about us…okay? Hold on to us and I promise, Nova…things are going to get better."

"Okay."

She wiped her nose and inhaled deeply to calm herself down. He clasped her hand in his, and she walked him up the steps. Her family members held paper plates of food and hushed their talking as Terry looked at them.

"Everyone, this is Terry…Terry Richmond. Terrina's father."

"We can see dat. Can't miss his chirren at all."

The other relatives tittered under their breath. An older woman in her eighties pushed a walker and Nova's family parted to give her room so her eyes could track Terry up and down. She had slightly wrinkled, dark pecan-brown skin and gray hair clipped short. Mariam Walker…Mawmaw.

"I see una have no shame coming here after putting a baby in her the wrong way."

"Mawmaw," Nova whispered.

"Ma'am, I'm not here to upset you. I want to meet my daughter and be with Nova."

"Be with Nova?"

Mawmaw sucked her teeth and pointed at Nova with an accusatory finger.

"Look ya. Dat is a married 'ooman. You a comeya, messing up the peace of dis family."

"Ma'am, I don't mean any disrespect—"

"Tie yuh mout!" Mawmaw shrieked.

A female relative stepped forward.

"Okay now, Mawmaw…my Lord, let the man get inside the house first before y'all put all they business in the street. Hi Terry, I'm Cornelia…Nova's aunt. People call me Nella. Come inside. Mawmaw is going to fuss no matter what you say."

Nella walked toward the screen and opened it for Terry. She was forty-ish, heavyset, and a shade darker than Nova, but had the same sparkling brown eyes.

"I have some things in the truck to bring in," Terry said.

"Go get 'em, then," Nella said with a warm smile.

Terry walked back down to the truck with Nova. He collected the flowers and gave them to her. Her face brightened up with the full, colorful bouquet in her hands. He grabbed the balloons, Terrina's bag of baby clothes, and chocolate, then headed back to the house with Nova by his side.

"This is for you, ma'am…Mawmaw," he said.

Mawmaw looked at the big box of expensive Godiva chocolate shells, and her eyes widened; surprised that he was giving her something.

"He tryna butter her up," one of the older men snickered.

Nella waved for him to keep moving.

"Tote all that in here, Terry, c'mon now. Can't let these no-see-ums in the house."

Terry glanced at Nova.

"Mosquitos. The ones here will eat you up and you won't even see them," Nova said.

He grinned hard enough to show his gums.

"They've been eating me up since I got here."

Nova led him inside the quaint living room filled with old, cared-for furniture and several sizes of intricately woven tan baskets with dark brown geometric patterns woven in the detail that decorated the corners. The interior smelled of good southern cooking and something else, something that the west coast didn't quite have yet: the odor of history. His hometown in Louisiana had it. All the south and the east coast had it in abundance. Compared to the south, the west was still young and feeling its oats.

Old family pictures cluttered a mantle, and so many people were crammed inside that it made Terry feel like the Jolly Green Giant. He definitely was the tallest person there. His eyes were drawn to a large painting above the mantle of elongated ebony figures showcasing men, women, and children dressed in clothing from the 1930s with blue-black skin and featureless faces. The painting seemed to be the focal point of the room that gave it a cozy feel rooted in a proud lineage.

Three women Mawmaw's age sat on a couch wearing their good Sunday wigs. They scrutinized everything on him. Somewhere out back, the excited voices of children playing added a comforting noise.

Nova took the bag of clothes from him and set them on an empty chair.

"Hello…I'm Terry, pleased to see everyone," he said.

Mawmaw shuffled in with her walker and Nella helped her sit down on an old rocking chair.

"Dis him," Mawmaw said to the ladies on the couch.

Nova introduced him to everyone present. He became eager to make a good impression despite the hard stares and thin-lipped expressions from the elders. All he needed was a knife to cut the simmering animosity in the front room. A giant bible sat propped open on a bookstand next to Mawmaw's rocker. A huge brown lacquered cross hung next to a picture of a tawny Jesus on the wall behind her seat. Terry took in the context clues and understood quickly that he was in a serious religious household. That meant their situation would never be acceptable to MawMaw. The matriarch's frigid brown eyes stared him down like she was going to turn him into a pillar of salt.

A baby's cry interrupted the family showdown.

Mawmaw's eyes immediately softened, and she tried to stand up too fast, almost losing her balance.

"My great-grandbaby is calling for me," Mawmaw said, or at least that's what Terry made out.

