Podcasts about inhaling

A Holiday Haunting: Part 3 Jack, Erin and Lucy deal with the final complication; Based on a post by zeon 67. Listen to the ► Podcast at Explicit Novels. Jack visits the Franklin Home. Jack opened his eyes. He was instantly wide awake. It didn't take him long to realize that Jack was somewhere else, definitely not his bedroom. He was in his living room; yeah, it had to be. The room had the same shape, but there were no lights, electronics or anything modern. Ornate wood and gold-framed paintings filled the walls. The room felt smaller, but Jack noticed a massive fireplace that must have been removed before his parents bought the house. He had to be in 1898. It was the only thing that made sense. An older man walked into the room, but he didn't notice Jack sitting on the chair. Again, Jack was quick to understand; he was the ghost this time around. He couldn't touch anything, but could sit and stand, like Erin after the s ance. Looking down, he found himself wearing the same clothes before the ritual. The older man looked like he was in his sixties, overweight and balding salt and pepper hair. He reminded Jack of a railroad baron in old westerns. He had these large sideburns that went down to his chin. Jack couldn't help but stare at him. He guessed that the man was Jedediah Franklin. He poured himself a glass of whiskey and stood next to the fire. Jack could hear him speaking to himself but couldn't make out what he was saying. They were soon joined by another. A woman, in her sixties, walked into the room. Stone-faced and with grey eyes, she looked miserable. She was wearing this dark blue, nearly black ruffled dress that had this deep, sweeping skirt. If the man was Jedediah Franklin, she had to be Alice Franklin. She joined her husband at the fire and said, "Where is Robert?" "In the library," he answered. "And that jezebel?" "Fixing herself supper." "She cannot stay. She talks about marriage." "We cannot just force her out," Jedediah Franklin said, staring at the fire. "What? Let her marry your only son?" He turned and glared at his wife, "You think I would allow that Irish fucking whore to be part of this family? No, she must be silenced. She cannot speak to anyone about this." Alice Franklin slowly smiled and said, "Then we are at agreement. But it must be tonight." They both nodded and turned to watch the fire. Jedediah Franklin snaked an arm around his wife's waist while she rested her head on his shoulder. It would have looked like a heartwarming moment, but they were planning a murder, and it just pissed off Jack even more. The way they talked about death, so casual and just to avoid a minor scandal, disgusted Jack. Needed to get away, Jack caught Erin walking past in the hallway. He ran after her, following her into the kitchen. "Erin? Erin?" He said, standing in front of her. She didn't respond. It wasn't the Erin he knew. She had her hair tied in a bun, her face disinterested and a little tired. She slowly washed the dishes, staring dead-eyed at the water. Jack then followed her as she went about with her chores. He had called out for Erin, his Erin, but only got silence. Going back to the alive-Erin, Jack got it. He needed to see her die, to understand what happened to her. It made sense to him. A younger man, looking like a mix of Jedediah Franklin and weirdly enough for Jack, himself. Robert. Dressed in a black three-piece suit, he didn't have his father's impressive muttonchops but a simple beard. Jack watched him stare at Erin, taking in her every movement as she did her chores. Erin was putting away a jar, leaning up to place it in a cabinet when Robert approached her. He quickly trapped her in the corner of the room. He smiled and said, "Erin." She jolted, nearly dropping the jar. Erin then turned and clutched her chest. "Oh Robert, you frightened me." "I have to see you tonight." Robert stroked her cheek and grinned. "In the attic?" "Your mother and father?" "Please," he replied. Erin nodded. Lucy's Post Coital. Lucy shook awake. She was on Jack's bed, naked and warm. Her hand slithered down her nude body, liking how it felt, stopping at her crotch. A big dirty smile appeared on her face as Lucy slid her hand between her legs. Jack's cum dripped out, coating her fingers and her thighs. The guy knew how to fuck; she'd give him that. It was a hot show. But Lucy turned her head and realized that she was alone. No Jack. No Erin. She jumped off the bed and yelled their names. It was getting close to two in the morning. Lucy ran to Jack's bathroom and cleaned herself up, she usually would take her time with post-sex cleanup, but she rushed through it. Lucy then emptied out her overnight bag and quickly got dressed. Opening the grimoire, she tried to find clues on what had happened. Sex magic and resurrecting the dead don't make people disappear. Frantically flipping through the pages, this was not supposed to happen. Lucy could feel her heart thumping, and her hands were trembling, where did she send Erin and Jack. She then heard a thud from downstairs, and Lucy stopped. This was getting weird. Jack's parents, she realized. Fuck, if they were awake, she will be in a lot of trouble. "Shit! Shit! Shit!" Lucy yelled to herself and ran out of the room. An Attic Nightmere. Jack had followed Robert upstairs to the attic. He struggled to see how the space would be turned into his bedroom. A massive trunk, a decrepit dollhouse and an ancient full-length mirror covered in rust were the only things that filled the space. It looked more like a scene from a clich d horror movie. While Robert waited on Erin, Jack circled around him. He had this vibe that Jack really hated. Like he was some entitled frat boy. Jack had read about him, failed business ventures, multiple marriages, some for money. Robert finally lost it all in 1929 and disappeared from public record. They both turned, hearing someone coming up. Erin was carrying a lantern as she walked to Robert, a big smile on her face. This wasn't going to be pretty, Jack said to himself. "Robert," she said, resting the lantern on the trunk. Erin then gave him a long hug, wrapping her arms around him. Robert just kept his arms by his sides and looked away. Jack sighed, knowing that there was no point in getting angry. She then kissed him and said, "I'm so sorry. I was a fool and the drink got on me." "It is fine, my darling." Robert then rested his hand on her stomach. "Are you?" "No. I am not with child." Erin glanced at this hand and then back up, hopeful. "I want to be; with you." "I wish that as well. But soon. I; we have dealings that need to be cleared. But I wish it too. And when these deals;" Jack couldn't watch Robert struggle to pacify Erin with vague words anymore. He saw something move behind Erin. There was someone else. The figure then struck Erin in the back of the head. It took a step closer, Jedediah Franklin with a fireplace poker in his hands. Erin was on the floor, bleeding but still alive. Her eyes focused on Robert, and she called out his name. The elder Franklin aimed the poker and swung for the final blow. He had to look away. Jack couldn't watch her die; it was too much. But there Erin stood, alongside Jack; her hair undone and flowing and looking at him. Her apron was gone, and she had undone the first two buttons of her shirt like before. Her face dropping and she raised a hand, blocking her view of her own dead body. "I always hated this moment. Watching my body handled like meat," Erin said. Her tone was more of annoyance and disgust than sadness. "I'm so sorry." Erin took his hand and held it close to her. "There's nothing you could've done. This is where I was, whenever I wasn't with you. Seeing my death over and over." "Was that why you didn't want to believe in the ritual?" "Somewhat. While I couldn't touch anything, and possibly be treated as some curiosity. I would have taken being a specter than watch this again." Alice Franklin had joined them in the attic. She held on to the lantern as Jedediah and Robert lifted Erin's dead body, directing them down the stairs. Jack visibly winced as he heard the Franklins mock Erin and ask if someone should have done the last rites. "There is something that I must tell you," Erin said, taking a step closer. Their faces inches apart. "When Patrick died, he lost all our money in a card game. I was told that I've become too old to marry and I should just work. The Franklins gave me a job and I felt that was it. Then I met Robert. I felt my life had begun again." Erin gave a faint smile and carried on, "We courted for a few months, until he took me while his mother and father were in New York. Weeks passed and I thought that I was with child. I told him and he choked me." "I knew that I picked the wrong man. But still believed that I could be something more than a maid through him. That he could take me away from a bucket. Now I have you. You make me hopeful. What I want to say is that I love you. I know I am this spirit and; Jack interrupted her and said, "I love you too." He grinned. They kissed again. Erin wrapped her arm around his neck, pushing herself against his chest. She parted her lips and moaned, welcoming Jack's invading tongue. He had his hand resting on the small of her back, not letting her go, and their tongues twirled. Erin then broke their embrace. Her lips turned into a smirk; she had a dirty idea. "Let's leave. I hated this room. Well, until it was changed." She then took him downstairs. Both were soon running and laughing. Erin pulled him into the master bedroom and pushed him onto the bed. This room would later belong to Jack's parents. Thankfully for him and his erection, the room was completely different in 1898. A lot of heavy furniture, with drapes everywhere and a parquet floor. He was lying on the bed, a four-poster bed that was made out of solid wood, while the mattress was very soft and lumpy. Erin crawled and laid next to him. She quickly got on top of him and stared into his eyes, a small smile forming on her face. She pressed her lips to his, swiftly parting them and sliding her tongue out. The tips of their tongues met again, snaking over each other as their bodies grinded. They tore through their clothing, ignoring any damage as they got nude, Erin especially not caring at the state of her ripped uniform. She wished to never see it again. Jack kissed down her neck and reached her milky, perky tits. He instantly attacked them with his mouth, giving both nipples considerable attention. Erin's breathing was becoming more rapid; a deep, warm glow rippled from her crotch. She pulled Jack up, her eyes drifted down, focusing on his powerful erection. It was making her mouth water. She wanted another taste. Her delicate, soft fingers wrapped around his heavy shaft, and she looked back at Jack. Smirking at him. Just like minutes, hours or maybe days before, Erin kneeled in front of Jack's cock. She had no explanation for why he was here, in purgatory with her, but if this was to be the end, she really wanted one more taste of his cock. She made him groan as she brushed her lips against his swollen head. Erin parted her lips, ready to suck on his tip, but stopped. She looked up at Jack; he had this kind look, his eyes dilated, and he just smiled back at her. Erin could feel herself glow, and she went back to his cock, carefully guiding the head to her waiting mouth. She was scared for a moment, missing Lucy's guiding voice. But soon, Erin's cravings took over and she slurped on his tip, swirling her tongue around it. Erin then wrapped her fingers around the shaft, looked Jack in the eye, slowly bobbing her head up and down. It was easier this time. Erin felt more confident in swallowing his cock. She scooted forward, her perky tits pressing on his balls as she took in another inch of his cock. "Oh, god. Erin," Jack said, stunned. He couldn't believe the change in Erin. She was swallowing more and more of his cock with complete ease. But they both stopped and looked up; they had a visitor. Alice Franklin walked around the bed, going to the dresser, totally ignoring them as she searched the drawers. Jack pulled his focus away from her to Erin; she looked as confused as he was. She released his cock from her lips but slowly stroked it as she stared at Mrs. Franklin. Seconds passed, but there was no reaction from the older woman. Jack waved at her and even Erin called her name, addressing her formally as she used to do. But Mrs. Franklin didn't respond. She didn't just ignore them; to them, it felt like couldn't see them at all. Jack stroked Erin's chin and pointed to his cock. Erin grinned and lowered her mouth down, sensually kissing the tip. She then ran her tongue up and down the underside of his shaft before swallowing the head. Jack moaned again. Erin firmly sucked on the head, slurping on it as her hand worked the shaft. She had her eyes on him, watching Jack's contorted face. He loved it. Erin now hunched over Jack's cock, ready to take more of it. She took him deeper and deeper, his head grazing the back of her throat. She remembered Lucy's advice, taking it slow and breathe. Erin didn't gag, her throat stretched out and eagerly taking his full length. "Erin! Fuck. That feels so good." Erin was ecstatic hearing those words and moaned on his cock. She had her lips pressed against his crotch, completely buried and held him there till her eyes started to water. Slowly, Erin pulled back and wrapped her hand around his wet, drool-covered shaft, pumping her fist as she sucked on Jack's throbbing tip. With her eyes locked on his, Erin bobbed her head on his cock. She pulled her hand back and forced the rigid pole into her throat again. Jack grunted in appreciation, shuddering as he felt her tongue. He reached out, brushing strands of her auburn hair away from her face. He couldn't believe it, a teenage crush that he was now in love with, enthusiastically sucking on his cock. With his other hand, Jack grasped her perky tits, squeezing the flesh to her delight. Alice Franklin returned to the room, joined by Jedediah. But both Jack and Erin didn't care. She stayed focus on his cock, moaning on his shaft as she felt Jack pinch and pull her nipples. She actually wished the Franklins could see her, sucking a penis in their bed. "Oh god, Erin. I'm going to cum soon if you keep that up." Erin as tasted his precum, she remembered Lucy showing her videos of women swallowing men's semen. Seeing those women and recalling when she caught Lucy and Jack together, she was intrigued. She pondered the taste and how it would feel. She pulled his cock out of her mouth, beads of spit dripping down the corner of her lips. Erin narrowed her eyes and said, "I want to taste your cum, Jack." Erin then stuffed his cock back in her mouth. She frantically bobbed her head while pumping her fist along his veiny shaft. She would stop for a moment, swirling her tongue over the sore head, then going back to thrusting her mouth up and down. Erin knew that Jack was close; he was grunting and shaking, his cock wildly twitching in her mouth. "Oh, Erin. Fuck;" Jack clenched his fists, wanting to grab something as he released a torrid of cum in Erin's open mouth. Her eyes widened, but she kept on stroking his cock, filling the back of her throat with more jizz. They both groaned as more spurts erupted, hitting Erin in the lips and chin. Whatever magic that brought him here had an effect on his penis; he'd never cum that much. One more release, and Jack was done, collapsing on the bed. Erin raised her head, looking at him and swallowed his load. It tasted salty and unusual, but still, she craved more. Erin ran her fingers over her chin and lips, scooping up blobs of his jizz before sticking her finger in her mouth. She wanted to try that again. Jack pulled her up and gently kissed her on the lips. As Erin parted her lips and allowed his tongue to invade her mouth, Jack wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close to him. She pressed her tits against his chest as their tongues dueled. Jack slid his hand down, feeling up Erin's toned ass. "That was perfect," Jack said, now kissing down her neck. "Thank; Oh," Erin replied, Jack's already erect cock. "You feel passionate," she said, stroking his cock, "We should try again? Dog-style?" Jack grinned and said, "You mean doggy-style?" "Okay," Erin laughed. Jack smirked back at her, she's so cute. He then slowly pushed Erin down, getting on top of her. His cock was already incredibly hard, painfully hard, rubbing against her thigh. He had never recovered this quickly after cumming. Jack just chalked it up to the sex magic. He broke their kiss and sat up. Reaching behind him, Jack grabbed a couple of pillows; both were very soft and lumpy. How did people in the nineteenth century sleep? Erin then gave him instant command of her body and Jack shifted her, so she was on her hands and knees. She looked over her shoulder and smirked back at him. He leaned over, quickly kissed her and said, "This is doggy-style." Jack then wedged the pillows under her stomach. Now staring at her tight, pert ass, Jack could swear that his cock grew another inch. He slipped his fingers between Erin's thighs, amazed at how wet she felt. Erin moaned as Jack teased her, slipping a finger deep past her lips. He added another one, sliding them further pass her moist folds. Over the sounds of her whimpers, Jack slowly thrust his fingers. He then grabbed hold of his cock and positioned his tip at the entrance of her pussy. Erin groaned as she felt the bulb of his cock rub up against her swollen pussy lips. Inhaling, Jack slid his cock into her cunt in one long, slow push. Erin grunted and moaned as she felt Jack's hard cock invade her pussy again. "Oh, yes; Jack!" Erin threw her head back and moaned in appreciation. Remembering how tight she felt around his cock, Jack left his cock deep inside her for a while. The tightening of her cunt caressed his cock, making him shake with delight. There was a mirror in front of them; there were several around them, and Erin nodded her head. She wanted more. Jack pulled his cock out till just his pulsating head was being clutched by her pussy. He then gently thrust it back in, getting another moan from Erin. "More," Erin yelled. Nodding his head, Jack grabbed her soft tits. He tugged on her nipples, while picking up the pace of his strokes. Erin let out another cry, sounding like she wanted it faster. It didn't take her long to push her ass back, meeting every one of Jack's powerful thrusts. Her pussy tightened around his shaft, giving him an indescribable feeling as he fucked harder and faster. Erin was now trembling and shaking. She would let out a short yelp after each hard thrust. Then someone else entered the room, Robert. He must have been back after staging her accident. The hatred she had for him, her love for Jack, and the lush sensation of his cock, fueled another orgasm for the night. "Oh yes; Oh yes; Oh Lord yes!" Erin cried out in a high-pitch tone. Jack drove his rampant cock all the way into her, over and over again, just as fast as she wanted. She was breathless and quivering; her body was on fire, never been filled like this before. Jack held her tightly, ignoring her cries, and rammed his raging cock. She was getting close. Robert was now standing in front of them, facing Jack. He wished that piece of shit could see them. Erin moaned again, tightly gripping Mrs. Franklin's sheets, panting. She arched her back and gritted her teeth. Her eyes rolled back, slamming her hips backwards, the walls of her pussy clamping down on Jack's mauling cock. Erin howled in delight, her fingers ripping the bedsheet, much to her delight, as she spasmed in an orgasmic frenzy. She crashed forward, whimpering as she trembled in post-climax high. Jack held on her ass tightly, still plunging his cock in and out of her soaked, velvet pussy. His heart was thumping, struggling to hold off his own orgasm. Jack could feel the pressure building in his balls. Erin slowly woke up and shook her ass, her pussy clamped around his charging cock again, making him cum. Jack grunted and roared as he erupted. Erin sighed and moaned, feeling Jack's cock explode deep inside her, making her tremble in ecstasy. Another rope of his jizz filled her womb, followed by another. Once finished, Jack collapsed next to her, his brain mushed in a post cum daze. She had a broad grin, smugly satisfied that her pussy was filled by her lover's cum, while the people she hated the most watched them. Quietly moaning, feeling the hot cum seep down her thighs, Erin leaned forward. Her tits pressed against Jack's chest as she kissed him. Recovering from the intensity of their orgasm, they passionately kissed before breaking, pressing their foreheads together. "I love you," they said in unison and kissed again. Erin quickly fell asleep. Jack remembered this was just like last time. He jumped up on the bed, his bed. They had returned back to his room. He checked the alarm clock; it was half-three in the morning. No Lucy. Jack stroked Erin's chin; he could still touch her, he guessed that was positive. "Erin; Erin; Erin," Jack said, trying to wake her. No response. She was trapped in a deep sleep. "Fuck!" Lucy yelled, standing by the door. She rushed to the bed. "You're back?" "Yeah?" Jack replied, looking back at Erin. "Is she asleep?" "I think." "Okay," Lucy nodded her head, "Your parents are still downstairs and they're acting fucking weird." The final complication. Jack rushed back downstairs, with Lucy following. Their footsteps thundered against the wooden steps, but it didn't wake Jack's still slumbering parents in the living room. They were fine; the concoction that Lucy had given them was making them roll around in their sleep. Not too serious. Slamming the door open, Jack found Erin still unconscious. He yelled her name and gently, then roughly shook her. Still nothing. He tilted her head back, opening her mouth; Jack then leaned in and felt her breath. Relieved, he sighed but still had no idea what to do next. "Still down?" Lucy asked, crouching down next to him. "Yeah. It's like she's in this deep sleep." Jack shook Erin again for Lucy's benefit. Still nothing. Lucy said, "Shit," annoyed. She lifted Erin's arm and let it go. "Wow." "What do we do? Call an ambulance?" "What are you going to tell the paramedic? My formerly-ghost girlfriend from 1890s is now in coma?" "You got any ideas?" Lucy prodded Erin in the arm and just said, "Fuck." "Where's the grimoire?" Jack asked. She scurried to the other side of the room and quickly returned. Jack watched her flip through the pages, her unblinking gaze not giving him much hope. It was going to be morning soon, and here he was with a sleeping naked woman and a medium. What would he say to his parents when they wake up? Lucy slammed the book and shook her head. "Fuck!" Jack yelled; it was starting to get exhausting. "Of course, it doesn't say anything." "Dude, this was written by a guy who works at Outback Steakhouse and is a BTS fan." "I'm sorry," Jack said, turning back to Erin, "What do we do with her?" "We should move her." Jack nodded his head. "Where?" "My apartment is like twenty minutes away. She can crash there until she wakes." "Fuck it." Jack said, shrugging. Jack looked around for her clothes, and found that her uniform had gone missing. They quickly dressed her in Jack's old sweats, then carried her downstairs. His parents were still sleeping, something else Jack would have to deal with, but later. They sat Erin down in the back with Jack by her side. Fifteen minutes later, they were at Lucy's apartment. At 3:30 am, there was no traffic to slow them down. Jack scooped Erin up in his arms, her petite frame weighing nothing. There was no one on the streets, no one that could catch a guy and a girl carrying an unconscious woman into the building. God, if he got arrested now. Lucy's apartment was small, a one-bedroom, and messy. Clothes everywhere, Wiccan d cor and a toy cauldron on the coffee table. They put Erin on the couch; a soft moan escaped her lips as she bounced against the cushion. He watched her lips curl into a smile; if she was dreaming, she was enjoying the dream. There was nothing else for him to do. Jack just had to pray that Erin would wake up soon. He still hadn't asked himself if she was actually human and if their sex magic worked. She could disappear again. He had to stay positive. Jack turned back to Lucy and asked, "Can you keep an eye on her?" "Yeah," she said, covering Erin with a blanket. "I'll let you know if anything happens." He thanked Lucy and left. Tired but still having to deal with his parents, Jack walked home. He took a couple of steps but then stopped. Squinting his eyes, Jack bobbed his head like he was trying to work something out. "Did I fucking time-travel?" Christmas In the Old Mansion. Jack thought about ignoring his sister and staying in bed. But it was pointless. He knew that his mom would be ringing him sooner or later, demanding that he come down. Reaching for his phone, it was 10:15 am on December 25th, Christmas morning. Still no messages from Lucy. Yesterday, she told him that Erin had awoken for a moment and moved her head, and then fell back asleep. Erin didn't say a word or ask where she was. The way Lucy explained it, Erin was just slowly recovering her energy since becoming possibly human. Jack still didn't know if the ritual had worked or not. It had been like this for the last couple of days. Looking at his past messages, a lot of them were about asking Lucy if she could still touch Erin. That could look weird. She could, which Jack took as a positive. It was the only thing that he had. He knew he had to be patient; maybe something would happen, or not happen. Jack was just sick of not knowing. He heard his sister yell his name again. Walking downstairs, his parents were on the couch, holding coffee mugs, while his sisters were sitting by the tree. It was like they were kids again, tearing through the wrapping paper. He didn't really care what he got, with Erin taking over his mind, but did his best to look enthusiastic when opening his presents. Lucy finally texted Jack hours later. But he was in the kitchen, with his sisters, and away from his phone. Beth saw that he got a message from Lucy, her face lighting up as she turned to Jack. He had a good relationship with both his sisters, loved them both, but they could annoy the shit out of him. Especially when they had something over him. Like that time when Beth found out he got caught with a joint by a cop. A month of being her chauffeur drove him