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In this episode, Eric highlights traits he sees in players who aren't just successful on-field over the long haul, but also durable in the process.Support Our Sponsor: AG1
Tune in to #OfficeHours every Friday at 10:20am for A Pinch Of Salt with Chef Peter Goffe-Wood!
In this episode of Pinch My Salt, Sterling Spencer and Cousin Ryan dive deep into the untold stories of the legendary Volcom House on the North Shore of Oahu. From wild surf parties and groupie pyramids to acid-fueled midnight pipeline sessions, this is raw, unfiltered surf history you won't hear anywhere else.
TUESDAY HR 1 The godfather of A.I. says be a plumber! Russ shares his day being stuck in traffic on I-4 for 8 hours. Cleaning it all up
What happens when you find yourself in back-to-back rooms with some of the most powerful women in business?This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most surreal weeks of my business journey — from a private mastermind in Nashville with my coach and mentor Amy Porterfield, to hopping on a plane and joining Britt Seva and the Thrivers Community at the X Retreat in San Antonio.Talk about a pinch-me moment (or two).But this wasn't just a fun week — it was a game-changing one.These rooms were packed with high-level women who are leading, scaling, and structuring their businesses in completely different ways… and thriving.It reminded me that:
Quaranteam – Book 1: Part 8 Like Dying and Going To Heaven.. Based on a post by CorruptingPower, in 25 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. As Sarah was turning around, catching Emily's tiny British form in her arms, lifting her up, spinning her around. "Omigod, Emily!" she said, suddenly hugging her tightly. "I'm totally dead, aren't I? Life is never this fucking good to me. It always goes to shit somehow. Are you really real, bitch?" Emily giggled, infectious and warm, her voice posh within an inch of its life. "I am absolutely here for all of it, Sares!" She gasped, and then begin to giggle even more. "No way!" There was something about a posh English accent and the way it sounded saying a long O sound that sent delicious chills up Andy's spine. She'd just turned thirty less than a few months ago, but still had a very vibrant youthful exuberance to her. He knew there were angry, jealous men all across the world hating him right now who had grown up watching Emily Stevens grow up on film. She had begun starring in movies just barely in her teens where she'd played the book smart love interest of the protagonist of a series of sci fi bounty hunting school movies called "The Dagger Academy." After those, she'd gone on to try a number of various arthouse roles, trying to shake being forever associated with the role of Dahlia Hairtrigger, but she hadn't had the best of luck. "Are you serious, Sares?" she said, while the large redhead continued to bearhug her. "We're together forever? And we're really going to get paired up with your Mister Big?" "Mister Big?" Andy said, his eyebrows raising high. "Oh, hasn't she told you yet?" Emily giggled, that laugh forcing him to smile, no matter how much he felt off guard. "You're at the top of her List." "List?" Sarah put Emily down and turned to look at him, her face having gone nearly as red as her hair. "Gosh, fuck me, how do I even say this?" she said, looking down at her feet suddenly, as if trying to look at him while talking was making it even more complicated. "Em, can you tell him? I'm fucking scared now, that it's gonna freak him out or some shit." Emily's deep blue eyes twinkled. She was wearing a big blue DKNY t shirt over a pair of capri pants, a bright diamond bracelet on one wrist, a silver teardrop pendant hanging down from her neck. Her skin was pale like alabaster, her blonde hair hanging just past her shoulders in wavy blonde curls, her lips bright red with freshly put on lipstick. "I'll tell him, but we're fine, Sares, we're fine we're fine we're fine we're fine. Trust me on this! Em knows best." Emily squeezed Sarah's hand in her own, walking back over to Andy, almost leading Sarah along behind her, like she was a naughty child with her hand caught in the cookie jar. "Most people have a hall pass list, you know," she said, her voice again doing that thing with the O sound that sent goosebumps along his skin. "It's supposed to be a list of people you can fuck at any time, and your partner just gives it a wave." She had a coy smile on her face, as she brought Sarah back within reach of Andy. "Well, you are the top person on Sarah's list, Andy Rook, or should I say, Mr. Blake Conrad?" "You're, you're a fan of my writing?" Andy said, almost unable to bring himself to force the words from his mouth. "My writing? The Druid Gunslinger books?" "Tell him about OmegaCon, Sares," Emily said, nudging the much taller girl in the ribs. Emily was nearly a foot shorter than Sarah, and while both were fit, Emily was slender like a ballerina, while Sarah almost seemed more like an Amazon warrior. There were rumors that Sarah had been in consideration for the Wonder Woman role, but that her tendency to swear and be adorkably awkward at press junkets had kept her out of the role. "If you won't tell him, I will," she teased. "Oh fuckbeans, you totally would, wouldn't you, bitch?" Sarah hissed, closing her eyes, wringing her hands together. "So I was totally at your fucking panel at OmegaCon last year, in September." "I highly doubt that," Andy said. "I can't imagine an actress like you wouldn't have turned every head in the room the minute she walked in. I would've definitely remembered." "I was,” she mumbled before Emily prodded her again, a wide impish grin on Emily's adorable English face. "I was in costume, okay? Emily and I wanted to be able to just walk around the convention like normal people, so we were cosplaying so nobody would recognize us. I was in a Chewbacca costume, and I got up in the Q&A line and asked you if you ever imagined actors when you were writing your fiction." "No!" Andy said, gasping suddenly. "See, I told you he'd fucking hate me, Emily?" Sarah said, looking like she was about to cry. "And you said you totally imagined actors for every fucking character you'd ever written, like casting them and everything or whatever. And then you said,” "I said I'd always sort of seen Christian Kane playing the Gunslinger himself." She nodded. "Do you remember what else you said?" Andy tilted his head, struggling to remember whatever else he might have said, but he'd done half a dozen conventions last year, and many of the Q&A sessions blended together. "I don't. Oh god, I'm so sorry, what did I say?" "You said that you'd imagined Olivia Munn playing Doctor Erika Shirow and, and Sarah Washington, I mean, me, playing Layla Heartseye, the Elven barbarian queen," Sarah said. "We spent three days at the convention in costume, but had to leave early right after your panel finished," Emily said, "because she took me back to our hotel room after that and masturbated for nearly an entire hour, thinking about you saying that. She still has the video of you answering her question on her phone. I was recording your answer for her. I was dressed as Greedo, by the by." Emily pulled Sarah in even closer. "She's been trying to get her agent and your agent to set up a meeting for a year now, so she could talk to you about the book rights, and if she could play Layla Heartseye, but I've always thought she was really just doing it so she could get into your pants." "One of us definitely needs to fire our agent then," he muttered. "No way in hell I'd have turned down that meeting." "Wait, are you two, together?" Aisling said, pointing at the two actresses. "We are," Emily said, beaming proudly, "but we both enjoy more than a bit of cock as well, so we're known to dally outside of each other." "I thought you were with that director," Andy said to Sarah. "Dennis Jacobson." "That was totally over fucking years ago," Sarah said, still unable to lift her head up, her eyes fixated on Andy's feet. "And I thought you were with that soccer player," Andy said to Emily. "Georgie Stewart." Emily waved her hand in the air at him, her smile unwavering in its million watt intensity. "That was done with long ago. I did go on a couple of dates with Jeff DeHavelin last year, but it turns out, he is utterly prudish, and that I simply cannot abide by. He doesn't even go down on partners! How do people like that even live today? But now we're going to be with you for the rest of our lives, so that doesn't matter!" She clapped her hands together excitedly, as the limo driver set the last of Emily's four suitcases on the porch. "I, for one, couldn't be more excited! How about you, Mr. Rook? Or may I call you Andy?" Aisling was struggling not to erupt into a fit of giggles, but it was getting harder and harder for her to contain it all in, as she was mostly just shaking, threatening to burst out before she finally forced the words out of his mouth. "Tell her, Andy!" The words were a struggle, the laughter seeping into all of them. "You've gotta fucking tell her." Andy sighed, realizing there wasn't anything that could embarrass him at this point. "Sarah," he said, smoothing his fingertip along her chin, forcing her to tilt her head up and look at him. "You're number one on my list." "No fucking way. You're fucking making fun of me, aren't you?" Sarah, her blue eyes welled up with tears, as if she'd thought Andy was actually going to send her away. He leaned in and kissed her, trying to put as much emotion into it as she had when she'd kissed him earlier. "Number. One. With a bullet. Sarah. Washington." "He's not kidding," Erin groaned. "Ever since he saw you twelve years ago in that movie where you were a quirky airline co pilot. I'm his ex girlfriend. Believe me, I know. He watched that movie like a dozen times in the theater." "You saw 'Airway Mishaps'?" she whispered, wrapping her arms around him again, but still extremely shy. "That's super fucked up. Nobody fucking saw that movie." "You got nominated for an Oscar for it, Sares," Emily said, smoothing one of her hands along Sarah's back.. "That means tens, maybe even hundreds of people saw it." Niko giggled a little at Emily's teasing. "And I'm sure he's too old to be a fan of the Dagger Academy movies, so I'll just have to make him fall for me the old fashioned way." Niko cleared her throat, devilish amusement on her face, and Andy glared over his shoulder at her. Oh, how he wanted to bend her over his knee right now and paddle her ass red. "Omigod, I'm on your list too?" Emily said, giggling all over, blushing herself this time. "I had no idea! I assumed you were far too old to grow up with the Dagger Academy films." "He fell for you in 'The Last Graverobber,' where you played that heiress," Aisling said. "Although he did eventually watch the Dagger Academy movies after that. He'd never seen them before last Christmas, although we rewatched them together a few months ago. He said it was still a little strange seeing you so young in the first one. So while he didn't grow up on them, he's familiar with your work. You're number three on his list." "Who's number two?" Emily said, putting her hands on her hips in mock annoyance. "Alice Karteaux," Andy said. "I mean, after 'Winding Bullets,' anyone who isn't aroused by her isn't anyone I want to know." "Oh, that's totally fine," Sarah said, her hands starting to slide along Andy's back. "She's on Emily's list as well, so the slut can't say shit about you wanting to bang her." "Well, you're not on my list, Andy," Emily said, "but that doesn't mean I'm not going to fuck your brains out, all the while having my best girl by my side. So let's get to it." "What, now?" Andy said. "I'm not sure she's going to let go of you until you do, babe," Emily said, taking one of his hands in hers. "She's read every book you've written a dozen bloody times. She even found that silly porn story you wrote on the internet under a pen name earlier this year." "You read that? You found that?" Sarah nodded, finally getting her tears under control. "I recognized the sentence structure." "My, sentence structure?" "It's a very distinct sentence structure," she giggled. "Plus, like, there's a fuckton of swearing, and you have that in all your writing." "Not that much," he laughed. "Oh shut the fuck up already," Sarah said, smiling against his neck. "Take the win." "Okay, look, why don't you two go upstairs and get settled in the master bedroom, and I'll be up in just a little bit, and we can see about getting you two imprinted, since you both seem to want that," Andy said. "I apparently need to talk to Mr. Watkins briefly, so head up and I'll be along in just a few." "Okay," Emily said, trying to pull Sarah from her grasp on Andy. "C'mon, Sares, let's go upstairs." "Can I kiss him one more time before we go?" "It's going to be just a few minutes, babes." "Please?" Emily rolled her eyes, smiling. "Fine. One more kiss." Sarah locked lips with him once more, and Andy could feel her nipples hard as rocks pressed against his collarbone through the blouse. Eventually she pulled back and away from him, although her arms were the last thing to release him. "Don't keep us waiting long, okay?" she said to him. "You owe us at least two good fuckings. One good fucking for me, and one good fucking for her. Because we are not getting out of that bed until we get fuh uh uh uh ucked. Got it?" Emily started pushing her into the house, rolling her light blue eyes. "He's got it, Sares, now let's gooooooo." She was about to head into the house, then turned back, darted over to Andy, threw her arm around his neck and kissed him fiercely, grinding her hips against him before she pulled back, giving him a saucy little wink, slapping his ass on the way back. "I couldn't bear the thought that you might've thought that I didn't want this just as much as she does. Don't dilly dally or we'll start without you." She gave him a playful little wave and then skipped into the house. Andy turned to glance over at Aisling and Niko, who were gossiping between themselves. "They're gonna be so much fun, aren't they?" Ash said to Niko. "I didn't talk that much to Sarah, but I've spent quite a bit of time chatting with Emily, and she is a hoot," Niko said. "I kinda love her." "Oh, I'm sure you'll get your chance." Andy turned to see Watkins standing at the bottom of the stairs, so he walked down to meet him, even as he saw Watkins' limo driver loading Erin's bag into the limo. Erin had apparently gotten into the limo at some point while he'd been talking with Emily and Sarah. "Careful with that one," Andy said, his voice quiet enough that the conversation was just between the two of them. "I'm not saying she's a gold digger but,” "But she ain't messin' with no broke," Watkins said, laughing a little bit. "I hear you. I think she'll be alright, though. She'll have her own little staff to boss around. Maybe having her own private fiefdom will tamp down her more destructive urges." "For your sake I hope so." "So, we have one more matter to discuss I'm afraid, Andrew." Watkins sighed, shaking his head a little. "I'm afraid I can't bring you Deborah Barnes, and for that I'm truly sorry. My son, it seems, imprinted her while I was at the poker game. I can't tell you how furious I am with him." "Hey, it's okay, Nathaniel," Andy said, almost a touch relieved. "This is already a lot of women to keep track of, so I'm not angry about having one less." Watkins shook his head. "Except that I can't let my son go unpunished for this kind of transgression. If the damn kid doesn't learn that he can't go around doing whatever he wants, that's exactly what he's going to do, so what I'm going to do is have him bring the next woman assigned to him over here and have him give her to you." "Nathaniel," Andy tried to interrupt, "that's really not " "It absolutely is, Andrew. He's nearly eighteen, and if he doesn't learn now, then when?" It was clear Watkins was violently unhappy with his son over all of this. "His refusal to follow agreements doesn't just reflect on him; it, more importantly, reflects upon me, and once the other men in this community find out, if I haven't come down hard on the boy, they're going to think I'm soft. I cannot abide that." "How would they even know?" "Because! Because, Andrew!" Watkins said, throwing his hands up into the air. "Because he likes to strut around town like he earned my wealth, not me! All it would take it for one of our little poker friends to see Deborah with him and they'll know something is amiss and the gossip will start. I'm going to get ahead of this, and will tell our fellow players all about it before they find out inadvertently. Later this week, my son is going to be delivered a girl he has been lusted after for nearly a year now, and then he's going to have to immediately march her over here and present her to you, as means of apology." Andy sighed, trying to figure out what to say next and failing a few times before finally deciding to stop resisting. It was clear Watkins mind was made up. "Is the lady going to be okay with this? I'm sure she'd much rather have a teenage boy instead of, well, me." "She'll probably be relieved, if I'm honest, Andrew," Watkins said, lowering his voice a bit. "She was Benny's AP Trigonometry tutor last year, and has been helping him with remote tutoring this year for AP Calculus. She was supposed to be a freshman at Stanford this year, but what with the campus closed down, they haven't started classes up, so she'll be going next year when they reopen. I think my son may have hit on her a few times, but she'd declined his advances, so you taking her in is in her best interests, as well as yours and mine. I suppose the people on the base thought they were doing me a favor by assigning her to my son, knowing his lusts for her. They weren't, and hopefully this will discourage them from helping my son any in an attempt to broker favor with me. My son will have something both for you and for her with him as well when they show up Friday, on the 6th." "Okay, well, if she doesn't want to be with him, we can see if she wants to be with me instead." "She will, Andrew," Watkins said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "She likes older men. She hit on me once during The Before Times, but back then I believed I was a one woman kind of man, and I didn't want to hurt my son's feelings. She is, quite beautiful, and obviously very smart. She likes intelligent, strong willed, dependable men. She might be initially fooled, as I was, by the appearance of meekness you can give off on first impression, but I'll tell her in the car ride over that you're not a man to be underestimated. Covington's made that mistake. I have as well. I won't let my son do the same." He tilted his head to one side. "I suppose it would be too much of me to ask for you to make him , watch as you imprinted her?" "God yes! Nathan! Jesus, how can you even suggest such a thing?" Watkins sniffed, clearly disappointed. "Fine, fine. Then I insist you open and read the envelopes that Benny, that's my son's name, will be bringing with him when he shows up on Friday. Make sure he stands there as you tell him exactly what's in them." "What is in them?" "A little bit more punishment for him, and a little more compensation for you," he said. "I won't let you refuse me this, so you'll just have to abide by it, but once you accept the envelopes and Hannah, that's the girl's name, once you accept all of that, I will consider the boy's debt paid in full. I'm sure he's going to bitch and moan about it, but the little brat is lucky I didn't just throw him out on his ear, out of both the family and New Eden. But he is my only son. Maybe I've simply been too lenient in the past, and it is time for him to get the stick instead of the carrot." "Family's a bitch," Andy said. "Indeed it can be." "Nate, I want to leave!" Erin said, poking her head out of the back of the limo. "Can we go now?" "I've made a horrible mistake bringing her into my house, haven't I?" Watkins said, giving Andy a pained smile. "Give her her own wing of your mansion and some staff to boss around, like you said you were going to, and you'll probably be fine," Andy said, shaking the man's hand. "Just don't let her think she's in charge of the rest of your wives. Give her an inch and she'll take every mile she can." "You're too good for this place, Andrew," Watkins said, returning the shake. "May this nest of vipers never break your noble spirit." "You say that," Andy laughed, "but I've got to go upstairs and fuck two people off People Magazine's Top 100 Most Beautiful People list at the same time after we're done here, so if this is a nest of vipers, I gotta tell you, they spared no expense on the gilding." Watkins laughed with him, heading towards the limo. "I'll see you on Friday, then. I'll bring Benny and Hannah over myself, just to make sure he doesn't try and screw this up too." "They never would've worked together anyway," Andy said, as Watkins stopped at the limo and looked back. "Benny and Hannah? People would've been making horrible Japanese steakhouse jokes at their expense non stop their entire lives." "God, you're right," Watkin said, a wide smile on his face. "I can't believe I didn't even think of it before now." He started to get into the back of the limo, sitting down next to Erin, shaking his head. "Benihana's. Fuck me." And then he closed the door and the limo drove off. That left Andy with Niko and Aisling, who had been watching the whole time. "I live the weirdest life on the planet," Andy said to them, walking back up the stairs. It looked like each of the girls had taken one suitcase with them, but left three more each on the patio. "Guess I'd better haul these in." He started to move towards the suitcases, but Aisling had stood up already and stepped in between him and them. "Nah, we got it, Starfucker," she said, pushing him by the chest. "You've gotta go lock in those two beauties before they run off." "Yeah," Niko said, moving to stand next to Aisling, blocking Andy's path to the suitcases, leaving only the door inside the mansion as his exit. "I wanna a turn in the sack with Emily, but you need to make her part of the family first." "Someone's got a crush, I think," Ash said, nudging Niko in the ribs. "Are you kidding?" Niko said. "Seeing her in that fourth Dagger Academy movie, 'Castle of Galaxies,' when she was in that evening gown for the school ball,” She shook her head, a little embarrassed smile on her face. "Well, that's when I realized I was bi." "Maybe if you ask her really nicely, she'll wear the gown for you, love," Ash said to Niko, who visibly shuddered with excitement, playing out the moment in her head. "Go on, go!" Niko said to him. "We'll crash in another room for the night if we have to, so you damn well better not come out of that room until both of those girls are imprinted, or I will beat the living shit out of you." "Yes ma'am, 2nd Lieutenant Red Wolf," Andy said, mocking a salute, which made her smack him on the shoulder. "God, I hope I don't get performance anxiety." "You're not the third guy in 'History Of The World Part I,' Andy," Niko said. "He is a eunuch," Aisling said, acting out the bit. "He is a eunuch," Niko said, continuing it. "He is Dead," the two girls said together, collapsing into a fit of giggles. "Now go in there and give those two beauties the best fucking orgasms of their lives," Aisling said, grabbing one of his belt loops on his jeans, yanking him towards the doorway. "How did I ever get so lucky?" he said, kissing Niko, then Aisling. "By being the best damn man any of us have ever met," Niko said, rubbing the back of his neck. "I love hearing you say that. I'm sure it's not true, but thanks." "It is," Ash said, "but we're not gonna stand here all night stroking your ego. If you don't go upstairs and fuck those two lucky bitches senseless right now, I'm going to have Niko kick your ass." "Okay! Okay!" Andy laughed. "I'm going, I'm going!" He hadn't been entirely joking about the possibility of having trouble getting it up, not because he didn't want to, but because he still considered himself way below their league. Each step through the hallway, up the stairs and down the other hallway were slightly plagued with nervousness. But all that of that was dropping away with each step, as he remembered that kiss from Sarah, how intense and inviting it had been, and that minx like smile of Emily's, toying and yet also welcoming, maybe even laced with a hint of thankfulness. A few hours ago, he'd been terrified that he'd end up striking an adversarial relationship with these two supremely talented actresses, and now he was worried that he'd not live up to their expectations. Their expectations. Of him. The life he lived was not meant to be believed. As he got to the door to the bedroom, he cocked his head, finding the door closed, something rather uncommon in the house. He'd never felt the need to close the master bedroom door before now, so he thought this might even be the first time he'd seen the door actually closed. He was about to knock on the door, his hand raised, about to rap his knuckles on the wood, when he looked at his own hand quizzically. "The hell am I doing?" he muttered to himself and then moved to open the door. There, on the bed, were Sarah and Emily. They were locked in a kiss, Emily sitting on Sarah's lap, the tiny girl's hands tugging ever so slightly on the unbraided portion of Sarah's red locks, their lips pressed together heatedly, making out as though they hadn't even heard him enter. They'd also changed clothes since he'd seen them just a little bit ago. Both girls were dressed in white Oxford button up shirts, violet and purple neckties loose but still hanging around their necks, black skirts that hung down to the middle of their thighs, black thigh high stockings with violet and purple trim at the top of them clinging to their legs. They looked a little like British private school uniforms, but Andy knew that specific color code of trims. They were Dagger Academy uniforms. The Dagger Academy movies had been oddly huge successes, following five different students growing up through several years of a bounty hunter college, set in a land "across the stars." The first one had been expected to do alright, but the five lead actors, one of which was Emily, had all been so winningly charming, that audiences had looked past the sometimes clunky special effects and fallen in love with the story. From the time she was thirteen until she was twenty three, Emily had starred in six Dagger Academy movies, and all said and done, they'd grossed over a billion dollars. He was more than a little surprised she was wearing the school outfit from it now. He'd figured she'd never want to even think about those films again, considering how much of her life they had eaten up. "Oh, Professor Rook," Emily said, looking over her shoulder at him, still grinding a little bit against Sarah. "Miss Heartseye and I seem to have been bitten by a, what was it?" She nudged Sarah. Sarah giggled a little, licking her lips, her blue eyes fixated on him like she wanted to eat him alive. "By a roxtreaux beast," she purred. "It's so fucking hard to think straight right now, Professor." Andy's eyes widened a little bit. She hadn't been kidding. She actually had found that story he'd written early on in the pandemic, months before even Aisling had come into his life. After about two months of quarantine, Andy had gotten frustrated with trying to work on another Druid Gunslinger novel, and had decided what the hell, to write a bit of porn fanfic, just to flex his writing skills, something to take his mind off of the whole lockdown. He'd written a bit of fanfic set in the Dagger Academy series, sometime after the last movie, when Dahlia Hairtrigger's boyfriend had died heroically saving the galaxy, leaving her to go her last year at the Dagger Academy alone. He'd introduced a new friend to Dahlia, a woman named Raven Doomeye, but