#incredibles 2 reflux

[melonthesprigatito]

My idea on who I think would make the PERFECT villain for The Incredibles 3 (not that they're ever going to make one, this could also just be a fanfic idea)

NaNoWriMo somehow dragged me kicking and screaming back into my The Incredibles hyperfixation that I haven't thought about since 2021. Drafting up a long Tumblr post in my Notes app for a few days totally counts, right? (Probably not but whatever, I am fukcing passionate about The Incredibles lore, I need to ramble)

So, the villains of The Incredibles and Incredibles 2 are both genius inventors with no superpowers who use their technology to fight the heroes. What if, for the third villain, they ditched that idea and had a villain who was a Super?

Who'd be able to fill that role? Would they invent an entirely new character who is a Super? It wouldn't be too farfetched of an idea, they did invent two new Super supervillains in Lego Incredibles, The Anchor Man and Brainfreezer, one with hydrokinesis and the other with.... functionally cryokinesis like Frozone except she controls ice cream. 

But what if... the villain was an already existing Super? That already poses a problem, a majority of the Supers in the present day of The Incredibles are either dead from Syndrome's Omnidroid or an unfortunate cape snag. The only surviving Supers from the pre-Super Ban Glory days are Mr Incredible, Elastigirl and Frozone and possibly Fironic and Plasmabolt (and only because they never showed up in Syndrome's Operation KRONOS database.)

Fironic is pretty ambiguous if he's still alive or not, but Plasmabolt for its practically a 100% chance of survival for a few reasons:

1. Her profile says she keeps her hero and civilian lives strictly separate, so she might have had no desire to go moonlighting as a hero like Mr Incredible did

2. She's a forest park ranger. She probably lives off-grid in a shack in the woods or something. 

3. The way Psycwave, Everseer and Macroburst are killed one after the other, but Plasmabolt isn't counted with them. All four of these Supers were part of a superhero team called The Phantasmics. Mirage probably used their connection to find all of them, maybe Plasmabolt fell out of contact with her old friends.

Plasmabolt herself might have been a good villain candidate, having lost faith in humanity after learning how the National Supers Agency failed to keep track of her old friends, of all the Supers, and didn't notice that Syndrome was picking them all off. 

Buuuuuut she's not the one this post is about. There's another that would probably be an even better villain, mostly because she has a personal tie to one of the main characters.

This is one of the features on the bonus disk of The Incredibles: a full set of character files and audio interviews of most of the Supers (except for Tradewind, Vectress, Blitzerman and Fironic. They didn't get profiles.) 

It's listed in alphabetical order, featuring Apogee, Blazestone, Downburst, Dyna Guy, Elastigirl, Everseer, Frozone, Gamma Jack, Gazerbeam, Hypershock, Macroburst, Meta Man, Mr Incredible, Phylange, Plasmabolt, Psycwave, Stratogale, Splashdown, Stormicide, Thunderhead and Universal Man. 

The one I want to draw attention to is this one. 

(Side note, it’s kinda frustrating that the only way to find images of most of these guys in colour is to look for random comic strips and the freaking Lego game of all things. I’m just gonna link this fan art too because I think it rocks and is probably the best image of her https://www.tumblr.com/pazam/183219465026/no-gadgets-no-gimmicks?source=share)

THIS, is Blazestone, the blorbo- I MEAN, the Super I think would make a great villain in a hypothetical third Incredibles movie. Or a Frozone spinoff movie. Either works. 

I think she'd make a good villain for a number of reasons.

1. SHE'S ALREADY BEEN THE MAIN VILLAIN OF ANOTHER OFFICIAL THE INCREDIBLES STORY. 

Let me highlight something important from her profile. "ARRESTED AND JAILED. RECRUITED BY NSA. WATCH CLOSELY TO ENSURE SHE OPERATES WITHIN NSA GUIDELINES" 

That's right, Blazestone is actually a reformed criminal. This one little detail from her profile is a major plot point in the novel Elastigirl: A Real Stretch.

She was paired with Universal Man as part of her rehabilitation. In the novel, they're constantly arguing, they constantly insult each other. Universal Man is an incredibly strict rule follower and tries to keep her in line. He thinks she'll never make it as a true Super if she doesn't follow the guidelines and acts recklessly ("THESE TWO WOULD BE GREAT IF THEY DON'T KILL EACH OTHER FIRST")

She hates being constantly monitored and forced into teams with other Supers and wishes they'd give her the freedom to do what she wants, as opposed to being constantly badgered into being a better person and following the guidelines

Eventually, Blazestone gets so sick of the National Supers Agency that snaps and decides that the only way she'll be able to do what she wants is to KILL ALL THE OTHER SUPERS SO THERE'S NO ONE TO STOP HER FROM TAKING OVER. 

In fact, her plan involves 

1. Steal a shipment of the ZAP chemical (the novel's McGuffin, a radioactive chemical used as a superpower enhancer that has various effects depending on which Super it's used on. For most of them, it disables their powers entirely, for some it makes their powers malfunction and Apogee is the only Super who's powers are actually enhanced by it.) 

2. Secretly recruiting all the criminals she jailed as her henchmen and breaks them out of jail on the day of the Super Appreciation Day celebrations. These henchmen are disguised as other Supers and blend in with all the other cosplayers entering the Costume Contest. 

3. Attack the Supers Appreciation Day celebration at the pier. Trap EVERY SINGLE SUPER inside a band shell covered by a net that's coated ZAP which basically fucks up all of their powers. She then lifts the band shell off the ground and was heading towards the ocean to drop it in and drown them all.

 (a few pages later)

.... I'm serious, that's what actually happens in the climax. 

Never mind the fact that she's touching the net covered in the chemical that needed to be handled with heavy gloves WITH HER BARE HANDS BECAUSE HER SUPERSUIT HAS SHORT SLEEVES in order to lift the band shell. ...And the fact that she has no super strength so shouldn't have been able to carry the weight of a structure and 20+ Supers.

Blazestone actually mentioned earlier in the novel that ZAP had no effect on her, and while the novel never mentions it, my theory is that Blazestone is the only other Super who's powers are enhanced by ZAP. Apogee was also powered up by ZAP... in small doses but being that close to the netting enhanced her powers too much so she couldn't assist in the climax without incinerating everyone with the power of the sun. Blazestone must have lied about ZAP not having an effect on her to eliminate her as a suspect for the theft of the ZAP. 

ANYWAY, Blazestone went full supervillain and that's the last we heard of her until she showed up dead in Syndrome's Project KRONOS database. Between Supers Appreciation Day and the beginning of the Super Ban, she might have resumed her criminal activities and became part of Municiberg's Rogues Gallery. 

As the Super Ban went into effect she might have been kept in a maximum security facility for a few years until she managed to break out into a world where Supers are in hiding. She might have used her powers to commit smaller robberies to survive, which might have been how Mirage tracked her down..

But wait, she's dead isn't she? So how could she possibly be the main villain of Incredibles 3 if she's dead?

2. SHE'S ONE OF THE FEW SUPERS WHO COULD HAVE PLAUSIBLY SURVIVED THE OMNIDROID BY FAKING HER DEATH.

She's the 6th Super to have been killed by Syndrome, and is probably the Super Syndrome tested the Omnidroid's fireproofing on, hence when it's immune to lava. 

Except.... Blazestone could have been marked as "Terminated" when she really wasn't.

But how, exactly? The model of Omnidroid that killed her was v.X2 (the highest being v.10) so it was a VERY early model. Too early to have all the little issues ironed out. Perhaps there was a flaw that Blazestone exploited that kept her alive. 

There's also Blazestone's powerset.  She has a threat rating of 5.5, which sounds low until you realise that the highest is Gamma Jack with 7.9 Her powers are listed as pyrokinetic discharge, heat control, heat resistance, high agility and flight (by riding on heated air) which is pretty OP by itself but there's one power not listed on the file that Blazestone mentions having.

From the Bonus Disk Audio Interviews: (sped up because she was talking through the entire interview on 2x speed) "Wait what, do you want me to say the whole thing again? I thought I was completely clear, are you- Do you want me to go back again? The whole thing? I don't understand... (back to normal speed because she realised she wasn't in the dimension where people talk really fast, I guess?) "...OH, okay. *laughs* I am so sorry, I know what the problem is! I can't *laughs again* I keep on forgetting which dimension that I'm in! Wait, which... Which dimension am I in?"

From Lego Incredibles: "Wait, which dimension is this? Never mind, I’m sure I’ll find out soon enough.”

That's right, apparently Blazestone has the ability to warp herself to other dimensions. And this isn't an out of the blue thing that probably isn't canon either, Incredibles 2 shows off exactly how that power would function.

(Transcript from Incredibles 2)

Escaping by warping to another dimension is a VEEEERY good method of hiding your own body.

Picture this: Blazestone is contacted by Mirage. She's told a lie about the Omnidroid, it's the government's secret project and how it's went rogue. She gets told they looked for her because she's the only Super who defected from the NSA, they need her specifically. If they approached any other Super they might contact the NSA and expose the secret project. So they need her because she won't tattle. 

Blazestone goes to Nomanisan Island and is told to go to Room A113 to wait for instructions. She gets bored and hates being told what to do so goes to explore. She finds the lava waterfall and flies through, only to find Syndrome on his computer looking over his Operation KRONOS files. She realises that they lured her to die, that she's not the first one they called to destroy the robot, they lied to her and now she's trapped. She goes back to Room A113, and while they're unaware that she found out, she starts asking too many questions. 

The Omnidroid x.V2 is sent after her. She's not fighting to disable it for a sum of money, she's fighting for her life. Blazestone is agile, she flies out of reach of the Omnidroid, and hurls fireballs at it as it has no methods of hitting her back. Until it learns to throw its own projectiles at her. It uproots trees, throws rocks etcetera. It gets an unlucky hit in and knocks her to the ground. Suddenly Blazestone realises that it's getting more accurate, it's predicting where she'll fly next. There's no winning against it. They're near the volcano at this point so Blazestone makes a beeline towards it, if she could just reach the lava.... 

She's inside the lava caves, she flies directly over the lava. She's heat resistant. She baits the Omnidroid into throwing one more boulder and allows herself to get knocked into the lava. She's entirely submerged. Syndrome is watching the fight through hidden cameras, waiting for her to emerge, but she doesn't. Syndrome makes a quip about how the lava must have been too hot for even Blazestone to handle and marks her down as terminated. In reality, Blazestone warped to the other dimension the second she went under, tricking them into thinking her body melted away in the lava. 

As for how Syndrome didn't know about her dimensional warping power, the fact that it's not listed on her National Supers Agency file kinda feels like the NSA didn't believe she had that power. She's a former criminal who probably figured that she she'd defect from being a Superhero at some point. If she ended up in a jail cell, she could teleport out of it. If they knew she could teleport they might have found some way to neutralise that power before sending her to jail. So Blazestone kept it a secret in the even that she'd need to escape from some where. 

So Blazestone lives and freaks out about her near death experience. Except... She draws the wrong conclusion about Syndrome. She doesn't know that the government is actually oblivious to the fact that Syndrome is developing a robot strong enough to fight Mr Incredible using Supers as test subjects. She thinks the government is hunting down Supers and killing them with the Omnidroid. 

She goes cold turkey on crime in case the government finds her again, but after all that, a deep resentment and rage bubbles up inside of her. 

Flashforward to after Incredibles 2, when the Super Ban is lifted and the National Supers Agency is re-established and is recruiting Supers again. The details of Project KRONOS are released to the public. Blazestone's rage boils over. 

She hates that the National Supers Agency is up and running to control Supers again like how they suffocated her with their rules and trapped her in a dysfunctional partnership with Universal Man, she hates that ordinary people tried to wipe out Supers when THEY should be in charge. 

Remember in Incredibles 2 when Evelyn mind controlled Mr Incredible, Elastigirl and Frozone and made them forced them to say something into the camera during the public broadcast before they hijacked the hydrofoil to make them look bad?

Yeah, Blazestone ACTUALLY believes that. 

As far as anyone is aware, Blazestone is dead. She might hide her face to make sure nobody figures out it's her. She could target the DevTech/Wannabe Supers (Voyd, Screech, He-Lectrix, Brick, Krushauer and Reflux) and shake their confidence in the Supers Agency or the public's faith in Supers, after all, the Supers Agency let all the old Supers die, they public turned on you years ago, who's to say they won't turn on you again? Look, there's already politicians who disagree with the Super Ban being lifted and want to put heavy restrictions on Super activity. I think she'd be after Voyd specifically because she's an anxiety ridden easily manipulated mess who is also potentially a threat. After all, Voyd's power is portals, and she can follow Blazestone when she dimensional warps...

She rallies a bunch of other young Supers who felt betrayed by the government banning Supers, perhaps she even manipulates a grieving Plasmabolt who's still mourning her teammates' deaths into acting as a mole in the National Supers Agency. She wants Supers to be on top while all the puny normals get subjugated like they deserve.