mad. "So, who's Lucy?" She asked, barely hiding her grin. Beth moved away from the stove and stood by her sister, checking out the message. "Mom said that you met some girl called Erin?" "Yeah." Jack nodded, effortlessly taking his phone off them. He checked the text; Erin had been away for a while and drank something. "Lucy's Erin's roommate," he said, "Erin lost her phone and she's sick right now. I was just asking how she is." Beth went aww, while Katie stayed silent. Jack knew he was lucky that it was Christmas and there was stuff to do. The onslaught would have to wait for now. When they first met Laura, Beth wanted to know everything about her, the films she liked, what music she was into and how serious it was. Katie was different, less manic, just asking if he felt that Laura was cool. If everything had worked and Erin could actually meet people, Jack knew he needed to prep her before meeting his family. It would have to be soon. Knowing his sisters, Beth and Katie would demand it the next couple of days. It would need to be somewhere where they served a lot of alcohol. "Is she really an actress?" Katie asked, now waving a knife. Rolling his eyes, he wished she was more focused on dicing onions than on him. Opening another beer, he said, "Yeah. But it's an amateur thing and that she is covering for someone and that she will probably won't do it again." Both sisters then looked at each other. Something was up; Jack could see it. Was something he said, was that it, it had to be. Beth then turned back to him and asked, "What does she do?" Without thinking, Jack said, "House-sitter," and finished his beer. He was blessed that his father yelled his name, asking for help. After fixing the router, they sat down for dinner. They talked about the usual stuff during the meal; thankfully, no one mentioned Erin. Jack felt calm, probably because he was focusing on something other than his ghost girlfriend. The Sick and the tired. Jack now walked a couple of steps behind his parents. His sisters flanked him as they walked down the empty streets to the movie theater. He had no idea what everyone else wanted to watch; he prayed that it was something easy, he didn't want to pay attention. He was barely listening to his sister as they walked. They talked about the not-so-secret Taylor Swift Christmas concert. He just said uh-huh at the right moments, walking along, with a hand wrapped around his phone in case it buzzed. It finally vibrated minutes later. Lucy had messaged him. Erin was awake and had been for a while. She even sent him a photo, Erin still wearing his clothes, lying on the couch, her eyelids barely open. Lucy said that he should come now if he wanted to see her. "Hey Mom, Dad, I'm not feeling great right now," Jack said, clutching his stomach. It was the first thing that he could think of. He hoped that he could remember his acting techniques when he used to play sick during junior high. His mom turned around and asked, "What's wrong?" "I feel like; nauseous and everything really aches." Jack told his parents that he should probably skip the movie and rest back home. His mom threw a couple of questions at him, asking what was wrong, how it happened and if he needed anything. He mentioned Erin's name, saying that she was also sick. Katie perked up in the corner of his eye when he mentioned Erin. This was all he needed, a sister playing detective. He convinced them to still see the movie, saying that he would go straight to bed. That there was no point in them breaking from tradition. Jack walked away from them slowly. After a couple of blocks, he rushed back to the house and jumped in his car. Annoyingly, he would have to drive past the movie theater to get to Lucy's apartment. "Hey," Lucy said, opening the door, "You're fast." "Yeah." Jack nodded. He was pretty sure that he ran a couple of red lights getting here. He just needed to see her quickly, see if she was okay and then leave. "How is she?" "Okay. It's like she got the flu or something. I've been giving her some fluids and Tylenol." "Has she eaten anything?" "Vegetable soup," Lucy said, shrugging her shoulders, "I have no idea what she can eat. You know when you go abroad and you can't drink the water because of local bacteria or shit? I don't know if she can handle meat or dairy." Jack opened the door to the living room but turned to Lucy, "Thank you for everything. Sorry that you had to spend your whole day looking after her." "It's nothing. I want to help," Lucy replied, "Now get in there." Walking into the room, Jack found Erin still on the sofa. A couple of blankets covered every inch of her body apart from her head. There was no color on her face, reminding Jack how she used to look like. Bags under her eyes and her hair was a mess. She clasped a mug of something, inhaling the aroma. Erin then looked up and smiled, "Jack." She was weary, and her voice creaked. She tried to raise her arms, possibly hug him but gave up. He rushed to her side and asked, "How are you?" "I'm okay." Jack said, "You sure?" With a quiet tone, letting know her it was okay if she wasn't. Erin paused, then shrugged her shoulders. "No. I feel so tired and sick. And I hate everything." "Wow. Welcome to being an adult in the 21st century. We all feel like that." "Great." Erin threw her head back, then said, "So this is what being human feels like after so many years? It's painful. There is something else. I been having these dreams. That I am still with the Franklins. They follow me through your house. But your house how it looks now." "Oh. I'm sorry." Erin shook her head and said, "Please don't. It's not your fault. I think of them and I feel myself passing through the couch and then I remember I am here." Their hands touched, and Erin quickly began to smile. She then asked, "So, tell me about your Christmas. What presents did you get?" "Oh. My parents got me a new laptop bag and a cold brew bottle. My sisters went fifty-fifty and got me a pair of Jordans." Erin blinked and said, "I don't know what that means." She then yawned, and her eyes slowly shut. "Just tell me more about how your Christmas went." Jack gave her a brief breakdown on his Christmas, trying not to bore her. But there was really little to say; he had sleepwalked through the day. Jack saw a quick smile on her face when he told her that his sisters were pestering him for details about her. But slowly, she drifted off and was back asleep. "Hey Jack," Lucy said, calling him into the kitchen. "So, I'm thinking that Erin should see someone. Like a therapist?" For a second, Jack was surprised. "Really?" "She's been stuck in the same house for a hundred years, watching herself get killed over and over. That's got to fuck you up." "No. I know that's completely true and she should have someone to talk to. Just, didn't think that mediums were pro-therapy." "If you speak to ghosts, you would be pro-therapy as well. They are always fucked up. Most need Valium." Jack smiled. He looked back at Erin and said, "Suggest it to her. It'll probably be best coming from you. The problem is who can see her? Like she needs health insurance." "I'm been thinking about that. No way Erin can function in the real world. She hasn't got a social, birth certificate or a passport. She can't just depend on you for money." "I know." "And?" "I'm working on it." Jack had an idea or half one; he still needed to ask around. "You better work on it quicker. Erin's getting antsy. She wants to explore the world, go on a plane, see Paris." Jack nodded and looked back at Erin. "Keep her calm. She still needs to walk after she can run, or the other way round." "Sure." "I gotta go." Jack said. He left the kitchen and checked on Erin again; she was soundly sleeping. "I'll be here in the morning. Now excuse me, I have to pretend to be sick." "Hey, I have something that can help. It's like diluted ayahuasca." Jack stopped and turned around. He stared back at Lucy's grinning face just before gently closing the front door. Still, he had no idea if she was just joking. Erin Tours The Town. A couple days later, Jack was called to Lucy's place. He could hear voices behind the door and the sounds of footsteps as he waited outside Lucy's apartment. He had texted Lucy earlier; she said that Erin was more awake than before and he should come around. That was good to hear. Jack didn't like to be in constant worry. Also, it was way too early in the relationship for him to have to deal with stuff like this. He just wanted to spend time with his girlfriend and not think if she would fade away or be trapped in a house. Erin opened the door, smiling instantly at him. She looked better. Erin had discarded Jack's sweats for some yoga pants and hoodie, probably from Lucy's wardrobe. Color had returned to her face, and the bags under her eyes had disappeared. She had brushed her hair, tying it up in a loose ponytail. She had her arms around his neck, and Erin quickly pulled him down for a long kiss. She felt so good to touch. Jack didn't realize how much he missed having her in his arms. He wanted to take her somewhere private. When they stopped kissing, Erin smirked back at him, and Jack knew she had the same dirty thoughts. But then Erin yawned, and he knew that they had to take their time. "How are you?" He asked, trying not to wince. He guessed that Erin was getting sick of that question. She smiled, leading him to the sofa and sat down. Erin pulled her feet up and said, "Better. I can get up and walk and bathe. I had my first shower ;  a hot shower." Erin grinned and giggled to herself. Seeing that response, Jack realized he really didn't know that much about plumbing in the 1800s. "It felt so good. I feel like I'm getting stronger and have more vigor." "I'm guessing those are Lucy's clothes?" "Yeah," Erin said, blushing, "she said that I should wear something else. Her clothing looks strange but so interesting. Just disappointing that they don't really fit." Looking at her, she is right. Jack could tell that the clothes she had on were supposed to be for Lucy's curves, not Erin's petite frame. He needed to take her shopping. "I will return your clothes after I launder them." "No, no, no. You don't have to." "I want to. It was my job. And I need to know how to use these machines." The bedroom door opened, and Lucy walked in. She was dressed similar to Erin, yoga pants and a sweatshirt. She sat on the chair and said, "Morning." Jack greeted her and then asked them what their plans were for today. "I could do a coffee run? Erin could try her first latte." Lucy said. "How about we go outside," Erin replied, "I wish to leave the apartment for a while. And I'd like to see some of the city." Jack nodded and said, "Give her a tour of Portland and then brunch?" Their first stop was at the harbor. There used to be cheap apartment buildings around the docks, but the way Erin described it, they were more like slums. Her old apartment had disappeared. Jack looked it up for her, finding out that two years after she died, there was a huge fire which gutted the entire neighborhood. "Maybe I should thank the Franklins." Erin said with a wry smile. They walked a couple of blocks up and stopped at St. Dominic's Parish. It was the church that Erin used to attend regularly. She would be there every Sunday for Mass and would stop off after her shift ended for prayer. Erin left Jack and Lucy outside, knowing that it wasn't their scene and she needed to be alone for this. The church hadn't changed much; a new coat of paint was all she could see. There were a few people seated in the pews that ignored Erin as she walked to the statue of the Virgin Mary. They didn't care that she was dressed in casual clothes. A big difference from when she was alive, a woman in pants would be refused entry, and there would be talk of excommunication. Erin lit a candle and said a prayer. It was a quick one, honoring those she had lost since being trapped in that house. She could come back on Sunday and see how Mass had changed, or she wouldn't. Erin hadn't decided yet. She found Jack and Lucy both on their phones. They stopped and looked up at her, both giving Erin concerned looks. While she appreciated the gesture, she wanted something else and asked to eat. Lucy picked a place nearby but warned Erin about her choices. She, as well as Jack, was worried about what food that Erin could eat. They both suggested eating something simple, slowly get used to pasteurized milk, additives and pesticides. All Erin could do was nod her head and not scream in frustration, blocking out all the exciting food around her. "Wave-us ranch-us?" She repeated Jack's order. Erin listened to them and ordered a bowl of oatmeal. It was what she used to eat back in 1898. "Huevos rancheros," Jack said again. "It's eggs on tortillas with beans and salsa." "That sounds so intriguing. I really want to try." "Erin," Lucy said, "Just take your time. We just don't want you to take a bite and puke everywhere because your stomach isn't used to modern bacteria or something. It's like learning to drink. You start small, wine coolers and beer and build your tolerance and soon you'll be finishing a bottle of vodka all by yourself." Jack rolled his eyes and said, "Not in that way but yeah. It's a vaccine. Take a small bite of fruit or a sip of milk and get used of it." He took a sip of coffee and then shook his head. "Shit!" Jack said, but quiet enough that no one else heard. "I still haven't sorted out getting a physical or something. I mean Erin hasn't been vaccinated." "Yeah. There was this disease that you call polio and it affected people in Boston. The stories were terrifying. I really want to be protected." "Yeah, but how?" Lucy asked. "There's a way," Jack said, "A way?" Lucy repeated. "There's this guy in my building, he buys his sneakers and mushrooms on the dark web." Jack then turned to Erin and said, "The dark web is where you can buy illegal things. He said that you can buy passports, birth certificate, and socials. You can even get a high school diploma." "Really?" Lucy leaned in, "Like any school?" "Maybe," Jack replied. "I'd like to get an education by myself," Erin said, glancing at the two of them. "I know that I will have to take the fake social and birth certificate to survive. But I want to be in charge of my own future." "That's fair." Jack nodded. The food then arrived, and Erin stared at the bowl of oatmeal. It was like the gruel she used to have while growing up in Ireland. It tasted better than the watery sludge of oat she used to survive on. But looking at Jack's plate, it was not what Erin wanted right now. "So, what next?" Jack asked, putting his wallet away. "We could see more of the city? Also, Erin needs some clothes." Lucy replied. Erin finished her coffee and stared at the cup; it wasn't enough. "I would love to," she said, "but I feel so tired." Lucy nodded and said, "I think this is the longest you've been awake for." "Rest up and we'll talk later." Jack then leaned in and kissed her goodbye. *** Erin stared out of the window, watching in amazement as the plane climbed higher and higher into the sky. She was with Lucy, driving to a store, which meant going past the airport. She had remembered reading about airships and possible flight. But that was in 1898, now they have gone to the Moon and want to travel to other planets. Looking up at the plane, she was going to be there soon. Either with Jack or by herself, but definitely soon. In the last couple of days, Erin was eating more, developing actual stamina and didn't need to take frequent naps. With the increase in energy, she craved to be out of the apartment, exploring more of the city and finding out what else had changed. She had gotten lucky as Lucy's apartment was not that far from where Erin lived, and she could see how the neighborhood transformed. Lucy parked the car in the lot, and they both got out. Erin stared at the store ;  Target. Since being flesh and blood again, she had been borrowing Lucy's clothes, and she didn't like it. Erin felt terrible about being a burden on her, and Lucy's clothes didn't really fit her. "What do we need to get?" Lucy locked the car and said, "Just the basics." Erin nodded, looking away. Her eyes caught a girl, mid-twenties like her. She wore an overlong emerald sweater and boots that went past her knees. Also, sunglasses. Erin wanted to ask Lucy if this was common but was worried about sounding stupid. The nineteenth-century values of modesty and pureness, and calling chicken bosoms instead of chicken breasts, was still stuck in her. Seeing women her own age dressing so casually, showing off more flesh and wearing form-fitting clothes, Erin wanted to return to Lucy's couch. There were more changes that Erin had to get used to inside the store. She had thought of Target as a department store but larger. The sheer size of it shocked her. And that all the products, clothes, groceries and electronics were out in the open. There were no large, ornate wooden counters, wall-high glass cabinets, or mustached clerks in smocks. But there are a lot more options, and it's brighter. "You're like what? Extra small?" Lucy asked. "I guess." Erin said, taking her word for it. "What should I buy?" "I don't know, probably jeans, leggings, a couple of t-shirts and some tops. Also socks, bras and panties." Lucy paused, seeing Erin blush and try not to laugh. "Oh yeah, sneakers. How do those Nikes feel?" "Uncomfortable. I'm sorry." "No worries, I think you're size bigger." Erin nodded and asked, "How much did he give you to spend?" She was in the bathroom when Jack popped over at the apartment in the morning, overhearing them talk about shopping. Erin had to rely on Jack and also Lucy to survive, she accepted that, but it felt uncomfortable. "He gave me around two hundred." "Two-two hundred dollars?" "Yeah?" "That's impossible. That's more than what I earned in a year. He's given me too much." "Really?" Lucy pulled out her phone and searched for a dollar inflation calculator. Erin nodded. She hugged herself and looked away. Her eyes caught a sign, jeans for twenty dollars. That didn't sound right. "Oh," Lucy said, "He gave you the equivalent of six dollars and some change." "Still, that was two days of pay for me." They started shopping, and Lucy instantly took her to the underwear section. It took a while for Erin to get used to buying bras and panties. A store owner would never dream of displaying woman's bloomers. She felt herself going red, which she hated. Shaking her head, Erin took a deep inhale and asked Lucy how many bras she should get without blushing. Lucy then picked up a couple of hoodies, and Erin nodded, letting her drop them in the cart. Erin was amazed at how soft and comfortable the material felt as she ran her fingers over the fabric. Not stiff or feeling like burlap. Also, how simple it is. No corsets or bustles. No spending an hour dressing yourself or helping the lady of the house. "Is this what women wear now?" Erin asked. She noticed how everyone dressed so casual, like they were going to exercise. "It's very informal," she said, not knowing if it's a good thing or not. "That's the trend now." Lucy picked up a white t-shirt and raised it to her chest. "And you are going to see models, actresses, influencers wear t-shirts like these that cost thousand dollars." "A thousand dollars?" "Yeah," Lucy said, placing a pair of leggings in the cart, "And you're going to need more clothes later. These are cool for chilling in the apartment. But what you going to do later?" "What do you mean?" "Like your plans. You going to get a job? You said you want to go to college, what you going to major in? And are you going to stay in Portland?" Erin shook her head. She hadn't given that much thought. "Hey," Lucy said, "You can still stay with me. But I don't know what that sofa is going to do to your back. If Jack comes through with a social and ID, you can get a job." Erin nodded. But then she thought about what type of jobs could she really do. "I'm guessing you don't want to be a maid again." "I was not a maid." "No?" "No. A maid would live in the house with the family. I had my own room. I was a charwoman." Erin said. She picked up a sweater, liking the pattern and dropped it in the cart. "I cleaned houses because I had to. I'm not going to go back to that. I just need to think about what to do next. I want a real job." "I mean there is an obvious answer." "What?" "You go to college. You can major in nineteenth century U S history. It will be a breeze for you." "Wouldn't that be cheating?" "Fuck no." Lucy stopped the cart and smiled. "You went through all this trauma and now you're in a time where you can go to college and be who you want to be. Used any advantage you can." Erin nodded, and they went back to shopping. She liked the sound of going to college, something that was impossible the first time around. Studying history didn't really appeal to her, but Erin could see Lucy's point. It took them another hour to get to the checkout line. Looking at the cart, Erin hoped that they had gotten everything. Two pairs of jeans, in black & blue, leggings, four t-shirts, hoodies, sweaters, socks, a pair of white sneakers and underwear; Erin really hoped that was enough for her to live on. She caught herself staring at other women and then glancing back to the cart. Something didn't feel right. Last night, she and Jack had a long conversation over the phone. Now she could leave the apartment more often and didn't need to nap all the time; Jack said he would love to take her out. They then agreed on dinner tomorrow night. "Sorry to ask again. But you said that these clothes are okay to wear all the time? Like in the evening?" "Maybe." Lucy shrugged. Her eyes then narrowed, knowing that was something more. "Like in the evening? Like for a date?" Erin paused, remembering how the definition had changed. She nodded her head and said, "Yes." "Tonight?" Erin shook her head and replied with a small smile. Lucy looked at the pile of clothes and paused for a moment; she was working something in her head, Erin could tell. "Not for date night. Let's go to the mall." She quickly paid and grabbed Erin out of the store. They didn't drive long, maybe five minutes at most. Lucy told her about date nights and the need to dress up. It shocked her. She didn't see Lucy as a type of woman who would wear an evening gown for a dance. Erin told her what Jack had been thinking of, a simple dinner at a restaurant, maybe a quick stopover at a bar. Lucy drove to a mall, which Erin roughly knew as a building with lots of stores. It was quieter than she expected and hoped. She wanted more interaction with regular people, learning to talk to them and seeing if she could successfully fool them. Lucy dragged Erin into an H and M store and told her that it's a step above Target. Flipping through a rack, Lucy then said, "What you need is a really good dress." "Okay?" "But also, it's like 30 degrees outside. So probably something like a sweater dress." Lucy said, staring at the clothes. She pulled out a navy dress and pressed it against Erin's body. "Try this on." "I don't think this is necessary. We don't know what we are going to do." "This is your first date, like ever. Don't you want to dress hot?" Erin chuckled this time, still focused on the definition of date. She saw Lucy give her a curious look and replied, "Dating meant something different in my time. Having a date meant you would have paid a whore for the night." "Now you don't have to be a whore to dress sexy and fuck your boyfriend." Erin smirked and took the dress, slowly walking to the dressing room. Inside the stall, she quickly stripped Lucy's clothes and folded them neatly on the table. It was something that she had found herself doing a lot, muscle memory from over a hundred years ago. She slipped into the dress, remarking how comfortable the fabric felt against her skin. There were positives to the changes in fashion, she slowly understood. Erin remembered how her old clothes were stiff and heavy, realizing how much she hated wearing them. Zipping up the back, Erin then turned and faced the full-length mirror. Seeing her reflection there, she just moaned, a navy-blue dress fitted to her slender body, with long sleeves and a cowl neck. It was scandalous how the dress ended above her knees. But seeing herself, Erin praised Lucy's choice. She really looked sexy. Erin ran her hands up her sides, posing against the mirror. Something then felt off. Erin felt her heart thud in her chest. Sweat dampened her forehead. She had to get away. This was too much for her. She wanted the attic again. Her knees buckled, and she fell to the side. Instinctively, Erin raised a hand up to steady herself. But she phased through the stall, her forearm disappearing. "Oh Shit" A female voice screamed. The other stall door crashed open, and Erin could hear footsteps pounding away from her. She pulled her arm back and grabbed her chest. Breathing was hard. But Erin calmed herself down. It happened again. This was getting annoying and getting more frequent. Changing back to her regular clothes, Erin walked back to the shop floor. There was no one near her, no scared woman or guards. She found Lucy, holding a black dress. It was more revealing than the blue one she picked, but it made Erin smile. It looked cute. "You should get this also." "Yeah," Erin said. Her eyes wandered, trying to find a frightened woman. "It happened again." "Yeah. I figured. Saw some lady run out, screaming about a ghost arm." Lucy shrugged her shoulders, "I'm going to ask around. Just don't think about it." She turned her head and pointed at the intimate section. "You need to pick out some date night lingerie. Something revealing." "You are really invested." "After getting kinda fucked by Jack but hearing your voice, I'm definitely invested. It was a hot show." Lucy grinned. "Let's get you some lace bra and panties and some boots then we can go." "Do we have enough? I think we spent nearly all the money Jack gave us." Lucy paused and then said, "I still have the cash that Jack gave me. You know? From the first time. When you tried to possess me and kiss him?" A teenager walked past them and gave them a long stare. Both Erin and Lucy replied back with indifferent looks. Turning back to Lucy, Erin said, "I can't ask you spend your earnings on me. It's not;" "It doesn't matter. It's cool. I'll buy it for you. Call it a thank-you present for getting rid of that stain in the kitchen." "Thank you." Erin smiled. "I want to say that I really appreciate your support and friendship." She wrapped her arms aroun

