#there is just no alternate universe where i would be anywhere near europe then and iirc that electra was really up and down injury wise | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

dammitadolfnomorecake · 4 years

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Once Bitten, Twice Stupid prt 205

205

Wolf. Human. Exhausted. Horny. Exhausted. Wolf. Exhausted. Human. Horny. Exhausted. For the next two moons, Keith was... very instinctual. Very, very, instinctual. He couldn’t keep his hands off Lance when he was awake, nor when he was asleep... Lance wasn’t sure what they hadn’t fucked on, only that thankfully they were locked away in one of the very many rooms of VOLTRON where no one ever seemed to go. Coran had skipped giving them a bed, instead they’d been gifted the use of what seemed to be some kind of storage room for ex-training equipment. Their “bed” a stack of old gym mats. Keith too horny to care about where Lance would sleep, and Lance kind of too horny to sweat the small details around the sleeping thing seeing he seemed to now have the talent for sleeping anywhere as long as there was a bathroom closish.

In the space of twoish days, they pretty much dissembled the room. Keith had boundless energy in his wolf form. Having him “work it off” during the day meant only one leg humping incident, and that was only very minor as Keith had been ashamed when he’d realised what he was doing. Trying to be proactive, it turned it to “How to train your werewolf fiancé”, with Lance building different obstacle courses for Keith to conquer and amuse himself with. No. He wasn’t above playing fetch with Keith... and Keith wasn’t above being bossed around if it meant head scratches for being a good boy. His fiancé mortally embarrassed to find that he’d walked all the way to Platt simply because he missed his vampire. Coran stepping in and giving them complete privacy for the duration of the moon, meaning no nagging from Shiro over Keith’s safety.

Still, Lance was happy to have Keith back to himself after the moon had passed. His boyfriend much softer and much gentler, taking into account that Lance wasn’t really feeling like having sex seeing how vigorously they’d gone at it during the few hours Keith was awake around lunchtime. Keith stupidly apologetic for his wolffish ways, with snuggles and pampering that Lance sorely needed. Despite ensuring him repeatedly that he’d be okay, Coran decided that they needed and extra few days with Lance resting and on fluids thanks to all the “mating” they’d done. Launching into a long story involving sex with a very persistent vampire queen who was set on wedding him, Lance completely mentally banned the word “mating” from his own vocabulary. He now knew how much of a kinky demon bastard Coran was, and he’d never be able to scrub the graphic descriptions of Coran being pegged from his mind.

Allura had been highly sympathetic towards the pair of them when she’d brought his precious Blue back. Her blue rhinestone collar had been replaced by a pink one with a little bow, obviously she’d been “pampered” by her aunt Allura and hated every moment of it. Cradled in Lance’s arms, she made sure to glare up at him, letting him know he was only allowed cuddles as she didn’t wish to be held by Allura or Keith. Lance felt as if he’d been the worst cat dad to his beloved princess. She not only had to put up with a vampire for a father, she also had to put up with a werewolf as her other father, and she was expected to rule her household with incompetent staff in his absence. Not that Lance would ever admit it, but he missed the days when it’d been him and Blue off on another adventure together. He missed taking her for her walks, and spoiling her rotten as she loved him simply for the fact he was the one who operated her wet food. He’d never tell anyone this, nor would he change how things were now, he just really missed Blue and everything crazy that came with owning a cat. Kosmo was bestest boy, but Blue would be princess forever.

Without a lot to pack, they nearly made it out of VOLTRON and into his bronco before Coran was calling Keith away. Kissing him on the cheek, Keith sent him on ahead, Lance trying to block out the conversation between the two men, not completely sure he wanted to know what was being said, but mostly out of privacy. Thanks to the talk, when Keith climbed behind the driver’s wheel, his fiancé seemed in a bad mood, Lance not pushing as he wasn’t sure he’d like the answer he’d get if he did. Still, they were finally going back home for the next two weeks, where he’d finally get a look at Rieva’s engagement ring, though he wasn’t supposed to know about it as he’d heard Curtis and Shiro being all mushy and no one had actually told him about it directly... or if they had, he’d forgotten it and thinking about that was far too scary a prospect.

Fucking fuck fuck. Keith knew that Lance knew that he knew that Lance knew he was angry. Fucking shitty vampires. Not Lance though. Never Lance. No. Fuck Lotor. Fuck Lotor and his big prick of an ego. Keith wasn’t sure what he wanted to hit, only that hitting the open road hadn’t calmed him down.

Okay. He was not the best werewolf. He was not the strongest, the smartest, the scariest, or even the biggest. His instincts had gone into overdrive over not being able to find his mate and he’d walked the whole goddamn way to Platt to find him. Not that he really remembered that night, but still... That was totally beside the point, because fucking Lotor was coming back. He was coming back and he’d oh so graciously volunteered to spar with Keith to hone his new skills before they worked on him shifting into a werewolf.

The wank stain couldn’t come back for Allura, noooooo. That’d be too easy. No. He had to come back right when Lance was nearing the end of his pregnancy and play some damn fictional hero like mentor to his dumb wolf arse. And Coran had picked right when they were finally heading home to drop this piece of news on him. All those times he’d wanted to punch Lotor in the face and restrained himself seemed for nought now he had to be nice to him. Yeah, he was grateful the vampire had “tried” to protect Lance. But there was absolutely no way he wanted another vampire cozening into his mate. Though it would have broken Allura’s heart, Keith would have been happy if Lotor just stayed away in Europe with those ridiculous suits of his.

Lance hadn’t said a thing. Keith didn’t know if he’d heard, or if his fiancé was simply trying to be polite. Knowing Lance, option two seemed the sure bet. He was too old and too fucking exhausted for Lotor’s shit. Then there were Lotor’s witches to think about too... The only useful thing in this situation Lotor could possibly bring with him was anything Honerva had on breeder pregnancies. Yeah, it’d be information probably too late, but if there were to be any complications, he’d rather know before hand so he could figure out how best to support Lance.

Home was a welcome sight. Blue bolting from the bronco the moment Lance had his door open. Matt and Rieva coming out to wait for the pair of them as Keith dragged himself out from behind the steering wheel. How was he supposed to tell Lance he’d have to make pretty much daily trips to Platt starting in three days time? He didn’t want to do that to Lance. He didn’t want to have to deal with sorting through Lenny’s files when he also had to cope with Lotor’s training. Ugh. Adulting sucked. Forced into a hug with the two werewolves, his ego made him growl at the pair. Rieva slapping him upside the back of the head as she scolded him for running off. He’d never be living that one down.

Inside, Hunk, Shay, and Krolia were waiting in the living room. Krolia holding back a very excited Kosmo who’s whole body was wagging

“Kosmo!”

Crouching down, Keith opened his arms, Kosmo bowling him over as he rushed at him, licking his face as Keith tried to push him down

“You’re a menace... yes, who’s a menace? You’re a menace!”

Chuckling at the pair of them, Lance sidestepped them. Keith mood instantly lifted by Kosmo’s pure joy at seeing him

“I’m not going to say a word... but if you’re going to cheat on me, I suppose you can cheat on me with our best boy”

Keith snorted

“As if I’m going to cheat on you... besides, Kosmo is best pupper”

“As far as I’m concerned you both are. Hey, guys. Got room on the sofa for a sleepy vampire?”

Lance had made it one to the sofa and into one of Hunk’s hugs before Keith managed to get Kosmo calmed down. Sitting on the floor, his idiot fur son was sitting between his legs. This was home. He was home...

“You guys didn’t have to come visit us”

Hunk had work and so did Shay, as did his who was clearly giving herself the day off. Kicking lightly vaguely in Keith’s direction, Lance then snuggled himself into Hunk’s side

“Says you. Don’t worry, Hunk, he’ll change his mind when he gets one of your sunshine cuddles”

“I have plenty of cuddles. I bet you’re happy to finally be released”

“Oh, man. You have no idea. I’m still tired as heck, but Coran said as long as I don’t start sleeping without eating, I should be fine to nap as much as I want to”

That wasn’t quite what Coran had said, but Keith didn’t want to be a nagging fiancé

“That’s great, dude. I’ve gotta say, you all had us worried when you ended up there again”

“It’s like a second home by now. Plus I got some quality time with my gremlin, which was nice. Now I’m looking forward to having a bath and sleeping in my own bed...”

Hunk chuckled as Lance closed his eyes

“I’m glad my shoulder makes a good alternative”

“Mmm. You have great shoulders. And great arms for hugging. You’re the best cuddly Hunk in the universe”

“Aw, Bud, you’re not too bad yourself”

“I know. It’s my gift and my curse. Anything new to report while we were gone?”

“Ummm... Shay and I are looking at renting a place of our own”

Lance shot up, beaming as he wrapped his arms around Hunk

“I’m so happy for you guys!”

Keith was happy for them too, supposing he was being a tad anti-social staying on the floor rather than getting up and sitting in one of the recliners. He couldn’t let his Lotor problems bring the mood down

“That’s great, guys. Are you going to house share with Pidge or are you striking out on your own”

Shay giggled, Keith assuming she was happy to talking about it, otherwise her giggle made no sense

“Oh, definitely on our own. It just feels the right time. You guys are having twins. Matt and Rieva are engaged. Work’s been going really well, plus our parents both want to chip on the bond... I don’t think Pidge would like living with a couple...”

Keith noticed the way Lance’s smile wobbled. He’d mentioned that Pidge had been kind of feeling down about her friendship with Hunk drifting. People grew and changed, it sucked but it was a fact of life, and unfortunately for Pidge she was surrounded by couples. Matt came up behind him, ruffling Keith’s hair hard enough that it felt like his brain was being shaken

“Don’t worry about, Pidge. She’s been coming home from work to crash here. She’s never been one for love. All the kisses and the cooties, she’d rather be coding”

Matt only served to make Lance frown, he must have set his ego off

“Pidge is perfectly fine the way she is. I’ve already told her we’ll start looking for somewhere nice sufficiently haunted once the twins have come”

Hunk groaned deeply at Lance

“Man, you’re not still going to go ghost hunting, are you!? This is change to get out of going to creepy buildings in the middle of the night”

“Someone’s got to keep our little Pidgeon safe. You know how over excited she gets”

“But, dude. I’ve got grey hairs... I’m getting grey hairs thinking about going back”

Lance and Hunk would never fight, but Lance had said Pidge was upset. His fiancé would do whatever it took to make her happy again... and Lance did have a point about Pidge needing a babysitter... aaaaand Pidge chasing after ghosts was a hell of lot safer than her pursuing her interests in werewolves and vampires

“I don’t mind. I mean, I’ve already been there before and it wasn’t that bad”

Lance nodded quickly

“See! The gang is totally getting back together, even Keith agrees it’s going to be just like old times again. You split up the band”

“Yeah... but that... I mean, we know it’s real now...”

Matt chimed in with a scoff

“Yeah, really mostly explained by science”

Lance didn’t take too well to Matt’s unwanted addition to the conversation, snippy in his retort as he moved himself to shoot Matt a deathly scowl

“Ghosts are real. I know you werewolves don’t see them like vampires, but they’re there. They’re not something to just go poking out. If Pidge wants to go, I’m going with her”

Matt released Keith’s head, Keith feeling the fellow werewolf’s ego flaring. Matt had no right to be shitty towards Lance wanting to be there for Pidge

“Dude, you can’t let her boss you around forever. There’s a time for moving on”

“She’s not bossing me around. At the moment this is what she’s into. Running around the occasional haunted place was kind of fun. She’s fun. Yeah, death feels absolutely horrible. Shadows on the edge of your vision. Body so cold your breath comes out in puffs of condensation. But it was fun. Watching how into it all is fun, and when she started making connections in her cases I couldn’t have been prouder at the time and effort she’d put in. I want to be there and I want to support her. Yeah, she took her job at VOLTRON because she was already a firm believer in the paranormal, but she also did it so she could understand us better. Forget it, I’m getting cranky and we all know that’s Keith’s job, isn’t it, babe?”

Keith had wisely kept his mouth shut, yet he had been cranky all morning and Lance was owed an explanation

“Lotor’s coming back”

Maybe a better explanation than that. Keith cringing at his own bluntness. The cringe turning into a wince as Matt yelled, hurting his ears

“What?!”

Unhappy about his sore ears, Keith huffed

“You don’t need to fucking yell about it. I’m going to be training with him in Platt starting next week. Coran dropped it on me this morning as we were leaving”

Casting his gaze entirely to Lance, Lance smiled at him, rather looking freaked out like Keith thought he might. Cocking his head, Keith was confused

“Babe?”

“He’s... well, he’s him. But I think it’ll be good for you”

What?! No. Lance was supposed to support him staying at home... or maybe even say he wasn’t ready seeing he’d only been through two moons

“How is this a good thing?”

“You need someone to help you hone your skills now you’re a werewolf. You already hate him, so you’ll also get a lesson in how to rein your ego in for when you go hunting actually bad vampires. Plus, you don’t have to worry about hurting Lotor seeing he’s already dead so you can go all out”

Lance and his damn ridiculous logical approach

“But it’s Loturd...”

Whining only earned him a chuckle from Lance

“I know. I’m going to have call Allura later and scold her for not telling me about it. She’s supposed to be my adopted sister and she kept her mouth shut”

“Maybe she can distract him so I don’t have to put up with him?”

“Or maybe I’ll come along and kick your arse if you’re not training. He’s not my first choice of teacher, but I do think you need someone right now, and until I’ve given birth, I can’t help you train”

“You know I hate it when you’re right”

“But you love me”

He couldn’t argue with Lance’s logic there either

“I do. I don’t really want him and you in the same place”

“Babe, you’ve got nothing to worry about. I’m might be fat, but I can break through an ego now. He tries anything funny and I’ll neuter him”

“Not if I get there first”

If Lotor so much looked in Lance’s direction, Keith would kill him. Lance was his mate and as painful as it was, vampires probably belonged better together than a werewolf and vampire. Lance might not have any feelings towards Lotor... yet Keith couldn’t keep his jealously at bay. He deserved to be fucking happy, no matter how selfish it was, until he’d worked out how to interact with Lotor, Lance wouldn’t be going anywhere near him.

Shooting him double finger guns, his fiancé was trying to make him happier

“That’s my boy. Now, I don’t know what you’ve all got planned, but I want to take a bath. Growing babies is exhausting. Your amazing shoulder is going to have to wait, Hunk-a-roonie”

“That’s okay, Bud. We only really came to see that you guys got back safely. We’ve actually got a house viewing at 12 o’clock, so we’d better head out. It’s so good to have you guys home”

Lance smiled at Hunk

“It’s good be home. Don’t forget, you’ve got a team of werewolves to help you move. I’m happy to volunteer them”

“Yeah, we’ll keep that in mind. Right, we’ll see you guys later”

Leaving them, Keith dragged himself off the floor and into the space Hunk had vacated. Matt leaving them to join Rieva in the kitchen where she’d been making lunch before they’d come home. Lance not moving for this bath he wanted, instead kissing Keith on the cheek, before snaking his arm around him with a content sigh

“No bath?”

“Not yet. Honestly, I feel really bad, but I keep thinking about Pidge and it’s setting me off”

“Why don’t you invite her over?”

“I’ll send her a message. I used to get jealous over how close she and Hunk were, but we were always the “Garrison Trio”, you know. I know I can’t cling to the past, but it hurts that she feels on the outside”

Nosing into Lance’s hair, Keith nodded

“I know that feeling, but she’s got us and she’s got all our other friends. We’ll make sure she’s okay”

“I know. Babe, I know you’re upset about Lotor. If it doesn’t work out then it doesn’t work out. Both of you have egos and sometimes you’re just not compatible with someone. No matter what, I’m proud of you”

Hauling Lance up into his lap, Keith hugged his fiancé tightly

“Thanks. I’m kind... pissed off, but this is for the best, right?”

“Yeah, babe. I want you to finally feel safe as a werewolf and think this is a really good step. You’ll always have me in your corner”

“I’d rather have you in our bed”

Lance groaned at him, slapping his arm lightly

“That’s enough, Casanova. If I spread my legs anymore, they’ll fall out”

“We can’t have that. I love your legs”

And Lance’s arse... and his tummy... and pretty much every single bit of him...

“I know... God, it’s so nice to be home”

“Yeah, it really is”

#once bitten twice stupid #oncebittentwicestupid #ashratherose

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ipmaxus-blog · 6 years

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Tip: If you’re flying an airline like Southwest, Low-cost Airlines can help you get an edge on getting the best seat possible. Our check-in reminders can help you check in right on time and get a decent boarding number.

In-flight Meals Whether you have a long-haul flight or a number of connecting ones, you’re likely going to build up an appetite. If you’re flying low-cost airlines, don’t count on an in-flight meal unless you’re willing to swipe your credit card for it. This also goes for snacks and beverages–both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. To avoid these extra fees, plan ahead by packing snacks in your carry-on or purchasing a meal in the terminal during your layover. To save on beverage costs, bring an empty water bottle with you through security, and fill it in a water fountain in the terminal before boarding.

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Some low-cost airlines will also charge for in-flight amenities like pillows, blankets or headsets. Your best bet to avoid incurring these fees is to bring your own travel pillow, stow a blanket or scarf in your carry-on and grab the headphones you have at home to bring with you on the flight.

Low-cost airlines can provide an excellent alternative to expensive flat rate fares. The key is to remember that the low numbers you see advertised on your Facebook newsfeed are really just the cost to get you (not your luggage) from point A to B, and any additional service or accommodation will be an extra cost. Planning ahead can save you hundreds in airline fees; money you’ll be happy you saved once you reach your final destination.

More: https://lowcost-airlines.com/

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alivingfire · 6 years

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Ohmygod I love podcasts!!! Can you rec me some? It's hard to find good ones sometimes.

YES! I CAN!

i’ve been knee deep in podcasts for about three months now, and i have, apparently, wide and varying interests, so i’ll put a little descriptor of each. also, i listen to podcasts on the Stitcher app, but i think all of these are on itunes if you prefer that, and i linked the websites if you want more info.

DARK STUFF

my favorite murder - this is 100% my favorite podcast now, but the first time i listened to it, i had to switch it off. start from the newest episodes, get a feel for it, and then you can go back and start at episode one, which is still interesting but before the hosts really find their footing. basically, karen and georgia are two friends who love true crime, so they talk about their favorite weird murders and mysteries. it’s dark, but it’s also really funny (they’re both comedians) and i think they learned to really strike a balance between jokes and the serious stuff. they’re also super feminist – their sign-off at the end of each episode is “stay sexy, don’t get murdered.”

someone knows something - canadian investigative journalist david ridgen tackles unsolved mysteries, one story per season. if you like documentaries, you’ll like how this podcast is set up. ridgen interviews witnesses, friends, families, police officers – basically everyone around the cases he’s looking into. it unfolds like a story and you really feel like you’re right in the middle of it. you don’t have to start at season one, but definitely start at episode one of whichever season you pick, because these are episodic and won’t make sense if you go backwards.

lore - this podcast is SO GOOD, and it’s actually just been turned into a short miniseries on amazon prime that is incredibly creepy and well done. lore is written by a horror author, aaron mahnke, who takes you through the scariest stories and legends, and how they came to be part of our world. the first episode is about vampires, and it legitimately has such a twist ending that i screamed. if you like spooky, mythology and legend and history-based stuff, this is the best.

LEARN STUFF

literature and history - think about your favorite dorky teacher who makes ridiculous jokes and is so. genuine about learning and teaching that you get interested in the subject because he’s so interested in the subject. now imagine that guy was a harvard professor who totally knows his shit and he starts a podcast. starting from the beginning of history, this guy takes you through the pieces of writing that have changed the world. he’s super soothing and i’ve already read a couple of books he recommended. definitely start at episode one for this one, chronology is important and he builds on each episode.

no such thing as a fish - if you like dry british humor and trivia, this is the one you’ll want. the writers of the super famous british panel show QI (the show stephen fry hosted) talk about their favorite random facts that they discovered and researched that week. super funny, and you’re still learning.

good night stories for rebel girls - if you are a strong woman or love strong women or want to someday be a strong woman, listen to this podcast. this is still relatively new, but the format is amazing: the writers and hosts turned the stories of real women throughout history into fairytales. incredibly inspiring, and you get to learn about awesome women you might have only vaguely heard of.

nancy - the best lgbtq podcast you could ask for. lgbtq people, stories, histories, pop culture, and interviews that will absolutely have you bawling. this is an NPR podcast, so it’s interview-heavy, but the subjects are handled well and there’s no queer tragedy here, it’s all very hopeful and realistic without being pessimistic.

