#the dream was i had a hot dentist/doctor who was cleaning my teeth while also hitting on me profusely

[ourladyoftheflytrap]

Thinking about how i had a false awakening in my dream last night and all I did in it was tell my mom about how crazy that other dream was

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #314

“as above, so below  /  what you reap is what you sow  /  what you give comes back threefold  /  as above, so below”

What do you do for work? I'm currently unemployed. I only get paid now and again to do pictures for people. What would you ideally like to do for work? I'd love if I could just be a photographer. What are you doing in order to achieve this? Practice and shoving my extreme discomfort about it aside and trying to promote myself where possible and not in an overbearing manner. What do you think is the worst being on the planet? "Rapists, pedophiles, abusive people in general." <<<< This. Anyone who disrespects the existence of other and equal people. Have you ever been arrested? If so, what for? No. How big an age gap is between you and your siblings? My immediate sisters and I are two years apart. My half-siblings, I don't know. I don't have their ages memorized, but I do know 5+ years, some even 10. Do/did your siblings cause trouble? Not really, we were good kids. What's your dream vehicle? I don't really have one. Are you good at taking care of your finances? What finances? And I don't mean that happily. What's your favorite comic strip? I don't have one. How many people have you texted today? Zero. Someone cheats. Second chance? Nope, byyyyeeeee. Thoughts on kids? Clay that I'm not playing with. Are you a risk taker? No. What are you listening to? I'm currently going through a phase of playing The Evil Within 2's theme nonstop, jc. Is/Was your high schools dress code strict? Not like, mega strict, but it still was overboard. No spaghetti strap shirts, and I even once got in trouble for wearing a floral mesh shirt, despite having a normal tanktop underneath it. It was weird, like no one had ever had a problem with it before, it was just this one teacher that I passed in the hall. Who was the last person to request you on a social media network - and did you accept? Someone I didn't know, so obviously not. Who was the last person’s vehicle that you rode in? Mom's. Who was the last person to make you laugh or smile, and why? Another current obsession of mine: John Wolfe, another let's player who I think is super funny. He said something that made me snicker before I turned on music and started this. Who was the last person that you took a photo with? My half-sister while she was visiting. Who was the last person to pay you a compliment, and what did they say? In group therapy the other day, one of the other women told me that even if I don't believe it, I bring so much positivity to group and she was really happy to be there while I am. I was so so super flustered but flattered, too. Who’s the last person that you visited in the hospital? My mom, following her surgery. Who is the last person that you lent money to? Actually today to Mom. What was the last food that you ate? I warmed up a burger for dinner. What did the last pair of footwear that you wore look like? They're just black flipflops. What was the last kind of bread that you ate? Just plain white bread. What was the last app that you downloaded to your phone? Oh wow, I never do this. I want to say it was a game for my niece. When was your last work shift? I haven't worked in a long time, so idk. When is the last time that you had trouble falling asleep? This is literally every single night. When was the last time you saw a significant other? I ain't got one'a those. When’s the last time that you took a risk? What was the risk? Well, I did say I'm not a risk-taker... Where was the last place that you went on vacation to? You know, how long does it have to be to be considered a "vacation?" I would say not since I went to the beach with an old friend, but it was literally a day. Where was the last place you got lost? uhhhhhhh Why did your last relationship fail? We need to work on ourselves before we could properly support each other and stay in a healthy mindset. Why did you leave your last job? I couldn't handle the stress of serving people and having so many responsibilities at once. How long has it been since you last visited a doctor? How about a dentist? I literally went to the doctor today because I had a follow-up appointment about my weight gain again. I haven't been to the dentist in a few months; I had a normal cleaning my last visit. How big was the last fish you caught? Oh boy, this is stretching years back. It was probably something small, idr at all. Give me the first initial of your last name? D. Something in your home that’s on its last leg(s)? We just moved here, so nothing that's a part of the house itself. As far as items we actually own, idk. Where do you purchase most of your clothes? I haven't gotten new clothes in so long, idk. I would probably say Hot Topic. Describe your skincare routine. I don't have one, if I'm being honest. I just shower. What’s your typical morning routine look like? I don't have one of those, either. The only thing that's consistent is going to the bathroom, eating, and taking my meds. Even brushing my teeth, the time of day when I do that (if I'm not leaving the house) varies. Then it's time to just binge stuff on YouTube and do whatever on the laptop... Are you still playing Animal Crossing? I've never played it, actually. How has the pandemic specifically affected you? It's caused a lot of stress worrying about my mom falling ill, given her being immunocompromised. It's also held me back from searching for another job (even though I don't know what I'd go for, anyway...), because I absolutely refuse to risk bringing Covid into this house by leaving it daily or whatever. What is your main source of anxiety? Being mentally ill, really. It just affects a lot. Any bands or artists you’ve recently discovered? Not very recently, no. What kind of games do you play on your phone? Just Pokemon GO nowadays. Do you have a specific aesthetic? It varies. I love dark, gothic, and gory stuff, but then I also love everything pink and pastel?????? Pastel gore is especially where it's at. Describe the moment you realized you were falling in love with someone. I'd rather not. What’s your favorite sparkling water brand/flavor? I've never even tried it before. What’s your favorite makeup brand/brands? I don't wear nearly enough makeup to be even remotely familiar with any. What’s your all-time favorite movie? It'll probably always be The Lion King. Do you have any subscription boxes? No, but they're cool. What fictional creature would you like as a pet? On deviantART today I actually discovered a fantastic artist who does a lot of HTTYD fanart, and I would say as a dragon lover, Toothless would be soooo great. Have any local businesses closed that you’re sad about? I'm certain tons have closed, but none come to mind. How do you feel about TikTok? I don't feel anything about it. Did you/do you still have a Neopets account? Haha I've had like... two or three at different stages in my life. What were you doing at 9 o'clock this morning? That's actually when (virtual) group therapy starts. Are you wearing any jewelry? Yeah; my piercings (if you count them) and then two rings that I always have on. Are you good at hiding disappointment? No. I'm bad at hiding my emotions because they're so strong. What happened the last time you cried? lmaooo I was finishing watching a The Evil Within 2 LP yesterday, and like, the last hour or so of the game just rips me apart. I was hoping so bad that my mom didn't pass by and ask what the problem was. What would your parents be surprised to learn about you? Both would be stunned to know the situation I had with Joel/my former best friend's boyfriend when I was around 12. What fictional character do you have the biggest crush on? dARKIPLIER Where would you live if you could live anywhere in the world? When all things are considered, like laws, seeing family, etc., somewhere in Canada, or maybe Alaska. Actually, Alaska would be really cool. What after school activities did you do in high school? I didn't have any, if you mean like, school sports and clubs. I did do dance once or twice a week, but it wasn't tied to my school. What’s the last book you really loved? I positively adored The Handmaid's Tale. If you could have been a child prodigy what would you have wanted to be skilled at? My writing was seen as very exceptional for my age as a kid, but it still would've been awesome if it was even better. If earth could only have one condiment for the rest of time, what would you pick to keep around? Uhhh I guess ketchup. I use that the most of all options. What is the scariest experience you have ever had? The night of the breakup. It was such an impossible concept to me that I genuinely thought my life was over, that I'd pull the plug at any moment. Who is a non-politician you wish would run for office? Oh, hunny, Markiplier lmao. Call it a bias all ya want, but he's just a genuinely incredible person that cares so much for everyone and is so serious about equality and just being a good person. Do you think it’s important to stay up to date with the news? It's very hypocritical of me to say, but yes, regardless. Do you own plants? If so, what kind of plants? If not, would you like to grow any? I've never been into growing plants, honestly. Is there a city that you have a particular fondness for? If so, what city is it and why? No, not really. When was the last time that you acted impulsively? Is this a common behavior for you? I dunno, I've gotten better at this. I probably said something I shouldn't have. If you received an allowance as a kid, what kinds of things would you buy with it? Were you more the type to save up for something big, or spend it on little things? I didn't get one. When you cuddle with someone, how do you prefer to position yourself? Would you rather be held, or do the holding? Or both? Are we sitting or lying down? Either way I think I have a tendency to lay my head on their chest while hugging them, and my legs generally curl up. If I'm upset, I definitely feel better and just a greater sense of safety if I'm the one being held, but if the roles are swapped, then I like to be the one doing the holding because I know that's what I want when I'm upset, so treat others how you wanna be treated, y'know. When you woke up today, did you find unread messages from anyone? No. Have you recently told anyone that you miss them? Yes. Can you recall the last time you turned down an offer, of any kind? Mom asked if I wanted to come with her to Ashley's a few days ago, but I said no. I wasn't in a social mood at all. Is there anyone you interact with every day on social media? No. What was the main character's name in the last fictional book you read? Sunny. Have you ever been rejected by a church? No. Is your family nice to you? Yeah. Are you comfortable with your gender? Yeah. What was your favorite Mary-Kate and Ashley film? I don't remember; we had a couple, though. What was your favorite book you had to read for school? The Outsiders. What was your favorite Nickelodeon show? ngl, I don't remember a lot of them and don't feel like looking up a list. Do you still live in the house you grew up in? No. Which Spice Girl was your favorite? I don't remember their names. Do you think you look the best you've ever looked? Oh hell no. Have you been hurt by religion? Yes, honestly. In Truth or Dare, would you rather choose Truth or Dare? I always choose "truth." Have you ever had more than one crush at once? Yeah, I think that's perfectly normal to feel, even for someone monogamous like myself. Just when you establish a relationship, then it's time to make a choice. What social issue do you care about most? This is hard to say with how passionately I hold my opinions, but probably LGBTQ+ rights. It's just... so disgusting to me that I was once homophobic. It's like I want to make up for it. Just the idea of being repulsed by love just because someone has "the wrong thing" in their pants is just... appalling. When was the last time you read a Bible? Many, maaaany years ago I started reading it, but I didn't get very far at all. Do you own a Bible? I personally don't, but I know Mom has one, maybe multiple. Do you discover new music regularly? No; I very much stick to what I know. It's great when I do, though, given that that's how I find new songs to repeat to the grave. What does your first name mean? "Of Britain" or something like that. What country do you live in? U.S.A. Do you believe that gays are born that way? Uh, yes? Who honestly believes a homosexual would *choose* to be in the discriminated minority? People are murdered and abused for simply their sexuality; no sane person would "choose" to risk that torture.

