#wreath design class

[raisingkidsinchicago]

Weekend Magic in Chicago: Top Holiday Happenings November 29-December 1

 Juliana Yeager  Photo Credit: Navy Pier Light Up the Lake Navy Pier’s Light Up the Lake is back, bringing holiday magic to Chicago! This festive event features sparkling light displays, exciting rides, seasonal markets, and hands-on workshops for the whole family to enjoy. Catch the award-winning fireworks and holiday drone shows for a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re shopping for…

[isfjmel-phleg]

So you want to describe a room? I'm not claiming to be any kind of expert, and of course everybody has to find out what works for them, but here are some things that I personally have found helpful when writing descriptions for interiors. You may or may not find it useful, but I thought I'd share in case it could help.

The key question to ask is: What do you want the room to say about something?

Is it a character's personal space? Is it a room that serves a particular purpose? Do you need the setting to convey a particular mood or feeling? Rooms aren't just backdrop; they're an opportunity to build your world, set your scene, and/or develop your characters.

My OC who is an enthusiastic, scattered, impulsive fifteen-year-old girl who lives in a poorly-upkept country castle is going to have a dramatically different bedroom from, say, the OC who is a serious, driven, artistic twelve-year-old girl who lives in a middle-class townhouse in the city. The cluttered antique shop that's the setting of one of my weird short stories needs to convey a very different impression from the hospital waiting room in another such story. Even if your setting isn't anything visually impressive, even if it's the blandest office, that still says something about your world and characters.

Every room is saying something.

For practice, observe rooms in the real world and think about them.

What do these rooms contain? What does the design of a room and its contents say about the people who live there or who use it? How are public spaces different in appearance from private ones? How would a person whose room this is see it? What about a friend of that person? Or a stranger? How does perception of it change at different times of the day or in different states of upkeep?

Take my living room. Most of the mismatched furniture is secondhand, except for a few pieces, like the umbrella stand shaped like an umbrella, or the coffee table that resembles a trunk edged in metal and rivets. The coffee table is piled with papers and books and miscellaneous objects (including a never-used crossword puzzle mug, a turtle hand puppet, and a stray block). More piles of books and papers and comics crowd any flat surfaces. There are three tall bookshelves, crowded with books, sorted by genre and author, and a cabinet of DVDs, sorted by title. Throw blankets lie wadded on the couch until I bother to neatly fold them over the back of the armchair. Displays of decorative objects appear on top of the desk, the cabinet, and a side table. The walls are covered in art prints, mostly of my OCs, but also botanical designs, a poster of the entire text of a Shakespeare play, a couple of wreaths featuring berries, and a Bouguereau painting. The area rug badly needs vacuuming. Sometimes I let boxes pile up by the door instead of taking them out to the trash. There's a good-sized window, but not much natural light. The walls are painted a green-gray color that darkens the space--I didn't choose it. What could you infer about this room? My impression would be home and comfort, but you, who have (probably) never been there, might come to some other conclusions about the person who lives there and her tastes and habits.

The rooms that you write about may be nothing like ones you see in real life in terms of design and detail, but you can bring principles you've observed into just about any kind of setting.

Once you know what you want to convey through the description of the room, the next question is: How can you use imagery to craft this impression?

Sure, you can tell your readers that a room is messy or fancy or boring, but for a description that will pack a punch and stick out in your readers' minds, using imagery is helpful.

So try things like playing with color symbolism. Conside the condition of the room and the objects in it: old, new, tidy, messy, well-kept, neglected, etc. Notice the distinctive objects in it--or even lack of distinctive objects--and call attention to this. Things like the size of the space or the lighting (or lack thereof) can also be striking.

Make the details sensory for a stronger impression. Textures, smells, sounds, etc. But don't feel like you have to go overboard. Zero in on a few specific, impactful images and details. You don't need to describe everything in the room. Just what gets your point across and anything in the room that your characters will interact with or that will serve a purpose in the story. Keep your description proportionate to the room's significance in the story. You should aim for quality over quantity.

This is a description that I'm fairly satisfied with. It's the study of a king, as seen for the first time by a boy who is there because he is in trouble. I wanted to give an impression of wealth and splendor but also of coldness, distance, power, obsession with an appearance of flawlessness. I wanted the room to feel a bit off, a bit ominous. So I chose imagery that suggested the lifeness of a museum, with some classical influences. "White marble" is repeated for emphasis on uniformity. The textures are cold and hard, with an absence of the warmth and softness of textiles. And the final chess image positions the protagonist as a seemingly powerless player in a game he doesn't know the rules of.

It's a lengthier description because I needed to establish just how terrifying the room and the man in it are for the protagonist so that the reader, who is just meeting him, understands what kind of world he lives in and whom he's up against as he's about to have a difficult conversation.

He stood in a room of white marble beneath a high domed ceiling. Bookcases lined the walls, displaying books all the same size, bound identically in the deep blue and silver of the Liennese flag. White marble busts on Ionic pedestals peeked out from corners with pupilless stares. Tamett shuddered, half expecting them to quiz him in Greek with the voice of HRH’s tutor. A forest of blindingly white columns stretched toward the far end of the room. There, before a white marble fireplace, were chairs upholstered in studded navy leather, their unsociable slipperiness unrelieved by any cushion or rug. And beside the chairs, behind a fortress of a desk, awaited exactly the sort of man who would own such a room. The king glanced up from his papers and said, “Come in,” in a low voice that seemed to shake the very dome. Tamett inched across the rugless floor, studying its checkered pattern and wondering if the king had ever considered acquiring giant chessmen to match it.

A further way to describe a room is to let your characters interact with the space. What effect does it have on them? How do they move within it? Are they comfortable there or reluctant to engage and why? How do the contents of the room inform what the characters are doing and thinking about? If there's a couch and an armchair at a distance from it, and there are three people present, who gets the couch and who gets to be physically distanced from the others? How does a character deal with a room that's set up for someone else's convenience but doesn't work for them? If there's a mirror in the room, how does a character respond to it?--can't keep their eyes off it? ignores it? punches it? Etc. etc.

I don't know if this makes any sense, but these are the kinds of things I try to keep in mind for room descriptions. If I ever actually write.

[merrock]

WINTRY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION GUIDE

To make the holiday season a little more fun and a lot easier to plot… this is your guide to all things winter and Christmas in Merrock! I've compiled a fun list of places to see and things to do, a master list of events happening in town, and some ideas that you can run with if you're looking for fun ways to plot with one another. This is not the be-all, end-all. If something you see here inspires you to do something else, great! If you want to do something totally unrelated, awesome! This is just to help those who might be looking for a place to start, or a master list of what's going on in town. Hop under the cut for more, and feel free to bookmark this post. (Check back for updates now and then, too.)

MOD NOTE: if you own a business, and would like to offer something special, please let me know and I can adjust this post to let others know.

EVENTS IN TOWN

THANKSGIVING -- join us at the Community Center for a dinner that's both for those who need a place to be, and also for those who just want to join their community. You can come to eat, or come to help! (November 28.)

BLACK FRIDAY -- shopping all around your little town; see our list of shops below! (November 29.)

PLAY OFF FOOTBALL -- the Merrock Rangers come up against their final opponent for the season. take a little trip to support the boys, but bundle up! (November 29.)

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY -- the perfect opportunity to shop in some of your local favorites, making sure to support Merrockites! (November 30.)

GIVING TUESDAY -- a chance to give back to your community, whether it be through making donations to a charity, or helping someone in need. (December 3.)

NATIONAL COOKIE DAY -- stop into Flour Co. at 7PM to take a class on cookie decorating! this is open for kids and adults alike, and the cost of entry will go back to the community. (December 4.)

GINGERBREAD DAY -- the community center is opening their doors for all who want to come decorate gingerbread houses and watch Rankin Bass Christmas movies! (December 12.)

WINTER HOLIDAY MARKET -- the big event in town! the market will run for one week, and all are welcome to come out and enjoy. (December 14-21.) *

UGLY SWEATER DAY -- the chance for you to don an ugly sweater, no matter where you are! post pics to #merrocksocial so we can all see. (December 20.)

NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY -- hosted at Evolution, the party is adults only, and the dress code is cocktail attire. fireworks and champagne at midnight! (December 31.) *

POLAR PLUNGE -- a fun chance to shed off the badness of the previous year and head into the new year feeling good. hosted by Mawk Tales! (January 1.) *

MOD NOTE: events marked with a * are designated events in town with OOC durations (December 14-21 for our Market, December 29-January 4 for the NYE Party and Polar Plunge). You are more than welcome to create threads for all other mini events whenever you would like, but we do ask that for those specific three events, you hold off and don't create them until the event is taking place on dash!

