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ilovebubblegum · 2 years ago

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Me, Joel and Sarah (Joel Miller X Reader)

Pairing: no-outbreak!joel miller x f!reader

Warnings: fluff, sweet joel, domestic joel, rom-com

Summary (Series): reader as Joel’s neighbor. Joel’s wife left him so Joel asked his neighbor for help in babysitting Sarah.

Summary: Pov: what it’s like living with Joel and baby Sarah.

Words count: 1.4k

A/N: I’m trying to make this as a rom-com, hope you like my new series! This is part 11 of Where It All Starts. But it can also be read as a standalone. I'm so grateful for all of you! Thank you for your comments, reblogs, and likes ❤️ There are still more chapters for this series so stay tuned! Love you!

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20

Since you and Joel started dating, you had practically lived in Joel’s house. All of your stuff was slowly moved to his house. You visited your house just to take some things and cleaned up once in a while.

It was another morning and you woke up earlier to make breakfast. You slowly got out of bed not to wake Joel up. Before you went to the kitchen downstairs, you checked up on Sarah in her bedroom.

“Morning sweetie. You’re already awake, huh?” You opened the door and saw her eyes were already open.

“Why don’t you wait with daddy while I make breakfast?” You lifted her and kissed her cheek.

You carried Sarah back to your bedroom and laid her next to Joel. Then you went to the kitchen and started making breakfast. You cooked some eggs, bacon, and toast. You didn’t forget to make Joel some coffee too. After you were done with everything, you walked upstairs to wake Joel up.

You chuckled softly when you saw Sarah sucking Joel’s nose. Apparently, Sarah thought her dad’s nose was a pacifier. You wished you could keep this image forever. You put your hand on your chest as you were touched by what you were seeing. You felt warmth watching Joel and her daughter sleeping so soundly with his big arms surrounding her little body. (I saw a video about this on tiktok and found it so cute then I thought it would be so cute if it was Pedro especially with his beautiful nose😭)

“Baby..” You chuckled as you gently shook Joel a few times.

“Huh?” Joel opened his eyes and pulled back.

Joel rubbed his wet nose and looked at his hand. He was confused. You laughed.

“Sarah just sucked on your nose.” You chuckled.

“Oh..” He just understood the reason why his nose was wet.

“She thought my nose was a pacifier?” He wiped his nose with the blanket.

“I think so.” You chuckled again.

“Hey, babygirl. It’s daddy’s nose, not a pacifier.” He raised his daughter and blew on her tummy.

Sarah woke up again and giggled. She patted her dads cheeks with both of her hands while Joel bounced her. Joel chuckled at his daughter. He could never get angry at his daughter. He loved her too much.

“Okay babygirl, I know you’re hungry so time for breakfast.” You lifted Sarah and carried her downstairs.

Joel followed you downstairs as he took his shirt and wore it. You put Sarah to sit on the baby chair then you grabbed a glass of orange juice and passed it to Joel.

“Where’s my coffee?” He refused to take the glass from your hand.

“Drink this then you get to drink your coffee.” You sighed as you shoved the glass to him.

“I don’t like it.” He insisted.

“Oh..my baby doesn't like orange juice huh. Here, let mama feed you.” You cooed at him as you tried to feed him.

He swerved and held the glass from your hand.

“Fine.” He rolled his eyes.

“Don’t be such a baby. You need vitamin C.” You patted his shoulder and walked to the dining table.

Joel stared at you while he gulped the whole glass. You smirked looking at him.

“There you go, mama’s boy.” You pinched his cheek and cooed at him.

“You do that again and you’re gonna be responsible for me bein’ late to work.” He raised his eyebrows while munching on his breakfast.

“How am I gonna be responsible?” You teased him.

“You know what I mean.” His lustful eyes moved up and down scanning your body.

“Oh my God Joel!” You gasped.

“Not in front of a baby!” Your hand moved to cover baby Sarah’s ear as she giggled.

“Your fault.” He pointed at you with his fork.

Of course you wanted morning sex with him, but you didn’t want to be the reason why he was late to work. So you had to act like you weren’t aroused by him acting like a little kid hating on orange juice with that morning face, morning voice and morning hair.

“Stop it. Just eat your breakfast.” You chuckled and shook your head.

Joel finished his breakfast and got ready to work. Since you moved in, the two of you always kissed each other goodbye before leaving to work.

“Got your keys?” You reminded him.

“Yep.” He showed the car keys to you.

“Okay, daddy’s going to work babygirl.” Joel kissed his daughter’s forehead on your arms and went out.

“Bye baby.” He just put his hand on your shoulder and left.

You froze as he shut the door close. He had never forgotten to kiss you before he left for work but why did it happen today? Not after all the teasing when you had breakfast with him.

“What the fuck?” You flinched at yourself.

“I’m sorry, sweetie. I just didn’t expect daddy to forget to kiss me.” You caressed Sarah’s head.

You sighed in disappointment as you turned your heel and walked to the living room. You put Sarah to play on the carpet and suddenly the door opened. It was Joel.

“What? Did you forget something?” You frowned and rolled your eyes.

“Yeah, I forgot somethin’.” He smirked as he walked closer to you.

“Just get your stuff and go. You’re gonna be late.” You got on your knees and passed Sarah her toy.

“I forgot this.” Joel crouched beside you and gave you a kiss.

You pouted as he cupped your cheeks.

“I got you, didn’t I?” Joel sneaked his head inside and smirked.

“Fuck you.” You cursed at him.

“I love you baby. There’s no way I forgot to kiss you. I was just teasin’ you cause you forced me to drink orange juice.” He chuckled as he leaned in and dragged your head to kiss you.

“Don’t do that again.” You hit his chest.

“Okay, I’ll see you tonight baby.” He gave you one more peck.

“Have a great day at work, mama’s boy.” You gave him another peck and smirked.

Joel chuckled as he dragged your head close, squeezed your face until you pout, then he gave you many pecks. You chuckled and caressed his head before he left to work.

“Go!” You shooed him.

You went on with your day as usual and went home earlier to prepare dinner before Joel arrived home. You were in the kitchen when you heard something drop. Your heart beat faster and you rushed to the living room to check on Sarah.

“Oh my God!” You covered your mouth as you gasped.

To your surprise, Sarah just stood up and walked baby steps on her own. Every day, Joel would let Sarah hold on to his fingers and helped her learn to walk. You and Joel had taught her and finally she could walk on her own. You were so proud and you couldn’t wait for Joel to see his daughter walking on her own.

I hope this pic can help you imagine 😭

“Oh sweetie! I’m so proud of you!” You crouched cupping her cheeks and she giggled.

“Your dad gotta see this!” You squealed at her small face.

You kept thinking how to surprise Joel in a special way. Suddenly, you had the idea to buy some balloons. So you decided to go on a short trip to the nearest store to buy some balloons. When you heard Joel’s car parked in the driveway, you ran to get the balloons and tie them to Sarah’s wrist. You put Sarah near the door so she would be the first thing he saw when he opened the door. You stood behind Sarah just in case she fell. You jumped excitedly when you heard Joel’s keys jingled.

“I’m ho-” Joel didn’t finish as his jaw dropped when he saw his daughter walking towards him.

“Babygirl!” He crouched right away and took his daughter to his arms.

“She’s a big girl!” Joel teared up.

“I know!” You hugged Joel and sandwiched Sarah.

“Daddy’s proud of you.” Joel kissed his daughter’s forehead.

Then Joel kissed you and the three of you had a family hug for a moment. Enjoying the present and making sure this precious moment was kept inside your memories forever.

To be continued…

Taglist:

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coff33andb00ks · 2 months ago

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Recipe for the Perfect Christmas 4/12

When she awoke late Sunday morning, she could feel a surge of excitement. The weather forecast had called for a light dusting of snow. She didn't linger in bed as she usually did and, just as she had as a little child, flung back the covers and hurried to the window. Jerking the curtain aside to peer out, she grinned as she took in the sight.

Snow. Not a dusting, but what looked like a good six inches. Flakes still fluttered lazily down from the sky. They disappeared on the blanket of white that coated the back yard. Natalie watched for a moment, gleeful, as the wind rustled the row of balsam trees that bordered the edge of the property and sent a cloud of snow swirling through the air. Snow was different here than in the city, with its slushy streets and grouchy population. There, the attitude was that a little snow wasn't a good enough excuse to stay at home. But here…

Letting the curtain fall, she grabbed her robe and shoved her arms through the sleeves. Her shoulders weren't sore, thankfully, though she knew it was because she hadn't had to prepare croissant dough the night before. Later, in the afternoon, she would need to go to the bakery and do it, but for now she was only concerned with getting coffee then enjoying the snow day. She would take a good shower and dress in her comfiest clothes, then start a pot of soup and bake some bread. Then she would watch a couple of Christmas movies.

