#judge gift cards 2009 | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

masquerade-at-home · 3 years

Text

2021 Masquerade Awards and Judges

San Diego Comic-Con Category Awards

Graciously awarded by:

Our 2021 Masquerade Judges

Will be selecting a winner for each of the following categories: Best in Show, Judges’ Choice, Best Re-Creation, Best Original Design, Best Workmanship, Most Beautiful, Most Humorous, and Best Group.

All winners receive 2021 Masquerade Winners Medallions and complimentary tickets to San Diego Comic-Con 2022

Frank and Son Award for Most Outstanding Costume

$1,000 Cash Prize

Graciously awarded by:

The Frank & Son Collectible Show, of the City of Industry, California. Frank and Sons is a giant one-stop show for all things collectible at their bi-weekly mini-cons and has supported fan costuming at our conventions with generous cash prizes for many years.

The David C. Copley Award for Most Innovative Costume

$500 in Amazon Gift Cards

Graciously awarded by:

The UCLA David C. Copley Center for The Study of Costume Design, judged and awarded by Copley Center Director Deborah Nadoolman Landis.

The David C. Copley Center serves UCLA TFT students, the university, the international community of historians, filmmakers and professional costume designers. The Center provides a home for the study of costume design history, genre research, costume illustration as an art form, and the influence of costume design on fashion and popular culture.

Costume Designers Guild Spotlight Award

Costume Design Book, a copy of CDG Magazine, and a $100 gift card to Mood Fabrics, the largest online fabric store for designers and anyone who sews.

Graciously awarded by:

The Costume Designers Guild IATSE Local 892, representing Hollywood costume designers, assistant costume designers, and costume illustrators working at the highest levels of expertise in motion pictures, TV, commercials, music videos, and new media.

The CDG is part of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.)

Meet Our 2021 Masquerade Judges

Jennifer May Nickel

Is a Costume Designer for Television and Film. Classically trained in theatre, Jennifer holds an MFA in Costume Design from Carnegie Mellon University and also studied in England at Oxford University (St. Edmund’s College: Myth and Ritual in Theatre). A proud member of the Costume Designers’ Guild Jennifer has won the Elizabeth Schrader Kimberly Costume Design Award, The Cecilia Cohen Award for Excellence in Theatre and The WCDAC Achievement Award

Her Television Costume Design credits include Neflix’s Cabin with Bert Kreischer and Taylor Tomlinson: Quarter-Life Crisis, the CW’s Containment, Fox’s What Just Happened??! with Fred Savage, Syfy’s TV movie Miami Magma, the History Channel’s Legend of the Superstition Mountains, TLC’s TV movie The Secret Santa and Nickelodeon’s The Massively Mixed-Up Middle School Mystery. Jennifer has Costume Designed various CollegeHumor Originals, SMBC Theater’s hit web series Starpocalypse and pilots for E!, Nickelodeon, Relativity TV and CrisisLab.

——————————–

Deborah Nadoolman Landis, PhD

Costume designer, historian and endowed chair at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television Landis is the Founding Director of the David C. Copley Center for Costume Design. Landis received an M.F.A. in costume design from UCLA and a Ph.D. in the history of design from the Royal College of Art, London. Her distinguished career includes Animal House (1978), The Blues Brothers (1980), An American Werewolf in London (1981), Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), Trading Places (1983), The Three Amigos (1987), Coming to America (1988), for which she was nominated for an Academy Award, and the groundbreaking music video Michael Jackson’s Thriller (1983). Now considered ‘classic,’ characters she has designed, like Indiana Jones, have become international cultural icons. Her costume designs are found in the collections of museums including the Smithsonian Museum of American History (Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones), the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame (Michael Jackson’s Thriller) and most recently, the National Museum of African American History and Culture (Coming to America).

A two-term past president of the Costume Designers Guild, Local 892, and a past-Governor of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences (2013-2018), Landis sits on the Board of the National Film Preservation Foundation. She is the author of six books including Dressed: A Century of Hollywood Costume Design, FilmCraft: Costume Design, Hollywood Sketchbook: A Century of Costume Illustration and the catalogue for her landmark exhibition, Hollywood Costume, which she curated at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London in 2012. The exhibition, a celebration of one hundred years of costume design history while showcasing the designers’ contribution and process, open just three months, with an attendance of more than 265,000 visitors, became the most successful exhibition in the long history of that museum. The show then traveled to Melbourne, Australia, Phoenix, Arizona and Los Angeles. Landis is the editor-in-chief of the upcoming three-volume Bloomsbury Encyclopedia of Film and Television Costume Design (2021).

—————————————

Garnet Filo

Is a Costume Designer with more than 40 projects under her belt. Recently she’s Costume Design assisted on several sci-fi series including The Orville and The Mandalorian; further developing her skills by working closely with their Costume Designers. Garnet has always been fascinated by the futuristic and the fantastic and her passion to bring these to life only continues to grow. She is the chairperson for the Costume Designers Guild I.A.T.S.E. local 892 Comic-Con committee.

- - - - - - - - - -

Allan Lavigne

Is a self-taught costumer, make-up special effects artist, sculptor, and [MJ1] painter with 40 years’ experience in costume fabrication Formerly a top costume winner for many years at fan conventions around the USA, including many San Diego Comic-Cons, he brings with him great insight from having honed his costume skills as an on-stage contestant himself. Since then, he has gone on to do work for Disney, Lucasfilm, Sony Pictures, and more. In his Bronze Armory studio, in the San Francisco Bay Area, he creates, lectures, and teaches.

His costume work has been exhibited in museums, at film premieres and at numerous conventions. His current exhibit of screen-accurate motion picture and television costume reproductions “The Batman Armory” is featured at the San Francisco Cartoon Museum, requested by Warner Brothers to promote the new Batman encyclopedia: Batman: The Definitive History of the Dark Knight in Comics, Films and Beyond which Allan was technical advisor for. In a second gallery of the museum, his Wonder Woman costume re-creations accompany the featured exhibit about that character.

- - - - - - - - - -

Gigi “Fast Elk” Bannister (formerly Porter)

has been in the film industry for over 35 years as a SFX Artist, Director, Producer, and actor. Better known for her practical special effects and production work, Gigi is experienced on both sides of the camera. She has appeared in over a dozen films and television shows, and is a popular guest at horror conventions, film festivals, workshops, and seminars. For several years she has donated time at San Diego Comic-Cons to assist Masquerade contestants with their special effects make-up needs.

Gigi is credited as a Producer on Don Coscarelli and David Hartman’s “Phantasm V: Ravager” (2016) and Steve King’s “One For the Road” (2011) (Night Shift Anthology). As a character actor, she appeared in “Bloody Bloody Bible Camp” (2011), “Carnies” (2009), in “Small Town Saturday Night” (2009) (with Chris Pine, and John Hawkes), and again in Don Coscarelli’s “Bubba Ho-Tep” (2002) (Bruce Campbell, Reggie Bannister and Ozzie Davis). She has produced and directed on numerous projects including dozens of live events, fundraisers and seminars, six independent feature films, and six shows for television. More information on Gigi can be found on IMDb.

#comic con@home #Comic-ConAtHome #Comic-ConAtHome2021 #Comic-ConAtHomeMasquerade #SDCC

14 notes · View notes

gameofdrarry · 3 years

Text

Wizards Hearts Smut Recs: BDSM

Wizards Hearts was a four-month-long Drarry reading fest. Players were given a playing deck of 52 tropes, and were asked to find 52 different fics to read and comment on to fill their decks. To prevent the same few fics from being read, fics were restricted to only being used for the game three times before being considered ineligible for further points. The tropes and submissions list can be found here. Players could opt in to an additional suit of 13 cards, all themed around various popular smut tropes.

Check out the masterlist of fics for this trope below the cut!