The shrill cry shattered the peace again, and Terry felt a lump grow in his throat. He imprinted that sound to memory. That was his daughter. His first time hearing her.

Nella gently pushed Mawmaw back in her seat.

"Bring ha," Mawmaw said.

"Mawmaw…Terry needs to see his baby. He come three thousand miles. Man is probably tired and hungry rushing here. Let him have his time alone with Terrina," Nella said.

Nova placed her flowers on an end table near one of the older adult men sitting in the room and grabbed Terry's hand.

"Come…she's back here," Nova said.

Her eyes were shiny with pride and love.

They moved past family members who ogled his height and muscular build. His body looked big and battle ready from all of his military training. Moving through a short hallway, they skipped past two other bedrooms and made their way to the last one.

A.N: Hope you enjoyed the preview! Be ready for more on Christmas Eve! This one will be a little longer than Part 1, but I don't think y'all mind! One of the best ways to support Black fanfiction writers that doesn't cost a dime is to reblog & comment. We thrive off of kind words to keep us going, and it's always great to extend our reach to new readers. In 2025 I'm making more of an effort to get my stories out to as many Black women as possible. We are in our #RestEra and deserve nice things to come home to for our reading pleasure. Okay, off to finish this thing. It's already over 18,000 words, lol!

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[skruttet]

Tove's Notes for Snufkin

Gentle, a little careless, independent, and not at all interested in owning things. In fact he possesses all that appeals to him. Though friendly, Snufkin seems almost to prefer places to people. He has many admirers, particularly among those who are small and shy, while Moomintroll is his best friend.

Sometimes Snufkin may neglect his friends but they always forgive him. Utterly free, he comes and goes as he likes. But he will always return so long as no one tries to prevent him from coming and going freely. He never hurries. Obviously, he's a pipe-smoker. He also plays a mouth-organ and wears extremely shabby old clothes. In green. Hedonistic approach to life, mingled with the pleasure of simplifying and reducing things.

Snufkin moves about at random but always south. Sometimes he wanders off at night, particularly if the moon is shining. He never asks the names of the places where he has been. When he comes back in the spring he may say he has seen this or that, but never that he has been here or there.

Voice: soft, deep, and very calm. He has an attractive laugh and is often quietly amused.

I believe the term 'mumrik' was used formerly to indicate solitary, introverted types.

[serpentface]

An Uboe boy stumbling across a boar taborang feeding in a thicket.

Taborang are exclusively found in the montane forests on the humid east side of the Blackmane mountains, particularly in its river valleys and floodplains. They are specialized herbivores that feed almost exclusively on the leaves, sprouts, and young stalks of bamboo, a midsized species of which can be found in great abundance within their range. Taborang are nearly indistinguishable from a close lowland relative, but are distinct in retaining their incisor teeth into maturity, which are used to crack and peel tough shoots for easier consumption.

Like most of their relatives, taborang are large, bulky, and highly unusual ungulates who use their long arms and curved claws to collect plant matter for consumption. They lead mostly solitary lives, with adults only typically coming together to breed, and young staying with their mothers for about a year. Adult taborang have very few predators and are not commonly hunted in their range, but are quite shy and tend to avoid humans whenever possible. They will stand on their hind legs and spread their arms in threat display when cornered, and slash at threats if attacked. Mother taborang are known to become aggressive when a person comes between them and their calf, and can move with alarming speed through dense thickets to engage the threat.

The Uboe people live predominantly in the northern Blackmane Highlands, subsisting on terraced farming of rice and barley and seasonal pastoralism of horses. Bamboo figures heavily into their craftmaking and cuisine, lending to occasional close encounters with the shy, secretive taborang. The name 'taborang' is one of the Uboe language terms for this animal, translating roughly as 'man-horse' in reference to its horselike face on a vaguely humanoid body (particularly so when the animal stands upright in threat display).

Taborang range- this particular species is only found within the eastern Blackmane Highlands (with a couple scattered populations in the major river valleys on its west side)

Another species within the same genus has a more generalist diet and a much wider spread, being found throughout the lowlands east and south of the mountain range. A few populations occur in the oak forest and savannah in the far northwest side of the mountains, but they fare better in humid regions than the dry western rainshadow.

[drdemonprince]

I don't think I have it in me to be an abolitionist because I read that horrible story about the trans teen murdered in South Carolina and my knee jerk reaction is, those people should rot in jail, ideally forever, or worse. No matter how I look at it I can't make myself okay with the idea that you should be allowed to steal someone's life in such a horrible way and then just go back to enjoying your life. Some stuff is just too over the top evil.