[headoverhiddles]

Assist Me - Dr. King Schultz x Reader [Smut]

Synopsis: You and King had been tiptoeing around each other for months after you began working for the man in the small town he arrived in with Django. A touch here, a look there, but nothing seemed to ever come of the small advances... 

Notes: Eee King’s back! This is short, but this was a dream I had a while back. The dream actually ended very sadly lol but this is just happy and sexy! Yay!

Part II

You had started working for King a little under a year ago. He's a nice gentleman, having arrived from Germany, then Tennessee he had said, where he practiced dentistry before. Here in Daughtry, he had been interested in continuing his practice.

He had arrived with another man named Django Freeman, a former slave from around these parts. The man you work for is mysterious, never really speaking much about his past, but you suppose he’s got a reason for that. Sometimes he shows up for work a little late and dirtied, and you get curious... but it's not your job to question him.

 ---

"Morning, doctor," you say, setting a bottle of numbing alcohol on a high shelf.

"(y/n)," King greets, the bell tinkling above the door as he comes in and takes off his hat, "And how are you today, Fraulein?"

"Fine, thank you," you accept his offered hand as you step down, and he smiles at you, tucking his silver blonde hair behind his ears. He’s captivated for a moment, unable to look away, then catches himself. 

"Well. Long work day ahead of us is it?"

You look down at your little journal you keep on the wooden desk by your quill, smirking slightly at how red his ears just got.

"Johnny Baskers is coming in this morning for a toothache. Burt Castie got two teeth knocked out in a bar fight last night and needs a pull on a third one. It's loose."

"Wonderful," he rubs his hands together, sarcasm evident. "Have you ever thought about what the elimination of stupidity would do for people's health?"

You smirk as you gather some more bottles. "All the time, doc."

 He watches you walk away as you go, and bites his lip. He's had a thing for you for a while, but you must never know. It's inappropriate. You're half his age, maybe even younger, and would be more suited to one of the town's eligible bachelors who would offer you a life of more than skipping towns and bounty hunting.

He steals another glance your way. You're smart, but you still haven't figured out his double life here with young Django-- not as far as he knew, at least. Nobody had, which was a relief, since if anyone found out, it would be time to pack up and leave for the next southern town. Emancipation sympathizers weren’t welcome in these parts, and that was putting it lightly. 

As for eligible bachelors, however... you constantly expressed your distaste with all the juvenile men around. You talked of settling down with a more seasoned man who knew how to handle a woman. Perhaps...

King forces the thought away, and focuses on cleaning his pliers. He could always take care of himself if it got to be too much. 

 ---

The appointments that day didn't make things any easier for King. You keep bending over, stretching, reaching, and it's getting him more than a tad bit flustered. 

“--Was just swingin’ at me like a mad buffalo!” Burt howled in the dentist chair. You raise an eyebrow, pouring out some whiskey for him to down. 

“Have you ever seen a buffalo, Castie?”