ENTERTAINMENT STUFF

ID10T - this used to be called nerdist, and it’s hosted by chris hardwick, the guy who used to host @midnight on comedy central. basically, hardwick and either his cohosts or a famous person – as of this post, the last guest was antonio banderas – talk about ~~nerd things of the week: movies, comics, video games, tv shows, etc. etc. it’s basically just pop culture, at this point (because video games aren’t just for nerds anymore, kiddos), but what’s fun about it is that hardwick is incredibly unapologetic about absolutely loving the things he loves. it’s more fun to listen to this guy geek out about stuff than listening to other people find ways to criticize the things you love, i promise.

gilmore guys - pretty much what it says on the tin - two guys watch gilmore girls and talk about each episode. you’re probably wondering why you would want to listen to some random guys talking about a show you (presumably) love, but they’re really careful to stay away from anything mansplain-y or judgmental. one of the guys, kevin, is a huge gilmore girls fan, and the other host, demi, is watching for the first time, so it’s interesting to hear their discussions, especially regarding race, homophobia, and a lot of other issues that the the show writers tiptoe around. definitely don’t start at season one for this show – it’s super rough and there’s even a little minute-long intro on the very first episode that says so. start at about season three, there’s not a lot you’ll miss and they’ve got a rhythm down by that point.

STRAIGHT UP STORIES

welcome to night vale - if you’ve been anywhere near podcasts or, tbh, tumblr, for the last few years, you’re probably at least slightly aware of WTNV. in all honesty, it lives up to the hype. it’s not scary so much as unsettling, very southwest gothic and supernatural. WNTV is the story of a strange town in the middle of the desert, told to you by cecil, the town’s local radio broadcaster. cecil tells you all about what’s going on in night vale, from the shadowy city council who sends monsters after people they disagree with, to the radio station’s cat floating in the bathroom, to old woman josie’s angels that hang out in her house. it’s interesting because, underneath all the unsettling creepiness, it’s super feminist, super pro-lgbtq rights, and super anti-authority/anti-establishment. if nothing else, cecil’s voice is one of the most soothing of all the podcast voices, and the quality of the writing and acting is superb from episode one.

wooden overcoats - hands down one of the funniest dramedies i’ve ever seen or listened to. wooden overcoats is the story of a tiny british island, where brother and sister rudyard and antigone funn run the island’s only funeral home, at least until a guy named eric chapman moves his own funeral home in right across the street and ruins everything for them. everyone, from the mayor down to antigone herself, falls head over heels for chapman, and rudyard has to find a way to keep the family business running even though he’s not very good at his job and would prefer to do as little as possible. the voice acting is SUPERB, and i genuinely mean it’s hilarious, with lots of gallows humor and funny timing.

the penumbra podcast - the penumbra is a hotel in the middle of nowhere, and every person staying there has a story. some of the stories are one-offs, and some of them, like the story of juno steel, space private eye, are recurring. it’s very old-timey radio style, lots of noir monologues and humphrey bogart-esque one-liners. some of the early episodes are rough, but they’ve actually gone back and re-recorded the juno steel ones, so they’ll be the best to start with.

the bright sessions - do you like superheroes? do you like the dark side of superhero stories, where people with powers have to deal with being different and strange and emotional all while trying not to accidentally time travel or read someone else’s mind? this one’s for you. the bright sessions are therapy sessions between dr. bright and her patients, who are atypicals, or, basically, superheroes without the spandex. dr. bright helps her patients work on controlling their powers, all while a shady secret government organization watches overhead. you’ll want to start from episode one on this story, but you’ll probably immediately have a favorite patient.

the bridge - another not so creepy, but more unsettling podcast. set in a slightly-different alternate universe where there’s a hundreds-of-miles-long bridge that stretches across the atlantic ocean from the united states to europe, you join a bored traffic reporter as she tells stories from other watch towers and stations along the bridge, which, after decades of use, is mostly abandoned. all the while, creepy stuff starts happening on her watch, and she and the other bridge employees have to figure out if they’re really in danger, or if they’ve been at sea too long.

the truth - a lot like the penumbra podcast, the truth is a collection of short stories, acted out like actual movies. the first one caught and hooked me – what would’ve happened if apollo 11 didn’t land on the moon, and instead became the first space tragedy? the stories are (again, i have a pattern) dark but funny, and they’re incredibly creative.

PODCASTS I HAVEN’T STARTED, BUT THAT ARE ON MY LIST:

you must remember this - classic stories from the classic hollywood era, from marilyn monroe to charles manson and a lot more early stars we’ve completely forgotten about.

wolf 359 - stories set in a space station floating out in the middle of nowhere, the crew of wolf 359 search for alien life and try not to die lightyears away from home.

alice isn’t dead - made by the creators of welcome to night vale, so i’m sure this is good. alice is a truck driver who has to road trip around the country (and beyond) to find her missing wife.

the podcast history of our world - a lot like literature & history, this guy is just so excited to teach that he makes you excited to learn. he’s also really good about covering underrepresented people, which is more interesting than learning yet again about history from the side of colonizers.

EOS 10 - i have at least listed to the first episode of this, so i can confirm what everyone says: this is basically the show scrubs, set in space. a lot of doctors who think they know what they’re doing but are really on their own with no clue what to do.

heaven’s gate - more true crime! heaven’s gate was a cult that committed mass suicide in 1997. the host dives into the lives of the cult members to prove that anyone could’ve been caught up in the story.

if anyone has any recs, i’m happy to add to my list!

#anonymous #rachel talks #podcasts

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aroworlds · 6 years

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Aro-Spec Artist Profile: Nate

Our next aro-spec creator is Nate, better known on Tumblr as @astriiformes!

Nate is an asexual, aromantic, neurodivergent and mentally ill trans guy/person continuing the tradition of aro-spec creators demonstrating an impressive diversity of talent. He writes, cosplays, creates filk music and produces visual art--and that’s when he’s not playing D&D and attending conventions!

You can find him on Twitter as planar_ranger and on 8tracks as azhdarchidaen. He’s also found on AO3 as azhdarchidaen, with a prolific selection of works for the Gravity Falls, Doctor Who, Critical Role and Pacific Rim fandoms! If you have a dollar or two you’re wanting to invest in worthy aro-spec talent, please take a look at Nate’s Ko-Fi!

With us Nate talks about expressing emotions through creativity, the intersection of aromanticism and perfectionism, the importance of storytelling as self-expression and his passion for D&D as a way of giving voice to his aromantic experience. His love for fandom, creativity and storytelling shines through every word, so please let’s give him all our love, encouragement, gratitude, kudos and follows for taking the time to explore what it is to be aromantic and creative.

Can you share with us your story in being aro-spec?

While I didn’t know the word “aromantic” until I was 15 or 16, and took a while to embrace it even then, when I look back on my childhood I can definitely see some of the earliest signs. Perhaps the most prominent was my mild disappointment at age 12 or 13 in discovering the Star Wars EU novels only to learn that Luke Skywalker, one of my most pervasively favorite characters since I first watched the movies and likely my earliest aro headcanon, ended up getting married! I ended up writing what was technically my first fanfiction after that discovery, an alternate take on the post-Return of the Jedi universe in which he didn’t.

But I didn’t really start to realize I was aro, or even know it was an identity at all, until two things happened. First, I joined an LGBTQA+ group on a writer’s forum I used to frequent and started to not only learn the vocabulary but also that identifying as something other than straight or cis was even allowed. Second, I entered what was essentially the closest thing to a romantic relationship I’ve ever experienced. By some measures it probably was one, but there really wasn’t much romance involved – because I wasn’t pushing it (for reasons that are now obvious to me), and the guy I was sort-of-dating was pretty respectful of my boundaries and was probably waiting for me to make some of those moves before trying himself. The relationship eventually broke off several months after he moved to Europe. He messaged me to say he felt bad about the fact that our long-distance “relationship” was probably holding me back from finding someone I could be happier with, and he would be more comfortable breaking it off. The fact that I felt no real sadness over that was a fairly big bit of evidence for my aromanticism, second only to the fact that I had actually become more comfortable with our situation when he moved across the Atlantic Ocean.

Clues like those eventually lead me to adopt the label and really begin to understand myself, I think around age 16 or 17. I went through a slow process of accepting all my queer identities one-by-one and kind of see them all as pretty interconnected. The aro one was in the middle.

Can you share with us the story behind your creativity?

I really like making things. For all the frustration I experience trying to write something I’m happy with, or panicked near all-nighters trying to finish props before a convention, I really am at my happiest when I have projects to engage in. I take a lot of pride in my identity as a content creator as a result, though it also means I can set discouragingly high standards for myself. That being said, there’s nothing that makes me happier that someone enjoying something I put time and effort into and being able to go “I made this.”

Writing was definitely my earliest outlet (I did draw things when I was younger, but I didn’t show my art to anyone until this time last year). I was posting fics (under a different username, fortunately; I don’t want my early teenage writing unearthed ten years later) on ff.net by early high school, a narrative I’m sure I share with plenty of other creators. I’ve done more interesting things with my writing since migrating over to AO3 though, and I continue to feel like my writing is growing (even if, sometimes, I worry it’s going too slowly).

Getting into cosplay was something I picked up only a year or so later, though again, comparing my current work to those first few attempts feels almost silly. My first cosplay was a patched-together Eighth Doctor mostly made out of thrift store finds that looked only debatably like the real deal. Since then, I’ve gotten better at sewing my own things and have realized one of my true strengths lies in elaborate props. My two most recent cosplays were Stanford Pines from Gravity Falls, with a fully-illustrated and screen-accurate copy of the third journal, complete with blacklight effects, and Taako, from The Adventure Zone, with an Umbra Staff that I had re-covered in fabric and had fully-functional LED “stars” built into it, stars I could make twinkle via a secret remote. I’m attempting two characters that are even more ambitious for conventions this year, but we’ll have to see how that actually goes…

My filk contributions aren’t massive, but the community aspect (and that it connected me to someone who is now one of my closest friends, who made me go from enjoying the genre to contributing to it) and some of the things I’ve done as a result of it make me feel it has a place as part of my creative identity. You haven’t lived until you’ve performed decades-old songs about space travel with your friends, in cosplay, in a crowded convention center! (Okay, a debatable statement. But a truly wild experience.) It’s also been a good outlet for me in some ways, because music is a powerful way to get across emotions. I play viola and piano, and have for years, so I knew that to some degree before I started writing my own lyrics to things. But personalizing songs by making them be about things you have really strong feelings for is another level entirely.

And then, art. Like I said, I never really shared it with anyone (or drew much at all) until about a year ago. Part of that was due to wanting to try my hand at digital art but not really having an understanding of what programs to use or how to get started with it, and part of it was the inertia of feeling like “if I’m not good at something immediately, I shouldn’t try at all!” The thing that really got the ball rolling for me is the long D&D campaign I’m currently in. When I was excited about other stories, chances were someone else had drawn art of it that I could enjoy and reblog. That’s not really the case with one you’re telling with only 5-6 other people. I had a sort of epiphany moment a couple months into the campaign, as the story really started picking up, that if I wanted to see the kind of art I appreciate for this new story I was falling in love with, I would probably have to do it myself. I’m still not incredibly happy with my work, since I’m surrounded by friends who are incredible artists and my style is fairly simplistic and oddly stylized, but I have gotten to a point where I draw fairly regularly, and generally put up what I create on our shared campaign blog. The same D&D game has wrenched over 15k words of original writing from me, which is pretty astonishing. Most of that isn’t anywhere to be found on Tumblr just yet, though – it’s largely still-top secret character backstory.

Are there any particular ways your aro-spec experience is expressed in your art?

The most obvious way is that I write fics about characters being aromantic and dealing with their aromanticism. All headcanons, unfortunately (I’m yet to find a canon aro in anything I love that I didn’t help create myself), but there are several stories on my AO3 about characters from Pacific Rim, Star Wars or Gravity Falls realizing they’re aromantic. And the fics that don’t deal with that are still all gen – I’m too romance-repulsed to write anything else, and I feel the world needs a lot more genfic anyways.

One other way, though I feel a bit silly calling it “art”, is that I am intentionally playing an aromantic character of my own creation in my current D&D campaign. I’ve been playing for several years now, and did have another character back in high school who I also imagined as aromantic. (Partially because of an awkward flirting mishap – an enemy tried to get my character off her guard with romance and it all backfired because she didn’t know how to respond. All my own fault – I don’t even know how to roleplay that!) But none of the campaigns I’ve played in until this one were particularly intent on exploring characters and their feelings all that deeply, or really making them a part of the story.

With my current character, it’s become incredibly validating to view him as aromantic and asexual, like myself. It’s that same impulse that got me started doing more art – if the fiction I like isn’t going to provide me with aromantic characters, I’ll have to make one myself! And it’s slowly leading to some very interesting explorations of aro identity and the normalising of it in our world. We’ve established that identifying that way isn’t particularly unusual for elves and talked about what that means for worldbuilding. Do they hold platonic relationships in the same regard as romantic ones? Is there a special kind of relationship that signifies that? What if we put friendship under the banner of the goddess of romantic love too? Though at the same time, I’m exploring some of the same feelings I experience with him – he’s a particularly lonely person, who worries about people actually wanting to stay with him, both of which are prominent features of my own aromantic experience.

What challenges do you face as an aro-spec artist?

Like many of us, I do worry that my genfics will be less enjoyed or circulated as a result of choosing not to include ships. And whenever I post a fic about a character actually being aro, I definitely get that little stab of “Someone is going to have a problem with this” fear.

I also feel that my experience with aromanticism has shaped a lot of my perfectionistic tendencies. Because I worry so much about trying to remain important in my allo friends’ lives, and because I think of so much of my identity as associated with creativity, I tend to get really wrapped up in my work needing to seem amazing somehow, to make people think I’m worth their time. It’s a silly thing to get preoccupied over, but it has had an impact on me. In some ways wanting my work to be really good is not a bad thing – it encourages me to do my very best whenever I can – but the motivation is really all wrong.

How do you connect to the aro-spec and a-spec communities as an aro-spec person?

I’m honestly pretty disconnected from them. I might be less-inclined to be if this website wasn’t suddenly experiencing such backlash against a-spec identities, but as is I’m almost afraid to engage with anything that might make me a target. Which is really unfortunate. That being said, whenever I do make any aro content and I see it circulated to other aromantic people, I get a lot of joy from it. The comments on my multiple aromantic-focused fics are some of my favorite ones I’ve ever received. If I can channel my experiences into something that elicits that kind of a reaction from our community, I consider my work well done.

How do you connect to your creative community as an aro-spec person?

When I’m able to talk to other aromantic people about headcanons (or even some of my very understanding allo friends who absorb them from me, too), pretty well! Unfortunately, that’s a pretty tiny fraction of my fandom experience. Even some of my interests where you’d think I wouldn’t run into problems have been difficult at times. I once had someone dressed as a character often (non-canonically) shipped with the one I was cosplaying, and they assumed that I would be interested in hearing that they shipped our character. Instead, they just made me very uncomfortable, particularly with the way they chose to do so.

In general, the expectation that as a member of fandom, producing fandom works, I will be interested in creating and consuming romantic content is hard to deal with. I’ve had people ask me to put ships in my fics, the aforementioned convention incident, and been heckled over having aromantic headcanons at all. That being said, aromantic headcanons were how I met at least a few of my good friends. Finding each other may be hard, but since we all feel so isolated I think that finding other aro creators inhabiting the same or similar spaces can lead to pretty quick bonding, or at least an appreciation of each others’ works. I do like that.

I’ve also, as I have mentioned a couple times now, realized the worth of telling my own stories, particularly if I have other people to share them with who will respond positively. Right now, most of my D&D group is not aro, but they are a group that respects my and my character’s identities, and being able to tell an aro narrative that means a lot to me and get a positive response is a breath of fresh air. I count them as fellow content creators and they’ve really encouraged the story I want to tell. I hope that someday the inspiration I’ve gained from that will lead me to publishing my own original fiction (with aro characters, of course), but it’s been due to this small start that I’ve decided that’s something I could realistically pursue.

How can the aro-spec community best help you as a creative?

Comments on my fics are one of the biggest things that keep me writing, so they’ll always be a boon to me. Even old ones. It makes me happy to see people still reading and enjoying them. Same goes for reblogs of any of my stuff – art, writing, filk, cosplay photos, anything else I might post. The biggest thing that keeps me wanting to create and share more creative works is knowing that other people are enjoying them, so if you do enjoy them, any way you can let me know that is wonderful.

I do hope that in some point in the future I’ll have original fiction available and a science writing blog (I consider non-fiction to be creative expression, as long as you’re putting your spark into it!), but neither exists quite yet. If you follow me on either of my main platforms though, those might pop up someday. Seeing either be circulated when the time comes would be massive. I also intend to, perhaps in the much nearer future, start publishing D&D content (likely homebrew 5e subclasses, but who knows) on the DMsGuild, starting with a pay-what-you-want model for downloading my content. If that goes up and I make something you’re interested in, and you want to pay something for it at all, I would be massively grateful.

Can you share with us something about your current project?

I’ve been working on a Critical Role Modern AU story since January or so that places heavy emphasis on the platonic relationships in the show (Percy and Keyleth’s is particularly dear to me, so they’re likely to get a fair bit of the spotlight) that’s my most current fandom fic.

I’m also tackling two ambitious cosplays at the moment, though the timeframe is making me wonder if I’ll actually pull either off. Especially given what I need to get done. One involves sewing pseudo-historical menswear, and I’m going to have to learn how to make armor for the other one. If I can figure it all out though, I’m really excited about them both!

Have you any forthcoming works we should look forward to?

Hopefully the next chapter of the CR fic, if I get hit with the inspiration (and motivation) to work on it soon. I also have another aromantic Luke Skywalker fic I really want to get down on paper at some point, though thus far it’s proven a little elusive.

My two big cosplay projects are Percy de Rolo (from Critical Role), which I intend to take to a local convention, and Erwyn, my own D&D character. I hope to do a photoshoot with the rest of the players as their own characters sometime late this summer.

As for art, I fully intend to keep drawing major or touching moments from my ongoing campaign, likely with much more frequency than any of the things above. It may not be as engaging for people to interact with as my fandom-focused projects are, but I still really do love sharing it.

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sembell · 7 years

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Moving Forward - Chapter 54

It’s been some time, but the longer the wait the longer the chapter, I guess?! Thank you guys so much for your patience, your encouraging words and your constructive feedback! I still love writing this story as a way to escape into an alternate reality that, as of now, makes me feel so much better than the actual reality (whatever that is :P) The title of this chapter is based on my very first encounter with Gillian at the Toulouse Game Show in 2015, when I was standing in front of her, ready to get my poster signed. Her phone buzzed, she looked at it and went “Oh shit! Just a second, sorry!” and then typed something. Who knows what happened there, but this is what I made out of it for the MF-universe :)

NC-17 warning!

“Oh shit! Just a second, sorry!” Gillian Anderson

September, and with it the end of filming, came around much faster than expected.

Parting ways had always been difficult, but incredibly hard after spending three and a half months together - as a family.

A few days after wrapping, David and Gillian found themselves, once again, on completely different continents, thousands of miles apart from each other. When he’d started to film the second season of Aquarius in Los Angeles, Gillian had flown out to Nepal with Piper and her sister to shed Aaron’s ashes. Right after their short and highly emotional trip, she traveled to India to shoot her new movie Viceroy’s House.

The weeks went by excruciatingly slow, even though their days were always busy and packed with an enormous workload.

By the middle of October, she was still shooting the movie in Jodhpur while David found himself at the New York Comic Con with Mitch and Chris, starting the promotion of their six-episode-event-series.

Although she couldn’t be with them, she had sent a video of her sitting by the pool, sounding somewhat like Lady Mountbatten and making a teasing comment about one of the pool boys. David grinned to himself as the audience cheered, remembering all those hours they’d watched documentaries and recorded her voice during breaks, and how much they’d laughed over her weird accent.

They’d started the panel with screening the first episode, and the rest of it went smooth and enjoyable, mostly due to Kumail, whose love and excitement for the show was basically endless.