Baaasically she becomes Pixar Magneto? ... I'm not 100% certain, I'm not all that familiar with X-Men? I just kinda know who he is from watching one movie years ago. I don't know, I suck at writing allegories, I just have the vague idea in my head and I dunno how to put it to paper properly. If I've said something bad or made a bad comparison, I'm sorry. I'm writing this section at 3am.

3. SHE HAS AN EMOTIONAL CONNECTION TO ONE OF THE MAIN CAST.

If The Incredibles was about Mr Incredible and Incredibles 2 was about Elastigirl, who's the third member of their trio who hasn't got a chance to be a protagonist yet? Let's bring up the profiles again, shall we?

Notice anything?

"ONCE PARTNERS WITH FROZONE. BUT RELATIONSHIP RAN HOT AND COLD."

"FORMER PARTNERS WITH BLAZESTONE (ROMANTICALLY?)"

OH SNAP THAT'S RIGHT, FROZONE AND BLAZESTONE USED TO BE PARTNERS. POSSIBLY ROMANTICALLY.

Blazestone was partnered with Frozone first before the NSA shoved her into the Beta Force with Universal Man. This is purely headcanon, but I like to imagine the Frozone/Blazestone team was known as the Alpha Force because Beta comes after Alpha. The sentence "relationship ran hot and cold" aside from being a bad pun, kinda implies that at some point the fluctuation led to them having a huge falling out and splitting their team apart so the NSA could try again with Universal Man.

I found this on Reddit's Tumblr sub and honestly, my thoughts exactly.

Imagine the DRAMA of Frozone finding out that his former "Enemies to lovers to enemies" partner who tried to drown him on Supers Appreciation Day that one time who he thought was dead is suddenly alive again and is currently leading a gang of Supers to attacking people. There could be a deep dive into what their partnership was like, how he reacted to her fall from grace and all the mixed feelings of seeing her alive again in the present day.

Maybe this could finally be the opportunity to show Honey on screen. I mean, she HAS a design now and an entire deleted scene that they cut out because it caused pacing issues

Imagine Frozone lying battered and bruised on the ground from Blazestone fighting him, and Honey runs to his defence. Blazestone mocks her like "What could you possibly do to me? You're powerless!" and then Honey takes her completely by surprise by pulling out a metal baseball bat or some other mundane household weapon and beats the ever loving shit out of her.

Another idea I had that doesn't really fit into any section is the idea of bringing the Deavor siblings back. Winston and Evelyn having a fractured relationship after the events of Incredibles 2. Winston visiting her in jail trying to understand why she'd risk their father's legacy and endangering DevTech by connecting it with the attempted mass murder with a boat. Evelyn snapping back that he never noticed how she was feeling as they grieved for their parent's deaths because he was too focused on thinking that they died because there was no Supers around anymore to save them.

Blazestone kidnapping both of them and forcing Evelyn, the one who hates Supers with her entire being to remake the Screenslaver technology by threatening to burn Winston to death if she doesnt comply. Why does Blazestone need the hypnosis tech? Because she's aware that some of the Supers she recruited might not be 100% loyal and wants to control their minds to keep them in line if she has to. Because she doesn't care at all about any of the other Supers, she just wants to use them for her own gain so that SHE can control the city. Plasmabolt is definitely going to be the one to betray Blazestone in the end. She realises that Everseer, Macroburst and Psycwave wouldn't have wanted her to harm innocent people to avenge their deaths, so she'd fight alongside The Incredibles family, the Wannabe Supers, and Frozone.

Aaaand that's all I have to say, it somehow took me three hours to move all this text from Google Docs to Tumblr and find accompanying images.

Hope you liked my probably badly written sequel idea

#the incredibles #incredibles 2 #the incredibles blazestone #frozone #mr incredible #elastigirl #wannabe supers #voyd #he-lectrix #incredibles 2 screech #incredibles 2 reflux #krushauer #winston deavor #evelyn deavor #the incredibles apogee #the incredibles downburst #the incredibles dyna guy #the incredibles everseer #the incredibles gamma jack #the incredibles gazerbeam #the incredibles hypershock #the incredibles macroburst #the incredibles meta man #the incredibles phylange #the incredibles plasmabolt #the incredibles psycwave #the incredibles stratogale #the incredibles splashdown #the incredibles stormicide #the incredibles thunderhead

[defectivevillain]

this winding labyrinth

chapter 3: reflux

pairing: Hannibal Lecter/Reader (reader is not gendered, race-ambiguous, and no physical descriptors are used)

summary:

You wish you never met Hannibal Lecter. But you yearn for his presence. You want to forget him. But he never truly leaves your thoughts. Now, you’re left to pick up the pieces of a broken design. A battle of instinct rages on in your mind—one of bittersweet relief and cloying grief, fearless resolve and poignant regret; a clashing between affection and antipathy, pride and pain. What will win, in the end? Only time will tell.

this is chapter 3, act 2 of this broken design. if you haven't read act 1 or chapters 1-2, this won't make too much sense.

ao3 version | Spotify playlist

typical warnings apply.

You blink your eyes open to a pounding headache and ringing ears. The ceiling above you is reeling as you’re pushed along in a gurney. Voices murmur and mumble around you, and your vision swims tauntingly. Your arm burns, stings, aches. Your eyelids feel incredibly heavy. You feel a hand on your cheek, prompting you to look into worried eyes. You blink dazedly, your vision blurring and spiraling. It doesn’t take long for you to fall into unconsciousness again. 

You dream of nothing and everything. You dream of winding halls, a labyrinth that never ends. You dream of harsh corners, broken glass, shattered reflections. You dream of glinting metal, sharpened blades, and cruel smiles. You drown in soil and breathe in rot and decay. Through it all, blood sticks to your skin like a vice—a reminder of your sins. 

When you finally wake, after an immeasurable amount of time, you find there to be little fanfare. There is no one for you to wake up to, nothing for you to look at save for a nearly empty hospital room with chipped paint coloring the walls. You take a deep breath and look up at the ceiling. You can hear the EKG’s steady beeps at your bedside. Your arm still hurts, but the pain isn’t nearly as bad as it was before. Upon closer examination, you realize your arm is bandaged. Blood seeps through the white bandages, threatening to mar the white sheets around you. In the still quiet of the evident night, you are gifted a brief reprieve: an escape from interaction and accountability. You’re grateful for it, even if the silence seems to vibrate with unease. 

The nurse comes before long—he’s not the same one you had before. You don’t bother to question it. He reapplies your bandages and sighs. “You are immensely lucky,” he remarks, turning away for a moment. “Just a few inches to the side and you’d be dead.” 

Yes, lucky, you think to yourself.  

The nurse doesn’t say anything else. You have to wonder if he was told about you—told you’ve been here quite a few times within the past year, told not to bother with pleasantries. You’re left to wonder as the nurse leaves the room, promising to return in a few moments. 

Nothing about this moment feels real. Maybe that’s why the guilt of your actions hasn’t quite caught up yet. You’ve felt a hint of remorse prickling along your skin, but nothing as strong as you had expected. It sort of feels like you’re dreaming. Perhaps you’ll even wake up soon. 

Unfortunately, you soon have to come to terms with the fact that you are not dreaming. This is reality: bleak, unassuming reality. The weight of it all is pushing you further into this thin hospital mattress, forcing you to remain bound and silent without confines. Your arm is bandaged, because you stabbed yourself. You stabbed yourself… to engineer a situation where Clark Ingram’s death— murder , a voice in your head coos—would be justifiable. Your arm burns, both from the knife and from the knowledge of your crimes. 

For the first few days of your hospital stay, you don’t get visitors. You suspect the visitors who typically stop by are growing tired of showing up. After all, this is your third or fourth time in the hospital. It’s likely more of a chore than anything else. Teetering on the edge between life and death is a scary situation, but you’ve occupied that grey area for so long now that almost nothing seems to truly surprise you.

Beverly highlights the notion when she arrives one morning. “We’ve got to stop meeting like this,” she quips, shoving her hands in her leather jacket after closing the door behind her. She leans against the wall. 

You huff. “Hi, Bev,” you say, managing to get past the raspiness of your unused voice. 

“I’m convinced you’re single handedly burning through the injury budget for our department,” Bev says with a sigh. You take a deep breath. This banter with Beverly makes you feel… normal. 

“Hey, someone’s gotta do it,” you shrug goodnaturedly. Beverly rolls her eyes, before crossing her arms over her chest. 

For a few seconds, there is only silence. An unfamiliar tension settles in the air. “Seriously though,” Beverly says. There is nothing but sincerity in the expression on her face. “There’s only so much of this my heart can take.” And that hits you like a knife to the gut. 

You never considered how your friends must feel in these types of situations. You’ve probably caused Beverly so much unnecessary worry and concern.  Selfish. “I’m sorry,” you grimace. The statement doesn’t feel like enough.  

“Just… be more careful, okay?” Bev sighs. “Never thought I’d have to be the one to say that to you.” You’re not sure you trust the weight of your own words anymore, so you don’t respond. You don’t promise anything, because you’re not sure you can. Thankfully, Beverly doesn’t seem to be expecting a response. Instead, she elects to sit in the chair at your bedside. Not for the first time, you wonder how you managed to get such a good friend. 

Beverly stays for a while, before the nurse comes by and kicks her out. She leaves, albeit with a grumble under her breath about unnecessary precautions. After Beverly, there is no one and nothing. Every time you close your eyes, you see Ingram’s face—the genuine fear that overtook his expression when he saw your finger inch closer towards the trigger. You see his victims, drowning in soil and suffocating. Every time you blink, you see blood spilling down your arms, coating your skin in murky crimson. 

You fade in and out. The days melt into one another, stretching out into an indistinguishable, tangled mess. The healing process seems painfully slow, as if your body is forcing you to slow down and come to terms with the consequences of your own actions. These injuries are starting to take a toll. Your abdomen stings—from remembrance or genuine pain, you can’t be sure. 

In the midst of a hazy and dimly lit afternoon, you get another visitor. 

“Agent,” a familiar voice says. You look up and towards the door, only to find Jack Crawford standing in the doorway. He looks the same as ever, save for the concerningly tight pull to his lips and shoulders. Indeed, he looks rather tense—almost uncharacteristically so. 

“Jack,” you remark. “I wasn’t expecting you.” Indeed, Jack has visited you every single time you’ve found yourself injured and confined to this hospital. It’s highly unusual for someone as high up as Jack—the Head of the Behavioral Analysis Unit—to consistently find the time to make hospital visits. It’s as your teacher once said: “When you go out, you go out alone. You will wake up alone…  You will be alone.” There had been a haunting expression on her face as she said that, almost as if she were recalling a past experience. The class had been eerily silent. 

Jack shoots you a disbelieving eyebrow, before his face falls back into stony callousness. The room feels a lot colder. Looks like he’s going to get right to business. “You may be wondering why you were never given another psychological evaluation,” he begins, before taking another step, “After all, Lecter did yours—and there’s no guarantee he didn’t have an ulterior motive.” 

Somehow, despite all the events that transpired recently, you avoided another psychological evaluation. Any other agent would surely have been thrown into a psychiatric evaluation and several mandated therapy sessions for surviving such an ordeal… You received a grip on your shoulder and a murmured remark from Jack about doing well. You’re still not sure how to feel about that.

“Truthfully, I didn’t think you needed another evaluation,” Jack says, his lips set in a firm line. There’s something else coming. Sure enough, he continues. “I find myself questioning my judgment now. You’ve sent yourself to the hospital three times now.”

“Sent myself?” You repeat in disbelief. A shiver rolls down your spine, sending your skin prickling. “Jack, I didn’t intend for any of this to happen.” You don't enjoy the implications of his statement. 

“That may be,” Jack acquiesces. His hands are clasped behind his back and he’s the picture of quiet, calm authority. “But you’ve had extensive training that deals with these kinds of situations, that teaches you what to prioritize in those kinds of moments.” You bite your tongue and keep silent.  

“What disturbs me…” He breaks off once more. Jack always finishes his sentences—this kind of syntax is unusual for him. “ This -” He motions with a hand, “isn’t born out of a lackluster combat ability. You’re a damn good fighter.” You want to be honored by the compliment, but all you can feel is an unsettling apprehension. Sure enough, Jack isn’t finished speaking. “I’m going to book you for another psych eval.” 

The sheets thrown over you suddenly feel far too thin, as goosebumps run along your skin. You’re brutally aware of the expression on Jack’s face—conflict and resolution fighting for prominence in the set of his jaw. “Jack-” You try to say, scrambling for something to say. It’s beginning to feel as if the walls are caving in on you. 

“You haven’t made this easy, Agent,” Jack responds in lieu of an answer. He pulls something from his jacket pocket—a slip of paper with notes scrawled on it. Your heart drops into your stomach as you realize that he had planned this from the outset. “2:00 p.m. next Monday.” It is clear that Jack’s visit had one purpose, and one purpose only. He walks away, leaving you to stare after him in stunned disbelief.

