#wedding chorale

[bukool]

Jan Ramir + Quennie | Cebu Wedding

Jan Ramir + Quennie | Cebu Wedding On April 29, 2023, Jan and Quennie celebrated their long-awaited union in a breathtaking wedding. These stunning moments were beautifully captured by Portraits by Bukool, freezing the essence of their love forever. After 11 incredible years together, they finally tied the knot surrounded by their loved ones. Their special day was flawlessly coordinated by…

[girlactionfigure]

They loved each other, and they loved their country, Germany. On September 7, 1942, Arvid Harnack and Mildred Fish-Harnack would be arrested while on a weekend outing in Germany.

Arvid was sentenced to death on December 19, 1942, and he would be put to death three days later. Mildred would be executed two months later, beheaded, on the orders of Adolf Hitler.

Mildred Fish-Harnack was the only American woman executed on the orders of Hitler. 

Mildred Fish-Harnack, a 40-year-old American teacher, was a Wisconsin-born teacher, who was working as a lecturer on German literature at the Milwaukee State Normal School (now the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee), where she would meet the love of her life, a German immigrant, Arvid Harnack, a Rockefeller Fellow from Germany. They would wed on her brother's farm in Wisconsin.

In 1929, she and her husband moved to Germany, where she worked on her doctorate and worked as an assistant lecturer (English and American literature and language) and a translator. 

They were still teaching in Germany when Hitler was granted dictatorial powers by a subservient legislature. After the concentration camps opened, the two decided to stay in Germany, to assist immigrants fearful for their lives.

The Harnacks were saddened at what was happening to their beloved country, to see a dictator use racism to divide the people and use his propaganda machine to reinforce his power and control the people, destroying the country from within.

They would eventually become Resistance fighters, secretly forming an underground group that helped imperiled Jews, assisted forced laborers, and documented the atrocities of the Nazis in Germany. The Gestapo named the group the “Red Orchestra.” Her husband would regularly meet with the first secretary of the American embassy to keep Washington informed on the state of the Third Reich’s economy, its trade agreements, rearmament and war plans.

After Arvid Harnack was arrested and sentenced to death, he had petitioned to see his wife before his execution but was denied. During his final hour, Arvid asked if the chaplain could recite “Prologue in Heaven” from Faust. He would then sing the chorale, “I Pray to the Power of Love.”

Mildred Fish-Harnack would initially be given six years in prison, but Hitler refused to endorse the sentence and ordered a new trial, which ended with a sentence of death.

Before she died, she got to read her husband's last letter to her, telling her how much he loved her and “despite everything,” he looked back on a life in which “the darkness was outweighed by the light” largely because of their marriage.

The Jon S. Randal Peace Page

[aemysbabyofficial]

Sneak Peek of Sweet Tidings

To have a crush is to play chances with your heart. To yearn for the sun is to risk burns for life. Jacaerys Velaryon was one to always play his cards, but will his own heart survives is the question?

Jacaerys' heart thumped in his chest against the echoes of their steps. It was quiet. They were alone. His heart burned through his clothing.

"Saela."

The lady had a second to turn before a kiss captured her lips. Jacaerys held Saela's shoulders, holding them in place. His touch took in her warming skin against their hot lips. Their eyes were closed when they kissed again, deeper and deeper. When Jacaerys pulled his head back, Saela followed; she stood on her toes to reach his tall height, chasing his love until the very end and more. The longer their lips held each other, the farther his hands graced her arms. Sounds of their want were found in deep and mangled breaths, intertwined fingers, and furrowed brows.

The young prince had just cupped Saela's jaw when she pulled her head back. Her round lips were swollen from Jacaerys sucking at her, her cheeks burning under his thumb, and her eyes were wide. When he rested his forehead on hers for them both to catch their breaths, Jacaerys heard Saela's breath without rest.

Breathless, she was. Breathless from his kisses, from his pleasure. From his love

"Jace..."

"Saela."

Jacaerys kissed her again. She returned with a low moan and melted into his arms. But a strike from the gods must have condemned her because she broke their kiss again. Jacaerys followed her lips with his own and his eyes, but found nothing but air. When he opened his eyes, the strength the young lady held him with had him on bated breath. Her round lilac eyes shook with trapped want. She wants this, Jacaerys told himself. She still held his hands and looked at his lips. She wants me.

"No, no no. We can't do this." Saela looked to the dark halls of the sept. "I-I can't do this--"

"But you can, Saela."

Whatever thoughts in her mind betrayed her body when she leaned into his touch. Jacaerys' brows knitted when he watched the woman fall into his hands. She was right in his hands--his dreams. Nothing should--no, nothing could hold them apart any longer. The prince's mind spiraled into his late-night dreams of twisted wanting, painful pining, and quiet chanting. His pillow lacked the warmth of Saela's skin and was a horrible replica of her body at night. Jacaerys' mind could only imagine the lushness of her skin or the choral of music her voice would whisper into his ears. Only his ears.

He could uptake his promise right this instant. In the quiet halls, Jacaerys glanced at the avenues they could take. They were in the Sept, a holy place of matrimonial unions. He could wed her right now. Their marriage would fix everything their cursed family broke and would continue to shatter. The kiss they share under the glass-stained windows and in the presence of thousands would cement their names as bringers of peace, or conquerors of flames. All she had to do was say yes and his biggest dreams would come true. Jacaerys would make her the happiest bride the Seven Kingdoms had ever seen. He would fulfill his duties as a husband and as a--

"Jace, I can't."

Saela's voice summoned him from reverie. She stood taller than before and away from his hands. Her eyes no longer shook of caged want but fear. Without a word, she turned to the dark halls. Whoever she looked to, Jacaerys couldn't see. But Saela did and like a conversation spoke past her closed lips, she shook and nodded her head. Jacaerys followed her eyeline. Minus the faint outlines of her handmaids, who were obscured by walls and no light, the prince couldn't see a soul.

"But I love you, Saela. I have loved you ever since the nights you held me until nightfall and even past that--"

"Jace, we were young and--" Saela tried to pull herself from Jacaerys' grip, but he persisted.

"I promised I would kiss and wed you when we see each other next--" Jacaerys now held Saela's wrists and bound her to the spot. Her shoulders squared while her eyes bounced between his hands and eyes.

"You have to let me go, Jace. We cannot--"

"You said you loved me to, Saela."

"I do love you, Jace, but that love is not like--"

"Then you can learn to love me greater than--"

"Unhand me, Jacaerys!"