You can have whatever emotions you want about that person's murderous actions, but the reality is that the carceral justice system is one of the largest sources of physical, emotional, and sexual torment for transgender people on this planet.

Transgender people are ten times more likely to be assaulted by a fellow inmate and five times more likely to be assaulted by a corrections officer, according to a National Center for Transgender Equality Report.

Within the prison system, transgender people are frequently denied gender-affirming medical care, and housed in populations that do not match their identity, which increases their odds of being beaten and sexually assaulted.

The alternative to being incorrectly housed with the wrong gendered population is that transgender people are also frequently held in solitary confinement instead, often for far longer periods on average than their non-transgender peers, contributing to them experiencing suicide ideation, self harm, acute physiological distress, a shrunk hippocampus, muscculoskeletal pain, chronic condition flare-ups, heart disease, reduced muscle tone, and numerous other proven effects of solitary confinement.

The prison system is also one of the largest sites of completely unmitigated COVID spread, among other illnesses, with over 640,000 cases being directly linked to prison exposure, according to the COVID prison project.

We know that number is rampantly under-estimated because prisoners, especially trans ones, are frequently denied medical care. And even basic, essential physical care. Just last year a 27-year-old Black man named Lason Butler was found dead in his cell, having perished of dehydration. He had been kept in a cell without running water for two weeks, where he rapidly lost 40 pounds before perishing. His body was covered in rat bites.

This kind of treatment is unacceptable for anyone, no matter who they are and what they have done, and I shouldn't have to explicitly connect the dots for you, but I will. One in six transgender people has been to prison, according to Lambda Legal. One in every TWO Black transgender people has been to prison. One in five Black men go to prison in America.

THIS is the fate you are consigning all these people to when you say that prisons must exist because there are really really bad people out in the world. We should all know by not that this is not how the carceral justice system works. Hate crime laws are under-utilized, according to Pro Publica, and result in few convictions. The people who commit transphobic acts of violence tend to be given softer sentences than the prisoners who resemble their victims.

We must always remember that the violent tools of the prison system will be used not against the people that we personally consider to be the most "deserving" of punishment, but rather against whomever the state considers to be its enemy or to be a disposable person.

You are not in control of the prison system and you cannot ensure it will be benevolent. You are not the police, the judge, the jury, or the corrections officers. By and large, the people who are in these roles are racist, transphobic, ableist, and victim-blaming, and they will use the power and violence of the system to terrorize people in poverty, Black people, trans people, "mad" people, intellectually disabled people, women, and everyone else that you might wish to protect from harm with a system of "punishment." Nevermind that incaraceration doesn't prevent future harm anyway.

You can't argue for incarceration as the tool of your revenge fantasies, you have to argue for it as the tool that it actually is. The purpose of a system is what it does. And the prison system's purpose has never been to protect or avenge vulnerable trans people. It has always been to beat them, sexually assault them, forcibly detransition them, render them unemployable, disconnect them from all community, neglect them, and unperson them.

[roboticchibitan]

Please tell me about the bees

Oh no you have activated my trap card

Honeybee facts:

Honeybees are native to Eurasia and are not naturally found in North America. There are stingless bees in south America and Mexico that produce honey but they are a different taxonomic class than honeybees

The way you check for varroa mites (a parasite common with honeybees) is absolutely hilarious to me. You take a half a cup of bees (scooped with a measuring cup, which is hilarious) and put them in a jar. Then dump a bunch of powdered sugar in the jar. Then you cover the jar with a screen. And then. You just. Shake the jar a bunch until the bees are covered in powdered sugar. Then you turn the jar upside down and shake out the powdered sugar and look for mites in it. If you have more than 5 you have and infestation. Bees. Shaken, not stirred. It doesn't hurt the bees and you just put them back in the hive and the other bees eat the sugar on them. They're fine. But the mental image of shaking a jar full of bees and powdered sugar is just so funny.

