#winterflowers
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Triple Trinity: Do You See Them? #amaryllis #flowersinurbia #flowers #winterflowers #redflowers #flora #floral #fleuris #fleuriste #fleur #nature #naturephotography #naturelover #flowerlovers https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpl98uqD0Qu/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
#amaryllis#flowersinurbia#flowers#winterflowers#redflowers#flora#floral#fleuris#fleuriste#fleur#nature#naturephotography#naturelover#flowerlovers
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Camelia, the “Queen of Winter Flowers”, blooms from late fall to mid-spring (depending on variety). . We suggest planting different varieties so you can have flowers from November through April/May. . #camelia #camelias #flowers #flower #winterflowers #winterflower #queenofwinter #houstonlandscaper #houston #houstontx #houstontexsd #htx #zone9 #landscaping #landscapedesign #exteriordesign #exteriortexas https://www.instagram.com/p/CncWfZbJqSQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
#camelia#camelias#flowers#flower#winterflowers#winterflower#queenofwinter#houstonlandscaper#houston#houstontx#houstontexsd#htx#zone9#landscaping#landscapedesign#exteriordesign#exteriortexas
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ポインセチアの花はメキシコ原産で、元の名前は「Cuetlaxochitl」で、冬の終わりに定期的に枯れることから「枯れる花」という意味です。 クリスマスイブは、年末に咲く特別な赤い花で高く評価されているため、クリスマスの装飾の一部として使用されます.( sorry if I'm wrong with my writing) The poinsettia flower is of Mexican origin and its original name is "Cuetlaxochitl" and means "flower that withers" because at the end of winter it periodically withers. Christmas Eve is appreciated for its extraordinary red flowers, which are produced at the end of the year, which is why it is used as part of Christmas decorations. La flor de nochebuena es de origen mexicano y su nombre original es "Cuetlaxochitl" y significa "flor que se marchita" debido a que terminando invierno regularmente se marchita. La nochebuena es apreciada por sus extraordinarias flores de color rojo, las cuales se producen a finales de año, por lo que se utiliza como parte de los adornos navideños #nochebuena #flordenochebuena #flordepascua #flores #flowers #winterflowers #winter #mexico #mexican #learninglanguages #learningspanish #learningspanishisfun #japanese #english #englishhome #aprendeespañol #英語 #英語勉強 #日本 #日本語 #日本語勉強 #スぺイン語 #花 #花が好き (en Mexico) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl6_VopvSTT/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
#nochebuena#flordenochebuena#flordepascua#flores#flowers#winterflowers#winter#mexico#mexican#learninglanguages#learningspanish#learningspanishisfun#japanese#english#englishhome#aprendeespañol#英語#英語勉強#日本#日本語#日本語勉強#スぺイン語#花#花が好き
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previously...
——
- fifty-three -
Fox has had the best Winterfest holiday of his entire life.
He’s sad that the holidays are over now, but he’s always a little sad in the weeks between Winterfest and his birthday, and he supposes it was to be expected this year too. He wishes Clancy could have stayed longer, so they could’ve celebrated their birthday together, but he understands that she needed to go home, to get back to work. This year will be the first in their lives that they haven’t been together on their birthday. To Fox, it feels strange.
Auntie Keiko and Uncle Kin have promised to help him celebrate his birthday in style. He’s looking forward to that, and of course Takahiro and all Fox’s new friends will no doubt contribute to the fun. Because his and Taka’s birthdays are so close together, they’ve decided to choose a day in between the two dates and have a party for both of them. Fox’s birthday is first, on the sixteenth of January, and Taka’s is on the twenty-ninth. They’re both turning twenty-six.
It’s not just the thought of a birthday party that Fox is excited about. During his last consultation with Dr. Sato at the hospital, she'd sent him for a new set of x-rays on his injured leg. According to her, his healing process is right on track, and his cast can come off in a couple of weeks. He'll still have to wear a light brace on his ankle for support for a few additional weeks, and he'll need some physical therapy, but he can live with that. If everything goes according to plan, he should be cast-free in time for his and Taka's birthday party, if not for his actual birthday itself.
Once he's free of the crutches and cast and brace, he'll be able to start learning to drive. Perhaps that's the thing he's anticipating most of all; learning how to do normal things like a normal adult and becoming more independent.
