#wedding invitation christmas ornament

[danddyyyyy]

Deco Seigaiha Wedding Gold Foil Invitation

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[yudiiiiii-14]

Budget Wedding Topaz Gold Abstract Marble Invitation

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[luvyeni]

❛CHRISTMAS PROPOSAL❜ ( l. felix )

p. fiance!felix x fem!reader w. 1.6k+

— 𖦹 warnings. unprotected sex , oral ( f. receiving )

— 𖦹 ( felix proposing to you on your favorite holiday ) !

8 days of christmas masterlist

Felix put another fire log in the warm fire , sitting back down on the floor next to you. “Warm?” He wrapped his arm around you. “Yeah.” You took a sip of hot chocolate, the cabin was nicely decorated with lights and ornaments — Christmas music playing in the background. “I told you that when you brought out the 3 fleece blankets.”

He pouted , wiping the whipped cream off your nose. “Well sorry that I don’t want my baby to be cold.” He said. “I don’t know what i'd do if you caught a cold cause of me.”

He had suggested that you’d spend Christmas alone this year — just you two in his family cabin. You didn’t mind , you loved having alone time with your boyfriend of almost 5 years, but it came as such a shock to you because he loved spending the holidays with friends and family. “but you count as both of those no?” you couldn’t beat that , but you still wondered why.

To be honest, felix was currently freaking out , the small box sitting out of your view he kept waiting for the right time to do it — the perfect time to propose to you.

You and felix met through hyunjin , you were another artist who met hyunjin at a art gallery and became good friends. Hyunjin invited him out one night for drinks , and that’s when he saw you. You were sitting there, looking as beautiful as ever — and not only were you beautiful; you were extremely funny and kind. Right then and there he knew one thing — he was in love.

When you guys started to date , everyone said you were perfect for each other — that your relationship was something from the movies, and felix felt like that to. He was fell deeper and a deeper in love with you.

That was almost 4 years ago , you’ve had many ups and downs , career milestones and many other different milestones — but his love for you never changed. Now he couldn’t wait to marry you , spend the rest of his life with you — start a family with you. But before he could do that he’d have to actually ask you first. “Baby?”

You turned to him with that beautiful smile that made his heart flutter time and time again. “yes lixie?” you said , he sighed it was now or never, he secretly grabbed the box from next of the couch. “I know we said we only were giving two gifts this year.” He said, finally revealing the nicely wrapped gift. “but I couldn’t help it.”

You gasped , he took the mug out your hand , sitting it on the table. “open it.” He handed you the box. “Lix you always have to go overboard don’t you?” You said. “Well normally no but I love it.” He said. “But this time , I think will top any other time.”

You were curious now , he watched you as you tore the paper slowly. “I love anything you do.” You said — you finally caught a glimpse of the gift , a dark red velvet box. “What is it?” You excitedly finished tearing the wrapping off, holding the small box in your hand. “What?” He encouraged you open it, his heart beating out of his chest. “open it baby.”

You opened it, revealing a ring. “What is this?” You turned to him. “It’s beautiful.” You inspected the ring , it was so beautiful you almost didn’t want to take it out. “Wait.” You said. “this is a wedding ri- oh.” He smiled. “lix.”

There he stood , on his one knee in front of you. “Baby.” He held your hand. “I have loved you since the moment I saw you.” You heard his voice start to crack, which made you tear up. “You’ve always been there to support me, caring for me and just being there for me whenever I need you.” You both were full on crying at this point as he tried to get out his heartfelt words , but he could barely keep it together.

“Will you marry me?” You sobbed, luckily you had taken your makeup off because it would’ve been pretty. “Oh baby.” He pulled you into a hug. “it’s okay, calm down.” He rubbed your back, letting you get your cry out. “I didn’t mean to make you cry like this.”

You pulled away after getting yourself together , wiping your eyes. “You okay?” you nodded. “im fine.” You said , laughing at yourself. “Just a bit surprised.” You said , he smiled. “That’s what I wanted , but I didn’t want you to cry like that.” He laughed.

“So what do you say? You wanna get married.” You shook your head. “of course I do.” You threw yourself in his arms. “I love you so much.” He kissed you, putting the ring on your finger. “This takes the cake for my favorite Christmas ever.” You said. “What about the Christmas where I bought you that diamond necklace you’ve always wanted, you said the same thing last time.”

“Yes but this a diamond ring.” You said. “and im getting married to the love of my life.” He smiled, pulling you into another kiss — a much deeper kiss. “Love you much baby.” He said against your lips. “My beautiful fiancé.” He lied you gently down on the soft rug , making out with you. “lix.” You moaned softly as he kissed your neck, kitty licking the spots he kissed. “let me do everything tonight baby.”

You gasped as he sucked little marks on your neck , squeezing your waist. “let’s get this off.” He took your shirt off , throwing the shirt making sure not to throw it in the warm fire. “so pretty.” He said taking his shirt off, your skin touching. “Lix please.” You moaned out.

He pulled down the pants you were wearing, discarding them, leaving you in your underwear. “Gonna eat you baby.” He kissed down your stomach, pulling your panties down your legs, spreading your legs. “You’re so wet baby.” His eyes darken, he groaned to himself. “can’t wait to taste you.”

He kissed your thighs, your thighs twitched. “Keep it open baby.” He said softly , kissing your clit. “Sh-shit lix please.” You moaned m, he gave your bud another kiss, following up with a kitty lick. “mmh.” You ran your fingers through his hair, as he lick your folds. “Fuck lix!”

He repeatedly licked your folds , holding your hips down so you couldn’t move. “L-ix I need more.” He pulled away from you heat — his lips glossy with your juices. “You want more?” He rubbed your clit. “Want my fingers baby?” You nodded, moaning. “Fuck lix , please fuck me with your fingers.”

He slowly slid his finger into your cunt, moving it in and out of your hole, using the pad of his thumb against your clit. “Fuck lix.” He groaned, his cock desperately wanted to be freed. “Another?” you nodded. “please.”

He added another finger, speeding up his movements. “fuck baby your squeezing my fingers, you gonna cum on them?” you nodded, he curled his fingers, hitting that one spot. “Fuck baby im gonna cum.” You yelled , the knot in your stomach snapping. “fuck im cumming!”

Your legs twitched as he slowly removed his fingers, your juices dripping down his wrist. “You came so much princess, you really like my fingers that much.” He chuckled, ridding himself of his pants, freeing his cock from his underwear, hissing as it slapped against his toned stomach, precum dripping from his tip.

You mouth water, desperately wanting to put it your mouth, and felix knew. “later my love, this is about you right now.” He stroked his cock , groaned. “n-need to fuck you.” Pressing his tip at your hole , slowly sliding into your hole. “fuck baby.” He groaned. “You’re sucking my cock in.”

He held your legs open, as he pushed deeper into your hole , fully bottoming out. “fucks sake.” He hissed. “So fucking tight.” He pulled all the way out, slamming back in. “Lixie!” you screamed, as his began to snap his hips against yours. “You feel so good baby -fuck- s-so tight and wet.”

He folded your body in half, his cock hitting a different angle. “I love you so much.” He confessed. “you don’t -fuck- you don’t understand how much I love you.” He reached for your hand, interlocking your hands. “I’ll do anything for you, I can’t wait to make you my wife.”

He hit that spot over and over, confessing his love for you over and over — it was such a overwhelming feeling, you didn’t even realize you were crying again. “I-I love you to, pl-please, im gonna cum.” You sobbed. “look at me baby.” He whispered in your ear, you made eye contact with him, he wiped your wet face. “cum for me baby.” As soon as he said that, you felt it.

“Fuck!” You screamed, your orgasm hitting you hard. “Oh fuck!” He cursed , his cum failing your waiting hole , pulling out his cock dripping in a mixture of both your juices. “Shit baby, you squirted.” He said. “so fucking pretty, baby you did so well for me.”

He quickly grabbed a towel cleaning you both up , kissing your sore body. “Come here.” He wrapped a blanket around your naked body’s, the fire still going, listening to you go on and on about your future wedding, he was smiling ear to ear hearing talk.

“lixie are you listening?” you asked. “What did you say baby?” You pouted. “I said since you proposed on Christmas, should we have a Christmas wedding?” He furrowed his eyebrows. “You sure you don’t want a spring or summer wedding princess?”

“Nah.” You started. “I like chrismas better.” He laughed , shaking his head agreeing, you’re committed to your love of Christmas.

“Sure baby we can have a christmas wedding, I look into it.”

©️LUVYENI

[cathumanthing2]

List of things my orchestra, chorus, and band teachers have said:

"I need your bows to be infused with the power of christmas and stretch out" (orchestra 1)

"i guess I'll be practicing all week instead of doing homework" "atta girl, you got your priorities straight!" (band)

"it needs to sound like 'ho ho ho' not 'ho ho those damn kids keep takin my cookies'" (orchestra 1)

"you're making it sound like the wrong sleigh! its 'sleigh ride', not" *plays the chord from psycho* (orchestra 1)

"dont drink and run, kids" (orchestra 1)

*mewing* (chorus)

"you guys are so zesty" (chorus)

"it sounds like if you took a box of ornaments and just dumped it all over the tree then threw the tinsel on and then it catches fire and your house burns down" (orchestra 1)

"thats a good mama" (chorus)

*weird voice* "i have flower" (orchestra 1)

"YES, ill let you take my job today" (orchestra 2)

"if you're gonna fart... pose" *strikes some weird pose* (band 2)

"you're supposed to do *makes petting motion* kittyyy kittyyy, pet it gently, not *fucking WHACKS the invisible kitten* animal abuse" (orchestra 1)

"yes, im evil and made this warmup to make you smack yourselves in the face" (chorus)

"i want you to burp so loud and long that even your dad is impressed" (band 2)

"i guess we're teaching sign language now" (orchestra 1)

*steals people's sheet music* "im doing you a favor" (band)

*day before long weekend* "you did so good that im giving you Monday off of school" *collective groaning noises at an overused joke* (band)

*chases oboist around the band room* (band)

"who do you think it is?" *calls on kid with hand raised* kid: "is it-" "its not [name2]" (chorus)

"i need you to pretend you're throwing up" (chorus)

"i cant believe im saying this but... percussion, can you perhaps be louder?" (band)

"I have a funny story...my dad died and when my mom got married again she didn't invite me to her wedding." (orchestra 2) (NOTE: i never had this teacher, i joined orchestra the year after she retired)

"do you know how hard it is to make frosty the snowman sound like frosty the snowman instead of frosty the big wet sad puddle?" (orchestra 1)

"We will accept bribery" (chorus)

"guys, will you PLEASE stop hitting kittens" (orchestra 1)

*at a baritone who has his arm resting on the back [name]s chair* "[name2], i dont think [name] wants to go on a date with you" random kid: "yeah, [name2] is like 'hey, wanna go to the movies and put our hands in the popcorn bucket at the same time'"

SO. thats what i have so far. this is FAR from a complete list. the band 2 is for an extra band where the teacher isnt the same one or one of the ones for band, and orchestra 1 and orchestra 2 are completely different and numbered based on when i joined. 1 is after school and not really a school orchestra, and 2 is a school orchestra.

bonus: things they say a lot

"snailed it!" "open up your vowels, sopranos" "you SLAYED" "does anyone have any hot tea?" (chorus)

"SHAPE IT" "less talking more rocking/less conversing more rehearsing" "lets go! *loud clap*" (orchestra 1)

[insert dad jokes here] (band)

[sugar-omi]

Hi! I love your work! 🩵

Do you have any HC for MC and Cove spending their first Christmas together as a married couple?