HELP OUT AROUND TOWN

help decorate the town! various businesses are always looking for people to paint their windows and hang lights. you can help set up the light displays at Cityview Park, as well!

pick up a child's wishlist at the Town Hall and fulfill their Christmas dreams by buying what they want and dropping it off for them.

stop into the Merrock Hospital Center and help make some crafts and gift baskets for the patients that need a little bright spot during their stay.

drop off your gently used clothes and toys at the Community Center, so that we can give back to those who might need something during this holiday season.

we're digging up the community garden beds! they all must be cleaned out, so stop by and get your hands dirty if you have a bed reserved, or even if you just want to help out!

if you would like to brighten up the cemetery, we will be placing small flower arrangements and wreaths on gravestones. all you have to do is stop by the main building to pick some up and set out to do a row or two whenever you have the time.

the senior citizens at North Shore would love for people to come help them decorate for the season, drop off gifts, or just swing by to brighten their day.

FOOD & DRINK AROUND TOWN

BONNE MERDE (downtown) -- stop in for drinks and a show while you're out shopping or enjoying the holiday.

EVOLUTION (downtown) -- perfect place for a fancy night out with your friends, to eat, or to drink!

MACK'S (downtown) -- try out Mack's signature burger and nacho platters, on sale all season.

OJICHAN NO SUSHI RESHIPI (downtown) -- find your favorite food truck and get some good eats!

ROSSI'S (downtown) -- drop by for lasagna and your favorite Italian desserts (and coffee).

TASTE (downtown) -- need a break from shopping? stop in for wine and cheese and other treats.

TOUCHBACK (downtown) -- the perfect stop to catch a holiday game & grab a beer.

🎄 WHAT'S THE TEA (downtown) -- specialty holiday blends of teas for sale & for drinking!

& CHIPS (coastal area) -- the perfect fish and chip meal for on the go shopping.

🎄 ANCHORS AWAY (coastal area) -- will be serving Grinch-themed drinks, it just fits.

DEIDRE'S DELI (coastal area) -- pop in for a warm bowl of soup, paired with your favorite sandwich.

FRESH (coastal area) -- healthy options for those looking for a snack while shopping.

THE HUT (coastal area) -- perfect quick stop for a burger and fries.

MAWK TALES (coastal area) -- stop in for your favorite mocktail to help make the season bright.

SANDCASTLES (coastal area) -- best bet if you want a date night in town!

🎄 SEA BREEZE (coastal area) -- debuting winter and holiday flavors of gelato after Thanksgiving!

🎄 THE CREAMERY (suburbs) -- peppermint, cinnamon, toffee, oh my! come try the new flavors.

CUL-DE-SAC DINER (suburbs) -- open late with amazing new dinner specials or holiday shoppers.

🎄 FLOUR CO. (suburbs) -- testing out all of the holiday baked goods they've worked hard on.

THE GARDEN (suburbs) -- good deals on good eats and even better beer. stop by to play pool and throw some darts, too!

GOLDEN HOUSE (suburbs) -- the perfect place for takeout orders.

🎄 PACO'S (suburbs) -- did someone say red and green chips for their nachos?!

PIZZA THYME (suburbs) -- when you need a breather, stop by for some pizza!

OVERLOOK (countryside) -- with views of all of Merrock, it's the best place to eat (many holiday specials) during the season.

TUMBLEWEED (countryside) -- the best place to grab a beer in the countryside!

SNACK SHACK (hideaway) -- when you need a break from shopping, grab a snack!

PLACES TO DO YOUR SHOPPING

BOOKENDS (downtown) -- stop by to pick up some holiday favorite novels.

THE HOLIDAY SHOPPE (downtown) -- deep, deep discounts on all holiday decor!

PAGE TURNERS (downtown) -- pick up some graphic novels for your favorite nerds.

THE VINYL HUB (downtown) -- huge sales on all classic Christmas albums!

BELLA'S BOUTIQUE (coastal area) -- drop by to pick up holiday deals on clothing!

CASSIDY'S CANDIES (coastal area) -- every possible favorite Christmas candy and Hanukkah coin you can think of is on sale.

JADE'S JEWELS (coastal area) -- don't think, just do it. buy her jewelry!

SOLES (coastal area) -- big deals on shoes for anyone doing their shopping.

TRINKETS (coastal area) -- buy one, get one free for all souvenirs in the store until Christmas!

BENNY'S (suburbs) -- the best place to do most of your holiday shopping!

JACK IN THE BOX (suburbs) -- pop in to pick out the best toy you can imagine for your little one(s).

LITTLE CORNER MARKET (suburbs) -- get all of your meal must-haves here at the market!

SPROUTS (suburbs) -- do a little shopping for the kids & babies in your life.

THE SUPPLY SHACK (suburbs) -- perfect for buying things for the artsy people in your life or getting what you need to enjoy holiday crafts!

TREASURE CHEST (suburbs) -- pick up discounted secondhand Christmas gifts and decor!

GARDEN MARKET (countryside) -- stock up on what you need to make your meals!

GREAT OUTDOORS (countryside) -- whether you need things for yourself or your friends, shop for your favorite outdoorspeople.

PET HAVEN (countryside) -- get something for your favorite kids this year -- your pets!

POLISHED BRASS MARKET (countryside) -- shop for antiques for yourself, or whoever loves old things!

ROCKY RIDGE HARDWARE (countryside) -- the handyperson in your life wants new tools. buy 'em!

COLLAB (hideaway) -- shop the little market place within our marketplace.

CREEKSIDE (hideaway) -- buy up some handmade holiday decor or order pieces!

UNIVERSAL ROCKS (hideaway) -- the very best place for your metaphysical needs.

THINGS TO DO DURING THE HOLIDAYS

CITYVIEW PARK (downtown) -- walk through the holiday light display! the park has been converted into a winter wonderland with tons of lights in the trees, on the ground, around the fountain and benches, with lots to see on our walk-through course.

MERROCK RAILWAY (downtown) -- hop on the train and take a little ride through their holiday light display! everyone who attends gets a package of cookies and cup of hot cocoa, as well!

THE MIRAGE (downtown) -- on top of the usual merriment, on Friday and Saturday nights, The Mirage will be having Christmas karaoke! everyone's welcome, just make sure that you've brought along your dancing and singing shoes!

STUBS (downtown) -- stop into Stubs to see a variety of fun Christmas movies… or check out their app, where almost any Christmas movie that you can imagine is available for you to watch for one flat fee when downloading.

VIBRATIONS (downtown) -- on Friday nights, Vibrations will be transformed into a winter wonderland, with fake snow flying and Christmas tunes blaring throughout the club. specialty drinks will be served all night, as well!

AQUATIC CONSERVATORY (coastal area) -- bring the kids (or yourself!) down to the Aquatic Conservatory for some educational demonstrations and walk-throughs of the conservatory, where you can learn all about Merrock's wildlife in the winter time, and how they survive!

FROM BRUSH TO CANVAS (coastal area) -- the gallery's current exhibition features paintings themed with Christmas and winter, in all sorts of art styles. come by to make a purchase, or just to wander through and enjoy what you see.

THE MARINA (coastal area) -- take a boat ride with any one of our companies that is offering them -- their boats are decorated for the season, playing music, and perfect for a romantic night out or a little family trip if you want something different!

CHILDREN'S MUSEUM (suburbs) -- arts and crafts all season long for the kids! there will always be afternoon movies and snacks for a small fee for parents who want to do some kids-free shopping.

THE FUN SPOT (suburbs) -- holiday skate nights are every Wednedsay night! On Thursdays, the bowling alleys will be green and red and playing Christmas music. And on Fridays, you play to win… Christmas squishmallows in the arcade! don't miss out!

LUPINE LANE (suburbs) -- a perfect chance to walk through the streets of the mobile park in the suburbs, and see all of the holiday light displays! most homes participate, and there's always something pretty for you to see on your adventure!

MEMORIAL LIBRARY (suburbs) -- take some time to check out your favorite Christmas-themed books, or bring your kids by for all sorts of arts, crafts and of course, hearing some of their favorite Christmas stories read by the librarians or volunteers!

SILVER PINES JR. (suburbs) -- for those who don't mind braving the cold weather… come check out the miniature golf course, which has been modified for the winter season with all sorts of fun decor! they're also giving out free hot chocolate!

BLACK CREEK (countryside) -- take a hike along the creek to see some gorgeous waterfalls and enjoy the sights! please be mindful and careful that the trails can be slippery and dangerous this time of year, though. you're on your own if you're outside f the state park!

