Podcasts about Hurry

Oh Halflings, have we got some catching up to do! Join Jeremy and Candace The Magnificent as they cover the last few truly WILD weeks - from an update on the Kickstarter and running our one-shot in collaboration with Darrington Press, to celebrating Juneteenth in the face of the ongoing situation in America right now, and the effect it's all having on the TTRPG community. Our very first Kickstarter for the ⁠City of the Black Rose Campaign setting⁠ is LIVE NOW, in collaboration with ⁠Roll and Play Press! ⁠Completely system agnostic, there are Daggerheart specific additions to help you run a game in Mavros with the Daggerheart system - which, as you can hear from our latest one-shot, works particularly well for narrative storytelling games! HURRY! IT'S ENDING SOON! Follow the halflings: Jasper William Cartwright: @JW_Cartwright Jeremy Cobb: @JeremyCobb1 Liv Kennedy: @livkennedy Candace: @candacethemagnificent Find all of our links here: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/tbhalflings⁠⁠ You can buy all our lovely merchandise ⁠⁠here! ⁠⁠as featured on Critical Role! Connect with us on Instagram, Bluesky and Facebook @3blackhalflings, on our Discord, or email. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are talking about fun events in July and August. We are also partnering with Rum Fest this year! Check out Rumfestkeywest.com for all of the rum info! If you want to go to the Grand Tasting, use this link for $25 off of your ticket price. Its the only place you can get this discount! Hurry before they are gone https://marckeywest.harnessgiving.org/events/3008Also send all of you KW confessional stories to LSOKW@yahoo.com

#153 We're in our "Good Guys of Summer" series, and in this episode, we sit down with Danny to talk about something all of us wrestle with: patience. What does it look like to wait well—not just in dating, but in every area of life? How do we trust God when His timing feels frustrating or unclear? You'll hear real-life encouragement, a few honest struggles, and some biblical wisdom that will help you stay grounded in seasons of waiting.Resources mentioned in this episode:Episode #66 Four Reasons Why He's Not Asking You OutThe Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerLoving Your Husband Before You Even Have One bookFor more information about the podcast and the Loving Your Husband Before You Even Have One book, please visit ⁠www.kimvollendorf.com⁠.To learn more about StuMo, visit https://www.stumo.org/To learn more about Downline, visit https://www.downlinememphis.com/emerging-leadersTo fill out an interest form for Downline, visit https://www.downlinememphis.com/emerging-leaders-interest-formFor video clips from this episode, please visit our instagram page ⁠@sixonesis⁠Thanks for listening!

Send us a textEnergy is not a luxury—it's a leadership system. In this episode, I sit down with Devan Gonzalez, a performance-focused fitness entrepreneur who helps high-achieving business leaders reclaim energy and clarity through simple, sustainable routines that fuel long-term growth. If you're scaling your agency and feeling the weight of fatigue, disconnection, or burnout, this conversation will reframe how you think about leadership—starting with your body.Most business owners don't realize how much their physical energy is silently sabotaging their leadership until burnout forces a pivot. Devan and I explore how business leaders can scale without burnout by anchoring their routines in habits that sharpen clarity, improve retention, and support sustainable leadership. You'll hear how energy for entrepreneurs isn't a bonus—it's the infrastructure for strategic thinking, emotional regulation, and team influence. This episode unpacks the high-performance habits that drive momentum and offers a new lens for how to lead from the inside out.Books Mentioned: Money Muscle Mindset by Devan GonzalezThe Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerConnect with Devan GonzalezTo learn more about how Devan helps high performers integrate mobility, recovery, and strength into leadership routines, visit https://www.devangonzalez.com/ or connect with him on Instagram at @devan.gonzalez.

Leave an Amazon Rating or Review for my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy!The most dangerous trend in mental health today isn't anxiety itself—it's how we've been taught to think about it. Dr. Caroline Leaf, a leading neuroscientist and author of "Help in a Hurry," reveals why 100% of people experience anxiety and how the current medical model of labeling and diagnosing mental health "disorders" creates more harm than healing. Through groundbreaking research spanning 40 years, she shares her most vulnerable discovery: we are 99% mind and 1% brain, making every thought we think a physical force that either builds or destroys our cellular health. The conversation takes a powerful turn when she explains her 63-day healing protocol that has helped thousands rewire toxic thought patterns, proving that what we've been told about mental health has been fundamentally backwards—and how anyone struggling with overwhelm, anxiety, or stress today holds the power to transform their mind and heal their body.Pre order Dr. Leaf's new book ​​Help in a Hurry: Simple Tips for Finding Peace When You're Overwhelmed, Anxious, or StressedDr. Leaf's book Switch on Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and HealthDr. Leaf's book Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic ThinkingDr. Leaf on InstagramThe Doctor Leaf Show on YouTubeIn this episode you will learn:Why anxiety is your brain's warning system, not a disease, and how to read its signals correctlyThe shocking truth about self-diagnosis culture and why labeling yourself creates the exact problems you're trying to solveHow your thoughts become physical networks in your brain and body within secondsWhy 35-98% of all physical illnesses originate from toxic thinking patternsThe exact 63-day process neuroscientists use to rewire trauma and heal emotional woundsFor more information go to https://www.lewishowes.com/1785For more Greatness text PODCAST to +1 (614) 350-3960More SOG episodes we think you'll love:Dr. Rangan Chatterjee  – greatness.lnk.to/1716SCDr. Joe Dispenza – greatness.lnk.to/1702SCTJ Power – greatness.lnk.to/1741SC Get more from Lewis! Get my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy!Get The Greatness Mindset audiobook on SpotifyText Lewis AIYouTubeInstagramWebsiteTiktokFacebookX

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Baal HaSulam. Shamati, 10. What Is “Hurry, My Beloved,” in the Work?

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Tesla has finally launched the updated Model S and X. I'll tell you about all the changes and what I think of them. Plus: another new Model Y variant appears to be coming very soon, we've got a few new robotaxi updates to discuss, and more! Thank you to all Patreon backers for your generous pledges! I hope you enjoy your ad-free early access to this one, and thanks for your continued support on Patreon! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. WIN AN EV WHILE GIVING TO A GREAT CAUSE: For your chance to win your dream EV in the 2025 ChesedChicago raffle, head to https://ccraffle.com?utm_source=ridethelightning&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=06.15.25 . Hurry, tickets are limited and only 9,999 tickets will be sold, get your tickets today and use code RTL for $25 off of two tickets or $500 off of 15 tickets. Whether you win or not, you're helping a great organization help families in need. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at https://everyamp.com/RTL/ (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). 

In this episode, I explore what happens in a man's mind when he becomes a father—and why so many dads carry their emotional weight in silence.From new dads to empty-nesters, the mental and emotional load of fatherhood is real—but rarely named. I'll walk you through the neuroscience of paternal bonding, stress regulation, identity shifts, and inherited emotional silence. This is not just a tribute to dads—it's a call to see them, support them, and understand them through the lens of brain science and mental health.I also sit down with my husband, Mac Leaf, for a candid conversation about his experience as a father—and what he wishes more people knew.This is the episode every dad, partner, son, and supporter of fatherhood needs to hear.

In this episode, Sarah Marie and Kelly take on the 5-minute makeup challenge, breaking down their go-to products and techniques for those mornings when you're racing against the clock. Sarah Marie swears by her powder-heavy approach (complete with products she adorably keeps in their original boxes), while Kelly's "just-enough-to-not-terrify-your-ex" strategy involves slapping on cream sticks with carefree confidence. We teach you how to level up your 5-minute routine, and Sarah Marie flexes her pro MUA credentials, casually revealing she could overhaul a bride’s entire glam between “I do” and entrée — a claim Kelly may have side-eyed at first, but quickly came to admire. PRODUCTS: Bare Minerals Hydrating Gel $64 NARS Radiant Concealer Creme $56 Flawless Filter Dupe $35 Roseinc Blush $56 KELLY'S PICKS: chi chi cc cream $39.95 the ordinary skin tint $12.70 Bobbi brown corrector stick $60 Westman atelier contour stick $84 SARAH MARIE'S PICKS: Bondi Sands SPF hydrating face lotion $13.80 Kosas concealer $54 Makeup forever translucent powder $52.80 Laura mercier ultra blurr $84 Huda beauty loose powder $59 Benefit Hula bronzer $50.40 Benefit mighty fine brow pen $48 Two Faced Lip injection supreme in Bubblegum $28 FOR MORE WHERE THIS CAME FROM: Watch & Subscribe on Youtube Get in the know on our socials: You Beauty Instagram Subscribe to Mamamia Sign up for our free You Beauty weekly newsletter for our product recommendations, exclusive beauty news, reviews, articles, deals and much more! GET IN TOUCH: Got a beauty question you want answered? Email us at youbeauty@mamamia.com.au or send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will come back to you ASAP. You Beauty is a podcast by Mamamia. Listen to more Mamamia podcasts here. CREDITS: Hosts: Sarah Marie Fahd & Kelly McCarren Producer: Mollie Harwood & Sophie Campbell Audio Producer: Tegan Sadler Video Producer: Marlena Cacciotti Mamamia's studios are furnished with thanks to Fenton & Fenton. For more head to their website here. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She's a 41-year-old mom of three boys, works full-time, and has exactly five minutes in the morning to deal with her skin. Sound familiar? In this live skincare coaching session, I'm helping one of our real listeners build a routine that actually fits her life—and budget. From dark under-eye circles and oily T-zones to products from Amazon, Target, or Ulta—nothing is off the table. You'll hear:

Health is a State of Complete Physical, Mental, and Social Well-Being, and not merely the Absence of Disease or Infirmity! When you ask yourself, “Health, Why Bother?” We say, “Let's Define Health!” Be Healthy in a Hurry with Buddy Lee, Betty Norlin, and Dr. Wayne “The Mango Man” Pickering look forward to sharing information and giving you a new perspective on what health truly is.   This show was originally part of the Get Well and Stay Well for Life and first aired on 2-5-19. For more information or to reach out to us go to www.bettynorlin.com, or our website, www.behealthyinahurry.com, where all our episodes are stored. You can search for any topic or subject. We thank you for your years and support and will be providing a survey soon on our website to determine our next steps after the “Best of Show” season.  

Waiting is a part of life so we might as well embrace it! Today, learn how to be peaceful and content without having all the answers.