The loud voice boomed across the halls. It silenced every breath, stood every hair, and dimmed every candle. The prince dropped Saela's wrists when he looked into her eyes. No longer were those lilac orbs sparkling the sun and flakes of light. No, those orbs burned of violent flames. All she had to do was say Dracarys for him to be burned.

"Iksan iā mirre ābra, Jacaerys."

Saela muttered under her breath. The words were furious when she was freed from his grasp. Her brows arched while her fingers tugged at the seams of her wrist cuffs. She muttered more High Valyrian under her breath as her fingers continued to tug loose threads. Jacaerys knew the familiar collection of curses to understand she was upset, but the words she yelled at him prodded his mind. Saela stumbled away from when he reached for her. But with her two steps away, as flurry of footsteps rushed towards them, Jacaerys noticed her chest rising faster and faster. Like she ran, the prince told himself. Why was her breath racing so much?

"Saela--"

A sea of red and beige, and grey clouded Jacaerys' vision of the lady. Her handmaids acted as a protected barrier around her before they whisked her away. The prince was left stunned and alone under the stained-glass window.

Iksan iā mirre ābra.

Jacaerys repeated the furious phrase in his mind. His studies of High Valryian caught up to him in slow time.

Woman...I am a kept woman.

The prince's brows knit for the first time in confusion. How could the young lady be...be kept? Be taken from him already?

"But for who, Saela?"

[revengeoftheswift]

WHY IS NO ONE TALKING ABOUT THE CHORAL IN THE BEGINNING OF SO LONG LONDON CAUSE THEYRE LIKE A WEDDING CHORAL 😭😭

[sporadicthingcollection]

Last Thoughts (Tech x F!Reader)

Summary: A man's last thoughts are of love.

Pairing: Tech x F!Reader

Rating: None.

Word Count: 739.

Warnings: Spoilers for TBB s2 finale. Character death, description of injuries.

Notes: Thought I'd break your hearts a little. Recommended listening is "Maggot Brain" by Funkadelic.

---

He was hoping the fall would kill him -- a quick, painless splat, to put it crudely. Or, if that didn’t work, the several tons of durasteel would crush his skull and it would be over just as fast.

But sheer dumb luck kicked in just a moment too late to actually save his life. The fall did not kill him. The tram did not crush him. So here he lies at the bottom of a gorge, waiting for death.

He can’t move his legs -- based on the angles, they’re shattered irreparably -- but he feels no pain, meaning his spinal column is partly severed.

He’ll either bleed out internally or his lungs will stop working. Or he’ll succumb to the elements. He’s heard hypothermia isn’t a terrible way to go, all things considered. Hallucinations and paradoxical undressing.

It’s only a matter of waiting.

Hunter and Echo will be fine. They’re well-adjusted soldiers, conditioned from birth to accept death whenever it may come. They will mourn, but it will pass.

It’s Wrecker he’s worried about. Soft-hearted Wrecker. This certainly won’t help his fear of heights.

And Omega. She’s a child. Children shouldn’t have to watch their loved ones die. He doesn’t regret his decision, but he wishes she hadn’t had to watch. You’ve said as much in the past--

His blood chills and his heart jumps into his throat.

You.

Ah, you.

How could he forget about you?

Intelligent, persistent, prescient, patient you?

First love. First kiss. First time.

Never again will he see the sparkle in your eyes as he explains something to you. Never again will he hear your laugh as he says something he didn’t realize would be amusing. Never again will he feel your soft lips against his own as you, in your words, “shut him up.”

He wants to slap himself. This was supposed to be quick, so he didn’t bother with a proper farewell. A brief message while you were asleep, telling you he’d see you in later.

It is now later, and he lies at the bottom of a gorge, waiting for death.

Idiot.

His arm is leaden, but he manages to lay it atop his wristcom. Moving his fingers stings, but he’s able to access his files with little trouble. Recordings, visual, cultural... there it is.

Peninsular Pantoran Wedding Song, dated two months ago.

He opens it. You appear, your hair up in a bonnet and clad in your lounging clothes. You look stunning.

"--you sure it's recording?" you're asking. "The light's not on."

"I am certain." He doesn't mind the sound of his own voice. He's heard it enough over the years.

You inhale, then pause. "Tech, I feel silly."

"Why? This is a document of your culture's traditional choral practices. It is an underrepresented--"

You frown. "My mom is the chantress. Why don't you get her to sing it?"

Here’s his favorite part. He still pats himself on the back for this response. “In addition to her not being here right now, I do not find your mother half as attractive as you.”

And the reason it’s his favorite part? Because your cheeks darken as your gaze turns upwards, and your lips curl into a bashful smile. Little dimples appear -- probably his favorite feature of yours.

And, with a deep breath, you begin to sing in your native tongue. Melodic and rhythmic, punctuated by pops and clicks you make with your tongue.

He doesn’t know the words. And, for the first and only time in his life, he is content to not know. He doesn’t need to know what it means. He just needs to see your beautiful lips move, your lovely eyes sparkle, your weight shifting from foot to foot as you suppress the urge to dance.

He plays the recording again. His fingers hurt.

Void nips at the edges of his mind. His thoughts loosen and crumble to pieces. His vision swirls, twisting and turning like Omega’s Serennan kaleidoscope.

He plays the recording again. Breathing is hard.

He sees you in wedding attire, veiled in a rainbow of beads, your face painted to highlight your eyes, your hair woven with gold threads. 

He plays the recording again. He can’t focus his eyes.

Tears appear. Rips in his vision and in time. Visions of what was and what will never be. Peace. War. Strife. Satisfaction. Love. Hate. Rage. Redemption.

He plays the recording again.

He slips slowly into a long, dreamless sleep.

---

⬅⬅⬅ | "Filled With Things to Say" Masterpost | To the Mastahpost | Tip Jar | ➡➡➡

[saintmeghanmarkle]

Lets not forget that the all-black choir (who was hired by then-Prince Charles for the wedding) also found Meghan demanding. She changed the choral arrangements 11 times. by u/RoohsMama

Let’s not forget that the all-black choir (who was hired by then-Prince Charles for the wedding) also found Meghan demanding. She changed the choral arrangements 11 times. https://ift.tt/FtkuUAE post link: https://ift.tt/GOFZf7v author: RoohsMama submitted: September 29, 2024 at 09:30AM via SaintMeghanMarkle on Reddit disclaimer: all views + opinions expressed by the author of this post, as well as any comments and reblogs, are solely the author's own; they do not necessarily reflect the views of the administrator of this Tumblr blog. For entertainment only.