BLADES (countryside) -- open for the season, stop by to do some ice skating, get a game of hockey going with your friends, or hit one of the many hills nearby to do some sledding!

FARMER'S MARKET (countryside) -- the farmer's market remains open on Wednesdays and Saturdays! you can stop by and do all of your indoor shopping in their barn, or head outside to find some food and drinks at the food trucks. lots of crafts available, too!

HANDPICK'D (countryside) -- every Sunday afternoon, Handpick'd will be having a sip and shop special, where you can come in, try out some wines, and browse holiday vendors that are selling their goods! open to anyone 21+ only, obviously.

HARMONY RANCH (countryside) -- winter rides, come get your winter rides! these are recommended for intermediate to advanced riders, only, as they may take some wintry trails that could be precarious, but they should be fun, none the less!

LAKE MALORY (countryside) -- once it gets cold enough and the lake freezes over, ice fishing is popular in town. you can get equipment at Great Outdoors, or find someone to help you out at the lake. there are some great catches to be made!

LAVENDER LANE (countryside) -- visit the tree lot! it's open daily and has fresh cut trees, wreaths, swags and more arrangements. you can also take an axe and hit the Christmas tree field to cut down your own if you're feeling adventurous!

PARADISE GARDENS (countryside) -- with the garden displays all lit up and festive, come by and spend a peaceful afternoon just enjoying some decorations and a little bit of nature. a perfect educational experience for the kids, as well!

PINE GROVE GARDENS (countryside) -- take a tour of the oldest home in Merrock, decorated in traditional Christmas garb. you can stop in the tea room for a bit to drink (and eat!), or explore the grounds, which are also decorated for the season.

STATE PARK (countryside) -- smaller, easy to navigate trails are open for hiking. campfire sessions will happen near the lodge, with Christmas stories read by the fire, and s'mores and hot chocolate ready to keep you warm. a number of fun demonstrations and educational lessons will happen to teach you about winter in Merrock's forests, too!

THE WHEEL (countryside) -- stop in and throw some pottery on a wheel! and yes, before you ask, we do have those infamous ceramic Christmas tree molds, and all of your other favorite classics. plus pieces ready to paint, if you don't want to make them yourself!

THE COLOR WINE (hideaway) -- have a great time with Mandy and co. doing some sip and paint! bring your girlfriends and make a whole evening of it. the studio is also open for those who might be looking to practice their painting, as well!

THE PLOT THOUGHT BUBBLE

go sledding with your friends, drink hot chocolate in the park while walking the light display, take a trip out to the countryside to go ice skating, offer to help decorate your loved one's house, treat each other to an ugly sweater just to make you laugh, try to bake something new, take a trip out of town to do some shopping, or visit a relative together, make some festive cocktails together. catch a movie at the theater, or watch one at home curled up on the couch. challenge someone to make the perfect cup of hot cocoa, sit down and decide to paint wooden houses together, go to the arcade to see who can win the biggest prize, make your own Santa hats at home, stuff stockings for each other, try to wrap all of the gifts that you've bought, make your own Christmas-themed blankets. handmake keepsake ornaments for each other, or just hang out and color in a coloring book. when it snows, go make snow angels or build an army of snowmen, get into a snowball fight, plow and shovel out your neighbors together, or build an igloo that you swear you might sleep in. have a sleepover complete with Christmas pajamas, or go shopping for the perfect holiday party outfit, decide to hit up the antique store for the most ugly-cute decorations that you can find.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Merrock School district will be closed December 23 - January 3. The last day of school will be Friday, December 20th, and students will return on January 6th.

The Merrock Community College will be closing on December 17th, and have off from December 18th through January 14th, returning on January 15th.

This winter, we will be expecting a decent amount of snow around Merrock! This can lead to power outages, or school cancelations. We'll let you know when and if this happens!

We will be doing a gift exchange within the group (IC, of course!), and more information about this will be coming in December. It will be by participation only, to keep it fair, and anonymous.

[followmetoyourdoom]

Cute story time

So Christmas is my favourite holiday, I get to see my extended family when we do present drop offs, and my mum cooks an amazing pick your own spread with enough desserts to feed a family of 16. We are often only 3 or 4 at Christmas dinner. We usually have either an animated film or an old film on in the background and have no social pressures to maintain. We have dumb crackers with dumb jokes and we all like to wear the little hats and play with the toys. My mum insists on getting me more than I've asked for, even as an adult, so gifts are always fun, especially when I can one up her and make her giggle like a schoolgirl with the present/s my dad and I pick out for her. We got her a Steiff Pomeranian one year, and my mum called it Channel, and insisted on having it on the sofa next to her throughout the holiday season and kept cooing and petting it, it was delightful. My dad and I tend to play video games in the evening, like we did when I was a kid. There's a dog running around wanting lil scraps of meat, playing with new toys that she's been lavished with. It's all very wholesome and cute and silly.

Now, my nesting partner on the other hand, grew up in a rather uptight middle class society, missing 3 family Christmases entirely as he was singing in the Queen's Westminster youth choir. The one they show live on TV on Christmas day. When he was at home for Christmas, there was a lot of social pressure to be Well Behaved and to be Polite. There was also a lot of judgement as he got older, a lot of backhanded compliments and a lot of dreams crushed. A lot of yelling and a lot of slammed doors. Needless to say, he kind of hates Christmas.

This year however, the first year we've had a Christmas together, he insisted we decorate the entire house and get a wreath for the door and Santa hats for us to wear here and there in the build up to Christmas. Every evening, he would turn the fairy lights on so I got home to a warm and Christmas-y house. He wrote a Christmas card from our dog for me. He pushed himself to get into the Christmas spirit for me, without me pressuring him to, just bc he wanted to make this special for me, bc he knows how much this holiday means to me. We had Christmas dinner at my parents, and he introduced my parents to a tradition of his - whiskey tasting - which they hated and we all laughed at the face my dad pulled. We dropped off presents at my cousin's place, they had all been practising how to say his name and insisted on being corrected so they would get it right, my partner chatted to my nephew about Pokémon the entire time. My aunt said we looked perfect together. My mum got us board games to play together, and slipper socks for my partner who had been wanting some for months - he mentioned it offhandedly in July - but couldn't settle on a design. She got him plain black with a white geometric pattern, subtle enough that it could be Christmas-y, or it could just be a pattern. He loves them. We watched the Italian job, and my partner fell asleep on the sofa while my dad and I played a game from 2002 on his old PS2, and my mum nudged me and, with a smile on her face, quietly pointed to my partner fast asleep and snoring with his mouth open and said 'bless him'.

And yeah, bless him indeed. I know not everyone has fond memories of Christmas, I know it brings some people a lot of pain and a lot of sadness, I've seen it first hand. But there is something beautiful about being able to pull yourself out of that, of your own accord, for someone, and I'm honoured I get to be that someone for my partner, and I appreciate him so much for doing that for me. I'm so lucky.

[kintsug1kitsune]

deployment

"Circuit, brace for combat."

"Received and deploying, handler."

The circuit, the pilot of their mech, was nestled in the wires of its heartmount; cables hooked into their neural ports, wrapping around their brainstem and invading their nervous system. They hadn't synched yet, but they were prepared.

Fifty meters of white-gold eschatalium, sharp and pseudo-organic in design, artfully painted black to intersperse with the gold, colors of the Empyrean. Two legs on heel-mount feet, stiletto-like greaves for agility; two arms, long and spiked with clawed hands and packed full of the best weaponry humanity could produce. An armored torso with a head atop, sleek and like a knight's helm, massive sharp-toothed jaws that could snap steel girders in half; four camera eyes, diagonally-spaced, with a wreath of decorative red feathers signifying its position: solo work, sovereign from any squadron.

A Mechanical Eden, one of the finest and greatest weapons of the Empyrean. And within, its circuit, a pilot called Killy, short for Killer. They looked over the hardlight screens before them, ensured all systems were green, and hit the button to synch: all at once, a flood of chemicals surged through the wires and into their body. The lovechild of opium, methamphetamine, cannabis, and psilocybin, derived from human spinal fluid and currently smashing a hole in Killy's consciousness.

Their spirit expanded out through their body and into the soul matrix of their Eden; they meshed together, an amalgamate machine consciousness and its pilot, a beautiful union of identity put to one purpose--war.

Hey, pretty. Hello, circuit. Good to be back. Good to have you back.

Through the Eden's eyes--their own eyes, now--they surveyed the beach. They had been dropped down from orbit onto this small island to await orders in case a battle some kilometers away went badly. Through their body's eyes, now just another part in the war machine, they received signals on-screen from the Athame, the Arbiter-class doll overseeing battle on this, the moon of Illulia.