In the wake of your conversation with Jack, your recovery feels nearly meaningless. What does it matter if you heal? You’re still barred from returning to work, unless you receive a signed form from the psychologist. Although, will that really be so difficult for you? A few years ago, it might have been. But since then, you’ve changed. You’ve developed, morphed into a person who has learned to be defensive, wary, covert. Indeed, haven’t you been keeping the pretense of composure this entire time? If you kept your knowledge of the Ripper’s identity hidden from him for so long, surely getting through an hour-long psychological assessment will be easy. 

And, indeed, it is easy. 

The psychologist you’re paired with is nice. That’s all you really have to say about them. Perhaps you’ve grown accustomed to discussions laced with existentialism while seated on expensive leather, a palpable tension sinking into the air. Or perhaps you’ve grown accustomed to answering questions with whatever the person wants to hear. You’ve gotten good at maintaining an illusion of calm and collected rationality when needed.

Plus, the evaluation protocol is extremely outdated. You have to do a Rorschach inkblot test, which makes you both thankful and extremely concerned for the future of the FBI. Safe to say, you walk out of the building an hour later with a signed paper in hand. It doesn’t take you long to decide to head right to the Bureau. Your heart is still hammering away in your chest as you drive there—even when you’re a good distance away from the psychologist’s office. 

When you finally get to the Bureau and arrive in Jack’s office, you place the signed form on his desk wordlessly. For a moment, he seems too caught up in the files in his hands to notice. After a few moments, he blinks and drags the paper closer to him. Jack examines the paper with a critical eye, before turning his attention back towards you. 

“Surprised?” You ask, as he studies your expression. Jack seems to be looking for something. You try to maintain a flat affect, if only so that he doesn’t find whatever he’s searching for. 

He sighs. “Agent, you know this is just protocol,” Jack responds. “No, I’m not surprised. It would be highly unprofessional of me to have expectations of the result.” He finishes. You want to believe him.

But you know deep down that Jack expected you to fail—perhaps even wanted you to fail. “Welcome back, Agent.” You know your mind is conjuring up the tone of resignation in his voice.  

You exit his office and walk back down the halls, an unexpected guilt stirring in your chest. You shouldn’t have lied to the psychologist. On the other hand, you knew that if you were truthful, you would never be able to return to the field. And there are lives at stake. You’re not foolish enough to think that your mere presence is enough to decrease criminality at large, but you know that the Bureau needs as many agents as possible on the front lines. 

There’s a buzzing, humming sound along your skin. “If you truly cared about the lives at stake, you would stay away,” a voice reasons. It takes you a few moments to realize that it’s Clark Ingram. A social worker has joined the group of tormented souls inhabiting the shadows of  your mind. The irony is not lost on you. You shake your head, before taking a deep breath and continuing to walk down the hall, your muscle memory navigating you towards your office even when your attention is elsewhere. “How many have been killed in the wake of your complacency?”  Ingram continues relentlessly. “Your neutrality is just as dangerous as my cruelty.” 

Your head pounds as you turn the corner to get to your office. When you finally find yourself standing in the doorway, you remember that you haven’t used the space in a bit—there’s dust collecting on the edges of your bookshelf and the surface of your desk. You close the door and sit down in your chair, ignoring the chilling recognition that you’re sitting right where Franklyn died. For a moment, you can feel phantom burgundy tears slipping down your cheeks. When you blink, you’re subject to the illusory sensation of someone reaching deep into your eye sockets and tugging, ripping at your optic nerves and tearing your sight away from you. 

Your leg bounces restlessly. The clock’s hand makes its routine journey across the smooth surface of the instrument, and its movements flit before your eyes in flickering flashes. You rub your eyes roughly. Conversations from the hall reach your ears, until they distort and morph into voices that continue to haunt you. Your fingers are twitching. 

Time is a fickle thing. Your office doesn’t have windows to let in sunlight, so you’re forced to take in the noise from the hallway to determine how long you’ve spent fading away in your chair. A rattling breath overtakes you, prompting you to breathe in and breathe out in a shuddering movement. You dig the heels of your hands into your eyes, letting the spiraling colors that manifest overtake your vision. 

When you open your eyes moments later, you’re briefly assaulted with a wave of sharpness and clarity. Then, your vision adjusts and you’re left staring at your unassuming office: the remains of your neat and tidy life. Somehow, deep-down, you know things will not stay that way. 

Your hands itch and you roll up your sleeves, despite knowing you won’t see soil caked on your skin like you’re imagining. Indeed, your arms are bare—save for the bandaged wound that you’re sure will scar. Looking down at it provokes a stirring feeling in your gut as memories of that day reach the forefront of your mind. 

For a while, you had lingered precariously on the edge between morality and criminality. Have you since slipped off that edge? When did your balance first falter? Were the scales already tipped—perhaps from the moment you sleep walked onto the road, finding yourself looking into the darkness and locking eyes with a crimson gaze? When did your grip start to weaken? 

And… where does that wavering leave you now?

next chapter

thanks for readingggg!

TAGLIST: @its-ares @tobbotobbs @xrisdoesntexist @gr1mmac3 @tiredstarcerberuslamb @yourlocalratwriter @kingkoku @kahuunknown @atlas-king1 @pendragon-writes @slipknotcentury @cryinersaved @the-ultimate-librarian @starre-eyes @pendragon-writes @peterparkeeperer @gayschlatt69

#defectivevillain #hannibal x reader #hannibal lecter x reader #hannibal x male reader #hannibal x gn reader #male reader #gn reader

[sevenswansmp3]

tagged by @hauntedwoman to talk about 5 things i’m obsessed with <33333 thank you!!!

1. succession surprise, surprise. i’ve finally gotten around to starting a full succession rewatch and i’ve been taking notes. first and foremost, one of my missions for this rewatch was to really focus in on shiv as a character because the first time i watched it and then rewatched it, i was a huge tom and kendall girl and honestly really did not like shiv :( but i recognize now that my dislike for her was mostly a result of my own internalized misogyny and also because she is a woman written by men and they really do their best to make her one of the less sympathetic characters in the show. i also think that a big chunk of fans online (esp twitter) are quick to label her an evil woman and, when defending their pov, they tend to bring up her behavior towards tom and kendall while also ignoring how both tom and kendall have treated her. i’m really enjoying this rewatch and have really grown to love shivvy. her relationship with tom also reminds me a lot of macbeth and lady macbeth and i think that their relationships have a lot of parallels and i find it very very interesting!!! i’m hoping to compile enough evidence to write something comprehensible about it. also, ROMAN. i literally did not give a shit about roman until the last few episodes of season four which is crazy but something has come over me. i think it’s his issues with intimacy and refusal to let anyone like actually see him and love him that has really bonded me to him <3 additionally there is something about kieran culkin (and rory…) that has bewitched me this summer. i think it’s kieran’s little fangs. i’m obsessed

2. the enormity of my desire disgusting me <3 welcome to truelovewaitsmp3 on tumblr dot com. this summer, i don’t think i’ve opened my journal without writing about how bad i want someone to love me, to look at the mess of my insides and all of this gross desire and love me anyways. to quote something i said to katy alpacinolover in an email, “I DON’T WANT SOMETHING CASUAL. I WANT TO BE THE PREY IMPALED ON YOUR SHRIKE’S THORN.” there’s something to be said about shame here and probably a million other things but i’ve written it so many times already that i don’t care to repeat it here.

3. ??? (stone fruits) two weeks ago, i bought a carton of nine plums from a local produce market. i had been rotting on the couch all day and decided that if i didn’t get up and put on real clothes and go buy a plum i was going to die. the most erotic experience i’ve ever had was eating a plum over newly washed cream sheets, plum viscera under my nails and between my teeth, wine colored juice dripping down my chin and onto my sheets. when the plums were gone, i found two forgotten nectarines in the fridge. i have been assigned “the love song of j alfred prufrock” for three different classes over the last four years (high school english, western humanities and then british lit in college) and each time, the line “do i dare eat a peach” was said to refer to prufrock’s acid reflux. in my american lit class, my professor brought it up one day and told us that it referred to oral sex. anyways. a nectarine is not a peach but i find the experience just as enjoyable.

4. wasteland, baby (2019) for whatever reason, i’ve always gravitated more towards hozier’s first album. however, over the past two months, i have listened through wasteland, baby an insane amount of times. something about the world ending and having someone there to hold through it. this album is also so incredibly sexy and is home to the horniest and sweetest hozier songs (TALK, be, dinner & diatribes, movement, etc). at the end of the title track, hozier whispers “that’s it” and i lose my mind. nfwmb is an honorary wasteland baby track, to me, and also a song that makes me insane and that i have had on repeat lately. i’m scared and excited to see what unreal unearth is going to do to me.

5. a past that i cannot go back to !!!! my hometown is filled with too many ghosts. summer digs them back up. i drive past her mom’s house and have to see her stupid car. someone else comes into work and i have to be reminded of everything i’ve missed out on. i have written about the same thing so many times i’m afraid that my story is metamorphosing.

hiiii ok i’m tagging @alpacinolover (i know you’ve already been tagged by someone else but i really need you to do this) @motherofvinegar @kenromshiv and anyone else who wants to do it! im tagging u.

[kylesvariouslistsandstuff]

Looooong post incoming...

THE INCREDIBLES and INCREDIBLES 2 have been on my mind, lately.

Writer-director Brad Bird’s 2004 superhero movie, done up at Pixar in the days they weren’t owned by The Walt Disney Company, was like a formative film for me. Like STAR WARS was for many kids growing up in the ‘70s and ‘80s, THE INCREDIBLES was probably that for 12-year-old me, among a couple other movies. (That same year, I was also blown away by SPIDER-MAN 2 and… Umm… I, ROBOT?)

And I’m one of the few weirdos that really, really dug the contested sequel. Well, contested by people online. It did get good critical reception and got an Oscar nom, made a truck ton at the box office, but it’s one of those weird “big” movies that came out, made tons and tons of money, but I hear few talk about it to this day. I feel some other recent Pixar sequels fit that bill as well, like FINDING DORY and TOY STORY 4. These absolutely massive movies that people raced to see, because they love the originals and the characters in them so much, but then seemingly… Forgot about? I think it has a lot to do with just how much stuff comes out now, that it kinda all gets lost in the shuffle. They don’t stick the way TOY STORY 3 did back in 2010, before we got so inundated with lots and lots of stuff oozing out of every pore: TV, streaming, other movies, podcasts, more streaming, etc. etc. Plus, there's that special sauce with the originals that tends to make them hit different than the sequels, no matter how good the sequels may be...

But no matter, I loved INCREDIBLES 2 and still do, even if I think it falls a little bit short of the original. That was a hard act to follow, after all. I did go over some of the few things about the sequel that I thought could’ve been expanded a bit, a few months back… And I’m thinking about them again.

I think the main point of contention with INCREDIBLES 2 was the Screenslaver, and the whole twist being that he was a fictional character, a face that was created by a disgruntled telecommunications company exec who wanted to keep superheroes illegal.

I get it, in a way. Screenslaver looks cool, and that one action sequence with him in the strobe light cage with Elastigirl? I fuckin’ LOVE it. Such a dynamic, well-done action sequence. I guess it made people wish that both Bob and Helen, and the kids and Frozone and maybe those weirdo superheroes like Screech and Reflux, took this guy on. A slender, creepy mask-wearing mind control villain… It's what you expect in a superhero movie, the heroes fighting a rather weird bad guy!

And yet, in a way, I feel like Screenslaver being a mere face. A distraction. Makes INCREDIBLES 2 every bit as subversive as the original. Especially since INCREDIBLES 2 came out in 2018, which was literally a superhero/comic book movie-heavy year. Maybe the heaviest? You had AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR, DEADPOOL 2, ANT-MAN AND THE WASP, TEEN TITANS GO! TO THE MOVIES, VENOM, SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE (!), am I missing anything? That year was S-T-A-C-K-E-D.

By contrast, in 2004, THE INCREDIBLES debuted opposite of SPIDER-MAN 2 and HELLBOY… And also BLADE: TRINITY, THE PUNISHER, and CATWOMAN… Much different times. Especially when it was greenlit by Pixar in the year 2000… What was happening in superhero movies that year? X-MEN had come out, and that was after a fairly successful BLADE movie… And years after BATMAN & ROBIN was lambasted and put the Batman movie format to rest for a good while. (Now it’s inescapable. Every few years, a new actor portrays Batman in live-action.)

THE INCREDIBLES stood out in 2004, I feel, not just because of the freedom animation allowed for the superhero concept (which put it above many of the live-action spectacles being made at the time), but also because it rung closer to a ‘60s spy movie than a typical beat-em-up extravaganza. It’s clearly set in a midcentury modern world, a stylized retro futuristic early ‘60s that is informed by the presence of superpowered beings. Or “Supers”, as this franchise has always called them. While there isn’t a wealth of material explaining how world events played out, it’s all implied and hinted at in both films.