And, she decided as she descended the stairs, she would drag out the Christmas decorations. Her father had even mentioned getting a tree in the next few days. She had once campaigned heavily for an artificial tree, a pre-lit one that could be reused for years and years. Now, the thought of going with him to purchase a tree and then putting it up with him made her smile. She was looking forward to the little traditions. She was looking forward to help him untangle the strands of lights, to listening to the history of the old family ornaments as they hung them on the tree. She was even looking forward to him complaining that trees just weren't the same as when he'd been a boy, when apparently the entire county had set off into the woods to find and cut down their own trees.

Entering the kitchen, she stopped short and blinked in shock. Her father was there, at the table. Not dressed for church but in sweatpants and a sweatshirt, his feet in the ridiculous red fluffy slippers he preferred. There was a cup of coffee and his breakfast plate in front of him. There was a smile on his face.

And, sitting across from him, also with a cup of coffee and a plate, was Oscar.

"Good morning, sugar," Mark greeted her, lifting his cup.

"Morning," she said, wrapping the front of her robe around her and fumbling to tie the belt. "Good morning, Oscar…"

He smiled and wiped his face with a napkin. "Good morning."

"They canceled church," her father announced. "Looks like I'm staying home all day."

Natalie nodded, eyes still on Oscar. At the kitchen table. Eating breakfast with her father. He was somewhat dressed for the weather, and she supposed he'd taken his boots off at the door. "I see."

"The streets are a mess," Oscar said, cutting into his pancakes.

"Saw him outside with that little pup of his," Mark said.

"He made me come in to eat."

"Yeah, really twisted your arm." Mark chuckled. "I put the rest of the pancakes and the bacon in the oven to stay warm, sugar."

"Did you leave Penny outside?" she asked, finally moving from the doorway. Spying the dog lying on the rug in front of the sink, she smiled.

"I'd have left Oscar out in the snow before I left her."

"Me, too," Oscar said.

"So you two are doing alright?" After bending to give Penny a head rub, she moved to fix herself a cup of coffee. She hadn't seen Oscar since the day he'd told her about the dog. At least, not to talk to.

"She's great."

"How was the vet?" She looked at the dog, who seemed to be in perfect health. Her coat was sleek, and she could see that it had a tendency to be shaggy. Even though it had only been four days since she'd seen the dog in Oscar's truck, she could tell Penny was being well looked after. She was still a little scrawny, but Natalie had an inkling she would be at a healthy weight before Christmas.

Penny's brown eyes shone up at her, and Natalie would have sworn the dog smiled.

"Fine. Got her shots and everything. She didn't have a microchip, and the vet said he hadn't heard of anyone missing a dog like her, so she's mine now." Oscar's fork gently clattered against his plate. "She's going the week after Christmas to get fixed. Oh, and I had her chipped, just in case she decides to run off."

Natalie glanced over to see him smiling fondly at the dog, who'd curled up and gone back to sleep. She doubted the dog would leave what was obviously the perfect, doting owner. Leaning against the counter, she sipped her coffee, still perturbed that he was there. When he had come to dinner, they had eaten in the dining room. The kitchen was more intimate, she thought. But she had to remind herself that it wasn't her house. If her father was comfortable enough with the man to let him sit in his kitchen, she had no option but to accept it. Not that Oscar's presence really bothered her. What bothered her was how she felt around him.

A little off. She couldn't describe it, really, just that she was a little off. Her stomach would do a funny jump when he graced her with one of his smiles. Listening to his laugh made her feel a tiny bit weak. And when he spoke it was like her ears could hear only his voice. And the few times he had sang had made all of that worse. She wasn't used to feeling like that around a man. Not even around Pierre, who she had known for years and had fallen in and out of love with. Rather, the man she had thought she'd loved.

"What are your plans today, sweetie?" her father asked.

Dragged from her thoughts, she saw that her coffee cup was empty and moved to fix another. "Not much. Soup and bread and maybe some movies. I thought I'd pull out some of the Christmas decorations."

He nodded. "Guess we can go look for a tree this week."

"I'd like that."

"Are you gonna decorate for Max?"

Natalie tried to tune out Oscar's reply, but that was impossible. She listened as he said that yes he would be decorating. She listened as he explained there was only a little more work to be done on the house, mostly embellishments like trim and painting the bedrooms. Eve and Max had ordered furniture that was supposed to start being delivered that week and he would have to start arranging as well. Getting a plate and fork, she helped herself to bacon and pancakes, carrying the last of both to the table for her father and Oscar.

Penny lifted her head, sniffing inquisitively, then laid it down on her paws with a heavy sigh.

She tried not to notice that Oscar tore a piece of bacon in half and then lowered his hand. Smiling when the dog stood and slowly approached the table, she watched the bacon disappear then watched his hand lovingly rub Penny's head. Penny's tail wagged with joy, and when she realized there would be no more bacon, she leaned against his leg.

"I can't wait to see the old place done up for Christmas again," her father was saying when she pulled out a chair and sat down. "Fernando and Beth used to make it so beautiful. Nothing fancy or anything, just candles in the windows. Lights on the porch and around the roof. And three trees."

"In the living room window and the two turret windows upstairs?" Oscar asked with a grin.

"Yep, exactly that. How did you know?"

"It's what Eve wants to do." He chuckled. "She brought a ton of boxes yesterday filled with candles and lights. She's got sketches of what she wants me to do."

"Did they drive back last night?"

"No, they're still here. They were still sleeping when I left." Oscar leaned slightly to look at the clock on the microwave. "Grace is probably waking them up to see the snow now."

"I hope they can get back to Fairview safely," Mark said.

"Me and Max don't like driving in snow," Oscar admitted with a quick grin. "Eve doesn't like it either. If I know them, they'll probably stay until tomorrow."

"Doesn't the girl have school?"

"Half days. Eve's getting her transferred to here the week before winter break." Oscar nudged his empty plate away and reached for his coffee. "That's one reason Max brings her down with him all the time, so she can at least know the other kids by sight."

Mark nodded. "That's smart."

"Don't tell him that, he's already got a big enough ego."

Muffling a laugh into her cup, Natalie gave her head a small shake. From what she had seen, neither Oscar nor his friend had a big ego. Finishing her pancake, she wiped her mouth with a paper napkin. "I'll get the dishes after I get dressed," she told her father, carrying her cup to the coffeepot for more. "Good to see you, Oscar."

"You, too," he said, pushing back his chair as she left the kitchen.

She lingered in the shower, then took the time to blow dry and braid her hair before pulling on her fleece-lined leggings and oversized sweatshirt. Slipping a pair of fuzzy striped socks onto her feet, she glanced at her phone and saw a message.

Pierre.

She bit her lip and opened the message, reading it twice before locking her phone and tossing it onto the bed.

I think you're still being unreasonable. I can take care of you, you don't need a job. Most women would leap at the chance to not have to work. Don't be stupid, Nattie.

She hated that nickname. She hated the condescending words. She hated that she had wasted years of her life with him. Hated that she had spent so many hours in the past weeks trying to explain her point of few and feelings, only for them to be brushed away like unimportant dust.

She hated him, she decided, snatching her phone up and firing off a request that he not contact her again. She even went so far as to delete him from her contacts. And, as laughter from downstairs filtered up to her room, she swiped to delete the messages, too, so she wouldn't be tempted to send him a message when a late night made her sentimental.

When she got downstairs she saw her father in the living room, in his chair. His bad leg was propped up on an ottoman, and he had his tablet on, watching a youtube video.. Pausing in the doorway, she opened her mouth to tell him she was going to make bread and soup when she saw the small dog sitting almost politely in the other armchair.

"Mom would have a fit," she said. "No animals on the furniture."

"No, that was just the cat," her father told her, glancing at her over his reading glasses.

Natalie smiled, thinking of the hyperactive cat she'd had as a child. "Did she follow you in here?"

"Yeah." He turned his attention back to the tablet.