OMG THIS TURNED INTO SUCH A BIG RAMBLE. YOUVE BROKEN ME /POS

(edit bc I called u anon, sorry I'm so used to anon rq 💀😂 anyway tysm I loved this rq so much🤭🫶🫶🫶)

Fluff, headcanons + drabble, gn reader, (after) step 4/wedding dlc, ooc cove bc my imagination ran away w me 🤷🏽‍♀️ , this is just rlly cute n soft ok

we all know cove doesn't care much for holidays since his parents divorce

but if you care for holidays, by the time you're married, cove's spark for such occasions has returned

your first Christmas as a married couple though...

he's basically lost his mind

goes on a separate shopping trip just for decorations and snacks

hot coco, candy canes, whatever else people snack on for Christmas idk

is pumpkin spice still in...? 💀

definitely goes a bit crazy with decore

wrath on the door, lights all over the house, scented candles, even a new welcome mat outside!

your home looks like it belongs in a Christmas catalog

even got matching mugs for you two

omg..

gets ornaments and stuff to decorate them

you both paint n decorate your own ornaments and then make one that says something like 'cove + y/n's 1st Christmas' with the year or smth like that anyway

I'll have find the video I'm thinking of, but...

rearranges the furniture in the living room and makes a nice bedding and snack bar

even bakes cookies!!!

sets up a movie and lights a candle and all that good stuff so you can relax when you get home

actually he looks forward to baking with you

doesn't even have to be from scratch, although he does like being your taste tester 🤭

you can task him with dying the frosting (although rmbr to look over your shoulder at least once, otherwise you're gonna have a purple snowman....)

OMG HOW COULD I FORGET

uses this as an excuse to cuddle

ALSO BUYS U MATCHING OUTFITS N SHIT BUT IMMA GET TO THAT IN A MINUTE

walks around in the skimpiest clothes like it's summer time n whines "y/nnn, I'm so cold..."

n then practically throws himself on top of you

squeals when you open the blanket or your arms and go "c'mere"

you know what he's doing after the first time or two, but are you gonna deny him? nope!

ofc he doesn't do it every time, sometimes he just falls into your lap or pulls you into his

or comes up from behind/rolls over in bed and hugs you from behind

grumbles n whines n pouts when you try to leave him :(

there's no reason you can't do a professional meeting with a 6"4 beach bum in your lap right? 😌✨️

DRABBLE

"y/n!" cove whines from down the hall, his big footsteps muffled by his winter themed socks and puppy slippers.

"yes, cove?" you call over your shoulder, eyes glued to the project on your computer screen.

the floor creaks behind you, cove right behind the couch.

he makes his presence known when he wraps his arms around your shoulders, his cheek on your head.

"its so cold y/n.." cove pouts, nuzzling into you.

you laugh, "that's because you're in a tank top, cove."

cove hums, silent for the longest and you presume his eyes are either closed or he's watching you work.

you look up, it's fruitless since you can't exactly see the top of your head.

"since you're so cold, even in that thick sweater of yours.." you sarcastically purr. "how about you get under the blanket with me?"

cove brightens, an invisible wagging tail and perky ears showing your husband's excitement at the invitation.

he bounces over to the side of the couch, flopping over the armrest and making you bounce, computer and all.

"cove!" you yelp, your astonishment turning into laughter. "what're you doing?!"

cove grins, lifting up the quilt up and squeezing in next to you, throwing an arm around your waist and squeezing his legs next to, more like tangle, yours on the ottoman.

"it's cold! i'm just getting comfortable!" cove laughs, nuzzling into your neck.

you laugh, tangling your fingers in cove's hair. "you're so silly! i'm trying to work!"

cove peeks at you, his bottom lip sagging, and he's melting you with those wide baby blues.

"c'mon, put down the computer.. just for a bit?" cove pleads.

you hum and haw, fake contemplating. "and why should i?"

cove closes your laptop, leaning over you to place it on the side table, almost knocking off the tissue box.

he rolls over on top of you, his legs in either side of your waist. "because you wanna spend time with your husband, and you need a break.."

he leans in, pressing his forehead against yours. you laugh, eyes drifting between his eyes and his lips.

"yeah?"

cove nods and hums, "yeah. you've been working for hours. days. months." cove exaggerates.

you laugh, cove's lips placing tiny kisses in your cheeks. "it has not been that long!" you put your hands on his cold shoulders, trying to warm him up by rubbing up and down.

"it's only been a few hours! also you're so cold! cove!" you exclaim, tugging up the covers trying to cover up your cold, goofy husband.

"then stop working!" cove laughs, his barrage of kisses ceasing, and he presses his smiling face into your cheek.

"i'll die of frostbite if you work another hour!" cove faints, laying on your chest and snuggling in.

you laugh, successfully getting put of you under the warmth of the quilt. "you're ridiculous. hey, get up, i can't reach the remote!"

cove snuggles in more, melting into your body. then he starts loudly fake snoring, snorting and going "mimimi!"

you laugh, pushing his shoulders. "cove!"

he laughs, burying his happy, smiling face into tour stomach. "it's nap time!"

you squirm from the vibrations and feeling off his lips and voice against your tummy. "cove!"

he leans up, watching you laugh and laugh, tears coming to your eyes.

he's melting watching you, your wedding band twinkling from the light and pure joy on your face.

you're trying to say something, telling him how silly he is and he could've just asked you to take a break with him.

but before any of that, cove steals a chaste kiss, enjoying the way your eyes sparkle and your sound of surprise.

you cup cove's neck, leaning in for another kiss, longer this time.

eventually you pull apart, your foreheads pressed together.

you're both looking into each others eyes, enjoying the sparkle, and you have a special love for cove's flushed cheeks.

"i suppose i can afford a midday nap with my husband."

cove beams, all but tackling you to the couch.

omfg that was a long drabble. um. I swear I'm normal abt cove

ANYWAY NOW BACK TO AFOREMENTIONED THE CLOTHES

every year. buys you guys matching pjs

and matching sweaters for every day/Christmas day wear ofc

omg he actually puts on the Santa hat...

thinking abt that "I saw mommy kissing santa" song n that's literally all the boys being goofs in the damn hat n ARGHH OKAY WE WILL TALK ABT THIS LATER

ANYWAY every year he makes you guys do a photo in your matching pjs

first set he ever brings, he was all shy n shit presenting it

this time he's like a goddamn goblin, sliding into the house with a bag in each hand

brought home a few matching items...

pjs. sweaters. mugs. he would've bought out the store if he could've

checks if you're gonna wear your sweater or pjs n if you don't tell him/forget to tell him, he rushes to change

very excitedly showing off your matching fit

will prbly jump up n down n grab ur hands n spin w you in a circle when u put on your matching pjs

he's totally normal abt you :)

jfc this man is so unhinged in my head im sorry LOL

I'm mostly exaggerating but he is very excited n happy to be married n do all the Christmas stuff as a married couple this time!!!

OMFG I JUST THOUGHT ABT IT

for the sake of simplicity, let's say you took cove's last name

imagine putting "Mr. and Mrs./Mr./Mx. Holden" on anything

like that ornament I mentioned to commemorate your first Christmas married

or "Mr. and Mrs./Mr./Mx. Holden" on shared gifts, or on a decoration or smth

my first thought was putting it on a sign, or window painting/stickers, or smth like that that says "Mr. and Mrs./Mr./Mx. Holden Workshop/Sleigh"

idk it's just a thought that doesn't make much sense when I write it out lol

anyway I'm rambling..

cove is just super excited

omg he always steals a kiss when under the mistletoe so imagine him hanging it over your heads

he's a bit shy but still asks "first mistletoe kiss as your husband?" and how can you say no to that!!!

[tropes-and-tales]

The Past is Never Past

December 19:  Lights/Holly - Childhood sweetheart (Benny Magalon x F!reader)

(From the winter prompts found here)

CW:  Angst; childhood sweethearts; elitism, I guess?

Word Count:  2207

AN:  Requested by @bport76​!

The Magalon family Christmas party is already in full swing by the time Benny rolls up.  He’s late because of work, which is nothing new, but his childhood home is packed by the time he gets there.

His mom does it up big every year.  Invites friends and family and neighbors.  Has it partially catered, but spends a psychotic amount of time beforehand cooking and baking too.  Decorates the place from top to bottom, inside and out:  there are lights draped outside in the oleander, two trees inside laden with ornaments, and swags of holly in every doorway.

It’s like Christmas puked on his childhood home, and Benny chuckles to see it when he walks into the house.

-----

He finds you exactly where he thought he would.  

When his mom casually (not so casually) mentioned that you would be in town and would be at the party with your mom, Benny could have guessed where he’d find you.  Years since he’s seen you, and some things never change.

He finds you in the hallway where framed family pictures march in haphazard rows on each wall.  There’s a certain picture of him as a kid.  He’s six or seven in it.  He’s got a goofy grin on his face, revealing giant gaps where he had knocked out his teeth a few days earlier.

It was your favorite picture when the two of you dated.  You were unable to walk past it back then without studying it and bursting into gales of laughter.  He used to get so mad, embarrassed enough to ask his mom to take the picture down, but you always just poked him in his sides and said he used to be adorable and what in the hell happened to him?

It’s exactly where he finds you now.

He gets a split second to study you before you turn at the sound of his footsteps.  He tries to think…when was the last time he saw you?  Probably for his younger sister’s wedding.  So ten years.

And before that, the last time he saw you was the summer when you left for college out east.  That was night he broke up with you.  Ancient history.  You had been gracious at his sister’s wedding.  No hard feelings for how he’d broken your heart.  