📜 We Take Care of Each Other by keyflight790 Rated: Explicit Words: 54308 Tags: BDSM, bdsm club, Dom Neville Longbottom, Dom Draco Malfoy, Top Draco Malfoy, Top Neville Longbottom, Bottom Harry Potter, although it might seem like hes a dom at first, Sub Harry Potter, Teddy Lupin makes an appearance, as does Luna and Rolf, but not...sexually, Set in 2009, So Teddy is turning 11, just for context, Draco is the only one who penetrates Harry though, in case you were concerned, but Neville is there.. a lot, Flogging, Rimming, Will tag all of these in chap notes as well, for squicks and such, this is pretty indulgent, For the Writer, learn all of keyflights kinks, by reading this fic, note: every BDSM club is slightly different, so if this isnt your experience, no problemo, but please don't judge the writer on their experiences, and notes and research, More tags to follow, dom/sub dynamics, Safewords, Sex Toys, past trauma discussions, TW: Panic Attacks, Panic Attacks, draco is a bit of a switch, but he doms in this fic, Spanking, Daddy Kink, TW: spousal abuse (Narcissa and Lucius mentioned in chap 10), TW: Breakdowns, daddy Neville Longbottom, Little Theodore Nott, Anal Sex, Praise Kink, Choking, Masturbation, self love, did i mention theres spanking?, theres spanking, harry gets spanked by, Daddy Dom Neville Longbottom, Talks of Death, Suicidal Thoughts, discussions of dying, Harry talks about his canon death and rebirth Summary: Draco has been having panic attacks for years, until his best friend, Pansy, welcomes him into a whole new world. And he thought being a wizard was neat. Being a dom was even better. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 Don't Have to Say the Words by jeni_andtheafterthought Rated: Explicit Words: 2944 Tags: Established Relationship, Auror Harry Potter, Potioneer Draco Malfoy, Domestic, Angst with a Happy Ending, Insecurity, Anxiety, Healer Harry Potter, Smut, Anal Sex, they have a cat, PWP, EWE Summary: Draco is having a hard time separating his own insecurities from the difficulties in his relationship with Harry. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 The Hand That Feeds You by gracerene Rated: Explicit Words: 17381 Tags: Harry Potter, Epilogue Compliant, Non-Linear Narrative, Infidelity, BDSM, Dom/subTotal Power Exchange, Minor Astoria Greengrass/Draco Malfoy, Dom Draco Malfoy, Sub Harry Potter, Collars, Praise Kink, Blow Jobs, Face-Fucking, Hand Jobs, Orgasm Delay/Denial, Subspace, Aftercare, Bondage, Sex Toys, Anal Sex, Bottom Harry Potter, Top Draco Malfoy, Ambiguous/Open Ending, H/D Food Fair 2018, Hand Feeding, Post-Hogwarts, Post-Second War with Voldemort, POV Harry Potter Summary: Harry needs something only Draco can provide. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 Little Prince, Kneel by DragonGirl87 Rated: Explicit Words: 478006 Tags: BDSM, Dom/sub, Dom Harry Potter, Top Harry Potter, Sub Draco Malfoy, Bottom Draco Malfoy, Experienced Harry, Sexual Tension, Slow Burn, Enemies to Friends to Lovers, Head Auror Harry Potter, Lawyer Draco Malfoy, Redeemed Draco Malfoy, Flirting, First Dates, Romantic Harry Potter, Sassy Draco Malfoy, POV Harry Potter, POV Draco Malfoy, Falling In Love, Harry Has Secrets, Not Epilogue Compliant, Harry Potter & Ginny Weasley Friendship, Teddy Lupin was Raised by Harry Potter, Magical BDSM, Rope Bondage, Shibari, Safe Sane and Consensual, Safewords, Shower Sex, Masturbation in Shower, Draco Malfoy Loves Dogs, Good Narcissa Black Malfoy, Sexual Fantasy, Discipline, Non-Sexual Bondage, Punishment, Oral Sex, Anal Sex, Rough Sex, Anal Fingering, Anal Beads, Anal Plug, Riding Crops, Teasing, Dungeon, Orgasm Control, Orgasm Delay/Denial, Multiple Orgasms, Forced Orgasm, BDSM Munch, Master/Pet, Collars, Leashes, Blow Jobs, Hand Jobs, Sex Toys, Improvised Sex Toys, Improved Use Of A Spatula, Protective Harry Potter, Possessive Harry Potter, Spanking, Prostate Massage, Power Play, Praise Kink, Aftercare, Sensation Play, Blindfolds, Subspace, Mild subdrop, Rutting, Wax Play, Angst, Pyrophobia, Draco Malfoy Speaks French, Harry Potter Speaks French Summary: Almost immediately after the war, Harry Potter took his godson and Andromeda and left England behind. He returned five, nearly six, years later; changed, healed, and a very different man altogether. Now an extremely handsome bachelor in his late twenties, and with a promising career at the Ministry, he suddenly finds his life turned upside down after unexpectedly bumping into his former school nemesis, Draco Malfoy, Prosecutor Extraordinaire. Is Harry going to be able to stay away from Draco? Does he even want to? And exactly how will Draco react once he discovers how the Saviour prefers to spend his free time? ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 Misguided at Best by agentmoppet Rated: Explicit Words: 3011 Tags: Bondage, BDSM, POV Draco Malfoy, Dom/sub, Sub Harry, Dom Draco Summary: Draco has grown bored of the aristocratic fetish clubs, and decides to try something new. But he never would have expected to find Harry Potter, disguised and on his knees, waiting for him. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 The Gift by magpie_fngrl Rated: Explicit Words: 26069 Tags: Writer Draco Malfoy, Voyeurism, Sharing, Dildos, Blindfolds, Internalized Homophobia, Homophobic Language, Captive Prince Darker Themes: please see chapter notes, Bondage, Discipline, Sensation Play, Semi-Public Sex, Past Harry Potter/Ginny Weasley, Lack of aftercare in one instance, Explicit Sexual Content Summary: "‘You’ll give me an hour of your time and I’ll take your thoughts and your worries. You’ll let me take control; dictate your actions. One hour where you’ll blindly obey me—in return for… distraction. ’"Or, in which Draco is a writer struggling with his first novel, Harry is worried about something he won't reveal, and they both try to figure out how to put their tangled past behind them and move on. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 Sweet Little Distractions by krystalliumm Rated: Explicit Words: 3103 Tags: Gay, Gay Sex, Hogwarts Eighth Year, Bottom Draco Malfoy, Top Harry Potter, Kinky, Established Relationship, Boyfriends, Rimming, Anal FingeringPlot What Plot/Porn Without Plot, Dom/sub Undertones, Light Bondage, Fluff and Smut, that's literally all that this is, Don't Judge Me, Dorks in Love, AAAAAAi'm a simp for these two, just read it omfg, Light BDSM, Smut, Fluff, Soft Harry Potter, Soft Draco Malfoy, Hogwarts Era, Banter Summary: Draco thinks studying for his NEWTs was the worst—it's tiring, stressful, and exhausting. Luckily, Harry's there to be his sweet little distraction. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 A Man Like Him by darkestbliss Rated: Explicit Words: 60132 Tags: Post-Hogwarts, Harry Potter Epilogue What Epilogue | EWE, Enemies to Friends to Lovers, Romance, Slow Burn, BDSM, Loss of Virginity, Virgin Draco Malfoy, Bottom Draco Malfoy, Sub Draco Malfoy, Experienced Harry Potter, Top Harry Potter, Dom Harry Potter, Anal Fingering, Anal SexRimming, Contracts, Impact Play, Flogging, Whipping, Suspension, Wax Play, Safewords, Biting, Oral Sex, Orgasm Denial, Subspace, Aftercare, Safe Sane and Consensual, Drinking, Smoking, Breathplay, Boggarts, References to ABBA, NSFW Art, Falling In Love, Porn With Plot, Harry/Draco Big Bang 2018, Community: harrydracobang Summary: Draco Malfoy has made a name for himself after the War as 'the wizarding world's best interior architectural designer' (his words), taking old, decrepit spaces and transforming them into exquisite homes for those who can afford the hefty price tag. His most recent assignment is number twelve, Grimmauld Place, which has only deteriorated more in condition since the elusive Harry Potter inherited it after Sirius Black's death. When he stumbles upon a collection of questionable items in one of Potter's wardrobes, he finds himself appalled, shocked, distraught, and just a little bit turned on. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 Scars and Lions by kizkhalifa Rated: Explicit Words: 10411 Tags: EWE, Light Bondage, Teasing Summary: The one in which Harry Potter orders a "call guy" for dinner (+fun) and Draco Malfoy shows up. ❤️ Read on AO3

