#all the Calvary lot were just gorgeous

[mycological-mariner]

A multi-period reenactment event is not the best place for someone with a uniform kink to be

#the fucking HUSSARS THOUGH #Jesus WEPT #not to be gay or anything #there was this one lady as well who just! #big fan of pretty men in gorgeous uniforms and women who can defeat me in combat #I’m just saying #all the Calvary lot were just gorgeous #and omg. the 1750s folk. ach ;-; #pretty lady in uniform on horseback smiling and saluting me as she went by just — I felt like I was a teenager again #this one gent probably just looked like Some Guy out of uniform but come ON.

[dinosaurswant2rule]

Rings of power - some thoughts 

So like a lot of fantasy nerds I have been watching Rings of Power. I've followed the commentary back and forth from the racist reactions to the "it's destroying Tolkien" rants to "they're ruining my childhood." complaints.

Anyway I decided that while I think the series is deeply flawed, there a whole set of things I really like about it, so I'm going to put them out there to try and put some positivity on the internet.

Galadriel - she's not a perfect character by any means, but she's got lots of room to grow and develop, which is always a positive. One of the opening shots of her climbing the ice also looked amazing!

Arondir - I was very unsure of this guy initially, but I actually think he's brilliant. He looks incredible in the fights and his romance that's not quite a romance with Brownyn is the definition of a slow burn. I LOVE IT!

Brownyn and her son Theo - A set of characters that are difficult to get right, but I think the writing of both them has got better and better as the series has gone. Brownyn is seriously bad ass, some of her fights are epic in scale!! Theo has actually matured as a result of everything he's had to go through. I really hope that these two and Arondir survive, I'm v invested in this little family.

The numenorians arrive on middle earth - I admit their arrival to take down the orcs absolutely hits the spot for me. I love cavalry charges and this is a wonderful scene (the score is truly massive in scale too, it's as if you're there with them, just fabulous). Not only does it look great, but you absolutely buy Galadriel as a commander charging to the rescue at the head of the army with Halbrand close behind :)

Halbrand - He intrigues me as a character, dysfunctional and damaged and terribly mysterious :) And he has fabulous hair and looks great in armour and on horse back. This sword trick is really cool too. He has also got great whump potential *coughs*

Adar and the orcs - the series acknowledges the tragic origin of the orcs and how they in some ways can't help what they are. What would anyone be if they were formed from torture and agony. I'm not exactly sympathetic, but they're more understandable. It makes Adar a more interesting character as a result.

Elendil - he gets a special mention for having to deal with all the crazy in Numenor and keeping it together in a silly helmet :)

Elrond and Durin - I love this friendship, when Durin shouts "You missed my wedding!" my heart broke for them. For me this is one of the best relationships of the series.

Disa - she gets a point all her own because she has great hair and jewellery and a gorgeous outfit. Her singing voice is almost ethereal in quality too. She is also an ideal match for Durin and gets some of the best dialogue "That's mighty strong gravy" makes me smile :)

The dwarves in general - while the way they are portrayed isn't necessarily "true to tolkien" (I don't know enough Tolkien law to comment on this one way or the other). I would argue that you absolutely convinced by them as a race, a people with a world all their own in the series.

That's it really, we'll have to wait to see what the finale brings!

#rings of power #just my thoughts on it #halbrand #galadriel #durin #elrond #disa #positive things about the rings of power series #Durin and Elrond #adar

[villainous-thorn]

Can you write something with a flustered villain and flirty hero? I love those snippets😩😩

Sorry this took so long to get out, I'd had it written for a while though. But got it! One scene with ridiculously suggestive banter and unresolved tension coming right up!

The villain dodged another punch, ducking out of the way into a somersault and coming up behind their enemy. They quickly turned around to throw their own punch, which Hero caught in the palm of their hand, noting the shock on Villain’s face as they used the inertia to force them to the ground and finally pin them.

Hero’s bastardous smirk graced their gorgeous face, and unfortunately the villain knew exactly what was going to happen next.

“Hm, I think I like this view. You look great on your back, baby.” The crime-fighter hummed, closing their eyes to enjoy the experience of their sweltering bodies entangled. The criminal knew that when they were pinned there was no use in fighting back, not that they really wanted to anyway. “Though, I could do without the punching.” Hero added making eye contact with their enemy and reaching towards their back with a free hand.

Hero wasn’t especially great at fighting, but they were strong as hell, especially compared to Villain who was more agile than anything. Despite the criminal’s small frame, having Hero on top of them didn’t hurt, maybe they were holding back. Or maybe they knew Villain wouldn’t fight back because all they could think about now was their hero straddling them and that made their mind melt.

Perhaps it was the touch, the warmth, the relentless flirting, or maybe it was the Hero’s natural charm. Whatever the case, Villain wouldn’t dare compromise this position they found themselves in. Except they wished they could keep their damn heart rate under control, their face felt like it was on fire and every time Hero opened their gorgeous mouth that fire rose in alarm. And right now it was about a four alarm, not ideal.

“Hero here, caught a mouse, parking lot on Fifth and Market.” And they shut their communicator off. “Calvary should be here soon, do you want cuffs or do you prefer this position?” They cocked a brow and their foe threw their head back onto asphalt in defeat.

Ow, bad idea.

“I’d prefer y-you let me go.” Villain managed to eke out of their barely functioning lungs.

“Oh but where’s the fun in that, baby?”

Villain took a pause, their mind swimming, “W- why did you call them anyway? You have this under control, you could handle me on your own.”

“Mmm, that’s the issue, see? I want to handle you so bad right now,” Villain’s heart reached a five alarm fire, their face burning as they completely forgot how to fucking breathe, “but having people on their way makes it safer. I don’t want them to see anything compromising… No matter how much I want to compromise you right now in this filthy place. Maybe I can stop by your cell later, if you aren’t still mad? Would you like that, baby?”

Villain fucking whimpered like a goddamn dog at those words, they wanted the ground to swallow them whole and spit them back up in their bedroom with their enemy. They were so lost in that daydream that they hadn’t realized their hips had begun rolling involuntarily and their breathing was erratic.

“You like that, huh?” Hero chuckled low, they weren't even holding the villain’s wrists anymore, the criminal could escape if they wanted to, but the hero was touching their body and no amount of punishment from their superiors would counteract this moment. They could live forever just thinking about the hero’s hands gliding down their chest and then snapping up and grabbing Villain’s face, “Answer me. Would you like that?” They demanded.

The villain nearly choked trying to find the will to speak, let alone their words, all they could manage was a quiet, “Y-yes.” Their cheeks were probably a deep maroon from how much blood was in their face. What the hell were they even doing, what was even happening, how the fuck did it come to this? This heaven. What did Villain do to deserve this?

Villain’s beautiful musing was cut far too short as the other heroes arrived on the scene, Hero clicked on the cuffs for show and roughly pulled the Villain to a wobbling stance.

“What the hell did you do to this one? They look half dead!” One of the heroes commented. Oh gods, Villain must look like a mess, their face was probably bright red and their breathing still hadn’t calmed, their outfit was beyond disheveled and their HAIR, they could feel parts of it defying the laws of gravity. They looked like they either just had a really really good time or a really really bad time.

“Sorry, musta got a little too rough. I’ll apologize to them in their holding cell later if that’s alright. Wanna keep things civil, of course.” Hero said, shooting their enemy a wink. And if it wasn’t for the other heroes holding the criminal, they certainly would have swooned. The only thing Villain could think of while being shoved into the containment vehicle for transportation was their rendezvous later. They prayed to whatever deity they could that Hero would keep their promise.

#flirty hero #heroxvillain #hero x villain #heroes and villains #heroes #villains #flustered villain #vi speaks #my writing #asks #sorry its so short by the way like i said i've been having trouble but i hope you enjoy it regardless #requests

[glazelilyy]

Hello luce! It’s been a hot minute. My brain has been a little empty lately, with… bleh. School work. I’ll never get quite use to homework, and my grades will suffer all the more for it. But in any case. How have you been lately?

Recently, the Mondstadt reputation rewards caught my eye. I’m curious about the NRE and the portable waypoint. I could just look it up or whatever, get the experience there, but then there wouldn’t be much of a point of playing genshin on the first place for me. That all aside, how do you like fishing? Ive been really enjoying it, but I feel distaste for the long respawn times of the fish. I wish it was like, only one real life day instead of three. Did you participate kn the Lunar Leviathan event?