Hell, you’d even saved a dance for him at the reception, a slow dance with your hands light on his shoulders, the scent of you under his nose.  That had been a tough night, letting you go after the final notes of the song faded away.

You hear him approaching now, and you turn to face him.  When you see it’s him, you grin—a brilliant smile.

“Knew you’d be here,” he grumbles good-naturedly.

“Of course.  Gotta visit the Shrine of the Toothless Boy.”

He’s beside you now, and you turn and offer him a hug in greeting.  Warm as always.  Open, inviting.  It’s been years but it’s so familiar to have you in his arms for even a moment.  You smell different—a new shampoo, new perfume—but you feel just the same.

“It’s good to see you, Ben,” you say as you pat his back gently before releasing him.

He says it’s good to see you too, and it’s the truth.

-----

You end up in his childhood bedroom.  It’s nothing scandalous, just the two of you sitting on the floor, your backs against his bed.  A stack of yearbooks between you as you page through one, snickering or sighing at the memories the pictures raise.

It’s not scandalous, but Benny shuts the door with a quiet click anyway.  It’s greedy.  He wants you to himself.  He doesn’t want his mother or his sisters to come and find you, lure you away with gossip and laughter.  He doesn’t want  your own mother to find you, give him that tight smile that holds no warmth, as she pulls you away under some flimsy pretense.  

He wants to monopolize this time and keep the moment quiet.  Just the two of you sitting together, remembering together.

You tap one page, pointing to a mutual friend.  “What ever happened to Mark?” you ask.  

Benny leans closer—an excuse to bridge the gap between you for a second.  “Moved to Chicago, I think.  Married some girl out there.”

“Hmm.  What about Miguelina?”

“Pretty sure she moved back to the D.R.”

One by one, you go through your friend list from high school.  Benny has a handle on most of them, since he never left:  the ones who did leave, like you; those that stayed and made something of themselves; the unlucky few in prison or the grave.

“What about this guy?” you ask, and he can hear the smile in your voice as you tap his senior photo.  He grimaces at it, the awful haircut, the valiant attempt at a goatee.  The non-smile, which he had thought made him look tough at the time—now with the wisdom of age, he can see that he just looked like a juvenile delinquent.

“Him?  Complete asshole.  Never did anything worth mentioning,” he replies.

“Stop it.”  You lean towards him with the same smile, elbow him in the side.  

But the moment must trigger something in you because he watches as you turn back to the yearbook and your smile fades bit by bit.

“Hey, Ben,” you start to say, and he can tell by your tone what you’re going to say.  Or what you’re going to ask.  You asked the exact same question ten years ago as the two of you danced at his sister’s wedding, and his stomach clenches to answer it again…

“Why did you break up with me?”  You don’t look at him.  You keep paging through the yearbook, reading the captions, but he can feel your body go subtly tense beside him.

He sighs.  “We don’t have to relive that—”

“No, I know.  I just never knew what I did wrong, and it still….I guess it still goads at me, a little.  Even after all this time.  Like I never got closure.”

He shrugs, tells a truth and then a lie.

“We were going to college on opposite ends of the country,” he tells you.  “It couldn’t have worked.”

“I disagree.”  You turn and give him a small smile, but he can see the old pain underneath it.  “I think it could have worked.”

“Maybe.  But I was young and stupid.”  Not a lie.

“I think you were smarter than you realized.”  Always too generous, too willing to see the good in him.

“What kind of life could I have made for you, though?  You, an Ivy Leaguer and me a state school future cop.”

You hum at that, shake your head in disappointment.  You let the moment of silence stretch as Benny settles back into that moment.  All those years ago, that single night when he dumped you.  As long as he lives, he’ll never forget the way you looked:  stunned, incredulous…then so wounded it was like you couldn’t breathe.

“I’m sorry,” you finally say.  “I do hold onto the past too much.”  You laugh, a little bitter.  “My therapist is tired of it.  ‘Let’s talk about something more recent,’ he’s always saying.”

“You go to therapy?”

You glance at him, shrug.  “Sure.  Work is stressful, life is stressful.  I can never seem to be satisfied or content with things, let alone happy.”

Benny Magalon isn’t a shrink, but he bets he could school your therapist on the reason behind your dissatisfaction with life.  It’s your awful mother driving all of it.  An only child to a single woman, nothing has ever been good enough—including yourself.  You’re held to an impossible standard, the ideal perfect daughter your mother had in mind when she decided to have a kid on her own.  She and Benny’s mother weren’t quite friends, and much of the coolness between them came from how Benny’s mother thought you were treated.  How you were mistreated, in her eyes.  

Benny, like everything and everyone else, had not been good enough for you.

It’s not like he was a bad kid or especially bad at school—he got mostly B’s, he ran cross-country and finished in the middle of the pack most of the time.  He was average, perfectly mediocre in his high school scholastics, but your mother saw him as a possible stumbling block to your future.

He figures it out years later, but at the time (when he was young and stupid), it had seemed a coincidence.  Him at his summer job working with the parks department, and your mother running into him.  Accidentally.

Accidentally, on purpose.

He remembers the sick feeling in his stomach.  Your mother (“Oh, since I’m here, I thought we could talk…) pulled him aside, not-so-gently and not-so-subtly laid out Benny’s situation with her daughter.  She laid out the obvious—different colleges, time zones apart, too young to make serious decisions.

And she laid out the less obvious.  How you had a full ride to Brown.  How you could set the world on fire with your talents, with your brains.  How all you needed was focus, but how it was wavering that summer.  Because of him.

“She tells me you want to go into law enforcement,” your mother had told him that day.  “It’s a noble pursuit, but can you really see her as a policeman’s wife?  Can you give her the sort of life she really deserves?”

Benny Magalon, young and stupid.  He believe it then, as he believes it now.  But it hurt then, just as it hurts now.

You jostle him out of the memory by snapping the yearbook shut, stacking it on top of the rest.  “I promise I’ll work through it in time for the next time I see you,” you try to joke.  “So in ten years, look out, Benny.  I’ll be ready to talk about the present instead of the past.”

You stand up and he follows.  Maybe that hurts the most now, how you never screamed at him or cut him off or burned his pictures.  Any anger you felt—feel—towards him…you keep it inside.  Ever since that night, after a period of silence, you’ve been nothing but kind to him.  Gracious to him.  Familiar with an air of sadness, the past never quite past enough.

“I’m sorry it hurt you,” he says, his voice low as the two of you stand in his childhood bedroom.  “I’m sorry I hurt you.”

“Oh, don’t even worry about it.  It’s ancient history.”  You wave him off, give him a rueful smile.  “I just get sappy and homesick this time of the year.”

He smiles back at you.  He loved—loves—how sappy you get over things.  You’re sentimental and always have been.  

“I hope those assholes in New York know they stole a good one from us,” he jokes.

You tilt your head, your smile widening.  “I thought the west coast, east coast beef was dead and buried.”

“Nah.  Not ‘til we get you back.”

You roll your eyes playfully, open your mouth to say something, but there’s a knock at the door, then his sister peeking her head in.

“Hey you two,” she said, her voice taking on a sly, insinuating tone.  “Thought I might find you together.”

You gesture at the yearbook pile.  “Just reliving our glory days.”

“Sure.”  His sister says it like she doesn’t believe it (he catches her eyes drifting to the bed, but the comforter is neat and smooth), but then she looks at you and says, “your mom is looking for you.  Says she’s not feeling well and wants you to take her home.”

“Oh, okay.”  You turn to Ben.  He holds out his arms and you step into them:  a light hug, just for a moment, but it’s heavy as lead.  It’ll sit heavy as a stone in his chest later on.

“I fly out on the third,” you tell him once you release him.  “Maybe we could meet up?”

“Yeah, maybe.  Work is busy this time of year though.”  A lie.

Sappy, homesick, trapped in the past:  he watches as your face falls at his noncommittal, his nonchalance at spending time with you.  Then he watches you compose yourself, plaster that smile on your face.

“Well, you know where to find me if you have time,” you tell him, and the false cheer in your voice makes him want to throw up.  

Tell me I’m a piece of shit, he wants to say.  Drop the act and tell me I hurt you so badly that you never want to even think of me again.  Never say my name again.  Burn all my pictures and move on.  Because I can’t move on until you do.

Because he’s never moved on either.  All these years, and not a single girlfriend ever came close.

Your mother, that day in the park when he was young and stupid:  “You’ll forget about her soon enough, and you’ll meet a nice girl.  You’ll get married to her and have kids with her, and my daughter will meet someone else…”

Only he hadn’t, and you hadn’t.  Years and years later, neither of you have moved on.

[fleckcmscott]

Glad and Golden Hours

Summary: Two months after Arkham, Christmas Eve is on its way. Y/N and Arthur prepare to host their nearest, dearest friends.

Words: 4,466

Warnings: Swearing

A/N: This comes from a request made by @sweet-nothings04​. Thank you for the opportunity to add to the Stepping Stones series and get to know Robert a little more - in many ways, he’s still a stranger to me! 😂 Hope you all enjoy! Have a wonderful holiday season! ⛄

Arthur snipped each layer of twine, and the pine's branches lowered in a curtsy of festive green.

They'd gotten a Christmas tree later than usual this season, a mere two days before the holiday. (Mike from New Hampshire apologized for his tree stand's slim pickings. Arthur found the last six and a half footer tucked under a tarp.) With Y/N's return to full-time hours at the office and the burst of gigs that'd come his way, they'd barely had time to breathe. The work was welcome, especially the charity events at the mall and clinic. Waypoints on a map that led to routine.

It'd also taken a lot out of him. Too little tiredness had morphed into too much. His body was still processing the medication switch from Arkham, and starting last Thursday, he'd lowered the dose of his anti-depressant to 20mg, a change suggested by Dr. Ludlow to help with fatigue.

It was a marvel, the difference having a partner made in recovery, how it helped three steps forward remain three steps. (The days it slipped back to two he mostly kept to himself.) He and Y/N had even made love twice this month, including the Saturday afternoon he'd woken her from a nap. A kiss to her bare shoulder and he'd fallen into her. Satisfyingly simple - and initiated by him.

Branches freed, he turned to see her standing before their console stereo, stretching to tape red and gold garland to the wall. Most of their ornaments had come with her from Missouri, but this decoration was theirs. The shiny foil had caught his eye from across the pharmacy aisle, gone into their shopping basket without delay. Started the tradition of adding a bauble to their collection every year.

When she made a disgruntled groan, lifted her right foot to reach a smidge higher, he chuckled. "Let me do that," he said, crossing to her. He taped it a good four inches above her fingertips. The garland dipped in the middle, an approving smile anchored by cascades of color on each end.