[famousinuniverse]

Dances of India

Dance is an ancient and celebrated cultural tradition in India. Folk dances abound all across the country, and huge crowds of people can be found dancing at festivals and weddings. Dance and song features heavily in Indian cinema (so-called “Bollywood” films), too. But where does Indian dance draw its roots from? Here are six of the most important classical dance forms of India.

Classical Dances of India

Odissi

Dancer performing Indian classical odissi dance.

Odissi is indigenous to Orissa in eastern India. It is predominantly a dance for women, with postures that replicate those found in temple sculptures. Based on archaeological findings, odissi is belived to be the oldest of the surviving Indian classical dances. Odissi is a very complex and expressive dance, with over fifty mudras (symbolic hand gestures) commonly used.

Kuchipudi

Kuchipudi performance.

Unlike the other styles mentioned, kuchipudi requires talent in both dancing and singing. This dance, from the state of Andhra Pradesh in southeastern India, is highly ritualized, with a formalized song-and-dance introduction, sprinkling of holy water, and burning of incense, along with invocations of goddesses. Traditionally the dance was performed by men, even the female roles, although now it is predominantly performed by women.

Manipuri

Manipuri-style performance of Indian classical dance.

Manipuri comes from Manipur in northeastern India. It has its roots in that state’s folk traditions and rituals, and often depicts scenes from the life of the god Krishna. Unlike some of the other, more rhythmic dances, Manipuri is characterized by smooth and graceful movements. Female roles are especially fluid in the arms and hands, while male roles tend to have more forceful movements. The dance may be accompanied by narrative chanting and choral singing.

Kathak

Kathak school dancer, in Mughal costume, performing Indian classical dance.

A dance of northern India, Kathak is often a dance of love. It is performed by both men and women. The movements include intricate footwork accented by bells worn around the ankles and stylized gestures adapted from normal body language. It was originated by Kathakas, professional storytellers who used a mixture of dance, song, and drama. Like other Indian dances it began as a temple dance, but soon moved into the courts of ruling houses.

Kathakali

Kathakali dance

Kathakali comes from southwestern India, around the state of Kerala. Like bharatanatyam, kathakali is a religious dance. It draws inspiration from the Ramayana and stories from Shaiva traditions. Kathakali is traditionally performed by boys and men, even for female roles. The costumes and makeup are especially elaborate, with faces made to look like painted masks and enormous headdresses.

Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam performance

Bharatanatyam is a dance of Tamil Nadu in southern India. It traces its origins back to the Natyashastra, an ancient treatise on theatre written by the mythic priest Bharata. Originally a temple dance for women, bharatanatyam often is used to express Hindu religious stories and devotions. It was not commonly seen on the public stage until the 20th century. The dance movements are characterized by bent legs, while feet keep rhythm. Hands may be used in a series of mudras, or symbolic hand gestures, to tell a story.

6 Classical Dances of India | Britannica

[adm-starblitzsteel-4305]

SPOILERS (probably?)

My whole biggest plot about my Generation AU: MonsterVerse Edition is that having a biggest wedding for Godzilla and Mothra is superbly a HUGE challenge for me to write.

Plus, the fact about how many guests are invited, food and decorations (I suggest having a 2 5-tiered vanilla and chocolate cake, y'know that's my weakness), hiring a mastered DJ (oh wow), etc. AAAAAAAANNNNNNNDDD the ENTIRE Gojira clan and Mosura clan will be there (each of their family members must hold their matriarchs down because they dislike each other all due to their past ancestors LOL).

I could clearly see my mental image about after the wedding reception is held and throwing a bouquet to the bridesmaids, Godzilla taking Mothra on a speedboat (Kong, Rodan, Ghidorah, and some others are getting splashed by the speedboat's engines and salt water) while driving to the ocean to an island where their honeymoon was set.

Oh, and the humans are there too (I chose Madison as the Maid of Honor haha).

P.S. I'm super busy right now on university and I was stressed too much is because of numerous activities and a meeting held there, and I nearly got myself blown away because of how expensive our payment was per activities. I participating myself as a PAINTER for my upcoming program this last week of September, and also a CHORALE!!! Can you imagien that?! I have 2 talents: an artist and a singer!

Oh, and one more thing: considering this as a promise that I am drawing Human!Godzilla in a wedding tuxedo since you guys reacted my Human!Mothra's wedding dress. Because of that, you are all in for their wedding!!!

[elliegoestodownton]

As an anon asked about my hopes for this season's PD, I'm gonna write down my wishes for both Fire and PD (I don't watch Med actively though I may start now that Sarah Ramos and Darren Barnet have joined the cast...).

Fire 🔥🔥🔥

What I wish for every year: no drama for Stellaride. I know Severide's brother will cause clashes and there's gonna be tension over the whole baby thing. If they're going down that road, then let them go through it in an organic way. Let them talk, not fight.

New Chief. It would be nice if they went for something different than the usual "new guy challenges 51 but after 3 episodes he understands how great it is, submits to the 51 way and everyone loves everybody else". We've seen that billions of times. It would be much more interesting to see how instead 51 adapts to a different leadership style.

Also the new Chief has an ex-wife (so pumped for KaDee!). I would absolutely love a sort of "comedy of remarriage" thing. I'm a sucker for second chances.

Novak is super fun and it would be great to see her develop as a character on her own, not on the basis of a romantic relationship (already rolling my eyes at the whole vibe with young Severide). Let us see her be good at her job and have loads of fun.

Speaking of Novak. A true party girl, who I feel would get along very well with Trudy (who, we have established, had a certain reputation back in the day). I am hoping for some short interaction at some point. Imagine that! Throw Violet (aka the captain of Trudy's fanclub) into the mix and I'd be very happy.

The return of Annabelle Herrmann. That's it, that's the wish. I love that menace to society.

More quality screentime for Ritter.

Kylie coming back and staying on Truck.

Mouch, my beloved! Of course, I haven't forgotten you! Just keep him alive, doing stupid things with Herrmann, but I also want to see him study and prepare for the Lt. exam. Study session with Trudy anyone? 😏 She, of all people, would know how to make him pass that test.

Plouch being Plouch.

PD 🚨🚨🚨

We might be getting patrol back with Kiana. Our prayers may have been answered. I'm hoping for less character-centric episodes and more of a balanced, choral vibe where there's also space for levity. I will be disappointed, I know, but dreams never go out of business, right?

Let Kiana stay on patrol a while. I don't want her to jump right back onto Intelligence. It would be the same as they did with Torres and we need patrol.

A recurring Petrovic, if not a regular. I like her.

It would be time for people to get promoted. I think both Kim and Kevin would be ready at this point, although it seems there will be one promotion only.

