#fannish year review
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Fannish Year Review (2023)
Thank you to @amplifyme and @frogsmulder for tagging me!
1. Your main fandom of the year: The X-Files (always); but also the Duchovny fandom. It was a fun ride the entire year. And the late bloomer was Beauty and the Beast 1987-- thank you, amplifyme, for roping me in. ;))
2. Your favorite film this year: The Tv Set. (For an approximation of my taste, see Random Harvest, Arsenic and Old Lace, Empire of the Sun, Fools Rush In, Good Will Hunting, and An Ideal Husband.)
3. Your favorite book this year: I read four? books this year; and I to hand favorite book to The Evil Men Do by Michaud.
4. Your favorite album or song this year: Don't listen to music much; buuuut I always get sucked down by this very specific version of Rush E.
5. Your favorite TV shows this year: The X-Files, Beauty and the Beast 1987, The Last of Us.
6. Your favorite Tumblr community this year: I only participate in fandom fandom for txf and DD; but I did enjoy amplifyme's BATB posts as well.
7. Your best new fandom discovery of the year: Beauty and the Best 1987.
8. Your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: For me? Strangely, the Barbie movie. Glad everyone else vibed with it-- seemed like a fun time~. The excitement and fun and memes were wonderful, regardless.
9. Your TV/movie boyfriend of the year: The boyfriendification phenomenon ended for me in middle school when I realized I crushed on people who were simply a version of myself or a trait I aspired to attain (this was in middle school, I believe.) Haven't felt that way since. :DD
10. Your TV/movie girlfriend of the year: Previous answer applies; but that's boring so I'll add--
Scully tied with Diana Bennett but for different reasons. Scully because her fashion-- sleek, professional, simple-- is my style incarnate; but more importantly, her beautiful (hand model's) manicures finally got me to notice and take care of my own nails (more). Diana because she wasn't afraid of other people or how they perceived her. I also admire both of their work ethics, their body language, and the individual ways they talk.
11. Your biggest squee moment of the year: I squee over "real" people, e.g. my mutuals and their creativity and good days, DD's successes this year and his family hanging out and looking happy, making people laugh in the tags or sending asks that reinforces their value to the community or to me an individual, etc. Moments that we can come together as internet friends or irl strangers or even anons and enjoy whatever relationship we have in the moment, no matter if it changes, waxes or wanes. Because I have faith in the good ones; and I'm content knowing they're living life and either enjoying or working towards peace.
Tagging (if you haven't already): @baronessblixen, @welsharcher, @agent-troi, @suitablyaggrieved, @dd-is-my-guiltypleasure, @perpetually-weirdening, @aloysiavirgata, @cecilysass, @spidey-is-tired, @wexleresque, @tofuttim, @slippinmickeys, @virtie333, @writingwell, @ibringyouasong89, @lilydalexf, @settle-down-frohike, @nachosncheezies, @television-overload, @numinousmysteries, @rosedyl, @sonictacocat, @stephy-gold, @oohnotvery, @two-microscopes, @teenie-xf, @enigmaticdrblockhead, @enigmaticxxbee, @gabby-msr, @cyb3rpeach, @demon-fetal-harvest, @ragnarockz, and whoever else wants~.
#Fannish Year Review#2023#me#tried to keep this short#that's what I'm going to do next year! keep my posts short#I do love to ramble; but who has the time to read it all?#and that's just fine with me. Will probably save me from nonexistent hand cramps~ ;)))
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
thanks for the tag @agent-troi and @randomfoggytiger
1. your main fandom of the year: Star Wars, as it has been since 2015 (and other various stretches before that). Oscar Isaac was a close second.
2. have u watched a film this year: I don't think I've watched many new movies, to be honest. The new GotG movie was the only 2023 one. There are several I really want to see, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes for one. Barbie, too.
3. your favorite book this year: I actually just started reading novels again this year, but for now I've only been reading Justine Davis' Cutter's Code series, because I fell behind and instead of just starting where I left off, I started from the beginning again. I think the one she's writing now will be the last in the series and that will make me very sad. It's been a 10 year journey.
4. your favorite album or song this year: I started collecting the greatest hits of some of my fave 80s artists this year, so I'll consider all of them my faves: Bryan Adams, Howard Jones, Michael Jackson, Alabama, Prince...
5. your favorite tv shows this year: Ahsoka was amazing, despite straying a bit from our beloved Rebels. I keep going back to Moon Knight, even if it's from last year.
6. your favorite tumblr community this year: I've really become absorbed by the Oscar Isaac fandom, especially the writing side. I still don't feel like I belong, but they keep inviting me in and are so lovely, I can't refuse.
7. your best new fandom discovery of the year: Stranger Things. Everyone that knows me kept telling me I'd like it, and it was always on my watch list, but I finally got to it this year. I'm only on S3, so no spoilers! I also feel like I've been reintroduced to the X-Files fandom. I was there almost in the beginning and have never stopped loving it, (although I'm not going to lie: I was disappointed with S9 and 10), but with so many new fans here on Tumblr, I'm finding that old feeling is coming back.
8. your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: The severe decline of my ship, Damerey. I was a 'late bloomer' to the on-line side of that ship, and as such have yet to be tired of it. Not sure I ever will be. (Am I tired of Han and Leia? Nope. Mulder and Scully? Absolutely not) There are still some amazing writers out there and some amazing stories that I have hopes will be finished someday, but it's become a very quiet ship. I am so thankful for the wonderful readers I have that are helping me to keep it alive!
9. your tv/movie boyfriend and/or girlfriend of the year: Poe Dameron. Duh.
10. your biggest squee moment of the year: The news that Daisy has signed on for a new Rey movie. I'm bound to be disappointed in my hopes for a Damerey mention (or even a Jedistormpilot mention! Disney would never!), but I'm still going to enjoy the hell out of my favorite Jedi!
No pressure tags: @jewelsrulz, @marieziffer, @diplomaticprincess, @soft-girl-musings, @campingwiththecharmings, @nkp1981, @juneknight, @toracainz, @my-secret-shame, @waywaychuck, @curiouswildi, @seleneisrising, @closerundone, @omgbarbiegurl
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
1. Your main fandom of the year: The X-Files, Beauty and the Beast 1987, A Song of Ice and Fire (specifically SanSan). Can't narrow it down to one.
2. Your favorite film this year: Barbie. America Ferrara's monologue on the rules women are expected to follow made me laugh and then sob. Been there, trying my best to no longer do that.
You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin. You have to have money, but you can't ask for money because that's crass. You have to be a boss, but you can't be mean. You have to lead, but you can't squash other people's ideas. You're supposed to love being a mother, but don't talk about your kids all the damn time. You have to be a career woman but also always be looking out for other people.
You have to answer for men's bad behavior, which is insane, but if you point that out, you're accused of complaining. You're supposed to stay pretty for men, but not so pretty that you tempt them too much or that you threaten other women because you're supposed to be a part of the sisterhood.
But always stand out and always be grateful. But never forget that the system is rigged. So find a way to acknowledge that but also always be grateful.
You have to never get old, never be rude, never show off, never be selfish, never fall down, never fail, never show fear, never get out of line. It's too hard! It's too contradictory and nobody gives you a medal or says thank you! And it turns out in fact that not only are you doing everything wrong, but also everything is your fault.
3. Your favorite book this year: Wayward, Chuck Wendig's sequel to Wanderers. Read these! Chuck is the modern day old-school Stephen King. Not to be missed.
4. Your favorite album or song this year: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit's Weathervanes. Every album these guys put out is better than the last, and they're all superb. Jason Isbell's lyrics are always a revelation. Best songwriter of his generation.
5. Your favorite TV shows this year: The Last of Us. Humanity and inhumanity all wrapped up into a heartbreaking and uplifting package. Best show of the year. Long, Long Time will live with me forever.
6. Your favorite Tumblr community this year: Don't have one. I love all the different 'verses I move within.
7. Your best new fandom discovery of the year: That's hard to say, what with the age of my favorite fandoms. They're all getting on in years, which makes new discoveries rare.