She was about to ask if Oscar had left her with him for a particular reason, then heard the gentle clink of dishes from the kitchen. Leaving the doorway, she went into the kitchen, sighing when she saw Oscar at the sink. Most of the dishes had already been washed and were on the rack, and she grabbed a clean dishtowel from the drawer before approaching the sink. "You didn't have to."

"I know," he said. The sleeves of his gray sweatshirt, and the red flannel shirt beneath it, were rolled up to his elbows. "Least I can do."

"The least you could do would be saying 'thanks' and leaving." As soon as the words were out of her mouth she knew they could be misconstrued. Taking a plate to dry, she sighed. "Not that I'm trying to kick you out. Dad likes you. And between you and me, I think he loves Penny."

"Are you saying you don't like me?" he asked.

"No!"

"So you don't like me."

"No, that's not what I'm saying. I like you," she promised.

He gently bumped her arm with his. "It didn't hurt to admit that, did it?"

"Ugh." She rolled her eyes and bumped his arm in return. "And earlier I was thinking that you don't have a big ego."

"I don't," he said, nudging her shoulder with his bicep.

"Please, I'm surprised your head can fit through the door," she snorted, nudging him back.

"My ego's stored in my butt, thank you." He flicked soap bubbles towards her, grinning.

She leaned back slightly to check, then nodded. "Mmhmm, I see."

"Did you just check out my ass?" He flicked more bubbles at her.

Natalie shook the water off a fork, making sure to aim it at him. "You brought it up."

"I have to, it's attached."

A surprise bark of laughter escaped her, and she dropped the fork on the counter. "Oh my god, that was corny."

"Made you laugh," he pointed out, snorting on a chuckle.

"I appreciate that." Picking up the fork, she dried it. "But I still say you've got to have a big ego."

"I really don't," he insisted. "I know I'm a complete dork. I'm sometimes socially awkward, I'm self-conscious, and I second-guess myself all the time."

"I find that hard to believe," she said. "I know I've only known you for… A week?"

"Has it only been a week?" He stopped washing the plate he was holding and let it slip back into the soapy water. "Yeah, we met at the bonfire."

"Seems like longer than a week," she murmured. Feeling his eyes on her, she moistened her lips. "Anyway, you always seem comfortable with yourself. Like you know what you want and how to go about getting it. I guess I could be wrong, and I probably see it because I don't know how to go about anything."

"Sure you do."

"I really don't. I just go along and do what I think people around me expect me to do."

"How do you mean?"

"Like… Coffee. I really prefer the powdered creamer. You know, the cheap, probably has some chemical in it that'll eventually kill me stuff?" She set the dishtowel down and gathered the flatware to put in the drawer. "I love it. Coffee doesn't taste right without it. My friends at work always got lattes with almond or soy milk and no-fat whip or whatever, so I did the same thing. I didn't want to be viewed as weird. Or judged because I like basic stuff. I just want regular coffee with a little creamer and some sugar and sometimes a little flavoring. But I never got it because…"

"Because you were worried they wouldn't like you?"

"No, not that." She sighed, moving back to stack the plates so she could put them away. "I never got it because I didn't want them to think I was the simple country girl."

"You wanted to fit in."

"Exactly."

"There's nothing wrong with that. Everyone wants to fit in."

"Dad gets almond milk just for me," she whispered, glancing at the door to make sure her father wasn't coming in to fuss at her for lying to him. Setting the plates down next to the rack, she bounced the toe of one foot against the floor. "Pierre only used it, and I said I'd started using it, and now—"

"Pierre?"

Damn it. Drawing in a clear breath, she nodded. "Yeah." She gestured lamely, trying to remember what she had said to him the last time they'd spoken. "He's the reason I'm not ready to dance in the rain."

"I've got one of those, too." He smiled. "Lauren."

"Lauren?"

"Ex."

"I didn't know you were with someone."

"I'm not, anymore." He seemed so at-ease about it. As though there weren't bitter feelings. And, when he smiled, she understood there weren't. "We both realized it wasn't the happily-ever-after we'd hoped it would be and split before things could get bad."

"That's both sad and sweet," she said. She wished she'd been smart enough to realize the same before it had all turned to hostility. "I'm sorry it didn't work out for you, Oscar."

"I am too. But," he said, pulling the plug in the sink and turning on the water to rinse his hands, "I'm happy for the time we had together. I still think she's a great woman, and I consider her a friend."

"That's great," she said. And she meant it. She wondered if, in the future, she would still consider Pierre a friend. She doubted it and wondered if that meant she weren't a good person.

"I'm sorry it didn't work out with Pierre," he said softly, turning off the water.

Handing over the dishtowel, she sighed. "I'm not."

"You're not?"

"He showed his true colors when things went to hell for me."

"Was it him that called the other day?" he asked, draping the towel over the edge of the sink.

She nodded. She didn't want to remember how disappointed she had been that her moments with Oscar had been ruined. "Yeah, that was him."

"It's none of my business," he said, unrolling his sleeves. "But do you—"

From the pocket of his jeans came a faint buzzing. With a sigh he pulled out his phone and looked at the screen.

Natalie held her breath, wondering if he would complete the question or let the call interrupt their talk. She wasn't sure yet which option she wanted. On the one hand, she hated this rehashing of her feelings that she wasn't good enough, that she was stupid. On the other, it was almost cathartic, because he seemed to understand. So few people did. Even those that cared couldn't understand. She didn't know if he cared, or if were just being a good, considerate person. She just knew she appreciated his empathetic ear.

"It's Max," he said, shoving his phone back into his pocket.

"It could be an emergency."

"If it was an emergency, Eve would be calling. Max would be too busy freaking out. I'll call him back in a few minutes."

She had an inkling he wouldn't start to ask if she didn't prompt him. She sighed, watching him button the cuffs of his red flannel before tugging down the sleeves of his sweater. His hands fell, and after watching his fingers drum the edge of the counter, she lifted her head to meet his eyes. "What's none of your business?"

"Do you still love him?"

"No." She frowned, not expecting the answer to come so quickly. Surprised at the sudden realization that she didn't, she exhaled a shaky breath. "And now I'm away and looking back, I don't think I ever did."

"Really?"

"I loved the idea of being in love." Taking the stack of plates, she stepped away and opened the cabinet door. "And everyone around me was getting their mate, you know? Everyone was getting engaged or married. Susie and Estie have been together forever, but they didn't get married until five years ago. I needed a date and asked Pierre, and then it was just…"

Oscar didn't speak while she sighed, but he did move over and take the plates from her, reaching up to set them in the cabinet. Closing the door gently, he dropped his hand to her shoulder and gave a gentle, understanding squeeze.

She felt the burn of tears. "It was just easy. He was successful, he was okay-looking, and he liked me. Then everyone started having babies and, well, I've always wanted kids. So I let things get more serious with him. And when he proposed last year, I said yes. Now I realize I said yes because I wanted the big wedding and for Dad to walk me down the aisle and so I could start having the kids I'd dreamed of, and that he was just there. I would have said yes to whoever asked."

Oscar's hand slid away and she gasped when he reached around her. She half-expected him to embrace her but he didn't, instead plucking a paper napkin from the holder on the counter. He slipped it into her hand then took a small step away, leaning against the counter. She knew he was watching her and raised the napkin to catch the tears before they could fall. But she couldn't catch the words that began to spill out.

"I've struggled with work since Covid. I was a staff writer on a paper and to save money they cut a lot of us. I found a spot at a local magazine and things were okay, but I had to take a pay cut. Pierre asked me to move in with him then, and things were okay. Then a few months ago the magazine I was working for folded. We didn't even know that the issue we were putting together would be the last until they called everyone in for a staff meeting. I had spent what little savings I had on wedding stuff, but I figured… Hey, I'm a writer, it'll be easy to find a job." She sniffed. "That turned out to be a lie. No one wants a staff writer anymore, they want to hire freelance people. Or get AI to do it. So I tried to find something else. But there was nothing. At least, nothing I could do, because all I have is a degree in English. I thought about teaching, but I don't have the level of education needed, and I'm not eligible for financial aid so I can't go back to school."

He remained silent, and when she glanced at him she saw compassion in his eyes.

"He wanted me to just focus on the wedding. We'd get married and I could be a housewife. I could stay at home and have babies and have his supper on the table when he got home at night. I know millions of women do that every day, and I think they're amazing. But it's not for me. At least, the picture he painted wasn't for me." She frowned, thinking of the archaic, misogynistic life he had dreamed up for them. "He just assumed I'd be grateful. He actually said that. That I should be grateful he was giving me every woman's dream. But… It wasn't my dream."