Importing honeybees into the US is illegal so a while back researchers at WSUs bee lab went overseas to collect bee semen so they can breed calmer more disease resistant honeybees. I desperately wish I could find the article I read about it because the photo in it of a tiny vial of bee semen was also hilarious

Honeybees can get jet lag. They ran an experiment where they flew European bees to north America and the bees woke up for the day on European time

Cursed honeybee facts

Bees have hair growing out of their eyes

When a male bee mates his testicles explode and he dies. He came and went

In preparation for winter the worker bees kick all the drones out of the hive and then seal up the hive with propolis and leave the drones to die in the cold

Bumblebee facts

You can teach bumblebees to do tricks. They did a study in the UK where they rewarded bees for pushing a ball into a hole and then tested to see if the bees could teach other bees and they could! (You can download videos of bees doing tricks from that link btw. You're welcome)

There are no bumblebees south of the Sahara or in Australia because it's too hot for them. The only bumblebees native to the southern hemisphere are in south America.

They think bumblebees evolved in the mountains of central Asia and that's where the biggest diversity of bumblebee species is

There was a bumblebee native to where I was born called Franklin's Bumblebee that is thought to be extinct, but people still go up into the mountains looking for them and they are my favorite bee and I have a tattoo of one because I think that says a lot about humanity's capacity for hope. And they COULD still be out there. We've found "extinct" bees out there living their best little bee lived before!! (Here's the tattoo)

Random other bee facts

There's a bee native to the southwestern US and northern Mexico called the sunflower chimney bee and they're called that because they feed off composite flowers like sunflowers and build little mud tunnels as entrances to their nests in the ground. No one knows why they do that! But I think they're neat!!!

There's bees native to the southwestern US desert that have evolved to have body temps of 103°F/39°C

Most bees do not live in social colonies like honeybees do. Most bees are solitary, meaning each female makes her own nest and lays her own eggs. Tho some solitary bees will nest very near each other

We are learning that bees native to north America like blue orchard bees and blueberry Mason bees are more effective crop pollinators than honeybees, especially for early spring crops when it's still too cold for honeybees to be out and about.

This has been bee info dump time with V. Tune in next time and I'll talk about blue bees!

[incessantscreech2000]

Image transcriptions below:

Legendary South African Jewish Freedom Fighters

And Their Condemnation of Israel

Many people don't know that several of Nelson Mandela's closest and earliest comrades and co-conspirators were South African Jews.

These Jewish comrades and their work was pivotal to the defeat of South African apartheid, giving them a unique perspective on the state of Israel.

—

Joe Slovo (1926-1995) was a Jewish South African anti-apartheid activist. In 1942, at age 16, Slovo volunteered to travel to Europe to fight the Nazis. Upon return, he studied alongside Nelson Mandela. He eventually was a founding member of uMkhonto we Sizwe, the paramilitary arm of the African National Congress.

Slovo was exiled to Mozambique by the apartheid government. Whilst there, his wife, legendary Jewish anti-apartheid activist Ruth First, was assassinated by a parcel bomb sent by the apartheid regime.

Working from abroad for the fall of apartheid, he eventually returned and became a Minister in Mandela's government. Throughout his life he remained a staunch critic of Israel.

—

"Ironically enough, the horrors of the Holocaust became the rationalization for the preparation by Zionists of acts of genocide against the indigenous people of Palestine. Those of us who, in the years that were to follow, raised our voices against the violent apartheid of the Israeli state were vilified by the Zionist press."

- Joe Slovo

—-

Denis Goldberg (1933-2020) was a Jewish South African anti-apartheid activist. He spent 22 years in prison, mostly in solitary confinement, for his political activity alongside Mandela.

He was finally freed when his daughter, who lived in Israel, lobbied the Israeli government, which was closely allied to the apartheid regime, to release him. Due to his staunch opposition to Zionism, he refused to join her in Israel.

—

"The violence of the [South African] apartheid regime was nothing in comparison with the utter brutality of Israel's occupation of Palestine."

- Denis Goldberg

—

Beata Lipman (1928-2016) was a Jewish South African anti-apartheid activist. She drafted the original Freedom Charter in her own handwriting in 1952, which became the basis for the constitution of free South Africa after the fall of apartheid.

Lipman was a proud Jewish critic of Israel, penning many letters condeming Israel over its treatment of Palestinians.

—

"We who have fought against Apartheid and vowed not to allow it to happen again can not allow Israel to continue perpetrating apartheid, colonialism and occupation against the indigenous people of Palestine. We dare not allow Israel to continue violating international law with impunity. Apartheid was a gross violation of human rights. It was so in South Africa and it is so with regard to Israel's persecution of the Palestinians!"

- Beata Lipman in joint letter

—

Ronnie Kasrils is a Jewish South African who was also a founding member and Chief of Intelligence for uMkhonto we Sizwe.