“Well... no, but-- doesn’t matter! He was a mad buffalo, and I got my teeth knocked in, damn it all to hell!”

“Well,��� King smiles, coming over, “You will be out one more problem once I pull this one for you.”

“You’sa gonna yank my other tooth too?!” he blurts. King stares at him in deadpan. 

“As your health professional and amiable acquaintance, I sincerely do not recommend you walking around for the rest of your natural born life with your second front canine hanging by a string of flesh.” Burt stares, stunned, and King gives another one of those impish smiles. “May I proceed?”

He just nods, and you stifle a laugh. 

As King is pulling it, Burt kicks and screams, and knocks the bottle of whiskey off the table. You bend over to retrieve it, hoping for your sake King is watching you, and for Burt’s sake, he’s not. 

The former is true.

“(y/n),” he breathes, watching your skirts ride up. You don’t hear him, and he suddenly turns back to the bloody mouth he’s working on. 

“There,” he says, “Good as new.” The man gives a pained grin, a huge gap in the top middle. You nod. 

“You look great.” 

“I do?”

“Magnificent,” King confirms, “Eh, good day.” 

---

By the end of the day full of you bending over, accidentally exposing your breasts to him without noticing, and working incredibly close to you, the bounty hunter is hot under the collar. 

The sun goes down outside, and you watch the good Christian townspeople head home, and the ne’erdowells start to accumulate around the saloons. Most of them headed over to the place to be on the corner, which was run by a sleazy, racist bald man named Hetter. King didn’t like Hetter much, as you could tell whenever he 'forgot’ to numb his gums a little. You don’t blame him-- you’re sure Django, King’s younger friend, hadn’t received the warmest of welcomes from the man. 

“Ah. What a day,” King smiles, resting against the wooden counter top. He tries not to look at you, because he’s been semi-hard all day and he really doesn’t need you noticing. 

"I'm going to stay for a bit," you tell him, “If that’s alright. Burt made a damn mess of things, I’ve gotta clean up.” 

King hesitates. He usually tells Django to meet him here after his work to discuss plans of which plantation they would hit early the next morning.

“Do not worry about it, mein Fraulein, I will take care of it tomorrow.”

“It’s no trouble, really!”

King concedes, realizing he can’t get out of this situation any other way. "Of course. Take all the time you need." He tries to shut his mouth. He almost succeeds, but-- "I'll also be staying a little late."

"Good," you wink, "You can help me put the tools away, doc."

You start to do so, cringing at the bloody tooth left behind by Castie. King comes up behind you, passing you a couple of dental instruments. You look so good, and he's flushed, he can’t stop staring at you, god-- what is the matter? King usually had perfect control over things like this. It’s like you had a spell on him.

“Something the matter?” you ask. He looks a little dizzy. 

"(y/n)," he murmurs, and you look down at how flustered he looks. You bite your lip, getting down, and raise your eyebrows.

"Something wrong?"

One piece of errant hair has fallen into your face, and your lips are slightly parted. King can’t dispel the thought of dirtying them up, and his fists clench at his sides. He tries to think of something to say. He can only kiss you.

“Mmm,” you let out a startled moan, and he draws back, mustache twitching. 

“I apologize. I don’t know what came over--”

In the span of 3 seconds, you’ve cleared the table of bottles with a crash, and you urge him to lay you down on top of it, pinning you. You let out a needy moan, and King reaches up, hooking his fingers in your underclothes carefully. 

"Is this what you want, darling girl?" he rasps, and you nod feverishly. 

“I’ve wanted you since the day you rode into town.” You lean up to his ear, breath hot against his face. “I wanted to ride you like you were riding Fritz.”

He swears softly, and unbuckles himself. He holds your head up as he slides in, moaning softly at the feeling of you around him.

"I've been wet all day for you, doc," you groan, "Fuck, daddy... need you."

The name shocks him. "(y/n)..."

"It means something else," you assure, grabbing onto his arms and laughing, "Please. Daddy."

Hearing the unorthodox name again ignites something inside of King, and he goes a little bit harder, making you tilt your head back and cry out for him even louder. The bounty hunter doesn’t care one bit at the moment if the entire town of Daughtry could hear (if they took a minute to stop drinking and listen)... he'd been wanting this since the day you slipped your hand into his and introduced yourself. 

"Please, please, please," you continue to chant, until King groans, burying his face in your hair as you come and clench hard around his cock.

"Oh, my dear, my dear," he whispers, "I-I’m afraid I’m close.” 

You nod, and grind down against him. He pulls out just in time, coming into his fist. You looks down at him on the table through a mess of hair and swollen lips, and he sinks to his knees, parting your legs around him. He delves between them, and one, two, three licks and a long sucking motion is all it takes for you to finish. 

You two look at each other for a good long time, until King averts his eyes, putting his spectacles on. 

"You had better hurry home, (y/n)."

Your face falls a little, but you nod, getting off the table and gathering your things. Perhaps you’re just a means to an end, as usual. Maybe he didn’t mean to do that-- men have urges, same as women, maybe you were just... there.

You gather your skirts, and pulls them down, grabbing your things and heading out. As you open the door, you feel a hand on your shoulder. 

"Wait," King says, "I forgot something.” You turn, and he kisses you softly. His hands smooth out down your shoulders, moving in to curl a lock of your hair. When he pulls away, he lingers on your lips, caring not about the busybody townspeople staring at you two and whispering.

"I've always wanted to do that," he admits with a small smile, and you grin, wrapping your arms around his neck and jumping in for another kiss.

“Am I interruptin’ something?” Django asks, elbows on his knees. He’s sitting on the bench in front of the shop, and King’s eyes widen. 

“Django, my boy--! You didn’t... we-- you didn’t, you couldn’t, eh... hear... could you?”

“I was tryin’ not to!” Django grins, “But y’all gotta work on the volume. Sounded like you’s running a brothel in there.” 

You giggle into King’s shoulder as the man huffs and blushes, fixing his waistcoat. 

[talkingismylifewrites]

Um, hi. Can I ask for the safe sane and consensual post-hotspace ot4 stuff with a TON of aftercare for rog🥺🥺🥺 Also Rog an the nuggets bonding? Pretty please?

