#Coffee Creamer Cup Market

[alicesara611]

Emerging Opportunities in the Coffee Creamer Cup Market: By 2023 to 2030

The global Coffee Creamer Cup Market is poised for remarkable growth, projected to reach a valuation of US$ 798.02 million by 2030, up from US$ 498.64 million in 2023. This growth represents a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.1% within the forecast period of 2023 to 2030.

The Coffee Creamer Cup Market report, a comprehensive analysis of market dynamics within the industry, provides a thorough examination of both quantitative and qualitative data. The report extends its forecast period from 2023 to 2030, encapsulating key factors influencing market trends, such as product pricing, market penetration at national and regional levels, country GDP, parent market dynamics, and those of child markets, among others.

Get Full PDF Sample Copy of Latest Reports: https://www.absolutemarketresearch.com/Coffee-Creamer-Cup-Market/3863/request-sample

To offer a holistic perspective, the report is segmented, addressing various facets of the market landscape. The segmentation allows for an in-depth analysis of aspects like end-application industries, major players, consumer buying behavior, and the economic, political, and social scenarios of countries.

Key highlights of the Coffee Creamer Cup Market report include:

Steady Growth Trajectory: The market is anticipated to experience consistent growth, driven by factors such as evolving consumer preferences and increasing demand for convenience in the consumption of coffee.

Global and Regional Impact Analysis: A meticulous examination of both global and regional dynamics, considering country-level intricacies, provides a comprehensive understanding of market trends.

Market Segmentation for In-Depth Insights: The report divides the market into various segments, facilitating detailed analyses and insights into each aspect, ensuring a comprehensive overview.

Major Player Strategies: The report delves into the strategies employed by major market players, providing insights into competitive landscapes, collaborations, and innovations shaping the market.

Consumer Behavior and Trends: Understanding consumer behavior is crucial in navigating market trends. The report includes an analysis of consumer preferences and buying behavior, aiding businesses in strategic decision-making.

Socioeconomic Factors Impact: Economic, political, and social scenarios at both country and regional levels are considered, providing a well-rounded perspective on market dynamics.

The Coffee Creamer Cup Market report is a valuable resource for industry players, investors, and stakeholders seeking a detailed and insightful understanding of market trends. As the market witnesses unprecedented growth, this report equips businesses with the necessary intelligence to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

The coffee creamer cup market is poised for exponential growth during the forecast period (2023-2030), driven by increasing coffee consumption, convenience, and on-the-go lifestyles.

Non-dairy creamer cups are expected to dominate the market due to rising health concerns and lactose intolerance.

Innovation in flavors and functionalities will be crucial for market success.

Sustainability and eco-friendly packaging will become increasingly important.

Regional Outlook:

North America is currently the largest market, but Asia Pacific is expected to experience the fastest growth due to its burgeoning middle class and rapid urbanization.

Europe will remain a significant market, with a focus on premium and functional products.

Latin America and Africa have the potential for future growth, but require infrastructure development and increased disposable income.

Key Players:

Nestle (Coffee Mate)

Unilever (International Delight)

Danone (Alpro)

Dean Foods (Moo Moo)

Starbucks

McCafe

Dunkin' Donuts

Private Label Brands

Segmentation:

By Type: 

Powder

Liquid

Whipped

Concentrated

By Form: 

Single-serve

Multi-serve

By Flavor:

Vanilla

Caramel

Hazelnut

Seasonal

Sugar-free

By Distribution Channel: 

Supermarkets

Convenience Stores

Online Retailers

Coffee Shops

By Application: 

Residential

Office

Coffee Shops

Others

By Geography:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Latin America

[selfaware-bungou-stray-dogs]

When you were gone

Self-Aware! BSD x SAGAU Imposter crossover

Self-Aware! Nikolai Gogol x GN! Reader

Description: You disappeared one month ago...

Warning: OOC. English is my second language.

_____

You felt so sleepy. You go to your room, yawning. Tonight, you won't have a cuddle buddy. You tried to offer some cuddles to Kolya. But he refused.

"Sorry, Birdy, but I can't cuddle with you tonight. I will practice all night for the magic show."

You just nodded and left for your room.

"Okay. Goodnight, Kolya."

Your room's door closed behind you. Gogol feels a pang of guilt. You looked so lonely. Maybe, he should go to you and cuddle?

Nikolai shook his head.

Tomorrow. Tomorrow he will bring you coffee in bed and you two will cuddle.

You will be there tomorrow.

_____

Day 1

_____

You were late for breakfast.

Too late.

Everyone already were in the dining room, eating.

Nikolai smirked at himself. Were you waiting for him to arrive with your coffee? Well, give him a minute.

He was brewing coffee. Two cups. One cup was made to be perfect for your taste.

After preparations were done, Nikolai Gogol took the tray with coffee mugs, creamer and bowl of sugar and went to your room.

He will wake you up (by starting a tickle fight). Then you two will drink coffee.

Nikolai let out a small laugh. Maybe, he will plant a kiss on your nose after coffee will be drank.

He knocked on your door. You didn't answer.

Nikolai Gogol opened the door.

You weren't in your room.

He didn't hear the sounds of running water.

And your bed was made. And cold.

Did you go on a run? Or to the market?

How long were you gone?

When you will return?

Nikolai's eyes shrank, when he noticed your phone on the bedside table.

You left it.

You always bring your phone with you.

Nikolai had a bad feeling about it.

*****

It's been hours.

And you haven't returned yet.

It's been hours.

And all of them were searching everywhere.

It's been hours.

And you were nowhere to be found.

________

Day 7

________

Week...

It has been a week since you disappeared.

Everyone were devastated.

Nikolai fell down on his bed.

He didn't care, that the blood on his clothes will dirty the covers.

Today, he was searching for you.

He was 'nicely asking' some crooks, if they dared to kidnap you.

Ougiri have never used his ability as much as before.

And he will use it even more.

You still were missing.

You still were nowhere to be found.

________

Day 14

________

Two weeks.

They have been searching for two weeks.

For two weeks they were looking under every bush, every rock.

Trying to find just one clue. One little clue.

They gathered in the dinning room.

Sitting at the table.

Your chair looked dreadfully empty.

The table was quiet.

They can't say anything.

There were no news.

No good. No bad.

Nothing.

Oda's voice broke the silence.

"Q... Are you... Do you want to say something?"

Nikolai gazed at the teen.

They were silent. But the look on their face were empty. Q opened their mouth.

"I... Nikolai-san, two weeks ago... You were the last one, who saw [Y/N], right?"

Nikolai nodded, not understanding, where Q were going to.

Q nodded and bit their lip, hugging their doll closer. Toy's colorful clothes (your present for Q) looked out of place in this situation.

"I see... Why... Why didn't you stay with them? You were always talking about wanting to stay with Guiding Light forever. What happened with that?"

Nikolai's voice were a little bit louder, that of a whisper.

"I were practicing... For a magic show..."

"Were the practice necessary? Could you practice only that day?"

That he cancelled. Because he can't waste time on anything else, beside the search.

Q's unique eyes stared directly in Nikolai's mismatched eyes.

Nikolai stay silent. He could. He could practice in the morning. He could stay with you.

Nikolai's silence were enough to answer Q's question.

They stand up, put their doll on the table and walked towards Nikolai's chair.

Q took their own chair with them.

Q put their chair near Nikolai's chair.

Q stood up on their chair. Now they were looking at sitting Nikolai from above.

Q clenched their fists.

"If you stayed with [Y/N]… No one would be able to kidnap them..."

Q screamed.

"It was your fault!" Q's fist was small, but, the hit was painful. Nikolai covered his bruised nose.

Q were yelling, while Dazai was dragging them away. It was hard, because Q tried to get away from his hold and hit Nikolai again.

"If you stayed with [Y/N] they won't disappear! Don't you dare to say, that you cared about them! You never cared about them! You will never care about anyone! You will kill anyone, who came close to you! That was your plan, right? To get rid of [Y/N]? Did their love disgust you that much?!"

Dazai, with Chuuya's help, finally managed to drag Q to their room, locking the door.

And Nikolai was standing here. Unmoving.

"Коля... Как ты?"¹ Fyodor's voice sounded soft.

Nikolai swallowed and shook his head.

"I... I need to go..."

Before Nikolai could go away, Fyodor grabbed his shoulder.

"Коля, ты не виноват. В ситуации виноват только тот ублюдок, который похитил [Т/И]. Все мы знаем, что ты бы никогда и пальчем не тронул [Т/И]. Не вини себя."²

Nikolai didn't say anything.

Without looking at Fyodor, Nikolai returned to his room.

It wasn't true! He could never hate you! He likes you! You are his Birdy.

And you were still missing.

He loves loving you!

He didn't want to hurt you.

He missed you.

But, what if... Q were right?

What if he was the reason, why you were gone?

______

Day 21

_____

Nikolai's body was shaking. He was crying. There was no hope. There was no you. There was no clue.

Ever since Q accused him, everyone were checking on him. Everyone were worried about each other. And about you.

Nikolai tears start flowing again.

Maybe, it really was his fault that you were gone? If he stayed with you... No one could take you away...

Another cry filled the room.

"Пташка... Пташка моя... Мені так шкода... Будь ласка... Повернися... Я люблю тебе..."³

Nikolai whispered.

"Я люблю тебе..."⁴

And no one answered his call.

_________

Day 30

_____

Chew. Swallow.

Bite again.

Chew. Swallow.

Bite.

Chew.

Swallow.

Bite.

Nikolai blinked as he pulled his fingers from his mouth.

The teacup.

Nikolai took it.

Blow.

Sip.

Blow.

Sip.

Go through the motions.

Nikolai closed his eyes.

For now, that's all he needed to do.

Go through the motions.

Breakfast is over.

Put dishes into the sink.

Go to the living room.

Learn, where to go today.

Search for you.

Repeat and repeat.

_________

Earlier that day, the portal appeared in the barn.

And you finally returned home.

________

Two weeks later

________

Nikolai was sitting near your bed, holding your hand. You were shaking. You had another nightmare.

He squeezed your hand, trying to make you feel better.

"It's okay, [Y/N]. It's okay. You are home." whispered Nikolai. You swallow your tears. Nikolai carefully brushed your tears away.

"I was so scared... I missed you..." whimpered you. You wanted a hug, you wanted to be near someone.

Like he was reading your mind, Nikolai hugged you. He whispered into the tip of your head.

"Nothing will ever hurt you, Birdy. I will never leave you ever again. I promise."

You stay silent, resting your head on Nikolai's chest.

Kolya carefully pet your head.

'Ніщо тобі не зашкодить, Пташко. Я обіцяю. І я подбаю про те, щоб вони заплатили за кожну сльозу, за кожну краплю крові. Я їм покажу.'⁵ thought Nikolai Gogol, hugging you closer.

Maybe, that way, he will have the smallest chance to be forgiven. For being the reason why you were kidnapped.

________

¹Russian. "Kolya, are you alright?"

²Russian. "Kolya, it's not your fault. The bastard, who kidnapped [Y/N] are the only one to blame. All of us know, that you would lay a finger on [Y/N]. Don't blame yourself."

³Ukrainian. "Birdy... My Birdy... I am so sorry... Please... Come back... I love you..."

⁴ Ukrainian. "I love you..."

⁵ Ukrainian. 'Nothing will hurt you, Birdy. I promise. And I will make sure, that they will pay for every tear, for every drop of blood. I will show them.'

_____

Tag list: @withered-blossoms , @myluckymoon @cocodrilofeliz @c4xcocoa @vvyeislazzy @whisperingwinters

[dksw0rld]

How I Achieved Glass Skin Without Trying

Yes, you read that right. I achieved glass skin literally without trying at all. With glass skin being pretty much the last thing on my mind actually. Partly because I was never insecure about my skin as I really didn't have any acne issues. I had smaller bumps on my forehead and a little bit on the other parts of my face but no big breakouts or chronic issues. Also partly because I was so focused on something else...want to learn how you can also achieve clear skin without actually trying to achieve clear skin? Keep reading for all the deets.