"What's your dream?" Oscar asked gently.

"I don't know anymore. I just know I don't want to be a character in some 1950s sitcom, only meant to care about the roast in the oven or the dry cleaning. I don't want that kind of marriage, you know?"

"You want a partnership."

"Exactly!" Whirling to face him, she nodded. "I want fifty-fifty. I don't want all of one thing to be my problem or his, I want us to share the work. It's what I grew up around. Mom and Dad were partners in everything, home and work. Some of my friends thought it was weird that Dad would fix dinner sometimes, or that Mom would be outside changing the oil in the car, but it seemed perfect to me. Even looking back now, it was perfect. Yeah, there were times they got stressed, and they argued about things, but they always came together in the end. Maybe I'm stupid and naïve, but that's what I want."

"You're not stupid." He frowned. "It's not stupid to want that, Natalie."

"Pierre thought it was," she muttered.

"Pierre's an asshole."

Natalie's jaw dropped.

"Sorry," he sighed. Then, making a face, he shook his head. "Wait, no, I'm not sorry. I don't know the guy, but he sounds like an absolute cunt."

"Oh my god," she breathed. "That's exactly what Dad calls him."

"Mark didn't like him?"

"He couldn't stand him."

"And you still got engaged to the guy?" Oscar whistled under his breath. "Wow, maybe you are a little stupid."

Gasping, she threw the napkin at him. Then, to her surprise, she began to laugh as he batted it back to her. Back and forth the napkin went, until he hit it too hard and it soared over her head. Gasping again, this time with breathlessness, she leaned against the counter. "That felt great."

"Laughter is the best medicine." He bent to get the napkin and crumpled it into a ball. "You should laugh as much as you can."

"Some days that's hard."

"Just think of raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens."

"And bright copper kettles and warm, woolen mittens?"

"That's the ticket," he said with a grin.

"Thank you, Oscar."

"For what? Making you laugh or calling you stupid?"

"Both, and for listening to me talk. I'm sorry for just unloading all that on you."

"You needed to unload," he said with a shrug. Reaching into his pocket, he drew out his phone and glanced at the screen.

"Is Max calling you again?"

"Texting. The kids want to do a snowball fight." He looked at her, and she could sense the question lingering between them.

"I haven't had a snowball fight in years."

"It's girls against boys," he said. "Girls are outnumbered."

"That is so sexist and unfair."

"You want to come?"

"Yes, because the numbers need to be even. Just let me get bundled up.."

Huddled behind the bush, Oscar grabbed Lucas's hand before he could wade through the snow towards his mother and sister. "Hang on," he said, tugging the boy back to safety just as a snowball whizzed by his head. It landed with a smack on the slat of the fence around the back yard. "We've got to be sneaky."

"'Neaky," Lucas agreed, nodding his head. "Daddy."

Leaning to peer around the edge of the bush, Oscar saw Max disappearing around the front corner of the house. He knew the plan. He and Lucas were supposed to be a distraction so Max could attack from behind. "Yeah, Daddy's sneaky."

"Nattie."

"No, I don't think Natalie's sneaky," he said, peering over the top of the bush. Ducking his head when he saw a perfectly aimed snowball sailing right towards him, he grunted. Eve and Grace were brutal. And they had the best weapon in their arsenal: Natalie. She had immediately dragged the other warriors – because they weren't girls – into a conference when they'd gotten to the house, and he had only caught the words 'strategy', 'plan', and 'idiots'. He could only hope that he wasn't included in the part about idiots, though he had a sinking feeling he was.

And she'd brought reinforcements. Susie had arrived with Michael and Hannah. Lilli had shown up with George, who'd pulled out actual battle plans. Esteban came a few minutes after his wife and kids, called George a moron, then called on Pato and Lando. Amira had climbed out of Pato's truck, and those two kept disappearing behind a tree to kiss instead of actually fight. Carlos and Sasha were there, too, but for some reason they didn't participate, instead watching the battle from the relative safety of the back porch.

Ducking as a snowball thrown by Lilli came perilously close to hitting him, he dragged Lucas back again. "She's just a pro at this."

"Nattie," Lucas said again.

"Yeah, Natalie."

Lucas giggled and pulled away from Oscar. Turning, Oscar saw Natalie leaning against the nearby oak tree. With a groan he watched Lucas slowly make his way through the snow to her, somehow managing to not be hit by any of the snowballs flung from the each side.

"Lucas," he hissed under his breath. "You're deserting me?!"

"Nattie!" The boy giggled, lifting his arms as soon as he was within reach of her. "Daddy 'neaky!"

"Lucas, don't!"

"Daddy's sneaky?" she asked, sending Oscar a look while lifting the boy to her hip.

"Daddy run." Lucas pointed to the corner of the fence, where Max's footprints were still visible in the snow. "'Neaky."

"It's an ambush!" Natalie hollered, darting out from behind the tree. "Behind you!"

Oscar stayed where he was, laughing as chaos descended upon them all. Snowballs landed, George yelped, Max practically cackled, and somehow Lando ended up face down in the snow. He finally stood, just in time to see Hannah heave a large snowball directed at her father's face. There were yells of outrage, and he wasn't sure who threw the two snowballs that pelted him in the face.

"Looks like it's a wrestling match," Natalie said. Laughing when he gaped at her, she set Lucas down, eyes on the boy as he began the arduous task of toddling through the snow towards his parents and sister. Once he'd fallen into the pile of bodies and was laughing, too, she twirled in the gently falling snow, her long braid falling over her shoulder.

It struck a chord. Touched a memory. "Hey," he said suddenly. "I've got something you might want."

"Oh?" she asked, eyes widening slightly as she stopped in front of him.

A snowball slammed into the back of her head and, from near the fence, came Susie's shouted apology as Natalie collapsed dramatically.

Chuckling, Oscar held out his hand to help her up.

"It's something I found when I was up in the attic." Snorting when her eyes widened further, he hauled her to her feet. "It's a couple pictures, not something gross."

"Pictures?" She kept her hand into his and stepped through the snow to the back porch.

"Yeah. It was a box with pictures of the town from a while back. Luckily they all had names or places on the back, or I'd have had to bring them all to your dad." He felt her hand squeeze his through their gloves and smiled as they mounted the steps. Her hand slid away while they stomped the snow off their boots, and he opened the door, motioning for her to go in first while he pulled off his gloves.

Penny darted out, yipping, giving Natalie's ankles a quick sniff before going to check out the snow. She made it down one step before snorting and turning to hurry back into the house. After kicking off his boots inside the door, Oscar led Natalie into the living room.

She pulled off her gloves. "How far back are they?"

"Going by what I saw, probably the 80s?" Oscar grabbed the box from the mantle and lifted the lid. The ones he had known would interest her were at the top, separated from the others by a slip of paper. Handing them over to her, he closed the lid and pushed the box back onto the mantle.

"That's Mom," she whispered, staring at the first photo.

"I thought it was. I didn't know her maiden name, but I knew her name was Marie."

"I've never seen this." Natalie sank onto the arm of the couch. "I wonder if she ever did…"

"I'm guessing they're pictures Mr. or Mrs. Alonso took," he said. He unzipped his coat, eyes on her as she stared at the photo. "You look like her."

"You think so?" She looked pleased at the thought. "I always thought she was beautiful."

"She was," he agreed.

She was silent while going through the pictures. Smiling, exhaling breaths of laughter, she studied each one, turning them over to read the note on the back. When she had finished she lifted her head and her eyes shone with unshed tears. "Oscar, these are wonderful. Can I keep them?"

"Of course."

"After Mom died her friends put together a little photo album of her through the years. Pictures they'd taken, you know. I treasure it. And I'll treasure these. I can't wait to go show Dad." She swiped at her eyes. "I'm sorry."

"You're fine," he whispered, glancing around for the pack of tissues that Eve had to have set somewhere. He found it on the coffee table next to the stack of coloring books Grace had brought. Handing them over, he waited until she'd dried her eyes. "I'm gonna try to get the rest to the people who are in them, or something. There's pictures of Main Street that someone would probably want."

Nodding, she unzipped her coat and carefully tucked the photos into the inner pocket. "Thank you so much, Oscar."

"You're welcome."

"I'm gonna go. I need to show them to Dad." She stood.

"I'll walk you back."

