#Cooking Grate Lifters

[grillpartshub-blog]

American Flag Style Heavy Duty Stainless Steel 3-Piece BBQ Grilling Tool Set – Spatula & Tongs & Bottle Opener

The spatula and bottle opener are designed with the American flag pattern, and the letters “U” and “S” are engraved on both sides of the tongs, which is the abbreviation of the United States. They are made of high-quality stainless steel, the stainless steel part of the spatula is 2 mm thick, and the tongs is 1.5 mm thick.The spatula and tongs have ergonomic handles, and the handles are made of beech wood. For More Details

[dear-ao3]

Favourite pasta recipe??? :) I need new recipes to try out. doesn't have to be very detailed if u want. Alternatively, dessert recipes for holidays!!

Tysm

Okay So

i love fucking around and finding out with pasta. its what my dad always did with pasta when i was a kid and it’s so fun. i’ve made some good stuff. tho, i must warn you, this might be some absolute white bs seasoning so feel free to adjust that as needed

the absolute ride or die of pasta recipes that i make at college is called tuna noodle casserole. is it mid? to a degree. but it’s better than the dining hall and it makes good leftovers and you can kinda add whatever you want. this was one that i grew up eating and i think it came out of an ancient cooking light cookbook. here is my version:

what you need: 2 packets of cooked tuna, 1 package of egg noodles, frozen peas/corn/ whatever you really want, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, some kind of grated/shredded cheese, a decent amount of bread crumbs (like a cup), half a chopped onion, like a cup of milk, a dash of lemon juice or some kind of acid, salt and pepper and whatever else you want for seasoning

preheat oven to ideally 450 but you can also do 350

sauté your onion in your preferred oil until it has some color and smells good

while that’s sautéing boil your egg noodles to just slightly aldente cause you’re gonna bake them eventually

once your onion is sautéed, add in your can of soup, milk, lemon juice, and salt and pepper/whatever else spices you want.

once that’s in a good sauce consistently, take your cooked noodles and put them in some kind of oven safe container. dump the sauce on top of the noodles along with the peas and corn or whatever vegetables you want and your tuna. break up the tuna and you can put in the juices if you want but i never do. mix it around pretty well.

combine your breadcrumbs and your cheese. you can also add seasoning and spice here. i’ve put in old bay before and my boyfriend likes it with his moms balachong. sprinkle over the top evenly.

bake until the top looks crunchy (usually a half hour or so but keep an eye on it)

and that’s it. it tastes decent and it’s good leftovers. making it in a wide pan is best for maximum breadcrumbage. it’s also pretty cheap. i’ve made it for less than 10 dollars before when i’ve bought everything at target.

i’ve also made this funky pasta and sausage thing before a few times. i absolutely invented this based on whatever i had in my measly fridge and what was on sale so.

what you need: a pack of chicken sausage (i had chicken soup sausage but anything works), some chicken soup (a can, a premade thing, i think i had a small cup of wawa chicken soup), pasta of your choice, seasoning, vegetables if you want (carrots, celery), seasoning (i used garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, thyme, worstershire sauce, fish sauce, and dried basil) and an onion/few cloves of garlic if you want

sauté your onion/garlic in your oil if choice

slice your sausage into little coins (i use all 4 links cause my boyfriend is a himbo weight lifter who can and would eat a refrigerator, but 2 is fine for a normal amount) and add it to the pan along with any vegetables

cook until it has some color/ vegetables get soft ish

add in your chicken soup. if you don’t want to add the chicken, you can just add the broth. the sausage shouldn’t be swimming in the broth but it should be nicely covered (you wouldn’t need more than a can)

continue cooking down the broth, ass whatever seasoning you want to make it taste good

while that is happening, boil your pasta

once the pasta is boiled and you have a nice soupy ish sauce going on, add in the cooked pasta. the pasta should soak up the rest of the broth (especially good if you are making this to have leftovers)

and that’s that one. i suppose you could do this with any meat and soup combination.

another good and easy one is basically just some pasta and vegetables that i add some funky chickpeas to. my boyfriend really likes this one cause of the flavors because he is asian and if it doesn’t have flavor he doesn’t want it

what you need: pasta of choice, broccoli or green beans, a can of chickpeas, cheese for putting on top, meat if you want it, cloves of garlic, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, maple syrup, pepper, soy sauce/fish sauce, seasoned salt or regular salt and olive oil.

preheat the oven to 350

open the can of chickpeas and rinse them off, place on a baking sheet covered in foil or parchment paper

combine some garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, seasoned salt soy sauce/fish sauce and maple syrup in a bowl (measurements don’t really matter, we cook with vibes here) in a bowl and then spread over the chickpeas, coating them well

put the chickpeas in the oven, checking on them and rotating them around every 10 minutes. they take about 30 minutes.

boil water for your pasta

chop your garlic and sauté in some olive oil

add the broccoli or green beans and your meat if you’re using meat

once that’s all done put the vegetables in the pasta and top with the chickpeas and some cheese and munch

as far as dessert goes. i’m ukrainian and we mostly just eat whatever generations old recipes my great aunt uses for dessert. but, there is a cranberry bread recipe in the back of the cranberry thanksgiving book that is very very good (esp with cream cheese). my grandma used to always make raspberry squares which were SO GOOD but i don’t have that recipe and we haven’t made them in literal ages.

the cranberry bread:

there is a really good and really simple butter cookie recipe tho that’s like basically three ingredients. i’ve made it gluten free before and it works as long as you have the 1:1 complete flour.

what you need: 2 cups of all purpose flour, 2 sticks of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup to 1 cup of white sugar, a bit of salt

beat the room temp butter and sugar until combined. add in the pinch of salt (can also add in vanilla if u want)

add in the flour little by little

roll out dough on floured surface

cut into shapes and add sprinkles if you want and cook in a 350 oven for 10-15 minutes each batch.

we make these literally every year, they’re perfect for gifts cause they’re easy and not very expensive. everyone loves them. i love them. i’m going to go make a batch now.

[wwouldvecouldveshouldve]

Male, romantic preference

MITB: INFJ

information about your hobbies

Oooo, I crochet, listen to music, cook, just adopted a cat, go to the gym (trying to become a competitive weight lifter)

information about topics you like to discuss

I’m a psychology and English major graduate. So I live to talk about sociology and human history and how that relates to the culture and habit of modern humans. Love deep conversation, I hate small talk. I give good life advice to my friends and people younger than me.

information about things that you hate

I am not a math person. I am not a fan of video games or most science fiction. Like I don’t like Star Trek or Star Wars but 2001 a space odyssey is my jam.

information about your personality

My personality seems to be a combo between Akutagawa, Poe, and Kunikida. Need to be recognized but also anxious and type A neurotic.

something that makes you unique (fo example, you like antiques from the 19th century. trust me, there's something that makes you a little bit different from most of the people around you)

I am working with my local university’s history, art, and earth sciences departments to be able to create experiments to recreate artwork normally seen in museums for the purpose of giving stolen artwork back to their original cultures.

if you are okay with being matched with a character who commits crimes/is a bad person/etc

Yeah, I don’t really get along with people who try to do the right thing by the right means all the time.

something that you value in others

Honesty and commitment. I hate flakes and cheaters.

something that you can't stand in others

Cheating.

I hope you were not kept waiting, darling! here is your matchup with the one and only kunikida!

kunikida is honest, practical, and reliable and he expects the same for his partner. of course, he eventually learns after meeting you that the love of someone's life does not have to meet every single one of his requirements. you fall first but when I tell you he falls HARD. he remembers every promise, anniversary, and special date. he cuts out a certain portion of his budget to spend on you, but he is weak to your requests. he is a complete loser for your love and dazai occasionally takes advantage of that. he enjoys conversations with you and is always looking to learn. your knowledge on people and life is always recorded in his notebook (every detail about you is in there <3) and he sometimes uses your psychology facts in his work. he's very grateful for how you help others and how you have changed him. he does not particularly mind your dislike for math, despite having taught the subject. he understands, after teaching many students, that people have different specialities and preferences and it is useless to pressure someone into being someone that they are not. kunikida appreciates how organized you are but you two must keep each other in check when you take things to far. additionally, you give good advice to each other in times of need. the agency thinks it's adorable! it takes a bit of time for kunikida to get used to your cat. eventually, however, he grows to adore the little fellow and spoils it a little too much. he enjoys being able to find it whenever he comes home, it's a stable variable in his life. he's always a little nervous that you two could be injured, so he forms various habits to keep your little family safe.

I finished it! I kept putting it off (I am too obsessed with verlaine to function), sorry. I hope you enjoyed the matchup :)

[investmentassistant]

Вoost Your Mood Quickly

Feeling down? We all have those days when our mood needs a little pick-me-up. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy and effective ways to boost your mood quickly and turn a gloomy day into a brighter one. Here are some tips to help you elevate your spirits.

Get moving. Physical activity releases endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters. Go for a brisk walk, do some yoga, or engage in a quick workout to instantly increase your energy and mood.

Listen to uplifting music. Music has the power to influence your emotions. Create a playlist of your favorite uplifting songs and let the music work its magic.

Practice gratitude. Take a moment to focus on the things you're grateful for. A gratitude journal or simply reflecting on positive aspects of your life can shift your perspective and boost your mood.

Connect with loved ones. Social interaction can have a profound impact on your mood. Reach out to a friend or family member for a chat or spend time with loved ones to feel more connected and supported.

Engage in a hobby. Doing something you're passionate about can be an instant mood booster. Whether it's painting, cooking, or playing a musical instrument, immersing yourself in a hobby can bring joy.

Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness and meditation can help you stay in the present moment, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being. Take a few minutes to breathe deeply and clear your mind.

