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[halodogcollar]

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[catloversden]

The AirTag Collar: A Smart Solution for Tracking Your Pet

In a world where technology continues to simplify our lives, Apple’s AirTag has emerged as a game-changer for keeping tabs on everyday items. From keys to backpacks, this tiny Bluetooth tracker has found a new and popular application: the AirTag collar. Designed primarily for pets, this innovative accessory combines style, functionality, and peace of mind for pet owners everywhere.

What is an AirTag Collar?

An AirTag collar is a pet collar equipped with a slot or attachment to hold an Apple AirTag, a coin-sized device that uses Bluetooth and Apple’s Find My network to track its location. Unlike traditional GPS trackers, the AirTag leverages a vast network of Apple devices worldwide to anonymously ping its location, making it a lightweight and cost-effective alternative for pet tracking.

While Apple doesn’t officially market AirTags for pets, creative pet owners and accessory makers have embraced the idea, leading to a surge in AirTag-compatible collars available in various materials, from durable nylon to sleek leather.

How Does It Work?

The AirTag collar operates seamlessly with the Find My app on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Once the AirTag is paired with your Apple account and secured to the collar, you can track your pet’s location in real time if they’re within Bluetooth range (about 30 feet). If your furry friend wanders farther, the Find My network kicks in, using nearby Apple devices to relay the AirTag’s location back to you—no subscription fees required.

For precision tracking, the AirTag also features Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology (on compatible iPhones), guiding you with directional arrows to your pet’s exact spot. Plus, if your pet is close but hidden—say, under the couch—you can trigger the AirTag’s built-in speaker to play a sound, making retrieval a breeze.

Benefits of an AirTag Collar

Affordable Tracking: At around $29 per AirTag, it’s a one-time purchase compared to GPS collars that often require monthly fees.

Long Battery Life: The AirTag’s replaceable CR2032 battery lasts up to a year, minimizing maintenance.

Discreet Design: Small and lightweight, it won’t weigh down your pet or feel bulky on their collar.

Global Reach: With millions of Apple devices worldwide, the Find My network offers impressive coverage, especially in urban areas.

Limitations to Consider

While the AirTag collar is a brilliant concept, it’s not without drawbacks. It relies on proximity to Apple devices, so tracking may falter in remote areas with few users. It’s also not a real-time GPS solution—updates depend on when the AirTag pings a nearby device. Additionally, Apple warns that AirTags weren’t designed for pets, so ensuring a secure fit is crucial to prevent loss or discomfort.

Popular AirTag Collar Options

The market has responded enthusiastically, with brands offering stylish and practical collars tailored for AirTags:

Belkin Secure Holder with Collar Attachment: A simple, affordable clip-on solution.

TagVault Pet Collar Mount: A rugged, waterproof holder for active pets.

Handmade Leather Collars: Etsy sellers provide custom designs blending fashion and function.

Is It Right for You?

The AirTag collar is ideal for pet owners who want a low-cost, low-maintenance way to monitor their cat or dog, especially in busy neighborhoods. It’s less suited for rural adventurers or those needing constant, precise tracking—traditional GPS trackers might be a better fit there.

Final Thoughts

The AirTag collar exemplifies how everyday tech can adapt to solve real-world problems. For the price of a coffee run, you can outfit your pet with a smart tracking system that offers reassurance without complexity. Whether your cat’s a backyard explorer or your dog’s a master escape artist, the AirTag collar might just be the perfect blend of innovation and practicality.

[marigoldbaker]

you are my flower

sooooooooo what if as an experiment i posted 10k words of fic under the cut. here. just to see how it felt. a few things here and there might not mesh perfectly with all that sapphic old woman mystery fic when it's done, but i loved this so dearly when i wrote it and i want to start setting some of my backlog of writing free, if only here! i have been talking for so long about things without any context so maybe it is time to provide a BIT more :) as such: the story behind how thea acquired marigold. (warnings for blood + implied violence + a bit of murder. unsurprisingly, probably.)

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Of course it started to fucking storm at midnight. Thea woke up with the rain hitting her face and let out a long, frustrated sigh, rolling onto her back. She was seriously considering just stopping the adventuring outright.

It wasn’t half the worry it had been once, leaving the girls at home alone, but traipsing aimlessly through the woodlands wasn’t half the joy she remembered it being. She missed her little ones. Norie, fierce little spider, hated thunderstorms but refused to admit it; she would despise this weather and cuddle close under some complicated pretense that Thea would have happily indulged. Rosie loved any sort of big weather; she said that it was like the sky was trying to give them a bath, or share all the water in the world with them, or some other such nonsense that Thea would remember better with her here and dancing dangerously through the thunder and lightning.

Lianne had woken up too. She was shaking Chester awake; he grunted unhappily and put a hand over his face to cover it, then said, “Turn off the fucking water, Annie.”

“It’s not water,” said Lianne, in a put-upon sort of voice that Thea had to try not to laugh at. Didn’t work too well. “It’s storming. We need to find better shelter.”

Thea pulled out the parchment. Fucking thing was waterproof, of course. No new messages from Jaheira, outside of the old one: if you are in the area, there is a secluded grove some distance west of the rumored treasure. Mention my name there in case of emergency.

Meddling old hen. Thea wrote, WE’RE FINE. FUCK OFF, mostly because Jaheira had better things to do than check up on her every ten seconds whenever she went out of town. She pocketed the parchment again.

“Writing the wife?” said Fawn, sweetly.

“Oh, fuck off,” said Thea. Fawn laughed. “Annie’s right; we need to find a better camp. Think there was a bit of a path through the woods, yeah?”

“We don’t know what sort of people live in these woods,” said Lianne uncomfortably.

Gods, these fucking kids. Thea sent a look to Fawn, who made a bit of a sorry-about-them face, which, all right, yeah, she’d take it. Were their positions reversed, she’d have wanted her girls given a little leeway. “Pack your kits up,” she instructed, “we’re moving. Annie, if the people in the woods aren’t the nice sort, I’ll bash their faces in. That help?”

“…Um!” said Lianne, wincing.

“Teachable moment, kiddos!” said Fawn brightly. “You’ll have to get used to all sorts of violence if you’re interested in becoming an adventurer. Some party members, like Thea here,” she gestured with a little flair towards Thea, who would have really liked for them to get fucking going, actually, “may be much more comfortable with physical solutions to disputes, rather than tactical ones, which I know you two often prefer.”

Not for the first time during this journey, Thea debated just telling them all outright that the kids were not fucking suited for the adventurers’ life. But Fawn was an old friend, and she’d called in a favor, and it was the sort of favor that adventurer-Thea would have made a face at, which meant that mum-Thea had to actually fucking consider it. Course, the whole notion of serving as adventuring guide to a few green kids was horrible. When she’d explained it to Jaheira, Jaheira had looked at her for a few very astonished minutes before saying, “Is this some sort of situation where the mother is dying? Or do all of your friends simply call in life-debts solely to aid and abet phenomenally absurd situations?”

(Gods, she loved that woman.)

“I just think that there are ways to resolve situations without blood!” Chester suggested, in one of those voices that could really only come from a kid who was old enough to come up with thoughts but too young to realize people had already had those thoughts before them. “So unless it’s really necessary—”

“Teachable moment, kiddos,” said Thea tightly, “it is fucking thunder and lightning out here. Move your arses.”

The kids set to packing up their soaked-through bedrolls. Thea reached over and tucked some of Fawn’s hair behind her ears. “You’re getting too old for this,” she said.

“Which is why I brought you, High Hammer!” said Fawn, and grinned.

“Call me that again and I’ll start killing shit in front of your kids,” Thea threatened. “Scar them for life.”

“Oh, I wouldn’t mind that; they’d get sick of the road and we’d all get to go home,” said Fawn. “I’m giving them the authentic experience.”

“Mum tricks?”

“Mum tricks.”

They smiled at each other. Hysterically, Lianne called, “MUM! There’s a frog drowning in the rain!”

“Oh, for fuck’s sake,” said Thea. Fawn hurried over to help.

Lianne tucked the frog into her pack, which was the sort of thing that Ros would do, which made Thea miss Ros all over again. Gods, she really wasn’t fucking cut out for this; she’d have to ask Jaheira how she managed when she got home. She had, of course, packed her shit up much quicker than the kids; Chester seemed to be trying to wring out his bedroll in the rain, which was ridiculous. “IT’S ALL GOING TO GET WET,” she shouted over the thunder, shepherding the kids forward. “KEEP MOVING!”

There was a bit of a path through the forest, which Thea had noticed before and hadn’t intended to take. Path looked man-made but ill-used—it had been cut out near a decade ago, if she had to guess, but it was starting to grow over, which usually meant a cabin with a rotting hermit corpse inside, and she wasn’t actually trying to scar Fawn’s kids for life. Still, needs must in a situation like this, so Thea ushered Fawn and the kids forward.

Lightning struck too fucking near them. Thea kept her calm. When she was Norie’s age, she’d been scared half to death of thunderstorms just the same, and Faenor Glorie, who’d done most of the job raising her, had told her what she told Norie at home: the thunder and lightning were the gods saying that today was an important day, somewhere, a day that you needed to pay attention to—electric fingers from the heavens, pointing the way. Thea had always thought it was a bit stupid, mind, but so had Norie, and Norie always liked saying that things were stupid, and thinking about Norie was enough to get anyone through any storm. Her wonderful, dreadful girl.

Lightning struck again. Lianne shrieked and grabbed for her mother. Chester, trying valiantly to look the part of a man rather than a boy with only half a patchy beard, steeled himself dramatically against the storm. Thea squinted forward, trying to see what lay ahead. She thought she could make something out—

There was a coppery taste to the air. That wasn’t right. Thea knew the electricity, knew the rain, but there was something else about this night that felt unsettling. She was a battle cleric; she knew in her blood and bones when something was wrong up ahead. “Fawn, I’m going ahead,” she said, leaning in, shouting anyway because the rain was getting that fucking bad. “You keep the kids back.”

“What?!” said Fawn. “Thea, it’s storming!”

“Fucking really?” said Thea. “I hadn’t noticed!”

She didn’t provide any further details, mostly because she didn’t know them—just pressed ahead, faster now, moving towards the end of the path and a dilapidated little house with the door hanging open. It was dark, but the house was lit, and the light streaming out of the front room—

Oh, fuck, thought Thea, her blood running cold, and she knew now she could not let Fawn and the kids go towards that home. She desperately scanned the area for something, anything she could lead them towards instead, and saw with a dizzy rush of relief that there was a barn just adjacent to the house. Wind in her face, rain streaming down, she sprinted back towards Fawn and the kids.

Fawn had seen it. Thea could tell. Her face had gone white and she wasn’t saying anything about how Thea was being ridiculous anymore. “Barn up ahead,” said Thea. “You take the kids there.”

There was her sensible adventuring girl: Fawn nodded, tightly, just as she had all those years ago, and bundled her kids towards the barn, angling them away from the house.

Thea didn’t wait to see where they went. She charged back up that path and towards the house. The door. The little girl.