This was the topic of conversation he'd had with Clancy a couple of days after she arrived. She'd asked him what his plans were for the new year, and he told her enthusiastically about his driving lessons, and the class on traditional Japanese art that he'd signed up for, and all the adventures he and Taka would have when his leg was better and the weather improved.
"You know, I'm really proud of you," Clancy said. "You hardly seem like the same person who left home back in August."
"I don't think I am the same person," he said. "It's still me, obviously, but I feel like I'm evolving into a better version of me."
"That's a good thing. We should all be trying to evolve into better versions of ourselves. I think you're doing great."
"Thanks," he said. "I'm really liking the new version of me."
Clancy smiled at that. "Me too."
Fox returned the expression, but then he caught himself deflating a little. He said, "I wish everyone felt that way."
"And by 'everyone', I presume you mean Dad?"
"Yeah, and he only saw the beginning. What would he say if he could see me now?"
"He'd probably tell you to put on some pants."
"Shut up." Fox swatted playfully at her. "This is supposed to be a serious conversation, you know."
"I know. I'm sorry," she said. "I couldn't help myself. But yeah... Dad was pretty upset when he came home. I think he's still upset, actually."
"I figured," Fox said. "I haven't heard from him since he left, so I guess he's still not over it."
Clancy stared at him. "What? Are you saying Dad hasn't contacted you at all?"
"Not even once."
Like, not even to let you know he made it home?"
"Yeah, that's what I mean," Fox confirmed. "Mom was the one who let me know he got back safe. I've tried texting him a few times, but he didn't reply, and the one time I called him, it went straight to voicemail, so I didn't bother trying any more."
"Wow," was Clancy's response. "I knew he was mad, but I didn't realize he wasn't speaking to you. And this is all because you like a guy?"
Fox sighed. "It's not all because of Takahiro, but I'm sure that's part of the reason. I think he's mostly annoyed because I refused to come home and to do what he wanted me to do."
"If you want my opinion, it's past time you started living your own life," Clancy said. "You don't always have to do what Dad wants."
"I'm starting to see that."
"I'm glad. You deserve so much more than to be stuck at home with Mom and Dad all the time. I think coming here was the best choice you ever made."
"I may be biased, but I think so too," Fox said. "I mean, if I hadn't come here, I wouldn't have met Takahiro, so..."
"Speaking of him, when do I get to meet him?" Clancy asked. "I've been here for two days and I haven't seen him yet. Any longer, and I'm going to start to think he doesn't actually exist."
"He'll be over this evening, when he gets off work," Fox told her. "He wanted to give us some time to catch up."
"Thoughtful of him."
"He's very thoughtful," Fox said. "He said he might bring Seiji with him when he comes over, too. Apparently, Seiji saw a picture of you and he's been dying to meet you ever since."
Clancy looked both intrigued and confused. "What do you mean, he apparently saw a picture of me?"
"He found my camera in the forest, after my accident," Fox explained. "I guess he felt like it was okay to look through my photos. There were some pictures of us at the pool. Remember, from Rye's birthday party?"
"I still think it's hilarious that our cousin wanted a pool party for their eighteenth birthday," Clancy said.
"Is it really the pool party that's funny, or the dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets, balloons and triple-layer confetti cake?"
"Okay, yeah. It was that other stuff."
"Now that I'm thinking about it, I like the idea of Rye's party. Didn't they say it was their 'goodbye to childhood' party?" Fox said. "Maybe I should have that. A 'hello to adulthood' party."
"Maybe you should," Clancy agreed, smiling. "Triple-layer cake and all. But, can we get back to this guy Seiji for a second?"
"Sure."
"What I'm hearing you tell me is that some strange guy just helped himself to a view of me in that green bikini I had on at the pool for Rye's party?"
"Uh... yeah," Fox said. "I wasn't there at the time, so it's not like I could've stopped him."
"Is he cute?" Clancy asked.
"I think you're asking the wrong person for his opinion."
"Oh? I thought you were into boys."
"Not exactly. I still mostly like girls. I'm really just into one boy," Fox said. "And don't ask me to explain it, because I don't think I can."
"Fine," said Clancy. "But objectively, though, do you think women would find this guy cute?"
"He doesn't seem to have any trouble hooking up, so I guess women find him attractive? If it helps, he thinks you're cute. A 'smokin' hot western lady' is how he referred to you, I think. I'm pretty sure that’s what Victor told me he said."
"Ohh... is he cute?"
"You mean Victor?"
"Yeah."