Treat yourself. Pamper yourself with a small indulgence, whether it's a favorite treat, a bubble bath, or a cozy evening with a good book or movie.

Laugh. Laughter truly is the best medicine. Watch a funny video, read jokes, or spend time with people who make you laugh.

Help someone. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can boost your mood and make you feel more connected to others. Offer a helping hand or a kind word to someone in need.

Spend time in nature. Nature has a soothing effect on the mind. Take a walk in the park, sit by a river, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors to refresh your spirits.

Remember that it's okay to have days when you're not feeling your best. By incorporating these simple strategies into your routine, you can quickly uplift your mood and bring more positivity into your life. Small changes can make a big difference in your overall well-being, so take a step toward a happier you today. 

[thewheelieweirdclub]

ABOUT US-

Sammy (by Soph):

This all round incredible human was not put on this earth to be just your run-of-the-mill person. Oh no, she is one of a kind our Sammy. You won’t find her ironing, cleaning or organising her finances, because there just simply is not the time. She’s here to squeeze every last drop out of this most magical life.

Sammy has an indescribably warm and contagiously jovial energy, and doesn’t take things too seriously. She’s not afraid to be her goofy self, regardless of the company. Sammy is a ‘heck yes’ kinda gal, and will be up for giving almost anything a good nudge. When it comes to style, she’s got it in bucketloads. It’s hard to know what came first; yellow crocs or Sammy P.

Making a home in Tasmania, you’ll find when she’s not working as a kick-ass emergency physiotherapist, she’ll be throwing herself into one of her many hobbies.

Sammy is a talented long distance open water swimmer, the colder the better, and has over the years achieved swimming goals most can only dream of. Her most recent feats include becoming the first female to swim the length of Lake St Clair, and an impossibly cold 10 degree 34km swim of the Gordon river over 2 days, in Tasmania. Other swims in her quiver include the English Channel and the North Channel in the UK.

With her preferred breakfast being the tarmac, riding is one of her biggest passions. Focusing on longer distances and bigger climbs, Sammy did a 6 day trip around the whole of Tasmania on her roadie (Fern), covering 630km and a whole heap elevation.

She’s dabbled in off-road riding/bike packing throwing herself in at the deep end with the Tassie Trail (more on that later), and since then has been cooking up wild adventures with her fellow yes-girl/writer of this blog, Soph.

You’ll catch Sammy shredding the trails on two feet, and it’s only a matter of time before this converts to two wheels too (we’re still working on that).

Sammy inspires me with her strength and ability to regularly test the limit of her mind and body. Though our friendship has been short so far, it’s hard to imagine a future without Sammy. The experiences we have shared, have helped to create one of the best years of our lives so far. I am incredibly hopeful that there will be many more adventures to come.

‘Go-getter’ definition: Sammy P.

Sophie (by Sammy):

Sophie was raised in sunny old England and is a lover of all things outdoors, ultimate yes woman, enduro-athlete, health care wizard and loyal friend.

Australia counted it’s lucky stars when she decided to grace us with her presence to study nursing and paramedicine in Brisbane back in 2016, then moving to Tasmania in 2022 to start a grad program at the Royal Hobart Hospital.

Biking is one of her many many many talents. She’s an avid hiker, trail runner, dip-your-toe-in-triathlete and rock climber. With an incredible list of accomplishments to her name (we’re talking the Te Arora solo, running the overland track in one push, now I forget the actual details but she walked some stupid amount through the Australian bush 145km in three days, and many other rogue mish’s).

She’s a woman with many facets aside from adventure, and by day (and night) is an emergency nurse. I’m lucky enough to work beside her and have witnessed her in action: she’s incredibly capable, calm and caring. The most beautiful chapter in Tassie is drawing to a close as she embarks on her next venture, a stint in Wellington New Zealand to complete her paramedicine program.

Every pair needs an organiser, a lifter and practical can do-er and this is Sophie in spades. She has a knack for getting things done as well a general handiness when it comes to all things practical. I am forever grateful for her go get ‘em attitude.

I’ve known this epic gal for one year only and can only imagine the places we will have seen come 50 years. She’s my best mate, she makes a mean playlist, always orders the best food, has party stamina like no other and twerks like an awkward pre pubescent teen.

I hope this has been an insightful and earnest report of the all things SOPHIE-GIRL.

[wandawxdow]

Marcus Baker Fluff Alphabet

Activities - What do they like to do with their s/o? How do they spend their free time with them?

Marcus loves movie nights spent with you. The two of you usually hole in up in his bedroom with snacks and cuddle whilst watching. You used to have your movie nights in your bedroom, but your brother Austin would always barge in and demand to join.

Beauty- What do they admire about their s/o? What do they think is beautiful about them?

Marcus adores your hair - the red hue is vibrant, bright and compliments you perfectly. He constantly compliments you and often plays with your hair when laying together.

Comfort - How would they help their s/o when they feel down/have a panic attack etc.?

Whenever you have a panic attack, Marcus holds and squeezes your hands. It's a method he learnt from your sister, Ginny, after asking how he could help you in that state. And it works, even though Marcus would like nothing more than to wrap you in a hug.

Dreams - How do they picture their future with their s/o?

Marcus loves you and believes that you’ll end up together. He pictures that the two of you will go on a cross-country road trip on his bike - Just the two of you and the land. But he knows that’ll have to wait a while; you both have to finish school and take care of your respective siblings.

Equal - Are they the dominant one in the relationship, or rather passive?

Marcus adamantly believes that your relationship is equal, and you do too. You fight and forgive the same, neither person being consistently passive.

Fight - Would they be easy to forgive their s/o? How are they fighting?

Marcus is stubborn, and you can be too at times. The majority of your fights are small and easy to move past. But if your argument is particularly heated, it can take a few days for you both to calm down and see reason. These fights usually entail lots of eye-rolling and exaggerated hand-gestures.

Gratitude - How grateful are they in general? Are they aware of what their s/o is doing for them?

Sometimes, Marcus can be ignorant of all the things you do for him. However, you quickly make sure to remind him. The majority of the time, though, he is grateful, making sure to repeatedly thank you.

Honesty - Do they have secrets they hide from their s/o? Or do they share everything?

Marcus isn't proud of it, but he does keep a secret from you. Before she knew you were dating, you sister Ginny flirted with Marcus. He, of course, put an end to it and Ginny apologised once you announced your relationship. Marcus didn't tell you, as he didn't want to sour your relationship with her.

Inspiration - Did their s/o change them somehow, or the other way around? Like trying out new things or helped them overcome personal problems?

You helped Marcus both academically and personally. You wanted to go to a good college, and he knew that to stay with you after high school, he needed to as well. So, he put more effort into school. You simply made him happier, picking him up from even his lowest points.

Jealousy - Do they get jealous easily? How do they deal with it?

Marcus occasionally gets jealous; particularly when a student at school dares to flirt with you. Of course, you always shut them down, but it still bothers him. Usually, you can easily tell when your boyfriend gets jealous, and you have to gently remind him that you’re not looking for anyone else.

Kiss - What was the first kiss like?

You and Marcus had your first kiss in an abandoned hallway during a school dance. Bored, you’d both wandered away and ended up bumping into another. You got to flirting talking and kissed by the end of the night.

Love Confession - How did they confess to their s/o?

Marcus first told you that he loved you as you were walking down the sidewalk hand in hand. It wasn't his ideal location for the declaration, but you looked gorgeous at the moment, and he couldn't help but blurt out the words. Admittedly, he took you by surprise, but you were still content to say the three words back to him.

Marriage - Do they want to get married? How do they propose? What would the marriage be like?

You and Marcus are still kids, and marriage is far, far away for you both. You both believe you’ll end up together in the end, but how that looks, you’re not sure yet.

Nicknames - What do they call their s/o?

Marcus calls you ‘love,’ which makes you swoon every time. You go for the more traditional route, calling your boyfriend either ‘babe’ or ‘honey’ regularly.

On Cloud Nine - What are they like when they are in love? Is it obvious for others? How do they express their feelings?

If you knew Marcus, you'd know that he’s completed enamoured with you. Though he's not overly touchy-feely during school, the way he looks at you with adoration gives his feelings away.

PDA - Are they upfront about their relationship? Do they brag with their s/o in front of others? Or are they rather shy to kiss etc. when others are watching?

As mentioned above, Marcus limits PDA at school, partially because you’d get detention but also because your relationship is between the two of you. Ge doesn't want your special moments to be influence or impacted by the presence of people he doesn't even like.

Quirk - Some random ability they have that’s beneficial in a relationship.

It's odd, but Marcus is unusually good at baking. Before you, he did it rarely. But now he makes all sorts of treats whenever you’re having a bad day.

Romance - How romantic are they? What would they do to make their s/o happy? Cliché or rather creative?

Marcus is an unstated kind of romantic. He finds a lot of the traditional stuff to be overused, and as such, not deserving of you. Rather, he makes small romantic gestures like cooking for you and waiting at your locker after school.

Support - Are they helping their s/o achieve their goals? Do they believe in them?

Marcus helps you to achieve your goals through encouragement and support. He reassures you of yourself and makes sure that no matter what, you don’t give up.

Thrill - Do they need to try out new things to spice out your relationship? Or do they prefer a certain routine?

Marcus is undeniably a spontaneous and adventurous person. He loves trying new things, and often drags you along to a new concert or cafe. He doesn't stick to routines too closely, but is always mindful if you do.

Understanding - How good do they know their partner? Are they empathetic?

Marcus knows you well, so when you’re feeling down, he is too. He recognises your burden from moving towns constantly and the anxiety caused from your own expectations.