The girl had been carved open. It didn’t look like a ritual; Thea knew the signs of a ritual, and the cuts, while sometimes just as violent, were usually accompanied by some sort of sigils or candles or something. Took place indoors, too, usually, and the way she was lying looked like she’d been flung half out of doors. Her hair was soft and red and she was the smallest thing Thea had ever seen—smaller even than Norie, somehow, all stick limbs and ill-fitting clothing.

Had she been living here by herself? No. Someone else had done this to her. She hadn’t fought back—no blood under her fingernails, no bruises, nothing but the carved-open chest.

“Oh, Lady of the Fray, show us mercy,” Thea whispered, her heart hammering, hurting. It had been easy, once, seeing kids like this, when she didn’t have kids of her own. She’d said a prayer, she’d moved on, end of story, but now—gods, who had done this? They were in the middle of the fucking woods, what was the purpose to brutalizing a girl like this?

And it was so fucking stupid, but she did it anyway, never mind the blood and the pulpy mess: she checked the girl’s pulse.

It was nothing. Next to nothing. A single jump under her fingertips, followed by the awful and familiar stillness. The girl’s eyes were glazed and open, lips parted. She had died that very second. And that meant—

Thea acted without thinking. Gathered the girl up into her arms, never mind the blood all over her armor; it had seen worse, anyway. Cradled the fragile little bones close and sent that call forward like a pulse: you come back, now. You come home.

She felt the girl stir, felt—oh, gods, the hunger, the immediate trust in response to a single tender touch! The girl’s face turned towards her without hesitation, curling into her arms, barely alive but alive enough to cling, never mind that surely the last thing she remembered was being stabbed to death.

She was still bleeding. Near dying. Thea fumbled in her satchel for a healing potion, forcing it past the girl’s lips. The girl blinked—golden eyes, bright and sweet as the summer sun—and sipped obediently.

She didn’t seem half aware of where she was, who Thea was, and her eyes were already slipping shut again, but the color was returning to her cheeks, so Thea wouldn’t begrudge her a bit of a nap. Scooping the little one into her arms, she stood, making her way carefully over to Fawn in the barn.

The children exclaimed when they saw Thea. There was an odd ringing in Thea’s ears, though, so she couldn’t half make out what Fawn was saying, only knew that she would not let anyone else touch this girl. Fawn was a fighter, not a healer, and the kids didn’t know shit, and the girl was on the very fucking brink of death, and here they were in the middle of fucking nowhere—

“—Jaheira,” Fawn was saying. “She said something about a, a grove—”

Thea let out a sobbing gasp and sat down hard on the ground.

“Oh, lovey,” said Fawn, all shaky, “it’s okay! She’s stable, isn’t she? We can move her. Here, we—I won’t touch her, just—just put her down, all right? See how those potions are helping. Doesn’t look like she’s bleeding as much.”

The girl’s flesh was knitting back together—badly scarred, Thea realized, because she’d gone for a fucking healing potion instead of her divine fucking magic, gods take her, she was fucking useless in a crisis. Her eyes were closed, her breathing raspy, but she was breathing, which was the best fucking news Thea’d gotten all day.

She reached out and touched the girl’s face. The girl mumbled something incoherent and almost smiled, rubbing her cheek against Thea’s gauntleted hand. Didn’t even make half the fuss Norie and Rosie did about the cold, prickly metal—it was enough for her to just be touched.

“Thea,” Fawn was saying. “Thea, Jaheira’s sent a—”

Thea reached for the parchment and realized Fawn must have taken it. She would have felt angry if the world was working the right way. With bloodstained hands, she gripped the parchment, staring down at Jaheira’s anxious script, clearly in response to whatever Fawn had told her: That does not at all sound like Althea. Is she all right? Give her over to me.

Thea wrote, Grive directins, distantly aware that things were being misspelled.

Althea, what has happened?

Thea couldn’t tell her; it was too awful. Help, she wrote instead, which she knew would worry Jaheira, but fuck if she didn’t need it right now. The girl was going to fucking die in front of them.

Jaheira didn’t respond. Fawn said, “We do have the grove directions already. We’ll wait out the storm—”

“No,” said Thea.

“Thea, you need to think critically,” Fawn pressed. “We can stabilize her here to the best of our abilities—”

“I have to do it,” said Thea, “or someone else who knows how, and I’m already fucking it up; I can’t cast like this. I c-can’t focus like this.” She touched the girl’s face again, heart steadying when the girl repeated that sweet little motion—reached up, this time, to brush her fingers sleepily against Thea’s own in return. Oh, the sweet little thing! “She needs to be at that grove now, Fawn.”

“You can’t just—”

Thea wasn’t listening. She picked the girl up again and moved past Fawn and the kids, which wasn’t too hard; they weren’t expecting her to really leave, because she was their guide, she was sensible, she kept a cool head in a crisis. Well, this went far past crisis and well into cataclysmic. Suppose Faenor Glorie had been right about thunder and lightning, all along.

The girl was mumbling in her sleep—something about animals, or angels. Thea smoothed wet hair away from her face. Her horrible little dress was muddied and bloodied; Thea resolved to get the girl a hundred new dresses as soon as they reached Baldur’s Gate. As soon as she was well again. She knew it in her bones, knew like she’d known Norie, Rosie, Jaheira: this girl was one of hers.

“…sorry,” the girl shivered. “Sorry s-sorry sorry.”

If Thea wasn’t wearing the stupid fucking armor, she’d be able to hold the girl close, keep her warmer. She tried not to think about that. She pressed forward.

The path went sideways into the forest, so Thea followed. Hard to navigate when the world spun with rage and grief, but she was doing her best. She knew which way was westward, anyway, and as soon as she got the girl settled she’d have it in her to go back for Fawn and the kids, so that was a plan. She was planning. It was fine.

Her foot caught on something. With a warrior’s training, she steadied herself and the girl, squinting in the rain and the low light to see what she’d almost tripped over.

Another fucking body. What a fucking day. No, that wasn’t right, Thea had tripped over a root—and it looked like whoever had fallen had done the same thing, tumbling down at exactly the right angle to half crack her head open on a tree. She was forcing herself to her elbows, the rain on her face, the blood coming down with it. So white she looked like a ghost, with long, limp black hair that could have been pretty, once.

Her eyes were unfocused. She didn’t look right. Instinctively, Thea drew the girl closer.

The movement caught the woman’s attention. Her eyes landed on the girl, bloodied, and she looked back up at Thea like Thea was judge, jury, and executioner. She didn’t say anything. She didn’t have to. There was blood under her fingernails, on her beautiful dress, blood that even the rain hadn’t washed out.

For the first time in a very long time, Thea wanted to kill someone. She was a battle cleric, yeah, but that had never meant she was the sort to savor death, to go out of her way looking for an excuse to bring her hammer down. She did it for the good of whatever battle she was trying to win, not—not because this woman had blood on her dress, and was staring at Thea with horror—and, crucially, without guilt. She was unhappy to be caught.

Thea said, voice shaking, “Who’s this girl to you?”

The woman didn’t answer. She said, “Mari? Marigold. Marigold, you’re being a tad dramatic, don’t you think?” and at this point, Thea realized that the woman was dying. “Marigold,” said the woman, “you look at me when I’m talking to you. You look at me. You’re burdening our guest. I have—” She coughed up blood of her own. It trickled down her mouth. “I have set the table with the silver tea set,” said the woman. “I have the ribbons in my hair, the ribbons from my youth, I—I am a lady, I am Lady Olympia Northaven, I have waited so long for a fair stranger to come and—and rescue me—from my drudgery—”

“This your daughter?” said Thea.

The woman’s eyes flashed and she said, “She is a mistake.”

Only the thing was—Thea was realizing this—if she stood here any longer, her little girl would die. She could put Mari down, smash the woman’s brains in against the tree, feel the fucking wonder and the righteousness of it, but Marigold would die. And, gods, she’d never wanted to kill someone more, never, but standing here in the rain was wasting seconds she did not fucking have. She bundled Marigold into her arms and kept moving.

“Mari?” the woman called. “Mari! No, you’re not here for her, you’re here for me! You’re here for me!” She was screaming it, loud enough to near drown out the rain, hysterical, dying. “I’ve waited! I’ve waited!”

Thea walked past Lady Olympia Northaven and brought to mind all the best things in the world, the calming things: Norie’s rare, wicked smile, and Ros scrambling over like an eager puppy to hug her whenever she came home, and Jaheira, who would hear this story, weeks from now, and somehow know the rightest, wisest thing to say about it.

Marigold’s fingers curled against the metal of Thea’s armor. Against her heart.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

The grove was fucking five minutes away. Felt ridiculous to have worried so much about it. Thea forced Jaheira’s name out of her lips—not that she’d much needed to throw it round; the druids saw the girl and didn’t even bother asking any questions. One of them tried to scoop Marigold away and Thea held on tight, and another one said, “We only wish to help your daughter, saer, I promise,” at which point Thea realized in full what she’d gotten herself into and her legs gave way. So then the druids were fussing over them both, for some reason.

Marigold was in the same room as her. The druids were willing to compromise on that. Thea watched her like a hawk, shaking, terrified that at any moment the potion and the spell would prove themselves too weak a tether to keep the little one alive, and then she’d be gone, and Thea wouldn’t have even fucking killed the monster who did this to her. Her own armor was removed; she was looked over, and healed, though she didn’t need it. It didn’t help. She watched Marigold.

One of the druids asked, “Was there anyone else in your party?”

“Fawn,” said Thea. “Lianne. Chester.”

“And what happened to them?”

“Barn,” said Thea. “They’re—sheltering, I—they weren’t hurt.” It was an immense effort to string together a sentence. She was halfway to another one when her eyes landed on—a druid. A druid with silver hair, feline grace, and a drawn, terrified expression, hurtling up to her and—

“Althea, you imbecile!” said Jaheira, and pulled her into a shockingly tight hug. She was soaked to the bone, just like Thea, which probably meant she’d been out in the rain too.

Thea let her cheek fall exhaustedly against Jaheira’s shoulder. “Got here fast,” she said weakly. Usually she would have argued with Jaheira about her being there when she’d a thousand more important things to do, and gods only knew how she’d gotten to the grove as fast as she had, but just having her there was—she didn’t have the words for it.

“You wrote help!” said Jaheira. “You never do that!” She pulled back to get a better look at Thea’s face. Thea realized that she’d stopped looking at Marigold and looked past Jaheira, who followed her gaze. “What…?” Jaheira breathed.

“Her mum killed her,” said Thea, and then again, hysterically, “her mum killed her.”

Jaheira raised a nervous hand halfway to Thea’s face, let it sort of hang in midair, and said, shakily, “And have you not seen worse in your time on the road? What has happened? Really?”

“No, I’m done,” said Thea fiercely. “I’m fucking done. I fucking hate it out here; I want to go back and see my girls. She’s so little, she’s—” Gods, was she crying? Who fucking gave one? It was the night for it. That little girl had died under her hands. “You’d never,” she said, grabbing Jaheira’s hands in her own. “You would never.”

“Of course I would never,” Jaheira whispered. “No mother would.”

“How do you do it?” forced out Thea. “How did it not—you love your kids, I know you do, and they love you. How can you keep doing this without going fucking mad?”

