[cordelianewman]

The infamous black sheep of the Browning family, the thirty-eight year old mother was born and bred in Merrock, Maine. Remembered by many as the hardcore, dedicated cheer captain of Merrock High School and straight A student in her younger years, you’ll frequently find Cordelia as sweet as honey with an extra side of sass and spice when required. Younger sister to Theodore Browning and Jason Browning, and older sister to her younger sister. Moved from the Downtown District of Merrock in a rundown one bedroom apartment that often lost heat, power, or had electrical issues to a gorgeous three bedroom rented house in the Suburbs to now living in her dream home in the countryside. Mama to a curious and witty four year old Rosalyn Willow Browning born on January 15, 2021, and to the kindest, sweetest teenager, Colton Newman. Guardian and mama figure to the additional loves of her life Shawn, sixteen and Cienna, four. Officially married to her past high school sweetheart, and love of her life, Cage Newman. Currently working for Bardales Inc. as a real estate agent looking to get her footing, and finishing her college degree at Merrock Community College. A lover of red wine, long drives down back roads, and getting dressed up in fancy gowns. Candice King

• FULL BIO. • STATS. • TIMELINE. • THE HOME. • MERROCK. •

[cagenewman]

I'm fine with that if we can consider maybe interviewing a few people for a long term babysitter slash nanny position for situations where daycare won't work out? I'm talking about if I have to go away for business and want you to come with me, or if we want to take a mom and dad trip only down to see Shawn, and don't want to put the responsibility on a sibling. Do you think that would be okay? It gives us more time to really figure out what we want, since daycare is a no brainer in this town. I didn't say that. I didn't say anything like that, I said that I personally am in a position where I am doing my best to be respectful of you and your recovery and your self confidence and what you need and I didn't want to watch something like that after you poked about me missing out and all the good TikTok husbands. I haven't pushed you, I've never put pressure on you, I'm pretty hurt that you're saying all roads lead back to sex like I'm bringing it up all the time when I asked once and just gently tried to explain why I wasn't in the mood -- you know what? Arguing about a TV show is a really weird hill to die on, let's just not, okay? I don't want to fight with you, it kills me. Colton and Shawn have the girls covered, I'm going to head out on a run for a little bit to get some fresh air, I'll see you at the spring fling if you're not home before I have to head out?

[cordelianewman]

Yes, I think having someone for select situations is good, but it's not just us interviewing people. I would want them to do so many meetings with the girls. I wouldn't want to put that responsibility on Colton. Telling you how you made it feel, whether you intended to or not. That's how I was made to feel, making mention of very specific parts of a show. What because I just said that some men did end up actually enjoy the show? Criminal level. I never said you pressured me, don't put words in my mouth but you do mention it. I'm not, obviously there's a reason Cage. Of course everything I argue about is always fucking weird hill to die on or some stupid shit because heaven forbid it meant I'm enjoying something. My par -- forget it. I have no fucking sex drive you don't think that isn't humiliating for me to not know what the hell is wrong with me. To then feel shamed like I'm watching something for that reason because that's what I took away from it. Either way, I'm not doing this. I refuse to do this in fact. Yep, I'll be at the Bardales' booth.

[theodearbornfd]

Touche, though it meant more time with mom and dad. Which is exactly why I tried to never be home during the summers. Well except to try to help you and Jason and shield you from all the shit. But I can imagine the dread, though just means you can make this summer the best he's ever had. Make as many memories as you all can, like a last hurrah of sorts before college. He's got a good head on his shoulders and I am more than sure that he'll be okay, but I get it. We try to keep our kids as close as possible, but one thing I have learned is that eventually we do have to let them be their own person and let them go out on their own. Oh the scooting is, especially when the dogs are trying to copy them or vice versa. He will, and I am sure his coaches will remind him too, he has to keep up a certain gpa to stay on the squad right? Is that still how it is?