In 1992, Kasrils led an unarmed protest when the apartheid government opened fire, killing 28 of his comrades and injuring over 200 others. He went on to serve in various Ministerial roles after the defeat of apartheid.

In 2001, Kasrils was co-author of the

*Declaration of Conscience by South Africans of Jewish Descent, which calls Israel a colonial apartheid-state. He has drawn criticism for stating that Israel has behaved like the Nazis.

—

"We recognise the operation today by the Palestinian resistance in Gaza as a legitimate expression of their right to resist. We support all efforts of oppressed people to liberate themselves from their oppressors in the same way we did in our liberation struggle.

We are saddened by all violence but Israeli Jews will not realise peace until they accept a future where they will live with Palestinians as citizens in a single, democratic Palestinian state, with Palestinians being compensated for seven decades of colonisation, occupation and apartheid."

- Ronnie Kasrils, 7th October 2023

[hazelfoureyes]

Ho, ho, ho~! I hope your vibrators are fully charged, cause this one's gonna have yall going full ahegao~! If not, then you'd best get those babies plugged in before continuing. Consider this your only warning... ;D

"Oh? Have I managed to shut up the big, scary Radio Demon?" You asked, the reaction your movements pulled from Alastor going straight to your head and to your core. A smirk danced across your face as you traced the tips of your fingers from the crevice between his clavicles down his sternum to the indentation of his navel and even further south, following the tufts of hair that was the beginning of his happy trail*.

Eyes shooting open at your little taunt, Alastor raised his head to look at you sitting pretty on his cock, shadows swirling around you and the sclera of his eyes flashing black for just a moment. "Hah! Only in your dreams, my sweet..." he breathed out just before you raised your hips and slammed them back down in the next moment, voice thick with that staticky radio filter that made him stand out from the rest (among other things). He clenched his jaw, teeth grinding in the same manner as your hips on his pelvis. Closing his eyes, he took a moment to compose himself before opening them once more, his sclera having shifted back to their usual red.

"Besides, my voice is one of the things you love best about me. You would- nnghh fuck! ... You would HATE-" Alastor started, feeling a little mischievous as he planted his hooves (feet?) into the bed and delivered a solitary, brutal thrust - one hard enough to knock you forward and force your hands to either side of his head. "-If I stopped talking," he called your bluff, a soft chuckle reverberating through his chest as his other hand found your hip.

"God damn you..." you mumbled, fighting back a smile as you stared down at him. He was right. It was just one thing on a very long list, but his voice was one of your favorite things about him. Even better was the unexpected shock you received whenever he would suddenly drop the radio filter and all you heard was pure, unadulterated Alastor. As if he had been reading your mind, the deer demon pulled you from your thoughts with another thrust and a few words without his famous filter. "God has no place here. You know that," Alastor groaned as you raised your hips, deciding to give him a small taste of his own medicine. Slamming your hips down again, you smirked once more as he released a sharp gasp followed by a drawn out moan as you started to build a pace. "Oh fuuuck meee... D-darling...- nghhhaha...- please-" he moaned out as the sound of skin slapping against skin filled the room once more.

Alastor raised one of his hands to rest on the back of your head, digits threading themselves through your tangled strands as he began to buck up into you - heavy balls slapping against the fat of your ass with a 'pap! pap! pap!' sound. He drew your face closer to his, pressing your foreheads together while he used you as a cocksleeve, the remnants of your previous releases creating strings connecting his thighs to your ass. "Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck! Hoh-ooohh shiiiittt!" He moaned out in time with each thrust, eyes rolling into the back of his head as he started to lose himself once more in the way your sweet pussy clenched and pulsated around his throbbing dick.

"Hah! Hah! Fuh-... uhah!! Ala-... Al-... Hah! Ah!" You cried, nails digging into the sheets beneath his head, losing what little control you had before he started this bruising pace. "Oh fuck, ohhh fuuuckkk..." Alastor breathed out, that familiar knot in the pits of his belly tightening more and more with every slam, every thrust to your soaking cunt. "You're gonna make me-... mmpphhhoh shit! Make me cum!"