Jaheira’s mouth trembled and her fingers laced with Thea’s. She said, “I am sustained by the love and the grief of my friends. They hold what I cannot. And you—you hold so much in your heart that you are spilling over.” She tugged a hand free, swiping a tear away from Thea’s cheek with her thumb. “I must insist that you stop adventuring,” she said. “You will see worse if you continue. This is…” She looked truly worried. “I have never seen you like this.”

“I’d half stopped already,” said Thea raggedly, “I just—thought, I don’t know, showing Fawn and her kids the ropes could be—and she asked, and I do owe her, and—”

“This sort of thing is hardly a usual occurrence,” Jaheira pointed out. She removed her hand from Thea’s face, pulling out a soaking wet handkerchief, and dabbed very awkwardly at Thea’s cheeks.

“What,” said Thea, “trying to make it worse?”

Jaheira let out a startled bark of laughter that knocked a laugh out of Thea as well. The smile on Jaheira’s face—oh, it did settle her. Brought the world back into focus, at least a bit.

“The route you chose was sensible, uneventful, and you assumed reasonably that it would be relatively unpopulated,” Jaheira observed, in the tone she used for Harper briefings, continuing to stubbornly dab at Thea’s face with the wet handkerchief. Thea tried to wriggle away and found herself held fast. “There was no possible way you could have predicted stumbling upon whatever the hells this was.”

Thea swallowed. She said, “Ran into her mum.”

“Oh?” said Jaheira, dangerously. The handkerchief paused.

“Probably dead now,” said Thea. She added belatedly, “I didn’t kill her.”

Jaheira’s eyes flicked over towards Marigold and back again. She said, “I think that I would have.”

Thea felt a rush of feeling too big to be contained. “I’m glad you’re here,” she said, breathlessly. “I did need you, Jaheira, I’m—I’m so glad you came.”

Jaheira’s face trembled like she’d been waiting to hear something like that for a lot longer than just her showing up at the grove that night. “Hethtalos, I will always come when you ask,” she said. “You are my constant.”

“Gods,” said Thea, smiling miserably, “I’m too fucking tired to figure out how to make you regret saying that.”

Jaheira let out a wet laugh and squeezed Thea’s shoulder. “I will talk to the rest of the druids. You keep an eye on your daughter.”

Bless her girl. She always knew the shape these things took.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Marigold ached. She wasn’t where she last remembered being; it was softer and warmer than anywhere she could remember, at least recently, and someone was singing to her. Something about flowers.

There was a hand in her hair. Couldn’t be mum, then. There was something about mum that she needed to remember, but she didn’t need to now, so she let it go. She felt scrubbed clean, and the fabric against her skin was soft, and there was a hand in her hair. The voice was low and a bit croaky and it shook sometimes, in places.

Someone said, “I will—I will have to leave, you know, I was in the middle of—”

The singing stopped. The low voice said, “Even half a second of you’s enough to put the world to rights. You go where you’re needed next, Commander; I have this well in hand.”

A soft noise. A rustle. The hand in Marigold’s hair left, for a moment, before returning. The song resumed. Marigold tried to listen to the lyrics, but they felt as though they were coming from underwater.

Thank you, she wanted to say, but she was ever so tired, so she reached for the hand in her hair and held it and hoped that that would be good enough. It didn’t feel like mum’s soft hand; it was rough and broad and the fingers shook when they closed round hers, like they’d never been touched nicely before now. Marigold hung on tighter.

“Marigold,” breathed the voice. She’d never heard her name said like that before. She wanted to hear it again, forever.

It was so, so hard to speak. She tried anyway. Whisper-soft, she murmured, “Can you—sing? More?”

The voice started up again. Shook a bit more, this time. Marigold held onto the hand until she’d fallen asleep again.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Marigold woke up slowly. It hurt. The world around her felt lit with a soft glow, warmer than the cold barn and the rain, and she had the distinct sense that she was forgetting something important. She felt a hand stroke her face, which she wasn't used to; it felt like a hungry gash of teeth was opening up in her at just the touch. She pressed her face into the hand.

“There's a good girl,” said a voice she didn't know, or half-knew; it sounded like a voice she might have dreamt, maybe. It couldn't be familiar when she only knew Elodie and Reverie and mum—her thoughts did a funny stutter-stop, refusing to dwell on their names. She tried to open her eyes all the way.

“No, you get your rest, don't start pushing yourself,” said the voice, but Marigold knew that no one really meant that when they said it; it was a snare trap meant to get you to close your eyes so they'd tell you later how lazy and useless you were. She forced her eyes open.

The hand on her face belonged to a woman—smaller and stockier than mum, and a lot older, with a lined, scarred face that looked like it should have been angrier than it was. Her eyes were as soft as the little animals Marigold saw in the forest sometimes. She was looking at Marigold like Marigold was someone she knew. She said, again, “Get sleep, why don't you? It's been a day and change. You need your rest.”

Marigold wanted to say something, but the words stuck in her throat. Words could warrant a knife to the chest. (She didn't know why she'd thought that.) She stared at the woman, unmoving, because if she didn't move, the woman wouldn't take her hand away, probably, and they could stay like this forever.

The woman's hand moved from Marigold's cheek to her shoulder. She said, “You going to lie down, then, or just stare?”

Marigold squeezed her eyes tightly shut, just in case staring was wrong and she hadn't realized.

“Oh, Mari, it's all right, you can look,” coaxed the woman.

Marigold's eyes flew open. How do you know my name? she wanted to ask, but that meant speaking, and she wasn't sure she could do that. She always seemed to say much too much when people gave her room to speak, and she didn't want to ruin whatever this was with her mile-a-minute mouth. 

The woman tilted her head at Marigold, smiled, and said, “Well, your name couldn't be anything but Marigold, could it? That hair of yours…”

Marigold hated her hair. It was red and curly and ugly and it wasn't anything like her family's. It wasn't Northaven hair, it was elf hair. Rotten hair. Wrong.

The woman seemed to see the shadow crossing Marigold's face. “What's wrong?” she asked, gently, in the same tone of voice mum used when Reverie or Elodie was hurt.

Tears sprung immediately to Marigold's eyes. She tucked her head forward. The ache in her chest was spreading and it felt enough to bleed and kill. 

The woman caught Marigold's face in her hands again and pressed their foreheads together, briefly, which wasn't the sort of thing anyone had done to Marigold before. The ache worsened. “Budge up,” said the woman, and shifted onto the soft bed next to Marigold, tucking her into her side. She was a bit smaller than Marigold, but she felt bigger, somehow. “Now, what sort of stories do you like?”

Marigold didn't like that question. It made her think about sitting on the barn roof and staring in at mum in between Reverie and Elodie in bed, telling them stories with the window half-open like she knew Marigold was listening, only she'd caught Marigold up there once and threatened to push her off herself if she caught Marigold up there again. She had only heard some of the stories, and they'd all been sweet enough to make her chest hurt, lords and ladies and princesses. She would have loved those stories if she'd been allowed in the room for them.

She didn't want to be here. She didn't know why she was here. She didn't want to be anywhere.

“Easy, bunny,” breathed the woman, and Marigold realized she was shaking, which was hardly respectful of how nice this woman was being to her for no apparent reason. “Nothing too scary, then? All right. Why don't I tell you...ah, fuck,” she muttered, and Marigold looked up at her, delightedly scandalized. “I've not got a single story without blood in it.”

Marigold wanted to say something, now, so badly, and if the words would stick together long enough to make a sentence she would do it. She wanted to say, please, please, please tell me a bloody story, because that wasn't one mum would have ever told to Evie and Ella, proper ladies in the making. She stared eagerly at this suddenly very interesting woman who said rude words in front of children and couldn't think of good bedtime stories for little girls.

The woman took in Marigold's expression with surprise, at first, and then it gave way to a somehow even warmer look. She moved forward and pinched Marigold's cheek. “Little ghoul,” she said, but words that would have stung from mum didn't sting, here, at all. “You're the sort who likes a good battle, then?”

Marigold nodded and nodded, curls bouncing.

The woman's eyes went all soft and she said, “Brave little warrior girl.” She pulled Marigold in close and settled them both against the pillows. “When I was a girl—much older than you, I suppose, but forty to dwarves is still barely grown—there was a woman who they called the Whisper-Dagger, on account of the way she could kill with just her words. Not a wizard, mind, she just knew the way the world worked, and who made it work, and how, and those paying enough attention to do that can wrap the world round their little finger if they like.”

That sounded interesting. Marigold hoped that the Whisper-Dagger was the hero of this story.

“She was…” The woman turned a funny color, and said delicately, “a friend of mine, at the time. She was second in line to inherit her family's title, but she didn't mind all that; her sister could be the face of the family and she could do what she wanted on the side. Only one day, her sister turned up dead in the middle of family dinner, and because she and I were, were friends, she asked me to look into it, investigate.

“Well, I did, and what I found was fucking awful. The sister had been a good sort, but she'd had a lover before her husband, and the lover hadn't taken kindly to her marrying someone else. He had ties to the worst parts of the under-city, so there wasn't a court in the world that would touch him—no chance he'd end up jailed for what he'd done, no matter what it was. And that was a good girl he'd killed, all because he couldn't have her.”

Marigold shivered. The woman tucked her hair behind her ear and asked, “Too much for you, bunny?”

She shook her head. She didn't care what was being said if it was being said to her, for her to listen to.

“Well,” said the woman, “I was angry as the hells and twice as ready to burn the bastard down. The Whisper-Dagger couldn't do what she'd used to without putting the whole family at risk, now that she was the head of it and people were paying attention to her, so it fell on me to handle the thing, and handle it I did. Marched right into that fucker's office and challenged him to a fight at dawn—and I was young, and small, and didn't have half the muscles and scars I did now.” With her free arm, she flexed, surprising a whispering laugh out of Marigold. Her eyes shone with delight.

“So of course he said yes. Bastard thought it'd be an easy fight. But I brought my hammer when he was ready for a sword. I remember,” the woman smiled fondly, “he started laughing when he saw me, said gods, of course the dwarf would bring a hammer to a duel! But that's the thing, bunny,” she tapped Marigold's nose, “I said fight, he heard duel. Duels mean you have rules. Fights mean you don't. I ran in, broke his knees, pummeled him half to death, and that—” She stopped, searching Marigold's face. “You're sure you're all right hearing this?”

Marigold nodded with infuriated eagerness. They could hardly stop now!

“That,” continued the woman, “was when he started begging for his life. Started saying oh, please, please, Thea, it was a crime of passion, I was just so angry, I'll never do it again—” She smiled grimly. “And I didn't say anything back, because that was the Whisper-Dagger's sister. She was a good girl who'd done nothing but love, and love truly. Made the mistake of loving wrong once, but she hadn't done it again. She'd deserved life. He'd taken it away. Laughed in my face when I told him he should see justice for what he'd done. Second chances are for people who know they've done wrong.”

Marigold imagined mum under Thea’s hammer for half a moment, then flinched away. She didn't want to think about that.