[cordelianewman]

I was out of the house enough that that wasn't an issue. Still had dance lessons, workouts I was expected, cheer team stuff never really ended. Add in between backwoods parties, sneaking around with Cage, I was able to not spend as much time as you would think during the summer with them. I managed better than I think you both realized, I always could play off the gotta keep in shape thing and suddenly they would back off thinking that was what I was doing. He's good, he's excited, nervous, but that's normal I think. I'm not really sure what I'm feeling right now. My emotions are kind of all over the place and nowhere at the same time. Think it's just one of those adjusting to post-partum things. He does have to keep a certain GPA but it's not anything that I would consider impressive. You need to keep a 2.3 GPA to keep on a D1 team, I'm expecting at least a 3.0, minimum. Maybe that's me being a hard ass but I want him to realize how important the education part is too. One wrong thing happens, heaven forbid, and sports goes out the window. I want his dreams, I just also want him to know that he is so much more than one thing.

[jaceeverett]

Definitely are, I've seen so many people walking around with buttons and t-shirts, passing out flyers... all the informational stands. And then everyone selling things or hosting games. I mean, you know, you're pulling double duty for the weekend, right? Between Creekside and Bardales Inc.? I suppose I can't convince you to rig the prize wheel for me, so I walk away with something big...? So far, so good, I've spent a lot of money on a lot of good things, but I can't feel bad about it, since it's going to a good cause.

[cordelianewman]

Yeah, I mean I wouldn't say I'm doing anything important. I help with Raf's booth, keep people interested for to come over, donate, all that and then I go back and organize receipts and records for Creekside. Wouldn't say I'm doing anything noble prize worthy. Unfortunately I'd probably worry people would say it was rigged even if you won on chance and have to tell Raf to make that decision. I've spent a lot of money on food, does that count?

[cagenewman]

We'll eventually get back on a more steady schedule, I'm not worried about it. Although we do probably need to figure out what we want to do about the girls during the summer and the idea of a nanny vs. daycare for the young'uns for when you're ready to go back to work, just food for thought while I'm thinking about crazy schedules. Well, lucky for me, it didn't turn into resentment, and I wouldn't let it, so it's a no harm, no foul attempt at giving up coffee. No, trust me, my livelihood, my business, my name, it all depends on how well taken care of my crew is, how much they like their job, how much they want to work for me, I'd never do anything to jeopardize that. I'm not judging, and I don't know why the History Channel is catching strays. I don't want to watch a show that features a lot of sex scenes when it's not something we have right now, and I'm struggling a bit with missing you right now. That's all, babe. Rafael doesn't mind holding him until there's spit up or anything else, but that's fair, he's not exactly a baby guy, never has been, but Ronan's cute enough that he probably won him over at least a little bit, I'd assume. He knows that change is normal, he's not a kid. I mean, he is, it's just… I don't know, I want to make sure we let him feel what he needs to feel. Shawn, too. I don't want to say they're trauma bonded, but there's a lot they've been through together, you know? I remember what it was like when Kellan left for school, and I know you probably remember what it was like when Theo left and Jason left, it stings. It can definitely be his call, I'll let you talk over the details with him and figure out what he wants, we can set a date and I'll let everyone know, start planning a shindig? Or a hootenanny, whichever he prefers.

[cordelianewman]

I'm pretty good with the schedule I'm at, I've been through the baby thing not too long ago and think I've settled in for the next little bit until the toddler years. Think we're going to have to go with daycare, I'd prefer they get socialization over everything, plus the nanny I always used to for Rosalyn is heading off to college this summer, and I don't think I want to go through the anxiety of interviewing and learning to trust one person. I get it, your business is important to you. Never said you were a bad boss, by the way, just that there's always going to be up and downs. Ah, right. So we're back to this conversation again. Right. Right. First of all, you make it seem like I'm watching for young hot men and sex scenes, but okay, cool. Plus I don't know how many times I have to repeat that I did not ask you to watch. Just that I was going to watch. But apparently all roads lead back to this which you know, doesn't exactly inspire any confidence. Forget it, I won't bring up the damn show again. Geez. Raf was great with him, but he knows his limits, I know his limits. I wouldn't push beyond that, and people love seeing an older guy cooing at a baby so it worked. I feel like I'm talking in circles with you right now and I'm not willing for this to get into an arguement, you know Colton better, I get it. I'll talk to him tonight, I'm going to head out and do some errands since I'm awake, if you can watch the girls I'll take Ronan.