8. Your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: None, really. Well, maybe the weirdness of the SanSan fics I've seen posted lately. Hopefully that will soon pass.
9. Your TV/movie boyfriend of the year: Gotta go with Vincent from Beauty and the Beast. He never disappoints. And everything he does and why he does it is the epitome of what it is to be human. And to be alive. 🥰
10. Your TV/movie girlfriend of the year: Weird Barbie. She is me.
11. Your biggest squee moment of the year: Introducing @randomfoggytiger to the BATB universe through Nan Dibble's writing, and soon after that the show itself, and her getting it. Best feeling in the world, to bring a new fan into the fold.
I'm tagging @randomfoggytiger @nobodysuspectsthebutterfly @kateofthecanals @storybycorey @baronessblixen @littlefeatherr @enigmaticxbee @xxsksxxx @lilydalexf @ladytp @daisies-cats-and-spacemen @musingsofaquietmind @settle-down-frohike
No pressure. Only play if you want to.
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1. prepping (restaurant owner!harry x chef!y/n)
summary: you landed your dream job as a line cook at harry styles' prestigious haus kitchen restaurant in chicago. the tough chef job demands focus, but it's really hard when your boss looks like harry styles.
words: 4.3k
warnings: nothing major in this one
Your palms were sweating as you gripped the steering wheel, driving through downtown Chicago towards your new job. You kept glancing down at the address on the printed directions, double checking that you were heading the right way. The last thing you wanted was to be late on your first day.
Ever since getting your culinary degree, you had applied to what felt like hundreds of restaurant jobs, desperate to get your foot in the door of a real professional kitchen. But very few places wanted to hire someone so fresh out of school with no actual experience.
Finally, after months of dead ends, you had landed a line cook position at Haus Kitchen - one of the hottest farm-to-table restaurants in the city. You could scarcely believe your luck when you got the call saying you were hired.
Haus was the brainchild of Harry Styles, international superstar singer turned chef. After his chart-topping solo music career, Harry had traded in artist life to pursue his lifelong passion for cooking. Using his accumulated wealth, he opened up Haus five years ago to rave reviews, quickly earning a well deserved Michelin star.
You vividly remembered watching Harry's transition from a pop idol to dashing culinary entrepreneur play out in the media. As a teenage girl, you had been obsessed with him during his One Direction days.
Your bedroom walls were plastered with Harry's posters and you had relentlessly played their songs, sighing over his tousled hair and pouty lips. Then as you got older and Harry went solo, your boyband crush evolved into more of an intense celebrity infatuation as he cultivated a cool, rebellious image.
There were countless gossipy blind items about his infamous hellraising, flings with models and socialites, and run-ins with the law. You had followed all the scandalous Harry headlines with rapt attention - from getting papped stumbling out of nightclubs with an endless parade of beautiful women to getting arrested for drug possession outside Soho clubs.
But finally in his late 20s, seemingly bored of rockstar debauchery, Harry had pivoted to reset his image as a knowledgeable culinary entrepreneur. You admired how he transformed from tabloid bad boy into a refined, successful businessman and chef.
He began studying haute cuisine under the tutelage of famous European chefs, traveling abroad to hone his skills further. While continuing to record new musical projects independently, Harry started establishing himself in the culinary world through guest stints on TV cooking shows and food/wine events.
With his brooding good looks, charming personality, and serious culinary chops, the world fell for Harry's new sophisticated image. Before long, he was the subject of breathless puff pieces in food magazines as "the sexiest Renaissance man in the kitchen." It seemed natural when Harry soon opened up his passion project Haus to capitalize on his popularity and love of food.
Now nearing your mid-20s, your teenage fannish obsession had cooled into more of an admiring celebrity crush. You had stayed aware of Harry's journey, but your priorities were focused on graduating culinary school at the top of your class and finding your own big break in the Chicago restaurant scene.
So when you landed a job at Harry's iconic Haus, it almost didn't feel real. Not only would you be working at one of the city's most exclusive spots, but under the same roof as a chef you had admired for ages.
Not that you expected to have any real personal contact with Harry himself, you reminded yourself as you merged onto the exit for downtown. He was an internationally famous mega-celebrity who had to have hundreds of staffers, not to mention being handsomely paid to just be the smiling face of the business while professional kitchen vets like Paul Thomason handled the day-to-day operations.
Still, you had to admit to yourself that a tiny part of you tingled at the mere idea of being in the same building as Harry Styles...hopefully catching a glimpse of that handsome, endlessly charming man in the flesh...
You shook your head dismissively and double checked the directions again, annoyed at getting so easily distracted. This was your big break, your first serious job in the industry. You needed to bring your A-game and focus, not dwell on silly celebrity daydreams.
It was your fantasies of becoming a respected chef that needed to take priority.
You pulled into the parking lot for the restaurant, double checking that you had the address right. The sleek, modern building had a neon "Haus Kitchen" sign glowing over opulent double-door entrances flanked by velvet ropes and cheerful outdoor seating areas.
Taking a steadying breath, you cut the engine and sat for a moment, giving yourself a pep talk. This was it. No more messing around doing coursework or labs - this was the major leagues with all the intensity of a real professional kitchen. You had to bring it all day, every day.
As you climbed out of your beat-up Honda, you smoothed down your spotless new chef's whites, making sure everything looked pressed and presentable. With your knife kit tucked under your arm, you walked towards the entrance with purpose, chin held high.
From the moment you stepped through the doors, it was like being transported into another world. The smell of simmering sauces, roasting meats, and freshly baked bread envaded your senses. Even hours before opening, the energy and hustle for dinner prep was palpable.
Off to the left was the main dining room you had studied photos of online - effortlessly cool with vaulted exposed wooden beam ceilings, brick accents, and casually modern decor. Pendant lighting glowed cozily over tables draped in white linens and rustic chandeliers hung over plush tufted leather banquettes. A lively bar area centered the space, stocked with top-shelf liquors and backed by a dazzling display of custom glassware.
In the distance ahead, you could hear the clamoring of the kitchen in full swing. Your stomach did a nervous flip - this was it. Taking another fortifying breath, you headed through the archway.
You emerged into a large, sleek open kitchen layout, all stainless steel and butcher block islands. Uniformed cooks were buzzing at their stations like a well-oiled machine under the barked commands of an older, stocky man you immediately recognized as Head Chef Paul Thomason.
Despite his gruff reputation, watching Thomason in action was nothing short of mesmerizing. He moved between stations with the easy grace of a conductor, sampling sauces, tweaking seasonings, and directing the workflow with gruff orders. There was no wasted movement or micro-expression as he continually tasted and perfected dishes, alternating between thoughtful contemplation and decisive action.
Though you had only seen Thomason in pictures and television appearances, his fierce focus and mastery were unmistakable. This was what true professional kitchen expertise looked like in the flesh.
Feeling like a mouse that had wandered into the lair of a lion, you hovered near the entrance, uncertain of what to do next. The kitchen team flowed around you in a choreographed dance, deftly ignoring your presence as they prepped and plated flawlessly.
After a few minutes of anxious loitering, the intimidating Thomason seemed to finally notice you. His grizzled features contorted as he scowled, looking you up and down through eyes squinted with decades of kitchen smoke exposure.
"You must be the new kid," he said gruffly, crossing his bulky tattooed arms over his broad chest. Even without raising his voice, Thomason had a rumbling bass that easily carried over the kitchen's clanging din. "Christ, you're shorter than I expected. Think you've got what it takes to keep up around here?"
You nervously clutched your knife kit closer while trying to not look as flustered as you felt. "Y-yes, chef!"
You swallowed hard, hyper aware of everyone around you now watching the interaction. "I, uh...I came ready to work as hard as it takes. Whatever you need from me."
Thomason grunted, squinting at you for another long moment in consideration. Then he jerked his head towards the back. "Get changed out quick and meet me back here in 5. I'll get you started on prep and we'll see what you're made of. Don't keep me waiting."
"Yes, chef!" you responded immediately, wincing at how high your voice had gone up an octave.