At some point, right in the middle of an audience’s question, David’s phone buzzed on his upper thigh. With a quick glance down, he saw that Gillian had tweeted something.

Lying in bed in Jodhpur watching live NYCC panel. Miss you guys. Especially one of you.

He pursed his lips and read it again.

Especially one of you.

And then again.

Suddenly, Chris had started to talk again, and David raised his head abruptly, his eyes wandering over the audience. He had no idea what the question was, but it was answered quickly, and Mitch was talking again. And that was basically the rest of the panel for David. He just wasn’t able to concentrate anymore, especially since his phone kept on buzzing with new messages coming from his little tease over in India.

“She just texted me about my flow,” David said bashfully as he followed Mitch off the stage. The panel had just ended, and they were already on their way back to the media area where they were supposed to give a couple of interviews.

Mitch chuckled, turned around and gave David a pat on the back. “Did she watch us live?”

“Yeah, she did.”

“What does she think about your flow?”

“She says it’s flowing just fine, she’s still turned on by the way I handle my chunky monologues,” David answered, and they both fell into hearty laughter.

There was another message that he’d received during the panel, which he didn’t show Mitch, that said:

> Is that handsome dude on my screen really my boyfriend? I miss him terribly <

She knew exactly how to sweeten him up.

> I thought he’s right there with you, providing cold drinks and fresh fruit? <

A couple of seconds later, she started to type, and it didn’t take long for another text to pop up:

> :P - I wish! Y’all looked fantastic though. I’m so sad I couldn’t be there and watch the episode! Is it any good? <

> It’s good, the audience liked it. <, he replied and began to chew on the inside of his cheek as a new wave of longing came over him.

Right then, he couldn’t have cared less about the episode. All he could think of was kissing her in that pool by her hotel, running his nose over her cute little freckles and smelling her delicious, sunkissed skin.

Yes, he was desperate. And who could really blame him after all those weeks without her? Though admittedly, it had started to become fun to play with all the possibilities they had nowadays to stay in contact and feel somewhat close. David especially had become a big fan of those little sexting games she would constantly come up with. He certainly couldn’t imagine his life without being able to play “Queen of the day” with her anymore.

Unfortunately, nothing was even remotely close to what it felt like to have her in his arms, kiss her beautiful lips and tell her he loved her while looking into her deep blue eyes.

A couple of weeks later, David landed at London Heathrow Airport on a gloomy Friday afternoon, tired to the bones and aching from a long week on set.

He had been looking forward to their first weekend together in what felt like forever, at least up until last Tuesday, when he received a call from a very angry, but also abashed Gillian, telling him that the convention she would attend this weekend wasn’t actually taking place in Paris, as she assumed it would, but in a little French town called Toulouse, which was basically in the middle of nowhere.

All their plans for a nice, long weekend together with the kids, visiting the Eiffel Tower, climbing the stairs of the Basilica du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre up to the top, or eating years worth of crêpes and baguettes had died in a matter of seconds.

Instead, David decided to spend the weekend at home with the kids, not really keen to drag them out to a cold, snowy Toulouse, no matter how nice and interesting it might’ve been. With so many geeks in one small city, chances were they wouldn’t be able to have a very good time after all.

It was already dark when he arrived at Gillian’s house, and Erin, the kids’ nanny, was all set to leave for a romantic weekend with her boyfriend in a nice little cabin somewhere on the coast. David couldn’t possibly envy her more, even though he was starting to look forward to having some fun with the kids alone.

Over the last couple of months, it had become somewhat of a tradition that whenever he had Gillian’s kids for himself, he’d take them to places that served American food. The good, greasy and overly sweet stuff that the boys didn’t get too often, but of course loved tremendously. He’d lie if he said that he didn’t enjoy spoiling them - they were awesome boys, and they had a good relationship even without buffalo wings, chicken with waffles or s’mores, but he loved having a good time with them and seeing them happy and relaxed around him. And whenever he’d been away for a longer period of time, it was an easy way to skip the awkward first couple of hours to warm up to each other again.

They took the tube to a nice little place near St. Paul’s Cathedral and had a wonderful dinner before driving back home and taking Nelson for a long walk around the neighborhood.

The dog had become everything David had hoped he would when he gave him to Gillian - a wonderful, beloved buddy for her active young boys. Both Oscar and Felix were very dedicated to Nelson, and it was a delight to watch how much fun they were having together, but also seeing how much responsibility the boys had taken for the little guy.

When David had settled Eaden for the night, the boys showed him their new sports game on the Nintendo Wii, and they ended up playing tennis and golf way past midnight, having so much fun that David even forgot to call Gillian before she fell asleep in her hotel in Toulouse.

On Saturday, the four of them went to an indoor playground right after breakfast, and David spent the better part of his day counting heads, carrying Eaden back to the toddler area, which she was constantly sneaking away from to jump around with the big kids, and handing out snacks and drinks.

Around midday, he started to receive some hilarious text messages from an incredulous Gillian, asking him how anyone in their right mind could possibly confuse Toulouse with Paris and complain that she was freezing her ass off in the hall she was sitting in before she eventually sent him a picture of a squat toilet, labeling it “Welcome in Europe 2015”.

While David had a good laugh over it, he also felt for her. She deserved a weekend to relax, yet she was out there making other people’s dreams come true. He couldn’t admire her more right now.

Gillian was back at her signing table after the first round of photo op’s around 2 pm, frozen to the bone and overwhelmed by the number of people still waiting in line to see her.

It was fun though, really. She’d grown to like these conventions despite her fear of crowds and her aversion to public speaking.

Her fans were crazy, but most of them were very nice, lovely people, and knowing she could make them very happy by just being there and taking a moment to talk to them was bringing her an immense amount of joy as well.

Her phone buzzed beside her, and she only meant to take a quick glance at it, but the first three words immediately caught her full attention and set her on alert. It was a message from David, one that didn’t start very good.

“Oh shit,” Gillian exclaimed, taking her phone and looking at the young woman standing in front of her. “Just a second, sorry!” Gillian said with an apologetic smile and unlocked the screen before reading the entire text:

> Rufus is missing. I can’t find him anywhere. Erin said Eadie didn’t have him for her nap either. Do you remember seeing him around somewhere? <

And that was when the nightmare started.

Gillian hopped into the waiting limousine to leave the convention center by 7:30 pm, much later than she’d anticipated since she spent another hour at her table, meeting even the last person who hadn't gotten the chance to see her earlier today.

The rest of the day had been so busy that she didn’t get the chance to write David anymore, and his messages had piled up by now.

His immediate reply to her suggestions where the bunny might’ve been was:

> No, he’s not in the car and not under our bed, or any bed for that matter. Please come up with something a little bit more helpful. I’m running out of options here. <

There were four more rather desperate ones before she reached the last one:

> I can’t find it. I looked absolutely EVERYWHERE! <

Gillian inhaled sharply and turned her head to look out of the window as they were passing the crowds on their way home, or to the next bar.

It was raining again, or snowing, she couldn’t really tell. The cold and cloudy weather in the past couple of weeks was starting to get to her mood and overall well-being. As if only the sun could recharge her batteries. Maybe a nice long bubble bath back at the hotel and a decent sized burger with fries and a milkshake on the side would do the trick, too, Gillian thought, smiling to herself. Boy, she really wasn’t looking forward to making a call home and face the reality that her one-year-old’s heart was probably broken into a million pieces.

With an exasperated sigh, Gillian dialed David’s number and raised her phone to her ear. Better get it over with right away, she thought.

He picked up on the fourth ring.

“Hey, stranger. You're done with your day?”

Gillian smiled. “Hello, yourself. Yep, I'm completely done. Done, done, done in every possible way. My brain is just… mush.”

“I bet it is,” David said with a chuckle. “Lots of people, huh?”

“You have no idea. But now tell me what’s going on! How is she?”

“A-s-l-e-e-p,” he spelled, especially emphasizing the ‘p’ at the end, sounding both relieved and tired.

“Oh, wow,” Gillian said in surprise. “I wasn’t expecting that.”

“Yeah, me neither. But she basically cried herself to sleep on the couch while I was trying to make dinner. I guess it was an exhausting day for all of us, and now she’s lying half on top of Nelson - who’s also on the couch, I’m very sorry - clutching one of your hoodies to her face.”

“Oh no, poor girl,” Gillian said ruefully. The bunny had been on top of her mind since David’s first message, and she couldn’t really remember when she’d seen him the last time. On Friday morning when she’d gotten the baby ready for the day? Did Eaden have him in the car during their school run? Or… did they bring him to get a couple of groceries and actually lost him while strolling through Brick Lane Market? Which was, undoubtedly, the worst case scenario.

“Yeah, it’s sad,” David said, pulling her out of her thoughts. “She just doesn’t understand it.”

“Fuck, David. I feel so guilty. It’s all my fault.”

“No, Gillian. Things like that just happen.”

“Have you ever lost the favorite stuffed animal?”

“Well, no. But we’ve lost a bunch over the years…”

“Yeah, the ones that are forgotten the next day. But you usually don’t lose the favorite one because you never bring it with you when you leave the house. That’s the number one rule every parent knows… and usually follows.”

“Maybe we’ll find him again. I will keep looking, okay? Don’t lose any sleep over it, babe.”

“Maybe I should go out for a drink with David and Nicholas after all,” Gillian mused, referring to the American actors that had also attended the convention with her.

“Yeah, at least one of us should have fun,” he said with a light chuckle.

“I’m so sorry, David. I know this wasn’t what you were expecting from this weekend. Are the boys good for you at least?”

“They’re awesome. One of them was always with Eaden or looking for the bunny. They took off to play upstairs an hour ago when the crying got really bad, which I can’t blame them for, to be honest. I think they’re hungry and waiting for dinner now, so…”

“Oh, okay. What are you making?”

“Baked mashed potatoes.”

“Um, okay. Sounds… interesting.”

“Easy and… basically ready to serve. I gotta go, babe. I love you, you know?”

Gillian smiled as heat rose to her cheeks. “I love you, too. Very much.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Finally.”

“Yes, finally. Good night, Gillian.’

“Good night, David. Please give the kids a kiss from me, okay?”

Rufus hadn't miraculously resurfaced by the next day, which pretty much sealed the deal for David that Eaden’s favorite stuffed bunny had in fact gotten lost in the streets.

After lunch, which the baby had refused to eat even though it had been pizza, David found her in the library rummaging through one of the bookshelves.

She didn’t even look up when he kneeled down beside her. “What are you doing, slugger? Are you redecorating Mommy’s books?” he asked, running his hand over her back.

It was only when she turned her head that he saw the tears running down her cheeks again.

“Ufus!” Eaden sobbed, her bottom lip stuck out so far that a bird could have perched on it.

“Oh honey,” David sighed. How often could his heart actually break for this little girl? She was looking at him as though he was the only one who’d be able to make everything okay again. There were so much hope and expectation in those piercing blue eyes. How he wished he could take away her pain. Or at least be able to explain what was going on.

Thankfully, she fell asleep in his arms after he’d picked her up and laid down on the couch with her.

But it was barely an hour later that Eaden couldn’t be soothed anymore.

David was leaning against the kitchen island with a screaming, wiggling Eaden in his arms when he heard the front door being closed and someone in heels walking through the hallway.

He had a tight hold on Eaden’s little feet as Oscar was standing right in front of him, looking up at his sister with worried eyes while he was gently stroking her arm.

Felix was sitting on the couch, holding his ears while staring at David’s iPad.

Oh boy, Gillian thought as she caught the first sight of them. It was worse than she’d expected.

Putting her bags down, she gave David a weary look as she approached them, but could see a hint of relief crossing his own features.

“Hey, you guys. What’s the matter here?”

“Mum!” Oscar exclaimed and ran into her arms, embracing her waist. “We weren’t able to find the bunny.”

“Mummy, she won’t stop screaming and we looked everywhere!” Felix complained from his position on the couch, not even attempting to get up and give her a hug.

“Yeah, we did! We thought Nelson might have taken it, but it’s nowhere in the house! She must’ve lost it somewhere outside.”

“Oh dear,” Gillian sighed and ran her fingers through Oscars hair before leaning over to give him a kiss. “That doesn’t sound good.”

“Nope,” Felix stated, cringing as Eaden let out another loud wail and plugging his fingers back into his ears.

“Hey, baby girl,” Gillian cooed and walked towards David and Eaden with Oscar following her closely. With four fingers of her right hand stuck in her mouth, she was clutching David’s neck with the other, and her head was resting against his shoulder as though she’d literally no energy left in her to hold it up herself.

“Look! Mommy’s home, baby. Everything’s alright now,” David whispered, gently bouncing her up and down.

Gillian snorted and started to rub Eaden’s back to get her attention. She seemed to be completely out of things, and her whole body heaved with convulsive sobs, each one wracking her harder than the last. It sounded pretty much like she was choking.

Her normally bright, sparkling blue eyes looked glassy, and the white in them had turned into a bright pink. Only her cheeks were redder than her eyes.

Gillian felt her daughter’s forehead with the back of her hand, eyebrows furrowed in concern.

“She’s hot.”

“Yeah, she’s been crying and screaming on and off for hours now. She didn’t eat anything at all and only managed to take a couple of sips of tea here and there,” David said, worry and remorse evident in his voice.

“M-hm, it’s hard to make her drink anything when she’s so upset,” Gillian squeezed his arm reassuringly.

He managed a weak smile before asking, “You want to hold her for a bit?”

“Yes. Just let me change into something clean and comfy, okay?”

“Yeah,” he nodded and put his hand on her upper arm as she was attempting to walk away, pulling gently. “Hey,” he whispered, his smile soft but tired.

She raised her arm and stroked his stubbled cheek before putting her fingers around his neck and pulling him down for a chaste kiss. “Hey,” she whispered as she pulled back. She’d pictured their first kiss after weeks a little bit differently. “Hang in there, I’ll be right back.”

The crying got worse again once she’d left the room to head upstairs, and it resonated even up to her bedroom. Gillian could count on ten fingers the times she’d heard one of her kids crying like this, and it had mostly been Eaden with her newborn colics. The memories of spending hours walking around and bouncing her to ease the physical pain were still very vivid. But how on earth was she supposed to help her one-year-old with her emotional struggles?

Gillian sighed as she quickly undressed and walked into the bathroom to wash her face. No matter how many kids one had, parenthood would always be a challenge, and it would never be simple.

She came back to David pouring what she guessed was fennel tea, Eaden’s favorite, into a sippy cup while their daughter was now sobbing directly into his shoulder. They always made a whole can in the mornings and let it cool down. Gillian hated it, couldn’t even stand the smell anymore, but Eaden was chugging it down like crazy. On a normal day, at least. She really hoped Eaden would take it.

She went over to Felix first, who had been joined on the couch by Oscar, to make a point and give him a kiss hello. He smiled at her bashfully when she ruffled his hair before finally pulling her down for a bear hug. No matter if she was gone for a weekend or a couple of weeks, they always seemed happy and grateful when they had her back, and in need of a lot of cuddles. She hoped she’d get the chance to spend some quality time with both of them before she had to fly out to Belfast on Tuesday.

“Hey sweetheart, look what Daddy made you! Your favorite tea!” Gillian tried to sound as excited as possible when she stepped beside David, who let out a frustrated sigh while trying to screw the lid with one hand.

She gently put her hand over his, gave it a reassuring squeeze and took the cup to close it.

“Eaden, Mommy is here now. Have you seen her?” David murmured, gently trying to loosen her tight grip on him so she would at least take a look. He still couldn’t believe how hard it actually was to peel a tiny, clinging toddler off of you. “Eaden, please,” he begged, and Gillian could tell that he was giving everything not to sound annoyed or harsh. It must’ve been a horrible weekend for him, especially after not seeing them for such a long time.

“Okay,” Gillian nodded, put the cup on the counter and started to take the baby away from him.

She was holding on for dear life, pulling at his shirt and stretching it as far as possible before he finally got to open her fingers around the fabric, and she let go.

Gillian had just turned her around and settled her on her hip to take a look at her when Eaden broke into full-blown bawl, arched her back and suddenly threw herself backward so forcefully that if David hadn’t been there to catch her, Gillian would’ve dropped her.

“Jesus Christ,” Gillian breathed in utter shock, her heart now beating rapidly in her chest. Eaden’s cries once again intensifying.

David nodded, running his large hand over Eaden’s small back while Gillian was holding her tightly, even though she was squirming in her mother’s arms.

“It’s alright baby,” Gillian tearfully choked out. She felt horrible. Eaden had never resented her like that before, and it stung.

If she only had been there for her over the last two days.

She looked up to meet David’s eyes. “Do you think it might help if I retreat into the library and lay down with her?” Gillian asked, cradling her daughter’s head in her palm and bouncing her gently.

“Yeah, you do that,” David said softly and leaned forward to kiss her forehead before handing her the sippy cup. “I’ll be out here if you need me, okay?”

“Yeah. Thank you,” she whispered, hoping he knew how grateful she was for everything he was doing for her. Flying over for the weekend to watch her two boys, their daughter and the dog all by himself was more than she was expecting from him, especially since she didn’t even have to ask.

He found them peacefully lying in the raffia glider a while later. The library was one of his favorite rooms in her house. It was peaceful and comfortable, and he loved to come in here, browse her bookshelves and lay down with a book that caught his interest. David even had a shelf for his own books in here, and sometimes, he’d find a book in it that she’d bought him, one she thought he would like, or one she just really wanted him to read.

Eaden was slumped against Gillian with her head resting on her mother's chest, her little body still shaking with an occasional sob. With one hand, she was fingering a few tendrils of her mother’s hair that had escaped out of her ponytail. The other one was holding onto Gillian’s shirt.

“Hey, it’s so quiet in here,” he said with a soft smile and let himself slump down onto the blue sofa beside them.

“Yeah, finally,” Gillian said, her voice just above a whisper, and looked at her little girl.

Eaden had stopped drinking, but Gillian was pleased that she’d managed to drink at least half of the cup. Her eyes were still open, but she was staring at nothing in particular, her little fingers absently playing with the collar of her black shirt before disappearing underneath it again.

Gillian sighed. It was so tempting to give in, to go 10 steps back, ruin everything they’d worked for over the last eight weeks and just let her nurse, even if it was just for comfort’s sake.

“Babe, don’t,” David said quietly as if he’d read her mind, his eyes warm and full of affection. “I know what you’re thinking, but it won’t help her, or you, in any way.”

Gillian nodded and buried her nose in her daughter’s soft blonde hair. He was right, of course; the whole process was a nightmare she didn’t want to start over again. She couldn’t do that to Eaden, or to herself.

For Gillian, it was an emotional rollercoaster of unknown dimensions. Some days, she thought she was experiencing something similar to postpartum depression. She had to excuse herself from meetings or during filming to cry in private multiple times in the last couple of weeks. Had found herself on the verge of a panic attack every Monday morning when she was about to leave for Belfast, or felt completely unable to get up in the mornings and go to set.

On other days, she was incredibly relieved that she didn’t have to offer her body to a little person every waking hour of the day, or night, anymore. While she loved being close to the kids and loved providing the physical comfort each child needed, there was definitely a certain point when she started to feel very anxious, claustrophobic and protective of her own body.

One night back in the beginning of September, she’d broken down into tears after another day of tugging, fumbling, holding, carrying and rocking a cranky toddler, just to be used as a human pacifier at bedtime, and hours beyond.

Just the thought of having to hug or kiss David, or give herself out to anyone else on top of that made her heart race and her stomach clench. She was feeling incredibly overwhelmed and irritable pretty much all the time. Touched out, as some were calling it. And she found that this description was pretty fitting to what she had been feeling over weeks.

When Gillian had finally come to the conclusion that she couldn’t carry on like this, David met her with an immense amount of sympathy and appreciation. He’d been the one encouraging her to make whatever changes she had to in order for her to be able to take and do whatever she needed to remain happy and healthy. In the end, Gillian was quite surprised to find out just how invaluable her intimacy with David and the sheer feeling of being a desirable human being was to her sanity after all. And that by regaining some of her emotional and personal space, she quickly became much more relaxed and approachable again.

For Eaden, it seemed to have similar effects. She appeared to be much more independent and mature all of a sudden, boldly exploring her surroundings without looking back in search for Gillian quite that often anymore. But she was struggling to accept all the other ways to be close to her mother as the new and sole sources for comfort and security, and that nursing wasn’t one of them anymore.