"Thank you." She moved to kneel on the stereo, grabbed a big red bow from her left. She hooked it on the smile. "Remind me to start the Swiss steaks in the morning. They have to cook ten hours."

A loose hold on her waist, more of a protective hovering lest she lose her balance. "I think that's the only recipe I've seen in your handwriting."

"I copied it out of a magazine in a doctor's office and served it every Christmas back home. Mabel always took the smallest piece. But the kids liked it and it wasn't half bad. Made it easy to keep an eye on my father, too." That she could mention her past without a hitch in her voice, that she'd share the dish him, turned Arthur's hovering into a caress. She patted his hand. "If you agree with Mabel, you won't go hungry. We'll be lucky to close the fridge, with all Patricia's going to bring."

Ah, yes. Patricia and Robert.

Arthur had gotten close enough to Patricia to hide her paltry smoking from Y/N, to be entrusted with secret tidbits about his wife. But Robert remained an enigma. The man had attended their wedding, like any friend should. Joined blue moon double dates concocted by their better halves. He was quiet, stayed on the periphery.

Patricia also knew the details of Arthur's relapse; Robert barely cracked a grin at his jokes.

Other than when Y/N's family had visited (one bathroom for eight people; bah humbug, indeed), Arthur and she had celebrated by themselves. Truth be told, he would've preferred it stay that way. They'd barely had an anniversary. For his sake, she'd declined her sister's invitation to Thanksgiving. Though it'd worked out in the end, his damned moods had botched Black Friday shopping.

She hadn't minded any of it, she said. He believed her. But he also loved her. There was no reason to let her in on every negative thought, every doubt. When she'd asked about having friends over, her smile had dazzled at the idea. How could he have declined? With everything she'd done for him? He'd hung onto her happiness, a dog finally catching the car it'd been chasing, and said yes.

Now that car just had to be small enough to handle.

"You still up to hosting?" she asked, peeking at him over her shoulder.

He prayed for a moped instead of a tank. "Yeah."

That irresistible smile came again. She slid backwards off the console, clipping his toes with her heel. She'd just begun to lean into him, when she squinted and sped in the direction of the front door. "Shit, I forgot the poinsettias. I'll run to Ed's. Please get out the lights!"

~~~~~

Thickened liquid shot the mercury to 160 degrees. "Quick, quick, put the pot on the trivet."

Y/N followed Patricia's command. Without the older woman at her side, Y/N wouldn't have trusted herself to make anything involving a cooking thermometer. Black sludge had resulted from her one attempt at chocolate fudge. Scraping it into the trash, she'd forsworn any recipes involving that tool forever.

Two teaspoons of vanilla extract met furious whisking. When Patricia cracked open a bottle of whiskey, Y/N covered the pot with her forearm. Steam dampened the sleeve of her sweater. "Can we add that later?"

"Arthur still not drinking?"

"Besides a sip of my wine every now and then, no."

"He's smarter than all of us combined." Patricia picked up the pot, poured the mixture through a mesh strainer into an awaiting ceramic bowl.

Y/N hugged her at the waist. Patricia had taken a keen interest in Arthur's recovery. Made a point to ask how he was at least once a week, how everything compared to before. It was a first for Y/N, having stepping stones of support to climb. Patricia being her wonderful self was a gift. And she'd been a dear to suggest putting together an old-fashioned Christmas for Arthur, to offer to do the heavy lifting and give them both a break.

Over dinner, she'd updated them on the latest at Shaw & Associates. Her new colleague, the third since Y/N had left, was a total bore. Never wanted to order lunch, completely lacked a sarcasm detector. The Wayne Foundation was looking to start another charity arm, this one for the arts. It followed a trend of donations focused less on the poor and needy, more on galas and museums for the rich and needless. After nearly a decade of chasing, Matt had finally won back his ex-wife Laura. All victory had taken was a river cruise and a prenup.

Arthur had tapped his fork on his plate, his face a mask of bewilderment. "Why marry someone already planning to divorce?"

The Swiss steaks had turned out well enough for Robert to ask for leftovers. He could handle sticking them in the microwave and wanted to give Patricia a well-deserved break. It was flattering, them choosing Y/N's cooking for Christmas Dinner. Patricia's duchess potatoes - her daughter Ruby's favorite - were a buttery take on spuds Y/N could eat every day. And Patricia had prepared a small tray of mac and cheese for Arthur to heat up in the oven, replete with 3" x 5" instruction card and tied with a bow.

Just then, the bathroom door creaked open. Y/N peered into the living room. A hand the size of a catcher's mitt and holding a beer gestured frantically for Arthur to get his butt on the couch. Robert chastised him like an old uncle, groused that he'd missed a touchdown, updated him on the score. Arthur hiked up his trousers. Settled next to him and leaned forward, elbows on his thighs. She bit back a chuckle. Football interested Arthur about as much as hardening cement, and even then, the cement might win out.

When the teams on TV huddled on the sidelines, she came to the rescue. She strode to the back of the couch and bent between them. The seven minutes left on the clock were a godsend. "Miracle on 34th Street is on NCB, and Robert Shaw Chorale's Christmas Spirit is on PBS. Take your pick."

"Robert Shaw," Arthur said.

Robert stood, stretched his arms behind his back. His shoulders snapped, crackled, and popped. "Doesn't matter to me. The Wildcats are gonna blow it either way." He pulled a pack of Silk Cuts from his front pocket and went to the fire escape to light up.

Arthur's brow furrowed into a mountain range. "He's not very friendly. I don't know if he wants to be here. He could watch the game at home."

While Robert was the strong silent type, Y/N sensed a softness hiding underneath. He'd agreed to go to marriage counseling with Patricia. He always ensured she walked on the inside of the sidewalk, a protective gesture from an earlier era. Tonight, he'd rubbed his stomach after each bite of potatoes, a compliment to Patricia's kitchen wizardry.

Y/N offered a gentle reply. "This is their first Christmas without their daughter and grandson." Ruby had married the Gotham General tech she'd met six years ago, and she and Brian were spending the holiday weekend with his family upstate. "You know how when I have a bad day, and I just want to forget it? When we kiss or sit without saying anything? That's enough. Sometimes having a friend sit with you is enough."

Arthur's boyish dimples reappeared. "I won't be kissing him anytime soon."

"Good. That'd send him running back to Burnside."

Later, she served eggnog: three with a shot of whiskey, one virgin. An angelic choir drifted from the television, familiar and comforting as crocheted mittens. Popcorn bowl at her side, Patricia sat on the living room carpet and invited Arthur to join her. She pulled a coin purse from her pocket, took out two big needles connected by a long, black thread. She demonstrated how to slide a fluffy flake down the string.

"I love the smell of pine," Patricia said, five kernels in. "This year we got an artificial. It just isn't the same."

"There's canned pine scent," Y/N suggested. "Donahue's has it by the artificial snow."

"From Aurora Fresheners? We tried that. The whole apartment smelled like a bathroom. When I was a kid, it was real or nothing. My mother hated the needles. One Christmas, when I was six, I asked Santa for a sled. I dragged it over to Cherry Hill - that's down by the water district - and slid right through a fence into the reservoir. They sent mom a bill for repairs. She made me clean up all the needles. With a broom."

Laughter threw Y/N's head back. Although her family hadn't been religious, they'd gone to the usual seasonal social gatherings. Being in the Bible Belt, they'd revolved around the local church. "One Christmas service, a candle caught a lock of my hair. It smelled terrible, like burning rubber. Mabel and I gagged our way to the bathroom."

There were other recollections, of course, ones she kept locked in the keepsake box of her heart. Her earliest holiday season in Gotham had marked seven months in a new state in a new city in a new home. Though only three people worked in her new office, her new boss Matt had planned a Secret Santa. That she'd gotten an Aqua Velva soap on a rope (a discount store bestseller) had made it obvious who'd drawn her name.

For the first time, she'd experienced a truly frigid chill, one that'd frozen her bones. Admired Christmas windows grander than she'd ever seen. Rented ice skates at Gotham Park and exchanged smiles with Ned, a cute man in flannel and jeans who'd complimented her form. The hot chocolate they'd shared at the concession stand had been surprisingly rich. But she'd resisted Ned's suggestions to make a snowman, to surrender her last name and phone number. The evening had ended with thanks and well wishes.

New to herself, she hadn't wanted to play the game of pursuit. Not yet. She'd cherished the quiet of her own place, a hard-won light at the end of twenty years of tunnel. When she'd sat at the counter of a nearby diner on Christmas Eve, sliced turkey roll and canned cranberry sauce before her, a wave of joy had overwhelmed, to the point where she'd had to dab at her eyes.

"Thanks for this," she'd whispered to what was probably nothing. The closest thing to a pray she'd offered in her life.

Arthur's mouth tightened in concentration, popcorn stuck on the eye of the needle. "At school we made paper chains. I brought mine home and taped it on the TV. My mom and I watched the Murray Franklin Christmas Special."

"They had a dance floor for the audience in the sixties," Patricia said. "We got tickets once, really lucked out. Bing Crosby was there, Slam Bradly, too. Remember that, dear?" She directed her inquiry at the sofa.

Robert twisted to look at them over the cushions. "We did a pretty good Lindy hop back then."

"You and Y/N should go next year!"

The flake Arthur had been wrangling broke into crumbles.

Y/N's regard shot to him. There was a tremble in his fingers so subtle only she would notice. Since his spot as a Special Guest, Murray Franklin hadn't been welcome in their homes. Before they'd moved in together or after. Whenever the TV Guide happened to feature his smug mug on the cover, Arthur tore it clean from the spine. He'd flick cigarettes towards bus stop ads for Live! If he was in the mood for late night comedy, he'd catch David Endochrine with her.

"I don't think so," Arthur said. He fingered another kernel to try again. But after a moment, he laid the needle and thread in the bowl, pushed himself to stand. "I, um-" His voice had gone thick, inflected with the raw quality of the wounded. He winced. A whisper this time. "Excuse me." He walked to the bedroom. The door thudded softly behind him.

No one moved a muscle. Breath couldn't be heard. A peaceful rendition of "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" began, notes wrapping them in glorious sounds of old.

Patricia straightened, interrupted the peaceful rendition. "That was stupid."

Y/N scooted two spaces across the carpet, placed a comforting palm on Patricia's knee. "He just needs breaks, that's all."

Last week they'd attended her office's Christmas party. He'd done his best to fit in, make small talk, be a person like other people. And he'd been good at it, seemed like a combination of his old and new self, both selves she'd fallen in love with. But after forty minutes, without a hint that something was wrong, he'd asked if it'd be too soon to leave. She'd planned on staying two hours. As they'd held hands on the subway home, she'd mulled over what she'd observed, tried to understand.

She shared that with Patricia. "He'd probably had enough of everyone asking how he was. They'd known he'd been ill but not the details. Arthur likes attention - he needs it more than most people I've met. But I don't think he knew how to answer without saying he'd been in Arkham. It's hard to predict how someone'll react to that."

"I don't blame him," Robert said, his rich baritone kinder than she'd ever heard it. "People can see a broken leg but not when your brain has a limp."

Y/N felt her shoulders loosen, his words an etching of reassurance. "Only dear friends," she said. She moved to check on Arthur, see if he'd been granted some of the peace on earth, impart the goodwill mentioned in the song.

Patricia stopped her with a palm to her shoulder, braced herself against the wall to stand. "I'll go." She straightened the hem of her blouse, grabbed strands of tinsel from the middle branches, and made a beeline for the door.