Dr. Eti Ben Simon returns for yet another AMA episode, this time specifically focussing on sleep and women. Together, they delve into the nuanced differences in sleep patterns between men and women, exploring aspects like sleep duration, quality, and architecture, including variations in deep sleep and REM sleep. They discuss how females generally sleep slightly longer, experience fewer awakenings, and have more deep sleep early in the night, alongside a quicker onset of REM sleep. The conversation also touches upon the potential health risks associated with shift work, particularly night shifts, highlighting an observed associational link with increased risks for certain cancers, such as breast and skin cancer, though emphasizing this is not necessarily causal.The discussion then transitions to the profound impact of hormonal changes on female sleep throughout different life stages. Matt and Eti examine the common sleep disturbances during pregnancy, detailing the reasons such as physical discomfort, hormonal shifts, and frequent urination, and the consequences like mood disorders and increased risk of gestational diabetes. They further explore how sleep is affected by the menstrual cycle, with changes in REM and deep sleep across follicular and luteal phases, and then tackle the significant sleep challenges during menopause, including insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome, discussing management strategies like HRT and CBT-I.Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.Tired of untrustworthy protein shakes? Show sponsor Puori prioritizes quality: hormone-free, GMO-free, and pesticide-free. Every batch is third-party tested for 200+ contaminants - you can even scan the QR code for lab results! Matt recommends the addictive dark chocolate flavor with 21g of protein. Ready to experience the Puori difference? Matt's listeners get 20% off, so visit puori.com/mattwalker today!Having personally used and purchased AG1 for over four years, Matt encourages you to try the new AG1 Next Gen formula with upgraded probiotics plus additional vitamins and minerals. Backed by 4 human clinical trials demonstrating a boost in healthy gut bacteria, AG1 continuously adapts to the latest science. Subscribe today and receive a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 welcome kit, and 5 upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order. Visit drinkag1.com/mattwalker to learn more and get started on your health journey.Matt's good friend Dr. Peter Attia has helped develop David, a revolutionary new protein bar, and a sponsor of today's episode! 28g of protein, 0g sugar, only 150 calories – the best ratio EVER! Amazing taste, six flavors, incredibly satiating, and a great source of the protein that helps build muscle, manage metabolic health, and keep you full. Visit davidprotein.com/mattwalker now for an amazing deal: Buy 4 cartons, and get a 5th FREE! . Hurry! Your new favorite protein bar awaits!As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you'd like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti:Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/,  or email at etoosh@gmail.com

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the power of staying in your zone of genius as a real estate investor. Reflecting on our own journeys, sharing lessons learned from missteps, and how identifying and leaning into our individual strengths has improved both profitability and lifestyle. The discussion highlights the importance of delegation, avoiding shiny object syndrome, and recognizing red flags—like spreading yourself too thin across multiple markets. We also emphasize the value of documenting your tasks to better understand where your time is best spent and how to build a team that supports your growth. With a strong focus on mindset and strategy, we want to remind listeners that investing in your time and surrounding yourself with the right people can make all the difference. Want more? Join our webinar on June 18 at 12pm CT to learn how we scaled our businesses to 70+ doors, without losing our sanity!This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity and focus in their real estate business. Resources:Simplify how you manage your rentals with TurboTenantGrab your seat for our webinar on June 18 - HURRY, seats are limited!Grab your spot in The WIIRE CommunityLeave us a review on Apple PodcastsLeave us a review on SpotifyJoin our private Facebook CommunityConnect with us on Instagram

In this episode, Ricardo discusses the dangers of prioritizing speed over strategy in project management. He says that being agile means adapting and learning quickly, not rushing in blindly. Urgency often leads to missed plans, poor decisions, and costly rework. Teams suffer under pressure, and when delays happen, they are unfairly blamed. Ricardo argues that a slower, more thoughtful start—with proper planning and stakeholder engagement—can accelerate long-term progress. He encourages leaders to educate stakeholders on the difference between rushing and smart acceleration. A realistic schedule is not a delay, but an investment in sustainable success. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

