tanista

[tanista]

Greetings and salutations to one and all!

Just wanted to share with you the latest installment of my Ad Astra anthology story Plus One, exploring the boundary between dreams and reality.

Becky's wedding day has finally arrived- or has it? Who is she marrying, anyway? And what happens when she discovers that what seems too good to be true really isn't?

Better follow that link and find out, dear readers! Hope you enjoy. Feedback is welcome anytime.

Until next time, everyone take care of yourselves and stay safe!

#fanfic #domestic adventures #ad astra #stargate sg-1 #macgyver 1985 #plus one #dreams vs. reality #offworld mysteries

[tanista]

Prolific times, dear readers! Set in the same AU as Lexophiles, a little later on and from Sam's POV this time. Mexican food, Scrabble and romance, a fun bit of fluff on a hot summer's night. I hope you enjoy. Feedback is welcome as ever.

Until next time, dear readers! Stay safe and well.

#fanfic #stargate sg-1 #Jack and Sam romance #secret relationship

[tanista]

Greetings, dear readers!

Presenting a new tale from the New Earth archives, a momentous occasion in the history of Gateway Settlement as two devoted bookworms with their teammates and friends take on the important task of establishing a key institution on New Earth. Featuring some notable cameos, a mention of the Cherokee syllabary by Sequoyah and hints of the future, too.

Also a gift fic for someone on AO3 whose work I appreciate, ami-ven. I very much enjoy the warmth, humor and found-family vibe in the connected vignettes depicting the adventures of her original-character Gate team in the series SG-22.

I like the idea of her main OC and mine being friends, having things in common like a keen appreciation for the written word and being redheads. So with the author's kind permission I wrote this little story which took on a slightly loftier tone than I originally intended, as they do. Either way I hope you enjoy.

Just as Language of Love was my love letter to the sci-fi genre I've loved reading and watching all my life, this became my ode to the libraries which have influenced me, both public and private, and the important role they play in real life as well as fiction.

Now more than ever libraries are essential parts of our communities, and their right to include books of all subjects must be protected at all costs. Support your local library!

Until next time, dear readers! Stay safe and well.

#fanfic #domestic adventures #ad astra #stargate sg-1 #macgyver 1985 #slice of settlement life #the importance of libraries #guest-starring original characters

[tanista]

Greetings, dear readers!

Just wanted to share not only one, but two new additions to my Ad Astra anthology story Plus One (aka Becky's offworld adventures with SG-1), as in the links above and below:

They've got something for everyone- action, hair's-breadth escapes, introspection, a little philosophy, team-as-family and romantic couple feels, and background galactic intrigue as well as some old-fashioned Daniel angst (good thing he has Becky in this AU to keep him from wallowing too much is all I can say) and setting something on fire.

Hope you enjoy, dear readers. Feedback welcome as always, anytime. Stay safe and well!

(Wow, two posts in a week! What's the world coming to?)

#fanfic #domestic adventures #ad astra #stargate sg-1 #macgyver 1985 #plus one #great escapes #members of SG-1 get thrown in jail a lot offworld #it's a canon thing

[tanista]

Greetings and salutations, dear readers!

Just wanted to share this collage I recently made for the crossover couple in my Ad Astra AU, Angus MacGyver (1985 version) and Dr. Janet Fraiser (Stargate SG-1). A side relationship in my core story Language of Love but I love it to bits. I also created their relationship tag on AO3.

In the core story due to various end-of-the-world circumstances Mac meets Janet for the first time in the SGC infirmary, and soon bond over swapping stories of adoptive parenthood. They find each other's competence, intelligence, kindness and compassion towards others strongly attractive. In the past Mac had problems making romantic commitments and Janet had been divorced before canon but they clicked together in my mind perfectly, her no-nonsense assertiveness overcoming his habitual reluctance. It also didn't hurt that the literal end of everything provided Mac with the proverbial kick in the pants to take a chance.

Later on in the story he proposed to her in the aftermath of an invasion and they have two boys along with Cassie, one naturally and the other adopted as a baby found during an offworld humanitarian mission (whose story may come along one of these days).