Without another word, Thomason turned and strode back into the controlled chaos of the line, immediately redirecting his attention to sauces and garnishes. Letting out a shaky breath, you scurried towards the changing rooms, heart jackhammering.
Well, you were officially in the thick of things now...
You hustled back out to the kitchen, trying not to look frazzled from your rushed change. A young Hispanic line cook spotted you and waved you over to his station.
"You the newbie?" he asked, not unkindly. When you nodded, he jerked his head towards the walk-in refrigerator. "Thomason wants you to start by breaking down some of the produce delivery for prep."
"Got it, thanks," you replied, eager to prove yourself. The line cook gestured you through the door into the immense chilled walk-in.
You blinked as your eyes adjusted to the cold, taking in the sights and smells of the impressive stockpile. Shelves upon shelves were stocked with an array of fresh seasonal produce - crates bursting with leafy greens, bushels of root vegetables, flats of vibrantly colored tomatoes, exotic fruits, and mushroom varieties you had only read about.
Your culinary school had humble basics for ingredients, nothing like the bounty of locally-sourced, meticulously selected provisions that Haus Kitchen demanded. You felt a thrill at getting to work with such an extraordinary pantry.
Respirating clouds puffed from your mouth as you scanned the inventory tagging system. You had been taught similar protocols in your food safety courses, but there was something exhilarating about putting that knowledge into practice in a real professional environment.
Grabbing a stack of plastic totes, you made a game plan for which items to start prepping first based on perishability levels and what would be needed for that evening's specials. Though you started out slow at first, you steadily built up a cadence of meticulously cleaning, trimming, and sorting into appropriate storage containers.
By the time Thomason stuck his head in to check on you an hour later, you had developed an efficient system and made solid progress through a mountain of deliveries.
The head chef grunted in approval as he inspected your neat stacks of prepped produce, crossing his arms as he looked you up and down with a critical eye.
"Not bad, kid," he rumbled. "Clearly know which end of a knife to use, at least. C'mon back out, got some protein fabrication for you to tackle next."
You diligently followed Thomason back out to the main kitchen, wiping some sweat from your brow with your sleeve. Despite the industrial cooling system, the heat blazing from the ovens and range tops made the open kitchen feel like a furnace.
As Thomason led you to a stainless steel butcher's block island, you couldn't help but gawk at the array of gleaming knives hanging from magnetic strips overhead. The blades were works of art - sleek, razor sharp, and clearly extremely expensive.
Gesturing you over, Thomason grabbed a boning knife and twirled it deftly before handing it to you. "Let's see how you handle breaking this down."
He gave the block a solid smack with his meaty palm, indicating for you to get started on the glistening slab of beef tenderloin before you. Taking a steadying breath, you gripped the bone-handled knife firmly and leaned over the cutting board.
"Yes chef," you murmured before carefully piercing the thick cut of meat, angling the blade with practiced precision from all your training.
Around you, the kitchen bustled with the usual rattling pans, sizzling ranges, and Thomason's occasional barked orders. But as you fell into the rhythm of deftly separating fat and sinew, the noises began to fade from your awareness.
You were completely focused on your knife work, confidently sawing through the tender flesh as you reduced the tenderloin down to portions and trimmings for other stations to further break down. It was meditative, almost hypnotic, the way you instinctively slid the blade along rendered paths of butchery.
After your initial intimidation of the intense Haus environment, you started to find your groove and calm amidst the choreographed insanity surrounding you. You were so laser-focused on the satisfaction of properly executing each slicing technique that the rest of the kitchen chaos became mere white noise.
You had no idea how long you stayed absorbed in the butchery, but eventually you became aware of a presence at your elbow. Glancing up, you nearly jumped to see Harry Styles watching you work with an unreadable expression, hands shoved into the pockets of his slim-fitting slacks.
His dress shirt was rolled up to his elbows and the fitted cotton fabric clung to his toned arms and chest, a few chest hairs peeking out of his slightly undone top button. A single necklace rested in the divot between his sculpted collarbones, drawing your eye to the alluring hollow of his throat as he swallowed hard.
You froze mid-slice, mesmerized by watching the tendons in Harry's wrist and forearm flex as his hands flexed restlessly in his trouser pockets. After a beat, his pillowy lips curved into an easy smile, crinkling the delicate crow's feet at the corners of his kaleidoscope green eyes.
"Afternoon," Harry said in that lazy, husky drawl that used to make millions of fans swoon. He flicked his eyes down to your handiwork before bringing them back up to your face. "Looking good there, newbie."
You blinked, not trusting your ears for a moment before realizing with a jolt that Harry was very much real and quite close. Like, unnecessarily close for your over-stimulated brain to handle.
"Uh...I-I, um...th-thank you?" you croaked out, wanting to cringe at how lame you sounded. Get it together, this wasn't the time to geek out–you instructed yourself.
But Harry didn't seem to notice your fumbling, simply giving you a dimpled half-smile before reaching around you to snag a stray piece of trimming from the butcher's block. He inspected it contemplatively before popping it into his mouth, those plump lips wrapping obscenely around the bite as he chewed and ruminated with relish.
"Perfection," he declared after swallowing, shooting you another crooked grin like you were co-conspirators sharing an inside joke. With a subtle wink, Harry pivoted on his boot heel and sauntered off, whistling a jaunty tune.
As he retreated, you risked a glance down at his form-fitting trousers shamelessly admiring the way the fine fabric cupped the ample curves of his pert backside. Even at his age, Harry Styles had the muscle-toned body of a man decades younger - long, lean muscles taut under golden tanned skin.
You blinked hard and shook your head, annoyed at catching yourself ogling your new boss like a drooling fangirl. Pull it together! This was totally inappropriate and unprofessional. You had zero business daydreaming about someone who gave you your paycheck, no matter how obscenely famous and heartthrob-ishly handsome they were.
Firmly re-focusing on your knife work, you determinedly put Harry from your mind and tried to re-immerse yourself in the rhythm and refuge of the butchery. But the memory of his distractingly lush mouth so close kept replaying over and over, preventing you from recapturing your previous sense of meditative flow.
Dammit, you needed to get a grip! This kind of inappropriate crush on your employer was exactly the kind of silly, immature behavior that would make you look like a unprofessional joke in a serious kitchen environment. Blowing an opportunity like this was not an option.
Later, as you untied your apron strings and joined the team in breaking down the last stations for cleaning at closing, Thomason sidled up alongside you. You braced yourself for more of his typical gruff rebukes or criticisms.
Instead, the veteran chef simply gave you a long, considered look before saying gruffly, "You did good work today, kid. I can already tell you got the stuff to handle it around here if you keep your head down."
You blinked up at him in surprise before managing a small smile. "Thank you, chef. I really appreciate that."
Thomason grunted noncommittally before wandering off, likely to oversee something else. As you tidied your workstation, you couldn't help feeling a small glow of pride. Despite the craziness of your first day, you had seemingly passed this initial trial with flying colors.
As you left through the back entrance into the quiet night air, you took a deep breath and allowed yourself a satisfied smile. Maybe, just maybe, you really did have what it took to succeed in this highly competitive environment after all. For tonight at least, you had handled the punishing pace and standards. Tomorrow was another day to prove yourself all over again.
***
Your day started before sunrise the next morning, brewing a strong coffee and reviewing the notes you had taken the previous evening about which menu items needed prepping. By the time you arrived at Haus, reinvigorated by the crisp morning air, the kitchen was already a hive of activity in preparation for lunch service.
The intense scrutiny under which you worked only amplified with the daylight. Every slice, every sauté was carried out under the watchful eyes of Chef Thomason and his steely gaze. More than once, you felt his presence looming over your shoulder, inspecting your work with the same critical eye as a diamond cutter examining a flawless gem.
"This slice is uneven," he barked, startling you. You flinched, resisting the urge to make excuses as he continued, "The portions all need to be identical for plating. Paying attention to details like that is the difference between a sloppy meal and a stellar one. Don't let it happen again."