"You sure your blood won't freeze?" There was a playful gleam in her eyes as she headed to the back door. She stopped suddenly, bending to give Penny a rub.

"I'm fine."

"I just thought I'd ask. You can't drive in snow, you expect the streets to be clear like they are in movies…" Waiting while he put his boots on, she pulled her gloves on. "Next you'll tell me you don't know how to build a snowman."

"I know how to build a snowman," he scoffed, hoping she wouldn't ask him to prove it.

"How about snow angels?" she asked, tugging her hat down firmly.

"That's just jumping jacks laying down," he told her.

"I'll allow it," she sighed.

The back door opened and the kids spilled in, pink cheeked and giggling. Standing aside until everyone else had come inside, Oscar smiled at the laughter and chatter that filled the kitchen. The women buzzed around, gathering mugs and starting hot chocolate while Lando started a FaceTime call with Maddie to check in, passing his phone around so her friends could speak to her. Penny went from person to person, sniffing and wagging her tail.

"Girls' night tomorrow," Lilli insisted, dropping marshmallows into the bottom of each mug. "I'll do the charcuterie."

Dizzied by the overlapping chatter of the women as they planned their girls' night, Oscar sidled out of the way, gathering the kids' coats to hang up. Lando flashed him a grin, moving to help.

"Maddie's on bed rest isn't she?" Oscar asked.

"Yeah, but I think she'd borrow her mom's gun and shoot me if I tried to stop her from going," Lando muttered. "You busy tomorrow night? We can meet up and hang?"

"I don't have—"

"We'll go to Carlos's. He's got the most room," Lando decided. "I'll text you tomorrow with details. Hey, Carlos!"

It was loud and chaotic, but Oscar found himself still smiling as he sipped his cocoa. Natalie met his eyes across the kitchen and when he lifted his eyebrows she nodded.

Eve stopped him at the door. "Did you give her the pictures you found?"

"He did," Natalie said from behind him. "I'm heading home now so I can show them to Dad."

"If we find more we'll let you know." Eve rolled her eyes when Oscar cleared his throat. "I'm sorry. If he finds more, he will let you know."

"Thanks." Natalie grinned.

"Next time it snows, we'll have another fight." Eve leaned to take Lucas's empty mug.

"It's a date. As long as someone doesn't cheat."

Oscar threw up his hands. "That was Max."

"I think he learned his lesson." Eve smiled sweetly. "I'm going to light the fireplace. See you!"

"Bye," Natalie said, then skipped down the steps.

A chorus of goodbyes rang out as Oscar bent to clip Penny's leash to her collar.

Oscar followed Natalie, not minding the lack of conversation as they walked along the sidewalk, Penny between them. At least, he supposed it was the sidewalk. A snowplow had been through, and what had once been the narrow sidewalk was now a steady pile of snow. When they reached the end of the block he caught Natalie's arm as she stepped over and onto the street. There was no traffic so they stuck to the edge of the street. He could see snowmen on front lawns, evidence of sledding along sloped driveways.

"Do you think it'll stop snowing?" she asked when they neared her house.

As though an answer, the snow began to thicken. Oscar stopped and tipped his head back. She giggled, steps slowing, and gave a slow twirl.

"Not the same as the rain," she said softly. Snowflakes clung to her hat. To her braid. To her eyelashes. One landed on the end of her nose and he watched it melt.

"I guess. But it's special in its own way."

"Have you ever danced in the snow?"

He shook his head. "Never got the chance."

"Maybe you should."

He looked on indulgently, a smile pulling at his lips as she twirled and spun. Penny barked, tugging on the leash, and he let go, watching the dog bound around Natalie. The snow swirled and danced around them and he was reminded of the snow globes his mother collected, with their colorful figures seeming to sway each time he shook them. He felt a little dizzy just watching, as he had always thought the figures in the snow globes would be after a vigorous shaking.

A giggle rang out from Natalie, and he had the sensation of something slipping into place. Something new and strange but familiar and comfortable at the same time. Like finding a favorite shirt he had thought he'd discarded. Like the first thunderstorm in the summertime.

Like something he hadn't felt in a long time.

Natalie stopped, eyes shining brightly as she bent to scoop Penny up.

His stomach dipped when she turned to face him, his dog snuggling close to her chest. Certain she could hear his heartbeat despite the small distance between them, he swallowed. "I don't think it's gonna stop snowing for a while."

Her eyes sparked, growing luminous as Penny tucked her head beneath her chin. "I hope it doesn't."

#f1 #oscar piastri #f1 imagine #oscar piastri imagine #my writings > op > xmas #oscar piastri x oc #f1 x oc

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piratesandcobras · 3 months ago

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Another recipe from the dragon age cookbook here. These fereldan scones are so moist and delicious I had to share em next.

Fereldan Hearty Scones

yield 12 SCONES

Cook time 30 MINUTES (INCLUDING BAKING

Dificulty AVERAGE

Ingredients

4 cups plus 2 tablespoons fiour, plus more for the counter 5 teaspoons baking powder, a teaspoon baking soda, a teaspoon salt, 7 teaspoons sugar, 2 sticks plus tablespoons cold butter, cut into smal cubes 2 ounces Cheddar cheese plus more for sprinkling 12 strips crispy bacon, crumbled 1 and half cups buttermilk , 1 egg

Preheat the oven to 350"F

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and sugar to a bowl and combine thoroughly.

Add the buter, and stir well with a fork to combine.

Add the cheese, bacon, and buttermik. then knead by hand until the mixture is just beginning to hold together as a loose dough.

Use a rolling pin roll it out the dough about l inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Cut into rough triangles with a small sharp knife and set the pieces of dough on the baking sheet

Beat the egg in a cup, and brush it over the tops ot the scones Sprinkle with cheese as desired Set the baking sheet in the oven , and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the scones are firm.

Remove the scones from the oven. and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before consuming.

#dragon age inquisition #dragon age 2 #dragon age origins #dragon age the veilguard #dai #dao #da2 #da veilguard #dragon age #cooking #food #recipes #cookbook

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idontknowreallywhy · 8 months ago

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WIP Wednesday

A very silly thing based on a silly idea I had about how the Tracys might approach food which has already caused two people to declare they felt physically unwell at the thought of it…

He’s an active boy and needs the calories… honest…

🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟

“Howdie and welcome to Top Friez! What can I get y’all?”

“May I have a Tomcat fries but no pickles please? Oh, and an F-14 lemonade?”

“Sure, darlin’. And for yooou…oooh… uh… hi!”

‘Another one bites the dust’ Estera noted to herself and pressed her tongue hard against the back of her teeth in an effort not to laugh out loud at the poor woman. Scott, as ever, gave the appearance of not having noticed the waiting staff dissolving into jelly in front of him.

“I’ll get a Darkstar Shake, and a Maverick’s Madness with everything, please.”

The waitress paused, her finger hovering above the tablet.

“E-everything?”

“Everything.” Scott insisted with a cheeky smile and the waitress collapsed into giggles.

“Wow I don’t think there’s a button for that! You might need to give me a minute to tick all the boxes…”

“Take as much time as you need.”

The waitress started tapping frantically and Estera paused mid-eyeroll to double-check the full list of toppings.

“Scott you cannot have EVERYTHING… there must be at least 12 different sauce options alone not to mention all these cheeses and…”

“I’ve considered the options and made my choice.”

“But… bbq pulled pork, beef brisket AND shredded Asian chicken? Together?!”

“Yep.”

“AND BACON?”

“Oh, good point” He touched the waitress lightly on the elbow and apologised when she leapt into the air: “I’m so sorry, could I get extra bacon please.”

The waitress kept an admirably straight face as she scrolled back to make a note.

“Surely not 4 variants of slaw, Scott… that’s… they’ll clash…”

“Complement.”

“Curdle more like. Oh and they’re going to go so very very nasty with the gravy.”

“Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.”

“I’m pretty sure I won’t get a chance and nor will you because you’ll be arrested for crimes against gastronomy any minute now.”

“Welcome to the Land of the Free, my friend” Scott responded with a grand sweep of an arm “There are no such crimes here.”

🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟🍟

#thunderbirds are go #thunderbirds #thunderbirds fanfiction #idontknowreallywhy fanfic #wip wednesday #Scott Tracy #tb estera #ill-advised menu choices #man Vs food has nothing on Tracy Vs food #idontknowreallywhy wip

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angelkin-food-cake · 1 year ago

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Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Puff Pastry Twists

½ cup light or dark brown sugar

1-2 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary, using to your taste

kosher salt and black pepper.