[cagenewman]

As long as you save some of those ounces so we can enjoy a morning coffee together every now and then, I'm definitely not going to have any qualms about that. I know, but isn't that a thing that every expectant father and new dad tries to do, in a show of solidarity? I feel like I made it a little further than a lot of them, but eventually I just had to have some coffee and a cigarette for old time's sake. Oh trust me, I know, I can very much get under their skin… but they get under mine, too, we've got a good push and pull going, thankfully. Still, if the treats help, thank you. I'm not judging, I'm honestly not, but… you know we have vastly different taste in media, and I love you, I love you to a million pieces and back, but I'm not watching sexy young people TV shows right now, I'll stick with History Channel for my sanity. I think he does, deep down, but that doesn't mean it's not tough. The kid's had a lot of loss and confusion in his life, that manifests in a lot of big feelings when big brother starts slowly packing up his room that he watched mom and dad build for him. I guess we'll just wait and see what he ends up doing, he's got another year to figure it out, at least. We should consider putting together a grad party for Shawn though, right? Even just something small with family, close friends?

[cordelianewman]

Don't worry there's always morning coffee, so that wouldn't be too hard to manage. Just really depends on when we're waking up with you going to work, and when Ronan was up throughout the night. Mm, I don't know, maybe for some. Feel like unless someone really wants to commit it doesn't work out, and there's no point in leading to resentment over something like that. Especially when someone isn't even asking. Then again I'll never understand asking a partner to do that either. As long as you know it's a give and take, and that the feeling is mutual at times. Hm...I don't know sounds a little like judging having to point ou the young part. Sexy, sure. Very sexy even, but young? They're grown adults regardless, and their birth years start with 19, not that you need to know why I know that. Still, feels a little judgey when I already said I wouldn't expect you to watch it. You don't see me judging you watching 200 year old long dead old guys that were far more problematic on the History Channel. Plus I think you've narrowed it down to watching a show purely based on sexy vibes and not that there's a whole ass storyline. I digress, I will be back for more organization things later today, I'm popping over to help Raf, and will probably bring Ronan to terrorize him. Older guy holding a baby, it's a surefire tactic. I get that, I do. But the thing with having a lot of loss and confusion is re-enforcing that change is normal, that it's going to happen with Shawn, with him, with his sisters as they get older. Teaching him those coping mechanisms and continuing to grow and expand on them because he does do so well. Plus Shawn isn't taking everything, it's still his room for when he comes home. He's already worked out a whole schedule of when he wants to be able to come home, Shawn isn't looking to pick up and leave and see you in the summer. Graduation party is a must, he's earned it. Think we should ask if he wants it smaller with family or to invite all his friends around.

[cagenewman]

It's one of your many skills. I gave an honest go at giving it up, or at least cutting back, because I did feel bad drinking it when you couldn't have any, but… there comes a point, you know? Especially when you're me and you're used to having a couple of cups a day on long work days. Time and a half, they can wander off whenever they want as long as I'm here to cover, and they get Monday and Tuesday off next week? I think they're saying more good things than bad, and that's not just my ego talking, I like to think I keep a pretty good work environment going. I'm… not even going to ask, but I'll hard pass, you can enjoy yourself with that one. I'm not saying that they're not being teenaged boys with other plans, but… I do think at the end of the day, it's weighing pretty heavy on both of them, I've had a lot of long talks with Colton about it over the past couple of weeks when he's been helping me with all of this Spring Fling prep, and he's definitely hurting a bit about losing his big brother. I mean, think about it. He launched an entire campaign to get us to take Shawn in when his parents moved because he didn't want to lose him, and now… it's a lot. Well, I wasn't going to make you drink bottled water out of the dog bowl, I meant for Opal, I kinda figured the lemonade was for you, goose.