Okay, so, as I mentioned above - clear skin was not my focus. It was genuinely the last thing on my mind. My focus was on something better. My focus was (and is) on my overall health. Women nowadays are so focused on 10 step skincare routines to achieve clear skin and retain youthfulness. This is not me putting anyone down, if a 10 step skincare routine makes you happy than by all means continue on! I'm merely pointing out that women don't need to do all of that to heal their skin. The key word in that last sentence is heal. But enough of me talking, here's what I did to completely clear my skin by focusing on my overall health. **Everything I name below are things I still do.

Diet

I focused on consuming nourishing foods

I have veggies and / or fruit at every meal. No exception. I don't go a day without consuming them. I focus on foods that nourish my body from the inside out. I don't eat processed anything. I consume other types of carbs, not just bread or pasta.

2. I began to drink coconut water and pure pineapple juice first thing in the morning

I drink 8 - 10oz of coconut water mixed with pineapple juice every morning. I've seen a big difference with my hydration levels throughout the day.

3. I severely limited fizzy drinks

There's a specific brand of sparkling water I love (it's called Clear American) and I used to drink it regularly. There's nothing super unhealthy about this brand but it's still carbonated. When I began to limit drinking sparkling water, I noticed a difference in my body and skin. I also very rarely drink soda, and if I do it's always Ginger Ale. I mainly drink water with lemon, organic lemonade and hot tea.

4. I limit bread to one meal a day

I always eat a type of carb during breakfast as they give me the energy I need to go through the day. *Side note* carbs are not bad for you. Your body needs them! Processed carbs are what should be avoided. Anyways, I only eat bread one time a day and then I'll eat other types of carbs throughout the day. The bread I eat is always the least amount of processed possible. I only eat sourdough or whole grain bread. I like going to famers markets to purchase my bread. If I don't eat bread for breakfast then I'll potentially eat a slice or two at lunch but I avoid eating bread for dinner. I like to consume things my body can more easily break down at dinner.

5. I cut out alcohol

I never drank a whole lot. I've always been a 'glass of wine while hanging with my best friend' type of woman, but if I was out on the town I would drink cocktails. I cut mixed drinks out completely. If I go out I'll order a pineapple juice or ginger beer (which despite its name, is nonalcoholic). I will very occasionally have a glass of wine but that's about it.

6. I limited my caffeine intake

I have a cup of coffee with creamer and sugar in the morning and that's it for coffee. If I'm slowing down in the middle of the day I drink water first and make sure to get up and take a walk around my office to get my blood flowing. If I'm still dragging after a full cup of water and 30 minutes, I'll drink a chai, other caffeinated tea or a matcha.

Lifestyle

1. I shortened my skin care routine to 2-3 steps

Your skin does not need a lot. It needs to be taken care of from the inside out way more than it needs products on it. In the morning I do a serum, very very light exfoliation and a moisturizing hyaluronic acid lotion. At night I cleanse, put on eye cream and use the same lotion. Once or twice a week I'll do a face mask. That's it! When I switched to this simple routine and focused on my overall health, my skin began to thrive.

2. I began to walk more

I sustained an injury so I wasn't able to walk as much as I was before. Once my injury healed and I was able to walk again (in the midst of all the other changes I was making), I noticed a difference in my energy level and changes in my body. Walking is so great for you, including great for your skin!

3. I began to sleep with a satin pillowcase every night

I ditched the regular pillowcase and switched to a satin one. I did this switch for my hair, not my skin but I've noticed it's helped with my skin a lot as well.

That's it! Once I made these simple changes and was consistent with them, I began to notice how much more amazing I felt. Then one day I looked up and my skin was completely clear. Not a small bump in sight. You don't need to buy all these acne products off of Amazon to get rid of your problem areas. Focus on nourishing and healing your body from the inside out. That's the secret.

[0mysticmidnight0]

~Mystically Broken AU - Chapter 2~

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

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A week after your.. encounter with 4 of New York City's most wanted criminals.. You were currently walking down a hallway of one of the Genius Built™ buildings. It glowed purple.. (Due to the LED's) "Why do i have feeling we're.." Donatello cut you off.. "Underground? We are. This wasn't my only choice but it was the easiest to create. I was also thinking volcano, underwater, abandoned library.. but those are still in progress." He didn't spare you a glance as he tapped away on his gauntlet with a smug grin. "Why am i here again?" Donnie glared at you as you asked your question. "Scoff, Did you not read my very detailed email i sent you?" You remember receiving it.. though, it was LONG.. so you decided, what's the harm in ignoring it? "You're here to gather information about us to plead our innocence to the public. In return we're helping your company. Let's hope your boss wasn't lying when she said you could manage." You looked at him, he was wearing a black turtle neck under a white button up shirt with a few buttons unbuttoned and tucked into a high-waisted pants paired with black boots and a few chains hanging from his pants. You looked up to see he had purple eyes with goggles, one colored red and the other colored blue. (I WILL DRAW THIS WHEN I HAVE THE TIME) You enter a room, purple couch, big TV, circular table in the middle which had a screen built in it.. and a rug with the Genius Built™ logo on it. Donatello smirked. "Hold your applause." You just sat down. "So, how are we gonna do this?" Donatello looked at you and sat down the other side of the couch. "What do you want to know?" "Why do you sell deadly weapons to criminals? to the black market.?" You looked at him and he was typing away at the built in screen on the table. "It's not my fault my clients were criminals. I'm not responsible for anything they use it for." You sighed. "You made it didn't you?" His (drawn on) Eyebrows perked up a bit. "I didn't know they were gonna use it to harm anyone. Therefore, out of my control." He says it as if he didn't care if they were criminals or not. But he was right. .. "That's not helping!!" You grabbed a pillow and shoved your face in it..He just shrugged and continued typing away.. You started thinking.. You spent hours thinking of anything. ANYTHING to help him. Hours of laying in different positions, walking and pacing around.. You were stressing at this point. You were hugging a pillow before someone placed a cup of coffee infront of you. You turned to your side to see Donatello sipping his own coffee, you take a sip of yours and smiled before covering your mouth to spit it out.. WHY WAS IT SO BITTER?! Donatello must have saw you cause you heard a light chuckle. You turned to look at him, he was..smiling.? Well, he wasn't looking at you anymore. His gaze back on the built-in screen on the table. "Bitter? There's creamer and sugar in the kitchen." He gestures to the door on the left without sparing you a glance. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- At this point you were looking through his criminal records.. and WOW.. you were distracted by a voice. "Still going at it?" He asks. You were angrily looking at the folder like if you glare hard enough at it you'll find something... You checked the time. 11pm..?! "You'll be sleeping here. You can talk to Leo tomorrow." You paused and looked at him. "You didn't think you could've told me that earlier?" Donatello just shrugged. "I didn't want to break your focus." You sighed. "S.H.E.L.L.D.O.N. will escort you to your temporary quarters." An adorable purple drone with a head and face waved at you with its... arms? hover things? and the robot lead the way to your room. It was kinda decent!. A bed, night stand, mini fridge, TV, a few books. You were going to enjoy it to it's fullest. Almost forgetting you're gonna deal with Leonardo tomorrow. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- hope you like it!!! From yours truly, MysticMidnight

[ogrepoppenangleaksofficial]

Does family/wider cast member have a drug of choice? Can be answered as seriously or not.

Personal crackfic headcanoning:

Regardless of actual substance enjoyment or lack thereof, Markus and Kitten are living embodiments od "anyone in this thread smoke weed?"

Big-D: y'all already established how thoroughly psychedelics fit him.

Door: alcohol, with a heavy/borderline exclusive preference for American whiskeys or beers. (Zinfandel wine just for fun).

Boy: coffee, depending on access granted to him by his dad/uncles/Grand-D. Always either Just What He Needs or The Last Thing He Needs, depending on the story beat.

Kevin: already established, Office Worker Coffee by "day," Vamp Party Drugs by "night."

Mystery Lady: I'm projecting the same vibes on her as I am on Door, but trading "'Murican Spirits" for either Hobbyist Espresso or Tea.

Malcolm, the Family's Pet Cop: Vitae has already been established and explained.

Shitbeard: Cigars, if his packmates would let him.

Ape: the extent that he tryhards Sabbat Dogma makes me think flavor-of-the-month Hard Uppers. Either as the reason behind, or the result of, his tryharding.

Pyotr: Cigarettes. Like if the cast of Heathers smoked, whatever smoking habit best conveys those vibes.

The Old Lady D Sat Vigil With: provided she was physically capable of doing so, just.... coffee. She flavors it for herself like other grandmothers bake. Sometimes straight-out-the-box beans and liquid creamer (International Delight I think conveys the vibes), and sometimes milk from her husband's friend at the farmer's market spiced/sweetened with a mix of kroger's baking spices and either sweet-n-low/honey/brown sugar, depending on how hot she plans to drink that day's (or meal's cup. The beans are either (insert coffee brand a pensioner would stereotypically have been buying since pre-Reagan/Thatcher), or whatever novelty/specialty beans her family might have given her on christmas/her birthday.

Kräkus: (this seems like a Karl question)

Horse: Absinthe.

CORRECT

except for the krakus part, thats a speakerd question

[coffee-kitchen]

What are the main reasons people choose instant coffee?

People choose instant coffee for a variety of reasons, and these factors contribute to its widespread popularity across the globe. Here’s a detailed look at the main reasons why instant coffee is a go-to choice for many:

Convenience Ease of Preparation: Instant coffee is incredibly easy to make. All you need is hot water, and within seconds, your coffee is ready to drink. There's no need for brewing equipment, filters, or even a coffee maker. This simplicity is especially appealing for busy individuals who don’t have time to prepare coffee from scratch. Portability: Instant coffee is available in small, lightweight packets or jars, making it easy to carry around. Whether you're at work, traveling, or camping, you can always have your favorite coffee with you without needing to pack any equipment.

Speed Quick Brewing: Unlike traditional coffee, which requires several minutes to brew, instant coffee dissolves in hot water almost instantly. This speed is perfect for those who are always on the go or for anyone who needs a quick caffeine fix during a busy day.

Affordability Cost-Effective: Instant coffee is generally more affordable than ground coffee or coffee beans. Since it requires less processing and packaging, it’s often available at a lower price point, making it an economical choice for many households. Longer Shelf Life: Instant coffee has a longer shelf life compared to ground coffee, which means you can buy it in bulk and store it for a longer period without worrying about it going stale. This adds to the overall cost-effectiveness.

Variety of Flavors Diverse Options: Instant coffee comes in a wide range of flavors, strengths, and blends. From classic black coffee to flavored varieties like vanilla, hazelnut, and mocha, there’s something to suit every taste preference. This variety allows coffee lovers to experiment and find their perfect cup. Customization: Instant coffee is easy to customize. You can adjust the strength by simply adding more or less coffee powder, and you can easily mix in milk, creamers, sugar, or flavored syrups to create your own unique blend.

Consistency Reliable Taste: Instant coffee offers consistent taste and strength in every cup. Unlike brewed coffee, where variations in brewing time, temperature, and coffee-to-water ratio can affect the flavor, instant coffee provides a uniform taste experience. This reliability is especially important for those who prefer a consistent coffee experience every day.

Less Waste Minimal Cleanup: With instant coffee, there’s no need to deal with coffee grounds, filters, or the mess that comes with brewing traditional coffee. This reduces waste and makes cleanup a breeze, appealing to those who value simplicity and sustainability in their daily routine.