"Don't get too excited. He's married," Fox informed her, and then added, "To another man, just in case you have ideas."
"Too bad," Clancy said.
"Listen, did you come here to visit me, or to find a boyfriend?"
"I don't see why I can't do both," said Clancy. "I mean, you came here to visit and found a boyfriend, so..."
Fox had to concede that point. The last thing he'd expected when he decided to travel and experience a different part of the world for a year was to find a partner. Much less did he imagine that he'd be falling in love with a man. But, he is falling in love with Takahiro. There's no doubt of that in his mind.
That evening, true to his word, Taka showed up for dinner with Seiji in tow. He brought flowers for Fox, and a cherry cake for everyone to share after dinner. Fox was delighted to see Taka after two days of being apart, and was more than pleased to introduce him and Seiji to his twin sister.
For her part, Clancy did not miss the chance to tease Fox about the little bouquet of pink camellias and about the awkward way he and Taka tried to greet each other with kisses on the cheek. She said she was thrilled to see him so animated and happy, though, and commented later that he and Taka make an adorable couple.
As for Seiji, he couldn't take his eyes off Clancy all through dinner. He didn't seem to mind that they barely speak a word of each other's language, evidently content enough just to sit across the table from her and gaze longingly at her while they ate.
After dinner, when everyone retired to the living room for tea and cake, Seiji and Clancy sat in the corner together and did their best to have a conversation using Google Translate on their phones. Fox attempted to keep an ear open for anything interesting that they might be trying to say to each other, but it was proving too distracting. After being poked by Taka several times for missing things in their own conversation with Taka's parents, he had to admit defeat and stop paying attention to his sister and Seiji.
After that, it seemed Seiji and Clancy took every opportunity they could to see each other. At the end of Clancy's visit, Seiji even came with her, Fox and Taka to the airport to see her off.
At the doors that led to the security area, Fox and Taka both hugged her goodbye. Then it was Seiji's turn. He held up his phone and showed it to her. In his extremely limited English, he pleaded, "Make the email. Okay?"
"Yes," Clancy said. "I'll email you. I'll use the online translator. Promise you'll do that as well. Send emails to me."
He nodded. "Yes. I make the email," and then clasped his phone against his chest in a gesture that seemed to imply something of the tone those emails might take.
Clancy laughed and held out her arms to him. "Here. You should get a goodbye hug, too."
Fox had watched, fascinated, as his sister pulled Seiji into an embrace and held on for several seconds. Clancy has never been the most physically demonstrative person, and it was interesting to see her initiate a hug, particularly with someone she'd only met two weeks prior.
Before they broke apart, Seiji kissed Clancy quickly on the cheek. She didn't blush or look uncomfortable. She smiled.
Seiji glanced over his shoulder at Fox and Taka. With a cheeky grin, he said, "See? That's how you do it."
Looking embarrassed, Taka translated for Clancy, who gave Seiji a light, playful slap on the arm. "Be nice to Fox and Takahiro. We owe them for bringing us together. You should show a bit more gratitude."
Taka's translation of that was met with a typically unrestrained laugh from Seiji. It was clear he was not the least bit contrite.
After that, they said their farewells, and the boys left the airport. Despite the moment of levity in the departure area, it was a quiet ride back to town.
Fox was especially sad because not only had he said goodbye to his sister, but he'd also said goodbye to Ruby. He and Taka had mutually decided that their current arrangement for her wasn't practical. Fox couldn't have her with him, due to Uncle Kin's allergies, and it was becoming increasingly hard for Taka and Seiji to keep Ruby and Taka's dog, Hyorinmaru, safe at their house. Both the fox and the dog were showing signs of territorial aggression, and Taka was worried they'd get into a real fight and Hyorin would injure Ruby.
Fox reluctantly agreed that it was in everyone's best interests if Clancy took Ruby home, so they'd arranged a vet visit to get her health certification, and Fox paid the extra fee for Clancy to bring her carrier into the passenger cabin of the plane. Then, just like that, off she went.
Despite the difficult parting from his sister and his pet, however, Fox can still say the holiday was a happy one, and certainly one to remember. Every time he looks at the watch Taka had given him as a Winterfest present, he'll think of it. In fact, that's what he's doing right now, as he waits for Taka to come and pick him up. Today is Wednesday, and Taka is working an early shift at the book café, which means he gets off at one o'clock, so they'll have the entire afternoon and evening together.