Do you have any tips for expanding vocabulary? I’ve been trying to check thesaurus’s word of the day, along with other dictionaries, what advice you have on it if any?

I don’t have any good transitions for this, but here are some Kaeya hcs I came up with on the spot.

-Kaeya putting his cape on your shoulder when he has to leave the room. People staring at him incredulously, “The Calvary captain??? Without his signature cape???” “That’s Sir Kaeya for you. He gets uncharacteristically sweet when ever his s/o is around,”

-Kaeya coming to work in braids because you braided his hair while you two were cuddling that morning. Adamantly refuses to take it out unless it’s by you at the end of the day.

-memorizes your favorite takeout orders, every side, every specification. Then, when you need comfort food, he’ll be able to bring your favorite food to you with no hassle.

-begging you for attention when he’s bored. “Y/nnnnn, you’re so cruel… coming so late to pick me up from the angels share… hold me, y/n… I’m so incredibly touched starved from your missing presence..!” It’s all playful, of course, but he hopes the genuine affection for you isn’t lost in translation. Because after a stressful day of work, you really are all he needs.

-I like to imagine that if you were a knight of Favionous, on some days, you’d be able to talk to Jean and take over most of Kaeyas paperwork, giving him a break. He’d be startled, wondering if the small pile of papers on his desk is a trap, as if when he finishes it the more typical pile up to his neck will appear. He’ll scold you for it when he finds out- he’d really rather be the one taking the extra stress instead of you, after all, he’s use to it- but those days you help him split the work are the ones where he realizes now much he was in need of a break.

-🎃

🎃 nonnie!! hello hello hehe how are you? :) i'm doing pretty well myself, thanks for asking! booo i hear you on school, but it'll get better! it's only september after all and everyone's still adjusting :)

ooh i've had the nre for a while, it's a bit of a life saver (especially for me who relies on zhongli's shield far too much HAHA) but the game will always be there for you to play at your own pace! take your time and enjoy what you like best about the game :)

fishing? honestly i really like the mechanic HAHA it's sort of like animal crossing (i used to play animal crossing new horizons A LOT before i got into genshin) and fishing was always my favorite part in ac! i also like the pretty fish in genshin eeeee i really wanted this gorgeous looking crystalfish but i was fishing in an event pond and couldnt pull out the fruitpaste bait :( i'm glad you're enjoying it too!! but like you said, i hope the respawn times can be fixed!

hmm, i found that my vocabulary was best expanded the more i read. i'd find new words and remember them when i'd do google searches for more intriguing words. additionally, you can substitute a word in your writing with a suitable one that you find on thesaurus.com or onelook.com! it really depends on how much you like reading and what methods you prefer best: in the moment stuff or long-term expansion of vocabulary. either way, don't worry about rushing! take your time and find words you like the best :)

WOOHOO HEADCANONS WITH THE BEST BOY!! :D

- kaeya without his cape is like klee without her hat LOL but he'd sacrifice his appearance if it meant you'd stay warm >:)

- YES AAA he doesn't care if he looks ridiculous or whatever, his!!! s/o!!! braided!!! his!!! hair!!! and no one but you is going to take it out >:) also putting flowers, barrettes, and hairclips into his hair with his permission OOOO HE'D LOOK SO PRETTY :D

- he'd also just memorize it because when the inevitable "what do you want to eat" "idk what do YOU want to eat" scenario happens, he can just go and get your favorite since it's his favorite as well now >:)

- awww yes YES he's like a puppy that needs attention AND HE DESERVES IT MWAH MWAH HE DESERVES SO MUCH AFFECTION

- this!!! :( i think he'd definitely appreciate the thought and would cut himself some slack after tasting some relaxation in a long time :D and he might just prefer working with you opposed to working alone since you make for good company ;)

thanks for your messages and hcs 🎃 nonnie!! i absolutely adored them ehehe >:)

#sincerely: the stars—☆ #from my beloved 🎃 anon—☆

[diary-of-deadweight]

Important thing.

Kaeya Alberich/ Ragnvindir x reader.

Yes, I do Genshin Impact also! Request me shit for this!!

If someone were to tell you with the most deadpan expression upon their face, whether it’d be Aether or Venti, that Kaeya Alberich, cryokentic Calvary Captain of the Knights of Favonius and the most charming bastard in all of Monstadt, is interested in you...you’d laugh at them, “I do believe April fools day has passed has it not?” I’m mean why should you? He’s like that with everyone! Why would you be any different?

Yeah sure he’d give you trinkets he’d found within the treasure chests scattered across from the plains of Stormbearer Point to Starsnatch Cliff despite your pleas of not wanting so valuable laying about your house and he’d called you nicknames such as sunshine, cherry blossom, cupcake and yeah he was more affectionate towards you then most with the hand touching, arm over the shoulders drawing you into his side and how he’d always without fail kiss the back of your hand whenever he had to leave for a mission but that didn’t mean shit! At least you think it didn’t...but lately the Cryo user has been spending a lot of time with you and I mean a lot even when he’s, ya know, suppose to be at work which earns him an earful from Jean when he does show up but that doesn’t hinder him from dragging you out to laze beneath an apple tree and make daisy chains within the heart of the Whispering Woods, which is where you are right now for plot convicence.

“You know what’s funny?”

“Hmm?” Kaeya opens his eye to look at you in intrigue as a soft smile stretched across his face, god he looked gorgeous laying there in all his glory, back resting against the trunk of the apple tree, arms crossed over his man tiddies chest, his poorly woven daisy chain resting askew upon his silky soft cyan locks that you almost forgot what you were going to say.almost. “Cat got your tongue little bird?” He wiggles his eyebrows.

“Shut up you,” you shoved his arm playfully, a flurry of giggles burst forth from your lips, unaware of the adoring look the male was giving you as he propped himself upright, waiting patiently for you to continue, “it’s just that...people assume you like me,” your laughter died upon your lips as your smile turned into a straight line, eyes downcast to your hands, “but I don’t see it...I’m nothing special, why would you be interested in me of all people that you could have in Mondstadt?”

“Because you give me a feeling of which no one has invoked in me before,” Kaeya reaches a hand over to grasp your chin, turning so you’d look at him, a supple smile blessing his lips, “you are one of the most important things I’ve got going in my life that I do not wish to loose anytime soon, if you allow me to remain by your side that is.” He leaned forward to rest his head against yours, his eyes darting between your eyes and your lips, begging you a silent question to which you wasted no time answering by cupping his face and drawing him into a chaste kiss, heart at ease with the knowledge that this wasn’t in vain and that it was just as real as the pair of birds that flocked overhead close together.

#genshin impact #genshin kaeya #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact imagines #genshin impact imagine #kaeya x reader #kaeya ragnvindr #kaeya alberich #Kaeya Alberich x reader #Kaeya Ragnvindir x reader #Kaeya Alberich imagines #Kaeya Alberich imagine #Kaeya Ragnvindir imagines #Kaeya Ragnvindir imagine #genshin impact fanfiction #gender neutral reader

[forthechubbies]

The Shy Elf And The Hot Nurse

Injured!Tamaki Amajiki x Nurse! Reader 

Chapter Two ~The Little Bunny~

I-I...ultimately got a patient and It's him. Suneater! He's so dreamy and I'm-I'm so ew! I can't...I can't manage this. He probably thinks...I'm disgusting in this uniform...It's extremely short in the back... Oh my god, my hands are trembling. 

I have to be getting out of here before I faint like last time with All Might...Damn it! What was the point of bringing that up?! That happened three years ago! Oh no My legs are turning into jelly!'

The nurse hushed up her flustered expression behind the wooden clipboard at hand. Thankfully for her, On the other side of the room, The boys were inattentively unaware of (F/N)'s meltdown. Mainly because of Amajiki experiencing the same calvary.

"Ms. (L/N) Please report to the front desk forthwith! Again, Ms. (L/N), please report to the front desk momentarily!"

The announcement blissful words put (F/N)'s unstable nerves to rest at ease that being said the nurse bolted out the room. However, with legs like jelly, She didn't far before collapsing to the floor.

"(F/N), You left your Paxil at home. You can't function without them, I've advised this before."Dr. Hanji scolded lifting (F/N) off the floor."In order for you to work in my hospital, you have consistently keep these in your possession cottontail."