You glance at the clock. It's 9:17 a.m. “Hurry up!” you holler from the kitchen. “Church starts in less than 15 minutes!”Your kids dash from room to room, grabbing their Bibles, their shoes, and maybe even a Pop-Tart. Then you're out the door and in the car. Yet despite your best race car driving skills, you're late to church—again.Can you relate to this? Do you find yourself constantly late to work, medical appointments, or other activities? Even though life is busy, make punctuality a priority. Show your son, through action, how to organize his time. Of course, this isn't easy. But through careful planning, you'll demonstrate that preparation helps life run more smoothly. Plus, when you're on time for church, all the back pews aren't already taken.For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Hot DateA 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories. The tires hissed along the gravel drive as I pulled alongside her Jeep. I walked to the door, bouquet in hand and rang the bell. I took a deep breath, just as the door opened. A pretty girl stood there, dark hair and piercing eyes stared intently at me for a moment. In a flash of an eye a familiar crooked little smile crossed her face."Mom, your hot date is here!" She yelled over her shoulder."Well don't make him stand on the step, let him in!" Summer hollered back. I just started chuckling as Emily opened the door. Emily cracked open the outside door and opened the inside door further."Come on in." She said."Hi Emily, I'm Pete." I said holding out my hand. Already over five feet I could tell she was going to be tall like her mother."Are those for my mom?" She asked nodding at the flowers. I just shook my head."No, they're for you." I said presenting them to her. Her eyes grew wide and her expression got serious for a moment before she took them with a smile."I'll be right out." Came the call from another room. She laughed a bit after saying it. I began to think this was a calculated move.Emily set the flowers down and disappeared head first into a low cupboard coming up with a vase. She filled it with water and put the flowers into it, preening them to get them the way she wanted.Summer came out of a short hallway dressed in jeans and a blue and gray striped sweater. Her hair freshly brushed and a big smile on her face."Hi." She said giving me a quick hug, and more notably a slight push-off after. She noticed the flowers on the counter. "They're beautiful. Thank you."Emily turned and interjected with a grin. "He brought them for me.""Oh he did, did he?" She looked at me, the eyebrows lifting.I gave Summer a slight shrug and a wink. She just gave me a quick eye-roll in return. "Score one for the visiting team." She said, in a low voice."You're the fireman that saved my mom from drowning in the ocean, huh?" Emily asked."Actually we responded to a fall victim that was out on the rocks. If I hadn't braved the wild winds and pounding surf, she might not have made it." I said. "She could have been lobster chow.""Oh lord, the story gets more dramatic with the telling." Summer joined in. "I fell on the rocks, luckily I had a cell signal, and called for help. Pete here was one of the first responders and promptly hauled me back to the sand and brought me to the walk-in clinic to get X-rays. See? Not nearly as dramatic as you two make it sound.""She was laid up for a week after, and I kept an eye on her. I didn't want her to starve because she couldn't feed herself." I added, a wicked glint in my eye."Yes, you can cook, and I certainly didn't want for anything." She gave me a warning look that I should stop before more questions began. "Is your stuff in the car Em?" Emily nodded at her mother. "Grab your jacket, let's go I'm hungry." She said grinning. Emily trotted up the hallway, and Summer stepped closer and we kissed deeply. "Nice job with the flowers you clown." She ran her thumb across my lip wiping away any telltale lip gloss."I do what I can." I grinned, and stepped back a half step before Emily walked back into the kitchen.We left, Emily yelled 'Shotgun!' and her mother quickly squashed that plan, though I graciously got in the back seat and let her have the front. Summer giving me a sidelong look, knowing I was indulging Emily for my own sake."Is this your guitar in the back Emily?" I asked. She turned as far as she could in her seat to reply."Yup, my teacher is going to be there tonight and we're going to play.""That's awesome! What are you going to be playing?""You'll just have to wait and hear." She smiled, a mirror of her mother's impish grin.Summer pulled up beside the fire house and parked between a couple pickup trucks. We walked inside to the din of what sounded like a school cafeteria. The engine sitting outside had made room for folding tables and chairs to be set up in the bay. People were already seated and others milled about talking and laughing."I'm going to find Jen." Emily said, wrestling her guitar case through the crowd.Summer was saying hi to people as we passed through the crowd, but she kept moving like she was on a mission."Dale!" She called out. A large guy turned around, he must have been six and a half feet tall. She wrapped an arm part way around his waist and hugged him. "Come here I've got someone I want you to meet. This is my rescuer, remember when I took that spill a couple summers back. Pete, this is my uncle Dale.""Hi there. Thanks for making sure she didn't end up as fish bait." He said smiling, shaking my hand."Pete is applying to the fire department here, looking to get hired for the new year." She added.Dale's eye turned on me appraising openly. "Looking to move to our neck of the woods are you?"I nodded. "Yes sir." I didn't add anything so that rumors wouldn't begin. The look in his eye got shrewd, and he knew exactly why I was willing to pick up and move a thousand miles away from home. The reason was standing right next to him."Hell don't call me sir, save that for her dad." He said tilting his head towards Summer. "Call me Dale, good luck to you Pete. Now go on and get some food before the kids clean us out." He said smiling. We made our way through the crowd, Summer greeting people as she passed, stopping a few times to introduce me around. We eventually found ourselves in the chow line. Summer insisted on paying for us at the little card table. She mentioned that hurricane Emily might blow through any minute. The lady let her know that Emily had already come through the line.We found a place to sit and eat at one of the tables. People stopped to chat and moved on, the night had a familiar small town feel to it. Before long we could hear the sound of guitars, chords being strummed here and there. People started to grab seats, and there was Emily sitting on the left of another girl and a woman. They were sitting around a music stand and Emily and the other girl were watching the woman point things out on the sheet music. I felt a hand grip my thigh and looked at Summer who was beaming at Emily with a big grin on her face. A few moments later the woman began and the girls joined in playing Van Morrison's Moondance instrumental. My foot began tapping and Summer's grip tightened on my leg as I ran my arm over the back of her chair rubbing her back. She turned to me with the silliest grin. I only hoped she was reminiscing about when I played it for her at the summer festival. They gave way to the Beatles Eleanor Rigby, then played John Denver's Take Me Home, which they sang.Summer leaned in close to my ear and whispered. "Thank you." Before giving me a peck on the cheek. I just wrapped my arm around her and gave her a squeeze and smiled.As the group finished the crowd erupted with applause, the girls grinning ear to ear. The woman spoke up after the noise died down stating that she had room for one more student this year if anybody knew someone looking for lessons.Emily packed her guitar away, and put her chair back with the tables. She made her way back to where we were sitting and got caught up in a bear hug from Summer."Alright, say goodbye to your friends, we need to get going."As we left I hollered shotgun and got front seat privileges on the way back to the house. We chatted on the way back about other songs Emily had learned, and how long she'd been playing. Coincidentally it had been just over a year. Summer pointed out that she was a natural, learning very quickly."We learned Moondance this summer. I figure if mom liked it so much I wanted to learn it.""Your mom likes Van Morrison?" I prodded."She's played his greatest hits until she practically wore out the CD." Emily replied. I just grinned wider. Out of the corner of my eye I saw Summer's expression and nearly bust out laughing as she tried to look aloof, the twinkle in her eye giving her away."Well there are some other great musicians from that era you might like. Maybe I can suggest a few for you to listen to." I said."Do you play too?" She asked surprised."Not guitar. I play saxophone, clarinet, and dabble a little in piano." I said."I can teach you." She said, excited.She didn't begin to know how much I would love that. "That would be awesome.""Not tonight." Summer chimed in. "You need to get ready for your sleep over, and that room of yours looks like a tornado touched down in there." As we entered the house she told Emily that she needed to get it cleaned up. Emily went down the hallway with a few sighs and several eye rolls."Would you like something to drink?" Summer asked, with an unusual look in her eye."Yes, please." I nodded, trying decipher it. She opened the fridge and pulled a wine bottle out and began opening it. Music started playing down the hall as Emily puttered around making more noise than necessary. I turned from looking down the hall to look at Summer. She had stopped opening the wine and I noticed her shoulders trembling slightly. I stepped closer my hand circling her waist."Hey, what's the matter?" I asked softly."I don't know, it all seems to be happening so fast, I feel like I'm waiting for the train to derail. You know? I get the feeling something is going to go wrong and it's all going to blow up in my face." She looked up, her eyes burning intently.I chuckled. "How do you think I felt when I put that note in the mail box and drove back down the mountain to wait and see if you'd respond.""Those were the scariest hours of my life." I added softly, staring down at the wine bottle. "I mean I had no idea if you'd call the cops, or call and tell me it was all a mistake and I should go home, or worse, just throw it away, and me with it."She spun around in my arms and wrapped her arms around my neck kissing me fiercely. "If you think for a moment that it didn't hurt to leave you like that, then you're crazy. I only did what I thought was best.""Ahem?" Came loudly from the hallway door. I tried to release Summer from my grip but she just held tighter and gave me another quick kiss."Better let her get used to it." She whispered, before slowly letting go of me."Ready for inspection." Emily said saluting as she stood at attention.Summer let out a snort. "I bet. How much of it is stuffed under the bed?" She asked as she spun Emily around and pointed her down the hallway giving her a nudge.As I watched them retreat down the hallway I felt a warm glow deep inside me, the feeling enveloped me, eventually making the hair on the back of my neck tingle. There was no other explanation for it, this just felt right. I turned and poured the wine into the glasses, putting the bottle back into the fridge as I listened to muffled conversation and shuffling as the last of the cleaning was directed."Put the basket on the dryer, and I'll ask Pete if he wants to join us for movie night." Summer said. She walked back toward me, a grin on her face before she let out a dramatic sigh and rolled her eyes. "Still a disaster, but you can walk through it now." She smiled. "So, on Friday nights we usually pick a movie to watch. It's sort of a tradition, some mommy and me time. Care to join us?""So long as it's not an intrusion on the mommy and me time." I said grinning back at her."Like I said, she's going to have to get used to you being around. What better way to start.""Well we better find something family friendly, you know, no late night cable." I chuckled.Summer laughed. "No and I'll make sure we don't bore you with princesses and tiaras.""You don't have to change what you'd normally watch on my account." I replied."Well it is nearly Halloween, horror movies have been popular the last few weeks, but they're getting old. What's your favorite?"I shrugged, giving her a non-committal look. "I'm pretty easy going, though ax wielding, chainsaw revving, slasher flicks are a little too much for me. I've decided a while back that I like being able to sleep.""I'm sure we'll find something." She smiled wrapping her arms around my waist."So what's the verdict so far?" I asked softly kissing her ear."Hmm?" She responded, running her lips up my cheek leaving a trail of kisses."Emmy? Am I doing okay?" I prodded her.She let go of my earlobe long enough to whisper. "Oh, you're a shoe in. She asked me if you were my boyfriend, with a huge grin on her face.""Well?" I asked, wondering at her response.She pulled back laying her forehead against mine. I could see the little grin on her face, she bit her lip and said. "I think he just might be if you like him. She nodded like a bobble head doll.""Yes!" I whispered. "Easiest interview ever.""Am I going to walk into a room and find you two sucking face every time?" Emily said, clearly not as exasperated as she tried to sound."Only if I'm lucky." I replied."Go and get everything ready and I'll make the popcorn." Summer said.We sat down on the sofa, I ended up in the middle. "What are we watching?" I asked."You choose." Emily said.I took the controller and thought a moment and keyed in a title to see if it was available, and it was."Ever heard of this one?" I asked as the film poster popped up with a short synopsis.Both shook their heads. "Nope, any good?""Well the book was fantastic, but I've never seen the movie." I hit play, and the credits began. The movie was a hit, the fantasy and magic captured Emily's imagination as she let out occasional exclamations. I chuckled inwardly when I realized I had both of them tucked under each arm. I don't remember when that happened but I certainly wasn't going to complain about it."That was a good movie. I love when he went to find the falling star and found the girl." Emily said."Sort of reminds me of how I found your mom on the beach." I said."Oh please." Summer said, rolling her eyes and giving me a poke in the ribs. Emily broke into a fit of giggles. "Alright you, get ready for bed.""But it's not even ten yet!" Emily shot back."It will be by the time you're done." Her mother replied. "Now scoot, get a move on." Summer uncurled herself and began to stand too. She reached into my lap to pick up the popcorn bowl and I waved her hand away and picked it up standing up too. I set the bowl and glasses on the counter as Emily trudged up the hallway with a sigh. An equal sigh came from Summer as she wrapped her arms around me from behind. I felt her soft warm lips meet the nape of my neck."Thank you." She said."For what?""For everything. You don't think she snuggled up to you just because you had the popcorn, do you.""Well, it was really good popcorn." I smiled. I got another poke in the ribs for my comment."No. She likes you.""She's pretty terrific, like a mini you." I said turning in her arms holding her closer."Mom!"I just began chuckling as Summer buried her head in my neck. "God help us if we're out of toothpaste." She mumbled before giving me a kiss and turning to go find the source of the distress."What babe." She said as she walked down the hallway, and turned into the bath.I washed the wine glasses by hand, returning to the cupboard she'd taken them from earlier. They both came back into the kitchen a few minutes later."Goodnight Pete." Emily said."Sweet dreams pumpkin." I said, not quite sure where that came from. She launched herself at me hugging me like she was holding on for dear life."Thank you for saving my mom." She sniffled. I hugged her back just as tightly and gave her a peck on the top of the head."You're welcome, but I think it was your mom that saved me. Hopefully we'll have time to figure that out.""Take all the time you want." She smiled up at me before she turned and trotted over to her mom, gave her a big hug and kiss and disappeared down the hallway with a parting goodnight.Summer stood across the room from me leaning back against the door jamb, her arms crossed over her chest as she looked side long down the hallway. A few minutes passed before she let out a sigh. "I have got to stop overestimating how smart I think I am."I chuckled at that."Seriously! You know why she called me into the bathroom?" She asked."I'm guessing it wasn't because she was out of toothpaste.""No! She gave me the kind of interrogation I'd expect from my mother! She asked stuff I hadn't even thought of yet." She chuckled nervously. "Is he moving in? Are you two getting married? If he's moving here, what does his family think of that. Does he know you can't have more kids? That last one threw me, not because I had thought of it when you and I spoke the other day, but that she thought of it!"I walked over to Summer and leaned down and kissed her softly. "Well, I've added another piece to the puzzle, she's just trying to figure out how it's going to fit.""She wanted to know if you were staying the night." Summer said glancing down the hall. "Damn she grew up fast."I laughed at that. "Yea they have a way of doing that while you're not watching them. What did you tell her?"She sighed again. "I told her that you were going home for a couple months to finish out your year at work and that you'd be coming back after Christmas. You'd be getting your own place, and that we hadn't planned anything beyond that!" Her eyes were wide like she'd just gotten the third degree."Come here." I gathered her close and she uncrossed her arms and held on to me. "You're right on the money, everything you said was perfect. I mean hell, I'm not even sure I'm marriage material.She leaned back and looked me in the eye. "You're kidding right?""Yup, actually I'm a hell of a catch. You should be lucky to have me." I grinned."I am a lucky girl. I should pick up a lottery