By the mid-1960s, American animation had kinda been pigeonholed as an outlet for cheap, reliable kids’ entertainment on Saturday mornings. The closest thing to an American “spy” movie in the animated medium back then was, of all things, a FLINTSTONES movie: 1966’s THE MAN CALLED FLINTSTONE. THE INCREDIBLES almost feels like a lost animated movie made for a slightly older audience circa 1965, but dusted off decades later and done in CGI. That’s a Brad Bird staple. Born in 1957, he loves midcentury modern retrofutures, and just that setting in general. THE IRON GIANT is set in the late 1950s, he had a cancelled take on Will Eisner’s THE SPIRIT that was set around the time it was introduced, his long-gestating RAY GUNN has been described as a 1930s sci-fi noir retrofuture, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE is of course a ‘60s spy show and a series of feature films (Brad’s feels the most ‘60s out of the movies), TOMORROWLAND… Need I say more? Even RATATOUILLE, which doesn’t involve super heroics or gadgets or futuristic technology… It’s literally a movie about cooking! Even that movie has a retro vibe to it. It’s set in the then-present, but it’s timeless in its look and feel.

Anyways, THE INCREDIBLES plays as much James Bond as it does, say, Batman. You have the whole Nomanisan Island lair, close-quarters fights with armed men, Michael Giacchino’s score, it’s a just-right mix. The first INCREDIBLES has a rather conventional bad guy in Syndrome. An evil guy in an eye-catching suit, with all these various man-made powers, as opposed to other Supers’ natural-born powers. INCREDIBLES 2’s villain is merely an average woman, roughly in her 30s? 40s? She has no powers, she’s just a master manipulator, almost a filmmaker in that regard. I mean she’s an artist and a designer, that’s made perfectly clear the minute you see her, so it makes sense that she could pull off this elaborate show. Mysterio in SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME - which was released a year after INCREDIBLES 2 - needed drones and such to do that. That the Screenslaver is merely a brainwashed pizza delivery guy is part of her brilliance.

So, that’s what makes INCREDIBLES 2 stick out from the other superhero movies circa 2018. A year where the majority of the villains were clear-cut, like a big purple alien guy who wipes out half the universe… and here’s INCREDIBLES 2 with a very crafty woman who essentially puts on a big show. And that in the second half, it’s her and her use of mind control technology that are the big obstacle for the Supers. Not a creature or a conventional superhero bad guy. I think it works, honestly. Like, what’s a different kind of challenge? What if all the good guys got brainwashed, leaving a few… Namely the KIDS, to fend for themselves? That’s a very cool idea, honestly. But again, I get why detractors wanted the shadowy mind control guy instead. Part of me would love to see that version of INCREDIBLES 2, too, if it ever existed. According to interviews w/ the filmmakers, Screenslaver was a late addition to the plot. INCREDIBLES 2 was supposed to come out in summer 2019, but Disney had pushed it up a year, which apparently affected a lot of the decision-making. For some, it shows.

Maybe if INCREDIBLES 2 came out in 2008 instead of 2018, and had the same exact villain twist… In a world where other Disney Animation and Pixar movies with twist villains didn’t yet exist (i.e. Hans, Callaghan, Bellwether, Ernesto), it’d be received differently? I do not know. But that’s why it all works for me. I can tune out the succession of “twist villain” movies, and take INCREDIBLES 2 on its own merits.

In my previous piece on INCREDIBLES 2, I did kind of find fault with its rather rushed third act and how the film doesn’t really bite into the meatier political aspect it kind of teases. The whole idea of a society being dependent on superheroes, rather than getting up and helping pitch in to make the world a better place. (Not dissimilar to TOMORROWLAND’s message.) It’s really all just there to serve Evelyn’s character, which I’m totally fine with… It works in that context. But on the other hand, I feel like this could’ve gone further and explored the whole idea of superheroes being - to quote Jenny Nicholson in her review of JOKER - a “band-aid solution” to crime. And it being a PG-rated mass-market Disney release is no reason to keep me from speculating about this version of INCREDIBLES 2.

I get that Brad Bird probably just wanted to keep it simple and streamlined, and that the “who needs Supers anyways” idea is just a device for Evelyn, not there to make a larger statement. I do believe all art is political, even these movies, but how far the creators want to go with the politics is another story. Ultimately, Evelyn’s methods of getting her way are wrong, but she has points… What if a better society could be created that didn’t depend on superpowered beings having to clobber criminals or threats to save the day?

Clearly the world of THE INCREDIBLES needs superheroes, though, because you have things like mole men with massive drill-mobiles cutting through cities like they’re nothing. But I feel that in a world where we are hyperaware of the system’s flaws and how it’s mostly a failure by design and pretty much creates crime (I’m getting political here, heads up), INCREDIBLES 2 could’ve possibly said something about that. Instead of having superheroes, a stand in for the police when the police themselves or the military can’t handle the threat, what’s causing all the crime in New Urbem and Municiberg in the first place? What systemic inequalities are happening? How progressive is this world because of the presence of superheroes/cool tech? Why are there are robberies? What’s the poverty rate? Etc. etc.

And you may be thinking, this is just an animated family movie, it doesn’t have to be that deep… But I disagree. Plenty of family films, and good stories in general, don’t shy away from this kind of stuff. Art is not made in a vacuum. A lot of actual real-life kids LIVE these sorts of things, too.

But even PG-13 Marvel movies, probably because they’re released by Disney - and Disney tries to play moderate when it comes to political stuff (though they are still too far left for dinguses who yell “WOKE” at everything), don’t really go that far either.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR chips at whether there should be government regulation of superheroes or not, until it settles for being a story about two friends turning against each other over a family death… and then a few MCU movies later, none of that matters - the superheroes are ultimately needed to stop the big purple guy in space… THE FALCON AND THE WINTER SOLDIER asks why, in a post-Blip world, a universe where half of all the living beings just ceased to be… Why are there still such inequalities on Earth, after Thanos’ snap and subsequent revival of everyone who was unalived? It’s all the catalyst for the Flagsmashers, and leader Karli herself. She was so nuanced as an antagonist, and you also had this ersatz Captain America guy who straight up murdered a person in cold blood. I was loving where it was all going, until a few episodes in, they just made Karli a straight-up murderer. All that nuance is flattened, and the final episode is just another big fight scene. Outside of Sam Wilson’s speech at the end, what really changed on MCU’s Earth? What did this Disney+ series have to say, really? Other than bringing up those very real problems we face in the U.S. and around the world?

I think INCREDIBLES 2 is just more interested in being about its characters first, which, again. Is fine. I don’t think less of the movie because of that. The first INCREDIBLES was about the family dynamic first and foremost, too, and not the spectacle. I don’t require Brad Bird to share all of his political views with me. I appreciate that the movie even posits the question to begin with, it’s ultimately why I’ve been thinking about it! Maybe Bird sees that world as simpler because it’s one where superheroes have been around since at least the turn of the 20th century, and things are different because of that.

This is probably why some people get a very Ayn Randian reading out of THE INCREDIBLES, when I think Bird’s conceit was merely “the villain is someone who uses technology to be a pretend-superhero”. It’s all there to inform Syndrome’s character, not necessarily to declare to the audience that people without powers CAN’T be superheroes. Syndrome kills several Supers so he can enact his plan and make everyone into Supers, because he’s big mad at Mr. Incredible, and that’s why he fails. He could’ve just grown up to make super technology to make other people super, not kill a bunch of them. Heck, if he had turned out better, he could’ve singlehandedly ended the outlawing of Supers… And not natural-born Supers… Imagine THAT movie…

The original movie, I feel, just doesn’t necessarily make a case for whether people born without superpowers can be Super. This dichotomy is just there to make the villain what he is, and hint at what he could’ve been instead of a villain. Sure, the Parr family and Frozone saving the day at the end upholds this apparent status quo, but I don’t think Bird was thinking about it like that. He had denied the Ayn Rand comparisons as far back as the release of the first movie.

The likelier reading of this film, and some of Bird’s other films such as RATATOUILLE and TOMORROWLAND, is informed by Bird’s career trajectory. He was mentored by Milt Kahl, of all people! One of the greatest animators, one of Walt’s Nine Old Men… He was mentored by him as a teenager! But most of Bird’s career, as noted by Mark Mayerson, was a long series of denied opportunities. His aforementioned SPIRIT movie didn’t take off in the ‘80s because who during that period - a time when SECRET OF NIMH came and went, and when features like TWICE UPON A TIME couldn’t get an audience - wanted to sink money into an animated action movie of that caliber? RAY GUNN didn’t go through in the 1990s at Turner Animation, and Warner Bros. dumped THE IRON GIANT in the late summer of 1999 with an ineffective marketing campaign that caused it to flop at the box office.

Because IRON GIANT did so badly, Bird took his toys and left Warner Bros. He headed to Pixar with his superhero movie concept, and he got in despite those who didn’t quite want him around. John Lasseter was not fond of an outsider coming in with this very different pitch for a movie. Up until that point, Pixar was literally what I like to call “Team TOY STORY”. John Lasseter, TOY STORY’s director, also directed A BUG’S LIFE and TOY STORY 2. Pete Docter and Andrew Stanton, where instrumental in TOY STORY 1 & 2, directed MONSTERS, INC. and FINDING NEMO respectively. Lee Unkrich, an editor on TOY STORY, co-directed on TOY STORY 2, MONSTERS, INC. and FINDING NEMO. Lasseter fired Jorgen Klubien off of his CARS, which was in the works at the time, and took it over. Tight-knit building. Bird was an outsider, and Lasseter wasn’t thrilled about that. But luckily, Steve Jobs staved him off and also kept Michael Eisner’s doubts about THE INCREDIBLES at bay. Bird got to make his rather outre superhero movie at Pixar in spite of Lasseter, Eisner, etc…. And it was a big hit and an Oscar winner. Lasseter was singing a different tune after that.

Future directors didn’t have Jobs’ protection, though, which meant that Lasseter could fire them more easily… And he did… Brenda Chapman, Bob Peterson, etc.

So then after THE INCREDIBLES, Brad Bird really wanted to get a live-action adaptation of the novel 1906 off the ground, but that didn’t go anywhere. He took over RATATOUILLE at Pixar, made a big hit out of that, and then tried to pursue other endeavors. His MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE movie (GHOST PROTOCOL in 2011) did very well, but then after that, he made TOMORROWLAND and it bombed… And then took on an INCREDIBLES sequel. He is just now starting to get his cooler ideas off the ground, as his RAY GUNN is finally in production at Lasseter’s Skydance Animation. Funny how that works, right? The guy is over 60 years old and is just getting started.

If anything, his movies are more about that. He’s a guy with really cool, game-changing ideas for animated movies in an industry that isn’t interested in that… So… The INCREDIBLES movies being about superheroes who want to help people but not being allowed to by the system, RATATOUILLE being about an animal that doesn’t belong in a kitchen wanting to cook for people, GHOST PROTOCOL being about spies still trying to do the right thing and save the world after their unit has been shut down by the system, TOMORROWLAND being about people not subverting the system by pitching in to make the world a better place and also being barred from the utopia - by, again, the system - where they can make that happen… Yeah, it’s very clear that Bird’s movies are just him venting about his own hangups via fantastical concepts, not trying to espouse some sort of Ayn Randian ideology. How the hell do you get “if you’re naturally talented, you should hoard those gifts from the rest of society” out of THAT?

I think that’s what it is, and that’s what informs the world of THE INCREDIBLES. It’s simply an Earth where superheroes exist, and the system makes them illegal instead of finding other ways to correct accidents that have happened whenever they are around. Just outright ban them from doing what they do, instead. I mean, governments in real life ban all kinds of people for various reasons, strip away their rights, dehumanize them, criminalize them, etc… Sometimes mere circumstances, such as poverty, are viewed as personal failure and inherently criminal. There’s a level of relatability with superheroes for some people because of that. The late Kevin Conroy, for example, used his role as Batman in the 1992 animated series an outlet for his struggles as a gay man. X-Men stories, and the early 2000s X-MEN movies, are either interpreted as that or ARE largely about that.

But even then, Bird’s world still posits some interesting questions that it doesn’t fully answer. It’s busier focusing on the characters. This is more an observation, as I’m not trying to dock the original or the second movie any points… I just wonder why, in the sequel, the world the movies are set in was so quick to legalize Supers after everything that has happened. All it took was saving a boat and that was it? Not the defeat of Syndrome’s final Omnidroid? Not the other good deeds before that? I feel like that portion in the final third of the movie was strangely very rushed.

The thing is, before I wrap this up (phew), we only have two canonical movies in this series, and a handful of comedic/gag-based shorts. The world of the INCREDIBLES is wide and ripe for exploring, I’d argue, but Brad Bird’s not getting any younger and he should pursue the projects he really wants to make. Again, RAY GUNN, his Western, his horror movie, his musical, etc. Pixar honored him by not having someone else throw together a second INCREDIBLES sometime in the late 2000s/early 2010s. Like, Disney could’ve forced Pixar to make one without him anyways, but no. They waited. And if there’s a third one to be made, or a prequel set during the “Golden Age”, they’ll likely wait for him to be available and willing to do it. Or if he gives it his blessing and leaves it to another director… Like Pixar did with TOY STORY 4 and INSIDE OUT 2, and almost did with FINDING DORY. I wonder if he was gonna do the same with INCREDIBLES 2, had TOMORROWLAND done great and he went straight for a sequel to that.