Basically I just wanted Mac and Janet to find happiness and love. No better way to do that than in a crossover AU.

Until next time, dear readers! Hope you all stay safe and well.

#fanart #collage #ad astra #macgyver 1985 #stargate sg-1 #cute couples #crossover romance #language of love #janet fraiser #angus macgyver 1985 #crossover shipping

[tanista]

Greetings and salutations, dear readers!

Presenting another tale from the New Earth Archives, namely what I hope is a humorous little romp of the chaos that ensues when SGC-style war games (aka foothold scenarios) finally resume post-Zero Hour.

As to who's the last man (or woman) standing at the end of it all... Well, you'll just have to find out for yourself. Suffice it to say a good time is had by all anyway.

It's such a good feeling when one of my half-baked stories finally gets past writer's block and comes to full fruition. Who knows where my imagination will take me next?

Hope you enjoy, dear readers. Feedback is always welcome. Stay safe and well!

#fanfic #domestic adventures #stargate sg 1 #macgyver 1985 #ad astra #war games SGC-style #shenanigans on base

[tanista]

At long last, dear readers! Inspiration has returned, after months of renovations and holidays and a medical procedure (routine screening, nothing to worry about) inspiration has finally struck again with this little tale of an illicit relationship between Jack and Sam (circa Season 7-ish, whether hidden canon or non-Ad Astra AU I'm not sure yet) and a shared love of Scrabble and other word games.

I always figured Jack is a whole lot smarter than he lets on, a secret lover of words and ideas just like Sam and Daniel. I mean, he couldn't make Colonel just on his charm and rugged good looks alone, right?

Anyhow, it's good to be posting again, dear readers. I hope you enjoy. Feedback on this or any of my works is welcome at any time.

Take care and stay safe, everyone!

#fanfic #stargate sg-1 #Jack and Sam romance #Scrabble points #secret relationship

[tanista]

Greetings and salutations, dear readers!

Yes, you see right- a new Ad Astra story, the New Earth version of Jack's first few days as General in the episode "Zero Hour." Because of course he couldn't have an easy transition even in my AU.

A tie-in with Ch. 20 of Language of Love, featuring a Ch. 20 missing team, Goa'uld shenanigans, a potato crisis, and a certain fast-growing alien kudzu. (Forgive the double link, editing's wonky with links these days.)

Funny thing is, I wrote this in the middle of a long-awaited basement bathroom renovation, amid the noises of tile floor demo, concrete grinding, and shower rebuilding. All that noise didn't distract me in the least- I was able to focus entirely on the story and do some more worldbuilding in my modest AU while real-life building was going on not ten feet away from me.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy his little escape from reality, dear readers. Feedback is always welcome. Stay safe and well!

#fanfic #domestic adventures #stargate sg-1 #macgyver #ad astra #Zero Hour Ad Astra style #Jack-centric #that alien plant

[tanista]

Sound advice I've tried to follow, in my fashion.

But this is part of what frustrates me about some relationship subplots on TV shows. There's no need for excessive personal drama just to string the audience along for season after season. Why not let them have some solid and loving relationships to balance out all the danger and instability already in their lives? Though I believe the good stuff ought to be earned to some extent- at least in stories- even fictional characters deserve happiness and love.

As do we all, dear readers.

Just my two cents. Stay safe and well.

Writing ship-able couples

Here are some tips for writing relationships your readers can get behind:

1. Give them reasons to click

The two characters must have things in common - a hobby, a philosophy, a background. There has to be some element that connects them.

Your readers will root for relationships in which the characters fit together better than they would with others.

Also, make their traits compatible. Have them share some characteristics or have their strengths and weaknesses be complementary. Is the one hotheaded? Maybe the other keeps their cool well in situations of conflict.

There are endless possibilities. Just make sure there’s a reason these two people like/love each other.

2. Have them be vulnerable in front of each other

Personally, this is the best way to get me to love a couple.

Have them share secrets, open up about their feelings and tell each other things they haven’t told anyone. Have them cry in front of each other and comfort each other.

This can be taken to a whole new level by having them understand the other’s emotions even without speaking and already offer comfort. Keep in mind that this will probably only be possible with long-established couples.