ticket." She smiled back at me.We sat down on the sofa, Summer leaned on me. "Sorry if all this seems a little strange, it's just that she's the most important thing in my life and I don't want to grow old knowing that I screwed her up before I turned her loose on the world.""I've only known her a few hours and I'd say that you're doing a hell of a job. She's smart, funny, warm, and just a bit sarcastic so she doesn't take life too seriously. All of which proves that you're doing a great job." I replied."How are my panties still on?" She grinned throwing a leg over my lap, straddling me while we kissed."These jeans don't want to let go of your incredible ass so they can escape." I said grasping her pulling her down onto my lap to feel the effect she was having on me. She twisted my shoulders slightly and pushed me flat on the couch."How do you do it? You make me feel loved and cared for like I've never felt before. I mean you even did it when I first met you, and you were just a, a kid.""Well since I feel pretty much the same I think it comes from the fact that I love you, no ifs, ands or buts." As I finished, I gave her ass a firm squeeze through her jeans. "Okay, maybe one ass." I added pulling her up slightly, resting her on my hip. We kissed slowly, hands roaming where ever they would. I kissed my way down from her ear to her throat and felt her melt into me. She let out a soft moan. She responded by unbuttoning my shirt and sliding her hand inside. I had her sweater pushed halfway up her back."Seriously, you two need to get a room." Emily said, from the kitchen doorway.I started giggling like a teenager, Summer tried hard not to join in. "Go to bed!" She said before burying her face into my shoulder in fits of laughter."If he gives you a hickey, you'd better wear a turtleneck when Jesse and her mom come tomorrow." She said retreating down the hallway. "I don't want to have to explain that!""It's been a while, come here." I said leaning down and nuzzling her neck."Ah! Don't you dare!" She said pulling back."I can't be held responsible for what I may do." I growled into her neck, and gave her a little kiss and lick. "If I don't get going soon I'll be making you breakfast in the morning.""Scrambled, toast, sausage and coffee regular." She said before slipping her tongue into my mouth."What? No juice?" I asked, after coming up for air."All out, need to pick some up at the store." She licked my lower lip before dipping into my mouth once again. Her thigh was rubbing between my legs, stroking my cock. It's a wonder it hadn't torn through my jeans."Any bacon?" I said sliding her sweater over her head and unclasping her bra.She let out a soft moan as I began stroking her freed breast, thumbing the nipple into a similar state as my cock."I don't think so, no." She said as she kissed down my chest pushing the t-shirt up and taking my nipple into her mouth. I was sure that the jeans didn't have much time left. In an effort to prove my point, Summer slid her hand down and stroked the bulge. I had to stop her."I think we need to take this to the bedroom before Emmy finds us sprawled here naked in the morning.""Good idea." She said gasping. She stood up her neck and chest flushed pink, eyes bright and hair wild. She grabbed her clothes and reached down to grab my hand and pull me up, hauling me off the couch with more strength than I expected nearly causing me to knock her over. "Come on." She tugged me along into her bedroom, and turned on a small bedside lamp. She turned and kissed me again, while doing her best to tear my shirt off. I assisted in getting both off. Both arms wrapped around my neck, the heat of her pressed against my chest was intense. I reached between us and fought her jeans to let her free. She brought her hands down steadying mine and the button came free, the zipper went down swiftly as I ran my hands around behind her pushing them down over her ass. She pushed away and began tearing at my belt and jeans to get them off. We finally freed ourselves of our clothing, Summer reaching for my cock, stroking it softly. It was nearly torture."Think with that head not this one before you answer. Have you had unprotected sex with anyone besides me." She looked up at me asked, her eyes wide with expectation."No, I haven't. I had a good teacher." I said. Her grip tightened and her face lit with a little smirk. She snatched a throw pillow off the bed and dropped at my feet before kneeling down and laving my cock with her tongue. She took me into her mouth and began sliding more of me into her mouth with each stroke. She began massaging my balls while her rhythm increased. "Oh God, slow down I can't hold out much longer." That seemed to spur her on as the pace increased bringing me to the edge before she pulled back with just the tip in her mouth, she reached up and began massaging me behind my balls causing my immediate orgasm. The contractions lessened as Summer took it all in, swallowing quickly. I was nearly spent and ready to collapse when she started in again. She worked my cock deep into her mouth again, her efforts to keep me hard weren't wasted, and I was ready for more.She backed off and licked her way from base to tip. "There now that we have that out of the way, we can put this where it belongs." She stood and turned to pull down the covers and I scooped her up and set her on the bed, turning her so her legs were dangling off the edge. I punted the pillow so it was right in front of her and knelt down. She let out a soft moan as she wrapped her legs around my neck pulling me down to pleasure her.She was already soaked, the heat pouring off her body was intense. I teased and licked her swollen lips, her hips began to sway trying to make me hit a certain spot. I danced around her clit, gently lifting the hood with the tip of my tongue and retreating. Soon she had handfuls of my hair in her grip, pulling my face into her harder. "Stop teasing!" She said through gritted teeth. Her wish was my command. I pushed two fingers into her easily as I pulled back the hood and began sucking and licking her clit. Her body tensed as she arched her back and let out a yelp. Before she could make any more noise she'd grabbed a pillow and covered her face with it as she climaxed. She slowly relaxed and I cleaned up the incredible mess I'd just made of her. She pulled the pillow off and began gulping air as if she had been drowning. As she caught her breath she picked her head up and looked down at me. "You look like a kitten that's just finished an entire bowl of cream." She said grinning.I smacked my lips. "Surely not the entire bowl." I replied as I stood up and lifted her, turning her gently on the bed so she was laying comfortably in the center. I slid in next to her, she scooted over slightly and rolled up onto her side to make room. She leaned over and kissed me softly, still breathing hard."You're going to be the death of me.""Yea, but what a way to go." I smiled up at her and kissed her again. She began softly stroking my still hard cock."All tuckered out?" She asked.Without warning I rolled her onto her back, parted her thighs and sank deep into her. "Not at all. I was just letting you catch your breath."She wrapped her legs around me, lifting herself to meet each deep thrust. Our tongues began a slow tango as her hands roamed up and down my body."I can't even describe how incredible this feels." She gasped.I slipped my arm around her waist and lifted her from the mattress, pushing a pillow under her ass. The slight shift in angle had my cock sliding along her upper wall."Oh, oh, oh yes!" She cried, as I deliberately slowed down and pushed harder with each thrust. Her grip on me was getting to be too much, and I wasn't going to last much longer as I pumped away. She slid her hand down between us and began stroking her clit with quick fingers. It took only a moment before she started shaking, her legs clamping down and drawing me in as much as she could. Her walls contracting to milk me of every ounce I had to give. At that point I just leaned forward and erupted. Inhuman sounds escaped from deep in my throat. A long low guttural moan escaped Summer as she arched her back rising up to me. A few deep gasps and she collapsed back to the mattress, and I followed her, our mouths met, our tongues danced lightly as we tried to catch our breath. I slid to the side, breaking free of her lips for a moment and turned off the lamp.I woke early, pulled on my jeans and t-shirt quietly and made my way to the bathroom for a little relief. I walked out of the bathroom door to find Emily standing in what I guessed was her bedroom door. She rubbed her eye and just looked at me for a moment."Hi." She said softly.I stood there unsure of just what to say. "Hi." I replied nervously. The pause began to get uncomfortable."Are you done, can I get in there now?" She nodded towards the bathroom."Oh sure." I stepped aside quickly and she plodded her way in closing the door quietly. I closed my eyes taking a deep breath. I walked back down the hall into the kitchen and noted it was about my normal wake up time. So I scouted for coffee. Emily padded into the kitchen in her sweats and socks."What are you looking for?" She asked noting that I was peeking into different cupboards in search of the coffee."Coffee first, then I was going to make breakfast, if you want." I said."Can I help?" She asked. I just smiled and nodded. She pointed at a canister on the counter and smiled back. I opened it to find the coffee."How about we make something special?" I opened the fridge and rummaged and found the eggs and sausage Summer had mentioned. I found some veggies in the drawer and pulled those out too. My real find was a box of ready pie crusts. I detailed my plans with Emily and after extensive prep work of dicing and browning we placed a sausage and pepper quiche into the oven."Corn flakes are for chumps." She said looking at the door and smiled at me."Can you set the table while I wake up your mom?" I asked.She nodded. "I'd bring coffee and lead with that. She can be grouchy in the morning."I chuckled and poured a cup, topped it with a splash of milk and spoonful of sugar. I opened the door slowly and walked to the bed. Summer was curled up, her hair a golden splash across the pillow, her expression was strained."Don't try to fool me, that grin is a dead giveaway that you're not asleep." I said as she broke into a full smile and opened her soft blue eyes."Good morning.""Good morning pretty lady." I said as I set the coffee on the nightstand and leaned down to kiss her."If you don't mind, I've had to go to the bathroom for the last twenty minutes, but I didn't want to barge in on your bonding session." She slipped out of bed and grabbed a robe from the closet door and wrapped herself up and darted out of the room, leaving me chuckling. She didn't come right back and I was wondering what might be going on in the kitchen. I reached for the coffee cup as she walked back into the room shaking her head."What?" I asked.She just grinned at me. "Oh nothing, you know that old saying 'out of the mouths of babes'? Well mine just asked why you were spending money on a motel when you could stay here." Summer just looked up and laughed and shook her head again. "She's right though. If she took this as well as it seems then why don't you check out and come up here for the rest of your stay?"I just smiled. "I wouldn't want to intrude.""Intrude my ass. All you've done since you've been here is make life better." She walked over and sat next to me on the bed and kissed me. "The invitation is sincere, from both of us. Oh and you're timer is nearly up on the stove." My eyes went wide as kissed her and trotted out of the room to save breakfast.Em started giggling as she saw me jog into the kitchen to look at the stove. The timer still had seven minutes to go. I squinted at her. "Gonna be like that is it?" She burst into a bigger fit of giggles."You were right mom, he fell for it!" She yelled.A few minutes later Summer walked in wearing her college sweats and a long sleeve t-shirt, grinning ear to ear."I'd nearly forgotten that you're a gourmet chef, besides a fireman. What have you done with breakfast?" She asked."It's in the oven. It'll just be a few more minutes. Do you have any tomato sauce?" I asked."There's some in the pantry there I think." She said as she topped her coffee off.I found it and opened it up, pouring some into a bowl to warm up in the microwave. She looked at me sidelong not sure what to make of what I was doing."Okay shortcake, let's do this restaurant style, why don't we make a little assembly line here on the counter. Plates here, we need the spinach from the fridge, the bowl of sauce here, and do you have something to set the main course on?" She dug in a drawer and found a large pot holder and set it on the counter. As if on cue the timer went off. I checked in on it, and it was done. I slid it out and set it on the counter."That smells fantastic. You found that in my fridge?" She chuckled."The only special ingredient is imagination." I said as I winked at Emily who smiled and nodded. "Okay, so here's how we do it, do you know what the flag of Italy looks like?" Emily shook her head no. I sighed and rolled my eyes. "What are they teaching you kids in school these days? We're going to make the plates look like the Italian flag, green, white and red. So spinach on the side, then we're going to put a slice of the quiche in the middle for the white, and then a little sauce on the side for the red. Got it?""Yup." She took the first plate and piled a handful of the spinach on one side while I sliced the quiche, and set a slice just on the edge of the spinach."Okay, here's where we get all fancy." I whispered. "We take a little sauce and we make a little pool on this side. Don't tell anybody about this trick, everybody will be doing it." I said winking at her. Emily just rolled her eyes at me, the grin never leaving her face. "Two more like this and we have breakfast!"Emily made the other plates herself and set them on the table."A little more caffe for a me, we'll warm up Mama's, and for the signorina, the juice of one cow." I said pouring her a glass of milk. "Finito!"Summer started clapping, and I took a bow, and caught Emily out of the corner of my eye joining me. We sat down and began eating."Italy tastes really good." Emily said around a mouthful. Everybody nodded as we ate."Oh, did you tell her?" I said leaning over asking Em. She just looked at me wide-eyed. "Well the deal usually goes, the cook doesn't do the dishes." I said winking. Emily grinned and looked at her mother who in turn gave her a gimlet eye."So that was the deal? Why wasn't I given a vote in this plan?" She said.Emily replied with a shrug. "You were asleep." It was my turn to chuckle."That'll teach you to sleep in." I said. She gave me the same gimlet eye with a smile thrown in.When she finished Emily cleaned up after herself and put away the milk and the rest of the cold food without being asked. I looked at Summer who had a smug look on her face as she popped the last bite into her mouth."I'm going to get my stuff ready to go to Jesse's." Emily said as she headed for the hallway.Summer let out a quick, authoritative, "Hey," and raised an eyebrow at her, then looked at me and back. Emily rolled her eyes just like her mother and came back."Thank you for making breakfast..." she stumbled unsure what to call me.My eyes went wide. "Just call me Pete, and I should be thanking you for your artful assistance."She beamed and turned and took off up the hallway. I just watched her grinning as I sipped the dregs of my coffee. Music floated down the hallway a few seconds later as I pondered just how things had unfolded since I'd gotten here. I must have been lost in thought for a few minutes."Penny?" Summer asked, startling me out of my reflection."Sorry, I was just thinking how scared I was that this whole trip was a bad idea, and how everything has gone so right. I'm still worried that something bad is going to happen to screw it up. You know, like waking up and finding that I'm dreaming this."She ran her instep up my leg. "Don't go looking for trouble, it'll find you all by itself in time.""So what do you have planned for me tonight?" She asked."Oh a little dinner, maybe a show after." I grinned. "You have something nice to wear? No jeans, reservations are for seven o'clock." I said with a wink."I'll see what I can manage." She rolled her eyes."I can't wait." I said, the excitement in my voice coming through, bringing a smile to Summer's face."What's next for you today?" She asked."Let's see, I need to run back to my motel, pack and check out, stop by the dry cleaners, a couple errands. Most of all I want to start with a long hot shower." I said giving her a wink."That last one sounds good." Summer's eyes wandered to the hallway and back, and her expression changed, turning apprehensive as she crossed her arms over her chest."What's the matter?" I said as I took her arms and uncrossed them putting them on my hips."I don't know, it just feels weird. I feel like I've got to sneak around to have a life of my own."I laughed at that. "If we didn't scare her last night then I think she'll be fine. You just need," I paused and corrected myself, "We just need to be straight up honest with her. Show her that she's not being cut out of your life, but I'm joining both of yours, with any luck for a long time.""You'd better be planning on a long time. I'm not a love 'em and leave 'em kind of girl."I just raised an eyebrow at her for a moment, and she turned bright red and looked down."Okay there was that one time, but..." She began but I cut her off with a kiss."Mom, when you come up for air can you help me find my blue sweater?" Emily said as she walked into the kitchen.We both busted out laughing. "Yes dear. I am ever your willing servant." Summer replied rolling her eyes up at me and gave me another quick peck."Go get your stuff and get back here safe." She added as she made her way down the hallway.I got dressed and got ready to leave and wandered up the hall rapping on the door jamb before peeking around the corner of the door."I'll see you ladies in a little while." I said smiling."Hurry back, I want you to meet my friend Jesse when she gets here. She's really cool.""I'll do my best." I replied.To be continued in part 6, by Member389 for Literotica