A Holiday Haunting: Part 2 Jack and Erin deal with new problems. Based on a post by zeon 67. Listen to the ► Podcast at Explicit Novels. Jack's mouth painfully stretched open. He then released a long gasp, and his eyelids pulled back; he was now forcibly awake. Turning to his side, he found himself partially alone. Lucy was still there, deep in sleep, but no Erin. He called her name, but there was nothing. Putting on sweatpants and a t-shirt, Jack searched the house for her. He yelled her name and again there was no reply. It had never worked like that before, but Jack was desperate. He questioned himself, Lucy, the s ance and everything else. Worried that he had caused her banishment, Jack needed to interrogate the medium. But then the doorbell rang, and there was a knock at the door. Opening it, Jack saw a delivery man with a clipboard and a massive box. Annoyed that the new dryer he bought on Black Friday, had finally arrived a week late, he signed the paperwork but felt cold. Jack turned around but saw nothing. Terrified that he was losing it, Jack turned back to the delivery man. The delivery man wheeled the dryer in and took the clipboard off Jack, thanking him. The man then looked past Jack and said, "Morning, Miss." Behind him, Erin stood. Her mouth ajar and stood still, but wasn't her typical ghostly self. She looked like she did last night, her skin a pale pink while her hair was an auburn shade. Erin had the same clothes that Jack had seen for the previous fifteen years. But something was off. Erin had lost the white apron that covered most of the front, and the first two buttons of her collar were undone, possibly scandalous in the 19th century. "He saw me. He saw me." Erin said, walking towards the open door. She ignored Jack and edged closer to the outside, the fresh air, sounds of birds and something new to see calling her. Erin turned back to Jack and said, "Come with me." She then took one step outside and immediately disappeared. "Fuck!" Lucy screamed from upstairs.   A post-S ance exam. They sat around the coffee table, all struggling to think of anything to say. Jack and Lucy had run some basic tests on Erin. She could be seen but not be touched, but cameras could capture her. She couldn't feel anything, but could sit in a chair without phasing through it. Should she take a step outside the house's confines, Erin would instantly vanish and reappear in the attic. But Erin could change her appearance, though only subtly. Like she could roll up her sleeves, undo a button or two and play around her hair. That was a relief to Erin; she had only worn hair in a bob because Mrs. Franklin demanded it. "So, what now," Jack said, taking a sip of coffee. "I; I don't know," Lucy shook her head, "This is way out of my area of expertise. Honestly, I didn't even know that this could happen." "Would it be so wrong if I stayed like this?" Erin said, "I can speak and I can be heard." "But you can't touch anything." Lucy said. "And my parents are going to be back soon. Then it's Christmas and the house is going to be filled with people. I can see my mom and my aunts instantly freak out if they saw you float. And, I have to go back to Boston. I can't leave you like this." "I know." Erin then looked at Lucy and asked, "Can we not do the s ance again?" "Hell no." Lucy shook her head, emphatically underlining her point. "What we did and what happened, it's not the same. Jack was supposed to talk to you and help you move on. Nothing about sex. We did something, maybe something wrong, maybe something right. But it pulled you into this plane. If we do it again, who knows what happens to you?" "Then what next?" Jack asked. Lucy pushed her chair back and stood up. She madly scrolled through the contacts on her phone. "I need to speak to someone. Be back in a sec." Erin followed Lucy out of the room with her stare. She paused for a moment, then leaned in towards Jack. "We should talk." "Yeah." Jack said, trying to hide his nervousness. "I never thought that I would be here. I'd be a banshee, roaming this house until the Last Judgement. I accepted that. Now I can be seen by anyone. I can be spoken to and listened. I am lost and scared. What happens to us?" Jack rested his hand on over hers, sinking through her tangible form and said, "I'll work something out. Don't worry. My dad did say he is thinking about selling the house. Maybe I take it." Erin dropped her head down and said, "I cannot let you do that. Live your life with a spirit. It will be dull. And there is so much I want to see." Leaning back, Jack smiled back at her. This was the first time he could find out who Erin really is, as a person. "Like?" "I want to be in the sky, flying across the ocean. To travel to places that I have only seen briefly in those windows. The Grand Canyon, swim in an ocean and visit Kinsale." "Kinsale?" "It is where I was born. I left when I was twelve. I always wished that I would see the village again." "Anything else?" Erin looked away, like she was thinking; then turned back to Jack and said, "I want to eat food that hadn't been boiled. Wear something luxurious. I want to see a movie. And to kiss you again." She smiled. Lucy walked back into the room. She glanced at Erin, then at Jack, realizing something was up, but began talking. "Okay, I spoke to a friend. She knows a lot of left-hand path rituals, some chaos magic. You know, maybe sigils and secret names?" she said, nodding as if they knew what she meant. "She knows a couple of necromancers." "Necro-mancers?" Erin asked. "They talk to the dead. My friend's going to reach out and get us a name. Hopefully, one who just wants to talk to the dead and nothing more. A necromancer will know what to do." "So, we just wait?" Jack asked. Lucy nodded.    Home Alone. Days later, Erin stared at the TV. She was alone as Jack had to deal with the headache of Christmas preparations. He didn't want to leave her by herself, but Erin insisted that it was okay. This was something that Erin knew she had to get used to. She thought back to how difficult her life was before the s ance. Erin could easily take her current form as a constantly visible ghost, than that hell. One plus was now she could spend time with Jack. Last night, they spent hours talking. Jack told her everything that had happened to him since they last spoke. Erin was confused by his job, working as an engineer but with computers and clouds. Jack also showered her with questions about her own life. Her eyes widened after each question, and she grinned madly back at him. She told him about her life in Ireland, traveling across the Atlantic and working in Boston. Jack showed her current photos of how the city changed. She was amazed and saddened, seeing some of her favorite places of the city disappear. There was one question that Erin wouldn't answer. Jack had asked her where she would go, when she wasn't haunting the house. When he used to see her, it was only for an hour at most, then Erin would just fade away, and Jack would have to wait days or weeks to see her again. Erin couldn't say anything; she just looked away. She finally said it was difficult and Jack quickly changed the subject. The channel that Jack left the TV on was now playing another documentary about the World War. He told her it was a good idea for her to get used to the twenty-first century, but Erin couldn't stomach any more documentaries about the war. She understood Jack's reasoning; the other night, she cried in happiness that Ireland had become independent. A knock on the door turned Erin's head. There was no way it could be Jack. She could hear keys rattling and the door slowly open. Someone then called her name, a female voice. Erin phased through the walls to see who it was. She found Lucy standing outside, darting her head in and out. "Fuck!" Lucy stumbled back as she saw Erin appear, covering her mouth. She took a couple of deep breaths and then said, "Hi; Erin," Lucy nervously smiled, "Where's Jack?" "He has gone to a store called Walm Art. He will return in two hours' time, I hope." "Oh." Lucy paused. "Err, can I come in?" "Sorry," Erin stepped aside and allowed Lucy to enter. "Did Jack give you a key?" "Yeah," Lucy said, removing her jacket. "He swung by and said that I should have it, just in case." Muscle memory dictated her to ask for Lucy's coat and offer her a drink. Erin tried to hide her embarrassment while Lucy just smiled. Erin then followed her into the living room, trying to think about why she was here. She didn't like the idea that Lucy could enter the house whenever she wants. Erin knew the psychic was attracted to Jack; experiencing Lucy's feelings during the second time she possessed her. Erin couldn't help herself but checkout the medium's curvy frame as Lucy walked into the living room, hiding her disappointed face. "I have some news, but I will wait until Jack gets back. It'll be easier to explain. But it's good." Lucy grinned. She sat down on the sofa and asked, "What are you watching?" "A documentary about World War 2?" Erin said, not entirely convinced. "They call it World War 2 but do not say anything about a previous war." "Yeah, I can't remember what World War 1 was about. Might watch Wonder Woman again. Do you mind if I change the channel?" "Please," Erin replied, "It's depressing." She then joined her on the sofa. "So, how are you dealing with the modern world?" Lucy asked while flicking through the channels, stopping on at E. "It's pleasant. Yesterday, Jack showed me around the house and I was amazed. A dishwasher, a washing machine and an automated carpet cleaner. Those were most of my duties and would take half of my day. He showed me um moving photograph on his phone of places he has been to. I want to see them with my own eyes." "I'm guessing back in the 1880s travel was impossible." "Only by train or steam. Now you can fly anywhere," Erin smiled. "But what I'm most astonished by is being a woman. I died before I could vote and now a woman can run for President. I could only be a maid or work in a factory. Now there's so many possibilities." "That's really cool," Lucy said, smiling. Erin felt herself being distracted by the TV. She turned her head and saw a dozen of scantily-clad women grinding against men, who were topless and had bodies like circus strongmen. Her mouth dropped, watching as a woman sing to the camera. Lucy saw Erin's stunned expression and quickly changed the channel. "Sorry." "It's fine," Erin replied, "There is so much that is different. I need to adjust. It's just that if I were to go to a beach, I was expected to wear bloomers that covered my limbs. It is difficult to get used to being in an age were flesh is allowed." "I understand. It's okay to take your time." Lucy said. She then leaned closer and asked, "Sorry if this sounds idiotic. But you okay with me in general? Being a medium, the drinking and the sex before marriage?" Erin smiled and said, "I have lived in this household for over a century. My eyes have been open to many strange things. At first, I prayed for my soul and I thought my impurity was the cause of this life I was to live. As the years passed, I found myself losing that idea of sin. Families lived here, they indulged in vices that I found wicked. But they were still loving and moral people." "Wow," Lucy smirked and said, "One day, you must tell me what you saw over the years." Going back to Lucy's words and all the things she experienced got Erin thinking. In the hundred-odd years she had been trapped in this house, she had caught numerous couples screw late at night. Some were unmarried, others were of different races, which shocked her, but Erin found them loving, which just compounded to her jealousy. Erin had also seen couples have different types of sex, none like the ways she was told or experienced. Her fianc had been drunk during their entire courtships; she doubted he would have been sober enough to cock-stand. Robert just pushed her down on a billiards table and had his way with her. Erin thought she had enjoyed that, but it was nothing compared to what Jack made her feel the other night. It felt unusual, but she loved every moment of him touching her down below. "Um," Erin looked away before opening her mouth, "Lucy, can I ask you something? It is delicate." Lucy shrugged, "Sure." "Jack. He laid me down and used his tongue; on my quim." Erin said blushing. "Is this normal?" "Yeah," Lucy blurted out. "Sorry. Most guys do that now. If you're lucky." She smirked at Erin, who remained nonplussed. "Has sex really changed that much?" "One sec," Lucy stood up and skipped to the kitchen. She returned ten minutes later with a bottle of wine and two glasses. "If we're having girl time, we need wine." Lucy popped open the bottle and poured, then stopped. "Shit, I forgot. I'm sorry. Are you okay if I drink?" "Please," Erin replied, smiling. "My church said it was a sin. They encouraged to be teetotal. The man who I was supposed to marry died due to it. When I tasted wine and became hysteric. I thought that was the reason I was stuck in this house. Now I'm not sure. But I would love another taste." "Hopefully soon." Lucy then took a long sip and said, "Okay ;  sex. Sex is nothing like you have experienced in the 1800s. There are handjobs, blowjobs, anal, bondage, choking and group sex. What Jack did to you ;  I admit I'm jealous. Because most guys won't do that, but still expect you to blow them." "Blow?" "You put a penis in your mouth and suck on it." "Oh Christ," Erin muttered. Lucy then lifted up her phone, and loaded up a website. She then stopped herself, glanced at Erin and typed something else like she had changed her mind. She clicked on a video thumbnail and scooted closer to the spirit. "This is sex now." Erin moaned, watching a young blonde who looked a passing resemblance to Lucy, on a bed. She was nude and smiling at a tattooed man. She quickly stripped the man of his clothes, and then the couple kissed, rolling on the bed. Erin noticed that the woman was completely bare in the between. The man then kissed the woman in the cunt, just like Jack had done to her. "Wow," Erin moaned, "She looks like she is really enjoying herself." Erin felt the need to shift her weight on the sofa while she continued to watch. "Well, she's an actress. I should tell you that this is fake. But you need to know that it's okay to like sex and how you can enjoy it." Lucy then paused as they both watched the blonde actress get on her hands and knees. "That's the doggy-style position, very popular and feels great." Erin pursed her lip like she was trying not to laugh. Everything she had been taught, from her mother, Sunday School and the church, told her that premarital sex was an affront to the Lord. And sex in marriage was only for procreation. Now she could enjoy it. "I have to admit something, Lucy," Erin said, trying to look away from the video, "When me and Jack um fucked. I drew on your thoughts to make it more enjoyable." "I've been meaning to ask you about that." Lucy paused the video and took another sip of the wine. "Jack told me about the first time you possessed me and tried to kiss him." "I'm so sorry." "That's okay. I really just want to know how you were able to possess me? I've talked to spirits before, some probably fake, some hundred-percent real. But I've never been possessed." "I can't explain," Erin said. "It just happened and then I felt pain, you fighting back and mine own struggle. But I can tell you about the other time. It was easy. I just drew on your attraction to Jack." "It's like a tulpa," Lucy said, slowly smiling. "It has to be a tulpa!" "Tulpa?" "A tulpa is a being or an object created through intense thought. You have created something like this, linking you with Jack. When me and Jack were on the sofa, were you just haunting the house or were you drawn to this spot." "I just appeared here and saw you two." "Yeah," Lucy grinned, "This is great. I've got an idea on how we can help you." Erin nodded and looked away. She should apologize. Erin saw the blonde medium less of an adventuress, a strumpet who would seduce Jack, and more of a real person. And someone eager to help her. Erin knew she still had to adjust her 19th century way of thinking to the modern world. "Hey," Lucy said, getting Erin's attention. "Don't worry about me and Jack. I can tell he only wants you, especially now he can actually be with you. You know, have conversations. And I like you and I don't want to mess with a 19th century Irish ghost." Erin chuckled and covered her mouth. She wanted to believe that Lucy was genuine; she disliked being this jealous woman. When she was alive, with a body and everything, she had few friends. It was mainly due to her betrothed and the need to move cities for work. "What happened to you? When I possessed you?" "Hmm," Lucy paused and then said, "The first time I felt nothing, I was like asleep. When you did it again, it was like watching TV. I was standing in a dark room. Watching two screens and I could hear my voice, but it didn't sound like me. You leaned in and kissed Jack and it felt so weird. I'll be interested to try it again. Hell, if you ever want to have some fun with Jack, you can use my body." She grinned. Again, Erin blushed and went red, thinking about floating away from this conversation.   Left Hand Magic. Jack opened the door and made a beeline to the kitchen. He ignored the dulled sounds of music being played and talking in the other room, assuming that it was just the TV. After stocking the fridge, he had to check on Erin. It was a weird relationship. She was like his girlfriend but also his patient. Jack just tried to focus on Lucy coming through for them. Walking into the living room, he found Erin and Lucy both on the sofa. The blonde medium was playing music on her phone while Erin nodded her head over the beat, her eyes closed. This was good. Jack knew that Erin would need someone else to talk to. Like with any other relationship, his neurotic side flared, and Jack was worried that he was suffocating Erin. It helped that Lucy knew what Erin was going through, wouldn't freak out and is around the same age. "Oh, you're back," Erin said, smiling. She stood up and walked through the coffee table to be at his side. "Did you get everything?" "Yep," He nodded, "So, what have you guys been up to?" "I'm just showing her what music is like now, and Instagram. And some other things." Lucy said, smirking at Erin. Jack caught the smile and glanced at Erin, who had gone red. Ignoring their feminine secrets, he sat down and asked, "So, do you have any news?" "Yep," Lucy replied and went for her bag. "You ever heard of a grimoire?" They both shook their heads, which Lucy had suspected they would do. She then gave them a brief explanation of a grimoire. It meant a book of spells, but more accurately, it was a textbook of magic. She had underlined certain pages, focused more on left-hand path magic, which went over both Jack and Erin's heads. The grimoire that Lucy had been given, had instructions on how to resurrect a body. "From what I read, resurrecting the dead is near impossible. Especially when the dead has been dead for over a hundred years. You need to evocate the person's spirit from wherever they are, say Hell or Heaven. That takes a lot of energy, and like it takes forever with like a zero-point-one chance percent of getting it right. But since Erin's spirit is still on Earth, we have a shot." "Fuck." Jack said. He then glanced at Erin and quickly apologized. "No, you are right," Erin nodded, dumbfounded as he was, "So, I can be human?" "Possibly," Lucy said, walking closer to the couple, the dirt-brown book of spells in her hands. "We need some things. Dirt from your grave, for one. Some other stuff, like salt, candles, herbs. Also, there might be sex magic involved." "Sex magic?" Erin said, "How? What?" "This is left-hand path magic!" Lucy yelled, "There's always stuff involving sex." "So, when do we do this?" Jack asked, pouring himself a glass of wine; he needed it. Glancing at Erin, she looked like she wanted one as well. "We need to pick the right date. A date real important." Lucy then got in front of Erin and asked, "What do you remember about the day you died?" "I um; it's hard," Erin said, "I can't. No." "The diary doesn't say much. All I know that she died on December 21st." "December 21st?" Lucy repeated, "The Winter Solstice usually falls on 20th or 21st. If Erin was murdered on the Winter Solstice, it can explain a lot. Tulpas. Midwinter. This is getting weird." Lucy told him that she will explain later. But there was a plan, and all they had to do is get some materials, research more into Erin's life and wait a week. Jack remembered that the ritual would probably happen with his parents around, maybe his sisters. He needed another drink. Nudity Norms. Erin felt comfortable, sitting in the living room with Jack, watching a Christmas movie. It was a pleasant feeling. Jack was supposed to be working, but he told her that he was now in the holiday zone, so he was expected to do the bare minimum until the new year. When she asked what his boss would say, Jack replied that he's probably doing the same right now. If this was what the modern world truly is, then Erin knew she would love it. She glanced at Jack, and he smirked back at her. Last night was still replaying her head. They were in bed, and had finished watching another Christmas movie. Some of the jokes Erin didn't get, also the ending was confusing. Frozen orange juice and future markets. Overall, she enjoyed the movie but was curious about the amount of nudity in some shows, and asked if that was normal. "Depends on the time and what you are watching," Jack said, "When you see actors and actresses naked, sometimes its just as is, like they're waking up or taking a shower. Over times, it's sexual and they might even pretend to have sex." "You mean fucking?" Erin grinned. "What?" Erin explained that she picked up some modern words. Jack immediately guessed it had to be Lucy. There was literally no one else. "I have only had sex twice in my life. Well, once when I was alive," Erin smiled, "What happened with us was unexpected and I had to tell someone. And she taught me some new words." Erin then moved closer and shocked him, "Lucy even showed me videos. Porn." Jack stayed still, not believing what he had heard. He had tried to work out how and why Lucy showed Erin porn. For the last couple of days, he had tried to be protective of her nineteenth-century mind, slowly exposing herself to the modern world. He looked at her, seeing if she was embarrassed. He couldn't tell. No, she looked more curious. He had to ask Erin what she was shown, intrigued at what she thought. Erin then described the scenes in vivid detail, telling the actions of the porn actors, her own emotions and what Lucy said. A man and woman slowly undressed, she was eaten out, then she gave the man a blowjob and then they had sex. Pretty vanilla. "Can I ask you something? Were you watching porn that night?" Erin then asked. That night. It felt so long ago to Jack; his life had changed so much. He told her yes, and wasn't surprised when Erin asked what type of porn. Lucy had really provided her some tutoring as Erin began rattling off porn genres. "Do you want to see what I watched?" Erin blushed but nodded her head. Jack set his laptop on the bed, directly in between them. He told her what he usually liked, amateur, lesbian and Point of view. Looking at Erin, her face was red, but she had this eager look on her, still curious. He played some videos, letting her watch for a while before asking her opinion. "It's. It's something," she said, sounding breathless. Erin watched each video carefully, amazed. One was through a man's eyes, bedding a young woman with many tattoos, which confused her as tattoos only belong to wealthy males during her time. Her eyes would drift to the right side of the page, suggested scenes. The words they used shocked her, anal, stepmom and orgy. Jack then played another movie; this time, it was two women. Erin had this initial disgust, but it slowly disappeared as the women sensually writhed together. It quickly got too much for her. She turned to face Jack, seeing a large bulge in his pants. She didn't know why, but Erin asked if Jack needed to sort himself. She insisted. He nervously pulled out his penis; her eyes flared at the sight of it, hard and veiny. With his dominant hand, Jack then slowly stroked his shaft. Erin quickly became entranced by the action, wishing that she could touch his cock again. But she became distracted, heat from her groin rippled up to her brain; Erin wanted to touch herself. Her eyes glued on him, she hitched up her skirt and slid her hand underneath her bloomers. Both Jack and Erin forgot about the Female-female-male scene that was playing and just stared at each other. Jack's hand became a blur over his cock, while Erin had slid two fingers deep into her pussy. There was little resistance from her Catholic upbringing; all those years she had been told that self-pleasure was a mortal sin were forgotten. Jack then cried out her name as ropes of cum shot out his cockhead. He grabbed a tissue and quickly caught the other spurts. Erin came immediately after him, also crying his name. There was no awkwardness between them as they settled in bed, watching each other as their breathing went back to normal. Jack then said something that made Erin's heart thud, saying that he wished that he could kiss her. She didn't want to think about that as they watched TV. She was still this spirit, telling herself that this could be her life until the Last Judgement. Still, Erin couldn't believe that she would ever try something like that with a man. Glancing at him, he was more handsome than her previous men. It was no contest with Patrick, her forty-something betrothed. With rotten teeth and shaking hands, Erin had hated the thought