This afternoon, Taka is taking him shopping for a new coat, because he's adamant that Fox cannot continue to wear a white jacket in the mostly white environment of winter in Mt. Komorebi. It'd be too dangerous, he says, and Fox needs something more easily visible, now that he’ll soon be able to get out and about again. Fox has repeatedly assured him that he's not going to go wandering alone in the forest any more, but Taka will not be swayed. Fox has given in, mostly because Taka is so serious about it.
He supposes, if nothing else, he'll look fashionable on the slopes a couple of weekends from now, when he and Taka go on their first real date. Taka is planning to take him out for breakfast, and then they're going to watch some of the events of the professional snowboarding competition that's taking place on Yukimatsu throughout that weekend. Taka explained it's a qualifier for the All-Japan Snowboarding Championship, and he's excited about it. Seiji and Victor are competing, and Taka says he thinks they both have a good chance at gold in their respective events. As for Fox, he doesn’t know anything about competitive snowboarding and has absolutely no idea what the significance of an All-Japan qualifier is, but he gets to spend the whole day with Taka, so he's happy nevertheless.
After the competition ends for the day, if Fox isn’t too tired, Taka’s going to take him to a lake where he says there’s a small waterfall, and a stunning view of the night sky with no light pollution like there is in town. Fox wants to take photos as references for painting while they’re there, but he thinks Taka may have something else in mind. The way Taka talks about the spot gives Fox the impression that the view of the sky isn’t the only reason people go there after dark, or even the main reason. He likes to imagine that when Taka kisses him that night, it won't be on the cheek or the forehead.
Maybe he’s silly for daydreaming, but he hopes he’s not wrong. If he and Takahiro are going to have their first real kiss on their first real date, he wants it to be there at the lake, under a canopy of a thousand stars. That, he decides, would be better than Winterfest, better than a birthday party, better than getting his cast taken off, eating triple-layer cake, or learning how to drive.
No matter what else they happen to do, that one thing would make the day perfect; perhaps even the most memorable and perfect day of his life so far.
#ts4#sims 4#eagames#snowy escape#winterflowers#Fox Abbottsford#Clancy Abbottsford#Takahiro Suzuki#Seiji Hinamori#stargazersims
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Rose Colored Roses . #roses #pinkroses #rosecoloredroses #januaryroses #flowers #winterflowers #winterroses https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn0d4Wwp5GJ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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The color's so vivid. #flowers #floweroftheday #flowerart #flowerphotography #flowermagic #flowerstagram #flowerpower #colorful #colorcode #naturephotography #naturecolors #naturelover #naturephoto #photography #pink #pinkflowers #winterflowers #winterflorals https://www.instagram.com/p/CnedOQOJC2o/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
#flowers#floweroftheday#flowerart#flowerphotography#flowermagic#flowerstagram#flowerpower#colorful#colorcode#naturephotography#naturecolors#naturelover#naturephoto#photography#pink#pinkflowers#winterflowers#winterflorals
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Winter
Complete the occasion with the perfect selection from our unique range. Beautiful corsages and stunning centerpieces that steal the limelight. Contact us for the best florist centerpieces Largo style.
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DIY Floral Fun: Winter Edition! 🌸❄️
Greetings to all our cherished followers and floral enthusiasts! As the winter season envelops us in its chilly embrace, Flower-Shop.by is excited to bring warmth and color into your homes with our DIY Winter Floral Arrangement guide. This season, we invite you to explore the art of floral design, transforming your living spaces into winter wonderlands with blooms that echo the serene beauty of this time of year.
Our DIY guide is designed to inspire and assist you in creating stunning floral arrangements using the season's best offerings. Whether you are a seasoned floral artist or a beginner eager to explore this creative endeavor, our tips and ideas will guide you in crafting beautiful pieces that reflect the magic of winter.
Step 1: Choose Your Winter Blooms Select flowers that thrive in the winter months. We recommend incorporating a mix of classic winter flowers such as amaryllis, poinsettias, and white roses, along with evergreens and holly for that authentic winter feel.
Step 2: Select a Theme Decide on a color theme that resonates with your winter aesthetic. Classic whites and greens, deep reds and golds, or even a palette of frosty blues and silvers can create a stunning visual impact.
Step 3: Assemble Your Materials Gather your chosen flowers, a vase or container, floral foam (if needed), and any additional decorative elements like pinecones, ribbons, or ornaments.