As we continue our conversation about cultivating an unshakeable faith, today we'll chat about the importance of taking time away from the noise and hurried pace of the world to spend time with Jesus. We'll discuss the difference between self-care and soul-care, and give you some Biblical examples and practical tips for how to get into a rhythm of spending quality time with the Lord (even if it's been a while).  Hosted by Summer Shore and Melissa Campbell. Music by Nathaniel Rodrigues Related Resources: Scriptures: Psalm 46:10-11, Luke 5:16, Mark 1:35, Luke 6:12-13, Lamentations 3:19-26, Psalm 139 Books:  Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer Articles: How To (Re)Connect with God by Jason Campbell The Gift of Rest and Refreshment by Amanda Swick The Steps of Your Soul by Summer Shore Creating Margin by Melissa Campbell   Learn more about Revive Ministries Donate: Help Get Biblical Resources to Women Worldwide Connect with us on Instagram or Facebook  

Face To FaceA 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories. My heart was pounding in my chest. She had sounded conflicted, like she wanted to see me, but had reservations. I forced myself to take slow deep breaths before I ducked into my room and got my jacket. I tried to calm down, and keep from speeding there but I also knew I'd need to find the place. I followed the directions and found it easily. I was about twenty minutes early. I asked for a booth in a quiet area, and let the hostess know a friend was meeting me.The waitress asked what I was having, and since it was my birthday I decided to have a drink. Hopefully I wasn't going to need it. She carded me and wished me a happy birthday. She returned with my drink and set it down with a smile."This one's on me."I smiled back thanking her. I started twirling the cold glass in my hands looking into the amber liquid. I was lost in thought until I heard a familiar voice say thank you. I looked up to see Summer walking towards me. I slid out of the booth and she kept walking, a smile spreading across her face as she got closer. She didn't stop, hitting me in the chest full force as she wrapped her arms around my neck pulling me into a fierce hug. My arms resumed their position as if she'd always been there."I almost didn't believe it when I saw the note. It was a bit of a shock after all this time." She said softly into my ear."I don't know why I didn't come right away."She didn't let go of me, and I didn't let go of her either. She just smiled as she looked at my face. I noticed her hair was darker than I remembered, summer had long since passed. Her eyes were bright, even in the dim light of the room. She flicked her eyes over my shoulder."Sorry." She blushed."Oh don't be." The waitress said with a sly grin. "Let me know when you're ready and I'll grab your drink order.""What are you having?" Summer asked me."In honor of our last day together I got a cider."She smiled and told the waitress she'd have what I was having. We finally separated and sat down."What are you doing here?" She asked, more curious than concerned.I gave her a smirk and shrug. "I've missed you.""That's sweet, but why now? I honestly thought if you were going to chase me down you would have done it right away."The waitress set down her drink, and asked if we wanted to order any food. Summer ordered us a couple appetizers."The truth is I've missed you ever since the day you left. I knew it wouldn't do me any good to chase after you. The last thing you needed was a puppy following you home. So I moved on, or so I convinced myself. I went to see Davy, and he'd already given my summer job to somebody else. You saved me from a summer of boredom pumping fuel, and hauling ice.""What did you do?""I caught a break, and went to school on the city's dime." I lifted my jacket from beside me showing the logo I'm sure she would recognize. Rockland FD,"You're a fireman?" She asked, her eyes widened. "That explains that.""Explains what?" I asked.She just grinned. "Have you looked in a mirror lately?"I rubbed my chin. "I did shave before coming, so yea."Summer rolled her eyes. "You can't tell me that you haven't noticed that you've filled out a little. You still look like a young 'un. You must have to beat the girls off with a stick.""What girls?" I asked.She looked at me for a moment, a look of shock crept across her face. "Pete, don't tell me you haven't moved on. Tell me you've been out with girls your own age since I left." She said the last part softly, but insistently."I've been on dates since you left." I said chuckling. "I missed you, and I sought solace in the arms of other women. I'm such a cad."She let out a sigh of relief. "So why here? Why now? It's not that I'm not happy to see you, honestly it isn't, but I'm getting the feeling there's something more going on here.""I've been out with a few girls, but I've only ever been in love with one." I looked her in the eyes. I didn't need to tell her who I meant. It was plain on her face that she realized it as soon as I said it.She looked at me her head tilting slightly, and reached over and took my hands in hers. She took a deep breath."What we shared was amazing, but you need to move on and live your life. You can't be in love with me. You're not even old enough..."I looked at her for a moment, and purposely raised an eyebrow and lifted my glass and took a long pull off my cider."Okay, you're old enough to drink, but you're still so young. What do you want with an old lady like me?""Whoa, hang on a minute. You're old? I wish you'd told me when we were rolling around in the sheets like a couple of horny teenagers.""You WERE a horny teenager!" She growled at me."That hasn't been the case now for two years, to the day." I replied. "I'd like to think I've had time to work it out, think on it, and grow up a little."She looked at me for a moment. "To the day? Your birthday is today?"I nodded."What about you? Have you been dating, are you in a relationship?" I asked. I felt my heart sink as I waited for the blow."Happy Birthday." She said and lifted herself up leaned across the table and kissed me.The shock lasted a split second, her lips lingered in front of mine. I didn't hesitate and leaned in and I closed the gap, this time unhurried. Her kiss was soft and warm as her tongue brushed my lip tentatively asking for permission to enter.There was a soft shuffling noise and the close clink of a plate. I was loath to part from her. Summer's eyes popped open looking into mine shocked as she pulled back and sat down, her cheeks bright pink. I just grinned. She peeked up at the waitress, who had a huge grin on her face as she set the plates down on the edge of the table, rather than between us."You two lovebirds want another round?""Not just yet." I replied looking at our half-filled glasses. As soon as the waitress walked away Summer started giggling, and I quickly joined her."Oh those smell so good." She reached for a plate and scooped a couple little dumplings onto it. She broke one in half and steam rose out of it, after dousing it with mustard she blew on half of it, then rather than eat it, she leaned over the table and offered it to me."Careful it's hot." She said stabbing the other and popping into her mouth, chewing carefully.It was hot, I gasped some air trying to cool it off as I bit down. "What is this?" I asked tasting onion and bacon."Deep fried pierogis. They're so bad for you, but they taste so good." Her eyes rolled up as chewed.I hadn't let the fact that she didn't respond to my question slip past."They are good," and I paused a moment to see if she'd respond.She let out a small sigh. "After a while... one of my friends kept prodding me to get out of my funk. Trust me when I say, I was in a bad way when I got home. I cried my eyes out for a week. There was a new doctor that worked on C South. She kept pushing me at him, I guess because he'd been asking about me. He asked me out, and after a couple invitations I finally accepted."She shrugged and made a grimace."So...""So? So what you want to know is whether or not I'm still seeing him, or if things got more serious. Is that right?" She said, a little smirk tugged at the corner of her mouth.I just raised my eyebrows, in imitation of her expression, which made her chuckle."If I were, would I be here feeding you, and swapping' spit?" She said with a sharp twang.I nearly choked on the bite she'd just fed me."Well I know you as the type who would let someone down easily. You don't like to hurt people, least of all those you care about." I said.She nodded slowly. "How long did it take you to figure out Emily hadn't broken her arm?"I just grinned at her attempt to change the subject. "So what happened with doctor wonderful?" At this point it wasn't just an assumption that the doctor was history, it was more a matter of how. She poked at the last bit on her plate with a fork before answering."It didn't work out. Once we'd done the deed, he seemed to lose interest. Come to find out, he's got a reputation of burning through coworkers. The reason he was new here was because he was asked to leave his old hospital because of a harassment lawsuit brought by several women that he worked with.""So you dumped him?""Like a hot potato." She grinned. "Besides Emmy hated him from day one. I should have taken her appraisal to heart."The grip in my chest relaxed. "Was he..."She raised her eyebrows at me this time, causing us to both laugh at the mirrored expression."What? Was he the only one? Yes. I haven't been playing bedroom bingo since I got home Pete. There, are you happy?"I just smiled at her."You smug little shit." She said laughing. "You are happy aren't you?"I just nodded."You think I'm just going to fall into your bed like nothing has changed? Is that it?" She said, still smiling.I stopped smiling and shook my head gently. "No, and technically, it was never my bed we fell into."She got a shrewd look. "What then?"I wasn't prepared for her to ask outright what it was that I expected, but I didn't hesitate with my response."I'm in love with you, and I have been for over a year, and I want to know how you feel about me."She sat there wide eyed for a moment, her mouth hanging open."Are you trying to catch flies?" I asked with a smirk."You're serious?" She said softly.I just nodded. "I'd move here, find a place, get a job and hopefully start my training to become a paramedic. I can get into the university as a resident, cheaper tuition, but mostly I just want to be with you.""You're crazy." She said softly."I've heard love does that to people.""Hon, there's so much more to consider than just that." She said, reaching across the table laying her hand on mine."I know, that's why I'm here now." I waited, looked away from her for a moment and took a deep breath. "If it was just... a summer fling. I'm okay with that, really I am. That doesn't mean I don't want us to be friends."Her hand gripped mine. "It wasn't like that at all. You have to understand what was going on in my life at the time. You showed up at a time when my self-esteem was crushed. I needed to feel loved, even wanted again. You did that in a single afternoon. Sure at first I was upset with you for being a peeping tom, but then I kind of liked the idea of a young guy getting excited seeing me in all my glory. I felt desired. When you brought my sorry, broken ass inside and made me lunch, got me the lotion for my sunburn, and ice for my ankle. You cared about me, and you didn't even know me. I didn't prompt you, you did it out of compassion, and that's something I needed right then.""And now?" I interjected.She tightened her jaw as she thought about her response. "It's different now. I'm different now. I came home and began rebuilding. I like being self-sufficient for the first time in my life, I like knowing that I can stand on my own two feet. I can be a good mother, make sure that dinner gets on the table and the bills get paid. It's empowering." She looked into my eyes. "I have you to thank for that.""Me?""Yes, you. You picked me up and dusted me off, figuratively and literally." She said, a tear slipped down her face.I reached up and brushed it away, and she grinned. "See? That's exactly what I'm talking about. You care about me, and it scared the hell out of me when I realized I felt the same way about you. That last night you nearly crushed my rib cage while we talked, but I didn't want to say anything because I was more afraid you'd let go, and I didn't want you to ever let go.""I was scared. Here I am a grown woman and I fell for a teenager because he was infatuated with me after I took his virginity." She said softly. "You were 19 for crying out loud, I should never have let it happen."I forced myself not to smile at that last statement. "Do you think that if I can carry you across a lawn and through a house, that I couldn't have stopped you? We didn't do anything that I didn't want to do. We were both consenting adults, you didn't take advantage of me."Summer just blinked her eyes and gave her head a little shake. "I just want to make sure I'm understanding all of this. You want to know if there's a chance for you and I to have a relationship, and you're willing to uproot and move here. You want to know if I'm okay with that, is that what you're really asking?""In short, yes." I said.It took her a while to respond. "What if I said no?""I could hope we'd remain friends. Maybe with a little communication once in a while. Who knows, you might even want to come back to Maine and visit, bring Emmy. There's a big summer camp just north of Camden. Just as friends." I said, waving off the shrewd look that she gave me, as if I were saying that we'd hustle Emmy off and get back to old times."What would happen if I said yes, and after you get settled in, you get tired of hanging out with an old lady? Where does that leave us then?" She countered. "You're a thousand miles from friends and family, resenting my very existence."I just smiled. "If I were worried about that, I wouldn't be here right now."I had the feeling her resolve was weakening when the corner of her mouth turned upward. "You know, the real test isn't me, it's Emmy. She knew Phil, the doctor I told you about, was a loser almost immediately. If you don't make the cut with her..." She just shook her head."So I must win over the princess to have the hand of the queen. It's a little backwards, but I like it. When can I set up my interview?" I said laughing.A sly smile crept across her face. "How long are you here for?""Forever, starting after Christmas. I have to work a full year at RFD or I'll have to pay back the tuition for school. I can be back just after the holidays." I said. "I'm on two weeks' vacation so I don't really need to head back until the end of next week.""I think I have just the thing then. Emily and I often go down to the firehouse on Fridays where they have a fish fry. You can meet my uncle while you're there, he's a fireman too.""That would be fine. What about us?""What about us?" She mimicked, not understanding my question."Would you do me the honor of going out on a date with me?" I asked formally.Her face lit up. "I'd love that. I'll find someone to watch Emmy on Saturday. If Saturday is okay with you.""Saturday will be fine." I said. The grin on my face mirrored hers. Just then I realized that this meeting couldn't have gone any better if I'd planned it this way.Summer looked at her phone to check the time and said she had to go pick up Emily at her mom's and get her home to bed. She insisted on picking up the tab because it was my birthday."We'll make Saturday your real birthday dinner." She winked as she set down the pen."C'mon walk me to my car." She said."Still have the Jeep?""Yup, not many warm days now, so I can't run around topless." She said.I chuckled, and got a punch in the arm before she joined in. She tossed her handbag across to the passenger seat, as I watched her jeans hugging that beautiful backside. I wanted to take things slow, but the overwhelming sensation of everything going so well came over me. When she turned back to face me I took her in my arms and kissed her like I hadn't in years. Our lips met, her arms slipped around my neck pulling me deeper into her as our tongues danced a familiar dance. My hands crept up the back of her pullover, pulling us tighter together."I've been wanting to do that since you walked in the door." I gasped."Pete?" She asked softly."Yea?" I tilted my head, wondering at her questioning tone."Is this..." She stuttered. "I don't..." She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She slipped a hand off my shoulder and reached down between us grabbing the front of my jeans in a soft grip."Is this why your here?" She asked, her eyes bright in the dim light of the street lamp. The look on her face told me that this was a very important question, and nothing short of the truth would be accepted.I reached down between us taking her hand in mine and brought it up and laid it on my chest. "This is why I'm here. It's been empty for over a year, and I want to fill it again."Without moving her hand she leaned in and kissed me again. "Right answer." She whispered."I'll call you tomorrow. Happy birthday." She leaned out and we kissed again.She gave me a little wave as she drove off. I returned it. I just looked down the road for a minute before I drove back to my motel.I woke the next morning squeezing the pillow against my chest tightly. I immediately sat up knowing there was a reason I woke this fast, and the ringer went off again. I dove for my phone to answer it."Good morning sleepy head." Came the soft sweet voice."Good morning sweets." I replied."I'm sorry, I know it's early and you're on vacation, but I wanted to know what you had planned today."I yawned. "Well I was going to go to the city and pick up an application for the fire department for one. I might take a look at what kind of apartments there are around. Get to know the place a little. Why, did you have something in mind?""Well I was wondering if you'd like to come join me for lunch. It'll have to be at the hospital cafeteria. I won't have time to go far. Don't worry the food's not bad." She said with a chuckle."I'd love to." I said, and she gave me directions on how to find her once I got there.I got ready for the day, and headed into the city to get things rolling. I found a realty office that handled rentals, and picked up a business card letting them know what I was looking for and when. I found a small florist shop and stopped in to get Summer some flowers before meeting her for lunch.I made my way into the hospital and up one floor following the signs through the labyrinth of hallways. I pushed through a set of doors into a small ward of a dozen rooms set up in a semi-circle around a large nursing station. I peeked around looking for Summer and didn't see her."Thanks honey, you can set them on the counter there." I heard from behind me. I turned to find a nurse coming from one of the rooms rubbing her hands."What room?" She asked, with a slight drawl in her voice."Christa." I said smiling.The nurses eyes went wide, and her mouth formed a surprised O-shape. "You're him, the guy she's been going on about all morning! Pete, right?"I nodded, grinning bigger. "I certainly hope so.""Just a minute and I'll get her, I think she's down the hall here." She trotted off, more excited than I thought she had reason to be. She returned a couple minutes later saying Summer would be right there after she was done with her patient. A minute later I noticed a head peek out of the room down the hall, but the hair was dark, not Summer's blond mane. I nearly bust out laughing, instead I just winked, turned slightly and leaned on the counter.She slid her hand along my back above my belt. I turned and kissed her without even a hello."Hi! That was mean. Sandy is going to have inappropriate thoughts about you for the rest of the day now." She kissed me again."Don't you know that can spread infection and disease, take that somewhere else." The first nurse said."This stick in the mud is Sam, a complete pain in the ass, and good friend. This is Pete, the friend I told you about." Summer said." Hmm, the hot fireman that rescued your clumsy ass from nearly drowning, you mean." Sam held out her hand. "Don't you make any mistake Pete. You hurt this girl and I'll find you, then nobody will find you. You got that?"I chuckled. "Deal."Summer just rolled her eyes at us both."Come on, let's go spread some germs away from prying eyes." Summer winked at Sam and took my hand leading me down the hallway. She turned before we made it to the main hallway and led me down a side hall. She tapped a code into the door lock and pulled me in flipping on the light. The racks of linens, and supplies lined shelves. She turned and wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled me into her kiss. After a few minutes of oral calisthenics I came up for air."Are you what I'm having for lunch?" I asked, grinning."Just the appetizer, I'm actually kind of hungry for food too." She replied reaching for the front of my jeans."Wow, what happened to dating a while, you know, getting to know each other." I chuckled.We eventually walked into the cafeteria and hopped into line with everyone else, then made our way to a table in the back."Funny thing happened last night after I got home I called a friend of mine who has a daughter in Emily's class, and she invited Emily to a sleep over on Saturday." She said."What a stroke of luck. What did you have to promise her for that?" I grinned."She had some sordid request involving you that I won't even entertain. I told her she'd have to settle for a similar return favor in the future. She threw in that she wanted to meet you. The only way I'll allow that is supervised. You're not safe with her."I laughed aloud, causing a few people to look over at us."You know, I've noticed no shortage of guys around here. What gives?" I asked."Nothing, it's just a matter of quality over quantity." She said giving me a wink. "As I remember it, I was far from the only girl in Maine, though calling myself a girl is a bit of a stretch.""No. There were plenty of girls around, and you shouldn't hesitate at all. After a complete and thorough examination, on more than one occasion, I can verify that you have all the requisite parts to be a girl." I returned her wink."Smart ass." She said."Actually, though nice as it is, that wasn't one of the parts in question." I said, just before getting a swift kick in the shin.The leaves had turned and were falling, the breeze lifting them up in swirls of gold, orange and red. It may be autumn, but it felt like spring to me. This is going to happen, I thought, and my excitement began to build anew. I'm sure that when I stopped for a coffee, the girl behind the counter thought I was crazy because of the silly grin on my face.I found myself killing time the best I could. Before I knew it I was scoping out dinner before I headed back to the motel. I stopped into a little café and had something light. I did a little research online, found a nice place with good reviews and called and made reservations for Saturday. I flipped on the TV and surfed around aimlessly for a while. I must have nodded off because I was startled awake by the room phone. I answered a little groggily."Did I wake you? I'm sorry hon." She said."No no, I just dozed off watching a little TV that's all." I paused, not wanting to ask why she called, because the truth was, I was just glad she had."So." She said drawing it out a bit. "Are you stretched out on that big old bed?" She giggled, and it sounded like she was nervous."Yup, I didn't go off and find another girl after lunch. I did expect to have them throwing themselves at me, but it just didn't happen. Odd huh?"She laughed genuinely at that. "You know how independent and head-strong West Virginia girls can be.""Do I ever. Wild and wonderful, I wouldn't have it any other way." I added quickly."Uh huh." She replied, not buying my bullshit. "What are you watching, some cheesy motel porno?""No! Some cheesy mystery movie.""Don't act like you didn't check it out. I bet you at least looked at the titles."I blushed, and even though she couldn't see, I knew that she was aware of my reaction."What are you wearing?" She said, her voice deep and husky.I paused before replying. "Jeans and a t-shirt. Why?""Take them off." She said.Without thought I reached for my belt. "What are you wearing?" I asked."I was wearing an over-sized t-shirt and a cute blue thong with polka dots.""You were?" I gulped."Uh huh." She said the smile in her voice came through loud and clear."So you're...""As the day I was born." She said cutting me off.I suddenly found myself with an obstacle to getting my boxers off quickly."When I got out of my bath I used this lotion I have, and it smells so nice, and my skin is so soft I can't help but stroke it."I dropped the phone and yanked the t-shirt off, nearly tearing it in the process."What are you stroking?" I asked, flipping off the TV."What would you like me to?" Came her cheeky reply."Start at the top, those cheeks, how I'd love to be kissing my way back to your ear to nibble on it and kiss my way down your neck.""Sounds nice. I absolutely love having my neck kissed."The vision of her naked body lying on rumpled sheets came back to me as if it were yesterday. "I'd take my time working my way along your collarbone and kiss those beautiful freckles on your shoulder.""You're going the wrong way.""Patience." I said. "I'd kiss my way down the faint little tan line, tracing it with the tip of my tongue. Follow along with your fingertips.""Sorry I was getting ahead of you.""I had a feeling. I can't wait until I can take those stiff pink nipples into my mouth again and taste you. They're hard, aren't they.""Hmm.""Pinch them, tug on them like you know I will.""Yes!" She hissed into the phone."Let go, and trace the soft skin down your stomach. Go slowly. I'd tickle my way down your tummy laying a trail of soft kisses down to your little strip.""Oh, it's gone.""Oh? Why did you do that?""Shaving accident. It's not as easy as you'd think to shave a straight line." She giggled."Smooth is nice too. Spread your legs." I said."You think I'm that easy do you?""No, not easy, just horny.""You know me so well." She said."Are you wet?" I asked."Are you hard?" She tossed back."Touché. Slip your finger in, get it good and wet." I replied."You don't know how much I wish it was something else that was getting slipped in.""What would you rather have in there right now?""Your hard cock, which I'm hoping is in your hand right now."She was right, my cock was hard as an iron pipe and I was stroking it slowly."Slip another finger in, imagine I was there to slip my hard cock into you ever so slowly.""Yea." She gasped."Slow down, what's your hurry?" I asked.Her breathing was fast and ragged."Please.""Please what, Summer?""Hurry!" She pleaded."You want me to drive my cock into you hard, filling you up with every stroke? Is that what you want?" I was working my cock quickly, my breath coming in short gasps."Yes, yes, yes!" She said as she began panting.I couldn't hold back any longer myself.I heard Summer say, "Hon are you there?"I shook my head and grabbed the phone. "Sorry I dropped the phone.""Oh, were you busy doing something?" She giggled."I'm going to need a shower now.""Need a hand with that?""Yes please! Would you come over and wash my back?" I asked."I'd love to, but I can't tonight." I heard her sigh."Let me grab a towel, I made a bit of a mess over here." I said. Summer just chuckled.I grabbed the phone again, the question forming in my mind. "Does Emily know that you're going to have company tomorrow night?""Uh huh. I told her my knight in shining armor made a road trip to come see me."I chuckled. "So the same story you told Sam? I'm the fireman who rescued you when you took a spill on the rocks?""If all it takes is a little white lie to protect my reputation then I'll take it." She said."What sort of reputation would you have without it?" I asked."Oh, please. If anybody knew the real story, let's just say it would be unpleasant. Besides you did come to my rescue, even if you didn't have the uniform yet.""I can go along with that. So do I get any info about my interview tomorrow? You know, what she likes, interests, hobbies, what to expect."Summer laughed. "Nope. I want first impressions from both of you. Come to the house around 5 and we'll go from here.""Okay sweets, get some sleep. I love you." I said.,"Goodnight hon, and I love you more." She said hanging up quickly, getting the last word.A night out on the town.The next morning I grabbed breakfast at a local coffee shop, and called home. Mom asked how things were going, and I said that they were going better than expected and I'd catch her up when I got back. I didn't tell her any more than that, but it was the complete truth. I still couldn't believe that things had gone so well.I looked into some after dinner entertainment four my date with Summer on Saturday, and realized I didn't have anything appropriate to wear. I decided to go shopping and find something worthy of a night to remember.I was in town and not far from the hospital from what I could tell so I gave Summer a call and asked if she wanted to have lunch again. I walked into the wing where she worked and leaned against the nurse's station looking up and down each hall to see if I could spot her. A woman behind a short partition looked up hearing me moving around."Hi. Can I help you?" She asked."I'm looking for Christa." I said."Oh, you must be Pete." She stood and walked over to the counter holding out her hand. "I'm Joan. She mentioned you'd be by.""I was hoping to sneak her away for a few minutes for lunch." I smiled."It's going to probably be another fifteen before she'll be able to. I have to wait for one of the other nurses to come back before I can release her into your care." She smiled."Okay well I can just grab a coffee in the cafeteria for a few to keep out of the way. Thanks." I said and turned to walk down the hallway and saw her in a room through a crack in the door. She was bent over a patient talking to them with a smile on her face. I looked at my watch and headed to the cafeteria to wait.I watched the coming and going of people through the windows for a while when I felt arms wrap around my neck and hands cover my eyes."Guess who?" She asked."Bob, is that you? Your hands are so soft." I replied.She buried her face in my hair and gave me a kiss on the top of the head before pulling my head back against her chest."Does Bob have these?" She said softly, and gave a subtle rub of her chest against my head."Well he has put on some weight so yea I'm guessing he does."She bent down and kissed my cheek. "Come on you clown, I'm hungry."I stood wrapping my arms around her waist and drew her tight against me giving her a long kiss. "Me too, but I'll have to settle for food."Her eyes flashed at me and her grin widened. "For now." Her cheeks turned pink at the sound of several muffled giggles. "Come on let's eat before you get me in trouble for sexually harassing a visitor.""I won't be the one filing a complaint. In fact I was just wondering in a place this size how many available beds there might be." I said, as I walked with her to the line. We settled in at the table and Summer attacked the giant salad she had in front of her."So no hints, nothing to go on tonight? I'm kind of nervous." I said."That's normal, weren't you nervous when you interviewed for your job at the fire department?""No, not really. It was more like signing up for a class than a job interview. He asked me some questions, I asked him a few, and before I knew it he was shaking my hand and welcoming me aboard.""It's not going to be like that, I assure you. She's pretty much your standard 12 year old girl." Summer just froze, the fork half way to her mouth and looked at me."What?" I asked worried."I just did the math." She looked around to see who was within earshot. "You're closer to her age than mine." She set down her fork and looked out the window for a minute.I reached out and took her hand. "Don't let it bother you. It sure as hell doesn't bother me."She snorted. "You'll still be in your twenties when I'm forty.""Don't worry, I'm a firefighter. I can put the candles out before the house burns down." I chuckled. Summer tried hard to look unamused and failed."I can imagine the news now. 'Aging spinster in torrid affair with young stud, more at 11.' My friends are going to think I'm trying to recapture lost youth. Let alone what my family...""Stop." I said sharply but softly. "You're worried about ten years from now more than you're worried about ten hours from now. Relax, there are only three people that have any input in this, and two of them are right here. I'm going to be interviewed by the other in just a few short hours."Summer looked at me seriously for a moment then burst out laughing."What?" I asked."The look on your face. You'd think you were facing a firing squad at sundown. I can assure you that you have nothing to worry about."We finished and Summer had to rush to get back, she tugged me along back as far as the nurses station. She turned and looked at me for a moment then gave me a quick wink."So you'll meet us at the house around 5? We can just take one car that way."I nodded. "Sounds good. I'll see you then."I began to lean in for a quick kiss when Summer snaked her arm around my neck and practically gave me a tonsillectomy with her tongue.I just chuckled and smiled, and let her get back to work.I spent a little time wandering around downtown window shopping before I went back to the motel. I took a little time to reflect on everything that had happened in just a few short days, and I realized I couldn't be luckier if I won the lottery. My only hurdle left is tonight. How would Emily see me, as someone invading their lives, as someone trying to fill her dad's shoes. I let out a sigh and decided that the best thing I could do is to set all of that aside and get to know her and let the chips fall where they may. Summer didn't seem overly concerned. Why should I?I grabbed a quick shower, dressed and grabbed my jacket before I headed up to Summer's house in the hills.To be continued in part 5, by Member389 for Literotica