Thea’s expression twisted nervously. She pulled back a little and said, “Sorry. That's—” and then Marigold realized that maybe Thea thought she'd said something wrong, which wasn't right at all, so she moved forward and wrapped her arms tightly round Thea’s neck. Thea made a muffled noise of surprise, then reached up to hold her, and said, “Bunny,” in that tone of voice you used when you were going to keep something forever, come hell or high water.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

The High Harper was soaking wet in their kitchen. The only unusual bit about this sentence was the soaking wet bit, not really the High Harper bit or the kitchen bit; Jaheira in their kitchen was really just every other week, usually. Norie took this in, then went to go get the towels from upstairs, which meant it was Ros's job to sort out the hows and the whys of this whole situation.

“Everyone all right?” she asked carefully. She knew Thea wasn't dead, because if Thea was dead, Jaheira would have looked twelve times worse. But something had happened, because it wasn't even misting outside. “Fall in a canal?”

Jaheira sat down heavily at the kitchen table. She massaged her temples. “Your mother will be a few days late returning,” she said. “She asked me to let you know as soon as possible.” 

“O…kay,” said Ros slowly. “Still doesn't explain why you're drenched.”

“It was raining,” said Jaheira.

Ros turned slowly to look at the bright, sunny sky out the window.

“Not here,” said Jaheira. “There. Where your mother is.”

“Sorry,” said Ros, eyes widening, “you were with her?”

“Now is not the time,” said Jaheira shortly. She raised her head to look at Ros, with those steely eyes that meant she was about to say something really fucking important. “She is bringing back a little girl,” she said. “Fifteen. A year older than Lenora, but much smaller. Delicate. You and Lenora need to be prepared.”

Norie, who had been coming back in with the towels, stopped with a very pensive look on her face, which Ros understood completely. Thea didn't just go around picking up kids willy-nilly, and Jaheira didn't just drop everything she was doing to go check up on Thea—well, all right, Jaheira did do that, but usually not long-distance, and definitely not unless Thea asked her to do it, which in and of itself was a pretty fucking rare occurrence.

“What's this girl like, then?” Ros asked lightly, testing the waters.

Jaheira said, “Her mother stabbed her to death.”

Ros flinched back. So did Norie. Jaheira looked at them as if to say see? “She is an incredibly fragile sort,” she continued, “and she is not likely to respond well to…exuberance.”

Well, that one was clearly for Ros.

“Or antipathy.”

That one was clearly for Norie.

“Be gentle,” concluded Jaheira. “Both of you. As much as you can. With her, and…” She wavered. “And with your mother. She was badly shaken when I arrived.”

Ah, hells. “Is she okay?” Ros asked anxiously. “Should we—I don't know, go and visit her too?"”

“It is a bit of a ways away,” said Jaheira, smiling wryly, “and my means of transportation was very much emergencies-only. Your mother asked that I assure you both she is doing better now, which I can corroborate.”

“How are you?” Norie asked. It was the first thing she'd said since coming back with the towels.

Jaheira's face softened and she said something in Elven that Ros didn't know, but that made Norie blush a little and smile awkwardly. In Common, she said, “I am fine, spider. Thank you.”

Norie leaned down to drape the towel round Jaheira's shoulders, tucking it in place. Ros said, “Look, stay a bit, why don't you? We'll make you something nice.”

“I…” Jaheira wavered.

“You're dead on your feet, Commander,” Ros pressed. “Stay.”

She didn't bring out Commander often. It was part of the reason she tossed round stepmummy like she did, because when she did call Jaheira Commander, Jaheira looked startled, then touched, then gave in without very much arguing, which was what happened now. “…I could do with some of Lenora's hot chocolate,” she conceded, “if it is not too much trouble. The rain was quite cold.”

“Spiked?” Norie offered.

"You are fourteen; you are not supposed to know how to do that," said Jaheira severely.

“Spiked?” Norie repeated, as if Jaheira hadn't spoken.

“Hmph!” said Jaheira.

“We both know that's not a no. I'm putting alcohol in,” said Norie, and headed towards the cupboards. Jaheira smiled with annoyed appreciation and drew the towel a bit closer round her.

Ros followed Norie. As quietly as she could manage, she whispered, “Hey, Norie, what'd she say to you?”

“The translation is a bit ambiguous,” said Lenora. “The word can mean either busy-body or meddling daughter.” She smiled sweetly. “I like to think it's busy-body.”

“It isn't,” said Jaheira.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Marigold was a lovely name, of course, but Thea had landed on bunny and it was hard to stop after she'd started. The girl was twitchy, soft, wide-eyed, and she had a way of tilting her head that was a bit rabbitish in nature. She trembled when touched, but she didn't move away, just stared and stared with golden eyes that held the warmth and brightness of twin stars. She would smile on occasion, a barely-there little twitch of the mouth, and Thea always felt like she'd won a thousand medals of valor, bringing that smile forward. 

She ate sparingly. It was hard to convince her to eat at all, and harder still to find out why, but Thea thought it might have to do with that stick-thin woman in the woods who looked like she hadn't eaten a day herself. 

“I own a bakery in the city, you know,” she said. “Baldur's Gate. Bit of a distance from here, but the things we make! Breads, pastries, hot chocolate, fruit juice when the fruit's in season. You like fruit juice, bunny?”

This earned her only a blankly curious expression. 

“You ever had fruit juice?”

The red curls shook no.

“Oh, now, that can't be abided by,” Thea gently teased. “When we get home, we'll see what we can do.”

Marigold froze. She looked more frightened than Thea had ever seen her. The red curls shook no, again and again, no, no, no, no, no.

“Bunny,” Thea breathed, catching her gently by the shoulders. Marigold tried to squirm away. “Bunny, bunny, look at me. Look at me. What's wrong?”

Marigold shook her head. 

“You don't want to come home with me?”

Marigold's hands moved to her chest. The scar. The—

“Oh, fuck no, I'm not taking you back to her,” said Thea furiously, which stilled Marigold immediately into shaky relief. “I'd rather fucking kill myself. I say home and I mean my home, Mari, not your home. I want to take you to Baldur's Gate.” She hesitated. “It is a bit of a distance,” she said slowly, “so if you—want—to stay here, in the grove—”

Marigold let out a hiccupping sob. Her hands moved up and over Thea's hands on her shoulders like she couldn't half believe they were there. Held Thea fast, where she was.

“Do you want to stay?” Thea asked. 

Marigold shook her head, not half so urgently this time.

Heart pounding, Thea asked, “Do you want to come back to the bakery with me?”

Nodding, emphatically, so hard the little girl was shaking in place all over again.

Thea cupped Marigold's face in her hands. She said, a wet laugh in her voice, “We'll make a baker of you yet,” and Marigold smiled brightly enough to rival the sun.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Heading homeward. 

Jaheira traced the lines with her finger before responding. How is Marigold?

I'll give the quill over.

A long pause, followed by a few curious, swirling scribbles—then, charmingly, meticulously, Thea's own words mimicked in a wobbly hand, letter by letter. I'll give the quill over.

Clever girl! Jaheira wrote, enchanted. Should I assume she has not written before?

Clever girl! echoed the quill, still in that unsteady handwriting. Should I assume she has not written before?

Then, in Thea's print, Never, I think, but she's fucking obsessed with the parchment. You mind writing some things she can copy?

Jaheira considered. She wrote Marigold, and watched the quill repeat it, then write it four more times with increasing excitement; clearly Thea had explained what the word was. She wrote Thea, and after a long pause, this one was picked up and written all over the parchment, everywhere, every corner, scribbled frantically and delightedly and with too much love for one piece of parchment to contain. 

When the writing had faded away, Jaheira considered, then, testing out a suspicion, drew a perfect heart.

Another pause—not as long—and then: 

Marigold ♥ Thea

Marigold ♥ Thea

Marigold ♥ Thea

Thea ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ Thea Thea Thea

This seemed as though it might be going on for quite a while. Jaheira set the parchment aside. When she picked it up again, Thea had written, Fuck you; I nearly started fucking crying in front of her and that's your fucking fault. Go fuck yourself.

Jaheira ♥ Thea, Jaheira wrote back. Satisfyingly, Thea did not seem to have a response to this.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Roslin, Marigold wrote. Lenora. Thea. Marigold. Marigold. Jaheira. Marigold. Roslin. Thea. Thea. Thea. Lenora. Roslin. Thea. Marigold. Jaheira. Some of the names meant things to her and others were only abstract ideas. She wanted to ask Thea how to write bunny, but she'd need more words for that, and she still didn't have them yet. 

It was nice, too, that Thea didn't ask her to talk, or—well, do anything, really. Mum usually had something to say about what Marigold was or wasn't doing, but all Thea seemed to want to do was spend time with her, which was usually warm and cozy and involved Marigold listening to lots of different stories about all the things Thea had done. She was old—older than mum, even, who was the oldest of the people Marigold had known—and she'd done a lot of traveling, gone everywhere, but she said her favorite part was her girls at home, which did make Marigold a bit nervous. She'd been part of a family, a mum and two girls, and that hadn't gone well, so maybe this wouldn't either. What if she got there and the girls didn't like her? What if the girls not liking her made Thea stop liking her too?

Roslin, she wrote. Lenora. She tried to imagine them. Reverie and Elodie had names that sounded almost the same, but they couldn't have been more different. Lenora, Thea had said, was a human, but Roslin was a tiefling, and growing up in the woods with mum and her sisters meant that Marigold hadn't ever met a tiefling before. Or a dwarf, before Thea. She'd decided that she loved dwarves, based largely on the fact that one of them was Thea.

Tieflings had horns. Thea tried to draw one on the parchment, and then the parchment drew a better tiefling than Thea, and Thea wrote fuck off on the parchment, which Marigold had started to recognize by sight by now. She didn't exactly remember Jaheira, but apparently Jaheira had been there when Marigold had been healing. There were still parts of this that didn't make sense, but she didn't quite know how to ask about them. She almost didn't want to. She was afraid that asking would make it all fall apart.

The ride back to the city was long, and Marigold spent most of the road-time writing on the parchment to Jaheira, who would give her words to copy. Balance. Sunlight. Tree. Grass. Sky. Flower. Marigold was a kind of flower, so she wrote Marigold and flower next to each other, and Jaheira drew a little heart, which Thea had said meant love, so Marigold decided that she loved Jaheira too. Marigold ♥ Jaheira, she wrote, and Jaheira didn't write any more words for a few minutes, which made Thea laugh and laugh and laugh. “It's not on you, bunny,” she managed. “She's not used to people saying they love her. Doesn't always know how to say it back.”

Well, Marigold would make her used to it. She wrote Marigold ♥ Jaheira until it covered the paper, at which point Thea said that it'd probably take more than just one day to get the message across, and didn't Marigold want to learn a few more new words? Then she wrote something on the paper that Marigold didn't yet know how to read, but that got Jaheira to start writing long sentences back. 

The times they weren't on the road, they were in cities, with Thea getting food for her and for Marigold and having long conversations with people about how much money was too much money for food. Marigold tried honey and liked it so much that Thea bought her seven jars, and said that they couldn't eat it while they traveled but they could bring it home and she could have more there. “On bread,” she said. “Can't just eat sugar.”