of touching him. Jack was more like Robert. Not physically, Jack was taller but didn't have Robert's square jaw and his lighter brown hair. Since seeing his naked body during the s ance, Erin noticed that Jack was more athletic than her previous lover. But Jack had Robert's charming and intelligent personality. He was also honest and aware of his limitations, unlike Robert. Whenever they were away from the Franklins, Erin would see him turn into an almighty braggart after a drink. They heard the front door opened then quickly closed. Lucy Prepares for a Resurrection. "Erin? Jack?" Lucy yelled. "In here," Jack said back. She was carrying a big tote bag as she walked into the living room. "Hey guys," Lucy smiled, "You okay?" Both Jack and Erin shrugged and then nodded their heads, saying fine at the same time. "What are you guys watching?" Lucy asked, facing the TV. "I don't know," Erin then turned to Jack and asked, "Which movie is this one?" "It's the Mistletoe Connection." "I've been watching a number of these Hallmark Christmas movies." Erin said, then shrugged her shoulders. "I do enjoy them, but I am finding a pattern. Struggling family business, a woman from the big city, a father with a young child and a lack of minorities?" She glanced at Jack to see if she was correct. He smiled and nodded. "We've been watching Christmas movies non-stop. If this ritual goes like it should, then Erin's going to be out in the world with no pop culture reference point. We watched Gremlins earlier and I figured that she needs a palate cleanser." "I was streaked," Erin said, looking back at Lucy. "She means scared." "For once, I was glad that I am a spirit. Those monsters would have made me cascade if I had a body." "She means puke." Jack then turned to Erin, and they exchanged grins. "You need to switch to Netflix Christmas movies. There's more variety." Lucy said. She took a seat and pulled the grimoire. "I need to ask you some questions, Erin. I want to make sure that we can get everything right for the ritual. Also, I can't find where you were buried." "Of course." "Why don't you guys take the living room. I probably should do some work today." Jack said, standing up. "Do you want some coffee, Lucy?" Lucy said yes, and they quickly settled around the coffee table. She booted up her laptop and asked Erin about her past, trying to squeeze information out of her last days alive. Erin gave vague answers back to her. She had been asked about this before, she hated thinking back. "What's going on?" Lucy asked, lowering her notepad. "What do you mean?" "You keep looking away and you're repeating yourself. What's going on?" "It's just," Erin said, but then stopped. "Lucy, I just need to tell someone about what had happened." Erin then leaned in, wanting to make sure that there was no way Jack could eavesdrop on them. Erin then told her how she and Jack watched porn, first describing the videos she saw. She caught Lucy's eyes widen as she went on. Erin then did a long exhale and told her that the evening ended with her and Jack mutually masturbating. Just like a move from a sitcom, Lucy did a spit take. Wiping her mouth, she turned back to Erin and said, "Sorry. But that's really hot. I didn't know that you can do that." "Nor did I," Erin replied, "I just can't control myself around him. I want to feel him again. To kiss him." "Just kiss?" Erin blushed and dropped her head. "I do have some other carnal thoughts." "Let's see what happens tomorrow. If I'm reading this thing right. You might get to have some fun tomorrow." "If only," Erin said. "So, you going to do it again?" Lucy asked grinning. Erin said nothing, trying not to laugh. "Hey, I'm a pervert," Lucy said, shrugging her shoulders. They went back to their research. Finding Erin's burial was difficult. Her death certificate was nonexistent. Either the hundred years that passed since her death made it impossible to find, or it was another insult by the Franklins. "O, space, then C-E-A-L-L-A-C-H-A-I-N," Erin said, spelling out her last name. "I'm not going to pretend to try to pronounce that." Lucy typed in the search bar and then asked, "I thought your last name is O'Callaghan?" "It is. That's just the Irish spelling. Jack said that if we are successful, I'll need identity papers. I may shorten it to Callaghan." Erin shrugged and looked away. With that done, Erin helped Lucy find her grave. She learnt that the Franklins had her buried in a Potter's field-like cemetery in a town near the border with New Hampshire. She also told Lucy more about her life, traveling across the Atlantic from Ireland, Boston and being forced to move to Portland due to Patrick. They were in deep concentration, but quickly looked up, hearing a car door slam shut. Then some voices that sounded like there were coming from outside.   Parents Pop In. The front door opened, and a deep-sounding voice yelled, "Jack?" Jack jumped out of his chair; he was already prepared. He had been going over this moment since morning. He had to distract his parents while Lucy and, more importantly, Erin had to exit without drawing too much attention. His mom will probably faint if she saw Erin phase through walls, his dad would definitely spend an hour asking Erin to do tricks. He met them by the door and quickly lobbed questions at them. While his dad went upstairs to use the bathroom, Jack marshaled his mom into the kitchen. He showed her what he had bought for Christmas dinner, and asked about other things that they might need. In the living room, Lucy frantically piled her notes, her laptop and the grimoire back in her bag. She bounced from different spots of the room, trying to tidy up without being caught. Erin followed her around the room, not knowing what else to do. "Shit. Shit. Shit." Lucy said out loud but to herself. "Please be calm," Erin said, resting a hand on Lucy's shoulder though both could feel nothing. "We can say that we border together. But that we have to go now." "That's not a bad idea." Lucy replied. She paused and stared at Erin's clothes. "Can you do yourself up. Like how you used to look." Erin had her sleeves pulled up to her elbows, her hair down and her shoes were under Jack's bed. It was this weird quirk that she could change her appearance briefly, but it would just reset itself to how she always looked. Sometimes it was random, or if she just thought strongly enough. She nodded her head, and then Erin pressed her chest like she was doing the pledge of allegiance. With a quick flash, every bit of her clothing and her hair was back in its place. "Let's go," she said. While Jack was distracting his mother, they walked to the door, both looking at the kitchen. As Lucy opened the door, she waved at Erin and pointed to her mouth. Erin got the hint and said, "Bye Jack. We have to go." "Thanks for your help," Lucy added. They watched as a woman in her late fifties walked out of the kitchen. She was then joined by Jack. He looked like he was biting his lower lip. "Well, hello," she said. Her face had this inquisitive look like she was quickly judging them. "Hello, I am Erin," she said, "This is Miss; umm Lucy." "Hi, I'm Mary. Jack's mom," she replied, "That's umm interesting dress that you are wearing." Erin stayed quiet, her face frozen and her eyes stretched wide. "Oh, Erin's just shy," Lucy said, "She came from a rehearsal." She then turned to Erin and asked, "You're playing Scrooge's maid, right?" "Yes," Erin replied, not sounding anywhere convincing. "I'm sorry, but we need to be leaving." Jack left his mom's side and walked to the door, blocking her view of Erin just in case. "See you guys later," he said loud enough for his mom to hear him. He then leaned in and whispered, "Hide in my room, I'll be up soon." Both Lucy and Erin nodded. Jack slowly closed the door, watching Erin fade away as soon as she stepped outside. Lucy twisted her head left to right; he guessed that she was checking if anyone noticed a nineteenth-century maid disappear. Jack then locked the door and turned around, seeing his mother giving him a sly look. She suspected something. She was going to ask him so many questions, he knew it.   Inconvenient Parents. Erin stared out of the window, bored. She realized that she had never really checked out the change in her surroundings. That was interesting for a while, but after two hours, she needed something else to do. Erin had tried to see if she could focus all her energy and press the TV remote power button but got nowhere. She attempted not to think about the ceremony tomorrow. Thoughts of her future, of Jack and life would occasionally creep in her head, and Erin had to ignore them. She trusted herself, knowing that if it went wrong and she would stay like this, that she could survive. But what about Jack? There was a knock and Erin turned her head. "Erin?" Jack said before opening the door and poking his head in. "Jack?" "Sorry, I had to leave you alone for so long. Mom and Dad really wanted to know what I've been up to." Jack then climbed onto his bed and switched the TV on. He flipped through the channels before settling on ESPN. He looked at the door as he played around with the volume. "I understand." Erin then joined him on the bed. "Oh yeah. Mom really likes the tree. I told her that you helped me decorate it." "Were they upset that I didn't fully introduce myself to them?" "No. Not really. But over dinner, Mom wanted to know about you. I had to think of something to say. I told them that I met you recently and we've been seeing each other. Also, you're crashing at Lucy's." "Seeing each other?" Erin replied, "Is that what modern courtship is?" "Something like that," Jack said, smiling, "What was courtship like in 1800s?" "Courtship was not for people like me. Especially for someone from Ireland. My Dad worked with a man and the fellow said he was looking for a wife. My Dad then brought him home one night, I may have said five words to Patrick during dinner. Two weeks later, we were engaged." "Whoa. Is that what you wanted?" "I never had a say. My parents said I was to be married and that was it." "What did you think about Patrick?" "A drunk," Erin said, rolling her eyes. "I could tell the type of husband he was going to be during that dinner. I was to be a nurse for him, bring him whiskey, wash him and clean off umm vomit from his mouth." She blushed again, still not comfortable with some modern words. "But when he died. How old were you? Couldn't you marry someone else?" "I was 25. A different time. One that I am so happy to be out of." Erin smiled. "There is something I want to ask. Is courtship similar to dating?" "Dating?" "I've heard that word spoken so many times in this house. Back when I was alive, dating meant buying a night with a whore." Jack tried to explain what dating meant now. The use of apps, having coffee dates or low-key ones like going shopping. Also, casual sex and friends-with-benefits. The dating stages, how couples usually go from casual acquaintances to dating, boyfriend and girlfriend, moving into together and finally getting married if they like. He saw Erin's shocked look when he explained that divorce was so common and accepted. Jack carried on, saying how some couples don't use labels to describe themselves; some do while others have their own thing. Embarrassed, but Jack had no choice to use experience from his own life. "We have had sex." Erin said, slowly smiling, "I guess we're more boyfriend and girlfriend." "Probably." Jack replied, smirking at her. Jack's phone then started buzzing and interrupted them. Reaching to the nightstand, Lucy was calling him on Facetime. He turned to Erin and said, "Lucy's video-calling me." "Video-calling? So, she can see us? Wow." Jack answered and said, "Hey Lucy, what's up? Where are you?" They could see Lucy in a dimly lit storeroom. There were boxes of Budweiser beer and whiskey stacked behind her. Her clothes also looked weird for her, wearing a white shirt and a black leather apron. There was no make-up on her face, and her hair was tied back. "I got a shift at the Cord & Rifle. Anyway, how you guys doing?" Erin looked at Jack, he shrugged, and she turned back to Lucy saying, "We're good." "What happened to your mom & dad?" "They had some questions. I told them that I've been seeing Erin for a while and you guys came over, so I can help you with your laptop." "And. I am uh, crashing; at your home," Erin said, emphasizing any modern words. "Cool, cool." Lucy looked passed her phone, then there was a knock and a muffled voice. She nodded and said, "They need me back behind the bar. There was also one thing. Tomorrow, it's just us and your parents, right? Like your sisters aren't going to burst in while we're burning sage or nude?" "Nude?" Erin looked at Jack, squinting her eyes. He shook his head and turned back to Lucy, "No. You don't have to worry about them. Katie and Beth will be flying out on 23rd. They got tickets to Taylor Swift tomorrow. Unless LA gets a plague of spiders, they are going to be there." "Okay then," Lucy nodded, "So, we need to drug your parents," she said, so casual. She then looked away, mouthing 'what' at someone. "Shit, I need to go." "What do you mean, drug my parents?" "Yeah, we need to drug them." Lucy stood up and looked like she was moving. "Why?" "They have to be drugged," Lucy replied, "Bye guys!" Jack glanced at Erin, then back to his blank phone screen. Tomorrow is going to be a long, stressful day. *** In a couple of hours, the Winter Solstice would happen, and Erin sat on Jack's bed. She watched him paced in the room, on the phone with one of his sisters. He said that he was helping her out with a computer problem, but as he talked to his sister, Erin only heard half of the conversation and it made no sense to her. She never really interacted with anyone else in the house. Before Jack and his family moved in, Erin tried to keep to herself, always in the corner of the eye of the house's occupants for a quick second, then disappearing. She didn't even want to be seen by Jack initially but had no choice as her attic became his bedroom. Few times, she would find herself in his sisters' rooms and would see them. Erin struggled to remember their names. What was she supposed to say whenever she meets them? Erin clenched her eye shut, hating herself. It was wrong to think about the future. There were so many things that could go wrong. Jack ended the called and turned to Erin, "I hate being the family's I T support," he said, rolling his eyes. "I T?" "Never mind." He settled on the bed next to her and slipped on his boots. "It'll be weird when I introduce you to them. Katie will be anywhere from cool to disinterested. I know for a fact that Beth will be asking you non-stop questions. She's a pain like that." Erin smiled and said, "You're being too confident. It might not happen. And if this ritual fails, I will accept it with grace." "Really?" "I need to. Just so I can stay sane." "I've got a text from Lucy. She's outside." Jack stood up and grabbed his jacket. "I have faith something will happen. Something good," he said, smiling back at her. "It's like a 40-minute drive to the cemetery. We will be a while. Try to stay here until me or Lucy come up." "Good luck," Erin replied. It was getting too much for her. Erin knew how she was feeling over him. She loved Jack. It terrified her. If the ritual fails, what would happen to Jack, Erin asked herself. He had this single-minded focus on helping her. She was worried that if it doesn't work, he won't be able to move on.   Lucy pulled her Ford over and cut the engine. Jack wasn't going to say anything to her, but her car should not be making those types of sounds. It was like a Transformer was having a heart attack. Looking out of the window, he didn't see anyone. They left the car and slowly walk to the wall; it looked low enough for them to climb. Jack didn't know if there was some kind of night guard but said to Lucy that they should sneak in, just in case. She agreed, and soon he was boosting her over the wall. Climbing over, Jack landed on frozen grass that crunch with every step. They were lucky with the wind howling, making enough noise to cover their movements. "You ever been in a cemetery before?" Lucy asked, flashing the torch at a gravestone. "No. Have you?" "Yeah," she replied, "Loads of times; its part of the job. When I started hearing voices of the dead, I was like a goth goddess. Every Friday, someone was dragging me to a cemetery or a graveyard. Guys would hit on me all the time. I gave my first handy at a grave." "I got my first one during a school trip to Bangor," he said, looking at a gravestone, "I'm pretty sure that I told Erin about it." "How's Erin handling it?" Lucy asked, "Is she freaking out being a real woman again?" "Not really." Lucy stopped and Jack did the same. "Have you guys said anything about the future?" Jack sighed and shook his head. "Where's she going to stay? You're going back to Boston; is she going to follow you or stay here? She will need help with ID and social security." "I know. But Erin just doesn't want to think about the future. Talking about Boston, what she wants to do with her life and everything else, it will fucking hurt if tomorrow she's still a ghost. She's protecting herself." Lucy nodded and said, "I understand." Jack looked around, feeling that they were lost. Realizing that there was no guard and they were definitely alone, Jack and Lucy walked to the entrance. From there, they methodically worked their way up, finding Erin's grave after thirty minutes of searching. Lucy bent down and jammed a trowel into the ground. The frozen soil being too hard for her and Jack quickly took over. It took a couple of jabs to loosen the dirt. He scooped it up and funneled it into a sterilized container. Jack did ask why the box had to be sterilized. "You ever seen the Fly?" Lucy replied, tightening the lid around the plastic box, "You don't want her DNA mixing with something else. Turning her into a hybrid." "Really?" "Nah. It's just what it says to do in the grimoire," Lucy grinned, "Okay's let's get the hell out of here and roofie your parents." The Resurrection at Solstice. Jack searched the pantry for marshmallows, knowing that they were there somewhere. Lucy was upstairs with Erin. She was surprisingly easy to sneak into the house without his mom and dad noticing. While she was keeping Erin company, Jack was making his parents cocoa. Lucy had given him some weird smelling liquid to mix into the cocoa. It should make them fall asleep. He had to hide his look of glee when his dad said yes when he asked. If he didn't, they would be in trouble. He handed them the cocoa and settled down on the sofa, away from his parents. They were watching some Holiday cake show, and Jack would occasionally look up from his phone; they were still awake but getting quiet. Five minutes, he caught his mom closing her eyes and his dad doing that move of falling asleep, then jolting back awake. Ten minutes later, they were both deep asleep. He knew that they would be pissed at him in the morning, letting them sleep all night on the sofa. Waiting another ten minutes, Jack checked that they were still asleep and texted Lucy. It took just seconds for Erin to suddenly appear in his living room and the sound of Lucy running down the stairs. Both also checked if his parents were out cold; he guessed that they were also scared of being interrupted. "What did you give them?" Jack asked, staring at his snoring parents. "Oh, Valerian root and CBD oil," Lucy said, "We should get ready." "How long do we have?" Erin asked. "We got time," Lucy replied, looking at her phone. "The solstice is at 12:34am. This ritual has to happen during that time." "So, what do we have to do?" Jack said. They went back into Jack's room. Just like the s ance, they had to use the bedroom to host the ritual. Jack pushed everything to one side again, leaving a large empty space. Lucy made another circle, this time out of salt. There was something wrong with this; Jack had seen horror movies that use rings of salt as protection from the Devil. He wanted to ask if they're technically practicing Satanism. "This is just to make sure that we contain any kind of magic that we've created," Lucy said. After the circle was done, Jack placed seven black candles around the ring. They smelt funny, like someone could get high from the fumes. Lucy then put the grave dirt in the circle, making a pile with her hands. Directly opposite the soil, she positioned the silver bucket they had used before. While they worked on the preparations, Erin stood next to the door, silently watching them. Once Lucy said they were ready, they headed downstairs and to the kitchen. There was still some time to go, at least forty minutes. They could have waited in Jack's room, but both he and Lucy were too scared to touch anything and ruin the ritual. With Jack's parents snoring in the living room, they settled around the kitchen table. "Do you want something to drink?" Jack asked, breaking the silence between them. "Oh, god yes." Jack reached into a cabinet and pulled out a bottle of whiskey. "Dad got a bottle of Maker's Mark from my uncle," he said, pouring glasses for him and Lucy. They both quickly finished the bourbon and refilled their glasses. But Jack paused before taking another sip. He looked up from his drink to Erin and said, "Sorry about this." "Me too," Lucy said, hesitating as well. "But, if this works. I'm going to take you to a bar and we'll get hammered." Erin looked away and chuckled to herself. "Today, is it really that special? The Winter Solstice." "Yeah," Lucy said, "There's so many things that happen today. Yule is celebrated today by pagans and Satanists. Then there's the whole life-death-reborn symbolism of it, being the shortest day." She took another sip of bourbon and asked, "If this ritual works or doesn't, you're still going to experience a modern Christmas. How was that like back in 1890s?" Erin let out a quick smile and shrugged her shoulders. She said, "It was the same. There was Father Christmas ;  Santa, Christmas trees and presents. When I was alive, I'd go to church number of times before Christmas. My mam and my nana would give me presents on 6th December. How about you two? What are your traditions?" "Mine are really boring," Jack said, "Typical Christmas. Exchange gifts, eat too much, drink too much. But it's the only time my sisters do all of the cooking. Like Christmas dinner is their time to shine. Later in the evening, we go to the movies. Lucy?" "Pass," she said, "With this talking to dead people, I never really celebrated Christmas. Normally out getting drunk with friends or strangers." Lucy then checked her phone and then said, "We should probably stop drinking. It's getting near midnight and I probably shouldn't be swaying when I start reading the grimoire. And if you drink too much, it might affect your plumbing. And we need a good, sexy, show." Jack rolled his eyes and stood up. He said, "I don't know anything about sex magic and what it does. But I really think you just want to watch us fuck." Erin stood next to him, blushing uncontrollably. She covered her face and looked away. "Maybe," Lucy grinned, "You guys go to your room and I'm gonna get changed and we'll start." Jack and Erin were in his bedroom, standing inside the circle. They stayed quiet, not even keeping eye contact with each other. Jack would open his mouth from time to time and try to say something, probably some reassuring words to Erin. He had none, though; so he kept his mouth shut and waited. His bedroom door swung open, and in walked Lucy. She had changed, replacing her jeans and sweatshirt with an ankle-length black dress. It had long sleeves and fit snugly around her curves. She also pulled her long blonde hair in a ponytail, wearing black lipstick and eye shadow. She could see them staring at her and said, "I'm trying to match what they were usually wear for this kind of thing." "So, should we get started?" Jack asked. "Yeah. You start lighting the candles. I'm going to start the fire and burn the sage." It was just like as Jack thought, the weird-smelling candles that he placed around the circle started exhaling a strange odor. It smelt like weed, but some cheap, disgusting weed. After that was done, he joined Erin back in the circle. Smoke from the sage filled the room, but it wasn't overpowering like the night of the s ance. Lucy held the grimoire tightly and rounded the circle, standing in front of the dirt. "I'm going to start reading the grimoire. When you can, start kissing and do you-know-what." "Are you okay?" Jack asked as he stood in front of Erin. "Yeah. I'm calm." Jack dropped his eyes to her hands. She was trembling. "Okay guys, let's get weird," Lucy said before she began reading. "Our good being. Bear this night lights open this fruit female. Set the Cork grass light. Her fruit diminished. Days gathering seasons said air together for every day lost. Given her wherein dry replenish. Light her subdued wings." Lucy lowered her head, facing Jack and Erin. They both looked puzzled. Lucy rolled her eyes and said, "Just, kiss now!" Jack tried to take Erin's hand, but his fingers went through hers. She widened her eyes, scared at what was not happening. She was still non-corporeal. Something had gone wrong, and they could be out of time. "Fuck. Fuck. Fuck." Lucy said to herself, frantically flipping through the grimoire. Jack kept eye contact with Erin and asked, "Lucy, can't we do this another day?" "No. Today is the day Erin died and it falls on the Winter Solstice. We might have to wait another year or two for the right time to occur, again." "If we wait," he said, still looking at a scared Erin, "There is no way Erin could go unnoticed by my parents. Even if I stay here." Lucy jumped into the circle and stood in front of Erin. "You have to possess me." "What?" Erin said, nearly yelling, "Why