"Yes, chef," you replied tightly, making a minor adjustment to your knife work. Though his words stung, you had to admit Thomason was completely right. In a restaurant of this caliber, any minor imperfection could spell disaster.
You redoubled your efforts, pouring all of your concentration into each preparation, each plate. By the time the end of your shift rolled around, you were drenched in sweat, your feet screaming from being on them for 12 hours straight. But you had successfully made it through day two without any major mishaps.
As the whirlwind of dinner service finally calmed to a stopping point, you stood in the kitchen obediently waiting for Thomason's inspection and inevitable critique. But to your surprise, he merely gave a curt nod of approval before waving you off.
"Not bad, newbie," he grunted. "Get a good night's rest. We'll need you back bright and early tomorrow."
Those few gruff words of acceptance warmed you more than any high praise could have. For Thomason, a man of very few words, his small nod seemed to indicate you were, for the moment, living up to his exceedingly high standards.
The high from that small victory buoyed your spirits as you made your way towards the back exit, already dreaming of the few hours of sleep you might be able to grab before starting the cycle over again. You were so wrapped up in your thoughts that you nearly bowled someone over coming around a corner.
"Whoa there!"
You froze, looking up into the grinning, mirthful eyes of Harry Styles himself. Up close, the force of his charm and magnetism practically crackled in the air around him like a physical force. His sweater clung distractingly to his lithe, muscular frame and his chestnut hair was casually tousled. A pair of small diamond studs glinted in each ear.
"Sorry about that, H-Harry," you stammered, resisting the urge to take a flustered step back. You were vividly aware of just how little physical space separated the two of you. "I wasn't watching where I was going."
If he noticed your frazzled state up close, Harry didn't let on. His pink lips merely curved in an easy, dimpled smile. "No need to apologize. I don't usually make a habit of lurking around blind corners, to be fair."
You laughed before you could stop yourself, surprised at how easily he was putting you at ease despite your elevated heart rate. Up close, Harry's eyes weren't just green - an entire kaleidoscope of colors ranging from jade to emerald to amber seemed to shift and dance in his gaze. It was...dazzling, frankly.
Clearing your throat, you forced yourself to take a subtle step backwards, putting a more professional amount of space between the two of you. The last thing you needed was to do something wildly inappropriate that would get you fired before the end of your first week.
"Still, I should have been paying better attention to my surroundings," you replied, aiming for a respectful, levelheaded tone. "It's been a really intense couple of days just trying to stay on top of everything."
Harry nodded in understanding, arching one perfectly sculpted brow. "Thomason hasn't let up on you at all, I take it?"
When you shook your head ruefully, he chuckled. "I know that seems like his permanent state - gruff, perpetually unsatisfied, and grumpy as a hibernating bear. But honestly, the fact that he hasn't fired you already is a good sign you're doing well."
You blinked at him in surprise. "Wait...really? But he critiques everything! I feel like I've gotten nothing but corrections so far."
"Exactly." Harry's dimples flashed as he grinned. "That's how you know he sees potential in you. If Thomason didn't think you had what it took, he wouldn't waste his breath giving feedback. He'd just cut you loose and hire someone else to start over."
His words were like a soothing balm on the anxiety and self-doubt you'd been carrying around for the past couple of days. You hadn't realized that Thomason's critical approach was actually a twisted form of acceptance and mentorship. The revelation caused the hard knot of tension between your shoulder blades to finally release.
"Huh," you exhaled, unable to stop the small smile tugging at your lips as you finally understood Thomason's tough love. "I guess I should take that as a compliment then."
"Absolutely," Harry agreed with an approving nod. Then his expression softened around the edges, growing earnest as his gaze searched yours. "Look, I know it's a huge adjustment and the pace here can be absolutely brutal starting out. But for what it's worth...I think you've got what it takes to be something really special in this kitchen."
You felt yourself flush at his unexpected praise, your stomach fluttering with a swarm of nervous butterflies. Harry held your eyes for a lingering moment before seeming to mentally collect himself.
Clearing his throat, he flashed you one more crooked grin. "But don't take my word for it - the proof will be in your work. Stay focused and trust the process. I've got faith you can handle it."
With that, he brushed past you, his shoulder grazing yours in a way that made your entire body buzz with friction. As Harry sauntered off down the hallway, you couldn't stop yourself from turning to watch his retreating form - the easy, rolling gait, the tantalizing sway of his hips below the slim cut of his trousers, the tousled waves of his chestnut hair.
You let out a shaky exhale, feeling off-balance and electrified all at once. Get a grip, you scolded yourself firmly. That was your boss - your incredibly famous, wealthy, and wildly attractive boss. Daydreaming was a one-way ticket to catching inappropriate feelings and potentially torpedoing your entire career before it even started.
And yet...you couldn't quite silence the part of your brain reliving Harry's velvet tone and intense eye contact as he professed having faith in your abilities. Just the casual warmth of his voice and proximity had set your heart pounding in a way it hadn't since you were a hormonal teenager, utterly dazzled by his rock star persona.
Shaking your head, you forced yourself to turn on your heel and head for the exit. Overthinking could only lead to dangerous territory. You needed to stay laser-focused on your work - that was the only way to succeed at Haus and make your culinary dreams a reality.
As you stepped out into the fresh evening air, you paused for a moment on the deserted back stoop, closing your eyes and taking a few centering breaths. When you opened them again, you felt the last fluttering tendrils of Harry's heated presence dissipate, replaced by a familiar sense of determined calm.
This job was your priority now, not silly schoolgirl crushes or indulging fantasies about your wildly unattainable boss. You knew better than to get distracted by daydreams that could only lead to self-sabotage.
With a decisive nod, you strode towards your car with renewed focus. You would prove yourself at Haus through your skills and work ethic alone. No other agenda, no unprofessional entanglements allowed.
Your passion was cuisine, creating nourishing dishes that delighted - that had to remain your sole priority. You couldn't afford any distractions from that lest you squander this incredible opportunity. Steadying your breathing, you looked forward with fresh clarity and resolve.
Tomorrow was a new day to earn your place in Harry's formidable kitchen. And this time, you vowed, you were utterly prepared to meet the challenge with your complete and undivided focus.
♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡~~~♡
tell me if you like this! this is an idea for a new series that will probably have 6 parts??? i guess. but do tell me if you like it! because there's no use in writing when nobody reads 😭😭
feedback | masterlist
taglist: @freedomfireflies @gurugirl @thechaoticjoy @styleslover-1994 @gem1712 @ellaorchard @bxbyysstuff @opheliaofficial07 @rafaaoli
@tchlamqtsgf @the-mouse27 @indierockgirrl @vrittivsanghavi @walkingintheheartbreaksatellite @drewrry @me-undiscovered @tbsloneely @whoreonmondays @kathb59 @avalentina @kittenhere @speedywritingharrystylesjudge
@mypolicemanharryyy @theendx888 @ladscarlett @daphnesutton @youcan-nolonger-run @prettythingsworld @chesthairrry @becauseheartsgetbroken-hs @hisparentsgallerryy @harryhitties @storyschanging @selluequestrian @islakp217 @swiftmendeshoran @princessaxoxo @tenaciousperfectionunknown @hermoinelove @chronicallybubbly @angeldavis777
#harry#harry styles#harry styles fanfiction#harry styles fanfic#harry styles fic#harry styles x reader#harry styles imagine#harry styles one shot#harry styles writing#harry edward styles#harry angst#harry and rainbows#harry fluff#harry fic#harry styles angst#harry styles au#harry styles blurb#harry styles concept#harry styles fan fiction#harry styles fic rec#harry styles fluff#harry styles imagines#harry styles masterlist#harry x reader#harry x y/n#harry x yn#harry x you#harry styles x fem!reader#harry styles x you#harry styles x y/n
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#Vote to End OTW Racism
A Call To Action
Earlier this week the OTW responded to our previous action and reaffirmed their commitment towards combating and preventing racism within its platforms.
They also thanked us for working to keep holding them accountable to their goals and we intend to keep doing so.