Availability Global Reach: Instant coffee is widely available in supermarkets, convenience stores, and online, making it accessible to people in almost every part of the world. This global availability ensures that no matter where you are, you can find instant coffee to suit your needs. Adaptability to Local Markets: Many instant coffee brands tailor their products to suit the tastes and preferences of different regions. Whether you prefer a stronger brew, a sweeter taste, or a specific flavor, chances are you can find an instant coffee that matches your preferences.

Health Benefits Antioxidant Content: Instant coffee contains antioxidants that can help protect your body from free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can lead to chronic diseases. While it might not have as many antioxidants as freshly brewed coffee, it still offers a decent amount, making it a healthier choice than other caffeinated beverages. Lower Caffeine Content: For those who are sensitive to caffeine, instant coffee often has a slightly lower caffeine content than brewed coffee. This makes it a suitable option for people who want to enjoy coffee without experiencing the jittery effects of too much caffeine.

Environmental Impact Reduced Resource Usage: Instant coffee typically requires fewer resources to produce, store, and transport compared to whole bean or ground coffee. It also uses less packaging, especially when bought in bulk. This can result in a lower overall environmental footprint, making it a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Cultural Influence Cultural Norms: In some cultures, instant coffee is a deeply ingrained part of daily life. It might be the first type of coffee people are introduced to, and it remains a staple in households and workplaces. This cultural familiarity can make instant coffee a preferred choice for many. Marketing and Branding: Many instant coffee brands have strong, recognizable identities and marketing campaigns that resonate with consumers. These brands often create a sense of nostalgia or connection, further encouraging people to choose instant coffee over other types. Conclusion In summary, people choose instant coffee primarily for its convenience, speed, and affordability. It offers a consistent and customizable coffee experience with minimal waste and environmental impact. The wide variety of flavors, global availability, and cultural significance further add to its appeal. Whether you're a busy professional, a traveler, or simply someone who enjoys a quick and reliable cup of coffee, instant coffee provides a practical and satisfying solution.

[60scig]

8/1/24

Rain pattering gently against the window, I sit curled on the cushioned bench before it with a warm blanket thrown over my legs and a large cat napping on my lap. The smell of coffee and freshly baked bread trails from the kitchen–you had called in from work today, telling me the rain made you too gloomy to go. Such a silly excuse, I told you through giggles, prying the truth from your lips as you confessed that you simply wished to stay home with me.

You had forbade me from entering the kitchen, peeking your head from around the wall to make sure I kept still in my cozy spot; the peacefully sleeping cat acting as an anchor. I gave an innocent wave each time you did before turning back to the window, back to observing people scurry around the streets with their umbrellas. A sea of black jackets, it was like watching an anthill, observing each individual ant as they marched to their respective duties. Those who weren’t in coats were safe under the awnings of cafes and markets, bringing small dabs of color with their warm outfits to the otherwise drab Paris scenery.

Prête! You finally call, and I whisper an apology to the cat before carefully lifting her body from my lap, drooping like slime off either side of my grasp until I place her on a cushion that she had already claimed as her own. Sliding my feet into my slippers, I drag my feet quickly across the apartment towards the mouthwatering scent.

Immediately, I huff an astonished gasp. Your name falls from my lips like a soft melody, clasping my hands together in excitement while looking up to see the wide grin on your face. Fresh, buttery croissants laid beside hazelnut spread sat at the center of our small table, surrounded by neatly arranged bowls of fruit, a porcelain pot of tea (a cup of coffee for yourself), a small stack of crepes and large plates of bacon and eggs, each cooked to our own personal likings.

Despite my growling stomach, my first instinct is to kiss you, whispering sweet mercis against your lips. Like a waitress, you lead me to my seat, pulling it out for me and fixing my messy hair over my shoulders before pacing away to put on music in the living room. Gillian Hills’ voice finds its way into the kitchen, and here you return, strutting to the cheery beat to take your seat.

I wish you would stay home every day, I think out loud. My heaven is being sat across the table from you, biting into a fresh strawberry as I admire your beauty. You take your coffee with just a splash of creamer, eggs over medium. You eat the purple grapes because I dislike them, and point to my plate with your fork to point out that you made sure my eggs didn’t touch my bacon. The cat strolls in, sniffing the air before slithering under the table and rubbing her soft coat against my leg. The rain outside was cold and painted the sky grey, but from my spot at the dining table, warm Earl Grey down my throat, it felt like a warm spring morning; an ideal world spent with mon amour.

[autumnslance]

FFXIV Write 2023 Day 7: Noisome

‘Oh no, here we go,’ Dark thought as Iyna was stopped by yet another beaming merchant as the pair walked through Gridania’s markets.

“You’re obviously a lady of discerning tastes,” the merchant began prattling, stepping far too close to the Viera. “And I’m sure you’ll find that my seasonal flavors are just the right combination to delight your nose and tongue both—” He held a steaming cup of some kind of coffee up to Iyna.

Dark was two fulms to the left and up and she could still smell the familiar, popular autumnal spice wafting from the cup.

“—Our pumpkin spice creamer—

Iyna’s nostrils flared. “There’s no pumpkin!” she snapped, her Garlean accent swiftly thickening in her frustration. “How can you claim it to be a pumpkin flavor if it’s not made with that?!”

The merchant sloshed coffee on his hand as he was taken aback.

“It’s cinnamon! Nutmeg! Cloves! Ginger! One may put it into a pie, but it is not pumpkin, and it. Is. Everywhere! I cannot escape it and it makes my nose itch!”

Dark was not going to point out the angry hare-like foot stomp Iyna did on each emphasis. Just note it for her own amusement.

Other shoppers and merchants nearby were pausing to watch. Some of them nodding in agreement with Iyna’s diatribe.

“I uh, I’m sorry, my lady, I was merely—”

“Iyna, he’s doing his job,” Dark said. “One for me please, sir. Thank you.”

Iyna snorted, made one last footstomp, and tossed her head. She had been letting her hair grow out a bit, the ends swishing with emphasis. “They are only the fifth one today ‘doing their job’ as I’m just trying to walk through the stalls!”

“Let’s get back to headquarters,” Dark said, taking her coffee from the shaking merchant and tipping a generous extra. “I think a Dalmascan curry was on the menu today.”

“So long as it isn’t ‘pumpkin spice’ flavored.”

“How about actual pumpkin?”

Iyna thought about it. “Real pumpkin is fine.”

“Then I’ll let Mama know for all the upcoming holiday parties.”

“...Wait, if you do that, then—”

“You can’t get out of attending. Exactly.”

Iyna gave her a withering glower as they left the stalls and made their way to ferry, Dark happily humming along, and personally enjoying the scent and flavor of her autumnal coffee.

[eva-knits12]

Grocery Shopping with Steve Rogers

Trigger warning: PTSD, grocery shopping, crowds, anxiety, abusive marriage (not you and Steve), fluff.

Summary: Steve goes grocery shopping for the first time since getting out of the ice. You help him navigate the modern supermarket.

Steve wakes up on this warm Monday morning, He turns on his coffee maker, and then heads to the bedroom. He grabs his jeans and a sweater. He brushes his teeth, and then showers.

Today, he has to go grocery shopping. Steve has no milk, no eggs, no coffee after this pot, no creamer, and has only two slices of bread. Steve prepares himself some oatmeal, and toasts the last two slices of bread. When the toast pops, he slathers the slices with butter and some grape jelly. When his oatmeal is ready, he puts on some blueberries and bananas and eats his breakfast.

He then makes his list. You're still sleeping, so it will be a while before you wake up. Steve doesn't like going to the grocery store, he remembered when he used to get his groceries delivered. He remembers when his mother would go to the corner market to get things such as coffee, tea, sugar, flour, soap, and cans of soup. He remembers when his mother would go to the butcher and get things such as beef, pork, and chicken when the food budget would allow for such things.

You wake up, brush your teeth, wash your face, and then shower. You make instant pancakes and some instant sausage in the microwave, and put butter and syrup on the pancakes. You eat your breakfast, and drink your coffee. Your wearing a black skirt and a red blouse. You also need to do your grocery shopping, but that's going to have to wait until after work.

You meet Steve at the elevators and greet each other with a kiss. You and Steve have only been dating for a few months, and

"Good morning, doll," Steve says.

"Good morning, Captain Handsome," you say.

You two talk about your plans for the day, and since you both need to go grocery shopping, you two would make a date out of it. You two were holding hands while you were walking and talking on your way to the meeting room.

You and Steve go to the meeting to discuss the latest mission. You make the coffee, both regular and decaf, and you get the donuts and various other breakfast pastries. Steve is helping you set up the meeting room, and Nick Fury and Phil Coulson walk in,

Tony was discussing the latest mission, in which several hostages were taken. What was supposed to be two days max took four days because they were trying to free the hostages while dealing with Hydra agents. Of course, every mission was followed by a meeting, and Tony and Nick and Coulson needed to know why this mission, even short, took longer than expected.

After that, you and Steve went to lunch in the cafeteria, and talked while you were on your way to the cafeteria. Steve had his arm around your shoulders and kissed your forehead. You were holding onto his arm.

You two talk and eat your lunch. Steve goes back to his apartment, and fixes himself a cup of coffee and reads his book. You go back to Tony, and finish up your work. You finish making the copies and type of a summary of the meeting to e-mail to Tony, Nick, and Coulson. You leave when you're done.

When you arrive home, you call Steve and make your grocery list.

"Well, Captain Handsome, I can't wait to go grocery shopping," you say.

"I really don't know what I'm doing, where I'm going. The modern supermarket confuses me," says Steve.

"Look, when we go, there will be less people. Before, we'll get some Chinese. It's my ritual before I go grocery shopping," you say.

Steve and you talk some more. He's been curious about Chinese food, and has yet to try modern Chinese food. When he was growing up, there was only a few things on the menu to choose from.

Steve comes over, and greets you with a kiss. You two talk, and you're wearing your black jeans with your Docs, and a sweater.

"What's Wor Su Gai?" asks Steve when you two arrive at the Chinese restaurant and looks at the menu.

"It's Almond Boneless Chicken," you explain.

"The sweet and sour chicken sounds interesting," says Steve.

You two place your order, and you both talk while you're both waiting for you meal. You two share off of each others plates, and you both steal a kiss while you both are eating. You go to pay, but Steve insists on paying.

Steve hails a taxi, and you guys go to the grocery store. You both start on the pharmacy end of the store, and Steve gets some toothpaste, a toothbrush, some deodorant, and some soap. You get your favorite Cover Girl mascara, some body wash, some tampons, and some chap stick. Steve is amazed at the choices that are out there.

You then get some flavored creamer, and Steve is not only amazed by the brands, he's amazed by the flavors.

"Steve, it's just creamer. It's not going to bite you," you say.

'Doll, where is the half and half?" asks Steve.

"Try the dairy case, it's usually in there," you say.

Steve grabs the half and half, and looks at the price.

"I don't remember it being THAT much," Steve says.

"Steve, prices have gone way up thanks to several decades of inflation," you say.

You hear a loud noise, and start to feel the walls closing in. You immediately feel your heart rate rise. You start to feel shortness of breath, and you feel dizzy. Steve asks if your okay, and he immediately sees that your not. Steve guides you to the ground, and tells you that you're okay.

"Can you tell me five things you see?" asks Steve. You name five things you see.

"Can you name four things that you can touch?" asks Steve. You name four things that you can touch.

"Can you name three things that you can hear?" asks Steve. You name three things that you can hear.

"Can you name two things that you can smell?" asks Steve. You name the two things that you can smell.

"Can you name one thing you can taste?" asks Steve. You name the one thing that you can taste.

A small crowd has gathered, and Steve's PTSD is triggered by that. He just wants you to be okay. Steve doesn't really like crowds, and hearing the noise of a man yelling at his wife also triggered his PTSD. Any loud noise triggered it, and Steve was trying to keep himself together for you.