Value - How important is the relationship to them?

You are one of the most important things in Marcus’ life. He never thought he could be with someone so great, and now that he is, he’s not letting go.

Wild Card - A random Fluff Headcanon.

Marcus also loves to hang out with Austin whenever they’re both free. He finds the kid to be cute and an instant mood-lifter. Also, you look really happy when you see the two playing a video game or throwing a ball.

XOXO - Are they very affectionate? Do they love to kiss and cuddle?

Marcus is most affectionate when you’re laying together late at night, and after you’ve both woken up. It's your unofficial cuddle time. He always holds you close as you lay on his chest and runs his fingers through your hair.

Yearning - How will they cope when they’re missing their partner?

Marcus and you are rarely apart, being boyfriend and girlfriend, school peers, and neighbours all at once. However, when you do find yourself apart for a while, it's usually nice. Not that you don’t enjoy each other’s company, but it's normally nice to have some time for yourself.

Zeal - Are they willing to go to great lenghts for the relationship? If so, what kind of?

Marcus cares deeply for you and would do anything in his power (within reason) to keep you together.

[mytwilightimagines13]

Vampire (Caius Volturi)(Part One)

Word count: 1180

“Welcome, dear. How was your flight?” a woman said as she opened the door for me. Esme Cullen, I knew. She had pale, beautiful features. Something about her heart-shaped face, her billows of soft, caramel coloured hair reminded me of the ingenues of the silent-movie era. She was small, slender, yet less angular, more rounded than the others. “Yes, ma’am. Thank you.” I said as I took my leather jacket off and hung it on the coatrack in the hallway. The house was beautiful, in the middle of the German forest. “Call me Esme, dear. Carlisle is still at the hospital, and the children are at school. They should all be home soon. Can I get you anything?” she asked as she made her way towards the kitchen. I followed shortly behind her, letting my eyes wonder in awe at the interior of the house. How nice and open it was. “I would like some water please, thank you.” I said politely as I took a seat at the bar stool in the kitchen. Esme smiled friendly at me and poured me some water. “Thank you once again for letting me stay here for my job. The apartments near the theatre are way too high in price for me.” I said as I gratefully took a sip of the water. “It is our pleasure dear. Besides, Carlisle and I have a love for the musical theatre. And we cannot wait to watch you perform. Besides, it will be the first time that a woman will be playing the part of death in Elisabeth, well apart from the version form the all-female theatre group of course.” She said as she leaned on the bar across from me. “Yes, I am very excited. It is only a bummer that some fans of the musical are against it.” I said, frowning at my glass, remembering the comments I had received once the news was shared of my participation in the musical. Some fans ought it to be wrong for Elisabeth to be seduced by a female death.   “People keep forgetting that Death doesn’t have a gender. So I do not know why so many people are bothered by it. But it is their loss, they will be missing out on a spectacular musical.” Esme said as she gently placed a hand on my lower arm. I gasped slightly at the ice cold temperature. Esme pulled her hand away quickly and shot me an apologetic smile. “I am sorry, I forget how cold my hands can get at times.” She said as she gently folded her arms in front of her chest. “No, no problem. It just took me off guard, that is all.” I said, giving her a gentle smile before taking another sip of my water.

Esme and I kept talking for about another hour when the sound of the door opening made us halt our conversation. Many excited voices soon entered the room, yet they halted when their eyes landed on me. I turned around and studied the seven people whom had just entered. Every single one of them must have been between 17 and 20 years old, and every single one of them more beautiful than the last. They could have easily stepped out of the paintings of the angels by Francesco Solimena. But the one peculiar thing I noticed, well apart from their godlike features, where their eyes. Every single one of them had these caramel golden eyes, well everyone except one. Only one of them had eyes that were a different colour, a warm chocolate brown. Esme smiled warmly at her adopted children and walked from behind the bar to greet them. “Welcome home. How was school?” she asked, waiting politely for an answer. “It was fine, Esme. Same old still.”  The man on the left side said. His facial features were perfect and angular—high cheekbones, a strong jawline, perfect eyebrows, a straight nose and full lips. His untidy hair was an unusual bronze shade and he stood at 6'2", with a thin and lanky but muscular body. “Children, this is (Y/N). Like Carlisle and I told you before, she is a niece of mine and she will be staying here for about a year, while the newest production of Elisabeth das musical takes place in Berlin.” Esme said as she addressed me. I smiled politely at them. “Hello everyone. I am truly grateful that I am allowed to stay here.” I said. Many of them smiled politely back, all but one. The tall and statuesque woman glared at me. She had a beautiful figure, the kind you saw on the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, the kind that made every girl around her take a hit on her self-esteem just by being in the same room. Her hair was golden, gently waving to the middle of her back. She rolled her eyes and walked out of the kitchen and I heard her walk up the stairs. “My apologies for Rose, she doesn’t handle strangers very well.” One of the males said with an apologetic smile. He was very tall and big-muscled like a serious weight lifter, with dark curly hair. He shot me one more apologetic smile before following Rose upstairs.

After meeting the other Cullens, and soon after that the head of the family, dr Carlisle Cullen, Esme made me and Renesmee, the only one of the family with chocolate brown eyes, dinner. It was a simple pasta dish, yet it was delicious. Esme had insisted on cooking for me, and keeping up with my special diet. Normally I wasn’t someone who kept a strict diet, but for my role in the musical I needed the right amount of calories and proteins, to keep my muscles strong during the performance.

After dinner, Esme showed me my new room. It was large and spacious, with many windows. A large queen size bed was placed in the middle against a wall in between two large windows that lead to a balcony. The walls where painted a nice, calming red, and a desk, chair, stereo, tv and closet finished the room completely.

“If there is anything you are missing, do not hesitate to ask us. We want you to be as comfortable as possible.” Esme said, smiling kindly at me once more. I returned her smile widely.

“I am fine, this is more than I could wish for. Thank you once more.” I said as I gently sat down on the large bed, feeling it’s softness seep through, making me realise how tired I was as a yawn escaped my mouth.

“My apologies, I guess I am more exhausted than I initially anticipated.” I said, looking at my black sneakers. Esme giggled softly, a sound that sounded like soft bells in the wind.

“Please, get some rest. I am sure you have another long day of rehearsal tomorrow. Goodnight, my dear.” Esme said before leaving the room.

“Goodnight, Esme.” I said before quickly getting ready for bed and burying myself in the large and thick bedsheets.

[siriuslyblack12]

chapter 8

Remus watched as his fingers drummed along the table, seemingly separate from his own mind and body. Dinner with the Lupin family usually passed uneventfully, some light chatter and praise of whomever cooked the meal, and tonight was no exception. Or so was to be thought. Aimlessly poking his food with his fork, Remus racked his brain for something to say, anything that would shift his focus from the heaviness of his heart. He’d been on and off about this plan all day, but he was finally going through with it. Maybe.

 He was going to come out to his parents.

 He had no idea how, but he was.

 “The neighbours’ cats have been in the garden again, walked all over the flowers and everything.” Mr Lupin looked up from over the meal in front of him to see his son, quiet as a mouse, “How come you’re not eating, Re? You alright?”

 “I’m just not that hungry.” Remus admitted.

 His parents gave each other a look, a look that was common between the two when dealing with their son’s habits. They knew they had to help him, but they also had come to realise that the only way to do that was to make him feel comfortable. “I’ll get you some chocolate when I go to the shops after tea, how does that sound?”

 “Thank you,” Remus muttered gratefully, running a hand through his hair.

 And it continued like that whilst the meal slowly came to an end, warm yet distant conversation. The only thoughts in his head were doubts, anxieties, worries and negativity, not a hint of the positive outlook he occasionally had took (one he had to take, considering who he was friends with). Memories of his father making homophobic jokes when Remus was too young to know any better were there too. An offhanded comment every now and again, a scowl at two men holding hands down the street.

 He’s your father, he’ll learn to understand.

 But what if he doesn’t?

 “Re, darling, are you sure everything’s alright?” He could hear his mother say vaguely.

 His head snapped up defiantly, “Yeah… yeah, I’m fine.” The dismissive tone only made Mrs Lupin tilt her head, kind eyes studying Remus’s face. He was so unbelievably flustered that what he said next took a few minutes to get out, “Actually, mum and dad, can I-, can I talk to you about something?”

 His mother smiled, “Of course. Take your time, love.”

 Remus cleared his throat, though it came out as more of a violent cough. His cutlery was placed onto the table shakily as he gathered his nerves, pushing his plate away from him as to have no distractions. Even his father had abandoned his food to give his full attention. “Well, it’s not a big deal… well, it is but-, it doesn’t change anything.”

 He took another deep breath, before continuing with the gentle prompts of his parents. “I know that you love me no matter what, and this really doesn’t change anything. It’s just something I’ve wanted to say for a while, and recently it’s been more important to me-” He smirked subtly at the thought. “You both know Sirius, right?”

 “After he was here most of summer, yeah we know him.” Mr Lupin supplied.

 “Well, yeah. It’s just that he’s…” His eyes closed for a second, savouring his last moments before it was said. The last moments before everything would be out into the open, and there would be no secrets between them. “He’s my boyfriend.”

 His father’s face didn’t move, “What?”

 “I’m bisexual, dad. I like girls and boys. I like Sirius.”

 Without a moment of hesitation, Mrs Lupin burst out of her chair to wrap her son in a tight hug, tripping slightly over the table but getting there nonetheless. She pressed kisses all over his face, holding it between her arms as she laughed wetly. Remus was taken aback but hid that surprise with his face pressed into her jumper. “I’m so proud of you, love, so proud. The only thing it changes is that Sirius needs to come over for tea one night, yeah?”