To that end, Fandom Against OTW Racism is calling for our Second Action!! This action is centered around the upcoming Board Elections set for August 11-14. We want to encourage everyone who can to participate in the election process and spread the word far and wide about these elections!
Currently, 4 of the 7 Board positions are up for election, which is a majority. Now is the time to get involved. In light of multiple accounts coming forth about the state of the organization, it is clear that fundamental changes need to happen – and those can only happen with a shift in leadership, from what we currently have to one that is capable of supporting and implementing those much-needed changes.
Please join us in calling upon our fellow fans to vote to make things better for all of us!
How to get involved:
With four Board Seats open, now is the perfect time to act and make this issue a key component of this election to select people who demonstrate a commitment to combating racism in our fannish spaces. So if you can, please plan to vote this election cycle!!
If you already are a member, use your voice and Vote. If you have donated in any of the fundraising drives for AO3 in the last year, you are likely eligible. You can check your eligibility status here by selecting “Is my membership current/Am I eligible to vote?”
If you are not currently a member or eligible, consider donating $10.00 so that you can gain membership in OTW and be able to vote. In order to vote your donation must be received by June 30th.
When donating you can add ‘End OTW Racism’ to the ‘In Honor Of’ field if you feel comfortable doing so.
If you donate, ensure you select the yes to the ‘Do you want to be an OTW member?’ question
[alt text: image of text that reads “Do you want to be an OTW member? ($10 minimum donation)” with two radio buttons to select from with the choices of “Yes” or “No”]
We understand that many people may not be comfortable doing so or may be unable to and that is perfectly fine! You are under no obligation to spend any money and we do not want to pressure anyone into doing so. There are plenty other ways to get the word out to encourage others to vote as well as continue to show support for this issue.
Other ways to get involved:
When posting a new fanwork between now and August 14, add ‘Vote to End OTW Racism’ to your title and provide a link to the End OTW Racism blog in your top Author’s Note. Reminder: New fanworks participating in the action are always welcome to join our AO3 collection.
For those who may not be creating works or who use AO3 just for commenting/ kudosing, create a Pseud named Vote To End OTW Racism. AO3 will automatically append your default name at the end. So it would look like “Vote To End OTW Racism (Your Name)
Add a link back to this call to action on your profile page, for anyone clicking on your name to see.
Update your pfps/avatars/user icons across social media
Participate in the upcoming Board Meeting between now and the election (August 11-14). The next Board Meeting is scheduled for July 2 and we will post an explainer about how to participate soon!
Send a letter to the Board encouraging them to be more transparent and to better advertise their Board Meetings. (credit to Punk who allowed us to utilize their work for this template)
Submit questions during the Q&A period with the Board Nominees. (We will post about this closer to election time)
Follow us on Tumblr, Twitter or Dreamwidth as we will be reviewing Board Candidates through the lens of our goals and providing more information on how to be involved over the election period.
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Reading Men Who Hate Women (Laura Bates, 2020) at the moment. She's talking about the manosphere: the massive online communities of men who congregate to talk misogyny, ranging from PUAs to MRAs, incels and MGTOW. These aren't new topics to me—I've been following this off and on since watching Gamergate kick off—but Bates handles them well and I think this book could serve as an introduction if this is a movement with which you're not familar. By the way, it's been a decade since Gamergate this year. Isn't that a kicker?
(Incidentally, I first ran into the concept of incels way before I think many people did: when I was still on AVEN, c. 2006-2007ish, I remember a few occasions where users ran into incel communities and brought them to our forums to ask: is this like what we're doing? Is this like us? Consensus quickly solidified on the direction of "no," each time, not least because asexuality dialog at the time was extremely clear about divorcing desire from action, and it was very clear that the desires centered in that community were very different than the ones people in asexuality spaces were untangling.)
Bates handles the topic with grace, compassion, and a deep understanding that I really wish more writing on radicalization or terroristic networks used: people in real pain, who are struggling in pitiable circumstances to do their best and clearly need more support, can also in their pain be truly dangerous to others. Hurt people hurt people. Compassion for pain suffered is important—you can't understand recruitment without understanding that—but you also have to understand that pain, fermented in darkness, can create deadly poisons. Pain isn't essentially holy or cleansing or cauterizing. It doesn't accomplish anything good by existing. If we can relieve it, we should—but we should follow harm reduction principles as we do so, lest pain be allowed to multiply and fester.
What gets me is that in 2017, in the wake of the Google bro "manifesto," I spent a feverish week writing what wound up being a 20,000 word rebuttal studded with what eventually totaled 100+ peer reviewed citations. It got quite a bit of reach and covered ground ranging from effects of testosterone on behavior, the concept of effect size in sex differences, basic statistics, the ways that humans treat people differently based on their perception of gender, intersex trauma, and whether feminists care about men's problems (yeah, actually, and they should).
I released that piece, changed up my name and fannish presence—my long time pseud was tangled all over the piece's genesis—and hunkered down for the reprisals. I expected harassment and vitriol. It never really came: I ignored the comments on the post, after a bit, and I held boundaries on what I was willing to pay attention to. But by and large, I had no direct consequences from the Manosphere.
Perhaps the piece was too long (although I got many comments from people who read it and found it useful, and I included an index). Perhaps it was simply that I included a headshot of myself, with uncharacteristic red lipstick and characteristically buzzed hair, and cheerfully discussed throughout that I was butch and queer: sometimes I confuse people who are very focused on bioessentialist sex differences, because I don't fit their paradigms in the slightest.
About six months later, James Damore attempted to frame his incredibly poor decisions in light of his Asperger's, and I did get a couple dudes on social media presenting me with this information apparently in the hope that it would shock or embarrass me. I immediately pointed out, acerbically, that I'm equally autistic and that he was making us look bad, and they melted away again into the background. It wasn't really the well of terrifying anger and obliterative fury I was expecting.
I find myself reading these stories in Bates' book and thinking about the internet I grew up on: AVEN by 2005, WrongPlanet the same year, listening to people on the margins talk about their fears and hopes and dreams and theories about themselves. I find myself thinking about narratives and meaning, the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and why.
I'm certainly not the first person to worry about radicalization of young autistic people, especially autistic men. Not even close. Paradoxically, it's a group of people for whom an understanding of intersectionality is crucial: young disabled men often alienated deliberately from conceptualizing themselves as disabled, without the tools to understand why life is hard and painful and never seems to reflect their experiences, trying to construct understanding beyond one's singular, isolated defective wrongness—which is what's left, if you take community off the table.
(Have I mentioned how grateful I am that so many autistics are trans spectrum? Imagine if we weren't, and if I didn't have so many transfeminine sisters funneled along those same currents and drifting closely enough alongside to understand. My sisters, so many of whom are out there living and modeling better ways to understand and participate in gender as a social activity: by figuring out what is most comfortable for you, understanding that comfort for one might be agony for another, and taking steps to shape your own life into a fashion that wells forth the most peace and joy. It's a message we all need to hear, but that is a group of people I hear singing so loudly from my place in a different wing of the choir, and I love them for it.)
I don't have answers. As is, so often, the case these days, I have only grief and love, and the determination to build better structures where my own hands reach. I had intended to direct my career, once, to undermining the entire concept of "good genes" models of evolution and explaining how their convoluted connections to natural phenomena are better explained by other, more direct motives. Since 2020, I've been moving in a new direction—but what precisely it is, I'm not sure.
Sex differences is certainly a piece of it, though. Even if I find myself often enough writing that it's not enough to know a sex difference in one species to assume that another will reflect a similar relationship: we should study sex differences in animals, but we really shouldn't assume that humans will have the same ones or work the same way. I suspect this won't be the first time I tangle with that community. I suppose it depends how much authority I can accrue as protection first.
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I've been curious before when I've seen you use this tag, but your year in review post made me want to ask: what is perpetual perpetual ladies night?