I’d like to see more of that universe, but it needn’t be forced out of the filmmakers at Pixar. Maybe the little we know of it is what kind of stokes our imaginations when it comes to this series? Look at something like STAR WARS now… There’s a ton of movies and shows and expanded universe stuff, which arguably dilutes the magic of its universe... THE INCREDIBLES isn’t that big wide despite the original movie almost being 20 years old. THE INCREDIBLES doesn’t need to be that huge, but I would like to see a little bit more of that world. Maybe another movie - be it INCREDIBLES 3 or a prequel called SUPERS or something - or a Disney+ series, but not the behemoth something like STAR WARS or the MCU have become.

I feel it’s worth playing around in a little bit more. I’m also biased, because I love the movies, particularly the first one.

[steen-to-live-life]

Boy, I knew this newborn life would be hard but I didn't expect it to bw THIS hard.

Ithink Reuben has reflux/colic. He is so unsettled and screams a lot in pain, especially ij the evening. He screamed for 2 hours yesterday evening and I ended up calling mum at 10pm for help as we were exhausted and really struggling. I could hear him scream for another 20ish min and then I fell asleep. She said he finally slept at 11pm.

We try everything.. lots of burps during and after feeds, holding him up right, bed raised slightly, infacol (to help with wind), leg and tummy movements and massages, dummy, sleeping on us, rocking while upright, showers, boob, etc etc and can't settle him. It's incredibly hard when we know something is upsetting him.and we can't do anything about it.

We've decided we need to go see a counsellor each of this is going to continue because I got so frustrated I swore and put him on the bed, then cried my eyes out because I'm a terrible mum who can't settle her own baby. I love him but gosh when he screams for most of the day and has very little sleeps, it's exhausting, I'm exhausted. I juat really hope this gets better..

[spoocys-glade-of-dreams]

Rayman Retold Lore Post: The Knaaren

Disclaimer: This post contains details that may be triggering to those who have issues around references of when childbirth leads to the death of the mother.

When you play hoodlum havoc, it seemed that a lot of the knaaren that Rayman interacted with…they were all males as far as I know, and Gumsi was “The child king of the knaaren”. 

I was wondering if there WERE females of the species, or did they just pull what World of Warcraft did with the hozen where the females sound and look identical to the males. Where are the females? also…there didn't seem to be any children other than Gumsi. 

I decided to put my own personal touch on this:

Knaaren have a belief system that their females and their children are incredibly precious. This leads to a few of their members having high respect levels not only towards their own females, but any female from any other species. 

Why are they so precious to them and why do they have such levels of respect? 

Knaaren childbirth is incredibly difficult. The typical result is the females die during childbirth. It is incredibly rare for females to survive. When they do, the knaarens worship her like an icon or deity of their people. 

Knaaren have 2 kinds of courtship or mating systems. Marriage and Consorts.

Married Couples are referred to Mates in knaaren society. Marriage is a big deal for the knaarens. If you are lucky enough to have a knaaren as your spouse, knaarens marry for life. They become fully devoted to you and you alone. It's not just a mate for life either! If you die and you were married to a knaaren, THEY NEVER SEEK ANOTHER ROMANTIC PARTNER. YOU HAVE BECOME THEIR ONE AND ONLY. They have committed themselves to you, and will never reproduce again.

This leads to difficulty in keeping the species alive. That is why the consort system exists. Most of the time, males will seek females with consort systems. This means they are allowed to bed females and be allowed to produce young, but not be tied to them like a marriage does.

The consort system is flawed. Many folks, even within the knaaren people themselves, are aware of this. The problem is these views are not easily changed. It's considered a "for the greater good" scenario. The system is considered flawed because it has lead to many children being orphaned. 

When a female passes from child birth, The typical response is supposed to be that the father comes forward and will take the child into their care. But there have been many scenarios where the father never came forward. If a father doesn’t come forward, a massively long line forms that are willing to adopt the child into their care. For a few knaaren, this is their saving grace that allows them to have a child of their own without the risk to their partner's life. A child ALWAYS ends up finding an adoptive family. 

One of these cases was Gumsi. Gumsi’s mother was the previous queen of the knaaren. She became pregnant by a consort and she died from childbirth. No father ever came forward and Gumsi's father was never found. Everyone within the ruins came forward wanting to adopt this kid. THIS KID WAS GOING TO BE THE KING AFTER ALL!  

One Knaaren came forward to adopt the child, and due to her status she became unchallenged to become the adoptive caretaker for Gumsi. This woman was Kahli the God-blessed. a Knaaren Soothsayer, the royal advisor for Gumsi’s mother, and who also served as midwife for Gumsi’s birth.

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Females are built more to be speedy and athletic. Most of the established magic users are female. There are few instances of male mages. the only known one from within the story was Reflux. 

Females also don’t have that gravelly growl most males have when they talk. but it IS a deep sounding voice. 

That's it for the female specific details! the rest is general lore for all the Knaaren people!

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For children, there ARE other children of the species around. You don't normally see them without a parent close by. An angry knaaren is dangerous, and nothing is more dangerous within the Rayman universe than a knaaren parent when their children are being threatened. They are already prone to primal feral fits of rage. If its a parent and you are a threat to their child, they become completely lost in their rage. These rage fits are powerful enough to level entire buildings to the foundation. The aggressor is going to die painfully, and will be consumed.

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I mentioned earlier that marriage is a big deal in knaaren society. Weddings are the BIGGEST celebrations for them. They are Highly Elaborate, Highly Expensive (no cost is too high for a knaaren wedding), and one of the most formal affairs.

Being married to a knaaren is considered the highest honor to most within the Rayman universe, especially in inter-racial marriages. There are some that actually frown upon this, however. There do exist a small number of outsider minds that think knaaren are savages and want nothing to do with it.

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Knaaren don’t normally travel outside of the ruins. Being in the sunlight for long periods can seriously damage their skin. There are some instances of them traveling out of their underground home. If they go out into the sunlight, they have to be completely covered from top to bottom. Those that allow their skin to become exposed will often have to oil or moisturize their skin, as the constant exposure to sunlight leaves their skin painfully cracked and dehydrated.

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Knaaren are invincible as in they cannot die by physical means. They can be stabbed, Shot, crushed, and they will still come after you. This does not mean they are completely unkillable. Each knaaren have their own way of being defeated. It's unique per knaaren person. Not every Knaaren can die in the same manner. In most cases, it has to do with internal methods or around consumption. All females are capable of dying from childbirth.

Knaaren are not born with invincibility. They are born vulnerable and they grow into their invincibility around preadolescent age. 

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The Knaaren Primary Deity is The Leptys. He is known as Night Father, Father of the Knaaren People, or The Total Eclipse.

Curses do exist within Rayman universe. There is some very mild ones that you know: example being Globox constantly dropping Gaseous Glutes, and you used to see me drop one called “Jano’s Jaws” which is another within the Rayman Retold Universe specifically.

Knaaren folk also have their own take on curses. “By Leptys’ Shade” is one of the most common ones used by knaaren folk.

----------------------------------------------- 

One of the “Classes” or professions within Knaaren society are Soothsayers. In Knaaren society they tend to be the wise men or women of the race. Most can simply commune with Leptys and that's it. There is only one soothsayer currently alive that could commune with more than just Leptys, she was made royal advisor for this (Kahli the God-Blessed)

#Rayman #Rayman Retold #Rayman Head Canons #The Knaaren #Long Post #Re upload #Fixed a bunch of grammar errors #and fixed up the structure a bit

[torque-witch]

TMI Periods

(I can’t hide posts on mobile anymore that I know of)

But like goddamn is it messing with my guts and Crohn’s. I almost called off or called in late to work this morning but I just opted to lay down until I had to put some clothes on and powered through it fine. I usually don’t eat until 2-3pm on work days to avoid any potential issues, but especially right now.

I’m off birth control currently (my main use was to prevent this from happening) to see if it’s been causing an uptick in my nervous system response (endocrinology said bc of the pill my cortisol was very high) and I guess who really knows because no one ever bothers to look at anything further - but I’m annoyed that my choices seem to be a) anxiety and no babies/period + gender affirming or b) severe IBS, migraines, uncontrollable flow but my sleep feels incredibly more stable which is where the bulk of my anxiety displays itself. I’ll also give it that I’ve barely had any cramps this round which is nice.

But, my Gastro has stated that I have a very fast-moving digestion process, which is why he labeled me as severe IBS post Prednisone use. Some of that is not having a gall bladder + the less acid production as well. But those flare ups also make me more anxious as a byproduct.

*Generally though, I feel like I have a really regular routine outside of my period, my sleep is deeper and with less nightmares, and the transition of waking up has been a lot easier. My reflux has improved SO much after getting off the pill omg.

But still. What trade off is better? What is actually meaningful?

The whole reason I ever got on bc in the first place was actually because of Crohn’s. I’ve been on near continuous pills since about 2014. I’m sure there are health ramifications because of that, but the doctors originally thought all my issues were period related. They could be, for sure, but allowing me to be on meds for almost 10 years without any regular testing could have also contributed to my nervous system going completely out of wack when we added two cortisol-affecting medications on top of that.

I’m just complaining because I want bodily peace. It keeps me from doing everything that I want, producing everything that I want. I feel like so much of my life over the last year and a half has just been laying down. I should be happy with progress regardless, and I am, but I am also tired of being so physically exhausted from my nervous system being in near constant turmoil from multiple angles.

#torquetalks #medical mention #periods tw

[deadnightcoffeetime]

The Monster Of Willow Creek (Tales Of Horror Segment 2) (COPY RIGHT) Page 35

It’s 10:45 a.m., and Alyana is still walking through the mine. As she walks through the mine while looking back every now and then, the sound of footsteps occurs. She sees an open space to hide, not knowing if it’s the monster. In the open space, there’s a barrel and a wooden plank. She grabs the wooden plank and sets into position to attack. The sound of footsteps grows louder, letting Alyana know who, or what, is getting closer. Alyana strikes, swinging the wooden plank to her right. With Leon’s quick refluxes, he grabs Michelle, allowing the wooden plank hit him on his back. “Ow! That hurt!”, said Leon. “Are you okay?”, said Michelle. Leon speaks out, as Alyana realizes it’s Leon and Michelle. “Yeah, I’m fine.”. Alyana exits out the open space. “Oh my god! Oh my god! I’m sorry! I’m sorry!”, said Alyana. “It’s fine. The main thing is that we found you, and that you’re okay.”, said Leon. Michelle hugs Alyana. “Aly! I’m so glad that you’re okay.”, said Michelle. “I’m glad that you two are okay as well. How did you guys find me?”, said Alyana. “Your family and us, were looking for you out there, and we found a cave, thinking this would be the last place to hide.”, said Michelle. “My family is here?”, said Alyana. “Yeah. You’re pops, mom, and your uncle are here in the mineshaft looking for you.”, said Leon. “Oh, thank god! But, why aren’t they with you?”, said Alyana. “Your pops wanted to split up, since this place s like a labyrinth.”, said Leon. “Now we have to find my folks too.”, said Alyana. “Speaking of finding, did you find Isaac?”, said Leon. “Yes..he’s dead. He’s been eaten. I also found Steven’s and Tanya’s body, they were eaten too. And…Becky is dead too.”, said Alyana. “What? What happened?”, said Michelle. “I bumped into Becky hours ago, and out of nowhere the monster grabbed and killed her. I couldn’t save her. Then that fucker chased me through the woods, then into an abandoned cabin, and into this mineshaft.”, said Alyana. “Well, your pops found Eric’s body eaten on the dirt road. it’s just us and your family now.”, said Leon. On the acknowledged the monster growls again, startling them. “It’s probably heading here! Not far from here!”, said Alyana. Leon and Michelle are running back to the same spot where Zahn told them to meet, Alyana follows them. “Where are we going?”, said Alyana. “We’re heading back to the entrance of this mine.”, said Leon. Just as they about to make a left turn, the monster surprisingly strikes from the right passage, scratching Michelle on her shoulder. She screams in pain and falls to the ground. The scream was loud enough to get the attention of Zahn and the others. “Did you heard that?!”, said Sarah. “Yeah! Sounds like they’re in trouble! Let’s go find them.”, said Zahn. Zahn and the others are heading to area, where they heard the scream. The monster grabs Michelle by her legs and starts to drag her. As Michele screams for help, Leon quickly takes out a flare for himself and throws another flare to Alyana. “Alyana,catch!”, said Leon. She catches it, and both lights it up. The monster sees Leon coming with the lit up flare, it releases one of Michelle’s leg in order to hit Leon with its hand. Leon is hit incredibly hit hard, causing him to fall and go unconscious. Alyana surprisedly jumps on the the monster’s back and tries to stab it too,. Trying not to lose grip and stabbing it with lit up flare, the monster over powers her. Hitting her from wall to wall, and shaking her off. Alyana loses grip and is shaken off, falling into the ground and in pain. Michelle is still screaming while still being dragged, the monster then grabs one of Alyana’s leg, dragging both of the girls. Leon I still on the ground unconscious with the lit up flare. As the screams continues, Zahn and the others are still following. The screams are dying down now, which became a problem. Since the screams are done, now they’re having trouble where to go. “Ahhhhh! Great, which way do we go now?!”, said Zahn. Sarah sees a faint red glow along the passage.