In this episode of Radical Radiance, we're diving into a much-needed conversation around the practice of turning from hurry to rest—inspired by Chapter 8 of my new book You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up World.Joining me is the one and only Annie F. Downs—author, speaker, and podcast host—who knows a thing or two about building a life around intentional rhythms of rest. Together, we explore how to resist the constant pressure to hustle, why rest is a spiritual discipline, and how learning to slow down is so transformative.Whether you're a go-getter girl struggling to catch your breath or a dreamer trying to trust God's timing, this episode will offer you practical encouragement to step out of the rat race and into real, restorative rest with Jesus.Where did TJ Go on AmazonAnnie F. Downs WebsiteYou're Not Too Late on AmazonSponsors:Christian Standard Bible: Ready to go deeper in your Bible study? Discover the brand-new Church History Handbook—the latest addition to the elegant Holman Handbook Series from Christian Standard Bible!This stunning, full-color series includes the Old Testament Handbook, New Testament Handbook, and now the Church History Handbook—each packed with charts, maps, word studies, illustrations, and rich biblical insights.Crafted with premium cloth covers and sewn binding, they're built to last a lifetime—and look beautiful on any coffee table.Start your deeper study today by CLICKING HERE!Previnex: One of the best changes I've made to my morning routine lately is a simple one—but it's been a game-changer. After my workouts, I've been making a shake with Previnex's Nourify Plus Protein Powder (I love the vanilla!) and their Gut & Green Superfoods, and y'all…it's so good. Not only does it taste great, but it actually keeps me full for hours and has made a huge difference in my recovery. I used to feel sluggish or sore longer after a tough workout, but now I'm bouncing back faster—and I know it's because I'm giving my body the fuel it actually needs.Nourify Plus is clean, plant-based, and packed with everything your body craves after a workout—plus it's super clean and free of all the weird stuff you don't want. If you want to give it a try, which I definitely encourage you to do, head to the link in the show notes and use the code REBECCA15 for 15% off your first order by CLICKING HERE!