he'd clearly described the character very much like how Sarah actually looked. In the fanfic, the two bounty hunter students had been out on a wild hunt after a target, who'd sicced a herd of wild roxtreaux on them. The roxtreaux, as he'd written it, disarmed their prey by injecting them with an aphrodisiac venom that fogged their minds with lust. It had mostly been an excuse to write a bit of porn using a handful of his favorite actresses, starting off as a lesbian scene between Hairtrigger and Doomeye until a member of the school faculty, Professor Deathwhisper, came to save them. Deathwhisper was an invented character as well, and he'd modeled her after Alice Karteaux. He'd thought about introducing a male proxy for himself in the story, but decided just to let it lie as it did, posting it to some random corner of the internet under some silly name he'd made up. He'd never expected anyone to actually read it. It seemed like both Emily and Sarah had read it, but read that story very well, because they had the details down to a tee, even going to far as to have Emily's shirt with a jagged rip just above her waist on one side, a rip in Sarah's left stocking just above the ankle, both the places where the roxtreaux had bitten them in the story. Emily turned on Sarah's lap, her back to her girlfriend's chest, rolling her hips in his direction, that skirt still concealing most of her legs from him. "You have to help us, Professor," Emily whimpered. "I don't want to die here on this desolate rock, before I've even finished school." She raked her nails along the back of Sarah's neck, her other hand smoothing along one of her own thighs, tugging a little on that skirt, as if she was torn between trying to pull it down or up. "But I feel so very strange, like parts of my body are on fire. My naughty parts especially." "Well, Miss Hairtrigger, the only antidote to roxtreaux venom is to ride it out," Andy said, stepping into the room, closing the door behind him. He tried to affect a British accent, but immediately abandoned it, deciding just to stick to his own voice. "Vigorous exercise will help, as it encourages the body to fight off the neurotoxins." Emily nodded, her face a contorted mix of fear and lust. "Just tell us what to do and we'll do it, Professor. Whatever it is! You're our only hope." "Just remain there for the moment, and I'll begin administering some treatment," he said, moving to the edge of the bed, sliding down onto his knees, as he made sure both Sarah and Emily had their legs spread, his hands slowly pushing up Emily's skirt, revealing that alabaster flesh of her thighs before exposing that she hadn't put on panties, a small brownish triangle of curls atop her dripping wet cunt. A lesser man might've thought Emily dyed her blonde locks, but Andy knew better, himself a blonde (when he wasn't shaving his head, which was almost never these days) with brown pubic hair. "Remember, whatever you feel, it's perfectly natural," he said, as he lowered his lips down to flick his tongue along her snatch. "Oh. OH. OH my!" she groaned, her hips pushing up towards his face, as he sunk two fingers inside of her cunt, his tongue continuing to draw shapes along her clit. "Fuck, Professor! You're, quite the cunning linguist!" Andy almost wanted to groan at the pun, but decided instead to focus on the work in front of him. When Emily had said her last boyfriend hadn't gone down on her, Andy had almost taken offense to that, and decided it was going to be the first thing he did with her. He could feel her body squirming and writhing against his face, her hands moving to hold onto his head. Her whole body erupted in a quick spasm when he dragged the soft hairs of his goatee across her clit, her thighs clamping on his ears for a moment. She kept him pinned there for several seconds before she relaxed a little bit, whimpering in tiny little chipmunk squeaks. "Fuck, sir, that was amazing," her British tinged voice purred at him. "I've never cum so quick before. You're very good at that,” He looked up from between her thighs, noticing that somewhere in the middle of it, Sarah had unbuttoned Emily's shirt, opening it, although the tie still remained dangling around her neck, resting between her small, pert tits. Emily brought a hand up, folding an arm across her chest, a touch self consciously. "They aren't as large as they should be, sir, I know," she said, looking down. He couldn't tell if she was still playing a part, or was genuine nervous about how he might look at her body. He wanted to put that to rest as quickly as possible. Andy stood up, moving in closer, lifting Emily's chin up, turning her eyes back to his, as he pressed a kiss to her lips, letting her taste herself on his face. "You are perfect exactly as you are," he said, "both of you." He moved to one side and leaned in to kiss Sarah, as he felt Emily's hands unbuttoning his jeans. "Any man who's told you that you need bigger tits can come tell me, and I will beat him to a pulp before of your very eyes, or fall trying." "Can we have more, sir?" Emily asked. "Of you?" Sarah nodded enthusiastically. "I fucking want some too. My brain's on fucking fire." "Alright, but let me tell you this," Andy said, trying to weave his knowledge about the vaccine into the storyline they were playing out. "Whoever goes first in getting a dose of serum will be completely unable to help the other when it comes to her turn. Once you get your dose, you will, ah, go into a healing coma, which will burn the last of the neurotoxin from your system. You two are such close friends, you should decide who you want to get dosed first, and whom you want to go second." He took a step back and Emily slid off Sarah's lap, moving down onto her knees in front of him, before she pulled the giant redhead down to join her. They made such a contrast, the blonde and the redhead, the pixie and the amazon, but the one commonality they shared was that utter adoration they had for him in their eyes. Emily tugged his baggy jeans and boxers down to his knees, letting his thick cock spring free and slap Sarah in the face, causing the redhead to giggle fiercely, her nose scrunching up in amusement. "Quite the weapon you wield, professor," Emily said, reaching up to give his fat cock a soft stroke, moving it to keep it away from Sarah's lips. "I heard a rumor from a member of the faculty, Professor Red Wolf, sir. About the very first taste of the serum. Is it true? Let's find out!" she said with a giggle. At that, Emily held onto his cock by the base with one hand, her other hand moving to grab Sarah's head, pushing the redhead's mouth onto his shaft, that large dollop of precum dripping onto Sarah's tongue as soon as her lips enveloped his cock. The minute that precum hit her tongue, Sarah's hands clamped onto his hips, and her body immediately began vibrating like she'd just been hooked up to a car battery, her blue eyes rolling back into her head as a gurgling moan chirped in staccato bursts of sound that buzzed along his cock, her lips refusing to give even a millimeter of space between them and him. After several seconds, Sarah's breathing resumed a more normal rhythm and she forced her blue eyes open once more, looking up at him, tears at the edges of them, as she slowly pulled her head back to let her lips pop off his cock. "Oh. My. Fucking. God," she whispered. "What the fuck was that, Emily? What the fuck just fucking happened? How did that make me cum so fucking hard? I'm still fucking shaking. What the literal fuck?" Emily giggled again. "Oh my god, it's true, it's actually fucking true. Let me have my first taste," she said, cradling his balls with one hand, stroking his shaft with the other, coaxing another droplet of precum to the tip of his cock. As soon as that milky white pearl emerged, she pushed her mouth over the head of his cock, not taking it deep, mostly just keeping the first few inches past her lips as her tongue swiped along the tip of his cock, gathering up that taste. As soon as her tongue lashed along that dollop, he felt her tiny body lock up, her finely manicured fingernails sinking hard into his ass, her eyes looking up at him, almost in deification, worshiping the sight of him while the orgasm shredded through her, Sarah looking on, somewhere between concern, fascination and jealousy. "Is it, is it always like this?" Sarah asked him, as Emily finally started to come down from her initial taste, both women now primed to him. "The first orgasm is always the strongest," Andy said to her, his hand stroking along the top of her head, as she turned to look up at him. "Other than the imprinting orgasm, which all the girls have described as something unlike anything they've ever encountered. But I think Ash told me that all of her orgasms now are about ten times stronger than they were in the Before Times. Niko and Lauren both said that was about right. Niko's said a number of times that she never knew what cumming was like before me." He chuckled softly. "I wish I could say I was that good, but I think it's mostly the vaccine." "Less men, better orgasms, the new world has so much to offer women,” Emily moaned, reaching over to unbutton Sarah's shirt. Neither girl had put on a bra, and Andy was a little surprised that Sarah's tits were plumper than he'd thought, rounder and fuller with large aerolas and stiff pink nipples standing at attention. She'd never done a nude scene before. Neither of them had. And now, here they both were, in a half state of undress. "Sares, do you want to go first?" "Totally, but I don't fucking know if I can, Emily," Sarah said to her. "But I think I fucking have to, I think I have to fucking go first, so I'm fucking locked in, so I can't back down. I'm just fucking scared I won't be good enough for him, that he won't fucking love me like I fucking love him. He's, like, my fucking hero, as a writer." Andy wanted to point out that both of the women were already completely locked in now, having gotten a taste of his semen to prime them for imprinting, but was afraid that might make things even more awkward for them, so he kept quiet. "It's okay, Sares, it's fine, it's fine, it's absolutely fine," Emily said to Sarah. "I'll be with you the entire time. Here, I know what we can do." She stood up again, pulling Sarah to her feet with her. The two of them moved around Andy's body, turning him around so his back was towards the bed, then Emily pushed him sharply, forcing him to fall onto the bed face up. "Climb on top of him." "Emily, I'm, I'm not fucking sure,” Emily stepped in behind her and slipped one of her hands up and under Sarah's skirt, rubbing her hand against the redhead's cunt beneath the fabric, obscured from Andy's view. "Sares, you are literally drenching my hand right now. You nearly fingered yourself until your hand dropped off after that time at the convention, and now, here he is, the man you wanted, and he's told you, quite explicitly, that he wants to fuck you. Now get out of your own way and climb atop that cock of his. This is your favorite dream. Look at him." Her other hand reached up and grabbed Sarah's hair, forcing her to look at him, while Emily carried on, her posh English accent almost making her seem even more dominating. "He wants you, you daft bitch. He's probably jerked off thinking about you, haven't you, Andy?" Andy reddened a little bit, then nodded. "More than a few times." "You see?" Emily's grip in Sarah's hair loosened a little bit, and Andy could see the lust building up behind Sarah's dark blue eyes, rising up to meet the levels of love already present there. "I'll do you one better. I'm going to give you to the count of five to get on top of the love of your life, and if you don't, I'm going to fuck him first, a fact I will surely lord over you for the rest of all our days." "Oh my fucking god, you totally would, wouldn't you, you bitch? The number one person on my 'I Wanna Fuck So Bad' list, and you'd totally fuck them before me, wouldn't you? I so fucking hate you right now!" "Five,” "You know I'd totally hate you, like, forever and longer." "Four,” "Four?! It was just, like, five, only a second ago." "Three,” "Oh no you fucking don't," Sarah said, tugging Emily's hand out from under her skirt. "You can have him after I've fucked him. He's mine first." Sarah slowly peeled away from Emily and moved one knee up on one side of Andy's thighs, bringing the other up to straddle him, leaning over him, her heavy tits swinging beneath her, her eyes holding on his face. "That's okay, isn't it, Andy?" she said, bending down to kiss him. "That I want to be here?" She kissed him again. "With you?" Again, only longer. "That I love you?" She wriggled her hips, and he could feel her reaching down beneath her skirt to grab his cock, rubbing the tip of it along her cunt. "That I wanna fuck you?" Emily peeled off her shirt, but left the tie hanging loose around her neck, as she crawled up on the bed alongside Andy, turning his head one side so she could take a turn kissing him. "That we want to fuck you," she said. "For ever and ever,” "That's totally okay, right?" Sarah said, turning his eyes back to her. "Because if it's not, then, well,” she said, pausing for a second, breaking eye contact for a moment before their eyes met again, resolve hardening behind them, "then I guess it's better to beg for forgiveness than to ask permission." Her hips slammed down on top of his, punching his cock deep into her drenched cunt, a sluttish moan bubbling up from her throat. "'Cause momma's gotta fucking eat. Fuck, you feel too fucking good. Shit, I'm fucking cumming already, shit shit shit shit shit Shit Shit!" Sarah's fingernails raked hard against his chest, not quite deep enough to draw blood, but enough to raise red lines of tender flesh, visible through the dark thatch of blonde curls on his chest. Her eyes watered up as she trembled atop of him, her head thrashing about to make those coppery curls swipe back and forth like a matador's cape in the wind. For several seconds, she just stayed there, impaled on his cock, vibrating in quivers, until finally the sensations eased up and she leaned forward, Emily reaching to wipe the tears from Sarah's eyes. "You okay Sares?" "This is the greatest fucking day of my life," she whimpered, her voice tiny and dumbstruck. "But I need more. I want more." She looked down at Andy, then leaned in to kiss him. "I need to feel more than just that oh so fat cock of yours inside me. You know what I fucking need, don't you?" Her lips kept returning to his in between every sentence. "I need you to pump a hot load of jizz right inside of my cute little fuckhole." This time she lifted her head up and kissed Emily right in front of his eyes, their tongues tangling up, until Emily tilted her head a little, and leaned them both down, until all three of them were kissing in one big mess, a weave of tongues and lips. Sarah started to grind her hips on his lap, finally leaning back until she sat upright, and Andy could place his hands on her body, one on her hip, the other over one of those round tits of hers, feeling her nipple hard as a rock against his palm. "Tell me I'm pretty," she pleaded to him. "You're fucking gorgeous," he told her. "Tell me I'm smart." "Brilliant, witty and charming." "Tell me that it's okay that I'm a big dork." "I love the fact that you're a big dork." She bit her bottom lip nervously, glancing over at Emily, who nodded to her with that coy smile of hers. "Tell me I'm your big dork." "You're my big dork," Andy laughed. "Again," Sarah said, starting to ride him harder, her ass smacking down on the tops of his thighs each time she bucked into him. "You're my big dork." "What am I?" Emily squeezed his shoulder, nibbling on his ear, her teeth tugging on his earlobe. "Say it. She wants to hear it. Cum in her tight little cunt and say it." Sarah's rhythm was frantic now, her cunt clamping and squeezing on his cock, trying to get that release from him, her hair a complete mess now, the braids having partially come undone, threatening to spill everywhere, her hands on his chest making her arms press her tits together, as if presenting them for him to see, her deep dark blue eyes never once looking away from him, imploring him, as if she wanted something she couldn't bear to ask for. The image was so erotic, Andy knew he couldn't resist, not that he wanted to. So when he felt that tightening up in his body, his hands grabbed onto her hips and held her down, his cock impaled hilt deep inside of her snatch beneath that skirt, as his green eyes held her gaze, while he said "You're mine." At that last word, his balls drew up and his cock blasted Sarah's snatch so full of cum, he was certain he could feel it dripping out onto his balls, seven or eight squirts of heavy cream inside of her, her eyes immediately rolling back in her skull, as she flopped atop of him like someone had just flipped a switch inside of her and turned her off. Andy barely had time to pull his head to one side so that Sarah's face fell safely into the pillow, her tits mashed against his chest, as she started mumbling "imprinting" over and over against into the pillow. "Oh my god," Emily whispered into his ear, "that is the hottest fucking thing that I have ever seen with my own eyes." Emily reached up and brushed part of Sarah's hair out of her face for her, seeing her muttering. "How long is she going to do that?" "For a couple of minutes," Andy said, slowly moving to roll Sarah off him, laying her down on the side of him opposite of Emily. The skirt had hiked up and he could see a small landing strip of copper curls above her snatch, so he tugged the skirt back down for her. "Then she'll just fall very still. She'll wake up in about twelve to sixteen hours." "That's all it takes?" Emily said. "Now she's just permanently bonded to you forever?" "Well, not forever, I'm sure," Andy said, as Emily moved him so that each of them were laying on their sides facing each other. He must've looked a little nervous, because Emily took one of his hands in hers and interlaced his bulky fingers with her slender ones. "I'm sure once we're out of this crisis, science will come up with some sort of solution so that people aren't quite so chemically dependent on each other, but for the time being, yeah, she's bonded to me, and she'll need to absorb some of my cum once every couple of weeks." "That won't be a problem," Emily giggled. "She's a wildcat. I swear to God, she might even be a nymphomaniac, not that you'll mind, although you're going to have to go with us on movie shoots from now on. We'll work it all out, I'm certain." She leaned in and pressed a tiny kiss on his nose. "Ready for me yet?" "I don't think you've met a man in your entire life who's been ready for you," he said, which made her laugh in amusement. "Me included. You're really sure you're okay with all of this?" "Can I tell you a secret?" she said, that impish smile widening on her face a little bit. "I sort of help set all this up." Andy narrowed his eyes. "I don't know how that's even possible." "When Sarah and I arrived on the base two weeks ago, we were put in a sort of group quarantine, and were mostly only allow to see people who had already been vaccinated and were with partners, a few staff members aside. Sarah was very nervous that someone would find out we were together, so we just acted like acquaintances, actors who didn't know each other but knew of each other," Emily said, not letting him pull his hand away, in fact bringing it to rest on her chest, just above her heart. "So while Sarah was having panic attacks and thinking our lives were over, I got to know some of the people who were on guard duty for us." "Niko,” Andy groaned, grinning in spite of himself. "Well, yes, Niko, but not just Niko," Emily said. "Also, I met one of Mister Covington's family, Rachel. And so I hatched a plan." "I don't understand why you even needed to," Andy said. "They partner you women up with men you want to be with, don't they?" "Is that what they've told you?" she gasped. "No! Oh my god, no! No, that's not it at all, Andrew. I mean, it might have started that way, but since the foundation of New Eden, any woman that a man wants and asks for is brought here and imprinted, to be part of his new family. Maybe that's not true for all of the women, but it most certainly is for some of us! Did, did you really not know that? Have you truly not asked for anyone specific?" "I didn't even know that I could, not that I think I would. Why wouldn't Niko tell me that?" "Maybe she doesn't even know," Emily said. "We were told not to talk about the process at all, to anyone. But I'm a little busybody, so I poked around a bit, and Rachel told me a lot more than I think she intended to. I also talked to Niko about the various men who were in the community already. She said she really didn't know that many of them, other than her partner and his friends, so I asked her to tell me about them." "Oh lord,” "Once I found out you were, well, you, and that Niko had such a high opinion of you , you really should marry all of your girls, Andrew, but my God, would Niko especially do literally anything for you , I decided that I had to get Sarah into your family, no matter what. I knew how she felt about you, and if she'd found out you were here and she couldn't fuck you, well, it might've sent her into an uncontrollable spiral of depression, and I would not allow that to happen. She's had struggles with depression much of her life, and her love for you is deeper than the Pacific. If I could get myself into your family as well, all the better, but if Sarah and I simply lived in the same town, even with different male partners, we could still be together regularly enough, so I had to ensure she made her way to you, and that was the bare minimum of what I would accept." "What did you do?" "So Rachel controls the distribution process at the vaccination center. She determines how women are sent to their partners and at what speed. She is also, like, the biggest Dagger Academy fan, thank god for that. I got all of this done with just a few autographs and a few selfies with her. I don't like trading in on my fame, but I decided that just this one time, I would bend my moral compass, to ensure that Sarah and I weren't miserable." "What does that mean?" "It means, I convinced Rachel to send out women in batches of two, because the other thing Rachel had told me was that her partner, that prick Covington, liked to gamble with women, so I made sure that he would see this as an opportunity to hold one of his poker games, and that both Sarah and I would be available as prizes in them. Niko said you'd never been invited to one before, so I also needed to make sure there was a reason for you to get involved." "Christ, if I'd have known you and Sarah were in it, I might have gone in on that alone." "Oh, bless Andrew, but no, you wouldn't have," Emily said, kissing his nose. "You're too scrupulous. Niko made it exceptionally clear to me that you saw your partners as people not property, another part of the reason I so wanted to ensure Sarah made her way to you. But that meant convincing you that you were rescuing someone, and hoping you would also give in to temptation when it was presented to you on a silver platter. So when they started vaccinating us all with the inoculation, I bumped that doctor, Charlotte, and made her accidentally inject herself. That meant she had to get partnered up with someone within a few weeks, and I knew that Charlotte wouldn't leave her daughter behind. I also knew that Charlotte was a friend of Niko's, and that Rachel had been told by Covington to watch out for a mother daughter pairing he could get his hands on, that sick fuck." "This is like some kind of fucking heist movie!" Andy said in amazement. "What I didn't know was that Charlotte was so heartbroken over the death of her husband, that she wouldn't care who she was assigned to. I had wanted Charlotte to be assigned to you and her daughter to be assigned to Covington, so you would feel the need to rescue her daughter and when you did, you would likely also take Sarah and I." "What the hell happened?" "Rachel got them both assigned to Covington instead, but thankfully, Niko decided on her own that she was going to make sure you were at that card game to rescue both of them, because she and the Doctor had become work friends. Niko convinced Rachel that you were a great cardplayer, and also made sure that one of their usual players dropped out. She's quite clever, your girl. I also put a bug in her ear that if she thought you were such a wonderful man, maybe you should consider trying to get Sarah as well." "You didn't mention yourself?" "I didn't want to overtax you, but I hoped that maybe I might be pretty enough to pull your eye." "Every woman here is prett
Summer baseball is here! In this episode, Eric shares insights - from staying healthy to optimizing performance - on how to make the most of this experience.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm
Brittaney Moore speaks of an inner peace, an inner bliss, an inner happiness, an inward joy that is not produced nor affected by circumstance. This state of unshakeable well-being is how God desires us to live. ' Watch: https://youtu.be/TveWEbTpit0
Making Instagram work smarter for your business, repurposing old content, and making the most out of DM automation tools with Lindsay Ostrom from Pinch of Yum. ----- Welcome to episode 522 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week, Bjork interviews Lindsay Ostrom from Pinch of Yum. How Pinch of Yum Uses Instagram to Grow Their Email List Welcome to the kickoff episode of our new mini-series, sponsored by Grocers List! In this conversation, Bjork and Lindsay are diving into how Pinch of Yum is rethinking its Instagram strategy, especially when it comes to using Reels, DM automation tools, and driving email list growth. They chat about how to balance creativity with conversion, and Lindsay shares why her opinion of DM automation tools has completely changed over time. Lindsay also gets into the nitty-gritty of repurposing blog content and using Grocers List as a strategic bridge to get Instagram followers into the email ecosystem. If you're looking to work smarter with your content and make Instagram actually work for your business, this episode is for you! Three episode takeaways: How to repurpose old content — Lindsay discusses how she has been breathing new life into older recipes by organizing and packaging her existing content into resources and opt-ins that can a) provide value to readers and b) drive followers to sign up for the Pinch of Yum email list. Pinch of Yums' current Instagram process and strategy — Lindsay shares her current content strategy for Instagram and how she's been rethinking the value of Instagram in her business. Historically, she viewed Instagram primarily as a means to build awareness around the brand and new recipes, but she is now being more strategic about the Instagram to email pipeline. She explains her practical tips for getting started with this mindset shift in this discussion! How to make the most out of DM for automation tools — Lindsay first tried out a DM for automation tool to drive site traffic a few years ago, but didn't like how it cluttered her Instagram inbox and made engaging with readers more difficult. So she abandoned it! Recently, however, she tried again (this time with Grocers List) and has had great success building her email list. In this interview, she explains what changed her opinion on these tools (and shares the Instagram inbox organization tip you need)! Resources: Pinch of Yum Skinnytaste Grocers List Grace and Vine Studios 22 Healthy Freezer Meals (That You'll Actually Love) Freezer Meals Instagram Post Follow Lindsay on Instagram and Pinterest Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is sponsored by Grocers List. Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to podcast@foodbloggerpro.com. Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.