📜 Aftershocks by Lokifan Rated: Explicit Words: 1447 Tags: Fingerfucking, Anal Fingering, Bottom Draco, Sub Draco, Light Dom/sub, Dom Harry, Top Harry Potter, Fluff and Smut, Plot What Plot/Porn Without Plot, Established Relationship, Risk Aware Consensual Kink, Dirty Talk, fluffy kinkfic, Harry Potter is the soppiest dom of all Summary: Harry’s favourite time to finger Draco is right after sex. ❤️ Read on AO3

#drarry #drarry recs #game of drarry #wizards hearts #wh masterlist

11 notes · View notes

iplaymatchmaker · 3 years

Note

Hi there, me again, if I read the rules correctlyyou said we could do a separate ask for a separate game. If I read incorrectlyplease just ignore this, if not if my first ask wasn't to much I'd love to ask for an ikerev matchup as well! I'm bi, female (she/her) sagittarius sun, virgo rising, libra moon, ENFT. I'm 5'2, chubby/curvy w/ great boobs, I have longer brunette hair w/ peekaboo highlights (they've been every color, but currently pink), brown eyes, glasses/contacts, 7 piercings & 26 tattoos. I'm very empathetic (sometimes to a fault) and have sever anxiety and depression. It takes me awhile to warm up around new people and be myself. I often feel intimidated in big social settings, such as parties, and often use alcohol for some liquid courage to help me let loose and be me in those situations. I've suffered some emotional and mental abuse at the hands of a step parent which has left me with some trauma and triggers; people raising their voice at me or making quick movements toward me or in my direction usually result in me crying and secluding myself for awhile. Oh and I have daddy issues, thanks absent father. That said I also don't do great with authority, I hate being told what to do, and I hate being told no. I can put up with a lot of shit, but eventually it usually becomes a 'straw that broke the camels back' situation and I fly off the handle and then break down. I am also extremely generous and do all I can to help my friends and family when they need it. I have some self confidence issues from weight gain, and I usually feel my best when I'm dolled up with my makeup on and hair done, usually with a dress and heels. I'm a Ravenclaw thats hates to read, but I love learning & know tons of trivia; like I know so many random facts about so many things from history, to movies, to graveyards, and much more. I often correct people on things, which some perceive as me belittling them, but its never my intention I'm just trying to share my knowledge and trying to help them. I am very creative I love crafting; resin art, macrame, cross stich, those are just some of my favorite things to do art wise, I also enjoy coloring books. I love to laugh and think I'm pretty funny, I usually have a dark sense of humor, if you don't like humor we won't vibe together, and if you can't make me laugh we will not be a good relationship match. I like to go to the bar and do karaoke, it's one thing I've learned I'mvery good at. It took me about 2 years, but I've since learned to be confident with my singing and now its one of my favorite things to do. I drink, obviously, gin and tonic is my favorite. I also smoke, I love my hookah, and I've had my medical card for about a year and it's done wonders for my insomnia and cramps. For about 2 years I've been getting severe cramps and stomach pains, and after 5 er trips in a month they didn't find anything, its still a mystery but at least the bud helps the pain. l'm very into the witchy aesthetic; my style is either very Stevie Nicks, pinup, or 2009 emo/scene depending on the day. I collect animal skulls and bone, taxidermy, crystals, and plants; I also practice the craft & love to make spell jars for people. I love tarot and really enjoy doing it. I live for Halloween & enjoy all things macabre! My favorite show is That 70's Show and if I could live in a replica of the Forman's house that would be my dream. I am also very sex positive and rather adventurous in bed. I'm a brat and a voyeur, I'll get down with just about anything. My love language is giving and receiving gifts. I put alot of thought into holidays like Christmas, I plan months in advance to make sure I get everyone the perfect gift; but I also will sometimes see something that just reminds me of someone and have to get it for them. That is all I can think of right now to add about myself. I'd love 4 and/or 10 for the prompt part. And again thank you for doing these, I'm such a ho for them, and again I'm sorry its long.

I match you with

Edgar!

Thank you so much for requesting 🥰🥰! I’m sorry this took so long, but here it is! I hope you enjoy it ❤️! I Hope you don’t mind the sprinkle of angst in the second ask.😅

I was thinking Ray at first, but I ended up going with Mr smooth, since Ray is too predictable after Nap.

Edgar is known among the red army officers as the person who will make you feel safe, especially during your first encounters with them, before you find out they’re all dorks. What he doesn’t expect is how at home he feels when the two of you are together. He never feels like he’s being judged when he’s around you and he lets himself go, despite the indoctrination by Claudius that he should always keep people at a distance to avoid being viewed as weak.

Not long after the two of you met, he decides to take you out along with Kyle for a drink, to help you get more accustomed to Cradle and its people. When you realize how much Kyle loves to drink, you follow suite, the two of you very quickly getting tipsy. Edgar laughs at the two of you for a bit, happy to see a new side of you as you allow yourself to grow more comfortable with them. Eventually he leads the two of you outside of the pub and arranges for a carriage to take you all back to headquarters, trying his hardest to tame the both of you.

He absolutely loves it when you sing to him, especially after a particularly hard day of work. He relaxes at the sound of your voice, often drifting off. It touches him more than he would like to admit when he finds you’re still there when he wakes up.

You are a light in his life and he wants to give back in kind, often dedicating his days off entirely to you. He loves giving you gifts, or surprising you with a romantic dinner to show his appreciation to you, for being there and understanding him.

While he doesn’t have the creativity to participate in most of your hobbies, he loves to watch you do it. The amount of passion you show for your art, the way your eyes light up when you’re working, is a picture perfect moment that he could look at for hours.

Prompt 4: Meet cute:

You couldn’t stop fidgeting as you stood outside the Red Army Headquarters, waiting for Kyle to fetch someone to help you. After you told him about burglars breaking into your house he insisted he get one of the officers to help you, despite you doubts. It was hard not to worry as you considered the prospect of having to turn to Jonah for help, knowing how hard he could be to communicate with, capable officer or not.

When Kyle finally emerged, it wasn’t Jonah walking next to him, but a man you didn’t recognize.

“Sorry for the wait. He’s not easy to find.” The man stood a few heads higher than you but his softer features and aura helped to make him quite welcoming. You begun to relax at his presence, wondering if he was as smooth as he seemed.

“Edgar Bright, at your service.” He offered you a gloved hand, a soft smile playing on his lips. His grip was soft but secure. He was smooth.

“Kyle filled me on the details but I’ll need a statement from you as well.” You tensed up, the idea of an interrogation being especially daunting considering you didn’t know much more than they did.

“No need to worry, it’s simply protocol. You can trust we will find whoever did this without any turbulence.” There was something very reassuring about him. Something that makes you think everything will be all right.

“Thank you.”

The two of you left Kyle behind, retreating to Edar’s room to discuss the details of the investigation. After he poured two cups of tea he took the seat opposite you, as if the two of you were about to chat about the weather.

“Could you give me the details of what happened? It would be very helpful to hear it straight from the source.” You took a sip before starting with your statement, hoping to calm your nerves.

“I don’t know much more than you do. I was out for work most of the day and when I came back the place was a mess and many valuables were missing.” he seemed to have switched to work mode, completely focused on you.

“What time did you leave for work that day? And when did you return” he scribbled down on a piece of paper, his hand practically moving on its own.

“I left around 8 and came back around 6, I think.” When he put the pen down his attitude returned to relaxed gentleman status.

“I will start with asking the people who might have been present at the scene. I’ll get back to you once I’ve made some progress.” The conversation was over but you found it hard to leave. It didn’t feel right letting one man do the investigation on his own, despite it being his job. It was your house that had been rambled after all.