~~~~~

Arthur sat on his side of the bed, facing the vanity. He disliked the set of his features, dour and stern, as if carved from rough granite. The low light of the bedside lamp bathed but didn't soften. He opened his mouth, practiced loosening his jaw, stretched it until the hinge joint popped.

That Patricia hadn't meant to hurt was obvious, even to a guy with a lot of problems like him. How was she to know Murray had been a father figure? A man he'd loved who'd pierced him so deeply, that that love had bled out and left hatred in its wake? He'd been too silly, too inexperienced to recognize the differences between celluloid and real life. To have thoroughly set himself up for disappointment was almost as embarrassing as the way it continued to sting. Nearly a decade had passed. Time to let it fucking go.

The flash of a police car prompted him to look out the window. Clouds had rolled in, and sparse streaks of moonlight fought their way through the batted cotton. White lights sparkled from an apartment across the street, the tree a perfect display in the front window. Two little girls jumped around their father, relenting only when he doled out gifts from under the tree. Arthur hugged his pillow to his stomach like a life vest.

There was more to the paper chain memory. Visitors from a Catholic charity had gone door to door that evening. Arthur had polished off a bowl of Rice Honeys for dinner, been in the middle of rinsing his dish when the buzzer sounded.

The two nuns towered over him, a couple of emperor penguins. "Are you home alone, young man?" the older one had asked, as if it was weird for a little boy to answer the door.

Uninvited, they'd stepped into the entranceway. Surveyed the walls of the apartment, the open and empty cupboards, the rug that was dirty because they only had a carpet sweeper. They had to have noticed his filthy t-shirt. The lack of tree. Penny passed out cold, her motionless form in the living room chair. At that tender age, it'd felt normal.

The penguins offered two gifts, wrapped in paper covered by shepards and nativities, along with a mimeographed invitation to the candlelight service at St. Swithun's Parish. "Bless you, sweet boy," the younger one had said. Then they'd left, drifting down the corridor like ghosts of Christmas past.

Arthur had scribbled "From: Arthur" on his mother's present. A white lie that'd make her happy, so god wouldn't mind. He'd put the presents on the coffee table. Bounced his stuffed bear and watched Red Skelton, waiting for his mother to come round.

A light knock at the door. The knocker didn't wait for a response to squeak the hinges. Brass trumpets spilled into the room. "I have a real talent for putting my foot in my mouth."

Patricia's self-deprecation forced a crooked grin. He watched her approach in the mirror, loosened his hold on the pillow. He pushed it aside as discretely as possible.

"I hear so much about how you're doing from Y/N," she said. "But never from the source."

"I'm fine."

The woman had a way about her. Warmth oozed out of her like a radiator on a blizzardy night, which allowed her to make the bluntest comments and never offend. A strange sort of equation that never failed to balance. She sat next to him and continued the tradition. "The news talks about Arkham being a place for criminals. It's not reported as a hospital for regular people; it's gossiped about. I'm glad to know better now. And that you're doing well."

If they were close enough for her to share secrets, maybe he could trust her with one of his own. But he couldn't quite return her stare. "Some days are hard. More than I'd like. More than- than I tell Y/N."

"She's the type of woman who wants to know all the facts and figures. That doesn't mean you have to tell her everything."

He bit down another grin. It was too true. And he wouldn't. She didn't need to learn about the nights in the hospital, when he could've sworn he'd felt her arms around him, her breast beneath his cheek, while also wishing she'd stay the hell away from McKean Island. That the years with her were when he'd learned what healthy felt like. That what he coveted more than anything, to the point of cold sweats, was to get back to that. For her. For their marriage. For himself.

Patricia broke through his reverie. "Is today a nice day?"

"Yeah." He turned to look at her, nodded, met her ebony eyes. "It is. But you didn't have to go to so much trouble. With the food and decorations."

Tipsy but honest kindness shone in the curve of her smile. Suddenly, she tossed tinsel on his head, a pile of silver atop his chestnut mop. Frowning, he reached to drag it off, tangling it in his waves. She grasped his fingers on the way down and squeezed tight. "You and Y/N are family, Arthur. You're family."

It took a while to find his voice. "Thanks, Patricia."

In the middle of "Away in a Manger," the television switched off. Stevie Wonder's Someday at Christmas played in its stead. The B-Side, which Y/N found upbeat. It wasn't exactly Arthur's style, but he'd come to appreciate her preference for disco and soul. And it was a welcome change from choral melancholy.

Patricia slurped at her mug, stuck it out towards him. "I need a cigarette. As a trusted family member, would you bring this to the kitchen? Take her with you. I'll owe you all the tea in China."

~~~~~

Y/N tied the shopping bag handles and opened the refrigerator. She'd packed the main and sides separately, otherwise gravy would've ruined the potatoes' crispy finish. As she arranged three Tupperware containers on the top shelf, Arthur came in, Patricia's mug in hand. He rinsed it and took the ladle from the bowl for a refill.

He indicated Y/N's cup on the counter with a tilt of the head. "You want some, too?"

"Please." She closed the fridge's door, gave it an extra push for good measure. "Patricia's quite the charmer, isn't she?"

Arthur snorted, drew his back chin, its skin squishing into pinchable folds. The cheery sound was a breeze that freshened the whole apartment. His gaze fell to the floor before rising to meet hers. He held out her drink. "She's not the only one."

When Y/N took it, her fingers lingered on his for too long to be an accident. She brought the rim to her lips for a sip. She'd add a nip later.

"You're doing great," she said. "I'm proud of you."

His smile blinded, a flash of light to outdo Damascus. The gap between them narrowed, foot by foot, inch by inch. He plucked a bloom from the poinsettia on the counter, tucked it behind her ear. The gesture made her insides ripple in the same manner as a girl's first crush.

"Do you love me?" he asked. The love light gleam in his green irises told her he hadn't asked because he didn't believe it, but because he wanted to hear it.

She stretched the rest of the way to meet his lips and spoke her answer against them. "Completely. Now let's go see what Santa brought."

Multicolor lights glimmered on the pile of presents under the tree. The four of them sat around it, Y/N and Arthur on the floor, Patricia and Robert on two dining chairs due to his aching tailbone. Y/N's cheeks felt as if they were going to melt, the result of alcohol and menopause. She unbuttoned the top of her sweater and held her cold mug to her skin, just below her neck.

Robert hummed approval when he unwrapped the bottle of Ballentine's Scotch, aged ten years. (Thank god they'd gone shopping for their husbands together.) Patricia immediately plugged in the True to Light makeup mirror from L. Ballinger's. She tested the office, day, and evening settings, explained the subtle differences. ("Black eyeliner works better at night.")

The Gormans' gift to Y/N was a clothes shaver from the Windmill Signature collection, a practical, odd tool to remove fuzz and pills from her blazers and skirts. She burst into silly laughter. What else did the "collection" carry? An automatic foot scraper? Premiere upper lip waxing kits? At least it wasn't a soap on a rope. She flicked it on, ran it over Patricia's polyester skirt until she batted her away.

On top of the mac and cheese, Arthur got a Christmas tie deemed cheesy enough for him. Polar bears skated on cursive Merry Christmases on a background of red and white stripes. "I'll put this in my bag," he said, and folded it into thirds. "For December gigs."

The remaining presents would have to wait until tomorrow. A private gift exchange better suited both couples. Arthur had dropped no hints as to what he'd gotten her; she'd shown respect by not snooping. She was certain he'd love the microwavable mug warmer, guaranteed to keep his coffee hot during long journaling sessions. The other box under the tree hid mounds of tissue paper and a bathrobe, midnight blue tinted royal, to be tied at the waist. She giggled, imagining how he'd pluck her folded note from the breast pocket, the blush that'd betray when he got to the naughty part.

Leaning back on her forearms, she sighed a contented sigh. A happiness to rival turkey roll and cranberry sauce swept through her, wetting her eyes all over again. She turned towards the window, gnawed her bottom lip.

White flecks glowed in the orange of the phosphorescent streetlamp, brightening the sky. She recalled that first Christmas in the city, the memories Patricia and Arthur had shared. The holiday wouldn't be complete without making another.

"There's an unplowed parking lot three buildings down," Y/N said, standing. She darted to the coat hooks in the entranceway, snagged their hats and mittens, returned and shoved them at Patricia and Robert. "We can build a snowman." The quirk of Patricia's mouth said she thought Y/N was out of her mind, but she'd play along. She rose to her feet, pulling Robert - mid-trying to open his scotch - along with her.

Arthur burrowed deeper into his bathrobe, a playful skepticism narrowing his gaze. "It's supposed to be ten below tonight."

"We'll bring a thermos. Besides." Y/N sat on his lap, put his cap on his head, and fluffed the pom-pom on top. "Your love will keep me warm."

~~~~~

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[prerodinu]

Hello and welcome to the next installment of super long fucking headcanon time with Soup. Today we will be talking about Yule. Yule is a pagan holiday much like Christmas. Only the pack tends to celebrate it like modern-day Christmas and something else.

First things first, the packs alter is changed out, often time’s pine needles, berries and of course, mistletoe is placed upon the alter. Birch branches are also made into different ornaments and placed on the altar.  This will be done as a family. Katia and Artem will change out the altar and the rest will make ornaments and the like. Runes are carved on some of them and or made with the ornaments.

Next is the time leading up to Yule. Offerings will be left outside for gods and goddesses’s and once a week they will have a large bonfire in the backyard in which they will all burn things that no longer serve them. Could be break-up photos, family ties or something of the like. Its used to cleanse the space around them and sometimes the pack just likes to burn stuff for fun!

The christmas tree.

This is the MOST IMPORTANT PACK GATHERING EVER. Forget Yggdrasil Fest or MidSummer Blot. The decorating of the Christmas tree is so important. If you bring someone to this party you are basically proposing marriage. No one but family is allowed and close friends. Everyone gets a handwritten invitation made by Katia (her handwriting is beautiful) And it’s sealed with Artem and Kat’s pack seal.