[cordelianewman]

I have no plans to go back, I can have up to 24 ounces of caffeine any way I want, I'm going to enjoy every literal ounce. Plus no one asked you to give up caffeine, or alcohol, I am not someone to expect anything like that just because I had been pregnant. I'm not saying you're a bad boss but everyone gets under everyone's skin, it's human. Just saying doesn't mean there isn't ever a time. Didn't say right now. I said no judgement, there's judgement in your tone. The amount of men on tik tok then ended up watching and loving the show with girlfriends or wives but now you get left out on all the fun and nostalgic feelings. No peeking, nothing. I know, I know you're too cool to find something popular interesting. It's fine, I can be a happy little clam organizing and watching my show. I may or may not trade football in for hockey though. I know that Colton isn't thrilled about him leaving, I have eyes, darling. I'm trying to be positive so that he doesn't slip into any worse moods. He just needs to know it's not Shawn leaving forever. We'll visit him, he'll come home. Colton could go to the same college if he wants to be right back there together with him. I get he loves it here but maybe it's good for him to think outside of Maine. Who said I thought the dog bowl was for me? I know who the dog bowl is for.

[cordelianewman]

[cagenewman]

You're a life saver, I just get so busy making sure everything is set up and ready to go and that the kids have their lunches and enough money for this, I forget that I actually need to eat and caffeinate to stay awake, too. Hey, to be fair… whenever they're on shift here, they're getting paid time and a half, I don't think any of them are writing in their diaries about their mean, tyrant boss this weekend, but the sweets definitely won't hurt my cause. It's alright, babe, really. I really don't mind the quiet time with him, I'll get up here in a little bit and wander, you should just come sit back here with us and relax, or if you want to feel productive, you can help me organize order slips. I think they're just being boys… you remember what it was like to date someone on the football team, you hung around us way too much and saw how we could be. And… to be honest? I think both Shaw and Colton have a touch of the 'everything is going to change' going on with Shawn leaving so soon. I've got a water bowl back here if she needs a drink, there's some water bottles in that cooler over there, too.

[cordelianewman]

What can I say, if there's one thing I'm good at it's showing up with food at the right times. Caffeine is an important life, I don't know how I went without it and now that I can have two to three cups a day even while breastfeeding, I'm never giving it up... again. You never know, time and a half doesn't mean not writing in their journals all the shit they find irritating. That's the point of a journal, my love. Oh, I can help organize slips, but I am going to let you know I come bearing my iPad and I will be watching a show that will make me revert to squealing like a teenager again over -- well you know, we'll go with over sports. I will take no judgmental comments, stares, or anything. I will take no comments in general about it. I'll organize the slips and watch my show kicking and squealing and you can keep selling all the things. Mm you see normally I would say sure, things are changing, but they're toting around the girls like they're toddlers again, mark my words, I'm suspicious. Oh, I bought myself some of this peach lemonade from a stand not that far back, and I am in heaven. Should I be drinking more water, probably but like this is made with water.

[sabrinaclarke]

For: Open ( 0/5 ) Location: Spring Fling, Performance Stage

Sabrina had been hanging out by the stage for maybe an hour or so, taking in some of the performances taking place, a cold drink in her hand. When the current act finished, she whooped and cheered, a bright smile on her face. "Loved that," she said with a soft laugh, turning to the person beside her. "The question is, what next?" She knew she couldn't stay here all day, but she was having a good go of it.

[cordelianewman]

Cordelia had been spending a good portion of this Spring Fling just wandering around. Not really going anywhere in particular, just wandering aimlessly through the booths, through the performance areas, and seeing where she ended up. It was always something to see the town come together when they were passionate about something. A piece that she'd always love about this town. "There's more performances though I'm pretty sure they'll have them pretty much all the time to keep things busy and the atmosphere fun and happy. Depends if you're looking to relax, shop?"

[cagenewman]

You're fine, he's fine, honestly I've got one of my guys doing most of the upfront work right now so that I can just spend some time with him in the back and go over some paperwork, make sure everything's organized and in line for when I get back in the shop to finish these up. Take your time, really. Although if you could do me the tiniest favor, I could use a coffee and one of those picnic baskets from Elise's stand, whenever you make it back. I'm a little bit famished.