More quality screentime for Kevin. Let his centric episodes/cases go beyond race.

More girl!dad Adam.

I hope we will get to see the Burzek wedding. Keeping my expectations low on this and certainly I don't think we will get a crossover (not even Mouch as much as I'd like to), but I'd want to see some bits of the ceremony with everyone from PD there.

Also hoping for a throwback to THE wedding planner and Kim chucking down vodka at Trudy's wedding. Maybe Kim can get those $20 back.

I would still kill for a scene between Trudy and Mack.

As I wrote ages ago, and as I say every 3 seconds, more 👏🏻Trudy 👏🏻 on screen! 👏🏻 For Trudy to be involved more in cases, but also for her to have a more focused episode since she hasn't had one since friggin' S4. As I wrote here, I'd LOVE for Intelligence to pick up a case that links back to an old one Trudy worked on when she was in Robbery and Homicide and explore a bit of Trudy's career and past.

[silverwolf-108]

Tony Stark X Fem!Reader

The Bride of Billionaire

Summary: Your ex-fiancé barge in the wedding trying to bring you back, luckily your friends got your back.

Warning: none, fluff

You look at mirror seeing yourself in white dress, you try to bring the tears back in but you couldn’t help it because your marrying your soon-to-be-husband.

“Hey it’s still early to cry.” Wanda said wiping the tears with the tissue. “Sorry, I’m just… couldn’t help it.” You sniff. Natasha look at you while fixing up the dress to make it look nicer. “I’m happy to see Tony being loyal to you. I mean he was a playboy before but not anymore when he lay eyes on you.” Wanda giggle from her compliment.

She look at the clock from the wall “It’s almost time, ready?” She use her power to bring the bouquet from the table as it floated toward you. You sigh happily grab the bouquet “Yes, let’s go.” You exit out the dressing room and see your father waiting for you at the double doors where the alter lead.

“Hey dad.” You smile at him and he smile back, you notice his lips quiver and tears about to fall out from his eyes. You wipe the tears with your finger “Y-Your so beautiful, I’m so happy for you sweetie.” You chuckle.

“Thanks dad.” He wipe his tears away before he wrap one of his arm around yours. You heard the choral music begin to play as the double doors wide open.

You and your father walk in the alter, all of your relatives and friends look at you happily. “Good luck my child.” Your father let go of you walking to his seat where your mother save a seat for him.

You look at Tony smiling at you, you made it on the alter and look at him with a smile. “You look beautiful babe.” He smile. “Thank you, you look handsome too.” You chuckle.

“Ladies and gentlemen” the preist announced to the audience. “We are gathered here today for the glorious union of Tony Stark and Y/n L/n.” He look at the couple.

“Shall we begin the vows?” Tony grab your hand to his and begin to speak “My love, I promise in all my life that I will cherish you, honor you, and keep you in health from the sickness. I will protect you in all my life no matter the cost.”

“Tony, my love, I promise in all my life that I will cherish you, honor you, and keep you in health from the sickness. I will protect you in all my life no matter the cost.” you smile.

“May we have the rings?” The priest requested. Your little cousin held the pillow of rings to you both. “Do you Tony Stark take Y/n as your wife?” The priest declares.

“I do.” Tony grab the rings from the pillow, you nod at him allowing him to slip the ring. “And do you Y/n L/n take Tony Stark as your husband?” You nod your head “I do.” You slip the ring to him.

“Now, before we began, does anyone object to this union and not let them to be together?” Everyone stay silence. “With the power of vested in me, I pronounced you-“

SLAM!

The double doors slam open creating loud noise, the audience look over meeting a random guy wearing white attire. He pant heavily staring at you both.

“Winston?” Tony look at you “You know him?” You sigh “He’s… my ex-fiancé who cheated on me.” You answer.

“Y/n! I’m here for you! Come back to me! I change I promise! I promise I’ll-“ “Why would I go back to a bastard like you who cheated on me with a random women.” You growl.

Winston about to take a step but Sam and Steve block his path. “Hey! Get out of my way!” He growl. “She said she doesn’t want to see you. Get the hell out.” Sam and Steve push him out and shut the doors and lock it so Winston won’t barge in.

“Continue father.” Tony said. The priest nod his head “I pronounced you husband and wife, you may kiss the bride.” You and Tony kiss each other as the audience clapped their hands cheering at you two.

[gelidponies]

Name: Sweet Chorale 

Element: Generosity 

Talent: Wedding Seamstress 

Sweet Chorale, Sweetie as she’s known to her friends, is often compared to a carousel. She goes round and round every day, looking like a dream while she does it. With her own personal flair that keeps brides to be coming in, she also has a flair for the dramatics. Sweetie longs for her own once in a lifetime love some day, she can be a little too persistent on the subject, for herself and others as well. She believes that every couple deserves a fairytale wedding and that perfect attire is part of that! If you want a job done right you ought to do it yourself and Sweet Chorale takes on everything and anything, how she stays so well kept during all of it is a mystery. She sometimes makes promises no normal pony could keep and puts off taking care of herself to get it done. On top of this, she is often counsel and a shoulder to cry on for her clients. The same clients who will often bring their little ones. She loves nothing more than letting them be a part of the process, helping their guardian pick accessories for their special day, and designing them lovely ring bearer/flower foal outfits of their own. At her core she’s concerned with others first and foremost. 

Base by https://www.deviantart.com/lui-akita

[kmomof4]

Teaser Thursday!!!

Hello all! It’s been a long while since I posted anything, so I thought I’d jump on the bandwagon that booksteaandtoomuchtv started this morning. Calling it Teaser Thursday instead of Things I’m Typing Thursday (TIT Thursday) because while I am currently working on a new fic, I haven’t had time to work on it all week, so I can’t say I’m currently TYPING anything… anyhoo, I do have 3 fics waiting in the wings to post this fall and holiday season, and hopefully this new project will post sometime this fall as well, we’ll see… so I thought y’all would like some sneak peeks…

Orphan Girl is waiting on a beta read and was inspired by a song of the same name my local chorale group sang last spring as part of our concert featuring Songs from the Enchanted Isle, Folks Songs of Ireland, England, and Scotland. The song was originally written by Brendan Graham for the Annual Great Famine Commemoration in Sydney in 2012. The ceremony commemorates the relocation of about 4k female orphans to Australia after the potato famine took its toll.

Welcome to Drogheda Station, Miss Nolan,” he began. “My name is Killian Jones, and I am in need of a governess for my young daughter. She lost her mother closing in on a year ago now, and I just want to meet you myself before introducing you to my Alice and make sure you’d be a good fit with our family.” Emma nodded, but remained silent. His crystal blue eyes remained on hers as he spoke and she had to give herself an internal shake to keep herself from getting lost in them.