2 sheets (1 box) frozen puff pastry, thawed

1 egg, beaten

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)

1-2 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)

24 strips thin cut bacon, or 12 sticks of thicker bacon, halved

1. Preheat oven to 375° F. Line 2 baking sheets with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly rub each rack with olive oil.

In a shallow bowl, combine the brown sugar, rosemary, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.

Place both sheets of pastry on a lightly floured counter. Brush the surface of each with a beaten egg. Evenly sprinkle about 1/2 cup of cheese over each sheet, then sprinkle with cayenne. Dust a rolling pin lightly with flour and roll the rolling pin over the cheese, gently pressing the cheese into the pastry. Fold the pastry in half, then cut each into 12 (1/2 inch) wide strips. Pinch the ends to seal, then gently twist each strip several times to enclose the cheese. It's ok if some of the cheese falls out.

Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around the twisted pastry. Repeat with the remaining twists. Dredge the twist through the brown sugar mix, tossing to coat, placing the twist on the prepared baking sheet as you go.

Bake 30 to 50 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through. My bacon took 50 minutes to cook, start checking the twists at around 30 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

#angelkin #food #appetizer #snack #brown sugar #egg #cheese #cayenne pepper #meat #pork #bacon #dogkin #dragonkin #elfkin #herokin #merkin #moutainkin #pantherkin #winter

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jeusussavearmyveteran1205 · 6 months ago

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Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon onion powder

1 pound cooked bacon, cut into pieces

8 eggs

1 cup heavy whipping cream

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

1 (12 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

DirectionsInstructions Checklist

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir beef with garlic and onion powder until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard grease.

Step 3

Spread beef onto the bottom of a 9x13-inch casserole pan. Stir in bacon pieces.

Step 4

Whisk eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until well combined. Stir in 8 ounces Cheddar cheese.

Step 5

Pour egg mixture over the beef and bacon. Top with the remaining 4 ounces cheese.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown on top, 30 to 35 minutes.

#food

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thethinkingaurora · 1 year ago

Note

Hey you, the one with the 'cool thing you think about but don't get to talk about as much as you'd like to.' What is one thing you want to talk about, in as much detail as you'd like (I will read all of it).

Ok one thing that I really think is cool, hmmmmm

This happens every time I’m asked “what do you like” my brain just instantly vacates everything I do, it’s just like “Error 404: Life Experiences not found”

Hmmmmmm, I’d probably say ciphers/encryption

Ok so encryption and ciphers, simple in concept but holy hell does this shit get complex and fun fast

I first found out about them from the Secret Breakers book series (I love it, would definitely recommend), and then I went to a CTYI (Centre for Talented Youth Ireland) course and learned more about them and how they work, in between these two events I also did a load of research and got really hyper fixated on them, I then proceeded to learn more and begin creating my own and making my own little puzzles and stuff

Ok so encipherment and encryption both do a similar job, obfuscate a message to hide it, they were used in the World Wars to send messages to people in enemy lines on both sides (most notably the Enigma Machine), encryption often uses mathematics and numbers linked in certain ways to hide things, ciphers are a little different in the way they operate, ciphers are obfuscations but it’s easier to hide that they are obfuscations as they can often look like normal text

For example, the Baconian cipher uses something similar to binary and highlighted text to hide a message, so 00000 is A, 00001 is B, 00010 is C, so on, so where there is a one you highlight the letter

So to hide the word “hi” you need at least 10 letters, but less that 15, so “hello there” is our ten letters and hi translates to 00111 01000, so we highlight the letters specified, which gives us “hello there” (the baconian cipher was made by Sir Francis Bacon and he has many written letters with hidden messages in them, that’s all I can remember off the top of my head)

But using encryption (for example Base64) “hi” would become “aGk=“ which is much more obvious that it is a hidden message

I’ll explain how encryption is used in real life somewhat in a reblog later, I just want to get back to where I was as uI just accidentally deleted a huge chunk of what I had typed (as in I opened Google to check my spelling and tumblr decided it would be the perfect time to restart, I’m typing this on my phone)

Ok so onto the ciphers, the one that I really really like

So ciphers have been in use for millennia, I’ll start with a common enough one, The Polybius Square

The Polybius Square was created by an Ancient Greek scholar called Polybius(yeah he tried really hard when naming his cipher), the cipher is a simple enough substitution cipher (a substitution cipher is where certain letters or symbols are replaced by others things), where letters are replaced using 2 digits which mark there position on the square

Which looks like this, it goes like this 11=A, 12=B, 13=C, 14=D, 15=E, 21=F, and so on, you’ll notice that in 24, instead of a single letter is both “i” and “j” simply for the reason that you can’t make a square out of 26 boxes

Early ciphers were often only used by themselves but later they were used together to make more complex ciphers whether this be where it was encoded once and then encoded again or that the two were used at the same time to do some funny shenanigans

A great example of this is the ADGFX cipher which uses a modified Polybius Square along with Columnar Transpostion

Ok I’ll explain the ADGFX cipher in just a second ima explain columnar transposition first, so with columnar transposition you need a key, we’ll use “cargo” (the general standard) so first take your message and split it into groups with the amount of characters in the group corresponding to the length of the key (So “we need to attack soon”, would be grouped into groups of 5 when using a key like cargo, the groups would look like this “wenee dtoat tacks oon”)

Next you align the groups under the key

Here is one using the example message of “we need to attack soon”

Ok next you need to take the letters in your key and arrange them alphabetically, so cargo become acgor, now take the columns you made and shift them along with the key letters

Like this

So now that we have our letters it’s easy, we take them from left to right, top to bottom and write them out, leaving us with, “eweentdatoatkscoon” with the key of cargo, now if most people were given that they wouldn’t have the slightest clue what to do

So now imagine if we added more layers, like in the ADGFX cipher

Long story short, you take a custom alphabet and replace the letters in a Polybius square with them, then replace the numbers in the square with ADGFX

There is one that I stole from Google

So you encode your message using the square and then with the result you use the columnar transposition that we discussed earlier and then you have your final encoded message, unless you want to add more bullshit to it, like idk a A1Z26 cipher, changing the letters to numbers, or maybe a binary converter, or maybe a morse encoder, actually why not all of them

And that’s where shit starts getting fun (for me anyway, where you stack the jenga tower of encoding hoping that one of the ciphers in it doesn’t need numbers or spaces which other ciphers can’t use

Oh another fun thing, a number and text where you have to convert the number to binary and use that to highlight letters which are the encoded message, or are they

And that’s why I absolutely love encoding and ciphers so much because you can create such interesting little things that can become games, or just brand new ciphers where you have to spot little patterns or grab little ideas and run with them hoping that that was the way it works

Actually one last thing before I go, my own encipherment method which I couldn’t find anywhere online, and thus gave it a name

The Eclipsed Polybius Square (EPS)

Ok so the name comes from a name I used to go by (Which was Eclispe) and then the Polybius Square

Ok so I’ve written documentation of it countless times, but I can never explain it off the top of my head, I know how it works, it’s just stored in the depths of the blob of synapses that is in my skull

Ok so first step, take your message and use a Polybius square to turn it into the numbers,

I am struggling to figure out how to write this

Here is an example which I used in an sort of puzzle hunt that I made for some friends (If you notice the name Lily there, it’s a character within the story of the puzzle hunt, game, thing)

Ok so see how some of the words are highlighted, they indicate numbers for the Polybius square

So “the” is in bold and it’s 3 letters long so we get the number 3, then “to” is in bold so we get 2, these two give us 32 which is our first letter “M”, then we have “get” which is 3, then “time” which is 4, now we have our next letter 34 which is “O”, and this continues to give us a whole word

You’re welcome to solve the rest if you want(send it to me if you do, whether that be in DMs or reblog)

Also just a note, when making the text which will hold the code, I’d recommend making the code first and then writing the text working around the code to get it in using as little words as possible, or you might end up like I did with all of the text there only giving 1 word

Actually actually, I have one last thing, thank you @rookieroc for asking, I have been dying to talk about this and so much more but I just haven’t found anyone to say it about

P.S. I will most likely add to this over time with reblogs with more information on different ciphers

#ciphers #puzzles #encryption #cryptography #god I love ciphers #again thank you @rookieroc for giving me the opportunity to share this knowledge #whadda ya mean it’s half past 2 in the morning #where tf did my time go

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jenn-collective · 1 month ago

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Homemade Pepperoni and Bacon Pizza: From Scratch! 🍕❤️

There’s nothing better than a homemade pizza, fresh from the oven! Today, we’re making a delicious Pepperoni and Bacon Pizza from scratch — yes, including the dough and sauce! Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think and so worth it. Let’s get started!