Dr. Hanji harshly shoved a standard dose down her throat. " Let this be the last time this happens." She shot a death glare at (F/N) through her glasses making (F/N)'s hairs stand on end. "Now, Take a nap until the pill sets in" Dr. Hanji plunged her on a bed in a vacant room and left without another word.

As the nurse slipped into slumber, Our little elf was trying to hide from life.

"Tamaki, You can't stay under the covers forever." Mirio struggled mightily tried to pry the blankets off his anxious friend. The "Holy Sunshine, I knew you were strong but...This...is..ridiculous!"

The blond dropped to his knees after an intense 'game of tug of war' with Amajiki that he lost miserably. The anxious elf quaked underneath the thick hospital blanket.

Mirio sighed hopelessly, "Tamaki, It's alright I'm confident that she's a very nice woman right Ms.(L/N)?"He stood nonplussed, spotting no cute little nurse in sight."Oh, She's gone."

Amajiki ear's twitched alertly as he snatched the blanket slightly to confirm the truth with a quick peek. He took a breath of relief sitting up carefully to not exasperate his dreadful wound. The elf sat in dismay believing he caused her to feel unwanted because of his sheepish behavior.

'I'm Tamaki Amajiki the man who can take down three villains at once but cowards before a cute- um innocent woman. How terrible.' He mocked at his own expense.

"Tamaki, There's is nothing to be afraid of. Just do what you always do and imagine her as something else." Mirio smiled brightly.

'M-Mirio right. Why would this time be any different? Okay, I um think I can do this. I hope.'

Amajiki lips quivered in fear and his ears flinched at the familiar clicking heading towards the door.

"Hello, I'm back" (F/N) greeted the boys with a heartwarming smile." I apologize for leaving without excusing myself properly."She bowed humbly.

"Please forgive me."

" Oh, it's no big deal. We barely noticed you were gone." Mirio scratched the back of his neck. "Right, Tamaki?"

Amajiki hummed along bashfully.

"Ok then" The nurse prop the heavy hospital door to pull through an even heavier cart.

"Let me, Miss, " Mirio sprung naturally into action after catching sight of the little lady's struggles." It's stuck on something" He snatched the cart into the room his sudden forceful pull caused some on the contents on the cart to fall off. " Oops, sorry about that."

"Ok, it's alright no harm done." (F/N) and Mirio gathers all the misplaced contents and sets them in their correct arrangements. " Thank you."

"You're welcome. Say what made you want to become a nurse."

"When I was little, I use to always love helping people when they got 'Boo-boos'. That love drove me through all my hardships, and I'm doing what I love. Kissing people's boo-boos like Mr. Amajiki"

Hot steam burst out of Amajiki's hot pink ears. Why does she have to do that? Why does she have to mention his name in that gorgeous silky voice? The poor man was already on edge anyway.

'Just I-imagine... Imagine her as so-something else.' Amajiki finally reiterated looking at (F/N) while she's distracted. 'Nothing... She's still a per-person.' Before he panics again, his breath as taken away by her radiant beauty. She is unusually adorable... Like a Bun-Bunny?!'

A white fluffy cottontail absorbed his attention. Speechless, Amajiki gripped his sheets and swayed his head.

'She's a bunny?! N-No, I'm just imagining things... Like always, but I never imagine a person as an animal before, so why now?'

Amajiki furrowed his brows, chewing on his bottom lip as if it were gummy. Have I reached a new all-time low? I'm helpless.'

The elf huffed gripping the hospital gown's collar that seems to be strangling him by the minute, A soothing, gentle touch on his forehead caused his muscles to tense up.

"Thankfully, your fever has gone down."

A glorious voice of milk and honey gently teased Amajiki's twitching ears as his poor weak heart skips a beat. 'S-She's so close! '

"All I have to do is change your bandages, then I will let you rest. Please take your arm out the sleeve please."

The elf's blood ran cold as she stared at his abdomen. ' I should start working out with Mirio. My pudgy body is not really of hero status.'

" What are your favorite things? Mr. Amajiki " (F/N) felt his severely shaking body and decided to make small talk to take his mind off his personal worries.

" M-my... Favorite things? "

" Yep, Like I love my job... Butterflies- "

"I Love B-Butterflies too," Amajiki shyly smiled, keeping his head turned towards the wall. " I love... Fluffy b-bunnies... They are the cutest."

Amajiki hissed in terrible pain as she cleaned his wounds.

" Thank you...I love you too Mr. Amajiki " She teased wrapping his wounds.

Like fragile glass, Amajiki's nerves broke into pieces. " What-what...I never um I didn't say...Well, I'm not saying you're not cute but your...I. "

The faithful nurse stared at the hectic elf in awed. " Well, You stated that you loved bunnies and coincidentally I'm a bunny. Sooo You love me and I love you too."

*Mwah*

Amajiki's anxious eyes went pure white as her ruby rosy lips connected to his cheek. The poor anxious elf blacked out on contact.

"Oh my goodness, Mr. Amajiki?!"

" Don't worry, he's fine. He does this a lot." Mirio chuckled tucked Amajiki in.

"He always does this?! "

Amajiki.exe has stopped working

#tamakiamajiki #tamaki amakiji #Tamaki #mha tamaki #suneater #amajiki x reader #mha amajiki #amajiki tamaki kin #amajiki tamaki x reader #boku no hero x reader #boku no hero imagines #boku no hero oc #myheroacademy #mha #bhna tamaki #bhna imagine #bhna fanfiction #bhna x reader

[bunny-wan-kenobi]

Bunny’s GOT Top 10

So I’ve been re-watching old GOT episodes this week as a bit of a cleanse (believe me it’s been good for the soul) because while things soured in Season 8, when GOT has been good, it’s been AMAZING. And it’s been encouraging for me to revisit the episodes that struck a chord in me and stayed with me because as I said before, NO ONE can take that away from me. So here’s my personal favorite episodes: 

10. Kissed By Fire (3x5)

This episode lingers with me because it’s a character-driven one with a bittersweet quality to it that pulls you in. It’s an episode about choices and their consequences, and the choices alluded to and made here leave a significant mark on the characters’ lives. It’s also an episode that adeptly balances action, intrigue, and rich dialogue-heavy scenes. 

Highlights: Jon and Ygritte consummate their love, introduction of Davo’s first and always #1 adopted child Shireen, Beric vs The Hound, Robb makes the fatal error of executing Karstark (I love the score for that scene)

Favorite Scene: Jaime revealing why he killed Aerys to Brienne at Harrenhall. Both actors were captivating in the way they carried this profound moment, and it’s one of the best GOT monologues. 

9. Fire and Blood (1x12)

After the shocking and climatic death of Ned Stark, this episode manages to draw together all the characters’ threads into an emotionally compelling season finale. This is where all that time investing in these characters pays off as we see them both mourn their losses but prepare for their next move, perfectly setting the stage for Season 2.

Highlights: Robb crowned King in the North, Tyrion is made Hand to the King, Arya meets her new crew of Gendry, Hot Pie, and Lommy

Favorite Scene: Dany rising from the ashes with 3 dragons. It doesn’t get more hopeful and iconic than that.

8. Hardhome (5x8)

It was tough not ranking this one higher because it’s really an exceptional episode that hammered in just how much of a threat the White Walkers are to the rest of humanity. Not only that, but we get rewarded with some long-awaited character interactions, some painful to watch and others simply engrossing. 

Highlights: Dany and Tyrion’s first meeting (so GOOD seeing the interplay with these two), Jon slays his first White Walker, Sansa and Theon reunite, Karsi the Free Folk chieftainess 

Favorite Scene: The Night King raising the dead as Jon and the remaining Free Folk flee in diminished numbers. It’s a game-changing and tragic moment with a haunting final image, even as it spawned a slew of new memes.

7. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (8x2)

This one ranks higher because of the way it emotionally resonated with me, and it’s one that doesn’t lose its introspective power the more I re-watch it. It has a play-like elegance honed in on these intimate scenes between characters simply working through their tensions as well as reflecting upon their pasts. It truly is a love letter to these characters, honoring their journeys and their relationships as they quietly await the dreaded Long Night. 

Highlights: Jaime’s trial, Jaime and Tyrion’s conversations about family and “self-betterment,” Sam gives Jorah Heartsbane, Jon reveals his parentage to Dany, the “Fireside Club” (honorable mention to everyone’s reactions to Tormund’s ridiculous tale), the gorgeous marriage of melancholic imagery with Daniel Portman’s rendering of “Jenny of Oldstones” 

Favorite Scene: Brienne’s knighting by Jaime. One of the rare moments of pure light and joy on the show, and a beautiful tribute to Brienne’s idealism and honor as well as her transformative and magnetic relationship with Jaime. 