You can!! Sorry for the delay life is…distracting

okay so safe sane and consensual post-hotspace ot4

basically they all go to therapy, decide to scrap their old safewords in favor of the stoplight system, and IMPLEMENT THEM

which means that they have really long, sometimes awkward, sometimes emotional talks with roger

where they’re like look

this is a two way street and you need to trust us to take care of you and to stop when you need us to

but we also need to be able to trust that YOU will stop us if we go to far

like we can’t do this if we can’t trust that you won’t stop us from hurting you

it takes a bit

but they make it work

so for like, four months??? its only really vanilla sex

soft and missionary and checking in and like, body worship and sweet nothings and really really nice 

then slowly, as they get more comfortable, they start to like, amp it up?? 

get a little dirtier, a little harder, etc

but the big difference is that the three will call yellow or red when they thinks they’re going too far, or that roger isn’t gonna call but needs it

he’s checking in

at first, roger is really annoyed over it and is like wtf i was handling it stop

but then he realizes like maybe he wasn’t?? 

and also, like, its so nice that they CARE like john’s not stopping out of punishment, but because he’s worried about roger and he LOVES and RESPECTS him 

and then it gets easier to call yellow when he feels overwhelmed or red when he’s been tied up and it accidentally shifts and is hurting his hands

but yeah so the smut

the boys are on tour right? 

and they manage to get ronnie and john’s moms to come watch the kids so ronnie and dom can fly out to see them where the fuck ever

let’s say…new york

so they’re in new york

and they’re all in the hotel post concert and obvi the boys are randy

like nothing gets their blood pumping like a concert

and john just looks delicious in those little monochrome hot space outfits y’all know when i’m talking about here’s looking at YOU blue ensemble of my dreams

and roger, well roger is just sweaty and glowing and blonde and beautiful

and dom and ronnie, they’re merely mortals

they have needs

so

picture ronnie and dom slowly stripping roger’s clothes off him like ronnie straight up pulls his zipper down with her teeth while dom is pressing sucking kisses to each bit of skin exposed by his buttons

meanwhile john is pressed up behind him whispering about all the dirty things they’re gonna do to him and how he’s such a good boy he can’t wait to see how good he’s gonna be for them

and once roger is naked

they throw him on the bed and all climb on top

and ronnie is just kissing him like licking into his mouth like she wants to swallow his tongue

dom is alternating between pulling on his hair (they both have a thing for that) and pinching his nipples

and john is slowly but surely pressing one finger into him, then two

and the whole time they check in like pulling away being like, color?

and roger, who’s DYING to come is like green, green, so green, please

it culminates with ronnie climbing onto his face to ride

“tap my leg three times if you need me to stop,” she pants, hovering over his mouth

roger, who’s desperate to taste her, doesn’t say anything, just keeps trying to stretch up to get his mouth on her

“roger,” dom says, “listen to ronnie.” 

“three times to stop,” he repeats, still straining to get to her. “please, ron, please, let me–”

“good boy,” ronnie purrs before lowering herself down with a gasp as he immediately sticks his tongue in her

meanwhile, still fingering him open, john adds more lube before teasing for a second

“color, rog?” he asks, pausing until roger twists enough to breathe out “green”

pretty soon the only sounds are gasps and pants as ronnie rides roger’s face, john’s fucking deep into roger with three fingers, pressing hard against his prostate, and dom takes her time licking at ronnie’s tits and pinching roger’s nipples

roger comes with a wail and a cry, moaning out green when john continues to fuck him through it

ronnie comes next, listing to the side only to be replaced by dom who repeats the same instructions to tap out if it gets to be too much

just as dom sits down, john lines up and thrusts in

they take him apart, put him back together, milk another orgasm from him before they themselves come apart

and when they’re done they curl up next to him in bed, stroking his hair and petting at his sweaty chest, telling him how good he is, how sweet and wonderful and how he made them feel so fucking amazing

john cleans him up with a warm wash cloth 

and dom curls him up so his head is resting on her belly, running her fingers through his hair while ronnie curls up against his back

when john comes back he takes dom’s other side, reaching across her to tangle their fingers

when their sweat cools and their hearts are no longer racing

they lead him into the bathtub which unfortunately is only big enough for two

so john and roger (who lets face it are the grossest because of the post-concert seat) are in the tub with a bubble bath while dom and ronnie sit on the edge of the tub in dressing gowns just washing roger and john, taking turns running their wash cloths down their backs, arms, legs, etc

(”next time,” john promises, “we’re gonna pick out a hotel with a goddamn swimming pool for a tub”)

(”why not just use the swimming pool?” dom asks)

(“i’d rather not get arrested for public indecency,” roger sighs)

(“that’s only if we get caught,” ronnie counters. its laughable that she thinks they could be secretive, honestly, it’s a miracle no one’s caught them yet. ronnie and roger…really are not good at keeping their hands off each other.) 

when they’re done in the tub, they all dry off (gratuitous touching) and pile back into bed, falling asleep to late night tv and all curled around each other like kittens

its nice :) 

now for roger bonding with the sprogs:

roger is like, the dad who constantly takes the kids on adventures

it’ll be like a random tuesday and roger will show up at the kids school and be like SO SORRY i just COMPLETELY forgot that ALL SIX KIDS have dentist appointments

gotta get ‘em out of class and take them its SO IMPORTANT to have good dental health

and just collects them all in the wagon car 

“where are we going, papa?” robbie asks watching as they definitely miss the exit for the dentist

“i feel like seeing some fish, what do you guys think?” he asks as he drives them straight to the aquarium

obviously all the kids (minus baby #7 who is an infant) love this idea

it has roger just running around with six little monsters and one strapped to his chest like the worlds greatest snack 

like roger is that dad who makes up stories and names for all the fish

like “see that one?? the big on with the purple gills? that’s theodore and he’s actually a dog that’s been turned into a fish. no really! i read it in the newspaper, he’s the world’s first dog fish. he knows how to play fetch, but only with hambones” 

or

“kids, you won’t BELIEVE it but i heard they have a real life mermaid here. no i swear!! do you think we can find her???” 

when they get to the penguin exhibit you just know roger is pretending to waddle like a penguin while he chases after them

and the kids are just GAGGING for it like they have so much fun with him

and since he had to do a stint in marine biology for like, a semester, he knows a bit about fish like not a lot??? but enough to seem like he’s a genius

so he takes the kids around and in between made up stories and jokes he teaches them about the tides and the ecosystem and he bribes them into learning about the different seas by promising an ice cream to whoever can name them all

(obviously they all get ice cream even little sprog #7 who can’t speak but “it really sounded like he knew what he was saying, right guys?? i could have SWORN he said ‘indian ocean’, vera, don’t you think?’) 

he buys them all too many souviners including those stupidly awesome little jelly tubes with plastic fish in them that are IMPOSSIBLE to hold onto so they keep splatting onto the floor but roger doesn’t care

and he gets them little plush seahorses and seals and jackie doesn’t even have her ears pierced but he buys her dolphin earrings and promises he’ll talk to dad and mum and marmie about her getting her ears pierced soon so that she can wear them someday

by the time they’re all tuckered out he piles them into the car and blasts old cassettes from like elvis and the supremes and led zepplin and they all sing alone at the top of their lungs until slowly one by one they all fall asleep

when they get home, he single handled takes turns carrying them into the house, even though robbie wakes up halfway through and complains that he’s “seven, papa, he can walk himself in!” 