Everyone places an ornament on the tree until it is full. There is making orange and popcorn garland. Decorating the tree with lights. BAKING OF COOKIES.

Of course Artem and Eva make a feast. Kazimir plays the piano for songs. Everyone starts wrapping gifts and placing them under a tree.

This is also where the pack does a secret gift exchange. Everyone had to pick a person to exchange gifts with. The gifts are then given every day until Christmas. This could be small gifts of food hand made or handmade gifts.

The process of this gift-giving is also done by couples looking to court each other. Or someone looking to court another. Yule is perfect for expressing love and sometimes there is a wedding on Yule.

either way, the decorating of the tree ends with a feast, Katia and Artem do not participate in the feast, or anyone who wishes to do so. Every 9 years Katia and Artem go to separate places deep into the woods for 9 days and nights to gain knowledge and honor the gods. Not everyone of course is willing to do this but Katia and Artem keep the tradition alive. This feast is then done once more in 9 days and nights once they return. This then marks every day until Yule a feast.

The pack gets together every night for a feast until Yule. then on Yule, they all exchange gifts It's a long process and no one is left out.

After that, everyone goes back to their normal schedule until of course New Year’s in which the pack doesn’t technically celebrate New Year's on the day that everyone else does but Scarlett does have a party at her club and it’s a very large party.

PSA: PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THIS IS MY LORE AND TAKING FROM DIFFERENT PLACES TO CREATE MY OWN. MY LORE MAY NOT BE THE SAME AS OTHER MUN’S AND THEIR LORE. PLEASE KEEP THIS IN MIND!!!!!

[buzzbuzzwhs]

Or forever hold your peace (A YellowJackets Taivan fic)

2004

Back when she lived with her mother in New Jersey, the TV had a wire coat hanger as an antenna. Once, the Saturday afternoon, the movie of the week was “The Graduate.”  Benjamin and Elaine running towards freedom, away from Elaine’s wedding, captivated young Van Palmer.

Freedom, was what Van wanted. Freedom wasn’t those 19 months her brain blocked out. Freedom had come as Oberlin offering her a scholarship. She’d gotten a degree in film, and had taken over ownership of the small video rental store in town. 

But Benjamin and Elaine didn’t know what they were doing, and Van was no Benjamin. If she was, she wouldn’t be mopping the floor of the store, she would be at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. She’d be yelling at them to stop, because Tai Turner was marrying Simone, and not her. 

She’d received the classily engraved invitation, inviting her to come. Shauna had encouraged her to go—she’d been asked to be a bridesmaid but had declined owing to pregnancy. Van was not asked to be a bridesmaid. The RSVP card had been for “Miss Vanessa  Palmer and guest. Van had thought, briefly, about inviting one of her employees as her guest. 

She’d declined because she couldn’t do it. Shauna had posted about the rehearsal dinner on LiveJournal. Shauna, being one of the few sober ones, spoke about how she liked Simone and how two of Tai’s AKA sisters from Yale, Avril and Rasheeda, were lovely. Akilah was there, and a red-eyed photo of the three survivors dotted the post.

Shauna’s role in the rehearsal dinner was to read the recent ruling out of Massachusetts, Goodridge v. Department of Public Health. It was a somber reminder that no meat carving station or the strapless Priscilla of Boston dress Tai would wear the next day could dress up the reality that Tai and Simone’s wedding had no legal protection to back it up in New York, or New Jersey.

The post had a photo that Akilah had taken on her camera phone—showing Shauna standing up at the Russian Tea Room, wearing a black dress that fit as well as a trash bag, her hair flat-ironed stick straight and hanging to her bra strap. Shauna closed the entry with a joke about how she didn’t know why a lawyer would pick someone who managed to fail the semester she spent at the County community college and the semester she’d spent a year later at Providence College to read a legal brief.

There was a photo Jeff took, of Simone glowing as Shauna quoted the passage “Here, the plaintiffs seek only to be married, not to undermine the institution of civil marriage. They do not want marriage abolished. They do not attack the binary nature of marriage, the consanguinity provisions, or any of the other gate-keeping provisions of the marriage licensing law. Recognizing the right of an individual to marry a person of the same sex will not diminish the validity or dignity of opposite-sex marriage, any more than recognizing the right of an individual to marry a person of a different race devalues the marriage of a person who marries someone of her own race. If anything, extending civil marriage to same-sex couples reinforces the importance of marriage to individuals and communities.”

Tai, meanwhile, looked as if she was ready to destroy everything:  from the sewn-in curls at the top of her head to the pink and black minidress and choker she wore. 

Van’s watch said it would be 4pm that evening in New York, meaning that her time to speak now had passed. 

Van opened a drawer she rarely opened. There were several mementos of her youth, but she looked at three:  a pretzel Christmas tree ornament, a strip of photo booth photos from FAO Schwartz, and a lock of hair. 

1998-2002

Once they were rescued and ok’d, Tai enrolled at Yale. She had been planning on Spellman, but she didn’t want to get on a plane. She joined AKA and became a proud soror. 

Van had jumped at the chance to enroll at Oberlin with her scholarship. This also meant that she was flying Newark to Cleveland and back regularly. She checked on her mother, and then rode to see Tai in New Haven. They’d take the Metro into New York. They got their carriage ride. Tai got her soft pretzel, and bought Van a Christmas tree ornament to commemorate it. They saw Rent twice. 

Both women graduated from college. Tai immediately enrolled at Columbia Law School. Van had decided to take a year off before film school. She was a manager at the video store now. 

The weekend it happened, Van had been in New York to interview for film schools. She looked handsome in  a neat tie and vest with a Brooks Brothers button-down Tai had gotten her for college graduation.She’d gotten into the habit of blowing her hair straight, and it now came to the small of her back. She bobby-pinned the sides back. The raw nudity of showing her scars lost to her mother’s voice in her head telling her to get her hair out of her face. 

The interviews went well. She and Tai celebrated by getting photos taken in a booth at FAO Schwartz. 

The next morning, Van sat in Tai’s apartment. Van had just cooked them breakfast. 

“I mean, if I get in it, we could get a place near here together, and I could commute to school,” Van said. 

“I got the summer associateship at that Big Law firm,” Tai said. There was a pregnant pause. 

“Of course you did!”  Van smiled encouragingly.

“Yeah. I’ll be in the whirlwind world of being wooed by the firm to join them post-grad,” Tai drew a breath. “Van, those associates have events for significant others. The people who go to those events…they’re not from a trailer park.  I’m sorry. I can’t do this any more.”

Van ran out of the building. She still packed things in a WHS duffle bag. She emotionlessly put in in the overhead bin.

For two weeks, Van continued to work. She powered herself on Mountain Dew and Popov. She barely slept. She didn’t shower, and her hair was in a bun of neglect. She didn’t cry or laugh. The college students with whom she worked stopped asking about her trip. 

“Sarah came in today,” Van said to her employee Jenna after they closed one night. “I barely recognized her. She said you cut her hair short—that you’re your dorm’s barber.”  Jenna felt Van lock her eyes on hers as she slid a pair of scissors towards her. 

“Are you sure?” Jenna asked, undoing the bun and running her fingers through Van’s hair. Van nodded as Jenna carefully guided her to an office chair. Van had survived fire and a wolf attack, but the icy scissors on her neck were harshest thing she ever felt. Jenna paused, holding the severed years of hair in her fist. 

“That girl you had in New York?  She was into long hair, wasn’t she?”

Van stared at the familiar waves, plopped in a garbage can. In her mind she felt Tai playing with her hair. Van shook her head—startled as her shoulders didn’t stop her hair. It had been her security blanket so long. 

“When we first met, my friend and I had just gotten bobs for freshman year. I hated it. I just—I don’t want the memories around.”

Jenna stood in front of her, grasping a thick forelock and snipping them off. She offered the strands to Van. Van accepted them, as she slowly realized that Jenna had cut thick bangs that masked her scars. As red hair rained onto the floor, hot tears finally began to silently rain down Van’s cheeks. 

“You’re so pretty,” Jenna said, more referencing her handiwork than Van.  Van looked at the face staring at her back from Jenna’s compact mirror. The bangs drew attention to her tear-swollen eyes. The rest was soft and messy, hitting her lips. “You’re always wearing those button=downs, and I figured you didn’t want your hair in their way,”  Jenna fixed a curl that framed one of Van’s scars.

It seemed like every student who came into the store had to comment on her hair. Apparently it was “hot,” “cute,” and “you have really pretty eyes.” Van never sent in her grad school apps. Why do that, if all you get was knowing you lived in the same island as Ms. Taissa Turner, 2L and gunner. As the snow melted, an email popped up in Van’s inbox. 

FYI

I was in the city with Tai yesterday. She met this girl named Simone. She’s moving in soon. I just thought you’d want to hear. 

Shauna

PS—Have you heard from anyone?

[margseliserobbie]

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Hood,

Congratulations!!! We are so, so happy for you two and your future together. Thank you so much for inviting us to your special day, to celebrate your love. We love you both and wish you two a lifetime of love, health and happiness!

Love,

The Stans

Gifts Include:

Personalized Champagne Glasses

Personalized Snow Globe

Personalized Just Married Christmas Ornament

Personalized Married In Fabulous Las Vegas Wedding Monogram Playing Cards

Personalized Mr & Mrs Passport Covers and Luggage Tags

@calumhoodsx @lovedlipa

[lynch-creek-farm]

The Allure of Garlands: Transform Your Space with Elegance

Garland are a timeless decorative element that can add charm and sophistication to any space. At Lynch Creek Farm, we specialize in creating stunning garlands that are perfect for all occasions, from seasonal celebrations to everyday decor. Whether you're decorating for the holidays or simply looking to enhance your home, garlands offer versatility and beauty that can transform any setting.

What is a Garland?

A garland is a decorative arrangement typically made from intertwined natural materials such as flowers, leaves, and greenery. Historically, garlands have been used in various cultures for celebrations, rituals, and adornments, symbolizing beauty, festivity, and life. Today, they are embraced in both indoor and outdoor decor, serving as eye-catching accents that elevate any environment.

Creative Uses for Garlands

Garlands are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

Home Decoration: Drape garlands over mantels, around door frames, or along furniture to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. A well-placed garland can serve as a focal point, adding texture and color to your living space.

Seasonal Accents: During holidays, garlands can be dressed up with ornaments, lights, and ribbons, making them perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, and more. They help set the mood and celebrate the season in style.