“I want to help as well. I know my way around the area, I can get in touch with some people.” His eyes widened, seemingly taken aback for the first time that day. He quickly composed himself, smiling again. You noticed something different about it now. Something in his expression told you he was more interested than before.

“I wouldn’t say no to a lady.” You smiled for the first time after the incident.

“Let’s get going then.”

Prompt 10: Admission Of Feelings.

You continued working on the investigation for the next few weeks, the two of you growing closer by the day.

“There don’t seem to be any witnesses, but it’s unlikely no one was present. The break in happened in the middle of the day.” He rested his head on his chin, not touching the parfait sitting in front of him.

“Maybe they were there but didn’t notice anything. It’s not hard for a professional to pick a lock discreetly.” They two of you sat in silence for some time, both lost in your own theories of what happened that day.

He must have realized your worries, turning on his comfort face.

“We’ll find them. Don’t worry.” Usually you found his words comforting, but you couldn’t keep the frustration from your voice when you looked up at him.

“Realistically speaking, it’s probably not going to happen. They made a clean escape and left nothing behind. You don’t need to baby me, I can put two and two together.” Despite the harshness of your tone, you found him smiling, after the initial surprise wore off.

“You never cease to amaze me.” He opened his mouth to say something, but the words never left him, his eyes turning to the window. He was up and out of the café before you could ask what he had seen.

“What the-“when you looked in the direction of the culprit, you shot up, following after him.

A man stood outside your door, seemingly fighting with the door. When he noticed the two of you approaching him, he dropped his bags, taking off before you could reach him.

“Stop!” Edgar run after him, his speed taking you by surprise, making it hard to catch up.

The man took a sudden turn, heading towards the narrow alleys of Central Quarter, giving you an important disadvantage in the chase.

Your legs ached and your heart was threatening to burst out of your chest. When you thought you couldn’t keep going, you rounded a corner to find Edgar, sitting on top of the man, pinning him in place. If he was tired from the chase, it didn’t show.

“I suppose I don’t need to ask if it was you who broke in a few weeks ago?” his gaze was cold and his grip was tight on the man’s shoulders.

“I- I just- I-it wasn’t me!” Edgar ignored him, turning towards you. Something flickered in his eyes, but loud footsteps coming your way didn’t let him act on whatever it was.

“The Jack? Sir, what happened? We heard the commotion and came to investigate.” A handful of Red Army soldiers stood in front of you, their eyes switching between Edgar and the man under him.

“Take this man back to headquarters. I will interrogate him later.” Edgar pulled the man up, pinning his hands behind his back.

“Yes sir!” when the men led the thief away there was silence. Edgar’ kept his head low, not looking you in the eye as he tried to calm his breathing, the adrenaline of the chase slowly fading away. You knew you should be happy the man had been caught, but something was wrong in the atmosphere. You weren’t sure if you should speak up, or let him ride whatever it was out. He didn’t give you time to think on it, finally walking toward you. His hands were shaking when he reached out to touch your shoulders, a mixture of frustration and worry in his eyes.

“You…. Why…” you weren’t sure what to say, so you put your arms around him instead, hoping it would offer him some comfort. You stayed like that for some time, until his hands stopped shaking.

“I didn’t want you to see me like this.” His words were muffled by the fabric of your shirt. When he lifted his head again, something inside him seemed to snap.

“You shouldn’t have followed me. What if something happened? You could have gotten hurt.” He looked away, his eyes shut tight. You wondered what image was going through his head to cause him so much pain. You cupped his face, forcing him to face you.

“Edgar, look at me.” And he did. The sight of you seemed to calm him down.

“Nothing’s going to happen to me. I’m right here.” It took some time for the words to register, but when they did his face moved closer to you. You encouraged him, pulling him closer, your lips connected in a brief kiss. When he pulled away he took a step back, as if scared he had hurt you.

“I-I’m sorry.” You moved closer, smiling up at him.

“There’s nothing to apologize for. Except maybe pulling away.” You laughed. When he realized you might feel the same way he took your hands in his.

“You’re an amazing woman.” He paused to gather his breath before meeting your gaze again.

“If the thought wouldn’t be appalling, could I see more of you, outside of work?” you couldn’t keep the laughter inside.

“Appalling? Edgar, do you think I would kiss someone I find appalling?” you pulled him back in, hoping to get your point across.

“I’ll never get enough of this.” His smile was brighter than you’d ever seen it.

“I’ll hold you to that. Because we’re just getting started.” The moon was bright above you as you laughed, your happiness overflowing.

#ikerev #ikerev edgar #ikerev matchups

9 notes · View notes

mtg-cards-hourly · 2 years

Photo

Stifle

Artist: Eric Fortune TCG Player Link Scryfall Link EDHREC Link

#mtg #magic the gathering #tcg #eric fortune #stifle #judge gift cards 2009 #instant

12 notes · View notes

dramioneasks · 5 years

Text

HP FESTS: Strictly Dramione (Part 5)

Strictly Dramione's Valentines Day Smut Fest 2019:

The Love Letters of Her Life by SlytherinHermione - T, one-shot - The one truth about life is death, the true meaning of life is love...Hermione reads the love letters that Draco had given her for Valentine's Day throughout the years.

Be Mine, Hermione. by monsterleadmehome - E, one-shot - It's Valentine's Day and Hermione has been receiving mysterious paper hearts from a secret admirer for a week. She has no clue who the culprit could be, but he seems to know her better than almost anyone. He ends each note with "Be mine, Hermione."

XXXXII, or: The Answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything. by TheLastLynx - E, one-shot - Hermione is incensed by sexist advice shared at work, but Draco makes her feel better - many times. A delicious battle of the sexes. Written for the SD Valentine's Fest.

Soaked by Stargazing121 - M, one-shot - She tripped. She’d been tripping all week and always when he was around to catch her. It hit him like a bludger to the head. “Granger," Draco said, "have you been hitting on me? Literally.”

Virtue and Vice by ravenslight - E, one-shot - Hermione Granger is going to seduce Draco Malfoy, but she needs the help of her old school uniform and a poorly-laid plan to do so. If the Slytherins wanted a show, then a show they would get. Written for Strictly Dramione's Valentine's Day Smut Fest. Prompt #111: Go to Yale.

Meeting Mr. Malfoy by gracediamondsfear - E, one-shot - Hermione Granger is an archivist at Malfoy Magical Pharmaceuticals and she's long harbored a crush for her boss' boss...Draco Malfoy. However, given that she's only spoken to him three times, she's worried that it may all be for naught. A helpful suggestion from an issue of Witch Weekly gives her an idea: Polish up on introductions, learn to do them gracefully. But when will she get the opportunity? Thankfully a broken down lift intervenes to save the day.

Tuesday - Men Don't Like a Sick Woman by EmeraldEyedDreamer - E, one-shot - A/N: Prompt 55: Take care of your health. Men don't like a sick woman.

Desperately by LadyKenz347 - not rated, one-shot - When Hermione finds her self signed up for the Ministry's Hiking Club Valentine Retreat, she knows there are two things to blame. Ginny Potter & Witch Weekly's Valentine Edition, showcasing 129 Ways To Land Yourself A Husband.When Ginny and Harry don't show for the hike, Hermione is left to her clumsy amblings with her hiking partner, Draco Malfoy.For Strictly Dramione's Valentine SmutFest 2019.

One of the Boys by CourtingInsanity - E, one-shot - An outdated magazine article, unresolved sexual tension between two co-workers, and it's the day before Valentine's Day... Enjoy!

Worth It by StormageddonDarkLadyOfAll - E, one-shot - Hermione has been summoned to Lucius Malfoy to discuss her role in Draco's life now the two are engaged. When Hermione is faced with blackmail, will she choose to walk away from Draco or will she decide that Draco, and the life they couold have together, is worth it? Written for the Strictly Dramione 2019 SmutFest.

Asking for Advice? by DietCokeofEvil - M, one-shot - Hermione has a crush on Draco and can't figure out how to let him know. Enter Molly Weasley and her sneaky placement of the "129 ways to find a husband" and nervy friend Theo prodding her to try out one of the suggestions...