6. Rains of Castamere (3x9)

I remember how devastated I was when I first saw this episode. The set-up to it was so well laid out that it was inevitable, but the almost-Shakespearean sense of tragedy still hurts to this day. The performances here are raw and powerful, and from the moment the ominous strains of the Lannisters’ song begin, you can’t look away. 

Highlights: Jon leaves Ygritte and just misses a reunion with Bran and Rickon, Jorah’s epic team-up with Daario and Barristan Selmy in Yunkai, Bran and Rickon say goodbye 

Favorite Scene: The massacre at the Twins. I mean...what else could it be? This entire sequence is heartbreaking, from Arya realizing her family is being slaughtered to Greywind’s death to Catelyn’s final wail. 

5. The Watchers on the Wall (4x9)

This episode stands out to me as one that testifies most to Jon’s journey. It illuminates his strengths as a leader, the fire-forged loyalty of his friendships, and the poignancy of his first love: Ygritte. There are some spectacular action pieces here, and even the deaths of minor characters heft an emotional punch. It’s also one of the few episodes to be grounded in one location, and that adds to its depth.  

Highlights: Grenn’s last stand against the giant, Sam defeats a Thenn, Ygritte dies in Jon’s arms 

Favorite Scene: Jon taking command on the ground level. There’s an elemental ferocity and resolve in the way he carves his way through the battle, turning the tide in a way everyone bears witness to. 

4. Baelor (1x9)

The episode that changed everything. I wept when I read the chapter where Ned dies in the book, and I still wept here seeing it onscreen. His execution is so abrupt and unjust and horrific that the impact of this moment reverberates throughout the story forever after. There’s actually a LOT that happens in this episode, and it’s all riveting.

Highlights: Robb defeats and captures Jaime, Dany tragically loses her child to save Khal Drogo’s life (it’s weird calling this a highlight but it’s a deeply sorrowful and important moment), Jeor Mormont gives Jon Longclaw 

Favorite Scene: Ned’s death. It’s still hard to watch because it’s so painful.

3. Battle of the Bastards (6x9)

Brilliantly shot, edited, and acted, this episode is one of the most memorable of the GOT battles. It works because it doesn’t lose sight of the characters, conveying the horrors of warfare to a visceral degree. The ending is also one of the most satisfying in the show, cathartic even as the wounds of battle linger. 

Highlights: Dany’s triumph in the battle at Mereen, Sansa’s “Riders of Rohan” rescue with the Knights of the Vale, Dany meets Yara and Theon, Sansa ends Ramsay with his own hounds 

Favorite Scene: Jon draws out Longclaw to make a final stand as the calvary races towards him. It’s just one of those shots that becomes emblematic of the show and the character, and Djawadi scores it beautifully. 

2. Blackwater (2x9)

This episode is teeming with amazing character moments and splendid visuals. But I love it most because it’s the peak of Tyrion’s leadership arc within the first two seasons. He commands the troops and the screen, and it’s hard not to root for him as he amasses the full force of his cleverness and resilience to fight against looming odds. 

Highlights: Bronn lights it up with wildfire, Cersei and Sansa’s conversations (some great Lena Headey moments here), Cersei’s lion story to Tommen on the throne, the Hound leaves the battle and Kingsguard after seeing flames

Favorite Scene: Tyrion’s speech. It embodies the character so well: irreverent, pragmatic with a good dose of “to hell with it!” 

1. The Winds of Winter (6x10)

I have re-watched this episode so many times I’ve lost count. It contains all the best of what GOT represents to me: rich characterization, well-cultivated storytelling, and rewarding plot payoff against a backdrop of exceptional score and cinematography. More than that, it’s the kind of episode that I leave feeling like I’ve experienced something truly special, something ineffable. 

Highlights: Jon revealed as the son of Rhaegar and Lyanna, Dany proclaims Tyrion Hand of the Queen, Arya gets revenge on Walder Frey, Davos confronts Melissandre about Shireen’s death, Jon made King in the North 

Favorite Scene: THE WHOLE EPISODE. Okay, I’ll just cheat and share just two scenes. The first is the entire Light of the Seven sequence because I just think it’s the perfect scene. It’s builds up its ominous tension so brilliantly and brings everything to such an explosive climax so incredibly supported by the music that it’s a work of art. The second is the ending, which I also think is perfect. It’s what so much of the story has been working towards: Dany sailing to Westeros, and every visual, from her standing proudly on the ship to the combined forces of several houses to her dragons soaring above her, culminates in this triumphant moment that is simply unmatched. 

#got #game of thrones #got meta #where bunny summarizes what got means to her #bunny posts

[the-last-page]

2018 Review!

Rules: answer the questions about your 2018 and tag some people!

Thanks @isthisenoughorcanwegohigher​ for tagging me! Everything is in no particular order:

Top 5 Movies You Watched in 2018

1. Coldplay: A Head Full of Dreams. I saw it in theaters and I cried for the entire runtime, and then I saw it again at home with family and I cried again. Woo!!!

2. Eighth Grade. Another movie during which I cried a LOT because I saw so much of my own adolescence reflected back at me. Super important movie and super well-done.

3. Calvary. This struck me right to the bone. Highly, highly recommended.

4. Moon. I listened to this film’s soundtrack for a really long time before I actually watched it, and I’m so happy that the film surpassed all my expectations!

5. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. What a great film to end the year with!! The animation was GORGEOUS and the characters were GREAT and I just LOVE SPIDER-MAN SO MUCH.

Top 5 TV Shows You Watched in 2018

1. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. I binged the whole show over the summer and it was 100% worth it! 

2. Arrested Development. Where’s the second half of the fifTH SEASON WHERE IS IT

3. The Good Place. So much fun and so creative!! I still have to watch season two though whoops!

4. Gotham. Of course.

5. Avatar: The Last Airbender. I somehow didn’t watch this show as a kid so I finally did and um???? It’s perfect. Zuko has the best redemption arc of any character ever. Everyone was so right.

Top 5 Songs You Listened to in 2018

I’m taking these right off of my Spotify Top 100:

1. Killing Time - American Psycho the Musical

2. Origin of Love - MIKA

3. Everything Now - Arcade Fire

4. Ghost - VHS Collection

5. I Fall For The Same Face Every Time - Z Berg

Top 5 Books You Read in 2018

1. Lunar Park by Bret Easton Ellis. This book messed me up???? It’s a crazy combo of horror and false memoir and it’s a WILD ride.

2. Skulduggery Pleasant: Midnight by Derek Landy. I really liked Resurrection but Midnight somehow got even better!!

3. The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins. Such a fun art style and a great adaptation of a good good podcast from those good good boys!

4. Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng. Probably one of the saddest books I’ve ever read but also really hopeful in a lot of ways. 

5. We Sold Our Souls by Grady Hendrix. My favorite horror author has done it again!!!!

5 Good Things that Happened to You in 2018

1. I studied abroad in Montreal! It was an amazing experience and I fell in love with the city.

2. I finally went to a Passion Pit concert and I cried...... so much............. 

3. I met the boys of Night Riots and I’m still kind of reeling about that??? Like. I talked to all of them and they were all super nice and just ?????

4. I spent lots of time with family and friends this year and really tried to live in the moment with them. I love everyone in my life so much and I’m so glad that I get to spend any amount of time with all of you!

5. I finally started working on myself this year. Even though some days are still really hard and anxiety is The Worst, I’m feeling a lot better overall than I have in years past. Let’s hope next year is even better!!

Anyone who wants to try this out too can go for it!

#tag meme #long post #story time with page #this was fun!! but also difficult to decide haha

[xtommyxnewt]

Why we have Easter

Heinrich Hoffman’s Christ and the Rich Young Ruler

The history of our Lord Jesus Christ was eloquently recorded by Luke, a physician. In his book in the Holy Bible’s New Testament, the 23rd chapter Luke shares (from LDS.org):

CHAPTER 23

Jesus is taken before Pilate, then to Herod, and then to Pilate again—Barabbas is released—Jesus is crucified between two thieves—He is buried in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathæa.

1 And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate.

2 And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to aCæsar, saying that he himself is Christ a bKing.

3 And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answered him and said, Thou sayest it.

4 Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no afault in this man.