And having them open up is also a great way for them to discover all the things they have in common/love about each other.

3. Build up the tension

I cannot emphasise this enough: DO NOT MAKE YOUR COUPLES GET TOGETHER TOO QUICKLY.

One of the best elements of a romantic subplot (or even main plot) is the tension. Your readers want to see the pining! They want the build-up.

And no, I’m not saying that you should introduce endless, petty obstacles. That can become tedious and appear forced.

Just give your characters time to sort through their feelings. Make them fall in love slowly. Have them be unsure. Insert SOME obstacles/conflicts.

Have them almost kiss a few times. Not all the time. Too many almost-kisses can become frustrating. But you should throw a few in there.

And, if you feel comfortable with it, add some sexual tension. Have them notice each other’s bodies and imagine what they’d like to do to each other (that sounds more explicit than I intended :) )

4. Write a healthy relationship

This could just be me and my rejection of unhealthy romances, but I will not root for abusive relationships.

Have your characters be kind to each other, support each other and truly care for each other.

If your characters are constantly putting each other down, physically/emotionally abusing each other or going against the other’s wishes, they’re not in a healthy relationship.

A great way to write a healthy relationship whilst still maintaining the tension, is to have the conflict in the relationship be external. Instead of having the conflict be due to internal struggles between the two characters, have obstacles enter from outside.

Your readers should want them to be together and for that, they should be good for each other.

5. Have their friends/family see their chemistry

I find it beyond adorable when two characters are still figuring out their feelings for each other, but the fact that they’re perfect for each other is crystal clear to everyone around them.

Have their friends tease them about the relationship. Have family members ask after the them. Have their loved ones conspire to get them to admit their feelings.

If your other characters are rooting for them, your readers will probably do so as well.

Plus, this means that the chemistry between the two characters is so strong that it’s obvious, which is always good for an exciting romance.

That’s all I’ve got for now. If you have any further questions about writing OTPs or any other aspect of writing, feel free to message me or pop me an ask.

Reblog if you found any of this useful. Comment with your own tips. Follow me for similar content.

#good writing advice

[tanista]

Yes dear readers, you see right- a new story in my Ad Astra 'verse!

In which Jack and Sam reach out to one another after the Memorial, and discover themselves anew. Because they both deserve all the love they can get, even after the end of the world.

It's funny how inspiration can strike sometimes. I keep a document on my computer full of snippets from stories and odd ideas that don't go anywhere, and I was idly scrolling through last weekend when I saw one idea and made a change, which suddenly blossomed into this sweet, romantic story between one of my favorite couples in the canon. A few references to Stargate the movie and plenty of relationship feels- and pancakes, too.

Hard to believe but this is the 20th story in my series on AO3! Writing has become my refuge in these very troubled times, and I hope this provides a nice little escape for you as well. Feedback is welcome as always.

Stay safe and well, dear readers!

#fanfic #domestic adventures #stargate sg-1 #macgyver #ad astra #Jack and Sam romance #conversations and declarations of love #what to do on a stormy day #pancakes for everyone

[tanista]

It's a great feeling when writer's block disappears...

...and for the first time in months I'm able to finish and post something new. Presenting another adventure in my anthology Plus One, where Becky & Co. find themselves in a rather small predicament:

I hope you enjoy. Feedback is welcome as always.

Take care and stay well, dear readers!

#fanfic #domestic adventures #ad astra #macgyver #stargate sg-1 #inspired by another favorite hobby #and a classic sci-fi movie or two #SG-1 can never have a normal mission #adventure and humor

[tanista]

Reflections on a Unique Day

Hello dear readers,

I know it's been a while since I posted anything. I just wanted to let you know I'm still around.

Today is a unique day, not only because of a date that only occurs once a century (2/22/22) but also because it's my 50th birthday. It's a milestone for me.

When I was born and diagnosed with my chronic illness at 7 months the prognosis was I'd be lucky if I lived to see puberty. And thanks to improved treatments, robust genes and just plain luck here I am, facing two things I frankly never expected to see- middle age and menopause.