Which mum had said to Reverie and Elodie before, but not the way Thea said it to Marigold—a loving reminder, not an indictment. Marigold ate four slices of bread with honey and no one said she was stuffing her face. Thea said she was so glad to see Marigold eating.

Thea wrote bread, honey, city, Baldur's Gate. Thea wrote fruit, apples, berries. She got them a sunmelon when they were three days from the city and chopped it with an axe, which Marigold hadn't even known women were allowed to do; mum had always said the knives and the axes weren't for girls. But Thea was strong and wore armor and chopped sunmelons, and the chopping was the best, because it meant Marigold could sink her teeth into the red, watery insides and let the juice run down her mouth.

Jaheira wrote green, red, brown, silver. Jaheira wrote blue, purple, pink, green. She wrote green a few times, like she was trying to make sure Marigold remembered it. Thea said, “Jaheira's a druid who lives in the city and it's hard on her sometimes,” which made Marigold wonder what kind of city Baldur's Gate was. They'd been to a few cities now and Marigold liked them so much more than nature, where there was no one around. Cities, everyone was there, and everyone had things to say. They'd say get out of the way, they'd say five silver pieces for a butter roll, they'd say a dress for the little one, saer? And Marigold got to watch Thea say YOU get out of the fucking way, fucker, or five silver for some moldy bread? You're fucking kidding me, or make it seven dresses, which was probably the best thing she could have ever said. Marigold got to change out of the clothes the druids had made her and into a dress that was yellow and green.

Thea said, “Norie might steal that when you get home, you know,” and off of Marigold's nervous expression, hastened to say, “Oh, you'll still keep it! Norie likes to embroider. She'll add some pretty flowers to the dress, give it back to you, it's just she doesn't usually ask before she adds things.”

Marigold didn't really see the point in asking to add flowers to someone's dress. Dresses were unilaterally better with flowers. Lenora sounded like she was just being smart about it.

Jaheira wrote, Scornubel, Triel, Elturel, Candlekeep. Rivington. Baldur's Gate.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Thea came back on a big old cart with fruits and breads piled high in the back. She jumped down and ran over and hugged Roslin and Lenora like she hadn't seen them in years, then pulled back to look at them, smiling all wobbly. “I'm not leaving,” she said. “I'm done.”

“Wow,” said Roslin, “this latest trip must have been really fucking terrible if you're all done making trips out of the city—”

“Missed you girls too much,” said Thea, which shut Roslin up. Lenora's heart swelled. “How's it been, spider?”

“Oh, you know,” said Lenora. “There was a wet Jaheira in the kitchen a few days ago.”

“So basically, yeah, you really do need to be home more,” said Roslin, which made Thea go crimson.

Lenora shoved Roslin sideways. She fell over laughing. 

There was a rustle of movement from the cart, like someone was trying to hide behind some of the fruits. Thea turned, her face softening. “Going to have to coax her down,” she said. “Give us a minute.”

Roslin and Lenora watched as Thea moved back up towards the cart. The girl really was little, Lenora thought; she looked closer to eight or nine than fifteen, which seemed a lot like Jaheira's daughter Rion, who had grown up slower on account of the half-elf thing. She was indeed a bit thinner than what seemed healthy. She stumbled a bit getting out of the cart, and gripped Thea's shoulder.

“Oh my gods,” said Roslin. “Oh my gods. Norie, I know Jaheira said no exuberance, but she's literally the cutest thing I've ever seen. I thought we were getting, like, another you or something?! But she's a baby?!”

No antipathy would not be half as hard a directive to follow. Lenora knew exactly what Roslin was talking about. The girl was barely taller than Thea and clung to her side as though the rest of the world was all shadow-monsters. 

“Mari,” Thea coaxed, “this is Ros, and that's Norie. Ros, Norie, you want to introduce—?”

“I'M ROS!” said Roslin very loudly, then clapped her hands over her mouth. “Fuck!” she said, mouth covered. “Sorry! You're just so tiny! Anyone ever told you how tiny you are? You're the littlest thing I've ever seen! You're—”

“Stop that,” said Lenora. “You're embarrassing yourself.”

Marigold's nervous expression was giving way to one of fascinated curiosity. Her eyes lingered on Roslin's horns. Jealously, Lenora wished she had horns, if it meant the little one would pay attention to her.

“Norie?” Thea prompted.

Lenora tried for a smile. It came out more of a nervous grimace. “I'm…Lenora," she supplied. “I like your dress.”

Marigold waved at them both, frantically and still a bit apprehensively. Her free hand tightened on Thea's shoulder. 

“You'll warm up to each other,” said Thea, mostly to Marigold. “They're good girls. Ros's just a bit overexcited; she's the older-sisterly type, and she always likes taking care of girls younger than her. And Norie…” She smiled, and said, “Norie's scary, isn't she?”

Marigold took this in. A small, sweet grin illuminated her face as her eyes flicked towards Lenora. She shook her head.

Lenora was now certain that she would burn down a thousand cities for that little girl.

“No?” said Thea, mock-surprised. “Well, should have known that someone as brave as you wouldn't be felled by our Norie.”

Marigold fidgeted. She rummaged in her satchel. Thea said, “Oh, she's been working on something for you! Wouldn't show it to me, even, so it'll be a surprise for all of us,” and then she stopped, mouth trembling, as Marigold held the drawing up.

Carefully and shakily rendered in black ink: a tiefling, a human-ish figure, a slightly small and curly-haired girl, and a dwarf of about her size, all holding hands. The drawing had been captioned Hello! I'm Marigold! every letter formed inexpertly but with clear effort.

Roslin burst into tears. Lenora didn't even make fun of her for it. She knelt down in front of Marigold and said, “You got my hair just right,” softly, running her finger along the black ink of the drawing. 

Marigold smiled very shyly.

Lenora tried to imagine anyone stabbing this girl to death, and couldn't. It was Ilmater, wasn't it, who watched over those that suffered the most? Who eased their suffering, one way or another, and ensured that it ended? Ilmater, then, must have saved this girl, because imagining a world where Thea had never reached her in the single minute that could be used to revive her was a sickening fucking thought. She would leave an offering. She would become a cleric, maybe. Absolutely. She would be a cleric of Ilmater.

Tongue between her teeth, Marigold reached out to absently touch Lenora's hair, then jerked her hand back as if expecting a reprimand. Lenora said, “It's fine, Mari, Ros does worse to my hair all the time. Don't you, Ros?”

“I style it,” said Roslin, who was fighting to maintain composure.

“She turned it into a birds' nest last year,” said Lenora. “A literal birds' nest. Put fake birds in it. She never does this to her hair, just to mine—”

“Um, if I do it to my hair, you'll make fun of me,” Roslin countered. “If it's done to your hair, you get to complain to everyone about how annoying I am, which I know you like.”

“Shut up, I'm bonding with Marigold.”

“I'm bonding with Marigold! Marigold likes me better!” Roslin scrambled forward. “Mari, who do you like better, me or Norie?”

“Don't crowd her!!” said an outraged Lenora, elbowing Roslin away.

Marigold was watching them both with that adorable little half-smile. She turned the parchment over and was immediately handed a quill by Thea. She turned away from them all, scribbling on the back of her drawing, and held up the paper again.

Marigold ♥ Thea !!

“Oh, that's not even fair,” said Roslin. “She has an edge! She literally just spent the last three days buying you dresses and fruit and things. Well, I have money, Marigold, I can buy you even better dresses and fruit and things—”

“Thea's all our favorites,” said Lenora to Marigold, deciding to ignore Roslin. “We have that in common; that's nice, isn't it?”

Marigold nodded so emphatically that her curls shook. Lenora decided to visit the temple of Ilmater in two days' time and ask about what it would look like to be a cleric.

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Jaheira came to visit the next day with a bouquet of wildflowers: mostly marigolds, but there were quite a few daisies and violets in as well, and some sweet-smelling herbs. It was a visual cacophony. Thea was entirely unsurprised when Marigold lit up, hugged the bouquet, set the bouquet down, hugged Jaheira, hugged the bouquet again, gave the bouquet to Thea, and hugged Jaheira one more time.

“What was it you are calling her?” said Jaheira. “Bunny?” Her hand rested atop Marigold's head. “Seems apt.”

Marigold butted her forehead against Jaheira's hand. She let go and ran off into the kitchen.

Jaheira lowered her voice. “Althea, how—how are you? When we last spoke—”

“I can't half think about that night,” said Thea. She swallowed. “She is the sweetest little girl I've ever known. Loves easy as breathing. Trusts me with her life, and I can't say I'd do the same in her position—”

“You can't say you'd do the same?” Jaheira echoed skeptically. “Not even after you—?”

“We're not talking about it,” said Thea shortly, “I don't know how much she remembers, and I'm not dragging it up unless she mentions it first.”

Her eyes were still halfway following Marigold, who was running round the kitchen between Roslin and Lenora, standing on tiptoe to try and see what they were doing. Roslin caught her on one of her sprints and lifted her up to the counter, which made Marigold squeak and laugh in a way that at first seemed halfway frightened, then quickly became all the way joyful. Roslin called, “MUMMA COME IN HERE, WE'RE MAKING SCONES!”

Thea smiled wryly at Jaheira. “Duty calls.”

“The Lady of the Fray's strongest soldier,” said Jaheira. She squeezed Thea's shoulder. “You grow good things here.”

[vegaspetodorremoval]

Say Goodbye To Stains: Tips For Removing Dog Pee From Your Mattress

There's nothing quite as disheartening as discovering that your beloved furry friend has left an unwelcome surprise on your mattress. Dog pee stains can be a real hassle, but fear not! With the right tips and tricks, you can say goodbye to stains for good. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need How To Remove Dog Pee From A Mattress  so you can rest easily. Let's dive in!

Understanding Why Dogs Pee on Beds

Dogs may pee on beds for various reasons, from medical to behavioral problems. It could be a sign of anxiety or stress, significantly if their environment has changed recently. Sometimes, dogs mark their territory by urinating on things that carry their scent, like your mattress.

Sometimes, a dog might have a medical condition, such as a urinary tract infection or diabetes, that causes it to urinate indoors. Age-related issues can also lead to accidents on the bed. Understanding why your dog is peeing on the bed is crucial in addressing the root cause and preventing future incidents.

Observing your dog's behavior and consulting with a veterinarian if you suspect any underlying health issues is essential. By identifying the reason behind this behavior, you can take proactive steps to resolve it and keep your mattress clean and fresh.

Quick Tips for Cleaning Up Fresh Urine Stains

Imagine waking up to find your furry friend has left you a not-so-pleasant surprise on your mattress. It happens, and it's essential to act fast! The key to dealing with fresh urine stains is speed. The longer the mess sits, the harder it will be to remove.

Start by blotting up as much urine as possible using paper towels or a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing the stain, which can spread it further into the mattress fibers. Once you've soaked up what you can, mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.

Spritz the affected area generously with the vinegar solution and let it sit for a few minutes before gently blotting again. Then, sprinkle baking soda over the stain to help absorb any remaining odor. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming it up.

These quick tips can help tackle fresh urine stains effectively before they have a chance to set in and become more challenging to remove later on.