Weddings and Events: Garlands are a favorite choice for weddings and special events. Use them as table runners, backdrops, or hanging decorations to add a romantic and natural touch to your celebration.

Outdoor Decor: Enhance your outdoor spaces by using garlands to beautify patios, porches, and gardens. They can adorn railings, fences, or outdoor furniture, creating a festive ambiance for gatherings or simply beautifying your outdoor environment.

Choosing the Perfect Garland

When selecting a garland, consider the following factors to ensure you find the right fit:

Material: Fresh greenery provides a lively, fragrant look, while dried or artificial garlands offer durability and long-lasting beauty. Decide based on your aesthetic preferences and maintenance considerations.

Style: Garlands come in various styles, from rustic and bohemian to elegant and modern. Choose one that complements your existing decor for a cohesive look.

Length and Size: Measure the area where you plan to display the garland. Ensure that its length and thickness are appropriate for your intended space, whether it’s a table, mantel, or wall.

Caring for Your Garland

To keep your garland looking its best, follow these care tips:

Fresh Garlands: Keep fresh garlands hydrated by misting them with water regularly. Store them in a cool place and away from direct sunlight to prolong their freshness.

Dried and Artificial Garlands: Dust them occasionally to maintain their appearance. If exposed to outdoor elements, consider applying a protective spray to enhance durability.

Conclusion

Garlands are a beautiful and versatile addition to any decor, offering endless possibilities for enhancing your space. At Lynch Creek Farm, we are committed to providing high-quality, stunning garlands that reflect your unique style and elevate your home or event.

Explore our collection today to find the perfect garland that speaks to you!

For any questions or to place an order, please call us at 1-888-426-0781. Let Lynch Creek Farm help you bring the beauty of garlands into your life!

[danddyyyyy]

Dark Moody Bold Wild Flower Wedding Foil Invitation

Link_Product

[yudiiiiii-14]

Budget Wedding Royal Blue Gold Abstract Marble Inv

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[katandannie]

Make Your Christmas Tree More Inviting and Nostalgic with Perfect Ornaments from Kat & Annie

Christmas is a magical time of year, filled with joy, warmth, and cherished memories. One of the most iconic symbols of the holiday season is the Christmas tree, which often becomes the centerpiece of festive celebrations. Decorating the tree is a tradition for many families, and selecting the right ornaments can make your tree even more special and personal. If you're looking to create an inviting and nostalgic atmosphere this Christmas, Kat & Annie is the perfect destination to shop for chrismas ornaments online beautiful, unique ornaments that will bring your tree to life.

Why Christmas Ornaments Matter

Christmas ornaments do more than just add color and sparkle to your tree. They often tell a story, reflecting personal experiences, milestones, and fond memories. From handmade pieces passed down through generations to new additions bought to mark a special occasion, each ornament can carry meaning that deepens your connection to the holiday season.

At Kat & Annie, you’ll find a wide variety of ornaments that allow you to craft a tree that truly represents your family's unique style and traditions. Their carefully curated collection ensures you can find pieces that evoke nostalgia, elegance, or whimsical fun—whichever mood you want to capture this Christmas.

The Art of Choosing the Perfect Ornaments

When it comes to choosing ornaments, there's more to consider than just aesthetics. Here are a few tips for picking the perfect pieces to make your Christmas tree more inviting and nostalgic:

Mix Old and New

To create a sense of nostalgia, mix vintage-style ornaments with modern ones. Vintage ornaments often feature timeless designs, like glass baubles, angels, and nutcrackers, that bring a classic holiday feel. Kat & Annie’s selection of both vintage-inspired and contemporary ornaments makes it easy to blend the old with the new, ensuring your tree feels both timeless and up-to-date.

Choose Meaningful Themes

Select ornaments that tell a story or highlight important moments in your life. For instance, if you’ve traveled extensively, look for ornaments that represent destinations you’ve visited. If you recently celebrated a major life event—such as a wedding or a new baby—incorporate ornaments that commemorate those milestones. Kat & Annie offers a wide variety of themed ornaments, ranging from travel-inspired designs to family-oriented pieces that help make your tree a reflection of your life’s journey.

Play with Textures and Materials

Don’t be afraid to mix materials for a dynamic and inviting look. Glass, metal, wood, and fabric ornaments can all add different textures and layers to your tree, giving it more dimension and visual interest. Kat & Annie has a diverse selection of materials, allowing you to create a richly textured and multi-layered design.

Incorporate Personalization

Personalized ornaments are a wonderful way to make your tree feel more nostalgic and heartfelt. Whether it’s an ornament with your family’s name, an initial, or even a custom message, these special pieces can instantly become heirlooms that you’ll look forward to hanging every year. Kat & Annie offers personalized options that allow you to add that extra touch of sentimentality to your holiday décor.

Popular Ornament Styles at Kat & Annie

Kat & Annie’s collection features a wide variety of ornament styles, making it easy to find pieces that suit your taste and your tree. Some popular styles include:

Classic Glass Ornaments

Glass ornaments are a staple of traditional Christmas tree décor. These timeless pieces often feature elegant shapes, glittering finishes, and delicate hand-painted designs. Kat & Annie offers a variety of glass ornaments that bring a touch of sophistication and nostalgia to any tree.

Whimsical Characters

For families with children, whimsical character ornaments are always a hit. From snowmen and reindeer to Santa Claus himself, these playful pieces add a sense of fun and joy to your tree. Kat & Annie’s whimsical designs are perfect for creating a lighthearted, festive atmosphere.

Rustic and Natural Ornaments

If you prefer a more rustic or nature-inspired aesthetic, Kat & Annie also offers ornaments made from natural materials like wood and metal. These ornaments pair beautifully with cozy, cabin-style décor and evoke the charm of a woodland Christmas.

Bright and Bold Colors

For those who love bold and vibrant holiday décor, Kat & Annie’s collection includes ornaments in a range of bright colors and glittering finishes. These eye-catching pieces can add a pop of color to your tree, making it the focal point of your holiday decorations.

Tips for Decorating Your Tree

Once you’ve selected your ornaments, it’s time to decorate! Here are a few tips to ensure your tree looks its best:

Start with the Lights: Begin by wrapping your tree in lights, starting from the bottom and working your way up. This provides a bright and festive base for your ornaments.

Balance the Placement: Spread your browse our ornament collections evenly around the tree to ensure balance. Mix larger ornaments with smaller ones, and place them at different depths on the branches for added dimension.

Add a Tree Topper: Don’t forget the final touch—a beautiful tree topper! Kat & Annie offers a selection of tree toppers that range from traditional stars to whimsical angels.

Shop at Kat & Annie Today!

This holiday season, make your Christmas tree more inviting and nostalgic by shopping for the perfect ornaments at Kat & Annie. Whether you’re looking for classic glass baubles, whimsical characters, or personalized pieces, Kat & Annie has the perfect selection to bring your holiday vision to life. Don't wait—start shopping now to create a tree filled with cherished memories and festive joy.

[decorationinside]

Deck the Halls with Modern Flair: A Guide to Chic Christmas Home Decor

The holidays are upon us, and with them comes the joy of transforming our homes into festive havens. But for the modern design enthusiast, traditional red and green might feel a bit passé. This year, embrace a fresh approach with modern Christmas home interior design that blends contemporary style with seasonal cheer. Embrace Minimalism with Maximum Impact: Step away from clutter! Modern design thrives on clean lines and negative space. Opt for a monochromatic palette like silver, gold, or white, accented with pops of festive color. Utilize geometric shapes in ornaments, throws, and artwork for a sleek touch. Less is truly more, allowing each piece to shine. Think Outside the (Tree) Box: Reimagine the Christmas tree with a modern twist. Opt for a slim, white artificial tree adorned with minimalist ornaments, fairy lights, or even geometric baubles. Alternatively, get creative with alternative trees: a ladder adorned with greenery and lights, a sculptural branch arrangement adorned with ornaments, or even a wall-mounted tree decal. Natural Elements with a Modern Twist: Bring the outdoors in with a modern spin. Swap traditional wreaths for minimalist greenery arrangements or sculptural branches adorned with fairy lights. Use natural materials like wood, stone, and wool in throws, pillows, and decorative accents for a warm and inviting touch. Light Up Your Holidays: Modern Christmas lighting goes beyond the twinkle lights of old. Experiment with string lights in unexpected places, like draped across doorways or woven through furniture. Use geometric lanterns, LED candles, and sculptural lighting fixtures to create a warm and layered ambiance. Festive Touches with Modern Flair: Incorporate festive touches without sacrificing your modern aesthetic. Opt for metallic ornaments in unexpected shapes, abstract artwork with festive motifs, or minimalist stockings made from felt or leather. Create a modern advent calendar with geometric boxes or repurposed jars filled with treats. Don't Forget the Details: Modern design is all about attention to detail. Elevate your holiday tablescape with simple white dishes accented with metallic cutlery. Use geometric napkins, natural placemats, and minimalist centerpieces like greenery arrangements or candles. Remember, the key to modern Christmas home decor is to strike a balance between festive cheer and contemporary style. Embrace clean lines, unexpected materials, and a touch of minimalism to create a space that feels both modern and merry. Bonus Tip: Don't be afraid to get creative! DIY projects like geometric ornaments, painted pine cones, or upcycled candle holders can add a personal touch to your modern Christmas decor. https://cozypronest.com/step-into-a-fairytale-enchanted-forest-wedding-hall-decorations/ With these tips, you can create a modern Christmas home interior that is both stylish and festive, reflecting your unique personality and celebrating the season in a truly chic way. Read the full article

[travelingtheusa]

NORTH CAROLINA

2023 Oct 11 (Wed) – The bedroom slide needed fixing (again) so Paul spent the morning working on that.  We went out for lunch to the Moose Café.  The meatloaf was excellent.  Dropped a card off at the post office for Brenda & Rick.  They left the caravan a few days ago because Brenda’s sister, Marsha, was experiencing shortness of breath and due to visit the cardiologist.  She discovered she was suffering heart failure so they drove home to be with her.  They arrived to find Marsha in the hospital in good spirits.  The medication and treatments were doing her good.  The doctor said there was extensive damage and Marsha needed either a pace maker or catheterization.  During the procedure, her heart stopped.  They revived her but her heart was weak and she died later in the day.  At least Brenda got home in time to say goodbye.  I had the group sign a card and sent it off.  I also sent flowers to Linda.  Johnny & Linda were our tail gunners on the Alaska caravan.  Linda fell and broke her foot/ankle/leg.  It is a serious break and will take weeks to recover.