 “Hope, calm down,” Mr Lupin warned.

 “Re, you’re so brave, so brave.” She praised, ignoring her husband. “We love you, we always have, we always will. How long have you known?”

 Mrs Lupin released Remus from her hold on him but pulled her chair to sit right in front of him and hold his hands. “I think for a couple of years-”

 “What?” Mr Lupin interrupted rudely. “We’re just supposed to except this that quickly?”

 Time seemed to stand still as Remus processed what he had said. He didn’t even bother to look in his father’s direction, instead staying with his eyes burned into his mother. She made an offended noise, “Lyall, come on now.”

 “Back in my day that wasn’t even a real thing, you’re just confused.” He shook his head dismissively and continued with the food on his plate, the only one still doing so. “And there’s no need to drag the Black boy down into that with you. He’s a good kid, good with girls.”

 Remus didn’t even realise what he was saying before it came tumbling from his mouth, but couldn’t bring himself to regret it once it did, “It’s a shame he’s gay then, isn’t it?”

 “You’re seventeen! How can you know that?”

 His mother’s grip on his hands hadn’t released itself and was now serving as a tether to reality. The only thing keeping him steady. “We were younger than that, Lyall.”

 “Well we’re not shirt-lifters, are we!” He shouted rather uncharacteristically, before settling back down into his seat. “Re, you know I love you, but you can’t expect me to just… accept this.”

 As soon as he heard it, Remus raised from his chair and walked hazily out of the room, unable to bear his father’s judgement. He could vaguely hear his mother calling out to him, but his ears were ringing with realisations going through his head. It burned with the pressure. He doesn’t accept me. He doesn’t love me. Not anymore.

 Stop thinking like that. Another voice in his head jumped in, Sirius’s voice. It’s not going to help.

 He stumbled into his bedroom, much more gracefully than before with the added confidence that the thought of Sirius brought him. His hand reached for his phone and he pulled it out- his eyes lingering on Sirius’s contact. I can’t bother him with this. It’s going well, we don’t need this. But before his pessimism could get to him, he sent the other boy a simple snapchat, a blank picture with the words “I told my parents”. Nervous yet relieved, Remus fell back onto his bed to wait impatiently for his boyfriend’s reply.

 Seconds slipped into minutes as time passed slower than he thought possible. For the third time that night his thoughts started to spiral, negativity overcoming him while his rational thoughts grasped at straws, trying to keep him afloat. Luckily, he was startled out of his own head by the sharp melody of his ringtone.

 Scrambling to pick it up, his clumsy limbs must have knocked over most of his night stand in the process, but once it was in his hand he pressed accept. The hazelnut brown of Sirius’s eyes through FaceTime already made him feel better. They sat in silence for a moment, until the boy before him spoke softly, “How’d it go, baby?”

 “I-, um, not so good.” He stuttered, hoping Sirius would understand somehow. One of those telepathic things that couples could do. “My dad…”

 “I’m so sorry, god Re, that’s awful. I swear I’ll kill him if I have to.”

 Remus let out a breath that he didn’t know he’d been holding. “You don’t have to, he’ll come around, I know he will. He’s just surprised, that’s all.” Sirius nodded along as he spoke. “My mum was really good, you know her, she’s really excited that it’s you as well.” He chuckled at that.

 “I’ve always loved you mum,” Sirius began. “How is she?”

 “She’s fine, she’s great. I-, she wants you to come over for tea one night. Maybe.” He replied slowly.

 “I’d love that baby, I really would.” They both smiled giddily at each other, the tawny-haired boy not quite as happily as he usually would.

 Three soft knocks sounded on his door, and he looked to see his mum stood in the doorway. Remus hurried through his goodbyes, assuring Sirius that he was okay and that they’d speak later, before being wrapped in a tight embrace; his chin hooked over her shoulder, relishing in the comfort.

 It’ll be okay, he thought. It’s going to be okay.

  ~~

  “C’mon Moons, you just need to stop worrying about it. What’s done is done, you know?”

 They were all sat on their lunch table, James and Peter making conversation with the girls but now seemingly more concerned with their friend. Sirius’s arms lay across Remus’s shoulders, tighter than usual but the latter was grateful for the change. His anxiety had been getting much worse of late, and his dad was only fueling the fire. He couldn’t even meet his sons’ eyes that morning, the exact opposite of how he would have acted before. Before everything changed. Before I ruined it.

 “Re, I can practically hear you thinking right now.”

 “Sorry, sorry,” He murmured quietly.

 The arm around his shoulders only tightened as he leaned his head back onto Sirius’s chest, smiling slightly, but not quite widely enough.

 “We can’t have our Moony feeling like shit now can we,” James interjected far too cheerfully. “He needs something… a distraction.”

 Marlene quirked her head to one side, the curls of her blonde hair falling along with it. “In case any of you idiots forgot, it’s my birthday on Monday and my parents are out this weekend. I was thinking of throwing a little get together.” She paused, before adding slyly, “Invitation only, of course.”

 “And we’re just hearing about this now!” James said in mock offence, before turning to Remus and asking his opinion.

 “I’m not so sure a party is the best idea, we only had one last week.” He replied sheepishly.

 “It won’t be a party. Just us and some friends, we’ll have fun.” Marlene encouraged, nodding to the others for some back up.

 There was a general hum of agreement, until the only voice he truly cared about voiced itself. “I have to agree with Marlene, babe. It’ll be good to get your mind off things, even if it’s only for a night.” Sirius seemed as though he was convincing himself too.

 Their eyes met for the briefest of moments, Remus scanning his eyes for any hidden intention, but he couldn’t find it.

 Maybe it would be nice to let loose and be a teenager for once.

 ~~

  “For the last time, we’re not playing never have I ever, we’re not 12 years old!” Marlene rolled her eyes.

 “C’mon, Marls, it’s not like we have anything else to do.”

 She looked over at James from where he’d spoken from the chair next to her and got up to punch him in the shoulder, “It’s not my fault you’re all boring.”

 Shouts of praise sounded all around the living room they were all sat in, various people on the floor with no space left on any furniture. Turns out 8 people struggle to fit comfortably in a 3-person space. Sirius was one of the unlucky ones, sitting cross-legged on the floor, leaning his back against Remus’s legs. Raising his drink to his lips (non-alcoholic, Marlene’s parents had made her swear not to get people drunk whilst they were away) he smiled, “There’s no harm in never have I ever, McKinnon.”

 “As if you have a say, Black.” Marlene side-eyed him. “What does your boyfriend think?”

 Sirius put more of his weight against the boy in question, tilting his head back to look at him square in the face, “What does he think?” He prompted playfully.

 “I think,” Remus said lazily, playing with Sirius’s head of hair and scanning the room. To his left, James was sat, his legs across Lily’s lap. She seemed to have no objections, leading Remus to wonder if they’d finally gotten their shit together. To his right, Peter was in an armchair, knees to his chest, oblivious to the people around him; with Mary in the other armchair across the room. Marlene and Dorcas were both on the floor, deep within each other’s personal space in a tangle of limbs and love. Remus continued, “That we’re a little past the point of being too old for things. Remember when you made us have a Tinkerbell marathon?”

 “That was ironic!” Marlene threw her arms up exasperatedly. “I don’t actually like them. It was a good laugh.”

 “Is that why you cried when her wings tore?” Someone interjected.

 Marlene fell against Dorcas’s shoulder, as if they hadn’t been sat close enough already, “Remind me again why I’m friends with any of you.”

 They all erupted in laughter, sharing fond smiles and nudging each other. James took his legs from Lily’s lap and turned to face the girls on the floor, smiling just like everyone else as he spoke cheerily, “Whatever, unless you have any more complaints, I’ll start. Rules are simple: put a finger down if you’ve done it. Never have I ever…” He combed one hand through his messy hair, the other one stroking his chin as he thought, “…been arrested.”

 When nobody put a finger down, Mary jumped in, “I do not believe that for a second! Sometimes I wonder how you boys even got your reputations.”

 The boys shrugged, eyeing each other innocently as Lily jumped in before anything else could be said, “Alright then, never have I ever gotten drunk.”

 “Y’all are liars, I swear,” Mary huffed, putting a finger down as Remus, Sirius, James and Marlene did the same. Surprise was directed at Dorcas, who hid behind her hair to brush it off. She took the attention away from it as she said, “Ok, ok, my turn. Never have I ever had sex.”

 Various people barked shouts of disagreement, utterly shocked that she would ask such a thing. “That’s not very PG of you, Miss Meadowes!” Sirius said in a rather inaccurate impression of McGonagall. She put her own finger down proudly, followed by a pink-cheeked Marlene from beside her. James did the same, to the surprise of absolutely no one in the room. Surveying the couple to his right, he became suddenly curious, “I’d have thought Padfoot and Moony would be all over each other by now, surely.”

 Remus blushed profusely, looking down at Sirius to avoid the looks of the people around him. They hadn’t talked about the subject before, neither of them making any moves to take the relationship further than they had. He’d be lying if he said he hadn’t thought of it before, hadn’t wanked to the very thought of it but it was far too soon, and definitely not the right time. Thinking about it was enough… for the time being.

 Sirius coughed loudly, “And I’d have thought you’d stop being a dick after Primary School, but alas, we were both wrong.”

 James threw his middle finger up, his eyebrows and the corner of his mouth both raised slightly. “Whatever, what about Mary and Wormy? You guys not done anything yet either?”

 Remus looked over at Peter to see him in a similar red-faced state to what he’d been a few moments prior just as he looked over at his girlfriend for guidance. She shrugged, “Alright, stop perving on other people’s sex lives, people are going to think you’re creepy or something.”