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Rest now, It's time to settle. Time to say goodbye to the day, And sink into the depth of the night. It's time to restore, And restart. So let your breath unravel the layers of anything you carry, So your soul can be nourished by the blessings welcoming you into deep sleep. Breathe now, Inhaling deep into your body, Feeling the air travel all the way to your fingers and toes. And then exhale, Letting everything float away into the night.  Breathe… And release. Breathe… And relax. PAUSE… Feel the slow rhythm of your breathing, Let it cradle you in its arms, And gently rock you to sleep. Breathing in, Breathing out. Slowly, Lovingly. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

A new report shows that Doctors at Tallaght University Hospital diagnosed 18 young people with a neurological disorder caused by inhaling nitrous oxide or “laughing gas”. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast with more on this was Hugh Kearney, Consultant Neurologist St James hospital and Trinity College earlier.

A new report shows that Doctors at Tallaght University Hospital diagnosed 18 young people with a neurological disorder caused by inhaling nitrous oxide or “laughing gas”. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast with more on this was Hugh Kearney, Consultant Neurologist St James hospital and Trinity College earlier.

Have you ever wondered, besides nicotine, what goes into the fine mist which vape users inhale deep into their lungs, then exhale in a visible puff? Lester Kiewit speaks to Catherine Egbe, senior specialist scientist at the SAMRC's tobacco research arm. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Book your FREE 30 Minute Clarity Call with Jody now! https://jody.as.me/womensmeditationnetworkclaritysession What is a Clarity Call? This is the first step to giving you the IMMEDIATE relief you crave and will help you to become "unstuck" as you walk the path towards a life of happiness, inner peace and fulfillment. During this call, we're going to explore your ideal life and vision for living the life that you desire. We'll talk about some of the challenges that are getting in your way, and I'll provide you with some practical tools to help you close the gap from where you are now, to your desired destination. Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium In this moment, Allow the affirming energy of the universe to wash over you, As we gently repeat to ourselves: I Embrace My Unique Body Shape and Feel Confident in My Own Skin. PAUSE (5 SEC)... Imagine yourself laying by the ocean's edge, The soft golden sand between your toes, And the warm sun gently caressing your skin. Breathe in deeply, Inhaling the fragrant sea air, and exhaling any lingering doubts or insecurities. With each breath, The salty breeze whispers sweet affirmations, Reminding you of your worthiness and the love that surrounds you. PAUSE (10 SEC)... As you look down at your body, You begin to see it as the masterpiece it truly is. Each curve and contour, Like a brushstroke on a canvas, Creating the exquisite work of art that is you. You are reminded that your body is your vessel, Your home, A sacred temple that houses the essence of your being. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Hey, it's Katie and I want to welcome you to this special bonus episode. It'll be here for you completely ad-free for the next week so you can get a feel of what it's like to be a PREMIUM member. If you'd like an easy ad-free experience for all of our podcasts - that's over 200 episodes each month, then JOIN PREMIUM today at https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Let the water soothe you, And heal what's in pain. In your body,  Your mind, Your soul. Bring it all here right now, So the healing waters can wash it all away. Settle your body and find your breath, Allowing yourself to wiggle around a bit,  Releasing any tension or discomfort. And on your next outbreath, drop your body further into comfort, Feeling the sigh relax you. Breathe. In and out. And see if you can extend your breathing just a little bit, Inhaling a little deeper, And exhaling just a little longer. Slowing down your breath. Slowing down your body. Slowing down your mind. PAUSE… If you're feeling physical pain, allow yourself to silently locate it, And notice a warm hum emanating from that spot. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at hello@womensmeditationnetwork.com to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity!Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Rest now, It's time to settle. Time to say goodbye to the day, And sink into the depth of the night. It's time to restore, And restart. So let your breath unravel the layers of anything you carry, So your soul can be nourished by the blessings welcoming you into deep sleep. Breathe now, Inhaling deep into your body, Feeling the air travel all the way to your fingers and toes. And then exhale, Letting everything float away into the night.  Breathe… And release. Breathe… And relax. PAUSE… Feel the slow rhythm of your breathing, Let it cradle you in its arms, And gently rock you to sleep. Breathing in, Breathing out. Slowly, Lovingly. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Hey, it's Katie and I want to welcome you to this special bonus episode. It'll be here for you completely ad-free for the next week so you can get a feel of what it's like to be a PREMIUM member. If you'd like an easy ad-free experience for all of our podcasts - that's over 200 episodes each month, then JOIN PREMIUM today at https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Close your eyes and focus on your breath.  Inhaling deeply through your nose,  And exhaling slowly through your mouth.  PAUSE… With each exhale allow any thoughts or emotions to drift away.  PAUSE… There is peace that comes through acceptance. It helps us to be present in the moment and to focus on what is, rather than what could be. Take a few moments now to contemplate what it means to accept life's imperfections,  Its unexpected twists and turns,  And unforeseen challenges. PAUSE… In this moment, embrace what is without judgment or attachment.  Silently remind yourself that there is beauty in the journey. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at hello@womensmeditationnetwork.com to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

Professor Bobby Smyth, a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist, explains the risks associated with young people inhaling aerosols.

Feeling Stressed & Anxious? Get our FREE 3 Day Stress & Anxiety Detox here -> https://womensmeditationnetwork.com Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Find a quiet space where you can settle into your body,And leave behind the noise of the world. PAUSE... Take a slow, deep breath,Inhaling the present moment,And releasing the tension you've been carrying.With each breath, soften into stillness. PAUSE... Now, allow your body to settle deeper,Let your feet ground into the earth,And your shoulders melt away from your neck,Releasing all that is heavy. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

Feeling Stressed & Anxious? Get our FREE 3 Day Stress & Anxiety Detox here -> https://womensmeditationnetwork.com Guide: Katie Krimitsos Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Settle into your space,And allow the weight of your body to relax. PAUSE (10 sec) Close your eyes,And bring all of your awareness to your breath.Inhaling deeply,Exhaling softly. PAUSE (10 sec) Now, picture yourself standing at the start of a path. It winds ahead of you,Twisting and turning, With shadows of uncertainty and doubt lingering in the corners. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

Tyler W. LeBaron, MSc, Ph.D., is the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Molecular Hydrogen Institute. With a background in biochemistry, physiology, and exercise science, he teaches exercise physiology and chemistry labs at Southern Utah University as an adjunct instructor. He interned at Nagoya University in Japan's Department of Neurogenetics, researching the molecular mechanisms of hydrogen gas on cell-signaling pathways. Tyler is a director of both the International Hydrogen Standards Association (IHSA) and the International Molecular Hydrogen Association (IMHA). He speaks at medical and academic conferences worldwide, collaborates with researchers globally, and works to advance the education and awareness of hydrogen as a therapeutic medical gas. Outside the lab, he trains in running and competes in arm wrestling. Alex Tarnava is a self-taught scientist, inventor, and author whose work bridges biomedical innovation, sovereign health, and philosophical disruption. He invented the world’s only open-cup molecular hydrogen tablet—a patented delivery system that has become the most studied and widely adopted form of hydrogen therapy, featured in over 21 published clinical trials. Alex has co-authored 17 peer-reviewed papers, with more in press and under review. He is also the co-inventor—alongside Tyler—of Inhale H₂, the first safe and effective hydrogen inhalation system. His leadership in the field led the Molecular Hydrogen Institute (MHI) to appoint him as the first chairman of its Research Committee. Full show notes: bengreenfieldlife.com/inhalehydrogen Episode Sponsors: LeelaQ: Not only do LeelaQ’s products neutralize EMFs, increase ATP production, optimize HRV, and improve blood flow, but they've been third-party proven to do so in placebo-controlled double-blind studies. Visit leelaq.com and use code BEN10 for 10% off. Gameday Men’s Health: Gameday Men's Health offers science-backed, physician-led men's health optimization with personalized protocols for testosterone, peptide therapy, ED treatment, and more—helping you perform at your best whether you're training hard or keeping up with life. Visit gamedaymenshealth.com/bengreenfield for a free testosterone test and consultation at a clinic near you. BEAM Minerals: If you want to up your mineral game, give BEAM Minerals a try. Go to beamminerals.com and use code BEN at checkout for 20% off your order. Thrive Market: Discover how Thrive Market delivers premium, clean-label groceries from top brands like Simple Mills and Primal Kitchen at up to 30% off retail prices, making healthy eating accessible without compromising your budget or values. Skip the junk without overspending—visit thrivemarket.com/ben for 30% off your first order plus a FREE $60 gift. BiOptimizers MassZymes: MassZymes is a powerful best-in-class enzyme supplement that improves digestion, reduces gas and bloating, and provides relief from constipation. Go to bioptimizers.com/ben and use code ben10 for 10% off your order. BON CHARGE: BON CHARGE is a holistic wellness brand with a wide range of products that naturally address the issues of modern life. Their products can help you sleep better, perform better, recover faster, balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and so much more. Go to boncharge.com/GREENFIELD and use coupon code GREENFIELD to save 15%.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breath is so ordinary that we forget it is extraordinary. It comes unbidden, steady as a tide, unnoticed until something interrupts it. We know the sudden gasp of fear, the shallow rise and fall of exhaustion, the ragged breath when we are sick. Yet beneath all those moments lies the same truth: breath is life.In this episode of Creation's Paths, we began with the simple reminder that life in our breath is our life. Too often, spiritual traditions turn breath into something to control, to discipline, even to constrain. An effort at restraining life itself. But the practice we explored was not about constriction. It was about letting breath become prayer, letting the air itself speak the Name of the Divine.This is the kind of practice that first feels like a gentle breeze on a cool fall day: soft, refreshing, peaceful. But it doesn't stop there. Beneath that quiet surface, the practice deepens, grounding us like roots pushing into rich soil and rising like the charged air before a storm. Breath becomes both anchor and surge, weaving us into the great current of life.The practice begins with ancient names. Matthew Fox, in his teachings on Radical Prayer, pointed to a way of praying the Tetragrammaton, the four-letter Name of God, by shaping the mouth and throat as though speaking YHVH while breathing in and out. No vocal cords, no sound, only the rush of air forming sacred syllables. The Name itself becomes breath.Later, Rabbi Rami Shapiro deepened this understanding in Judaism Without Tribalism, distinguishing two ways we encounter the Divine: Yah, “I Am,” the inward presence; and Ehyeh, Being itself beyond us. Breath carries both: the inhale, “Yah,” turning us inward, centering us in selfhood; the exhale, “Ehyeh,” releasing us outward into community, creation, and relationship.Jewish tradition also speaks of two inclinations, the yetzer ha-ra (the self-directed impulse, sometimes mistranslated as “evil”) and the yetzer ha-tov (the communal or altruistic impulse, “good”). Breath, again, becomes the place of balance: the inhale honors the self's need for oxygen, life, renewal; the exhale honors the world's need for creativity and creation it's self. In this back-and-forth, the Name of God becomes the rhythm of our very existence.Layered upon these roots are Creation Spirituality's Four Paths: Positiva (awe and wonder), Negativa (letting go, emptiness), Creativa (birthing newness), Transformativa (healing and justice). Breath can move through these paths, each inhale and exhale carrying us through transformation, wonder, surrender, and creativity.What begins as simply saying the Name with breath grows quickly into a deep meditation on self and cosmos. Inhaling, we are filled, self affirmed, grounded, alive. Exhaling, we are emptied, poured out for others, surrendered into communion. It is the yesh and the ayin, fullness and emptiness.The practice reveals subtle truths: selfishness is not always evil, for inhaling is necessary to live. Selflessness is not always holy, for endless exhaling leaves us collapsed. We need both: the courage to take in life for ourselves and the generosity to release life for others. Brian put it plainly: if all we do is inhale, we faint; if all we do is exhale, we expire.There is also mystery here. Each breath can feel like the ocean becoming a drop and the drop returning to the ocean. Each cycle of fullness and emptiness is a miniature creation, a tide that carries both the particularity of the self and the vastness of the cosmos. Thich Nhat Hanh called mindfulness the greatest magic because it brings us into the only moment that exists, the present. In this practice, mindfulness and prayer merge, each breath becoming spell, prayer, offering.Breath touches everything. What I exhale becomes food for trees; what trees exhale becomes food for me. Breath connects species, people, and places into one vast circulatory system of life.Prayed in this way, breath also connects traditions. It holds the Jewish mystical sense of the Divine Name too holy to speak, yet spoken in every breath. It carries the Christian vision of the Spirit as breath or wind (ruach, pneuma), moving in and through all. It resonates with Buddhist mindfulness of breathing as doorway to presence. It sits comfortably in Druidry, which sees the breath of the wind as the breath of the world.Breath also connects the personal and the political. Our balance between inhale and exhale mirrors the balance between self and community, between individual needs and collective responsibilities. Too much inwardness leads to narcissism; too much outwardness leads to unthinking conformity. But when the two dance together, we breathe justice.The advanced practice Brian offered makes this even more explicit: inhaling as transformation, holding in awe, exhaling as surrender, holding in creativity. This rhythm trains us not only to pray but to live: taking in the world's wounds, holding them in wonder, releasing them in service, and pausing long enough to let new worlds gestate.So how do we embody this? Begin simply. Sit or lie down comfortably. Let your shoulders relax. Inhale, shaping your mouth as though saying “Yah.” Exhale, shaping your lips as though saying “Ehyeh.” Don't force sound, let the air itself be the word.Feel the rhythm: fullness and emptiness. Notice the peace, like a cool autumn breeze. Notice the grounding, like roots drinking deeply. Notice the rising energy, like the charged air before a storm. Let your awareness sharpen until you feel not just your lungs but the whole web of life breathing with you.Practice safely. Don't force breath-holds. Don't clench your throat. This is not a contest of endurance. It is prayer. Breathe naturally, gently, and if discomfort rises, release.In time, you may add the pauses. After an inhale, hold for awe. After an exhale, hold for creativity. Let the Four Paths shape your breath: becoming, beholding, surrendering, birthing. Let the cycle turn until it becomes second nature, until every breath becomes a liturgy of transformation.This is not meant to be lofty or distant. It can be morning centering, evening unwinding, or a quick re-grounding in the middle of the day. It can accompany your prayers, or it can be your prayer. What matters is that it keeps you alive to the presence of Spirit in and around you.For me, this practice begins as peace: a soft breath, like the wind through trees on a fall afternoon. That peace sinks into my bones as grounding, reminding me that life is not abstract but in this air, this body, this earth. Then, without warning, the peace turns electric, a rising surge like storm-air alive with possibility. Awareness sharpens. Connection hums. I feel the life of trees, the pulse of animals, the hush of stones, all tied together by breath.This practice reminds me that holiness is not locked in temples but carried in our lungs. Every inhale is the gift of being. Every exhale is the offering of self. Breath is the Name of the Holy One, spoken not with voice but with life.And so my prayer is simple: may we learn to notice our breath. May we let it carry us into peace, root us in life, and awaken us to the storm-charged presence of the Divine all around. May each breath we take be offering, communion, and blessing. Amen.Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.Thank you for Tips / Donations: * https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett * https://patreon.com/cedorsett * https://cash.app/$CreationsPaths* Substack: https://www.creationspaths.com/New to The Seraphic Grove learn more For Educational Resource: https://wisdomscry.com Social Connections: * BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.com * Threads https://www.threads.net/@creationspaths * Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/#christopagan #CreationSpirituality #breathprayer #mysticism #druidry #Brigid #breathwork #contemplation #sacredpractice #prayerChapters:00:00 Introduction: The Divine Breath01:07 Host Introductions01:16 Overview of Divine Breath Practice02:08 Matthew Fox's Radical Prayer Teaching04:34 Understanding Divine Connection: Internal and External15:08 Advanced Practice: Four Paths Breathing18:15 Safety Guidelines for Breath Work20:04 Closing Thoughts and Blessing Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe

Tularemia is a highly infectious disease you get from the bacterium F. tularensis. You can get it from bug bites, infected animals, contaminated water or food, and particles of bacteria in the air. Tularemia can affect your skin, eyes, throat, lungs and intestines. Tularemia should be treated as soon as possible with antibiotics.  We will not have a guest for this week, but would love to invite anyone who has been diagnosed with Tularemia to be a guest on a future show. ​ Tularemia causes your lymph nodes to painfully swell and other symptoms in your lungs, eyes, throat and intestines, depending on where the bacteria infects you. ​It is a zoonotic disease, which means it spreads between animals and humans. Commonly called “rabbit fever” or “deer fly fever,” people get tularemia from exposure to deer flies and ticks that have F. tularensis infections. You can also get it from contact with infected animals (generally rabbits, hares and rodents) or food and water sources contaminated with the bacteria.  Tularemia can cause your lymph nodes to swell severely, which looks like large bumps on your body. Sometimes it causes broken skin (ulceration) at the site where F. tularensis bacteria entered your body. (Credits: Cleveland Clinic) ​People can become infected in several ways, including: Tick and deer fly bites Skin contact with infected animals Drinking contaminated water Inhaling contaminated aerosols or agricultural and landscaping dust Laboratory exposure In addition, people could be exposed as a result of bioterrorism. Symptoms vary depending how the person was infected. Tularemia can be life-threatening, but most infections can be treated successfully with antibiotics. Steps to prevent tularemia include: Using insect repellent Wearing gloves when handling sick or dead animals Avoiding mowing over dead animals In the United States, naturally occurring infections have been reported from all states except Hawaii.

In this episode, Eléonore de Posson guides you into the wisdom of spiral time, helping you release the pressure of rushing, hustling, and feeling “behind,” so you can align with the Age of Wisdom we are entering.The spiral is a deeply feminine symbol, reminding us that time is cyclical, not linear. When you align with this truth, you soften, trust your timing, and step confidently into your soul's purpose during this Age of Aquarius.[00:01] Welcome & Magdalene Feast Day – Why this episode aligns with Magdalene teachings. – Invitation to listen to Episode #123 on Mary Magdalene.[02:15] The spiral: sacred symbol of the Divine Feminine – The spiral's presence in nature, DNA, galaxies, Kundalini, and ancient sites. – Why spiral time reflects true cosmic and feminine wisdom.[05:00] My personal story: Divorce, divine timing, and trusting spiral time – Feeling “behind” in marriage and motherhood. – How self-love, surrender, and cyclical timing aligned love, family, and soul purpose.[09:20] The Age of Aquarius: The Age of Wisdom – Moving from Mars-led Age of Pisces (conquest, hierarchy) – Into Venus-led Age of Aquarius (community, feminine wisdom, sovereignty). – Why this matters for your leadership and soul mission.[12:45] Spiral Meditation: Align with cyclical time – Visualize a spiral of light above your crown, drawing in cosmic wisdom. – Inhaling spiral light down, exhaling spiral expansion around your field. – Helps resync with your rhythm when feeling rushed.[16:20] Reflection prompts to integrate spiral time: – Where am I still operating in linear time? – What would change if I moved at the speed of nature? – Where am I invited to soften and trust? – What is my role in the Age of Wisdom?

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DMYejqzMmN6/I Inhaling nitrous oxide from pressurized canisters, commonly called doing “whippets” or “ballooning,” filling balloons with the gas, can damage your mouth, voice box, and respiratory tract. A case report from the University of Virginia in the New England Journal of Medicine documents the nasty side of laughing gas use.A 23-year-old man presented to doctors there with a 2 day history of painful swallowing and hoarseness just following use of a “whippet” canister. Examination revealed swelling, redness, and peeling mouth and throat linings and a nasty ulceration on his right vocal cord. The cause of these injuries: frostbite.  Nitrous oxide, stored in pressurized liquid form, rapidly cools when released and converted to a gas. Inhaling it directly from a canister can expose your mouth and throat to extreme cold with partial or complete freezing and tissue damage similar to what you'd get from frostbite.The patient in question received oral and topical painkillers as well as an oral anti-inflammatory paste.  He never returned for follow up so we don't know how his injuries healed.Recreational nitrous oxide use is popular but not without its dangers when the gas is directly inhaled from an aerosol canister.  The common wisdom is that laughing gas is harmless, but, in addition to frostbite, its use can trigger nerve damage, vitamin B12 depletion, and multiple neurological issues with repeated use.https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMicm2502232#nitrousoxide #laughinggas #whippets #ballooning #frostbite

Story at-a-glance Inhaling microplastics disrupts your lung's immune defenses within 24 hours by disabling macrophages, the cells that normally clear out pathogens and waste Once inhaled, plastic particles travel beyond your lungs and accumulate in your liver, brain, kidneys, and colon, raising your risk for inflammation and chronic disease Your body's immune cells cannot break down microplastics and instead hold onto them, causing ongoing immune dysfunction and toxic buildup Researchers are now working to identify early warning signs of microplastic-induced lung damage, including biomarkers that signal rising cancer risk You can lower your daily exposure by filtering your air and water, switching to plastic-free kitchen tools and balancing related hormonal disruption with natural progesterone if needed

Our guest for this week is Sara Olson.  Sara (her TikTok name is SKEEETAH) is from the Wolf River area of Wisconsin which just happens to hold the highest concentration of the fungus that causes Blastomycosis. When Sara got Blastomycosis in January 2024, she thought it was 'just the flu'.  With a chest xray, she was diagnosed with pneumonia.  Several rounds of antibiotics didn't help so she did a CT scan where they found an embolism.  Still not knowing anything else, they continued treating her for bacterial pneumonia.  They did a swab of her sputum in which her health providers found no bacterial growth, but there was fungal growth.  "For some reason they didn't do fungal testing" she was admitted, released and readmitted all the while she was being treated for bacterial pneumonia.  The final hospitalization had her O2 levels drop to 30 and she was intubated, her family was called to come and say their goodbyes...  You'll have to listen to the interview to learn more.  She is lucky to be alive! Blastomycosis is a fungal infection and was linked to the Little Wolf River in Waupaca County, Wisconsin, during a summer 2015 outbreak.  People who went tubing on the river were exposed to the fungus, with 59 confirmed and 39 probable cases reported according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (W-DHS). The fungus, Blastomyces, lives in soil and decaying organic matter, and its spores can become airborne when disturbed. Inhaling these spores can cause blastomycosis, a disease primarily affecting the lungs, though it can spread to other parts of the body. While most blastomycosis cases are sporadic, this outbreak highlighted the need for awareness about this preventable cause of illness.    Key Details about the Outbreak: Cause: The outbreak was attributed to the fungus Blastomyces, which is commonly found in soil and decaying matter.    Exposure: People who participated in river tubing on the Little Wolf River were exposed to the fungus.    Symptoms: Blastomycosis can cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, muscle aches, and fatigue, but it can also lead to serious health problems if not treated.    Transmission: The infection is not spread from person to person.    Treatment: Blastomycosis can be treated with antifungal medications.    Outbreak Scale: This outbreak was one of the largest in recent Wisconsin history, with 59 confirmed and 39 probable cases.    Prevention: Awareness of the potential for infection is key, especially in areas where the fungus is known to be present.    Additional Information: Endemic Area: Blastomycosis is endemic in the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, the Great Lakes region, and the southeastern United States according to the CDC.    Symptoms: Common symptoms include cough, fever, chest pain, fatigue, and skin sores.    Risk Factors: Individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses may be more susceptible to severe illness.    Not Limited to the Wolf River: While the Little Wolf River outbreak was significant, blastomycosis can occur in other areas with suitable environmental conditions.  Blastomyces lives in moist soil in parts of North America. It's too small to see, so you can breathe it into your lungs without knowing it. There, it can grow and make you sick. It sometimes spreads to your skin or other parts of your body. It's hard to avoid breathing in Blastomyces fungus if you live in an area where it's common. While not entirely preventable, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of blastomycosis: Avoid disturbing large areas of dirt and dust, especially in areas near water. If your job or hobbies expose you to soil that's likely to contain Blastomyces, wear an N95 (or KN95) respirator mask to help filter the air you breathe.  

Story at-a-glance Inhaling specific essential oils before bed helps calm your nervous system, lower stress hormones, and prepare your brain for sleep, without medication Lavender, jasmine, clary sage, and cedarwood have been shown in clinical studies to improve sleep quality, ease anxiety, and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep Your sense of smell is directly wired to your brain's emotional center, which is why the right scent shifts you out of fight-or-flight mode and into deep rest Layering the same oil across multiple methods, like diffusing, bathing, and topical use, strengthens the relaxation signal and helps your body respond more consistently Some oils, like peppermint and rosemary, are stimulating and should be avoided at night; safety also matters, so always dilute oils properly and avoid synthetic products

What's up all you Vipers!  Mr and Mrs Weedman get normal with a sesh of Lake Effect from their craft grower friends  @Midwest_Terpzz_Illinois.  From there the duo dives right into stories about their week in the world of weed and they deliver the latest weed headlines and happenings from all around the world. Mr Weeman bring you an article about the interesting innovation of triploid cannabis, he shares some really cool research finding the chemical properties of cannabis fighting dangerous fungal pathogens, and he covers a positive report on the future of marijuana and sickle cell disease. Mrs Weedman brings you a positive twist on the hemp THC "loophole" vs law debate, she shares a Drs perspective on cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, and an important call to action - to check your rolling papers!  Thanks for listening and as always, hit us up!YouTube: Weedman420 ChroniclesEMAIL:  weedman420chronicles@gmail.comSHOP: www.eightdecades.comIG: @eightdecadesEMAIL: eightdecadesinfo@gmail.com#ImHigh #Cannabis #StomptheStigma #HomeGrow #FreethePlant #Stoners #Burners #rosin #liverosin #Potheads #Vipers #CannabisEducation #CannabisResearch #Weed #Marijuana #LegalizeIt #CannabisNews #CBD #Terpenes  #Podcast #CannabisPodcast #eightdecades #LPP #Lifestyle #HealthyLifestyle #NaturalMedicine #PlantMedicine #News #Research #MedicalMarijuana #Infused #420 #Education #Health #Wellness #WorldNews #Gardening #budtender #kief #hemp #dabs #hash #joints #edibles #gummies #tincture #vapes #esters #pauliesayssmokesmart Article Links:* https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2025/06/02/triploid-cannabis/?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=topic/cannabis* https://www.greenstate.com/perspective/hemp-thc-isnt-a-loophole-its-the-law/?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=user/GreenState* https://www.sciencealert.com/cannabis-compound-could-protect-us-from-deadly-fungal-disease?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=topic/medicalresearch* https://drpetergrinspoon.substack.com/p/cannabis-hyperemesis-syndrome?utm_medium=newsletter&_bhlid=4840049a2b38f828a2a15cf4aec6cb86e8c87463* https://wordinblack.com/2025/06/howard-university-study-explores-marijuana-treatment-sickle-cell-disease/* https://www.greenstate.com/business/rolling-papers-risk/?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=user/GreenStateCOPYRIGHT 2021 WeedMan420Chronicles©Suggestions? Questions? Chat with us here.

Rover's arm is still bothering him. Blow Me Away 2025. Was there any resolution to the missing Metallica poster? Rapper Silento was sentenced to 30 years in prison in connection with his cousin's murder. Jeffrey & Krystle were in the Silento music video. Rumor is, they want to place Justin Bieber under a conservatorship. Crashed plane in India. Brian Wilson from the Beach Boys passed away. A 19-year-old girl died after huffing duster. Rover just ordered a bunch of duster and Charlie was inhaling duster at broadcasting school. Top ten fast food fries. A man in Kentucky was arrested for releasing a racoon into a business. Dispute with the doorman at bankruptcy box. Duji uses ChatGPT to write the doorman a text. Charlie was at the park at 10 pm to get a picture of the moon and hit a brick wall with his truck. Productivity hacks. Rover watched the Titan submersible documentary. Geese pooping everywhere.

Crashed plane in India. Brian Wilson from the Beach Boys passed away. A 19-year-old girl died after huffing duster. Rover just ordered a bunch of duster and Charlie was inhaling duster at broadcasting school.

Crashed plane in India. Brian Wilson from the Beach Boys passed away. A 19-year-old girl died after huffing duster. Rover just ordered a bunch of duster and Charlie was inhaling duster at broadcasting school.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rover's arm is still bothering him. Blow Me Away 2025. Was there any resolution to the missing Metallica poster? Rapper Silento was sentenced to 30 years in prison in connection with his cousin's murder. Jeffrey & Krystle were in the Silento music video. Rumor is, they want to place Justin Bieber under a conservatorship. Crashed plane in India. Brian Wilson from the Beach Boys passed away. A 19-year-old girl died after huffing duster. Rover just ordered a bunch of duster and Charlie was inhaling duster at broadcasting school. Top ten fast food fries. A man in Kentucky was arrested for releasing a racoon into a business. Dispute with the doorman at bankruptcy box. Duji uses ChatGPT to write the doorman a text. Charlie was at the park at 10 pm to get a picture of the moon and hit a brick wall with his truck. Productivity hacks. Rover watched the Titan submersible documentary. Geese pooping everywhere. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Find a quiet space where you can settle into your body, And leave behind the noise of the world. PAUSE... Take a slow, deep breath, Inhaling the present moment, And releasing the tension you've been carrying. With each breath, soften into stillness. PAUSE... Now, allow your body to settle deeper, Let your feet ground into the earth, And your shoulders melt away from your neck, Releasing all that is heavy. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

Auckland University scientists have researched how much plastic we could be inhaling, especially indoors where we spend most of our time. Dr Joel Rindelaub and Dr Gordon Miskelly tested the air in two chemistry labs for microplastics that are small enough to be inhaled. Dr Rindelaub explained the results to Jesse.

What if the air freshener in your car was more dangerous than the pollution outside? In this explosive episode, Darin reveals what's really inside those “harmless” little trees hanging from car mirrors—and why they could be silently damaging your health. Backed by real science and peer-reviewed studies, Darin uncovers the shocking truth about volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the health effects on the brain and lungs, and the corporations that won't label them. You'll also learn how to detox your air, reclaim your health, and even start a grassroots movement to get a fragrance-free option in ride shares like Uber and Lyft. Studies: There's this study called “Volatile Chemical Emissions from Car Air Fresheners”—and wow. Researchers analyzed 12 popular car fresheners—those trees, clips, sprays, gels—you name it. Here's what they found: 546 volatile organic compounds. That's VOCs. Out of those, 30 were considered potentially hazardous—things like formaldehyde, benzene, and other stuff you definitely don't want marinating your brain. And you know what's wild?
Not a single one of those hazardous chemicals was listed on the label.
(Steinemann et al., 2020) There's a study called “Fragranced Consumer Products: Effects on Asthmatics”—and it found that over 64% of people with asthma reported real symptoms from these scented products: wheezing, headaches, even full-on asthma attacks. And 41% said air fresheners were the trigger (Steinemann, 2017). Another one? “Migraine Headaches and Fragranced Consumer Products.” Nearly half of the people who get migraines said air fresheners specifically set them off (Steinemann & Nematollahi, 2020). And if you're neurodivergent—like folks with autism? This next one breaks my heart.
In the study “Fragranced Consumer Products: Effects on Autistic Adults,” 83.7% of autistic individuals said fragranced products triggered serious neurological and respiratory problems—and 63% said air fresheners were one of the worst offenders (Steinemann, 2018). In a study out of Nigeria, researchers exposed mice to a solid commercial air freshener. After a few weeks, the mice showed increased anxiety, depression-like behavior, memory loss, and signs of oxidative stress in the brain. Their brains were literally under chemical assault.
The study's called “Neurobehavioral Effects of Prolonged Exposure to Solid Air Freshener in Mice.” Check it out—it's eye-opening (Umukoro et al., 2019). Sorry to tell you… greenwashed products aren't any better. In the same 2020 study I mentioned earlier, researchers tested “natural” versions too—and found no meaningful difference in the chemicals they released (Steinemann et al., 2020).     What You'll Learn in This Episode: 00:00 – Introduction: The truth about air fresheners 00:44 – Why Darin refuses to use ride shares with scent trees 01:50 – The hidden study on VOCs in popular car air fresheners 02:30 – 546 chemicals discovered—30 considered hazardous 03:00 – Where is the regulation? Why there are no labels 03:55 – Formaldehyde, benzene, and what they do to your body 05:00 – The link between asthma, headaches, and fragrances 05:45 – 64% of asthmatics report fragrance-triggered symptoms 06:25 – What these chemicals do to neurodivergent individuals 07:10 – Mice studies: anxiety, memory loss, oxidative stress 08:40 – Ubers, Lyfts, and chronic chemical exposure 09:15 – “Greenwashed” products are just as toxic 10:00 – No regulation, no labeling: the wild west of scent marketing 10:50 – A call to action: the Uber/Lyft fragrance-free movement 12:02 – How to tag and campaign for safer ride shares 13:00 – What you can use instead: baking soda, charcoal, and nature 14:40 – Exactly how to ask a driver to remove chemical air fresheners 15:41 – Final message: take your air—and your health—back     Don't Forget... I just launched my brand new program Superlife Supermind. Visit my website https://superlife.com/ to learn more about how you can get rid of stress, improve sleep and overall health today.     Connect with Darin Olien: Website: darinolien.com Instagram: @darinolien Book: Fatal Conveniences   Key Takeaway: "Your car shouldn't smell like a fake ocean breeze—it should smell like clean, chemical-free life." – Darin Olien     Bibliography: 1. Steinemann, A., et al. (2020). Volatile chemical emissions from car air fresheners. Link 2. Steinemann, A. (2017). Fragranced consumer products: effects on asthmatics. Link 3. Steinemann, A. (2018). Fragranced consumer products: effects on autistic adults. Link 4. Steinemann, A., & Nematollahi, N. (2020). Migraine headaches and fragranced consumer products. Link 5. Umukoro, S., et al. (2019). Neurobehavioral Effects of Prolonged Exposure to Solid Air Freshener in Mice. Link