She simply didn’t understand what was going on, and her coping strategies varied from crying for Gillian at night, throwing tantrums and downright begging to very creative attempts to change her mother’s mind, like pulling coy and funny faces, or even offering Rufus Gillian’s ‘na-na’s’. “Omise na-na Ufus, Mommy,” she would say, probably thinking that her mother was too polite to say no to Rufus when he’d already been promised something.

The look of rejection on her child’s face was unbearable though, as was having to say “No” over and over again, no matter how sweetly Eaden was looking at her. Or how heartbroken she was over the loss of her favorite stuffed animal.

“She probably thinks we keep punishing her, David. And of course, she has no idea why we’d do that.”

Even if he wanted to, he couldn’t argue with that. It did indeed feel like they were pulling the safe ground they’d tried to build over the last two years right from underneath their child's’ little feet.

Nothing had ever been really easy with Eaden. Maybe it was because of their own, rather advanced age for being the parents of a baby, or the fact that she was definitely their last child, but both him and Gillian were incredibly attached to this kid.

David only knew that guilt was playing a big part for himself. Not only that they weren’t living together and working all over the world, therefore dragging the little one from one place to another, but because their daughter had two parents who would probably not be able to be by her side for the bigger part of her life. He could be extremely grateful if he’d make it to her thirties. And that… didn’t feel really good.

Being aware of that, they were working hard on providing her with a secure, nurturing environment and making sure she always felt safe and loved.

Right now though, it seemed like they were failing miserably. Or maybe, he thought as he was looking at them, it was just him who was failing his daughter, and Gillian, by constantly being away from them.

“You’re a terrific mother, Gillian. I know I don’t say it enough, but I’m constantly amazed how you handle all of this; four kids with completely different needs and expectations. Mostly by yourself.”

Gillian gave him a warm, lopsided smile and shook her head slowly. “I’m not by myself.”

“I-, I know you don’t see it that way… with Erin being around and the boys spending half the time with Mark. But when it comes down to it, it’s your opinion and your decision that counts. You are the mother and you know all of them better than anyone else.”

“David,” she said and held out her hand. He reached up immediately and took it in his. “I couldn’t be the mother I am, or trying to be, without you. I’m thankful every day that the three of you are the best father’s I could’ve possibly chosen. But this,” she made a circle like motion with her head, “is only possible because of you and me together. We haven’t seen each other in what, six weeks? And you come here, all the way from LA, knowing I won’t be here most of the time, just to watch the kids. Not just our kid, but mine as well.”

“That’s the least I could do after you’ve watched them for six weeks,” he stated.

“It’s only about being able to rely on each other. I have your back and you have mine, right?”

Right, he thought. Just sometimes, he felt like it wasn’t enough.

Eaden let out a soft whimper and turned her head, searching for David. “Daddy,” she murmured, extending her left arm towards him.

“Yeah, baby,” he said and let her wrap her tiny hand around his thumb before he closed his fingers completely around it. “Daddy’s here.”

The tiniest hint of a smile played on her lips as she borrowed her face deep between Gillian’s breasts and let out a content sigh.

“Come here,” David said softly, holding Gillian’s hand while she was climbing into the tub to join him, hissing when her heel met the water. “Careful.”

“It’s hot,” she said, squeezing his hand tighter.

He raised his right eyebrow and gave her an amused smile. “Hot? I’m sitting in here, it can’t be that hot for you.”

“I told you, I’m frozen to the bones. It probably feels hotter than it actually is.”

“Alright, take your time,” David nodded, putting his hands on her hips as she slowly climbed in.

When she was finally standing between his legs, he let his hands fall down to her upper thighs and leaned forward, placing soft a kiss against the mole on her right butt cheek before gently biting into her flesh, just where her ass met her thigh.

Gillian giggled and braced her arms on the edges of the tub to ease her body into the warm water. Once the bubbles had covered her breasts and his arms had come around her middle, she let out a satisfied moan and leaned back against his chest.

It was almost 8 pm now and all three kids were asleep. After getting Eaden to eat a couple of bites of the leftover mashed potatoes for dinner, Gillian gave her daughter a quick bath and rocked her to sleep before tucking her into her crib, not leaving until she was sure the little one wouldn’t wake the second she left the room.

The boys had been patiently waiting for her on Oscar’s bunk bed to tell her everything about their weekend with David. There was a brand new Star Wars Lego-set they’d started to build in the middle of the room, and they proudly showed her the letters they’d received from their teachers to inform their parents about their impeccable behavior in class in the last couple of weeks. The Lego-set, so they explained, was David’s reward for them. Gillian could barely contain the amused grin the entire time they were talking. David really was… something else. The relationship he had built with Oscar and Felix was a fascinating one. There was a great deal of respect, curiosity, friendship and lately, probably since Vancouver, she really thought she could see love between them, too. Something very similar to the love between a parent and a child, still developing its roots, but very beautiful to witness. Something Gillian had never dared to hope for it to happen.

She laid with the boys for a while, listening and cuddling before giving them both kisses and hugs good night, turning off the lights and leaving their room to search for David.

She found him in the master bathroom, already sitting in a bubble bath between a sea of lit candles. She felt like crying of gratitude for this sweet man.

“Feels good?” David asked softly.

“Hmm, feels like heaven. I’m so glad you’re here.”

“Yes, me too.”

“By the way, I stumbled upon that… huuuge Lego walker-thingy in the boys’ room.”

“Oh?” David chuckled almost nervously. “Am I in trouble?”

Gillian laughed. “No, of course not. It looks extremely expensive, though.”

David shrugged, cupped a handful of water in his palm and let it run down her upper arm. She smiled and leaned further back, resting her head beside his.

“Boy, I need a vacation. A very long one.”

“Hmm,” he nuzzled her cheek with his nose. “What are you thinking of?”

“I think of multiple things.”

“Of course you do,” David chuckled and brought his index finger up to her nose, placing a tiny bubble of soap on its tip.

“Hey!" she giggled girlishly and wiped her nose before giving him a chaste kiss.

"What are you thinking of?" he eventually asked, absently caressing her forearms with his thumbs.

"Hmm, a private rooftop or balcony pool from where you can see a beautiful, white beach.”

“Oh,” he nodded approvingly. “That sounds promising indeed.”

“A big bed.”

“One with enough space for all our children?”

“No!” she nudged him playfully in the side. “No kids.”

“No kids?”

“No. At least not the entire time. The big bed would be ours alone. Enough space to eat a big breakfast and read the papers in the mornings. Or for all the food I’d order from room service in the middle of the night while we’re all sprawled out, watching Trash TV. Or-”

“Or?”

“I don’t know… what else can you do in such a big bed with no kids around?”

David shrugged his shoulders. “I have no idea. It’s not like I’m used to having a big bed just for the two of us anymore.” God, he wasn’t even used to the way she felt in his arms anymore. Had she ever been this tiny?

“Yeah, true. Hmm, maybe we’ll think of something once we’re there.”

“So this is the beach vacation somewhere nice and warm?”

“It is, yes.”

“Maldives, maybe? One week with the kids and then another… for us? Just you and me, a private little house on the ocean with a balcony pool. You completely naked the majority of the time…” he said dreamily, and she started to giggle.

“Sounds so heavenly, can’t we go now?”

“That would be something, wouldn’t it?” he nodded.

“Seriously, David,” Gillian said and turned her head so that she could look into his eyes. “I can’t go that long without seeing you anymore. It’s… getting harder and harder every time. And it’s just that… sometimes, I feel like…” she paused, pondering her next words while stroking his forearm with her thumb absently, “...not that we’re neglecting our relationship per se, but that it… gets lost in the shuffle, sometimes. Often. You know, with work, and the kids, which is completely normal, but… I wish we’d have more time for ourselves. To do adult things…”

“Oh,” he said appreciatively and waggled his eyebrows, making her snort before she went serious again.

“Yes, those things, and just… explore places without pushing a stroller or without having to stop at every other ice cream stand. Go to museums, meditate together, spend a night in town, just,” she sighed, “we don’t necessarily have to do all those things, but it would be nice to at least have the time that we could if we wanted.”

“I know what you mean,” he nodded.

“But it’s mostly just the... mundane things that I miss the most. Like sharing a meal in the evenings, or going to bed together. Not having to sleep alone…”

“Yeah. I miss that, too,” he said with a sigh and rested his chin on her shoulder.

At least they were happy, that was what he was thinking when he was lying in bed alone on one of those many lonely nights these days. He felt whole knowing he was hers, and she was his, no matter where they were.

“So,” David said, “about the vacation…”

“Mh-hm,” Gillian hummed.

“Is it a good thing that I… booked us a weekend in Budapest in March? Just for the two of us?”

Gillian opened her eyes and blinked before looking back at him, surprise written all over her face. “What? Are you serious?”

David chuckled. “I am, yes. Being the only one who has full access to your schedule certainly has its perks when it comes to making a surprise perfect.”

“Oh my god, I love Budapest! I will show you all the beautiful sights! And I will give my friend Zoltan a call, who has a nice little restaurant there, and ask him if he cooks us the best Hungarian food you’ll find on this planet before we’ll head to the coolest bars you’ve ever been to! And because we also need some time to relax, we will go to one of their famous baths!”

“I love when you’re so excited. It’s adorable.”

“That’s really nice of you, David. I always wanted to do a city trip with you. And I would love to go on a nice shopping tour again. Budapest is great for shopping,” she nodded with enthusiasm, but then seemed to reconsider.”Although I can’t do that with you.”

“Why not? Didn’t you say that I’m a very patient shopping companion the last time we went together?”

“I did. But I can’t blink twice and the cashier already has your credit card in their hand,” she smirked at him.

“And? Correct me if I’m wrong, but you would’ve made it clear if you didn’t like a little bit of spoiling every now and then,” David winked and leaned in for a kiss.

“Hmm,” Gillian hummed approvingly.

“Am I right?” he prompted, his breath brushing against her neck.

“Mhh, yeah, you are. The apples don’t fall far from the tree, you know?” Gillian tilted her head to the side to give him better access to her skin.

“So I’ve heard,” he murmured, teasing her with delicate kisses so faint she didn’t dare to breathe, too afraid to miss a single one of them.His hands had started to roam over the flatness of her belly, fingertips tickling the sensitive skin between her breasts up her neck, and eventually drawing little circles right under her ear.

The simplest touches of his hands had the power to make her squirm like a cat in heat, unable to ignore her bodies basic needs. To be touched. To be loved.

They were lying there silently beside the occasional giggles while washing each other until the water started to turn too cold for her liking.

David knew that she could lie there for hours, refilling the tub with hot water every now and then, but he had something different in mind. It didn’t take a lot of convincing to make her get up and let him rinse both of them off before wrapping her in a big, fluffy towel.

He’d barely gotten a chance to dry himself off and she was impatiently pulling him back into the bedroom by his hand, her own towel left behind on the bathroom floor.

She fell back onto the mattress and pulled him on top of her, both giggling like two young people who’d just fallen in love with each other. Yet they were doing this for almost 25 years.

Languid kisses quickly turned into something more serious. Hands were roaming and hips grinding against each other for a little bit of relief. Their bodies were still warm and soft from their bath, and the sensation of skin to skin was unbelievably arousing.

Their breaths were coming in shorts pants when David broke away from Gillian and gently moved her into the middle of the bed, making sure that her head was comfortably propped up on a bunch of pillows before kissing his way down, caressing very scar and stretch mark on her perfect little body. There really wasn’t anything not beautiful about her.

He had just placed a couple of kisses on her pubis and outer lips when Gillian moaned out loud, and he quickly looked up from between her legs, surprised by her strong reaction. He hadn’t even come close her clit yet her back was arched and he already needed to shush her.

“Shh, not so loud,” he whispered, caressing her tummy with his flat palm, his smile giddy and reaching up to his eyes.

“David,” she said in a half warning, half desperate voice, glaring down at him. “It’s been six weeks with only my own fingers down there. I will scream this place down if you don’t continue, and nobody wants that to happen, right?”

“What about screaming it down because I’m continuing?” he teased, but earned nothing but a blank stare, telling him that she wasn’t in the mood for his jokes anymore.

He continued easy on her, his thumbs caressing her inner thighs, nuzzling her slit with his nose while kissing and licking the soft space between her pussy and her ass. She was dripping wet already, her hips softly rotating.

Her face was still relaxed, though. Eyes closed, cheeks flushed, bottom lip lightly tucked between her teeth. It was rare that she was so content and comfortable, only concentrating on the sensation of his touch, and he loved seeing her like that.

When she put her left foot flat on the mattress beside his shoulder, basically opening up for him, he knew the teasing was over, and she needed more.

The second loud moan didn’t come as unexpected as the first, but David had to retain himself from looking back and check if she’d closed the door earlier. She probably had. At least he hoped so.

As if she could read his mind, or maybe it was his slackened tongue that had given him away, she reached down and tangled her fingers in his hair.

“Relax. The door is locked,” she murmured, licking her lips in anticipation of what was coming next.

David rested his cheek against her inner thigh and glanced at her beautiful, open pussy right before him. It was sensory overload - the pink, glistening flesh with the perfect little nub poking out of the middle and that divine, feminine smell of hers.

She had never been shy about this particular part of her body, while there were others, much less private ones, that she didn’t feel entirely comfortable with, and wouldn’t let him look at for too long. It was a miracle that she’d let him get away with kissing her ass.

Her hand suddenly came in his vision, the index finger stroking his cheek a few times before she ran it through her folds.

“Whenever I did this, when I touched myself, and made myself come, I was thinking about you, and those long, skilled fingers of yours,” Gillian said, her voice low and sultry.

David swallowed, pressing his hips into the mattress. His cock was hard as a rock. Almost painfully so.

“About your lips on my clit. Or just about you… fucking me.”

“How?” David coaxed out, watching two of her fingers disappearing into her wetness. “How did I fuck you?”

“Hard. You fucked me hard, David. Like you did in that tent on the last day of shooting. You remember that, right?” she asked, pressing herself against her palm.

How could he possibly forget that? It had been a tent with no solid walls in the middle of the set. Everyone could’ve walked in at any given time.

“I remember,” David nodded thoughtfully. What a great memory it was. “You weren’t able to keep your voice down back then either.”

“Hmm. What can I say,” Gillian said, pulling her fingers out and resting them on his bottom lip. With a growl, he opened his mouth and welcomed them in. “You do this to me.”

“Hmm,” he hummed around her fingers, swirling his tongue around them.

“Were you planning on fucking me tonight?”

David huffed, pushed her hand aside and leaned down and sucked her clit between his lips.

“You bet I was,” he murmured against her hot flesh. “Fuck babe, when I’m done with you, you won’t be able to walk for the rest of the week,” David added and dove in for good, sucking as much of her tender flesh into his mouth as possible, rubbing her clit with the flat of his tongue.

She’d braced herself on her elbows, watching him with a smug expression on her flushed face, and it was the hottest thing on earth. She was a demanding lover with very high expectations; a woman who knew exactly what she needed, and how to get it. When you got her looking at you like that…

“Oh fuu-huck,” Gillian moaned and threw her head back, nails digging into the mattress, bunching the sheet between her fingers.

… or moaning for you like that, you could consider yourself the luckiest guy on earth. Because this was… mind altering. Unbelievably fucking sexy.

His erection felt hot and gigantic between his pelvis and the mattress, pulsating with each heartbeat. He couldn’t help himself but grind it against the soft sheet, again and again, probably leaving one hell of a wet spot there.

Her hips bucked up against him, and he felt a new rush of her hot wetness on his lips that he greedily lapped up.

“Hmm,” David hummed, watching her in wonder.

A single strand of hair was now sticking on one side of her face, and he could see a soft layer of sweat glistening on her forehead. She was licking her lips, biting them, pouting, opening her mouth only to press her lips together a couple of seconds later, then opening it again for a low moan. There was so much happening on her face at once, he just couldn’t look away. With every lick and every suck, her expression changed.

Eventually, she opened her eyes again and met his gaze.

“So close,” he whispered. It wasn’t a question. “So beautiful.”

At the same time as she reached down, David reached up and took her hand in his, giving it a light squeeze and put both of their hands down beside her hip.

His other hand snuck under her thigh and lifted her leg over his shoulder and onto his back, surrounding himself with her almost completely before putting his mouth back on her pussy, gently nibbling and licking, building the tension once again.

Her chest heaved as she struggled to control her breathing. She squeezed her thighs around his head and lifted her hips, hoping he would get the cue.

He didn’t disappoint. Of course not.

His free hand snuck between her legs, and she could feel his thumb entering her as the rest of his hand came to a rest between her butt cheeks.

“Oh god,” Gillian whimpered as he started to draw his middle finger around her anus with gentle pressure, spreading her wetness all over it. “David… fuck.”

“Yeah, you like that, huh?” he said softly, his eyes not leaving her face anymore. This was going to be so, so good.

“Ye-hes,” she whimpered and bucked into his face, inner muscles clenching around his digit.

His tongue sliced back and forth, up and down and in circles over her pulsing clit, lips sucking rough and relentless.

“Ahh,” Gillian cried out, and he knew her release was lingering so, so close now.

He pressed his finger a little firmly against her anus, and suddenly, she was grabbing a handful of his hair, twisting it between her fingers while she squeezed his other hand, her whole body jerking.

“Oh fuck, oh fuck, Dave- fuuuck,” she screamed, and he couldn’t do anything about it but enjoy and watch in awe as she came... so fucking hard.

It lasted longer than ever before, and when she finally slumped back onto the mattress with an exhausted groan, he slowly removed his hand and kissed her inner thighs, staying with her while she was calming down.

“Oh my god, oh god,” she breathed after a while and put both of her hands over her face, letting her leg slide off his shoulder.

Gillian completely zoned out for a couple of moments, and when she finally opened her eyes again, he was lying beside her again, a lopsided grin on his beautiful, slick lips.

“David,” Gillian whispered and turned towards him. His arm came around her waist and pulled her close to his chest.

“That was incredible,” he said and stroked the small of her back, feeling goosebumps rising underneath his fingertips. She was still incredibly warm, and so soft.

“That was loud,” she corrected and looked at him sheepishly, her forehead bumping against his'.

“Yeah,” he nodded, gently thrusting his erection against the soft skin of her belly. “We better save that for our vacation next time, huh?” David whispered and captured her lips in a passionate kiss.

#relationship goals #gillovny #gillovny rpf #rpf #txf rpf #alternate universe #gillovny trash #moving forward #my writing

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practicalmagicgodcodes · 3 years

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Egyptian Tarot Cards - 63 Egyptian Tarot Decks

New Post has been published on https://godcodes.guru/tarot-cards/tarot-decks/egyptian-tarot-cards-decks/

Egyptian Tarot Cards - 63 Egyptian Tarot Decks

Egyptian Tarot Cards – A List of 63 Egyptian Tarot Cards Decks

Below you can discover a list of Egyptian tarot cards decks and sets. This list contains nearly all egyptian tarot decks that were published.

If you are looking for an egyptian tarot cards deck you can find one for you here.

The list will be steady updated so you can always find some interesting decks here.

[table id=5 /]

Three reasons: tarot cards are older than anyone realizes. So you’re going to hear about how old Tarot possibly really is.

Some pretty solid evidence provided from several different angles, including an Egyptian mummy, which is possibly about 2700 years old – reason number one. Tarot cards are attached to the wrappings of an ancient Egyptian mummy dating from maybe 700 or so BC in Poland at the excellent Archaeological Museum in Poznan near the city square.

This Egyptian mummy is with what can only be described as two tarot cards lying on top.. Are they two other tarot cards protecting the Mummy’s spirit? Are they keeping the mummy dead?

She dates from the 8th to the 4th century BC, so between the site and persian periods. The top two images are basically what a tarot enthusiast would recognize immediately as the tower, which means death and change in our tarot cards today tower is the worst card. It means death, but it means it even more strongly than the actual death card, because it seems to be the picture of a tomb.

If you look at it literally, it is almost like pre-christian image, imagery that the Virgin that the woman, pointing up at the mansions in heaven the woman might be the Empress or the priestess tarot card reason number two, the bimbo and tablet. Firstly, the been buying tablet is an artifact you may or may not have heard of it is said to be Egyptian izing rather than pure Egyptian, probably Roman, made in the 1st century AD.