Ensnaring The Boarder by WasserMama - M, one-shot - Hermione is unhappy with her love life. Molly Weasley has recruited her to help with a project. When the two coincide, things heat up.

The Portkey by SparkleDreams_78 - M, one-shot - Minister for Magic, Hermione Granger, lives a private life. Draco Malfoy returns to Britain, years after leaving her in the dead of night with no word and seeks her out. A surprise from Hermione, a helping hand from their friends and a magazine article inspires Draco to give Hermione a Valentine's Day surprise of her own. Can she trust him not to break her heart again?

Hanky Panky by BoredRavenvlaw620 - M, one-shot - Tip 38 said, 'Dropping the Handkerchief still works.' Hermione Granger learns a lesson in coquettery from none other than Draco Malfoy.

Will You Stay? by articcat621 - E, one-shot - Hermione finally takes Draco to meet her parents.

Forever Dilating Eye by greenaleydis - E, one-shot - Draco should have known better than to get involved with one of Granger's notorious experiments for the Department of Mysteries. In any case, he'd never view portkeys the same way. Written for Strictly Dramione's Valentines Smut Fest.

Gifts from a secret admirer by DragonFireWitch - M, one-shot - Hermione has been buying gifts and with Valentines Day around the corner, she's hoping her efforts have paid off.

Flight of the Wingwoman by Mamapotterhead2492 - E, one-shot - Hermione is trying to woo Draco using 129 tips how to get a husband from an 1958 issue of Witch Weekly. #24: Don't be afraid to hang around more attractive girls, they are sure to have leftovers.

The Reunion by crochetaway - E, one-shot- Hermione Granger has been thirsting after Draco Malfoy for at least a year. She has been trying to woo him, using some not-so-great techniques from an old 1950's version of Witch Weekly. Technique number 23 appears to be the one that finally works for her.

Calvin & Hobbes by Kyonomiko - M, one-shot - Draco has just about had enough of Hermione Granger. Always lurking, watching... probably judging. But the jokes at his expense? Well, now he intends to put an end to whatever game she's playing.

What's Your Poison? by Sonomia - M, one-shot - Hermione is fed up with Draco and his constant aggravating - what will she do to finally make him quit? What lengths will she go to to find peace?

A Purity of Brokenness by Gryff_inTheGame - E, one-shot - The sun is slowly coming to rise and his world is beginning to end. The fresh roses he had delivered this morning are blooming but his soul wants to wither and fade. He still has Valentine's Day to make it up to her. He still has time, doesn't he? The thought lingers longer than it should.

Love Shot by captainmalfoy - E, one-shot - The anniversary edition of Witch Weekly is out, and Hermione has to choose from one of the 129 tips they suggest to find a man thanks to peer pressure from her friends. She decides on Number 50 - Practice your drinking with your women friends first. Seems harmless, until she gets to the club and comes face to face with Draco Malfoy.

A Proper Seduction by tofadeawayagain - E, one-shot - Hermione Granger has been giving her boyfriend, Draco Malfoy, all of the signals that she wants to take their relationship a step further. He doesn't seem to want to, and she's getting impatient. Can some tips from an old issue of Witch Weekly help her seduce him? Written for the Strictly Dramione Valentine's Day Smut Fest 2019. Prompt: Tip #78 - Give his mother a birthday card.

A Surprising Valentine Date by LunaRavenclaw9 - E, one-shot - Hermione should know better than to strike a bet with a Weasley, especially when it concerns asking out one Draco Lucius Malfoy. Hermione may realize she could really enjoy losing for once.

Ferris Wheel Mile High Club by ruthy4vrsmoaked - E, one-shot - Hermione bribes the Ferris Wheel Operator for a special ride on the London Eye. She wanted a very special Valentine's Day...

A Good Kind of Madness by Rosella_Burgundy - E, one-shot - After Hermione confesses that she has a soft spot for a certain coworker, Ginny helps her catching him in the Quidditch changing room.***In a cascade of burgundy hair, Ginny slumped down on the sofa and without thinking twice, opened the issue at a precise page. “Here. One hundred and twenty nine tips on how to find a husband. The most popular article in Witch Weekly history. Dated 1958. So, some of them might be a little sexist, hilarious, or archaic, but it's worth a shot. Against a Malfoy, we need heavy weaponry and old fashioned witchy tricks.”***

Intoxicated By You by TheMourningMadam - E, one-shot - Hermione Granger never expected to be bent over the bar where she served dozens of patrons daily, only to be shagged mercilessly by the blond-haired git she had avoided for so long. But with a little push from an archaic magazine article and her two friends, this is precisely what happens. Based on the Prompt: Ask your friends' husbands who the eligible men are in their offices.

Lucky Number Eleven by fandomfairytales - E, one-shot - Hermione sets out to woo Draco, deciding to use some of the 129 tips on how to find a husband as printed in an old edition of Witch Weekly from 1958. Needless to say, the suggestions are sexist, archaic, and downright hilarious.

No name, no address by MicekMucek - E, one-shot - Hermione makes a list on her 31st birthday of things she wants to accomplish in the next year, including trying to seduce her two-year crush, Draco, by Valentine's Day. But, is her chosen method ever going to work?

Truth and Dare by Lilian_Silver - E, one-shot - February 13th, 2009. Pansy Parkinson is hosting a Galentine's Day party filled with familiar faces from Hogwarts, far too much alcohol, and an advanced version of the classic "truth or dare" - Hermione's dare leads her to outcomes she never would have predicted in her wildest dreams... except that that was just a common turn of phrase... she'd actually been dreaming of such outcomes for quite some time.

The Fairlane Affair by grace_lou_freebush - E, one-shot - It's Valentine's Day, and Hermione is stuck at work for the Misuse of Magic Department when she gets a memo to report to Muggle London with Obliviator Draco Malfoy. While driving down a dark alley "short-cut," their 1950s Ford Fairlane car breaks down. Written for the Strictly Dramione's Valentine's Day Smut Fest 2019!

Juror Six by Frumpologist - M, one-shot - Hermione has tried everything to get Draco to notice her. Finally, she decides to encroach on his place of employment to catch attention.

A Valentine's Business Conference by noxsoulmate - M, one-shot - 129 crazy tips in an old issue of Witch Weekly - and Hermione had to pick this one. # 27: Get a part-time job in a convention bureau. It was stupid and irrational and did she already mention crazy? Never, ever would it help her get Draco’s attention, let alone have him fall for her. So how exactly did she end up here, at Draco Malfoy’s Valentine’s Ball. And as his date, nonetheless?

We’ll Always Have Paris… and Venice, and Moscow, and Amsterdam, and Perth, and Hong Kong, and New York, and Madrid by LovesBitca8 - E, one-shot - Witch Weekly's "129 Ways to Woo Your Wizard" has some pretty outlandish suggestions. But Hermione is determined to woo her recently divorced co-worker. Even if she has to drag him to a different continent.

Valentine's kNight Surprises by PotionChemist - M, one-shot - Since her breakup with Ron Weasley, Hermione has a rather strange Valentine's Night tradition... After drinking too much, she ends up on the Knight Bus and encounters our favorite blonde Slytherin. Hermione decides to follow an outdated tip from a Witch Weekly article on how to find a husband... #22 “On a plane, train or bus, don’t sit next to a woman. Sit next to a man.”

Kink Inside the Box by IRisEaGLeS - M, one-shot - Girl's Tea is time for the girls to get together and talk. And do they ever talk. Gossip turned to sex, as expected. So when Valentine's Day comes around, Hermione comes up with a group plan 'How to Woo a Wizard for the Modern Witch' dated 1958. Each lady gets a way to woo their wizard and Hermione's is 'Carry in a Hatbox'. What is in the hatbox will make Draco Malfoy shiver and it isn't always good.

Exposure by BiscuitsForPotter - E, one-shot - Hermione has been attracted for her best friend for years. Draco Malfoy, now a famous photographer, is absolutely gorgeous and completely oblivious. Hermione wants to make him realize how she feels about him, but she'll have to step out of her comfort zone to get there.