[jpshealth]

How To Relieve Gas Pain In The Left Shoulder And Back?

Have you ever experienced that uncomfortable and unexpected gas pain that seems to target not just your stomach but also your left shoulder and back? If so, you're not alone. Gas pain in these areas can be surprisingly common and incredibly discomforting. But what can you do to find quick relief and get back to feeling your best? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and effective home remedies to help you bid farewell to that nagging discomfort. So, let's get straight to the question at hand:

Gas pain is a result of excess gas in your digestive system. When this gas gets trapped and starts to press on the diaphragm or nerves that radiate to your shoulder and back, it can cause discomfort and even pain. The good news is that you can find quick relief with these home remedies. But first, let's delve into the symptoms and causes of gas pain in these areas:

Symptoms of Gas Pain in the Left Shoulder and Back

- Dull, Achy Discomfort: Gas pain in the left shoulder and back often presents as a dull, achy discomfort that may come and go.

- Shoulder and Back Pain: The pain in these areas can vary from mild to moderate and is typically localized to the left side.

- Bloating and Pressure: You may feel bloated or experience pressure in your abdominal region.

- Belching: Frequent belching or passing gas is a common symptom.

- Discomfort with Movement: Certain movements, such as deep breathing or stretching, may exacerbate the pain.

 Causes of Gas Pain in the Left Shoulder and Back

1. Trapped Gas in the Digestive Tract:

   - Gas can become trapped in your stomach or intestines, causing pressure on the diaphragm and radiating pain to the left shoulder and back.

2. Swallowing Air:

   - Swallowing excess air, often unknowingly, can introduce more gas into your digestive system. This can occur while eating, drinking, or even talking excessively.

3. Gas-Inducing Foods:

   - Consuming gas-producing foods like beans, broccoli, cabbage, carbonated beverages, and certain fruits can contribute to gas buildup.

4. Gastrointestinal Conditions:

   - Underlying gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or gastritis can lead to increased gas production and discomfort.

5. Constipation:

   - When stool accumulates in your colon, it can create a blockage that leads to gas pain and discomfort.

6. Rapid Eating:

   - Eating too quickly can cause you to swallow air along with your food, increasing the likelihood of gas-related pain.

Now that you're familiar with the symptoms and causes, let's explore effective home remedies to relieve gas pain in the left shoulder and back:

 How To Relieve Gas Pain In The Left Shoulder And Back?

Gas pain is a result of excess gas in your digestive system. When this gas gets trapped and starts to press on the diaphragm or nerves that radiate to your shoulder and back, it can cause discomfort and even pain. The good news is that you can find quick relief with these home remedies:

 1. The Power of Movement

Can gas cause shoulder pain?

Absolutely, and one of the easiest ways to alleviate it is through movement. Taking a short walk, doing some light stretching, or even yoga poses like the "Cat-Cow" can help release trapped gas and reduce discomfort.

 2. Ginger Tea

How to get rid of gas immediately with a home remedy?

Ginger is a natural remedy that can provide instant relief. Make a cup of ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water. Sip it slowly, and you'll feel the gas dissipate.

 3. Peppermint Oil

How to remove gas from the stomach instantly?

Peppermint oil has a soothing effect on your digestive system. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil, and gently massage your left shoulder and back. You can also sip on peppermint tea to ease gas discomfort.

 4. Warm Compress

Can gas cause back and shoulder pain?

Yes, it can. Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help relax the muscles and alleviate the pain. Use a hot water bottle or a warm towel for this purpose.

 5. Simethicone Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products

How to relieve gas pain?

Sometimes, over-the-counter products like simethicone can help break down gas bubbles in your stomach. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.

 6. Dietary Adjustments

How to get rid of gas immediately with a home remedy?

Prevention is often the best cure. Avoid gas-inducing foods like carbonated beverages, beans, and cruciferous vegetables. Opt for smaller meals and chew your food thoroughly to minimize the air you swallow.

 7. Fennel Seeds

Can gas cause shoulder pain?

Yes, and fennel seeds can offer relief. Chew a spoonful of fennel seeds after a meal, or make fennel tea by steeping the seeds in hot water.

 8. Deep Breathing Exercises

How to remove gas from the stomach instantly?

Practicing deep breathing exercises can help relax your diaphragm and expel trapped gas. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.

 9. Lay on Your Left Side

How to relieve gas pain?

When you lie on your left side, you encourage the natural movement of gas through your digestive tract, which can provide relief from gas pain.

 10. Hydration

How to get rid of gas immediately with a home remedy?

Staying well-hydrated is essential for proper digestion. Drinking enough water helps prevent constipation, which can contribute to gas pain.

Remember, while these home remedies can provide relief from occasional gas pain, persistent or severe discomfort may require medical attention. If you experience chronic gas pain, consult with a healthcare professional to rule out underlying digestive issues.

Dealing with gas pain in the left shoulder and back can be both uncomfortable and distressing. However, with the right home remedies and preventive measures, you can quickly find relief and regain your comfort. Whether it's ginger tea, gentle movement, or dietary adjustments, there are effective ways to address this common issue. So, the next time gas pain strikes, you'll know just what to do to get back to feeling your best.

[digstv]

Anardana by Digstv: Your Tasty Solution to 5 Common Stomach Problems

In today's fast-paced world, stomach problems have become a common occurrence. From indigestion to acid reflux, many individuals find themselves dealing with these issues regularly. While there are countless over-the-counter medications available, some people prefer natural remedies. Enter Anardana, a flavorful and natural solution to several stomach problems. In this article, we'll explore the wonders of Anardana and how Digstv has harnessed its potential to provide relief for five common stomach ailments.

1. Understanding Anardana: Anardana, also known as dried pomegranate seeds, is a staple in Indian cuisine. These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients, including antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins. While Anardana adds a tangy kick to dishes, it's also renowned for its digestive properties.

2. Anardana for Indigestion: Indigestion is a discomforting issue that affects many. Anardana's natural enzymes can aid in breaking down complex foods, making digestion smoother. Whether you've overindulged at a meal or simply have a sensitive stomach, incorporating Anardana into your diet can help alleviate indigestion.

3. Anardana and Acidity: Acid reflux and heartburn can be incredibly uncomfortable. Anardana's alkaline properties work wonders in neutralizing excess stomach acid. By consuming Anardana regularly, you may experience reduced acidity and a soothing relief from heartburn.

4. Anardana for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that can disrupt daily life. Anardana's high fiber content aids in regulating bowel movements and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. Including Anardana in your diet can potentially provide relief from IBS symptoms.

5. Anardana and Bloating: Bloating is not only uncomfortable but can also affect your self-confidence. Anardana's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce bloating by soothing the digestive system. By incorporating Anardana into your meals, you can say goodbye to that uncomfortable feeling of fullness.

How Digstv Incorporates Anardana: Digstv, a wellness brand dedicated to promoting digestive health, has harnessed the power of Anardana in its products. From digestive teas to Anardana-infused snacks, Digstv offers a wide range of options to incorporate this natural remedy into your daily routine.

Digstv's Anardana-Infused Teas: Digstv's Anardana-infused teas are a delightful way to enjoy the benefits of this natural remedy. With flavors that cater to every palate, these teas are carefully crafted to provide relief from stomach issues while tantalizing your taste buds.

Anardana Snacks for On-the-Go: For those with a busy lifestyle, Digstv offers Anardana snacks that are perfect for on-the-go consumption. These tasty treats are not only convenient but also a healthier alternative to traditional snacks, making them an excellent choice for individuals with digestive concerns.

Conclusion: In a world filled with stomach problems, Anardana emerges as a delicious and effective solution. Whether you're battling indigestion, acidity, IBS, bloating, or simply seeking to maintain good digestive health, Anardana can be your ally. Digstv's innovative products make it easier than ever to incorporate this natural remedy into your daily routine. Say goodbye to stomach woes and embrace the goodness of Anardana – your tasty solution to common stomach problems.

So why wait? Try Digstv's Anardana products today and experience the benefits for yourself. Your stomach will thank you, and you'll be one step closer to a happier and healthier you!

#anardana #digestive health #5 Common Stomach Problems

[parentingguidlines]

Essential Parenting Guidelines for Your Newborn Baby

Introduction

Bringing a newborn baby into the world is a magical and transformative experience. However, it can also be incredibly overwhelming and challenging for new parents. The responsibility of caring for a fragile and completely dependent little one can be daunting. But fear not, as this article will serve as your comprehensive guide to parenting a newborn. From feeding and sleep routines to bonding and safety precautions, we’ll cover all the essential guidelines to help you navigate this beautiful journey with confidence.

Feeding & Nutrition

Feeding your newborn is one of the most crucial aspects of parenting. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, here are some guidelines to ensure your baby receives proper nutrition

Breastfeeding

Establish a comfortable and relaxing environment for breastfeeding.

Follow a feeding schedule based on your baby’s cues (typically every 2–3 hours).

Ensure proper latching to avoid nipple pain and discomfort.

Maintain a well-balanced diet to support milk production.

Consider seeking guidance from a lactation consultant if you encounter difficulties.

Bottle-feeding

Choose an appropriate formula recommended by your pediatrician.

Sterilize bottles and nipples before each use to prevent infections.

Hold your baby at a semi-upright angle during feeding to reduce gas and reflux.

Pay attention to your baby’s hunger cues and avoid overfeeding.

Safe Sleeping Practices

Always place your baby on their back to sleep to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Use a firm and flat mattress in a crib, bassinet, or playpen designed for infants.

Remove any soft bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals from the sleep environment.

Keep the room at a comfortable temperature (between 68–72°F) to prevent overheating.

Never co-sleep with your baby on a soft surface like a couch or armchair.

Sleep Routine

Create a calming bedtime routine with activities like gentle rocking, soft lullabies, or a warm bath.

Put your baby to sleep when they show signs of drowsiness but are not fully asleep.

Be consistent with bedtime and nap times to help establish a routine.

Bonding & Development

Building a strong emotional connection with your newborn is essential for their overall development

Skin-to-Skin Contact

Hold your baby against your bare skin, which promotes bonding and regulates their body temperature.

Skin-to-skin contact can also help with breastfeeding and soothing a fussy baby.

Tummy Time

Encourage tummy time to help your baby develop neck and upper body strength.

Start with short sessions a few times a day and gradually increase the duration.

Communication

Pay attention to your baby’s cues, such as crying, facial expressions, and body movements.

Respond promptly to their needs to build trust and security.

Selfcare & Support

Parenting a newborn can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so it’s crucial to prioritize self-care and seek support:

Self-Care

Take short breaks when possible to recharge and reduce stress.

Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated to ensure your well-being.

Communicate openly with your partner about your needs and feelings.

Support System

Lean on friends and family for assistance, whether it’s with household chores or babysitting.

Consider joining parenting groups or classes to connect with other new parents.

Don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician or a professional if you have concerns about your baby’s health or development.

#family #motherhood #momlife #kids #children #kindergarten

[tao-acupuncture-clinic]

Unlocking the Benefits of Tao Acupuncture in Perth

Welcome to the world of Tao Acupuncture in Perth, where ancient wisdom meets modern healing. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fascinating realm of Tao Acupuncture, shedding light on its origins, principles, and how it can benefit you. Whether you're a newcomer to alternative medicine or a seasoned enthusiast, this article will provide valuable insights into the practice that is changing lives in Perth.

What is Tao Acupuncture?

Tao Acupuncture Perth, rooted in the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism, is a holistic approach to health and well-being. It revolves around the belief that the body has a natural flow of energy, known as Qi (pronounced "chee"), and when this energy is balanced, optimal health is achieved.

The Principles of Tao Acupuncture

Balancing Qi: The core principle of Tao Acupuncture is to balance the body's Qi by stimulating specific acupuncture points.

Meridian Pathways: Practitioners focus on the body's meridian pathways, which are believed to be channels through which Qi flows.

Needle Stimulation: Fine, sterile needles are inserted into acupuncture points to facilitate the flow of Qi.

Holistic Healing: Tao Acupuncture addresses both physical and emotional well-being, acknowledging the mind-body connection.

The Benefits of Tao Acupuncture

Now, let's delve into the incredible benefits that Tao Acupuncture offers to individuals seeking natural healing solutions.

1. Pain Management

Tao Acupuncture is renowned for its effectiveness in alleviating chronic pain conditions, including back pain, migraines, and arthritis. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it promotes the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.

2. Stress Reduction

In our fast-paced world, stress has become a common ailment. Tao Acupuncture aids in reducing stress and anxiety by harmonizing the body's energy flow. Many patients report improved sleep and a greater sense of calm.

3. Enhanced Immunity

By restoring the body's balance, Tao Acupuncture boosts the immune system's response to infections and illnesses. Regular sessions can help you stay healthier year-round.