"Witch summoning imminent. Eliminate or contain threat."

Killy didn't hesitate, and their body--as well as their Eden--broke out into a manic grin. It was time for battle.

Massive golden wings unfurled from the Eden's back, spell circles humming to life as ether coursed through them, and Killy was off: maneuvering thrusters ignited and glassed sand underneath as the wings lofted them over the ocean at mach speeds, coming in low over the waves.

Soon the objective was in sight: an island with smoke curling off it, palm trees and underbrush devastated by the fires of war, with a towering metal building up on a mountain at its center.

"Killy," their handler's voice came into their mind through neural connection, "Your target is the Witch of Scripts. It's a master strategist that uses spells to manipulate the mind and body. Any second, it's going to breach and come into reality. Full force permitted. Destroy it."

Killy licked their lips, drooling in anticipation, already wetting their crotch tubes with cum due to the chems. "Received. Affirmative, handler."

It took no seconds for the island in front of Killy to explode.

The corporate tower on the mountain shattered apart in a spray of molten steel and rubble; the Empyrean forces that had been surrounding it were crushed and scattered. Killy could feel Athame sending orders to gather and retreat to the beachhead, and could see combat dolls and infantry fleeing and trying their best to follow the command.

As they kept closing the distance, cresting the ocean, and now flying over the island's beach, they could also see… A swathe of death. Doll parts, drone parts, human corpses still clad in advanced armor, blood and oil everywhere… Killy came to a stop over the ashy, ruined ground and the mountain of bodies.

And there was a girl there. In the middle of it all, far below, there was a girl.

The Eden looked down on her, and she looked far, far up to the Eden. She was wearing some kind of battle-dress, shimmering brilliantly and beautifully in the eternal night.

"Oh, an Eden? Really? My Witch is that big of a deal?" The Innocence smiled up at the mech and pointed her halberd at it. "Well! Not like it matters, it's already here!"

That was true; the Eden looked up and around at the scene. Steel raining from the sky, and a towering cloud of nightmarish, stained glass darkness was erupting from where the corporate building once stood.

Killy looked back down at the Innocence, and opened the Eden's jaw to let a grinding, destructive voice boom from it, "I am going to kill it. Don't get in the way."

"Oh…?" The Innocence pursed her lips. "No you aren't. I'll stop you right here and now!" Suddenly--she jumped up, far up, flying into the air on glittering magical wings, twirling her halberd and drawing seals in the air with witchfire--

The Eden rose an arm to swat her, but she danced aside--the battle began.

Rays of witchfire shot from the Innocence's seals, splashing off the Eden's heavy armor, as Killy swung levers in their cockpit and danced their legs in their sheathes; their eyes dilated, and they grinned fiercely.

The Innocence flew around, arcing through the air while raining beams down on the Eden; the Eden leaped back, gaining distance, and released the support assault guns from its arms. Hardlight bullets rained out of them, pelting the Innocence as she ducked around, whirled through the air, bounced shells off magical barriers and parried them with her weapon.

"I bet you weren't expecting this!" She flew straight at the Eden and drew a seal with her halberd in shining witchfire--the spell resolved, and suddenly, it staggered and stumbled.

In its heartmount, Killy screamed as the connection between themself and their Eden was scrambled, the mesh forcefully torn-at and damaged.

The Innocence plunged in, spear wreathed in flames, and dove at the mech's leg--and exploded through it, a dart of molten force, laughing triumphantly.

Killy screamed again, in further pain, and the Eden shot towards the Innocence to pursue, wheeling a kick at her.

It was fast, unexpected--her eyes got wide as the incoming leg, a tower of hard metal, careened into her and flung her to the ground, scraping across its ashes and rocks and bloodying her form.

At last she came to a stop and looked up, frantic--but Killy wasn't paying attention to her. The Eden was looking towards the column of emanation coming from the mountaintop, where the Witch of Scripts was entering the world.

Killy felt their entire world focus to a single point, and a euphoria surged through them, not only at beating the Innocence but in anticipation of the next step.

They unfurled their wings and took to the sky, up to where the Witch awaited…

[blueiscoool]

Looted Rare Coin From Last Hasmonean king Seized in Israel

IAA says coins minted under Antigonus Mattathias II rarest from period; dozens of other ancient coins from Roman to Muslim periods recovered in search of East Jerusalem home.

Police recovered dozens of ancient coins that were allegedly illegally excavated — among them a rare coin from the time of the last Hasmonean king of Judea over 2,000 years ago — during a search in East Jerusalem overnight, the Israel Antiquities Authority said Wednesday.

The currency was recovered from the suspect’s home in the Silwan neighborhood and includes bronze coins ranging from the Roman period until the Muslim period. The IAA said in a statement that coins from the reign of Antigonus Mattathias II (40 BCE – 37 BCE) are the rarest finds among those minted from the Hasmonean period.

Police questioned a man in his 30s, suspected of robbing the artifacts — likely by searching for them with a metal detector around Jerusalem — illegal possession of artifacts, and attempting to sell the items.

IAA Director Eli Escusido said that finding the coins at their original site would have been more useful to their study.

“The removal of the coin from its archaeological site harms the ability to understand our historical puzzle,” he said.

Gabriela Bichovsky, a coin expert at the IAA, said a cornucopia is displayed on the coin, with a Hebrew inscription reading, “Mattia Kohen Gadol,” a reference to the Hasmonean king as a member of the Jewish priestly class. The opposite side of the coin was minted with a Greek inscription surrounded by a wreath, she said.

“Mattathias minted bronze coins in three denominations: large, medium, and small. The coin that was recovered is of the medium denomination and is rarer than the large, on which a pair of cornucopias appear instead of one,” Bichovsky added.

She further explained that the methods used were unique to Mattathias.

Before being stamped with their designs, “the tokens were first cast in a double limestone mold, creating a thickening coin that looks as if two were stuck together,” she stated.

“It’s very difficult to find currency from Antigonos where you can see the models in their entirety on the faces of the coin. Among the currencies of the Hasmonean period, the coins of Antigonus Mattathias II are the rarest.”

[2ofpentacles]

I'm a basic person. I want to draw my OTP dressed up for a ball. This is for Chapter 2 of The Pride of Elusia. I know it looks like he's asking for her hand, but it's supposed to be more of an "are you ready to go" gesture. Extensive notes about the inspirations for these outfits below the cut.

So I've said this before, but I think the designs of Engage are partly inspired by late 1700s–very early 1800s France. Ivy's dress here is like 1780-ish. But a big thing in Engage is asymmetry, so I twisted everything to the side. The decorative part on her chest would be like the stomacher which would normally go down the center of the chest. It's not as obvious on the skirt from the angle I drew it, but the split is off to the side rather than the middle. The scarf is partly like a fichu which would be tucked into the neckline and partly like the stole Ivy wears in her advanced class. The tiara she's wearing is actually the same design as Hortensia's, but I made it green and it ended up looking like a laurel wreath which is kind of interesting. The color scheme was taken from one of the Elusian villager variations. Zelkov's outfit is more early 1800s although it definitely took inspiration from the halberdier uniform. The double breasted coat is very Napoleonic. By Engage standards these outfits are very plain, but the decorations on them are somewhat like the sort of organic swirls on Ivy's fascinator as well as the designs on Kagetsu's pants actually.

[steelbluehome]

"What the hell are otter pops?!" You say. Well,

Meet the Otters!

Sir Isaac Lime is a brilliant otter-space scientist and he has the British accent to prove it. A jovial supergenius who loves a good joke, Sir Isaac can unlock the mysteries of the universe but he can’t find his car keys. He’s a whimsical whiz kid in a quirky grandpa’s body with his own catchphrase, “Look for the stars in the eyes of others.”

A lifelong researcher, Sir Isaac encourages kids to keep their imaginations alive and ask every question under the sun because “life would be boring if we ran out of questions.”

With his trusty telescope, Sir Isaac brings the wonders of the cosmos into view and shares them with us through pictures. He loves making guest appearances at planetariums, and is an ardent supporter of solar power.

Brilliant, benevolent, and beloved by all, Sir Isaac is Cosmic Coconut’s #1 hero! And the feeling is mutual. Sir Isaac sees a special spark in Cosmic. He shares his research with her, and in return she shares her dreams.

Louie-Bloo Raspberry is a gentle soul, with a lilting French accent who says, “Follow your heart because there’s art in it.” He’s a creative genius with his own web channel where he shows us how to make everything from cool T-shirt designs, to glow-in-the-dark bikes, and hand-crafted sweet nothings.