"Perpetual perpetual ladies night" is an idea that Kat @clonerightsagenda came up with, around the same time we started planning Podcast Girls Week. It came out of discord discussions about the centrality of men in fandom attention, both in specific (we were both big into Wolf 359 fandom, and saw the vast disparities of attention the male characters got vs. the women, and when we tried to talk about Minkowski or Hera or Lovelace or Maxwell, the conversation tended to dry up fast - in one notable instance, someone on discord shifting a conversation about Maxwell to be about Kepler and Jacobi instead, complaining that it was just too hard to talk about the women without talking about the men) and the general (how often do you see joke posts about your blorbos, about characters that live rent-free in your mind, about how everyone chooses a sopping wet pathetic war criminal to obsess over - and how often do you see those posts explicitly assume it's a man?) The idea was to give the same kind of unhinged attention and in-depth headcanons and silly jokes to the women characters too. Such posts centering on female characters (in more depth than "I love her" or "she has the one braincell of the team") go in the tag.
At that time it was "perpetual ladies night 2k22," a play on the idea of Girls Night. What if we want every night to be girls night??? Every day is Boys Night in fandom, after all. Then 2023 rolled around and we wanted to keep doing it, so Kat switched it from "perpetual ladies night 2k22" to "perpetual perpetual ladies night."
At its core, it's a personal challenge to blog about female characters when doing Fandom Blogging. A challenge to lavish fannish attention on women. And a way to keep them all in one tag so there are lots of Posts About Women to easily find and highlight.
Using "perpetual perpetual ladies night" as a framework of thinking about tumblr engagement helps me, personally - the other day, when I was musing about Odysseus's feelings on the Trojan War, it kind of prompted me to think, damn, have I ever considered how Penelope felt about the inciting incident of the Trojan War??? And a follow-up perpetual perpetual ladies night post was made, and it challenged me to wonder about things that were suddenly equally interesting to me!
All in all: it's kind of a statement and kind of a game. And I entirely encourage anyone who wants to join in!
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everything is ads
i was just complaining about this on a discord i’m a member of. (discord is. sigh. what is it. well it’s not the public internet. it’s not a substitute for social media. but it’s something. the incalculable harm done to fannish community by having so much of the active discussion now silo’d in these private, unsearchable servers is hard to state, but it’s a necessary retreat given that all the platforms keep proving themselves to be garbage. A N Y W A Y i had a thing i was gonna say.)
You are interested in an art form, or hobby. so you look it up on the internet. you find a creator who does the thing you like, and you follow them, probably on instagram currently. Their instagram has frequent posts about their art, which is great. Sometimes you can learn some techniques from them. But then they want to sell you courses in how to learn it. Of course they need to monetize, but it’s a bit off-putting; you just want to do this for a hobby, and want to learn how, and to have to pay to take a course in it is sort of beyond your means for this kind of thing.
And then like... half the posts are unboxings.They bought art supplies, which they are going to review for you. Here’s a haul video, which isn’t really even a review so much as it is just showing off each of these products. As they put them away, you can see that their storage is stuffed full of more and more unused stuff from all the previous haul videos and unboxings. Where are they putting all this? When are they using it? How much money are they spending on it?? Yes there’s an affiliate code if you want to buy one too, there’s a discount if you use it. Help a creator out. Support a small business!
I’m happy to support small businesses and I do like supporting independent creators but uh like... that’s... you wind up so inured to this constant buying of new stuff, and yes you can get a lil dopamine hit from shopping but my god, no. No. It is not harmless and it is not innocuous, when you are being constantly bombarded with this normalization of constant consumption.
(I have a fraught relationship with buying things. My ADHD Or Whatever It Is really likes the shiny new, but I have been broke most of my life, and my inability to do math makes me alternately over-conservative and reckless with money. I have had years where I spent almost everything I earned on frivolous bullshit. i have had years where I spent nothing that wasn’t on food or gasoline, and wore clothes with holes in them that didn’t fit and just made do and just lived smaller and smaller. This is a constant, ongoing problem, and watching a creator I admire unbox her new purchases of random shit literally twice a week does not help me untangle it, and that’s just one of the people I follow, seriously how does this person have the money to just keep buying more stuff.)
I know that the underlying problem is capitalism, specifically the current hyperconcentrated strain of it we have that means that the middle class basically doesn’t exist. When I was growing up, an author could make a reasonable career in the mid-list, putting out a book every year or two and living off the advance on the next one while the previous one earned out, and after a couple decades you could retire on the residuals. But by the time I was old enough to pursue a career, that line of work was dead; now you’re either a superstar or you’re grinding out two or more novels a year to make poverty wages if you’re lucky, and doing all of your own marketing too on top of it. Every industry has gone that route; anything remotely creative, there’s now no outlet for except hustling as a Content Creator on the Internet. You gotta have a little Etsy or a shopify, you gotta have a Patreon and make that worthwhile somehow. instagram wants a reel every day, you gotta game that algorithm for exposure, teach yourself video marketing on top of whatever it is you actually like. You can’t just work your undemanding civil service job and make extremely detailed tutorial pages in your evenings and weekends because you don’t have evenings and weekends anymore and every hobby has to become a slave to the grind.
So I’m not mad at the creators, I’m not mad at the people forced to hustle. I’m just so tired. The solution has to be systemic; yelling at the content creators isn’t going to fix anything. We need higher wages, we need better labor protections-- I know that’s unsexy and not a good slogan for anything but believe me, that is the bottom line here.
IDK I don’t have a punchline. I guess I want to gently encourage y’all to practice non-consumption as self-care. Be aware of that side effect of constantly being bombarded with ads, where you just sort of absorb this feeling that it’s normal to constantly be buying things.
I’m not saying don’t click on your little indie creators’ ads. I’m just saying remember that everything is ads. [Just this week I bought deodorant from an Instagram ad because the girl selling it was hot, I am not immune. I know fine well what I did. Listen I needed more deodorant anyway and I don’t find very many people hot so it was notable.]
And, bringing it around to be immediately topical, when we say don’t interact with corporate accounts here on Tumblr, we mean corporate. Don’t hate the tiny hustlers. This is maybe the only platform where they can still have any kind of meaningful reach. All the others have realized that you can make businesses pay to not be hidden, and if they don’t ransom themselves, you can hide them from their friends and customers, but Tumblr hasn’t hit that yet. That’s the real origin of the Instafluencer-- the actual brands’ ability to market directly is limited, so they have to find people to shill for them.
You can block ads. But when your favorite creator is shilling, you can’t block that without losing the parts you like too. it’s so fucking insidious.
#advertisements#shopping season#consumption#about the author#advertising#pernicious influences of influencers
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
1. Your main fandom of the year: TXF always. Although I’ve taken a break from actually watching the show since I finished my rewatch and I’m at a low eb of reading fanfic, tumblr keeps my fandom needs fed. It’s the show I think about every single day whether I’m actively watching or not.
2. Your favorite film this year: If we’re talking new films then Barbie and Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret were my favorite ones I saw in theaters. Barbie was just such a delight and fun theater going experience. Are You There God was such a sweet, well done adaptation.
3. Your favorite book this year: Again, if we’re talking new (to me) books then Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. I’ve never really had much interest in video games so I was surprised how much it sucked me in. Plus I read it on vacation in Puerto Rico so extra points for the experience of reading under an umbrella on a beautiful beach eating ice cream out of a pineapple.
4. Your favorite album or song this year: I just looked on Spotify and I don’t think I downloaded a new album or created a new playlist this year 🙈
5. Your favorite tv shows this year: The third season of Happy Valley - all the time and history that can make a conversation between family members the most nail biting, tension filled, heartbreaking scenes. Reservation Dogs - I caught up just in time for the final season and I’m so glad I finally watched it. I watched some old shows too that I missed for whatever reason and we’re the perfect evening soaps to put on when I needed a break after work - Felicity, Switched at Birth.
6. Your favorite tumblr community this year: I don’t really interact with anyone outside of txf community lol
7. Your best new fandom discovery of the year: I started watch Doctor Who and caught up with Ten in time for the specials - Ten and Donna are definitely my favorite duo so far so it was just delightful and I don’t have any of the long term investment that makes an event like that angst filled for those truly in the fandom.