“So, tell me about yourself.” He looked down at a small stack of papers on his desk for a moment before looking back at her again. “I have quite a lot of information about you from your file provided to me from Granny, but I’d like to hear some of it in your own words.” He smiled and Emma instantly relaxed as she returned it.

“Ah,” Emma began, “the name… of the station? Drogheda? That’s Irish isn’t it?”

His smile lit up his face and Emma thought she would swoon at the pleasure she saw in his beautiful eyes.

“It is,” he affirmed. “My father was from Drogheda in County Louth on the east coast of Ireland. He immigrated here when he was a teenager. He died when I was small, but when I bought this land, I wanted to honor him and the roots he left behind by naming the station after his hometown.”

“I see.” She smiled back at him. “That’s a lovely tribute to your family. Thank you for sharing it with me. I’d never been to County Louth, but I had heard of it. I’m from County Mayo on the west coast.”

Killian smiled softly at her statement and nodded for her to continue. He watched the young woman in front of him intently as she continued speaking. Her manners were impeccable and her appearance was most pleasing. Her long golden hair was gathered at the nape of her neck in a ponytail against the summer heat, but it positively glowed in the sun shining through the windows of his office. There was a sadness in her green eyes that Killian found himself responding to. It was the look that he himself saw in the mirror every day. The look of an orphan. Given her circumstances, and where she came from, he wasn’t at all surprised.

What did surprise him, however, was how strongly he was responding to it. He wanted nothing more than to care for and shelter this lovely young lady. Her education and decorum were obvious in her comportment and Killian was sure she’d be a perfect fit for the position. He rarely had trouble discerning the character of a person upon their first meeting, and after just this brief introduction to Emma Nolan, he had no compunction whatsoever in bringing her on as Alice’s governess.

Our next sneak peek is from the Family Affair universe! After the response I got to the fics in the series, I wanted to share the couples Happy Beginnings, as well. And what better way is there then to gather the entire extended clan for Christmas? This fic picks up one year after Robin and Regina’s wedding, when David finally came home, and will post on Christmas Day.

Christmas was just a couple of days away. Emma, Killian, and Henry were feverishly getting everything ready to host the entire extended Swan and Jones families. They were expecting a total of sixteen extra guests for the holiday and excitement was running very high.

They didn’t usually have much snow in December, but this year, they were predicting around three inches on Christmas Eve. Henry had never seen a white Christmas, and with all his aunts, uncles, and cousins, in addition to his grandparents coming, this was sure to be the best Christmas ever!

Henry peeked into his baby sister’s bedroom, not surprised to see her awake and standing in her crib. Henry grinned and came in, followed closely by Shep.

“Eny, Eny,” Hope babbled as her big brother approached.

“Do you know what today is, Hope?” Henry asked his sister. “Everyone’s coming today! Mimi and Papaw, Aunt Ruby, Uncle Graham and Poppa, and you’ll get to meet your baby cousins in person, Aunt Regina and Uncle Robin, Aunt M’s and Uncle David, Aunt Elsa and Uncle Liam, Aaron and Dale, and Grandpa Nemo!”

Henry lowered the side of the crib and lifted Hope out, setting her on her feet on the floor. She wasn’t walking independently yet, but she was close and Henry just knew that she’d do it sometime in the next few days while everyone was here. He stood behind her and held onto her hands raised in the air as she started toward the door of her bedroom.

He followed along behind her as they toddled the short distance to their parents’ room. Once they reached the door, Henry knocked.

“Mom? Dad?” he asked, opening the door slightly. Shep pushed the door open the rest of the way with his nose.

“Mamamamamamamama,” Hope babbled. “Dadadadadadadada.”

The lights were still off, but the sun was poking through the blinds. Their dad sat up, his mouth opening on a huge yawn and swung his legs off the side of the bed, motioning for them to be quiet.

“Mom’s still asleep,” he whispered. “Let’s let her sleep just a little more. Go downstairs with Hope, Henry, and I’ll be down in just a minute to get breakfast started.”

Henry nodded and turned Hope around, back toward the door of the bedroom. As soon as they were gone, Killian leaned over to Emma, pressing a kiss to her brow and whispering in her ear.

“You can sleep for a little while longer, babe. I’ll send Henry up to get you once breakfast is ready.”

All he got was a muffled Mmmph in reply. Killian chuckled and made his way to the bathroom.

Our next fic is a continuation of A Christmas Surprise. Told mostly in Killian’s pov this time, it begins with Killian and Alice’s reunion and goes all the way to Killian and Emma’s wedding day! This is a long one and so will have two parts. Part One will post on Dec 8, and Part Two on Dec 15.

Killian Jones sat in the darkness of the giant present in which he was hiding, waiting for his daughter’s Christmas program to begin. He couldn’t wait to see his starfish when he surprised her after she sang her solo this evening. He was proud to serve his country, but the long deployments made things especially difficult. Having Liam and Elsa so close by and willing to care for Alice when he was gone was a blessing he didn’t take for granted in the least, but he was so thankful that he was home for good now and was eligible to retire in just a few more months.

Which made him think about what would come next. What the future might hold and how the lovely Emma Swan might fit into it. He’d been thoroughly gobsmacked when he laid eyes on the golden haired beauty who was Alice’s teacher when he arrived at the school earlier. And then the revelation that she was single sent his heart rate ratcheting up like he hadn’t experienced since he’d met his late wife. It had been six years since he’d lost his beloved Milah, and the thought of re-entering the dating scene hadn’t crossed his mind once in all that time. He was still relatively young and handsome, but with his very young daughter and Navy career, he didn’t have the time or inclination to put himself back out there.

But Emma Swan might just change his mind on that front.

He knew his countenance sported a goofy, thoroughly besotted smile when he heard movement on the outside of the present in which he sat. Bright light from the auditorium flooded the dark space as the box’s small door opened, helping him immensely in the schooling of his features before being confronted with the object of his thoughts as she handed him his dinner.

“Do you have enough light to see to eat in here?” Emma asked, looking around.

Killian grimaced. He hadn’t really thought of that. “Perhaps not.”

“I can stay for a bit while you eat, turn the flashlight on on my phone. So you can see to eat,” she stammered. The blush on her cheeks was adorable, and Killian’s heart rate picked up yet again.

“That would be great. Thank you, Emma.”