This guy is a true innovator who sees art everywhere and shows us that there’s more than one way to look at the world. The only thing Louie-Bloo likes more than art is Strawberry Short Kook. He doesn’t let a day go by without giving her a flower.

“Louie-Bloo Sees the Artist in You” is the title of his theme song which was written by Poncho Punch, and performed by DJ Tropicool.

Strawberry Short Kook is an Otter-winning actor turned movie mogul. Now, she makes her own movies and calls the shots at her own major studio, Otternational Pictures. Kook specializes in working with strong female writers and directors, giving them a spotlight to shine.

As a child, Kook dreamed of being an actress but her road to success wasn’t an easy one. While in school, she felt left out and had low self-esteem because she was so short. But she never lost sight of her dream, and after years of waiting tables she got her big break, and the rest, as Alexander the Grape says, is history.

When Kook isn’t in the boardroom making multi-picture deals, or on the red carpet making star-studded appearances, she supports Lil’s animal rescue work, enjoys yoga classes, and loves having everyone over for dinner. But she doesn’t like to cook. She lets Louie Bloo do that. He loves to cook and he’s the best chef around.

Alexander the Grape is a whimsical “odder” and wanna-be time traveler who is absolutely fascinated and overjoyed by the origin of everything. From the history of ketsup to the origin of the high-five, this toga-clad history buff knows it all! And shares it all with wide-eyed enthusiasm!

A lovebale eccentric, he wears a toga because it’s comfy and he wears a laurel wreath on his head because he won it in a trivia game where he knew that fireworks began as a cooking accident in ancient China. Wacky and wonderful, Alexander is an amazing storyteller whom the other otters love to bits. Especially Lil, DJ, and Cosmic. They love him like a favorite uncle and are glued to every word of his magical tales of yesteryear.

Anita was blown away to learn that the high-five was created by a women’s volleyball team in 1961. “Cool that!” Louie Bloo was amazed to learn that Leon-otter DaVinci created scissors. “How cutting edge!” And Major Mango absolutely adores Alexander’s voluminous tales of the Otterman Empire. “Who doesn’t?”

Poncho Punch is a brilliant song writer and musician on a quest to discover the world’s most unusual musical instruments. And there are a ton of them! He prefers acoustical instruments but doesn’t shy away from the occasional electronic oddity. Poncho is a global music ambassador who celebrates diversity and the never-ending rhythm of fun.

When not strumming his guitar at Kook’s dinner parties, or accompanying Lil, Poncho hits the road for adventure, visiting cultures far and wide and making great friends everywhere he goes. “Hola, amigo!” Being multi-lingual helps on his quest. He speaks fluent English and Spanish.

As Poncho dives into every culture on Earth, he explores their customs, their dances, and their traditional-wear aka how they fiesta! As Poncho plays their wonderful instruments in jam sessions galore, he records his beats and brings them home to DJ Tropicool who mixes them into hit dance songs.

Little Orphan Orange likes to be called Lil and she wants you to know that she’s not frowning, that’s just how she smiles*! With Melon Collie by her side, she smiles a lot. Especially when she paints his toenails pink. It tickles, and Melon Collie’s laugh is infectious. These two are quite a pair. They crack each other up and always see the good in others.

A true lover of all animals, Lil may be small but her heart is as big as an elephant. She spends her days helping animals in need, and spends her nights singing them to sleep. She has a lovely voice, and likes to accompany Poncho Punch on his guitar.

Innocent and kind, Lil sees the world through pure kid logic. With her adorable chalky-sounding voice, she asks the questions that all kids want answered. Does the tooth fairy visit a shark a thousand times? How do you give a fish a bath? Do fancy cats use glitter boxes? Her friend and mentor, Strawberry Short Kook, says, “Yes, fancy cats do use glitter boxes.” And Kook should know. She works in ottertainment.

* She originally looked like this

(My apologies if these pictures look huge to you, I downsized them and for some reason that was worse)

Part 1 of 2

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Peter Paul Rubens, Dance of Mythological Figures and Villagers (Antwerp, 1630–35.)

A group of figures dance to the tune of a flute played by a man perched on an oak tree, and to the bells that some dancers have attached to their lower legs. The scene evokes the dances that are part of Ancient Greek history and myths and the tradition that followed—the book Hypnerotomachia Poliphili includes a description and a woodcut of a similar dance. The painting also evokes the arcadian settings of pastoral lyric and drama inspired by Theocritus’s Idylls. In that tradition, and in Rubens’s interpretation of it in numerous paintings, the countryside is considered as an ideal place of plenitude, romance, and sexual fantasy for men. The setting is enlivened by the handling of brown, green, and blue paint. The texture builds on the panel support defining the folds of draperies, head buns and ornaments, and the areas where the light hits the trees. In the middle distance is a farm building with a Palladian motif of arch and lintel—if we were to take this literally, we would place the scene in the Veneto. Rubens favoured this style of sixteenth-century Italian architecture, as witnessed by his designs for his own palatial house and garden in Antwerp.

The dancing figures move their limbs and contort their bodies, an expression of the passionate feelings involved in dancing as it is described in Greek literature. Two dogs positioned as mirror images of each other emphasise the circular movement, and the flowing draperies also contribute to the sense of motion. Many of the figures seem concentrated on the mechanics of the complicated dance, as they try not to lose the hands of the others. In the centre foreground, one of the women appears to be upset by the proximity between a woman with a bare breast and a large bearded man with an ivy wreath; his lascivious attitude is intimidating. To the right another couple come close to kissing. Dionysius, ressed in his tiger skin and crowned with a wreath of leaves, looks back apparently pleased by what he sees.

Only the young Dionysius is clad in attributes that allow us to identify him; the exotic tiger skin alludes to his exploits in the Orient. The epic poem Dionysiaca by Nonnos is full of references to such animals. It also mentions a dance that was part of a celebration of Dionysius’s conquest of India: "The foot-soldiers of Bromios danced round with their oxhides and mimicked the pattern of the shieldbearing Corybants, wildly circling in the quick dance under arms". This is not to imply that Rubens is depicting that specific dance, but a reminder of the very frequent descriptions of such activity in Ancient Greek texts, including whirlwind-like ones similar to the one Rubens painted. The most famous is perhaps one of the scenes that Hephaestus designed on the shield he made for Achilles, as described by Homer in the Iliad: "And young men were whirling in the dance, and with them flutes and lyres sounded continually". Other than Dionysius, the identity of the figures in this painting is ambiguous. I see them as timeless, generic characters inspired by ancient texts.

The flute player takes on the role of Pan, the sex driven, pipe playing shepherd god, but he has no animal features. The other dancers bring to my mind the satyrs, frequent companions of Dionysius (but none bear their animal features). Silenus usually formed part of Dionysius’s train as well; perhaps he inspired the large bearded man between the two women in blue in the foreground.

Some women wear high end outfit and sandals, others are barefoot and seem more peasant like. In fact, none of the figures in the scene dress the way high class or countrywomen did during Rubens’s time (as they are shown in his own paintings and in those by Jan Brueghel, David Teniers, or other roughly contemporary Flemish artists). Necks, breasts, and shoulders are more exposed here than they would have been in contemporary society and their uncovered hair and bare feet are also evocative of a different time and place. What the women dancers resemble is a host of timeless allegorical and mythological female figures painted by Rubens throughout his life. They also remind me of some of the bacchantes and nymphs that Titian painted in his Bachanals, following descriptions by Philostratus the Elder—dancing was a favourite activity of both types of creatures, which had the form of beautiful women.

Text translated from Alejandro Vergara, 'Comentario' in: Pasiones mitológicas, Madrid, Museo Nacional del Prado, 2021, p.110-113 nº10

[2dayihaveaheadache]

Ars longa, vita brevis

It's Obikin AU time!

Obikin AU, in which Senator Obi-Wan Kenobi, elected representative of Stewjon, attends the annual Coruscantian celebration. As a man of morals, austere towards himself and true to his own word, this reimaging of the Cult of Dionysus, a festival of open sensuality, gluttony and decadence during the on raging Clone War is against his morals. The upper class of the inner Rim enjoys themselves, polygamy, wine, and women while other people in Galaxy suffer. He wants to end it and not be part of it. But sent as political representative, and more so pressured by his consultants, he attends the salon.

There, he is overwhelmed by the scent of his future lover, losing himself in a haze of drunkenness and love.