and roger is just like i know you can but it’s not gonna be much longer that i can carry you so just relax, my dude

meanwhile, ronnie and dom and john are just watching it all with their hands pressed to their hearts and they can’t even be mad that he yanked em out of class

and the next morning??? when all the kids come downstairs wearing matching tshirts that say “guppy #1-7″ they’re D Y I N G from cuteness overload

(they have to coach the kids on saying that they went to the dentist, not the aquarium but its worth it)

the next month, when roger shows up because “terribly sorry, they all have to go to the ear doctor” and takes them to the zoo instead

john makes sure roger brings his camera with him so that he can take pictures of them getting their faces painted to look like zebras or tigers or parrots

basically roger is the best like the monthly little adventures are FABULOUS

he definitely takes them out of school so they can go see santa

or get ice cream

or get on a plane to disneyland

or just to come home and spend time with them

because at the end of the day he knows that he and john have limited time with them when they’re kids because of the whole touring thing so he tries to get as much time in with them as possible and well

if that means they miss a day or two of school each month

its worth it

sorry for the delay!! hope it was well worth the wait :) 

[thesimplyluxuriouslife]

303: 33 Ways to Live Your Fullest Life, as taught by Norma Kamali

"Living your purpose will make it possible to do all the things you need to do to reach the goals you need to reach in order to fulfill your dreams, which are as big as the world and as optimistic as your mind can imagine." —Norma Kamali, author of I Am Invincible

Change is inevitable, in the world, our bodies and our lives. How we navigate life's endless changes determines the quality of our lives, especially during our everydays and how we experience each 24-hours, but from the longview of life, it will determine the legacy we create, the connections and relationships we make and build and how or if we contribute positively to a better world tomorrow.

Fashion designer Norma Kamali's new book, part memoir, part lifestyle/self-esteem builder I Am Invincible is aptly described by Cynthia Rowley as "personal power with a side of popcorn".

Upon the book's arrival, I read it in one day. Highlighting constantly, stopping and rereading, taking closer notes so as not to forget and apply immediately her wisdom to my life, I couldn't wait to share with podcast listeners and blog readers (where does the 'side of popcorn come in you may be wondering? she shares a simple, yet delicious recipe for homemade popcorn - I tried it the next day - yep, loved it).

What good fortune we all have to live now with so much to learn, apply, explore and tickle our curiosity, and with such good fortune, we can easily become overwhelmed. However, Kamali reminds and models in her own life of more than 70 years that this good fortune need not betwixt us but rather spark excitement within us to figure out how to make it work for each and every one of us so we can live with purpose.

The book transpired out of a gift she gave to a friend who was celebrating her 50th birthday. She gave as a Moleskine journal filled with 50 Tips on Turning 50! and the reaction led to asking her to make her book available, and now we have quite the book of inspiration and lessons applied and learned.

As someone who chose herself when she founded her own business in her early 20s after ending a marriage and the business she and her then husband began together and continues to hold the reins and someone who found whom she describes as her soulmate at 65, Kamali is a living example of intentionally building one's self-esteem, recognizing and celebrating your authentic self and living with purpose in your business and personal life.

Her book begins with the driving question: If you can control the quality of your life, why not do it? And while she definitely had me at Why Not . . . ? I couldn't agree more that indeed we should invest and apply in all the areas we can to elevate the quality of our lives.

Today's episode/post shares 33 of which there are many more lessons discovered as I read her book. I hope you enjoy.

~be sure to tune in and listen to the audio version of today's episode for further discussion on each of the points shared below.

LIFE & MIND

1.Be brave

"Be willing to surrend who you are for what you can become. Change is very hard for many people, but change is inevitable in all of our lives. It is oftentimes what propels us forward. If you initiate change, you will have proactive management over it."

The courage to be brave is not for the faint of heart. The moment of transition lasts more than a moment, and during this time of transition from where you were to where you are going with your choice is full of emotions challenging your decision, then buoying your excitement, then challenging your decision again. The only way to overcome the doubt is to continue to strive forward as such feelings are only the mind's lizard brain wanting you to continue what it knows not necessarily because it is best for you.

~read this post - How to Be Brave: Follow Your 'This' to Live the Life You Have Dreamt About

2. Understand your hormonal levels

"Throughout puberty, pregnancy, post-pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause, women ride a hormonal roller coaster. Diet and exercise are the first lines of defense for balancing hormones."

On a practical level, since I mentioned emotions in #1, not only do we need to strengthen our emotional intelligence (EQ), but as women, we need to understand the hormonal changes each of us will go through at some time. Kamali recommends speaking to your wellness doctor or an expert in the medical field to best understand how to navigate and understand what your body is moving through.

3. Learn to love yourself first, so you can love others well

"Positive self-esteem based on how we feel about our mind, body and soul is needed for self-love. If we haven't done work in the self-love area, there is a chance we are not as discriminating as we need to be, especially in relationships."

Kamali's own life exemplifies the need to walk away for our own well-being,"Walking away begins with a belief system you have in your head about your own value." And it is in the self-love, we become clear about how to love others well and know what love actually looks like.

4. Professional teeth cleanings - multiple times a year

Back to the practical. Of course, brushing our teeth daily, multiple times a day is a must along with flossing, etc., but our smiles are powerful. They not only enhance our beauty, they boost our own confidence and endorphin levels when we smile, and a healthy smile can be maintained for an extraordinary long time if only we take preventative measures regularly throughout our entire lives. Two times a year tends to be the recommendation by dentists, but opt for more if you can and let your smile shine.

5. Embrace a meditation practice

A meditation practice need not be elaborate. It can be as simple and momentary as intentional time slipping away to the restroom while at work for 5 to 10 minutes to breathe deeply and settle ourselves, but yes (I know I have recommended this practice many times here on the blog), meditation is a worthwhile practice for so many lifelong health benefits - the mind most especially.

6. Be proactive to navigate well through fear/anxiety/worry

When it comes to eliminating or handling well unwanted worry, undesirable situations, Kamali advises developing routines to engage in everyday whenever worry, fear or anxiety arises. For example, she shares how meditation breaks when taken "temper anything stressful that might throw off [her] routine".

7. Embrace regular, rigorous exercise to improve sleep

"In addition to helping naturally reduce stress and anxiety levels, regular exercise has been shown to boost the amount of time the body spends in deep sleep. This is the most physically rejuvenating phase, important for memory and cognitive function. When energy is restored, cells regenerate, and the immune system is strengthened."