Hurry up so you can wait. Those two things seem to go hand these days so instead of getting undone, we simply remind ourselves that waiting time isn't wasted time. But it takes patience and perseverance to wait well. Today, we have suggestions to help you stay hopeful and kind during the MEAN time! Psalms 130:5

We made it y'all! This is the Season 3 finale of Wrestling With Life, and wow—what a ride it's been. This season was all about stepping boldly in faith, chasing those God-sized dreams, and trusting Him even when the path felt totally unclear. I got to sit down with some of the most inspiring, faith-filled humans right here in my hometown of Wilmington, NC. We talked about building businesses from scratch, walking through the unknown, and leaning on Jesus through it all. God's hand has been all over these conversations. I'm just in awe of how He shows up when we choose to trust Him and say yes. We're closing out this series with one last solo episode talking about: Why more money won't actually make you happier How releasing a mindset of lack and stepping into gratitude opens up opportunities The way God has provided in my business in the first 3 months If you've been rocking with me all season—thank you. And if this is your first episode, you picked a good one. Thanks to all of the amazing guests who made this season possible! Let's wrap this thing up together and celebrate what He's done.

How do you do Sabbath Rest? Do you have a routine of silence, or do you attend church service or not acknowledge the day at all. According to Gen 2:2 God rested from all of His work and revealed the fourth commandment in Exo 20:8. In this episode we also explore some practical ways to build Sabbath rest into our Soul care practice with a moment of silence with instrumentals inspired by song Not in a Hurry by Will Reagan. Hear the entire song here:Not in a Hurry • Will Reagan, United PursuitTo schedule an espresso coaching call with me see link below or email me at hasessions12@gmail.com.calendly.com/hasessions12/introAlso tune in to the bonus content in the next episode.**Disclaimer: Please seek the medical advice of your general healthcare practitioner before making any changes to your diet or health regimen. The statements made on this show do not represent the opinions of the platform host and are not meant to substitute for medical advice from your general health practitioner to treat, diagnose, or cure any health conditions. ************************************************

What's your stress language—and how is it secretly shaping your thoughts, reactions, and health? In this transformative episode of The Dr. Leaf Show, Dr. Caroline Leaf breaks down the six main “stress languages”—the hidden emotional patterns that kick in when life gets overwhelming: the Fighter, Freezer, Fixer, Fleer, Suppressor, and Pleaser.Unlike love languages, stress languages reveal how your brain and body respond to pressure, conflict, and fear. Are you shutting down? Fixing everyone's problems but your own? Or smiling while silently screaming inside?Dr. Leaf explains the neuroscience behind stress, how to tell the difference between positive and toxic stress, and how to retrain your brain using the proven 5-step Neurocycle method. You'll walk away with powerful insights and practical tools to decode your own stress responses—and reclaim peace and clarity in the middle of chaos.✨ BONUS: Pre-order Dr. Leaf's new book Help in a Hurry at www.helpinahurrybook.com to unlock exclusive content and free 1:1 coaching opportunities!SPONSORS MAKING THIS SHOW POSSIBLE:Fay Nutrition: Having a personalized nutritionist used to cost big bucks, but not anymore with Fay. Listeners of The Dr. Leaf Show can qualify to see a registered dietitian for as little as $0 by visiting FayNutrition.com/DRLEAF. BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough: Nourish your brain and body with Magnesium Breakthrough now. For an exclusive offer go to bioptimizers.com/drleaf and use promo code DRLEAF10 during checkout to save 10%.