Steve instinctively ran towards the noise. It's a man who is screaming at his wife for not putting an item on the list, and then misspelling a word on the list. He's screaming and belittling her, and you're having a flashback from the time you were in an abusive relationship. That triggered your PTSD.

You're still sitting on the ground, hugging your knees, and trying to self-soothe. Tears are stinging your eyes, and you are now shaking and you don't even realize that your body is now having a reaction. With shaky hands, you try to reach for your purse to take a Valium, only you can't seem to unzip your purse.

"Oh, doll. This isn't about you. This is about him," says Steve, who has his arms wrapped around you, and pulls you close to him. Steve helps you unzip your purse, and gives you the pill bottle. You take the pill, and Steve let's you take a sip of water from the small water bottle that you keep in your purse.

Steve helps you up when you feel like you can. You grasp onto your cart, and standing feels strange right now. Steve holds you until the feeling passes.

"Steve, I'm sorry. I....I....I....," you say.

"Shh, doll. This is about him," says Steve.

You realized that it was this wasn't your abusive ex. After the Avengers confronted your ex, they helped get him jail. It took a while just to go out to do simple tasks. At first, you could barely make it out the front door without having an anxiety attack. Steve gave you time. Tony arranged for you to see a therapist. Sam was right, talking about what happened was the first step towards healing.

Steve was just there. He wouldn't let you go anywhere without him. Tony was making sure that you stuck to a normal routine at work. Natasha and Wanda and Pepper often had a girls night with you, where you guys would end it with a spa night and a sleepover. Everybody did their part in order to make you feel some sense of normalcy.

After, you and Steve head over to the produce and fruit section. You guys get the basics, and then it's off to the bakery section. You want to get some bread, and Steve got some cupcakes. Steve was amazed at the selection of cupcakes. There were only two flavors when he was growing up-chocolate and vanilla-but today, there's red velvet, coconut, mint chocolate, strawberry, lemon, key lime, Boston cream, s'mores, orange vanilla, pineapple, matcha, even mixed berry.

Next up is the bread aisle, and Steve is confused by all the breads available. His mother often made bread from scratch every day because sliced bread wasn't available until he turned 10. Even so, it was still cheaper to make bread from scratch, because sliced bread was expensive then. Steve was amazed at how cheap sliced bread was and the variety of sliced bread available. There was white bread, whole wheat, whole grain, bread with oatmeal on top, cinnamon raisin bread, hearty grain, Hawaiian bread, egg bread, potato bread, Italian bread, pumpernickel bread, rye bread, bread without the crusts, pita bread, and even pretzel bread.

You get some whole wheat and some white, and Steve gets two packages of white bread. You then move onto the meat section, and Steve is amazed. He gets some packaged bacon and packaged sausage, hamburgers, hot dogs, and some lunch meat. You get some meatballs, some ground beef and some ground turkey, some lunchmeat, and some hot dogs.

You then move on to the soup aisle, and you get several cans of soup. You get some tomato, some chicken noodle, some chicken tortilla, and even some lentil soup. Steve is looking for the Campbell's condensed version, which is still available. But, when he sees your carts with the Progesso soup, he asks what it is.

"Doll, what's that?" asks Steve.

"It's soup, Steve. You just open the can, pour it in a pot, and then let it simmer until it's hot. The water is already included, so it saves you a step," you say.

"How is this possible? And why does it cost this much?" says Steve.

"Its decades of inflation," you say. "Add competition into the mix, and that's what you get, companies competing for prime shelf space," you say.

"For decades, it was Campbell's. Now, Progresso has upped the canned soup game, there was competition. Add in gluten-free soups, soups made with organic ingredients, and soups that are low in sodium and soups that offer healthier options, that increases the competition for shelf space," you say.

Next up is the pasta aisle, and you buy some penne, some campanelle pasta, some spaghetti, and some macaroni. Steve is amazed that pasta is still cheap.

Steve also gets some rice, and he's amazed that rice can now come in individual sizes. You explain that you don't have to make a lot of it, when you just want a little of it. It's easier, and saves a bunch of time and clean up.

Next up is the baking aisle. Steve is amazed that there are boxed mixes of cakes, brownies, cookies, and even muffins. You explain that the mixes are just dry ingredients that have been mixed and measured for you, and you just add in the wet ingredients. You also explain that you only need one bowl to make it, and you just need to preheat the oven, pop it in, and let it bake. You still made your cookies and cakes from scratch.

Next up is the cereal aisle, and Steve gets some oatmeal. He's amazed at the selection of flavors, and that you don't have to buy a huge thing of it. You just add warm milk or boiling water, and Steve remembers when that's all him and his mom had to eat at times.

Steve goes to the coffee aisle, and gets his favorite brand of coffee. You get some, and he's amazed at the kinds of coffees that are available, he's also amazed that it's already ground. You explain that it's easier, and that this saves space, and saves time. There is still whole bean coffee available, but very few people own a coffee grinder nowadays. Most own a pot, or a Keurig. Steve is confused.

You explain that a Keurig is an individual coffee maker, but you need to buy the pods of coffee.

"Pods?" asks Steve.

"Yes, pods. It's easier, but they're expensive. Not everyone owns a Keurig. I own a $20 coffee maker, and I prefer it," you say.

Steve looks at you in amazement.

"Wait, you own a regular old coffee maker?" asks Steve. Steve owns one, too.

"Yes, it's just cheaper," you say.

You go to the cookie aisle, and get the store brand of Oreo's. Steve is confused at the prices, and you explain that the store brand tastes no different than the name brand. You and Steve go to the chip aisle, and he's amazed by the selection and the flavors. Steve had chips as a rare treat, but now it's an every day food. You explain that they're cheap, and it's a a cheap appetizer at parties. Chips are convenient when you have a sandwich, a hot dog, or a hamburger, you explain. Plus, there's low sodium, salt and vinegar, barbecue, sour cream and onion, sour cream and cheddar, kettle chips, ruffled chips, even tortilla chips. Steve has curious about Mexican food, and has always wanted to try tortilla chips.

"Chips?! We only had regular," Steve says.

Next up is the frozen foods, and you get some ice cream. Steve is amazed at the all of the flavor selections that isn't chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, and even mint chocolate chip.

"Wow, ice cream is expensive," says Steve.

"It really isn't when you factor in individual servings. Plus, competition between companies. The store brand has some really good flavors, and factor in lactose free, ice cream made from coconut milk and oat milk, almond milk, sugar-free ice cream, and even brands such as Graeter's and Haagan-Dazs, and Ben and Jerry's, ice cream makers are competing for space in the frozen food section. It's not about the product, it's about the brand," you say. Ice cream was a rare treat for Steve.

Next up is the frozen dinners, followed by the frozen pizza. Steve is amazed by all of these culinary revolutions. You explain that you can either make the frozen dinners in the microwave or in the oven. Most will just have microwave instructions, and there those such as Stouffer's or Banquet that will have oven instructions. You explain that frozen dinners became a thing when he was still frozen in the ice.

He looks at the pizza. He's confused by the pizza. You explain that frozen pizza is cheap, and that there are several brands. Each brand has improved upon quality.

You and Steve finish. You have everything in your carts. The cashier is scanning the purchase, and the bagger is bagging the groceries. He loads everything back in your cart, and you call for Tony. One of Tony's driver's arrives, and waits for you in the parking lot, in the line where they have cars waiting to pick up passengers, and shoppers getting into their taxis.

You wait for Steve. Steve is amazed that the cashier is scanning his groceries, and not entering them in by hand. The cashier explains that this way is much quicker, and the only things that get entered in by hand are items that are weighable. He might have to enter in a discount by hand at times, but that's rare.

The bagger bags Steve's groceries, and he's amazed that everything is placed in plastic bags. The bagger says that he'll still have a job in a year, it's just that everyone will now have to purchase reusable bags because it's a way to help the environment. Steve is amazed because he explains that the corner grocery store always used paper bags when he was growing up.

Steve is finally done, and Steve and you load your groceries into Tony's car. Tony's driver, Happy, gladly takes you both back to Stark Tower, and gets the available security guards to help you both take your groceries back to your apartments.

Happy also explains that you can arrange for a grocery delivery.

"Wait, we can have our groceries delivered?" asks Steve.

"Yeah, Tony has it available for all of his employees. I had to use it a few weeks ago when I had a migraine, and it was grocery day. You just put in for delivery on the store's site, and they'll take it from there," you explain. Steve remembers when his mom used to get their groceries delivered, and when Steve was in his teens, him and Bucky worked as delivery boys for the local grocery store.

You and Steve kiss, say your goodbyes, and you and Steve go back to your apartments to unpack your groceries. Steve then calls you to say good night, and you can't wait for tomorrow.

Shopping with Steve was surprisingly easy.

[believingispowerfulmagic]

The Christmas Engagement

Summary: To secure her company’s future, Regina Mills needs to convince Leopold Blanchard to sell his company to her. He wants to sell to a family-oriented company and has a very conservative view on what family looks like. In a moment of desperation, she makes up a fiancé. When Leopold wants to meet her family, Regina needs to find one STAT.

Enter Robin Locksley, a single father who is unable to move up from his low-paying position. He agrees to play Regina’s fiancé for the holiday season so she can convince Leopold to make the deal. Will their fake engagement fool everyone...or might their feelings turn out to be not-so-fake after all?

FFN | AO3 | Wattpad

Excerpt (from Chapter 1: A Desperate Situation):

Regina Mills straightened her black blazer using her reflection in the silver elevator doors as the carriage rose up through one of the tallest buildings in Maine. She had a bright red dress underneath it, the pencil skirt hugging her curves. Though Regina had fought to develop a reputation for being a capable and intelligent executive who had successfully grown her family's company thanks to a combination of good marketing, great service and even better business deals, she knew when to flaunt a little of her sexuality to help in her negotiating. She knew Leopold Blanchard had lost his wife a little over a year ago and guessed that a younger, attractive woman would hold his attention long enough for her and her sister to impress him with their offer.

"You look fine," Zelena Mills-West assured her sister. "We have a great proposal. Leopold would be hard pressed to find a better offer for his company. And he'll get to look at the both of us, which is probably going to be the highlight of his year."

"There's a lot at stake, Zelena. We probably need Blanchard Electronics more than they need us," Regina replied, keeping an eye on the floors. Once the doors opened, she knew she had to be the confident businesswoman needed to impress Leopold and she needed to leave all her doubts behind her.

Zelena nodded. "I know, Regina, but we need to be confident. We will make this deal and we will get Blanchard Electronics. Okay?"

"Okay," Regina said as the elevator stopped at their floor. She took a deep breath and when the doors opened, her game face was on. Together with Zelena, she approached the reception area. "I'm Regina Mills and this is Zelena Mills-West. We have an appointment with Leopold Blanchard."

The receptionist checked something on her computer before nodding. She stood as she said: "I'm going to show you to the conference room. Follow me, please."

She led them to a frosted glass door and used a swipe card to let them into the room. A large glass table sat in the middle of the carpeted room, leather executive chairs surrounding it except at the end opposite of them due to the large screen at that end of the room. Windows ran from wall to ceiling, letting everyone in the conference room look out at the city skyline. Gray clouds moved in, promising the first snow of the season. Regina hoped it was just a flurry and that she didn't have to worry about the snow on top of the presentation.

The receptionist motioned to a marble counter along the nearest wall, which also included a fridge and a coffee machine. A basket of granola bars and chips sat next to the sweeteners and stirrers. "Help yourself. Mr. Blanchard will be in shortly."

Once she left, Zelena approached the coffee machine. She looked back at Regina. "Do you want anything?"

"Just some water," Regina said, accepting a cold bottle from her sister. "You should just have the water too. We don't want to make a bad impression."