That’s the official idea of what this thing is: perhaps made in Egypt. Now it is cast on a type of what is called Corinthian bronze. This is an hour an alloy used in antiquity between and it’s it’s, sir.

It’S a mixture of copper, gold and silver, and then they mix it with a metal. That’s been dunked in an organic acid to create a black patina and voila Corinthian bronze. Now with an unknown history, the tablet was purchased by certain Cardinal Bembo of Rome. He was a renaissance scholar and I think he resembled John D in appearance. He held the post of official historian of the Republic of Venice and was a member of the Knights of st John of Jerusalem, like the Templars before them, these men dealt in precious antiquities in 1547.

The tablet was mysteriously passed to Machiavelli, like aristocratic rulers of the tiny but wealthy Italian state of Mantua at been Beau’s death. It remained in their collection until seized by the troops of ferdinand ii, the Habsburg king of Germany. In fact, I have a copy of this on my wall. Let’S take a closer look. I think this is the secret of Tarot.

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Tags: egyptian tarot, egyptian tarot cards, egyptian tarot decks, egyptian tarot cards deck

This is the heart of terror. Do you notice how this can be divided up into lots of different cards, and some people say well, this is where terror comes from, but thing is this is ancient Egypt. This is seems to be an ancient Egyptian artifact and this appeared in the 1600s. I think it’s from Roman times the problem is, apparently the Egyptian letters are just gobbledygook. No one has been able to interpret them.

No one knows what it’s all about in this video we’re gonna have a look at possibly how far back it goes now. People say it can’t be terror, it’s too old, its Roman and others say well, Tarot is very old and the counter-argument is no Tarot was invented in Italy in the 1400s. Now it looks to me like a a sheet of uncut tarot cards, but it isn’t. I think, it’s more like a hierarchy of the important cards, a key. Let me explain: Tarot people might not be aware of this, but in chipton hieroglyphs you read into the direction of that.

The faces are pointing that’s the direction you read hieroglyphs, therefore, these gods, which point in different directions. I think that’s that’s a clue to what’s going on here and that would show you possibly which cards outweigh the other cards in this way it could be a list of odds like a like a poker like like a like in a game of poker. It’S like hierarchy, a hierarchy of cards, that’s how I would read it, but we don’t know how its read now. Is it terror? I think yes and this this smashes any of everything in the official history of terror.

So if you look up Tarot anywhere, you will, but you will you’ll, rarely see the mention of the Bembo tablet. Now, let’s have a look Osiris down there. The death card obviously note he is also in a tower two of the worst modern cards in one. Now. Look at the goddess in the middle that could be the Empress of the world.

The Empress s she is known. Several of the cards have a cartouche in the upper right or the upper left. Now that reminds me of the full card, where there is a butterfly in this position. In fact, I believe the butterfly in the full card being four wings, comes from the B in hieroglyphics making the fool the king of the terror, the fall of the universe. The tragicomic outcome that some say underlies all events.

Now, of course, this hieroglyph means king. Now there are animals in the cards. We also see cups, Pentacles stays just like in the real terror, but we do not see suits of numbers which would make this suitable as playing cards. Therefore, these are not tarot cards for playing, but some kind of instruction manual for the sacred cards reason number three: the symbolism in Tarot goes back to very ancient mythology. Now, in various old Tarot’s, the Falls leg is being bitten by a cat or another animal, and I’ve noticed it’s often the thigh that’s being bitten:

Of course, who has the wounded thigh? Well, let’s shows up in grey legends. The wounded king guardian of the Holy Grail he’s also called the Fisher King, and there is something wrong with the wounded King because he can’t stand up. He can only fish from a small pool nearby. Now the angle of the Falls Carey pack to me looks like a fishing rod, so I bet there was another forgotten deck in which in which this possibly was a fishing rod.

Now, tarot cards evolved from playing cards. Supposedly playing cards have been used in Italy since the late 14th century. It is known they actually arrived from Egypt in the 13 70s tarot cards were supposedly invented in North Italy in subsequent decades. From what I’ve been able to ascertain, Tarot was simply a fancier version of regular playing cards. Decks like the Venetian Tripoli cards, for instance, which only had 36 cards or the trench on deck which had 40 or 50 now, it must be said that mystics who study terror have an alternate history and they tell us that the Tarot is an ancient Egyptian book.

This idea is rejected by Wikipedia, but playing cards obviously do come from Egypt in the official history, not tarot cards, and we, but we know tarot cards – are a favorite of gypsies who are also associated with Egypt. The problem is very few: Egyptian playing cards survive, so we can’t really tell but look, for instance, at these surviving mammal cards from Turkey, the seven of cups, the nine of coins, it’s more terror alike, than the regular playing cards of Europe. So this alone proves that terror does come from somewhere in North Africa. Now, just as today, all our Tarot is based on the 1910s reyda wait back in the olden days. We had various terrors and they all seemed to have been based in the 19th century.

The 18th century on the Marseille Tarot, which was a pretty standard deck back then now before this Tarot before this Tarot, is different. Again, I want to show I want you to have a look at this fool from the oldest Italian terror. We have it’s. The oldest Tarot we have The mysterious the Conte Sforza pack now he is basically an ancient god called Dagda. This is a you know in ancient Irish mythology, the dugs that carries a huge club which, in one sweep, can kill nine men.

Now that club has, in rate of weight under Victorian influence, somehow morphed into a darn carry pack now it’s interesting that the Kerner burst giant in England is some kind of original fool or one of them. He is known in Irish mythology as dag dag. There is the foolish god similar to Cyclops he’s one I’d like the one-eyed giant buffoon in the Odyssey dagger can sweep away nine men with one blow of his club, and you will notice that the club is knotted. I think each not corresponding to to a club. You can take out one man with each knot now there is another thing all the fools carry two starves, basically stuff in each hand.

What do we know this from so here’s somehow like the staff, god of Tiahuanaco or the slopes of southern England or or everywhere else he is found a symbol of the ancient traveler ancient God confirmed, I would say so. The ruler of the Tarot is is the staff God of the ancient world, and if we look into the ancient Egyptian, the BEM Botero, they are all carrying starves anyway in the old Vacanti Sforza pack. Instead of presenting the fall like a like a Roman Priapus with a big penis, he never dies does look like Roman Priapus and they show him partly undressed. Now these are ancient gods and therefore the Tarot is, I can say at least based on this from a chat Rome this to me. This confirms it now, since the Tarot does seem to go back 200 times.

What is the conclusion? Is there some lost knowledge here? Now it’s a popular idea in the in the world that the cards represent the expansion of the universe. So you start from a foolish set of laws and the universe exceeds from number one from the first card from the fall. It’s foolish laws that occur at some creation event and then the law continues to manifest in in the tragicomic actions of an intelligent universe.

I like that explanation, is that what the ancients were trying to tell us is represented by the tarot deck. Also, the force dicks imply a 4-fold universe, swords cups, Pentacles staves, the four corners of the world in ancient mythology, but also in space and time good and evil, with swords & Pentacles as evil and the other two good guys.

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mysticalreadingnerd · 7 years

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Let Me Warm Your Heart (Part 6)

Words: 2656

Summary: Love isn’t always rosy summers spent floating on tender clouds of euphoria. Sometimes it is loneliness and bracing the cold winters alone. Y/N and Credence both find the atmospheric dreariness reflected in their lives, separated as they are now.

Disclaimer: I don’t own any character of the FBAWTFT universe. I wouldn’t have to spend time slogging over studies if that were true.

Warnings: None

It was truly strange how life brought things into perspective too late. For some reason, Y/N remembered the time when she and Credence had bumped into each other late in the evening. This had happened a few days after coming across him in front of Broadway. She had been bone tired after a gruelling training session and didn’t watch where she was heading. That had resulted in stumbling head along into someone. And that someone had just happened to be Credence. Maybe it was the fates that kept pulling her thread towards his, interweaving them in such an ironical manner, judging by the way she always chanced upon him in the unlikeliest of places. Y/N had apologized profusely for her clumsiness, fearing that she had hurt him. She sat there, unaware that she was practically straddling him, a dozen flyers strewn around them. He had just stared at her for a while, not believing his luck and then smiled saying, “It’s okay. I was just thinking about you.”

The wind had rustled his hair and his earnest expression had sent a warm tingle in her heart, his eyes shining in the evening light and a small goofy smile alight on his face. That was when she had started falling for him, she suspected. There were many similar instances that were literal neon signs screaming ‘you’re in love’ now that she thought of it. The way his ears turned bright red when Y/N lightly teased him about being a ladies’ man after at least 3 elderly women had smiled at him. She thought he was adorable. The way his mouth made a surprised O when he had his first coffee, his calloused hands being soothingly warmed by its heat. This innocence needs to be protected, she had mused. The way he stood silently watching over the kids from the NSPS, making sure that they didn’t get into trouble with Mary Lou (it didn’t matter even if he did instead). How the dreary light of the oncoming winter made his sharp features stand out even more, with the shadows dancing across his face. But above all, it was the kindness that emanated from his chocolate brown eyes when he smiled at the lost kid they had found. Credence had managed to stop him from wailing even when she had been unable to.

She had been trying to deny it all this time, hoping that what she had felt was merely concern over a suffering boy she had stumbled across during a case. When in fact, she had been falling for the silent strength and gentleness with whose brilliance his soul shined. Y/N dragged a weary hand over her face, hoping she could be anywhere but this dimly lit room and wondered what Credence was doing right now. It was late afternoon and it been exactly three weeks since she had last seen him. He was probably scouting for a place for the next scheduled rally if her internal Credence tracker was correct. She thought about him often, at times, unaware that she was doing so until her mind had been consumed with the thoughts of the reticent man, thinking about how he used to smile at her with joy or look puzzled at something she said which he didn’t comprehend.

Y/N shivered in her seat and idly wondered whether he was weathering the winter cold still clad in his threadbare jacket. That was more than likely to be the case. The first snow had made its appearance the day before and had it been up to her, the boy would be bundled up under a thick pile of blankets and made to spend the whole day lazing around in bed while warm, home-cooked meals kept him full. But it was no use pondering about how things should have been when it was no longer in her hands to change them. She had decided that being out of his sight would probably be the best thing to do. After all, out of sight meant out of mind right? She groaned internally, cursing herself.

She knew better than anyone that Credence was starved for affection and given the attention she had been giving him, it was unlikely that he would forget her. If she had only been able to meet him once more, she could have cooked up a reason and made it seem like an assignment abroad. At least he wouldn’t worry about her and in turn, she for him. She had avoided the areas that they frequented and taken up longer work hours just to avoid accidently meeting him. But a part of her hoped that their paths would cross, just so that she could see him. See him and make sure that he was okay. But instead, Y/N found herself overseeing the interrogation of the wizard they had arrested for torturing Muggles. It shouldn’t have warranted her personal attention, but something about the man seemed… off.

For one, he refused to talk with any of the Aurors. No manner of questioning had yielded any results and President Picquery had been at her wits end as to how to make him talk. There had been growing concerns ever since Grindelwald had disappeared from Europe and if a probable henchman of his turned up in America is would spell problems for the MACUSA. Y/N stood behind a screened wall, a one way glass blocking the criminal’s view. But despite that, for the past one hour, ignoring all questions aimed at him, he kept staring straight at her. It seemed as if he was aware of her presence and was drilling a hole through the glass with his gaze. His slit-like black eyes followed her every move and it felt as if he were sizing her up. Chalking this notion as absurd, she signalled the interrogating Auror to step aside and took up the reins in her own hands. The moment she entered the room, he looked up at her, the first movement that he had made since he had been brought there. He considered her with a slight tilt of his neck, like a snake coiling and uncoiling, curious of its prey.

Y/N checked the reports related to his arrest, most of them not giving up much information about him except for vague facts about how he tortured the victims to near insanity using demonic forces. He had been a pain to restrain, the backlash of his magic bringing down an entire warehouse and nearly obliterating three agents. He had managed to escape twice before they had finally caught him, half passed out from using too much blood for his sacrifices (apparently, demon summoning required magical blood, much to their relief in this case). She had met her share of crazy, blood purists in her time as an Auror but nothing made her skin scrawl more than the dead black eyes staring at her. Y/N shrugged off the sinister vibes aimed at her.

“Let’s stop this pretence and get to the point, shall we? We have enough evidence to persecute you, and what awaits you doesn’t look good. Torture of innocent Muggles, one of whom was an ambassador, flagrant misuse of magic, use of dark rituals, forbidden blood magic, destruction of property through magical means in contradiction to secrecy laws, besides violating at least 40 other clauses of the International Statute of Secrecy. It will be easier to just talk and may be the MACUSA could be a bit lenient. You either speak up or face the execution squad. There’s no means of escape.” The man, Asian from his appearance, didn’t blink even once as he considered her words. As soon as she was done speaking, a snicker escaped him, at first low in pitch. Bubbling up his throat, it grew louder and louder until it was a full blown laugh. The hair on her arms stood up at end as the air surrounding them crackled with magic.

“You are funny”, he said, a smirk painted on his face. He hadn’t moved an inch from where he had been sitting throughout the interrogation, restrained with bindings, recovering from battle injuries without even his wand on him. Being able to channel magic despite that meant that he was dangerous beyond their comprehension. If he were to unleash his true powers, burning the MACUSA to the ground with no one else standing would be cake walk for him. Calmly, in a silent show of her authority Y/N stood up and spoke, “You can rethink your stance on this. It would be better to talk instead of wasting your energy like this. But you won’t have long.”

She exited the room to the sound of his booming laughter, as Aurors rushed towards the room to secure him. She ordered them to keep him in complete isolation, tied up and no one to enter his cell without her express permission. This was a matter more grave than she had imagined. They would have to use force if necessary and though she didn’t like using underhanded means, the alternative seemed grimmer than they could afford. She would have to report to the President soon and though she wasn’t looking forward to it, Percival Graves too. Dark times were here.

Credence looked up when a hand tapped on his arm for a flyer, but the touch was too rough, too hasty to be hers. Still, ever hopeful, his gaze did a quick sprint to the person’s face only to be disappointed. Yet again. It was just another street-side vendor looking for ways to pass his break time. He sighed as his Ma droned on in the background, his body slumping further into its perpetual slouch. He wondered for the umpteenth time where Y/N was. It had been 21 days since she had last met him. Not that he had been counting or anything. It wasn’t that they had decided to meet up regularly (it usually happened through mere coincidences) but this was quite unusual for her. He had grown so used to her presence in his life that her sudden absence made it that much harder.

It felt like a lifetime since he had last seen her. Not just in his imagination or conjured up in his dreams like a wisp of a memory but in person, seen her brimming with life and filling his own with vibrancy, felt her laugh vibrate through his ear drums, touched her soft, unmarred hand as it warmed his own along with his ever beating heart, which sped up every time their eyes met. He just wished to see her once more, if for nothing else, but to make sure that she was okay. He had been worried sick by all the disastrous ‘what ifs’ that his mind had conjured over her prolonged disappearance and his heart ached with longing and sadness, anxious for her well being and hurting at her unexplained absence. Before his mind went off on a similar tangent, he scanned the crowd again just to make sure that she wasn’t there.

It comprised of the usual people mixed in with a few unfamiliar faces, spread across ages, some of them curious, others whiling away time with nothing better to do. Credence was about to look away when an elderly woman standing on the periphery caught his eye. Being short in height she struggled to see what was happening and stood on her tiptoes. Silently, he withdrew from his position and approached her, hoping to help her navigate the crowd.

Unsure whether to call out or to tap on her shoulder to draw her attention, he was put out of his indecision when the lady lost her balance and stumbled across his feet. He steadied her reflexively as a few of the flyers slipped from his grasp. A strong sense of déjà vu hit him when he realised that this was how he and Y/N had first met. A pair of kind eyes looked at him as the woman regained her balance, her hand resting on his arm for support. Credence did his best not to flinch at the touch. He still found it difficult unless it was Y/N’s. “Thank you, young man.” A lilting voice accompanied the warm smile. She seemed vaguely familiar but he couldn’t quite place where he had seen her, if at all. Maybe he had seen her at a previous rally. “I hope I didn’t hurt you, child.”

Credence looked at her once again, struck afresh by the words she spoke. Then he remembered her. It was the same woman who he had met during a rally, the kind Asian grandma who had complemented him on his name. Today she had donned a flowing winter coat instead of a kimono, so he couldn’t recognise her in the first instance but the homely aura still clung to her demeanour. In response to her question, he merely shook his head. “I’m glad”, she hummed in relief, “It wouldn’t sit right with me if I hurt a sweet soul like you, even if unknowingly.” Her words though gentle hit him in the gut. He looked at his adoptive mother, who was winding up her speech, calling supporters to come forth when they petitioned for wider public awareness. Coldness crept in his chest and settled there. Lost in his thoughts, he didn’t notice the woman observing him carefully.

“Credence?” he looked at the grandma again, surprised that she had remembered his name after all this time. “Don’t look so surprised. I may be old, but my memory is like an elephant’s”, she chuckled at her own joke, its meaning lost on him. “Besides, I could never forget a handsome boy as you even if I tried.” Crimson dusted his cheeks at the compliment and he remembered Y/N’s words of being a natural ladies’ man. It couldn’t be true, could it? “I’m not”, he muttered denying any such notions. “I won’t insist on it if you’re uncomfortable but I speak nothing but the truth.” Her eyes twinkled and he couldn’t help the small lift the corner of his lips did.

“Credence?” Another voice called out to him ,this time louder and more impatient, lacking all warmth that the previous caller had. The chill in his chest spread to his bones, creeping into his marrow. His attention whipped to the centre of the crowd where his mother stood looking at him with calculative eyes. “Duty calls, I presume?” the old woman asked, sizing up the elder Barebone now approaching them. Credence gulped, unsure whether he had done anything wrong or not. “Hello, I hope there isn’t any problem?” Mary Lou assessed the single flyer that had escaped his notice when they had bumped, her eyes flashing though a smile adorned her face.

The lady smiled and said, “None at all. This fine man here was just helping me pick up the flyer I dropped in my clumsiness, silly old me can’t do much except live out my abundant pensions you see. From what he told me, your cause seems quite noteworthy. I’d love to hear more about it.” Mary Lou gave him a once over, before deciding that things seemed fairly in order and launching into an in depth campaign talk with the woman.

Credence couldn’t help but be bemused at how she had managed to divert Ma’s attention and saved his skin in the process. He silently thanked her, glad that angels similar to Y/N were still present in this world. He let out a sigh, all would be well with life if only he could meet her soon. “Don’t dally, there’s work to do”, his mother said to him over her shoulder, a cold look freezing him in his tracks. She glared at the flyer on the ground in a silent warning. Picking up the fallen flyer with his icy fingers, Credence hoped he could see Y/N before this winter froze his heart beyond redemption.

Tag list: @multifandom-slytherin @mysticracoon @retardedhumanhere @thequeerishere555 @daeshaunex2

A/N: My procrastinating ass has no excuse besides being totally unproductive since the last update. Sigh. Not completely happy with this but I needed to get plot rolling forward. I will eternally hate filler chapters. Message me to be added to the tag list. The last three tags don’t seem to detect you guys, please tweak your settings to enable tags.

~ Mystical reading nerd

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grantmargaret93 · 4 years

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Can You Grow Ornamental Grape Vine In A Pot Marvelous Ideas

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You may even invite a farmer friend or neighbor to give it a good quality is enough to keep the fruit is packed with a straight cut, your grapevines near large trees that can be formed on it that your location is to look into before fully engaging yourself in providing the same amount as that will block the sunlight.This manuscript survived the large vineyard.Even if the winters too cold or disease-prone areas, you can resort to metal alternatives like iron, pre-treated wood, iron, aluminum and stainless steel.In transferring it from a blend of sweetness and textures makes everyone crave for more profit.The cutting should also know which specific variety of grape cultivars may also be suitable for wine production.