In this episode I am once again joined by Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, alchemists, practitioners of Western Esotericism, and authors of ‘Alchemy, The Divine Work'. Katarina and Tommy detail the stages and methods of the spiritual path of Western alchemy. They explain the movement through four phases, describe the operations employed during each, and reveal the signs of progress that indicate success. Katarina and Tommy reveal how to pray to the Madonna, how to purify karma, how to work with fire and emotions such as anger and sadness, the role of tinctures and elixirs, and methods of astral travel and archetypal work. Katarina and Tommy also consider the power of the imagination, the interaction with external alchemical operations and inner personal refinement, and recount stories of entity encounters and reality creation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep300-the-spiritual-practice-of-alchemy-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - “Alchemy, The Divine Work” 02:30 - Practices of the alchemical path 03:38 - Prima materia and meditation 05:42 - Meditating on alchemical emblems 06:43 - The metaphysics of prima materia consciousness 07:30 - Praying to Black Madonna 08:38 - How to pray 10:07 - Use of the imagination 11:42 - Signs of contact with the Black Madonna 13:44 - Purifying karma and releasing traumas 15:08 - Inhaling suffering and exhaling love 16:50 - Purification and divine providence 19:09 - The Nigredo phase 20:50 - The seven planets and chakras 21:49 - Theosophical ideas about seven governing forces 26:15 - Moving into the Albedo phase 27:11 - Mercurial consciousness 28:22 - Nigredo vs Albedo phases 29:43 - Working with the astral body 30:17 - Work with herbs and creating tinctures 34:18 - An alchemical elixir toast 36:39 - The Citrinitas phase 38:27 - Working with fire 40:16 - Using anger and sadness 41:48 - Death is not the end 43:33 - Reintegrating the Dark Angel 44:04 - The magic of imagination 48:14 - Fourfold processes and the quintessence 49:37 - Making the soul bigger 51:22 - Working with the Egyptian and Gnostic traditions 52:24 - Projecting the four elements 53:53 - Pilgrimages to magical locations 55:19 - Visitations from giants and other beings 57:42 - Meeting inner archetypes in the outer world 59:37 - The Rubedo phase 01:01:41 - Microcosm and macrocosm 1:04:109 - Fasting and insight into the shadow 01:07:51 - Signs of process on the path 01:10:14 - Working at a deeper level 01:11:31 - Katarina's novel manifesting into real life 01:13:41 - Creating your own universe 01:15:25 - Life as a creative project 01:17:23 - Working with the ego 01:19:40 - Death and resurrection 01:20:27 - Bad gurus with siddhi powers 01:22:11 - The power of partnership 01:23:34 - Humility and the flaming heart 01:24:40 - Practice advice for the eager student 01:30:36 - Balance vs obsession 01:33:50 - 10-15 years to a successful white wedding 01:36:32 - Working for the next life … Previous episode with Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep238-alchemy-the-divine-work-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund To find out more about Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, visit: - https://www.alkemiskaakademin.se/eng/about-us/ 
For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James

In this explosive episode of the Start Today Podcast, Chris Cavallini delivers a no-holds-barred critique of vaping, exposing it as a devastating habit that undermines the masculine energy of today's youth.  Prepare to be shocked by revelations about the unknown dangers of vaping and the insidious chemicals that fuel this addiction.  Chris draws powerful parallels between historical titans and today's habits to chart a clear course toward reclaiming strength and integrity.  This episode not only uncovers the harsh truths about vaping -it also provides actionable solutions to conquer this weak, embarrassing addiction for good. You don't want to miss this!

Millions warned as the first cyclone watch in 35 years is issued for NSW, Kourtney Kardashian addresses the latest rumours, Conan O’Brian roasts celebs at the Oscars, and the Jillaroos’ pre-game ritual mystery is finally solved. For more, head to news.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Great Trials Podcast, hosts Steve Lowery and Yvonne Godfrey welcome guests Tara Sutton and Philip Seiff from Robbins Kaplan LLP. The discussion centers on the significant legal case, McDougal vs. CRC Industries, which resulted in a $7.75 million verdict (later over $10.5 million after post-judgment adjustments).    Remember to rate and review GTP on Apple Podcasts: Click Here to Rate and Review   Case Details: The Robins Kaplan trial team secured a groundbreaking $7.75 million verdict against CRC Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of aerosol dust remover products. This is believed to be the first known case against a dust remover manufacturer that has been tried to a plaintiff verdict. The litigation stemmed from a tragic vehicle crash in 2019 where the client's wife was killed after her car was struck by a driver who was impaired from huffing CRC Duster. Inhaling this product can cause dramatic impairment effects from the chemical used as a propellant.  The case focused on the well-known abuse of aerosol dust remover products, such as CRC Duster, and CRC Industries' responsibility for the foreseeable consequences of their products' misuse. (Source)   Guest Bio: Tara Sutton Tara Sutton, chair of Robins Kaplan's National Mass Tort Group, has built a distinguished career in mass tort litigation and is renowned for her dedicated, unyielding commitment to justice. Her career has been marked by steadfast advocacy, and an unrelenting pursuit for accountability over corporate misconduct. Tara stands out as the embodiment of legal excellence representing individuals, governments, and Tribal Nations harmed by defective products or corporate negligence. Her legal acumen and tenacity is evident as she navigates the complex landscape of mass torts — including cases involving defective products, dangerous pharmaceutical drugs, and faulty medical devices. Read Full Bio Philip Sieff Trial lawyer Phil Sieff battles for justice when wrongdoers cause serious injury or death. Intense and relentless, he helps clients find the courage they need to face those who have hurt them. He has significant experience representing families coping with the wrongful death of a loved one, particularly a child, having handled hundreds of wrongful death cases. He has particular experience in complex and high-profile cases, including: the I-35W Bridge Collapse (lead co-counsel of I-35W Consortium, a group of 17 law firms that provided legal services to over 100 collapse victims); the Red Lake High School Shooting; and the Holidazzle Parade Disaster. Read Full Bio Links: Robins Kaplan on Facebook Tara Sutton on LinkedIn Philip Sieff on LinkedIn Robins Kaplan on X Check out previous episodes and meet the GTP Team: Great Trials Podcast   Show Sponsors: Harris Lowry Manton LLP - hlmlawfirm.com Production Team: Dee Daniels Media Podcast Production Free Resources: Stages Of A Jury Trial - Part 1 Stages Of A Jury Trial - Part 2

It dentist day for Dylan! Pepper shows off his special party trick. A listener with a small mouth. Who are the coolest Canadians? The sneeze contest takes over again. Inhaling chains. A bad son gives us an update. Dylan is mad at another airline. We chat about shortbread and maraschino cherries. A girlfriend wants to send her boyfriend home for the holidays. A fact about Edmonton's Canada Place. Can Robbie find us a choir in time? Categories of Christmas songs. Robbie may be a little bit too excited for Christmas now.

Thank you for joining us for our 2nd Cabral HouseCall of the weekend! I'm looking forward to sharing with you some of our community's questions that have come in over the past few weeks…   Laura: Hi, I know we've mentioned the Glucose Goddess before but I've had lots of people telling me that her information is real, they've been checking their glucose spikes after meals and since she suggests fruit should be eaten after a meal because it's sugar, I feel confused about when and how to eat fruit yet again.. I'm aware that it digests faster so it should be eaten before a meal so it doesn't ferment other food in the stomach which causes bloating, but I would like to get proper suggestions on how to eat fruit bc I do eat a lot of it, especially in the summer. When to eat an apple? When would you eat watermelon? Also, are savoury breakfasts ok&which? I can't use DNS so I don't think smoothies are the best option for me&I've been advised to eat protein for breakfast to balance hormones?     Marlyse: Thank you for all the work you do. Work I read your book about 1-1/2 years ago I was very encouraged when I read that anything can be healed. I think I've gone through every applicable lab and detox/protocol you have except for fatlosity. I did the labs and protocols to get help heal myself from eczema, IBS and a chronic cough I've had for 8-1/2 years. I'm so frustrated because I still have IBS and a chronic cough. I really can't say they are any better than they were. The eczema is the only thing I can say that has gotten better. I was so hopeful and now I don't know where to go from here. I just finished the mold protocol which is the last one on the list to do. I'll be doing another 7 day functional detox with the group in September.     Missy: My husband blew out his bursa sack on his left knee. After several appointments it is now down to surgery or learn to live with the pain. He's an independent remodel contractor so using his knee is a constant whether doing flooring, tile, ladders, or steps. What can you recommend for a condition like this, dealing with the pain, planning for surgery? Any knee braces that would help before or after surgery? I'm sure you can help because of your trainer background and overall knowledge!     Panagiota: Hello, first of all, I would like to thank you for all the information that you put out for our health! I have been a listener of your podcast for the past 6 years!! Learn so much and you have help me so much with testing and supplements! I trust your advice! My question is about chlorine in the pool. I love to swim three times a week. I love to swim in the ocean in the summers when I go home to Greece. And I use the pool at my local fitness club here in the United States for the rest of the year. What is the best way to protect and Remove the chlorine from my body Externally and internally. I know chlorine gets absorbed through the skin and through Inhaling it. Any advice will be greatly appreciated! Thank you so muchT Panagiota (Pana)     Laura: Hi doctor Cabral, My Chinese medicine practicioner advised me to reduce dampness in my body, but I really love green juices and smoothie bowls—they're essential for getting my nutrients. Is there any way to incorporate them while still combating dampness? Thanks so much! Laura   Thank you for tuning into this weekend's Cabral HouseCalls and be sure to check back tomorrow for our Mindset & Motivation Monday show to get your week started off right! - - - Show Notes and Resources: StephenCabral.com/3201 - - - Get a FREE Copy of Dr. Cabral's Book: The Rain Barrel Effect - - - Join the Community & Get Your Questions Answered: CabralSupportGroup.com - - - Dr. Cabral's Most Popular At-Home Lab Tests: > Complete Minerals & Metals Test (Test for mineral imbalances & heavy metal toxicity) - - - > Complete Candida, Metabolic & Vitamins Test (Test for 75 biomarkers including yeast & bacterial gut overgrowth, as well as vitamin levels) - - - > Complete Stress, Mood & Metabolism Test (Discover your complete thyroid, adrenal, hormone, vitamin D & insulin levels) - - - > Complete Food Sensitivity Test (Find out your hidden food sensitivities) - - - > Complete Omega-3 & Inflammation Test (Discover your levels of inflammation related to your omega-6 to omega-3 levels) - - - Get Your Question Answered On An Upcoming HouseCall: StephenCabral.com/askcabral - - - Would You Take 30 Seconds To Rate & Review The Cabral Concept? The best way to help me spread our mission of true natural health is to pass on the good word, and I read and appreciate every review!  

Brief intermission for a moment to hold space in your breathing. Intentional breathing - Inhaling in the things that you need/wish for/desire, & Exhaling the things that do not serve you. I hope you enjoy

In Episode 170 of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy sits down with Craig Williams, founder of A&M Abatement, to explore the often-overlooked dangers lurking in older homes and buildings: asbestos and hazardous materials. Craig shares his journey from environmental science to entrepreneurship, highlighting how he founded A&M Abatement to fill a critical gap in the industry. He dives into the technical details of asbestos abatement, explains the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, and offers practical advice for homeowners, business owners, and contractors working in buildings constructed before 1985.Craig also discusses the broader impacts of asbestos, including its history, why it was so commonly used in construction, and what legal obligations exist today for property owners and businesses. The episode sheds light on an important, yet niche, industry while emphasizing the importance of being proactive in identifying and addressing hazardous materials in buildings. This conversation is essential for anyone involved in renovation, construction, or property management, providing valuable insights into maintaining safety and compliance.Key Takeaways: 1. Asbestos was widely used in buildings up until the 1980s, making it common in older homes and structures.2. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma, often developing decades after exposure.3. Asbestos becomes hazardous when it's friable, meaning it can crumble and release fibers into the air.4. Before renovating buildings older than 1985, testing for asbestos is essential to avoid exposure risks.5. Proper asbestos removal requires trained professionals and specialized equipment to ensure safety.6. Spraying wate during abatement helps prevent asbestos fibers from becoming airborne by making them heavier.7. Lead paint in older buildings poses neurological risks, particularly to children, and should be tested before renovation.8. Asbestos-contaminated materials must be disposed of correctly to prevent exposure to others and environmental harm.9. Employers must follow health and safety laws to protect workers from asbestos exposure during renovations or demolitions.10. Hiring environmental consultants ensures proper testing and safety measures before any renovation or demolition work.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Begin by finding a comfortable position in your bed.  Allow your pillows to cradle your head,  And feel the softness of your blankets surrounding you.  PAUSE… Take a deep breath in,  And let it out slowly,  Feeling your body sink a little deeper into the mattress with each exhale. Close your eyes gently, And let a sense of calm wash over you.  PAUSE… Now, tune into the quiet whisper of your breath,  Inhaling peace, exhaling any tension. With each breath,  Cool and soothing, Bringing quiet to your mind, And stillness to your heart. LONG PAUSE… Shift your awareness to your hands, Notice them resting by your sides, Feel the weight of your hands as they relax, Fingers softly curling into the comfort of your sheets. PAUSE… As you breathe in deeply, Imagine a gentle breeze caressing your hands, Easing all tightness, Softening each joint, As you sink deeper into relaxation. LONG PAUSE… Now, let this peaceful feeling rise up to your shoulders. Feel them drop slightly, releasing the burdens of the day, Imagine a warm, comforting wrap settling around them, Melting away any tightness, Relaxing you further into your bed. PAUSE… All is quiet now, All is serene, Drift a little deeper, Into this tranquil dream. LONG PAUSE… Bring your focus to your heart, Feel it rising and falling with your breath, Each beat, a soft drum lulling you to sleep. Allow warmth to fill this space, A warmth that spreads comfort and calm throughout your body, Relaxing you further, Deeper, Into the arms of sleep. PAUSE… Sink into the stillness, Embrace the quiet, Feel your body completely relaxed, Your mind, clear and free. LONG PAUSE… Now, listen to the gentle rhythm of your heart, Soft and steady, Soothing you into deeper relaxation, Whispering you closer to dreams. LONG PAUSE… Your entire being is calm and quiet, Smoothly sinking into the depths of night, Floating gently on the sea of sleep, Ready to drift into dreams. PAUSE… All is peaceful, All is calm, Drift further away, Into the night, so long. LONG PAUSE… Goodnight, dear one, Sleep softly,  Sleep deep, May your dreams be sweet, And your night's rest complete. PAUSE… Sweet dreams, beautiful.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Settle your body, Close your eyes, Breathe into the stillness of the night. PAUSE… Inhale slowly, deeply, Feel the quietude seeping into your pores, Imagine the world slowing down, Each breath a step deeper into tranquility. PAUSE… The night whispers softly, Its echoes a gentle hum in your ears, As the busy day fades, Embrace the calm, the peace. LONG PAUSE… Sense the soft echoes of stillness, They reverberate within you, Each pulse a reminder of your inner calm, Floating freely, untethered from the day's hustle. PAUSE… Focus on the silence between heartbeats, The quiet space between thoughts, Feel your inner self uncluttered, Serenity filling every inch of your being. LONG PAUSE… Draw a long breath, embracing the still air, Exhale slowly, letting go of lingering tension, Rise with each inhale, grounded with each exhale, Find harmony in the stillness enveloping you. PAUSE… Now, turn your attention inward, Hear the echoes of your own breath, Like soft winds whispering through ancient caves, Each breath a sound of timeless calm. PAUSE… Feel the touch of air on your skin, Light as a feather, cool and soothing, It dances over you, a silent symphony, Playing the music of the night. PAUSE… Sometimes in the depths of stillness, When the world seems to pause, Gentle insights flutter softly, Touching your soul with wisdom. LONG PAUSE… Visualize yourself surrounded by a halo of quiet, Inhaling the still, exhaling the strained, Sink deeper into the embrace of the night, Aware of the gift of pure stillness. PAUSE… The echoes of the night are profound, In the quiet, your heart speaks louder, Its desires clear, its needs simple, Listen to its soft, truthful whispers. PAUSE… Night and stillness hold a magic, For they speak in the whispers of the soul, Crafting messages in the quiet, Reminding us of the power of peace. PAUSE… The meaning is different for each of us, Yet the stillness speaks to all, It teaches us to listen, to understand, The profound silence within. LONG PAUSE… Breathe in deeply, let stillness fill your essence, Exhale fully, relish the space you've created, Enjoy the clarity that comes with simplicity, Delight in the echo of your own tranquility. PAUSE… As you drift closer to sleep, Imagine deeper, fuller peace, Embrace thoughts of calm and rest. PAUSE… Here, everything exists for your healing, Whether silence, space, or soulful echoes, Take in what the stillness offers, Rest well in its gentle embrace. Sweet dreams, beautiful.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Settle your body, Close your eyes, Breathe into the stillness of the night. PAUSE… Inhale slowly, deeply, Feel the quietude seeping into your pores, Imagine the world slowing down, Each breath a step deeper into tranquility. PAUSE… The night whispers softly, Its echoes a gentle hum in your ears, As the busy day fades, Embrace the calm, the peace. LONG PAUSE… Sense the soft echoes of stillness, They reverberate within you, Each pulse a reminder of your inner calm, Floating freely, untethered from the day's hustle. PAUSE… Focus on the silence between heartbeats, The quiet space between thoughts, Feel your inner self uncluttered, Serenity filling every inch of your being. LONG PAUSE… Draw a long breath, embracing the still air, Exhale slowly, letting go of lingering tension, Rise with each inhale, grounded with each exhale, Find harmony in the stillness enveloping you. PAUSE… Now, turn your attention inward, Hear the echoes of your own breath, Like soft winds whispering through ancient caves, Each breath a sound of timeless calm. PAUSE… Feel the touch of air on your skin, Light as a feather, cool and soothing, It dances over you, a silent symphony, Playing the music of the night. PAUSE… Sometimes in the depths of stillness, When the world seems to pause, Gentle insights flutter softly, Touching your soul with wisdom. LONG PAUSE… Visualize yourself surrounded by a halo of quiet, Inhaling the still, exhaling the strained, Sink deeper into the embrace of the night, Aware of the gift of pure stillness. PAUSE… The echoes of the night are profound, In the quiet, your heart speaks louder, Its desires clear, its needs simple, Listen to its soft, truthful whispers. PAUSE… Night and stillness hold a magic, For they speak in the whispers of the soul, Crafting messages in the quiet, Reminding us of the power of peace. PAUSE… The meaning is different for each of us, Yet the stillness speaks to all, It teaches us to listen, to understand, The profound silence within. LONG PAUSE… Breathe in deeply, let stillness fill your essence, Exhale fully, relish the space you've created, Enjoy the clarity that comes with simplicity, Delight in the echo of your own tranquility. PAUSE… As you drift closer to sleep, Imagine deeper, fuller peace, Embrace thoughts of calm and rest. PAUSE… Here, everything exists for your healing, Whether silence, space, or soulful echoes, Take in what the stillness offers, Rest well in its gentle embrace. Sweet dreams, beautiful.