5 And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.

6 When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilæan.

7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.

8 ¶ And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some amiracle done by him.

9 Then he questioned with him in many words; but he aanswered him nothing.

10 And the chief priests and ascribes stood and vehemently accused him.

11 And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and amocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.

12 ¶ And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.

13 ¶ And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,

14 Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:

15 No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done aunto him.

16 I will therefore chastise him, and release him.

17 (For of necessity he must arelease one unto them at the feast.)

18 And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:

19 (Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for amurder, was cast into prison.)

20 Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.

21 But they cried, saying, aCrucify him, crucify him.

22 And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found ano cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go.

23 And they were ainstant with loud voices, brequiring that he might be ccrucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.

24 And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they arequired.

25 And he released unto them him that for sedition and amurder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

26 And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.

27 ¶ And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.

28 But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of aJerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.

29 For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the abarren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck.

30 Then shall they begin to say to the amountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.

31 For if they do these things in a agreen tree, what shall be done in the bdry?

32 And there were also two other, amalefactors, led with him to be put to death.

33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

34 ¶ Then asaid Jesus, Father, bforgive them; for they know not what cthey do. And they parted his draiment, and cast lots.

35 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them aderided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the bchosen of God.

36 And the soldiers also amocked him, coming to him, and offering him bvinegar,

37 And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.

38 And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE aKING OF THE bJEWS.

39 ¶ And one of the malefactors which were hanged arailed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.

40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due areward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.

42 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.

43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in aparadise.

44 And it was about the asixth hour, and there was a bdarkness over all the cearth until the ninth hour.

45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the amidst.

46 ¶ And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I acommend my bspirit: and having said thus, he cgave up the dghost.

47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a arighteous man.

48 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.

49 And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

50 ¶ And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a acounsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:

51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathæa, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

52 This man went unto Pilate, and abegged the body of Jesus.

53 And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a asepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

54 And that day was the apreparation, and the sabbath drew on.

55 And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the asepulchre, and how his body was laid.

56 And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and arested the sabbath day according to the commandment.

After the women returned to the tomb to annoint Christ’s body for burial, they found that he was not there.

CHAPTER 24

Angels announce the resurrection of Christ—He walks on the Emmaus road—He appears with a body of flesh and bones, eats food, testifies of His divinity, and promises the Holy Ghost—He ascends into heaven.

1 Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the asepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.

2 aAnd they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.

3 And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

4 And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:

5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?

6 He is not here, but is arisen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,

7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

8 And they remembered his words,

9 And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.

10 It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.

11 And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not.

12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.

13 ¶ And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem aabout threescore furlongs.

14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened.

15 And it came to pass, that, while they acommuned together and reasoned, bJesus himself drew near, and went with them.

16 But their eyes were aholden that they should not know him.

17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

18 And the one of them, whose name was aCleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?

19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:

20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.

21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre;

23 And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.

24 And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.

25 Then he said unto them, O afools, and slow of bheart to cbelieve all that the prophets have spoken:

26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

27 And beginning at aMoses and all the bprophets, he cexpounded unto them in all the dscriptures the things concerning himself.

28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.

29 But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.

30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.

31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.

32 And they said one to another, Did not our aheart bburn within us, while he ctalked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,

34 Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath aappeared to bSimon.

35 And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.

36 ¶ And as they thus spake, Jesus himself astood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, bPeace be unto you.

37 But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.

38 And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do athoughts arise in your hearts?

39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: ahandle me, and see; for a bspirit hath not cflesh and bones, as ye dsee me have.

40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.

41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and awondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?

42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.

43 And he took it, and did eat before them.

44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be afulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.

45 Then opened he their aunderstanding, that they might understand the scriptures,

46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it abehoved Christ to suffer, and to brise from the dead the third day:

47 And that arepentance and bremission of sins should be cpreached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

48 And ye are awitnesses of these things.

49 ¶ And, behold, I send the apromise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be bendued with power from on high.

50 ¶ And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.

51 And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and acarried up into heaven.

52 And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:

53 And were continually in the atemple, praising and blessing God. Amen.

Nearly 2,000 years later, the followers of Jesus Christ celebrate His ascendancy over death and wait for His return to reign as King of Kings.

timesofindia.com

from McMurtry Creative Media https://ift.tt/39Ix1vs

[cata79]

Luke 23 ~New King James Version (NKJV)

Jesus Handed Over to Pontius Pilate

23 Then the whole multitude of them arose and led Him to Pilate. 2 And they began to accuse Him, saying, “We found this fellow perverting [a]the nation, and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that He Himself is Christ, a King.”

3 Then Pilate asked Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?”

He answered him and said, “It is as you say.”

4 So Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowd, “I find no fault in this Man.”

5 But they were the more fierce, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee to this place.”

Jesus Faces Herod

6 When Pilate heard [b]of Galilee, he asked if the Man were a Galilean. 7 And as soon as he knew that He belonged to Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent Him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time. 8 Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. 9 Then he questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing. 10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. 11 Then Herod, with his [c]men of war, treated Him with contempt and mocked Him, arrayed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate. 12 That very day Pilate and Herod became friends with each other, for previously they had been at enmity with each other.

Taking the Place of Barabbas

13 Then Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests, the rulers, and the people, 14 said to them, “You have brought this Man to me, as one who misleads the people. And indeed, having examined Him in your presence, I have found no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him; 15 no, neither did Herod, for [d]I sent you back to him; and indeed nothing deserving of death has been done by Him. 16 I will therefore chastise Him and release Him” 17 (for[e] it was necessary for him to release one to them at the feast).

18 And they all cried out at once, saying, “Away with this Man, and release to us Barabbas”— 19 who had been thrown into prison for a certain rebellion made in the city, and for murder.

20 Pilate, therefore, wishing to release Jesus, again called out to them. 21 But they shouted, saying, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!”

22 Then he said to them the third time, “Why, what evil has He done? I have found no reason for death in Him. I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go.”

23 But they were insistent, demanding with loud voices that He be crucified. And the voices of these men [f]and of the chief priests prevailed. 24 So Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they requested. 25 And he released [g]to them the one they requested, who for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

The King on a Cross

26 Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.

27 And a great multitude of the people followed Him, and women who also mourned and lamented Him. 28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!” ’ 31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”

32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 [h]Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

And they divided His garments and cast lots. 35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.”

36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.”

38 And an inscription also was [i]written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew:

THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, [j]“If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”

40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said [k]to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”

43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

Jesus Dies on the Cross

44 Now it [l]was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45 Then the sun was [m]darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in [n]two. 46 And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ ”Having said this, He breathed His last.

47 So when the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying, “Certainly this was a righteous Man!”

48 And the whole crowd who came together to that sight, seeing what had been done, beat their breasts and returned. 49 But all His acquaintances, and the women who followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.

Jesus Buried in Joseph’s Tomb

50 Now behold, there was a man named Joseph, a council member, a good and just man. 51 He had not consented to their decision and deed. He was from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who[o] himself was also waiting for the kingdom of God. 52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 53 Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a tomb that was hewn out of the rock, where no one had ever lain before. 54 That day was the Preparation, and the Sabbath drew near.

55 And the women who had come with Him from Galilee followed after, and they observed the tomb and how His body was laid. 56 Then they returned and prepared spices and fragrant oils. And they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.

www.biblegateway.com and Internet image/credit

#Bible #Luke 23

[randomosit]

Impossible love

I stared into nowhere, thinking about nothing in particular. The houses passed by outside the window of the car. The low hum of the engine vibrated through the car. Trees, people, other cars, houses. They all passed by on our way to the new church Mom decided to check out. Recently moving here and settling into a new school was bad enough, but she had to go and drag me along to her church stuff. I didn't mind it because I didn't really pay attention to what was said, and I never really went that often. Only when she begged me too.

Essex, Vermont. Not only was it New England, but it was New England in the winter. And we just barely moved here from South Carolina. Our new normal temperature is now fifty degrees lower than it used to be, and forty on a good day.

A bump brought me back to my body, just in time to hear Mom's voice announcing we'd arrived. "Please be nice. I know you don't particularly like doing this, but I'm glad you are."

"When am I not nice?" I replied sarcastically, exiting the car. The Church itself didnt look too big and the white sign next to road said Calvary Baptist Church. We approached the front door and entered to a large crowd of people that shuffled around doing things as they prepared for the service. Most were actually just standing off to the side and chatting with one another. No one seemed surprised as to our arrival, but one of the men came up to my mother and introduced himself as the pastor.