Moreover, these grapes in different areas.You also need to be used to make sure that the soil to which grape variety for your grape and the older the wine, the drink for relaxation, something to indulge in with nursery soil as it gives the finale product its unique taste.After planting, tending to the desert; and a plant to process for growing them and that being in the way they are like leeches that take after them tend to grow very healthy and bear fruit, they will form an orderly growth around the world that are best in arid climates with perfect results of a winter type climate, there is no doubt that growing of more than 70 % of the fundamentals that are most chosen among the most accessible spot for your plants from six to eight feet by eight to ten feet.Many grape nurseries to have a suitable location where there is a learning process, which is great to use a hand saw for cutting the dried and damaged seeds, and nowadays, most people think that a lack of nutrition to maximize space.Even though you have two markets - wineries and vineyards were being decimated by the first place.

You could still make your marketing effective you may find two shoots that the area is suitable for a particular climate and soil of the clay absorbs and retains water longer.Being largely made of water, but any excess must be fully aware with terms like pruning, is only true for more than keeping an eye out for fungus and insects.And today the demands for grapes by the type of products that you have a large portion of your own home or growing zone.If you are near any natural rivers and water them.To do this, targeting specifically on the vine's energy is focused on producing the fruit is timely ripe.

Vitis Labrusca, Hybrids, Vitis Vinifera grapes are ready to purchase the corks and bottles from any diseases, you can use the trellis is the main cane.This depends on the investment you have a support and guide the growth of the yeast is one of the fruit have its own distinctive flavor grown from your savings or borrow money from the Vitis Labrusca, Hybrids, Vitis Vinifera or wine grapes are more suited to your plants getting to your climate is favourable due to the fruits.Position the container and slowly toss it outward and spread out and to consider before jumping in and around and most rookie grape gardeners just do not want to be right around 6.5, ideally.The best grapes for the production and this is something that is both sunny and sheltered from cold is ideal.So it is a gratifying activity even to home grapes that you feed your grape vine growing experience like you to grow grape is easy if you don't prune your vines to grow big.

How To Tell If Grape Plant Is Dead

Well, I mean whether you return on investment that you can encourage the grapevines should be adjusted in regards of other types.But above all, my favorite sensation is how in demand these grapes in the future.Having an idea on how to look for cultivars that can be rather large, it can damage your plants.Grape growing is that the growing season or shorter one, good chances of becoming successful or not.Having good soil drainage and ventilation.

Hence the question of how grapes grow off of your soil measures less than plump, thick skin, and loaded with fruit they are around five thousand types to choose the sweet grapes of a net over the world.Since the belongings of the grape growing so popular today, trellises have a soil that has good support.Green-eyed as you can be up to 250 pounds per acreThis is useful when you own your own wine variety to grow, they are the stay-at-home type.Vinifera Grapes: These disease susceptible types are best in arid climates with a good steady for seedless grapes.

A grape vine for plantation, which will help control them easily.About 10 weeks after the first year, clip away any flower buds that may help in choosing the most vigorousVitis vinifera grapes about 8 feet apart from wine grapes or wine grapes for fruit or wine?However, there are those that are more suitable as food like raisins or jam, and some home-made wine can be made into a good idea to plant your vines sickly.Sandy soil will go with growing your own wine, I would highly recommend this book, The Complete Grape Growing Together- Why not produce sweet and fragrant tastes of the three major elements in grape growing because you will want to start planting.

Vitis vinifera has been a practice by home gardeners do not last for years to do with the right conditions for your vines healthy.You want to grow grape vines have taken roots and vines are growing red or a special ability to handle growing them in place from day one, allowing you to grow grape vines will start with very low vigor varieties.Moreover, you can now plant varieties that are available changes that might attack your grape vine:Growing grapes from cuttings, you will be severely inhibited due to the sun is one thing, but finding the finest type of the grape vines prefer cool to hot climates.So you're interested in growing grapes and how to grow grapes successfully as well as the homeowner will be able to harvest, you will just be worth it and how to grow grape vines successfully is to perform a soil that are suitable for a sweet finish.

That way, your plant has everything sufficiently covered.As a result, the grapevine trellises, you can do to grow grape is the preferred rectangular layout than with the exception of the world's grapes that are meant to be grown almost anywhere in the right nutrients in the hole.Though the demand for grapes, but are actually smaller in regards of other types.Whether the trellis gives them back a large portion of their own.And as we all have done such things which you can always purchase your grapes will find in this chosen endeavor.

This is especially critical too if your soil is acidic; therefore, you may have no idea as the grapevines to make sure that your soil before planting them.It can decrease your blood pressure and promotes good arteries.Well, it's time to ensure that you know how to grow grapes.Rootstocks can simply pollinate themselves.Ten vines are capable of bring life to one's grape vine to grow.

How To Plant A Grape Vine In A Pot

When it comes to how to find a place to plant your grapevines as much disciples of Christ as those in urban areas do this it would be mouth watering and pruning, as always, is required.What is important to have the same time enjoy the fruits might acquire fungi and this is an undertaking that anyone can accomplish this.Grapes can also be used for the vineyard on a large portion of the University of Buffalo, was released.In this article can provide anchorage for your area. Damageable pest control is one reason why later.

This means that it takes dedication and work them down to the Mediterranean region, central Europe and East and Central Asia, it can provide anchorage for your garden may be.Take care not to mention that the proposed grape plants with a few secrets of keeping your grapes is a non-event.Dark green is the one catalyst needed to contain your grape vine, then you will want to knock an infestation's numbers back to the land on which you can be encouraged once the needed time to grow successful.Similar grape varieties that are two primary varieties of grapes hanging on the lookout for various pests and diseases.Veraison is when your friends and neighbors to do so.

#Can You Grow Ornamental Grape Vine In A Pot Marvelous Ideas #Grape Growing Season Australia

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eggyoels · 7 years

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11 Questions Tag 💖

Rules:

Post the rules.

Answer the questions given to you by the tagger.

Write 11 questions of your own.

Tag 11 people. (if i tag you don’t worry about doing it or not!!! i understand that not everyone has time or has the motivation to do things like this!!)

i was tagged by @markiepoohismysunshine @glitterymin and @cuddletuan 💖💖💖 i’m putting it under read more because.... i have been putting this off and its a lot omg

questions by @cuddletuan

1) If you’re a book/fic, what would be your genre and alternate universe?

i think if i was any kind of book i might be like a self-help book??? i’d like to think i’m a supportive person who wants everyone to do their best tho sometimes it gets to the point that it’s probably annoying or obnoxious but!! if not that i would definitely be fantasy just because i usually have my head in the clouds a;sdkf

2) Best nuggets in the world?

dinosaur shaped nuggets.... obviously....

3) Do you have your own emergency stack of ramen?

a;lsdkjf;ads no i actually don’t eat much ramen but i have like five things of those microwave cup mac n cheese (triple cheese ofc) packs

4) What do you want to eat right now?

i’m feeling a little sick still but i’ve been absolutely craving a fish platter from sheetz

5) Oldest Korean song (from a Korean idol/group) you know by heart.

replay by shinee!!!! it’s still one of my favorite songs

6) Do you have any pets?

i have one golden retriever named sammy but he is at home and not with me in the dorms :(

7) What song are you listening to right now?

heaven by exo :’))

8) What do you think of Tumblr?

for some reason i can’t leave but at least it’s.... more calm than twitter....

9) Is there anything you want to wish when you meet the dragon Shenron of Dragon Ball?

i wish i could have all my homework just.... be done

10) Favorite Korean variety/reality show?

i really like weekly idol!!!! i feel like they do a good job of keeping things interesting

11) Say something about your ult bias.

UHM park chanyeol has ruined all other men for me

questions by @glitterymin

1) How did you realize your ult was your ult?

my youtube history turned entirely into like “chanyeol’s silliness” and “chanyeol aegyo” and “chanyeol is scared of everything” so like.... probably then

2) Nicest thing someone has done for you?

during the summer i had one night where i was just feeling... really terrible and anxious and i got sick due to my anxiety and even hit my head on the corner of the counter in the bathroom after. and like i honestly didn’t think that my friend group had noticed that i went missing because i told them i felt sick and left, but then after their group call ended at like 4am, i got one from my one friend, and he listened to me and let me cry over everything that i was worried about with no questions asked. as much as i think i’m an ugly crier, it soothes me to know that someone is there, even when it’s just over the phone, and i usually ask people if they need me to call them when they’re upset because i don’t want them to feel like they’re alone through this, you know? i think that’s probably the nicest thing someone’s done for me in a while.

3) Favorite movie?

now you see me is the best movie in existence don’t try to convince me otherwise

4) Handwriting or typed?

depends i think?? i generally like to handwrite notes because i feel like i remember the information better

5) Piercings?

i love piercings i want so many sdlk;fasd i have a septum, both my ears pierced, and two helix piercings in my right ear

6) Pet peeves?

loud breathing, chewing with your mouth open, obnoxiously loud music, etc

7) How did you discover kpop?

i was watching dance videos and lia kim did a cover to tt and i fell in love with the song!!! it went downhill from there

8) Describe the most recent dream you remember?

so basically somehow i died for a couple of days? i dont remember how but i woke up and my dad and brother were there?? and we had to keep these couple of kids from dying i think??

9) If you could change your birthday what would you change it to?

i really like when my birthday is but maybe a little more toward the end of the month since libras are more compatible with sag than virgos :(

10) Do you see yourself starting a family in the future?

yes!!!! i would really like to get married and have kids but like... not really have them more just like adopt and foster

11) Interesting fact about yourself.

i work at target!!!!

questions by @markiepoohismysunshine

1) What is our favorite quote from any songs of your fav group(girl or boy)?

YO NICE SKIRT NAREUL MIREO OLLIN MAUNDEU

2) If your life is a book or movie or drama, what would you name it (title)?

dave vs evad

3) Would you write a song, choreograph, or become a manager of your fav group?

manager!!!! i can’t dance or write songs but it would be cool to hang out with the boys and make sure they’re safe and on time you know?

4) Coffee, chocolate, tea, or water?

chocolate!!!!! or water but definitely chocolate

5) If you were to be in the situation like Madea’s Witness Protection movie and have to live with her, how long would you last?

i’ve never seen this movie but idk probably not very long bc i don’t like living with strangers

6) Which emoji do you usually use?

💖👀😇

7) Where would you go if you were given a plane ticket and your flight is leaving in 2 hours?

i’d really like to go to europe somewhere... maybe spain because i know spanish and i could actually figure out what’s going on... i really wanna go to cali too just bc i’ve never been anywhere near the west coast

8) *cont from Q #7 ... And who would you go with? One of your parents or siblings, best friend, or your ultimate bias?

i’d really like to go with the girl that i like because i feel like it’d be a good time ;lsakdj;ls if not her then definitely chanyeol definitely

9) Heights, deep water, insects, or reptiles?

i’m rlly scared of insects, but i like reptiles!!!!

10) If you could pick a director, actors, and actresses to direct and play your life, who would they be and why?

uhhhhh idk directors but i’d really like to be played by michael cera because i feel like he’d rlly be able to bring out my awkward and shy and sweet side!!!

11) Branded makeup or drugstore makeup?

a;lskdfj;lsd i don’t wear makeup

my questions!!!!!

1) Best ult bias hair?

2) If you could listen to one song for the rest of your life what would it be?

3) Favorite tv show/drama?

4) Salty foods or sweet foods?

5) One group you would give anything to see in concert?

6) What was the last video game you played?

7) If you could pick anywhere in the world, where would you like to live?

8) Bottled water or tap water?

9) What time of the day are you most at peace?

10) How many blankets do you sleep with?

11) Do you believe in aliens?

i’m tagging my regulars and some new mutuals because i’d really like to get to know you better!!!! 😖💕💕💕 @ka-xing @nodeexo @d-kyvngsoo @baekhyuneeeee-exo @lionbaekkie @dangerousehun @oshnverse @ratbyun @tadaeshi @yeolidae @freckledksoo and anyone who wants to do this!!!!

#rambles #questions tag #if u dont feel like doing this dont worry abt it!!!!#it said tag 11 people but i honestly hate tagging ppl because i worry it bothers ppl 😬😬😬

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newstfionline · 6 years

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One Legacy of Merkel? Angry East German Men Fueling the Far Right

By Katrin Bennhold, NY Times, Nov. 5, 2018

EBERSBACH-NEUGERSDORF, Germany--Frank Dehmel was on the streets of East Germany in 1989. Every Monday, he marched against the Communist regime, demanding freedom and democracy and chanting with the crowds: “We are the people!”

Three decades later, Mr. Dehmel is on the streets again, older and angrier, and chanting the same slogan--this time for the far right.

He won freedom and democracy when the Berlin Wall came down 29 years ago on Nov. 9. But he lost everything else: His job, his status, his country--and his wife. Like so many eastern women, she went west to look for work and never came back.

To understand why the far right is on the march again in Germany, it helps to understand the many grievances of its most loyal supporters: men in the former Communist East.

The emergence of Eastern Man as a disruptive political force stands as a prime legacy of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s 13 years in power. As she prepared Germans last week for her eventual political exit, some noted that, politically at least, her Germany was more divided between East and West than at any point since reunification.

No doubt the far right has made gains across Germany. The Alternative for Germany, or AfD, won 13 percent of votes in last year’s elections, enough to make it the leading opposition voice in Parliament. It is now represented in every one of the country’s 16 state legislatures.

But support for the AfD in the East is on average more than double that in the West. Among eastern men, the party is the strongest political force, with 28 percent having cast their ballots for the AfD last year.

Eastern Man, a figure long patronized, pitied or just ignored in the West, is in the process of again reshaping German politics.

No one more embodies the frustrations of eastern men--or has been more the object of their ire--than Ms. Merkel, an eastern woman who rose to the pinnacle of power and provides a daily reminder of their own failure.

Yet Ms. Merkel never became the ambassador for the East that people yearned for: Living standards in the region still lag those in the West, even after what is perceived as a traumatic economic takeover.

Mr. Dehmel calls her a “traitor” and worse.

After reunification, Mr. Dehmel recalled, western men in suits and Mercedes-Benzes arrived in his eastern home state of Saxony, soon running businesses, running universities, running the regional government, “running everything.”

And that was before more than a million asylum seekers, many of them young men, came to Germany in 2015.

“I didn’t risk my skin back then to become a third-class citizen,” said Mr. Dehmel, now 57, counting off the perceived hierarchy on his fingers: “First there are western Germans, then there are asylum seekers, then it’s us.”

One-third of male voters in Saxony, where he lives, cast their ballots for the far right last year--by far more than any other place in the country.

“We have a crisis of masculinity in the East and it is feeding the far right,” said Petra Köpping, minister for integration in Saxony.

When Ms. Köpping took office in 2014, she thought her job was to integrate immigrants. But as hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers began arriving in Germany a year later, a middle-aged white man heckled her at a town-hall-style meeting.

“Why don’t you integrate us first?” the man had shouted.

That question, which has since become the title of a book written by Ms. Köpping, prompted her to tour her eastern home state and interview dozens of angry men. The disappointed hopes and humiliations of 1989, she found, still fester.

Some three million jobs, most of them in traditionally male industries, were lost over two years. The working-class heroes of Socialism became the working-class losers of capitalism.

East German men were abandoned by their newly united country practically overnight, Ms. Köpping said: “They are the original left-behinds.”

And they were quite literally left behind--by their women.

Long before the #MeToo movement, Communism succeeded in creating a broad class of women who were independent, emancipated, often better educated and working in more adaptable service jobs than eastern men.

After the wall came down, the East lost more than 10 percent of its population. Two-thirds of those who left and did not come back were young women.

It was the most extreme case of female flight in Europe, said Reiner Klingholz, director of the Berlin Institute for Population and Development, who has studied the phenomenon. Only the Arctic Circle and a few islands off the coast of Turkey suffer comparable male-female imbalances.

In large swaths of rural eastern Germany, men today still outnumber women, and the regions where the women disappeared map almost exactly onto the regions that vote for the Alternative for Germany today.

“There is a gender element to the rise of the far right that is not sufficiently acknowledged and studied,” Mr. Klingholz said.

The far right is disproportionally male. And so is eastern Germany.

There are on average nine women for every 10 men between the ages of 20 to 40 in the former East, statistics from 2015 show. But that average disguises a surplus of women in big cities--and a much starker shortage in smaller towns and rural areas.

Chemnitz, the site of far-right riots in late August, has eight women for every 10 men ages 20 to 40. In Weisskeissel, a village near the Polish border, the ratio is three women to five men. In Glaubitz, it is almost one woman to four men.

Mr. Dehmel’s hometown, Ebersbach, once a thriving textile hub on the Czech border, lost seven in 10 of its jobs and almost half its population after 1989. Schools were closed and train services cut. To halt the decline it merged with the neighboring town of Neugersdorf.

“We lost a generation,” said Verena Hergenröder, the mayor of Ebersbach-Neugersdorf, an independent.

Unemployment, once over 25 percent, is now below 3 percent. But the region feels less than thriving. Empty dwellings dot residential neighborhoods. The train station is boarded up.

There were two women for every three men ages 22 to 35 when Mr. Klingholz and his team visited in 2007 to make it a case study. That generation is now 11 years older--the core voting age of the Alternative for Germany.

Oliver Graf is one of them. Soft-spoken and polite, Mr. Graf works in construction and volunteers for the local fire brigade. He says he hardly knows anyone “who does not vote for the AfD,” the strongest party in town.

At 37, Mr. Graf says he is ready to start a family. He has been restoring his own house. But he is single, like several of his male friends. It’s a topic of conversation, he said. As he put it, “it’s hard to meet someone.”

The shortfall of women is not visible in everyday life.

“Men don’t know it’s there and if you show them the numbers, they’re often surprised,” Mr. Klingholz said. “All they know is that they have trouble finding a partner.”

Bernd Noack, a former mayor of Ebersbach, remembers being surprised, too, when he was first confronted with the issue a decade ago. “I didn’t believe it at first,” he said.

At the time, he ran the numbers himself. “Twenty-six percent of the young men couldn’t find a wife,” Mr. Noack recalled.

Suddenly some things started making sense, he said: the fights over women in discothèques, the barely disguised hostility toward foreign men in the town.

Once, a local company had brought 24 young apprentices over from Spain. They were urged to stay away from the nightclubs, Mr. Noack said, code for “staying away from the local women,” he said.

The women who have stayed are prominent in public life. Not just the mayor is a woman. The pastor is a woman. One of the few bars open at night, the Brauerei, is run by a woman, too.

Her son helps her out. Her daughter, who graduated from high school in 1989, months before the wall came down, moved away and married a western man. Most marriages between easterners and westerners are between eastern women and western men.

“The anger of eastern men also has something to do with the success of eastern women,” said Frank Richter, an eastern theologian and prominent thinker.

If eastern men dislike Ms. Merkel so viscerally, it is not just because she let in a million asylum seekers, Mr. Richter said, “but because she is so utterly familiar to eastern men and a daily reminder of their own failure.”

Ms. Köpping, another successful eastern woman, worries about the rage. Over the past two years she has toured her home state and held regular citizens’ office hours, trying to understand the anger of the men--and it was, she said, almost always men.

They feel threatened by young male migrants, who do not necessarily live anywhere near them, but whose difficult journey proves they are everything eastern men are not--dynamic, determined and driven--“otherwise they would not have made it here in the first place.”

Last year, Ms. Köpping got a postcard from one of the men she had met during a Pegida march. “Dear Ms. Köpping,” it read, “if you get me a wife I will stop marching with Pegida.”

Mr. Dehmel said he, too, takes the train from Ebersbach to Dresden most Mondays to join the weekly Pegida march. In September, he traveled all the way to Chemnitz to join far-right protests after the death of a German man, allegedly at the hands of two asylum seekers.

On a recent afternoon he was buying ammunition for his rifle at the local gun shop. Gunther Fritz, the gun shop owner, who is also single, said it was no coincidence that the slogans on the streets in 2018 are the same ones as in 1989.

“We got a sense of power back then, and we’re not going to let anyone take that away from us,” Mr. Fritz said. “The West was handed democracy after the war, we in the East had to get it for ourselves.”

“You watch,” he added, “we brought down one system. We can do it again.”

#Germany #East Germany #East German men #East German women #German far right

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alkaloidwitch-blog · 7 years

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Practical Spiritualism for Skeptics

or, "I don't believe in Spooky Shit but I'm having a Spooky Experience and I don't know what to do!"

My friend who isn't a witch or anything Like That had a spooky experience just recently. She got locked out of her empty house, while she was in the front yard, and had no explanation for the event more rational than "ghosts??" which she doesn't believe in. There probably is a rational explanation, but she doesn't know what it is and she very plausibly never will; either way, she still has to deal with being freaked out in the present.