Step 4: Create Your Base Start by arranging your greens and filler flowers to create a full and lush base. This will support your more prominent blooms.
Step 5: Add Your Main Flowers Place your main flowers in a way that allows each one to shine, considering different heights and angles for a dynamic composition.
Step 6: Add Personal Touches Finalize your arrangement with personal touches. Whether it's a sprinkle of glitter, a few ornamental berries, or a ribbon, these details can make your creation uniquely yours.
We encourage you to share your winter floral masterpieces with us by tagging Flower-Shop.by on Tumblr. Let's spread the beauty and joy of floral design together this winter!
Remember, the best part of DIY is the freedom to experiment and express yourself. There are no rules – only endless possibilities. So, grab your flowers, unleash your creativity, and let the winter floral magic begin!
Happy Arranging and Stay Warm!
Warm regards, The Flower-Shop.by Team
🌸❄️🎨🌿🌹🌨️🎄🎁🌠✨
#DIYFloralFun#WinterFlowers#FloralDesign#HomeDecor#Crafting#WinterWonderland#FlowerArrangement#FloralArt#CreativeWinter#FlowerShopBY
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WinterHolidaysIllustrations
I'm preparing several kits for creating New Year's cards! Flowers, leaves, twigs, winter houses. Everything will be available in the Etsy store. I would be grateful for your repost and for visiting my store. Perhaps you will find something for yourself there ;)
https://harhanzelka.etsy.com
#winter illustration#noel#wintercards#winterflowers#art#illustration#Christmas#newyear#christmas flowers#artists on tumblr
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Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional deck remodel with no cover
Ideas for a medium-sized, open-air transitional deck renovation
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Antique Hungarian baby bathtub filled with mini-cyclamen tumbling all over each other & vintage china saucers sharing the space. I love this thing. #thechroniclesoffarnia #thingssoamazeme #magic #wonder #curiosity #cyclamen #vintage #antique #babybathtub #spring #winterflowers #joy #happylittlethings #christmasflowers #whimsey #whimsical #onmydeck #potted https://www.instagram.com/p/CqKC4WlOP3q/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
#thechroniclesoffarnia#thingssoamazeme#magic#wonder#curiosity#cyclamen#vintage#antique#babybathtub#spring#winterflowers#joy#happylittlethings#christmasflowers#whimsey#whimsical#onmydeck#potted
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Happy Solstice, Dear Earthlings! May your winter be merry and your summer be bright, depending on where you are, of course. Most of all, Peace on Earth 💙. #wintersolstice #summersolstice #downunder #upover #winterflowers #camellia #flowers #flowersinurbia #flora #floral #fleuris #fleuriste #nature #naturephotography #naturelover https://www.instagram.com/p/CmcKXPqLy63/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
#wintersolstice#summersolstice#downunder#upover#winterflowers#camellia#flowers#flowersinurbia#flora#floral#fleuris#fleuriste#nature#naturephotography#naturelover
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2023 day 64 - March bloom . . . . . #march bloom #winterflowers #gazania #gazaniaflower #treasureflower #yellow #orange #venicecanals #venicebeach #venicecalifornia #california #dankvenice #365photo #abc7eyewitness #nbc4you #shannasshots #losangelesgrammers #flowerstagram #flowerpower #flowerphotography #nature #naturephotography (at Venice Canal Historic District) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpdZj8AP7Iz/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
#march#winterflowers#gazania#gazaniaflower#treasureflower#yellow#orange#venicecanals#venicebeach#venicecalifornia#california#dankvenice#365photo#abc7eyewitness#nbc4you#shannasshots#losangelesgrammers#flowerstagram#flowerpower#flowerphotography#nature#naturephotography
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tulips galore! #winterflowers #tulips #tulipsofinstagram (at Atlanta, Georgia) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpKrVckOb6I/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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previously…
——
- fifty-two -
"Victor, what are you doing?"
Yuri steps through the door of Victor's room to find him sprawled on the floor with his laptop in front of him. Victor's hair is tousled and he's still dressed in the same sweatpants and t-shirt he'd been wearing since he got back from the gym a couple of hours ago. It's fairly obvious to Yuri that he'd gotten distracted from what he was supposed to have been doing.
Victor glances up. "Hey," he says. "You look cute."
"We're supposed to be getting ready for dinner at Taka's parents' house," Yuri says. "We're finally going to meet Fox, remember?"
