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wtfzodiacsigns · 5 years

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Advice for the Zodiac Signs During Tough Times

Aries: Move! Lethargy and stillness is the death of an Aries. Clean your house, start a new fitness challenge like couch to 5k, join a gym, walk a mall to window shop. Even just going out more to socialize - movement of your laughter and spirit and love. Aries thrive in physical expression, either alone or with others. The more confident of their presence in the world, the easier it is for them to face internal doubt. When they are in tune with their body, it is easier for their mind to be at ease. Productivity of the body will help to distract and brighten an Aries during a tough time.

Taurus: Comfort. Cook, paint or draw, online shop, buy yourself a new candle, hang out with old friends. Treat yourself to comforts - but not any material ones, ones that validate you. The gift you buy yourself can be something expensive that you didn’t think you ‘deserved’ before. But you do. You deserve the happiness it can give you. Eat something you haven’t in a while, maybe have dessert for dinner watching your favorite TV/YT show/person. Allow yourself permission to bend the rules a bit to make yourself happiest.

Gemini: Engage! A bored Gemini is a restless one and so for their mental health should always be striving or learning or engaging in something (within reason). Perhaps learn a new language or about its history, fall down a Wikipedia hole, and of course, talk to people. When ideas flow a Gemini is happy, so try and speak with new or old faces. If you’re in college maybe speak to a professor you never have before or that classmate you think is cool. At all ages, surround yourself with people who appreciate what you have to say.

Cancer: Care. Self-care and love are crucial for a Cancer’s happiness. Take a bubble bath, pet some puppies, read a book that has a happy ending and tolerable characters, visit family, scroll through pretty pictures on pinterest. It’s okay not to be burdened by the emotional weight of everyone all the time - it doesn’t mean you’re a bad person or abandoned them. You allow to take time for yourself and just be obliviously happy. It especially helps if you are doing these things for or with people you love but it’s really not necessary.

Leo: Re-brand! When a Leo is down, they can become impulsive and want to completely change themselves. After all, a Leo’s happiness is largely based in being comfortable in their own skin (how else can they shine?). However, this doesn’t just mean dye your hair or get a tattoo - it could be as simple as deciding you have a new favorite shirt color and wearing that shirt color every day for two weeks. It’s also re-branding your mentality about yourself to best deal with your difficulties.

Virgo: Organize! Clean! A happy Virgo has never lived in a messy home. Physical spaces are included in organization but also organization of duties, priorities, relationships, and thoughts. Cleaning out, donating, deciding what is worthy or not will allow a Virgo sense of control and accomplishment. Even as simple as cleaning desk space will make it easier to do work. Start small, you have no pressure on you, so as to not feel anxious about whatever task you set in front of yourself.

Libra: Interact! The happiest I’ve ever made a Libra was texting them out of the blue to check up on them. You really do need socialization/interaction. This can be the typical form of hanging out with friends but even sending/responding to asks on Tumblr or playing in multi-player games online. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming or exhausting, but any kind of positive interaction for Libras really can help. And, honestly, it can even be interactions with your god (of any religion) or with your tarot cards; it doesn’t have to be typical.

Scorpio: Transform. A Scorpio that cannot express itself honestly is one that cannot feel truly happy. Perhaps some parts of your life/your self has become dead weight. If it is holding you back, perhaps it is time to let it go and transform into something else. There is a lot of energy in Scorpio, and they can actually find their comfort and control when they are changing and improving especially as they have the fixed sign resolve to carry it through. This transformation can be anything in their life, and they probably already know what they have to do.

Sagittarius: Explore! Sagittarius is associated with the sign of the bow/arrow/archer for a reason - it’s because when they are no flying free, they are full of tension. During a tough time, a Sagittarius should look to exploring something new to uplift their spirits once more - it can be more intellectual in that you explore new aspects of astrology/tarot/witchcraft or maybe learn some simple magic tricks or maybe watch some Khan Academy videos or it can be more physical, such as a spontaneous road trip, driving to a new park and taking a hike there or simply just walking while listening to a podcast.

Capricorn: Complete. It can be something so small as organizing one drawer of clothing or adding one more paragraph to the story you’re writing but what is important is that you complete something and feel achieved. Success and achievement are crucial to a Capricorn’s happiness, if you let yourself feel so!! When there’s something tangible before them - a youtube video they finished creating, a new rank on a video game - its harder for them to deny the fruits of their hard work. So focus on completing even just one task and be proud of yourself for it!

Aquarius: Isolate. Most Aquarians need time alone because they find even just being around others all the time exhausting. It’s not to the fault of others (they can be well loved!), Aquarius just need to recharge with peace and quiet in isolation. When they isolate (for a reasonable time) they can get lost in their own world and mind and reconnect with themselves. It is then they can be truly themselves and not have to worry about social duties. It is alone that they are able to get their creativity and ingenuity flowing again to express into the world when they are ready.

Pisces: Dream! Pisces are gifted with such a rich internal world and an ability to get lost in it. Set aside time to create and explore new and old worlds that exist in you. Read new books or fan fiction writings or doodle out the scenes you see in your head or play some DnD or other role-playing game; however you want to express yourself, but just give yourself permission to do these things. It’s fine if you’re not always being productive, you’re allowed to just take the time and nurture the internal wealth you have inside.

Source: tauralogy

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atypicality · 6 years

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Edye, Kira, Clovette, Vix, and Rufion

Edye

Full Name: okay so none of my OCs have last names,, embarrassing i know. he’s named after a neopet as that’s how i formed his character (this is progressively getting more embarrassing). his name is pronounced “eddie,” and an interesting fact about his name is that the part “dye” (pronounced “die”) is a nickname for dionysus, a god that has definitely influenced his character.

Gender and Sexuality: male, he’s bisexual

Pronouns: he/him

Ethnicity/Species: he’s latino and he’s human(??)

Birthplace and Birthdate: i literally have no idea (i feel like i should look into astrology and choose his birthday according to his personality…he’s probably a leo or a gemini and he was clearly born somewhere in latin america. i was thinking ecuador but i’m biased bc i lived there lmao),, he’s 22 though

Guilty Pleasures: reality t.v. and romcoms

Phobias: (i’m not putting the names of each phobia bc no one knows what that means) emotional intimacy, being buried alive, and abandonment

What They Would Be Famous For: i could see him being an actor with a horrible reputation

What They Would Get Arrested For: anything ranging from drug dealing to kidnapping (he was supposed to return vera to the shadow realm, for example). i wouldn’t put much past him

OC You Ship Them With: aliah and rufion (i like him with vera platonically)

OC Most Likely To Murder Them: nora bc she has to deal with his bullshit

Favorite Movie/Book Genre: action and comedy

Least Favorite Movie/Book Cliche: pointless sacrifices. they died, dammit! let that count for something!

Talents and/or Powers: he’s an illusionist, meaning he can warp reality (or one’s perception of reality) and trick people. he can also make portals and fly/hover to some extent.

Why Someone Might Love Them: he’s a party animal and he’s fun to be around. he’s also pretty loyal to the people he cares about.

Why Someone Might Hate Them: he’s a no strings attached kind of person. he can be very apathetic and insensitive.

How They Change: he goes from being a villain to being the sidekick of the MC (vera),, i’m so proud of him

Why You Love Them: he’s the classic asshole/misunderstood bad boy turned good…he’s a huge loser that accidentally became cursed and now has a cult following and he’s just hilarious to think about.

here’s a mix i made for him

and his three shipping mixes lmao (aliah)(rufion)(vera)

here’s the cult mix if you want to listen to that 😂😂😂

alsoo i have a sidekick mix

and i’m literally developing two more for him (villain / hero arc, respectively)

can you tell that he’s my favorite

Kira

Full Name: just kira (hi, just. i’m nina)

Gender and Sexuality: female, heterosexual

Pronouns: she/her

Ethnicity/Species: she’s mixed: japanese and black. she’s a human

Birthplace and Birthdate: she was born in japan (city whomst) and she’s 27. probably a gemini or a scorpio

Guilty Pleasures: chocolate/sweets in general and creeping on social media if that counts

Phobias: she suffers from body dysmorphic disorder and suffers from fears that accompany that, such as not being good enough, etc. she also hates bugs, especially spiders.

What They Would Be Famous For: despite her bdd, she’d definitely become famous for being a beauty vlogger/youtuber. her ‘mask’ (aka whatever it is people with bdd do to help themselves cope with their body’s appearance/perceived flaw) would be makeup and she uses her powers to give herself the illusion that she’s someone else (in terms of appearance, if that makes any sense).

What They Would Get Arrested For: shoplifting (idk if you can be arrested for this but it’s the only thing she would do)

OC You Ship Them With: will a lil bit tbh. they’re the mom-dad pair

OC Most Likely To Murder Them: no one lmao

Favorite Movie/Book Genre: romcoms and horror

Least Favorite Movie/Book Cliche: white people doing stupid things in horror movies, the most aggravating definitely being having sex/making out while danger is imminent

Talents and/or Powers: she’s an illusionist and can make portals like edye. she’s also a makeup artist

Why Someone Might Love Them: she’s super sweet and a good listener.

Why Someone Might Hate Them: people misinterpret her as shallow

How They Change: she betrays the Good Guys for her benefit but is forgiven. she also seeks help for her bdd and stops using her powers to alter her appearance (her makeup still serves as a mask though, her insecurities and anxiety don’t disappear overnight)

Why You Love Them: her struggle with self-love is so heartbreaking and she’s so strong and admirable.

Clovette

Full Name: clovette. some people call her clover. she’s also a neopet.

Gender and Sexuality: female, pansexual

Pronouns: she/her

Ethnicity/Species: she’s asian and a human

Birthplace and Birthdate: she was born somewhere in southeast asia. she’s 20 and probably an aquarius

Guilty Pleasures: sleeping in and staying home all day

Phobias: she has a fear of flying and the ocean. she suffers from social anxiety and is afraid of large crowds.

What They Would Be Famous For: she’d be a kickass video game developer

What They Would Get Arrested For: probably doing something illegal online (piracy maybe?)

OC You Ship Them With: maybe with nora

OC Most Likely To Murder Them: no one!!!

Favorite Movie/Book Genre: science fiction and fantasy

Least Favorite Movie/Book Cliche: white savior trope

Talents and/or Powers: she doesn’t have any powers but she’s great at coding and game design and she’s a talented artist.

Why Someone Might Love Them: she’s really funny when you get to know her.

Why Someone Might Hate Them: she comes off as judgmental but she’s really not

How They Change: she’s initially scared of travelling from her island (boats? Horrifying. airplanes? Terrifying.) but then she’s forced to move and has to face that fear plus the fear that comes when you don’t know anyone and have to form new relationships.

Why You Love Them: she has so much potential for growth and she’s so cute and inspiring

Vix

Full Name: i have to pick out a really basic white girl name for her but she goes by vix and vixen is her villain name (edye doesn’t deserve a villain name).

Gender and Sexuality: female, heterosexual but the kind of straight girl that will kiss other girls for male attention.

Pronouns: she/her

Ethnicity/Species: she’s white and a human

Birthplace and Birthdate: she was born in paris, she’s 21, and she’s probably a pisces.

Guilty Pleasures: kissing girls uwu, eating way too many tubs of cookie dough ice cream, and erotica.

Phobias: she’s scared of birds and the deep sea. she’ll enjoy going to the beach but she won’t go in the water because then she thinks of sea monsters and other unknown terrors hidden in the unexplored ocean. she’ll go to a pool, though.

What They Would Be Famous For: she’d be an actress or a journalist

What They Would Get Arrested For: robbery, possibly arson

OC You Ship Them With: no one

OC Most Likely To Murder Them: edye

Favorite Movie/Book Genre: film noir and slasher films/thrillers

Least Favorite Movie/Book Cliche: love triangles

Talents and/or Powers: she uses love magic and mental manipulation.

Why Someone Might Love Them: she’s clever and really determined.

Why Someone Might Hate Them: she’s a bitch.

How They Change: she’s initially shy, awkward, trying to make her way through life. then she falls in love with someone (*coughs* edye *coughs*) and gives herself a makeover. she goes from innocent civilian investigating something to villainess and cult leader. 10/10 transformation

Why You Love Them: i don’t lmao. i like that she fits the femme fatale archetype. she’s a really interesting character. she also unironically calls herself vixen, so there’s that.

here’s her mix

Rufion

Full Name: rufion (pronounced rough-ee-an). he’s also a neopet (he looks so ugly rn because he’s my lab rat).

Gender and Sexuality: male, homosexual

Pronouns: he/him and they/them

Ethnicity/Species: honestly i have not thought about where he’s from at all but he’s brown (we love ethnically ambiguous characters in this house! /s). he’s a human.

Birthplace and Birthdate: [me seeing birthplace: owo what’s this?] he’s 23 and he’s probably a capricorn.

Guilty Pleasures: does ordering a lot of takeout food count? he stays up all night playing video games and loves reading comic books. he also really likes baking sweets (he’d probably be a really good cook but tbh he’s too lazy)

Phobias: he’s scared he’s going to die in his sleep and stays up all night as a result. if someone told him the effects of lack of sleep on his health he would definitely panic

What They Would Be Famous For: he would definitely be in a band. fuck

What They Would Get Arrested For: He Would Never Be Arrested. Next

OC You Ship Them With: edye

OC Most Likely To Murder Them: vix

Favorite Movie/Book Genre: he doesn’t really like watching tv/movies but superhero films

Least Favorite Movie/Book Cliche: bury your gays

Talents and/or Powers: he’s good at fighting.

Why Someone Might Love Them: he’s really nice, super optimistic, and honest. he’s hard working and responsible. he’s a huge nerd basically

Why Someone Might Hate Them: people might view him as naive and annoying.

How They Change: he’s a sort of private investigator but then he takes a…peculiar case and then………………..he catches feelings lmfao. there’s definitely some side-switching/ambiguity in his future

Why You Love Them: he’s just trying his best honestly. idk how to articulate it but he’s kind of like xD as a human being.

#ask #clearbluewaters #ref #c

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secretlessvicki · 6 years

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December Magic

Here it is. My first work for my CS 12 Days to Christmas.

Dec 14: Workaholic/ Business Rivals during Christmas

Inspired by: Hallmark’s Magical Christmas Ornaments

Christmas in New York was always said to be magical. Between the holiday lights on every corner, the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, ice skating in Central Park, sipping hot chocolate with cinnamon in the Village, and displays at Macy’s, the holiday season in The Big Apple was just like stepping into a Hallmark Movie. The only problem was that was for everyone but Emma Swan.

Emma had lived in the city for four years and in all that time she had never once been to Rockefeller Center during the season, nor had she been ice skating in Central Park. She didn’t even have a tree in her apartment. She was the ultimate Scrooge. All that mattered was getting the promotion she wanted and the bigger paycheck that came with it.

She went over the pitch in her head the entire way home from dinner with her best friend and co-worker Ruby. And again, as she stopped in the front lobby of her apartment building to check the mail. Why was asking to move to a different department of the company so damn hard? It wasn’t like she didn’t earn it. She had taken every single one of her client’s books and worked her ass off with editing, marketing, and promotions until each was on the New York Times Best Sellers for Nonfiction. It was time she moved on to what she really wanted.

“Regina, I have been working hard the past two years to make the nonfiction department successful. But my passion is stories. I would love to work with fiction and…”

Goddamn it… this was going to be a disaster. There was no way in God’s green Earth that she was going to get that promotion.

“Already got a gift.”

Emma had been so lost in thought that she hadn’t even realized she was holding a small box in her arms as she stared at the mailboxes in front of her. Nor did she hear anyone walking up behind her.

“Santa must like you.”

That voice. Holy fuck. That wasn’t an American accent at all. Was it English? Scottish? Irish, maybe? She couldn’t quite tell, but she needed to see whom it belonged to. Maybe her midnight dreams of meeting a Hemsworth brother were coming true.

Shit! She had not been expecting this.

Standing in front of her was a literal Adonis. Sure he was shorter and less muscular than Thor, but his ocean blue eyes and perfect smirk made up for it. His profile picture had to be right next to the tall, dark, and handsome description on Urban Dictionary.

“Santa’s my sister-in-law.” Why did she just say that? God, she was an idiot. Not that she was suddenly trying to impress this mystery guy.

“Oh.”

“Well, I don’t mean literally. I mean my sister-in-law sent me this. How long have you been standing here?

“Not long. Just long enough to know you enjoy stories. Name’s Killian.”

The Irishman (he was definitely Irish) extended out his hand in greeting. But Emma could already feel the heat in the apples of her cheeks and the tips of her ears. This is not what she needed right now. Sure, this guy would probably be a great distraction but right now she needed to focus on her proposal for the morning.

“Emma.” She kept her answer short. No need in extending the conversation.

“I’ve seen you around, lass. It is nice to finally put a name to the face. It’s my first Christmas in New York. You from here?”

The way he tilted his head and gave her a genuine look of interest, gave her pause. She just met him all of thirty seconds ago and he already wanted a full conversation. It was 9pm and she really needed to get to her apartment and hope to God that her neighbor was not already blasting his Bing Crosby Christmas music.

“Not exactly. I’ve moved around.”

“Well, this is my first Christmas in the States. I moved here from Ireland about six months ago. I come from a small town and I am eager to celebrate Christmas in the city.”

“You are in luck, Christmas in New York is magical.”

Emma’s voice was laced with sarcasm. All she wanted was for the elevator doors she was not standing in front of to open so she could end this conversation. But as the doors slid open it did not look like she was going to be so lucky. The sexy Irish chatterbox stepped in right behind her.

“Sounds rather exciting. I’ve always wanted to spend the holidays in a picturesque city. I used to watch Christmas movies and imagine what it would be like.”

Emma watched in annoyance as he pressed the button to the fifth floor. Her floor.

“What about you? What do you want? For Christmas?”

Why does he care? She thought to herself.

“For starters, I would like for my neighbor to stop playing that cheesy Christmas music.”

“Oi, not much in the Christmas spirit, are you?”

“I’m not sure what there is to be in the spirit about.”

*Ding. Ding*

Oh, thank god, saved by the beautiful alert of an incoming email.

“So, I take it you do not know your neighbors much then?” He asked with a pop of his eyebrow.

Damn it. He really wasn’t going to let this conversation go, was he? And why did his eyebrow trick suddenly have her licking her lips? Emma, sighed as they both walked out of the elevator and towards their respected apartments. She stopped in front of her own door and unlocked it, only for the 8 on her door to swing loose. She was really going to need to call and get that fixed. She did not want the postman refusing to deliver her mail because he could not find apartment 508.

“Not really. I am not much of a people person. And it’s a big building.”

“That’s what I miss about small towns, everyone practically knows everyone. Maybe if you took a moment to look up from that phone of yours you could get to know them.” Killian stopped in front of apartment 509. “Oh, and by the way, I don’t think Jingle Bells is cheesy.”

“I’m…I’m…I just… the walls are thin and…” She stammered.

“And you do not enjoy Christmas music?”

“Well after a while it all just starts to sound the same. Maybe you could change it up a little. Play something from after 1960.” Emma shot back.

“If you have any more special requests, feel free to knock on my door, Emma. “

The moment the door closed behind her Emma, leaned her back against it as she thought about her not so new neighbor. How had she never seen him before? Was she really that oblivious to the world lately?

She spent the next five minutes trying to get her mind off Killian and his gorgeous blue eyes as well as his panty-dropping accent. However, she had only been succeeding halfway. Pushing herself off the sturdy door, Emma proceeded to go about her nightly routine. She checked her mail (for real this time), checked her email, closed the curtain to the monstrosity that was considered a Christmas tree in the neighborhood garden across the street, and finished with a mug of spiked hot chocolate. No, the Irish cream was not because of the man she had met an hour ago.

Emma had just changed into her much warmer and cozier pajamas and was preparing to focus on her proposal when she heard the ring of someone wanting to Facetime. There was only one person who would want to talk to her this late. Well maybe two, but she had just had dinner with the second option.

“Oh Emma, is that you?”

The distant portrait of a raven-haired pixie appeared on Emma’s screen along with the left side of a blonde-haired man. Emma couldn’t help the smile that crept upon her lips. Her sister-in-law may be a wonderful reading teacher, but technology would never be her strong suit. It was almost as if she were better suited for the fairytale realms of her son’s favorite books.

“Hello, Mary Margaret. You know if you stopped holding the phone out so far you could actually see me.”

“Well, I wanted to make sure David was in the screen. Did you check your mail?”

“Yeah. Thanks for the gifts.”

“Aren’t you going to open them?”

The urgency in Mary Margaret’s voice had Emma pause.

“Shouldn’t I wait for Christmas?”

“No this is important.”

Emma simply shook her head but agreed to open the presents in front of her sister-in-law and brother. As she retrieved the box from the table near her door, Emma could hear Mary Margaret describing in detail how Emma was still wearing makeup and that her hair was curled. “Maybe she was on a date? She really does need to get out more.” With a roll of her eyes, Emma came back to sit down on the couch in front of her phone and began tearing at the perfect candy cane wrapping paper that adorned the small box.

“You got me an ornament?”

“Yes! And when you finally get a tree she will be your first. Oh, go on read the note.”

An angel from Christmas past

hang her high to receive the magic that she casts.

“It’s Holly. David explained that when you two were young you used to swear she was magic.”

“That’s because I swore she was the one to create the Christmas lights in our foster house.”

“Oh, come on, Emma give her a chance. Do it because you love us. And because you know that Mary Margaret is only going to nag you until you agree.” David spoke somewhere off the screen.

“Alright, I will put her up on the shelf. Will that satisfy the both of you?”

“I suppose that will work for now. Oh, we have to go, Miracle on 34th Street is starting. Have a good night Emma.”

Saying a quick goodbye to her brother and sister-in-law as well as a quick wave from Leo (with the help of David), Emma hung up and slumped back further into the cushions of her couch. She had no idea what she was actually going to do with the ornament without a tree but if she knew her sister-in-law, Mary Margaret would know if she did not put Holly somewhere on display.

As promised, Emma set the small angel atop the highest shelf in her living room. She had to admit it felt like the little porcelain ornament was meant to watch over the tiny apartment.

“Alright, Holly. If you have any magic in you at all could you get me that promotion? And maybe send me a sign that happens endings do exist. And not just in fairy tales?” Emma closed her eyes to make her wish final.

But the peaceful moment was suddenly interrupted by the recognizable first notes of Mariah Carrey.

“Oh, and if you could help me with that, it would be fantastic.”

Over the next several days packages continued coming. Each one containing an ornament from David and/or Mary Margaret. On the second day, it was a Swan, because it was the name Emma had chosen for herself before she found a home with David and his mother. The note had read something along the lines that ‘no matter how ugly a situation seemed at the time, with enough hope and faith things would always work out and be prettier in the end’.

The third day consisted of two ornaments. The first was a yellow flower to which Emma could only assume was supposed to be a buttercup. The second was a hand stitched, blue and white ‘As you wish’. This time the note was written in David’s less than impressive handwriting.

Remember the first Christmas you spent with me?

The night we stayed up hoping to catch Santa climbing down the chimney.

Thanks to a certain tale

Our lives changed on a major scale

It was clear that David was not the literary master that his wife was, but it still made her smile just thinking that he had tried.

On the fourth day, Emma received yet another box of ornaments, this time at work. She was starting to wonder where exactly she was supposed to start putting these ornaments. She knew this was her family’s way of getting her to get a tree. She decided to wait until she was home to open the package. Currently, she had a different pressing matter.

Earlier that morning, Emma had a meeting with Regina and was still reeling with the news. Regina had allowed her one shot at proving she could handle working in the fiction department. The assignment was that Emma would have to find an author and book that was worth publishing by the time of the Christmas party. The catch, however, was that the party was in less than a month. And all of this had to be while she continued her work in the nonfiction department.

Setting her package aside, Emma dropped her head to her desk with a loud groan.

“That bad, huh?” Ruby strolled in the doorway to the little office.

“Worse. Regina expects me to do the impossible.”

“Probably because you have done it so many times before. You know they call you the savior of non-fiction for a reason. Numbers have tripled since you took over.”

“Yeah, well, Regina wants me to continue doing that plus trying to find the next J.K. Rowling.” She grumbled as she lifted her head to look at her best friend.

“I suppose that is why I was told to bring these to you.”

Ruby set down a pile of manuscripts on Emma’s desk and gave her a sympathetic smile. “I’ll take you to lunch tomorrow if it will make you feel better.”

“Only if it’s grilled cheese.”

“Of course. With onion rings.”

Emma spent the rest of her day neck deep in manuscripts and drafts of potential books. Yet nothing caught her eye. They were all the same thing. Either someone was trying to bring back the vampire phase, or the dystopian end of the world, and her least favorite the romance novels that were nothing more than a Fifty Shades of Grey knockoff. Not one had the spark she was looking for. Not that she even knew what that spark was.

Needing a break from the monotonous reading, Emma decided a much-needed trip to the coffee shop just down the street was in order. She packed three of the last manuscripts Ruby had brought along with her laptop and began picturing the venti cinnamon white chocolate mocha and chocolate croissant she was going to devour.

It took five minutes to explain to the barista who was more interested in his snapchat story than actually working that yes a cinnamon white chocolate mocha was a thing and that if he didn’t make the damn thing she was going to jump across the counter and do it for him. However, it only took half a second for the perfection in a cup to be spilled across the café floor.

“Hey watch it, pal! You just made me waste a drink that took all of my restraint to order.”

“Hello to you too, neighbor. I would apologize for the utter disaster but seeing as how you were the one to run into me…”

Killian leaned against the counter in a way that screamed swagger for a lack of better word.

“How about you let me replace it.”

“Good luck with that it took that kid ten minutes to make my drink.”

“And what was it you were drinking, Swan?” He asked reading her full name on the side of the bright red disposable cup.

Emma stared in both awe and annoyance as she watched her neighbor charm the young girl that was working alongside the others, into making the drink Emma requested. In no time at all Emma had her replacement and an extra croissant for the trouble. All she wanted to do know was to knock the smirk off Killian Jones’ (as she found out when his name was called) face.

“Sorry about your drink, Emma. And I must also apologize that I have no control over the music at this establishment.” Killian pointed to the ceiling as Silver Bells quietly played in the background.

“I deserve that.” Emma winced at the jab.

“Care to join me and tell me what you are doing on this side of the city? Planning to yell ‘Bah Humbug’ to all the undeserving citizens?”

It took everything in her not to roll her eyes and make a rude comment.

“I work at Mills Publishing and I needed a break from all of the terrible manuscripts I have been reading all day.”

“Oh, do tell.” Killian guided Emma over to a table that was in the far corner where a laptop and a mug of what she thought was some sort of cappuccino sat. Ever the foreign gentleman, Killian pulled out the chair opposite from his own.

She found herself telling this virtual stranger all about the past few days at work. It started out with the absolutely horrendous potential books she was sorting through, then to the reason why she was reading them, and then to explain why she wanted the promotion in the first place. In the past half hour, she had told Killian more about herself than she had to anyone in years.

What she learned in return was that Killian was a former Lieutenant in the British Royal Navy whom after his last tour of duty, went to work with his brother building a company that became known as a premier shipbuilder to the Royal Navy. But after a mishap back home, Killian decided to move to the States and start fresh. So now he was helping manage an international shipping company for a U.S. defense company.

Emma was in the middle of explaining to her new friend why she hadn’t bought a Christmas tree but how her sister-in-law continued to send her ornaments in hopes that it would put her in the Christmas spirit when she noticed she had been away from the office for over an hour. What was meant to be a working break outside of the office ended with her chatting away with a gorgeous guy instead of making a dent in her work. Apologizing for having to leave, to which Jones only teased that he knew where she lived if she wanted to continue their conversation, Emma rushed back to her office hoping Regina was not aware that she had even left.

Later that night, Emma walked up the five flights of stairs to her apartment, because the Thompson twins two floors down had managed to break the elevator yet again. She was ready to get into her warm and comfy bed and finish the last few manuscripts she had for the day. It wasn’t her ideal way to spend the evening, but it could have been worse. That was until she heard the groan and soft thud coming from the direction of her apartment.

“Bloody narrow stairwell. The one time I need a proper working lift.”

The voice was unmistakable as Emma felt herself smiling as she cleared her throat to capture the man’s attention.

“Swan. Sorry, I was planning to leave a note.”

“You bought me a tree?”

“It is a peace offering. You know a preverbally olive branch of sorts. Except this is a little more festive.”

“Wouldn’t a potted plant have been more practical?”

“Aye, but there is no fun in practical, love.” His eyes sparkled as he grinned like a child.

“So, I suppose you want me to keep this?”

“That is the idea.”

“Well, my brother and sister-in-law will be ecstatic.”

“I hope it brings you some Christmas magic as well.”

When Emma opened her package that night she was surprised to find a treasure chest ornament. But what was even more surprising was the note.

From your favorite stories of swashbuckling pirates and their band,

You’d look for buried treasure in the land.

But the greatest treasure is not gold or art

But the kindness that is always carried in one’s heart

It was Saturday when Emma was once again face timing with her family.

“Did you get the box?”

“What box?”

“David, where did you send the box?”

“To her apartment.”

The bickering that quickly ensued was almost enough to make Emma miss the knock on the door. She let her brother deal with the wrath of his wife and focused on whoever it was continuing to knock on her door.

“Delivery for a Ms. Emma Swan. Seems the postman couldn’t make out the number of your apartment, without the 8.” Killian tapped the empty space. “However, I saved the day and signed for it. Thought I would deliver it personally.”

“You just saved my brother an earful from his wife.”

“I am always happy to be a hero. And am I also correct in assuming that those are ornaments in that box.”

“Hero, sailor, detective…you are just a jack of all trades. What else are you hiding, Jones?”

“I’d be happy to show you, Swan.” Killian looped his thumb through his belt loop and leaned against the doorframe that gave Emma serious Danny Zuko vibes. At least Killian didn’t ruin his hair with awful hair gel. “However, I think I will leave you to decorate your tree. How is it going might I ask?”

“Would you like to come in and see?”

Her tree was bare, save for the few ornaments she had been receiving. There were no tree toppers, colorful Christmas lights or popcorn garland. In fact, the tree sat lopsided up against the one wall big enough for it.

From the moment he saw the tree, Emma could tell that Killian did not approve. He lectured her about how it was bad form to leave a perfectly good tree naked at the holidays and then disappeared to his own home only to show back up a few minutes later with lights, garland, candy canes, and a star.

She had never realized that decorating a Christmas tree could be so much fun. Killian had music blasting from his phone (Today’s Christmas playlist) while they worked together to string the lights around the tree and rehang all the ornaments. Emma made sure to tell the story of each one and found that Killian was genuinely interested.

As they hung the garland, together, Emma found she liked the brush of Killian’s hips against her’s as he would hand off his half of the silvery garland. The way the lights made his eyes twinkle and how he looked absolutely adorable singing “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” along with Michael Bublé made her heart swell.

Emma didn’t know what had come over her but as Killian was walking out the door after the tree was finally decorated and they watched It’s A Wonderful Life together, she found herself asking him out for coffee again. Sure, she played it off with a sarcastic remark about also treating him to better taste in music, but still, the utterly surprised look that showed on Killian’s face was worth it. But it was Killian’s answer that had left her surprised.

“How about ice skating? I have not been since I was a lad and there is a rink just a few blocks from here. Full warning, there may be Christmas music.” The smile he now sported was starting to become one of Emma’s favorite things.

This is not a date. Emma told herself as she went back to her now more festive apartment.

As she was cleaning up from the decorating, the box from Mary Margaret fell to the floor.

David and I first kissed on ice skates,

We fell in love as we watched the snowfall,

And he proposed to me at the town lighthouse.

Remember love can find you anywhere.

Emma hung the three new ornaments at the front of her tree. Were these really some kind of magical ornaments?

Over the next couple of weeks, Emma spent more time with Killian. She would text him when she was bored at work, or the two of them would spend time at each other’s places watching Christmas movies. Killian would be all invested while Emma would make snide comments about how none of this would ever happen in real life.

But the more time she spent with Killian, the more she wished to herself that Christmas love stories were real. Could someone really fall for someone in less than a week? Was she falling for Killian? Sure, he drove her nuts with his extreme love of the holidays, but she liked having someone other than Ruby or David and Mary Margaret to talk to. The not dates to the skating rink or to the Christmas tree lighting in Rockefeller Center, or the carriage ride in Central Park to see the lights, were moments that Emma wanted more of.

It was the night before her Christmas party and Emma was struggling to find a way to ask Killian to be her plus one. Currently, she was sitting on his couch not even paying attention to the special that was on TV, as she tried to think of what to say to him. Would he even want to go with her? Should she just approach it as just friends?

Once the show ended, Emma started the conversation off explaining that she had finally found the author and the book she wanted to use as her first fiction work. She rambled on about the idea of fairy tale characters living in the modern world, each with their own unique story. By the time she was finished she was out of breath and she was sure her face was going to get stuck in a permanent smile.

“Sounds wonderful, Swan. I look forward to reading it. Perhaps a friend and family discount for one of your biggest fans?” Killian asked.

Emma deflated at the use of friend. It seemed she was right that Killian only saw her as nothing more than a friend and neighbor.

“I am just the publisher, Killian. I didn’t write the book, you know that right?”

“Aye, but you have still worked hard on it Emma. I would be happy to be the proud owner of Mills Publishing’s newest director of fiction’s first published book.”

Emma blushed at Killian’s compliment. He always did have a way of making her feel better.

“Oh, that. Do you remember how I told you I had to present this to Regina at the Christmas Party?”

“I believe I do.”

“I was hoping. If you are free tomorrow. Not that you have to or anything. But would you like to be my plus one? It’s just that everyone always brings someone. And for the past two years, Ruby and I have gone together as friends. But this year she is bringing her new girlfriend and I really don’t want to go alone. But if you can’t go I understand. I…”

“Swan, slow down.” Killian braced his hand on Emma’s shoulder. “I am free tomorrow evening. And I would be happy to escort you to your company’s party.”

“Really?”

“That depends. Will there be Christmas music?”

The next day, Emma was putting the finishing touches on her outfit when she heard the familiar knock at her door. On the other side, she found Killian dressed to the nines in a suit and a Santa adorned tie.

“You look?”

“I know.” Killian winked. “As do you, Swan. Shall we head out so you can impress that boss of yours and I can have a drink and possibly a dance with the newest director of publishing?”

“Actually, I have one last thing I need to do.”

It was the last package that Mary Margaret had sent. She had been planning to open it after the party, but something made her feel like she should open it now.

Chapters close and begin,

But the story of you will never end,

Keep marching forward,

And rolling boulders will turn into stepping stone,

Don’t forget to take a chance

You never know when you will find romance.

“A book? Looks as if that promotion is guaranteed now, love,” Killian spoke happily.

The last ornament was hung on the last open spot on her tree. Emma had to admit that despite her initial arguments against having a tree, she loved the darn thing. And just maybe there was something special about those ornaments too.

The pitch to Regina had gone perfectly. The woman loved the idea of the retelling of classic fairytales and gave the position to Emma starting after the new year.

Emma was so ecstatic that she rushed back to the party as fast as she could. All she wanted to do was tell Killian the news and get that drink.

She found Killian near the company Christmas tree talking to none other than Ruby and Dorothy.

“Emma! So, this is Killian? Were you planning to keep him a secret forever?” Ruby pouted.

“She was probably trying to keep you away from him.” Dorothy teased.

“I wasn’t hiding anything, Ruby. I’ve just been busy and I didn’t think I needed to introduce you to my neighbor.”

Emma walked up to the group, a little closer to Killian than she realized.

“You have to forgive her, Swan has been so preoccupied with her potential promotion and renewed Christmas spirit that she has not had the time to properly introduce me to her friends.” His arm wrapped around her waist as Killian tucked her into his side.

“Right, about that. I just talked to Regina. She is going to let me run the fiction department at the start of the new year.”

“Emma that is wonderful.”

“Congratulations.”

It was turning out that this was becoming her best Christmas ever. She had the job she wanted and great friends, new and old, to celebrate with. It was all Emma had ever wanted. The only thing that could make it better was having her brother and sister-in-law there too. There was always next year.

“How about a drink to celebrate?” Killian offered.

Emma agreed. She and Killian promised to find Ruby and Dorothy before they left the party before going across the room in search of the open bar.

The rest of the party went well. Killian mingled well with all of Emma’s co-workers and she wished that there could be more nights like this.

As the evening was winding down Emma and Killian ended up alone off to the side of the room. A Christmas Karaoke had started amongst the party and neither of them wanted to embarrass themselves in public after a few drinks.

“Emma, I just wanted to say that…”

The look in Killian’s eyes sent an overwhelming urge through Emma. She didn’t take the time to speak afraid that she might ruin the moment. Instead, she pulled Killian down to her by the lapels of his coat and kissed him.

The music of the previous song had died down and the recognizable tunes began to play as the two of them slowly broke apart.

“That was…”

“Remember when you asked me what I wanted for Christmas the first night we met?”

“Aye.”

And just like that Emma began to sing along with Mariah Carrey.

“ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS……… IIIIIISSSSSS……… YOUUUUU!”

It was Killian who kissed Emma the second time as the fake snow signaling the end of the party swirled around them.

The next year, Emma was kissing Killian as she sported a new ring on her finger and the lighthouse of his hometown shined brightly in the distance.

#cschristmascountdown #cs ff #cs au #captain swan #cs christmas #cs fic #cs fic rec

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eh-440 · 7 years

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the writing meme

so like most writers I have way too many projects on the go

hit j at any time to jump past this ramble of a post rip readers

original stuff not going into too much detail about these but I have Ideas. I’m going to describe these in some arbitrary number of descriptors (I choose... 3)

No Current Title Bc Entire Premise is Being Reevaluated (rip old title) this sucker’s premise is in its third re-write rip me and anything I had written for it before -genre is... a subset of fantasy, I guess. it involves people with magical powers so I’m calling it fantasy subset -involves chemistry bc I’m a nerd -basic summary is chemistry powers are ok when they aren’t being used to rebuild a “““better””” world. also violating the law of conservation of mass makes one reconsider their career starring -amelia: starts off realizing that 3 different groups of people have manipulated her and is reasonably angry about this. “all I wanted to do is camp for the summer but NOW I have to spend it training bc soMEONE didn’t tell me about this power until they had year-round (long story involving other manipulation) access to me to train me as their asset” (”I’ll do it. but I get to go back at the end of the summer” “there’s no way you’ll pass the proficiency tests at the end of the summer--” “WATCH ME. *hyPERFOCUS ACTIVATED* great #thanksautism let’s do this”) -emer: finds out that the people who trained them aren’t actually very nice folks and needs to get out of that situation. “so that’s why my older sister left welp things make sense now”. makes enemies who are not ok people. -vina: I was trying to come up with a description but I feel like the remember the name meme would work fine

Music in Mind -all about musicians (like orchestral instruments) -genre would be contemporary I guess -mini playlist (pieces and songs that characters either play or just like listening to): the bach double, partita no 3, read all about it, air on a g string, mendelssohn's octet, either mission impossible or bond music haven’t decided yet, danse bacchanale, piano man, adeste fidelis (yes the latin version listen this character is a bit extra), ashokan farewell starring: -katherine: parents are dead, is moving back to her hometown, and has an abusive violin teacher now. “look life it’s been like 2 years can you not--” knock knock it’s depression but this time there’s no comfort in violin/new bff to help. spent her 4 years away being remade as a violinist and no one in her hometown is quite ready for it (including her) "who tf made me section leader listen I am Not Ready and I’m p sure my stand partner is going to kill me” -felix: as of this year has have to teach himself and practice in secret. on top of that, he’s at the critical point where a lack of proper technical base is becoming a downfall. “listen katherine I know I asked you for help but is it seriously possible for me to have been doing so many things wrong for years” (”yes. bc i was the same”) -natalie: been coasting on the fact that all the top music prizes are hers but now there’s some real competition

A Book (behold my beautiful placeholder why are titles so hard) -a fantasy world based loosely on the great race (the chinese legend) -people have animal companions -Something Happened to the dragons (barely any human/dragon matches are left) and a girl makes it her mission to (a) find out wtf is going on and (b) find her dragon counterpart (spoiler alert: she finds a dragon but then... knock knock it’s Consequences You Never Considered Before aka time for a huge survival challenge/race)

Something About Dragons (yet another placeholder bc none of these things have titles ugh) (also have you noticed that I like dragons?) this one’s under wraps bc it’s still wayyyy in Development Phase -chinese dragons--they’re so lit ok (tho not literally bc no fire power) -adopted kids -a main conflict I literally haven’t even thought about lmao this is the reason it’s fourth on my original works list, but I’m still excited about it bc DRAGONS ARE LIT

oh shit I literally forgot one why do I have so many projects

For the Record (finally another actual title) -basically about a big fam at their cottage -feat a kid trying to swim a few k across a lake, faster than her relatives who have already done it. at 15. (for some background, she’s a swimmer/distance swimmer lmao this isn’t random) -another list: tree climbing, rock and beach glass collecting, snake and frog finding, ice cream, chess playing, card tricks

yoi fics bc @therealpigfarts23 convinced me to start writing fanfiction. it all started with this first one

#icegiraffeofrussia that’s its working and probs final title bc now I don’t think of it as anything else -yuri has a growth spurt, cue viktor nicknaming him the ice giraffe of russia -the internet runs with it -rip yuri growth spurts are mean and rinkmates are shits (like friendly shits tho)

pjo au that series was half my childhood (hp was the other half) -based in part on this post (fml took a while to find it wHY didn’t I put the url somewhere earlier) -currently trying to grow a plot heLP (would bc condensed pjo-ified canon- parallel plot listen I've already thought of how viktor can introduce himself to yuuri naked in this verse there is no turning back) -gonna jam a bunch of things in this point. literal knife shoes. hamsters at camp (shhhhh). capture the flag. possible Phone Defense Squad (long story). starring: viktor: son of nike, yuuri: son of aphrodite, phichit: son of hermes, yuri: son of idk yet, mila and sara: hunters of artemis, otabek: son of hephaestus, leo: son of apollo, jj: son of zeus (I had to, sorry not sorry), etc

Possibly Something about the Making of Yuri’s ex skate -idk yet

The Ongoing Summer Work AU may as well add this too -in my chat with autumn, may or may not write up as short pieces later -literally based on my life/my job atm not even claiming to be completely fictional lmao -everyone embarrasses yuuri (he makes it so easy lmao)

AND THAT’S IT FOR NOW WHO KNOWS WTF MY BRAIN WILL DO NEXT

#my writing

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riverheadbooks · 7 years

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READER HOROSCOPE FOR FEBRUARY 2017

Turning the celestial pages of love

AQUARIUS

Bust out the champagne and crank up the music - it’s your birthday month, and you are ready to party! You’re full of energy this month after a pretty drab and boring January, and it’s infectious! Have you noticed a recent uptick in the number of brunch and happy hour invitations in your inbox? Get used to it! You’re in the spotlight this month, Aquarius, and you are loving it. While you embrace moment in the sun, just be sure to monitor your calendar so you don’t overbook yourself. Looking for a high-energy read that fits your current mood? Look no further than your lucky book for this month, a wildly imaginative and deliciously unusual account of the dawn of the modern era. You’ve undoubtedly heard snippets of the circumstances around the death of Anne Boleyn, or memorized some facts about the Aztec people in middle school, but be warned: this is history like you’ve never experienced it before. While you whisk around this month, charming the socks off of everyone you meet, remember the power that a sparkling personality and a tiny twist of fate can yield. Who knows, you may end up altering the course of history yourself.

LUCKY BOOK: Sudden Death by Álvaro Enrigue

PISCES

Time to bring out the bathrobe and fuzzy slippers, Pisces. You’re in desperate need of some rest, and this month is your time to finally indulge in the magical art of doing absolutely nothing. Well, okay...doing less. You know how to read your body, and you know when your mind is stretched to the breaking point - this is the time to slow down and use your spare time to just let yourself be. Work is work, and the pressure from deadlines and upcoming projects may trick you into thinking that you need to be on edge all the time, but that is simply not the case! Allow yourself to do what you need to do at the office, and then give yourself the freedom to pursue an activity you want to do - whether that be taking more naps, dusting off your baking pans, or settling down with a good book. And speaking of good books - if you’re looking for a long, juicy read to fill the time you’re gaining this month, your lucky book this month is just the ticket. Take a walk through several decades of history - from Kingston, Jamaica to the streets of New York - and read a fascinating fictional account surrounding the assassination of Bob Marley, and the world-changing events that followed. There’s no better time to sink your teeth into a gripping, spellbinding story than during a self-imposed exile from the noise and clamor of the real world, so get ready to dig in.

LUCKY BOOK: A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James

ARIES

One may be the loneliest number, Aries, but that's not a worry you'll have this month. People are just clamoring to be in your orbit, from friends to strangers to colleagues, and you're working on making your exchanges both smooth (always check your teeth after going to town on a kale salad!) and profitable (business cards at the ready!). Collaboration is of the utmost importance right now, as the connections you forge today will only help you become a better team player, listener, and person overall. Having at least one partner to work with in all things academic, corporate, or even romantic can help the both of you become greater than the sum of your parts - and perhaps even create the beginnings of a lifetime bond. The characters in your lucky book can attest to this: two orphans abandoned at birth, who grow up together and eventually fall in love. Follow them on a whirlwind journey through the world of dance and theater, through temporary separation and desperately trying to find their way back to each other to make their childhood dreams come true. It's a spellbinding paean to the wonders of enduring love, suffering difficult times, and coming out on the other side stronger together - an appreciation that you can truly share this month.

LUCKY BOOK: The Lonely Hearts Hotel by Heather O'Neill

TAURUS

There's no stopping you from getting what you want this month, Taurus, and it's inspiring to see. They don't call you the bull for nothing - you refuse to be deterred from going after your dreams, and you're willing to do just about anything to achieve the level of success you've always wanted. That means, of course, that this is a month in which your social calendar will be pretty bare bones: you only have so much time to spare, and getting your affairs in order to strive toward the next level in your career or passion is of utmost importance right now. When is the last time you spoke to your mentor? That's one lunch date that should be prioritized - you can have all the ambition in the world, but without a bit of guidance from someone who's seen more and experienced more, you may merely end up spinning your wheels or even end up suffering from the residual effects of self-sabotage. In your lucky book this month, you'll learn all about a nation that achieved an incredible feat way ahead of its time: establishing a modern-day revolutionary theocracy. From the outside, Iran now appears to be dangerous, a threat to our way of life, but within it lies a much deeper and more complex story of the many religious thinkers, political operatives, poets, journalists, and activists that have staked their entire lives and beliefs on what they feel their country should represent and be capable of. For a mover and shaker like yourself, this is the kind of book you won’t know you needed until you're halfway through. Go get em, Taurus. We'll be cheering you on.

LUCKY BOOK: Children of Paradise: The Struggle for the Soul of Iran by Laura Secor

GEMINI

This month is focused on personal growth, Gem, and not a moment too soon. If you've been feeling bored and listless, then find a class to take or new route to run. If you've been feeling hopeless about the state of the world, use this time to push yourself to action - get involved in a way you may have been afraid or hesitant to until now. This is the time to expand your everyday reality, to take small leaps of faith that leave you with some pretty undeniable results. Your inner circle will be crucial during this time of self-discovery and boundary-testing: they're smart, reliable, and you trust them to have your best interests at heart. That is not a gift to be taken lightly, so be sure to learn from them this month, and let them know how much you appreciate their presence in your life. To assist you in thinking on a larger scale than you normally do, your lucky book this month is a small volume with dizzying scope. Learn the facts around some of our most common yet awe-inspiring realities, like the makeup of space and time, and the elementary ingredients that comprise our world. It's the perfect reset button, going back to the basics of our physical world and coming to a deeper understanding about how truly miraculous and beautifully fated our very existence is. You'll walk away from this book with a much richer perspective on life, and less fear around wresting control of your own, and shaping it in the way you've always dreamed. You know what they say about shooting for the moon, Gem. Landing among the stars really isn't such a bad deal.

Lucky Book: Reality is Not What it Seems by Carlo Rovelli

CANCER

Who says being a recluse is a bad thing? There are times you just need to be alone, to recharge and re-center yourself, and this month, it's your turn. A lot has happened over the past few months, both in your personal life and on a global scale, and if you want to be able to navigate the many different challenges that have presented themselves, reconnecting with your values and checking in on your state of mind is a must. This doesn't mean you need to confine yourself to your apartment at all times, just that it would be in your best interest to embark on a journey of some inner exploration, and maybe limit your social engagements to outings with only your closest friends. The clarity that can come from this time spent with yourself or with your most trusted loved ones is invaluable. The main character of your lucky book this month makes that discovery as well - on a trip to Greece to search for her missing husband, there are some questions about his disappearance that are never answered, but by the end of the book, she has plumbed her emotional depths and discovered long-dormant truths about herself that could only be found during a sustained period of solitude. Don't be afraid to do the tough psychological work of digging through your own impulses, desires, fears, and hopes - self-reflection is a skill that becomes more crucial the more life is lived. Dive in.

LUCKY BOOK: A Separation by Katie Kitamura

LEO

Once upon a time, there was a Leo who felt like they would scream if they had to answer another benign "How are you?" You know what, Leo? We certainly can't say we blame you. You're all about the real talk this month - you say what you mean and mean what you say, and don't have time for meaningless pleasantries. Life is too short for wasting precious minutes on anything but the conversations and experiences that will help you get where you're trying to go. January was a bit slow - the first month of the year tends to be a rough one - so now you're fired up, ready to go. Your mind is buzzing, and your creative energy is flowing - so keep that vibe going! The author of your lucky book this month is the perfect accompaniment to your current mindset: quirky and unusual, a series of traditional fairy tales with stunningly inventive departures from the norm. Is it a love story, a tragedy, or merely a series of strange misadventures? That's up to you to decide. Go on a journey filled with twists and turns, and surrender yourself to the glorious ambiguity of familiar stories turned on their head. I know you’re a straight shooter this month, but there is value in taking the road less traveled to your intended destination - or, perhaps, to a destination you didn’t even know you wanted to reach. You’re going to make it to your _______ ever after - and filling in that blank is the best part.

LUCKY BOOK: Mr. Fox by Helen Oyeyemi

VIRGO

Fire up that blender and start stretching those limbs, Virgo - this month, personal fitness is the name of the game. Chances are, you’ve been following the news cycle obsessively, nearly driven to the edge with worry, and stress-eating is often the only solace to be found after going down a dark social media hole. No more! Banish the Doritos from your room and just say no to the peanut M&Ms. Get rid of the nagging guilt by listening to your body and doing what it’s politely asking you to do - put your health at the forefront of your concerns and allow yourself to shut everything else out, if only for an hour a day. Better yet, put your money where your mouth is, and get outside to volunteer with an organization doing the work you feel passionate about. Aside from it being a small humanitarian act that can go far, you’ll feel better for having spent your energy on an activity that helps put the world to rights, just a little bit, rather than simply complaining about it on your Facebook feed. After all, this is going to be a marathon, not a sprint - better to limber up for the long haul rather than let yourself burn out quickly. For inspiration, your lucky book of the month is a historically accurate account of a slave’s escape right before the Civil War - a reminder that despite even the most inhumane and depraved circumstances, the human will to persist, to survive, is more durable than we often believe. Remember the struggle others have faced before you: grieve their sacrifice, but take strength from it too. You are capable of more than you know.

LUCKY BOOK: Song Yet Sung by James McBride

LIBRA

Ooh, la la, Libra! Love is in the air this month, and you are just reveling in it! And what a beautiful thing that love is, when it’s free, and shared without guilt or shame. You feel light, unburdened, and that’s not an easy feat. Few can allow themselves to wear their hearts on their sleeve like you do, but that doesn’t make you weak-willed or unable to keep a secret. It means you have courage in an area where others often don’t: the courage to be rejected. The courage to be disappointed. Instead of hiding your affection for whoever has captured it, you’re letting it shine and going after what you want. In a world that increasingly favors mind games and obfuscation in matters of the heart, your approach is a wholly refreshing one - so don’t be surprised when it works! Your lucky book this month is written from the point of few of the outsider - the witness to an extraordinary love story that grows into a personal passion. Such is the power of love - particularly in this case, when it’s between a housemaid and a policeman, two individuals who come from totally different cultural and political backgrounds. As they struggle to legitimize their true feelings in a society that does not want them to be together, the narrator becomes more and more attuned to their private anguish, and is ultimately changed just by having seen their relationship blossom. If that’s not an endorsement of living and loving out loud - especially in a time and place where you are granted that freedom - then what is?

LUCKY BOOK: A Word for Love by Emily Robbins

SCORPIO

Kick off your shoes and relax your feet, Scorpio - this month is shaping up to be a quiet, introspective one. There’s no place like home right now, and that’s nothing to be ashamed of - everyone needs a chance to just relax in their own abode from time to time. If you’re feeling the sudden urge to paint, or change your curtains, or even do some plumbing - go with it! This is your sanctuary, and it can be incredibly therapeutic and soothing to put the time and care into maintenance that it deserves. Your home is much more than the physical structure, however; be sure to spend some time with the people closest to you as well. They are your anchors - whether it be your girlfriend, roommate, little cousin, or parents - and keeping you grounded can be a pretty taxing job, if we’re being honest here! Don’t neglect those relationships; they need as much maintenance and TLC as your apartment does. Your lucky book this month is a heartwarming, hilariously realistic tale of two families who learn, through a series of misadventures, how vital they are to each other, despite any build-up of resentment, or jealousy, or awkwardness. The people who love you the most know your flaws, and continue to love you in spite of them - and what an incredible reminder when the world just makes you want to lie down for a long time. There truly is no place like home.

LUCKY BOOK: Modern Lovers by Emma Straub

SAGITTARIUS

You’re just the life of the party, aren’t you, Sag? You’re radiating positive energy this month, and it is joy to be around. It’s rare that you run out of things to talk about, because you have opinions to share and refuse to keep them locked away! Good for you - a little bit of honesty is healthy, and breaks down walls that keep potential friends apart. Your forthrightness is attracting all sorts of people to you, and there’s a good chance that it may lead to a brand new friendship - or more! There is little doubt that you will find a kindred spirit in the protagonist of your lucky book for this month: a young woman who charms her way from small-town girl-next-door to mega-popular It Girl. You know the risks of laying yourself bare, inviting commentary and criticism from friends and strangers alike - it can be demoralizing and downright scary, as people will often take your kindness for weakness. This is where your signature optimism and honesty come in handy - sometimes in order to protect yourself, you need to let people know when they’re crossing your boundaries. And if they take offense, well then, that’s their issue. You know who are you, what you want, and you’re not afraid to stand up for yourself when no one else will. Keep doing you, Sagittarius. It suits you well.

LUCKY BOOK: Funny Girl by Nick Hornby

CAPRICORN

Work, work, work! Cap, I truly admire your commitment to your craft and seemingly inexhaustible supply of energy. You’re firing on all pistons this month, breezing through deadlines and taking on extra projects - and killing it! This is your month of productivity, and so far, it’s a very successful one. Be careful to avoid burnout, though. If you haven’t already, scale back your side-ventures and hobbies, if only for the next few weeks while you’re in work-mode. Balance is vital - either work less and socialize more, or vice versa, but at all costs, avoid burning the candle at both ends. You always want to be economical with your greatest commodity - your time. But guess what, Cap? Being focused on your work actually doesn’t preclude engaging in play - quite the contrary. According to your lucky book this month, some of our most invaluable resources were the result of an innovator having fun. Makes weird sense, doesn’t it? Think about your own daily schedule. How much more productive are you when you actually enjoy what you’re doing? How much more exciting are the ideas you come up with when you’re truly enjoying the brainstorm, or are working towards an enjoyable product? Work doesn’t have to be boring - and, really, it just shouldn’t be. And you can - literally - take that to the bank.

LUCKY BOOK: Wonderland: How Play Made the Modern World by Steven Johnson

#riverhead #riverhead books #february horoscope #february readerscope #astrology #zodiac #aquarius season #aquarius #tbr list

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wtfzodiacsigns · 5 years

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Advice for the Zodiac Signs During Tough Times

Source: tauralogy

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wtfzodiacsigns · 5 years

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Advice for the Zodiac Signs During Tough Times

Disclaimer: Take this with a grain of salt in the sense that some won’t apply if you have conditions/disorders that inhibit you from following it such as socializing due to anxiety for instance. Also if you have a negative history with any advice (such as isolation), then don’t follow this advice….thank you!

Use your sun, moon, or venus

(When you use the advice for the planet that applies to you most, please also look at the house that planet is in and read the advice for that. For example, a Libra moon in the 2nd house - have a night in with your best friends, both comfort and interaction)

Source: tauralogy

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