      We invited Gina & Tony to join us for dinner.  We went back to the Moose Café because our lunch had been so good.  This time, the meal was not as good.  Oh, well.  We spent the time together giving them advice on running a caravan.  They will be leading the Canadian Maritimes next year.  Hopefully, they learned some things from us.  We gave them our travel guide from our trip to the Maritimes in 2016, our Utah caravan in 2019, and the memory book for Canada.

2023 Oct 10 (Tue) – We carpooled to the Biltmore Estate this morning.  We were going to ride with Beth & Marlin but John asked us to be tail gunners for the group so we took our truck.  There was some confusion about where to park.  Once we got parked, we had to take a trolley to the house.  The crowds there were unbelievable.  We immediately were reminded of Disney World during spring vacation.  We all formed up in front of the house but held, waiting for Donna to get back from the parking lot (her husband had to be dropped off; he had a broken back and cannot walk) after dropping her husband off.  After about 30 minutes, we got pictures taken.  While waiting, John asked me to tell a joke.  I told 3.  Paul took the group shot and we all split up to tour the grounds.

      There was the house with 250 rooms and 43 bathrooms.  The fourth floor had 21 rooms for maids.  The size of this place was ridiculous.  George Vanderbilt built the “country estate” as a retreat for his friends and family to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  It sits on 8,000 acres (now a national historical landmark) and has the house, a gardens, a winery, a village with restaurants and shops, a trail ride for horses, and a special display called Italian Renaissance.

      We got on line for the house.  The line wound slowly through 3 floors and the basement.  Everyone was given a hand held device to use for a self-guided tour.  As you came to each room, there was a corresponding number posted that you entered in the audio device.  Then you could hear something about that room.  It took about 45 minutes to go through the whole house; and we never saw the 4th or 5th floors.

      When finished touring the house, we drove to Antler Hill Village & Winery.  There was a long line winding around to get in for a free wine tasting.  We did not do that but did buy 2 wine glasses in the shop.  Then we went into the Village Social Restaurant for lunch.  They were not serving lunch today.  So we went next door to the Bistro, but they wouldn’t open until 4:30 p.m.  We found a small café next to the reception area for the hotel.  There was a small but eclectic menu. 

      After lunch, we stopped in the Christmas shop and bought an ornament.  It was interesting to learn that 1.5 million people visit the Biltmore Estate every year.  The estate is still family owned by the great grandchildren of Vanderbilt. They have certainly turned it into a business.

2023 Oct 9 (Mon – Columbus Day) – We were in group 4 this morning and did not leave until 12:30 p.m.  That is so unusual for us.  We were basically ready by 10 a.m. and just sat around waiting for our turn to leave.  The tail gunner came around with a route change but we decided to take the route we planned on yesterday.  The first 12 miles wound around mountain curves then straightened out and was a 4-lane highway.  Bear Creek RV Park in Asheville, NC, was less than 50 miles.

      There was a bit of a jam-up when we arrived at the campground.  RVs were lined up as they tried to back into their sites and/or unhook their tows.  We finally got backed into our campsite.  An hour later, we were carpooling to town for a trolley tour of Asheville.  There wasn’t a whole lot on the tour that I found interesting. 

      When we got back from the trolley tour, Diane (who rode with us), Joe & Diane, and Carl & Shirley decided to go for dinner.  The trolley driver suggested the Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar.  They had no room inside so we sat out on the patio at a picnic table.  The food was good; the margaritas not so much.  It was an 8/10 walk to the restaurant and only 6/10 of a mile back. Over the same route – how was that possible?

2023 Oct 8 (Sun) – We spent the morning working on various things.  At 3 pm, Joe & Dian came over and we discussed the Whiskey & Water caravan we will be running next year. 

       The caravan planned a happy hour and travel meeting at 5 followed by a chicken dinner with us bringing the sides.  I had to cook the potatoes, then bring them in a crockpot to sit for an hour.  As has been on this caravan, the travel meeting was confusing.  Then we had dinner.  After dinner, a storyteller came in and talked about the mountains and Cherokee history.  He was quite the character – white, overgrown hair and beard, with bad teeth, and wearing a medicine bag around his neck.  When he was done, the owner of the campground (a Cherokee) told us of his history, his service in the military, his subsequent treatment for PTSD, and his work on the campground.

2023 Oct 7 (Sat) – We drove to Taylors, SC today to visit with Travis and his family.  We met them at their house, then drove to a nearby park for a picnic.  Noah rode with us (we only had one seat available) while the rest of them stopped to pick up something for lunch.  When we got to the park, there were five bouncy houses with various tables set up around the end of the park.  There was some kind of fund raiser going on.  We bought wrist bands for two boys and Paul (there had to be an adult in the group).  Noah, as it turned out, was not really interested in the bounces and spent most of his time riding around the park on his bicycle.  After playing for a while, we drove to an ice cream parlor for ice creams all around.  Then we left and drove 2 hours back to the campground.  It was a nice visit.  Glad I happened to check the map and found they were within 100 miles of us.

2023 Oct 6 (Fri) – Paul & I drove to Fontana Dam this morning.  It is a beautiful dam at 430 ft tall.  The dam creates Fontana Lake/River.  We parked at the visitor center and walked half-way across the dam.  There is some kind of construction going on but we couldn’t tell for what.  Then we went into the visitor center and learned all about the dam.

      After the dam tour, we drove to the Tail of the Dragon.  This is a section of US126 that has 318 curves in an 11 miles stretch.  It was like riding a roller coaster with lots of turns and curves; some quite steep.  Luckily, I did not get sick.  At the beginning of the Dragon there is a motorcycle resort with a bar (of course), gift shops (always), and a café.  There were tons of motorcycles parked in the resort.  Buildings that had been built for the workers in 1940 have been turned into facilities for guests.  Loads of people were wondering around the place, which spanned the roadway.  People were crossing back and forth across the road.  We did, too.  Parked on one side and walked across to the other for lunch. 

      Following lunch, we extricated ourselves from the tiny parking lot full of cars and bikes, then drove the Dragon.  The tail actually started at a fence line between North Carolina and Tennessee.  The route was in Tennessee.  I never saw so many expensive race cars in all my born days.  There were Porsches, Thunderbirds, Mustangs, Firebirds, etc.  All the thrill seekers were out in full force, racing along the 11-mile stretch of road with its 318 curves.  There were photographers parked at several curves taking pictures of the cars and bikes as they rounded corners and sped to the next one.  We kept pulling over to the side to let them pass us on the 2-lane road.  We not only drove into the Dragon, we drove back again.  There was no other road to take back to the campground.

      We stopped at Ingles Supermarket on the way back to get some groceries.  Sheba was happy to see us.  It was dinner time.  We brought our chairs to happy hour but it started raining shortly thereafter so the socializing was cut short.

2023 Oct 5 (Thu) – Paul and I drove to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  His back is still hurting him.  He put on a back brace, which seems to make him feel a little better but he’s still sensitive to any movements that cause his back to spasm.  We stopped at the visitor center then walked down the riverwalk trail for about a half mile.  We looked over the river then turned back.  Climbing back into the truck, we drove further into the park.  There were people everywhere!  We drove to Clingman’s Dome but had to turn around because we couldn’t find anywhere to park.  Driving further into the park, we stopped at Smokemont campground to hike a trail there.  We got about a mile into the trail then turned back.  We wanted to see a waterfalls but the map didn’t say anything about a falls.  In addition, we forgot to bring a back pack with water. 

      At 5 p.m. we went out for happy hour.  At 5:30 p.m. the wagon master brought in salad and pizzas.  We went to the rec center and had a meal.  They put mushrooms on every pizza!  Even though I picked it off, the mushrooms still left a taste on the pizza.  Ugh!

2023 Oct 4 (Wed) – The group drove to Bryson City for a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.  It was a steam engine pulling many, many cars along a 44 mile track for a 5-hour ride down the track and back.  We were supposed to have an open air car but wound up in a dining car seated at 2 and 4-person tables.  The meal was lack luster and the ride was a long boring and very slow ride down the track and back.  The countryside is covered with kudzu, an invasive species of vine.  We started out joking that it was a kudzu tour but it soon became apparent the vine covers acres and acres of countryside and blanketed trees along the tracks.

      Back in the 1920s, the railroad was looking for something to hold embankments back and stop erosion.  They had been using crushed vehicles piled on one another.  So they imported kudzu from Japan because it has very deep roots (up to 12 feet).  It’s hardiness proved to be a bad thing as the vine went on to cover everything in the area.  Trees, bushes, etc. were covered so thoroughly that the kudzu killed the flora and fauna near it.  So, 30 years later, they decided to bring in the Japanese beetle, a natural predator of kudzu.  Unfortunately, the beetle did not like the North Carolina kudzu version, but they did take to the southern white pine and have decimated the tree.  Now, they are looking at importing the natural predator of the Japanese beetle.  The docent on the train said we would have to come back in 15 to 20 years to see what new damage will be caused by this introduction.

      At happy hour tonight, we played a game of beanbag baseball.  The wagon master got really into the game, claiming people who overstepped the home plate when they threw the bag should be disqualified.  Then he wanted to name our team the Red Barons.  There was no enthusiasm for that.  When our team won, he insisted everyone get up and pose for pictures either forming a “W” for winner or “L” for loser.  It seemed very mean spirited. If we were playing for a championship or for prize money, that might spur us to be blood thirsty competitors. But the game was intended to be just for fun.

2023 Oct 3 (Tue) – We packed up and left Cleveland, GA at 9:30 a.m.  There were initially 2 rigs with us.  The third was staying at a nearby campground because they were too large to fit in this campground.  They caught up with us a little more than half-way here and we pulled into the Happy Holidays RV Campground in Cherokee around 11:45 a.m.  The campground is in the Cherokee Reservation.  Lots of businesses in town have names with Indian leavings – Broken Arrow, Golden Eagle, etc.

      When we arrived at the campground, the Wagon Master, John, met us at the entrance.  The campground staff led us to our campsite in their golf carts.  Unfortunately, they tried to park us in a site that we couldn’t get into.  There was a pole at the edge of the campsite that we couldn’t maneuver around.  After 15 minutes, they found another campsite for us.  Unfortunately, again, the site was not long enough to fit our rig and truck.  Paul had to park way down the other end of the campground.  We’ll have to get someone to give us a ride to go pick the truck up when we want to go somewhere.  Very unhappy.  ☹

      After we got set up, we took our wash to the laundromat in the campground.  When that was done, we brought it back to the camper and put the clothes away.  Paul has a pinched nerve in his back.  He bent over to look under the table yesterday and experienced instant pain.  So, we put him on a TENS machine this afternoon followed by Biofreeze and a heating pad.  We did not go to happy hour and our friends brought us back tacos for dinner.  Hope he’s feeling better tomorrow.