 “We couldn’t have that, could we?” He responded snarkily.

 The game continued similarly for a while, various people asking various questions that invaded their privacy far too much. They’d always been an open group of friends, nothing to hide or keep from the others and they took pride in that. Not many people could say that.

 “Never have I ever liked women!” Sirius declared brashly, followed by eyerolls and groans from practically everyone.

 “Now you’re playing dirty, Pads.” James chastised. “Never have I ever liked men.”

 Sirius shook his head. “I’m sure you’ve had you’ve had your fair share of gay thoughts in the past, Prongs. You’re friends with Moony, for fucks sake, you’re straight but you’re not blind.”

 He looked up at Remus with both loving and giddy eyes, expecting a him to be angry at the compliment. Instead, he was given a pointed look and an affectionate ruffle of his hair, Remus ignoring the delighted noise he made and grin he wore. This served as a distraction from whatever James was saying, just staring at his boyfriend in awe. How did I find someone so willing to put up with my bullshit?

 Remus had a similar thought himself, Why am I so willing to put up with his bullshit?

 “Just for the record,” James had gotten up from his seat to get another drink, and talked from behind the door, “I haven’t ever thought of Moony that way, but I see where you’re coming from.”

 “Oi! You’ll pay for that!” Sirius got up and run after him.

 He may be an idiot, Remus thought fondly. But he’s my idiot.

  ~~

  A little while later, as the end of the night rapidly approached, the usually rowdy group of friends was quiet with tiredness and subdue, getting ready to leave. Outside was a beautiful sunset, oranges and reds and yellows like a perfect painting: picturesque, almost. Anybody looking in would assume the same, the perfect group of friends on a perfect night. They couldn’t be more wrong, Remus thought, partially self-hating but also more watching the idiots in front of him. He was cuddled into Lily’s side, both laughing as James and Sirius took turns in a game of charades. Somehow, it was entertaining.

 “Okay, okay, TV, 2 words,” Sirius stumbled as James acted it out over-exaggeratedly. “Hannah Montana! You’re obsessed with that show!”

 “I haven’t even started yet, Pads.”

 Sirius waved him off, “Was I wrong though?”

 James looked once at him, then at Remus and Lily on the sofa, before sighing and throwing himself on the floor, “You’re no fun.”

 Prompting Sirius expectedly, they hollered as he rose and took James’s place standing in the middle of the room. He made a few unidentifiable gestures, more like flailing his arms and contorting his face when the room was blank. Remus smiled, entranced and enthralled, as he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned to meet a nervous-looking Peter, chewing his lip and wringing his fingers. “Can you help me with…the um, the Birthday cake?” He whispered.

 “Of course,” He said, suspicious at his tone but following him through to the kitchen.

 Mary called out from where she was deep in conversation with Marlene and Dorcas, “Are you alright?”

 He nodded quickly and unconvincingly, pulling at Remus’s hand to take them both out of the room, breathing heavily. Remus checked to see that no one was had followed them, and leaned forward, “Pete, mate, what’s up? I know it’s not the cake.”

 “It’s nothing, I just wanted to talk to you about something.” He took another deep breath, composing himself before tilting his head away. He avoided the other’s eyes as he said, “You said that you and Sirius haven’t had sex yet, yeah?”

 “Peter, I swear to god-”

 “Remus, just hear me out. Please,” He pleaded, hands clasping together. Remus’s face softened slightly, still unsure of what was going on but asking him to continue. “It’s just that I know Mary wants to, like, really wants to, and I just…”

 He groaned, his frustration with himself and the situation apparent. Remus could guess what he was going to say but wasn’t going to take the moment away from him. Peter continued, “I’ve never really thought about it to be honest. I mean, I have, I sat in all those sex ed lessons and stuff but… I don’t get it! I don’t want to do it! And I know that Mary’s only waiting for me to be ready, but I don’t think I’ll ever be ready. God, I sound so stupid, don’t I?”

 “You don’t sound stupid, Pete.” He smiled in understanding and support. “Have you heard of asexuality?”

 “What?”

 “Asexuality,” He repeated slowly, sounding out every syllable. “It’s when you don’t experience sexual attraction. It’s completely normal, actually quite common.”

 Peter’s face turned from one of embarrassment to one of pure shock and intrigue, eyes wide and shining. His mouth gaped. Laughing slightly, Remus continued, “It’s like a whole spectrum, some people are completely opposed to sex, other people like kissing and stuff but nothing further. Have you never heard of it before?”

 “I thought I was broken.” Peter whispered, causing Remus to make a sad noise in the back of his throat. Whilst he didn’t personally relate to the experience, he could at least show his sympathy. He’d remembered reading about it when he was researching his own identity, desperately filling out ‘What’s my sexuality’ quizzes as he grasped at the support this anonymous online community gave him. Support that Dad doesn’t give me.

 He will… eventually.

 “It’s also something that you should consider discussing with your girlfriend, you know. Whenever you’re ready.”

 “I know, I know, I just didn’t want to disappoint her.” Peter admitted honestly and quietly. A surge of sadness burst through Remus’s bones as he listened to what Peter had said. They both knew that Mary would accept him, but he supposed that paranoia was a part of the coming out experience.

 Before he could give any consolation, Sirius and James burst into the kitchen, “Alright mates, dad’s threatening to get a takeaway without us if we’re not home soon so we best be off.”

 Sirius walked over to where Remus was leaning against the counter and brought him in for a bruising kiss. “How was it tonight, love?”

 “Great, thanks for doing this.” He ducked sheepishly.

 James threw his head back and made a vomiting noise, “As much as I’d like to stay here and watch you two snog for the rest of the night, we really have to go.”

  ~~

  It was only a few minutes later as James and Sirius made their way down the street to the Potter’s house, pitch black with an evening breeze, both kicking at pebbles and humming to themselves. It was most likely a song that had been overplayed in the summer, or a Christmas tune that they couldn’t wait to be relevant again. James looked over at his friend, pushing his glasses further up his nose, “Do you think Remus is going to be okay?”

 Sirius sighed sadly, “Sure, yeah, it’s just hard right now. He’ll have forgot all about it by tomorrow, I bet.”

 “Is that what you did?”

 A stray pebble was kicked in James’s direction as soon as he said it. “Can we please go back to talking about your shitty love life. What was with you and Evans, huh? Snuggling up to each other, I thought she hated you.”

 “She probably still does.” James came to stand in front of Sirius to stop them, head leaning in close. He clearly wanted to reassure him but was drowned out by the sound of a phone buzzing in Sirius’s pocket. “I know you don’t like to talk about it, but Regulus will come around. He’s just scared.”

 But Sirius didn’t answer, staring at whatever his phone was showing. “What? What is it?”

  Reg: I’m sorry I wasn’t at the Halloween party.

Reg: Mum and dad are spending the weekend at the house in Scotland, you could come round and stay in your old room.

Reg: Call me when you can.

[marunalu]

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs from 1937

Okay, this is one of my first childhood movies I’ve ever watched, so my option may be based more on nostalgia and maybe I’m a little bit biased.

Enjoyment: 

Even after all these years, I really enjoy this movie. The atmosphere and music, the lovely animation and the lovingly designed characters. Everything just fits together. You actually feel like you've landed in the middle of a fairy tale by yourself. There are a few scenes that scared me as a child, such as the transformation of the queen into the old beggar, or the scene as Snow White flees into the woods and sees all the grotesque faces and creatures. These scenes still give me goosebumps. This movie is not particularly action-packed, but it’s not trying to be anyway. It’s more a movie to relax from a stressful day and let yourself be carried away into a fantasy fairytale world. The evil queen's death scene is still one of the most iconic movie villain deaths to this day. Another interesting detail that I found out is, that the two vultures are supposed to be an allusion to Nazi Germany. If you look at the eyes of the vultures, you can see the colors of the German flag black-red-gold and these animals are also a symbol of death and evil.

Animation: 

I just love the animation in this movie. Yes, it's a little bit outdated, but there's so much love and detail behind it. You can really see how much work and time the animators put into it. Great details like the astronomical signs of the zodiacs above the magic mirror, or while Snow White still lives in the castle, it lies in both sunshine and shadow, which is supposed to represent the presence of good and evil living together behind the walls, but as soon as Snow White has left the castle, the next time we see the castle, it’s wrapped in deep darkness, since only the evil queen is still present inside of it. The landscapes look like realistic nature scenerys und honestly, the animals have no fucking buiseness to look so damn cute. I like that the animators gave humans a look with more realistic proportions, while the animals and dwarfs look more cartoonish, cute and funny. That creates a good balance. I also enjoy how the animators try to express feelings und moods with pictures, such as after Snow White was "killed" and the dwarfs and animals mourn over her and it's raining so heavily outside as if the whole world is crying together with them. Scenes that are supposed to be sad are sad. Scenes that are supposed to be scary are scary and scenes that are supposed to reflect hope and happiness do just that. Really, they did a great job!

Music:

Just like with the animation, I can mostly say good things about the music in this movie. Although it’s also somewhat outdated, it fits perfectly in every situation and scene. In creepy moments it’s scary, in carefree moments it’s light and bright and in sad moments it’s sad. Some of the songs are also really good mood-lifters, like "With a Smile and a Song" or "Whistle While you Work." Seriously, if you feel depressed or don't feel like doing chores, just listen to these two optimistic songs, I'm sure you'll feel better afterwards. At Heigh ho I still have to whistle with the melody, I just can't help it and "The Silly Song" and "The Washing Song" are also two very funny and mood-lifting songs.