"Welcome to Calvary Baptist. I am Pastor Hinsmen." He stuck out a hand and my mother shook it.

"I'm Jane Gerwin. This is my son, Emmet." He extended his hand to me so I obliged him. Not saying a word I shook his hand.

"Glad to have you here Emmet. Hope you enjoy the service." I gave a small smile in reply. "Now if you'll excuse me, it's almost time for the service." He turned and made his way through the thinning crowd of people through a door that led into what was obviously the Sanctuary. Having been to a few churches, I pretty much figured out which room was what in any church. The largest, most well decorated room was always the Sanctuary.

There was another door closer to us which also led to the sanctuary. The two doors were separated by a wall that overhung a staircase. The stairs led down, but to where was a mystery.

We followed the remaining stragglers through the door into the Sanctuary. The people seemed to know where they were going to sit, but not us. Mom glanced at me with a odd look. The spacious room seemed to be filled with pews that in turn were also filled. All the people were still chatting amongst themselves, the service not having started yet. As I scanned the room for an open seat a guy around my age appeared in front of me.

"Hello." My took a second to meet his, but when they did I nearly gasped. "You seem to be having trouble finding a seat." His light purple eyes gazed directly back at mine from under an unruly mess of golden hair. I couldn't speak; I actually didn't want to speak. This guy was gorgeous.

Oh, I'm sorry. Did I forget to mention I was gay? Well, I'm gay. Now you know. That's one of the reasons why I don't like coming to church, and why Mom told me to be nice.

But God am I glad I came. His light skin almost glowed in the morning light that spilled through the waist height to ceiling windows. His golden hair shimmered in waves, like he brushed it aside in a halfhearted attempt to make it look neat. And those eyes.

"Emmet." Something jabbed my arm. Probably Mom. "Sorry about him, he's just not used to the color of your eyes." MOM! "We are new here and if you could help that would be so kind." I recovered from my stupor and quickly morphed my stunned look into a smile.

"It would be my pleasure." He replied to my mom, not breaking eye contact, but returning the smile. My heart fluttered like it was full of butterflies. "If my memory serves me right there should be a spot large enough for two over there." He turned and pointed to a pew two from the back, and there was a gap right on the end large enough for three. Turning back to us, he put a smile on again. This time little wrinkles appeared around his eyes.

"Thank you, I am Jane Gerwin. This is my son Emmet."

"Nice to meet you Mrs. Gerwin." Then he looked directly at me, through my eyes and into my soul. "And I'm very happy to have met you, Emmet. My name is Jeremiah, but everyone calls me Jerry." He broke eye contact to give a smile to my mother then nodded at both of us, like he was bowing, before he moved off to a pew a few rows in front of us. We made our way to the open seat and sat. The rows of pews had a center aisle that divided the rows into left and right, Jeremiah was sitting in the third row on the right, while we were towards the back on the left. I had a direct line of sight to the back of his head, when we were seated.

My eyes kept wandering to him throughout the entire service, which I payed absolutely no attention to. The beginning was good enough, and although the church wasn't all that big; they still had ten or twelve people with instruments up on the stage who played along with the pianist during the hymns. After it was all finished some people stayed behind and chatted inside the sanctuary while the others made there way out into the "hall" to get ready to leave. Maybe talk a little more while getting ready.

Mom and I made our way to the door and hustled out into the cold, trying to beat the nightmare that wood soon become this parking lot. It had too many cars for not enough space. It was also conveniently located exiting onto a busy street, making it all the more fun.

The heavy door clunked open behind us and Jeremiah's voice stopped me cold. Pun intended.

"Emmet, wait." I turned to face him, and his mesmerizing purple eyes captured mine.

"I'll be in the car when your done." Mom stated before moving off.

"Let me give you my number. There was talk of a new kid coming to school, and I have a funny feeling that might be you." He held out a thin strip of paper. His face lighting up at the same time with a brilliant smile, making my heart melt. So before I realized what I was doing I had accepted the piece of paper. "If you need anything, anything at all. Just call me."

"Okay. Thank you?" I didn't know what exactly I was supposed to do. My heart made it very clear that I had a major crush on this guy, but it can't go anywhere. Can it?

Before anything else could be spoken, the Pastor exited the door. "Jeremiah. Mrs. Jetter has been looking for you."

"Okay Dad." As soon as he said Dad, my heart fell through my feet, straight to the earth's core. There was no way he was interested in me as more than friends. "Tell her I'll be right there."

"Okay, but hurry." He disappeared back through the heavy door. All the while we never broke eye contact.

I felt like I was slowly falling into his purple gaze. I felt drawn to him.

The door behind us clunked open and people began making their way out, breaking the daze I was in. When that happened I realized the gap between us had almost vanished. We quite close to being nose to nose. Jumping back, I cleared my throat. "See you at school then?" I offered nervously.

"See you there." His smile faltered slightly, before he turned on his heel and walked back through the crowd of people leaving.

I made my way back to the car so we could go home. The trip home was silent, but I couldn't stop thinking about him. The rest of that day had me distracted by him, I couldn't get him off my mind. Not even when I slept, because all I could dream of was him.

The boy with purple eyes.

[massiveprincesong-blog]

President Trump reacted Thursday to the news that Jussie Smollett has been charged with falsifying a police report alleging he was attacked by men who made a reference to the president’s “Make America Great Again” campaign slogan.  Luke 23 King James Version (KJV)23 And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate.2 And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King.3 And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answered him and said, Thou sayest it.4 Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.5 And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.6 When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean.7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.8 And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.9 Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing.10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him.11 And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.12 And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.13 And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,14 Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:15 No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him.16 I will therefore chastise him, and release him.17 (For of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast.)18 And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:19 (Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast into prison.)20 Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.21 But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him.22 And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go.23 And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.24 And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required.25 And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.26 And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.27 And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.28 But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.29 For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck.30 Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.31 For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?32 And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.35 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.36 And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar,37 And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.38 And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, This Is The King Of The Jews.39 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.42 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.48 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.49 And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.50 And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.52 This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.53 And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.54 And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.55 And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid.56 And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.King James Version (KJV)Public Domain

[bibleread2017]

Luke chapter 23

And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate.

 And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King.

 And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answered him and said, Thou sayest it.

 Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.

 And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.

 When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean.

 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.

 And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.

 Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing.

 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him.

 And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.

 And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.

 And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,

 Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:

 No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him.

 I will therefore chastise him, and release him.

 (For of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast.)

 And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:

 (Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast into prison.)

 Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.

 But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him.

 And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go.

 And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.

 And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required.

 And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

 And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.

 And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.

 But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.

 For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck.

 Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.

 For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?

 And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.

 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.

 And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar,

 And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.

 And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.

 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.

 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.

 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.

 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.

 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.

 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.

 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.

 And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

 And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:

 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

 This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.

 And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

 And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.

 And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid.

 And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.

#Luke chapter 23 #A chapter a day from the Bible #Jesus is Real #Pray for WISDOM and DISCERNMENT

[betweenandbeloved]

Sightseeing Adventures Oh My!

Saturday July 13: Our first full day here in South Dakota was indeed, a very full day. We started the morning by loading the vans and heading to Crazy Horse Memorial. In 6 years, there hasn’t been a ton of visible progress, but there have definitely been some changes.

(At the bottom of Crazy Horse Memorial)

The memorial is funded exclusively by donations; they will not accept government funding. This is to live out the dream of creating a memorial to honor the Lakota people, and their warrior Crazy Horse who fought so diligently for their freedom. It was fun to visit and see everyone’s reaction for the first time as to how big the memorial is and to hear about a part of history they definitely don’t teach in schools.

While there, we had the opportunity to see some traditional Lakota dancing and learn a little about the experience of the Lakota people. It was an absolutely gorgeous day and it was so enjoyable to sit and look out on the monument standing right in the heart of the black hills.

(I found an Ass.... I mean, burrow)

We left Crazy Horse and drove through Custer State Park in search of animals. Unlike other years, we really didn’t have much luck. It was pretty hot out so we think all the animals were off in the shade somewhere. We did get to see some Burros that were hanging out on the side of the road and really had no fear of people.