Upon reflection on any night in which I woke up prematurely and was not woken up, it followed a day I did not exercise. On days I do not exercise due to exhaustion - mental and emotional fatigue, I actually cause more stress because my sleep is not deep and sometimes interrupted of my own accord. All of these ahas I have seen and learned in my own life reiterate the vital importance of making time in my day for an exercise routine.

8. Make your bedroom a sacred space in your sanctuary

Currently, as many readers know, I am nearing the end of a much anticipated bedroom restyling and when it is complete I look forward to sharing with you my decisions for the space and how they help me create a sacred space. Each of us will make unique choices for the decor, the sheets, the ambiance which work best for us, but one thing Kamali reiterates is to leave the bedroom for sleeping, resting and connecting intimately with your partner only. In other words, leave the technology outside of the bedroom.

~10 Décor Tips for Creating a Private Sanctuary for Rest & Repose: TSLL's Restyling Process (mid-way through) of the Primary Bedroom (for TOP Tier exclusively)

~Why Not . . . Create a Sanctuary for your Senses?

~14 Ways to Create a Happy Home, episode #278

FOOD

9. Make what you eat a lifestyle choice

"What you eat should be a lifestyle choice, not a fad diet, just like your workouts should be part of your daily routine, and not sporadic."

TSLL lives by the principle of eating well and with the seasons. The food we eat need not be fancy and it absolutely doesn't need to lack flavor as it is the flavor which will satiate us, telling our bodies we are full and satisfied. However, learning how to cook and eat this way is a skill we are taught as children or need to teach ourselves as adults. It is well worth it and once we understand the fundamentals, easy than might be expected.

"The simple secret I've learned is that if we eat quality food we will feel fulfilled and less controlled by our cravings. The amount of food we need is much less than you might imagine."

~Enjoy Stepping into Your Kitchen with 6 Simple (and effortless) flavor tips

~explore TSLL's cooking show - The Simply Luxurious Kitchen - to begin to enjoy stepping into your kitchen

10. No more sugar

"[Sugar] doesn't do your complexion any favors, either. A doctor once described sugar's oxidizing effect on cells to me as akin to 'rust'. The rust starts to decay and age the cell. This accelerated cellular aging also harms the building blocks of collagen and elastin, causing skin to sag prematurely."

The natural sugars found in fruits and some vegetables - keep on devouring them! However, by becoming aware of how sugar infilrates our diet without either realizing it or recognizing how much we are actually consuming, we do our health and our skin no favors.

11. Add ginger and/or lemon to your hot water to debloat

Water, water, water all the time, water. Adding fresh lemon juice also is a healthy choice, one many of us know about, but did you know about adding ginger? (I have a feeling many of you did and I am late to this health tip :), but I want to share with you all.) Ginger is a carminative along with many other herbs, and carminatives help to soothe the digestive tract and relieve gas, cramps and bloating.

12. Stock your épicerie with foods to care for your inner and outer health.

In episode #109 and in even more detail in chapter 12 of TSLL's second book Living The Simply Luxurious Life, I share a list of 34 essential items to have in your Épicerie (grocery or pantry).

TSLL's 2nd Book (learn more here)

STYLE

"Style survives fashion and personal style is developed with time."

13. Courageously get to know yourself and your personal style will reveal itself

"The more you know who you are as you move through your life, the more you develop your personal style."

As I step forward into a new chapter in my own life (more to come on that this summer), I am excited to further fine-tune my personal style. My goal is so that "Every piece of clothing", when you have cultivated your own personal style, "will have a purpose in your wardrobe." It's possible and far easier when we know ourselves and how we enjoy living.

14. Understand the value of timeless style

"Women who understand the value of timeless style look amazing all of the time."

~further exploration, listen to/read episode #103: Effortless Style: The Truth (explore further in TSLL's 2nd Book, chapter 11)

15. Don't follow trends

Style remains and fashion fades. While we can be inspired or piqued by a new fashion walking down the runway, responding rather than reacting applies just as much to our decisions for our wardrobe as it does to our interactions throughout life with others. Explore this post - Why Not . . . Create Your Own Style Commandments? to strengthen your approach to building your personal style.

16. Sustainable clothing shopping requires wise shopping choices

timeless clothes

multiple purposes

seasonless (when possible)

Investing in high quality clothing, paying high price for well-made items made of quality fabric is shopping sustainably. You shop less and you wear the items longer.

17. Your personal brand is introduced through your clothing

Branding is communicated by many other factors - our energy, posture, congeniality - but before we even speak, our clothing talks for us. Our sartorial choices are powerful, and as Kamali encourages, "let yours be uniquely you".

18. Organize your closet to excite and focus your attention and save time

Kamali suggests organizing your closet to help you edit what you really want to wear and in fact organizes her personal and office closets by color, then by fabric, and then by category: dresses, jumpsuits, tops, jackets, skirts, pants.

19. Purchase multiple items you love and fit well

From undergarments to blazers, layering pieces, anything that is timeless, Kamali recommends investing in duplicates.

20. A strong confidence requires less artifice as protection

"But with her new book, she hopes to drive home the limits of fashion. 'A dress can only do so much,' she says. 'When you feel good in your body and your mind, you’ll probably spend less on clothes.'"

Upon reading the profile of Kamali's book in the WSJ, it was the above quote which resonated with me quite strongly. Yes, we need clothing, I am not one to advocate for sans-clothing living although I know some do and that is perfectly fine for them. Clothing is powerful, but when we rely on our clothing to do the work we need to be doing for ourselves for our mental well-being, we place too much importance on what we are wearing causing unnecessary stress on our mental health and strain on our budget.

I wholeheartedly, as readers and listeners know, advocate for investment pieces rather than cheap, clothing (referencing #16), and as we find peace within ourselves, strengthen ourselves with soft skills to improve how we engage with the world, our clothing, while it may introduce us before our words and actions begin, becomes secondary. Meaning, we can wear the same outfit more often without worry, we can stick to our personal uniform with confidence knowing it works with our lifestyle, and we can feel good in the clothing we have chosen further supporting us as we live how we had hoped in our dreams we could one day experience in real life: with great purpose, with deep joy and true contentment.

WORK

"Be independent; learn how to earn your own way. Then you can choose someone you love versus someone to take care of you."

21. Explore your dreams for your life journey

"The wonderful thing about a dream is that it is limitless and it is free, and it can become the path to your purpose."

Let persistent curiosity be your guide to where your purpose will be discovered. Kamali writes, "invest in your future now" even if you don't know what it will lead to or the potential it will present down the road. Simply invest because you are genuinely curious and let tomorrow reveal what it will.