~*~

(Here a tiny scene to describe his first impressions, worldbuilding inspired by the Stoa and the Hellenistic time period and some Epicure as a template for hedonism)

Senator Obi-Wan Kenobi loathed festivals of all sorts, often just celebrated to imitate something else or to grant people the chance to lose themselves in drugs, intercourse, and gluttony. The senate, novelty, business elites, and every man who carried fortune and a mighty name were invited. The event had become a networking opportunity to mingle with the upper class of the Inner Rim, originally designed to fund a political campaign for pacifism, how ironic during a war, but whatever was left of this goal, was nowhere to be found.

The Entrée was an open square leading to a columned hall, imitating the stoa poikile of Athens. Although the carnal pleasure of life as they were celebrated there, spoke more to hedonism than stoicism. Stoa poikile had become a name with a scornful undertone. 

It was a feast of desires, paid love available with one beckon of the hand or a wink, lightly dressed Twi leks sitting on people’s laps. No manners as they were promised by their highborn status were holding the guests back to enjoy themselves, coitus, and Kaiburr crystal drinks. 

“Tedious.”, Obi-Wan scoffed, scrunching his nose, rubbing over his temples, cautious to not come in touch with the artwork that was placed on his head. Expensive for no reason and only worn to show off. His entire attire was selected by his consultants. 

His curls had been elaborately shaped with gel; the rest had been sprinkled with copper powder to emphasize the reddish color of his hair. The whole thing was crowned by a laurel wreath that stood on his head, symbolizing him as some victor. Otherwise, his clothes were kept simple, a beige robe tailored in the style of the ancient Greeks and leather sandals. His advisors had made him look like a Greek demigod, the light fabric playing around his upper arms and exposing a piece of skin from his chest and right shoulder.

He leaned against one of the pillars, took a sip from his drink, and tried to let the intoxication of the feast sink in, to forget the raging moral priest in his mind. The whole decadence of the upper class spread out before him, carved in marble like an ancient fresco. But instead of depicting warhorses, foot soldiers, and sharpened spears, a feast of Dionysus, reimagined, blossomed on the steps of the columned hall. 

Freshly picked figs had been set up in woven wicker baskets, sweet pastries dripping with syrup in colorful ceramic bowls and bread dipped in wine on decorated plates. Each piece of pottery was a work of art for itself, crafted by the most skilled hands of all Coruscant and yet it was treated like dirt here. The guests wolfed down the delicacies and stuffed their mouths and stomachs. Then they turned to the scantily clad figures on their laps, young men or women, youths who had just reached manhood, kissed their exposed skin, tore the silk and linen from their thin shoulders, and devoured what they were after from the beginning.

No sexuality, no desire, no preference was tabooed here if you paid the respectable credits for it. A green Twi’lek, jewelry dangling from her two lekkus, had risen from another man’s lap and eyed Obi-Wan from afar. Her eyes roamed his stature, his bared chest, his freckled skin, before signaling him to come closer. He gently rejected her with a shake of his head, taking another sip from his drink. It was sweet, pink-colored, tasting of strawberries, not to his taste, he grimaced and still drowned it.

~*~

(And here a little snippet of Senator Obi-Wan meeting Anakin and then being ‘fuck it, I mean fuck me’ abandoning all his morals to just get a taste of the other man.)

Drums were played somewhere and the people had started to dance with joined hands, forming circles, barefoot on the cool marble, moving their bodies in sensual rhythms, intoxicated by the drum sound. They blurred into a havoc of colorful clothing in front of Obi-Wan’s eyes, fabric, silk, damask, linen blown by the heated summer wind and folding around their sculpted body, each move performed with the intention to desire and be desired.

The air tasted of cinnamon, spiced leather, mixed with the musk of human sweat, intoxicating Obi-Wan, guiding him into a haze of scents and tastes, the land of carnal oral pleasure. His tongue felt heavy in his mouth, velvet-like, fluttery, almost like an erogenous zone being pierced by all the scents and tastes. A shiver ran down his spine, goose bumps adorning his skin.

Someone was approaching him, he realized as a figure detached from the crowd to appear in front of Obi-Wan. The person’s face was hidden behind a pale blue face veil and only the shadows painted on his countenance let Obi-Wan perceive hints of his looks. A sharp bone structure with a piercing jaw, thin cheeks, and a strong nose contrasted by the shadow of long, feminine eyelashes and plush lips. Obi-Wan could only detect the hint of curls, framing the strangers face. He raised his hands, cupping the other man’s face, feeling the other man’s warmth radiating from his skin through the veil.

Obi-Wan opened his mouth, took in a breath, only to be greeted with another wave of the intoxicating scent, that had made him drunken before, losing himself in it. His eyes fluttered shut. New nuances bloomed on his tongue, that he had not been able to decipher before. Next to spiced leather was a mild note vanilla. A slight, fresh note mint, overlapped by the dominate cinnamon. And a sweet-lingering scent of Indian date, that was nearly lost in his musk. It tasted like a melody, perfectly combined shades to complete a great symphony. Pleasure was building in Obi-Wan’s gut, making his blood sing, hum, scream with his desire.

His fingers wandered under the veil to continue with their exploration, unveiling the other man, to finally see the object of his lust. Because he had to ensure to get a taste of it.

~*~

(And a very brief scene of the two lovers, finally holding each other because I have a soft spot for them.)

The starry sky shone above them as the other man laid in his arms on the meadow, crickets chirping in the background and the air still tasting of last summer, tiny blooms flourishing next to the couple. Sleep had stolen Anakin away from him, guiding him into the realm of dreams. He smiled softly at his lover and traced the scar on his face with his thumb, caressing him tenderly, placing his mouth were once his finger had been with butterfly kisses, hoping to preserve this for an eternity.

(Hope you enjoy it!)

[vuetyris]

Slowly tinkering two systems to the point of satisfaction - mainly in establishing a stable habitable planet and solar pairing. One a recreation (Tishuru) and the other still with a placeholder name until I decide on one in the future.

Tishuru is slightly smaller than earth, possesses two small moons, and a celestial ring its gathered by passing through the asteroid field. Once before I had a save of an initial system, but it somehow gotten lost before functional cloud saves.

It's inhabitants are called Nellusy; their appearance is alike that of salamanders, skinks, and iguanas - stocky, durable on land and in the water, most would make their life half above and half below the tides. Reworking their general design, but retaining their characteristic sails and secondary arms.

[Unnamed] is one of a trio of planetoids circling the M-class star - through its proximity to the star is daunting, a perpetual cold grips it. The other planets were not as lucky; one perpetually sorched white.

It's inhabitants are the Pachyrsis; semi-equine, their unaltered posture is crouched to bare the weight of their heavy set body made to weather the cold nights and blinding light of the amber sun. Dense feather-fur covers them against the harsh cold, their heads wreathed by dense keratin that covers them chin, crown, and spine.

[I tried tinkering with the magnetosphere but it doesnt really interact with any of the composition settings that would make sense hghgh]

[southgatetravels]

Wedding Car Rental in Trivandrum: Adding Elegance to Your Special Day

Your wedding day is one of the most cherished moments in life, and every detail, from the attire to the venue, contributes to making it unforgettable. One important element that often gets overlooked but plays a crucial role in creating a grand entrance is the wedding car rental Trivandrum, a city known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage, renting the perfect wedding car can elevate the elegance and style of your celebration.

Why Choose a Wedding Car Rental in Trivandrum?

Opting for a wedding car rental offers several benefits for couples planning their special day in Trivandrum:

Convenience: Wedding car rentals come with professional chauffeurs who are experienced in navigating the city, allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride to your venue.

Wide Range of Options: Whether you want a modern luxury car, a vintage classic, or a large vehicle for your entire bridal party, wedding car rental services in Trivandrum offer a variety of options to match your style and theme.

Stress-Free Transportation: On your wedding day, the last thing you want to worry about is transportation. With a rental service, you can rest assured that your car will arrive on time, in pristine condition, and ready to transport you in comfort.

Popular Wedding Car Options in Trivandrum

Trivandrum’s wedding car rental services offer a diverse range of vehicles, each catering to different tastes and themes. Here are some of the most popular choices for wedding car rentals in the city:

1. Luxury Sedans

Luxury sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A6 are perfect for couples who want to add a touch of sophistication to their wedding day. These cars boast sleek designs, high-end interiors, and unparalleled comfort, making them a favorite for modern weddings.

2. Vintage Classics

For those who adore the charm of the past, renting a vintage car like a Rolls-Royce or an Ambassador can provide a timeless touch to your wedding. These classic beauties are ideal for couples looking to blend tradition with elegance, offering a stunning backdrop for wedding photos and a nostalgic feel.