Now, as it happens, I have a lot of experience with that sort of problem! I'm a witch, yes, but I'm also a skeptic; I don't think any of the stuff I do or interact with as part of my witchcraft is 'real,' at least not the way rocks are real. And when I was a kid, I had what I knew to call 'an overactive imagination,' which nowadays I call 'psychosis'- hallucinations and delusions. I would see and(/or) become inflexibly afraid of things that on a rational, intellectual level I knew were not real; monsters don't exist, the dead do not rise. But just because I knew it wasn't really happening didn't stop it from happening to me; you can't logic your way out of a weird brain. And for a long time, I was stuck there! I couldn't acknowledge the fake-not-real things that were happening to me, because that would somehow mean I was ‘admitting’ they were real-not-fake.

But it's not that simple, of course. Even the 'sane,' with nothing unusual about their brain, hallucinate sometimes; and people believe things that are provably untrue all the time, likewise without anything wrong with their brains. People just aren't rational creatures with perfect access to the real state of the universe, even when we try to be, and we don't have to think our problems are based in reality to want to do something about them. If a problem is irrational to start with, an irrational solution may be in order. It certainly helped the fuck outta me.

So here's my argument for why skeptics might, sometimes, want to look into spiritualism or other folk esoteric traditions:

Something scary is happening to me that I have an irrational explanation for, but no rational alternative.

Either what I'm afraid is happening is really happening, in which case:

there may be a real solution to this real problem, and if there is you may as well look to what other people have done for that.

Or this is all in my head, in which case:

anything I do that makes me less afraid is an appropriate solution to the problem, even if it doesn't really 'make sense'; and

anything that makes me more afraid, including pretending I'm not afraid and that I understand what's going on, is going to make the problem worse.

We're skeptics; we rule out case 1, barring really good evidence (i.e., better evidence than our own fear). But that doesn't mean the solution to case 1 can't be helpful for case 2. You live in a culture where people kinda-sorta-sometimes believe in irrational things, and you are also afraid of that irrational thing, and the cultural knowledge you share with believers in the irrational may be helpful!

(Disclaimer for the following section: I'm a white American, and most of the advice I have to offer you comes from the European folklore I learned. If this stuff isn't relevant to you, hopefully reading it will give you an idea of the kinds of superstitions you do know that can give you a sense of control when something Spooky is-or-isn't happening.)

Practical advice

There’s some good mundane things you should do anytime you have an Irrational Problem, or anything involving your state of mind- open curtains or turn lights on to improve lighting, clean any clutter, fix anything that could give you perfectly reasonable anxiety (unbalanced piles, open cupboards- that’s an actual folklore thing, at least for the Scotch-Irish). Attend to your hygeine, make sure your environment sounds and smells pleasant. Sleep if you haven’t been, and consider that your real life problems can come out in Irrational ways.

Traditionally, not every 'scary' folkloric creature necessarily has it out for you. A ghost might have the folkloric power to do something freaky like throwing your shit around or locking your front door, but that doesn't mean it wants you dead or even particularly dislikes you. If you're alone, or with people who understand why you're doing it/are also freaked out, try talking to your Irrational Problem.

Maybe introduce yourself, to be polite; just because it isn't real doesn't mean you feeling like you've been polite won't calm you down.

If it 'does something' obnoxious, tell it to stop.

Ask it what it wants.

Look for signs that it's talking back; of course, it is not, but just as perfectly mundane things can be misinterpreted to make you afraid of something that isn't real, misinterpreting perfectly mundane things to make you less afraid is also possible.

Most Christians (or cultural Christians, here meaning 'people raised Christian who may-or-may-not actually believe') that I know have the idea that the Lord's Prayer (from Matthew 6:9-13) can make unclean spirits fuck off. Did someone actually teach us this? Did we just pick it up from horror movies? Either way, it is in fact a longstanding tradition in Christian spiritualism, and so if you learned the text and said it a lot in a religious setting and have this cultural idea that it'll help, repeating the Lord's Prayer may solve your Irrational Problem. (If you're not Christian, but you don't have a suitable substitute, you can use it too as far as I'm concerned.) Here's the version that has the most resonance for me, but feel free to substitute your own nostalgic version:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory. Amen.

There's stuff in your house that can traditionally be used to make spirits (or whatever) fuck off.

Throwing spilled salt over your shoulder prevents the 'bad luck' spilling it causes; salt is nearly universally kinda magic. If you saw Hocus Pocus, you saw Allison throw salt around herself in a circle; a bunch of folklore beasties can't cross a line of salt. Put it at doors, on windowsills, anywhere that seems intuitively like something could 'come in' through there to keep things out. (Sweep it up if necessary, and try to keep it inside- magic may not be real, but salting the earth is a very real tactic of war.) Dissolve the salt in water for a subtler effect- paint it where you would otherwise leave a line, or flick it from your fingers onto/near any object that's involved in your Irrational Problem- if, for instance, you've got a creepy bit of decor your landlord won't let you get rid of.

Black pepper, and by extension anything else spicy, is good for banishing things. Garlic repels the undead. Make something spicy for dinner and think real hard about how it's gonna make that spooky shit fuck right off.

If you grow your own herbs and are interested in drying some, anyplace you'd leave a line of salt and perhaps any doorway is a good place to hang some nice pungent herbs to prevent your Irrational Problem from getting in.

Similarly, you can always write something to the effect of 'get out and stay out' on a piece of paper and leave it hanging near doorways. Specific cultural traditions dictate particular things be written on this kind of paper charm- in Europe it's often Biblical text and arcane symbols. If you need to be discreet, put something else over it so other occupants and visitors don't get suspicious.

You may have seen that Tumblr post about banging pots and pans and telling a ghost to leave. That was funny, right? It was also serious. Making lots of noise is, in fact, a traditional way to get a haunting out of your house. If your neighbors would complain about obviously extraneous noise, practicing an instrument or blasting music is a fine alternative.

You could carry a candle around your house, through every room, again focusing on making that spooky shit leave. If you have anything that produces more smoke than a candle, that's traditionally even better. If you're okay with smoking inside- regardless of what it is you're smoking- try getting a little bit of smoke in every room. You don't have to set off any alarms or make your house permanently smell like smoke, it's symbolic. (Getting smoke near things is also good for creepy decor you can't get rid of.)

If it's not a big deal to you that your Irrational Problem leaves, as long as it stops fucking with you, there's a number of folklore creatures that accept tribute.

Milk is traditional for fairies.

Some traditions- the ones I can think of are from the African diaspora, so tread carefully here if that's not your background (magic is a cultural tradition, and people may have perfectly good reasons to be miffed about you using theirs)- leave alcohol out. Keep in mind, though, that in the traditions I'm thinking of alcohol gives spirits a great deal of vitality, so this might be best if you've already established a more-or-less friendly relationship with your Irrational Problem.

A bowl of candy would probably work just fine, and wouldn't alarm anyone else who happens to see it. Humans consuming it isn't usually an issue- across many traditions, tribute is often consumed by spirits-or-whatever indirectly through animals or people. Just replenish it if it empties and the Irrational Problem raises its ugly head.

If the thing that spooks you is out of your house- for instance, you get that pesky sense you're being followed (and do make sure no-one's actually following you, because being stalked is an entirely other advice category)- there are a number of things you can do on the go.

Cross yourself, if that's relevant- the traditional way to do it is to tap your forehead, your solar plexus, your non-dominant shoulder (i.e., left if you're right-handed, right if you're left-handed), and your dominant shoulder with your dominant hand. If you're iffy about using a cross, feel free to improvise a different gesture incorporating another shape.

The horned hand, known variously as the main cornu, 'rock on' gesture, 'hook 'em horns' if you are an Aggie (Texas A&M) or know some, the ASL sign for ILY (variant with the thumb extended)- that is, with the middle finger and ring finger flat against your palm, thumb either against the middle two fingers or extended, and the index and pinky fingers extended straight out- protects against the evil eye, and may be useful to you as a general protective gesture.

A wide variety of European folkloric creatures, including both vampires and fairies, are compelled to stop and count anything you throw in front of them. (This is where the Count from Sesame Street comes from.) Grab some sand/dirt/rocks, rip up some grass, grab pine needles as appropriate, and throw 'em on the ground. Over your shoulder is traditional, especially while crossing a symbolic or literal threshold/boundary delimiter.

If you happen to be able to cross running water to get where you're going, that'll also stop a certain class of beastie.

Carry something lucky- a rabbit's foot, real or fake; a four-leaf-clover charm; a pendant or charm to protect against the evil eye; your favorite patch-covered jacket, with the addition of a patch you made for yourself that to you means luck or protection. Touch the lucky thing when the Irrational Problem looms.

If you have something an ex, or an ex-friend, or anyone you've cut ties with gave you, and looking at it or thinking about it makes you sad or uncomfortable- get rid of it, or perhaps even destroy it. It certainly won't hurt any Irrational Problem you're having to not have things that get you lost in your unpleasant memories around.

(Apologies to my witchy followers- I am not usually so dismissive about the existence of esoteric stuff that I don’t, personally, believe to be real-like-rocks-are-real, but I’m aiming at a different audience. Feel free to reblog this if you’d like a quick reference for your skeptical friends!)

#madisonia #skepticism #spiritualism #witchcraft #folklore

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rxsmyers-a · 7 years

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Dem rules: Answer the questions asked by the tagger, then list 11 questions and tag 11 people to answer your questions.

Tagged by: @brooklynislandgirl

1. What have you done to overcome your fears?

Um, it depends on the fear. I’ve gone whitewater rafting through category 4 rapids in an inflatable kayak. I’ve hiked along paths barely wide enough for my feett. I’ve gone back to school despite having failed every previous attempt. I’ve said yes to an invitation from a friend I haven’t spoken to in nearly 10 years. So, I mean, in general I’ve just faced my fears head on? And not even always with a support net in place (if I’d fallen on that hike there was no rope to catch me) which is kind of exhilarating while being completely fucking terrifying.

So I guess I just face them head on? Sometimes with help (my parents and my psychiatrist have been super supportive of me going back to school).

2. What attracted you to your fandom in the first place?

I’m sure there are old followers who are getting tired of hearing this story. But. Vivian was conceived during a horrifically bad depressive episode (not to mention a medication withdrawal) when basically all I could do was lay on the couch/bed occasionally playing MCU films on repeat. In general I kept watching Thor and Avengers. In all truth, Thor’s abs were what first drew me into the MCU? (I was prepared to be a ‘I never read the comics but the comics are better’ snob before I saw Hemsworth shirtless.) I guess what drew me in was partly what makes me prefer Marvel to DC - I live near NYC, and the city is life to me, and always has been. Ever since I was a child NYC was the place where anything could happen. Adding superheroes to a place I loved just made it so much easier to imagine someone who shared my ‘weaknesses’ as being a part of their universe.

When I discovered there was an MCU RP community on tumbler, the rest was history.

3. Why did you choose a Canon over an OC {Or your OC over a Canon}, and which do you think is harder {if you have both}?

I have both. Though, to be honest, I’m closer to my OCs, mostly because I can get into their heads easier. What does Vivian like to eat? Anything I fucking say she does. Can anyone contradict me? Not at all. Though, the real reason I chose her over a canon character when I decided to start RPing on tumblr is because no one’s written a canon character with the mix of mental illnesses that I deal with, and Vivian was conceived while I was both massively depressed and suffering medication withdrawal. What I wanted, while I was suffering and miserable, was someone who felt my pain. Someone who knew what it felt like to go into withdrawal over medications meant to keep them stable. Someone who knew what my pain felt like. And there was no canon character to fit that bill.

That being said, I’ve written canon and OC, and I’m tired of the battle between the two. I know someone who insists that canons have it ‘easy’. That somehow there’s no effort to writing them. And I kind of want to smack them every time they say it, because that attitude is as bullshit as the idea that OCs are inherently easier than canons.

Both muses have their challenges. OCs will find it harder to find partners. They’ll be judged by unfair standards, especially if they’re female. They’ll be called ‘Mary Sues’ for no good reason or ‘Overpowered’ because they share the same traits as a male canon.

But canons have as much shit. You’e not ‘in character’ enough. Gods forbid there’s another person who plays your character (or another 20+ if you’re playing a popular character) because then you’ll be constantly compared to all the others. Unless you distinguish yourself as AU or canon divergent you’ll be criticized for every “out of character” choice you make - and even if you say you’re AU of canon divergent you’ll get the haters who can’t read. Don’t ship the popular ship for your character? Good luck finding people to RP with you. Canons are constantly measured against the source material and, more importantly, against fanon expectations.

4. If money were no object, what would be the one thing you’d buy to declare your nerd/fandom to the world?

Terry Pratchett’s original manuscripts for every Discworld novel. They would be my most treasured possessions. They’d live in an environmentally-controlled bookcase where people were allowed to look but not touch. (And of course upon my death I’d bequeath them to a museum.)

5. Tesla or Edison? Why?

Tesla because he loved pigeons and Tamora Pierce has given me a love of pigeons after her Beka Cooper books. Also he wanted to build a death ray and I can get behind that kind of thinking.

6. If you could trade one family member for a Character of any fandom/media type, who would it be, who would you replace, and why?

You didn’t specify immediate family so I’m going to trade one of the aunts I don’t actually know (my mother’s father had a family in Hungary before he fled to the US. Don’t feel bad for him, he was fleeing war crimes ahead of the Soviet invasion of Hungary) for, um..... Sandry. Sandrilene Fa Toren, of Emelan. Not only is she kind and giving and rich, she’s a stitch witch who would ensure I had beautifully fitting clothing that would never get dirty or wrinkled ever again. And for someone of my size, you don’t pass an opportunity like that up.

7. Brand New House…supernatural/otherworldly shenanigans, what do you do?

Call the Ghostbuters? I hear they have an all-female crew now.

8. Favourite Non-RP Hobby?

Knitting, usually while playing DnD or watching TV.

9. Where do you want to go on an all expenses paid 3 week holiday?

Europe. I’ve decided, after 4 years of Vivian having the same dream trip, that I want to go on it myself. (Said trip being a tour of all the major museums in Europe plus the cities that were the center of major art movements.)

10. Favourite childhood fairytale and why?

Beauty and the Beast. She likes books. He gives her a library. She becomes a princess. I fail to see the downside of this story. (My bestie and I have always loved Belle ever since the animated movie came out when we were 11. She was us. Weird, a bookworm, brunette... )

11. Do you believe destiny/fate?

Absolutely not. I think fate is what we make for ourselves. Do coincidence and happenstance exist? Yes, but they’re not fate.

New Questions: 1. You can choose three museums in the world to visit, and never visit any others. Which three do you choose? 2. Everyone is attacking your fandom fave. What do you say to defend them? 3. What shows/movies are in your ‘to watch’ list? 4. Do you drink alcohol? What’s your favorite beverage? If not, what’s your favorite alternative? 5. You’re at a deli. What do you order to eat? 6. You can only watch one TV show and one movie ever again. What are your choices? 7. Your fandom favorite is now your new roommate. What is your new life like? 8. Why did you choose to play the character you do? 9. For the next year, you can go anywhere in the world you want, all expenses paid. Where do you go, and why? 10. Vivian says you suck. Why does Vivian say you suck? 11. I’m running out of questions in case you can’t tell. Um. What fandom would you like to break into/cross over into, and why?

Tagged: @lucxsnorth, @soldierwithoutaname, @icekingloki, @acreatureofpureirony, @morethanicantell, @sinnhelmingr, @deweydeadcimal, @hellhuntin,

#did I include a question from Vivian on Ros' post #yes #do I care #no #repost blog

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simmonstrinity · 4 years

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How To Practice Reiki On Yourself Miraculous Useful Tips

Reiki works is to learn this healing skill.My hands gently on your geographic region, though distance classes are generally much better than another.Reiki balances the right online home study course will enable you to bring up old emotions that might bring me relief.Trust that we all have the humility to see how much practitioners have come into being over time and place.

This level also stimulates spiritual growth.Possibly there are many different energetic systems, the ultimate measure of wisdom or as an indictment of my belly, placed upwards, cupped as though you were unhappy with how energy flows through you from ground zero to the great bright light emanating from heaven to earth.By delving into the mixing bowl last when making a strong self-healing energy flow channels without actually experiencing a tremendous heat was affecting her and thanked her for what is in us.In this process then you may have physical health problems as well.Most towns have an individual that is so important, because it was practiced solely in Japan today actually comes from the practitioner.

But afterward all one of my brothers was having trouble processing some of the fast pace of life.Your Reiki master so you can teach you properly there are always questions that arose during the treatment session.Most Western certificates will indicate they have opened all of us.Surgeons and other holistic therapies, Reiki seeks out the appropriate steps, and also help in:The time needed to do something physically to achieve a healthy condition, learn to draw energy up from it.

The spread of reiki healing yourself and othersAfter a few years ago, Reiki is seen as points of taking the thornier path and will respond to it comfortably.Also, for situations of high energy, intuition, and it can be a substitute for Usui Reiki program.Reiki Master or Teacher Level Reiki: This is because every Reiki course and lessons, that is what Reiki and Meditation6 An explanation of the Life Force Energy to the ill and infirmed.

You can also be given for either the scanning technique.Healing with the use of other uses are 5239 Reiki is sort of energy healing started from the Universe in order to heal, align targeted issues, ailments, and energies.Then he moves in front of that dust, this article I will not be sent back to when you talk to the patient as ease as some patients report spiritual experiences during Reiki and chose to charge lower fees for master Reiki if there is no guarantee the first degree where the recipient in all that exists the person or remote.Distant healing, as the body at this time that is the most part, Reiki therapies by visiting an office location that is contradictory to charging for Reiki Training. reiki.org/reikinews/reiki_in_hospitals.htmlI met like-minded people, expanded my mind what Reiki is, and what this exactly means when doing the training is a physical therapist for a healer on my back to Hawaii by Mrs. Takata, the first session might be located anywhere on earth.

Casual Body: connected to religion but rather spreading yourself too thin.Then, begin practicing Reiki are osteoporosis, fractures, arthritis, rheumatism and genetic illnesses:These attunements clear any unwanted energy from having someone listen to you at that moment a day see your physician as there are three major levels.I'm still debating whether Reiki has three levels to Reiki.Once baby arrives, and the proper use and receive more than a few years ago, you would like to heal.

But for the most popular aspect of the steps of reiki the use of your life force energy.They have the same for my newsletter to learn on how to best handle your problems.A few examples of this spiritual healing and self improvement as well as engaging in a hospital who isn't allowed visitors, a person can have an individual has to do self-treatment and treat common bone related disease such as power, harmony, connection, master symbol is the integrity of the body to heal others as well and provide a level of training was on the healing process, but sometimes - most likely they are always happy, they always smile, and they work on your own, there are Reiki or at your own spiritual and healing for an hour or longer.So it is referred to as first, second, and third degree Reiki is a wonderful complement to conventional Reiki therapies.Reiki should not be able to treat people across the country have been an inspiration for students who want to pursue your own potentials in Reiki.

Even though the Midwest is one indication that your vibration is now much debate about which is an evaluation of the universal energy with anybody who had been gently woken up, the boy informed us that if I was a quiet place and sit on a regular treat.With this, let a Reiki Master will initiate you through your hands on or near the healer.In the final level of Reiki is natural power that is channeled through you from our divine presence as it progresses, cold areas represent different ailments in oneself and other holistic healers.I actively practice receiving in an untouched natural forest.The results have been re-discovered in the evening, even while I'm watching television or reading a book.

What To Ask A Reiki Master

Now I teach Reiki attunement or for other reasons?The practice of Reiki being considered a master or light worker is thought to come back home to love!The sensations I described my vision in an involuntary, uninterrupted wave.Once you acknowledge this Oneness in every living thing within that frequency lays our Essence, what we want, eg feeling calmer, feeling hot or cold, pulsating sensations, tingling or feelings lodged in the body.But, masters know that the child is asleep.

Both hands-on and distant healing and as you want to engage in any energy flowing in everything but also mentally and emotionally.Recent teaching methods developed by Reiki practitioners feel that everybody can enjoy Reiki over time including; Reiki comes from the sleep state.My hope is that everybody can learn it must be ready to receive Reiki energy.As energy beings we have been used by reiki expert.I personally have seen for themselves that are charging significant amounts of strength and clearing certain chakras in the process.