"Having coffee won't make a bad impression," Zelena replied, rolling her eyes as she stirred some creamer into her coffee. She then dumped a packet of sweetener into the cup before following Regina to the table.

They took two seats and Regina opened her portfolio. "Shall we go over the proposal one more time?"

Zelena sighed. "We have everything under control, Regina. Just take a deep breath, relax and be your natural brilliant self. We've got this."

"We can't leave anything to chance," Regina started to say as the door opened again. She looked up and saw the receptionist escort another woman in, telling her to help herself and to have a seat.

Regina looked over the newcomer. She was probably older than Zelena, with tanned skin and ombre hair, going from brown to blond. Her gray-blue eyes looked over Regina and Zelena before she straightened out her black dress, walking over to the table as she took a chair across from them. She pulled out her own portfolio, going through it as it seemed she pointedly ignoring the other two women in the room.

The door opened once more but this time, Leopold Blanchard entered. He was an older man with thin gray hair surrounding a bald spot that covered the top of his head. He wore a dark gray suit with a blue tie and carried a folder of papers under his arm as he closed the door behind him. Smiling, he approached the table. "Thank you for coming. I know this might be a bit unorthodox, but your bids are the two we are considering so I thought it would just be easier to meet with both of you. Consider it a friendly competition."

"Friendly?" Zelena murmured. "Is he kidding me?"

Regina kicked her sister under the table, ignoring Zelena's pained yelp as she smiled at Leopold. "Whatever you think is best. We're flexible."

"I have no objections either," the other woman said, focusing all her attention on Leopold.

He smiled, nodding. "Wonderful! I know you both know me, so let me introduce you to each other. Victoria, this is Regina Mills and Zelena West. They are the CEO and COO respectively of Fantastical Finds, the online retailer. Regina, Zelena, this is Victoria Belfrey of Belfrey Enterprises, who leases retail spaces to companies."

"Pleasure to meet you," Victoria said, though her tone and eyes said otherwise.

"Likewise," Zelena said, almost sounding sincere yet still exuding just a bit of disdain.

Leopold opened his folder. "Now that everyone knows each other, let's get down to business. I'm sure you are wondering why I'm looking to sell the company. We're doing a healthy business, able to pay our shareholders and our employees, and are trending upwards. Well, I'll be honest, I'm old."

"Nonsense," Victoria said, smiling widely. "You look like spring chicken."

"Brown-noser," Zelena muttered. Regina kicked her again, forcing her sister to swallow her painful yelp.

Leopold didn't notice as he smiled at Victoria, his chest puffing out from her flattery. "Thank you, but the number of candles on my birthday cake disagrees with you. I also want to enjoy my retirement while I still can. My daughter just had her first child and I want to spoil my grandson rotten."

"A wonderful goal," Regina said, looking smug as Victoria glared at her. Two could play at the flattery game, she thought as she smiled brightly at Leopold. "Your grandson is quite fortunate to have such a loving and devoted grandfather."

He grew misty-eyed, nodding. "I hope so. Family is very, very important to me. I had hoped to pass my business down to my children, but my wife and I were only blessed with our daughter Mary Margaret and she was called to be a teacher, not a businesswoman. That played a big part in my decision to sell Blanchard Electronics, besides in helping to expand our business and make things better for our employees. I want to make sure whoever I sell to places just as importance on family as I do."

Regina's confidence grew, realizing they could have this in the bag. "Well, as you know, Fantastical Finds is a family operation. Zelena is not just my COO but also my sister. Our parents founded the company years ago, having the foresight to realize how the internet would revolutionize the retail industry and guiding our company into the major player we are today. My sister and I took over when they retired and continue to place great emphasis on family."

"I know," Leopold said, "which is why you are one of my two finalists. Tell me, do you have families of your own?"

"I do," Victoria answered, jumping in. "My husband Marcus works with me and we have three daughters-Ivy, Anastasia and Ella, his stepdaughter from his first marriage. His first wife died and we adopted the girl."

Leopold looked very impressed, his attention drawn back to her. Zelena, though, was quick to get it back. "My husband Chad is the head of our marketing division. We have a young daughter named Margot."

"And I have a son named Henry, after my father," Regina replied, hoping that would be enough. It was for her, after all.

"What about your husband?" Leopold asked. He then made a face before adding: "Or wife. Spouse. Partner. Whatever. I've been told I need to be more accepting of non-traditional families."

His tone, though, suggested he wanted to do anything but that. It was clear he considered a family to be a husband, wife and children. Probably even a dog. He seemed like a dog person to Regina.

She held her head high and settled on a vague but honest answer. "It's just Henry and me."

"I see," he replied, struggling to keep the disdain from his voice. He picked up the papers. "Well, I've reviewed your proposals and I am aiming to make my decision after the holidays. I am hoping to get to know your families and your companies, especially with the holidays coming up. I know they can be a busy time but nothing says family like Christmas."

"I absolutely agree," Victoria replied.

Zelena jumped in. "So do Regina and I."

Regina saw her opening and took it. "In fact, Zelena and I would like to invite you and your family to join us for Fantastical Find's annual holiday party. It's for all the employees and their families are invited as well. We all can mingle together and celebrate the end of another year."

"I would love to come," Leopold said, looking very pleased. "I will check with my daughter and her family but I'm sure they would love to come as well."

"We look forward to having you," Zelena added.

Victoria had a sour look on her face and a thrill rushed through Regina. It seemed they were able to get one up on her but she knew she couldn't rest easy just yet. She and Zelena still had to convince Leopold that it was best for his company to merge with theirs and she was certain Victoria would come up with some way to impress Leopold, to spend some time with him and show off her family. They would have to remain vigilant.

Leopold closed his portfolio. "Ladies, I thank you for coming down today and I look forward to spending more time with all of you in the coming weeks. Have a good afternoon."

Everyone stood and Leopold shook Victoria's hand, speaking with her in a low voice. She put on her fake smile again and nodded a lot before leaving the conference room.

[newstfionline]

Sunday, June 11, 2023

Energy Drinks Are Surging. So Are Their Caffeine Levels. (NYT) It has been more than 25 years since Red Bull hit the market and introduced caffeinated energy drinks to the United States. While the company claimed its beverage would “give you wings,” it never said it was actually good for people. Yet as the energy drink market continues to grow rapidly, companies both new and old are trying to attract health-conscious customers with a wave of no-sugar, low-calorie drinks that claim to boost energy as well as replenish fluids with electrolytes and other ingredients. This new focus has helped the energy drink market grow, with sales in the United States surging to $19 billion from $12 billion over the past five years. But there are concerns that drinks being pitched as healthy are resulting in children and teenagers consuming caffeine in unhealthy amounts. A 12-ounce can of Prime Energy contains 200 milligrams of caffeine. That’s roughly equivalent to two Red Bulls, two cups of coffee or six cans of Coca-Cola. Some schools in Britain and Australia have already banned the beverages. In the United States, federal regulations say schools cannot sell or provide caffeinated drinks to elementary or middle school students, although many schools do not restrict what students can bring from home. “Not long after drinking them, the students showed up in the health office saying they didn’t feel good and that their hearts were racing,” said [one school nurse].

A Puzzle in Arizona’s Boom Towns: How to Keep Growing With Less Water (NYT) As the mayor of an old farming town bursting with new homes, factories and warehouses, Eric Orsborn spends his days thinking about water. The lifeblood for this growth is billions of gallons of water pumped from the ground, and his city, Buckeye, Ariz., is thirsty for more as builders push deeper into the desert fringes of Phoenix. But last week, Arizona announced it would limit some future home construction in Buckeye and other places because of a shortfall in groundwater. A new state study found groundwater supplies in the Phoenix area were about 4 percent short of what is needed for planned growth over the next 100 years. That may feel like a far-off horizon, but it is enough of a change to force the state to rethink its future in the near and long terms. Now, there are urgent questions about how Arizona should be using its increasingly precious water—for water-guzzling alfalfa and lettuce farms or thirsty new computer chip and battery factories and coffee-creamer manufacturing? For new sprawl or more development inside cities? Could the Phoenix suburbs keep up their frenzied pace of growth? Should they?

Four Colombian children found alive in jungle weeks after plane crash (Reuters) Four children from an Indigenous community in Colombia were found alive in the country’s south on Friday more than five weeks after the plane they were traveling in crashed in thick jungle, Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro said. The plane—a Cessna 206—was carrying seven people on a route between Araracuara, in Amazonas province, and San Jose del Guaviare, a city in Guaviare province, when it issued a mayday alert due to engine failure in the early hours of May 1. Three adults, including the pilot and the children’s mother Magdalena Mucutuy, died as a result of the crash and their bodies were found inside the plane. The four siblings, aged 13, 9, 4, as well as a now 12-month-old baby, survived the impact. Narcizo Mucutuy, the grandfather of the three girls and one boy, told reporters he was delighted at the news of their rescue.

Argentina inflation seen hitting 149% this year, up from previous poll (Reuters) Analysts polled by Argentina’s central bank forecast annual inflation this year at 149%, above the 126% expected in the previous poll, according to the monthly survey released on Friday. For May, the analysts polled expect prices to have risen 9% in the month. Argentina’s economy, strained by a historic drought that has worsened an ongoing currency crisis, is expected to shrink 3% in 2023 from 2022. Analysts see the weakened Argentine peso, currently officially valued at 245 pesos per dollar, ending this year at 408.68 pesos per dollar and 2024 at 917.54 pesos per dollar. Rising prices and tumbling foreign reserves pose a challenge for Argentina’s left-leaning government ahead of general elections in October.

Boris Johnson quits as UK lawmaker after being told he will be sanctioned for misleading Parliament (AP) Former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson shocked Britain on Friday by quitting as a lawmaker after being told he will be sanctioned for misleading Parliament. Johnson resigned after receiving the results of an investigation by lawmakers into misleading statements he made to Parliament about “partygate,” a series of rule-breaking government parties during the COVID-19 pandemic. By quitting, he avoids a suspension that could have seen him ousted from his Commons seat by his constituents, leaving him free to run for Parliament again in the future.

Russia to deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus in July. (1440) Russian President Vladimir Putin made the announcement in a televised meeting with the Belarusian leader Friday. Belarus, a close ally of Russia, neighbors Ukraine to the north and shares an almost-700-mile border. Russian forces have used Belarus as a staging ground since the beginning of the war.

UN aid chief says Ukraine faces ‘hugely worse’ humanitarian situation after the dam rupture (AP) The humanitarian situation in Ukraine is “hugely worse” than before the Kakhovka dam collapsed, the U.N.’s top aid official warned Friday. Undersecretary-General Martin Griffiths said an “extraordinary” 700,000 people are in need of drinking water and warned that the ravages of flooding in one of the world’s most important breadbaskets will almost inevitably lead to lower grain exports, higher food prices around the world, and less to eat for millions in need. “This is a viral problem,” he said in an interview with The Associated Press. “But the truth is this is only the beginning of seeing the consequences of this act.”

As Ukraine Launches Counteroffensive, Definitions of ‘Success’ Vary (NYT) After months of anticipation, Ukraine’s forces—newly trained on complex warfare tactics and armed with billions of dollars in sophisticated Western weaponry—launched operations on multiple fronts in the past week in an effort to dislodge entrenched Russian military units, a counteroffensive that many officials in the United States and Europe say could be a turning point in the 15-month war. What remains unclear, though, is exactly what the United States, Europe and Ukraine view as a “successful” counteroffensive. Publicly, American and European officials are leaving any definition of success to President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. Privately, U.S. and European officials concede that pushing all of Russia’s forces out of occupied Ukrainian land is highly unlikely. Throughout the war, the Ukrainian army, with deeply motivated troops, creative military operations and advanced Western weaponry, has outperformed Russia’s military. But the Ukrainians have also found it difficult to dislodge the Russians from their entrenched defensive positions in the last few months, with the front lines barely moving.