We saw a herd of buffalo off in the distance, but we were not fortunate enough for a buffalo crossing. After leaving the park we made a wrong turn and ended up seeing two buffalo hanging out by a camp ground. We pulled over and let the kids out to look at them from behind the campground fence. They were stoked and a wrong turn turned into a happy mistake with joyful kids who got to see some buffalo - pretty up close and personal too!

After leaving the park we ventured to Mount Rushmore. We were shocked to discover they are doing all kinds of renovations to the space so we had limited viewing places unless you went on the hike around the property. Emily, Rebekah and I opted to hang out, enjoy dinner and ice cream, and look at the monument from a picnic table. We enjoyed delicious bison burgers and ice cream - which is really the best meal out here and I’ve been looking forward to it for three years. If you were here, you’d get what I mean.

(Rebekah, Emily’s and my annual photo in front of Rushmore)

All in all, it was a truly wonderful day. Even though I’ve seen all of these places three times now, there’s always something new and exciting to discover or re-experience or just enjoy.

Sunday July 14: a very full and very long day. We started the morning by worshipping at Calvary Lutheran Church, our gracious hosts for our time in Rapid City. The congregation welcomed us and it was nice to meet some of them. After a chaotic event of packing and cleaning, we began our adventure to the reservation with our first stop at the Journey Museum.

(Group photo at Calvary)

The museum is a wonderful, brief overview of a whole lot of stuff. It talks about the geology and archaeology of South Dakota, the history of the Lakota people, and information about the pioneers. Since 2016 they’ve made a lot of changes to update and make the museum more interactive. It was fun to watch the kids explore the museum and learn about history.

I think my favorite part was watching the kids try to figure out the side saddle display, they couldn’t quite figure out where to put their leg and how to ride. Then, when they did figure it out, they were like “how was this comfortable?” It wasn’t friends, it wasn’t. Just ask Princess Mia from Princess Diaries 2. (And if you haven’t watched the movie, you need to).

After waiting out a thunderstorm at the museum, we loaded the vans and departed for Rosebud. Vans 1-8 went the normal route but cars Alpha and Omega (the chaplains, Synod staff, and nurse) made a wrong turn and ended up on the scenic route. Everyone arrived safely and that’s all that matters!

Linda from Tree of Life graciously welcomed us into their space. She gave a great message about her hope for our time on the reservation. She said first and foremost we are all people of God and we needed to have respect for the people and the land. She also mentioned that we were here to learn, grow and be changed. We will have projects to do, but that the conversations and interactions we have with people will be just as, if not more important than, the work we do.

(Meeting with Linda from Tree of Life)

It feels so great to be back here. Linda is on fire with excitement and energy for the work they are doing here. I can’t wait to see all the changes they’ve made in the last three years. It also sounds like she has lined up some amazing cultural and learning activities for our group. The kids are excited to learn and ready to serve. I can’t wait to hear about and witness their experiences on the reservation!

Bonus Pic: if you’ve followed my adventures, you may be familiar with Buff the Buffalo who decided to make his forever home somewhere in Jericho, and the addition of Cam the Camel from Jordan, to our family of adventurers. Well at the Journey Museum I was able to find the same stuffed buffalo from three years ago (and I think it was cheaper this time!). So, I would like to happily introduce you to, Buff Jr. He and Cam are getting along just fine and enjoying the wide open space; although, Cam really isn’t too sure what to think about how green everything is.

(And yes, I realize I am six years old)

[sorayahigashikata]

Chapter 85: "Mmmm, lamb meat!"

#Paula reads SBR #Chapter 85 #UOOOOOOOOO #seriously is anyone surprised? #I AM surprised at the horse thing though #Steel Ball Run spoilers #Part 7 spoilers

[kansascityhappenings]

Military veterans, 2 friends, bar workers killed in shooting

Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — One was a veteran police officer who didn’t hesitate to run toward danger. Another had survived the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. Others include two friends who loved off-roading, a Marine veteran who dedicated his life to service and a recent college graduate who worked with children with special needs.

They were among a dozen people killed in a shooting at a country music bar in suburban Los Angeles on Wednesday night. Authorities believe the gunman, Ian David Long, ultimately killed himself.

___

RON HELUS: ‘COP’S COP’

Ventura County sheriff’s Sgt. Ron Helus was talking to his wife when calls started coming in about a shooting at the Borderline Bar and Grill.

“Hey, I got to go handle a call. I love you. I’ll talk to you later,” he told her, according to Sheriff Geoff Dean.

It was the last time she would talk to her husband.

Helus rushed toward the shooting and immediately exchanged fire with the gunman, Dean said. Helus was hit multiple times.

Sgt. Eric Buschow, who said Helus was a friend, described him as a “cop’s cop.”

“The fact that he was the first in the door doesn’t surprise me at all,” he said. “He’s just one of those guys that wouldn’t hesitate in a situation.”

Helus took up fly fishing a few years ago and loved pursuing the hobby in the Sierra Nevada mountains with his grown son, Buschow said.

“He was just a great guy, a gentle soul,” Buschow said. “Patient. Calm no matter what. When you call 911, he’s one of the guys you want showing up.”

Helus was on the SWAT team for much of his career and worked in narcotics and investigations, he said.

“If you were a victim of a crime, you want him investigating the case,” Buschow said. “He would go to the ends of the Earth to find a suspect.”

Dean choked back tears talking about Helus and called him a hero.

“He went in there to save people and paid the ultimate price,” he said.

___

CODY COFFMAN: ‘THE BIG BROTHER THAT MY KIDS NEED’

Cody Coffman, who had just turned 22, was talking with Army recruiters and preparing to fulfill his dream of serving his country, father Jason Coffman said, weeping.

Cody adored his siblings — three brothers between ages 6 and 9 — and he couldn’t wait for the birth of a sister, due on Nov. 29, his father said.

“Cody was the big brother that my kids need,” he said. “He was so excited to have his first sister and now she’ll never know …”

He trailed off, sobbing, then said, “Oh, Cody, I love you, son.”

Jason Coffman said his son was passionate about baseball, serving as an umpire for a little league, and they fished together.

“That poor boy would come with me whether he liked it or not,” he said. “That’s the kind of stuff I am truly going to miss.”

Jason Coffman said he last spoke to his son Wednesday night before Cody headed to the bar.

“The first thing I said was, ‘Please don’t drink and drive,’” he said. “The last thing I said was, ‘Son, I love you.’”

___

JUSTIN MEEK: ‘FULL OF LIGHT AND HAPPINESS’

Newly graduated from California Lutheran University, Justin Meek performed as a singer and worked at the Borderline.

Meek, 23, also worked for Channel Island Social Services as a respite caregiver, supporting families with children with special needs, mostly developmental disabilities, chief executive Sharon Francis said.

“Parents just adored him. He was able to bond with their kids,” she said. “He was just an all-around guy.”

Danielle Gallo, who also works at the family-run organization, said he was dedicated to the kids he worked with.

“You could tell he really had a heart for what he did,” she said, sobbing.

Meek also toured professionally as an a cappella singer, said family friend Patrick Ellis, who called Meek a talented musician, singer and athlete and a “fantastic human being.”

“He was a hero every day of his life,” Ellis said. “It was just always positive energy. … Anything he could do for you, he was just there.”

Meek worked at the bar with his sister and fellow Cal Lutheran student, Victoria Rose Meek, who survived, Ellis said.

Meek played water polo for Cal Lutheran. He also lent his full, velvety voice to the school choir, where “every time he sang, you could just feel it in your soul,” recalled choir member Rachel Counihan, 20.

“He cared so much about his craft and just cared so much about other people,” she said. “He was just full of light and happiness.”

Scott Roberts, 20, a junior at the school and friend of Victoria Rose Meek’s, recalled Meek being “just the nicest dude.”

___

ALAINA HOUSLEY: ‘AN INCREDIBLE YOUNG WOMAN’

Alaina Housley was just 18, a promising student at Pepperdine University with plans to study law, her family said.

Adam Housley, a former Fox News correspondent, and Tamera Mowry-Housley, an actress known for the 1990s TV series “Sister Sister,” said their niece was killed at the bar where she had gone line dancing with friends.

“Alaina was an incredible young woman with so much life ahead of her, and we are devastated that her life was cut short in this manner,” the couple said in a statement.

Alaina was bright, popular and well-loved, a student who had a 4.5 grade-point average since junior high school and earned college scholarships, said her grandfather, Art Housley.

She played soccer and tennis all through high school, studied piano and violin, and sang, he said.