(00:00-24:32) Doug's just stew today after that tough loss. Texters trying to beat the rush this morning. Helsley with a toughie last night. Carrera is clutch. Farm to table breakfast pizza. Audio of Ryan Helsley talking about his third blown save in a week. Ballwin Beer Bitch is on the phone lines. Jackson, The Etiquette King. Pretzels in the pool.(24:41-43:19) Tim looks great today. Martin topless at home, Doug topless at the ball game. The Anatomy of An Infidelity Special. Pastrami dogs. Doug doesn't like German food. The filtering process is a united front.(43:29-59:59) Mount Rushmore of television theme songs. One Day At A Time. Penalty minutes galore in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals last night. Audio of Connor McDavid talking about the weird game and not playing their best yet in the series. Kris Knoblauch on the chippiness of Game 3. Doug's clergy cape. The Rembrandts. Ky's tertiary friends.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Who is the best surfer in the world—and what actually makes someone “the best” in surfing? Is it airs, power turns, getting barreled, or just having the most fun? On this episode of Pinch My Salt, pro surfer Sterling Spencer and Cousin Ryan dive deep into surf culture, surf comedy, and the eternal debate: performance vs. soul surfing.If you love surfing podcasts, skateboarding culture, beach life, surf edits, and funny takes on pro surfers like Kelly Slater, Andy Irons, or Tom Curren, this is your episode. We unpack everything from underrated surfers, surf localism, soft top culture, bald celebrities (
University of Oxford project selected for EIT Health's Deep Tech Venture Builder to tackle pain in children The University of Oxford's PINCH project joins EIT Health's Deep Tech Venture Builder programme to transform pain management in young children. EIT Health Ireland-UK, a Co-Location Centre of EIT Health, part of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union, today announced that the University of Oxford's PINCH project has been selected as one of 17 projects to join the Deep Tech Venture Builder (DTVB) programme. EIT Health is Europe's largest health innovation network, comprising over 100 member organisations across business, research, education, government, and healthcare delivery, working collaboratively to tackle Europe's greatest health challenges through innovation and technology. New tool to measure pain in infants Designed to help academic teams bring deep tech innovations to market, EIT Health's Deep Tech Venture Builder (DTVB) offers targeted support to overcome the biggest obstacles faced at this critical stage. Often referred to as the "Valley of Death," this phase is where many promising research ideas struggle to survive due to challenges like bureaucratic hurdles, lack of funding, and the difficult leap from lab-based research to real-world application. Graham Armitage, Managing Director, EIT Health Ireland-UK, said, "The PINCH project represents the kind of high-impact innovation we aim to support through EIT Health. By bridging the gap between academic research and real-world application, we are enabling ground-breaking technologies to reach the patients who need them most." The University of Oxford's PINCH project, led by Professor Rebeccah Slater, is addressing a long-standing gap in paediatric care by developing a clinical tool that interprets brain and heart signals to objectively measure pain in infants, going beyond the traditional reliance on facial expressions or crying, which can often result in under- or over-treatment. "It is a privilege to be supported by EIT Health's Deep Tech Venture Builder programme, and great to have the opportunity to accelerate development of our technology so it can be used to measure pain in young hospitalised children," said Prof Rebeccah Slater, Professor of Paediatric Neuroimaging, University of Oxford. Every day, countless children experience pain in hospital settings, yet many receive inadequate treatment due to the limitations of current assessment tools. PINCH, in collaboration with Ship2B Ventures, will now benefit from the tailored support of EIT Health's Deep Tech Venture Builder (DTVB) programme, gaining access to expert mentorship and leading innovation networks "This project unites three essential pillars to bring deep tech solutions to market: world-class science from Oxford, strategic venture building led by Ship2B Ventures through the Montana Children's Health initiative, and the robust ecosystem support of EIT Health. Together, we are shaping a transformative future for paediatric care," Pilar Puig Sàrries, Venture Partner, Montana Children's Health (Ship2B Ventures) The PINCH project is a part of EIT Health's broader mission to support deep tech ventures across Europe and help transform the future of healthcare. With over 2,998 start-ups supported to date and more than 140,000 citizens and patients directly impacted by its programmes in 2023, EIT Health continues to play a central role in Europe's health innovation landscape. Discover more about the Deep Tech Venture Builder and the selected projects here. ABOUT EIT HEALTH EIT Health is a network of best-in-class health innovators with approximately 120 partners and is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union. We collaborate across borders to deliver new solutions that can enable European citizens to live longer, healthier lives. As Europeans tackle the challenge of increasing chronic diseases and...
On this week's episode the guys recapped a 3-3 week, including a number of controversial managerial decisions by Pat Murphy, the status of the Hall/Priester piggyback and order of the rest of the pen. Support the podcast on Patreon and receive the Monthly Minor League Extra and Weekly Packers Preview.
podscan_eCtKATsen2cfxsvA0s2iFHt5rOkQTATVAfter breaking his pinky toe just two days earlier Francisco Lindor was asked to pinch hit and came through with a two run double that was the difference in the opening game of a three game series in Colorado. -Senga solid again as the starting pitching continues to be a strong point on this team -Alonso continues to rake at the plate - Soto starting to earn his money -Should the Mets consider benching Alvarez? Plus we look ahead to tonight's game in Colorado as Clay Holmes goes for his 7th win of the season #lindor #lgm #lockedupsports #Alonso #Alvarez #soto #NYC
In this episode, Eric highlights the shortcomings of one-size-fits-all arm care programs in our quest to keep pitchers healthy. At a time when pitcher injury rates are soaring, we need to avoid excessively reductionist thinking.
Fear is a natural part of life. A healthy level of fear is necessary; it keeps us from walking down dark alleys alone, it reminds us to wear our seatbelts, and it nudges us when we're standing near the edge of a cliff. But when everything in life feels like a danger, we begin to manifest unhealthy fear patterns in our bodies and minds. When we approach fear from a MindBody perspective, our nervous systems relax and we start to build safety from within. Once fear becomes the passenger, rather than the driver, magic becomes possible in all areas of life. What am I reading?Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshihttps://bookshop.org/a/111301/9780778368533Mind Your Body by Nicole Sachshttps://bookshop.org/a/111301/9780593716939Cure for Chronic Pain Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cure-for-chronic-pain-with-nicole-sachs-lcsw/id1439580309https://bookshop.org/shop/witchywomanwalkingWhat's playing on repeat?Jerk it Out by CaesarsWhat's for dinner? Sweet Potato & Sausage Hash w/ EggsIngredients:3 Tbsp olive oil 2 sweet potatoes chopped1 onion diced1 bell pepper red, orange, yellow, chopped1/2 lb sausage1/4-1/2 tsp paprika or smoked paprikaSea salt and black pepperPinch red pepper flakes4 eggsThinly sliced scallionsServe with avocado and salsa Instructions:Preheat oven to 400 degrees.Heat a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp of the oil to melt. Once hot, crumble the sausage into the pan, and stir while cooking to evenly brown. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes.When sausage is almost done, add the onions and peppers and continue to cook and stir until the sausage is browned and the onions and peppers are soft. Remove from heat and set aside until the potatoes are done.In a separate skillet over medium heat, add the remaining 2 Tbsp of oil to melt. Add the chopped sweet potatoes and stir to coat. Sprinkle with paprika, salt and pepper to taste.Cook and stir, uncovered, until the outside begins to brown, then cover the skillet and continue to cook to soften the inside of the potatoes, uncovering to stir once in a while. This step should take about 7 minutes.Once the potatoes are softened and browned, transfer them to the sausage mixture and stir to combine. Create 4 indents where you will crack each egg - carefully crack the eggs into the spaces.Put the entire skillet in the oven to bake the eggs to preference, about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy!Cinnamon Sugar Baked PeachesIngredients: 4 large ripe peaches3 tablespoons butter3 tablespoons brown sugar1/4 teaspoon cinnamonPinch of nutmegPinch of clovesPinch of saltVanilla ice cream for servingInstructionsPreheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice 4 large peaches in half and remove pits. Arrange on a large baking sheet or pan.Place a small piece of butter in the center of each peach.Combine 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, Pinch of nutmeg, Pinch of cloves and Pinch of salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle mixture over peaches.Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until peaches are tender and golden. Top with vanilla ice cream before serving.Support the show
Welcome to episode 306 of The Cloud Pod – where the forecast is always cloudy! This week, we have a bunch of announcements concerning the newest offering from Anthropic – Claude Sonnet 4 and Opus 4, plus container security, Azure MySQL Maintenance, Vertex AI, and Mistral AI. Plus, we've got a Cloud Journey installment AND an aftershow – so get comfy and get ready for a trip to the clouds! Titles we almost went with this week: ECS Failures Now Have 4x the Excuses Nailing Down Your Container Security, One Patch at a Time HashiCorp’s New Recipe: Terraform, AI, and a Pinch of MCP Teaching an Old DNS New IPv6 Tricks Dash-ing through the Klusters, in an AWS Console Google’s Generative AI Playground Gets a Glow-Up Vertex AI Studio: Now with 200% More Darkness! Like our souls Claude Opus 4 Strikes a Chord on Google Cloud Sovereign-teed to Please: Google Cloud’s Royal Treatment Google’s Cloud Kingdom Expands its Borders Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s AI? Anthropic Drops Sonne(t) 4 Knowledge on Vertex Mistral AI Chats Up a Storm on Google Cloud Google Cloud’s Vertex AI Gets a Dose of Mistral Magic .NET Aspire on Azure: The App Service Strikes Back Default Outbound Access Retires, Decides Florida Isn’t for Everyone AI Is Going Great – or How ML Makes Money 01:52 Introducing Claude 4 Claude has launched the latest models in Claude Opus 4 and Claude Sonnet 4, setting new standards for coding, advancing reasoning and AI agents. Maybe they'll actually follow instructions when told to shut down? (Looking at you, ChatGPT.) Claude Opus 4 is “the world's best coding model” with sustained performance on complex, long-running tasks and agent workflows. Opus 4 has 350 billion parameters, making it one of the largest publicly available language models. It demonstrates strong performance on academic benchmarks, including research. Sonnet 4 is a smaller 10 billion parameter model optimized for dialogue, making it well-suited for conversational AI applications. Alongside the models, they are also announcing: Extended thinking with tool use (beta): Both models can use tools – like web search – during extended thinking, allowing Claude to alternate between reasoning and tool use to improve its responses. New Model Capabilities: Both models can use tools in parallel, follow instructions more precisely, and when given access to local files by developers — demonstrate significantly improved memory capabilities, extracting and saving key facts maintain continuity and build tacit knowledge over time Claude code is now generally available: After receiving extensive positive feedback during our research preview, they are expanding how developers can collaborate with Claude. Claude code now supports background tasks via gith
Face To FaceA 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories. My heart was pounding in my chest. She had sounded conflicted, like she wanted to see me, but had reservations. I forced myself to take slow deep breaths before I ducked into my room and got my jacket. I tried to calm down, and keep from speeding there but I also knew I'd need to find the place. I followed the directions and found it easily. I was about twenty minutes early. I asked for a booth in a quiet area, and let the hostess know a friend was meeting me.The waitress asked what I was having, and since it was my birthday I decided to have a drink. Hopefully I wasn't going to need it. She carded me and wished me a happy birthday. She returned with my drink and set it down with a smile."This one's on me."I smiled back thanking her. I started twirling the cold glass in my hands looking into the amber liquid. I was lost in thought until I heard a familiar voice say thank you. I looked up to see Summer walking towards me. I slid out of the booth and she kept walking, a smile spreading across her face as she got closer. She didn't stop, hitting me in the chest full force as she wrapped her arms around my neck pulling me into a fierce hug. My arms resumed their position as if she'd always been there."I almost didn't believe it when I saw the note. It was a bit of a shock after all this time." She said softly into my ear."I don't know why I didn't come right away."She didn't let go of me, and I didn't let go of her either. She just smiled as she looked at my face. I noticed her hair was darker than I remembered, summer had long since passed. Her eyes were bright, even in the dim light of the room. She flicked her eyes over my shoulder."Sorry." She blushed."Oh don't be." The waitress said with a sly grin. "Let me know when you're ready and I'll grab your drink order.""What are you having?" Summer asked me."In honor of our last day together I got a cider."She smiled and told the waitress she'd have what I was having. We finally separated and sat down."What are you doing here?" She asked, more curious than concerned.I gave her a smirk and shrug. "I've missed you.""That's sweet, but why now? I honestly thought if you were going to chase me down you would have done it right away."The waitress set down her drink, and asked if we wanted to order any food. Summer ordered us a couple appetizers."The truth is I've missed you ever since the day you left. I knew it wouldn't do me any good to chase after you. The last thing you needed was a puppy following you home. So I moved on, or so I convinced myself. I went to see Davy, and he'd already given my summer job to somebody else. You saved me from a summer of boredom pumping fuel, and hauling ice.""What did you do?""I caught a break, and went to school on the city's dime." I lifted my jacket from beside me showing the logo I'm sure she would recognize. Rockland FD,"You're a fireman?" She asked, her eyes widened. "That explains that.""Explains what?" I asked.She just grinned. "Have you looked in a mirror lately?"I rubbed my chin. "I did shave before coming, so yea."Summer rolled her eyes. "You can't tell me that you haven't noticed that you've filled out a little. You still look like a young 'un. You must have to beat the girls off with a stick.""What girls?" I asked.She looked at me for a moment, a look of shock crept across her face. "Pete, don't tell me you haven't moved on. Tell me you've been out with girls your own age since I left." She said the last part softly, but insistently."I've been on dates since you left." I said chuckling. "I missed you, and I sought solace in the arms of other women. I'm such a cad."She let out a sigh of relief. "So why here? Why now? It's not that I'm not happy to see you, honestly it isn't, but I'm getting the feeling there's something more going on here.""I've been out with a few girls, but I've only ever been in love with one." I looked her in the eyes. I didn't need to tell her who I meant. It was plain on her face that she realized it as soon as I said it.She looked at me her head tilting slightly, and reached over and took my hands in hers. She took a deep breath."What we shared was amazing, but you need to move on and live your life. You can't be in love with me. You're not even old enough..."I looked at her for a moment, and purposely raised an eyebrow and lifted my glass and took a long pull off my cider."Okay, you're old enough to drink, but you're still so young. What do you want with an old lady like me?""Whoa, hang on a minute. You're old? I wish you'd told me when we were rolling around in the sheets like a couple of horny teenagers.""You WERE a horny teenager!" She growled at me."That hasn't been the case now for two years, to the day." I replied. "I'd like to think I've had time to work it out, think on it, and grow up a little."She looked at me for a moment. "To the day? Your birthday is today?"I nodded."What about you? Have you been dating, are you in a relationship?" I asked. I felt my heart sink as I waited for the blow."Happy Birthday." She said and lifted herself up leaned across the table and kissed me.The shock lasted a split second, her lips lingered in front of mine. I didn't hesitate and leaned in and I closed the gap, this time unhurried. Her kiss was soft and warm as her tongue brushed my lip tentatively asking for permission to enter.There was a soft shuffling noise and the close clink of a plate. I was loath to part from her. Summer's eyes popped open looking into mine shocked as she pulled back and sat down, her cheeks bright pink. I just grinned. She peeked up at the waitress, who had a huge grin on her face as she set the plates down on the edge of the table, rather than between us."You two lovebirds want another round?""Not just yet." I replied looking at our half-filled glasses. As soon as the waitress walked away Summer started giggling, and I quickly joined her."Oh those smell so good." She reached for a plate and scooped a couple little dumplings onto it. She broke one in half and steam rose out of it, after dousing it with mustard she blew on half of it, then rather than eat it, she leaned over the table and offered it to me."Careful it's hot." She said stabbing the other and popping into her mouth, chewing carefully.It was hot, I gasped some air trying to cool it off as I bit down. "What is this?" I asked tasting onion and bacon."Deep fried pierogis. They're so bad for you, but they taste so good." Her eyes rolled up as chewed.I hadn't let the fact that she didn't respond to my question slip past."They are good," and I paused a moment to see if she'd respond.She let out a small sigh. "After a while... one of my friends kept prodding me to get out of my funk. Trust me when I say, I was in a bad way when I got home. I cried my eyes out for a week. There was a new doctor that worked on C South. She kept pushing me at him, I guess because he'd been asking about me. He asked me out, and after a couple invitations I finally accepted."She shrugged and made a grimace."So...""So? So what you want to know is whether or not I'm still seeing him, or if things got more serious. Is that right?" She said, a little smirk tugged at the corner of her mouth.I just raised my eyebrows, in imitation of her expression, which made her chuckle."If I were, would I be here feeding you, and swapping' spit?" She said with a sharp twang.I nearly choked on the bite she'd just fed me."Well I know you as the type who would let someone down easily. You don't like to hurt people, least of all those you care about." I said.She nodded slowly. "How long did it take you to figure out Emily hadn't broken her arm?"I just grinned at her attempt to change the subject. "So what happened with doctor wonderful?" At this point it wasn't just an assumption that the doctor was history, it was more a matter of how. She poked at the last bit on her plate with a fork before answering."It didn't work out. Once we'd done the deed, he seemed to lose interest. Come to find out, he's got a reputation of burning through coworkers. The reason he was new here was because he was asked to leave his old hospital because of a harassment lawsuit brought by several women that he worked with.""So you dumped him?""Like a hot potato." She grinned. "Besides Emmy hated him from day one. I should have taken her appraisal to heart."The grip in my chest relaxed. "Was he..."She raised her eyebrows at me this time, causing us to both laugh at the mirrored expression."What? Was he the only one? Yes. I haven't been playing bedroom bingo since I got home Pete. There, are you happy?"I just smiled at her."You smug little shit." She said laughing. "You are happy aren't you?"I just nodded."You think I'm just going to fall into your bed like nothing has changed? Is that it?" She said, still smiling.I stopped smiling and shook my head gently. "No, and technically, it was never my bed we fell into."She got a shrewd look. "What then?"I wasn't prepared for her to ask outright what it was that I expected, but I didn't hesitate with my response."I'm in love with you, and I have been for over a year, and I want to know how you feel about me."She sat there wide eyed for a moment, her mouth hanging open."Are you trying to catch flies?" I asked with a smirk."You're serious?" She said softly.I just nodded. "I'd move here, find a place, get a job and hopefully start my training to become a paramedic. I can get into the university as a resident, cheaper tuition, but mostly I just want to be with you.""You're crazy." She said softly."I've heard love does that to people.""Hon, there's so much more to consider than just that." She said, reaching across the table laying her hand on mine."I know, that's why I'm here now." I waited, looked away from her for a moment and took a deep breath. "If it was just... a summer fling. I'm okay with that, really I am. That doesn't mean I don't want us to be friends."Her hand gripped mine. "It wasn't like that at all. You have to understand what was going on in my life at the time. You showed up at a time when my self-esteem was crushed. I needed to feel loved, even wanted again. You did that in a single afternoon. Sure at first I was upset with you for being a peeping tom, but then I kind of liked the idea of a young guy getting excited seeing me in all my glory. I felt desired. When you brought my sorry, broken ass inside and made me lunch, got me the lotion for my sunburn, and ice for my ankle. You cared about me, and you didn't even know me. I didn't prompt you, you did it out of compassion, and that's something I needed right then.""And now?" I interjected.She tightened her jaw as she thought about her response. "It's different now. I'm different now. I came home and began rebuilding. I like being self-sufficient for the first time in my life, I like knowing that I can stand on my own two feet. I can be a good mother, make sure that dinner gets on the table and the bills get paid. It's empowering." She looked into my eyes. "I have you to thank for that.""Me?""Yes, you. You picked me up and dusted me off, figuratively and literally." She said, a tear slipped down her face.I reached up and brushed it away, and she grinned. "See? That's exactly what I'm talking about. You care about me, and it scared the hell out of me when I realized I felt the same way about you. That last night you nearly crushed my rib cage while we talked, but I didn't want to say anything because I was more afraid you'd let go, and I didn't want you to ever let go.""I was scared. Here I am a grown woman and I fell for a teenager because he was infatuated with me after I took his virginity." She said softly. "You were 19 for crying out loud, I should never have let it happen."I forced myself not to smile at that last statement. "Do you think that if I can carry you across a lawn and through a house, that I couldn't