"Right," says Victor. "I didn't forget. I was just checking my email, and I kind of got sidetracked."
"With what?" Yuri asks.
Victor has enough class to look embarrassed. "Uh... SimTube videos," he admits.
Yuri really wants to scold him, but he realizes it won't be any use. Victor can't help being the way he is, and the only thing commenting on his lack of focus will accomplish will be to make them both frustrated and upset. He crosses the room to Victor's closet and opens it up, intent on helping him instead. "Anything interesting?"
"As a matter of fact, yeah," Victor says. "Remember me telling you about my friend Davian?"
"Your friend from high school?"
"He was in college at the same time as me and Leo too, until he dropped out and we lost touch," Victor says. "Anyway, i found his Simstagram profile back in the summer, and we reconnected."
"You mentioned that," says Yuri. "I got the impression it wasn't a solid connection, though. We didn't see him when we were in Willow Creek."
"He's pretty busy. Turns out he's kind of famous.”
"Really?"
"Yeah," Victor says. "He's got this online show and he has like, a million followers. He won a couple of Simverse Internet Awards back in the summer, and I guess his following nearly doubled since then, and it looks like he's starting his own production company now, too. He's thinking of calling it Belle Productions."
"Interesting," Yuri says. He holds up two sweaters. "Do you want to wear red or blue?"
"Red," says Victor. "His show's pretty good. You should check it out."
"Later," Yuri says. "Jeans or dress pants?"
"I think you know the answer to that."
"Jeans."
"The next time I wear dress pants will be at Mom and Julian's wedding. You want to hear the really cool thing?"
"About your friend Davian?"
"And his husband, Félix," Victor says. "You know that weird alien baby thing Taka was talking about? Where they somehow combine two sets of DNA and implant it into a person, so same-sex couples or infertile people can have their own biological kids?"
Yuri frowns. He's not entirely sure he likes the direction of this conversation. He goes to the dresser and picks out clean socks and underwear for his husband, along with a t-shirt that will go nicely under the open-necked red sweater. "What did Taka say it was called? Pollination?"
"Sounds like agriculture," says Victor. "Dav and Félix are actually doing it. He was talking about it on his latest episode. Apparently, the baby's due in March, and they get to find out next week if it's a boy or a girl."
"Are they going to do one of those tacky gender reveals?"
"I guess that'll depend on Félix. I get the feeling he's the boss," Victor says, and then adds, "In a good way, though. Kind of like you."
Yuri considers himself aware enough to admit Victor is correct about this. He is bossy, although he's been making a real effort to be less so lately. Victor has, for the most part, stopped calling him by the nickname Mr. Bossy, so it seems he's noticed the change, but he still likes to tease Yuri about it sometimes. Yuri refuses to be offended, choosing to take it as a gentle reminder that he still has some self-improvement to do.
"Some people need to be bossed a little," he says.
"You're right," says Victor. "I wouldn't want you to leave all the scheduling and decision-making to me. Like, we'd be waking up at four in the morning and eating leftovers for breakfast if i was in charge."
"You already eat leftovers for breakfast,” Yuri says. “And there’s a four o'clock in the morning?"
"It's the time of day you told me that I'm not allowed to get up and clean the kitchen, remember?"
Yuri laughs. He does remember. Until he'd convinced Victor of the value in having a regular bedtime and wake-up time, he was likely to wake at any random hour of the night, full of manic energy, and start cleaning the house or working out. The routine has helped them both immensely. Victor is finding it easier to manage his energy, and his concentration and ability to pay attention have improved. As for Yuri, he can count on a solid night's sleep without being interrupted by the sound of the vacuum cleaner or the washing machine.
"I'm glad you don't clean things at four in the morning any more," Yuri says.
"I'm glad you made some rules for me. No leaving the bedroom until wake-up time was a good one."
"I still can't believe you did three hundred sit-ups the first morning we tried out that rule."
"I couldn't vacuum. What else was I supposed to do?" Victor sits up and pulls his laptop onto his knee. "Want to see a picture of Félix? He let Dav post a photo of him on Simstagram, and it's..." he pauses, evidently searching for the right words to express his feelings about it. "Fascinating, but in a Ripley's Believe It Or Not kind of way."
"Honestly, I'm not sure if I want to see it or not,” says Yuri. "Does he look pregnant?"
"Very," says Victor. "It's weird, like one of those things that you really don't want to look at, but you also feel like you can't look away from."