22. Empower other women, don't compete

"Girls compete, women empower."

Citing insecurity and a lack of self-esteem as the cause of fear which then leads to a scarcity mindset prompting competition, when we step forward instead as women with strong self-esteem paired with generosity, there is no need to compete because we are secure in our ability, excited to learn more and willing to help as we can those who look to us with inquiry.

23. Do something that scares you

In so doing, you keep your mind sharp. Stretch your mind, learn something new, attempt something you've never thought of yourself doing, yet when presented with the opportunity, your curiosity is piqued. Try it, give it a go and who knows what doors or windows or ahas will open.

24. Respect in your field will take time

"Respect is like money, you have to earn it."

Your reason for pursuing your chosen career will determine your longevity. If your purpose comes from within, you will have the perseverance to ride the waves of questioning and/or doubt others in the field may have of your ideas. Stay true to your core purpose, be open to learning, flexible with the journey forward and how it unfolds, and in time, and in a moment most unexpected, you will realize you have garnered the respect of the field you so devoted yourself to.

25. Deal with your 'failures' well and your future will be bright

"Allow yourself a limited amount of time to recount the events that led to failure and to assess the damage. Take responsibility, look at the options for your next steps, get advice, then get on you feet and know you are not alone in failure."

26. "Do it for joy and you can do it forever"

As shared in #24, what motivates you to pursue the career or caling you find yourself and have chosen to remain or step into anew from another career that didn't quite fit will determine your longevity.

When I sit down to write, it fuels me. When I am tasked with other jobs I have done for pay, I am drained. Listen to this for your own energy sources to determine whether or not you are pursuing what is best for you.

BEAUTY

"Authenticity Enhanced is my beauty preference, since being me is definitely easier than trying to look like someone else."

Enhance who you are and only use makeup (after caring for your skin well) for definition, "not to hide or disguise or hide the real you".

27. Take care of your skin

The French have taught me many lessons, and this is one of them: tend to your skin and your makeup need only be minimal and secondary. I have written quite a bit on this topic, so I will list the post to explore for more detail (and list of recommended skincare brands and products) below:

13 French Beauty Products I Love and Recommend

22 French Beauty Secrets worth the Investment in either time or money, episode #258

15 of My Favorite Skincare Products

Let's Talk About Beauty, episode #102

28. Take pride in your individuality

"Being the author of your own life is far more interesting than imitating another's life."

~7 Components for Building a Signature Style

29. Exercise for beautiful skin

"Sweat for glowing skin and to release toxins."

~Why Not . . . Treat Your Body Like a Temple?

30. Leave the nails unpainted

"Natural, unpainted manicures are healthy and maintain a timeless look."

I have been leaving my own fingernails unpainted for, well, for all of my adult life and prior to actually as well. However, I just recently began going sans color when I give myself a pedicure. I am loving it. Less to purchase, but it forces me to care well for my overall health and directly, my nails.

While I sit down every two weeks for my at-home pedicure and tend to my fingernails every week, my choice surprised me as I wear sandals frequently in the summer, but it simply means, I will know my nails are healthy and that all is well.

31. Drink green tea for your skin

An antioxidant for the skin, Kamali shares she drinks one or two cups of green tea every day. With multiple benefits, green tea can calm redness and inflammation and protect the skin from free radical damage, and even the small amount of caffeine in green tea can help reduce puffiness around the eyes.

There are so many wonderful green teas. Currently in my tea cupboard are Vert Provence from Mariage Fréres and a variety of green teas from Palais des Thés.

Kamali's green tea mask recipe (use in #32 for your at-home facial): (1) place a paper towel on a dinner plate; (2) pour a small amount of freshly brewed cool or room-temperature green tea on the paper towel; (3) drain any excess liquid; (4) lie back with your head on a towel and place the paper towel over your face; (5) relax and breathe in a meditative manner; (6) remove when you are ready and pat dry your face.

32. Give yourself at-home facials in-between your seasonal or bi-monthly facials at the spa

Begin with a cleansing your face well (I use Caudalie's makeup removing facial cleanser which is 100% natural and vegan) Use a simple natural scrub using olive oil and sugar or sea salt, provide a steam treatment by sitting near a steamer (if you have one) or draping a towel over your head above a bowl of hot water - keep your face about 6-12 inches above the water). Then apply a facial masque best suited for your skin - I highly recommend any masques (or products) from Eminence Organic Skincare.

My facial cleanser

MAKE IT HAPPEN

33. Commit

"The minute you reflect upon what your purpose is in this lifetime, you can commit to it, and the esaier it will be to maintain focus and stay on course."

Committing occurs when we take action beyond ourselves. The conversation steps outside of our minds, we hand in the job application, turn in the resignation letter, purchase the lease, apply for the loan, say yes, say no. Following any one of these decisions, we are in it. Sure we could back out, but we've already made one of the most difficult decisions and aren't you curious to see how it can unfold if only you would put your whole heart into it?

I just made a commitment last week which put a long-held dream into motion (I will share more concretely what it is later this summer), and yes, there is fear and trepidiation, but I do my best not to hang out with these emotions for too long because I have much more excitement I now have the opportunity to full embody and explore.

Live your life on purpose for a purpose which will make you come to life and you will be, as Norma Kamali states from the beginning, invincible.

~Read Norma Kamali's highly inspiring and motivating book I Am Invincible

Petit Plaisir

—Italian Furlane Slippers from SantM.co

~functional luxury footwear

~handmade with velvet and slip-resistant rubber soles just as the gondolieri have worn on their Venetian boats. Sizing up is highly recommended, but I have did purchase my true size for one pair and while snug, it fit well and became even more perfect for my foot with a handful of wearings. I also have one that is one size larger which I wear everyday and love.

For more sizes and color optinos (if you cannot find what you want on the home site, shop below)

here (Verishop)

~Sponsor for today’s episode:

Jenni Kayne

Receive 15% off your first order with promo code SIMPLE

~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #303

~Subscribe to The Simple Sophisticate:  iTunes | Stitcher | iHeartRadio | YouTube | Spotify

Tune in to the latest episode of The Simple Sophisticate podcast

[dentalinfotoday]

March 14, 2017

Update from Dr. Buck and Lexi: Lexi and I finally arrived at the El Sombrero Ecolodge Saturday night. Around midnight, we find a 4″ tarantula joining us in our room. After a few girly screams, strategizing and throwing everything at the araña that had a chance of killing it, we finally triumphed! We didn’t realize how lucky we were until 3 minutes later when the electricity was cut off for the evening, leaving us searching for our flashlights in the pitch darkness!  We’re going to a small rural schoolhouse today for the first day of the mission. We’re hoping to work very hard and help a lot of people in this impoverished area, where most people earn only $2 per day.