have stopped you? We didn't do anything that I didn't want to do. We were both consenting adults, you didn't take advantage of me."Summer just blinked her eyes and gave her head a little shake. "I just want to make sure I'm understanding all of this. You want to know if there's a chance for you and I to have a relationship, and you're willing to uproot and move here. You want to know if I'm okay with that, is that what you're really asking?""In short, yes." I said.It took her a while to respond. "What if I said no?""I could hope we'd remain friends. Maybe with a little communication once in a while. Who knows, you might even want to come back to Maine and visit, bring Emmy. There's a big summer camp just north of Camden. Just as friends." I said, waving off the shrewd look that she gave me, as if I were saying that we'd hustle Emmy off and get back to old times."What would happen if I said yes, and after you get settled in, you get tired of hanging out with an old lady? Where does that leave us then?" She countered. "You're a thousand miles from friends and family, resenting my very existence."I just smiled. "If I were worried about that, I wouldn't be here right now."I had the feeling her resolve was weakening when the corner of her mouth turned upward. "You know, the real test isn't me, it's Emmy. She knew Phil, the doctor I told you about, was a loser almost immediately. If you don't make the cut with her..." She just shook her head."So I must win over the princess to have the hand of the queen. It's a little backwards, but I like it. When can I set up my interview?" I said laughing.A sly smile crept across her face. "How long are you here for?""Forever, starting after Christmas. I have to work a full year at RFD or I'll have to pay back the tuition for school. I can be back just after the holidays." I said. "I'm on two weeks' vacation so I don't really need to head back until the end of next week.""I think I have just the thing then. Emily and I often go down to the firehouse on Fridays where they have a fish fry. You can meet my uncle while you're there, he's a fireman too.""That would be fine. What about us?""What about us?" She mimicked, not understanding my question."Would you do me the honor of going out on a date with me?" I asked formally.Her face lit up. "I'd love that. I'll find someone to watch Emmy on Saturday. If Saturday is okay with you.""Saturday will be fine." I said. The grin on my face mirrored hers. Just then I realized that this meeting couldn't have gone any better if I'd planned it this way.Summer looked at her phone to check the time and said she had to go pick up Emily at her mom's and get her home to bed. She insisted on picking up the tab because it was my birthday."We'll make Saturday your real birthday dinner." She winked as she set down the pen."C'mon walk me to my car." She said."Still have the Jeep?""Yup, not many warm days now, so I can't run around topless." She said.I chuckled, and got a punch in the arm before she joined in. She tossed her handbag across to the passenger seat, as I watched her jeans hugging that beautiful backside. I wanted to take things slow, but the overwhelming sensation of everything going so well came over me. When she turned back to face me I took her in my arms and kissed her like I hadn't in years. Our lips met, her arms slipped around my neck pulling me deeper into her as our tongues danced a familiar dance. My hands crept up the back of her pullover, pulling us tighter together."I've been wanting to do that since you walked in the door." I gasped."Pete?" She asked softly."Yea?" I tilted my head, wondering at her questioning tone."Is this..." She stuttered. "I don't..." She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She slipped a hand off my shoulder and reached down between us grabbing the front of my jeans in a soft grip."Is this why your here?" She asked, her eyes bright in the dim light of the street lamp. The look on her face told me that this was a very important question, and nothing short of the truth would be accepted.I reached down between us taking her hand in mine and brought it up and laid it on my chest. "This is why I'm here. It's been empty for over a year, and I want to fill it again."Without moving her hand she leaned in and kissed me again. "Right answer." She whispered."I'll call you tomorrow. Happy birthday." She leaned out and we kissed again.She gave me a little wave as she drove off. I returned it. I just looked down the road for a minute before I drove back to my motel.I woke the next morning squeezing the pillow against my chest tightly. I immediately sat up knowing there was a reason I woke this fast, and the ringer went off again. I dove for my phone to answer it."Good morning sleepy head." Came the soft sweet voice."Good morning sweets." I replied."I'm sorry, I know it's early and you're on vacation, but I wanted to know what you had planned today."I yawned. "Well I was going to go to the city and pick up an application for the fire department for one. I might take a look at what kind of apartments there are around. Get to know the place a little. Why, did you have something in mind?""Well I was wondering if you'd like to come join me for lunch. It'll have to be at the hospital cafeteria. I won't have time to go far. Don't worry the food's not bad." She said with a chuckle."I'd love to." I said, and she gave me directions on how to find her once I got there.I got ready for the day, and headed into the city to get things rolling. I found a realty office that handled rentals, and picked up a business card letting them know what I was looking for and when. I found a small florist shop and stopped in to get Summer some flowers before meeting her for lunch.I made my way into the hospital and up one floor following the signs through the labyrinth of hallways. I pushed through a set of doors into a small ward of a dozen rooms set up in a semi-circle around a large nursing station. I peeked around looking for Summer and didn't see her."Thanks honey, you can set them on the counter there." I heard from behind me. I turned to find a nurse coming from one of the rooms rubbing her hands."What room?" She asked, with a slight drawl in her voice."Christa." I said smiling.The nurses eyes went wide, and her mouth formed a surprised O-shape. "You're him, the guy she's been going on about all morning! Pete, right?"I nodded, grinning bigger. "I certainly hope so.""Just a minute and I'll get her, I think she's down the hall here." She trotted off, more excited than I thought she had reason to be. She returned a couple minutes later saying Summer would be right there after she was done with her patient. A minute later I noticed a head peek out of the room down the hall, but the hair was dark, not Summer's blond mane. I nearly bust out laughing, instead I just winked, turned slightly and leaned on the counter.She slid her hand along my back above my belt. I turned and kissed her without even a hello."Hi! That was mean. Sandy is going to have inappropriate thoughts about you for the rest of the day now." She kissed me again."Don't you know that can spread infection and disease, take that somewhere else." The first nurse said."This stick in the mud is Sam, a complete pain in the ass, and good friend. This is Pete, the friend I told you about." Summer said." Hmm, the hot fireman that rescued your clumsy ass from nearly drowning, you mean." Sam held out her hand. "Don't you make any mistake Pete. You hurt this girl and I'll find you, then nobody will find you. You got that?"I chuckled. "Deal."Summer just rolled her eyes at us both."Come on, let's go spread some germs away from prying eyes." Summer winked at Sam and took my hand leading me down the hallway. She turned before we made it to the main hallway and led me down a side hall. She tapped a code into the door lock and pulled me in flipping on the light. The racks of linens, and supplies lined shelves. She turned and wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled me into her kiss. After a few minutes of oral calisthenics I came up for air."Are you what I'm having for lunch?" I asked, grinning."Just the appetizer, I'm actually kind of hungry for food too." She replied reaching for the front of my jeans."Wow, what happened to dating a while, you know, getting to know each other." I chuckled.We eventually walked into the cafeteria and hopped into line with everyone else, then made our way to a table in the back."Funny thing happened last night after I got home I called a friend of mine who has a daughter in Emily's class, and she invited Emily to a sleep over on Saturday." She said."What a stroke of luck. What did you have to promise her for that?" I grinned."She had some sordid request involving you that I won't even entertain. I told her she'd have to settle for a similar return favor in the future. She threw in that she wanted to meet you. The only way I'll allow that is supervised. You're not safe with her."I laughed aloud, causing a few people to look over at us."You know, I've noticed no shortage of guys around here. What gives?" I asked."Nothing, it's just a matter of quality over quantity." She said giving me a wink. "As I remember it, I was far from the only girl in Maine, though calling myself a girl is a bit of a stretch.""No. There were plenty of girls around, and you shouldn't hesitate at all. After a complete and thorough examination, on more than one occasion, I can verify that you have all the requisite parts to be a girl." I returned her wink."Smart ass." She said."Actually, though nice as it is, that wasn't one of the parts in question." I said, just before getting a swift kick in the shin.The leaves had turned and were falling, the breeze lifting them up in swirls of gold, orange and red. It may be autumn, but it felt like spring to me. This is going to happen, I thought, and my excitement began to build anew. I'm sure that when I stopped for a coffee, the girl behind the counter thought I was crazy because of the silly grin on my face.I found myself killing time the best I could. Before I knew it I was scoping out dinner before I headed back to the motel. I stopped into a little café and had something light. I did a little research online, found a nice place with good reviews and called and made reservations for Saturday. I flipped on the TV and surfed around aimlessly for a while. I must have nodded off because I was startled awake by the room phone. I answered a little groggily."Did I wake you? I'm sorry hon." She said."No no, I just dozed off watching a little TV that's all." I paused, not wanting to ask why she called, because the truth was, I was just glad she had."So." She said drawing it out a bit. "Are you stretched out on that big old bed?" She giggled, and it sounded like she was nervous."Yup, I didn't go off and find another girl after lunch. I did expect to have them throwing themselves at me, but it just didn't happen. Odd huh?"She laughed genuinely at that. "You know how independent and head-strong West Virginia girls can be.""Do I ever. Wild and wonderful, I wouldn't have it any other way." I added quickly."Uh huh." She replied, not buying my bullshit. "What are you watching, some cheesy motel porno?""No! Some cheesy mystery movie.""Don't act like you didn't check it out. I bet you at least looked at the titles."I blushed, and even though she couldn't see, I knew that she was aware of my reaction."What are you wearing?" She said, her voice deep and husky.I paused before replying. "Jeans and a t-shirt. Why?""Take them off." She said.Without thought I reached for my belt. "What are you wearing?" I asked."I was wearing an over-sized t-shirt and a cute blue thong with polka dots.""You were?" I gulped."Uh huh." She said the smile in her voice came through loud and clear."So you're...""As the day I was born." She said cutting me off.I suddenly found myself with an obstacle to getting my boxers off quickly."When I got out of my bath I used this lotion I have, and it smells so nice, and my skin is so soft I can't help but stroke it."I dropped the phone and yanked the t-shirt off, nearly tearing it in the process."What are you stroking?" I asked, flipping off the TV."What would you like me to?" Came her cheeky reply."Start at the top, those cheeks, how I'd love to be kissing my way back to your ear to nibble on it and kiss my way down your neck.""Sounds nice. I absolutely love having my neck kissed."The vision of her naked body lying on rumpled sheets came back to me as if it were yesterday. "I'd take my time working my way along your collarbone and kiss those beautiful freckles on your shoulder.""You're going the wrong way.""Patience." I said. "I'd kiss my way down the faint little tan line, tracing it with the tip of my tongue. Follow along with your fingertips.""Sorry I was getting ahead of you.""I had a feeling. I can't wait until I can take those stiff pink nipples into my mouth again and taste you. They're hard, aren't they.""Hmm.""Pinch them, tug on them like you know I will.""Yes!" She hissed into the phone."Let go, and trace the soft skin down your stomach. Go slowly. I'd tickle my way down your tummy laying a trail of soft kisses down to your little strip.""Oh, it's gone.""Oh? Why did you do that?""Shaving accident. It's not as easy as you'd think to shave a straight line." She giggled."Smooth is nice too. Spread your legs." I said."You think I'm that easy do you?""No, not easy, just horny.""You know me so well." She said."Are you wet?" I asked."Are you hard?" She tossed back."Touché. Slip your finger in, get it good and wet." I replied."You don't know how much I wish it was something else that was getting slipped in.""What would you rather have in there right now?""Your hard cock, which I'm hoping is in your hand right now."She was right, my cock was hard as an iron pipe and I was stroking it slowly."Slip another finger in, imagine I was there to slip my hard cock into you ever so slowly.""Yea." She gasped."Slow down, what's your hurry?" I asked.Her breathing was fast and ragged."Please.""Please what, Summer?""Hurry!" She pleaded."You want me to drive my cock into you hard, filling you up with every stroke? Is that what you want?" I was working my cock quickly, my breath coming in short gasps."Yes, yes, yes!" She said as she began panting.I couldn't hold back any longer myself.I heard Summer say, "Hon are you there?"I shook my head and grabbed the phone. "Sorry I dropped the phone.""Oh, were you busy doing something?" She giggled."I'm going to need a shower now.""Need a hand with that?""Yes please! Would you come over and wash my back?" I asked."I'd love to, but I can't tonight." I heard her sigh."Let me grab a towel, I made a bit of a mess over here." I said. Summer just chuckled.I grabbed the phone again, the question forming in my mind. "Does Emily know that you're going to have company tomorrow night?""Uh huh. I told her my knight in shining armor made a road trip to come see me."I chuckled. "So the same story you told Sam? I'm the fireman who rescued you when you took a spill on the rocks?""If all it takes is a little white lie to protect my reputation then I'll take it." She said."What sort of reputation would you have without it?" I asked."Oh, please. If anybody knew the real story, let's just say it would be unpleasant. Besides you did come to my rescue, even if you didn't have the uniform yet.""I can go along with that. So do I get any info about my interview tomorrow? You know, what she likes, interests, hobbies, what to expect."Summer laughed. "Nope. I want first impressions from both of you. Come to the house around 5 and we'll go from here.""Okay sweets, get some sleep. I love you." I said.,"Goodnight hon, and I love you more." She said hanging up quickly, getting the last word.A night out on the town.The next morning I grabbed breakfast at a local coffee shop, and called home. Mom asked how things were going, and I said that they were going better than expected and I'd catch her up when I got back. I didn't tell her any more than that, but it was the complete truth. I still couldn't believe that things had gone so well.I looked into some after dinner entertainment four my date with Summer on Saturday, and realized I didn't have anything appropriate to wear. I decided to go shopping and find something worthy of a night to remember.I was in town and not far from the hospital from what I could tell so I gave Summer a call and asked if she wanted to have lunch again. I walked into the wing where she worked and leaned against the nurse's station looking up and down each hall to see if I could spot her. A woman behind a short partition looked up hearing me moving around."Hi. Can I help you?" She asked."I'm looking for Christa." I said."Oh, you must be Pete." She stood and walked over to the counter holding out her hand. "I'm Joan. She mentioned you'd be by.""I was hoping to sneak her away for a few minutes for lunch." I smiled."It's going to probably be another fifteen before she'll be able to. I have to wait for one of the other nurses to come back before I can release her into your care." She smiled."Okay well I can just grab a coffee in the cafeteria for a few to keep out of the way. Thanks." I said and turned to walk down the hallway and saw her in a room through a crack in the door. She was bent over a patient talking to them with a smile on her face. I looked at my watch and headed to the cafeteria to wait.I watched the coming and going of people through the windows for a while when I felt arms wrap around my neck and hands cover my eyes."Guess who?" She asked."Bob, is that you? Your hands are so soft." I replied.She buried her face in my hair and gave me a kiss on the top of the head before pulling my head back against her chest."Does Bob have these?" She said softly, and gave a subtle rub of her chest against my head."Well he has put on some weight so yea I'm guessing he does."She bent down and kissed my cheek. "Come on you clown, I'm hungry."I stood wrapping my arms around her waist and drew her tight against me giving her a long kiss. "Me too, but I'll have to settle for food."Her eyes flashed at me and her grin widened. "For now." Her cheeks turned pink at the sound of several muffled giggles. "Come on let's eat before you get me in trouble for sexually harassing a visitor.""I won't be the one filing a complaint. In fact I was just wondering in a place this size how many available beds there might be." I said, as I walked with her to the line. We settled in at the table and Summer attacked the giant salad she had in front of her."So no hints, nothing to go on tonight? I'm kind of nervous." I said."That's normal, weren't you nervous when you interviewed for your job at the fire department?""No, not really. It was more like signing up for a class than a job interview. He asked me some questions, I asked him a few, and before I knew it he was shaking my hand and welcoming me aboard.""It's not going to be like that, I assure you. She's pretty much your standard 12 year old girl." Summer just froze, the fork half way to her mouth and looked at me."What?" I asked worried."I just did the math." She looked around to see who was within earshot. "You're closer to her age than mine." She set down her fork and looked out the window for a minute.I reached out and took her hand. "Don't let it bother you. It sure as hell doesn't bother me."She snorted. "You'll still be in your twenties when I'm forty.""Don't worry, I'm a firefighter. I can put the candles out before the house burns down." I chuckled. Summer tried hard to look unamused and failed."I can imagine the news now. 'Aging spinster in torrid affair with young stud, more at 11.' My friends are going to think I'm trying to recapture lost youth. Let alone what my family...""Stop." I said sharply but softly. "You're worried about ten years from now more than you're worried about ten hours from now. Relax, there are only three people that have any input in this, and two of them are right here. I'm going to be interviewed by the other in just a few short hours."Summer looked at me seriously for a moment then burst out laughing."What?" I asked."The look on your face. You'd think you were facing a firing squad at sundown. I can assure you that you have nothing to worry about."We finished and Summer had to rush to get back, she tugged me along back as far as the nurses station. She turned and looked at me for a moment then gave me a quick wink."So you'll meet us at the house around 5? We can just take one car that way."I nodded. "Sounds good. I'll see you then."I began to lean in for a quick kiss when Summer snaked her arm around my neck and practically gave me a tonsillectomy with her tongue.I just chuckled and smiled, and let her get back to work.I spent a little time wandering around downtown window shopping before I went back to the motel. I took a little time to reflect on everything that had happened in just a few short days, and I realized I couldn't be luckier if I won the lottery. My only hurdle left is tonight. How would Emily see me, as someone invading their lives, as someone trying to fill her dad's shoes. I let out a sigh and decided that the best thing I could do is to set all of that aside and get to know her and let the chips fall where they may. Summer didn't seem overly concerned. Why should I?I grabbed a quick shower, dressed and grabbed my jacket before I headed up to Summer's house in the hills.To be continued in part 5, by Member389 for Literotica
What did beauty look like in the land of pyramids and pharaohs? In this episode, we dive into the anti-aging secrets of Ancient Egypt- from fragrant youth-restoring oils to eyeliner that doubled as medicine (and maybe poison). Discover how sacred rituals, science, and status intertwined in the ancient world's most iconic beauty culture. Tune in and uncover the timeless obsession with staying young. Are. You. Ready?***************Sources and Further Reading: Books & Academic Texts:Tyldesley, Joyce. Cleopatra: Last Queen of Egypt. Profile Books, 2008.Roehrig, Catharine H. Hatshepsut: From Queen to Pharaoh. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2005.Ikram, Salima. Death and Burial in Ancient Egypt. The American University in Cairo Press,2003.Barber, Elizabeth Wayland. Women's Work: The First 20,000 Years – Women, Cloth, and Society in Early Times. W. W. Norton & Company, 1994.Pinch, Geraldine. Magic in Ancient Egypt. British Museum Press, 1994.Manniche, Lise. Sacred Luxuries: Fragrance, Aromatherapy, and Cosmetics in Ancient Egypt.Cornell University Press, 1999.Fletcher, Joann. The Search for Nefertiti: The True Story of an Amazing Discovery.HarperCollins, 2004.Watterson, Barbara. Women in Ancient Egypt. British Museum Press, 2007.Lucarelli, Rita.“The Ritual and Symbolism of Anointing in Ancient Egypt.” Journal ofEgyptian Archaeology, vol. 103, 2017.Scientific & Archeological Studies:Walter, Philippe et al. “Lead-Based Compounds in Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics: Toxicity and Medicinal Use.” Journal of Archaeological Science, 2010.Link to articleSeiler, Roger et al. “Heavy Metal Toxicity in New Kingdom Egyptian Mummies.” ForensicScience International, vol. 309, 2019.Zakrzewski, Sonia R. “Bioarchaeological Insights into Ancient Egyptian Medicine and Cosmetic Use.” Antiquity, vol. 91, no. 358, 2017, pp. 958–972.Ancient Texts & Translations:The Ebers Papyrus (ca. 1550 BCE). Translated by H. E. Rycroft, 1930.The Book of the Dead– Referenced for funerary anointing and cosmetic/spiritual rituals.Pliny the Elder. Natural History (Book 13, Book 28, Book 33–36 especially) – Roman-eraencyclopedia detailing Egyptian beauty rituals, the use of natron, lead-basedointments, kohl, and anti-aging recipes involving honey, salt, and vinegar.Public domain translation: Perseus Digital Library – Pliny's Natural HistoryExpert Commentary & Interviews:Dr. Philippe Walter, chemist, Louvre Museum — commentary in Science Advances, 2010.Dr. Joann Fletcher, Egyptologist, University of York — interview in National Geographic,2015.Dr. Rita Lucarelli, UC Berkeley — keynote lecture, Annual Egyptological Congress, 2017.Dr. Zahi Hawass, Egyptologist — featured in The Mummy Chronicles: Secrets of Ancient Egypt, 2018.Articles & Online Publications:BBC History. “Ancient Egyptian Beauty Secrets.”Smithsonian Magazine. “Ancient Egyptian Makeup Might Have Been Medicinal.”****************Leave Us a 5* Rating, it helps the...