"It sounds horrible," Yuri says.
“It kind of is,” Victor confirms. “But if you can believe the caption, Dav thinks he’s sexy, so I guess that’s all that really matters.”
Yuri feels an involuntary shudder travel the entire length of his spine. “There’s nothing remotely attractive about pregnancy. It’s disgusting.”
“I can appreciate it from the point of, you know… not existing without it. But, yeah. Visually, it’s a huge turn-off, but it’s still clinically intriguing.”
“I don’t think ‘clinical’ and ‘intriguing’ really belong in the same sentence,” Yuri says. “Seriously, why are you telling me this stuff and trying to show me pictures? Are we about to have a conversation about children? Because if we are—"
Victor scrunches up his face in consternation. "What? No, that's totally not where I was headed. I don’t want a kid, and I think I’m safe in assuming you don’t.”
“Perhaps I’ll consider it when Hell freezes over.”
“That’s what I thought,” says Victor.
"I really don't want to see the picture."
"You don't have to." Victor closes his laptop. "Just so you know, if we did want kids, my vote would be for adoption, not alien reproductive science."
"Mine too, if we actually wanted children."
"It makes way more sense to help a kid who doesn't already have a family, right? But, I mean, the alien thing... I'd never voluntarily do something that traumatic and disfiguring to my body. And you definitely couldn't do it. It'd be way too much for you physically, even without the psychological effects.”
"So, why are we talking about it?"
"I was thinking about Taka."
"I don't think Taka is ready for kids."
"Maybe not yet," Victor says. "But I figure it'll only be a matter of time. He sounded pretty serious when he was telling us about the alien thing. He really wants a kid.”
“He’d need a second sample of DNA for the alien procedure, wouldn’t he? He couldn’t do it by himself.”
“It’ll be Fox, obviously.”
Yuri laughs. "Victor!”
“What?”
“Have you been talking to Seiji? He thinks Taka and Fox will be married by next summer."
"Does he? We haven't discussed it, but he might be right."
"We don't know Fox. We haven't even met him yet. You can't make predictions like that," Yuri says. "Besides, he and Taka have only known each other for a month, and Fox was in the hospital for a week of that time."
"I know, but the way Taka talks about him..."
"Taka is silly," says Yuri, smiling. "And so are you."
"I guess I can't argue with that, can I?"
"You could, but you'd be wrong," Yuri teases. "Now, come on. You need to shower and change, and you need to start right now. We'll be late otherwise."
"Okay," Victor says. "Come in and keep me company while I shower?"
"Anything to keep you on track."
"Are you saying I can't focus on a task?"
"Do I need to say that?"
"No, probably not,” Victor concedes. “Anyway, I was thinking I’d show Dav’s website and Simstagram account to Taka. Let him check out what the alien pregnancy thing really looks like. He might want to get in contact. You know, to ask questions and stuff.”
“Know what I think?” Yuri says. “I think you shouldn’t meddle.”
“How is it meddling if I just show him a couple of videos?”
“It isn’t, as long as you leave it at that. Let him figure everything else out on his own, at his own speed.”
“That was generally the plan,” says Victor. “Trust me, I don’t want to see him jumping into anything crazy before he’s ready. I just think it’s good to have all the facts, and I want to help him.”
Yuri smiles. “That’s one of the things I love about you. You want to help everybody.”
“I want Taka to be happy. He deserves that.”
“Everyone deserves that.”
“Of course, but you know Taka. He’s a sweet guy, and it’s like nobody ever takes him seriously in a relationship. He just gets friend-zoned all the time,” Victor says. “But, maybe it’s not gonna be like that with Fox. Maybe they'll get married and have a bunch of kids some day, and have their happily-ever-after, like us.”
"Is that what we're doing?"
"It is from where I'm standing," Victor says. "I figured out something. Everything doesn't have to be perfect in order for people to be happy. We're not perfect, but I'm always going to be happy as long as I'm with you, so yeah. Happily ever after."
“Has anyone ever told you you’re a hopeless romantic, Victor?”
“You. All the time," Victor says. "It's a bit of the crow calling the raven black, though, don't you think?"
"Maybe," Yuri says. In truth, he has to acknowledge that he's probably no less of a romantic than Victor, but he's also not as optimistic as his husband and feels as if his flights of fancy are tempered by realism. "Don't misunderstand. I want Taka to be happy, and I do hope things work out with him and Fox. I just think it's too soon to tell, and I don't think we should speculate too much."