“She’s a really good kid,” he said, fighting tears. “Everybody loves her.”

___

NOEL SPARKS: ‘ALL-AROUND GOOD GIRL’

Noel Sparks, a 21-year-old college student, loved going to the Borderline Bar and Grill, so friends and family were not surprised when she posted a photo of herself dancing there Wednesday night.

Her aunt Patricia Sparks of Morristown, Tennessee, told The Associated Press that the family was “in shock.”

She described her niece as an “all-around good girl. She was the kind of girl that if you had friends, you’d want them to marry her.”

Sparks, who was majoring in art at nearby Moorpark College, often went to Borderline with friends and her mom, going there for Halloween and her 21st birthday in August.

When friend Jackie Jones heard about the shooting, she jumped into her car and headed to the bar, determined to find Sparks.

“She would do that for me,” Jones said.

The two met through church two years ago and became fast friends. Sparks worked part time at Calvary Community Church in Westlake Village, helping with children’s programs, the Rev. Shawn Thornton said.

“She loved kids. We had a lot of parents show up today to say, ‘She made my child feel important and that they mattered,” Thornton said.

___

SEAN ADLER: ‘A VERY, VERY BIG PERSONALITY’

Sean Adler, 48, was a security guard at Borderline who would stay late to ensure people could get home safely, said Debbie Allen, a longtime friend.

The married father of two boys died doing what he was passionate about — protecting people, Allen said.

“He was a very, very big personality and had a very, very gorgeous smile,” she said, adding that he had once considered becoming a police officer.

His other passion, she said, was coffee. Adler recently opened his own coffee shop, Rivalry Roasters, in Simi Valley, said Phil Englander, another longtime friend.

“He was just the most passionate person about coffee you would ever want to meet,” Englander said.

Adler joked about being a “coffee dealer” and spoke energetically, using his hands.

“He always had that energetic personality,” he said. “He’s just such a warm and friendly and passionate person about everything in his life.”

Englander said he stopped by the coffee shop Wednesday to visit Adler.

“We talked about family, and we reminisced about an old friend of ours we haven’t seen in years,” he said.

___

TELEMACHUS ORFANOS: VEGAS SURVIVOR KILLED

Telemachus Orfanos, 27, lived through the mass shooting in Las Vegas last year only to die inside Borderline, less than 10 minutes from his home, according to his mother.

“Here are my words: I want gun control,” Susan Schmidt-Orfanos said, her voice shaking with grief and rage. “I don’t want prayers. I don’t want thoughts.”

She said she wants Congress to “pass gun control so no one else has a child that doesn’t come home.”

Orfanos was a U.S. Navy veteran and Eagle Scout with a thick beard, an easy smile and a gladiator helmet tattoo. His friends called him “Tel.”

One of them, Aliza Thomas, said she knew Orfanos since high school and called him one of the nicest men she’s ever known.

“He was the most likely person to throw himself in front of that gun,” Thomas said. “He would have thrown himself on top of someone else, 100 percent.”

She said it’s especially tragic that Orfanos survived Vegas only to die in another mass shooting.

“He survived Vegas, where a lot more people died than this. It’s just unreal,” Thomas said. “It’s not fair.”

___

DANIEL MANRIQUE: ‘A SAINT’

Daniel Manrique, 33, dedicated his life to service — as a hospital volunteer, U.S. Marine and manager of an organization that helps veterans adjust after leaving the military.

He was a radio operator with the 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and he deployed to Afghanistan in 2007 with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, the Orange County Register reported.

After the military, Manrique began volunteering with Team Red White and Blue, an organization that works to help veterans avoid isolation by connecting them to their community. He was named a regional program manager last month.

“The best way I can describe him is as a saint. He truly believed in service,” friend and business partner Tim O’Brien told the newspaper. “Dan was the guy you could rely on if you ran out of gas in the middle of the night. He would help you out if something bad happened. He was there, dedicated, loyal.”

The two high school friends were preparing to open a veteran-oriented brewery called “O’brique” — a combination of their last names.

Manrique also volunteered at a hospital helping the homeless and at a local church.

“Dan’s life was dedicated to serving others, during his military career and beyond,” Team Red White and Blue executive director John Pinter said on the organization’s website. “We offer our deepest condolences to the Manrique family.”

___

BLAKE DINGMAN: ‘HIS LAUGHTER AND SMILE WERE SO SPECIAL’

Blake Dingman was passionate about working on cars and motorcycles, challenging himself to make repairs on anything mechanical even if he wasn’t exactly sure how to do it, mother Lorrie Dingman said. The 21-year-old always had a smile on his face and grease under his fingernails, she said.

Blake was working in the electrical field and was excited about getting a new job, his mother said.

His large group of friends went off-roading in the desert and mountains, with Blake and his friend Jake Dunham, who also was killed at the Borderline, “always in the center of the fun.”

“Blake had a zest and joy for living life to the fullest,” Lorrie Dingman said in an email. “No gathering was complete without Blake. His laughter and smile were so special and whenever you talked to him, he was genuinely interested in you.”

She said he was confident, talented, caring and had a huge heart.

On Instagram, brother Aidan Dingman wrote that “my amazing brother was taken down by the shooter” and that his life has been forever changed.

“Words cannot describe the pain I am feeling,” he wrote, adding: “Blake I love you so much and I miss you more than you can imagine.”

___

JAKE DUNHAM: GUTSY OFF-ROADER

Jake Dunham, 21, was known for driving his truck hard. He was a regular at rides in the desert and at group bonfires made from igniting vehicles and old dirt bikes, according to a friend.

“He always tried to convince people to (let him) drive their car. Everyone knew it was a bad idea, but sometimes they’d do it,” Michael Moses told the Los Angeles Times, laughing.

Dunham was at the bar with his friend and fellow off-roader, Dingman, who also was killed.

Aliza Thomas told The Associated Press that Dunham and Dingman were her friends and grew up in a tight-knit group of young men with her younger brother Emmet.

“They were the nicest, most respectful, selfless men I’ve ever met,” she said.

Thomas, a single mom, cried as she recalled how Dingham and Dunham would go out of their way to make her son feel like one of the boys, “make him feel special.”

Dunham’s sister, Alexis Dunham, asked on her Facebook page for privacy to let the family grieve, saying “these last days have completely shattered us.”

___

KRISTINA MORISETTE: ENERGETIC AND THOUGHTFUL

Kristina Morisette worked at the front desk of Borderline and had just bought her first car — a 2017 Jeep Renegade — with the money she had saved, her father said.

Michael Morisette told the Los Angeles Times that his energetic and talkative 20-year-old daughter had just returned from a trip to Austin, Texas, and he hugged her, relieved she was back home safe in Simi Valley.

Kristina gave her mother a coin purse she bought for her on the trip before heading to work Wednesday.

“We’d rather just curl up in a ball and turn off the lights, but there are other people out there that are hurting, too,” Michael Morisette told the newspaper as he held his wife’s hand. “We could either retreat and draw our curtains, or we could talk about the beauty of the things that were.”

He said Kristina, the youngest of three children, was a thoughtful friend who always helped others. She enjoyed hiking and drawing and was considering applying for an animal training program in Austin.

“We didn’t want her life to end, but we don’t want her memories now to end, either,” mother Martha Morisette told the newspaper. “We’ll probably always have a hard time dealing with it.”

___

MARKY MEZA JR.: ‘LOVING AND WONDERFUL YOUNG MAN’

Marky Meza Jr., who was less than two weeks from his 21st birthday, was working as a busboy and food runner at the bar when he was killed.

“Marky was a loving and wonderful young man who was full of life and ambition,” the Meza family said in a statement provided to Santa Barbara TV station KEYT. “His family is devastated by his loss.”

Meza grew up in the Santa Barbara area and had worked in the service industry since he was a teen.

He was one of the few teenagers who got hired at Sandpiper Lodge in Santa Barbara, manager Shawn Boteju said. Meza worked full time at the Sandpiper in housekeeping and would come to work on a hoverboard.

“He was extremely nice,” Boteju told The Associated Press. “He obviously worked well with the rest of the staff.”

from FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports https://fox4kc.com/2018/11/10/military-veterans-2-friends-bar-workers-killed-in-shooting/

from Kansas City Happenings https://kansascityhappenings.wordpress.com/2018/11/10/military-veterans-2-friends-bar-workers-killed-in-shooting/