Ingredients 🛒

For the Dough:

• 🍞 Yeast: 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 💧 Warm Water: 1 ½ cups (about 110°F)

• 🥣 Flour: 3 ½ cups all-purpose (plus extra for dusting)

• 🍬 Sugar: 1 tsp

• 🧂 Salt: 1 tsp

• 🫒 Olive Oil: 2 tbsp

For the Sauce:

• 🍅 Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz)

• 🧄 Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

• 🫒 Olive Oil: 1 tbsp

• 🌿 Herbs: 1 tsp dried oregano & 1 tsp dried basil

• 🍬 Sugar: ½ tsp (optional)

• 🧂 Salt and Pepper: to taste

For the Toppings:

• 🧀 Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded

• 🍕 Pepperoni: Sliced

• 🥓 Bacon: Cooked and crumbled

• Optional: Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions 🔪

Step 1: Make the Dough

1️⃣ In a large bowl, mix yeast and sugar with warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy.

2️⃣ Stir in olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until combined.

3️⃣ Gradually add the rest of the flour, kneading the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

4️⃣ Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours (it should double in size).

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2️⃣ Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

3️⃣ Stir in crushed tomatoes, herbs, and sugar. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes.

4️⃣ Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let it cool.

Step 3: Prep Your Toppings

• 🥓 Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble.

• 🍕 Slice pepperoni if needed.

• Preheat your oven to 475°F (250°C). If using a pizza stone, heat it in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1️⃣ Punch down the dough and divide it into two portions (for two pizzas) or keep it whole for one large pizza.

2️⃣ Roll out the dough to your desired thickness on a floured surface.

3️⃣ Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.

4️⃣ Spread your homemade sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.

5️⃣ Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then top with pepperoni and bacon.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy!

1️⃣ Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

2️⃣ Garnish with Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil, if desired.

3️⃣ Slice it up and dig in!

Let’s Chat 🍴

Cooking is more than just following recipes — it’s about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen! What’s your go-to pizza topping? Do you love thin crust or thick crust? Drop your thoughts below and let’s talk all things pizza

Also, if you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Sharing pictures of your homemade creations is highly encouraged. 🍕✨

#chefs kiss #cooking #home chef #recipes #foodie #love cooking #so yummy #good pizza great pizza

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eatclean-bewhole · 1 month ago

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Spinach Egg Muffins is a tasty high protein breakfast the whole family can enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 6 pieces of uncured turkey bacon, diced

• 1/2 large onion, diced

• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella or cheddar, shredded

• 2-3 cups spinach leaves

• 12 eggs

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Grease each cup in muffin tin with plant butter or ghee.

3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and shredded cheese until combined.

4. On the stove, heat a frying pan over medium heat and the onion and bacon. Cook for about 10 minutes until the bacon is crispy.

5. Add spinach and stir to combine. Continue cooking for about 3 more minutes.

6. Add spinach mixture to the egg mixture in the large bowl. Stir thoroughly.

7. Fill prepared muffin pan with mixture.

8. Bake for 15 minutes.

9. Garnish with chives, parsley, or herbs of choice.

Recipe by Mollyshomeguide

#healthy #healthy food #healthyrecipes #recipes #healthymeals #healthybreakfast #breakfast #lifestyle #healthylifestyle #healthyliving #Nutrition #diet #weightloss #fitfood #protein

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intuitive-spontaneity · 8 months ago

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Chicken Bacon Ranch Flatbread

Ingredients:

2 flatbreads or naan - I used this recipe for my flatbread and I flavored it with roasted garlic and shredded provolone.

1 cup garlic parmesan sauce

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (I used leftover fried chicken tenders)

4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup ranch dressing

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Salt and red pepper flakes to taste

Freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. **Preheat Oven:**

- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. **Prepare Flatbreads:**

- Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet.

- Brush the flatbreads with olive oil.

3. **Assemble Flatbreads:**

- Spread a thin layer of garlic parmesan sauce over each flatbread and add shredded mozzarella on top of that.

- Evenly distribute the chicken.

- Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon over the chicken.

- Add the tomatoes.

4. **Bake:**

- Place the flatbreads in the preheated oven.

- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the flatbreads are golden brown.

5. **Finish:**

- Remove the flatbreads from the oven.

- Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

- Season with salt and red pepper flakes.

- Grate parmesan cheese on top.

#flatbread

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foundationhq · 11 months ago

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As you login to a work computer at Site-φ’s main base, you notice a new notification in your SCiPNET inbox. As the computer renders the splash image at a snail's pace, you squint at the title. The Phi-thon? It turns out to be a monthly newsletter... but what catches your eye is the announcement of a new member for THE BROKEN SCALES OF THEMIS.

𝑴𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒉𝒍𝒚 𝑺𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝒆𝒏𝒖

The monthly menu for March, as curated by CHEF DE CUISINE Fulgence Carême, will be available for a limited time alongside the regular menu with meat, fish, vegetarian, as well as vegan options for our staff.

BREAKFAST (6AM - 10:30 AM)

Sausage Royale Croissant Roll with cheddar cheese, beef sausage patty, two strips bacon, fried egg. Garnished with dill and parsley. With spiced ketchup to taste.

Salmon Belly Royale Croissant Roll with wild salmon, crème fraîche, spinach and collard green hollandaise, topped with ikura-style salmon roe and salmon skin cracklings.

Mushroom Royale Croissant Roll (V) with grilled portobello, cremini, and king oyster mushrooms, crispy shallots, onion jam, and a herby rosemary sauce.

LUNCH (12 PM - 5 PM)

Cheese & Leek Croquettes with yukon gold potatoes, confit pearl onions, and black garlic chips.

Soft-shell Crab Tempura Burger with deep-fried whole soft-shell crab, pickled cabbage, sorrel, arugula, iceberg lettuce, ponzu vinaigrette or parmesan mayo. Comes with old bay fries.

Heirloom Tomato Preserve Flatbread (V) with arkansas traveler, aunt ruby's german green, hillbilly, and purple calabash varieties. Comes with olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip.

DINNER (5 PM - CLOSE)

Slow-roasted Pistachio Lamb with mint and pistachio crusted lamb leg, roasted cauliflower and new potatoes, horseradish cream, and truffle-infused gravy.

Pan-seared Yuzu Scallops with hazelnuts, clementine slices, and yuzu beurre blanc sauce. Comes with a light slaw salad.

Crispy Hen-of-the-Woods Mushroom Platter (V) with a medley of grilled wild mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and quinoa-wild rice pilaf. Garnished with walnuts and vegan pesto.

DESSERT Fresh seasonal berries with Chai-spiced Clotted Cream with strawberries, blueberries, currants, blackberries, and gooseberries. Chai spice contains clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and ginger.

Coffee Caramel Frozen Brazo de Mercedes with blended coffee ice cream, peanuts, cashews, and warm caramel sauce.

Vegan Raspberry Coconut Mousse Parfait (V) with silken tofu, agave syrup, raspberries, and layered with vegan dark chocolate cookie crumble, and topped with roasted coconut shavings.

𝑾𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈

All personnel please be advised that there is a WEATHER WARNING in effect from 0100 to 2400 on March 29th; heavy cloud cover is expected to sock in during the early hours, accompanied shortly by freezing rain and sleet. Blizzard conditions should be in full force before 0500. Barring direct orders from Site Director Osterholz or, if applicable, MTFC 𝑆𝑀𝑂𝑂𝑇𝐻 𝑂𝑃𝐸𝑅𝐴𝑇𝑂𝑅, any unnecessary outdoor activities should be curtailed. Remain indoors. Do not be alarmed when blinds are lowered and locked in position; this is normal procedure at Site-φ in the case of extreme weather. There is nothing to see in the snow. You are not missing out.

𝑪𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒏𝒖𝒕𝒔 𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏 𝒂 𝑺𝒊𝒕𝒆-𝑨𝒑𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒆

by SECURITY CAPTAIN J. Kato

How about that forecast, Site-φ! In honor of what’s probably going to be the last blizzard of the spring (don’t hold me to that, I’m no meteorologist! :D) Site Security will be hosting a bonfire at the campground the evening of March 28th. Come get cozy before the storm hits! BYOTTB (Bring Your Own Things* To Burn). *Adhering to all regulations re: flammable substances and safe use of the communal campground, found under Hazardous Materials (Reg. F-451) and Outdoor Recreation (Regs. C-10 through -14) in the Personnel Handbook.