"Yeah, you're probably right."
"We have enough daydreams of our own to keep us busy without coming up with any for our friends."
“I know, but wouldn’t it be amazing if Taka and Fox really are meant for each other? You and me, Leo and Ellie, and Taka and Fox. We just gotta fix Seiji up with somebody who'll stick around, and that'll be it. Can't you imagine all of us becoming old married couples and like, reminiscing about the good old days and stuff?”
“In our rocking chairs on the front porch of our haunted house in Willow Creek, surrounded by our honourary nieces and nephews?”
“If we can find a way to get ourselves into that house—“
“I know,” Yuri says. “Now that it’s officially for sale, we have to figure out what we’re going to do. We have some big decisions ahead of us.”
“Yeah,” Victor says, all the playfulness suddenly drained from his expression. “You think we should talk it over with my mom?”
Yuri nods. “Yes, and mine as well, but not tonight. We should discuss it together first, and I think we should get in contact with Robert and Kim directly instead of only looking at the real estate listing online, but that can wait till at least tomorrow, too.” He holds out his hand. “Now, come on. Let me help you get ready, so we can go.”
Victor lets Yuri pull him up to his feet. “I already have ideas about what I want to do.”
“About the house?”
“Not just the house. I mean, what I want to do when we get there. Like, about school and work and all that.”
“How about you tell me while you’re in the shower? We’ll call it multi-tasking.”
Victor grins. “Me, multi-tasking. That’d be new.”
“Victor, come on.” Yuri tugs at his hand, ineffectually attempting to drag him in the direction of the door. “Do you want to go to the Suzukis’ dinner party, or not?”
“All right, I’m coming,” Victor says. “When have you ever known me to turn down food? Plus, I need to hear all Seiji’s gossip. He must’ve already met a new woman, because Taka mentioned something about him wanting to learn English, and I can’t imagine anything else that’d motivate him. Oh, and didn’t he tell you—”
“Victor! Bathroom. Now.”
“Okay, Mr. Bossy.”
Yuri sighs. Sometimes he wonders if he’s fighting a pointless battle. Still, of all the people in the world, there’s no one he’d rather be with than this loving, mischievous and hopelessly disorganized man.
Happily ever after, indeed.
He is happy, and Victor is correct; happiness has nothing to do with perfection. It has everything to do with accepting that no person and no situation is ever perfect, and learning to value what you've got. Waking up next to Victor each morning, he appreciates this concept more and more, and the understanding has made him less inconsiderate and more sensitive to the needs of people other than himself.
He's been trying his best to be more patient and accommodating of Victor's attention deficit issues, doing what he can to help rather than just getting annoyed when Victor struggles to follow directions, loses things, or forgets what he's meant to be doing. He's learned that if he stays calm, Victor is calmer as well. On the whole, this has made their life together far more harmonious over the past several weeks.
Yuri thinks about Taka and Fox, and wonders if the difference between happiness and perfection is something they'll need to learn. Taka is so warm and accepting that he likely gets it already, but maybe Fox is more like Yuri. Perhaps he'll have to learn it the hard way. Or maybe not. If they become friends, Yuri might be able to help him and offer some advice.
This thought almost makes him laugh. People hardly ever come to him for advice about anything. Then again, he concludes this might be because he's never had anything worthwhile to contribute before, and even if he did, he would've lacked the confidence to share it. But, things are changing. He is changing. Now, he's ready and willing to give more than he takes, and he hopes he's able to offer something meaningful.
He gives himself the mental equivalent of a head shake when it occurs to him that he's doing the exact thing that he'd just told Victor not to do. Some part of his brain has settled on the assumption that Taka and Fox will certainly end up together for the long term, and he's already coming up with scenarios in which his own experience might prove useful to them.
So much for not speculating.
But, he can't deny that he wants all his friends to have their own happily-ever-after, particularly Takahiro, who seems to suffer the most from loneliness. The thing Yuri wishes for Taka is that he'll find the same sense of comfort and safety that Yuri has found with Victor, the same security in being with someone who'll love him so completely that he'll forget the sadness and fear of being alone.
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My native witchhazel is blooming - not as showy as sone other cultivars and species - but still a welcome bright spot in the late winter garden. #gardendc #vernalwitchhazel #witchhazel #winterflowers #nativeplant (at Washington D.C.) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpATzzgu9Nh/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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