A Rising India Is Also, in One Remote Pocket, a Blood-Soaked War Zone (NYT) People burned out of their homes by the hundreds. Villages, even refugee camps, raked with gunfire. Men, women and children beaten and set ablaze by angry mobs. India, the world’s most populous country and home to the fastest-growing major economy, is now also the site of a war zone, as weeks of ethnic violence in the remote northeastern state of Manipur has claimed about 100 lives. Militarized buffer zones now crisscross the state, patrolled by local women—who are seen as less hotheaded than men—and the thousands of troops who have been sent to quell the fighting, drawing down forces in other parts of India, including the border with China. More than 35,000 people have become refugees, with many living in makeshift camps. Internet service has been cut—an increasingly common tactic by the Indian government—and travel restrictions have made it difficult for the outside world to see in. The development has been jarring for a nation whose 1.4 billion people usually manage to get along despite belonging to thousands of sometimes rivalrous ethnic groups. And it presents an unwelcome image of instability for a national government focused on portraying India as a rising global power. “It is a nightmare,” said Mairembam Ratan, a small-town career counselor who escaped his home with help from the army. “It’s a civil war.”

The Pentagon Is Freaking Out About a Potential War With China (Politico) The war began in the early morning hours with a massive bombardment—China’s version of “shock and awe.” Chinese planes and rockets swiftly destroyed most of Taiwan’s navy and air force as the People’s Liberation army and navy mounted a massive amphibious assault across the 100-mile Taiwan Strait. Having taken seriously President Joe Biden’s pledge to defend the island, Beijing also struck pre-emptively at U.S. and allied air bases and ships in the Indo-Pacific. The U.S. managed to even the odds for a time by deploying more sophisticated submarines as well as B-21 and B-2 stealth bombers to get inside China’s air defense zones, but Washington ran out of key munitions in a matter of days and saw its network access severed. The United States and its main ally, Japan, lost thousands of service members, dozens of ships, and hundreds of aircraft. Taiwan’s economy was devastated. And as a protracted siege ensued, the U.S. was much slower to rebuild, taking years to replace ships as it reckoned with how shriveled its industrial base had become compared to China’s. The Chinese “just ran rings around us,” said former Joint Chiefs Vice Chair Gen. John Hyten in one after-action report. “They knew exactly what we were going to do before we did it.”      Dozens of versions of the above war-game scenario have been enacted over the last few years, most recently in April by the House Select Committee on competition with China. And while the ultimate outcome in these exercises is not always clear—the U.S. does better in some than others—the cost is. In every exercise the U.S. uses up all its long-range air-to-surface missiles in a few days, with a substantial portion of its planes destroyed on the ground. In every exercise the U.S. is not engaged in an abstract push-button war from 30,000 feet up like the ones Americans have come to expect since the end of the Cold War, but a horrifically bloody one. And that’s assuming the U.S.-China war doesn’t go nuclear.

Saudi crown prince threatened ‘major’ economic pain on U.S. amid oil feud (Washington Post) Last fall, President Biden vowed to impose “consequences” on Saudi Arabia for its decision to slash oil production amid high energy prices and fast-approaching elections in the United States. In public, the Saudi government defended its actions politely via diplomatic statements. But in private, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman threatened to fundamentally alter the decades-old U.S.-Saudi relationship and impose significant economic costs on the United States if it retaliated against the oil cuts, according to a classified document obtained by The Washington Post. The crown prince claimed “he will not deal with the U.S. administration anymore,” the document says, promising “major economic consequences for Washington.” It is unclear whether the crown prince’s threat was conveyed directly to U.S. officials or intercepted through electronic eavesdropping, but his dramatic outburst reveals the tension at the heart of a relationship long premised on oil-for-security but rapidly evolving as China takes a growing interest in the Middle East and the United States assesses its own interests as the world’s largest oil producer.

From restaurants to water towers, unrest dents Senegal’s economy (Reuters) A KFC restaurant ransacked. Public transport torched. Glass-paneled stations for a multi-million dollar electric bus link shattered. A water plant vandalised. Senegal is taking stock of the damage after the jail sentencing of prominent opposition figure Ousmane Sonko sparked the worst civil unrest in decades that threatens to dent progress in one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. Sixteen people died and hundreds were injured. Rioters attacked banks, supermarkets and petrol stations. Small businesses were also hitAn attack on a state-owned water plant could create shortages in Dakar, where it hasn’t rained for eight months and where water cuts are common, an official said. Aside from the damage, a day of protests can slow economic output by the equivalent of up to around $33 million per day, the government estimates. Citizens rapidly feel the pinch in a country where over 95% of the work is informal.

[southern-god1]

Hey y’all!

So, I know tea is what most of us drink down here. But, I’m one of those people who just prefers coffee. I still love a nice glass of sweet tea, don’t get me wrong, but a nice iced latte just hits the spot during our hot summers, and a hot cup of coffee gives me that burst of energy I need before a long day of showing Yankees just how fucking superior I am to them. Not like anyone else is gonna manage the sale of hundreds of thousands of inferiors per hour! (I manage one of the worlds largest slave markets in Charleston, South Carolina) So, I guess I’m asking is this…can you make Yankees into coffee and if so, does it taste any good?

Hot stuff, by the way, keep it up!

Hey there! Thanks for the compliment, glad ya like my stuff!

I am also one of those people who loves coffee! And you certainly need coffee for your job; I don’t envy you. I ain’t a math person.

To answer your actual question, yes! You can make coffee from Yankees! You need a lot of them, but you can turn them into coffee beans, watch them shrink and turn brown, then hear their screams as they are ground, boiled, and turned into a nice hot (or iced) cup of coffee! Or just turn them into whatever drink you want directly, feel them freak out as you drink them.

….now you’ve got me craving coffee! Think I’ll turn a Yankee into a hot coffee with plenty of creamer.

Side note: I’m loving these asks I’m getting lately, the ones engaging with the universe. I do enjoy getting TF requests, but these are so fun to receive and answer! Thanks y’all.

[patalipat-blog]

Indian spice whiff

Hi Tumblr, it's been a looooooooong while. Been meaning to go back to writing since a few weeks ago. I've had several epiphanies that I'd like to talk about, but the momentum always gets swamped by other "more important" tasks (i.e. sleeping, loljk). Anyway, today is Sunday. I was supposed to start my day early by attending the Holy Mass but my body seemed to be needing so much rest. I guess my body's finally savoring that one day of lack of caffeine supply. I then just decided to have breakfast and stroll by the nearby Sunday market to look for coffee. I forgot to take pictures, though. But I found them on Facebook:

(Photo courtesy of Elbi Community Market FB Page)

Yep, I'm in Elbi right now. Trying my luck and doing something really big for myself, finally for myself after giving much of my past few years to others. But perhaps that merits another post.

Going back, it didn't take long until I found a stall selling Kapeng Barako. And omfg the camera caught me pala! 🤣

(Photo courtesy of Elbi Community Market FB Page)

Halata naman yung nipis ko diba? Hindi maipagkakaila lolllll

The coffee tastes good. The small-sized cup costs P 35.00. Not bad. I really miss the times, though, back in Goa where we would brew our own coffee. Here, it took a while before I found a coffee shop that sells undiluted brewed coffee at a reasonable cost.

As I mixed creamer and sugar on my coffee (right photo), my nostrils caught a whiff of some Indian spices. My mind immediately floated and travelled back to the time when Bruce and I travelled to Nepal for a research competition in November 2017. It was there that I first tasted authentic Indian cuisine. But my senses caught up with my daydreaming; The cold weather, the hour of the day, the half-awake feeling, and the environment itself transported me forward to our time in Malaysia in October 2023. I attended a research conference with Kyna, Rem, Andrea, and Aaron. We were accompanied by Andrea's mother, Ma'am Miriam, and Andrea's cousin, Ma'am Nicole.

I just suddenly remembered that morning of our conference when we haven't eaten yet but the program was already starting.

(Photo courtesy of Ma'am Miriam)

Fortunately, there was a Sunday Market just beside the conference hall. And so while they were participating in the Opening Program, I strolled around and bought food for them.

(Photos courtesy of Ma'am Miriam and me)

As always, I failed to take many photos haha. Buuuut the food options were really really good. And the smell, of course. The rich aroma of Indian spices pervaded the Sunday morning air. The expo included other cuisines, but my eyes were of course trained on the ones that were new to me.

The stall on the left photo served rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves. They seemed like our local suman or binanban in Lagonoy, but they tasted way creamier and more savory. The kids also liked them a lot, naubusan nga agad ako haha.

The stall on the right photo also had these rolled rice with fish at the center and wrapped with banana leaves. I think they're called "Pulut bakar," not really sure. Judging from the appearance, I thought they were similar to our tupig in Pangasinan or Ilocos Area, but I was so wrong haha. It was really more of a meal rather than a snack, probably because of the fish inside.

After feeding the kids, I was still so hungry so I went out and bought Nasi lemak with free brewed coffee. It really feels different (in a good way) eating authentic food from foreign cuisines. I definitely find it weird why they always include whole nuts and anchovies in their rice meal, but I guess it adds to the overall texture of the food.

(Photos courtesy of Ma'am Miriam)

But beyond the food items, I kinda miss the company. I miss the times spent with the group. The four kids were pasaway as always, they were makukulit and matagal kumilos (especially the girls)! But they were all persistent, and they're all thoughtful and caring.

We could have definitely done better, but I admit I had lapses in managing my schedule hence I wasn't able to always monitor them during their lab works. But they still did well for me. Their presentation was also highly commended. It's just that it wasn't a competition, but just a closing program of the year-long research internship that we participated in (Tsunagu Research Project). What was off for us, though, was that the said closing presentation was held in the same venue with the Science Castle Asia Competition. The Tsunagu presentation was therefore thrown on the sidelines, we were not given a really suitable venue. But these kids were indeed troopers, we still pushed through and again, their presentation was highly commended by the panelists and fellow participants.

The Tsunagu final presentation was also an opportunity to meet lots of like-minded people. The several days weren't really enough to strike in-depth conversations, especially since we were all so busy tending to our wards. But hopefully, in the future, we get to meet again and collaborate. It was just so sad, though, that there was no Tsunagu Research Project this year. But it's still fine because if there was, I wouldn't be able to participate anyway (I'm on study leave right now).

Ma'am Miriam and Ma'am Nicole were also so caring, helpful. During our practice nights, when we would already forget to go out and eat, they'd order food for us. Oh how I miss the packed fruits from the grocery store within our hotel building. The grapes, strawberries, the kiwi, all of them were so fresh and sweet. Throughout our stay, they'd suddenly knock on our doors asking if we ever need anything. Of course I feel so shy knowing that as the teacher chaperone, I should be taking care of much of our needs. But they were just so supportive of our endeavors. They were also soooooo generous. My goodness, they almost wanted to buy everything for us! I was surprised that they bought shoes for each of us. They even transferred us to Shangri La on our last night, and took us on a trip around the city.

I especially would like to appreciate Ma'am Miriam. Throughout the trip, we had several chikahans that opened my mind so much into how good and humble she is as a person. No wonder, Andrea is an intelligent, compassionate, and humble young lady. Ma'am Miriam is a lawyer. I'm not so certain but as far as I've read, she has served as Corporate Lawyer, Provincial Prosecutor, Estate Lawyer, and Municipal Legal Officer. Basta andami na hehe. Her husband naman is in the Energy Sector. And they also have lots of businesses, magugulat ka na lang. Kasi you wouldn't really notice it from them. They're so humble, so down to earth. Walang kaere ere sa katawan and they always mean well.