Effective Methods for Removing Old or Set-In Stains

Dealing with old or set-in dog pee stains on your mattress can be a real headache. These stubborn stains leave an unpleasant odor and pose a challenge to remove altogether. However, fret not, as there are effective methods you can try to tackle this issue.

Creating a cleaning solution using equal water and white vinegar is one method. Gently blot the stained area with this solution using a clean cloth, allowing it to sit for some time before rinsing with water.

Another approach is to sprinkle baking soda over the stain and then mix hydrogen peroxide with dish soap. Let the solution sit for a while before gently scrubbing away the residue.

Consider using enzymatic cleaners specifically designed to break down pet urine molecules effectively for tougher stains. Follow the instructions provided by the product for the best results in removing those pesky old stains from your mattress.

Preventing Future Accidents and Protecting Your Mattress

Consider using a waterproof mattress protector to prevent future accidents and protect your mattress. These handy covers are a barrier against spills or accidents, making cleanup much more accessible. Additionally, regularly wash your bedding to maintain a fresh and clean sleeping environment.

Training your dog is crucial in preventing future accidents on your bed. Consistent potty training and positive reinforcement can help reduce the likelihood of them peeing on the mattress. Providing regular bathroom breaks for your furry friend can also minimize accidents indoors.

If you notice any signs of anxiety or health issues in your dog that may be causing bed-wetting incidents, consult with a veterinarian for guidance on how to effectively address these concerns. Remember, patience and consistency are crucial to preventing accidents and protecting your mattress from unwanted stains caused by dog pee.

Alternative Solutions and Products for Tough Stains

When it comes to dealing with tough dog pee stains on your mattress, various alternative solutions and products can be effective. Enzymatic cleaners designed specifically for pet urine removal can work wonders in breaking down the stain's odor-causing components. You can also use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to create a powerful cleaning paste.

For persistent or stubborn stains, steam cleaning your mattress may provide a deeper clean and help eliminate any lingering odors. Additionally, investing in a waterproof mattress protector can prevent future accidents and keep your mattress safe from potential damage.

By following these tips and utilizing the right products, you can say goodbye to dog pee stains on your mattress for good. Remember, patience and persistence are key when tackling this common pet-related issue. With the proper approach, you can keep your mattress fresh and clean while enjoying quality time with your furry companion.

[soutourservices]

Choosing the Best Basement Finishing Contractors in West Bloomfield: A Complete Guide

When it comes to transforming your basement into a functional and stylish space, choosing the right contractor is crucial. Basement finishing is a significant investment, and you want to ensure the job is done correctly, efficiently, and within your budget. If you're in West Bloomfield, Michigan, you're in luck—this area is home to some of the most skilled Basement Finishing Contractors in West Bloomfield. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision and turn your basement into a space you’ll love.

Why Finish Your Basement?

A finished basement adds value to your home, creates additional living space, and can serve multiple purposes—whether it’s a home theater, gym, office, or guest suite. However, the key to a successful basement finishing project lies in hiring the right professionals.

How to Choose the Best Basement Finishing Contractors in West Bloomfield

Check Credentials and Experience Look for contractors with a proven track record in basement finishing. Ensure they are licensed, insured, and have experience working on projects similar to yours. For example, Soutoura Services (www.soutouraservices.com) specializes in basement finishing and has a portfolio of successful projects in West Bloomfield.

Read Reviews and Testimonials Online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into a contractor’s reliability, quality of work, and customer service. Look for contractors with consistently positive feedback.

Ask for a Detailed Estimate A reputable contractor will provide a transparent and detailed estimate, including labor, materials, and timelines. Avoid contractors who give vague quotes or pressure you into making quick decisions.

Evaluate Their Portfolio Review their past projects to gauge their expertise and style. A contractor with experience in Luxury Home Renovation in Bloomfield Hills or High-End Kitchen Remodeling in Grosse Pointe is likely to bring the same level of craftsmanship to your basement project.

Discuss Timelines and Communication Clear communication is essential for a smooth project. Ensure the contractor provides a realistic timeline and keeps you updated throughout the process.

Consider Additional Services If you’re planning other home improvement projects, such as Attic Insulation and Repair in Sterling Heights or Smart Home Installation in Bloomfield Hills, hiring a contractor who offers multiple services can save you time and money.

Why Choose Soutoura Services?

At Soutoura Services (www.soutouraservices.com), we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch basement finishing services in West Bloomfield. Our team of experts is dedicated to transforming your basement into a functional and beautiful space that meets your needs. Here’s why we stand out:

Comprehensive Services: From Waterproofing and Foundation Repair in Oakland County to Affordable Carpentry Services in Redford MI, we offer a wide range of home improvement solutions.

Attention to Detail: Whether it’s a Kitchen Remodeling Handyman in Birmingham MI or a Commercial Gutter Cleaning Service in Warren, we pay attention to every detail to ensure customer satisfaction.

Customer-Centric Approach: We work closely with our clients to understand their vision and deliver results that exceed expectations.

Tips for a Successful Basement Finishing Project

Plan Ahead: Decide how you want to use the space and discuss your ideas with your contractor.

Focus on Lighting: Basements often lack natural light, so invest in good lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Consider Waterproofing: Protect your investment by addressing any moisture issues before starting the project.

Choose Durable Materials: Opt for materials that can withstand humidity and temperature fluctuations.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best Basement Finishing Contractors in West Bloomfield doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following the tips outlined in this guide and working with a trusted contractor like Soutoura Services, you can transform your basement into a space that adds value and functionality to your home.

Ready to get started? Visit www.soutouraservices.com to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation today. Whether you’re looking for Luxury Home Renovation in Bloomfield Hills or Smart Home Installation in Bloomfield Hills, we’ve got you covered!

[adtindustriesmumbai]

How to Protect Bathroom Walls from Leakage

Bathroom wall leakage is a common issue that can lead to severe structural damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs if left unchecked. Proper waterproofing is essential to protect your walls from moisture and ensure long-term durability. ADT Industries, a leading waterproofing expert, offers high-quality Waterproofing Chemicals for Walls in Pune, Mumbai, and Maharashtra to help you safeguard your bathroom walls effectively.

Why Do Bathroom Walls Leak?

Before implementing waterproofing solutions, it's essential to understand the root causes of bathroom wall leakage:

Poor waterproofing during construction

Cracks and gaps in the wall structure

Improper tile sealing

Water seepage through grout lines

High humidity levels leading to condensation

By addressing these issues with the right waterproofing products, you can prevent costly damage and maintain a clean, moisture-free bathroom.

Best Ways to Protect Bathroom Walls from Leakage

1. Apply High-Quality Waterproofing Chemicals

To effectively prevent leakage, using Waterproofing Chemicals for Walls in Pune, Mumbai, and Maharashtra is crucial. Top brands like Dr. Fixit, Sika, Fosroc, Sunanda, and Zydex offer advanced waterproofing solutions that create a strong barrier against water penetration. Applying these coatings on walls before tiling ensures long-term protection.

2. Use Crack Fillers and Sealants

Cracks in the bathroom walls and joints are primary entry points for water. Using premium Crack Fillers and Sealants helps seal these gaps and prevent seepage. ADT Industries provides the best waterproofing products to ensure a completely leak-proof bathroom.

3. Invest in High-Quality Tile Adhesives

Loose or improperly fixed tiles can allow water to seep through the grout and reach the walls. Using Tile Adhesives from top brands like Fosroc and Sika ensures a strong bond between tiles and the wall, reducing the chances of water penetration.

4. Apply Water Repellent Coatings

For added protection, applying Water Repellent Coatings can help safeguard your bathroom walls. These coatings create a hydrophobic layer that prevents water absorption, keeping the walls dry and damage-free. Sunanda and Zydex offer some of the best water-repellent solutions available.

5. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Poor ventilation can lead to excess moisture buildup, which accelerates wall damage. Installing exhaust fans and keeping windows open in bathrooms located in areas like Shivajinagar, Koregaon Park, Kothrud, and Hinjewadi in Pune can help reduce humidity and prevent condensation.

6. Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Routine maintenance, such as checking for early signs of leakage and resealing grout lines, can help prevent major water damage. It is advisable to inspect bathroom walls frequently and take prompt action if any leaks are detected.

Conclusion

Protecting Bathroom Walls from Leakage is essential to maintain a clean and durable living space. With high-quality Waterproofing Chemicals for Walls in Pune, Mumbai, and Maharashtra, including Crack Fillers, Sealants, Tile Adhesives, and Water Repellent Coatings from trusted brands like Dr. Fixit, Sika, Fosroc, Sunanda, and Zydex, you can effectively prevent water damage.

For the best waterproofing solutions, trust ADT Industries. Contact us today to get expert advice and premium products for a leak-proof bathroom!

Address: Ground Floor, Block-1, Raheja Arcade, Plot No-61, Shahbaz Village, Sector 11, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400614

Phone: 080800 98992

[nirbobharvey]

My Roof is Leaking – Causes and Solutions

Keep roof leaks from causing costly structural damage and leaving you with ruined possessions. Understanding what causes residential roof leaks will help you resolve them before becoming an issue.

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about what causes residential roof leaks, how to fix or prevent them, how a maintenance program benefits you, and when to call your roofer.

Roof Leak Causes and Their Solutions

A leaky roof is a concerning issue for homeowners, as it can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs if not addressed. Understanding common roof leak causes and their solutions is essential for maintaining your home’s integrity. Consider the following:

1. Missing Shingles

Shingles protect your roof by creating a water-resistant barrier. Strong winds, heavy rain, or age-related wear can cause shingles to come loose, warp, or fall off, exposing the underlying layers to water.

Solution – Replace missing or damaged shingles promptly. Ensure that new shingles match the existing material to maintain a uniform appearance and functionality. Regular inspections, especially after storms, can help identify missing shingles before significant damage occurs.

2. Bad Flashing

Flashing seals roof transitions, like where the roof meets a chimney or skylight. Over time, flashing can corrode, crack, or separate, leaving gaps that allow water to seep through.

Solution – Inspect and repair damaged flashing by applying a waterproof sealant or replacing it entirely. Proper installation during initial construction or repair is essential for long-lasting performance.

3. Faulty Penetration Boots

Penetration boots are rubber seals installed around roof penetrations, like vents and pipes, to prevent leaks. Over time, these boots can crack, degrade, or pull away from the pipe.

Solution – Replace worn or damaged penetration boots with new ones. Ensure they are sealed to prevent water infiltration. Adding a metal storm collar over the boot can provide additional protection.

4. Branch or Limb Damage

Falling branches or overhanging limbs can puncture or scrape the roof surface, leading to leaks. This damage commonly occurs during storms or high winds.

Solution – Trim trees regularly to keep branches away from the roof. If a branch damages your roof, assess the extent of the damage and repair or replace the affected area immediately. Install protective roofing materials that resist impact damage.

5. Mold and Algae Growth

Mold, moss, or algae can grow on roof surfaces, especially in damp or shaded areas. These organisms trap moisture against the roof and weaken the materials over time.

Solution – Clean the roof regularly using a gentle, non-abrasive cleaning solution. Install zinc or copper strips to inhibit future growth. Ensure your roof has adequate ventilation to minimize moisture accumulation.