4. Digestive Health

Digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and acid reflux can be improved with Tao Acupuncture. It addresses underlying imbalances that contribute to these conditions.

5. Fertility Support

Tao Acupuncture has gained popularity as a complementary therapy for couples struggling with infertility. It enhances reproductive health by regulating hormonal imbalances and reducing stress.

Getting Started with Tao Acupuncture in Perth

If you're ready to experience the transformative power of Tao Acupuncture, finding a qualified practitioner is the first step. Look for licensed acupuncturists who specialize in Tao Acupuncture and have a good reputation in Perth Acupuncture.

During your initial consultation, your practitioner will assess your health and discuss your goals. They will then create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

Tao Acupuncture in Perth offers a holistic approach to health and well-being, harnessing the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine. By balancing Qi and addressing the root causes of various health issues, it provides a natural and effective path to healing.

Are you ready to embark on your journey to better health through Tao Acupuncture? Take the first step today and experience the remarkable benefits for yourself.

FAQs

1. Is Tao Acupuncture painful?

No, Tao Acupuncture is generally not painful. Most people report only mild sensations during needle insertion.

2. How many sessions of Tao Acupuncture are needed to see results?

The number of sessions required varies from person to person and depends on the specific condition being treated. Some individuals experience improvement after just a few sessions, while others may need more.

3. Is Tao Acupuncture safe?

When performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner, Tao Acupuncture is considered safe with minimal side effects.

4. Can Tao Acupuncture be combined with other forms of therapy?

Yes, Tao Acupuncture can complement other treatments, including Western medicine, chiropractic care, and massage therapy.

5. How long does a typical Tao Acupuncture session last?

A session typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the treatment plan and the practitioner's recommendations.

In conclusion, Tao Acupuncture Perth offers a path to holistic healing and well-being, addressing a wide range of physical and emotional issues. It's a gentle and effective approach that can improve your quality of life and bring you closer to optimal health.

[amit0707]

5 Reasons You Need to Shift from Regular Water to Azoic Alkaline Water Right Now

In the quest for optimal health and well-being, we often overlook the importance of the water we consume. Water is, after all, the elixir of life, and the quality of the water we drink can make a significant difference in our overall health. In this blog post, we'll explore the compelling reasons why you should make the shift from regular water to Azoic Alkaline Water—the purest alkaline water available.

Understanding Alkaline Water

Before we dive into the reasons, let's clarify what alkaline water is all about. Alkaline water is water with a higher pH level, typically above 7 on the pH scale, which measures acidity and alkalinity. This higher pH makes alkaline water less acidic than regular water, potentially offering unique health benefits.

1: Neutralizing Acidic pH Levels

Our modern diets and lifestyles often lean towards acidity, leading to imbalanced pH levels in our bodies. Azoic Alkaline Water can help counteract this acidity, promoting a more balanced pH, which is crucial for overall health. It's a simple yet powerful step towards a healthier you.

2: Enhanced Hydration

Hydration is key to a well-functioning body. Azoic Alkaline Water may enhance hydration due to its unique properties. Some believe that it can be absorbed more effectively, ensuring you stay adequately hydrated throughout the day.

3: Potential Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants play a vital role in protecting our bodies from harmful free radicals and oxidative stress. Azoic Alkaline Water may have antioxidant properties, offering an extra layer of defense against oxidative damage. This is particularly significant in today's polluted environment.

4: Improved Digestion and Detoxification

Proper digestion and effective detoxification are essential for a healthy body. Azoic Alkaline Water might support these processes, potentially aiding in digestion and helping your body eliminate toxins more efficiently. While research is ongoing, many have reported positive effects.

5: Potential Alleviation of Acid Reflux and Heartburn

Acid reflux and heartburn can be incredibly uncomfortable. Azoic Alkaline Water's less acidic nature might provide relief to those experiencing these issues. It's a natural alternative worth considering for improved comfort.

How to Make the Shift to Azoic Alkaline Water

Now that you're convinced of the benefits, you might wonder how to make the shift. Azoic Alkaline Water is available in various forms, including ionizers, filters, and bottled water. Incorporating it into your daily routine is easy and comes with the potential benefits we've discussed.

Potential Considerations and Precautions

As with any dietary change, it's essential to consider your individual needs and consult with healthcare professionals when necessary. While Azoic Alkaline Water offers promising benefits, it's important to ensure that it aligns with your specific health goals and requirements.

The switch from regular water to Azoic Alkaline Water could be a game-changer for your overall health and well-being. The reasons to make this shift, from neutralizing acidic pH levels to potential antioxidant properties, are compelling. Azoic’s https://azoicwater.com/product/vesi-natural-mineral-water/ is the ultimate source of pure water with alkaline properties to make sure you get all the minerals with it.

[norwestobstetrics]

Pregnancy and Dental Care: Tips for Oral Health

Pregnancy is an incredible journey filled with anticipation, excitement, and a few concerns. While expecting mothers often prioritise their overall health, one aspect that may be overlooked is oral health. Maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy is important for the mother and the baby's well-being. In this article, we will explore essential tips for oral health during pregnancy, why it matters, and the role of a female obstetrician in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Search "female obstetrician near me" online to get better results.

Why Oral Health Matters During Pregnancy

Pregnancy and Dental Health: A Vital Connection

Oral health and pregnancy are more interconnected than you might think. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of oral health issues such as gum disease, cavities, and tooth decay. The hormone surge can make gums more sensitive to plaque, leading to pregnancy gingivitis. Left untreated, this condition can escalate into more severe periodontal diseases, negatively impacting the mother and baby.

The Impact on the Baby

You might wonder, "How does my oral health affect my baby?" Well, the oral bacteria associated with gum disease can enter the bloodstream and potentially reach the developing fetus. This can lead to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues. Therefore, maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is not just about your smile; it's about your baby's health too.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health During Pregnancy

1. Regular Dental Check-Ups

Scheduling regular dental check-ups is crucial during pregnancy. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy so they can tailor their care to your specific needs. Routine cleanings and examinations can help prevent and address any oral health issues early on.

2. Brush and Floss

Maintain a strict oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use a soft-bristle brush. Don't forget to floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. This helps prevent gum disease and cavities.

3. Stay Hydrated

Pregnant women are prone to morning sickness, which can lead to vomiting and acid reflux. The stomach acid can erode tooth enamel. Rinse your mouth with water after vomiting and consider using a fluoride mouthwash with your dentist's approval.

4. A Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet is not only essential for your overall health but also for your oral health. Consume foods rich in calcium, like dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds, to support strong teeth and bones. Avoid excessive sugary snacks and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay.

5. Manage Morning Sickness

If you experience morning sickness, try rinsing your mouth with a mixture of baking soda and water. This can help neutralise stomach acid and protect your teeth from erosion.

6. Consider Dental Treatments

If you have dental issues that need attention, discuss them with your dentist. Some procedures, such as fillings and root canals, can be safely performed during pregnancy to address existing problems.

The Role of a Female Obstetrician

Now that we've discussed the importance of oral health during pregnancy, let's delve into the role of a female obstetrician in ensuring a healthy pregnancy.

1. Holistic Care

A female obstetrician plays a pivotal role in providing holistic care during pregnancy. They consider not only the physical well-being of the expectant mother but also her emotional and psychological health. This comprehensive approach extends to dental health.

2. Collaboration with Dentists

Obstetricians often collaborate with dentists to ensure that the mother's dental health is addressed. They may recommend dental check-ups and treatments as part of the prenatal care plan, recognising the impact of oral health on the overall well-being of both mother and baby.

3. Education and Guidance

Female obstetricians are well-versed in educating expectant mothers about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy. They provide guidance on how to manage oral health challenges that may arise during this time.

4. Monitoring and Prevention

Obstetricians monitor the progress of the pregnancy closely and can identify risk factors that may affect oral health, such as gestational diabetes. Early identification allows for timely interventions and prevention strategies.

Pregnancy is a special time in a woman's life, and taking care of oral health should be an integral part of the journey. Good oral hygiene not only ensures a beautiful smile but also contributes to a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, and effective management of morning sickness are key components of maintaining oral health during pregnancy.

Additionally, the guidance and support of a female obstetrician can make a significant difference in ensuring a smooth and healthy pregnancy. Their holistic approach to prenatal care, collaboration with dental professionals, and focus on education and prevention play a vital role in safeguarding both the mother and the baby.

Prioritising oral health during pregnancy is a win-win situation. By doing so, expectant mothers can welcome their little ones into the world with a radiant smile and the confidence that they've done everything possible to promote a healthy start in life. So, if you're searching for a female obstetrician near you who understands the importance of holistic care during pregnancy, take that important step towards a healthier, happier journey into motherhood. Your smile, and your baby, will thank you for it.

Suite 108 Level 1 Norwest Private Hospital 9 Norbrik Dr Norwest NSW 2153 Australia

[ourmotherthemountainfic]

7. Sorrow

RE8 | Wintersberg | Romance | Action, Sci-Fi

This is the third book in the series. Book One | Book Two

Full Chapter List

Ethan’s Journal

October 2

I learned a lot from Eva this morning.  Like everything I know about Miranda, it was against my will.  Still, this is important information.   

She and Alcina explored the part of the castle, and found a place that Miranda had kept secret.  Well, more accurately, she removed Alcina’s memory of it, the way she removed my memories.  But Alcina’s memories came back slowly just like Donna and Moreau’s.  (And mine, I guess….) 

It’s underground, and there’s a long tunnel that used to connect the room to her lab.  A long time ago, before Alcina even came to the castle to live, Miranda used it as a religious studies library.  Eva said she remembers seeing this in Miranda’s memories but didn’t know where it actually was.  It’s where Miranda stored all of the crystals that she found.  (The Black God demands that I write THAT SHE STOLE, so…) 

Miranda wasn’t only looking into the science of the Mold, she was also digging into the religion–the religion Godric was a part of.  Eva said years of studying those things is how she got it into her head that she should be a religious figure.  Kind of sucks for everybody living in the village that she took that route….

Eva thinks we can use the information though.  I’m not sure about that…but I’m willing to give it a look.  When I mentioned it to Karl this morning he made a grossed out disgusted noise and walked away, so I guess I know how he feels about it.  

Ethan re-read over the journal entry, and realized he had no more focus to give it.  He flipped the cover closed, and glanced over at Eva.  The pair were sitting in the autumn-colored garden, while the sounds of giggling children moved around them, almost ghostlike. Evie had taught Rosemary the “fun” game of “hide and seek”...which in their case, meant disappearing and re-appearing elsewhere.   It made Ethan so stressed that he needed reflux medication.  No one else seemed bothered by it but him. 

The morning had been full of conversation with Eva, and now after breakfast they were attempting to enjoy tea in the garden.  The weather was chilly, but not unbearable, especially with the sun almost directly overhead now.  Ethan scratched his wind-fluffed hair and gazed across the garden, past where the children played.  

“Is there really no way to….capture Karl’s consciousness…like in…another crystal or something?”

Eva’s pale hair brushed past her face as the breeze captured it.  Knowingly, she reached across the old metal patio table and took Ethan’s hand.  Her eyes scanned the mountain range nearby as she spoke.  “With an infected human, yes.  With a corpse even, yes–incredible that the organism could ‘read’ those whose minds were dead.  That is what happened to me, after all.” 

“Like downloading information from a computer that’s off,” Ethan mused, and Eva raised an eyebrow.  

“But Karl already went that route.  When he regenerated after your fight.  The cadou makes everything so hard.  Miranda experimented on many people, and found cadou helped her control what was there and what was not.  It also limits the mold from….” she shrugged.  “Doing what the mold does.  I think she wanted it that way.  She automatically has more power and control than anyone with that implant.  It is extra sad when I consider why she wanted to bring me back to a form where I was so limited, limited far more than she.” 

Ethan’s frown was back.  

—----------------

Ethan entered his room and shrugged out of his pullover; it had heated up considerably in the last hour, and he was actually hot.  When he approached the dresser, he paused at the long mirror, seeing a flicker of blackened eyes. 

There it was in the glass, his creepy reflection, staring back at him with a decidedly sinister smirk.  

Ethan realized that he’d first started appearing like this before he touched the root.  Why was that?  Wasn’t this the manifestation of the Black God inside of him?  He trailed a fingertip over the glass; his hand was creamy, peach-colored skin…the reflections hand was white, chalky, with black fingertips.  

Not me, said an amused voice behind his neck.  His shoulders scrunched up at the cool whisper, and Ethan frowned.  Then…what the hell?

The reflection spoke.  Ethan wasn’t sure if he was hallucinating, or if this was real.  He wasn’t even in the liminal space, he was here, in his room.  Wasn’t he? 

“Your fear,” it said smugly.  

He turned away from the mirror abruptly, picking up the sweater and wringing it in his hands.  Ethan had, admittedly, read and re-read through Ada’s research.  The words from the first paper came back to him readily.  

“....the Mold’s influence can cause behaviors that are erratic, toxic, or even self-harming.  The host is not experiencing mental illness, rather, they are responding to the signals from the parasite to get, and keep, a family close.  This usually leads to behavior patterns that do not match the host’s personality–interviewed infected persons have stated during these ‘crises’ they felt no control over themselves or their desires.”