With our heroes Threadcount (Christopher Hastings), Mitzi (Ali Fisher), and Vestavia (Carly Monardo) trapped by Dr. Genesis (née Aldo Nintendo) and his army of Mootants, do they have any chance of stopping him and returning to their future? Choices made. Lives lost. Rollerskate bellies activated.To hear the rest of this episode, and all of our bonus content, Join our Patreon now for tons more stuff! PATREON IS NOW THE ONLY PLACE TO HEAR NEW THESE THOSE EPISODES. You can go listen to all of them now! Go! Hurry! It's only five bucks. Follow us on twitter, but only if you like pleasure, at @ohthesethose and on bluesky at @starsofspace.bsky.social‬Oh These, Those Stars of Space is powered by Lasers & Feelings, the perfect ttrpg, by the brilliant John HarperThe Oh These, Those Stars of Space Theme was created, arranged, and composed by Huge Today. We like it too! Thank you for saying that!.Additional music and sound design from the great Michael Ghelfi. Find his work on YouTube, and support that good stuff on Patreon. 

Are you constantly racing the clock — stressed, scattered, and stuck in your head with a million “what ifs”?Been there. Still catch myself there sometimes.In this solo episode on The Happy Hustle Podcast, I'm talking about the two biggest silent killers of success: HURRY and WORRY — and how to beat 'em both.I'm talkin' real, simple tactics that'll help you slow down, breathe deeper, and actually enjoy the journey WHILE building your dream life.Here's a quick sneak peek of what I covered:Power Hour Time BlocksProductivity ≠ busyness. You need focus. I block 90-minute “Power Hours” for deep work: phone on airplane mode, distractions gone, binaural beats flowing through my Neurable headphones (seriously, game-changer—these headphones even track brain focus and give biofeedback).Can't commit 90 minutes? Use tools like ​Pomofocus.io​ or Focus Keeper. Even 25 minutes of distraction-free hustle can move the needle more than 3 hours of scattered multitasking.Daily Digital DetoxUnplug to plug in. One of the 10 Alignments in my S.O.U.L.M.A.P.P.I.N system is unplugging digitally. I aim for tech-free Sundays (though, real talk, not perfect), but I always try to keep the first 30 and last 30 minutes of the day sacred—no phone, no scrolling, no noise.Try it. Sip your coffee in silence. Journal. Pray. Let your brain reboot.The 3x3x3 Morning Gratitude ResetBefore you scroll or stress, write down:3 things you're grateful for3 people you're grateful for3 wins from the day beforeSimple structure. Big shift. You'll start the day rooted in abundance, not anxiety. My latest: Grateful for my wife, son, and Montana breeze. Wins? A killer podcast episode, 2 new Happy Hustlers, and progress on our SaaS platform.The Worry DumpGrab a journal or Notes app and dump your worry. Write down:What you're worried aboutWhat's actually in your controlThe next micro action you can takeWorried about money? You can't control the economy, but you can record a reel, pitch 10 clients, or email your list. Turn anxiety into action.Flip the ScriptYour mindset is the magic. When I started building our SaaS company, my inner voice said: What if it flops? But I flipped it: What if it changes the freakin' world?Choose to turn fear into fuel. Change “what if I fail?” to “what if I fly?”Action Beats AnxietyMicro actions reduce overwhelm. Let's say your podcast downloads are low. Instead of spiraling, take one step: film a short video, email a fan, post a quote. Small steps, big momentum. Rinse and repeat.These aren't fluffy feel-good ideas — they're legit game-changers I use in my own biz and life to hustle with purpose, not panic.So if you're tired of feeling overwhelmed, on edge, and out of alignment.Go listen to the episode now and steal the exact 6 tactics I use to Happy Hustle, not hectic.Connect with Cary!https://www.instagram.com/caryjack/https://www.facebook.com/SirCaryJackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-jack-kendzior/https://twitter.com/thehappyhustlehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDNsD59tLxv2JfEuSsNMOQ/featured Get a free copy of his new book, The Happy Hustle, 10 Alignments to Avoid Burnout & Achieve Blissful Balance https://www.thehappyhustle.com/bookSign up for The Journey: 10 Days To Become a Happy Hustler Online Coursehttps://thehappyhustle.com/thejourney/Apply to the Montana Mastermind Epic Camping Adventurehttps://thehappyhustle.com/mastermind/“It's time to Happy Hustle, a blissfully balanced life you love, full of passion, purpose, and positive impact!”Episode Sponsors: If you're feeling stressed, not sleeping great, or your energy's been kinda meh lately—let me put you on to something that's been a total game-changer for me: Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers. This ain't your average magnesium—it's got all 7 essential forms that your body actually needs to chill out, sleep deeper, and feel more balanced. I take it every night and legit notice the difference the next day. No more waking up groggy or tossing and turning all nightIf you're ready to sleep like a baby, calm your nervous system, and optimize your recovery, go grab yours now at bioptimizers.com/happy and use code HAPPY10 for 10% OFF.99 Designs- Need a killer logo, stunning website, or next-level brand design?Stop DIY-ing and start delegating like a boss with 99designs by Vista! Neurable- If you're looking to level up your focus, productivity, and mental wellbeing all at once, do yourself a favor and check out Neurable. You get a special hookup—just use the code HAPPY at checkout and get $100 off.

On the latest episode of the CavsCorner Podcast, we talk about Virginia football's continued work on the transfer portal front, where more additions (and one subtraction) have come (and gone). Then we'll move to hoops and discuss the latest for the Wahoos on the hardwood and why some fans continue to come to terms with all that's happening.   Credits: Brad Franklin (@Cavs_Corner) David Spence (@HooDaves) Justin Ferber (@Justin_Ferber)   Visit CavsCorner now!   SIGN UP TODAY and check out our message board to talk with hundreds of fellow Wahoo fans about all things UVa sports!

When it comes to raising a family, American Robins have got it down. Approximately eight days after the male and female mate, the female builds the nest.  A few days later, she lays eggs. She sits on the eggs for 18 hours a day, and the eggs hatch in about three weeks. Both parents feed the nestlings until they fledge, then Mom and Dad feed them for another three weeks, until the kids are on their own. Whew! Time for a break, right? Not a chance. Most robins raise two sets of young each season, and sometimes a third.This show brought to you by The Bobolink Foundation.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org.Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible.

Are you tired and craving a moment of peace? Join Holley to take a deep breath and receive the invitation of Jesus to rest and remember how much you're loved. ResourcesFind Your Purpose in this Season, new course by Holley Gerth

As we take a break from our regular devo series, we are offering a trip into archives and sharing a collection of some of our most meaningful messages designed to encourage and guide you in your daily devotion with Jesus. So, feel free to engage in a way that speaks to you whether through journaling, prayer, or sharing with a friend. Join in and keep growing!

Matt and Dr. Eti Ben Simone are back again today to answer even more of your brilliant sleep questions! They begin by discussing smartphones, noting that the direct EMF impact on brainwaves is debatable, but that psychological activation and blue light are known disruptors. Moving onto naps, Matt explains longer ones can cause "sleep inertia," while short naps (20 mins) can be beneficial, unless insomnia is present.They then examine the full moon's debated effect on sleep, and how it is possibly obscured by modern lighting. Sleep paralysis is then explained as consciousness returning before REM sleep's muscle atonia ends, while "hypnic jerks" (jolts while falling asleep) are described as the brain misinterpreting muscle relaxation as falling. Finally, they explain that waking with an "earworm" is linked to memory consolidation and active music-processing brain areas during REM sleep.Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.Tired of untrustworthy protein shakes? Show sponsor Puori prioritizes quality: hormone-free, GMO-free, and pesticide-free. Every batch is third-party tested for 200+ contaminants - you can even scan the QR code for lab results! Matt recommends the addictive dark chocolate flavor with 21g of protein. Ready to experience the Puori difference? Matt's listeners get 20% off, so visit puori.com/mattwalker today!Matt's good friend Dr. Peter Attia has helped develop David, a revolutionary new protein bar, and a sponsor of today's episode! 28g of protein, 0g sugar, only 150 calories – the best ratio EVER! Amazing taste, six flavors, incredibly satiating, and a great source of the protein that helps build muscle, manage metabolic health, and keep you full. Visit davidprotein.com/mattwalker now for an amazing deal: Buy 4 cartons, and get a 5th FREE! . Hurry! Your new favorite protein bar awaits!Having personally used and purchased AG1 for over four years, Matt encourages you to try the new AG1 Next Gen formula with upgraded probiotics plus additional vitamins and minerals. Backed by 4 human clinical trials demonstrating a boost in healthy gut bacteria, AG1 continuously adapts to the latest science. Subscribe today and receive a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 welcome kit, and 5 upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order. Visit drinkag1.com/mattwalker to learn more and get started on your health journey.As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you'd like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti:Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/,  or email at etoosh@gmail.com

➤ FOLLOW OUR NEW YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@AlmostSeriousTV ➤ DESCRIPTION: Sometimes, you have to wonder - are James Lindsay and Jordan Peterson being completely serious? Is anyone falling for the damage control tactics anymore? Possibly - but the decline of The Daily Wire might indicate otherwise. Also - more violence against White people continues on, and as sad as it may be, one has to wonder: what can be done about it, and who will be the one brave enough to call it out? Auspill and Rift TV journalist Sarah Stock join us for a special episode of NIGHTLY OFFENSIVE on RIFT TV!__⇩ SHOW SPONSORS⇩➤ VAN MAN COMPANY: Vanman Co. is the go-to source for all-natural, non-toxic and chemical free products — from creams to deodorant, soap and mouthwash, Vanman Co. is one of the only companies to deliver on quality without cutting corners when it comes to your health and well-being. Go to https://www.vanman.shop/elijah and use promocode ELIJAH for 10% OFF!➤ MYPILLOW: Mike Lindell and the MyPillow team are grateful for your continued support and are offering a special deal on their Giza Dreams and Percale bed sheets, originally intended for box stores this spring. After the stores backed out, MyPillow is passing the savings directly to you with wholesale prices: Giza Dream Queen size sheets are now $69.99 (down from $139.98) and King size $79.99, while Percale Queen size sheets are $29.98 (down from $89.98) and King size $34.98. To take advantage of these offers, visit https://www.MyPillow.com, scroll to the radio/podcast square, and use promo code ELIJAH, or call 800-210-8491 for free shipping options. Hurry, as this limited allotment won't last long—once they're gone, they're gone!➤ NUTRONICS LABS: USE PROMOCODE: ELIJAH | https://www.tboostnow.com ➤ 1775 Coffee: https://www.1775coffee.com/RIFT ➤ SPORT DRINK: https://sport-drink.com/?ref=elijah ➤ Locals: https://www.elijahschaffer.locals.com ___⇩ELIJAH'S SOCIAL MEDIA ⇩➤ X: https://X.com/ElijahSchaffer ➤ RUMBLE: https://rumble.com/c/SlightlyOffensive ➤ INSTA: https://www.instagram.com/slightlyoffensive.tv ➤ TELEGRAM https://t.me/SlightlyOffensive ➤ GAB: https://gab.com/elijahschaffer ___⇩ FOLLOW AUSPILL ⇩➤ X: https://x.com/aus_pill ___⇩ FOLLOW SARAH STOCK ⇩➤ X: https://x.com/sarahcstock ➤ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sarah.stock.politics/➤BOOKINGS + BUSINESS INQUIRIES: MIKE@SLIGHTLYOFFENSIVE.COMSupport the show