Is the best surfer really the one having the most fun—or just the one selling soft tops? In this episode of Pinch My Salt, Sterling Spencer and Ryan go deep into the surf culture battlefield, unpacking the viral phrase that's dividing the lineup. From Florida to the Gold Coast, we talk surf fights, core lords, and the war between fun surfers and those chasing gnarly progression.We dive into surfing philosophy, soft topper gaslighting, surf influencers, WSL conspiracies, hipsters on twin fins, and the sacred art of taming the dragon (aka going left without crying). Plus: Rob Machado wisdom, Jonah Hill's path to corelordhood, and the Laird Hamilton vs. Shane Dorian beef.If you're into real surf talk, surf industry gossip, funny surf podcast convos, and insider takes from ex-pros who lived it—subscribe now. We're not just another surfing podcast—we're the underground wave you didn't know you needed.
Sicherungsgeräte im Vergleich – Welcher Halbautomat passt zu dir?In dieser Folge wird's technisch – aber auch richtig spannend! Ich habe für euch fünf beliebte Halbautomaten intensiv getestet und miteinander verglichen. Dank derUnterstützung von Chalkr, den Kletterexperten aus dem hohen Norden, hatte ich die Möglichkeit, alle Geräte über mehrere Wochen im realen Einsatz am Fels und in der Halle zu prüfen.Getestet wurden:Grigri von PetzlNeox von PetzlBirdie von BealPinch von EdelridRevo von Wild CountryZiel war es, herauszufinden, welches Gerät das beste Handling bietet – nicht, welches das sicherste ist. Denn: Sicher sind sie alle – wenn man sie richtig bedient! Die Frage ist vielmehr: Mit welchem Gerät lässt sich am angenehmsten sichern – gerade auch mit älteren, gebrauchten Seilen und in verschiedenen Klettersituationen?Was erwartet dich in dieser Folge?Ich habe die Geräte mit zwei Seilen getestet:einem neuen, glatten 9,3 mm Seil undeinem gut eingekletterten 9,5 mm Seil, rund 3 Jahre altKategorien, die ich im Detail bespreche:Gewicht & Preis, Bremsprinzipien, Handling beim Seileinziehen, Seilausgeben, Ablassen und bei einem Sturz, Besonderheiten & SchwächenHör rein – du bekommsteinen praxisnahen Vergleich, viele Tipps zur Anwendung und einen ehrlichen Erfahrungsbericht aus dem Kletteralltag. Und wenn du gerade selbst überlegst, dir ein neues Sicherungsgerät zuzulegen, ist diese Folge genau das Richtige für dich. „Klettern – einfach festhalten“ – der Podcast für alle, die am Fels nicht nur festhalten, sondern auch sicher sichern wollen.____________Exklusive Trainingsfolgen, Trainingspläne, Trainingsmodelle, Technikanalysen & Kletterdesigns findest du auf meiner Webseite: https://einfachfesthalten.de/Um meinen Podcast zu unterstützen, kannst du jederzeit etwas per PayPal an marvin.weinhold@gmail.com spenden oder Steady nutzen, um meinen Podcast am Leben zu erhalten.Steady:https://steadyhq.com/de/einfachfesthalten/about?utm_campaign=discover_search&utm_source=steady_discover00:00:00 Intro00:02:00 Testbedingungen00:03:30 Vorstellung der Sicherungsgeräte00:05:30 Testkriterien00:06:55 Gewicht und Preis00:09:27 Bremsprinzipien00:10:45 Revo00:15:30 Pinch00:21:50 Birdie00:27:46 Neox00:32:15 GriGri00:35:00 Fazit
We take a look at the late night mid-week draw against Vancouver that was tough to stay awake for, then we'll revel in the first point (and we got three!) the Loons have ever earned in Seattle. And we salute all the women's professional teams in Minnesota that keep showing us how to deliver wins and championships. (6:56) Loon or Loonlet Trivia (12:30) Quick Hits (28:28) Vancouver Whitecaps Recap (40:47) Seattle Sounders Recap (1:03:50) Loon Droppings ------------------ BlueSky: @loonybinpodcast.bsky.social Dan Elias (@oyvey2you.bsky.social) Matt Leaf (@mnloonlet.bsky.social) Email: theloonybinpod@gmail.com Website: theloonybinpod.com. Insta: instagram.com/theloonybinpod YouTube: youtube.com/@loonybinpodcast
Summer Arrives on the Atlantic Coast of Maine, in time for his first time.A 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories. I was finally glad to be out of school. My buddy Jeff got out last year. He went off and joined the military and left our little town. I figured I'd work the summer here and see what was what after the tourists left. It was still early yet, they hadn't started arriving yet, clogging the roads with their luxury cars, acting as if they owned the place. Truth be told, they did. If it weren't for them, the rest of us wouldn't have a living. Fishing wasn't cutting it anymore, and the old quarries down coast were barely running now. Luckily we had the tourists.I walked down into the village near the docks, and popped into the little corner store."Hey Peter." I heard as I walked in. Paula nodded at me and smiled. She and her husband ran this little place, and did well by the locals and tourists alike. I waved and smiled at her as I headed to the back and grabbed a soda from the cooler."You headed over to see Davy about work?" She asked."Yea, I figure I gotta do something before mom tosses me out of the house." I chuckled."Would you do me a favor? Chip is out on a delivery and we're short-handed. Is there any chance you could make a delivery for me, it's on your way. The lady has an account so you don't need to collect any money. It's just, I heard she twisted her ankle on the beach and I told her that if she needed anything to call us and I'd get it over to her.""Sure, where is it going?" I said.She handed me two canvas sacks from the cooler, and gave me the address. It was just a couple blocks over from where I was headed. Paula refused to let me pay for my soda before leaving. I walked the few blocks turning up onto the driveway that led to a house facing the water. I walked around the house looking for the kitchen door. As I turned the corner I saw a woman lying on a towel on the lawn. She lay there basking in the morning sun completely naked. A small pile of fabric beside her looked like a swimsuit she may have been wearing. I stopped and looked around, the spot was well sheltered on the curve in the road. Her long blonde hair trailed out above her on her towel, her arms down at her sides, her deep pink nipples pointing up to the sun. Her stomach was flat and a little glint of something shiny hinted at a belly button ring. From this distance I couldn't be sure. A small strip of hair dipped down between her thighs. Her legs were long toned and pale, but getting red. She had just started tanning by the color she'd turned already. She was going to look like a freshly boiled lobster in a very short time.I realized she hadn't heard or seen me, so I turned and cleared my throat loudly. I looked over my shoulder, and she hadn't moved. I decided I'd just put the groceries in the house for her. I set the bags on the kitchen table and peeked to make sure nothing needed to be put in the icebox. Thankfully I did or the cold stuff would have spoiled. I put them away and left the rest. I walked towards the back door again and looked out the screen at her. She was beautiful, like she'd just stepped out of a magazine centerfold. She still hadn't moved, and it wouldn't be long before she burned badly. So I took it upon myself to rescue her, that's just the kind of guy I am. I opened the back door and pushed it open as far as possible and let it swing shut. The loud rap of the wood on the frame did the trick. She jumped, then the realization that somebody was near and she was naked came on her and she rolled onto the grass pulling the towel over her covering up. I saw why she hadn't heard me as an earbud fell out onto the grass.She peeked over the top of her big sunglasses, and in an accent I hadn't heard around here, she asked. "Can I help you?" The scolding tone of her voice saying that she didn't appreciate being peeked at while she was sunbathing.I scrunched up my face. "Where are you from?" I asked, curious about her accent."Right here buster, I'm renting this place. Where in hell did you come from?" She replied."Oh! Paula down at the market asked me to deliver your groceries. They were shorthanded and I was headed this way."She just stared at me for a moment, and I returned the stare taking in the scene with a dumb-founded look."Would you be a gentleman and please turn around?" She said a little testily. I did as she asked. Unfortunately for her I'd turned and was looking directly at her reflection in the kitchen window. She stood up cursing quietly, putting her weight on one foot, and wrapped the towel around her and tucked it in above her breasts. She was tall, and though her breasts weren't large they were nicely shaped, and red. The little stripe of hair ended neatly where I thought. The towel was just long enough to cover her modestly. She hobbled over to the little pile of cloth and swept up her bikini and started hobbling towards the house like a wounded animal. She passed me and got to the step and hobbled up the half step, and opened the door using it for stability and hopped up the step into the kitchen.She hobbled back to the screen door and said. "Well come on in."I walked over and stepped into the kitchen. She was sitting down on one of the chairs one leg splayed out in front of her the other tucked under the chair. The smooth skin was kissed with a flush of pink. I knew she was going to regret falling asleep out there later, but I'm glad I happened to wake her up so she didn't get severely burned. She was fumbling with her towel to keep it up, and digging through a big pocket book."Paula said that you have an account." I held up my hand. "I'm not going back to the store anyhow."She peeked up at me from her purse through a tangle of long blonde hair. "Thank you, but I was going to give you something for the trouble. She mentioned that you wouldn't be here until afternoon because it was busy today." A pink nipple peaked over the top of the polka dot beach towel. She caught me staring. "Though it could be surmised that you already got your tip." She said an eyebrow going up, and a small grin turning the corners of her mouth up. She shook her head as she pulled the towel back into place and tossed the purse onto the table. She held her arm out straight with a folded bill in it. I just shook my head once and waved it off."Thanks, but you don't need to do that." I said."Don't make me get up, my ankle hurts like hell, and I'm in no shape to use it to kick your ass for being a peeping tom." She replied grinning. She waved the money again. I shrugged and took it slipped into my jeans pocket. I was hoping she hadn't noticed they were tighter in front than a moment before."Thanks." I nodded."No, thank you Chip, I would have come into town to get them later but she insisted on having you deliver them."I smiled. "I'm not Chip. He was doing another delivery. I'm Pete.""Nice to meet you." She said holding out a hand. "I'm Summer."I shook her hand. She had a firm grip and didn't let up until I did. I just stood there for a moment looking at her. She had mesmerizing blue eyes and a crooked little smile. I realized I was staring when her brow went up. I felt myself blush."Are you thirsty? I could use something cold." Summer asked. I nodded."If you don't mind, there's a pitcher of iced tea in the fridge. I'm going to go put something on besides a towel.""Not on my account I hope?" Why not, I figured, she seemed to have a sense of humor about getting caught. I smiled over my shoulder at her as I reached for the cupboard door. She laughed aloud at that.She stood again, wobbling, and took her bikini in hand and walked towards the living room and gasped grabbing for the door jamb. In the process the towel let go and she stood there grasping the towel in one hand the door in the other. Her long smooth back tapered to a narrow waist and flared back out to beautifully curved hips. On her back was a pretty sunflower tattoo with vines around it. There looked to be a figure in the center of it."Oh to hell with it. I don't think I've got anything left to hide at this point." She muttered and hobbled out of the room. I opened up the freezer and got a tray of ice out, and filled the glasses. I heard her fumbling around a bit and she started to hobble back out. She'd pulled a light blue flowered sundress on, and taken a minute to brush out her hair. She hobbled over to an easy chair in the living room and sat down. "Would you be a doll and bring that in here?"I walked into the living room and she was gingerly setting her foot on the coffee table. I handed her a glass and set the other down. I took the towel she'd tossed on the sofa and folded it up into a little bundle and went to take her leg. I stopped myself and looked up at her, from under fallen bangs."May I?" I asked. She held her glass with both hands, licking tea from her upper lip, and nodded. I lifted her calf, the skin smooth and warm in my hand, and slipped the folded towel under her ankle to pad it from the table. I set it down carefully and she let out a sigh. I sat down on the sofa and took up my glass. I was looking into the glass at the ice cubes floating around. I set it back down and went to the kitchen, found a plastic bag and filled it with the rest of the ice. I looked down at her, she sat there wide eyed as I reached to carefully set it on her ankle."Thank you," She said softly, with a smile "again.""You slammed the door on purpose didn't you?" She asked."Well you were beginning to look like a lobster out there, fresh from the pot. I wasn't sure if you were asleep and I didn't want you to burn, or worse." I said.She smiled. "Thank you." She said, and after a moment she added, "West Virginia.""Rockport here, welcome to Maine." I toasted her with my tea, and we clinked glasses. Neither of us said anything we just sat there enjoying our tea."You said this was on your way? Where were you going?" Summer asked."I was headed down to Davy's marina down the road." I said. Then pointed. "If you go down Sea Road and bear right. He runs a couple of boats for fishing, sightseeing and whale watching. I was going to see if he needed any help this summer."She nodded, and looked down at her ankle. Water running down her leg from the condensation on the bag."If he doesn't give you a job on a boat, you might want to consider going to medical school." She chuckled. "You're a quick thinker and have a gentle touch. I don't mean to keep you from where you were headed but since this is really feeling like hell." She pointed at her foot. "I was wondering if you could do me another favor before you leave.""Sure, what else do you need, lunch?" I asked.She laughed. "Well that would be nice, but I was just going to ask you to go into the bathroom and grab the ace bandage that's rolled up on the counter and the bottle of pain killers for me. I want to get this wrapped again, now that I'm not worried I'll look like a cat with one white paw."I set my glass down, and went to the bath and found the items. I found a bottle of sunburn lotion on the counter and brought that too."I see you came prepared to burn." I looked at the bottle."Well when you're as white as I am, it happens often, especially this early in the season." Summer said as she reached up for the items. She reached down and took the ice off, and dried her foot off on the towel. She crossed her legs, her dress riding up high as she reached to start unrolling the bandage.I laughed. "That looks more awkward than a lobster trying to climb a tree." I reached out for the bandage and took it from her. "Let me show you how it's done." I sat on the edge of the coffee table and laid her leg across mine. I wrapped her ankle neatly slipping the clips on at the end with a flourish. I looked at her toes peeking up, the nails a sparkly pink color. A small throat clear broke me out of my reverie, only to notice that I'd been absently stroking her shin and calf. I snatched my hand away, and felt my face turn bright red again. I looked down at the rug and apologized."For what? Doing a better job than I would wrapping my ankle? Or maybe the lame lobster jokes." She flipped a hand at me and took the bottle and popped it open. She poured out her dose and knocked them back with a swallow of her tea."I should take these with food." She took her foot off my lap and set it gingerly on the floor, grabbing the arms of the chair preparing to get up."Whoa! Where are you going?" I asked."I was going to go see what was in those bags to eat." She said."Sit down. I'll get you something." I answered quickly.She rolled her eyes at me. "You've done far more than you should have for a tired, broken down old lady." She rolled forward again, and I put my hand on her shoulder to keep her balance back."I'll get it." I said firmly. "What would you like?""You are too sweet." She said, relaxing back into the chair. "What did you bring?"I went into the kitchen to rummage through the bags. Given a little creativity and a few minutes time I whipped up a sandwich and chips. I peeked around the door jamb to ask if she wanted mustard or mayo on her turkey. The sight that greeted me stopped me in my tracks. Summer had sat forward on the chair, and slipped the straps off the sundress pushing it down to her waist. She sat there slowly rubbing in the sunburn cream into her skin. She finished her arms and began working on her chest rubbing slowly giving each nipple a pinch and tug. My jeans felt about ready to explode at the sight of her. I popped my head back around the door and called out asking my question. She replied, mustard. I responded that it was ready then, to give her time to cover up.I walked into the room with the plate in front of me and the bag of chips dangling beneath to try and hide my arousal. I sat quickly as I handed her the plate, hoping I'd covered myself well enough."Ooh thanks!" She said setting the plate down and reaching for half the sandwich. She just stopped and looked at me. "You didn't make one for yourself?" I shook my head. "Here," she handed me the other half, "I hate eating alone."I shrugged and took the other half, and we ate quietly. I asked her how she twisted her ankle. Exploring wet rocks on the outbound tide, she'd slipped and thought she'd broken it. She had gotten an X-ray and it was only a bad sprain."Ironic. I ended up having to postpone starting work at the very hospital that I was going to be starting at next week." She said."Oh? You a doctor?" I asked."RN, and I was serious earlier, you have a gentle touch, and you wrap a mean ankle." She followed with a smile."Sports." I said by way of explanation. She nodded.She opened her mouth laying a chip on her tongue and took it in whole giving it a crunch. I didn't know why, but she fascinated me on an entirely new level. I'd seen naked girls before, well in magazines and movies, anyway. Here sat a woman who, unlike those from around here, wasn't scandalized by having her body admired. This isn't the end of the world, but not far from it."How old are you Pete." She asked. I told her the truth, that I was nineteen, and I'd just graduated last month. She offered me the chips, and I took a few."What are your plans from here?" She asked."I honestly don't know. I have no idea what I want to be when I grow up." I said chuckling.She set the chips aside and wiped her hands on the towel. She took up the bottle of cream and popped the cap up. She nonchalantly pulled up the hem on her dress to a nearly indecent level and leaned forward and began rubbing the cream into her leg. She continued to ask me about the area, what there was to do after school got out. She worked her hand further up her thigh, the warm pink flesh supple under her fingers. She pulled back again, the hem of the dress slid up, and a peek of pink lace appeared. She asked if I had a girlfriend. Which made me pause. She started on the other leg working from the ankle up to the knee. She stopped and looked at me when I didn't reply."No?" She asked, no doubt noticing that I'd been watching every movement she made.I just shook my head looking down at the floor. "No. I've gone out a few times, but never really had a girlfriend."She looked down her leg again, massaging her up her thigh slowly. Watching her was not helping the situation in my jeans one bit."That's too bad. Seems an awful waste of resources if you ask me." She smirked."Huh?" I said looking up at her with a quizzical look.She bit her lower lip and looked me in the eye for a moment, then down at my lap, and nodded.I must have turned deep red, she looked up at me and smiled, then busted out laughing."Oh my God! You're as innocent as the day you were born, aren't you?" She asked grinning ear to ear.I stammered."Oh hell." She waved her hand. "Don't be embarrassed hon. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to get you a hard time." She reached over and gave my wrist a quick squeeze. The feel of her warm hand sent a shock up my arm. She leaned back in the chair, not bothering to adjust her dress. The little pink lace peeking out kept drawing my eye. I could feel her eyes studying me as I tried not to look.She started softly. "Am I the first woman you've ever seen naked?" She followed with, "in person?"I cleared my throat. "Well, that close, yea." I said softly. "Last summer, my friend and I found a cove where some girls go to tan in the summer, but we stay well back. They mostly only took their tops off. Jeff had binoculars." I felt my ears turn red.Summer smiled again biting her lip. "So, the peeping tom thing isn't new." She giggled. She was enjoying teasing me. A moment of silence passed while I looked anywhere but at her. "Stand up Pete, and come here." I looked at her and did as she asked. She slowly reached up, and tugged the straps of her dress to the side, and looped her arms up through, pushing it down her torso. Her breasts popped free, the cherry red nipples stiff in the cool breeze coming through the house. She looked up at me from under a lock of hair, still biting her lip. Time seemed to stop, and I wasn't sure what to do next, but instinct pushed me to reach out and cup her breast. It was warm and soft in my hand, and I stroked it gently. I reached up with my thumb and rubbed the nipple. A sigh as she inhaled deeply, her eyes were closed while I explored. I rolled it between my thumb and finger it was as hard as a pencil eraser."That feels nice." She said softly. I stroked the curve up to her chest, and back down between them following it around.Time started again when I jumped back startled. I hadn't expected it when her hand reached up and pressed against the front of my jeans."Oh!" She giggled. "I didn't mean to scare you. I just thought you might enjoy a little rub too." She nodded at my jeans. "Let me see it."I went wide eyed like a deer in caught in headlights."Come on. It's only fair, you saw mine." She urged. Her hand slid down raising the hem of her dress showing off the pink lace panties with black lace trim. She circled the front with her finger, pressing as she did. She reached over and took the last swallow of her tea and caught an ice cube from the glass. Swirling it around her mouth. She opened her mouth showing me that she was rolling the cube around with her tongue.Without conscious thought my hands reached for my zipper to release the pressure built up behind it. I pulled it down as she watched intently. I unbuttoned the fly of my boxers and the pressure was gone as my hard cock pushed its way out seeking relief.Summer made an approving sound deep in her throat at the sight of it. "Ooh that's nice." The ice cube clicked on her teeth and she crushed it quickly, chewing the bits of ice. She looked up at me and made a come hither motion with her free hand, the other still working on the pink lace. I stepped forward as if she were drawing me towards her with an invisible tether. She reached up slowly this time and took me gently into her hand. Stroking the shaft and rubbing the tip with her thumb. I gasped, my breath coming in short panting breaths. "That's it, easy now." She said in a soothing voice, as if calming a frantic animal. "You aren't going to last very long."My body was humming like a taut wire as she gently stroked me. In a move that surprised me, she leaned forward and took me into her mouth. The cold sensation from her chewing the ice nearly pushed me over the top. I gasped. She licked my cock like a kid with an ice cream cone, her icy tongue dragging away at me. I knew I was about to cum, and she did too. She stepped up the pace of her licking, and took me into her mouth once more sliding down further until I lost it. I felt my hips jerk forward and she put her hand on my thigh to keep me from choking her. I grabbed for the first thing at hand, and it happened to be the back of her head, and I erupted. My body stiffened as I gasped for air. I felt as if she was drawing me inside out. I exploded in her mouth, her tongue cleaning up the mess I'd made."Is that the first time a girl has done that to you?" She asked softly, lapping my still hard cock. I nodded between gasping breaths."You poor thing. Have you ever thought of what it would be like to lick a girl down there?" She asked innocently. I looked down to find her fingers had slipped into the panties and were making deep circular motions. I had to think, because if I hadn't before now, I certainly was beginning to. She kept darting her tongue out, giving me soft licks and quick flicks with her tongue and thought I could do that.She stood up awkwardly not putting her weight on her bad ankle, and reached up beneath her sundress tugging at the fabric. Soon her panties were around her knees. She turned and tossed the towel onto the chair and spread it out."Oh screw it." She said pushed down the fabric of her sundress as it slid over her hips. She sat down pushing her dress and panties off and tossed them on the couch. She leaned back on the chair as I watched her chest rise and fall with her slow deep breathing. My eyes followed down her taut stomach, a small silver heart dangled from her belly button on a chain. My eyes scanned further down and found the top of her little narrow strip, the soft tuft of dark blonde hair leading to deep pink lips. I stood there with my mouth hanging open as she set her leg back up on the coffee table, opening up a little more for me. I licked my dry lips, which must have been a sign."That's what I like to see. A willing student." She smiled and winked at me. "Grab a pillow and kneel down. I'll give you a quick lesson on the special anatomy of a girl." She chuckled. I did as she asked and knelt before her. She proceeded to point out the highlights softly, in an encouraging voice. Explaining how best to please a woman down there.I leaned forward, my nose filling with the scent of her. I reached forward licking upward between her spread fingers. She let out a deep sigh and I began licking and nibbling. I tilted my head up and began swirling her clit with my tongue like she'd done to my cock. She threw her head back and her jaw dropped as a low moan escaped her lips.She panted quickly. "Slip your finger inside me, and make a come here motion." She mimed it with one finger.I did as she asked, slipping my middle finger into her as far as I could. It was wet, and warm and I could feel her tighten down on me. I started off slowly stroking in and out of her, then remembered how she'd shown me and I rubbed up and forward and back again. I had forgotten what I was doing and noticed she'd reached down to start stroking her clit with incredible speed. I leaned down putting my tongue to it again, and began flicking it with my tongue as fast as I could. Summer arched up off the chair and began yelling, 'Oh my God.' She stayed that way for nearly a minute before collapsing back into the chair gasping for air. My hand was soaked with her juices. I wasn't sure, but I figured I'd done well. I used the corner of the towel to wipe my hand. I looked at her swollen, wet and deep pink lips and just leaned forward and began lapping up the mess she'd made, slowly with the tip of my tongue. She inhaled sharply and her legs came together quickly."Easy there." She said pushing my head away gently. "It's very sensitive after." She released the grip she had of my hair and ran her fingers through it. She was just looking at me smiling while I licked my lips."So how did I do teach?" I asked.She chuckled. "I'd say you did pretty damn well for a first-timer. I'll give you an A plus for effort and an A for technique." She smiled. I was hard as a rock, and wondered if I was going to be allowed to follow through with the next thing that came to my mind."Are you a typical young guy with a raincoat in your wallet?" She asked, reading my mind. I looked at her with my quizzical look again. She just rolled her eyes and shook her head. I sighed looking down, and shook my head slowly. I got a slightly scolding look in reply. I wasn't sure if it was because I didn't have one, or that she was unhappy about it as well."Get up." She said giving a slight push to my forehead. I leaned back and stood in a single motion. I nearly fell over backwards when I realized I still had both legs caught with my jeans around my knees. Summer leaned forward to grab my arm and help me balance. She nodded down at them and without saying a word let me know that I should get them off. She gripped my hand solidly and pulled herself carefully out of the chair and hobbled a step aside. She reached down taking the rumpled beach towel off the chair and flipped it in half and lay it on the center cushion of the sofa. She turned me back to and gave me a push so I fell back onto it."Don't move." She said leveling a serious gaze at me. She hobbled back off to the bedroom. A little rustling later she came back with something closed in her fist. She pulled the coffee table up close and sat gently on the edge of it facing me."First things first. It's never her responsibility to make sure you're prepared." She said holding up a little foil packet. "If you aren't prepared, then keep it in your pants, or her hand if you're lucky enough." She smiled. "The only time it'll be up to her to help is now. If she'd like to." She reached forward and began slowly stroking me, her fingers firm and soft at the same time. "You see, you can't wrap the rascal unless he's primed and ready." She smiled. "I'll show you how best to use this so you don't end up a daddy too soon, or worse."I smiled and rolled my eyes."Hey, we can stop right now if you like." She said levelly at me. The shock on my face must have been plain as day. "That's what I thought." She smiled and looked down at my hard cock. "I'd hate to stop now myself." She peeled the wrapper down the side pulling out the little ring. She held it close for me to see. "See how it's rolled up? Place it with the rolled side up over the tip like this." She reached holding my cock in one hand and setting the condom on the tip. "Unroll gently down the shaft like this." She said sliding her fingers down my shaft unrolling it fully. "All the way down. That's important since she's not going to want to fish the thing out of her if it comes off in the middle of your good time. It also makes it pretty useless if that happens." She gave the base of my cock a little squeeze. She pulled my knees together, and stood up kneeling on the sofa straddling me."This is a good position for us to start with. It gives a woman the ability to control the depth and speed with which you entering her. Missionary isn't bad, but if you get a little over zealous it can end up hurting her. If you want to her to ever want you back in her again then it's best to make sure she has a good time too." She said reaching down between us she ran her finger up and down her swollen lips."Remember to open her gently beforehand, the more care you take with her, the more likely she'll be calling you for more." She sat up, and lined herself up over my cock and took my shoulders as I took her by the hips. She looked down at me for a moment, one eyebrow going up."Oh." I said reaching between us and stroking her still wet lips placing fingers on either side and gently opening her up. As I did she lowered herself on me. The sigh that escaped my lips was loud. I nearly passed out from the feeling of the warmth and tightness, as she slowly rode the entire way down my length. A soft purr came from her throat.She sat there for a moment and proceeded to just tighten herself around me and relax. I started pushing urgently with my hips."Easy does it." She whispered into my ear then licked her way down nibbling the lobe and kissing my neck. "A woman's nipples are very sensitive, and shouldn't be neglected." She took my hand and ran it up to her small breast. Lifting it away slightly and rubbing her nipple with my fingers. She bit her lower lip as I took the hint and stroked her breasts and rolled the nipples between my fingers. I leaned forward taking it in my mouth rolling it around, lashing it with my tongue. Summer sighed deeply and rolled her hips forward and started rising up and lowering herself on me. My other hand found its way behind her gripping her ass and pulling her down onto me with each stroke. She started a long deep stroking rhythm that I thought was going to drive me over the top again. She must have noticed my urgency as my hips rose to meet her down stroke hard. She stopped on an upstroke and let me slip out of her and I thought I was going to die when my eyes popped open pleading with her. She smiled at me."What's your hurry? Aren't you enjoying yourself?" She said sweetly.I nodded furiously. "Yes I am." I gasped."Good. The journey can be as much fun as the destination, so take your time." She got off the couch. I looked at her pleading with her not to stop now. "Let's see how well you improvise." She said.She turned around and knelt down on the pillow that was on the floor, and leaned forward setting her elbows on the chair she was sitting in before. Her beautiful ass, up in the air her lips open and pouting in invitation. I scrambled off the couch and knelt behind her, nearly ready to drive my cock into her when I paused and opened her up slipping back into herShe whipped her hair over one shoulder and looked at me over the other. "You're in the drivers' seat now. It's going to be up to you to be aware of the clues a girl is giving you. If she's pulling away from you, you're fucking her to hard. If she's pushing against you, well she wants you to put the pedal to the metal, so to speak." I pushed forward feeling myself fall into her and never wanting to leave. I began pushing and she met me stroke for stroke as I sped up. I couldn't take it any longer. Summer let out several long high pitched moans followed by a gasping, 'Harder!' and I went into overdrive. Plunging her depths with abandon I finally drove her forward hard, pushing her hips against the chair as I exploded. I stiffened as I felt every ounce of strength drain from my body. Summer shuddered hard in my hands bringing me out of my daze."Are you okay?" I gasped between breaths.She rose up slightly, hair a complete mess covering her face. She started to laugh, gasping for air. "I was just thinking, this vacation started off lousy, but it's improving nicely."I chuckled. "Welcome to Maine, Vacationland." She busted out laughing at that. I backed away falling free of her, the cool breeze came in from the screen, cooling the sweat on my skin."Let's get cleaned up." She stood shakily, with the help of the arms of the chair. I stood as well. She turned and slipped an arm around my shoulders. "Help me to the bathroom, would you please?" I looked at her, and turned slightly and reached down picking her up off the floor. She let out a whoop of surprise. "I only needed a shoulder to lean on honestly." She said smiling."So lean on it." I said smiling. I negotiated the narrow path to the bathroom and brought her in careful not to bang her against the doorjamb. I set her on a little stool next to a big claw foot bathtub."Let me get that." Summer reached over and popped up a tissue and reached up sliding the condom off of me and wrapping it and tossing it in the trash. She looked up at me, her hair still a mess. I reached down pushing it off her forehead. She smiled. "Grab a washcloth for me, would you please?" She nodded at a small shelf, and I took one down and handed it to her. She reached over to the bath running water onto it and a little squirt of her bath gel. She frothed it up and began washing herself off. She rinsed and repeated. She dried herself with another towel hanging from the bar. She looked up at me from under her bangs, scanning down. "Really?" She said in a resigned voice as she saw that I was once again ready.I shrugged. "The benefit of youth?"She laughed. "I guess!"She rinsed the cloth again and began gently washing me with it. The cool water and warm hands were soothing but not doing a thing for the fact that it was loaded and ready to go yet again."Would you hand me that light blue bottle there." She asked. She poured a small amount into her palm and set the bottle aside. She rubbed the oil between her hands and rubbed it between her legs oiling herself up. The sight of this was not doing me any good either. A crooked smirk spread across her face as she watched me watching her in fascination.She reached up with her oily hand and began stroking my shaft. The hardness slipping through her firm grip with little friction. The other hand began fondling my balls. They were already tight, and ready to go again. She slid her hand further under and began massaging me underneath in a tight circle. The feeling blew my mind as I couldn't contain myself and came hard, with a loud splatter, on Summer's chest."Not sure if it's good for burns, but I've heard it does wonders for the skin." She said, leaning forward cleaning the last few drops off with her tongue. She then used her cloth to wipe up the cum I'd splashed on her chest.. I just watched her, her movements so graceful and efficient.She looked up at me with a smirk. "Pete, how would you like to give me a hand for a couple weeks while this ankle heals?"My eyebrows went up. "How?" I asked."The usual mow the lawn, grocery runs, cleaning, maybe even an occasional turkey sandwich. It'll allow me to keep off this as much as possible and not feel like I'm an invalid. I'll warn you now though it's not only doctors that make lousy patients."It was my turn to smirk. "What's it pay?" I asked wiggling my eyebrows.Her mouth dropped open. "You little shit! I'm not hiring you to be a gigolo!" She laughed. "But there's always the possibility of a bonus. I could continue your lessons. Practice makes perfect they say." She smiled at that."I don't know." I said, my spent cock hanging inches from her lips. Oh I knew alright, but I played along. "I'll have to see what Davy has to offer this year. Those rich folks that come in to fill up can be pretty good tippers too."She raised an eyebrow at me again. "Okay if you'd rather work for him I'll understand." She said in mock resignation. She stood on her good foot, testing the floor with her bad. I instinctively wrapped my arm around her waist."You drive a hard bargain." I said pulling her to my side so she could put her arm over my shoulder.She looked me up and down me and smiled. "This vacation isn't turning out bad at all."To be continued in part 2, by Member389 for LiteroticaSummer In Maine: Part 2Lesson Two, and Two and a half.A 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories.This summer job wasn't turning out the way I'd thought. So far I'd mowed the lawn, done the dishes, (thankfully there's a dishwasher) hauled trash, done laundry, dusted and vacuumed. When Summer asked if I wanted to help her out for a few weeks I sort of expected there would be fringe benefits to go with, or instead of, getting paid. Instead it was actual work. She wasn't shy, about her body or mine, she often would wrap her arm around my waist to help with her balance. She occasionally stroked my ass through my jeans. I didn't hesitate to return the favor but I always ended up with only a smile in return. I figured after that first day when I took the job I might get some more personal time with her. The other night I helped her to run a bath, and she shooed me out of the bathroom. One night we watched a late movie I slept over, and ended up on the couch. Something didn't seem right about all of this. Nearly a week had gone by, and it was as if that first day hadn't even happened, and I was too shy to say anything. I hitched the grocery bag I was carrying a little higher, tonight, I'd say something tonight.I walked up to the kitchen stoop and pulled open the screen door and I heard a gasping cry. I dropped the bags on the table and darted into the living room, she wasn't there. Another cry, and I looked to the right and saw the bedroom door was open. I walked quietly towards the door, and Summer was laying back on the bed naked except for her bandaged ankle. She was sliding a pink vibrator up and down between her thighs. She tilted it slightly and slid it into her, her other hand pulling on her nipple. I was instantly hard watching her pleasure herself. She let go of the nipple and slid her hand down and began flicking her clit, rubbing it fast. She arched her back crying out "Yes!" She pulled the vibrator out slipping her fingers in as she came. She continued rubbing her clit slowly and stroked her fingers in and out for a few before falling flat to the sheets like a deflated balloon. Her breathing was fast and shallow."How long have you been watching?" She asked, not looking up. She looked absolutely radiant, her skin flushed pink through her tan. Her hair was a tangled mess of sun streaked gold, she looked fantastic."Just a couple minutes." I said quietly looking down at the floor. I heard the old brass headboard creak and I peeked up. She had raised her head and was looking at me."What's the matter?" She asked gently. I shrugged and walked out to the kitchen, and started putting away the groceries."I picked up some local shrimp for lunch. I'll put them on ice in the fridge." I said loudly from the kitchen. I turned and Summer was leaning against the doorway to the kitchen watching me with her arms crossed in front of her, buck naked. She gave me a shrewd glance."Please tell me what's bothering you."I looked at her for a moment, then turned away and put a couple other items in the fridge."Nothing." I said, unconvincingly."It's just..." I started. I looked over at her and said."Never mind." I walked out to the yard looking around to see if I should mow the lawn again already or not. I heard the screen door bang shut behind me. I felt her hand on my shoulder as she stepped up beside me."I love it here. The salty sea air, the big sky, everything seems so much simpler." She said softly. I instinctively wrapped my arm around her waist, her skin was warm and damp."Why?" I asked softly."Why what, Pete?" She asked with surprising sincerity. "Why haven't we had sex since Monday? Is that what you want to know? Are you asking me if you were a one afternoon-stand? What Pete? Ask me." She urged.Her words inflamed me and my frustration flared. "Yes!" I turned to face her, her arm sliding down from my shoulder. "Was I just a one shot deal? Screw me, then have me cook and clean for you?" I immediately sensed I'd gone too far and full well expected a slap. I'd deserve it if she did. I opened my eyes wide.She stood there looking at me, her eyes smoldering. She coolly pointed out. "Which one of us is the one standing here naked?" I stood there a moment longer, every muscle in my body taut like a drawn bow. I snapped and took hold of her and kissing her hard as our lips parted, tongues lashing out at each other like sparring fencers. Her arms wrapped around my waist pulling us together."Damn, I thought I you'd never come around." She said between kisses. I leaned back and gave her a queer look."What?" I asked, completely confused. She grinned ear to ear."Lesson number 2, confidence is sexy. Hell it took me walking around naked to get your damned attention. What the hell is wrong with you?" She bopped me on the forehead. I shrugged, feeling completely confused. I had no idea what she was talking about."This exercise, which you nearly failed miserably I might add, was to see if you would take the lead. I personally tend to be a bit passive. Therefore, as the guy, you need to learn to take the lead, just like dancing." She held my hand up and snugged her hand around my back and gave a little sway."The other night when you fell asleep on the couch I laid awake waiting for you for nearly an hour. I finally took matters into my own hands, maybe I should have made more noise.""I knew girls were crazy. I honestly was hoping to get more insight from you, not more confused." I said smiling. "You were waiting for me?""You haven't seen crazy yet, give me a week." She winked.I groaned, then kissed her again, holding her against me, my hands stroking down her back to her ass massaging it as I pulled her to me. Holding her was like holding a flame, seductive, hypnotizing and hot, and I didn't care if I got burned."Tell me you've had the good sense to pick up some protection." Summer mumbled between kisses. Without breaking our kiss I reached back for my wallet and held it up."Please tell me you bought more than one." She growled. I felt her hands come between us resting on the waist of my jeans unbuttoning them and grabbing for the zipper. She pushed my jeans and boxers down far enough for me to escape captivity. She let out an appreciative hum as she ran her hand up and down my hardened length. She broke our kiss long enough to grab the hem of my polo shirt and drag it up pulling it over my head. She leaned down and took one of my nipples into her mouth. I gasped out loud at how the sensation shot through me. It felt as if my cock was getting even harder and I didn't think that was possible."Holy shit! Does it feel this way when I do this to you?" I gasped.She hummed an agreement as she switched to the other side, then stepped back and looked at me smiling.I stood dumb-founded for a moment. I quickly realized she was waiting for me to do something. She placed her hands on her hips and gave them a slight tilt. "I'm all yours, all you need do is tell me how you'd like me, or better yet, show me." She winked. I kicked off my shoes and pushed my pants the rest of the way off and looked at her for a moment. The sun kissed her body so exquisitely, her pink nipples hard and pointing straight at me. Her hair was blowing in the breeze surrounding angelic face like a golden halo. I stepped forward, wrapped her up in my arms again and kissed her deeply. I ran my hand up between us taking her breast in my hand cupping it twirling the nipple in my fingers. I work my mouth down her jaw, kissing her neck and I feel her shudder and gasp. I moved down the center of her chest trailing kisses to the other nipple and teased it with my tongue before taking into my mouth suckling it gently. A moan escaped her lips. Her hand was pulling me towards her, fingers running through my hair. I wanted her so badly but I didn't want this to end. I pulled away looking up at her face, her mouth hung open her eyes half closed."Your ankle has to be killing you right now." I said, noting she'd been standing for a while now. I walked over and brought one of the Adirondack chairs over and set it behind her and she smiled. I laid