She smiled as she moved into the space with him. It was a bit cramped with them both sitting on the floor, but he didn’t mind it at all. He tucked into his Christmas meal of roast turkey and dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans and cranberry salad as Emma told him about some of the antics Henry, Alice, and her cousins had gotten up to this semester.

She told him about Liam Jr and Colin hiding Alice’s pencil box on the first day of school. Meant as an initiation of sorts, it had made Elsa’s morning that much more hectic and stressful trying to find it and make it to school on time. Emma related how she’d had trouble containing her giggles when the twins confessed what they’d done, handed over the pencil box, and got exactly what was coming to them from their mother. Later on the same day, in retaliation, Alice and Henry had hidden away the twins’ lunch boxes. Killian had to stifle his laughter at the story.

Then Emma told him about the time just a few weeks ago when Alice was delayed coming back from the restroom. When Emma went to look for her, she found the child peeking into the auditorium where her cousins were engaged in a basketball game with another school in the area. Colin had just made a shot, and Alice was cheering loudly for her cousin from the hallway when Emma found her. Killian’s heart swelled.

And finally, the new fic I’ve been working on is inspired by Francesca Bridgerton’s story. I wrote the entire first ch of the fic, almost 8400 words, in five days, so I’m hoping I’ll be able to finish it next month and post it sometime in November. No promises, but that is the hope…

There is a moment in every man’s life in which his future becomes clear. A turning point of sorts. The moment when he becomes a man, when he leaves the irresponsibility and temerity of youth behind and turns his eyes to the future. A future that he’d never allowed himself to think about before. Unfortunately, that moment came for Killian Jones when he first laid eyes on Emma Nolan, at a supper celebrating the imminent marriage between herself and Killian’s brother Earl Liam Jones.

After years of chasing anything in a skirt, Killian grimaced at the irony. In all that time, he’d never allowed his heart to become entangled with his many, many romantic exploits. Allowing himself to be chased until he conquered, his reputation as a rake and a scoundrel was well deserved. He’d even stopped attending church, although he assuaged the pricking of his conscience by telling himself the derelict stones of Kilmartin Abbey on the Kilmartin estate up in Scotland couldn’t withstand a direct strike of lightning, which would surely happen if Killian Jones ever showed his face inside. No originality among his ancestors there, when it came to naming. They were so proud of the title when it was newly bestowed about 300 years ago, that they attached it to everything they possibly could.

Killian Jones

Worst of Sinners

He would have had it printed on calling cards if he didn’t think it would actually kill his mother. He may never have seduced a virgin or slept with a married woman… Oh very well, if he couldn’t be honest in his own head, then what was the purpose? He’d slept with plenty of married women. But only those whose husbands were tossers, and only when they’d already produced at least two male offspring, three if one of others was sickly. He may have a modicum of honor left in his blackened soul… because this was the one thing that truly did it. Blackened his soul beyond all redemption.

He coveted his brother’s wife.

And had since that fateful moment two years ago. The day he met Emma Nolan. Emma Nolan Jones now. Lady Kilmartin. Countess Kilmartin. Wife of his brother. The Earl of Kilmartin.

He could torture himself for days thinking of every iteration of Emma Nolan Jones, but it would never change the simple fact. He couldn’t have her. She’d never be his.

I hope this whets y’all’s appetite!!

Tagging the usual crew. Please let me know if you’d like to be added or removed.

@jrob64 @teamhook @winterbaby89 @hollyethecurious @artistic-writer @xarandomdreamx @undercaffinatednightmare @the-darkdragonfly @stahlop @superchocovian @pirateprincessofpizza @tiganasummertree @anmylica @cosette141 @motherkatereloyshipper @zaharadessert @jonesfandomfanatic @ultraluckycatnd @jennjenn615 @allons-y-to-hogwarts-713 @kymbersmith-90 @booksteaandtoomuchtv @wistfulcynic @mie779 @snowbellewells @lfh1226-linda @aprilqueen84 @whimsicallyenchantedrose @pirateherokillian @elfiola @ilovemesomekillianjones @justanother-unluckysoul @poptart-cat-78 @myfearless-love @goforlaunchcee @searchingwardrobes @gingerpolyglot @gingerchangeling @djlbg @cocohook38 @cs-rylie @thisonesatellite @donteattheappleshook @deckerstarblanche @veryverynotgoodwrites @wefoundloveunderthelight @fleurdepetite @alexa-fangirl-forever @bluewildcatfanatic @qualitycoffeethings

[horsetailcurlers2]

YET ANOTHER long and obnoxious stream of my thoughts while watching greys anatomy for the first time (season 12 because i’m back, babey)

-bailey i love you but you are in way over ur head

-the music this season is insane tbh. soft piano covers of megan trainor and iggy azalea?? is this a choral cover of “shake it off”????

-i love maggie actually

-wait, maggie, bestie. i thought we ALL mutually decided as a group that none of us were gonna kiss interns anymore. stop it

-i love that ellen pompeo is just using her natural voice/accent now. i feel like she definitely put on a “meredith voice” in the early seasons

-okay, i’ve seen clips of this whole edwards-wilson-amelia conflict on tiktok. with context, jo and amelia don’t come off as AS bad but it’s still wild that jo just assumes edwards is lying AND that amelia believes it too. like, i get that edwards has been known to lie and finagle things to work the system, but still a crazy leap to make. not the first time jo has just ran with an assumption. tbh i think amelia is the most in the wrong in this scenario.

-i really like the way this dinner party episode is filmed!

-also: the only social scenario i can imagine more nightmarish than a new partner straight up abandoning you at a dinner party full of strangers is if the dinner party happens to be hosted by the woman you helped make a widow

-“skanks, PERHAPS?” i love maggie

-i love meredith so much but sometimes it feels like she doesn’t get that amelia is grieving too. i get it. and i know that amelia can be brash and childish and also that mer is used to dealing with her pain in a very solitary way, but i think it would’ve been better if they’d grieved together.

-i guess the writers decided the beating meredith takes every season was gonna stop being figurative

-i like meredith and amelia’s relationship a lot more than i thought i would. they are very very different people and i like seeing them sort of not knowing how to navigate each other or their relationship with each other.

-obsessed with arizona and richard’s friendship

-i think my brain just skips over anything about april and jackson

-i am so deeply confused about this single leg surgery thing. is this guy just supposed to hop around like the pixar lamp?

-lowkey i hate jackson

-i am genuinely confused about why catherine thinks it’s necessary to sue april???

-ben is going a little cuckoo bananas.

-why is he shocked and flabbergasted that he’s suspended????? what the fuck did he think was gonna happen???

-what is callie on about??? has everyone lost their damn minds???!!