Funny:

There were actually some funny moments in the movie that made me giggle or chuckle. The funniest scene in my opinion was probably when the dwarves were forced to wash themself and panicked. Dopey and Grumpy are definitely the funniest of the dwarfs, although Grumpy clearly doesn't intend to. Among the animals, it is probably the turtle. The poor guy is always the last to arrive, after all the action is already over and is always the one to whom something stupid happens, be it falling down the stairs or being overrun by the other animals. Interestingly, none of the funny or silly moments come from human characters, only ever from the dwarfs or the animals. Fun fact: there was a kind of competition among the artists that was even fueled by Walt Disney himself. It was kind of a contest among the artists who created the funniest scene involving the dwarfs and which Walt Disney would like the most in the end. The winner received a special bonus from him.

Characters:

This movie is full of lovingly designed characters, whether Snow white, the dwarfs, the animals, the hunter, or the evil queen. However, it must be mentioned that none of the characters has a really complex personality. Snow White is just a pure-hearted angel, the evil queen is just an evil bitch (and I love her for that), the personalitys of the dwarfs correspond to their names and the prince was completely wasted material. I think the hunter and Grumpy have the most complex personalitys of all. The hunter shows loyalty to the queen, but does not follow her blindly and lets Snow White flee instead of killing her, knowing that the queen's mind is evil and twisted. At the beginning of the story, Grumpy has a misogynistic attitude, although unfortunately it’s not discussed in more detail why. I think it would be interesting to find out. The movie only mentions that he thinks all women are evil and try to wrap men around their little fingers. He is always portrayed as grumpy (heh) and in a bad mood, but deep down he cares for the other dwarfs and later Snow White too. He is also the bravest of them and has leadership potential. He reminds me a little of my late grandfather, maybe thats the reason why he is my favorite character in the movie XD

Inequality & diversity:

Fortunately, as far as I could tell, there were no racist hints and moments in this movie. Grumpy's misogynistic behavior at the beginning may a bit annoying and as already mentioned, I think it's a shame that it was not dealt with in more detail. Maybe he was in love with a woman once and she broke his heart? Fortunately, however, he takes this behavior off after a while and shows that he actually cares for Snow White and wants to protect her like the other dwarfs. There are people who think that Snow White is degraded as a useless little housewife, because she does the dwarfs’ housework and that's sexist in their eyes. Although I can understand where this kind of thinking comes from, I disagree. Snow White clearly shows dozens of times during the movie that she greatly enjoys doing housework, cooking and baking, unlike Cinderella. It’s even more important to mention, that Snow White doesn’t consider it obvious to be allowed to live with the dwarfs, even though she is a princess and could simply order it. No, instead it’s important to her, that she has to work to be allowed to stay. The dwarfs give her a place to stay and protect her, so she helps them with the housework and cooks for them. And the most important thing is that she likes to do it. Another point is that Snow White is definitely portraied as the boss in the house. She makes it clear to the dwarfs that they should adhere to certain rules of decency and can also be quite strict with them, almost like a mother. The dwarfs listen to her (albeit reluctantly when it comes to washing) and are grateful for her help. I personally don't see anything sexist about it. It would be different if the dwarfs forced Snow White to cook for them and doing all the housework stuff.

My conclusion:

Watch it! This is not an action-packed movie, but more suitable for relaxing and freeing yourself from stress. This movie is full of positive messages as always trying to stay optimistic, even if you are going through dark times (always remember that Snow White had to leave the only home she knew, was demoted to a kitchen maid by her stepmother and who also wants to see her dead, just because she is more beautiful then her and still Snow White manages to look positive into the future). It also contains an important message to children: don't just welcome every stranger into your house and above all, don't eat (and drink) everything that a stranger offers you! I give this movie 7 out of 10 stars!

[bearspraynew-blog]

7 Tips Every Camper Should Know About Campfire Cooking

A little scared about cooking over an open flame? Try not to be. Open air fire cooking is simple with these privileged insights, beginning with: Pack a Dutch stove.

Manufacture the Right Fire

First of all: Never light a fire until you are certain you are building it in a protected spot. In the event that you don't have a flame pit, search for a detect that is free of free earth, grass, and garbage inside a 10-foot border of your site. Scout for any tree roots, as well, says Sarah Huck, coauthor of Campfire Cookery: Adventuresome Recipes and Other Curiosities for the Great Outdoors ($30, amazon.com): They can without much of a stretch burst into flames. Also, avoid low-hanging branches. A decent standard procedure is to have multiple times the stature of the flame in unhindered overhead space.

Following stage, says Huck: Determine the motivation behind your open air fire. On the off chance that it will be utilized distinctly for cooking, she prescribes "the tracker's flame": Position two lower leg thick bits of dead, dry wood in an unpleasant V shape, with the sticks six to eight inches separated at the top and three to five inches separated at the base. Spot tinder (Huck uses dry pine needles, greenery, or folded paper) in the V. Utilizing little bits of bark wood or twigs (between the thickness of a match and a bit of chalk), construct a teepee around the tinder. Light and gradually feed the flame extremely dry logs that are about the size of your arm (Huck's preferred kind of wood is maple or oak; she says they are the most steady when consuming).

In case you're hoping to cook over a flame that will later be utilized for amusement purposes (i.e., singing pit fire melodies, recounting to apparition stories), Huck prescribes the conventional teepee technique, which will consume longer and all the more relentlessly. Spot the tinder in your assigned flame zone and manufacture a teepee of bigger stays it. As the flame consumes, keep on including greater logs; cautiously position them with the goal that they edge toward the flares to abstain from covering the flame. Include each sign in turn, enabling it to consume a piece before including another; along these lines, you'll abstain from making a flame that all of a sudden ends up unmanageable.

Get the Right Gear

The conspicuous likely bears rehashing: Plastic can dissolve, so utilizing metal utensils is significant, says Julia Perry, an educator for the REI Outdoor School in Chicago and the Wilderness Medicine Institute. For a similar explanation, she prescribes skipping pots and skillet with elastic covered handles (rather, utilize an aluminum pot lifter, similar to Open Country Aluminum Pot Lifters, $4; REI.com). Your most logical option is to go with utensils that are explicitly made for the outside. Her pick: GSI Outdoors Pioneer Enamelware Chef's Tools ($25 for a spoon, scoop, and spatula; REI.com).

Hard core calfskin gloves and durable close-toed shoes that can take heat from nearness to an open air fire will likewise give a layer of assurance from hot surfaces, coals, and ashes.

Pick Your Cooking Method

There are an assortment of approaches to cook over a pit fire, contingent upon your nourishment decision. Stick to great good old stick cooking on the off chance that you are wanting to broil marshmallows or wieners. Need to grill? Swing an open air fire amicable metal barbecue grind over the blazes. (The Texsport Heavy-Duty Swivel Grill can without much of a stretch be staked into the ground and situated over a flame pit at a tallness that is ideal for safe open air fire barbecuing; $44, amazon.com.) Paul Kautz, maker of CampfireDude.com, likes cooking with a Dutch stove when outdoors; he feels the pot gives you about as much adaptability as cooking in the kitchen. Cast-iron Dutch broilers ($36, amazon.com) can be really substantial, so they are most appropriate for long haul stationary outdoors, he says. Pick an aluminum or hard anodized Dutch broiler ($68 to $140, amazon.com) for progressively easygoing excursions.

Comprehend What Not to Cook

Nourishments that can make hot, drippy fat as they cook—duck bosom, steak, bacon—may cause flare-ups and ought to be kept away from, says Huck, regardless of whether you're cooking them in a dish. In the event that conceivable, renounce nourishments that should be seared or require any sort of oil. In the event that you should sear around the open air fire, Huck proposes utilizing a Dutch stove, which offers more solid warmth than a skillet with included assurance from splatters.

Know the "Threat Zone," Too

Hauling crude meat or poultry out of your ice chest for your trip? Ensure you keep the nourishment all around pressed in ice paving the way to flame broil time: Bacteria can develop hazardously on nourishment that warms to between 40 degrees Fahrenheit and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, conditions that make a reproducing ground for nourishment borne pathogens. Make certain to pack up remains immediately, as well: Food ought to never sit out for over two hours—or 60 minutes, if the open air temperature is 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, says Shelley Feist, the official executive of the Partnership for Food Safety Education. 

When barbecuing, consistently utilize a meat thermometer. Nourishment should be warmed to between 140 degrees Fahrenheit and 165 degrees Fahrenheit to slaughter any nourishment borne pathogens. "You can't tell if nourishment is cooked by seeing it," says Feist. For more in-depth information I highly recommend metal grill grate .

[softstraykidsimagines]

Boyfriend!I.N (Jeongin) 

MASTERLIST 

WOOT WOOT

Little Jeongin!

This is gonna be so damn fluffy watch out 

Here we go!!!

Ok so Jeongin is shy at the best of times

So God help this poor child while he has a crush on you

He won’t even be able to talk to you properly

Most likely runs away whenever he gets embarrassed

Which is very often

Just

Can’t function

If one of the members even try the subject of his crush on you when you’re in the room

He lets instinct take over

And he dolphin screams to distract everyone

As people look in his direction

Because he is hella loud

He’ll scream again and die on the inside

Why can’t I think straight with y/nnnnn

He’d be so frustrated with himself

He’ll probably mentally slap himself every other second when he talks to you

Why did you say that? What is y/n gonna think of you?! IDIOT

I highly doubt he’d confess to you himself

At least in person

One of the members probably told you

So you went to see him

And scared the bejesus out of him when you asked if it was true

But he eventually nodded and confessed and VERY quietly asked you out this baby my God save him

To which you OBVIOUSLY said yes

And he probably jumped around happily to your response

Tried to stay cool, because he is Mature™

But as soon as you were not around he’d scream with happiness and run around because he is a ball of energy and he’s gonna explode

He’s whipped, your grace

Dates with Jeongin

Is it really such a mystery?