8. Your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: txf fandom has definitely slowed down, but I’m in a lull too so can’t say I’m surprised.
9. Your tv/movie boyfriend and/or girlfriend of the year: Mulder/Scully - what can I say, I’m consistent
10. Your biggest squeeze moment of the year: Fanfic writers coming back to finish or continue old fics: Petrichor sequel Singing of Mount Abora by @aloysiavirgata and the final chapter of throat eye and knucklebone finished five!! years later by audries.
Thanks @amplifyme this was fun
Tagging @freckleslikestars @tossingmyglossymane @edierone @frogsmulder @xxsksxxx @thatfragilecapricorn30 @perpetually-weirdening
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
Thank you for the tag @enigmaticxbee !
1. Your main fandom of the year: the x-files, my one and only. really my only fandom for awhile now.
2. Your favorite film this year: barbie was on the only movie i saw in theaters and i loved it! i also really enjoyed smile, thought it was actually scary and sosie bacon was great.
3. Your favorite book this year: hard to pick! i finally read the seven husbands of evelyn hugo by taylor jenkins reid and loved it. malibu rising by the same author was good as well. and i have some questions for you by rebecca makkai, which read like a true crime podcast.
4. Your favorite album or song this year: it came out in 2022, but stick season by noah kahan continues to be on played on repeat.
5. Your favorite tv shows this year: i enjoyed the new seasons of never have i ever, you, black mirror, and the handmaid's tale (not actually new, but the latest season). as for completely new to me - i really liked dopesick, jury duty, and search party!
6. Your favorite tumblr community this year: x-files is the only community i'm a part of lmao.
7. Your best new fandom discovery of the year: kinda lame but anytime i see new fans of txf on tumblr, i get excited :)
8. Your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: the lack of hype around the 30th anniversay. not on tumblr - i loved everyone's gifs and contributions in september. but no mention from david and/or gillian? c'mon.
9. Your tv/movie boyfriend and/or girlfriend of the year: mulder&scully4eva
10. Your biggest squeeze moment of the year: just the fact that people keep writing fics for a 30 year show - i love reading them all. but special shoutouts to gaslight by @sisterspooky1013 and pause by @cecilysass - there were both suspenseful & entertaining stories that sparked a lot of interesting discussion and theories! thank you for posting chapter by chapter, it felt like watching the show.
tagging @cyb3rpeach, @mandalorianmuffin, @gingerteaonthetardis, @cutemothman, @pennyserenade, @bakedbakermom, @suitablyaggrieved
#i hope some people have more interesting answers than me#i'm basically on tumblr for one thing - msr lol#tag games
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Meet Aether Beyond the Binary Contributor Terra P. Waters
Another day, another AETHER BEYOND THE BINARY creator to shine the spotlight on!
Before we get to that, just a note: hi, I’m Nina Waters, the lead editor, the person running this campaign, and the one who writes all these blog posts. I’ll be traveling for the next four days (Friday, Jan 12 – Monday, Jan 15) to vend for Duck Prints Press at Arisia in Boston. As a result, I will be slower to answer messages, reply to comments, and post updates (I’m going to try to post one, but I’m not sure I’ll have time). I appreciate your patience while I’m less available. And if by some chance, you’re attending the con, make sure you come and say hi! I’ll be at table D14 in the dealer’s room.
Now, on to Terra…!
About Terra: Terra is a scientist by day who lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family. She has been writing fiction as long as she can remember, and has always told her partner of 17 years that if she wasn’t a scientist, she would be an author. During grad school, she discovered fanfiction and immediately began writing her own. After many years and several fandoms (including Teen Wolf, Hawaii Five-0, and Stranger Things), she returned to writing original fiction. To date, she has self-published two novellas in a 90s-nostalgia polyamory comedy series and has drafted two YA/NA sci-fi novels. When not doing science or writing, you can find Terra indulging her yarn addiction and knitting.
Links: Archive of Our Own | Tumblr (pterawaters) | Tumblr (terrapwaters) | Instagram | Bluesky
Terra has previously published one short stories with Duck Prints Press, a Patreon-exclusive entitled The Wayward Timekeeper, and she also wanted to share a few of her works from AO3:
Kope Kamekona (Hawaii Five-O, Steve McGarrett/Catherine Rollins/Danny Williams)
Forever’s gonna start tonight (Stranger Things, A/B/O, multiple ships and ot3s)
Other Delicacies (Our Flag Means Death, Ed Teach/Stede Bonnet) – this is the piece that Terra used to apply to Duck Prints Press, and several of us reviewers liked it so much that we sought it out and read the whole thing even though we aren’t in the fandom!
An Interview with Terra P. Waters
What motivates you to create?
My love for the ideas!
How did you pick the name you create under?
I’ve been using the name “pterawaters” since 2009, when I joined fanfiction.net. “Ptera” came from an old gaming character I had, “Ptera the Pterrible,” and “Waters” was a last name I really liked the sound of. For my original writing, I decided to go with a more conventional version of the name. I moved the P from the front of my name to the middle initial as an homage to my fannish writing name.
What do you consider to be your strengths as a creator?
My ability to brainstorm scenarios and know how to outline the plot from there. Longer-form works, where I get to dig into the character motivations and development. World building.
What do you consider to be your weaknesses as a creator?
Short stories, creating characters who serve the story I want to tell, adding enough description around the dialog and plot.
When and why did you begin creating?
I’ve been writing since I was a kid, and even took a lot of creative writing classes during college (aside from my science major). I get a lot of joy out of thinking “what if…” and then turning that idea into a story.
Are you a pantser, a planner, or a planster? What’s your process look like?
I’m most often a planner. I like to outline the story beats of any project before I write. Sometimes, I’ll be more of a plantser. I’ll write 1-2k words of an idea before I do the rest of the outline, so I can see if it’s an idea worth planning out further.
Which of your own creations is your favorite? Why?
I wrote a story called “Entanglement” that was part of a long Stranger Things fanwork series. It’s absolutely my favorite thing I’ve ever written, and I’m excited to get to the point where I can incorporate the rewritten version into my sci-fi series.
What are your favorite tropes?
Polyamory, First times/Getting together, Forced proximity (cuddling for warmth, only one bed), Soulmate AUs, Omegaverse, Fake relationship, Friends to Lovers
What are your favorite snacks and/or drinks to consume while creating?
I like herbal tea, candy, or a crunchy snack like popcorn. I’ve recently gotten into eating roasted lentils, which is a nice substitute for not being able to eat nuts anymore.
What is your “dream project” – the thing you’d see as the culmination of your work as a creator?
I want to finish a series of at least 4 novels and have them all in print.
When you look at your “career” as a creator, what achievement would you most like to reach – what, if it happened or has already happened, would/did make you go “now – now I’m a success!”?
I would like to have at least one full-length novel printed and for people to actually buy it!
Tell us about your pet(s).
I have two orange cats, Gadget (the chonk) and Gizmo (anxiety in animal form).
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Finish the thing. My writing got so much better once I forced myself to finish fan works so I could put them up for other people to read. Practicing the first part of writing a story without practicing how to write the end leaves you never finishing anything.
Terra’s Contribution to Aether Beyond the Binary
Title: Ancient Hearts Unearthed
Tags: academia, alternate history, cancer, character illness (serious), f/nb, f/f (background), fat, first kiss, friends to lovers, getting together, hospital, modern with magic, mystery, non-binary, panic attacks, past tense, phobia (claustrophobia), pining, professor, scientist, third person limited pov
Excerpt:
Victoria turned and ran a hand over the runes again. “What bothers me is that these are early Age of Aether markings. You see the way they’re using archaic forms of our letters?”
Sasha leaned closer. “I’ll be damned. This doesn’t match the bronze-era artifacts in the rest of the cave, either.” They made a tiny humming noise. “Who else would have this much knowledge of ancient runes?”
As Victoria leaned as close as she could to the wall, she asked distractedly, “What do you mean?”
“Obviously, it’s a fake,” they said, mulling over the problem in their head. “Sanderson has wanted my place on the admissions committee since he joined the department.”