Because of that and other minor quirks of my body opportunities for having a normal life have been somewhat limited over the years. Nevertheless I am grateful to do what I can thanks to wonderful family and friends for support and a rich inner life that keeps me going. And I'm glad I've had the time, inspiration and wherewithal to create the story of my dreams featuring worlds and characters I've known and loved for much of my life, both canon and original.

Seeing a future beyond 50 is rather daunting, especially with the world in so much turmoil right now. The gap between the optimism of my 20s and 30s and the uncertainty due to current events seems so impossibly vast, I wonder if I'll ever get back to that state anymore.

One of the reasons I created Language of Love (final editing completed this month, by the way) and my Ad Astra AU was as an attempt to recreate that optimism, a lasting wish that through helping each other and utilizing our collective imagination, ingenuity, determination, bravery, empathy and kindness we can collectively find a way through to the other side of any disaster the universe can throw at us.

I firmly believe storytelling in all forms of media- including fan fiction- is more than just entertainment. It's an essential part of who we are as a species, a way to make sense of life's randomness. An antidote and lifeline to sanity from all the craziness in the world.

I'm still writing in my AU, I just wanted to commemorate this unique day somehow. Telling the world here I am at 50, for good or ill.

Thanks for indulging me, dear readers. Stay safe and well.

#birthday reflections #thoughts on reaching 50 #2 22 22

[tanista]

Not exactly the holiday fic I mentioned last time, though related to one I'm working on in a way. An ancient carol from further into the future of New Earth, traditionally sung on the winter solstice while dancing around a decorated everblue tree.

Also a filk song of sorts, though not in the traditional sense of fannish lyrics adapted to popular songs. Instead this is inspired by the tune of an instrumental piece, Circle of Joy by Lisa Lynne (link is YouTube). Though it doesn't match up note for note I think it shares the same sprightly and festive spirit. I hope you enjoy.

Wishing you a happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year, dear readers! Stay safe and well!

#fanfic #filk of sorts #ad astra #macgyver #stargate sg-1 #domestic adventures #winter solstice on another planet #new holiday customs and traditions

[tanista]

Another story in my Ad Astra 'verse, dear readers. In which three couples embark on what could be their greatest adventure yet, fitting in between Ch. 32 and 33 in Language of Love.

Not holiday-oriented but sweet and heartwarming nonetheless, perfect for the winter season (despite taking place during a New Earth summer).

If time permits I might come up with a suitable holiday tale Ad Astra style, but for now I sincerely hope you enjoy this story. As always feedback is welcome.

Stay safe and well, dear readers! Until next time!

#fanfic #domestic adventures #ad astra #macgyver #stargate sg-1 #family #next generation #married couples #fluff and angst and humor #sweet

[tanista]

Presenting a short fluffy tale of an autumn walk in the woods of Minnesota, inspired by the wonderful fanart by @kamacstrophe (see previous post). As sweet as your favorite Thanksgiving dessert.

Hope you enjoy, dear readers! Stay safe and well!

#inspired by fanart #macgyver #ad astra #mac and becky #the early years #sweet and fluffy

[tanista]

I am so honored right now. I've never received fan art before for any of my stories. This is from the Second Chances classic MacGyver AU that I co-wrote with @believerindaydreams, but it could be Domestic Adventures as well. Love Becky in a knit hat and wearing Mac's leather jacket during a walk on a brisk fall day. So sweet and touching. Thank you so much, kamacstrophe!

Quick sketchy sketch of toddler Becky and her unc, from @tanista and @believerindaydreams' lovely AU that's been giving me serotonin and cuddly feelins for the last few weeks. ❤

#fan art #macgyver 1985 #art by kamacstrophe #second chances au #domestic adventures #macgyver #mac and becky

[tanista]

Sam and Jack, Always

Here are a couple Sam and Jack collages I played around with just for fun, the first fitting in either canon (because of course they got together, in secret despite regulations) or my Ad Astra AU. Enjoy!

A clandestine romantic weekend for Sam and Jack at the cabin, fishing and so forth...

Feedback is welcome at any time! Stay safe and well, dear readers!

#fanart #collage #stargate sg-1 #ad astra #sam and jack #cute couples #language of love #sam carter #jack o'neill #isn't it romantic