-one thing about meredith grey is that she loves a pair of belted loose pants and some sensible loafers

-i don’t feel as bad for callie as i probably should. like… this is kind of your fault.

-edwards needs to CHILL

-owen and amelia are both way too impulsive to be with each other. they both need to be with people less impulsive to balance them out

-i know it’s just a real life logistics issue but i genuinely cannot fathom a universe in which addison doesn’t come to amelia’s wedding

-i do think she’s being unreasonable but part of me loves grouchy mean meredith

-“nothings wrong with owen” “well, he could use some sun” meredith PLEASE

-i always thought that april had DIY mom energy but this IS NOT what i meant

[ratethisalbum]

#1) Les Miserables (The Complete Symphonic Recording)

Composed by Claude-Michel Schonberg and Alain Boublil

Suggested by: Anonymous

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Spotify ~ Youtube

(Remember to listen first, then rate!)

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Tracklist:

1 Prologue 2 Valjean's Soliloquy (What Have I Done?) 3 At The End of the Day 4 I Dreamed a Dream 5 Lovely Ladies 6 Fantine's Arrest 7 The Runaway Cart 8 Who Am I?/ The Trial 9 Fantine's Death 10 The Confrontation 11 Castle on a Cloud 12 Master of the House 13 The Bargain/ The Waltz of Treachery 14 Look Down 15 The Robbery/ Javert's Intervention (Another Brawl) 16 Stars 17 Eponine's Errand 18 The ABC Cafe/ Red and Black 19 Do You Hear the People Sing? 20 Rue Plumet/ In My Life 21 A Heart Full of Love 22 Attack on the Rue Plumet 23 One Day More! 24 At The Barricade (Upon These Stones) 25 On My Own 26 Building the Barricade 27 Javert's Arrival 28 Little People 29 A Little Fall of Rain 30 Night of Anguish 31 First Attack 32 Drink With Me 33 Bring Him Home 34 Dawn of Anguish 35 The Second Attack (Death of Gavroche) 36 The Final Battle 37 The Sewers/ Dog Eats Dog 38 Javert's Suicide 39 Turning 40 Empty Chairs at Empty Tables 41 Every Day (Marius and Cosette) 42 Valjean's Confession 43 The Wedding Chorale/ Beggars at the Feast 44 Epilogue (Finale)

[valena-nedela]

Glam Update

I haven't posted glam in a while. So I decided the best way to remedy this was to spend a few days doing new gpose shots of all of my current looks to share in one gallery post - literally just all the plates from 1-20. Learned some things about getting a good gpose while doing this, too.

#1: Paladin & Gunbreaker (Fending)

Magitek Ear Guards, Model A-1 Tactical Top, Model A-1 Tactical Fingerless Gloves, YoRHa Type-53 Breeches of Fending, YoRHa Type-53 Boots of Fending; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, —; Silver Shaded Spectacles.

#2: Black Mage & Summoner (Casting)

Star Velvet Hood of Casting, Nomad's Coat of Casting, Republican Signifer's Fingerless Gloves, Black Summer Tanga, Demon Sandals of Casting; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Ishgardian Knight's Choker, The Emperor's New Bracelet, Diamond Lone Wolf Ring, Eternity Ring.

#3: Astrologian & [sometimes] White Mage (Healing)

Salon Server's Hat, Casual Jacket, Street Handwear, YoRHa Type-53 Bottoms of Healing, Model C-1 Tactical Longboots; Menphina's Earring, Wayfarer's Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, Eternity Ring; Black Oval Spectacles.

#4: Scholar (Healing)

Elegant Rimless Glasses, Diadochos Coat of Healing, False Nails, Valentione Emissary's Culottes, Valentione Emissary's Dress Boots; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Halonic Friar's Ring, Eternity Ring.

#5: White Mage (Healing)

Red Hyacinth Corsage, Shisui Joi of Healing, False Nails, Spring Skirt, Lady's Clogs; Dai-ryumyaku Earring of Healing, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Diamond Lone Wolf Ring, Eternity Ring.

#6: Sage (Healing)

Shaded Spectacles, Makai Moon Guide's Gown, Makai Moon Guide's Fingerless Gloves, Cropped Fireglass Leather Slops, Model C-1 Tactical Longboots; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, Eternity Ring.

#7: Dark Knight & Warrior (Fending)

Red Hyacinth Corsage, Shisui Joi of Fending, Punching Gloves, Yakaku Koshita, Lady's Clogs; Dai-ryumyaku Earring of Fending, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, —.

#8: Dragoon (All Class)

Cashmere Hood, Highland Smock, Pagos Field Dressing, Extreme Survival Slops, Auri Buskins; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Halonic Friar's Ring, Eternity Ring.

#9: Samurai (Striking)

Non La, Gazelleskin Corselet of Striking, Amatsu Tekko, Amatsu Haidate, True Griffin Caligae of Striking; Dai-ryumyaku Earring of Slaying, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, —.

#10: Monk (Monk Only)

Thavnairian Headdress, Hesychast's Cyclas, Summer Sunset Wrist Torques, Alliance Skirt of Striking, Martial Artist's Pumps; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Halonic Friar's Ring, Eternity Ring.

#11: Ninja (Ninja Only)

Moonward Veil of Scouting, Idealized Hattori Chainmail, Idealized Hattori Tekko, Ninja Hakama, Midan Boots of Scouting; Diamond Lone Wolf Earrings, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, —.

#12: Bard (Bard Only)

White Hydrangea Corsage, Augmented Choral Shirt, Idealized Fili Armlets, Far Eastern Beauty's Koshita, Far Eastern Beauty's Boots; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, Eternity Ring.

#13: Machinist (Aiming)

Replica Sky Pirate's Beret of Aiming, Street Jacket, Makai Markswoman's Fingerless Gloves, Paglth'an Bottoms of Aiming, Calfskin Rider's Shoes; Diamond Lone Wolf Earrings, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, Eternity Ring; Black Shaded Spectacles.

#14: Dancer (Dancer Only)

Horos Headdress, Horos Casaque, Horos Wrist Torques, Horos Bottoms, Etoile Dress Boots; Menphina's Earring, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, —.

#15: Wedding Glam (Dancer Only)

Horos Headdress, Gown of Eternal Devotion, Etoile Halfgloves, Virtu Dancer's Bottoms, Idealized Dancer's Shoes; Diamond Lone Wolf Earrings, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Diamond Lone Wolf Ring, Eternity Ring.