my clothes on it to keep her from burning her ass on the sun heated wood. She just looked at me without sitting. "Sit down." I told her, and she tilted her head in assent and sat. I knelt down in front of her and kissed her nipple again and began trailing kisses down her stomach. She took the cue and leaned back on the chair. I flicked her little belly button ring aside and licked her belly button. She let out a whoop and jumped, chuckling."Ticklish?" I chuckled. She grasped a handful of my hair and gave me a little push further down, but I was going at my own pace and I made my way down nuzzling her little blond stripe. I kissed my way around her pouting lips, my tongue darting out giving little licks. She tasted sweet, the scent of her was driving me mad, I couldn't take it any longer and slipped my tongue into her as I massaged her clit.She arched her back and moaned. "Yes!" I lapped up to her clit taking it in my lips and giving it due attention. Her cries got louder and I stepped up the assault on her. Her leg came up over my shoulder and she pulled me hard into her with her heel. I let up a bit, I didn't want this to end too soon, it seemed that I wasn't the only one enjoying it. I slipped my middle finger into her, and felt her grip it tightly. Her hips started rocking forward. I was pretty sure I could finish her off quickly if I had a mind to, but I didn't. I continued bathing her clit, varying the pressure on it. She let out a few short gasps. "Please?!" She begged. I knew then I had to finish her and slipped another finger in to join the first and intensified my tongue lashing. Her hips lifted off the chair as she climaxed. She held on to me, still moaning, finally collapsing back into the chair panting."You sir, are a natural." She gasped. I returned her smile and licked my fingers."Am I mistaken, or is there a very hard cock in my immediate future?" I grinned even wider and nodded. "How would you like me?""Over hard." I said smiling. Her eyes lit up like a fire had been kindled."Well then, dig that little party hat out and show me how easy it is to put on."I chuckled and dove for my wallet lying on the grass a few feet away. I dug out the foil wrapper and crawled back. I tore open the packet holding the ring carefully and reaching down, putting in place and unrolled it carefully."Very good." She said her eyes flashing. She stood up and knelt down on the grass facing the chair. "Over like this? I'm sure you'll supply the 'hard' part." She added with a wink."Yes." I said, my breath shallow. I had to have her and scooted up behind her and lined up pushing the head in. I took her hips and pushed forward in a single motion burying myself in her.We both gasped loudly. In moments she started moving her hips back and forth and I pulled out and began taking slow strokes at first, but I knew I wasn't going to last. She leaned back pushing hard against me and I responded in kind driving forward, the sound of our bodies coming together pushed me into a frenzy. Her gasps were coming in short cries of, "Yes!" She began shaking in my hands, her moans coming from deep in her throat as she arched back into me and climaxed again pushing me over the edge. I drove her forward nearly knocking her and the chair over as I stiffened arching my back. I froze in place for what seemed an eternity, and not long enough both at the same time as I came deep in her.She leaned back against my chest, the heat of her skin against me was incredible, she reached behind us grasping my ass pulling our hips tight together. "I love how you feel inside me." She whispered. I leaned down and began kissing her shoulder, working my way up to her neck and nibbled on her ear."I love how you feel too." I said, my voice a little weak.She breathed a deep contented sigh. "What now?" A small smirk spread across her lips."I don't know about you but I worked up an appetite." I said. "Those shrimp sound good about now.""All this and you cook too. You're not going to be single long." She chuckled and reached up behind her and stroked my cheek. "I think we may need to move for that though." She said lightly, reminding me that I still had her pinned against the chair. I leaned back, pulling free of her. I stood stepping back, I gathered up my clothing. Summer put her good foot down and stood, steadying herself on the arms of the chair. "Let's go clean up and have lunch." She smiled slipping an arm around my waist and we went into the house.I started a pan for the shrimp, a little olive oil, some garlic and some red pepper flakes tossed on top of fresh spinach. My killer homemade vinaigrette to top and she would be mine. Well she already seemed to be. I stopped and stared out the little window above the sink out over the water. That thought caught me by surprise. What exactly was going on here? An hour ago I was pissed off for being shunned, now I was making her lunch with a silly, satisfied grin on my face.Summer hobbled into the kitchen wearing a pale blue tank top and panties with little pink hearts on them."Don't you own pants?" I asked smiling."Sure, would you rather I be fully dressed, or comfortable?" She asked."Oh I don't mind your outfit, as long as you don't mind your lunch burnt to a crisp." I laughed."What are you making?" She replied chuckling."I'm going to woo you with my culinary skills. My own special shrimp and spinach salad with homemade vinaigrette." I said."Wow, sounds awesome. You're a man of many talents. I think you're a little late in the wooing department though." She said smiling.My chest tightened at that. Nobody ever thought of me as a man before. Everybody has always treated me as a kid until now. The shock of it must have been evident in my expression."What?" She asked, her eyes widening. I didn't answer her, I just leaned forward and kissed her softly, she responded in turn."Nothing." I said, my grin returning."Need a hand?" I handed her two lemons with directions to squeeze the hell out of them then juice them for me into a bowl. I diced up the shallot, and garlic tossing them into the big bowl, salt and pepper followed. In went a huge dollop of spicy mustard, I looked at how much juice Summer had squeezed out of the lemons and eyeballed it pouring it into the bowl, straining out the seeds. I dug a whisk out of the drawer and started whisking in olive oil."Most vinaigrette recipes ask for vinegar, obviously. I like mine with lemon juice, especially with seafood." I said. I stopped whisking dribbling a little onto my finger to try it. "That's the ticket." I said offering a taste to Summer who agreed with a little sound. I set the big bowl aside and had her start splitting the cherry tomatoes. The shrimp were rinsed and patted dry on a towel, and I threw some garlic into the pan starting it with some of the olive oil. I salted and peppered the shrimp and in they went tossing them around to coat them all with the hot oil. They were ready in a couple minutes and the kitchen smelled terrific. I stacked the plates with spinach and started building the salads with the tomatoes, red onions, shrimp and as a topper sliced almonds."If this tastes like it looks, you're staying on as cook after this heals." She said lifting her foot behind her."Prepare to have your mind blown." I said handing her a plate and a fork. I had brought a small baguette with me which I'd sliced up and we ate."A girl could get used to this." She smiled popping a shrimp into her mouth. Cooking for a girl is a sure way into her panties."I laughed. "Even if she wasn't wearing any?""Well she's wearing some now." Her eyes flashed."But for how long?" I said playing along."You have your driver's license don't you?" She asked, changing the subject."Yea, I just don't have a car of my own yet." I said, wondering why she asked."Do you know of anybody that would loan you one, like your folks?""Yea I'm sure I can get one. Why, do you want to do it in the backseat?" I wiggled my eyebrows at her."Hell yea, but I'd also like to get a ride to go get my Jeep. It's been down at the clinic for a week now. They told me it would be safe but I'm getting a little stir crazy stuck here in the house." She replied.I looked out the window. "I can ride down and bring it back, it's only about four or five miles." I said."Ride?" She asked."I have a bike, I can put it in the back and haul it back if you don't mind.""Not at all." She smiled.I did the dishes and cleaned up after lunch, and Summer kicked back on the sofa folding a load of laundry I'd done earlier. I took a look at the grass, yea the lawn could wait a couple more days. "What else needs to be done?" I asked from the kitchen. I got no answer. I walked into the living room and she was bobbing her head as I walked around the edge of the couch I noticed she'd put in earbuds and was listening to her mp3 player. She was lip syncing some unknown song. She looked up at me and grinned, pulling one of the buds loose."I couldn't live without my music." She threw a towel at me to fold."Listening to anything good?" She mentioned a band I'd never heard of, and moved the folded stuff from beside her and patted the seat beside her. I sat and she handed me the ear bud."Check it out, you might like it." I put it in my ear and listened for a song or two, folding another towel. A hard rock song started and she turned it up a bit and started singing along. She got to the chorus and really joined in full blast. The lyrics were pretty explicit. I was thinking you wouldn't hear music like that on the radio around here. There was a pause, then a soft intro began. The ballad was soft and low, and Summer stopped and closed her eyes, her lips barely moving with the lyrics. When I noticed I stopped and listened intently to the lyrics, it was about intense, heart-felt, you are my world, kind of love. The kind of love that lasts longer than a lifetime. When it ended she reached down and stopped the playback. She looked straight out the window for a moment and turned to me, a shy sweet smile on her lips."Do you believe in love Pete?" She asked me. I stared at her in wide-eyed amazement for a minute, and began slowly nodding."I do now." I said, my voice barely above a whisper. I wanted to kiss her so badly, but something in her eyes made me hesitate. There was sadness there, and they welled up as if she were doing her best to hold back tears. A wash of emotion swept over me like a storm driven wave, and I leaned forward lifted her chin and kissed her softly. Our lips brushed, our tongues sought out one another, delicately probing. Something wet touched my cheek making me break the kiss long before I wanted to. I pulled back and a tear streamed down Summer's cheek. I reached for one of the towels and daubed it. I took a deep breath and was about to ask why she was crying when a curt little head shake waved off the question."Please don't ask, not yet anyway." She said, her voice thick with emotion. "I'm sorry." She said wiping the remaining tear with the heel of her hand."You don't have anything to be sorry about." I replied softly.She inhaled deeply and let it out slowly. She turned to me with a smile on her mouth but sadness in her eyes."I saw there's a free concert in the park tonight. Want to go? A rock blues cover band is playing. Sounds like they might be good."I knew they were good, my friends brother was in the band, and I'd heard them before. I smiled and nodded. "Sounds like fun, and they are good, I've heard them before.""I should ride down and get the Jeep. There's no way you're walking that far." I said sternly."Yes dear." Summer rolled her eyes at me. She giggled, and got up hobbling off to the bedroom and came back with a set of keys handing them to me."It's black, and I'm guessing the only one with West Virginia plates. It's at the walk-in clinic on Route 12."I nodded. "I know exactly where you mean. I'll go get it. You relax, take a nap if you want. I should be back in an hour or so." I smiled. I kissed her again, the underlying want in our embrace was nearly too much. She placed her hand on my chest, with the barest hint of pressure. She was right, if I kept it up we weren't going anywhere. I reluctantly stepped back, picked up the folded towels and put them away. I walked back out and she had laid down on the couch with her foot up on a pillow. I smiled that she'd taken my suggestion."Can I get you anything before I go?" I said softly leaning over the arm of the couch. She just smiled and gave her head a little shake. She reached up pulling me down closer for a quick upside-down kiss. I headed for the kitchen door, pausing as I closed it quietly, looking back into the house. I turned and started walking home.I walked, lost in thought. This week had been a week of firsts for me. I grinned at the thought of the first day when I lost my virginity to an amazing woman. The aggravation of the following days of not knowing exactly what was happening. If I had just opened my eyes I would have noticed she was waiting for me. Then today when she all but pushed me into making love to her again. I wondered why, well why me anyway. I knew so little about her. What was going on here. We'd known each other about a week, what was that question about believing in love. I could easily fall in love with her, I had to admit. Was I doing just that? So many questions came to mind as I walked up my driveway, I grabbed my bike out of the garage and hopped on. I made my way down to the coast road and started pedaling in earnest up the first rise. The traffic drifted past me as I sought answers to my questions. I pedaled harder nearly coasting up the next rise. Why was I over analyzing this? I was living out a fantasy any red-blooded male would die for. A beautiful, sexy woman wanted to have sex with me, repeatedly. Isn't that enough for me? I laughed out loud at that thought because I realized, it isn't.I rolled down the long slope of the hill seeing the clinic up ahead. I pulled into the parking lot and rode around looking for the Jeep and found it near the side of the building. I checked the plate and got off my bike, took out the keys and opened up the driver's side door. The heat billowed out of it from being parked in the sun so long. The smell of a roasted sweet smelling air freshener poured out and nearly gagged me. I walked to the back and looked at how I was going to get my bike in there and noticed there was a folding bike rack on the spare tire mount. I figured it out in a few minutes an
In this episode, Eric highlights the challenges facing parents of young athletes today, and offers guidance on how to handle the pressures of being pulled in many directions for youth sports participation.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm
With her passion for life, history, and story, Liz Tolsma is the author of several novels ranging from World War II to Amish fiction. While she thought she'd write one book and be done, her debut novel was a finalist for two awards. Now she's a full-time author and editor, and she has never looked back. She joins us today to share about topics close to her heart, and to introduce her latest release, When the Sky Burned. A Word of Inspiration Liz Tolzma's writing journey began much like other authors—at a young age with a vivid imagination and an innate knack for storytelling. Dubbed "Sarah Bernhardt" by her parents due to her flair for drama, Liz was encouraged by a supportive fifth-grade teacher who instilled the dream of becoming a published author. Adoption: A Theme Close to the Heart A big passion for Liz centers around the theme of international adoption. She and her husband have welcomed three children into their family from different corners of the world, embedding rich experiences and diverse cultures into their lives. Liz speaks passionately about how adoption mirrors God's unconditional love and adoption of us, reflecting how it has shaped her as both a mother and a writer. Overlooked History Brought to Life "When the Sky Burned," Liz's latest novel, captures the essence of historical fiction by intertwining real events with an inspiring story. Set against the backdrop of the lesser-known Peshtigo Fire of 1871, Liz carefully balances historical accuracy with the fictional journeys of her characters. Mariah Randolph embodies resilience as she transitions from an artist to a survivor of blindness. Inspired by real stories of blind painters, Liz weaves a narrative that highlights resilience, transformation, and justice. What's Next for Liz Tolsma? Continuing with her theme of stories based on real-life events, Liz is excited to be writing a fictionalized version of a reader's family history from World War II. Readers can connect with her through her website, newsletter, GoodReads, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, X, and her own podcast. Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered. Promising painter Mariah Randolph longs to have her canvases displayed in the world's best museums, and Hollis Stanford, the heir of a railroad tycoon, is her ticket to success. The railroad's bookkeeper, Jay Franklin, discovers discrepancies and is convinced that Hollis is stealing from the company. But any proof of his dirty dealings go up in smoke when fire utterly destroys the town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, October 8, 1871. The fire leaves Mariah blind, but Jay befriends her and even helps her to start painting again. But a trip to Chicago to return Hollis's daughter to him could put both Mariah and Jay in more danger than even the fire that devastated the town and their lives. Other Historical Bookworm episodes with Liz Tolsma include a Pinch of the Past and a Bookchat about A Picture of Hope Bookworm Review Today's bookworm review is brought to you by author Angela Bell Today's Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. “The Bounty Hunter's Surrender solidifies KyLee Woodley as a veritable sharpshooter of a storyteller! In her second Outlaw Hearts novel, Woodley skillfully corrals the tension of a showdown at high noon, complex characters, fastidious historical research, and a mystery with all the twists of a gnarled tumbleweed into a tale sure to whisk readers away on a wild ride into a hope-filled sunset. If you're drawn to the rugged romance of the old west, consider The Bounty Hunter's Surrender your next most wanted read!” ~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure
Gender Juice. Brian is a Narc. Kim can never leave again. Cocaine Bill. Pinch the hose! Biological plumbing. $23 for the Real Me. Bulletproof McD's. Sorry dog face. Clearly vague. Juvenile Delinquents Need McDonald's Too! Carefully Placed Jug of Pee. Zero streak Boomer. Birds Are Dicks. Better Call Sal with Nicole and more on this episode of The Morning Stream. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Gender Juice. Brian is a Narc. Kim can never leave again. Cocaine Bill. Pinch the hose! Biological plumbing. $23 for the Real Me. Bulletproof McD's. Sorry dog face. Clearly vague. Juvenile Delinquents Need McDonald's Too! Carefully Placed Jug of Pee. Zero streak Boomer. Birds Are Dicks. Better Call Sal with Nicole and more on this episode of The Morning Stream. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My 15-year-old self would not believe that Heather Locklear + Jillian Barberie willingly showed up to my kitchen for a Korean meal and conversation… but it happened. These icons and I talked about sharks, therapy, Heather's exes, and for the first time in Something's Burning history – they asked for a to-go container. Nailed it. Follow Heather Locklear: https://www.instagram.com/heatherlocklear Follow Jillian Barberie: https://www.instagram.com/askjillian Don't miss out on all the action this week at DraftKings! Download the DraftKings app today! Sign-up using https://dkng.co/burning or through my promo code BURNING. This episode is brought to you by Factor. Get started at https://factormeals.com/BERT50OFF and use code BERT50OFF to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a video https://bit.ly/3DC1ICg Stream LUCKY on Netflix https://www.netflix.com/title/81713944 PERMISSION TO PARTY WORLD TOUR is on sale now: http://www.bertbertbert.com/tour For all things BERTY BOY PRODUCTIONS: https://bertyboyproductions.com For MERCH: https://store.bertbertbert.com/ Follow Me! Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/BertKreischer Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/bertkreischer YouTube: http://www.YouTube.com/user/Akreischer TikTok: http://www.TikTok.com/@bertkreischer Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bertkreischer X: http://www.Twitter.com/bertkreischer Text Me: https://my.community.com/bertkreischer Recipe: Roy Choi's Bomb Kha Chowder and Drunken Kimchi Tofu Sifu Drunken Kimchi Tofu Sifu: See page 116 Bomb Kha Chowder: See page 139 Butter Kimchi Jam: See page 254 Soy Ginger Sauce: See page 244 Korean Crying Tiger Sauce: See page 246 GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). 1 per new customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $300 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 6/22/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK. Pick6 not available everywhere, including, but not limited to NY and CA-ONT (for up-to-date list of jurisdictions please visit pick6.draftkings.com/where-is-pick6-available). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The WSL is finally listening... but is it too late? In this episode of Pinch My Salt, we break down the biggest shakeup in professional surfing in years: the World Surf League is scrapping the midyear cut, bringing back Pipe, and maybe—just maybe—giving the sport back to the surfers.We also dig into:Julian Wilson's wildcard return at the Gold Coast Pro
In this heartfelt and high-energy episode of The Rhythm Section Podcast, Derrick and Jeff kick things off with another tribute to their friend Thomas Halfacre and his upcoming cancer benefit concert. They share all the details about the event at Rooster's Blues House Highland on Sunday, June 1st—featuring bands like Almost Famous, Black 59, Play Rough, and The Pinch, with special guests John Roth, Jeff Adams, Kevin & Bethany Paige, Paul Moreau, Vanessa Sudbury, Shara Matlock, Steve Rhodehamel, Ken Houston, Ronnie Knight, Seth Kuykendall, Patrick O'Daniel, David Haynes and Tom Slagle. They also dive into how #ILoveThomasThursday and a wildfire group text helped Thomas go viral in the best way. In the feature interview, the guys are joined by Joel Rustenhaven and T-Bone Hood of The Rustenhaven Band. They share hilarious stories about the band's original name drama, how they got started as musicians, their wide-ranging influences, and what it's like performing in the casino circuit with bandmates Eric Westpy and JJ Barnett. From heartfelt to hilarious, this one hits all the right notes. www.rustenhaven.com From the studio to the stage… The Rhythm Section Podcast is turning 100! Join us as we celebrate our 100th episode with a special live recording — filmed in front of a live audience at Rooster's Blues House Highland in Memphis! Saturday, June 7th. Doors open at 3 PM. Showtime is 3:30 to 5pm EVENT LINK - https://www.facebook.com/events/3488137631328229/?rdid=kMaYRpAxdcyrEQXC&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1Ejx8thGFy%2F# TIP BUCKET If you find it in your heart to donate to the cause and help fuel the podcast you can do so through our new Venmo and CashApp. Your support is greatly appreciated and will help shine a brighter spotlight on the great Memphis Music Community. Venmo - @therhythmsectionpod CashApp - $therhythmsectionpod Thanks for tuning in and supporting the Rhythm Section Podcast.