Innocent? by Snowflake_Dazzle - E, one-shot - Hermione is shown an old copy of Witch Weekly with 129 tips on how to get a husband. Pansy challenges her to attempt number 101: Remain Innocent but not Ignorant. Valentine's Day sounds like a great time to try, right?

Perfect Punishment by Art3misiA - M, one-shot - Hermione and Draco have hit a bump in the road, thanks to the untimely end of Pansy's budding romance. While attempting to find a way to help Pansy move forward and so allow her and Draco to pick up where they left off, Hermione unexpectedly finds inspiration in an edition of Witch Weekly from 1958.

How To Seduce Draco by LittleTrooper99 - M, one-shot - Hermione seduces Draco using a prompt she read in an old magazine. Don't let him know how much your clothes cost

Ride by Smile4meDraco - E, one-shot - There are 129 ways for one to snag a husband, or so they say. Hermione doesn't care to test that theory, but when Draco Malfoy persuades her to participate for Valentine's day will she become a firm believer?

Of Masks and Taxes by perilous_circumstance - E, one-shot - Hermione is sick of Draco being so damn polite.

Christmas Fest 2019:

Land of Ice and Snow by fandomfairytales - not rated, WIP - It's a well-known fact Hermione Granger loves her husband more than anything. When a Christmas miracle provides an opportunity to right a few wrongs in his past, she finds herself faced with numerous difficult choices and a young Draco Malfoy fast approaching a moment that if he survives, will change the entire course of his life for the better.

In the Blink of an Eye by PotionChemist - T, one-shot - Sometimes, things just happen in the blink of an eye.Christmas Eve, during Deathly Hallows.

The Alpha, The Omega and a Christmas tree too by weestarmeggie - E, one-shot - “I already know she’s cursed him three times this week. Apparently he’s made more than one comment about how he can smell that she’s about to go into heat.” Draco’s glass shattered beneath his grip and Ginny hummed quietly into her cranberry juice. “I knew she hadn’t told you.”OrDraco and Hermione attend the Annual Ministry Christmas Gala hours before her heat strikes.

Singing Sweetly Through the Night by TheMourningMadam - M, one-shot - “No one should be alone at Christmas, least of all you. You’re a good father, no matter what happened between us.”

All I Want for Christmas by VirgoDraconis - M, one-shot - Draco and Hermione have already had their first chance at marriage. One is a widower, the other divorced. Now they are older and wiser. Will they take a second chance on love?

Party Lines by PacificRimbaud - E, one-shot - As the dust settles in the 2000 United States Presidential election, Ivy League student Hermione Granger goes to three different parties, in an effort to think about something- anything- other than the state of Florida.So does that argumentative trust fund prick, Draco Malfoy.A non-magical AU all about enemies who...aren't.

Christmas Darlings by ViolaMoon - T, one-shot - Christmas is Draco's favourite time of year and the Christmas Eve ball for his charity Narcissa's Darlings is the perfect opportunity for him to make his move and give back to others.

Cracking Christmas by DrunkOnAmortentia - T, one-shot - Hermione tries to get Draco in the holiday spirit, but he’s perplexed by her Muggle Christmas traditions.

Christmas Gifts by scullymurphy - M, one-shot - Hermione snapped to attention, “Hullo, Malfoy, I believe I had this first,” she said sweetly, but with steel in her tone, tugging the book toward her as they both lifted it off the shelf.He didn’t let go.“Ahh, Granger,” he replied. “I think I actually cadged it by a half second.” This said with a raised eyebrow and slight dip of his chin.Hermione tightened her grip, bracing herself against such weapons as charm and rakish eyebrows, but damn he was gorgeous. He’d certainly changed from the pale, pointed bully of their school days. He was now tall, elegant - described in the gossip rags as ‘the dashing former death-eater’. And she didn’t know if it was privilege, perfect bone structure, or always having the best of everything - but he had a je nais se quoi that made her want to look at him.“Granger?”She gave herself a mental shake, “Em, that tactic might work on the witches you mix with, Malfoy, but I’m quite certain that I was here first. And I need this book to finish my Christmas list. It goes home with me.” She tugged the book, and him, toward her.His eyebrows went up again, but he didn’t relinquish his grip. In fact, her pulled her closer.

A Christmas Surprise by Snowflake_Dazzle - T, one-shot - Draco leaves for an Auror mission right before Christmas and the birth of their first child. Guess what Draco's getting for Christmas.

Staring At Your Face by HollyBrianne - G, one-shot - Draco's second Christmas at the Burrow goes much better than his first.

For The Girl Who Is Everything by EscapingArtist - G, one-shot - It's Christmas, and Draco is faced with a nearly impossible task...what do you get for the girl who is everything to you?

Christmas in The Coatroom by gracediamondsfear - E, one-shot - By request, the continuing story of Mr. M and Kitten.Draco hates the Ministry Christmas Party but attendance is mandatory. However, this yearnsome interesting news about Hermione Granger has finally put him in the holiday spirit. Rated E for completely unnecessary filth.

Milk Stains by Guardian_Kysra - M, one-shot - Hermione and Draco are new parents and neither of them is coping very well for very different reasons.

Chicken Soup for the Witches Soul by HufflepuffMommy - not rated, one-shot - Hermione is sad on Christmas and Draco tries to make her feel better with her mums chicken soup.

Mince Pies and Other Delights by TheImperfectionista - G, one-shot - Twas the night before Christmas and all Draco wanted was to ignore the holidays was happening. If only the world would stop reminding him of the joys during this festive time.

Draco's Gift by TriDogMom - M, one-shot - Draco gives Hermione a gift because of an instructional YouTube video.

This fest is ongoing.

#Strictly Dramione #Fests/Exchanges/Challenges

187 notes · View notes

tumblingdoe · 5 years

Text

January 11-15 on the Sexplanations Road Tour

Friday January 11, 2019

Nels repaired the roof vent that was worn out and worked on the water system while I business-interneted. We drove out of town to an Indian restaurant, ate, and then unrelated to the food -- determined that Nels needed some medical care. Five’ish hours later at the hospital we were discharged without any good answers but he seems to be on the mend. We drove south where I satiated a guilty pleasure (Chick-fil-a) and grocery shopped for some healthier eats. I bought a basil plant that we call Marvelous Mrs. Basil. We finished watching The Wiz and then winded down to the somewhat terrifying sounds of a car repossession followed later by car drifting and police intervention.

Saturday January 12, 2019

Happy that we survived the night in a parking lot, Nels and I drove to a nearby RV village where we were able to empty our gray and black water tanks for only $10. We also cleaned out our fresh water tanks and did dishes in house for the first time! An hour later we were San Francisco at Aunt Linda’s. She made us brunch and talked to us about sex and aging, hormones, incontinence, impotence, and dating. I’m excited to turn the conversation into an episode of Sexplanations.

Aunt Linda then drove us to our next engagement -- recording videos and a podcast at Mr. S Leather with Amp from Watts the Safeword. Amp had reached out on Twitter and I was so relieved. I wanted to keep going with the Sexplanations podcast and recording video episodes while on tour but we haven’t had time to sort out equipment or set it up. Amp had a studio in San Francisco with lights and microphones and cameras. He invited me in, made me tea, gave me all the time I needed to switch gears in to pro-mode, and then recorded everything for me to share with you. We did a podcast on sexhacks, an episode of Watts the Safeword on sex education, and an episode of Sexplanations YouTube channel about daddies. We just put my memory cards in his gear and voila, production! It was such a huge moment of feeling wrapped up by a safe person and validated as a creator. Amp didn’t judge me for needing his help. He just loved on me and needed that.

While we were there I also got a thorough tour of Mr. S Leather. I’d been 12ish years ago when I was in San Francisco for my doctorate but a lot had changed. Amp walked us through the showroom -- gear for every fetish and kink you can imagine. Then as a super treat he took us behind the scenes where most of their products were manufactured, right there in the building! We saw the old latex room with patterns for full suits, the remains of a really comprehensive dungeon, and the shipping warehouse. I was astounded by the passion everywhere. There was so much attention to detail and care for the products! The foot and half long dragon cock dildo was made by someone who wants that experience to be perfect.