#16: Viper (Scouting)

Pagos Bandana, Summer's Flame Top, Dirndl's Wrist Torque, Nabaath Bottoms of Scouting, Nabaath Shoes of Scouting; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Wayfarer's Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Halonic Friar's Ring, Eternity Ring.

#17: Red Mage & Pictomancer (All Class)

Red-feathered Flat Hat, Lady's Suikan, Summer Sunset Wrist Torques, Spriggan Bottoms, High House Halfboots; Red Moth Orchid Corsage, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Emperor's New Ring, Eternity Ring.

#18: Reaper (Reaper Only)

Makai Harrower's Facemask, Gazelleskin Corselet of Maiming, Eastern Lady Errant's Gloves, Imperial Longkilt of Maiming, Gazelleskin Open-toed Boots of Maiming; Green Triteleia Earring, Hard Leather Choker, Emperor's New Bracelet, Halonic Friar's Ring, Eternity Ring.

#19: Disciples of the Land (All Class)

Salon Server's Hat, Thavnairian Wool Autumn Shirt, False Nails, Salon Server's Skirt, Wayfarer's Boots; Lily and Serpent Earrings, Green Byregotia Choker, Emperor's New Bracelet, Gysahl Ring, Eternity Ring.

#20: Disciples of the Hand (All Class)

Salon Server's Hat, Flannel Suspenders, Street Handwear, Peavelover Pantaloons, Survival Boots; Wayfarer's Earcuff, Emperor's New Necklace, Emperor's New Bracelet, Gysahl Ring, Eternity Ring.

[jules-has-notes]

2019 VoicePlay winter travels — let it snow, make it rain, feel the love

After a reasonably busy autumn and holiday season, VoicePlay eased into the new year by spending a little more time with their families. Then they got back to work with new musical arrangements, ambitious music video projects, and live shows.

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On the road again

As they did for many years, the boys began their travels with a trip to New York for the annual Association of Performing Arts Professionals conference. They did some networking with other artists, and performed a showcase set to allow potential bookers to see what they have to offer.

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During the few days they had at home, J.None and sound guy Paul released an original song they'd been working on. Then VoicePlay hit the road again for a weekend in Indiana.

First up was a return to the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, where they'd last played three years earlier. An unexpected joy of the night was meeting a couple dozen high school singers from a town just across the state line in Illinois, who were brought by their teachers.

Terre Haute show — photo by Nancy Mongomery // choral students from Charleston (Illinois) High School — photo from the Journal Gazette & Times Courier

The following day, they drove up to Wabash for their next concert. Sadly, they had to hurry to the airport right after the show rather than doing the usual meet-and-greet, lest a nasty winter storm prevent them from getting home.

Wabash, IN show — photo by Carolyn Schult

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While they were home for the week, Layne and Tony finished up a fun video that PattyCake had produced for YouTuber Danny Gonzalez. On the VoicePlay side of things, Eli did an interview with a reporter from the Kitsap Sun about the group's origins and performance philosophy in advance of their two upcoming shows in western Washington state.

When the weekend rolled around, the boys took to the skies again. They started in Bellingham, near the Canadian border, then scooted down Puget Sound to Bremerton.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by J.None 🧈🎶 🎙📝🎬🎹🎸📽🤣 (@itsjnone)

While the other guys headed home again, Eli met up with Ashley and popped over to Seattle to begin their anniversary vacation travels.

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Night out, night in

In the middle of the week, J.None headed over to Clearwater to see a gaggle of friends. Echo were the local openers for DCappella at the second stop on their national tour. That allowed J to reunite with his colleagues in the first-wave DCap cast and musical director Deke Sharon, and let beatboxer Antonio Fernandez spend a night with his former bandmates.

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Meanwhile, Layne spent the evening at home doing a bit of culinary experimentation, using advice from fitness enthusiast Earl.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Layne Stein (@laynestein)

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Love is in the air

Over the next week, VoicePlay spent several days capturing footage for their first music video of the year, an expanded version of "Grow Old With You" from The Wedding Singer.

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They like us!

The end of the month brought a lovely surprise when the nominees for the Shorty Awards were announced. VoicePlay found themselves in fine company for the Best YouTube Musician category.

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Doing the work

February was comparatively quiet as the fellas worked on various projects that were in progress and planned for the months ahead. J.None played a few events with Paradigm Party Band, including a laser-tastic gig for Google at the House of Blues.

Later in the month, VoicePlay headed to the REBL HQ studio at Full Sail University for a day to film two new videos for their PartWork series. First up was ELO's "Mr. Blue Sky", which they'd been performing at live shows for a while. The second was a full version of "Any Way You Want It" by Journey. Fans had been requesting that for several years, since they'd included a portion of it in the polyphony section of "Don't Stop Believin'".

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Puttin' on the glitz

March started off swanky, as the guys were part of the entertainment for a gala / charity fundraiser in advance of the grand opening of a new IPIC movie theater in Delray Beach. Some other acts for the night were the lovely ladies of The American Sirens (who VoicePlay and PattyCake fans might recognize) and Rockette-style dancers from Zhantra Events.

photos courtesy of The American Sirens

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Congratulations all around

A few days later, Eli returned to the Full Sail campus to help their buddy Rek Dunn celebrate finishing his degree.

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And a few days after that, the boys were very pleased to learn that they'd advanced to the final round of their category for the Shorty Awards.

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That's a wrap

On the video production front, Layne and Tony finished up their next PattyCake project, a Disney-fied version of Maroon 5's "Girls Like You" featuring a cavalcade of animated ladies.

Then VoicePlay gathered at Rayne's Room to record their next "Aca Top 10" video, themed around Disney villains.

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Rollin', rollin', rollin'

In the middle of the month, VoicePlay hit the road once more, starting with a workshop and concert in Harrisburg, PA.

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Over the weekend, J.None and his family popped down to Tampa to support his Americal Idol buddy Clark Beckham at his album release show. J even jumped on stage for a song or two.

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The next week, they headed back to the Rockies for another high-altitude concert in Beaver Creek, CO. The air was still a bit thin, but that was balanced by getting to see their artist friend Leon.

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Their final gig of the season was closer to home, just a quick drive down to Naples, FL. In a fun coincidence, Layne's brother- and sister-in-law also had a show in town with their band on the same night, so the two groups met up for dinner.

backstage smiles // post-show dinner with family

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Fingers crossed

The cherry on top of a fun weekend was receiving two nominations for the A Cappella Music Awards. The five of them were up for Best Pop Group, and Earl was in the running for Best Male Vocalist. Several of their friends were also nominated in other categories, which gave them even more to root for.

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All in all, the year was off to a pretty great start. There was plenty more fun to come, but that's a tale for another time.