RSVP! →

📍 all muses are welcome to attend this open event, taking place at the on-site campground on the evening of March 28th. These threads may be written whenever you like before the act closes, so long as they are dated to that time! several bonfires will be set and maintained by site-φ security personnel from nightfall to midnight. hot chocolate and non-alcoholic cider will be available; muses are welcome to bring food and/or shredder-ready paperwork, photographs of regrets, evidence of wrongdoings, unwanted papercrafts, and disappointing research to burn. there is also an optional interactive roll for a random [𝙲𝙻𝙰𝚂𝚂𝙸𝙵𝙸𝙴𝙳] element!

𝑭𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒊𝒆'𝒔 (𝑰𝒏)𝑭𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝑭𝒊𝒔𝒉

Following several hospitalizations linked to the most recent serving of Frankie’s Famous Fish last month, all waivers have been destroyed and future shipments of “fish” scratched from the order. Anyone who sees or smells “fish” should report this to Site Security. Site Administration would like to stress and remind personnel not to try Frankie’s Famous Fish at the cafeteria; do not believe the rumors the dish gives you powers if you survive. If anyone has seen Frankie, inform him that the HR Department and Director Osterholz desires a meeting. Immediately.

𝑫𝒆𝒇𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆 𝑺𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒓 & 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒕 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕

The Security Department will continue to offer self-defense and weapons handling classes. Additionally, Op. 𝐷𝑌𝐼𝑁𝐺 𝐵𝑅𝐸𝐸𝐷 has been ordered to conduct combat readiness assessments on all members of MTF Chi-00. When asked for comment, he replied: “That so?” and stated that they should “Be on time.” Requests for elaboration were met with a smile, precisely one nod, and what may have been a laugh. Additional, remedial seminars can be arranged with Captain Kato in advance of your assessment.

BOOK A TIME! →

𝐿𝑎𝑏 𝐴𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

Lab spaces may still be booked through the Head of Research at Site-φ. Please let them know what you intend to research, and be advised that lab space is in slightly shorter than usual supply due to “a Newt-related incident.” Newt, who is a good dog, does not understand what this could be referring to. Neither does anyone else who was in the lab at the alleged time of the incident. Head of research insists that Newt “knows what he did.”

SUBMIT A REQUEST! →

📍 players are welcome to request a lab space for their researchers by contacting rp mgmt. please note that requesting a space as a themis member would immediately jump the line of the other scientists at the site. some themis researchers, depending on their prestige, may be given a full team of lab assistants to aid in their noble pursuit to secure, contain, and protect.

𝑾𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒍𝒖𝒃 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒏-𝑼𝒑𝒔

The Walking Club, a group of highly-intelligent pack of dogs, is looking for new members! remember — DON’T WALK ALONE. That is a formal directive, not a request. Joining the Walking Club is especially critical given the WEATHER WARNING soon to be in effect; any personnel who need to move between site buildings while the WARNING is active must contact the Walking Club. The correct way to contact the Walking Club is to step through the nearest door, close it behind you,* and whistle as loud as possible. If you are not a good whistler, that is okay! There is no such thing as a bad whistle if you put your heart into it! The Walking Club will still hear you and arrive shortly. *If Newt has chosen you as his walking buddy, you are advised to brace yourself against the door before whistling, to prevent injury.

𝑺𝒊𝒕𝒆-φ 𝑱𝒐𝒃 𝑩𝒐𝒂𝒓𝒅

The following “odd jobs,” which are in no way “odd” or “unusual,” are currently available, on an as-available, non-urgent basis, personnel schedules permitting. Consider being a Site-φ neighbor and lend a hand if you can!

GROW-LIGHT GARDEN ASSISTANT posted by HEAD GARDENER S. Oz Do you appreciate site-acceptable greenery? Do you feel “well”? Do you enjoy communing with the earth, unto which our mortal flesh will someday return, if we are lucky? Join the Grow-Light Garden Staff! BRING: your own garden-ready gloves and/or knee pads. DO NOT BRING: negative energies. Seriously. Do not. For everyone's sakes. EDIT: This position has been filled.

SUPPORT ARCHIVIST posted by HEAD LIBRARIAN and ARCHIVIST Dr. W. Zai While Junior Archivist M. Leitner recovers from unwise choices as regards his seafood intake, the Site-φ archives are in need of additional hands. These hands will, ideally, be experienced in standard archival procedures. EDIT: This position has been filled.

CONTACT NOW! →

📍 players are welcome to pick up supplemental odd jobs during their time at site-φ. you can pick up an odd job by contacting rp mgmt. however, please note that these listings are first-come, first-serve, and muses may be fired from their position if they are unable to fulfill the job’s requirements (posting a monthly prompt). however, these positions may also reveal more of site-φ’s mysteries. there is also an optional interactive roll for a random [𝙲𝙻𝙰𝚂𝚂𝙸𝙵𝙸𝙴𝙳] element!

𝑫𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝑶𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒛'𝒔 𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒊𝒔𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝑨𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕

𝑹𝑬: 𝑭𝑹𝑨𝑻𝑬𝑹𝑵𝑰𝒁𝑨𝑻𝑰𝑶𝑵

by DIRECTOR B. Osterholz

Good evening. It has been brought to my attention that our new additions here at Site-φ may be in need of a reminder as to the appropriateness of fraternization among personnel at this highly clandestine installation. To reiterate what was stated during onboarding and in the welcome brochure: “making eyes,” “canoodling,” and/or “partaking in the horizontal tango” with fellow staff members is not allowed at Site-φ. As you all know, the nature of our work demands absolute dedication and focus. Surely any rumors of anyone engaging in such acts on-site are, indeed, no more than crass rumors to razz the newcomers.

𝑺𝒊𝒕𝒆-φ 𝑩𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒅𝒂𝒚𝒔, 𝑨𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒃𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔

Due to the sheer number of staff here at Site-φ, acknowledgments in the Phi-thon are through user submission. Thank you for celebrating your fellow Phi-thons.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑃ℎ𝑖-𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑛 𝑤𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑤𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎… 𝐻𝐴𝑃𝑃𝑌 𝐵𝐼𝑅𝑇𝐻𝐷𝐴𝑌! JUNIOR ENGINEER K. MADDOW, March 4th Happy b-day, K!!! Engi life is the best life! Couldn’t have made that particle blaster without ya! See you at Holly’s, a round on us! — Your pals at Engineering. ASSISTANT RESEARCHER C. VATYA, March 13th The Site-φ Researcher will be 50 this year. Thank you for all your hard work, encouragement, and good humor. From all of us in the 'Pataphysics Wing of Research and Development, we wish our fellow a happy birthday. WELLNESS COUNSELOR J. Oyuun, March 20th “The best gift you could possibly give me is to attend your mandatory wellness assessment. Anything more extravagant would, in fact, be inappropriate, given the nature of our strictly counselor-to-client relationship. But I also wouldn’t say no to more crayons or holographic stickers from that one place in Hōuston…”

MTF CHI-00 OPERATIVE 52 PICKUP, March 20th Happy birthday. From a secret admirer.

If you’d like to announce or contribute to our monthly newsletter, contact the Phi-thon via SCiPNET. →

📍 players are welcome to guest write or submit an in-character announcement for the monthly newsletter by contacting rp mgmt! reach out to us for more details.

Please enjoy a complimentary All You Can Brunch Buffet Ticket from us at the Phi-thon. Please note these tickets are valid for one person for one-time use. As Director Osterholz has advised in previous Phi-thon issues, ticket trading is not permitted on Site-φ.

📌 OOC GUIDELINES & HINTS!

These listings are supplemental features for enhancing your experience immersing into Site-φ’s world. Feel free to interact in any shape or form, be it directly or indirectly referencing them for open and closed starters, pager chats, self-paras... and even doing TTRPG rolls, or conversing with the NPCs 1-on-1! Based on your muse’s movements, new information, features, and subplots may be unlocked as these plot points develop. This game is responsive to you; your actions will directly affect the environment. All in all, however you wish to spend your time at Site-φ, we hope that it'll be a fun and memorable experience!

#fhq.plot #fhq.phithon #fhq.plot.1.1

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