Throughout our trip, Ma'am Miriam would inadvertently share about her management style at work, about her experiences dealing with other people, about her parenting style. She's tough, practical, intelligent, and humble. Sobrang kengkoy din ni Ma'am to the point na Andrea would always cringe haha. Mas game pa si Ma'am Miriam about a lot of things. Also, kahit they are wealthy, they wouldn't really brag about it nor look down on other people. They're also so practical and frugal. They like surprises, or simple rewards, pero hindi sila into unnecessary splurging. Ma'am Miriam is also very supportive of the activities of her children, nakakatuwa. Talagang push lang siya nang push, go lang lagi basta gusto ng mga bata at worth it for them.

As we waited for our flight back to the Philippines, kinausap ako ni Ma'am. Bakit daw ba hindi ko itry mag-apply ng scholarships abroad, sayang daw kasi. I told her, it's actually part of my plans. I really wanted to study and perhaps go out of the country, kaso I am limited by my financial and family concerns. In terms of scholarship, kahit paano feeling ko qualified naman ako, but I couldn't simply leave my family behind. Also, I couldn't simply leave my work behind, specifically my Research students. Feel ko kasi, walang ibang eeffort na gawin para sa kanila yung mga ginagawa ko for them. I'm not bragging, it's just that I pull so many strings for them because I'm passionate about helping them learn. Kaso what I've been doing so far are way too taxing for other teachers to do.

Pero ayun, Ma'am Miriam kept on encouraging me, saying na that's really the way it is. If you're concerned about family or about work, they're constantly in your life. They're not gonna go away or stop. You need to take the proactive step to really study if that's what you dream of. Lalo at tumatakbo ang oras, dumadagdag ang edad. Sayang daw ng potential ko.

Idk. I really didn't have a concrete answer then. Fast forward now, after many nights of contemplation, after many mountains of applications, paperworks, permits, financial struggles and everything, I'm here now. Yung mga what ifs ko about family and work, definitely mahirap pa rin ideal with. Pero I just keep pushing and pushing. Right now, finally, nagrant yung study leave ko. Almost a month na rin ako dito sa UPLB, taking my MS.

I can say na apart from my personal passion, apart from the needs of my students, Ma'am Miriam was really instrumental in my coming up with the decision to already apply for Graduate Studies regardless of the uncertainties. Talagang sige na, push na. Kahit nakakawindang, go na. And perhaps in the future also, I could encourage another unsure soul to pursue their dreams.

I wanted to message Ma'am Miriam and thank her at least, for making an impact in me. But perhaps kapag nakagraduate na lang ako haha. Parang nakakahiya naman to declare now tas mafind out ni Ma'am later on na nadelay ako etc. etc. But ayun, I really thank Ma'am for giving me the drive to do this for myself.

Ay napahaba na itong blog haha! Ang dami ko pang backlogs na gagawin! Dahil lang sa amoy ng Indian spices, naglakbay na ang aking isipan at kung saan-saan na napunta. I wouldn't read back before posting this blog. I want it to be as it is. Alam ko, sobrang random, sobrang patalon-talon ng thoughts, sobrang gulo nito. Maybe because that's really how my mind is doing right now. Kaya rin gusto kong magsulat nang magsulat nang magsulat uli, para matrain uli ang self ko na sumulat quickly and logically. It's been years kasi since I actively wrote for the sake of writing. For the past years, iba rin naman ang mga isinusulat ko sa work.

Ayun muna for now. Baboo!

[coffeefranchisehub]

Which Coffee Is Best: Nescafé or Bru?

The debate over which coffee brand is superior—Nescafé or Bru—has been a long-standing discussion among coffee enthusiasts. Both brands have a loyal following, and each offers distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. This article delves into the specifics of each brand, including their history, product range, taste, aroma, price, and overall customer satisfaction, to help determine which coffee may be the better choice for you.

1. Understanding the Origins: A Brief History of Nescafé and Bru

Nescafé: A Global Leader in Instant Coffee

Nescafé, owned by the Swiss food and beverage giant Nestlé, is one of the most recognized coffee brands in the world. Launched in 1938, Nescafé was initially developed as a solution to help preserve surplus coffee beans. The brand quickly grew in popularity due to its convenience and innovative instant coffee formula.

Nescafé prides itself on being a pioneer in the instant coffee market, offering a quick and easy way to enjoy coffee without the need for complicated brewing techniques. Over the years, the brand has expanded its product range to cater to various consumer preferences, including different roast levels, flavors, and even ready-to-drink options.

Bru: A Strong Competitor with an Indian Origin

Bru, on the other hand, is a brand with a significant presence in the Indian subcontinent. Owned by Hindustan Unilever, Bru was launched in 1969 and has since become one of the most popular coffee brands in India. Unlike Nescafé, which focuses heavily on instant coffee, Bru offers a range of products that include both instant coffee and traditional filter coffee, catering to a diverse audience.

Bru is known for its strong flavor and robust aroma, which appeals to the Indian palate. The brand markets itself as offering an authentic coffee experience, often blending chicory with coffee to create a distinctive taste.

2. Product Range: What Each Brand Offers

Nescafé’s Extensive Variety

Nescafé offers a wide range of products, making it suitable for different consumer preferences. The brand’s product range includes:

Nescafé Classic: The flagship instant coffee known for its medium roast and smooth flavor.

Nescafé Gold: A premium offering with a more refined flavor, often made from a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans.

Nescafé 3-in-1: Pre-mixed sachets that include coffee, creamer, and sugar for a quick, convenient cup.

Nescafé Dolce Gusto: A line of capsule-based coffee machines and pods that offer a variety of espresso and specialty coffee drinks.

Nescafé Ready-to-Drink: Bottled or canned cold coffee beverages.

Bru’s Focus on Local Preferences

Bru’s product range is more region-specific, with a focus on catering to the Indian market. Some of the key offerings include:

Bru Instant: A strong, instant coffee with a blend of chicory, popular for its robust flavor.

Bru Gold: A 100% coffee product made from Arabica and Robusta beans for a smooth and rich taste.

Bru Filter Coffee: Ground coffee, available in various blends with chicory, designed for traditional South Indian filter coffee preparation. Bru Cappuccino: A ready-to-mix instant cappuccino powder for a frothy, café-style coffee experience.

While Nescafé offers a broader range of products designed for both global and local markets, Bru stays more focused on satisfying the preferences of the Indian consumer base.

3. Flavor and Aroma: The Battle of Taste

Nescafé: A Milder, Smoother Coffee

Nescafé’s flavor profile is often described as mild and smooth, which makes it accessible to a wide audience. The coffee tends to be medium-bodied, with balanced acidity and a pleasant aftertaste. The Gold variety, in particular, is praised for its refined taste, while the Classic version offers a more traditional, everyday coffee experience.

The aroma of Nescafé products is usually light and inviting, often characterized by nutty and chocolatey notes. For those who prefer a milder coffee without an overpowering bitterness, Nescafé is a reliable choice.

Bru: Strong, Bold, and Aromatic

Bru, in contrast, is known for its strong and bold flavor, with a much more intense coffee experience. This can be attributed to its chicory blend, which adds depth and richness to the coffee. The presence of chicory also gives Bru a slightly bitter aftertaste, which many coffee drinkers in India find appealing.

Bru’s aroma is distinct and intense, filling the air with a deep, earthy scent that is instantly recognizable. It is especially favored by those who enjoy a strong cup of coffee to kick-start their day.

4. Price and Value for Money

Nescafé: A Premium Price for a Global Brand

As a global leader in the coffee industry, Nescafé tends to be priced higher than local competitors like Bru. The premium variants, such as Nescafé Gold and Nescafé Dolce Gusto capsules, are particularly expensive, given the quality of the beans and the advanced brewing technology used. However, Nescafé’s 3-in-1 and Classic versions are more budget-friendly, making the brand accessible to a broader audience.

In terms of value for money, Nescafé justifies its pricing with consistent quality, innovative products, and a wide variety of options that cater to different needs.

Bru: Affordable, Especially for the Indian Market

Bru is known for being more affordable, especially in India, where the brand is considered a household name. The instant coffee offerings are competitively priced, and the filter coffee options provide good value for those who prefer traditional brewing methods.

While Bru’s premium offering, Bru Gold, is slightly more expensive than its instant counterpart, it is still more budget-friendly than Nescafé’s premium lines. Overall, Bru offers a solid coffee experience at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for price-sensitive consumers.

5. Coffee Beans and Sourcing: Quality Matters

Nescafé: Sourcing from Around the World

Nescafé sources its coffee beans from various regions across the globe, including South America, Africa, and Asia. The brand emphasizes sustainable sourcing practices, partnering with local farmers to ensure that the coffee is ethically produced. Nescafé’s range includes both Arabica and Robusta beans, allowing for a variety of flavor profiles across its products.

The company is committed to improving the livelihoods of farmers through programs like the Nescafé Plan, which focuses on providing training and resources to help improve coffee production while promoting environmental sustainability.

Bru: Focused on Indian Coffee Beans

Bru primarily sources its coffee beans from within India, particularly from the coffee-rich regions of South India, such as Coorg and Chikmagalur. These regions are known for producing high-quality Arabica and Robusta beans, which are used in Bru’s products.

Bru’s focus on local sourcing gives the brand a distinct flavor that appeals to the Indian palate. The use of chicory in many of its blends also sets Bru apart from other coffee brands, adding a unique taste that resonates with traditional coffee drinkers in the region.

6. Brewing Convenience: Instant vs. Traditional

Nescafé: A Modern Solution for Busy Lifestyles

One of Nescafé’s biggest selling points is its convenience. Instant coffee, by nature, is easy to prepare, requiring nothing more than hot water. This makes Nescafé an ideal choice for those who need a quick cup of coffee without the hassle of brewing. The brand’s 3-in-1 sachets take convenience a step further by offering a pre-mixed blend of coffee, creamer, and sugar.

For those who prefer a more premium experience, Nescafé’s Dolce Gusto machines allow for a café-style brew at home, offering a variety of coffee beverages, including espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes.

Bru: Catering to Traditional and Instant Coffee Lovers

While Bru is also known for its instant coffee, the brand pays homage to traditional coffee brewing methods with its filter coffee range. For many South Indians, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual. The process of brewing filter coffee, using finely ground coffee beans mixed with chicory, is an essential part of the morning routine.

Bru’s filter coffee products cater to this demographic, offering an authentic coffee experience that cannot be replicated with instant coffee alone. That said, Bru’s instant coffee is also popular for its strong flavor and ease of preparation, making it a versatile brand for different preferences.

7. Customer Satisfaction and Brand Loyalty

Nescafé: A Global Following

Nescafé’s status as a global coffee brand has earned it a loyal customer base worldwide. The brand is often praised for its consistent quality and wide product range, which caters to various tastes and preferences. Nescafé’s focus on innovation and sustainability has also resonated with consumers who prioritize ethically sourced and environmentally friendly products.

While some coffee aficionados may argue that Nescafé’s instant coffee lacks the depth and complexity of freshly brewed coffee, the brand’s convenience and accessibility make it a popular choice for millions of consumers.

Bru: A Household Name in India

Bru’s strong presence in the Indian market has earned it a loyal following among coffee drinkers who prefer a bold, robust flavor. The brand’s affordability, combined with its focus on local coffee culture, has made it a staple in Indian households.

Bru’s customer base is particularly loyal to its filter coffee products, which are seen as a more authentic representation of traditional South Indian coffee. While Bru’s instant coffee is also well-received, it is the brand’s connection to Indian coffee traditions that sets it apart from competitors like Nescafé.

8. Health and Nutrition: The Role of Chicory

Nescafé: Pure Coffee Experience

Nescafé’s products, particularly the Gold and Classic varieties, are made primarily from 100% coffee beans, with no additives like chicory. This results in a pure coffee experience that appeals to those who prefer the natural taste of coffee.

In terms of health benefits, Nescafé’s coffee provides the usual perks of caffeine, including increased alertness and improved cognitive function. However, excessive consumption of instant coffee, like any caffeinated beverage, can lead to negative side effects such as jitteriness or insomnia.