It wasn’t a possession by an entity that caused his fear…it was his desire to keep his loved ones close.  Turning toxic.  He recalled that Heisenberg had said Miranda changed physically in the same way when she was emotional.  The blond felt sick to his stomach.  He opened a drawer without looking and crammed the shirt in.  The Black God was a tool, a powerful consciousness that humans had worked with for centuries, apparently.  It had nothing to do with his own…darkness?  

Footfalls–loud, stomping ones–sounded outside the door.  They paused.  Karl sauntered in the room, holding something in his hands.  He looked in a far better mood than he had when the religious agenda was mentioned.  

“Hey, beautiful.” 

Ethan couldn’t help but break into a very nervous smile at those words; he turned to face Karl, and planted a kiss on the engineer’s lips.  They were apparently both still full of butterflies from two nights before.  Karl’s shit-eating grin was in full force after the kiss, until he saw how upset Ethan looked, and then he frowned, recognizing the part.   

“What’s wrong?”

“Is that a twin disc clutch kit…?”

Karl rolled the part back and forth in his palms, hefting it gleefully.  Only he would carry this thing around as if it were a baby.  “Yep.  So, on that computer we hooked up….there’s this store.  Well there’s two.  One is in the Amazon, but the other, it’s an auction site in some bay…”

This seemed like the work of Eva.  Ethan waved a hand.  “I shouldn’t have asked.  You’re not gonna spend your entire inheritance on eBay, are you?”

Karl’s eyes were wide, and he was trying to smile.  “Maybe.”  The smile faltered.  “Papa, what’s goin’ on?”  

“I’m just….I.”  How could he reassure someone else, and NOT lie?  Ethan wryly figured that he at least could empathize with Mia in some ways on this front.  He couldn’t bear to lie about anything, and minimizing his own worries seemed like a bad idea.  But to see Karl’s rare good mood crushed didn’t seem like a good option either.  

It didn’t matter, because the blond’s thoughts were interrupted with a crushing pain.  His head hurt, his stomach churned, and tears unexpectedly sprang up in his eyes.  Ethan sensed Karl moving toward him, the clutch kit forgotten, and he was steered onto the bed while the engineer peered, confused, his hands comfortingly on the sides of Ethan’s face.  Stroking his hair.  Karl was talking but Ethan couldn’t understand what he was saying. He felt like a flash grenade had just deployed in front of him–his ears rang, his body wasn’t working properly.  

He also felt more than sensed a congregation happening, a call-some kind of meeting place in the garden.  There was a beacon there.  None of this made any sense to the blond, and the voice in his head was mysteriously silent–it had nothing to do with his possession, or whatever this bond was.  Ethan found his legs and strode away from the bed, and from confused Karl, who stared after him for a moment and then simply followed him down the hallway and out the garden doors.  

Eva, Rose, Eveline were there, and Eva turned toward him with a distraught look across her face.  The same look that was on his face.  

Rather clumsily, Moreau and Donna blinked into view at the edge of the garden, both with the same looks on their face.  Rosemary was wailing, a very rare sound.  Karl surveyed this scene with no understanding whatsoever, the lone mold-less mutant.  

“What in the hell–”

Eva was the only one who seemed to have an answer.  “It’s Dimitrescu, is it not?”

The others slowly nodded in understanding.  Eva stared at Karl.  “I believe she is …gone...somehow?” 

Donna spoke quietly.  "It's as if a piece of my heart is ripped away." 

Ada's researchers would have loved this case study, Ethan mused. 

"The Mold rewards positive behaviors and emotions much like a human brain, and hosts report feeling satisfied when they are with their families or loved ones–even reporting feelings of bliss or euphoria when an entire family network is infected.  In case studies where one member of the family was given a healing serum, removing the mold from their body temporarily, the other family members became combative...They become overprotective, anxious, and feel negative emotions for any threat..."

—-----

Even the Roma who still camped down by the village’s remains seemed to intuit that something was wrong when two vehicles pulled up by the carriage gate, and everyone spilled out.  Ethan had forgotten entirely that workers were beginning to arrive, with rental equipment and piles of supplies to create a new sluice.  Luckily, they were miles away, near the cliffside where the lake had once ended.  

Eva and Donna began speaking to them in their language, explaining what they could of the situation; Ethan watched their eyes widen, and the apprehensive gazes they spared toward the castle.  The Roma had never liked anything about the castle, or its inhabitants, and that sentiment far predated Alcina.  He was actually shocked they wanted to make homes so close to it, but as Maricara had said, they were younger, less superstitious perhaps.  

Superstitious or not, no one wanted to enter the castle.  It was decided that the children would remain behind with Eva, while Alcina’s siblings and Ethan would enter.  He felt strange for not asking Godric what would happen-would Alcina just vanish?  Would she need to be buried, to be absorbed into the Megamycete?  Had he been negligent?  The King’s only words had been, I will help.  Very useful, good job, Ethan griped to himself.  He could almost hear Godric laughing at his sarcasm.  But what if something else had happened?  He didn't put it past Miranda to be behind something like this. 

The same shallow, mirror-like creek was disturbed by many footsteps now, as the group moved up the hill.  It felt similar to trespassing, more than it ever had before.  A definite air of sorrow and death hung over the castle, and Ethan realized he now felt what Dimitrescu had felt when her daughters were gone–never able to return.  Were these real emotions?  Was this the Mold, pantomiming human sorrow?

It was, surprisingly, Karl who turned toward the group.  “I’ll go look.”  

“Are you sure?” Ethan breathed. 

Karl removed his hat, stuffing it into his back pocket.  “This stuff…” his hand gestured.  THIS STUFF? Was he talking about THE MOLD?  Ethan would have been indignant, if he wasn’t nearly hyperventilating pure sorrow at the moment.  “...it’s affectin’ you all more than it is me.”  There was some understanding there…some acknowledgement that Karl was separate.  Different.  He was a human with a cadou.  A mutant.  Not a ....being, from the Mold.  Somehow, by some standard, he was lesser than they.  He wasn't a part of the collective. 

Ethan hated that Heisenberg was so open, so blasé about it, but that was Karl, wasn’t it?  He’d always been open with sharing unpleasant things.  Was always honest. 

Had even shouted a synopsis of why he hated Miranda, and in some ways, himself, across a loudspeaker to Ethan, when the blond was suffering through that stupid factory.  Ethan wondered why he’d felt so scared to bring things up to Heisenberg earlier.  It was his own sensitivity, not the other’s, that held him back.  He couldn't face hard things as well as Heisenberg.  Well, he COULD, but he couldn't talk about them, for some reason. 

As if to punctuate the air of difference between them, Heisenberg turned from the group and entered the castle alone. 

Standing next to the other two siblings, Ethan didn’t quite know what to say.  It was shocking that Donna spoke first.  

“You can feel it, can’t you?  Not just the sorrow, the death.  But something else.  The anger, the fury…?”  

Moreau nodded.  Ethan knew what the fisherman would say next, and he looked away as if to disavow his next words.  

“Miranda….she’s mad.”

#karl heisenberg #ethan winters #wintersberg #heisenwinters

[ourlittledinosaur]

15 Amazing Benefits of Breastfeeding

New Post has been published on http://ourlittledinosaur.com/15-amazing-benefits-of-breastfeeding/

15 Amazing Benefits of Breastfeeding

Note: In this article, many of the hyperlinks will take you to articles that support my research about breastfeeding. Happy reading!

Making Breastfeeding a Reality

Before the birth of my son, it was always my desire to exclusively breastfeed my baby. It never really occurred to me to do it any other way. As it turns out, the more I read and researched, the more pleased I became about this decision.  If you have read about my breastfeeding journey with my son, you know that in the beginning I wasn’t able to make exclusive breastfeeding a reality. However, before my son was three months old, he was exclusively breastfeeding. Praise the Lord!

And despite the fact that for our family in those first three months, breastfeeding was NOT a cheaper than if we had chosen a formula path, my husband, (who is very frugally minded), was still on board with the decision because of all the amazing benefits breastfeeding had to offer both our child and me as well. So…

Some may ask “Why go through all this trouble just to breastfeed when there are other options for feeding a baby in today’s society?”

Here are 15 Amazing Reasons Why I Breastfeed My Baby:

Benefits for the Baby:

1. Colostrum. The first “milk” a new mother produces is a thick, yellowish, almost clear fluid, called Colostrum. Colostrum is also referred to as “liquid gold”. Why? Colostrum is nutrient-packed and contains everything your baby needs in those first few days of life. Colostrum acts similarly to a vaccine in that it works to ward off infections and viruses that your baby may be exposed to. It also helps to prepare your baby’s tummy for the milk that will come in 3-5 days later.

2. Antibodies and Immune Defense. When a baby breastfeeds, that baby not only receives the antibodies his mother has been exposed to over her lifetime, but, due to the adaptive capability of the milk, also receives antibodies for illnesses that he is exposed to. As soon as a baby has been exposed to something, the act of nursing signals an immune response in the mother that produces the right antibodies the baby needs to ward off the illness. How incredible is that!

3. Superior Nutrition. As a baby grows and changes, so does the mother’s milk based on what the baby needs. The combination of vitamins, protein, and fat makes it a superior nutrition. A baby’s growth spurts, where the baby feeds more often, aid in increasing the mother’s milk supply. Breast milk is also said to contain live organisms, which formula cannot duplicate.

4. Pleasant Poop. Yes, you read that correctly. Exclusively breastfed poop is completely water soluble (which is great for cloth diapering or blowouts) and truly doesn’t have an unpleasant odor. Take it from this Mama who used formula as well, formula poop smells awful! Then there’s the fact that breastfed babies may actually poop less often. Due to the nutrient rich content of breast milk, there’s less “waste” as the baby’s body is better able to absorb it as opposed to formula.

5. Better for Reflux. Continuing on the subject of digestion, breastmilk is easier on a baby’s tummy than formula. Babies stomachs are incredibly immature, and those who breastfeed are less likely to have issues with reflux.

6. Developmental Benefits. There are incredible developmental benefits for a breastfeeding baby as well.

Physical development: the act of suckling actually helps to properly form a baby’s mouth and jaw development, which will aid them later in life when they begin eating and speaking. Bottle fed babies are not required to utilize these muscles the same way.

Mental development: According to WebMD, “Breastfeeding has been linked to higher IQ scores in later childhood in some studies.” I’ll take that as a bonus!

Emotional development: breastfed babies are less likely to deal with anxiety and depression when compared to babies who didn’t breastfeed.

7. Easy On-the-Go! There is considerably less preparation when it comes to feeding a breastfed baby, as opposed to feeding with a bottle. You already have your baby’s food wherever you go, and it’s already in the perfect amount and the perfect temperature. I remember back in the formula days, trying to keep all the bottles washes and ready and measuring out formula and water. I wouldn’t say it’s difficult to do, but definitely takes more prep time when you’re needing to leave the house.

8. Special Bond. I believe all babies bond with their mothers, no matter how they are fed. However, there is something to be said for those special moments of closeness, eye contact, and skin to skin comfort and security the baby feels. Not to mention the hilarious things your baby does while nursing as he gets older.

9. Lower Risks Later in Life. Babies who breastfeed are less likely later in life to develop diabetes or struggle with obesity. “It also lowers their risk of having asthma or allergies.”

Benefits for the Mother:

10. Faster Post Partum Healing. Once a baby is born, the act of breastfeeding helps the uterus contract back to a normal size, which promotes faster post partum healing.

11. Decreased Risk for a Lifetime. Studies show that breastfeeding significantly decreases the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

12. Two words: No Period! Who didn’t love being pregnant if only for that one reason? Breastfeeding delays ovulation, and thus menstruation as well. Some couples even use it as a natural birth control method, (though few care providers will recommend it as a sole method).

13. Help Losing Weight. Breastfeeding can help in post partum weight loss efforts as it can burn 400-500 calories a day!

14. Decreased Risk of PP Depression. Breastfeeding releases “feel-good” hormones, which can aid in bonding with your baby. Breastfeeding mothers are also 50% less likely to deal with post partum depression than those who do not.

15. Cheap. Although this wasn’t the case for us at first, generally speaking, there is a cost efficiency for the majority families who are able and choose to go the breastfeeding route.

“So how long should I breastfeed my baby?”

We’ll address this question more fully in another post, but there are definite benefits to breastfeeding your child past the first year of his life. The World Health Organization (WHO) actually recommends that a child be fed breast milk for at least the first 2 years. WHO also encourages mothers who may be struggling with breastfeeding to seek out expert support so that they can learn to successfully breastfeed.

So there you have it! 15 AMAZING reasons to breastfeed your baby!

The truth is that God designed mothers to be able to nourish their children, and despite man’s best effort, no supplement can come close to God’s design.

“From the God of your father who helps you, And by the Almighty who blesses you With blessings of heaven above, Blessings of the deep that lies beneath, Blessings of the breasts and of the womb.” Genesis 49:25

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#Breastfeeding