So so SO soft

His first date with you was going to a carnival

Because he made it his new goal in life to win you a stuffed toy

And win your heart forever

Little did he know that had already happened

Got really grouchy when he didn’t win anything

But immediately felt better when you both had something to eat who doesn’t feel better with food?

Forgot how to human when the date came to an end

And you kissed him on the cheek

Half as a joke, he collapsed onto the ground in a heap of giggles not really a joke it was genuine

He was, at that moment, the happiest boy to walk the planet

You can probably guess that this kid is too shy for PDA

But he’s all for hand holding wherever you two go

He really loves to swing your arms back and forth like children cause that’s what you are

Sometimes will peck your cheek if he’s feeling bold

If you initiate skinship out and about, he’s gonna turn a dark shade of red

But will hold in his squeal thank goodness

If the members tease him for being shy

Because where’s the lie

He’ll greet you and become insanely clingy

If you ask him why he won’t tell you

“I just really really really wanted to hug you”

“Jeongin you’ve been clinging onto me for 10 minutes, are you okay? And what if the boys tease you”

“They won’t I’m proving a point”

“Say what?!”

First kiss.

You’d think it’d be you who would have to make the first move right?

Wrong.

So freaking wrong

Because realise: once he makes his mind up about something, Jeongin carries his decision through to the end

And he decided to make a certain evening walk in the park very special

You were walking around, and it had gotten dark, only a few street lamps lit your way

You were both talking about absolute nonsense, laughing at each others jokes etc

And then he suddenly became very serious

“Can I ask you a favour? It’s really important to me…”

You got kinda nervous, because when was the last time Jeongin managed to keep a strait face like that?

From his pocket he pulled out a chain bracelet, with a pretty but subtle pattern on it. “Can you wear this? For me? And whenever you’re sad, or scared, look at it and think of me, and I can protect you”.

You were absolutely dumbstruck, so you just quietly let him out the bracelet on

You were about to cry as well

He showed you a second one which he had on his own wrist. “I want this to be something special between us”

And then he siezes the moment

And connects his lips with yours

Very gently

He kisses you so delicately, like you’re made of ice, about to break

When you part, he smiles softly

And starts walking again, calmly

Making you stand there confused af

Like where tf is shy Jeongin? Who is this?

Spoiler alert, it’s I.N, not soft Jeongin

Oh lord prepare yourself before meeting the rest of SKZ

Physically and mentally

Knowing them they’ll probably try to lift you up and get you to crowd surf

While still teasing the Maknae

They’ll be so protective of you, just like with Jeongin

You have become family, don’t doubt that for half a second

You are also now in charge of being the mood lifter for Jeongin

And his reassurance

Especially if he’s sick

Because he gets really tired whenever he so much as catches a cold, because he refuses to stop working and rest common sense who?

And when he’s tired, he thinks way more negatively

You were once alone with him in the practice room, and he was trying to improve a few moves to a really difficult choreography

For a while he kept smiling like the child he is, staying positive

But after trying over and over, having to catch his breath from fatigue, having trouble breathing from a blocked nose, he still couldn’t get the moves right

And out of pure exhaustion and frustration, he burst into tears no judging I’ve had this it’s painful

You immediately went over and hugged him tightly, reassuring him and calming him down

You both sat together on the floor, until he wasn’t upset anymore, but you still refused to let him practice after that

You took him home and looked after him until he passed out that night

The members were confused af as well 

“What’s wrong with Jeongin?”, asked Chan, being his usual protective-leader self

You replied simply because you didn’t want to upset the other boys. “He got frustrated at the dance he’s learning, and was exhausting himself, so I dragged him home to sleep...”

They were all really grateful the you were looking after Jeongin so well, and their love for you with the Maknae you only grew

Now this boy is not at all afraid of speaking his mind

So you two basically leave everything out in the open

No secrets

If one of you is pissed at the other, you will freaking say that you’re pissed at them

You don’t hold back

So then you can both talk rather freely about why you might be pissed

Basically what I’m saying is that fights are super rare

Because they don’t even get a chance to start when you two are so open with each other

So at most you bicker over food

But there are times

Like I said, insanely rarely 

Jeongin doesn’t tell you how much he’s struggling

He doesn’t want to seem like he’s complaining too much so he stays quiet about his worries about being an idol

It’s a bit like his situation during The 9th: he doesn’t want to burden anyone about feeling down, so he keeps a bright smile on his face

You kinda sense that there’s something up, but he convinces you for a long time that he is totally fine 

But when it becomes too much 

Being tired, frustrated, stressed and worked to the bone, and he still hasn’t said anything to anyone

He’ll break and yell at you over something not even worth yelling about

It’ll shock you so much that you’ll flinch away from him

He won’t just yell at you 

He’ll yell about how tired he is, about how unfair he thinks it is that he can’t learn a dance as quickly as anyone else

He’ll yell about everything and nothing

You understand quickly that he’s letting of steam, getting it all off his chest 

So once he’s quiet again, breathing heavily, crying silently

You’ll hug him gently, and reassure him that you’re there no matter what and that he can ramble and complain all he wants with you

NO MORE ANGST IM OUTTA HERE

He tries to force you to watch Mukbang, until you threaten him that you’ll secretly feed him black beans

You both love blasting Bruno Mars in the dorms, driving SKZ up the wall as you sing at the top of your lungs

He’ll try to teach to sing trot like him

But you both know that you’ll never be as good at singing it as him

He loves texting you whenever he has a spare half-second

He always gets in trouble with the other members because as soon they stop what they're doing, he's off to get his phone

“Where did Jeongin go”, asked Woojin. “He was here a second ago...” 

Chan sighed. “I can take a guess. JEONGIN PUT THAT DAMN PHONE DOWN!” 

He uses his Maknae Influence™ to get our of trouble lol

You both like to try and cook together

Doesn't really work

You usually end up making a mess

Or if you’re baking something

Like cookies

You'll end up eating all the batter before it even reaches the oven

Stray Kids will be deprived of cookies RIP 

When you suggest him meeting your family

He gets super nervous

But refuses to show it

You'll kind of pick up on his attitude

The way he answers questions on the matter so directly and seriously

But you're too kind and high-key impressed to point it out 

But when he does meet your fam he's super smiley and actually seems genuinely comfortable 

You on the other hand

Get hella stressed when you're supposed to meet his parents 

Will they approve? 

Will his brothers like you? 

As soon as you voice your concerns to Jeongin

He hugs you, reassuring you that they'll all adore you

He couldn't have been more right

His parents are so so sweet and love you from the word go 

Both his brothers love you just as much

Especially his younger brother, who just idolises you 

It’s so cute

You immediately exchange contacts and stay in touch

Jeongin ended up making a group chat with you and his bros because he was so excited that you got on so well

His favourite thing to do in the evening with you is just watch a random show

From a K-Drama to a weird comedy neither of had ever seen

He just likes relaxing with you, usually with your legs draped over his lap 

Probably screamed the first time you walked over wearing one of his jumpers

“ISN'T THAT MINE?”

“Oh, sorry I'll go put it back...” 

“DON'T YOU EVEN DARE I LOVE IT” 

Low-key snuck his hoodies into your closet just so he could see you wear them

But as soon as you brought it up

He'd refuse to give any answer on the matter

“What are you talking about? You must have stolen them yourself, thief”.

“Alright, I'll give them back, then”.

“No no, you stole them, so you must keep them”

“... Right” 

The first time he said 'I love you’ resembled your first kiss 

He had thought about it and planned it out 

The plan didn't really work

He'd meant to cook something for you

And watch your favourite movie 

And surprise you by just saying ‘I love you’ casually

But he messed up dinner

Accidentally spilled too much salt into the dish

So instead ordered takeout from your favourite place

Then 

Just because the universe was against him, for some unknown reason, the movie wouldn't work

So you ended up watching something else

And he was about to give up and plan for another day

But it just kinda slipped out?

“I'm sorry I couldn't make this a perfect night”, he said, dejected. “I wish I could just... easily show you how much I love you...” 

Sort of panicked after he said it

He started stuttering while trying to explain himself

Until you kissed him to shut him up

Telling him that you loved him too

And that's how he had a happiness heart attack

This bean will go public after a couple of years

He posted a photo of you smiling brightly in a cafe

With a simple caption: 'Love you so much’ 

Now naturally the internet is gonna die because hello?

Little baby Jeongin is dating?! 

But after a few hours of commotion there's gonna be something unexpected

People will recognise you 

From clips in SK TALKER

They'd seen the two of you

Just barely within the view of the camera 

Messing around and playing a bunch of games to pass the time

Some had naturally insisted that you two were dating

But you were mostly just written off as Jeongin’s best friend who had come to see him a few times backstage

But now that he had officially announced your relationship

There were A LOT of people saying 'I told you so’ on the internet

Whoops

Low-key, kpop fandoms area group of mini Sherlock Holmes’

He becomes so happy at the very mention of your name

Low-key hopes in every convo that someone will bring you up

Just so that he can talk about you nonstop

He talks a lot about you

SKZ always get a real earful

Especially when they’re away

He'll never stop talking about you which pisses pretty much everyone off

His coping mechanism for being away from you is just to recap a bunch of his favourite moments with you

So naturally anyone within earshot of him will hear a bunch of cute stories about you two

Right up until the moment he sees you again

Thank heavens the rest of SKZ will say as they watch the Maknae crush you in a hug, giggling excitedly

All in all, you two have a soft af relationship

With lots of giggles, cuddles surprisingly, and a lot of love

Can I please just get a Jeongin?? 