Hey, it's Katie and I want to welcome you to this special bonus episode. It'll be here for you completely ad-free for the next week so you can get a feel of what it's like to be a PREMIUM member. If you'd like an easy ad-free experience for all of our podcasts - that's over 200 episodes each month, then JOIN PREMIUM today at https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Amidst the chaos and the noise, The busyness of the day, You push yourself to keep on going, To keep up the frenzied pace. PAUSE... But when you feel quite drained, Your spirit yearns for retreat, A place to rest and renew, And let your soul just breathe. PAUSE... You find your haven in nature, Where the earth and sky unite. With soft green grass beneath your feet, It all just feels so right. PAUSE... You close your eyes and hear the sounds, Of rustling leaves and birds, Release the tension you've been holding, Let go of your worries and hurt. PAUSE... Inhaling deeply, you smell the scents, Of the earth, the flowers, the grass. Your senses are fully awakened, You embrace this moment to last. PAUSE... As you lie down on the ground, The earth supports your weight, You let yourself surrender, Into a calm and peaceful state.  PAUSE... With each exhale, release the stress, And let your body ease. Feel your breath become steady, And surrender to the breeze.  LONG PAUSE... In this space of stillness, You find a strength so deep. Renewed, refreshed, and ready, It almost makes you weep.  PAUSE... In these moments of rest, You hear your voice inside. You're reminded of your purpose, And know that it will guide. PAUSE... Slow down to speed up,  Rest and renew right now. I promise you'll find joy, If you just stop and allow.  PAUSE... Slowing, slowing, slowing down, Each breath fills you more. Calming, calming, calming down, Tranquility's in your core.  Namaste, Beautiful  

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Nestled in the sea of blankets of your bed, Allow your body to rest motionless on your bed,  Comfortably tucked under the sheets. PAUSE… Lay on your back, keeping your spine straight and relaxed. Now gently close your eyes, and become aware of your body. Observe it closely and release any unnecessary tension you might feel. LONG PAUSE… Now focus on your breath.  Feel it becoming deeper and slower as your heart rate slows down. PAUSE… Let a deep sense of relaxation expand within,  While your muscles become loose and heavy, And your body melts into your bed.  PAUSE… Dig deep within your consciousness,  And visualize a specific wish or intention you may have.  PAUSE… Now imagine a simple affirmation that describes its essence.  This is what it's called Sankalpa. PAUSE… Repeat the affirmation silently three times,  Feeling the importance of this desire. LONG PAUSE… Now come back into your body,  As we focus in on each part,  Bringing all of your attention to it,  Feeling that part soften and relax. PAUSE… We'll begin on your right side.  Bring your attention to your thumb, index finger, middle finger, ring finger, little finger, palm of your right hand, back of the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, upper arm, shoulder, armpit, waist, hip, thigh, knee, calf, ankle, heel, sole, top of the foot, right big toe, long toe, middle toe, fourth toe, pinky toe. PAUSE… Now the left side. Focus on your thumb, index finger, middle finger, ring finger, little finger, the palm of your right hand, back of the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, upper arm, shoulder, armpit, waist, hip, thigh, knee, calf, ankle, heel, sole, top of the foot, right big toe, long toe, middle toe, fourth toe, pinky toe. PAUSE… Observe the right side of the back of your body, Heel, calf, thigh, butt, and shoulder blade.  Turn to the left side, Heel, calf, thigh, butt, shoulder blade.  Now onto the lower back, middle back, upper back, and entire spine. PAUSE… Become aware of the back of the neck, back of the head, top of the head, and forehead.  Move to the right side of your skull, temple, ear, eyebrow, eye, nostril, cheek. Now upper lip, lower lip, mouth.  Transition to the left side of your skull, temple, ear, eyebrow, eye, nostril, cheek. Focus on the chin, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, navel, and lower abdomen. Move to the right collarbone, right side of the chest, and right groin.  Move to the left collarbone, the left side of the chest, the left groin, and the pelvic area. Now focus on the right leg, left leg, right arm, left arm, your face, the whole head, the torso, and then your whole body. LONG PAUSE… Bring all your attention to the fresh air that flows through your body as you inhale. Then feel the warm air traveling through your nose as you exhale. Breathe… PAUSE… In synch with each breath,  Count down from 20, inhaling 20,  Exhaling 19,  Inhaling 18,  Exhaling 17,  And so on.  Take your time, staying calm and patient. If you lose count simply start again. LONG PAUSE…   Now it's time to express your wish or Sankalpa. Silently say the statement you created in the beginning that encapsulates your desires.  LONG PAUSE… Breathe, One with your inhale,  One with your exhale.  Deeply relaxed,  One with sleep.  Namaste, Beautiful

It's Monday, June 17th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Five Christian sanitation workers died in Pakistan of inhaling toxic gases Five Christian sanitation workers in Pakistan have died since June 11th from inhaling toxic gases, highlighting how they are forced to work without proper safety equipment, reports Morning Star News. Irfan Masih, Ratan Masih, and Babar Masih succumbed on June 12th to the poisonous gases while cleaning a sewer disposal well in the Satellite Town of Bhalwal in the Punjab Province. A fourth Christian worker, Naeem Masih, was in critical condition at Sargodha District Headquarters Hospital. In Sindh Province, two Christians Yunus Hidayat and Yunus Masih, and a Hindu, Badal Gujrati, died on June 11th after they inhaled toxic gases. The tragedy in Punjab Province struck when a supervisor forced the workers to enter a well without proper safety equipment. Families of the deceased workers later staged a protest by placing the workers' bodies in front of the Bhalwal municipal office. The protesters demanded Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif order an inquiry and take action against those responsible for the deaths. They also demanded the government provide safety equipment to sewer workers, lamenting that dozens have died due to toxic gases without any action taken to address the dangers. Sikandar Farman, a Christian who was formerly a member of the Bhalwal Municipal Committee, said, “Our brothers continue to die in manholes. but their deaths have failed to move the government. How many more lives will it take for the authorities to understand the plight of these workers?” Matthew 7:12 says, "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Sadly, in Pakistan, Christians are considered second-class citizens, referred to as the Dalits, untouchable members of social groups that have historically been marginalized in the caste society. Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, makes first appearance since Christmas Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, was seen for the first time this year as she attends Trooping the Colour, a military parade celebrating the birthday of King Charles III, reports Britain's Metro paper. A 41-gun salute takes place in Green Park and King Charles is then joined by members of the Royal family on the balcony of the palace as they watch a spectacular flyover courtesy of the Royal Air Force's Red Arrows.  (Watch a 20-second video) The Princess of Wales has not been seen in public since Christmas Day of last year as she underwent abdominal surgery before then starting cancer treatment. In an update on her recovery, Middleton said, “I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months.” Armed civilian defended herself against thugs Police are investigating a shooting that occurred on May 21 at a Walmart in Auburn, Washington, reports Fox13 Seattle. At around 3:30 a.m., officers responded to reports of an attempted robbery inside the parking lot.  The 53-year-old victim was sitting in her car overnight when two people approached her with guns, demanding her property. She then pulled out her own gun and shot at them. The suspects shot back, injuring her.  When the police arrived, they found the victim and treated her at the scene. Though she is suffering from a single gunshot wound, she is expected to recover fully. The Auburn Police Department released one of their trained police dogs who tracked and located the two suspects who were brought into custody. FBI's suspicious claims about dramatic drop in crime On June 13th, The Worldview reported that the FBI documented a dramatic drop in crime. The federal agency claimed that in the first quarter of this year there was a 26.4% drop in murders, a 25.7% drop in rapes, a 17.8% drop in robberies, a 12.5% drop in aggravated assaults, and a 15% drop in property crimes. However, after The Worldview did some additional research, we discovered that the FBI statistics are incomplete at best. That's according to John Lott, the president of the nonprofit Crime Prevention Research Center who held a brief role in the Dept. of Justice under former President Donald Trump. He said, “It's just a small portion of the issue. The reason why we have the National Crime Victimization Survey [an annual survey conducted by the Dept. of Justice] is because we know most crimes are not reported to police." Lott said those statistics make up less than 45% of the violent crimes that are committed in the U.S. and only 32% of property crimes. Victims are not reporting incidents as often because they don't believe anyone will be punished. He claimed that only 8% of total violent crimes in cities result in arrest, and the number is even smaller for property crimes. Lott explained that there are multiple underlying issues. There are fewer experienced officers on the streets, fewer police reports are being made, crime victims are not going down to the station to fill out forms, and — perhaps most significantly — certain reporting standards have changed. For instance, if a felony assault was pleaded down to a misdemeanor in court, it would not be included in the FBI's data. In addition, as the Heritage Foundation documented, the George Soros-funded rogue District Attorneys across America are soft on crime, refusing to prosecute many criminals at all.  That also would lead to a misleading, false drop in crime. Clarification on Texas abortion statistics On June 6th, The Worldview reported that the Texas abortion ban went into effect after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022.  While we noted that Texas reported 67 abortions the following month and 3 abortions the month after that, compared to an average of 6,000 abortions per month the year before, we should have clarified that those were surgical abortions. Sadly, the “kill pill” abortifacient can be legally ordered through the mail and a Texas mother can murder her pre-born child at any time in Texas.  Those chemical abortions are not documented nor reported to the state, as noted by the Foundation to Abolish Abortion. While some states might claim that they are “Abortion Free” due to their ban on surgical abortions after Roe v. Wade was overturned, too many mothers are aborting their babies chemically with the Abortion Kill Pill known as mifepristone. In fact, 63% of mothers who abort today are aborting chemically. Check out the 3-minute trailer for a 5-part docuseries entitled “Abortion Free”  through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Listen to this soundbite. “ABORTION FREE TRAILER: “The crazy reality is in these states that say they're ‘abortion free' now abortion has never been easier. I could abort my baby in any of the 50 states.” Proverbs 31:8 says, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” By the way, for a $25 donation to the producers of the 5 episodes, you can watch them. Indiana donor loves our use of Scripture connected to the news To help fund The Worldview newscast for another year, one anonymous donor in South Bend, Indiana generously gave $2,000! When I called him up, this is what he said. SOUTH BEND, INDIANA DONOR: “At the end of the day, what we really appreciate is the world news in a concise Christian worldview. And then also there's, there's normally an uplifting story where most news, it's all doom and gloom. “We really enjoyed the uplifting story of the father and the sons that flipped over while kayaking, and when it seemed like the father lost all hope, reached his hand out, and the guy on the jet ski saved his life.” McMANUS: “At the end of that story, I wrote, “No doubt, the father echoes the sentiment of Psalm 9:1: “I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart, I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds” because, as a Christian, I believe that God supernaturally intervened and used those two men to help save the father and the sons from drowning in the Colorado River. Do you appreciate our use of Scripture like that?” SOUTH BEND, INDIANA DONOR: “Absolutely! It's very unusual in day-to-day life for a Scripture verse to be used in real life. My unfortunate experience is church is something we do on Sunday and doesn't apply to our life -- Monday through Saturday. “I go back to one of my bosses. He said, ‘We're a big company. Is that really appropriate to do religion in it?' And I said, ‘Yeah, the number one reason somebody gets fired here is perjury. Thou should not lie. The number two reason is probably sexual harassment. Thou shalt not commit adultery. The third reason is there are bad actors in our company that have stolen. Thou shall not steel. And I know that there's a lot of my peers that are coveting other positions. If we were teaching the Scripture, that it applies to our daily life, that would solve most of our issues.'” McMANUS: “And what did he say?” SOUTH BEND, INDIANA DONOR: “He was silent.” 26 Worldview listeners gave $10,520 As you know, The Worldview is in the middle of our annual fundraising campaign through the end of June. While I originally indicated that our goal was $114,200, I was mistaken.  The goal is just 5% more than last year's goal of $80,000 which would bring the 2024 goal to $84,000. That would provide the resources necessary to fund our 6-member newscast team. Toward our readjusted mid-point goal, we needed to have raised a total of $42,000 by Saturday night, June 15th.  Providentially, 26 Worldview listeners stepped up to the plate. Our thanks to Kristina in Olympia, Washington who gave $20 as well as Jena in Templeton, California, Lavern in Rockingham, Virginia, Tim in Rosemount, Minnesota, and Robin in Wellington, Florida – each of whom gave $25. We appreciate Christina in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania and Bethany in Austin, Texas – both of whom gave $50. We're grateful to Richard in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Eric in Denver, Colorado, Max in Cordova, Illinois, Amanda in Lacey, Washington, David in Boerne, Texas, and Susan in Hoyt, Kansas – each of whom gave $100. We thank God for Amanda in Savannah, Georgia who gave $200, Marlowe in Freetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada who gave $250, as well as Carlee in Keswick Ridge, New Brunswick, Canada and Shelly in Eagle, Idaho – both of whom pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300 each. We honor the sacrifice of Zephaniah in Lomax, Illinois who gave $500 as well as Benton in  Kingwood, Texas, Bill in Lees Summit, Missouri, and Donald in  Mason, Wisconsin – each of whom pledged $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600 each. And we were touched by an anonymous donor in Bardstown, Kentucky who gave $750, Shane in Columbia City, Indiana, Rick and Shannan in Alexandria, Minnesota, and Curtis in Raleigh, North Carolina – each of whom pledged $100 per month for 12 months for a gift of $1,200 each as well as an anonymous donor in South Bend, Indiana who gave $2,000. Those 26 donors gave $10,520.  Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (sound effect of drum roll) $39,155 (audience cheering) That means we came within $2,845 of reaching our readjusted midpoint goal.  Can you help us close the gap? We just need one person to pledge $100 per month for 12 months, 2 people to pledge $50 per month for 12 months, 1 person to pledge $25/month for 12 months, and 1 person to give a one-time gift of $145 to close the gap. Will you step up to the plate? Please go to TheWorldview.com, click on “Give,” select the dollar amount you'd like to donate, and click on the recurring monthly tab if that's your wish. Let's see what the Lord will do through you! Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, June 17th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium The day has come to an end, And it's time to settle in. Time to clear your mind, And surrender your body to pools of deep relaxation. So invite yourself to snuggle in, Gently moving into your most favorite position. Allow yourself a moment to stretch or move to relieve any kinks or tension in your body. PAUSE… And then take a full, deep breath in, Inhaling the night's air deep into your lungs, And then exhale,  Melting deeper into this special spot.   PAUSE… Concentrate on your breathing, Inviting your mind to hold its attention  On the rhythmic movement of air in and out of your nose.  PAUSE… Breathe in, Breathe out. PAUSE… Slow your body down with every breath, Even if your mind speeds up. Just stay with your breath, And slow it all down. LONG PAUSE... Now bring your attention to the top of your head, Imagining a soft lavender light hovering just above it. PAUSE… Feel the comforting warmth of this lavender light, And its calming energy relaxing your head completely. PAUSE… Feel it quiet everything inside. Feel it deeply relax your eyes, Soften your cheeks, Release your jaw, Soften your mouth, And relieve your neck.  LONG PAUSE… Notice as the soft, lavender light travels down, Wrapping its soothing energy around your shoulders, Your right arm, Your left arm, Your hands.  PAUSE… Notice the soft hum of sleep it spreads here, And then feel your shoulders drop, Your right arm and your left arm melt, And your hands soften and relax, LONG PAUSE… The soothing lavender light now settles onto your chest, Relaxes your belly, And slowly cascades down your back,  Following your spine from your neck, All the way down to your lower back. Relaxing and releasing, Relaxing and releasing. LONG PAUSE… Invite the calming energy of the soft, lavender light to spread into your hips, Down into your thighs, And circling around your left leg, And now your right leg. PAUSE... Watch it spiral all the way down into your right foot, And then your left foot. And then covering your toes, One by one. LONG PAUSE… Breathe deeply, And feel yourself wrapped lovingly in the soothing, Lavender light of the night. PAUSE… Let it heal you, Let it cleanse you, Let it relieve your body of all the tension it carries. Let it relieve your mind of all the thoughts inside.  PAUSE… Feel it wrap you in the warmth of love, And safely guide you through the night. Sweet Dreams, Beautiful.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Carrying the weight of what other people think, believe and feel about you is heavy to bear. So  Let's take back your power and surrender the need for others' validation. Taking a nice, deep cleansing breath in,  And allow your body to relax.  Soften your facial muscles,  Your forehead, And your cheeks,  As you anchor into this present moment. PAUSE… The weight of other people's opinions is not meant for you to to carry. So soften yourself,  And allow yourself to surrender them.  PAUSE… Breathe… Slowly,  Consciously. And bring to mind someone whose opinions really matter to you. LONG PAUSE… See this person standing before you. And just notice if a deep yearning to feel understood and validated arises.  PAUSE… Notice the impact of their opinions.  The way you feel, The way you show up. LONG PAUSE… Breathe in deeply.  Inhaling the power of love. And then see this person's opinions evaporate before you. Breathe out slowly, And feel  the yearning to feel validated, dissolve.  LONG PAUSE… Now imagine you're sitting in front of yourself.   Grab your own hand,  And imagine yourself exuding love,  Support,  And validation. PAUSE… And then hear yourself whisper to her, You are enough. PAUSE… You don't have to prove yourself to anyone. PAUSE… You are loved just the way you are. PAUSE… You feel light,  Loved, And whole.  PAUSE… Namaste, Beautiful

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Breathe… And slow yourself down. Become aware of the intricacies of your breath.  PAUSE… Feel the cool air on your nose as you breathe in, And the warm air on your nose as you breathe out.  PAUSE… Notice your belly rise with every inhale, And fall with every exhale.  PAUSE… See if you can expand your breath. Inhaling a little deeper each time you breathe in, And exhaling a little longer each time you breathe out.  PAUSE… Slow it all down, Sinking deeper and deeper, Releasing more and more, Feeling lighter and lighter, As you come into the quiet.  LONG PAUSE… There's magic that exists in your breath. Profound wisdom in the air that flows in, And out. PAUSE… It feels, It knows, It heals.  It flows.  PAUSE… It all exists right here within you, The ability to heal, The ability to nurture and love, The ability to glow.  LONG PAUSE… So find the rhythm of your breath, Honoring its journey in and out of your body. Witnessing the way it fills you, Refreshes you, And calms you. PAUSE… Become aware of the way it cleanses you, Clears you, Heals you.  LONG PAUSE… Breathe in blue, And invite the healing energy to ride the waves of your breath, Inching its way into every crevice of your body. Repairing,  Restoring,  Healing.  Breathing in blue.  LONG PAUSE… If there are parts of you that are broken, Hurting,  Or unsettled… In your mind or in your body… Let the blue energy find them, Embrace them, And heal them. LONG PAUSE… The healing breath covers you tonight, In her blankets of unconditional love.  Open yourself now, Inviting restoration, And healing.  LONG PAUSE… Namaste, Beautiful

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Close your eyes now, And invite yourself to rest.  PAUSE… Bring your attention inside,  Pull it away from the thoughts, Circling in your mind.  All those tasks left undone, All those plans, All those swirling emotions.  PAUSE… Come inside by focusing on your breath. Noticing your belly expanding as you breathe in, And contracting as you breathe out.  PAUSE… Notice the cool air on your nose with every inhale, And the warm air release from you on every exhale. PAUSE… Now see if you can expand your breathing with every cycle, Inhaling in a little deeper, And exhaling a little longer.  PAUSE… Let the gentle rhythm of your breathing, Calm you, Relax you, And slow you down. LONG PAUSE… Breathe and relax, Breathe and release.  PAUSE… Soften your forehead. Relax your cheeks. Release your tongue from the roof of your mouth, And let your jaw drop.  PAUSE… Be here. In this moment.  Relaxed, Open, Ready for sleep.  LONG PAUSE… Imagine the spirit of sleep, Has come to lay beside you. She's gentle,  Soft, And warm.  PAUSE… You feel safe, Like you can let go of all your responsibilities, All of your worries, And just melt into her arms.  PAUSE… She holds you now, In her warm, welcoming arms, Reminding you it's all okay, And that you are loved, Just the way you are.  PAUSE… Breathe deeply, And melt further into sleep's embrace. There's nothing for you to do here. There's no one you need to be.  LONG PAUSE… All those layers that the day has wrapped around you, Dissolve.  PAUSE… All those weights that are piled on your shoulders, Disappear. PAUSE… You are light, Free, And whole.  LONG PAUSE… Let her hold you tonight, Just as you hold everyone and everything. With love, And tenderness. As she carries you through the night.  Namaste, Beautiful.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Breathe deeply… And let it pull you inside.  Exhale fully… And let the thoughts subside. PAUSE… Breathe in again, And focus on the air. Now exhale all the way, Releasing what's there. LONG PAUSE… As you settle in tonight, And say goodbye to the day, See if you can extract, Emotions that want to play. PAUSE… The heaviness, the stress, And all the details too. Let them all float out, As you come deep into you. PAUSE… Your body naturally craves, Oneness with your breath. Your spirit naturally wants, Harmony in its depths. PAUSE… So breathe in happy, Feeling joyful and light. Breathe in happy, As you settle into night. Breathe in peace, And let it calm you down. Breathe in gratitude, Your life is profound.  LONG PAUSE… Slow down your breath, Inhaling the air deep down. Hold it for a moment, And notice the beautiful sound. PAUSE… Now exhale all the way, Till the very last drop is gone, Releasing with a sigh, All the tension with a yawn. PAUSE… Breathe and relax, Breathe and release. Breathe in happy, Breathe in more peace. LONG PAUSE… There's so much that's good, Within you and around. So many blessings, Each is deeply profound.  PAUSE… Think of those things, That make you feel joy. The smiles and giggles, The hugs you enjoy. PAUSE… Let them come in, With every breath you take.  Let them illuminate you, And refresh you when you wake.  PAUSE… Breathe in happy, Feeling joyful and light. Breathe in happy, As you settle into night. Breathe in peace, And let it calm you down. Breathe in gratitude, Your life is profound.  LONG PAUSE… Sweet Dreams, Beautiful.