[cordelianewman]

I know I was late coming back yesterday, but I did bring you not only coffee, food, but dessert and today I return with more desserts. I'm going to give some treats to the staff and also let a few of them take a little bit off to give them a break. Don't need them thinking you're a tyrant over here. I'll grab Ronan too, if you want to go and explore. The boys took off with the girls again, I'm starting to get suspicious of them. Two days with two five year olds and a whole hockey team? Either someone on that team got their girlfriend pregnant and they're practicing with kids or they're plying them with endless sugar to plan our downfall. I'm not sure which is worse. Also I brought Opal, she's been practicing off leash training and is getting so good. She did almost run off once after a squirrel though and I may have had a mild panic.

[cordelianewman]

How're things going over at the booth, sorry I haven't popped back over I got tied up helping at Raf's and then had to pick up the girls. The boys stole them to go hang out with their friends. Who knew a whole pack of football players highlight would be babysitting two five year olds? Not complaining, I get we're lucky. I'm just doing some wandering around and then I'll be back. If Ronan gets really fussy let me know and I'll head back.

[jaceeverett]

It's the people, more than the town. Which isn't to say that I don't love Merrock, I really do. But would I have come back if it wasn't for you and Theo being here? I can't really say that. There's a lot of weird memories in this town, but there's also you guys, and that makes it worth it. She does, they weren't really sure about her history, either, other than she needed a good, stable, quiet home. And do you know of anyone more stable and quiet than me? Don't answer that. The quiet, maybe, the other part we won't touch. Thank you -- and it does, I think being in control of a park that's a little more smaller scale is perfect for me, you know? Less intimidating than the ones I've worked in before. Do I get like… fun mugs and t-shirts now? Cheesy hats? Macaroni fridge art all the time? Although the girls give me a fair bit of that.

[cordelianewman]

Gotta say we're one town of dedicated people. Besides having us here you have a town of people that loves it and wants the people who loves it there too. Mean look at all that have come together for this Spring Fling. I'm apprehensive about how well it will work, something tells me that even if we manage to stop this once someone has a taste for wanting something they don't stop. How've you been enjoying the fest so far?

[kenzie-newman]

spring fling - open

Wrangling children in a studio was one thing, wrangling them out in public was entirely another. Kenzie suddenly didn't envy teachers on field-trips. At least all of the kids she was keeping track of were in a specific costume and that had helped. But the performance had gone smoothly, so she really couldn't complain, and the kids parents had all the collected them to go enjoy the rest of the festival.

Kenzie's hand came up, running through her hair. "Okay, that was slightly more draining that I had expected." She mused, head tilting. "I think I need a little sweet treat."

[cordelianewman]

After collecting her little ones she had allowed them to run rampant with their brothers who had wanted to take them to hang out with their friends. It was always adorable how all the boys and their friends suddenly loved to dote on a pair of five year olds. Still, Cordelia wasn't complaining, she had spent time at the booth for Rafael for a bit, despite telling her to take it easy. Now she was wondering around, seeing what other booths and things were around for this Spring Fling.

Upon finding her sister-in-law she gave a small smile, "I think that's reasonable. Lots of options around. I saw several just wandering around."

[navyxphillips]

"It's kind of the saddest thing, right? I mean it's been awhile since I had a newborn but I remember when Sadie was tiny and she didn't do the newborn scrunch anymore I think I cried for an hour straight." eyes widened. "Please tell me Ronan still does the newborn scrunch. I need to get a snuggle in before he looses it." Another pause as she listened to her best friend intently. "I know you have a whole family there helping you and I have no doubt that Cage is helping where he can, but if you ever need the extra help, even if it's for you and Cage to get a nap together I'm only a phone call away. I'll come do whatever. Homework, dishes, taking the girls out for a couple hours." she paused. "I'd offer to shovel poo too but I can't promise you I'd actually do that so please only call me if it's a task you know I can handle." she laughed. "I'm happy for Shawn, and for you guys. I know you're all proud." she admitted. "What did he decide on with all of his options?"

[cordelianewman]

The newborn scrunch is one of the best things but it usually is gone by three months and here we are nearly 3 months and Ronan officially does not scrunch anymore. It's the saddest thing my heart has experienced as of late. I've definitely cried but that's okay, we all go through those moments. He doesn't do the scrunch but he does love a good snuggle regardless. You know I'm happy to let you watch the baby I'm far more calm about it this going around compared to when I had Rosalyn. Especially if it means I can get a nap. Don't worry we have the boys that can do all of that we wouldn't put you to work. Baltimore for football, he's able to probably end up in a starting position at some point. Major isn't decided but he's looking forward to his first year classes. Had his video chat to go over them with an advisor and is all signed up.