6. Damaged Shingles

Shingles can crack, curl, or blister due to aging, UV exposure, or severe weather. Damaged shingles are less effective at repelling water, leading to potential leaks.

Solution – Replace damaged shingles promptly. Use high-quality materials designed for your climate to ensure durability. Regularly inspect the roof to identify early signs of wear and tear.

7. Debris Accumulation

Leaves, dirt, and other debris can collect on your roof, particularly in gutters and valleys. This buildup can trap moisture, causing water to pool and eventually seep through the roofing material.

Solution – Clean your roof and gutters regularly to prevent debris accumulation. Install gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleaning. For hard-to-reach areas, hire a professional to handle debris removal safely.

Roof Maintenance Program Benefits

Regular roof maintenance is a proactive approach that helps prevent costly repairs and prolongs your roof’s lifespan. A comprehensive program includes periodic inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs. Here are the key benefits:

Early Problem Detection – Inspections identify issues like damaged shingles or clogged gutters before they lead to leaks.

Improved Durability – Routine maintenance keeps your roof in optimal condition, allowing it to withstand weather extremes.

Cost Savings – Preventative measures are more affordable than emergency repairs or roof replacement.

Enhanced Safety – Regular maintenance reduces the risk of structural damage or collapse due to water infiltration.

When to Call a Professional Roofer

While some minor repairs can be handled by homeowners, roof leaks require immediate attention from a professional roofer. Delaying repairs can worsen the damage and increase repair costs. Here’s why calling a professional is critical:

Accurate Diagnosis – Professionals have the expertise to identify a leak’s root cause and address it effectively.

Proper Repairs – A licensed roofer uses high-quality materials and techniques to ensure long-lasting repairs.

Safety – Climbing onto a roof can be dangerous without proper training and equipment. Professionals minimize injury risks.

Warranty Protection – Many roofing materials come with warranties that require professional installation or repair to remain valid.

If you detect a roof leak, like water stains on ceilings, dripping water, or mold growth, contact a reputable roofing contractor immediately. Quick action can prevent further damage and protect your home.

Roof Leaks and Solutions

In this article, you discovered crucial information about why residential roofing systems can leak, their solutions, how a maintenance program benefits you, and when to call a professional roofer to address the problem.

Your ability to quickly identify developing roofing issues will position you to get them resolved before they cause severe roof and material damage.

Ignoring roofing issues can lead to significant structural damage, costly cleanup, and potential displacement from your home.

Sources: hud.gov/sites/documents/HUDGB5C5GUID.PDF extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=C1082&title=home-maintenance-checklist blogs.oregonstate.edu/piperde/2023/06/20/roof-maintenance-tips-to-make-a-roof-last-longer

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232 Atlanta, GA30318 (404) 680-0041

To see the original version of this article, visit https://www.newimageroofingatlanta.com/my-roof-is-leaking-causes-and-solutions/

[lastimeexteriors-omaha]

Do Roofing Contractors Offer Green Roofing Solutions?

As the world increasingly embraces eco-friendly practices, homeowners are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, including roofing options. If you're considering a new roof, you may wonder whether roofing contractors like Lastime Exteriors offer sustainable solutions. This article will explore the concept of green roofing, the benefits of eco-friendly materials, and how Lastime Exteriors can help you make informed decisions for your home.

Understanding Green Roofing

Green roofing is more than just a trend; it's a practical approach that promotes sustainability and environmental stewardship. This innovative roofing solution typically involves two main types:

Vegetative Green Roofs: These roofs feature soil and vegetation layers that create a living ecosystem. They improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and provide insulation, which can lead to lower energy costs.

Built-Up Green Roofs: These roofs incorporate multiple layers, including waterproof membranes and drainage systems, to support vegetation while protecting the underlying structure.

Both types offer many benefits, from improved energy efficiency to enhanced aesthetics. However, do roofing contractors like Lastime Exteriors have experience with these solutions?

Roofing Contractors and Green Solutions

Yes, many roofing contractors, including Lastime Exteriors, are stepping up to meet the demand for green roofing solutions. They understand the importance of sustainable building practices and have the expertise to design and install eco-friendly roofs that suit your home’s needs.

Why Choose a Roofing Contractor for Green Roofing?

Expert Guidance: Professional roofing contractors can provide valuable insights into the various green roofing options. They can help you select materials that align with your sustainability goals and budget.

Quality Installation: Proper installation is crucial for the performance of green roofs. Experienced contractors like Lastime Exteriors ensure your roof is installed correctly, maximizing its lifespan and effectiveness.

Maintenance Services: Green roofs require specific maintenance to thrive. Roofing contractors can offer ongoing support and maintenance services to keep your roof in excellent condition.

Benefits of Green Roofing Solutions

Choosing green roofing solutions can offer myriad advantages for homeowners:

Energy Efficiency: Many green roofs, like those made from recycled materials, excel in thermal performance. They keep your home cooler in the summer, which can reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.

Stormwater Management: Green roofs absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and alleviating pressure on local drainage systems. This can help mitigate flooding and protect water quality.

Enhanced Property Value: Homes with eco-friendly roofing solutions are often more attractive to buyers. A green roof can improve your home's aesthetics and increase its resale value.

Environmental Impact: By choosing sustainable materials, you're contributing to a reduction in waste and pollution. Many green roofing options are recyclable, further minimizing environmental impact.

Regulatory Support: Cities are increasingly implementing policies that encourage green roofing practices. By opting for these solutions, you may benefit from incentives or rebates.

How Lastime Exteriors Can Assist You

At Lastime Exteriors, we pride ourselves on providing eco-friendly roofing solutions. Our team is skilled in various sustainable roofing practices, ensuring you receive the best service tailored to your needs. Here’s how we can help:

Customized Roofing Solutions

Every home is unique, and so are its roofing needs. Our team will work closely with you to assess your property and provide customized recommendations for green roofing solutions that align with your vision.

Expertise in Installation and Maintenance

Whether you choose a vegetative green roof or another eco-friendly option, our experienced contractors will install it with precision. We also offer maintenance services to ensure your roof remains healthy and effective over time.

Education and Resources

We believe in empowering our clients through knowledge. Our team will provide the information you need to decide your roofing options, including financial incentives and installation best practices.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Green Roofing

When selecting a roofing contractor for green roofing solutions, consider the following factors:

Experience: Look for contractors who have experience with green roofing practices. Ask for examples of previous projects they have completed.

Materials Used: Inquire about the types of materials they recommend and their sustainability credentials. The more recycled content, the better for the environment.

Warranty and Support: Ensure the contractor offers warranties on materials and workmanship. A good warranty can provide peace of mind.

Customer Reviews: Check testimonials and reviews from previous clients to gauge the contractor's reputation and reliability.

Communication: Choose a contractor who communicates openly and transparently. Good communication is essential for a successful project.

Build a Greener Future with Lastime Exteriors

Green roofing solutions are an excellent way to enhance your home’s sustainability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Roofing contractors like Lastime Exteriors are well-equipped to guide you through the process, from selecting the right materials to ensuring proper installation and maintenance.

If you’re ready to explore eco-friendly roofing options for your home, look no further than Lastime Exteriors. We can create a greener future, one roof at a time.

[gabby-i-guess]

ADHD PSA #3: Bath time 🛀

So I just moved into a new house, and for whatever reason, the gremlins living in my brain have decided that the new shower has ‼️BAD VIBES‼️ and therefore will only agree to let me have a shower when ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. I've been trying to figure out ways to bribe them into liking the shower, so here are a few ways I've tried to make my shower ADHD accessible.

1) DIY waterproof phone holder

Yes I know I sound like an iPad kid, but if having an audiobook/music/YouTube video playing while I shower lets me shower, I'm ok with that.

All you do is take a sturdy ziplock bag, pop your phone and a large bull clip inside, and zip it up tight (give it a lil squeeze to make sure there are no gaps). Now you can clip the bag onto your shower caddy from the inside, or another ledge or something (get creative), and voila - your phone stays totally dry and you stay entertained. You can even somewhat use your phone through the plastic, so you can change songs etc. When you're done, unclip the unopened bag, take it to a dry place, and you can open it and take your phone out there.

Here's a photo for demo:

2) Sort your shit out

Personally, I get super overwhelmed by all the steps in self-care tasks, including but not limited to showers. Routines like that involve like 10 steps that call on skills ADHDers really struggle with, like decisions, organisation, memory, executive functioning, and planning. So I've made things as simple as they can possibly be for me.

I have 4 little baskets in my cupboard for each of my regular routines:

morning (with makeup, sunscreen, moisturiser, and deoderant)

evening (with vitamin C serum, makeup wipes, pimple patches, and floss)

regular shower (with antibacterial soap, shampoo, conditioner, leave in conditioner, and a hair brush)

and ✨fancy shower✨ (with a razor, shaving cream, nice smelling soap, body moisturiser, curl cream, and a candle)

Now I can just yank out whatever basket I want and use whatever is in it on autopilot. Then, when I'm done, I can dump it all back into the basket and shove it all back into the cupboard. This method reduces how overwhelmed I get by so goddamn much that my fucking dentist commented on the noticeable improvement in my teeth, because I had actually consistently had the energy to floss. And when you're consistently flossing - well, it's only up from here baby 😎

3) DIY bath

The sensory experience of showering can be truly horrendous. And while I can't fix a lot of it, I can at least make it a little less... much. Yk?

So here's my solution:

Yup.

I got myself a blow up pool.

For my shower.

I am officially the coolest person alive.

This baby was $10 at Kmart, and is 80cm wide and 18cm deep - basically, cross your legs and it will not quite cover your thighs. To provide a little more insulation and some padding, I also popped an old towel under the pool. It's really not much, but it means I can sit down in comfortably warm water and splish-splosh myself clean. As opposed to showering, which (especially in a large bathroom/shower like I have now) is alternately way too cold and way too hot, way too loud, way too (I literally don't know how else to say it) "fast", way too out of control (so much splashing and water going everywhere, UGH), and just kinda generally way too much.

A bonus perk: I can finally use some nice pink bubble bath bombs from last Christmas 🥰🥰

I really hope one of these tips helps one of you out there. Keeping yourself clean is one of those "basics" that neurotypical/mentally well people don't realise is actually really hard.

You are doing a truly awesome job, and I'm truly, truly proud of you. Sending you love and warm, clean, sudsy thoughts ❤️

[softsidebyhunt]

Soak in Comfort: The Rising Trend of Bathtub Cushions for Adults

A soothing bath is one of the best things to enable adults juggling long days at work, parenting responsibilities, or health challenges to relax. Let's be honest though-the traditional tubs with cold and hard surfaces aren't the most comfortable places to lie down to soak for a long time. Have you ever settled into a bath only to feel stiff after just ten minutes because of discomfort? This is when adult bathtub cushions come in. Good for greater comfort and support, these cushions may turn an ordinary bath into a restorative spa-like experience. Other than comfort, safety in bathroom is also obtained with it since slips and falls are prominent bathroom injuries.

Let's explore why bathtub cushions are a must-have and discover how products such as the Softside Bathtub Cushion have innovative solutions both in comfort and safety.