“What if it’s not a fake?” Victoria made a tiny, excited noise. “What if this is early Aether Age work? What if this is a secret that’s been buried for almost a thousand years?”
Sasha’s heart swooped at the thought. “We have to find out what that inscription says.”
You've read the interview! You've read the excerpt! Now go back the campaign!
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
thanks for the tag @frogsmulder!
1. your main fandom of the year: still the x-files but i did join the west wing fandom this year lol👽
2. have u watched a film this year: other than fight the future i can’t recall lmao🛸
3. your favorite book this year: after all the hype about the movie on twitter i gave in and read the ballad of songbirds and snakes and omg it was so good, it was dark in a good way and very deep, much deeper than the twitter fangirls had led me to believe lol🕊️🐍
4. your favorite album or song this year: obviously i have to say staring at the stars aka the dreamland song!! i’m so happy it was found and i can listen to it on repeat over and over again whenever i want✨
5. your favorite tv shows this year: txf, the west wing, svu
6. your favorite tumblr community this year: ever and always the txf fandom, but i’ve found myself coming back to the star trek fandom a bit lol🖖🏻
7. your best new fandom discovery of the year: does this mean discovery of a fandom or discovery of something about/within a fandom? if it’s the former then the west wing, if it’s the latter then it was learning that the dance at the end of post modern prometheus wasn’t scripted❤️
8. your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: literally every time there’s drama in the txf twitter fandom, like guys please just chill we’re all here to enjoy the show
9. your tv/movie boyfriend and/or girlfriend of the year: mulder of course!!🥰
10. your biggest squee moment of the year: seeing josh and donna finally kiss for the first time!! i can’t believe i willingly put myself through another seven year slow burn lmao
apologies if you’ve already been tagged lol @tofuttim @virtie333 @welsharcher @scullysexual @mulderno @enigmaticxbee @unremarkablehouse @doctorbeverlycrusher
#i have no idea how many people you’re supposed to tag for this lol so i just tagged the same amount as the previous person did#tag game#fandom
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
Thanks for tagging me @amplifyme and @enigmaticxbee 💕
1. Your main fandom of the year:
The X-Files (no surprise there 🤪)
2. Your favorite film this year:
Past Lives. It follows two childhood friends over the course of 24 years while they contemplate the nature of their relationship as they grow apart, living different lives. A true gem of a film.
3. Your favorite book this year:
I don’t really know. None of the books I read this year really struck a cord with me. They were all nice—but not more than that.
4. Your favorite album or song this year:
Harry Styles — As It Was
5. Your favorite TV shows this year:
The X-Files (again, no surprise)
6. Your favorite Tumblr community this year:
X-Files fandom
7. Your best new fandom discovery of the year:
I don’t really discovered a new fandom.
8. Your biggest fandom disappointment of the year:
No acknowledgement of the 30th anniversary from either of the lead actors.
9. Your TV/movie boyfriend of the year:
Mulder.
10. Your TV/movie girlfriend of the year:
Scully.
11. Your biggest squee moment of the year:
Meeting DD at his concert.
I'm tagging everyone who hasn’t been tagged so far. No pressure. Only play if you want to.
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
snagged from @diplomaticprincess
1. your main fandom of the year: Star Wars -- after like three years of feeling way-too-sensitive about the series, I decided to take that whole Marie Kondo approach to fandom: keep what brings you joy and throw the rest into an active volcano (or...something like that. It's been a minute since I read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, but I'm sure that's an accurate synopsis that Marie would be totally fine with on her book's dust jacket). And then I started writing fanfiction, which has been fun.
Though...though...I did revisit The Hunger Games this year and made my bestie into an HG fan, so that series has certainly played a part.
2. have u watched a film this year: I've only been to theaters twice this year -- once for the Return of the Jedi 40th anniversary rerelease, once to see Barbie. I don't think I've watched many new things this year, to be honest. Mainly rewatches.
3. your favorite book this year: Oof, my reading list is embarrassingly short this year. Probably Nine Liars by @maureenjohnsonbooks. It's the 5th book in a YA mystery series and love that entire dang series so much.
4. your favorite album or song this year:
Album: Stick Season by Noah Kahan
Song: Probably "Happier Than Ever" by Billie Eilish, but I'm honestly not certain
5. your favorite tv shows this year: I think I rewatched Severance twice this year, so...Haaaa...
6. your favorite tumblr community this year: Han/Leia, but I also follow some Little Women accounts that I've quite enjoyed.
7. your best new fandom discovery of the year: I did start watching Ted Lasso, but kind of forgot about it, though the show is delightful. I feel like I've been very hyperfocused on Star Wars stuff this year tbh.
8. your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: You know what, I rarely hate on specific ships publicly, but having one of my posts in which I was spitballing a headcanon involving Tarkin and Leia having an absurd rivalry while she was like 16-19 years old that was similar in tone to Jack Donaghy and Kaylie Hooper from 30 Rock (a relationship that is entirely not sexual on account of Kaylie being fifteen when she first pops up on the show) reblogged multiple times with Leia/Tarkin shipping tags might just have been the most disappointing fandom-related thing to happen to me personally this year. I don't even know if this is the type of answer the question was looking for, but uh...it was definitely the most disappointing.
9. your tv/movie boyfriend and/or girlfriend of the year: I'm...not entirely sure how to answer this tbh.
10. your biggest squee moment of the year: I've received a lot of really nice comments on my stories this year, but there have been a handful left where I really felt...seen? if that makes sense. Like, the commenters wrote something where I felt like someone fully understood what I was trying to do, which doesn't always happen, and those have definitely been exciting moments for me.
Self-service tagging today!
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
I was tagged by @doctorbeverlycrusher, thanks lovely!! 💖
1. your main fandom of the year: ahhahaha it was for sure Ted Lasso
2. have u watched a film this year: I had a goal of 100 movies for the year and I exceeded it... by a lot.... so far I've watched 161 movies in 2023 🙃
3. your favorite book this year: My reading has dropped off this year which I willllll be fixing in 2024... I read a shit tonne of fanfic instead tho so I have been reading ahahaha
4. your favorite album or song this year: I mean I have only one option for this .... Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas soundtrack 🤪
5. your favorite tv shows this year: Ted Lasso, Who's The Boss, Cheers
6. your favorite tumblr community this year: The Ted Lasso fandom... specifically the tedbecca guys... we went through it but we did it together!!
7. your best new fandom discovery of the year: Erm idk if I have one?
8. your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: I wanna say Ted Lasso season finale, but for sure the entire season 3......
9. your tv/movie boyfriend and/or girlfriend of the year: Ted Lasso...
10. your biggest squee moment of the year: OH IDK.... maybe every Hannah win there's been so many!!!!
I’m tagging: @movrings @sophiedevreaux @biscuitboxpink @reelega @damelucyjo
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Fannish Year Review - 2023
Thank you @amplifyme for tagging me!
1. Your main fandom of the year: X-Files for sure. With Ted Lasso and Doctor Who thrown in. And various others. But TXF is my number one.
2. Your favorite film this year: It's a tie between Barbie and The Little Mermaid.
3. Your favorite book this year: A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon. Special shoutout to the "Gillovny book" Will They Or Won't They by Ava Wilder.
4. Your favorite album or song this year: I never listen to albums. Favorite song was for sure Look At Us Now (Honeycomb) by Daisy Jones & The Six.
5. Your favorite TV shows this year: Daisy Jones & the Six, Ted Lasso, Doctor Who, Good Omens, Evil, The Gilded Age.
6. Your favorite Tumblr community this year: I suppose the TXF fandom. I don't think I'm part of any other community.
7. Your best new fandom discovery of the year: That interview snippet from the set of The Jersey Devil where David Duchovny comes to steal Gillian Anderson away.
8. Your biggest fandom disappointment of the year: No comment
9. Your TV/movie boyfriend of the year: Fox Mulder?
10. Your TV/movie girlfriend of the year: No idea.
11. Your biggest squee moment of the year: I don't think I had a squee moment this year 😔
I'm not tagging anyone but feel free to do this!
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