There we go! That concludes my soft-ass day! 

Now, I’m going away on holiday (sooner than I thought I would), but that’s not gonna stop me from writing! There’ll just be a few posts that won’t be on the Masterlist for a while. But as soon as I get access to any computer, I’ll update the Masterlist :) 

[simpledatainfo]

camping moon CAMPINGMOON 11 inch Anti-Scald Stainless Steel Barbecue Cooking Grill Grate Lifter S200

camping moon CAMPINGMOON 11 inch Anti-Scald Stainless Steel Barbecue Cooking Grill Grate Lifter S200

[streetsoffairhope]

Primo All-In-One Oval Large 300 Ceramic Kamado Grill With Cradle, Side Shelves, And Stainless Steel. The unique oval shape allows you to grill, bake, roast or smoke more food at one time Proudly made in the USA since 1996 Made of premium grade ceramic that offers superior heat, moisture and flavor retention Primo offers the highest sitting lid available allowing you to cook whole chickens and turkeys vertically All-in-one grill includes cradle, grid lifter, ash tool and side shelves for a complete grilling package Choose Primo and experience the best in kamado style charcoal cooking. The distinct shape of the Primo All-In-One Oval Large Ceramic Kamado Grill With Cradle & Side Shelves allows you to cook using direct or indirect heat, expanding your grilling options unlike any other kamado-style grill. This grill features easy to clean and reversible stainless steel cooking grates, as well as one of the highest sitting lids which is great for cooking whole chickens or turkeys. This kamado style grill is made in the USA, unlike its competition, and constructed with premium grade Primo SuperCeramics and coated with a protective, lead-free, and scratch-resistant porcelain glaze. The patented Primo Oval Large efficiently retains and evenly distributes heat across the 300 square inches of cooking surface, perfect for maintaining a consistent temperature. Smoke meat at temperatures as low as 180 degrees Fahrenheit, or turn up the heat to more than 500 degrees Fahrenheit for searing and grilling. Use the 6-position cast aluminum chimney cap, 5-position stainless steel lower vent door, and easy to read thermometer for monitoring and keeping a precise temperature. The chimney cap also features a hood to keep out rain for all-weather grilling. Newly designed for 2021, the easy lift-and-lock hinge system keeps the lid raised in place, now requiring 70-percent less force to open than previous models. A soft-close felt gasket protects the ceramic while opening and closing the lid using the newly designed cool touch handle, now featuring integrated retaining clips to help keep the ceramic top firmly in place. Heat-safe ceramic. (at Street's Exquisite Plants & Aquatic Gardens Inc.) https://www.instagram.com/p/CbY2p-2scGZ/?utm_medium=tumblr

[theblogdesign]

How To Cope With Isolation During Covid

How To Cope With Isolation During Covid Remaining inside, perusing, staring at the TV and doing anything you desired sounded extraordinary when we were kids. No school, unwinding, looking out for, and noodle soup.

What a day to day existence… for around three days. After the third day, one got exhausted and peevish.

Everybody was outside playing, after school, and we were stuck in the house. It was a help to get back to class, paying little heed to the schoolwork and tests.

It’s a little extraordinary today and possibly not really.

Thankful

Uneasiness Reactions

Lift Serotonin

Inventiveness

Web-based Media

Contact the Elderly

Open air Activity

Cooking

Online Classes and Activities

Initially it felt sort of comfortable to a couple of days off from the buzzing about of life. . It was a fun chance to make up for lost time with seemingly insignificant details you’ve been putting off.

Thus, wardrobes were cleaned, messages replied and fun food varieties were loaded up on. Fun and sort of safe.

In all actuality sort of safe isn’t adequately protected and it’s truly imperative to move past the bothering of being cooped up, and acknowledge how fundamental it truly is, for everybody.

Eight individuals in a 450 ft. space. Here are a few thoughts regarding how to keep a calm mind while in isolate:

1 Thankful

Be grateful you are being secured by doing the straightforward assignment of keeping away from hordes of individuals.

Be glad that you presently have the chance to turn out to be more mindful, to understand books, watch films and build up a more grounded relationship with relatives.

2 Uneasiness Reactions

Recall that uneasiness and fits of anxiety are set off by musings. Know about how you are thinking and be aware of your viewpoint on every circumstance.

You have a decision about how you see every circumstance, your environmental factors and life all in all.

You have unlimited oversight over how you see everything around you, which can represent the moment of truth your responses.

Know about the number of “consider the possibility that” sentences you say to yourself in light of the fact that these two little words can trigger the arrival of adrenaline.

In the event that you feel on edge, permit it to go through you without attempting to stop it. Keep occupied and move around.

Working out, moving and in any event, cleaning storerooms are sufficient to reabsorb the adrenaline delivered tension brought about by your stressed “consider the possibility that” thinking.

3 Lift Serotonin

📷

You can normally support Serotonin (the vibe great compound in the mind) by simplifying a couple of changes in your daily schedule.

Eating a lean protein with each feast and bite. Genuine food protein (poultry, meat, fish or dairy), not protein bars.

A complex carb (no protein as of now) before bed, like toast, bagel, entire grain cereal, entire grain saltines.

This will deliver the Serotonin in the cerebrum, bringing about a decent night’s rest and feeling more joyful in the first part of the day. Strolling outside, since common light lifts Serotonin through the optic nerve.

Regardless of whether it’s not radiant, it’s as yet more brilliant than inside and will support Serotonin in the mind.

4 Inventiveness

This is an ideal opportunity to go through your innovativeness and accompany intriguing things to occupy your time.

Find that book you’ve for the longest time been itching to peruse or film you’ve for a long while been itching to watch.

Plan an every day exercise routine on the grounds that being outside is feeding to both psyche and body.

You should refurbish or paint your room or another room in your home. Putting together storerooms, kitchen and work areas can likewise be extremely fulfilling.

5 Web-based Media

📷 There are additionally online games you can play with at least two companions, just as other gathering games that are enjoyable.

Your emotions with companions and you’ll see the likenesses everybody shares during this time.

6 Contact the Elderly

It’s essential to keep in contact with old relatives.

Being outside is fine and waving to grandparents through windows or dropping off food bundles to them will be extraordinarily refreshing.

Keep in mind, these are individuals who love and miss you.

They also were never isolated and it’s hard for them too.

Showing them you are considering them is an invaluable blessing that will consistently be recollected.

Helping other people removes us from our own stressed heads.

7 Open air Activity

Being outside is an unfathomable method to break the pattern of weariness.

Cultivating is a demonstrated method to lift your spirits also.

There are organisms found in the dirt that effectsly affect the cerebrum as Prozac short the results and substance reliance.

Playing tennis is fun and you will in any case be keeping up distance among you and your accomplice.

A stroll in itself is a temperament lifter and all around feel great exercise.

You’ll rest better, appreciate a solid craving and lift the vibe great synthetic compounds in the mind.

8 Cooking

Presently may be a happy opportunity to attempt a couple of new plans and experience the delight of cooking.

Heating is a chance to make delectable and most occasions better treats, the entire family can appreciate.

Everybody adores the cook, so this is a decent method to show your family the amount you give it a second thought, accepting all their appreciation consequently.

9 Online Classes and Activities

📷

This may be a happy chance to exploit online classes.

There are many free courses being offered and a brilliant chance to discover some new information and fun.

Workmanship guidance, painting, printing, drawing, are altogether accessible on the web. Exercise and yoga classes are additionally accessible.

Cooking classes, dance classes and home exercises can likewise be entertaining. For the children there are VIPs perusing books to kids who are home from school.

There are likewise imaginative workmanship tasks and specialties to keep your kids involved during this time.

Profound classes are additionally starting alongside your #1 creators offering fascinating YouTube directions

Last idea

In particular, realize that we are generally in the same boat. We as a whole offer similar sentiments and stresses.

Work it out with somebody you trust.

It helps significantly to voice your feelings of dread and hear consolation from another person who is going through it also.

[carlexxtiger]

My mom is based in Bermuda but has traveled to multiple states in the US because of how good of a chef she is. Not a day goes by that she doesn’t receive praise from her bosses because of how well she cooks. She doesn’t repeat dishes- she always gives people something new to try. Her specialty? Vegan food. She’s someone I look up to. Learned it the hard way but I realized now that the best person to go to for advice is mom- the wisest, no BS person I know.

My dad is a celebrated sushi chef at a prestigious hotel. He is known for continuously innovating his sushi menu and for preparing sushi from scratch in a flash— quick but graceful, never making any mistake, giving customers the best in class gastronomic experience. He singlehandedly mans the hotel’s sushi bar and sometimes the pastries and desserts section too. Rich tenure of 30 years and never missed a day at work.

My sister is a recipient of multiple academic awards at Bermuda College. She had been handpicked to join the school’s elite organization for scholars because of her whopping 3.9 GPA. A weight lifter, amateur martial artist, and distance runner— not the one you mess up with. She knows a lot and does a lot. Beauty, body, and brains indeed. With kind heart, gentle soul, but a fierce spirit, she simply ticks all the boxes. Need I say more?

My brother finished school with distinction as their batch’s most outstanding graduate. Got employed in a breeze and built his own computer, bought his own gaming consoles, and own smart phone through his hard earned money at the age of 19. A very skilled and strategic online gamer and an unstoppable force in the basketball court. A talented dancer. Never smoked, never drank alcohol. The best son and brother every parent and sibling could ever ask for.

I welcome 2021 with gratitude and pride— proud coz I’m part of a group this gifted, blessed, and hardworking, and grateful coz they are excellent shape despite the challenges of the pandemic.

I prayed and God listened. Gloria in excelsis deo!

Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat.