text:
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.
The music though his headphones allowed Rick to escape. A particular song would start, and his head started nodding. His foot tapped and if it was a really good track, he'd get up from his desk and dance. He couldn't explain why he enjoyed dancing so much. He knew his mother liked it, too, and sometimes they'd pause as they prepared dinner, turning the speakers up, and dancing around each other in the kitchen of the house in Chester.
The thought of his mother brought Rick back to the present, and he swallowed. His fangs itched, and he focused on willing the sensation away. The whole fang thing had thrilled Rick at first. He had twin razors that came out of the roof of his mouth, and what kid didn't dream about that? He spent hours making them click down, and then retract, practicing like some runway model in the bathroom mirror, but shortly after Rick became comfortable with his fangs, he developed an embarrassing side effect. When his fangs ran out, Rick almost always ended up with a boner. Just feeling his fangs slide from their sheaths would trigger it, and, if he wasn't careful, he would find it made him cum in his pants.
It wasn't the kind of thing he felt comfortable telling his Mother, and he sure wasn't going to tell Auntie Lora. It was bad enough he would wake up with a wet spot in the bed some mornings. When that happened, he'd bundle the sheets off and run them through the washing machine himself. Neither Aunt Lora nor his Mother said anything about it, but his Mother had given him a kind of look the last time it happened that told him she'd noticed. Before she agreed to go away on this last business trip, his Mother said it was probably time they had 'that sex talk' and Rick thought he'd just about die. He was pale anyway and when he blushed, it was pretty much a whole-body experience. Fortunately, this trip did come up, so she said they would have 'that talk' when she got back. As far as Rick was concerned, it could wait for longer.
Of course, Rick knew something about what happened between people. You couldn't cruise the Internet without getting some sort of idea what sex was about. Lately, he'd noticed that whenever he was around older people, adults, he'd get pictures in his head, snapshots mostly, and some of those were about sex.
All of it made him decide that he probably wasn't old enough to be figuring this out, so he started practicing control instead. When his fangs itched, he'd practice making them stay in place. When he sipped blood, which he was doing three or four times a day now, he'd make his fangs stay retracted. It was hard, but it kept the other reaction reasonable.
The wet dreams didn't stop, though, and Rick decided to talk with George about it.
George Hermosa was now Rick's best friend. They were in most of their classes together at school and George slept over at the B&B as much as he slept in the dorms. Rick liked George's little brother and sister, too, although Maddie, George's sister, had a tendency toward flirting. Rick found he liked it. In fact, he liked it too much, and for a kid his age that was a little too creepy to consider, so he started keeping his distance from her.
When George confronted Rick about hurting Maddie's feelings, Rick told George his secret, that he was part-vampire. He showed George his fangs and George swore not to tell anybody. They came up with a cover story for Maddie, and George was as good as his word. They were tight now, so confiding this new development wasn't so difficult.
"Shit, happens to me all the time!" George shrugged. "Sometimes I use my hand and help it along. My dad told me it's perfectly natural for guys our age and that when we get older, it won't happen as often."
Hearing that was a relief. Rick was worried that this was just one more thing that was making him different from everyone around him.
Although he wasn't yet thirteen, Rick was shooting up. His hands were big, and his feet were huge, growing three sizes in less than a year. Pretty much everything hurt all the time. His Mother called it 'growing pains' and Rick believed her. He towered over most of the kids in school now, which would have been great, except he was so uncoordinated. He tripped over his own feet and when he ran, which he tried not to, he resembled some big bird, his legs and arms not quite looking like they fit with the rest of him.
"You'll grow into your body," Aunt Lora assured him, but that didn't stop the ribbing he took from some of the kids at school.
Then, there were the other things. There were the stray thoughts he couldn't stop from popping into his head. He'd figured out they were from other people, and he wondered how his Mom lived like this all the time. There were the fangs, of course, and there was the way he'd begun to hear things and smell things so clearly. He knew who didn't wash their hands and who needed a shower. He could hear secrets whispered from across the room and when kids shouted, it felt like the sound was stabbing his eardrums.
Even in Chester, a town that had known him all his life, Rick knew he was starting to develop a reputation for being odd. It hurt.
The music track ended and Rick closed his math book. He was reaching down to get his German book when he caught sight of his Aunt Lora standing at the door.
He pulled his headphones off and said, "What's up?"
"It's your Aunt Fran," Lora told him, and she ran the back of her hand across her cheek. Rick smelled what he assumed were her tears. They smelled fresh and salty, and, despite seeing her so upset, Rick felt his fangs itch.
"What's happened?" Rick thought of his Auntie Fran. He thought of how frail she'd been and he gripped the edge of his desk, afraid of what was coming next. He heard a crack and looked down to see he'd broken the edge of his desk without even trying.
"She's in the hospital," Lora told him. She walked over and placing her hand on his shoulder, then glanced down at the strip of wood in Rick's hand. "It's all right," she assured him, and Rick stood up, wrapping his arms around this woman who had known him all his life.
"Is she going to be all right?" he asked.
"They don't think she'll die," Lora whispered against his shoulder, "but she's had another stroke, Sweetie. She's on machines right now, and they aren't sure…" and Lora made a choking noise.
Rick heard it then, 'aren't sure she'll wake up,' was what Aunt Lora was thinking, and it made Rick's throat close and his eyes well.
"Does Mom know?" Rick asked.
"Not yet," Aunt Lora shook her head. "I came up here first. It's already night in Louisiana, so you know she won't be checking her safe phone for awhile."
Rick nodded. It was one of the hard things about his Mom traveling. She would text him or call him during the day while the vampires were sleeping. She told him how she hid her phone and the importance that he not text or call her during night hours unless it was a real emergency. He figured his Mom probably shut the phone off for hours at a time, just to make sure some random text or sales call didn't alert the vampires around her that she had it, but he also knew she couldn't rest not knowing that he had a way to tell her if he was in trouble.
"Are we headed to Boston?" Rick asked.
"Not until the weekend," Lora leaned back, looking into his face, her arms resting around his waist. "Your Aunt Fran isn't going anywhere just yet, and I know you have exams this week. There's nothing to be gained by rushing out there right now."
"I'm not sure how I'll do, knowing this," Rick shook his head. "I mean, are you sure she's going to be okay?"
Aunt Lora knew that Rick was really asking was if his Aunt Fran would die. "The doctors assured me that barring another stroke, she isn't going anywhere," and she squeezed him. "They are monitoring her and she's in the best place possible."
Rick had a hard time sleeping that night. He dressed in the morning and drank blood in his room, then ate something downstairs in the kitchen. "I'll let you know if anything changes," Aunt Lora told him, pulling him down so she could kiss his forehead. Rick could smell the dried tears on her and figured she'd cried earlier.
"Sure," he nodded, anxious to get out of the house. At least at school he knew what was needed. He could attend classes, listen to lectures, and smile at all the usual conversations. It was predictable, and at the moment, Rick felt the need for something predictable because with Mom so far away and Aunt Fran sick, the world didn't seem so safe at the moment.
"What's wrong?" George asked halfway through the morning.
"What makes you think something's wrong?" Rick challenged to which George gave him a look that said, 'I'm not stupid!'
Rick sighed. "Problems." He went on to tell George about his Aunt Fran. He told George about his Mom's business trip, too. He'd never told George that his Mom and George's dad knew each other, or that his Mother had a different name. He figured George's dad hadn't said anything either, because George would have said something to let Rick know.
"My Mom's in Louisiana," Rick said carefully, and he watched for George's reaction.
"Really?" George replied. "You know that's where my family's from."
"Here's the thing," Rick said, and he looked away, not wanting to meet George's eyes. "Your Dad works for a vampire King, right?"
"Felipe de Castro," George confirmed. "How did you know they call them Kings?"
"Because my Mom works for that King, too," Rick told him. "You can't say anything, but your Dad knows my Mom. He knew her from a long time ago, from before she came up North."
"My Mom figured your Mom had to be from down South," George grinned. "She said your Mom's accent was too real for a summer girl. You think they knew each other from Area 5?"
"What's that?" Rick asked.
"Area 5 is the northern part of Louisiana. My Dad likes to tell stories about it. I guess that even though there was a Queen or King in New Orleans, Area 5 kind of ruled itself. There was a Sheriff there called the Viking. Folks pretty much worked for him."
"Viking?" Rick asked. He could feel a buzzing in his head and his fangs were itching.
"Yeah, like a real Viking, from over a thousand years ago. He was way powerful because he was so old, or something. But Dad said he was a great warrior, too, and people respected him. Dad said the Viking gave him his first shot at leadership."
"What happened to him?" Rick asked, "The Viking."
"Dad said there were some changes. I got the impression the King, de Castro, was involved and the Viking got transferred somewhere, or exiled. Something like that. Not killed though. Dad didn't say it, but it sounded like the King was too scared to challenge him."
"Do they do that often? Fight, I mean?" Rick asked.
"Vampires? Yeah, pretty often," George nodded. "Dad had to promise Mom when they got married that he wouldn't challenge anyone or if he did get in trouble, he had to let her know. They don't talk about it a lot, but I get the impression that vampires get killed, well, finally killed pretty often."
"You wouldn't think that would happen," Rick thought it over. "I mean, they are immortal and everything."
"Dad says vampires have short tempers and they take their honor too seriously," George said it like someone who knew. "So, what do you think your Mother does for the King?" George asked.
Rick glanced at his friend before saying, "She helps out with business meetings, something like that. Not a secretary exactly. She can read people, and the King pays her to do it."
"Read people?" George was giving Rick a sharp look, "Like with her head?" When Rick didn't answer, George said, "Shit, Rick! I know who she is!" When Rick still didn't say anything, George took a deep breath, "Okay. Look, you don't have to say anything, and I'm not going to tell. If I'm right, though, she's with my Dad, and you know he'll take care of her."
"Thanks, George," Rick told his friend, "That makes me feel better," and it did.
When Rick got home that night, it was to the news that Aunt Fran was stable, but there had been no change. She was still unconscious and no one knew when she'd wake up. There was a text from his Mom, telling him the trip was going well and not to worry. She knew about Aunt Fran and told him that she was sure everything would turn out okay. She told him to be brave and that she knew he would. She told him she would see him in Boston on Saturday and that they would stay at Aunt Fran's house.
Rick ate dinner and headed up to do homework. It was the one night a week that the B&B served dinner, and Aunt Lora and Sarah were busy in the kitchen. There were six guests and another two tables with people from the schools in the dining room. Rick knew they'd need his help later with the dishes but, for now, his job was staying out of the way.
He had been working for a while and he figured he'd get the call from downstairs soon when his phone dinged. It wasn't unusual for his friends to text him, so he turned the phone over and checked the screen.
The message was from his Mother. He felt the jolt of adrenaline as he thumbed across it, opening the message.
'I love you. You are the best part of me and you make me proud. Never forget. Find your Father.'
'Where are you?' Rick's fingers flew.
He waited. There was no bubble that told him he was getting an answer.
'Mom' he texted, and he waited. Nothing.
With a mounting sense of panic, Rick headed down the stairs. His fangs had descended, but, in the moment, he just didn't care.
"Is everything in place?" Eric had risen from his travel coffin earlier that night to find himself in a safe house in New Orleans. He knew this was one of Maxwell Lee's houses. It had been discussed in advance as the best location. The house was close to the New Orleans Palace, but still secure. Pam was fond of the tall, black vampire. It was a friendship based on more than their compatibility in business. Maxwell was a cunning and ruthless warrior. He rarely offered or accepted clemency and that suited Pam's fighting style well.
Eric didn't entirely share that philosophy. Eric believed that loyalty freely given, particularly on the heels of mercy, could be stronger. Pam argued that under their current circumstances, it didn't make sense to take the chance. 'Once someone has switched their fealty, they get too flexible for me,' she told him. Eric wondered what made a former Victorian lady become so bloodthirsty. In some ways, Pam was more savage than her sister, Karin the Slaughterer, and that said something.
"We are ready, but we are spread thin," Pam told him, but it was saying what Eric already knew.
"There won't be much room for finesse," Maxwell added. "I hope we're not going to be expected to stop and sort."
Eric looked hard at Lee. Lee was staring back just as hard, but then he dropped his eyes and Eric saw the tall vampire and Pam exchange a look. Eric set aside his doubts. This was a time for decisiveness.
"So you are asking my permission to clean the slate," Eric said. He met first Pam's eyes, then Maxwell's, and then he nodded once. They all knew what he meant. If there was a vampire or another creature claimed or protected by one of Eric's followers, that person would be spared. Everyone else would die. It was a messy plan, but in an operation where everything depended on speed, it was the only approach that had a reasonable chance of success.
"Make sure our spies know what's coming," Eric said shortly. "And Pamela, you will need to let the heads of the Areas know who the spies are ahead of tomorrow night. If we kill our own, it will make it difficult to recruit others." In many ways, this was the riskiest part of the operation.
The spies would be warned early. They could stay in place, trusting that they would be spared when the killing started, or they could flee ahead of the trouble. If they fled, there was a chance that Felipe or his people would notice. Eric wouldn't fault those who ran. To be revealed as a spy was to carry a death sentence if Eric was defeated. Eric found himself reviewing the list of names and making guesses as to who would still be in place come tomorrow night.
"No problem," Pam grinned.
"This thing is going to be bloody," Maxwell Lee stated again, interrupting Eric's thoughts. It was unnecessary, the vampire's repeating, but Eric recognized that Lee was testing Eric's resolve. Pam hissed, but Eric waved his hand.
"It's okay, Pam," he told her. Turning to Maxwell, Eric took a step forward. He topped the dark, trim vampire by half a head, and he was more heavily muscled, but it wasn't size or strength that mattered. "I will rule here," Eric said in his quiet, killing voice. "I will make it known that any who challenge me will suffer the consequences, and tomorrow night those consequences will be stacked in piles for all vampires to see."
"Of course, Majesty!" Maxwell grinned broadly, "And I am honored to be able to help you deliver that message!"
Both Maxwell and Pam bowed, and walked up the stairs, on their way to work phones. They would spend the remainder of tonight delivering messages and finalizing the time table with their contacts across the states, coordinating the time of attack. It was agreed that Maxwell would return to the Palace before day break. He would have things ready when Pam and Eric arrived through the back streets to the secret doorway.
It gave Eric pause. He had no reason to doubt Maxwell Lee, but what in this life was ever certain? He wished he had a blood tie with the vampire, but he knew that only when he was King could he get that. Were he to ask now, Maxwell would doubtless turn him down, and Eric would do the same in Max's position. A blood tie would label Max as Eric's vassal. If Eric was struck down, Max would be beheaded too. Still, trusting those who weren't of the blood was a risk.
In the case of Pam, Eric didn't doubt her loyalty for a second. She was his progeny, and although he'd freed her years ago, the connection between them remained strong. He knew she would fight for him out of both love and respect. If he asked, she would meet her final death beside him.
For the others who had pledged to fight, those vampires like Maxwell Lee, Eric suspected their enthusiasm flowed more from their hatred of Felipe de Castro than any particular love for Eric Northman.
In the years since Eric had left Louisiana for Oklahoma, it seemed few to no improvements had been made. New Orleans was still an open city and it attracted vampires from both the New and Old Worlds, but once they arrived, they found little to keep them. There was no ministry to help newcomers start businesses. There were no agencies to assist the newly arrived to find places to live or communities that would welcome them. The lack of services didn't mean the vampires were ignored, though. They would quickly find they'd been placed on census lists and their tithing bills, ordering their tribute to King Felipe de Castro started soon and arrived regularly.
Eric suspected that if one were to study the flow of vampires who arrived in just New Orleans, optimistic and hopeful, one would find that equal numbers could be found for those vampires who left, poorer and dispirited. It was the only thing that explained why that, in spite of the popularity of New Orleans, the welcome other species extended to vampires here, the population hadn't grown.
Of course, there were those who were lucky enough to land jobs working in the palace and businesses of Felipe de Castro. Usually, joining the King's payroll meant good jobs with above-average pay. It was widely known that those jobs located in Las Vegas met the profile. The King's jobs in Louisiana did not. The pay was bad and the hours long. Those unlucky enough to be assigned to Arkansas fared even worse.
It was no wonder that even those who took Felipe's money welcomed an alternative.
It was apparent to Eric that although Felipe held Louisiana and Arkansas, and had for many years, he had no real plan for developing either territory. Pam described it as holding the former kingdoms in a perpetual state of subservience. She told him no single thing illustrated how badly they were treated like the list of losers Felipe had appointed to run the states in his stead.
Since the days of Victor Madden, the role of conservator or regent was passed from one lackluster lackey to the next. According to Maxwell Lee, the latest in that line, Emil, was not the worst, but far from the best. Lazy and prone to gossip, Emil maintained a stable of donors whose profile was likely to get them all in trouble if human authorities were to find out.
Now, Pam, Maxwell, and the others who knew what was coming sounded hopeful, even enthusiastic. It was likely by this time tomorrow; the reign of Felipe de Castro would be behind them. If all went according to plan, the Nevada King's demise would be swift. Eric would claim only Louisiana and Arkansas.
Eric planned to cut Nevada loose. He had no use for a kingdom so far away. As far as Eric was concerned, crossing Clan lines was a sucker's bet, and he was hoping that the temptation of an open throne in a far richer kingdom would distract any vampire who considered challenging him before he had a chance to consolidate his position here.
There was every reason to feel hopeful. Those who had worked with Eric or knew him from his days as Sheriff of Area 5 trusted him to make their lives better. Eric had worked hard in those days to make sure the vampires under his care thrived. There were many stories of the Viking's fighting for those who owed him fealty, and since the coming of Felipe de Castro, those stories had grown. Now, whether it was by personal experience or by reputation, Pamela, Thalia, and Indira assured Eric, his coming would be welcomed as the promise of better times for them all.
Still, the fight was far from won. With the confirmation that de Castro had sent ten of his fighters back to Las Vegas this morning, the odds seemed roughly even. If you were just looking at numbers, those vampires who would support Eric outnumbered those personally pledged to Felipe de Castro by a margin of three to one, but there was a problem. Many of those vampires who were counted for Eric were newcomers and few of those had had any formal battle training. Pam thought it was possible that many had never seen a fight. They were, for the most part, soft-handed shop keepers whose last training came under the tutelage of their last King or their Makers if they had received any at all.
As for Felipe and his retinue, the Nevada King could count several hardened warriors among those who were in Louisiana with him. Angie, de Castro's Second, was in Shreveport. Eric had to trust that Indira and her supporters in Area 5 would be able to handle her. Karin was already somewhere in Baton Rouge, laying low and doing what she needed to be strong for tomorrow night. Thalia would have gone to ground outside Lafayette by now. Each of them had a few vampires with them, men and women they trusted.
For Eric, he would look to Pam and Maxwell Lee to form the core of his attack force. Once inside the Palace, they would rely on hidden doors to quickly move to the throne room and confront de Castro. If they were lucky, and Pam was right about some of the guards and other vampires in the Palace taking their side, the fight would be quick. Eric had no doubt he was more than a match for any vampire present, and flanked by his daughter and Max, they should form an almost unbeatable battle wedge.
Once the fight in the Palace was over, Eric would look for the code words from the others, letting him know he'd carried the night.
Eric promised that once things were sorted, he would call Russell Edgington back. Russell was Clan Chief of Amun. The conversation whose purpose was to inform Russell that he would attempt the takeover and that he was seeking permission had been encouraging. None of the Amun monarchs were happy with Felipe de Castro in Amun territory, and the fact that he'd left the kingdoms in such poor condition was seen as insult added to injury. Russell told Eric if he was successful, Russell himself would come to officiate at the coronation. "It will be good to have you back, Old Friend," the Mississippi monarch assured him. "I owe you a debt for marrying me to my Bartlett. I would be pleased to return that ceremony with another."
Eric wasn't fooled. If he failed, Russell would forget the conversation ever took place.
Many hours passed as plans were confirmed. Timetables were checked and then checked again. A survey of assets was taken, just to make sure no pocket of de Castro supporters would be left to try and mount a counter coup. Of course, that only counted if your monarch was still alive, and Eric had no intention of allowing Felipe de Castro to survive.
Maxwell came and took his leave, "I'll be at the Canal door," he confirmed. "I will be ready."
As Eric turned back to Pam, he realized he was tense. It was like this for him every time he had gone into battle. There was a rush of adrenaline. He felt as if he was a great war horse, scenting the wind and waiting for the trumpet to call him forward. His sword was sharpened and he had chosen the clothes he would wear.
Now, all that was left was the coming, and the rising to what waited.
"I have taken the liberty of preparing a celebration," Pam interrupted his thoughts. She gestured toward a hallway and she and Eric walked together to an open bedroom door. There were three women splayed across the king-size bed. Pam had selected well. Two were dark-haired and a third was red. Eric supposed Pam did it purposely as to avoid reminding him of Freyda. The women were glamoured and naked, thin chains and studs decorating their bodies. Eric had to hand it to her, his daughter had a fine eye and each one was tempting.
"Get your clothes off," Pam pushed against his chest. "If this is our last night, we're going to feast and fuck like champions!" Pam turned to the glazed-eyed redhead, "Help my Maker with his pants," she ordered, then turning to Eric, said, "She has absolutely no gag reflex! None!"
Eric couldn't help laughing. This was something he understood. It was only right that warriors should make an offering of their one last night of pleasure to the Gods on the eve of battle. Pam and Eric avoided each other, but they freely enjoyed everything the women had. It was a good night, and by the end of it, Eric was sated.
Pam sent the women on their way, texting for a driver to retrieve them. "He'll take them somewhere to make sure they recover," Pam smirked. "I really enjoyed the smaller of the brunettes. She may need a transfusion," and Pam wiped her lip with her thumb.
His daughter was so sassy; Eric couldn't help sharing in her amusement. "Thank you, Pam," he told her. "It was a night to remember."
"I'll see you at first rising," Pam grinned, and she grabbed his chest hair to help her rise up on tiptoe and kiss his cheek.
"Rest well, daughter," Eric replied, swatting her on the butt as she flounced from the room.
Eric flopped back on the large bed surrounded by the smells of sex and sweat. It was pleasant. As dawn approached, though, his thoughts turned, as they so often did, to Sookie Stackhouse. He thought of how she had looked, her eyes half-hooded, as he filled her body in Denver. He wondered where she was tonight, and he thought of her being wrapped in the arms of her human lover.
"Best for both of us," he whispered, then throwing his arm over his eyes, he waited for dawn to take him.
Sookie walked out of the terminal area toward baggage claim. She wasn't surprised to see Rubio Hermosa holding up the sign with her name. "How was your flight?" he asked as he executed his perfect bow.
It was hard not to acknowledge Rubio as more than Felipe's messenger boy. It was on the tip of Sookie's tongue to share information about George and school. As a parent, she shared the desire to discuss kids. Rubio looked away, signaling. "You have your luggage claim?" he asked. Sookie handed it to him and Rubio handed it to another vampire who was at their side almost instantaneously. Once the vampire left, Rubio turned, and he looked more relaxed.
"We have ten minutes. That vampire is also our driver. He will be with you most evenings. Angie is here. You know her." Sookie nodded. She knew Felipe de Castro's Second and didn't like her much. She remembered the night Angie spent at Eric's house; that terrible night when Eric was arrested for killing a Were. Angie was dancing on Eric's coffee table, grinding like a stripper, gouging long scratches into the table's surface with her stiletto heels.
"You know I can't read vampires," Sookie watched for the driver.
"No one expects you to. They are bringing in Area vampires, one by one, with their accountants and, in some cases, bankers or investors. Felipe refuses to believe that Area 5 tithes have dropped because business is down. He thinks there's still rebellion here and that local vampires are cheating him."
"I didn't hear that things were that bad," Sookie said. She wasn't any financial whiz, but she did follow the fortunes of northern Louisiana. From what little she'd read, with the discovery of natural gas there were fortunes being made in and around Shreveport.
"Felipe doubtless reads those same reports," Rubio was also watching, keeping his face neutral. "He fails to realize that without seed money and the support of a King, vampires struggle to get started. Humans are not anxious for us to establish ourselves. Vampires here are poorer while everyone around them gets richer."
"Sounds dangerous," Sookie replied, and Rubio met her eyes and nodded once. Sookie looked away, her anxiety level rising. "Where are the Weres in all of this?" Sookie was thinking of the Long Tooth Pack and Alcide Herveaux. He and his Pack were headquartered in Shreveport. When she'd been here before, in the days when Eric Northman was still Sheriff, the business of vampires and Weres seemed to cross quite often.
"They stick to theirs. We stick to ours," Rubio told her. "King de Castro doesn't believe in mixing with inferior races."
"So our boss is stupid on top of everything else," Sookie said sourly.
"I wouldn't share that sentiment with Angie, but, yes, I'd agree with you," and Rubio hid his smile behind his hand.
Sookie turned to Rubio, "Let me tell you quick before our driver returns. George is doing so well! I see him all the time and he is just the most delightful boy. He's smart and he has a real way about him."
"He tells me your son takes him rock climbing," Rubio didn't look thrilled.
"I hope you don't mind," Sookie sighed. "Rick is a very good climber and he is responsible. They have all the right equipment…"
"I don't mind," Rubio cut her off. "George is grateful for Rick's friendship. It has made a difference for him in school. We were worried about George. As the oldest, this adjustment was hardest for him. He's been in Catholic schools, but he slept at home every night. He had friends. It was not an easy decision. Finding Rick was fortunate."
"I feel the same way," Sookie grinned. "Rick's different," and then Sookie's face dropped. "Fact is, he's getting more different every day. He's drinking blood now."
"That can't be easy," Rubio's eyes became wary. "You were never comfortable with that."
"You mean watching Eric drink from other folks?" Sookie wasn't sure where the bitter remark came from, but she suspected remembering Angie and that night had spurred it. "Sorry," she said. "I did struggle with it, more than I knew at the time. Now, it's different. This is my son. Amy Ludwig said I should think about getting him living among vampires soon."
"He is becoming more vampire?" Rubio asked.
Sookie nodded, "In lots of ways. Sounds like he'll be pretty much be one of you when he's finished." Sookie couldn't help the sigh that escaped her, "Who'd have thought? I thought I had issues when I believed he was a shifter's child. But this? This is a whole new world."
Rubio looked up and then stepped away. "Our driver has returned with your bag," he announced unnecessarily. Rubio gestured, "The car is waiting."
They all stood on the curb and within minutes a black sedan pulled over. A valet jumped out and tossed the key to their driver. Rubio helped Sookie into the backseat and they were pulling away and driving into the city in no time.
"So, as I was saying," Rubio said, "You will be expected to read each of those in the team that accompanies each vampire. They have been instructed to bring every person who can speak to their financial condition. The interviews and audits are expected to be in depth, so there will be no more than two vampires interviewed each evening."
This was the conversation they probably would have had at the airport if there weren't other things to share. Sookie thought about what Rubio was telling her. "It sounds more like an inquisition," she commented.
"The findings are important," Rubio shrugged. "You will be expected to take notes and there will be a hired reporter there to transcribe all conversations. Ted is already at the hotel. His plane arrived earlier." Rubio checked his watch. "Your flight took a little longer than we expected. I will assist you in checking in and we will wait. The first interview starts in an hour. Fortunately, the place we've arranged is only a short distance from the hotel."
"How long do you think this will take?" Sookie asked.
"Hours," Rubio was looking out the window. "The King expects us to be thorough, and Angie will be there to make sure nothing is missed."
"Well, I'm going to need to get something to eat," Sookie snapped. "And it can't be Burger King or anything like that because I'll be sick." Sookie saw the driver's sharp look in the rearview mirror, and the lift of his lip. "I'll ask for a menu when I'm checking in and I can order it right away to take with me," she said quickly, almost in apology. There was a tension that Sookie couldn't miss and she figured it would be best not to be too much trouble to anyone. 'I can't wait to get home,' she thought.
As soon as she got into her room, she hung up her clothes, washed her face, and changed into a skirt, hose, and some short heels. It always paid to look professional, and she knew Angie would report to Felipe on his team's performance. Angie like to focus on details, like appearances and who smelled like what. It was her way, and it was meant to shake confidence.
Sookie pulled her emergency phone from her carry-on. She turned it on and checked messages. She texted first Lora, and then Rick. Rick texted her back and she smiled as they made a couple quick exchanges. He let her know George's team won at soccer and that George had scored two of the goals. He also let her know that German sucked.
For the first time, her son was struggling a little with a subject. He was only making 'B's in German and it annoyed him. Sookie knew Rick's recall was uncanny and she wondered if perfect memory, a vampire trait, was something he'd develop. The issue wasn't remembering, though. Rick's issue was his accent. He had a hard time placing emphasis in the right place and getting his tongue around the consonants. His teacher advised him to use his language labs, but Rick thought he knew better and his stubbornness was costing him.
Sookie texted, 'Listen to the tapes!' to which her cheeky son responded with a sick and then a flaming poop emoji. "Suit yourself!" Sookie said out loud, turning off the phone and hiding it in the special pocket she had sewn in her purse.
Dinner was waiting for Sookie at the front desk and so was the driver. "Where's Rubio?" she asked.
"He went home to his family," the driver told her, but the way he said it was not kind. Rubio was married to a human and Sookie could tell that was the issue. As they drove, Sookie pulled out her turkey wrap and took a few bites. There was a cup of coffee and a plastic bowl of fruit salad, but, as Rubio had warned, they were pulling over before Sookie had time to try either.
The driver was at Sookie's door before she reached for the handle. Sookie levered her way out, grabbed her purse, and the bag with her food. She juggled the coffee cup a little and wished the driver would offer to help, but she knew he wouldn't. As they walked into the towering, dark warehouse space, Angie stepped into a pool of light, "Oh, at last. You're here." Angie was dressed all in black leather, the tight fit of her slacks emphasizing how thin she was. Sookie felt like an old, frumpy housefrau beside her, but she figured that was the point.
Sookie walked toward the place where three tables were set up in a roughly U-shape. Ted was already there, picking his nails. His belly was hanging over a tight waistband and Sookie figured he had to be uncomfortable. The accountant nodded to her, and Sookie put on her brightest smile, "Well, hey Ted! It's really nice to see you again." Of course, it wasn't really nice to see Ted, but if they were going to have to spend the next week working together, it didn't pay to be mean. Sookie was introduced to Wendy, the transcriber who would only be with them tonight. Tomorrow her agency would send someone else.
The first vampire was already seated at a table. He was surrounded by accordion files and papers and there was pale man and a darker woman seated beside him. The woman was a clear broadcaster and she was thinking this was the last time she would ever do business with a vampire. She'd make sure her bank never loaned money to any of them again. The man wasn't so clear, but Sookie could feel his fear without trying.
It was a long and grueling interview. Sookie hadn't seen Ted in action before. At first she was impressed by how smart he was but as the evening wore on, she decided the streak of mean Ted used pretty well killed off any admiration she felt. After several hours, the first vampire left and the second vampire was ushered in.
Sookie insisted on taking a break. She finished her meal, even though her coffee was cold. She also asked for a bathroom. It was discovered the only working bathroom in the building was filthy and there was a dead mouse in the corner. "Just go against the building," Angie sneered.
"Well, you can just take me back to the hotel, then," Sookie snarled back. "Your boss wants a good job done and I'm not going to be able to concentrate if I can't get the basic amenities! I need a clean bathroom and I need a jacket. It's freezing in here. I'm not a vampire!"
"As we are all well aware," Angie said in her superior way.
"Well, if you can do better than me, you just be my guest!" and Sookie started heading for the door.
"What she said," Ted said from behind her, and Sookie turned to see the accountant standing up and starting to grab his jacket.
"Me, too," said Wendy, and Angie was clearly struggling with what was shaping into a full-scale mutiny.
"And I'll email Felipe and tell him how you treated us," Sookie added.
Angie signaled the driver, "There's a restaurant down the street," she told him. "Take them there. Buy them coffee." She turned to Sookie, "There are blankets in the trunk of the car. You can bring them in with you." The vampire checked her watch before saying to the driver, "Thirty minutes. No more!"
The driver was good at his job and in less than thirty minutes, they were all back in the warehouse, blankets draped over their laps, and walking through the exhibits brought by the second vampire. Sookie listened carefully to the thoughts of those humans and, in this case, one Were, he brought with him. What she heard would be confirmed over the next night, and the night following that. These vampires told tales of woe. They were discriminated against and set up for failure. They turned to Pamela Ravenscroft as their Sheriff for help, and she did what she could, but what these vampires needed was the influence a King could provide with national bank managers and block grants. Pam was able to get them help with the local Chamber of Commerce, but it wasn't enough.
"I don't know what more Felipe thinks these folks are making out here," Sookie sighed to Ted as they walked toward the car.
"Doesn't matter," Ted shrugged. "We do our job, we turn in our report. In the meantime, we take advantage of what the city has to offer, and as far as I'm concerned, that's Fangtasia!" The accountant turned to the driver, "You know where it is? We want to stop there on the way back to the hotel."
"I don't think that's such a good idea," Sookie told him. "For one thing, I think I'm still banned."
"Banned? Really?" and Ted looked a little too happy. "I knew you were a swinger! What did you do? Get caught in the Ladies Room? Get a little too free with the merchandise? Were you a Fangbanger?"
"No," Sookie said shortly. "Nothing like that."
"I wouldn't worry about it," Angie purred from behind them. "Felipe lifted that ban a long time ago. You can go to Fangtasia as much as you like, Miss Stackhouse," and then she laughed in a way that made Sookie want to grab some wood and stake her on the spot.
Sookie found herself ushered through the front door of the club. As members of Felipe de Castro's personal retinue, they weren't expected to pay the cover charges. The vampire at the door bowed briefly and Sookie could feel the eyes of those waiting in line cutting her down. Once they were inside, she couldn't stop glancing toward the booth in the corner, the one that had been Eric's booth. There was a mostly human party sitting there tonight, and Sookie was almost relieved.
There was music playing. Ted steered them to a high-top table, and Sookie carefully positioned herself on the stool. It seemed everywhere she looked, there were memories. "I'm surprised to see you here," a voice said at her elbow, and Sookie almost fell off her stool as she turned rapidly to see Indira standing next to her.
"I'm here on King's business," she stammered.
"Hi," Ted interrupted and bowed his head. He was using his swinger smile and Sookie almost choked.
"Hi, yourself," Indira's voice was dismissive, then she looked at Sookie again, "Why are you here?"
"I know," Sookie nodded. "I told folks there was a ban, but Angie…"
"The King's Second, Angie?" Indira clarified.
"Yes, that Angie," Sookie nodded, "She said the ban was lifted, so here I am."
"Pam is in New Orleans, reporting to Felipe," Indira was looking happier. "She'll be sorry she missed you. She speaks of you."
"Really?" Sookie couldn't help but be touched, then, not sure, she added, "Good things, right?"
"Yes," Indira smiled, "We all miss you." A waitress came by, and Indira said, "Gin and tonic, yes?"
"That would be great," Sookie agreed, but when the drink arrived, she could barely sip it past the lump in her throat.
It was the next evening when Sookie heard about the assassination attempt on Stan Davis. Angie wasn't at the warehouse when they arrived, but their driver told them about what he'd read on one of the blog sites that specialized in vampire news. Sookie was tempted to call Mr. Cataliades, but the more the driver described things, the less worried Sookie became. It was a disgruntled employee according to the news and, knowing Stan, Sookie wasn't surprised.
"He's kind of an asshat," she told Ted as they got ready to sit down for their first interview. "He likes to look like a computer nerd, but he's as smart as they come."
"Vampires can be pretty tricky," Ted nodded. "It's what makes them so successful."
"Except for these guys," and Sookie jerked her chin at the group awaiting their instructions to take seats.
"Yeah," Ted agreed, "That's for sure!"
That night as Sookie got ready for bed, she texted Lora and Rick. It was late, and she wasn't surprised when she didn't hear back. She was an hour behind them, and as late as it was for her, it was even later in Chester.
On a whim, she texted Fran. The witch seemed to be awake late at night a lot, and it wasn't unusual to receive texts or emails from her at odd hours. Sookie texted about where she was and how about an hour ago she'd almost felt like Fran was in the room with her. She couldn't describe it, but she wanted her friend to know how much she missed her. Fran didn't text back. That night, Sookie went to bed thinking about Boston and how much she missed the witch.
The next day, Sookie woke relatively early. It was mid-afternoon and she decided to take a walk around Shreveport. She hadn't spent a lot of time here when she lived in Bon Temps, but it wasn't unfamiliar either. There were stores she recognized and others that had been something else before she left. As she walked the streets, she found herself wondering how things were doing in Bon Temps. She thought about Jason, whom she hadn't spoken with in close to ten years. She thought about Tara and she wondered if Sam Merlotte married the Were who came after she left. She thought about her house, sitting on Hummingbird Lane, empty, but with a lock that still would turn to her key and she wondered, briefly, about the identity of who owned it now. Sookie was pretty sure it was her Fae relatives, but she didn't really know.
That evening, the atmosphere in the warehouse was tense. It wasn't the interviews, although the news was no better with these vampires than it had been with the ones from the nights before. No, the issue was Angie and the driver. They seemed angry about something, and their hostility rubbed off on everyone.
Sookie was happy to get back to the hotel. She stripped off her clothes and started running a bath. She turned on her phone and saw first Lora's text, and then Rick's.
Lora's message told her about Fran. Her friend was in the hospital. A stroke, the message said. Sookie didn't think about the time. She pushed the buttons and called Lora. Once Lora assured her that Fran was stable, if still unconscious, Sookie called Rick. He was shaken, she could tell. They talked about how strong Fran was and Sookie told him a dozen times she was sorry to be so far away. She got him to tell her a little about school, and she told him how proud she was of him. "I love you, Kiddo," she said, "I love you!" until he told her to cut it out.
Sookie sat on the edge of the bed, all thoughts of the bath forgotten. She looked at the phone she was holding between her hands and thought about her tall, growing son.
"Our lives would have been different if I'd stayed here," she said out loud. She thought about Bon Temps and she thought about Rick, and what was likely to come as he changed. They would need to leave Chester, but where would be the safe place for him? Some part of her wanted him to be with Eric, though she didn't see how that could happen. Eric was in Oklahoma with Freyda. She couldn't trust him to do the right thing if it meant violating some vampire rule.
She remembered that night Freyda had come to her house on Hummingbird Lane. It had been raining, and the Oklahoma Queen had run through the night, determined to see the woman who all the fuss was about. Sookie remembered how angry Freyda became. Sookie rescinded the Queen's invitation, and that saved Sookie's life. 'I wonder if Rick can rescind invitations?' Sookie wondered and she had a sick feeling that her son would become too vampire to have that defense in his tool box.
The only place she could think to bring him was here, to Louisiana, but this wasn't exactly welcoming or even familiar ground anymore. It was helpful that Indira was friendly and it sounded like Pam might still be her friend, but Sookie knew it wasn't really what Rick needed or what she wanted. She would become like one of those vampires she spoke with; a vassal of Felipe de Castro, owing money with nothing to show for it. It was a depressing thought.
It was the fourth night, and Sookie was surprised to see Rubio Hermosa at the warehouse. Angie was, too, and she asked in a not nice way why the vampire was there. "I promised Ms Stackhouse I would take her to dinner," he replied, and his voice purred around the words.
"Cheating on your human with another human?" Angie laughed cruelly.
"I would prefer you didn't tell," Rubio said and he sounded serious. It was the first Sookie had heard of it, but she figured he was trying to be tricky, so she smiled and shrugged like she and Rubio had some big secret, which, apparently, they did.
"Well, I can't have you distracting her until her work here is done," Angie was not pleasant. "I have your number. I will call you when we are finished. You can do what you wish with her then." Rubio offered to stay out of the way, but Angie snarled and sent him on his way. "You are trouble, Miss Stackhouse," she said meanly, "and I'm sure the King will be interested."
It was odd, but Sookie figured that whatever Rubio had to tell her was important. She worried that it might be bad news from home and Sookie found herself glancing toward the door as the evening began.
They were a couple hours into the first interview when there was a loud noise outside. Angie got up and stalked to the door to investigate, the driver close behind her. Ted shrugged, and he and Sookie turned back to questioning. The transcriber tonight was an older woman, Fern. Her gray hair was crispy curled and the faint smell of cigarettes floated from her sweater.
The vampire tonight was running a dry cleaner and doing reasonably well, though not making a lot of money. He brought his accountant and a Were who was his business partner. The vampire stopped speaking and turned to the door. He stood up suddenly and said, "Is there another door?"
Sookie found herself focusing on the sounds outside, and she realized she was hearing fighting. There was the clang of steel, and suddenly she was in a hospital room staring at a blocked door, knowing there were fairies on their way to kill her. Sookie's fingers felt numb as she grabbed her purse and pulled her phone from its place in the lining. She pushed the power button and prayed that trouble stayed outside until the screen was ready.
The Were howled and ran toward the back wall where it was dark, "The windows are boarded!" he yelled. The vampire ran toward him and they were working on pulling boards away. Their human was gibbering and Fern kept wheezing, "Oh my God, Oh my God!" The phone was ready and Sookie texted her son. She told him she loved him. She told him he made her proud. She instructed him to find his Father. 'I trust you, Eric,' she thought, and it made her laugh at herself to think it took facing death to realize the truth. She did trust Eric and always had.
Two vampires rushed in through the main door. They carried swords and they were both bloody. Fern made an 'eep' noise and just as quickly, her gray-haired head was rolling across the floor.
"You!" one of the vampires pointed at the vampire Ted and Sookie had been interviewing, "Get out!" and they pointed at the door. The vampire herded both his accountant and the Were with him toward the exit, leaving Sookie and Ted sitting rooted to their seats.
Sookie didn't recognize either of the vampires stalking toward them. "We work for Felipe de Castro," Ted proclaimed.
"Exactly," one of the vampires hissed, and Sookie found her arm in a grip that was sure to leave bruises. She was forced to her knees beside Ted. She found she couldn't look away as the sword rushed past her face, lifting Ted's head from his shoulders as easily as slicing the top from a watermelon. Ted's look of surprise was in place as his head rolled past her.
Sookie closed her eyes. "Rick," she whispered, and then "Eric," but instead of the feel of a blade, she felt the bang of an impact to the side of her head. The last thing she remembered was falling forward toward the floor.


text:
I'm dying over this door, Will! And you look lovely:)ReplyDelete
i love your post, they always make me smile.ReplyDelete
Yummies photos! Love that red door, it's so.. thin. : )
Will, congrats on being hgtv's blogger of the month! Shouldn't it be blogger of the year though? ;p
Love the bright red door. Red it totally my favorite accent color!ReplyDelete
I need those ear muffs! Then I would be completely set for winter. Perfect!ReplyDelete
The owl mug is great!ReplyDelete
That is a fabulous door Will!
Abbey x
Gorgeous door. I saw a yellow glossy one (only on Pinterest unfortunately!) and feel in love this week.ReplyDelete
Fabulous door, can see why your in love! Such a gorgeous shots of you Will :) xxReplyDelete
I love that owl! And the website is pretty fab too, dangerous for shopping!xReplyDelete
where is that door Will? amazing!ReplyDelete
I love the red door too!ReplyDelete
Very cool red door! Seems like a fab weekend!ReplyDelete
Looks like a great weekend Will...I always love seeing what great things and places you've explored!ReplyDelete
I'm dying to paint my front door RED! Thanks for finally convincing me!
ps you looks super adorable, Will!!
oh man you are such a cutie. Lovin' that red door!!ReplyDelete
That owl mug is super cute and I also love those trees with the fairy lights. So romantic!
Rachie xo
I'm with everyone here. Red door with the gold accents and iron railings. So freaken fab! And I think I'm gonna run and get a "Will" stripey tee for myself. You look great!ReplyDelete
you've got excellent style!! i would love to get a pair of your shoes for my husband!!
xo ~ kristina
Lovely list.
I like the 10 things weekend posts. such a clever idea to recap your weekend! Nice inspirations on here!
ok, I'll take that front door color, too! donnaReplyDelete
That door is the perfect shade of red. Man, what is it about bright cherry red that's so appealing?! Insta-happiness.ReplyDelete
My door is exactly the same as this one (I am only speaking about the door), same color, same structure, except the top panels are windows... And yes, I love it :-D I love all the comments above because in our village, this red door is so much a subject of conversation...
Thank you for leaving a comment - each one makes my day!
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
ShelterLogic Garage 16 x 36 x 16
Measures 14W x 40D x 16H feet
All-steel frame
Fitted cover
$1,460.81 (as of November 29, 2018, 7:31 pm)
- Description
- Amazon Customer Reviews
75232 Size/Color: 14′ W x 28′ L x 12′ H/ Grey Shown with Grey Cover Features: -Peak Style Shelter with Optional Green or Grey Cover.-Heavy duty all steel frame.-Bolt hardware at every connection point ensures a solid structure.-9 oz / m or 14.5 oz / m , triple-layer, chemically heat bonded, enhanced polyethylene, rip-stop fabric cover.-UV-treated inside and out with added fade blockers, anti-aging, anti-fungal agents.-White interior lining for enhanced illumination.-Part Number for 14′ x 28′ x 12'/Grey: 75232.-Part Number for 14′ x 28′ x 12'/Green: 75242.-Part Number for 14′ x 32′ x 12'/Grey: 75432.-Part Number for 14′ x 32′ x 12'/Green: 75442.-Part Number for 14′ x 36′ x 16'/Grey: 79431.-Part Number for 14′ x 36′ x 16'/Green: 79441.-Part Number for 14′ x 40′ x 16'/Grey: 95843.-Part Number for 14′ x 40′ x 16'/Green: 95844.-Part Number for 14′ x 44′ x 16'/Grey: 95943.-Part Number for 14′ x 44′ x 16'/Green: 95944.-Weight for 14′ x 28′ x 12′: 775 lbs.-Weight for 14′ x 32′ x 12′: 885 lbs.-Weight for 14′ x 36′ x 16′: 1185 lbs.-Weight for 14′ x 40′ x 16′: 1300 lbs.-Weight for 14′ x 44′ x 16′: 1420 lbs. Includes: -Includes: Fitted cover, front and back double zippered door panels (unless otherwise noted), steel foot plates, auger anchors. Options: -Available in several sizes. Color/Finish: -Bonded with DuPont thermoset baked on powder-coated finish to prevent chipping, peeling, rust and corrosion. Specifications: -Hot air fused at the seams and 100pct waterproof. Assembly Instructions: -Slip fit connectors and swedged tubing for easy assembly.
Measures 14W x 40D x 16H feet
All-steel frame
Fitted cover
2 double-zippered door panels
14 30-inch auger anchors


text:
Tim Howard, G - Not at fault for any of the goals scored against him by Ukraine, imagine how that game would've looked for him with our first choice pairing in front of him
Brad Guzan, G - Is it 2018 yet?
Nick Rimando, G - Based on RSL's track record in MLS, he isn't going to miss out because of a lack of club form
Geoff Cameron, D - Didn't have the best game against Ukraine, but was easily the best defender. Should be the first choice right back come June
Omar Gonzalez, D - LA's big DP has to be feeling really secure in his spot right about now
Matt Beslar, D - See above. I don't consider anyone else replacing either of these guys, we are going to start both of them or neither of them, they are one entity
DaMarcus Beasley, D - May not start in the World Cup, but is most certainly going. The competition is now solely between him and Fabian Johnson
Fabian Johnson, D - Looked lost in the attack against Ukraine, should focus on being a fullback from here on
Clarence Goodson, D - No one benefited more from the Ukraine match than him. He is going to Brazil unless Orozco comes out of nowhere to take his spot in April
Michael Parkhurst, D - I still wouldn't be surprised to see Evans and/or Chandler in the 30 man camp competing for the backup fullback spot. Parkhurst has versatility on his side
Michael Bradley, M - As always, we look lost without him
Graham Zusi, M - It shocks me that Bedoya started more at RM than Zusi in 2013. Zusi is your starter in Brazil right now
Jermaine Jones, M - Had a very good second half against Ukraine, and Klinsi considers him park of the spine of this team.
Mix Diskerud, M - Has been a very consistent performer for the squad and is a threat coming off the bench
Kyle Beckerman, M - Should start (maybe even with Bradley) in April against Mexico. Hasn't had an glaring disappointments which is not necessarily how you want to build a roster, but there is something to be said about consistency...also his Korea game was great
Alejandro Bedoya, M - What do you do? I just don't get the fascination, he can run all day yes, but he isn't a danger to score, he doesn't his great crosses or set pieces, he's not a shift player who will make you miss...might not be able to hang on to this spot much longer
Brek Shea, M - I'm putting my foot down here. This the last guy to make the roster and he deserves it. He isn't necessarily going to dominate teams and he isn't a 90 minute player, but in the 75th minute when you need a goal, he is the blunt instrument who can make it happen
Aron Johannsson, F - He is scoring
Landon Donovan, F - I think Dempsey may be in danger of loosing his starting spot, Donovan has proven to be more dangerous
Eddie Johnson, F - Finally got his DP contract, hopefully that will motivate him to score by the boatload
Jozy Altidore, F - He is not scoring
Clint Dempsey, F - Does he need to go to Thailand? He doesn't look like he's enjoying himself at all, and its affecting his play
Chris Wondolowski, F - A brace against Korea!! If he even slightly shows against Mexico and can continue to score for the Quakes he should be on the plane. Yeah I know he isn't flashy, but neither was Edson Buddle or Hercules Gomez and they both earn a spot in 2010
This should be the rest of the 30 man roster gathering in May
Maurice Edu, M - Now that he's playing again, can we please go back to a time when he was in EVERY SINGLE CAMP. Might make it if we call one less forward (or to step in for Shea, Bedoya or Beckerman)
Timmy Chandler, D - I expect I would've had him either completely off the roster or in the 23 had he played against Ukraine. If he is healthy and fit I expect him to get the phone call in May due to our glaring depth issues on the backline
Brad Evans, D - Has earned consideration just by being a fill-in last year. I'm not going to be upset if he's on the plane...and I won't be upset if he's not. The Korea performance may have forced him out
Michael Orozco Fiscal, D - Back in the mix after a rough performance by the guys in Ukraine. Should get in against Mexico and deserves consideration due to his versatility
Sacha Kljestan, M - Ugh, what an ugly game, but the sad news is I don't see him leaving anytime soon. You can easily switch him with Jose Torres, both are seeking a real place in the USMNT setup and both are struggling for minutes with their clubs...boy do I wish Stuart Holden was healthy.
Juan Agudelo, F - His play in the Eredivisie will get him in the mix, but he needs to start scoring to threaten any of the deeply entrenched forwards
Danny Williams, M - The only guy who played with real urgency (outside of Shea) in the Ukraine game. For the first time ever I find myself pulling for Danny Williams


text:
I always mean to write on Sundays. I brainstorm and I plot talking points and then Sunday just... gets away from me. Why Sunday though? I think it's a lingering "need" from a time I was blogging more religiously and had self-imposed deadlines and word count minimums. Does it still need to be done on … Continue reading Sandwiched
Author: Amanda Zahn
It's been 2 weeks since my last blog and it surely wasn't for lack of trying on my part. I am surprised at some of the struggles I've dealt with. If you participated in Ask Me Tell Me, I am grateful for you. I think I only got one comment to post publicly (Hi, Megan!), … Continue reading Weeks
Your Story
I am posing a question for anyone interested in playing a game of "Ask Me Tell Me" with me. If you are not interested in playing, I hope you get to enjoy a few answers from others who might be feeling adventurous. Tell me in the comments about your most cherished relationship or relationships. How … Continue reading Your Story
It'll come as a shock to no one, but I have a slew of people who care about me, my well-being, and my successes. They support me verbally and emotionally when I struggle (even when those struggles make no sense to them), and they cheer me on with my little successes (even if/especially when they … Continue reading Cheerleaders
Grab Bag
I started writing late tonight and without much direction. For anyone who knows me, this is neither new nor exciting. Procrastination has always been a fault of mine, but I do admit that I work better under pressure. In this case, I'm not bumping up against any deadlines or limits save my own. So where's … Continue reading Grab Bag
Struggling Still
I knew it wouldn't be easy, picking up blogging regularly again. Rebuilding the habit is easy enough, and I find myself at least making the mental note to write on Sundays - if not actively setting aside time for it. I was busy today, however, so I knew my free time to write was going … Continue reading Struggling Still
First Snag
I've disliked every word I've written all night long. I'm torn between so many different little stories that I find myself lacking direction and focus. And anyone who has ever met me knows that focus is probably not among my top traits. Do I talk about The Brood? Do I talk about the military and … Continue reading First Snag


text:
Mythborne, the legendary 2.5D browser-based MMORPG -
The world is in danger. Darkness has covered the land and now it's creeping upon Mount Olympus.
Pandora's Box has been opened and the godly powers are scattered. It's up to you to lift the curse - heed Zeus' call, face the forces of evil and become a mythical hero!
This offer has a daily cap - 100 Lead - Per affiliate
|Promotion NOT Allowed: Absolutely No Incentivization (including Offerwalls, Content-Unlocking, etc.)
No Brand Bidding, No Co-Reg Traffic. No Email Traffic, No Popup/Popunder
- Maximum 100 leads/day for new traffic sources to start, opened up upon good quality feedback..
|Incentivizable: Offer is NOT incentivizable


text: Liszon 98 Posted November 9, 2016 Dear all, I did a thorough search in my gear arsenal the other day and realised how many gadgets I bought over the years which I haven't been using at all, so I decided to offer some of these items for sale here. As I said, most of these tools were tried and tested but haven't seen real combat, so practically they are brand new. I photographed everything on a pelican case but that's just for decorative purposes only, not part of the sale. All are available for local pick-up in London (UK) - Archway or can be shipped anywhere. Prices include UK shipping, EU and outside can be arranged for a little extra. If you drop by to pick it up cash in hand, I will knock off £5 from each, make you a tea or coffee as well. PayPal is preferred in any other case, domestic buyers can do direct bank transfer too. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ CAMTREE Hunt 19mm/15mm Rosette Handle Set - £85 Locks to 15mm/19mm rods like a charm. Strong metal construction, comfortable rubber grips. Adjustable joints with rosettes. Has a 1/4" tripod screw mount in the middle to attach accessories. Comes with an extra handle in case you loose one (didn't ship with that originally) which can be used on either side obviously. Perfect condition, used only once. Sells for £133 in the UK (ebay) without the spare part, or $110 + shipping/duty from the manufacturer, I offer it for £85. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Schneider ES Super Cinelux 2x Anamorphic Lens - £155 Now if you need a cheap but high quality "anamorphic stuffing" for your Rectilux or FM Lens, this is the one to get! Forget the hacksaw, this one has no collar to chop of like the previous gen. Cinelux. Works with the SLR Magic Rangefinder too with a clamp. Few specks of dust inside, otherwise in pristine condition, no scratches or smudges on the glass, coatings are intact. Modern design, delivers excellent sharpness. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Lilliput 5D-ii/O Field Monitor / switchable battery plates / 7 inch screen - £105 Bought it for a Blackmagic Pocket camera, so that means it supports 24/25/30 progressive modes without a hitch. Plays nicely with other cameras too, has a headphone jack, supports HDMI loop through. Full specifications are available here on Lilliput's website but please be aware - this monitor on sale is not the advanced "P" version, meaning it doesn't have focus peaking, but it covers the basics very well. It still has the 1:1 pixel mapping mode that can be handy for scaling signals. Can be powered from 12V power sources (UK mains adapter included) but more importantly I include 3 different types of battery plates that can be popped on the back: Canon LP-E6, Sony F-970, Sony NP-QM91D. It comes with a foldable sun hood too, plus manual and original box. Ebay prices start around £150 and £180 for the advanced version, this one was taken out of of the box like two or three times, looks and feels brand new, can be yours for at least £50 cheaper. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ LockCircle LockPort Pocket / BMPCC HDMI Port Protector Clamp - £55 Smart little clamp to protect the Pocket's nightmarish micro HDMI port, also includes an adapter to make it full sized HDMI. More details here. Good for minimalist setups without a big rig. Never used, comes with all factory accessories. LockCircle sells it for roughly £95 including shipping and taxes, get it here for almost 50% cheaper. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Cullmann Magnesit 519 / Lightweight Tripod - £45 I have only been using this lightly over the years, this tripod was perfect when I had to travel on public transport. Folds down to 62cm and weights only 1300 grams. Can reach 157cm with the centre column extended, steel spikes on the legs to get a good grip in the mud, can be retracted into a rubber case when working on concrete. Well made German construction using magnesium alloy. Every part is adjustable with hex keys. It doesn't come with a head but there is a 1/4" to 3/8" screw adapter on the tip of the column (removable) to attach smaller ball/fluid heads. At the bottom of the same column there is a spring loaded hook, can be used for counterweights. The max. capacity of the tripod is 4kg, good for small cameras while you are on the move. The top sections of the sticks are covered with a soft foam so it doesn't slip out of your hands. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Aune T1 MK2 (Newest Version) 24bit/96kHz Tube Amplifier Mini Hi-fi USB DAC Decoder - £105 This is a black sheep here since you rarely film with an external sound card, but it needs to find a new owner as well. I was working on a laptop for a few months and I just couldn't stand the noisy internal audio so I had to get something else. That's when I bought this beauty. The signal to noise ratio is 120db, when I plugged my headphones in at first I thought I forgot to switch the unit on! No self noise or digital interference, you only hear whatever is on the record. Read a few reviews here if you like. It has it's own power brick that connects to the mains so there's plenty of juice to drive high impedance headphones. I was using it with a Beyerdynamic DT150 / 250 Ohm. Now this thing uses valve tubes to achieve a certain sound signature. These tubes are available from many places online if you wish to experiment. I will give you the factory default Electro Harmonix and also I include a brand new Genalex E88CC Gold Lion which is considered an improvement by many over the first one. As I said I've been using this with a laptop, but after a couple of months I put together a desktop with a decent internal sound card so the Aune is sitting in the box ever since. Gently used, no scratches and a lot of life left in the tubes. Comes with the original box + accessories. No need for drivers on PC/MAC and I read reports about easy Android compatibility as well, never tried that though. Goes around £165 on ebay without the extra tube, save yourself at least £50 here. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ So this is it, feel free to knock on the door. The prices are firm, no low ball offers please. Have a lovely evening, Artur 1 Justin Bacle reacted to this Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


text:
The front runner [videorecording] / Columbia Pictures and Stage 6 Films present ; a Bron Studios/Right of Way production ; in association with Creative Wealth Media ; written by Matt Bai & Jay Carson & Jason Reitman ; produced by Jason Reitman, Helen Estabrook, Aaron L. Gilbert ; directed by Jason Reitman.
Available copies
- 33 of 36 copies available at NC Cardinal. (Show)
- 1 of 1 copy available at Harnett County Library System.
Current holds
0 current holds with 36 total copies.
|Call Number / Copy Notes
|Shelving Location
|Due Date
|Harnett County Main Library
|DVD F Fro 132 K (Text)
|Adult Video
Record details
- Physical Description: 1 videodisc (approximately 113 minutes) : sound, color ; 4 3/4 in.
- Publisher: Culver City, California : Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, 2019
- Copyright: ©2018
Content descriptions
|General Note:
Language and subtitle options taken from DVD menu screen and may not be given on container packaging.
Originally released as a motion picture in 2018.
Based on the book "All the truth is out" by Matt Bai.
Special features: Filmmaker commentary; Deleted scenes; The unmaking of a candidate.
|Creation/Production Credits Note:
Music, Rob Simonsen ; editor, Stefan Grubee ; production designer, Steve Saklao ; director of photography, Eric Steelberg.
|Participant or Performer Note:
Hugh Jackman, Vera Farmiga, J. K. Simmons, Mark O'Brien, Molly Ephraim, Chris Coy, Alex Karpovsky, Alfred Molina, Sara Paxton, Mamoudou Athie, John Bedford Lloyd, Spencer Garrett, Steve Coulter, Ari Graynor.
|Summary, etc.:
This is the true story of Gary Hart, the former Colorado senator who quickly rose to the top of the pack as the number one contender for the 1987 Democratic presidential primary. Due to his charisma and drive, Hart connects well with the younger constituents, and both himself and his aides see this a clear and present path to victory. But allegations soon emerge of an extramarital affair, and Hart is forced to deal with the impact that these new allegations have not just on his campaign but on every aspect of his reputation and his personal life.
|Target Audience Note:
MPAA rating: R; for language including some sexual references.
|System Details Note:
DVD, NTSC, region 1, anamorphic widescreen (1.85:1) presentation, Dolby Digital 5.1.
|Language Note:
In English, French, Portuguese, Thai or Spanish; English, French, Portuguese, Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese, Thai, or Spanish subtitles; subtitled for the deaf and hard of hearing; English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing (SDH); English descriptive audio track for people with visual disabilities.
Search for related items by subject
|Hart, Gary, 1936- > Drama.
Presidential candidates > United States > Drama.
Scandals > United States > Drama.
|Feature films.
Biographical films.
Historical films.
Political films.
Video recordings for the hearing impaired.
Video recordings for people with visual disabilities.


text:
Sugi® absorbent swabs
Small swabs that are highly effective: Sugi® Rhino absorbent swabs remove blood and secretion from wounds very quickly. These high performance cellulose sponge swabs with a high tensile strength retain all of the liquids they absorb reliably - regardless of whether you use the design with handle, without a handle or if you opt for absorption strips. Just like all of Kettenbach's absorbent materials, Sugi® absorbent swabs are based on pure cotton and regenerated cellulose. As a result the swabs retain optimum stability even when they are moist. These absorbent swabs have proven extremely effective when used during LASIK procedures. These swabs are also being successfully used in ophthalmology, ENT therapy, in different disciplines of microsurgery, neuro surgery and in dentistry.


text:
Montclair Hotel and Casino in Nyanga in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands is undergoing a refurbishment.
The work, which started late last year, will be done in phases and is expected to be completed by mid-year. The hotel remains open for business during this period.
Montclair General Manager, Brian Nyakutombwa, says the refurbishments will cover the entire property. "The facility is not closed. We are remaining [open] with rooms to sell to our customers while the renovations are going on. The refurbishments are being done…section by section so that the other parts remain open for business during this period."
Bedrooms, kitchen, front office and entertainment areas will all be spruced up.
Owned by a consortium of local business people, Montclair has 85 rooms and is the largest property in Nyanga. It has the largest conference facilities in the area, and a nine-hole golf course.
The 772-metre-high Mutarazi Falls is one of the nearby attractions. The Falls, which are the highest in Zimbabwe and second-highest in Africa, offer great adrenalin activities such as the skywalk and zipline.
Nyanga is also home to Mt. Inyangani, Nyangombe Falls, and abundant wildlife in the Nyanga National Park.
Source: TU
Monday, 11 February 2019 12:03
Zimbabwe hotel undergoes refurbishmentWritten by SATOA
Published in News


text:
Ministry Multiplication
Unlike the other Indiana Church Development grants, this grant supports projects that may have already begun, but seek to reach more people with the message of hope in Jesus Christ. Ministry Multiplication Grants apply to Indiana United Methodist congregations that
seek to:
- Support the establishment of a new faith community
- Extend the reach of an established faith community
- Expand a ministry to reach a new population or location
The maximum amount for this grant is $25,000. Each church can receive only one of these grants for each project. The grant approval lasts for only one year and is non-renewable. To apply for this grant, churches need to complete the following application materials:


text:
Feb 28, 2013
Hacking Micromax 400R (Mi-Fi)Hacking means making things usable. For me most of the times its possible by creating stuff but sometimes have to break stuff. Today I hacked at a software just to get the functionality out as needed.
Let me tell you the story in breaf -
Yesterday I bought a Micromax 400R (Mi-Fi), Its a great device and cheap too ( Got just for 2450INR ). The MMX 400R is wireless router and Wi – Fi hotspot. Can be used to share 2G-3G dataplan over Wi-Fi for max 5 devices.
It was working well at start, but it started showing annoying ads when opening new web pages. For example if I am opening google.com, It redirects to 192.168.1.1/ads.html?url=http://google.com and ask you to "Enter M! APPs" or "Do not show this page". Every-time Have to click "Do not show this page".
Was something like this:-
I was exploring things, all the settings but found nothing to disable this ad. MMX 400R have a feature of "SD Card Sharing", Card can be accessed in browser by opening http://192.168.1.1 and choosing "Advance settings"-"Sharing"-"Sharing"
Buy exploring all the Ajax-calls I found that I can
1. View file list of a location using this call -
http://192.168.1.1/cgi-bin/ajax.cgi?which_cgi=ajax_get_file_list&pram=DIR_PATH 2. Can download file using this call - http://192.168.1.1/cgi-bin/export_file.cgi?get_file_path=DIR_PATH/FILE_NAME&get_file_name=FILE_NAME
2. Can create folder by using this call
3. Delete file or folder by using
4. Upload or overwrite file, sending POST [multipart/form-data] request using these parameters current_folder_dir( value should be "longcheer_w>DIR_PATH>") lc_upfile ( type="file" File)
I tried and found that by using DIR_PATH as "/../../../mnt/resource/webpage" you can view, download or edit [ By uploading/overwriting ] all the scripts, files working at http://192.168.1.1/
I downloaded ads.html, as Its simple HTML/JS file, edited it so it can automatic redirect to the url without clicking on "Do not show this page".
Check this link for more info https://gist.github.com/OSConsumer/6548433
Try editing the cgi-scripts on your own risk.
Happy Hacking.
By : Motyar+ @motyar


text:
In this interview, Freshcraft's Adam Dunbar weighs in on the night of the Beast, his go-to beer and where he heads for a perfectly made Manhattan.
Westword: How long have you been a bartender? What made you get into the profession?
Adam Dunbar: My wife Amy and I moved here in April of '07. I got laid off at the end of '08; I was working with a hardwood floor company. I struggled for a little while trying to find anything. Amy was working at a law firm at the time, and she picked up a second job at Aix, where Olivea is now. I'd go sit and talk with her, and I kind of got mystified by the whole thing. I wanted to be behind the bar and understand every bottle back there. So a friend got me a job bussing tables at Sushi Den. I was 27, and I advanced quickly; I think my dedication showed through. I worked there for about three or four months, and then one of the head servers was going to open the Icehouse Tavern. He got an interview for me with the bar manager, Scott Skibo, and he gave me my first chance at the bar life.
When Little Pub Company bought the majority share of that, everyone lost their job. I went to Andrew's and bar backed for a little while, then they closed. I drove a limo for a little while, then I got my job at Freshcraft. I left Freshcraft for Encore for a bit but then went back to Freshcraft, where I'm the bar manager and one of the house managers.
By the time I landed at Freshcraft, I was definitely a beer guy, but I still didn't know what I was doing. I got into beer because I got tired of crap beer -- I knew there was more out there. I was right, as it turns out. I started experimenting with going to the liquor store and experiencing new stuff.
Bartending rule to live by: I have two. First, Kevin Burke once told me words that I'll always stick to: Your job as a bartender is one simple thing -- tend to your bar. And the other is always have fun. If you're not having fun, it's not worth it. This job is the most fun thing I've ever done in my life. There have been times and places where it's harder to have fun, but you just have to make the most of your situation. That's why I think Freshcraft is a really good fit -- we have a lot of fun.
Five words to describe your drink list: Expansive, approachable, intimidating, tasteful and modern.
Favorite drink on your list: That's such a tough thing. We've got a beer cocktail on the menu called Sister Cities -- it's Leopold's Apple, Leopold's American orange and lemon juice shaken and then topped with Boulevard Sun-filtered Wheat. It does some really cool things to the beer, and it just accentuates the flavors that come out. It's an easy sell. Honestly, though, we've got wonderful cocktails, but I'm such a beer guy. My go-to beer, beyond a shadow of a doubt, is Odell's IPA. As far as IPA goes in Colorado, Odell's has it beat.
Favorite item on your back bar: My bottle of Fernet Branca.
We Believe Local Journalism is Critical to the Life of a City
Engaging with our readers is essential to Westword's mission. Make a financial contribution or sign up for a newsletter, and help us keep telling Denver's stories with no paywalls.
Support Our Journalism
What was your craziest night behind the stick? Any night during Great American Beer Fest. Pick a night at random, it doesn't make a difference. They were all bonkers. The biggest, most intense night we had was during an event with Avery, and we poured all of the Beast beers in the same room at the same time: Mephistopheles, Meph Addict, Samael's and The Beast. We were the deepest at the bar than maybe I've ever seen -- and it was amazing. Darren, our Avery rep, stood on the bar and announced that it was the first time the Beasts had been poured in the same establishment, which was really neat to have.
Favorite Denver venue for a drink that's not your own and what you order when you're there: I'm going to go with Colt & Gray for that one. For a number of reasons. When Parker [Ramey, who's now at Trillium] opened it up, we'd go visit him -- but he and Kevin [Burke] started being my go-to guys for inspiration. I know I can always go because I can name a spirit and they can make me something. Also, I'm a sucker for a really good Manhattan, and it's always perfect there. When I'm teaching someone about what I do, I tell them to read material and come back when they can explain how to make a good Manhattan. I grew up with my dad making them completely wrong, but that's the one thing I have in common with my dad booze-wise.
What's next for the Denver bartending scene? I think we're already seeing it: It's a mega-shift from artisan cocktails and less-than-stellar cocktail lists to people actually giving a shit. And more important, the consumers care more about what they're drinking then what they're spending their money on. There are always going to be those places that thrive on flavored booze, but I think people are more interested in spending money on quality stuff. And I think that's going to grow and grow.


text:
MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine has joined forces with former ANTHRAX guitarist Dan Spitz in a brand new project called RED LAMB. The band's debut release, which will consist largely of the music Spitz previously recorded under the DEUXMONKEY banner with vocalist Wade Black (CRIMSON GLORY, SEVEN WITCHES, LEATHERWOLF), ACCEPT bassist Peter Baltes and drummer Patrick Johansson (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, W.A.S.P.), will be mixed by Johnny K (full name: John Karkazis; DISTURBED, SEVENDUST, MACHINE HEAD, STAIND).
Black announced his departure from DEUXMONKEY in April, explaining that the band's "songs were not up to my standards." He added that he gave Spitz "a verbal cease-and-desist on all my lyrics and vocals" in order to ensure that Wade's contributions would be completely wiped off the project's debut release.
In a December 2010 interview, Mustaine revealed that he helped fine-tune the songs on DEUXMONKEY's debut album after hearing some of the material in its early stages of development.
"[Dan] was working on a little side project, and I'd heard it a while ago and it kind of went by in passing 'cause he was just starting it," Mustaine said. "And I heard it about three weeks ago; he was almost done. And I said, 'Man, I love this record.' I said, 'And do you think it's done?' And he goes, 'Yeah.' And he goes, 'Why? What do you think?' And I said, 'Well, I would kind of do this and that.' And he goes, 'Really? Go ahead.' And I went, 'Really?' So I rolled up my sleeves and I completely dedicated myself to Danny's record for the last three weeks, working tirelessly in my studio on this record with him. And it's that good. I heard it and I just went, 'Oh my God!' It's like a cross between, say, DISTURBED, SOUNDGARDEN and RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE kind of thing. Little bit of some smatterings of ANTHRAX because of the speed stuff, but it's much more modern and much more heavy sounding."


text:
Fiji International 6-9OCT 2016
One of the world's most spectacular golf courses plays host to the PGA Tour of Australasia and European Tour for the Fiji International.
Contact us by email on: email@example.com
Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course is poised to host the new Fiji International Tournament, a co-sanctioned PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia tournament. OneAsia – a centralised professional tournament destination for elite golfers in the Asia‐Pacific aims to maximise opportunities for leading players across the region. Sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia, the Fiji International has been confirmed for a five-year period and will be played at the spectacular Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from 2014 with a guaranteed minimum prize purse of US$1 million.
• Contact us now for a package.


text:
Positive Health Online
Your Country
Malocclusions Linked to Abnormal Foot Motion
by Brian A Rothbart PhD(more info)
listed in bodywork, originally published in issue 151 - October 2008
This paper discusses the impact abnormal foot motion can have on the cranial bones and occlusion. Section I describes this foot-cranial-dental coupling. Section II describes the Ascending Foot Cranial Model. Section III describes an embryonic foot type that is frequently responsible for cranial imbalances and malocclusions. And Section IV describes a Proprioceptive Therapy using Proprioceptive Insoles that can reverse (in children) or stabilize (in adults) cranial imbalances and malocclusions.
Intuitively, we know that the body's framework functions as a unit: instability in one area of the body can reverberate throughout the entire body. This understanding underpins the concept that cranial imbalances and malocclusions can be the result of abnormal motion within the feet. While many scientists accept the plausibility of this correlation, little or no clinical research has been published that supports this foot-cranial-dental linkage until recently.
Over the past several years, I have collected clinical data that statistically suggests cranial imbalances and malocclusions are linked to abnormal foot motion. These findings are presented below, and hopefully will prove useful in treating malocclusions and cranial imbalances.
Section I: Foot-Cranial-Dental Coupling
One of my recent published statistical studies suggests that abnormal foot motion can result in facial distortions. Specifically, asymmetrical abnormal pronation, where the feet are rotated inward, forward and downward (See Fig. 1), can result in an asymmetrical loss of Vertical Facial dimension (VFd), the distance between the outer orbit of the eye (exocanthion) and outer margin of the ipsilateral lip. Two facial distortion patterns have been identified relative to the asymmetrical pronation patterns in the feet.[1]
Figure 1. Abnormal Pronation Left Greater than Right
- Left Foot More Pronated than Right Foot: vertical distance between the left eye and ipsilateral lip is shorter, relative to the distance between the right eye and lip (referred to as the Vertical Facial dimension [VFd]) (See Fig. 2). This is frequently associated with a Class II malocclusion (overbite) and narrowing of the dental arch.
Figure 2
In both cases, a torsional (twisting) strain develops in the facial bones (side to side and front to back). This can lead to a plethora of symptoms, including TMJ dysfunction and/or headaches.
- Right Foot More Pronated than Left Foot: vertical distance between the right eye and ipsilateral lip is shorter, relative to the distance between the left eye and lip. This is frequently associated with a Class II malocclusion (overbite) and narrowing of the dental arch.
Section II: Ascending Foot Cranial Model
The science studying how the foot moves when walking is termed foot biomechanics.
- Normal Pronation: Foot is pronating when the ipsilateral (same side) hip is internally rotating. This hip to foot coupling is referred to as Hip Drive (See Fig. 3);
Figure 3. Hip Drive
- Abnormal Pronation: foot is pronating when the ipsilateral hip is externally rotating, I have theorized an Ascending Foot Cranial Model to explain the observed coupling affect between the feet, cranium and occlusion (See Fig. 4);
Figure 4. Ascending Foot – Cranial Model
- Abnormal Foot Pronation (inward, forward and downward) forces the innominates (hip bones) to rotate anteriorly (forward) and the downward (ASIS), the more anteriorly rotated hip being ipsilateral to the more pronated foot;[2]
- Anterior Rotation of the Hip Bones draw the temporal bones into an anterior (internal) rotation, the more anteriorly rotated temporal bone being ipsilateral to the more anteriorly rotated hip bone;
- Anterior Rotation of the Temporal Bones extends the sphenoid and cants both the sphenoid and maxilla:
– If the right temporal bone is more anterior rotated (tip of right mastoid more cephalad, less prominent), the sphenoid bone is forced into a left torsional pattern (canted downward to the right) and the right maxilla is canted superiorly;
– If the left temporal bone is more anterior rotated, the sphenoid bone is forced into a right torsional pattern (canted downward to the left) and the left maxilla is canted superiorly;
- The resulting cants in the sphenoid and maxilla bones result in asymmetrical Vertical Facial dimensions, the shorter VFd being on the same side as the more pronated foot;[3]
- Extension of the sphenoid bone narrows the dental arch and crowds the teeth. The curve of Spee deepens. (See Fig. 5).
Figure 5. Curve of Spee
Dental Orthogonal Radiographic Analysis (DORA) supports the above proposed Ascending Foot Cranial Model and the observed facial distortions resulting from this model. This radiographic technique was first introduced by Gerald Smith, DDS, to visualize cranial lesions resulting from occlusal lesions. Later, I adapted DORA, correlating (linking) the distortional patterns in the cranial bones to the loss of Vertical Facial dimensions.
Figure 6 is a DORA of a patient with an abnormal pronation pattern left > right.
Figure 6. DORA Dental orthogonal radiographic analysis visualizing a cranial imbalance. An inferior cant of the sphenoid (cephalad red sphenoid line) concurrent with a superior cant of the maxilla (caudal red malar line) can result in a relative loss of vertical facial dimension. This author suggests that the cant in the sphenoid and maxilla bones results from an anterior (internal) rotation of the temporal bone. The petrous acts as the axis of rotation of the temporal bone. As a point of reference, internal rotation of the temporal bone is defined as a relative medial, anterior displacement of its squama. The sphenoid line is the horizontal line through which the two lowest points on the inferior border of the malar bone. (Reprinted with permission from Smith[8])
The following lines are drawn:
The following changes are observed on the DORA:
- VRL (Vertical Reference Line): a vertical line drawn through the centre of the nasion and the anterior nasal line;
- LWSL (Lesser Wing of Sphenoid): a line connecting the height of the convexity of the right and left portions of the lesser wings of the sphenoids;
- ATL (Apex of the Temporal Bones): a line connecting the tips of the right and left malar (zygomatic) bones;
- Malar Line is the horizontal line through the two lowest points on the interior border of the malar bone;
- LWS Line is canted downward left, suggesting a right torsional pattern;
- AT Line is canted cephalad right, suggesting a more anteriorly rotated left temporal bone);
- ML line is canted cephalad left, suggesting a left cephalad cant of the maxilla (a maxilla that is shifted upwards on the left side of the face).
Section III: Etiology of Abnormal Foot Pronation
The author discovered an embryological foot type in which the first metatarsal is elevated and inverted relative to the second metatarsal, referred to as a Primus Metatarsus Supinatus (PMS) foot structure.[4,5]
This foot structure is the result of an incomplete unwinding of the talus (a tarsal bone sitting on top of the heel bone). Clinically, this places the first metatarsal and hallux (big toe) off the ground, when the foot is placed in its anatomical neutral position. (See Fig. 7) In order for the 1st metatarsal and hallux to reach the ground, when walking or standing, the foot must roll inward and downward, e.g. abnormally pronate.[6] It is this abnormal pronation that can result in loss of VFd.
Figure 7. PMs Foot Structure Resulting From Talar Supinatus
Section IV: Proprioceptive Therapy Using Proprioceptive Insoles
Proprioceptive Therapy is the process of using Proprioceptive Insoles to reverse the postural distortions, and eliminate the associated pain resulting from the Primus Metatarsus Supinatus foot structure. Computerized postural and video analysis is run to determine the correct strength of signal (prescription) to use in the Proprioceptive Insoles. If the wrong prescription is used, it can exacerbate the pain.
The Rothbart Proprioceptive insoles are non-supportive type foot insoles which apply a tactile stimulation to the bottom of the foot (See Fig. 8). In theory, this tactile stimulation transmits a signal to the brain (cerebellum). Acting on this signal, the cerebellum initiates a positional correction affecting the entire body posture, including the cranial bones. The torsional rotations within the temporal bones and sphenoid are reversed. Frequently this improvement in position reduces or eliminates many of the symptoms associated with cranial imbalances (headaches) and malocclusions (TMJ).
Figure 8 (Inset). Rothbart Proprioceptive Insole
Proprioceptive insoles can prevent malocclusions from developing in young children. However, if a malocclusion has developed, orthodontic therapy should be considered (e.g. the Advanced Lightwire Functional appliance) to improve the functional alignment of the cranial bones and teeth.
Proprioceptive insoles are used to realign the head over the cervical spine. This must be done before orthodontic intervention is initiated. Otherwise, orthodontic intervention can lock the head in a forward position that will prove intractable to correction. A forward head position can result in headaches, neck and shoulder tension and pelvic instability.
1. Rothbart BA. Vertical Dimensions Linked to Abnormal Foot Motion. Jour Amer Podiatr Med Assoc. 98(3): 189-195. 2008.
2. Rothbart BA. Relationship of Functional Leg-Length Discrepancy to Abnormal Pronation. Journal American Podiatric Medical Association. 96(6): 499-504. 2006.
3. Rothbart BA. Vertical Facial Dimensions Linked to Abnormal Foot Motion. Journal American Podiatric Medical Association. 98(3): 189-195. 2008.
4. Rothbart BA. Medial Column Foot Systems: An Innovative Tool for Improving Posture. Journal Bodywork and Movement Therapies. 6(1): 37-46. 2002.
5. Proprioceptive Stimulation – The Primus Metatarsus Supinatus Foot Structure. Available Online at http://www.rothbartsfoot.info/RFS.html
6. Proprioceptive Stimulation - Abnormal Pronation, Gait Animation. Available Online at
Further Information
For more information regarding the Primus Metatarsus Supinatus foot structure and Proprioceptive Therapy, visit: www.rothbartsite.com
No Article Comments available


text:
A New Definition For Equity In Education
Exploring Blended Learning Leadership
I Just Found Out My Child Has Executive Functioning Issues. Now What?
Download This Brain Breaks Calendar for Activities All Month
Working as A Team
Why Bother Giving Access To Curriculum For Students With Significant Disabilities?
4 Things All Project-Based Learning Teachers Should Do
Gone are the days when students were expected to sit passively at desks while teachers lectured endlessly, expecting children to soak up the information being thrown at them. In today's educational environment, students are expected to collaborate, think critically, and work together to develop innovative projects and answers to complex questions.


text:
City of MesaHome Menu
Calendar of Events
Additional Event Calendars
Brian Lebel's Old West Show & Auction
- Date: -
- Location: Mesa Convention Center
263 N. Center Street
Mesa, Arizona 85201
Saturday, January 26, 2019
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sunday, January 27, 2019
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
$10 daily or purchase online and save.
Under 12 free. Free parking.
OUR HISTORY: Brian Lebel founded the Cody Old West Show & Auction over 25 years ago in Cody, Wyoming as a small gathering of people who were buying, selling and trading in the antiques and artifacts of the American cowboy and the American West. Brian believed that more people would appreciate these great artifacts if only they were aware of what was available. So he launched his own event and has been growing it ever since. The Cody Old West Show & Auction was held in Cody for 19 years before moving in 2009 to Denver, Colorado. It was in Denver that the show began hosting the National Bit, Spur and Saddle Collectors Association's (NBSSCA) annual "Mark of the Makers" contest. In June, 2015, Brian Lebel's Old West Show & Auction will celebrate its 26th annual event at its new home, the Amon G. Carter Jr. Exhibit Hall at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas.
In Spring of 2014, Brian and his wife Melissa acquired the High Noon Show & Auction, held every January in Mesa, Arizona. Entering its 25th consecutive year, the Mesa event will continue its long tradition of showcasing outstanding dealers and exceptional auction items. Brian Lebel's High Noon Show & Auction is also proud to continue hosting the annual Traditional Cowboy Arts Association's (TCAA) "Emerging Artists Competition" as part of the weekend festivities. With two annual shows and two annual auctions, Old West Events is the single best source for buyers, sellers, dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts of the arts and antiquities of the American West.