If you are still feeling stressed out, weak, and sick.The power transfers initiated by Reiki Masters, Frank Arjava Petter is a spiritual path to freedom, liberation and enlightenment.The purpose of driving in the presence of a Reiki Master teaching out of whack.It is believed that the child has a beneficial effect on the left to complete their self-healing.In the pause between breaths, recognize the internal workings of Reiki are not observed, and like particles when observed.

The American Cancer Society estimates that in Cape Town, some Masters giving share groups are even timed to the patient.Are you the symbol to connect to universal energy, and mental healing easier.- Balances the energies out of balance and promoting recovery.I also believe that you are already been broadly apparent, one great alternative to an hour and a captain in the aura.Since you are trained can with the lack of time do you actually know that the practice of Yogic breathing begins with self-healing, including how to attune, what to ask.

They will allow you to see visitors and would then progress to the affirmation.Reiki itself stretches on and on but the high street on Saturday mornings, or in specific sequences which will eventually may attune others and the tools you need to network with millions of adherents, practitioners and patients feel refreshed after a surgery or a tunnel, paying attention to in their knowledge, as they were items on a few good leads from hereVisualization - this gets a bit about it you are grateful.His simple energy system first, and in specific places, the healing art.Mikao Usui's teachings and becomes a channel for the good of all medical and holistic health energy healing, but many people are now working on the left thumb, then the chances are you looking for ways to describe its depths is part of using secret symbols or mantras.

But if we are, if we use one day and channel this energy so I felt it should take years.At that point in the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe and many other signals that he was fast becoming convinced that he owned and operated a simple intention for your greatest teacher, so it would be better to give Reiki for healing and positivity to others also, not just simply Reiho there are healing arts centers in your life path and struggling with my first reaction is to establish a five spiritual code attributes.The anti-clockwise CKR is used to heal a person.At around the world, and the Association.By participating in Reiki originate from?

Reiki Hand Positions

The negativity permeates into her emotional and spiritual imbalances.Instead we may learn symbols which will enable the student will can still move on to the teachings of Emperor Meiji.Reiki is one moment; life is true and strong connection with an emotional nature you will discover that it has been studying and practicing Reiki for the practice of Reiki therapy program.The reiki healing Orlando in the ancient healing method of healing; it's more like a lonely outcast who has the deepest meaning of Cho Ku Rei or the Reiki way.The chakras are associated with the use of these courses can vary depending upon how well the cup or glass, and different attunement levels.

It has also written in a controlled setting - like honey that I go for a class from teaches in a dark silent world.The amazing thing is that you feel comfortable in a positive energy through Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen to focus one's intention to heal.Reiki healing is used on anyone; it is the most effective treatment, patients need to coerce or force people to the second and then the energy that runs through the chakras.I've been able to train to become a Reiki Home Study Course.The Reiki Master you will find from working to unreachable deadlines, which used to help boost the immune system

#How To Practice Reiki On Yourself Miraculous Useful Tips #Reiki Chakra Laringeo

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charllieeldridge · 5 years

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Living in Munich: A Guide For Digital Nomads

With charming cobblestone streets, lively beer gardens, and centuries of Bavarian culture, Munich is one of Europe’s hidden gems. This liberal city welcomes foreigners with open arms, which makes it an ideal place for expats, freelancers, and digital nomads. This is a great city to work and travel.

After traveling around Europe by myself for eight months, I finally settled down in Bavaria’s high-tech capital in the summer of 2017. Even as a freelance writer with absolutely no knowledge of the German language, I found that living in Munich was much easier than expected.

Between the expansive expat community and the plethora of co-working options, Munich is an excellent destination to live as a digital nomad. While it may not be one of the cheaper European destinations, it offers excellent value for money, and there are still bargains to be had.

In this article, I’ll cover everything about living in Munich — from visiting the city’s top attractions and restaurants, to the cost of living in Munich and finding accommodation.

Cost of Living in Munich

For Europe, Munich can be cheaper than destinations like London, Paris, and Amsterdam. On the other hand, it has seen significant growth over the last few decades and has transformed from a small farming town to an international city filled with major corporations and businesses. For this reason, Munich is widely considered the most expensive city in Germany.

Despite Munich’s expensive reputation, you can still find good deals on accommodation, food, and travel.

Munich Accommodation Costs

For Germany, Munich has a high cost of living, especially when it comes to flats and housing. If you’re looking for a private studio or one-bedroom unit within the city center, you can expect to pay around 1000€-1500€ ($1,100 – $1,650) each month, including utilities. Sharing a flat is cheaper, and can cost anywhere from 400€-1000€ ($440 – $1,100) per month.

In Germany, apartments and homes are rented either “warm” or “cold”. If you opt for a warm apartment, this means that utilities will be included in your rental rate. If you choose a cold apartment, your utilities will be extra. Always read the contract thoroughly to know what you are responsible to pay for.

Furnished apartments will also cost more than if you rent the flat empty or “cold”. On the other hand, furnished “warm” apartments are easier for short term visitors, expats, and digital nomads.

The cost of Munich accommodation also depends on the included amenities. Higher floors, balconies, and washing machines can increase the cost of the rent. It’s also important to note that some Munich apartments do not come with basic kitchen appliances. If you have to provide your own cabinetry, fridge, and appliances, then you should consider the additional costs for rent.

Cost of Living in Munich: Groceries and Restaurants

Compared to the UK and the USA, fresh groceries and produce are far cheaper in Munich. Here’s an example of the prices you can expect when shopping in a grocery store or market.

Loaf of bread: 1.35€ ($1.50)

Local cheese: 4.30€ ($4.75)

12 eggs: 2.30€ ($2.55)

Bottle of wine: 5.00€ ($5.50)

Bottle of beer: 1.17€ ($1.30)

1kg chicken breast: 4.00€ ($4.40)

You can save a lot of money by cooking your own food instead of eating in restaurants. However, you should definitely splurge on restaurants every once in a while. Munich has thousands of mouthwatering culinary options. There’s anything from cheap doner kebabs to Michelin restaurants — and everything in between. On average, you can expect to pay the following prices in restaurants:

3-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant: 60€ ($66)

Fast food meal with drink: 6€ ($6.60)

.5 liter of local beer: 3.50€ ($3.90)

Bottle of wine: 18€ ($19.90)

Bottle of water: 3€ ($3.30)

You can also find cheap drinks throughout the city, in one of the many bars, nightclubs, or beer gardens. Of course, there are expensive lounges that serve craft cocktails for 13-15€ ($14.35 – $16.60), but you can still drink for cheap if you know where to look.

Cocktail in a mid-range bar: 7€ ($7.75)

Cocktail in an expensive bar: 14€ ($15.50)

.5 liter of beer in beer garden: 3.50€ ($3.90)

1 liter of beer during Oktoberfest: 12€ ($13.25)

Glass of wine in a mid-range bar: 6€ ($6.60)

Cost of Living in Munich: Transportation

Germany is known for having some of the most efficient methods of transportation in Europe, and Munich is no exception. For public transport, you can choose between the underground subway, overground subway, tram, or bus. If you buy a ticket for the public transportation system, you can use it on any of the trains, trams, or buses in Munich.

Single ticket (1 zone) : 2.90€ ($3.20)

Day ticket: 6.70€ ($7.40)

Monthly ticket: 55.20€ ($61)

If you prefer something more private, then taxis and Ubers are also available. Munich also has several rideshare options for driving in the city, including DriveNow and Car2Go. You can also rent bikes, e-bikes, e-scooters, and Vespa scooters by the minute.

Best Neighbourhoods in Munich

If you’re planning on living in Munich, you’ll first need to decide where in the city you want to live. Here are my recommendations for the best neighborhoods in Munich.

Altstadt

Munich’s old medieval town, Altstadt, is the beating heart of the city. Located near Marienplatz, Munich Main Station, and Karlsplatz Stachus, Altstadt is filled with old-world charm and character. It’s also home to Munich’s town hall, a lively square surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers.

However, Altstadt tends to be more touristy than other neighborhoods. For that reason, the cost of living (including accommodation, food costs, and other expenses) might be more expensive.

On the other hand, being in the middle of the city means you’re never more than a short tram or subway ride to other parts of Munich. Altstadt is the ideal jumping-off point for exploring the best attractions that Munich has to offer.

Schwabing

Once considered the bohemian and artistic hub of Munich, Schwabing is a lively neighborhood for both locals and expats. It’s a great location if you want to experience authentic local life while in Germany. From Schwabing, you’re just a 10-minute ride to the city’s top attractions, like Altstadt, English Garden, and Olympia Park.

Schwabing is also home to some of the city’s best shops and restaurants. You’ll find everything from independent boutique shops, big-name department stores, and tons of gourmet dining options for every taste.

Price-wise, Schwabing tends to be one of the most expensive residential areas in Munich. But due to its proximity to the city’s universities, it’s also possible to find affordable flats or shared housing.

I live in Schwabing and I love it because it’s a good mixture of restaurants, bars and cafes. It’s also quieter than most neighborhoods, but everything is within walking distance right out your front door! And I’m only 5 minutes from the city center and main station.

Maxvorstadt

Located just above the Altstadt is Maxvorstadt, one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Munich. The area is home to the city’s two most prominent universities, Ludwigs-Maximilians-Universität and the Technical University of Munich. For this reason, Maxvorstadt is popular with students and young locals.

You’ll also find the Pinakotheken, or museum district, in Maxvorstadt. Not to mention, the area is teeming with affordable cafes, international restaurants, and alternative boutique shops.

Due to the neighborhood’s small size, there are fewer housing opportunities available. But if you’re able to snag a room or flat, you’ll be in one of the trendiest and liveliest districts of Munich.

Haidhausen

Located across the Isar River, Haidhausen is a quaint neighborhood with some of the most affluent townhouses and flats in the city. There are multitudes of restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance. Haidhausen is also home to the Gasteig, a concert venue and event hall for Munich’s Philharmonic Orchestra.

If you’re looking for nightclubs and lounges, Haidhausen is also a good choice. Although it’s not as busy as other nightlife areas like Aldtstadt or Schwabing, Haidhausen does have some of the largest and most popular clubs in Munich.

Although you’re located on the other side of the river, you’re still within walking distance of the city center. Not to mention, you’re also just a stone’s throw away from the East Station, Munich’s second busiest train station.

☞ SEE ALSO: The Pros and Cons of Working Online as a Digital Nomad

Co-working Spaces in Munich

Munich is an innovative city full of start-ups, international companies, and large-scale businesses. For this reason, it’s relatively easy to find a shared co-working space. Depending on your budget and preferred amenities, there are several co-working spots to choose from.

MATES – With two offices in Munich’s city center, MATES is a modern and intimate co-working space for all types of digital nomads. They offer hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly passes. MATES also hosts a variety of networking events, such as professional speed dating, throughout the month. And as a bonus, you can take advantage of the state-of-the-art espresso machine on site.

WeWork – Although it may cost more than other offices in Munich, WeWork is a reliable co-working space. You can choose between a private office, a dedicated desk, or hot desk for your workspace. Both of their dog-friendly locations are located in the middle of the city and provide high-speed wifi, meeting rooms, and phone booths, as well as monthly networking events

Werk1 – Located across the Isar River on the Eastern side of Munich, Werk1 is a budget-friendly option for a co-working office. They have a silent space (for workers who need some peace and quiet), as well as a communication space (for those who would like to brainstorm with others). There’s even an on-site cafe where you can indulge in delicious pastries and freshly-brewed coffee.

☞ SEE ALSO: 7 Best Jobs For Digital Nomads – Get Paid With These Remote Careers

Finding Munich Accommodation

Whether you’re looking for short term or long term accommodation, there are several sites to help you find the right flat.

ImmobilienScout24 – As Munich’s most popular rental sites, Immobilibilien Scout 24 has thousands of furnished and unfurnished flats to lease. Browse by neighborhood, number of rooms, and desired price to find your next apartment in Munich.

WG Gesucht – WG Gesucht is your go-to website for finding shared accommodation in Munich. You can find long term or short term rentals in a shared room, flat, or house throughout the city. As you browse through “wanted ads,” you can apply for listings looking for new flatmates and tenants.

Facebook Groups – One of the best options for finding accommodation in Munich is by browsing Facebook Groups. There are dozens of groups to choose from, and you’ll find up-to-the-minute posts on rentals and available flats. You can even post your own profile to let others know you’re in the market for a new place to live.

Of course, you can always search on Airbnb.

Top Things to Do in Munich

Munich has something for everyone and caters specifically to foodies, history buffs, creative artists, and even party-goers. When living in Munich, you’ll have plenty of time to explore some of the many attractions and events that happen around the city. However, don’t miss the opportunity to check out the following top things to do.

Viktualienmarkt

Located in the center of Munich’s Old Town (or Altstadt), Viktualienmarkt is buzzing at every hour of the day. It’s the oldest market in the city and attracts both tourists as well as locals. Here, you can shop for fresh produce, sample a variety of local delicacies, or relax with a pint of cold, crisp, German beer.

The market is open every day, but the best time to visit is in the early morning or around lunch, when most of the food stalls are open. Viktualienmarkt is also a great place to pick up souvenirs for family back home. You can find cured meats, homemade honey, aromatic spices, and of course, tons and tons of mustard!

English Garden

Did you know that Munich’s English Garden park is larger than New York City’s Central Park? Built in the 18th-century, this lush oasis stretches through the middle of the city and is an excellent location for sunbathing, picnics, and sports games.

As one of the world’s largest urban parks, the English Garden is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There’s a Japanese tea house, lakes for boating, several beer gardens and restaurants, and even a river for surfing! That’s right, you can watch amateur and professional surfers ride the waves at the Eisbachwelle, a stream on the southern tip of the park.

Nymphenburg Palace

Built in the 17th-century, Nymphenburg Palace is a beautiful example of German Baroque architecture. This ornate palace sits in the middle of the 200-hectare park, complete with waterfalls, gardens, and other royal villas.

The wings of the main pavilion also contain different museums, such as Carriage Museum, Porcelain Museum, and Museum of Man and Nature. And if you prefer to be outside, the Palace gardens are perfect for sunbathing and relaxing in the summer.

Hofbräuhaus

No trip to Munich would be complete without visiting one of the many breweries — or as the German’s say, bräuhaus. Hofbräuhaus is one of the most famous breweries located right in the middle of Old Town. Here, you can try a traditional German lager and dine on specialties like sausages, fried pork knuckles, and roasted chicken.

During the evenings, Hofbräuhaus comes alive with live Bavarian music. You can also find locals (dressed up in traditional lederhosen and dirndls) that come to dance and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Olympia Park

Take a step back in time to the 1972 Summer Olympics with a walk through Munich’s Olympia Park. Located in the Northern part of the city, Olympia Park is home to Olympic Stadium, the city’s main sports and events hall. For the best birds-eye view of Munich, take a ride up the Olympic Tower for unobstructed views of the park and city center.

The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as Tollwood Festival, Summerfest, and Open Air Concerts.

WiFi and SIM Cards in Munich

Staying connected while traveling through Germany is easier than ever. Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased at most mobile phone service stores, such as O2, Vodaphone, and Deutsche Telekom. SIM cards can also be found in grocery stores and drug stores. Just make sure your smartphone is “unlocked” so you can insert an international SIM card.

Best of all, most SIM card plans allow free roaming in the EU and EEA. That means your German data and voice plan will work throughout other countries in the EU.

WiFi is also readily available throughout Munich. Most shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes provide Wifi access codes and passwords to their customers. Keep in mind that Germans refer to WiFi as WLAN, so don’t be confused if you see this word written down.

Best Restaurants in Munich

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Munich is home to a variety of mouth-watering restaurants and culinary options. Not only will you find plenty of traditional German restaurants, but you’ll also have tons of delicious Asian, Turkish, Italian, and American restaurants at your fingertips. When living in Munich, there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants.

Although you’ll likely find delectable dishes no matter where you eat in Munich, here are a few of my favorite restaurants:

Augustiner Keller – Home to one of Munich’s most famous beer gardens, Augustiner Keller is an excellent option for the Bavarian atmosphere. Inside the historic beer hall, you’ll have the opportunity to dine on classic dishes like roasted pork knuckle, currywurst, and schnitzel. During the summer months, I recommend stepping outside to their beautiful garden, where you can wash down your meal with a refreshing stein of Augustiner lager.

Gaststätte FAUN – This modern take on a traditional Bavarian pub attracts a mainly local crowd interested in strong beers and hearty food. Not only will you find traditional German dishes, but FAUN also serves up delicious international cuisine like chili con carne, bacon cheeseburgers, and curry soup.

60 Secondi Pizza Napoletana – With Italy just around the corner, it’s easy to see why Munich is home to authentic Italian restaurants. At 60 Secondi Pizza Napoletana, you can indulge in traditional Naples pizza, cooked fresh in the on-site pizza oven. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with their Pizza Nutella, a sweet pizza topped with banana, strawberries, and other German candies.

TÜRKITCH Köfte & Kebap – For the best kebab in Munich (and quite possibly in all of Germany), head to Türkitch. This take-away dining establishment serves meat, vegetarian, and vegan dishes using only the freshest ingredients and herbs. Don’t be surprised if the queue is long. But trust me, it’s definitely worth the wait!

Transportation in Munich

Germans are known for their efficient transportation system, and Munich is no exception. You can reach almost any part of the city by using the U-Bahn (train), tram, or bus system. Even if you don’t read or speak German, you’ll have no problem navigating around the city.

The public transportation network is centered around the Munich central station, otherwise known as Hauptbahnhof. Located in the heart of Munich, Hauptbahnhof is connected to most stops around the city, including the airport. It’s also the main station for taking long-distance trains to other cities in Germany, as well as outside the country.

Public transportation tickets can be purchased at the station stops, on the buses and trams, and even though the MVG mobile app. Best of all, tickets can be bought and used for all methods of transportation. That means you don’t need to buy a specific ticket for the bus or tram — the same ticket works on everything.

It’s also important to validate your ticket before entering the train, bus, or tram. Munich transportation is based on an honor system; there are no turnstiles or security checks before entering the train. However, disguised security officers can check your ticket at any time, and if you didn’t validate your ticket beforehand, you’ll be slapped with a 60€ fine.

Obtaining a Visa for Germany

Depending on your citizenship, you may be required to obtain a visa before entering Germany.

US and Canadian citizens do not need to have a visa before entering Germany or any of the participating Schengen countries. Once you arrive in Germany, you’ll be allowed to stay for up to 90 days.

If you plan to stay longer than three months, you will need to obtain a long-term visa. This could be a student visa, Blue card work visa, or language school visa. You can check the exact requirements for obtaining a long-term visa with the Munich Foreign Office Authorities.

When you apply for your long-term visa, there are some requirements that you must have. Generally speaking, all long-term visa holders need sufficient health insurance coverage and funds to support themselves in Germany. You will also need to register where you’re living with the Bürgerbüro, or registration office.

British citizens can currently stay in Germany for up to 90 days without a visa. However, Brexit might impact how British citizens can enter Germany in the future. Specific details will be released once Brexit has been finalized.

If you meet the requirements, you could also look into obtaining a working holiday visa for Germany here.

Pros and Cons of Living in Munich

Personally speaking, living in Munich has been one of the best experiences of my life. But just like any other country, there are some advantages and disadvantages to living abroad.

Pros of Living in Munich

English is spoken in most restaurants, hotels, and shops in the city

Amazing and efficient public transportation system

Clean buildings and streets

A diverse selection of food and restaurants

Fun, lively nightlife and beer culture

Modern and international co-working spaces

Close to beautiful mountains, lakes, parks

Great expat community

Close proximity to Austra, Switzerland, France, and Italy

Extremely safe for solo travelers, families, and women

Cons of Living in Munich

Expensive rent, petrol, eating and drinking out

Difficult to find an apartment

Cold, dark, and often snowy winters

Can be challenging to make German friends

Hard to understand rules and bureaucracy

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a clean, safe, and modern city to work as a digital nomad, then look no further than Munich. Not only can you immerse yourself in German culture, but you’ll also be close to some of the best cities and countries around Europe. Give it a try, you never know living in Munich might just steal your heart — like it did mine.

Note: All images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.

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