My 15-year-old self would not believe that Heather Locklear + Jillian Barberie willingly showed up to my kitchen for a Korean meal and conversation… but it happened. These icons and I talked about sharks, therapy, Heather's exes, and for the first time in Something's Burning history – they asked for a to-go container. Nailed it. Follow Heather Locklear: https://www.instagram.com/heatherlocklear Follow Jillian Barberie: https://www.instagram.com/askjillian Don't miss out on all the action this week at DraftKings! Download the DraftKings app today! Sign-up using https://dkng.co/burning or through my promo code BURNING. This episode is brought to you by Factor. Get started at https://factormeals.com/BERT50OFF and use code BERT50OFF to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a video https://bit.ly/3DC1ICg Stream LUCKY on Netflix https://www.netflix.com/title/81713944 PERMISSION TO PARTY WORLD TOUR is on sale now: http://www.bertbertbert.com/tour For all things BERTY BOY PRODUCTIONS: https://bertyboyproductions.com For MERCH: https://store.bertbertbert.com/ Follow Me! Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/BertKreischer Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/bertkreischer YouTube: http://www.YouTube.com/user/Akreischer TikTok: http://www.TikTok.com/@bertkreischer Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bertkreischer X: http://www.Twitter.com/bertkreischer Text Me: https://my.community.com/bertkreischer Recipe: Roy Choi's Bomb Kha Chowder and Drunken Kimchi Tofu Sifu Drunken Kimchi Tofu Sifu: See page 116 Bomb Kha Chowder: See page 139 Butter Kimchi Jam: See page 254 Soy Ginger Sauce: See page 244 Korean Crying Tiger Sauce: See page 246 GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). 1 per new customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $300 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 6/22/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK. Pick6 not available everywhere, including, but not limited to NY and CA-ONT (for up-to-date list of jurisdictions please visit pick6.draftkings.com/where-is-pick6-available). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if the real reason your manifestation isn't landing… is because your body doesn't feel safe enough to receive it?In this episode, we reframe manifestation not as something you think, but something you embody. Your nervous system, your breath, your posture, your pleasure, they are the spell.Because you don't manifest with thoughts alone.You manifest with your whole being.In this episode, we explore:Why your nervous system might be saying no to the very thing you desireHow trauma, dysregulation, and somatic memory can block spellworkThe role of symbolism, ritual, and emotion in communicating with your unconsciousA practical embodiment practice to track your body's yes and begin rewiring your energetic fieldThe difference between ritual as performance… and ritual as deep inner reprogrammingRitual of the Week: Embodied Desire-Tracking PracticeThis week's invitation is a short but powerful practice that helps you:Speak your desire aloudTune into your body's somatic responseIdentify subconscious resistance or readinessAnchor a felt sense of “yes” into your systemNo pushing. No bypassing. Just slow, sacred embodiment.Coming Up Next…Episode 3: The Four Forces of Real Magick We'll break down the energetic anatomy of a working spell:Intention. Energy. Action. Alignment.Why some spells “fail”, and how to know which element is out of syncHow manifestation is really a relationship with the seen and the unseenPlus: a “Spell Diagnosis” segment to help you fine-tune your practice.Want to Go Deeper?The Somatic Manifestation Series is coming soon inside the A Pinch of Magick app (see download links below).You'll get full-body spellwork, nervous system rituals, and soul-aligned practices to root your desires deep into lived reality. Keep an eye out in the app to be first to access.Reflect, Share, Embody
In this message Nick shares from Matthew 28 in the Bible, when Jesus shared some last words with His disciples, something that Christians know as 'The Great Commission'. Thinking about what Jesus asked us to do, Nick looks back at Jesus' teachings to see how we should respond.If you would like to reach out or know more about Jesus, please visit curatechurch.com or email hello@curatechurch.com. We'd love to connect and help you in your journey of faith.
In this episode, Cressey Sports Performance - Florida pitching coach Austin Henrich digs in on the most common mistakes he sees with baseball players doing plyo throws. From poor technique, to incorrect drill selection, to incorrect intensity, he shares insights that can improve any throwing program.Support Our Sponsor: AG1
➢ DM “RECIPE GUIDE” to IG @ ColossusFit and we'll send you 53 high protein, easy to make recipes.Summary of episode:In this episode we go over 11 healthy meal and snack options to eat in a pinch.Meals:1- (01:05) Rotisserie Chicken + Salad + Minute Rice2- (02:44) Protein SmoothieWhey protein + banana + frozen berries + spinach + milk(5 different protein recipes at the end of our guide for free) Cinnamon roll, green glow.3- (05:16) Tuna salad lettuce wrapsPut the tuna and half of the oil from the can in a bowl and mix with the tomato puree.Chop the red onion as fine as possible and add to the tuna. Cut the apple in 2 parts and remove the core. Chop the apple into small cubes and also add to the tuna. Mix everything.Spread the tuna over the 8 lettuce leaves and serve as wraps.4- (06:45) Greek Yogurt BowlPlain greek yogurt, berries, seeds, honey5- (07:32) Overnight Oats+ Protein Scoop + Berries- Add cinnamon or flaxseeds for extra nutrition.Snacks:6- (09:01) Hummus + Baby Carrots or Bell Pepper Strips-Whole grain pita chips are a great add-on.7- (10:16) Apple or banana with peanut butter8- (11:19) Protein Bar or Beef Jerky + Piece of Fruit9- (12:49) Canned Tuna or Salmon + Whole Grain Crackers + Cherry TomatoesAdd mustard, Greek yogurt, or hot sauce for flavor.Slightly longer to make meals, but still efficient and solid10- (14:03) Turkey burgers11- (15:17) Chicken wrapsThanks for listening! We genuinely appreciate every single one of you listening.➢Follow us on instagram @colossusfit➢Apply to get your Polished Physique: https://colossusfitness.com/
Your visuals are sexy, your brand is polished—but your DMs are a ghost town. Why? Because you skipped the part that actually makes people care: your messaging. Today we're getting into a one-on-one level course for what is messaging strategy. It's a bit of a buzz word, but what does messaging strategy even really mean? So this episode is for those of you in the back of the class that want to raise your hand and ask this question, but feel kind of dumb doing it because everyone in the online space somehow knows everything about messaging. 'cause they're like, work on your messaging, work on your messaging, and you're thinking, okay... but can you define it for me?So if you are that person who wants to dig into your messaging but doesn't really know what messaging or messaging strategy is, this is gonna be your no-shame breakdown, so we can really get on the same level as what that means. You'll learn today: What brand messaging really is (and what it's not) The 3 messaging mistakes that are quietly sabotaging your businessWhy your visuals mean nothing without the verbal brand to match How strong messaging makes sales easier, marketing more fun, and copywriting a total breezeA behind-the-scenes look at my signature offer, The Brief, and how it gives entrepreneurs the copy foundation they've been cravingReady to Craft Messaging That Converts and Connects? Work with me 1:1 in The Brief — your done-for-you brand messaging deck that unlocks clarity, connection, and conversion. Grab all the juicy details + examples HERENot quite ready for the full deep dive? Take my quiz: What's Your Messaging Superpower? 4 Examples of What You Get With The Brief 1:https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ef52a179ef3402a74df6aca/t/671a2edc60c1310096562e2d/1729769187976/The+Brief+-+Initium.pdf2:https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ef52a179ef3402a74df6aca/t/6731e5ba6a242b0c2012cd23/1731323329905/The+Brief+-++Slink+Through+Strength+%281%29.pdf3:https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ef52a179ef3402a74df6aca/t/6784ee80fb1eef6d35c92a4e/1736765064285/The+Brief+-++ReplicAIDE+.pdf4:https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ef52a179ef3402a74df6aca/t/67c06b3b27057e409bd8bb7d/1740663617125/The+Brief+-+Whale+Hello.pdfFeeling the pull to have more of me in your world? DM me on Instagram: @mywritehandwoman Work on Your Messaging or Copy with Me: The Website Find Your Brand Messaging Superpower: Take the Quiz Sign Up for the Exact Factor Sprint
Season 8 continues with our conversations about the new strategic direction at the David Eccles School of Business with a particular focus on the second pillar of the strategic plan: societal impact. Zach England is Chief Operating Officer at CR England, an alum of the David Eccles School of Business, and a member of the Eccles Advisory Board, continuing his family's generational and generous support of the Eccles School and students.In this episode, Frances and Zach explore the indispensable role of community and corporate partnerships in achieving ambitious goals, focusing on various collaborative efforts that support student success such as internships and the 'In a Pinch' Basic Needs Initiative. Zach also shares personal stories about the longstanding relationship between his family and the school, highlighting the mutual benefits and societal impact of their initiatives. Eccles Business Buzz is a production of the David Eccles School of Business and is produced by University.fm.Eccles Business Buzz is proud to be selected by FeedSpot as one of the Top 70 Business School podcasts on the web. Learn more at https://podcast.feedspot.com/us_business_school_podcasts. Episode Quotes:Hunger and homelessness as hidden barriers to student successI mean, you think about just when you're hungry, it's hard to focus on much else. And I was looking up for the In A Pinch Pantry, the statistics. So, it says on there, two out of five students struggle to put food on the table. So, 40% of the kids in the university world are food insecure to a degree. And it's just amazing. 17%, it says, were homeless in the previous year. Like, these are basics, that it's hard to really focus on your academic career if you don't have the basic needs that have been met. So, it's just, unfortunately, we're not an exception at the U. And so, I have two kids in college now. And they eat a lot of food, especially the boy. So, there's a big need, a big requirement for all that, but also just as they've... you know, I've been, kind of, reminded of the whole experience of being in school. It's been a minute since I've been in there. And just the stress, you know, all those things that they have on their plate, food shouldn't be one of those issues. And so, anything we can do to help out with that. And I love what the In A Pinch Pantry is doing to hopefully resolve that need for a lot of these kids.How students are bringing fresh perspectives and making an impact at CR england[18:21]: At a broader level, the Eccles School has just been a great partner. As I was mentioning before, we just appreciate the relationship so much, but you all have allowed us to use some facilities for leadership meetings and made professors available to speak at some of these leadership meetings in their areas of expertise, and they've all been amazing. And so, it's just—there's a lot of different levels where we've benefited as a company from this involvement. But specific to the students and kind of the intern program that I was talking about before, we've been really impressed with them so far. And we had done a couple of finance projects, I think, two years ago, and same thing—just the quality of the kids was just very, very impressive. Of course, none of them come to us with any knowledge or understanding of the trucking industry—understandably so. Not many people have that. On building a culture of family and fresh perspectives[21:49]: One of our core values is we are family. So it's a little catchy and memorable, but it's become just a huge part of our culture that we treat each other like we're family. And so, I feel like we're doing some really good things there, but the infusion of new ideas, like I mentioned—fresh perspectives before—will only help that. And so, we're excited to see as this kind of develops further, the impact that they'll have.Why supporting the whole student creates a greater impact[23:52]:The more the students are well-rounded when they graduate, the better off they're gonna be, and the better impact that they're gonna have. And so, all these things that we're talking about definitely contribute to that. I've been thinking about just the social element of a university experience as well.I mean, it's where you can find lifelong friends and mentors and things that just benefit you in your life—no doubt.Shaping future leaders with skills, ambition, and hard work[29:16]: Frances: What do you hope these students have when they leave and start the next chapter of their lives? Zach England: I think it's kind of a combination of the things that we've been talking about, with definitely the practical skills—you have to have that foundation. But the things that we've been talking about, all the social side of it, to where you can fit into the team—that's been, by the way, what we've heard about this MBA student is that he was just a natural fit right into the team. And so, being able to interact that way and communicate effectively is so important. And so, I think, you know, what we're talking about with internships and experience—getting experience—all builds to that and helps put someone in position to be that well-rounded leader. And you combine that with someone with ambition and hard work—that's the kind of person we're looking for. And I think we found one, like I mentioned, with this MBA student and maybe some of the others as well. And, as an employer, that's what we're looking for—kids with that kind of background.Show Links:Zach England | LinkedInZach England | Eccles Advisory BoardIn A Pinch | Eccles Basic Needs InitiativeExplorers Program | Goff Strategic Leadership InstituteDavid Eccles School of Business (@ubusiness) | InstagramUndergraduate Scholars ProgramsRising Business LeadersEccles Alumni Network (@ecclesalumni) | Instagram Eccles Experience Magazine
Hart and Fitzy recap the Red Sox victory in Game 1 against the New York Mets, and they debate whether Boston looked like an improved team under interim manager Ramon Vazquez in comparison to their usual play under Alex Cora.
In this episode of The Rhythm Section Podcast, hosts Derrick and Jeff shine a spotlight on an important upcoming event: a cancer benefit for Thomas Halfacre, happening Sunday, June 1st at Rooster's Blues House with performances by Almost Famous, Black 59, Play Rough, and The Pinch. It's $10 at the door, and all proceeds go toward Thomas' medical expenses. Then, they dive into an inspiring conversation with CharMaine TyRelle, the powerhouse vocalist behind CT & The Vibe Tribe. CharMaine shares his journey from three decades of singing in church to performing with Demi Lovato at President Joe Biden's Inauguration, and his role in the Elevation Memphis Tina Turner Tribute Experience. They discuss navigating constructive criticism, his recent Minister of Music of the Year nomination, and his exciting new EP Loverboy Energy—dropping July 1st. Be sure to check out the lead single “Get Down”, streaming now on all platforms. CharMaine's New Single - Get Down Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/4k7QIsdMR3GE9H1AT5FWPg?si=acc40c4969324833 Thomas Halfacre GoFundMe https://www.gofundme.com/f/thomas-halfacres-stage-four-cancer-fight?attribution_id=sl:752a7b2a-73ad-4a7d-88a7-2609cc6e0b16&lang=en_US&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&fbclid=IwQ0xDSwKXeSlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHkNZVR0JdTR2Lj4gAWtdkhZWeb7doj4ROBHNhb5rgZHkykrvMncdT2_JaHIN_aem_x24CqZMX2vrSWPMwowC4pA From the studio to the stage… The Rhythm Section Podcast is turning 100! Join us as we celebrate our 100th episode with a special live recording — filmed in front of a live audience at Rooster's Blues House Highland in Memphis! Saturday, June 7th. Doors open at 3 PM. Showtime is 3:30 to 5pm EVENT LINK - https://www.facebook.com/events/3488137631328229/?rdid=kMaYRpAxdcyrEQXC&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1Ejx8thGFy%2F# TIP BUCKET If you find it in your heart to donate to the cause and help fuel the podcast you can do so through our new Venmo and CashApp. Your support is greatly appreciated and will help shine a brighter spotlight on the great Memphis Music Community. Venmo - @therhythmsectionpod CashApp - $therhythmsectionpod Thanks for tuning in and supporting the Rhythm Section Podcast.
Welcome to the very first episode of Manifestation Reimagined—where we throw out the rulebook, ditch the vision board pressure, and come home to the truth: you already know how to manifest.Before manifestation was a buzzword, before you were told to think positive or “raise your vibe”… you knew.You knew how to dream with your body. You knew how to cast spells with your voice.You knew how to create just by wanting.This episode is your permission slip to remember what was never really lost.In this episode, we explore:Why manifestation isn't something you learn—it's something you rememberThe difference between ego-driven wants and soul-aligned desiresHow desire itself is a spell already in motionWhat ancient and folk practices can teach us about everyday magickA powerful Desire Flame Ritual to help you reconnect with your creative currentRitual of the WeekAt the end of this episode, I guide you through a simple but powerful practice:The Desire Flame Ritual — a way to honour your desires as sacred, not selfish.Bring a candle, a journal, and your curiosity. This isn't just self-help—it's soul retrieval.Coming Up Next…If you've ever felt like your mind is onboard with a goal but your body says nope, Episode 2 is for you. The Body is the Spell drops next, and it's a deep dive into somatic manifestation: how your nervous system, emotions, and rituals shape what you actually call in.Ready to Go Deeper?Inside the A Pinch of Magick app, you'll find exclusive content, journal prompts, and an upcoming Somatic Manifestation Mini-Series to help you embody your intentions, not just think about them.Connect, Reflect & Remember:If this episode sparked something inside you, share it with someone who's ready to remember too. Tag me on social @rebeccaanuwen and let me know:
In this episode, Eric talks about why it's vital to have both objective and subjective measures to evaluate athlete adaptation to training interventions. He also digs in on why individualization becomes even more important as athletes progress in their development.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm
Federico y Andrés Amorós han analizado la corrida de Pedraza de Yeltes con "toracos" que dieron una media peso de más de 600 kilos. En la tarde del pasado miércoles se celebró en la Monumental de Las Ventas el cuarto festejo de San Isidro 2025 en la previa del día del patrón de Madrid en un ambiente festivo y con multitud de jóvenes en los tendidos que se refugiaron en cuanto comenzó a llover con fuerza. Con un cartel internacional compuesto por el español Román, el venezolano Jesús Enrique Colombo y el mexicano Isaac Fonseca en la plaza madrileña se lidiaron "toracos" de Pedraza de Yeltes que dieron una media de 622 kilos de peso. En Al Alimón, la sección taurina de Es la Mañana de Federico de esRadio, Jiménez Losantos y Andrés Amorós han comentado esta "tarde de tormenta típica" con "rayos y truenos y diluvio". El cronista ha dicho que "los toros de Pedraza son muy altos" y "salieron, complicaditos, salvo el último que fue muy bueno". "Estuvo en primer lugar Román muy valiente y dio la vuelta al ruedo" y, luego, "Colombo puso todo lo que pudo".San Isidro 2025: seis tripletes, catorce dobletes y televisada por TeleMadridJavier Romero Jordano En tercer y sexto lugar toreó "este torero mexicano que es tan tan valiente, Isaac Fonseca". Salió "a jugársela" y, aunque en el primer foro estuvo "regular", en el último, que se llamaba Brigadier y que tenía "casi 700 kg", triunfó. "El toro no paró de embestir y él, que es chaparrito como dicen, se puso de rodillas y el toro iba de maravilla. Claro, la gente bramando y luego de pie hizo una faena ardorosa, ardiente, valiente, con coraje y un toro tremendo", ha explicado. Fonseca "tiene lo que hay que tener" y ayer al torear "un toro muy bueno, la cosa fue pues emocionantísima". "Pinchó antes de la estocada" porque "el exceso de emoción, al tirarse se dio y salió con sangre en la frente. No se sabe si era del toro o si se había dado con el pomo de la espada". A la segunda lo cazó y le dieron a él una oreja y al toro la vuelta al ruedo", ha contado Amorós que cree que "la cuestión es: si lo hubiera matado a la primera le hubieran dado dos orejas". "Lo que no es discutible es una cosa que es que es un mito de los taurinos. ¿Cómo pueden embestir un toro con esos kilos? Pues embiste cuando tiene casta, fuerza y nobleza. Lo de las hechuras no es seguro en absoluto. Entonces este toro tenía casi 700 kg, casta, fuerza, motor, que es lo que han de tener todos los toros", ha añadido.Isaac Fonseca: "Ahora mismo el toreo está para muy pocos toreros que ganen dinero"J. RomeroEn San Isidro, a Las Ventas Andrés Amorós ha dicho que hoy día de San Isidro hay que ir a Las Ventas y cree que "se llenará la plaza" porque "habrá un ambiente festivo". "A los madrileños que les gusta también esto y habrá algunos que se vistan de chulapos", ha indicad. Se lidian toros de Valdefresno, de Salamanca, que suelen salir "nobles". El cartel lo encabeza Paco Ureña que "es un torero muy valiente, muy clásico y muy querido en Madrid". También torea David Galván, "que ahora ha entrado en Madrid y que lo que tiene es personalidad" y "confirmar la alternativa a un chico de Madrid que se llama Alejandro Chicharro".
Surfers are insane—and we've got the proof. In this viral episode of Pinch My Salt, pro surfer Sterling Spencer and Cousin Ryan dive deep into the craziest corners of surf culture, conspiracy theories, and core vs. kook chaos. From Kanye West clones, UFO sightings, and jellyfish aliens, to the ultimate soft top vs. core lord surfing debate—this surf comedy podcast pulls no punches.We talk Ben Gravy, Jerry Lopez, Bruce Irons, and what it really means to sell out in surfing. Is localism dead? Is VR surfing the future? Are boogie boards actually elite now? This is the most unfiltered, hilarious, truth-bomb-packed surf podcast on YouTube.Tune in for alien encounters, surfing style wars, soft top sellouts, skateboarder survival skills, and epic rants about everything from East Coast longboard champions to foot-licking Dr. Scholl's scams. It's Spinal Tap meets Endless Summer—with a twist of West Peak and a full send on surf absurdity.
BGMania B-Sides #23 of BGMania: A Video Game Music Podcast. Today on the show, Bedroth from RPGera is doing something special in anticipation of Fantasy Life i later this month. This is a remastered re-release of an episode that uploaded on Very Good Music back in 2020 and features his kids Shootkapow and Dusklight as they discuss one of their favorite games of all time... Fantasy Life! Email the show at bgmaniapodcast@gmail.com with requests for upcoming episodes, questions, feedback, comments, concerns, or whatever you want! Special thanks to our Executive Producers: Jexak, Xancu & Jeff. EPISODE PLAYLIST AND CREDITS Opening Theme from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Fierce Battle from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Royal Capital of Castele from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Tortuga Archipelago Theme from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Elderwood from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Job Tune 5 from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Tranquil Scenery from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Divine Power from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Mount Snowpeak Theme from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Intrigue Theme from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Hope Theme from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] In a Pinch from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Circle of Love -Mercenary Celebration Song- from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] Return from Fantasy Life [Nobuo Uematsu, 2012] SUPPORT US Patreon: https://patreon.com/rpgera Thanks to our Patrons: Jexak, Xancu, Prof-Jeff, and Adam CONTACT US Website: https://rpgera.com Discord: https://discord.gg/cC73Heu Twitch: https://twitch.tv/therpgera Twitter: https://twitter.com/OriginalLDG Instagram: https://instagram.com/bryan.ldg/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/leveldowngaming RPGERA PODCAST NETWORK Very Good Music: A VGM Podcast Listening Religiously
In this episode, Eric talks about why variability is a bell curve that's particularly challenging to manage in a sport like baseball that, at times, demands so much precision. Learn about random vs. blocked practice and what long-term athletic development strategies parents and coaches can employ with youth baseball players.Support Our Sponsor: AG1
Barrett Sallee and Chris Dimino dive into the Braves’ curious decision to pinch-hit Eddie Rosario for Eli White and what it says about Atlanta’s approach. Then they turn their attention to the weekend as Paul Skenes and the Pirates come to town. Is Pittsburgh about to ruin another superstar, or can Skenes break the cycle? All that and more on the latest Braves Central.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Persecution, troubles, heaviness of heart — are these different forms of God's discipline? Pastor John traces God's good purposes in different kinds of pain.