3. SUVs and Premium Crossovers

If you prefer something that combines luxury with space and comfort, premium SUVs like the Range Rover, Audi Q7, and BMW X5 are excellent choices. These vehicles offer spacious interiors, which are especially useful if you’re traveling with your bridal party or need extra room for your dress.

4. Limousines

Nothing says luxury quite like a limousine. Renting a limo for your wedding day offers both style and space, making it a popular choice for couples who want to make a grand entrance. Limousines are also ideal for transporting the bride and groom along with their family or close friends.

Decorating Your Wedding Car

Once you’ve chosen your wedding car, the next step is deciding on the décor. In Trivandrum, there are plenty of talented florists and decorators who specialize in wedding car decorations. Some popular ideas include:

Floral Arrangements: Fresh flower garlands draped over the car, floral wreaths on the hood, or elegant bouquets on the rear window add a romantic and traditional feel.

Ribbons and Bows: Satin ribbons tied to the door handles or a large bow on the front grille are classic wedding car decorations that symbolize joy and celebration.

Personalized Nameplates: Some couples like to add a personalized touch with custom nameplates bearing the names of the bride and groom or playful messages like "Just Married."

Advantages of Hiring a Wedding Car Rental Service

Hiring a wedding car rental service in Trivandrum offers multiple advantages that can help make your day more enjoyable:

Professional Chauffeurs: Rental companies provide trained chauffeurs who ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. These chauffeurs are well-versed in wedding etiquette and will ensure timely arrivals at every venue.

Well-Maintained Fleet: Wedding car rental services take pride in maintaining their fleet of vehicles. You can expect clean, polished, and well-maintained cars that are picture-perfect for your big day.

Customized Rental Packages: Most services offer flexible packages, allowing you to choose cars by the hour or for the entire day. Some companies even offer packages that include both the wedding ceremony and the reception, giving you seamless transportation throughout the day.

Hassle-Free Booking: Booking a wedding car is a straightforward process, with most companies offering online or phone reservations. You can select the car you want, arrange for decorations, and confirm chauffeur services with ease.

Top Wedding Car Rental Providers in Trivandrum

Several reliable car rental companies in Trivandrum offer specialized wedding car rental services. Some of the top options include:

Southgate Travels: Known for its premium fleet of wedding cars, Southgate Travels offers a variety of vehicles including luxury sedans, vintage cars, and SUVs to cater to different wedding styles. Their well-trained chauffeurs and attention to detail make them a favorite among wedding planners in Trivandrum.

Luxury Wheels: This company provides a range of high-end cars, from sedans to limousines, perfect for adding a luxurious touch to your wedding. Their customizable packages and exceptional customer service make them a top choice.

Royal Car Rentals: Offering both modern and classic cars, Royal Car Rentals is ideal for couples looking to make a unique statement on their wedding day. Their fleet includes everything from Bentleys to Jaguars, ensuring there’s a car to match every couple’s vision.

Conclusion

A wedding car is more than just transportation—it’s an extension of your style and vision for your special day. In a city as beautiful as Trivandrum, choosing the right wedding car rental can enhance the charm of your celebration, providing a seamless and elegant experience. From luxury sedans to vintage classics and limousines, the choices are endless, allowing you to arrive in style and create unforgettable memories.

So, if you’re planning a wedding in Trivandrum, don’t overlook the importance of a stunning wedding car. Let your ride reflect the beauty of your love story, and make your grand entrance one to remember!

Ready to book the perfect wedding car in Trivandrum? Contact Southgate Travels for premium wedding car rental services and experience the ultimate in luxury and style on your big day!

[flowersbysweeten]

Flowers by Sweetens Florist & Flower Delivery

530 N Broad St Woodbury, NJ 08096

(856) 845-1796

https://www.woodburyflorist.com/

Introduction To Woodbury Flower Shop

Flowers by Sweetens, Woodbury is a local florist providing high-class floral design and same-day delivery services in Woodbury NJ. Our flower shop has been happily serving the town of Woodbury since the 1930's, crafting floral arrangements for all kinds of celebrations and occasions.

With decades of experience in the flower shop industry, we know how to put together the top choice flowers in stylish floral arrangements to put a smile on each and every customer's face.

Having over 100 years of skill and knowledge with our talented team of florists, we are always up to date with the recent designs and trends in floral design.

We guarantee each and every flower arrangement brings your concept to life, because we understand how important it is for every customer to find precisely the flowers they need.

Let us help you create the most exquisite flower bouquets and arrangements for your needs! Whether it's a birthday floral gift or some red roses for an anniversary, Flowers by Sweetens is here to help.

We make fantastic floral arrangements for wedding dinners, funeral homes, company functions and family gatherings! We also specialize in everyday and seasonal flowers, fruit and gourmet gift baskets, floor plants and greens.

Our team of expert florists is totally devoted to providing each customer only the finest flowers and create every single arrangement with care. You'll be sure to get precisely what you need for your floral gifts, every time!

Visit our flower shop in Woodbury so we can discuss your floral needs!

Want some white and purple flowers in a vase arrangement to give your mother some love? Need to send your loved one a stunning bouquet for their birthday? Considering delivering a sympathy arrangement for a loved one in mourning? We've got your back!

Drop by our shop at Woodbury or head to our website to browse through our large assortment of fresh cut flowers and pre-made floral arrangements!

If you would like a custom floral design, chat with any of our florists and they'll be happy to help you choose the finest flowers for the perfect arrangement. 

No matter what occasion you need a floral gift for or what event you need to decorate with flowers, our team at Flowers by Sweetens grants expert floral design to suit your type.

Whether it's a Valentine's Day rose bouquet, a floral gift for your father on Christmas, or maybe a floral centerpiece for Easter Sunday or Thanksgiving dinner, we make sure that every customer leaves with precisely what they need.

Our Woodbury Florist Services

Everyday and Seasonal Arrangements

Fruit and Gourmet Baskets

Custom Silk Arrangements and Wreaths

European Dish Gardens

Floor Plants

Plush Animals

Balloon Bouquets

Handmade Chocolates

Unique Gifts and Novelty Items

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[pajarosypalabras]

Staging and my first few days in Paraguay

This past couple of weeks have been an absolute whirlwind of emotion. From packing my bags for the next two years to saying goodbye to all my friends and family, traveling to Philly, then to Panama City, and finally to Asuncion… I have finally found some free time to write my first blog post.

Before leaving, many people asked me “Do you know anyone you’re going with?”, “Do you know where you’re living?”, and “Do you know what you’ll be doing?”. The answer to all of these questions is no. And yes, it is absolutely crazy to move across the world without knowing anyone in the country you’re moving to or anything about how you’ll be living for the next 2 years. Thankfully, there are 44 other crazy people in my cohort who decided to take a leap of faith and come to Paraguay. My cohort has grown very close over the last week and I already feel so lucky to have them here.

Everyday brings something new but I often start the day regretting every decision I’ve ever made. I open my eyes and the first thing I think is “God, I’m so exhausted and where the hell am I? Why did I ever think joining the Peace Corps was a good idea?”. Then, approximately an hour later I’m having the best day of my life. Laughing with friends at breakfast, bonding over our collective feelings of chaos, chatting with environmental experts, and learning about Paraguayan culture. I’ve come to realize that these intense ups and downs will characterize service, and I better get used to them.

We started our adventure in Paraguay at a hotel in Aregua and upon arrival I noticed that I had in fact packed the most out of anyone else in my cohort. I had apparently felt it was absolutely crucial to pack two jewelry boxes, 15 books, a wreath, an apron, 3 knives, enough hair product to last 2 years, my pillow, 14 pairs of pants, and 6 bottles of various essential oils. I’m going to blame my panicked emotional state prior to departure, and perhaps the next time I move across the world, I’ll leave the handmade wreath behind.

Culture and language lessons have begun and are wonderful! I tested out of Spanish classes so I’m currently learning Guaraní in Spanish, with the hopes of becoming fluent in Jopara (a mix between Guaraní and Spanish which is spoken by most Paraguayans). Learning a new language in your second language is quite challenging, but I feel so lucky and proud to be learning an indigenous language. “Mba’éichapa” means “hi” if that gives you any sense of the difficulty of this language.

Prior to meeting my host family today, we went over a few important aspects of Paraguayan culture. First is that Paraguayans speak about people in the 3rd person in front of them. So when I arrived at my host family’s house, the family was talking about me, directly in front of me. Another aspect of Paraguayan culture is that when you shower, you bring your underwear into the shower and wash them in there. Then you hang them in the designated underwear drying station (no DOT hang your underwear up in your bedroom or on a random branch outside). Never put your underwear in the washing machine if you’re doing laundry with another person. It might be okay to wash your underwear in the washing machine if it’s only your clothes, but check with your family before doing so. I never expected so many rules surrounding underwear and I'm dreading the day I run out of clean underwear.