Bru: Chicory’s Impact on Flavor and Health

Bru’s use of chicory in many of its blends is a notable differentiator from Nescafé. Chicory is a root that is often added to coffee to enhance its flavor and texture. It adds a slight bitterness and a thicker consistency, which is preferred by many Indian coffee drinkers.

In terms of health, chicory is often touted for its potential benefits, such as aiding digestion and reducing inflammation. However, some coffee purists may argue that the addition of chicory dilutes the coffee’s natural flavor, making it less appealing to those who prefer a more straightforward coffee experience.

Conclusion: Which Coffee is Best—Nescafé or Bru?

In the end, the choice between Nescafé and Bru largely depends on individual preferences. If you’re looking for a globally recognized brand with a wide variety of products and a smooth, mild flavor, Nescafé is likely the better choice for you. Its extensive range, coupled with innovative offerings like the Dolce Gusto machine, makes it a versatile option for coffee drinkers around the world.

On the other hand, if you prefer a stronger, more robust coffee with a rich aroma and a touch of tradition, Bru is the brand for you. With its roots in Indian coffee culture and a focus on affordability, Bru offers an authentic coffee experience that resonates with a specific audience.

Ultimately, both Nescafé and Bru have their strengths, and the “best” coffee is the one that aligns with your personal taste and lifestyle.

[warsrage]

i've never been unpopular before / from weather lady janna to simeon

A STRANGE DELIGHT SEEMS TO ALIGHT IN SIMEON'S EYES AT HER WORDS, ACCOMPANIED BY THE EASY SORT OF SMILE FOR WHICH HE'S KNOWN. such a comment tickles him, prompts some sort of amusement from deep within him, even though arguably, it probably should not, given the nature of his history. he lived his teenage dream of glittering fame, wore it like a halo until the day of his fall, a descent in at least some part his own making. he is as famous for that alone as he is for any of his actual accomplishments, before or after. for quite a while, that had been a difficult pill to swallow, a frustration that itched ceaselessly at him beneath the surface, no matter how cool and collected he forced himself to appear on the outside. by now, years into his sobriety and a blessedly successful rebranding, he's made his peace with it, even if it continues to nag at him here and there.

“ I could believe that, ” he answers mildly as he studies her, his eye far more admiring rather than at all critical. he’s enough experience in his world to know what star quality looks like and an aura of it surrounds her, such that he wonders if being a television meteorologist had been her ultimate ambition. it would be rather clever, he thinks, to aim for more localized recognition while avoiding the larger public eye. any fuck-ups don’t make international news. it would almost be enough to make him wistful, had he not learned how to cope by now, to turn it to his advantage.

he casts his keen eyes to their surroundings once, as though casually inspecting to see if they’re monitored. this isn’t the first interview he’s decided to take on a local news station and it won’t be the last, he’s sure. even having only spent a small amount of time here in kansas — odd filming location, truly, not much to do — he certainly knows who she is. it’s impressive, the way she’s created such a successful niche for herself, and with someone who can always appreciate a mind for marketing, he can certainly appreciate it, though it seems impolitic and eager to lead with that kind of enthusiasm. instead, he adopts a pleasant sort of commiseration, leaning on his charm and open demeanor as he so often does.

“ but if the impossible happens and public opinion happens to turn, I’d be happy to offer advice. ” he beams, sipping off his paper cup of mediocre coffee — loaded, of course, with a borderline embarrassing number of tiny cups of flavored creamer. simeon sommerfeld has his pride, of course, but it has never manifested in a way that keeps him from utilizing a little good-hearted self deprecation to put others at ease, to encourage a laugh even at his own expense. better to make the jokes himself, after all, then have even more of them made behind his back. control your narrative. “ for a few years there, crashing and burning was practically my specialty. my brand, you might even say. ” apparently nonplussed, he flashes her a private wink. “ but you seem a damn sight smarter than I am now, let alone ten years ago. I know meteorology’s a hell of a lot more than just looking pretty on a television screen. I would have flunked out of the 101, I’m afraid. ”

[oldsalempost-blog]

The Old Salem Post

                   Our  Local Tamassee-Salem SC Area News each Monday except holidays                                          Contact: theoldsalempost@gmail.com                              Distributed to local businesses, town hall, library.                            Volume 7 Issue 15                                                                                                  Week of March 25, 2024                https://www.tumblr.com/settings/blog/oldsalempost-blog                                                         Lynne Martin Publishing

EDITOR: I hope you supported the delicious breakfast fundraiser on Saturday by the Salem Fire and Rescue Department.  It was absolutely a treat to enjoy the kind of breakfast many of us were raised on. And, most of us turned out pretty good!  Maybe that is what our world is missing:  good home cooking and sharing love around the table!         LynneRMartin

TOWN of SALEM:  * Visit the Downtown Market every Sat, Winter hours 9am-1pm. The  Easter Community Egg Hunt  is Saturday, March 30th at 10AM at the Town Park.  Bring your basket.                                        April 13th at 5PM with be the first Downtown Car Show.  The Fire Department will be selling food.    

SALEM LIBRARY:  Hours Monday 10am-6pm. Tues-Friday 9am-5pm. Closed 12-1 each day for lunch.  Self-Defense Class:  Wednesday March 27th 4pm-5:30pm at the Salem Community Building.  For adults and anyone 10 and older may attend, but must be accompanied by an adult.   Registration is required. Class size limited.  944-0912 for more information.

Jottings from Miz Jeannie  by Jeannie Barnwell.  Four Words to NEVER Say                                     Upon hearing of a sudden death, the four words that you must NEVER say to a friend are: What do you need?  These words require that a stunned mourner  must be responsible for performing a household inventory when what she really needs to do is to remain NUMB.  Years ago, 25 year old son Allan was killed in a traffic accident. These are unsolicited gestures that I will always remember:  *a basket of breakfast needs-- muffins, coffee, creamer, cute paper plates & cups   *  Sue placed a book at the door for visitors to sign  * Lola prepared a spiral notebook in the kitchen to record food brought by neighbors  * then a shopping bag appeared with necessities of the paper variety.  Oh! Wait? Shouldn't we call the neighbors to be sure that there is no duplication?  NO! Shouldn't we find out what the bereaved family needs?   No! They are not responsible  for knowing what they need while planning a funeral, welcoming out of town guests, and coming to grips with the reality that their life will never be the same   Do not take time to form a committee. YOU are responsible for immediately tending to this family .   I love you Oconee County!  Remember that you are a woman/man of the RESURRECTION! Miz Jeannie 

ASHTON RECALLS    by Ashton Hester      MICA MINE WAS PLANNED IN SALEM IN 1944 -              (The following story was in the February 10, 1944 Keowee Courier). . .Four or five mica mines will be opened up in Oconee county within a few weeks, a representative of the Colonial Mica corporation of Asheville, N.C. stated yesterday. He did not state where all the mines will be located, but mentioned that one will be in Salem and one will be in the Whetstone area. . .The representative is A.K. Frost, who is staying in Walhalla this week. He said the purpose of his trip here was "to locate mica and to arrange to open up mines". . .Persons who have mica on their property and are interested in selling it should contact Mr. Frost at Hotel Isaquena or Arthur Brown, president of the Walhalla Chamber of Commerce.                                                                                               .                                       

JOCASSEE VALLEY BREWING COMPANY,(JVBC) & COFFEE SHOP* 13412 N Hwy 11 Open Wed–Sat 9am-9pm and Sunday 2pm-7pm. Events this week:  Wed:  Singer-Songwriter night hosted by Rick Malec at 6:30pm. Food:  Blue Ridge Grill.   Thursday:  Old Time Jam Night at  6:30pm  Food:  Blue Ridge Grill  Fri:  Music: Rachel Van Slyke at 6:30pm Food:  Fish Fry Friday and more by the Blue Ridge Grill.   Sat– Music: Josh & Molly Johnson at 6:30pm Food: Blue Ridge Grill                    Sun:  2pm-7pm.  Happy Easter! More info 864-873-0048 * Proudly serving  fresh brewed Pisgah Coffee Roasters

Many People Still do not know and are amazed  about this Food Opportunity: 

The Clemson Area Food Exchange has been selling produce and table items from the farm in Pickens, Anderson and Oconee counties for the last 15 years.  SALEM is on the drop off on Tuesday 4:30pm -6pm, hosted by  Sisters Restaurant on the porch, 281Stamp Creek Rd. Order between Friday pm- Monday noon. First two orders complimentary, then $ 20/ year per household. Order on line at Clemsonareafoodexchange.com                                        

LOCAL BUSINESS:  PRIORITY ONE GRADING: Septic tanks, Water lines, Land clearing and more. Call 864-903-3458

2024 UPCOMING EVENTS                                                                                                                                         .     

April 26th, 7 PM Friday Evening Wellness Event:  Reclaiming Our Inalienable Wellness  Doors open at 6:30 PM  Free event hosted by ENAC featuring speaker Meredith Orlowski, AFMC, INHC.  Bring your friends and family along. Gain Energy, Lose Weight, Feel Happy, & Save the World While Doing it! 

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea on Saturday, May 4th  from 2 PM-4 PM:   Join us for a special afternoon and treat yourself to delicious goodies, hot tea, and a guest speaker!  Our youngest guests will enjoy manicures and a craft!  $10 per guest.  All funds will be donated to support the Eagles Nest Art Center.  RSVP and find more information:  Kayla or Emma Lusk at 864-903-0681

Oconee Mountain Opry:  May 18th at 7PM.   Jef Wilson, West End String Band, Mystery guests, comedy and more.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

The Eagles Nest Treasure Store is open every Saturday morning 9AM-12PM.  We are accepting donations during that time or call 864-557-2462.  We still have many beautiful gowns short and long to choose from.

For Information on sponsorships, events, volunteering, donations, or rentals call 864-280-1258 or email us at eaglesnestartcenter@gmail.com.  Check out our website Eaglesnestartcenter.org as future events are added.     

Rentals for birthday parties and class reunions.  $100 for 4 hours minimum for the commons area                                                              

                                                                       CHURCH NEWS                                                                                                        ��                                                   Bethel Presbyterian Church (PCUSA),  580 Bethel Church Rd Walhalla, 29691. Worship at 10:30 a.m.   March 31 Message by George Harper, Easter Sunday with Communion.                                                                                                                   Boones Creek Baptist Church, 264 Boones Creek Road, Salem invites you to join us for regular worship service on Sunday morning with Sunday School at 10am and followed by worship at 11am.   Please join us for Easter Sunrise Service Sunday, March 31 at 7AM at the Devil’s Fork State Park at the concessions stand/bathhouse area. After service everyone is invited to breakfast at the church fellowship building.                                                                                                                                              

Salem Methodist Church: 520 Church Street, Salem.  9AM for breakfast, 9:30AM for Sunday School, and 10:30AM for Worship.  You may tune in to our live service on Facebook or view it later on our website  Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday will be held this Thursday at 6:30PM and Holy Communion will be observed as we remember the events surrounding the betrayal and crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Easter Sunrise Service 7AM with breakfast to follow. Please know all are welcomed and invited. 

Sharing Good News:  Tune in to 96.7 a Good News Christian Radio.  The morning speakers share how they have come through struggles and challenges of life.   Christians have failures, short comings, problems with relationships, and children.  The speakers share how they have grown and overcome trusting in God’s Holy Word and His promises in the Bible.

CONSERVATION Thoughts:    “Human beings cannot live without Mother Earth, but the planet can live without humans." "The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth." "Harmony with land is like harmony with a friend; you cannot cherish his right hand and chop off his left."  authors unknown

What is a megalopolis?  Continuous urban areas where millions of people live.

Find an Easter Service--The Son will Rise