I left feeling all warm and gooey. Nels left with ideas for rafting wetsuits and a new sex education. We wandered down the street to a coffee shop we learned about at PatreCon called Wicked Grounds. They had offered to host a event but I hadn’t been able to follow-though. So I asked a table of friendly faces if they had any sexuality questions for the sexologist on tour. “Nope.” One of them actually had their own sex education channel and was very situated in their knowledge of the subject.

I walked away from the cafe feeling very comfortable that we hadn’t planned more in California. Cali has so many sex ed resources. So does Oregon. These places aren’t my classroom per se, they are my launchpad. Between Nels’ friends in Oregon wrapping us up emotionally and Cali grounding me professionally -- it was like we were being nurtured for the experiences to come.

Nels gave me a burrito that he’d gotten for me while I was shooting with Amp and we walked to The Chapel twenty or so minutes away for a show. He treated us to the Red Room Orchestra performing the Big Lebowski. Margaret Cho was Walter, Kevin McDonald was the Dude, and James Adomian played the stranger. It was outstanding! Just incredible!

After the show we found late night Indian then took a Lyft back to the RV. The fridge wasn’t working because things weren’t so level on the San Francisco hills so Nels and I capped off the night stacking these really nice blocks someone got us on our Amazon Wishlist.

Sunday January 13, 2019

We went back to Aunt Linda’s, this time for showers. Then she took us out for lunch at a super cool restaurant called the Pork Store. After food we rushed back to the RV to get across town to a landscaping center to meet Dixie de la Tour for a podcast recording in. the. RV! Dixie showed up with her St. Bernard and we all climbed aboard to talk about her work running and mothering Bawdy Storytelling. She also has a podcast. 10/10 would recommend! We wrapped up our conversation 10 minutes before the landscaping center closed so I ran in with Marvelous Mrs. Basil in her inadequate two inch pot and paid a $2.00 re-potting fee to get her a new container and more soil.

It was a rush-rush day. Next on the list was dinner with three of my classmates from the institute where I did my doctorate. Jack drove an hour and half south, Danielle drove an hour north, and Nels and I drove the RV to pick up Ivy for us all to meet at Basil Canteen for Thai. The whole meal was perfect. I hadn’t seen these friends in more than a decade but there we were deep in conversation about sex of course, and buying a school to teach sexology! I think everyone left having to wake up in a few hours for work but grateful for the night.

Jack drove Ivy home (which I hoped would reignite a romance) and Danielle invited us to stop at her place the following day. We all said good-bye and then Nels and I strolled home happy. On our way around the block --because the RV was parked just down the street--we said hello to some gorgeous queens from the Imperial Sovereign Court and stopped at a gaming cafe for virtual reality. I love it. Nels was indifferent. And then he was awesome at it and we hung out for an hour getting some physical activity in by thrashing our arms around.

To conclude the day, we drove all the way the beach so we could listen to the waves from bed. It’s still really hard to push myself with work and travel but gifts like that are a reminder that were are right where we need to be and doing the best we can.

Monday January 14, 2019

I woke up wanting nothing more than WiFi so we set up our laptops in a cafe on the oceans and worked for hours. I was actually still on the phone planning stops when Nels courted me out to get to Sunnyvale by 3:00 to meet Danielle, my classmate from the night before. I kept working in the RV while he drove and we got there right on time.

Danielle situated us with rain showers, chicken soup, and tourist suggestions for the rest of our California route. That is until we learned that the coastal highway would be shut down for the week due to landslides. I was disappointed but only mildly. Being in Danielle’s care was delightful. She kept it simple and cozy, no pressure, no hassle. We got to explore her Somatica space -- a revolutionary way to improve relationships and sexuality and Danielle gave us two of her books! And a bag of oranges from her yard!

To finish the day Nels and I drove past the Apple complex, which is enormous, and we dined all fancy-like at Oren’s Hummus.

Tuesday January 15, 2019

Sadists are people who experience pleasure from inflicting pain. Nels is not this. I think he experiences pleasure from pleasing others. While I slept he drove us to Lover’s point so the RV windows would be looking out over a quintessential ocean view. Then he proceeded to cook onions, kale, broccoli, rainbow carrots, sausage, garlic, and eggs in a cast-iron pan for breakfast on the coast. Who is this person!?!?!

Before getting back on the road we climbed along the rocks watching the cormorants dive. I tried to swim but the tide came too quickly for it to be safe. We returned to the RV to acquire more miles. I responded to over 100 emails then requested we take a break from the washing machine existence of riding in an RV and nap. Post nap, Nels was at it again making colorful amazing food. He set up Moon --the 2009 film-- and we had our version of a drive-in dine-in movie.

This is in San Luis Obisbo. Now we’ve driven longer past huge agriculture land to Solvang and it is time again for cuddles and bed.

#sexplanations road tour #curious road tour #sex ed #dr. doe #california #bawdy storytelling #watts the safeword #sfsketchfest

178 notes · View notes

niksong · 5 years

Text

2017: With Great Growth Comes Great Responsibility.

2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016

—

Shit. I’m posting this December 31st... 2018. Please understand this is a 2017 recap. 2018 coming at another date.

Lots of answers left unanswered because I don’t want to assume who I was in 2017.

—

[Written sometime during 2018.]

Another year, another attempt at reflecting as quickly as possible to fill out these questions. Old traditions die hard. I really need to start this sooner.

In my head, 2017 was a rough year. According to my social feeds, it was not. Interesting how social media works, isn’t it? Shows only what we want the rest of the world to see, not getting down to the everyday or even the bigger strife.

Last year - wow, “last year” - I decided to do something I always told myself I wanted to experience in my career: join a start up. Coming from both larger agency and corporate backgrounds, I thought it would be a way to learn quickly, grow quickly, and run away from my most hated enemy: stagnation. I am happy to report that I got all three, but with great growth comes great responsibility. A lot of late nights, a lot of early mornings, a lot of feeling alone, insecure, stressed. As if the start up culture wasn’t enough, I thought it would be a good idea to go for my Masters. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity where the start up I was with would pretty much put me through the program - I would never get a master’s degree for this cost, or this opportunity - so I did it.

It was hard. It is hard.

A lot of no sleep, a lot of putting friendships aside, a lot of asking my partner “can we do this next time”. I’ve felt my blood pressure rise, I’ve felt anger, frustration, sadness... But I also know what an incredible opportunity both my professional life and educational life presents for where I want to go in the future. Where? Not crystal clear yet, but with these steps... I’m getting there.

So what next? Keep getting through it. Focus on the end goal, focus on the light at the end of the tunnel. I walk into 2018 fully aware that it’s going to be another rough year, but I truly feel that great things are coming.

Watch out.

2017.

What did you do in 2017 that you’d never done before?

Quit my corporate job to lead marketing at a start up

Began grad school to get my masters with an emphasis in digital business

Went to Spain for work!

Visited Segovia, Spain

First time in Maui with my family

First time a partner joined a family trip

Moved to Emeryville

Dyed my hair pink

Walked in the Women’s March

Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I had to look it up - I always forget my resolutions, if I have any at all - and I am 1) lucky enough that I kept them loose to be able to say yes I did them and 2) yes, I did them. Be Better Read. I did not read the books that I meant to read - such as “Just Mercy” or the “Secret to Tidying Up” (that’s the wrong title but I don’t want to look it up) - but I read. A lot. I feel that’s good enough. Be More Decisive. This was not by choice. I was so incredibly overwhelmed this year that I found myself making decisions out of the sheer will to move forward rather than being sure about my decision. I think I understand the CEO mentality - it’s not being sure, it’s about wanting people to stop asking you questions so you just pick one. Invest in Myself. Marketing leadership role, graduate school, bought furniture not from IKEA, Moviepass, forced myself to dance over summer with PrideStacks... I’m good. As for resolutions for the next year... BRB.