Bathing: A Simple Pleasure Made Better

To most adults, a bath is not about hygiene but rather a short bit of time between unending chases. Lacking in most tubs of bathing water is the ergonomic support that would otherwise make that difficult to achieve. Hard surfaces will press upon the back of one's neck and shoulders, thereby making sore and hence not refreshed. This is why bathtub cushions for adults have gained popularity among those who enjoy more than just what the experience of bathing has to offer.

While towels or pillows normally shift around and absorb, these cushions are engineered to stay in place and absorb moisture. Softside Bathtub Cushion is but one example of soft, waterproof cushioning that cradles the body for more comfortable soaking. Relief is found where it is needed most-be it recovering from a long day at work or in the case of chronic pain-by the appropriate cushion.

Safety in Bathroom: An Essential Priority

In addition to comfort, safety in bathroom is a very important factor for adults-especially those with disabilities, back problems, or injuries. The flooring of most bathrooms has a slippery condition; trying to reach awkward positions in order to comfortably stay inside them increases the likelihood of falling. According to the National Institute on Aging, a vast number of injuries occurring each year occur within the bathroom so product lines that address this risk need to be included as well.

On top of comfort, a Bathtub Safety Cushion offers stability. The suction cups make it place firmly so that you don't move around helplessly every time you change position. This makes them particularly helpful for someone with problematic balance or restricted mobility.

Innovative Bathtub Cushion Designs: What to Look For

A bathtub cushion for adults doesn't have to be an aesthetic choice, as function does precede; on the other hand, here are a few crucial attributes it may possess:

Waterproof Material: A premium cushion, such as Softside Bathtub Cushion, consists of quick-drying and mildew-resistant materials so the hygiene and durability can be maintained.

Ergonomic Support: Opt for cushions which focus specifically on the neck, back, and tailbone. Memory foam is a great option as it will conform to your body.

Anti-Slip Suction Cups: Safety should be paramount in any bathroom, and a strong suction cup is quite essential for holding the cushion firmly onto the tub surface

Easiness to Clean: A low-maintenance bathtub cushion is just a non-stick option that can be easily cleaned- even if used several times, keeping it fresh.

All these factors are kept in mind by an innovative bathtub cushion to provide comfort that is both safe and convenient .

The Emotional Value of a Comfortable Bath

The relaxing bath is not just about the comfort of the body; sometimes it can be related to emotional comfort. The time spent in the bathroom amidst waters does not only rejuvenate but for most people, it is a silent moment of solitude. Perhaps disconnection from the stresses of life and reconnect with oneself could be what happens there. Well, when this kind of discomfort creeps into your bathroom time, then it is annoying rather than a relaxing pastime.

When you're using a Softside Bathtub Cushion, you heighten the emotional experience of bathing without any impact. You sink into that warm bath knowing your neck and lower back are cushioned for comfort, at such a deep level. The small change adds great impact with turning routine baths into mindful, self-care rituals.

Who Benefits from Bathtub Cushions?

Though these can be recreational comforters to anyone, the real benefits of adult bathtub cushions are directed towards the following customers:

Individuals with chronic pain: Cushions provide pressure relief and help alleviate tension in the neck and back.

Adults recovering from injury or surgery: A bathtub safety cushion offers stability, making baths more accessible during recovery.

Older adults: Safety and comfort are paramount for seniors, and a high-quality cushion ensures they can bathe comfortably and confidently.

Busy professionals and parents: For those juggling multiple responsibilities, a relaxing bath can be a rare luxury—one that’s worth enhancing with the right accessories.

Making the Right Choice: Softside Bathtub Cushion

Softside Bathtub Cushion is a new product developed based on the demands of modern users. It's a combination of ergonomic design and easy maintenance that is front and centre for anyone who'd like to elevate their bath experience. Whether it's stress relief or pain management, or if a person just wants pure self-indulgence, this cushion is designed to give you the support and comfort you need to turn each bath into pure delight.

What's more, while relaxation is one of the main features of the Softside Bathtub Cushion, it also shows safety in bathroom. It has anti-slip suction cups and durable, waterproof material which keeps you secure and comfortable in your bath. It is not merely luxury-it is an essential feature in your wellness routine.

Conclusion

Living a busy life makes it hard to give some time to self-care. You will find how much time it takes by truly unplugging with one of the easiest ways-to a bath time. However, this is quite a hassle when there aren't proper accessories to utilize. Which is why bathtub cushions for adults have been such a success: they promote comfort, contribute to the achievement of an easier state of rest, and make the bathroom easy and safe. In all these reasons, products such as the Softside Bathtub Cushion can be fine examples of innovative and practical responses to busy, health-conscious adults' needs.

Do you ever feel stiff after a bath or worry about slipping while trying to relax? The moment is upon you to get hold of a bathtub safety cushion. The right cushion will make every bath an opportunity to recharge comfortably, safely, and effortlessly. So, go ahead and soak in comfort. Discover the transformative power of a truly relaxing bath.

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List of our waterproofing services

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Meet the* Halo Collar 4*, the ultimate GPS dog collar designed to keep your furry friend safe with cutting-edge technology! 🐶📍 This GPS-enabled smart collar lets you create a virtual fence anywhere, offering a wireless dog fence solution that gives your dog freedom while ensuring their safety.

With real-time tracking, activity monitoring, and automatic network switching*, the *Halo Collar 4 connects to AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint to provide the best coverage. Unlike a traditional physical fence or in-ground wire fence*, this *dog tracking collar is a cost-effective alternative that delivers top-tier performance at a fraction of the price.

✨ Key Features: ✅ GPS Virtual Fence – Set up invisible fences for dogs anywhere! ✅ Real-Time Tracking – Never lose sight of your pup! ✅ Waterproof Dog Collar – Built for swimming & outdoor adventures! 💦 ✅ Dog Containment System – Safe & humane training for all breeds! ✅ Affordable Dog Fence Alternative – No expensive installations required! 💰 How Does It Compare? 📉 Traditional physical fences cost $1,000+ ⚡ Electric dog fences range from $900 - $2,200 🔥 SpotOn GPS collars cost $999 💡 Halo Collar 4*gives you premium tech at a *fraction of the cost!

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Top Benefits of Waterproof Coating: Why You Need It Now!

When it comes to protecting your property from the harsh elements, waterproof coatings are one of the best solutions available. Whether you're safeguarding your home, commercial building, or any other structure, these coatings provide unmatched durability and protection. Let’s explore the top benefits of waterproof coating and why you should consider applying it now.

1. Enhanced Protection Against Water Damage

Water damage can cause serious structural issues, mold growth, and costly repairs. Waterproof coatings form a strong barrier that prevents water from penetrating walls, roofs, and floors. By applying these coatings, you’re safeguarding your property from the long-term damage caused by moisture exposure.

2. Increased Longevity of Structures

Waterproof coatings extend the lifespan of your property by protecting surfaces from corrosion, rot, and degradation. Whether it's concrete, wood, or metal, waterproof coatings prevent the breakdown of materials, ensuring your property remains in top condition for years to come.

3. Energy Efficiency

Waterproof coatings can also improve energy efficiency by regulating temperature. These coatings prevent water from seeping into the structure, which can lead to issues with insulation. By keeping moisture out, waterproof coatings help maintain a stable internal temperature, potentially lowering heating and cooling costs.

4. Cost-Effective Maintenance

By investing in waterproof coatings, you reduce the need for expensive repairs caused by water-related damage. The application of a quality waterproof coating saves money in the long run by preventing issues like mold, mildew, and structural damage, which can be costly to repair.

5. Environmentally Friendly

Many waterproof coatings are made from eco-friendly materials, offering an environmentally responsible way to protect your property. By choosing a sustainable option, you can ensure your protective measures don’t negatively impact the planet.

6. Improved Aesthetic Appeal

Waterproof coatings often come in a variety of colors and finishes, making them not only functional but also a great way to enhance the appearance of your property. Whether you want a glossy finish or a matte look, there’s a waterproof coating that can complement your design.

Why You Need Waterproof Coating Now

Now that you know the benefits, it’s clear that waterproof coating is a crucial investment for any property. Don’t wait for water damage to take its toll—apply waterproof coating today to ensure your home or business stays protected for the future.

Conclusion: Protect Your Property with SEMCO

If you’re looking for high-quality waterproof coating solutions, SEMCO is your trusted brand. SEMCO offers superior waterproofing products that provide long-lasting protection against water damage. With their advanced technology and commitment to quality, SEMCO ensures your property remains safe and secure in all weather conditions.

Don’t wait for water damage to cause costly repairs. Visit SEMCO’s website now and explore their range of waterproofing products. Contact their expert team for personalized recommendations and start safeguarding your property today!

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The DIY Guide to Identifying and Addressing Hidden Plumbing Issues at Home

Introduction

Homeownership brings a variety of responsibilities, and one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects is plumbing. Understanding how to identify and resolve hidden plumbing issues can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. This comprehensive guide explores common hidden plumbing problems that may occur in your home, providing you with the knowledge necessary to tackle them head-on. By following this DIY guide, you'll gain insights into everything from slab leak detection to basement waterproofing and even main line leaks.

The DIY Guide to Identifying and Addressing Hidden Plumbing Issues at Home

Plumbing issues can be sneaky little devils, often hiding behind walls or under floors until they become major headaches. Whether it's a slow drip or a sudden flood, understanding your plumbing system is essential for any homeowner. From knowing when to call a plumber to diagnosing minor issues yourself, this guide offers step-by-step methods for identifying and addressing those pesky plumbing problems.

Understanding Your Home's Plumbing System 1. The Basics of Home Plumbing

Every home has a unique plumbing system designed for its specific needs. It's crucial to understand the basic components: pipes, fixtures, drains, and appliances connected by a network that allows for water delivery and waste removal.

2. Common Plumbing Materials

Familiarize yourself with different types of pipes used in plumbing systems: PVC, copper, PEX, and galvanized steel. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages regarding durability, cost, and ease of installation.

3. Water Supply vs. Drainage Systems

While both systems are crucial for your home's functionality, their purposes plumber near me differ significantly. Understand how each system works—water supply delivers clean water while drainage removes wastewater—and learn how they interact.

Signs of Hidden Plumbing Issues 4. Unexplained Water Bills

A spike in your water bill without increased usage can indicate hidden leaks somewhere in your system—potentially leading you toward costly repairs if not addressed promptly.

5. Damp Spots on Walls or Ceilings

Water stains are often telltale signs of leakage behind walls or ceilings. Inspect these areas closely; if left untreated, they could lead to severe structural damage over time.

6. Mold Growth

Mold thrives in damp environments; thus, its presence could signify underlying plumbing issues like leaks or condensation that must be addressed immediately.

Common Types of Hidden Plumbing Problems 7. Slab Leak Detection: What You Need to Know

Slab leaks occur when water pipes beneath your home's foundation crack or corrode, leading to significant water damage if undetected.

How Can You Identify a Slab Leak? Warm spots on floors Increased water bills Sounds of running water when all taps are off 8. Main Line Leaks: Causes and Solutions

Main line leaks involve breaks in the primary pipe supplying water into your home—often resulting from soil movement or corrosion over time.

What Are The S