We’re trying to get some photos of their hotel for you. Stay tuned!!

March 15, 2017

UPDATE FROM DR. BUCK AND LEXI! On the first day of the mission, we set up in a schoolhouse in a very small town named Aguadas Nuevas that was about an hour drive from the ecolodge, mostly by unpaved roads. The dentists set up in one classroom, the doctors in the adjacent room and the pharmacy outside the school.

About half of the dental patients were children and half were adults. Decay was the major issue. Just as I saw in Honduras, even though the location is far from any town that would be large enough to be a dot on a map, the school had a freezer full of baggies with flavored sugar water in them. I tried to help some parents understand to not give sugar to children between meals, and my Spanish was poor, but good enough to communicate this.

The morning was busy, and we tried our best to encourage the younger patients to be brave by saying “muy valiente!” and “buen trabajo!” One 7-year-old boy was so afraid that he could not open his mouth, so he and his mother left and came back an hour later. He cried the whole time, even though I was very gentle (of course). He needed 5 rotten baby teeth extracted. His mother said if he doesn’t get them out his father would beat him. His 5-year-old brother came later, and he was much braver than his older brother, and I told him so: “Eres más valiente que tu hermano.”

The afternoon brought more patients, a few notable ones were a man dressed in a whole cowboy getup, boots, hat and all, and a nineteen-year-old girl who needed her two upper front teeth extracted. Toothbrushes were handed out to everyone and little stickers for the kids.

Lexi was such a great help to the whole operation, from assisting to instrument sterilization, to holding patients’ hands. I have met very few people who are so competent, have such a strong work ethic, and with such a giant heart. I asked her where she came from! Then I remembered that Carilyn Froberg was a big part of her life from the moment she was born, and it all made sense (kudos to Lexi’s wonderful parents, too!).

We all loaded into the van back to the ecolodge, not caring that there was no hot water for showering, as a cold one was what we needed after sweating all day in the heat. Maybe we’re the only Yoopers longing for snow in the middle of March!

March 18, 2017

“Chócala!” We learned a new way to say “gimme five!” during the second day of the mission, and Lexi and I had fun practicing with the adorable kids hanging out. We set up in a medical clinic with just bars on the windows (no glass), and the kids and adults hung out watching us all day. There isn’t much for entertainment around here.

As we met more people, Lexi had a good question. She asked if the people here are so poor, why do we see so many overweight people? Someone on our team explained how, just like in the US, the cheap food is the processed and unhealthy food and the healthier foods like produce and meat expensive. Working long hours and lack of education also makes exercise not a top priority for many here in Guatemala. The medical team saw many people with diabetes, and unfortunately, we were only able to give 20-30 days’ worth of medicine to each patient. We did try to educate them about sugar in their diet, but juices and simple carbs are so prevalent here, both seem to be served at every meal.

Working in the field presented many challenges, from back pain due to bending over so far since we had to use any chair available, to the wind blowing our gauze on the ground, rendering it useless, to trying to keep proper infection control procedures. Lexi was a superstar, sterilizing instruments for 3 dentists while also assisting two of them and finding time to give high fives to many of the kids. We started running low on supplies, namely gauze, patient bibs and paper towel, and anesthetic. We could make due with improvising most things, but if we ran out of anesthetic on our next day of the mission, we would not be able to help anyone else…

March 22, 2017

Sorry for the delay in getting this final update to you from when Dr. Buck and Lexi were gone last week. It’s been so busy catching up since they’ve been back! Here’s Dr. Buck’s third and final update from her trip in Guatemala: Las Gaviotas (the Seagulls)

Imagine if this was your elementary school, what would your hopes and dreams be? The third day of the mission was spent at a school in another very poor district. It rained some, so we were concerned that not many people would walk to see us, but we were steady the whole day. The dentist and physicians set up in the two school rooms, and the gynecologist set up in a barn for privacy. Las Gaviotas had a large Mayan population, who could be identified by their slightly different features from other Guatemalans. We were told that it is taboo in the Mayan culture to marry outside of their ethnicity. 

There were SO many dental infections. It was especially sad to see so many children with them. Several children had a dozen teeth decayed, so we had to choose only the most urgent area to treat, trying not to imagine the inevitable future problems from all of the other broken-down teeth. We would try to educate the parents on sugar, but felt hopeless that any real change would be made.

We used old school desks as patient chairs, the kind where the top is attached to the chair, so even though I tried to have good posture, my back hurt all day long. I was forming blisters on my left hand, which thankfully did not burst. But I didn’t come on this mission to slack for one second, so I think I would be disappointed if I didn’t feel tired and sore. I want to help these people who have so little, and who have so little opportunity or hope for improvement.

As we worked, hearing the occasional turkey gobble from the home next door, we started to smell burning, just like the black snakes we light during 4th of July week. The local women were making bread in a large clay oven. They called this pan de arroz (rice bread) or quesadilla (not the Mexican kind) because it was made with rice flour and a cheese like sour cream. They shared some at the end of the day and it was fresh and warm and wonderful.

We ended the day with one of the only cleanings I did on this trip, on a man about 25 years old, who had no visible decay in his mouth and all of his teeth, which at this point I was not used to seeing. I tried to encourage him and tell him how well he takes care of his teeth. Thankfully, we didn’t run out of supplies. The town leaders thanked us at the end of the day, with genuine gratitude for helping their communities in need.

Seeing how people live in most parts of Central America makes me feel both fortunate for being American, having all the opportunities, food, entertainment and education we do, and concurrently disappointed with the general attitude that we expect things to be so perfect, so clean, new, and hungry for the next thing that might satiate our desires. Though materialism is not an American concept, it is worldwide and will be as long as humans exist. Although anyone who knows me knows I value ambition, the disparity between the “haves” and the “have-nots” seems not quite right when the “haves” have countless things they do not need while the “have-nots” are working so terribly hard just for basic human needs.

I think often of a quote I read recently, which goes something like this: “Once a person has his or her basic needs met, human development should be about being more, not having more.” The goals which we truly should be working diligently on are Love, Compassion, and Kindness. Although all humans are fallible, I am happy to be surrounded by many friends, family members and team members and patients at Northern Trails Dental Care who understand and live by those principles. Thank you to all of the amazing people who are part of my life!

The post Updates from Dr. Buck and Lexi’s trip to Guatemala with Flying Doctors of America appeared first on Northern Trails Dental Care.

from Northern Trails Dental Care https://northerntrailsdentalcare.com/blog/write-ups-from-dr-buck-and-lexis-trip-to-guatemala-with-flying-doctors-of-america/