Did anyone close to you give birth? Yatine Watanabe! (Ty for letting me win the Switch. xx)

Did anyone close to you die? Mercifully, no.

What countries did you visit? Espana, my forever favorite country. I started writing reflections on when I first fell in love with the city, and how I felt about it revisiting - but was never able to finish the post. It’s not timely, but I hope to finish it someday. It’s a feeling that I have from my heart to the edge of my fingertips, the happiness I feel in Spain. A gift from ISDI, walking the streets of Madrid and Segovia. A few memories: x x x x

What would you like to have in 2018 that you lacked in 2017? Organization. Clarity. Energy. Time. Peace.

What dates from 2017 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? 11.5 hour drinking day in Spain. Walking around Segovia with Mitou. Landing in Hawaii and meeting my family. Baby sister graduating from College. Empowerment, standing with strong women and men at the Oakland Women’s March.

What was your biggest achievement of the year? Getting through it.

What was your biggest failure? The little moments of insecurity with my work. When the lack of time, focus, and direction spiral into me asking is it me. Am I not good enough.

Did you suffer illness or injury? Nothing major.

What was the best thing you bought? UNLIMITED DATA Spotify Premium Moviepass

Whose behavior merited celebration? JH. I can’t imagine being with anyone else who would be as understanding, as kind, and good humored as he is when I come home late, come home crying, sometimes don’t come home at all. Thank you for your patience, your understanding, and your uncanny ability to make me laugh when my walls seem to be crumbling.

Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? Some leadership.

Where did most of your money go? Cappuccinos, leather jackets, and shoes.

What did you get really, really, really excited about? Free Ed Sheeran concert - S/O TO BOSSMAN

What song will always remind you of 2017? Rake It Up - Nicki Minaj (Runner ups: Perfect - Ed Sheeran & Bodak Yellow - Cardi B)

Compared to this time last year, are you:

Happier or Sadder? More fulfilled.

Thinner or Fatter? Thinner, but I’m sure I’m fatter. I just became too busy to care. (I also just don’t care, I’m fucking wonderful.)

Richer or Poorer? Richer.

What do you wish you’d done more of? Sleep; have brunch with friends; actually have friends; date my boyfriend; call my parents; write a christmas card to my landlord

How did you spend Christmas?

Did you fall in love in 2017? Still in love. (Guise, as of 2017, I am officially in my longest relationship to date. Crazy!)

How many hook ups? Zero... Also for those who are currently hooking up, is this even a question people would answer openly? For the internet? Strange.

What was your favorite TV program? Don’t judge me - Vanderpump Rules. Not out of respect, but out of the sheer honesty that I started watching that shit.

Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

What was the best book you read?

What was your greatest musical discovery? Cardi B, you know where I’m at, you know where I be.

What did you want and get? A new job.

What did you want and not get? Direction.

What was your favorite film of this year?

What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? 27. “The Special Trip.”

What one thing made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2016?

What kept you sane? JH,

Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Who did you miss?

Who was the best new person you met?

Best finds of 2017? First and always foremost: Unlimited Data. Never understood such liberation.

Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2017. Refer to opening note.

Quote a song lyric that sums up your year. “I tell all my hoes, rake it up.”

—

“THE THREE” OF 2017:

Work. Being overworked, feeling like a workaholic, being addicted to trying to get one more thing done - is a very, very real thing. It stops being a choice at some point, and becomes a bad habit. Bad for your relationships, bad for your body, bad for your soul, and ironically, bad for your work. Lesson: You can’t help how much work you are given, but you can help how much work you have to handle. Organize, compartmentalize, focus, and learn to ask for help. It can be done... It will* be done.

School. Started my graduate program.

The Special Trip. Experiences I will never forget with people I will never forget.

#2017 #new years #new years resolutions #my life

1 note · View note

weemsbotts · 3 years

Text

From Scuttling Crabs to Obstinate Parrots: The Dumfries Pet Shows of the 1980s

By: Lisa Timmerman, Executive Director

Does your holiday tradition include watching a dog show – or at least playing it in the background while you do other tasks? While the Dumfries Pet Shows of the 1980s might not rival the yearly National Dog Show in attendance or popularity, Dumfries and Prince William County residents would clearly win in charm and cheer.

(Pictured: Gonzo; Potomac News, Blue Ribbon Pets in Dumfries, 09/15/1988)

In September 1988, The Weems-Botts Museum hosted Dumfries Annual Craft Festival featuring a pet competition. Barbara Dubuc with Direct from Dumfries advised participants to “bathe your dog, fluff your bird’s feathers, change the fish’s water, brush the cat and polish the turtle’s shell.” She had good reason for the variety in her instruction as participants brought everything from hermit crabs to fish. Earlier competitions demonstrated the variety in awards, such as in the dog category. Judges awarded prizes for the most colorful, tallest, fuzziest, loudest, smallest, wiggliest (not sure how you test that one), best groomed, best behaved, friendliest, and “biggest smile”. Names for the pets were amusing as Duchess took the prize for loudest and Candy Kiss won for smallest size.

Historians trace our modern dog show competitions to the Victorian era with the “Dog Fancy”. The first competition appeared in June 1859 in Newcastle-upon-Tyne as part of an annual cattle show. It only featured sporting dogs and awarded winners with guns. The Birmingham Dog Show Society hosted a version including non-sporting breeds that same year and its’ tremendous popularity and success led to the first National Dog Show in 1860 boasting 267 entries. While the weeklong Dog Fancy event at Cremorne Gardens in Chelsea attracted 100,000 visitors including the Prince of Wales, other localized shows combined the competition with other animals such as poultry. By the 1870s, the Kennel Club organized to standardize and regulate the show and hosted their first show at the Crystal Palace in 1873. This phenomenon spread to America and in 1877 the Westminster Kennel Club hosted “The First Annual New York Bench Show of Dogs”, the rules agreed upon by both the Westminster Kennel Club and the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, a precursor to the American Kennel Club. Notably, Westminster extended this first show an extra day, donating all the extra proceeds to the ASPCA. Their show is the second longest continuously held show in America, right after the Kentucky Derby.

(Best in Show Winner 1907-1909, Ch Warren Remedy, Fox Terrier (Smooth), Westminster Kennel Club, 2019)

Back to 1988! While people brought dogs, the other category included birds, rabbits, and a hamster. Most appropriately for our nautical town, the hermit crabs stole the show as Larry, Curly, and Moe delighted people especially when Moe started scuttling. Gonzo was a clear winner for the “hardest” award – being a turtle after all. In earlier years, some owners even excelled over their pet’s performances. An African grey parrot refused to share or acknowledge his supposed 1,000-word vocabulary, so his owner valiantly imitated his vocalizations. Although we no longer host pet competitions, our 2020 companions deserve extra treats for wagging their tails or doing little fishy wiggles. Can you imagine Merchant Park filled with barking, squawking, and shrilly animals? Perhaps one day we can tackle the challenges of how exactly to test dogs for wiggliest.

Note: We launched our “Help Us Tell Your Story” campaign from now until the end of December 2020! You can help us in so many ways by purchasing a gift membership (recipients will receive a special card and greeting), donating directly, or purchasing a donation ticket to our “Gingerbread Tales” program. Each donation will include a free link to this holiday and winter folklore themed virtual presentation!

(Sources: HDVI Archive, Dumfries – Crafts Festival file: Potomac News, Blue Ribbon Pets in Dumfries, 09/15/1988; Unidentified Newspaper, Dumfries Craft Day hot and fun; Dubuc, Barbara, Direct from Dumfries, 1988; Pemberton, Neil and Michael Worboy. The Surprising History of Victorian Dog Shows, June 2009, History Extra, Official website for the BBC History /History Revealed/World Histories Magazines; Westminster Kennel Club 2019: Club History, Breed Rescue)

#pets #petshow #dogs #hermit crab #museumfromhome #festivals #historyathome #localhistory #destinationdumfries #westminster kennel club dog show #victorianera #weloveourpets #1980s

0 notes