I’m already feeling so connected to my host family. We made empanadas for dinner tonight and chatted late while drinking tereré (hot water, mate and medicinal herbs). My bedroom is firetruck red and there are flowers painted all over the walls, ceramic animals everywhere, and latin club music blasting from across the street. I’m regretting some packing choices at the moment and feel I could have sacrificed at least 8 pairs of pants for a pair of earplugs.

I’m so excited to continue learning and living in Paraguay. I can’t possibly imagine what the next two years are going to look like, but I’m excited to share some glimpses of my life here. Thank you all for reading!!!

[stampwithtami]

Trusy Tools Card [Flash Pop Up Series #5]

TRUSTY TOOLS POP UP CARD With Father’s Day around the corner, I found myself inspired to create some masculine cards. I dove into "man town" mode, crafting a Flash Pop Up card using the Stampin’ Up Trusty Tools Stamps and Dies bundle. These tools are incredibly fun to work with, and I've created several other fun fold card tutorials using them, which you can find below. The Trusty Tools bundle truly brings a "wow" factor to every project. Card DesignThe front of the card features a charming toolbox with various tools. Upon opening the card, a pegboard pops up, revealing hidden tools for an extra surprise. I added a painted brush and some designer paper designed to look like a paint streak across the inside. This interactive element adds a delightful touch that will surely impress the recipient. About the Trusty Tools Stamps and DiesThe Trusty Tools Dies are perfect for recognizing the builders in your life. You can create a pegboard as a card background or a toolbox on the card front, then add a variety of die-cut tools hanging on the board or emerging from the box. These die-cut tool designs can also be used separately as accents to embellish your projects. Pair them with your chosen sentiments to celebrate husbands, dads, and other special men in your life. Mailing this CardThis card is a standard size and fits inside a standard Stampin’ Up Medium Sized envelope. However, if you plan to mail it rather than hand-deliver it, be aware that it might need to be hand-canceled at the post office, which could incur a small additional cost due to its width. InstructionsFor those interested in making this card, I have provided a template, step-by-step instructions, measurements, and a complete supply list in a convenient free PDF below in the INSTRUCTIONS section. Additionally, I’ve shared a video class demonstrating how to create the Flash Pop Out Fold Technique, so you can follow along easily. I hope you enjoy creating this card as much as I did. Happy crafting and have a wonderful Father’s Day! Tami White INSTRUCTIONS, TEMPLATE & VIDEO The step-by-step guide provides detailed measurements, a template for the fold and a complete with a clickable list of materials.  See my videos below for help with coloring and creating the fold. DOWNLOAD PDF FLASH POP UP CARD  VIDEO On this video class I share how to create this fold. CLICK FOR VIDEO CLASS DETAILS SUPPLIES I USED Click the thumbnails to view in my online store and get more information. FLASH POP UP SERIES TUTORIALS Click the thumbnails below for more free tutorials in my landscape arrow folds series. STAMPIN' UP! CATALOGS CURRENT SPECIALS CARD PHOTOS You can't go wrong with the Trusty Tools for the handyman in your life.Click for the Stamp Set in my Online StoreClick for the Dies in my Online Store The front of the card features a charming toolbox with various tools. Upon opening the card, a pegboard pops up, revealing hidden tools for an extra surprise. You can create a pegboard as a card background or a toolbox on the card front, then add a variety of die-cut tools hanging on the board or emerging from the box. I used the Country Woods Designer Paper for the woodgrain background I added a painted brush and some designer paper designed to look like a paint streak across the inside. This interactive element adds a delightful touch that will surely impress I used the label from the Friends for Life Die Set to cut out the Happy Father's Day The tool box was die cut from the Full of Life Designer Paper I also used the Full of Life Designer Paper to create the paint stripe I added Early Espresso under the Pecan Pie panels that I had die cut to make pegboard I really love this bundle. This is an envelope card box I created with it.Click here for tutorial and video Both of these are wow cards. And both make great Father's Day cards as well as birthday cards. I also created this Circle Wreath card using the Trusty Tools.Click for a tutorial and video Trusty Tools Envelope Card BoxClick here for tutorial and video Trusty Tools Circle Wreath CardClick for a tutorial and video I created this Toolbox card using the Trusty Tools.Click here for tutorial Want to save these ideas for later? Pin them to your favorite Pinterest board. Have you tried these designs? I love to see your creations! Be sure to share them on #shareyourcrafts post every Saturday on my Facebook Page and give me a shout out or a tag on social.  Read the full article

[queenofcandynsoda]

Sol Fertilis: May Day and Labor Day

May 1st

The first of May is a dual holiday: May Day and Labor Day. May Day is the celebration of Bona Flora, one of the daughters of Mars Sol and Venus Bellona. Labor Day is the celebration of how opercollegiums (a term for labor unions), such as the Sol Fertilis Farmers & Ranchers Union, currently known as the Sol Fertilian Agricultural Union, managed to advocate for stronger protections and rights for lower rank workers.

May Day

May Day is when higher and middle-rank citizens celebrate the Blessings of Bona Flora with the ceremony called Floralia. Colorful banners and floral decorations adorn the park where the county’s Floralia takes place with Alpha-Omega families attending. The Omega children wear pink dresses or vermillion suits with floral designs, made for such an occasion. Early, they gather around the Maypole.

While the Maypole did have Germanic origins, the Department of Protocol & Ceremonial Affairs from the Ministry of Celebrations & Festivals added it to make more association with Bona Flora. The Maypole is decorated with various variations of Sol Fertilian asters, including the national flower, the Venus Rosy Aster, and would have colors of pink and vermillion. There are pink ribbons attached to it. The song for this occasion is called “Blossom Melodies”, played by flutes, harps, drums, tambourines, and lyres. 

As the music plays, young participants move in synchronized patterns, intertwining the ribbons around the Maypole. Next, the Omega pups take center stage as they crown the May Queen or May King. They are then given a crown of flowers, which would consist of, but not limited to, lavenders, jasmines, oleanders, bougainvilleas, and rosemaries. The May Queen or King is also given a large bouquet, a floral throne with a golden plate that has their name, county, and year, a Floralia wreath, floral jewelry, and a ceremonial dress for them to wear once they win. The day would end once sunset arrived and the families would return to their homes and then do a special prayer to Bona Flora. 

There would be different foods being served, such as stuffed grape leaves, lemon roasted chicken, fresh fruit platter, honey and pistachio baklava, and citrus sorbet. There would also be a cake called Floralia Blossom Cake, which is a large, five-tier mille-feuille with meringue.

Labor Day

Labor Day is to celebrate the achievements of the lower-ranked workers and their unions to get work protections and rights. This also includes ethnic Zandians, a term for five ethnic groups that are native to Zandia, granted more rights as they were deemed second-class citizens due to the Zandian Reformation Act. After the post-war food shortage, Len, a Foresta Oscuran Beta Neutral farmer who was originally a lawyer before the ranking laws, created the Sol Fertilis Farmers & Ranchers Union with six of his friends/co-workers, though three were murdered by the Five Devils. After months of negotiation, strikes, and the Southern Farmers Riot, the union made a deal with the government. Soon after, more unions were made. 

Labor Day was added to the Sol Fertilis Holiday calendar after the labor unions' deals in the late 1950s. It is now agreed that all Lower Rank citizens, meaning Beta Neutral, Beta Minus, and Gamma Minus, MUST be granted a day off on the first of May, not just union members. They are also granted to have a large bonus as a token for their work throughout the year. 

Held in venues like cervobarnum (a term for Sol Fertilian beer gardens), cider houses, and Noctiscaenas (a Simple Latin term for nightclubs), these events feature live entertainment, food and drink, and games. State-sponsored musical bands would come to play music, though some venues opt for “Underground” music instead. The games would be trivia quizzes, raffle drawings, dance competitions, karaoke, and some minuludis (games played by the lower ranks). 

The citizens would drink beer, usually made from Sol Barley. Among ethnic Zandians, they would celebrate with inexpensive anisette and gin as they prefer distilled drinks. Some of the snacks are arancini, Caprese skewers, bruschetta, hummus and pita chips, Indigo veggie platters, and olive tapenade crostini. There is a special cake being served called the Fertility Flourish Cake, an eggless, milkless, and flourless cake that was made during rationing in the Ardens Oriens war and the post-war food shortage.