* he SO has a happy trail~ I just can't decide if it's red or black. But I KNOW he puts conditioner on it, so it's not all wiry and scratchy when you go down oh him ahaaa~ 🥴

MINK, GURL YOUR MERCY COMMENT WAS ONE OF MY BIGGEST REASONS FOR THINKING UP MORE ADDITIONS OF COURSE YOU'RE IN THE LOOP! You'll never not be in the loop my love, your reactions are pure gold and give me life~! Besides I gotta give something back, make yall feel the same way I do when I read anything you post! ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

btw it's literally killing me rn that I can't interact publicly with any of yall's stuff. I wanted to wait until I was in the final stages of writing the planned fics I have for each of you, but I don't think I can hold on to my anonymity much longer! YOUR MINDS ARE JUST SO BEAUTIFUL JFC HOW DID I FIND NOT ONE BUT THREE?! AND IN THE SAME FANDOM?!?! LIKE HOW?!?!?!?!?!

Danny baby your puns have me rolling omfg 🤣 I swear I'mma think of one or bring in some outside help (dad jokes ftw!) that's gonna knock you dead holy shit- BRING IT ON HUNNY PUN. LET'S DO THIS 💖💥 ... I'll see myself out 🤣

- ☄️❤️ Smut Santa

「He drew your face closer to his, pressing your foreheads together while he used you as a cocksleeve」

あああああ

I LOVE BEING USED AS A COCKSLEEVE HOW DID YOU KNOW SMUT SANTA— SMUNTA? SMANTA. SMUT CLAUS

SAINT DICKOLAUS

Summoning @minkdelovely @sugoi-writes

Also a doe in fall part 6 also has reader riding, heavy balls, and forehead touches??? Get outta my fucking head???

(Smut Santa: @synamartia) 

[amnhnyc]

Get comfy, little guy—you’ll be there for a while! Did you know that a giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) can spend the first year of its life on its mother’s back? This mostly solitary species, which can be found in Central and South America, roams a large territory: Each individual inhabits an area of up to 22,200 acres (9,000 hectares). Fortunately for mother anteaters, piggyback rides end before babies are fully grown. An adult giant anteater can weigh up to 85 lbs (39 kg)!

Photo: Smithsonian's National Zoo, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0, flickr

[artifacts-and-arthropods]

Namib Sand Geckos: these nocturnal geckos have biofluorescent markings that emit a bright, neon-green glow when exposed to the moonlight

This species (Pachydactylus rangei) is found only in the Namib Desert, which stretches across Namibia, Angola, and South Africa; the geckos typically inhabit the arid, coastal region known as the Skeleton Coast.

In order to escape from the blistering heat of the desert, they use their webbed feet to burrow down into the sand during the day, and then emerge only at night, when the temperature has finally dropped. The webbing on their feet also enables them to run more easily across the dunes.

Namib sand geckos are covered in translucent scales, but they also have a strangely colorful appearance, as the colors/shades of their circulatory system, spinal column, internal organs, and optical membranes remain partially visible through the skin, producing various shades of pink, dark blue, purple, magenta, orange, and yellow.

They also have several distinctive markings running along their lower flank and encircling their eyes; these markings are known to fluoresce when exposed to UV light (including moonlight), emitting a bright, neon-green glow.

Some researchers have theorized that the biofluorescent markings may act as a signal to other geckos, allowing them to locate one another in the vast, desolate expanse of the desert, as this paper explains:

The fluorescent areas of P. rangei are concentrated around the eyes and along the lower flanks. This positioning is practically invisible to predators with a higher perspective (e.g. birds and jackals), but highly conspicuous from a gecko’s perspective. As P. rangei is sociable but generally solitary, and occurs at low population densities, such a signal might serve to locate conspecifics over greater distances ...

Encounters in P. rangei might serve purposes beyond mating opportunities: as the Namib desert has extremely low precipitation, fog is a key water source for its flora and fauna. Fog condenses on the bodies of the geckos, and they lick it from their faces. In husbandry, we have observed individuals licking water from conspecifics, taking advantage of a much greater available surface area.

Additionally, after short periods of isolation, the geckos run to meet each other. The combination of vital hydration with socialisation might reinforce signals that enable such meetings, and the cost of visibility to predators with higher vantage points, might constrain the signals to regions best visible from eye-level and below.

The Namib sand gecko is the only terrestrial vertebrate that is known to use an iridophore-based form of biofluorescence (you can find a more detailed explanation of that mechanism in the article mentioned above). The fluorescent dermal markings are also unique to this species.

Sources & More Info:

Scientific Reports: Neon-green fluorescence in the desert gecko Pachydactylus rangei caused by iridophores

Animal Diversity Web: Pachydactylus rangei

Dr. Mark D. Scherz's Blog: A Neon-Green Glowing Gecko!

Australian Geographic: Skeleton Coast - Namibia's strange desert dwellers