[dancerdarcyj]

Honestly, I haven't heard anyone say they dislike New York in the Autumn it's just so beautiful then. However, Christmas there is just as amazing. Preparing for the Spring Fling is good, I am choreographing a dance for my students at Slippers and they are doing a really good job. Preparing my own dance performance though isn't going as well, but I just need to have more confidence in myself and my performance.

[cordelianewman]

Can't imagine anyone saying they dislike it during the Autumn time, it's kind of what they're known for. Think the only time I wouldn't like it, and I mean the city, would be in the dead of summer. All that concrete surrounding you with all the heat? No thank you. Aw that's awesome, I know my girls loe being apart of dance since joining it's something they still look forward to go to. It's a vulnerable thing, I used to dance to keep my physical appearance and stamina with cheer. It's been years but dance is far more vulnerable but I'm sure you are going to be amazing.

[cagenewman]

Okay, okay, it's not a crime -- I'll do the dirty work, does that make you feel better? Besides, I'm pretty sure that Shawn's never done a single thing wrong in his life, and I mean that. I'd be more worried about Colton getting into trouble, and I love that boy with every fiber of my being, but he is me. Just… taller. Yeah, look, I wish? But it'll be okay, and this is what he wants, you know? He's going to be far from home and that's going to take a lot of getting used to, but I think it's going to be good for him, too. He gets to live his dream, that's the most important thing that we can foster as parents. No matter how much it's going to sting. I hate flying. It isn't the flying, it's the airports, it's the rushing from one spot to the next and how panicked and stressed out everyone is all the time. I like to pack up the bags, stick a cooler with ice in the backseat and hit the road, but I know that flying can be more convenient sometimes. Begrudgingly. I wouldn't mind that, I've got a bed set up in my office for him, and a stack of supplies that my crew got together for whenever he has to come spend the day with me, so you're welcome to. He can boss everyone around, make sure that they're in line and doing their work. Stink up the place a little bit, too. Okay, so… what if we don't have sex, but we find other ways to be intimate that you are comfortable with? And no, I don't mean like that, but if we get Ronan down to sleep for an hour, what if instead of going right to bed, you let me give you a back massage, or I ask you for a neck rub? Or we can get handsy and make out until we fall asleep, but we can work our way up to you feeling comfortable in your own skin again. Maybe I want to help you feel comfortable, in any way that I can. And I know that you want to work on you for you, and I'd never get in the way of that, but just so you know, in case I haven't said it lately, you're just as beautiful now as you've always been to me. Let me work on the heat and ice, okay? Let me take care of you so for half an hour tonight, you don't have to be mom, you can me my wife.

[cordelianewman]

Not really, but I accept that any and all of this is out of my control. I'm also aware we have to foster his dreams and not only has he worked hard for this but he deserves this. Because trust me, if I didn't want him leaving and really wanted to, I could make it very possible for that not to happen. Good to know I should apparently have bail money set aside for Colton as he gets closer to his late teens and twenties, I'll make note of that. The airports don't bother me, but I'm overly prepared on all things so you'd have to do a lot to break me with that. Like I come prepared, show up early, know what to do even if I haven't traveled much because you are not going to put me into a panic just because no one else thinks of any of that. There we go, it works that you shouldn't be surprised if sometime this week or next week you have your own little mini co-boss with you. Will also help so that while the girls are in school that I can go do something for myself. Get my nails done, get my hair done, something like that. That is something that could be plausible, I don't mind things like that but don't be surprised if I fall asleep. It's not that you make me feel uncomfortable, Cage. It's that I have to learn the things to make myself comfortable again, it's weird, I can't explain it. Not the being intimate, the having to be comfortable in myself to be comfortable in all of that. I know how you see me and I'm really glad that hasn't changed for you, unfortunately this is perfectly natural for women to go through after a baby. I was going to sneak snacks from my secret stash but okay, can you grab one of those fudge cookies while you're downstairs please?