#Essex Street Cheese

[hangelbel]

Exploring Manhattan: The Heart of New York City

Manhattan, the vibrant heart of New York City, is a place where history, art, culture, and commerce converge. With its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and endless entertainment options, Manhattan offers an experience like no other. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city as a local, here’s everything you need to know about exploring Manhattan.

1. Iconic Landmarks

No visit to Manhattan is complete without exploring its famous landmarks. The Statue of Liberty stands proudly in New York Harbor, symbolizing freedom and hope. Nearby, Ellis Island shares the stories of millions of immigrants who helped shape the city’s history. Another must-see is the Empire State Building, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the skyline from its observation deck.

Other landmarks include Times Square, known as "The Crossroads of the World," where bright lights and billboards dazzle visitors day and night. Central Park, an oasis in the city's midst, provides a natural escape with walking trails, ponds, and beautiful scenery. For art lovers, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art are must-visit destinations.

2. Diverse Neighborhoods

Each neighborhood in Manhattan has a unique personality, offering something for everyone. SoHo, known for its cobblestone streets and trendy boutiques, is a haven for art enthusiasts and fashionistas. The Lower East Side showcases the city’s immigrant history with vibrant eateries and cultural sites. For a taste of luxury, visit the Upper East Side, home to upscale shops, fine dining, and classic brownstones.

Head to Greenwich Village for a bohemian vibe with live music venues, quirky coffee shops, and the birthplace of the Beat movement. Meanwhile, Harlem offers rich African American culture, from soul food to jazz clubs and historic churches. Chinatown and Little Italy are other highlights, each offering unique flavors, cultural landmarks, and annual festivals.

3. Entertainment and Nightlife

Manhattan is famous for its Broadway district, where world-class musicals and plays entertain millions. Be sure to catch a show in one of the historic theaters, or, for a unique experience, see an off-Broadway production. The nightlife scene is also thriving, with rooftop bars offering stunning skyline views, jazz clubs in the West Village, and dance clubs in Chelsea.

If you prefer a more relaxed evening, consider a dinner cruise along the Hudson River. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of Manhattan’s illuminated skyline, including landmarks like the One World Trade Center, Chrysler Building, and Brooklyn Bridge.

4. Foodie’s Paradise

Manhattan is a culinary haven, offering everything from food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants. For street food, try a New York-style hot dog, a classic slice of pizza, or a bagel with lox and cream cheese. Food halls like Chelsea Market and the Essex Market offer international cuisine, artisanal groceries, and unique dining experiences.

If you’re in the mood for fine dining, Manhattan boasts some of the world’s best restaurants. Jean-Georges, Eleven Madison Park, and Nobu offer exceptional experiences for food lovers. And don’t forget the borough's dessert scene: Magnolia Bakery’s cupcakes and Levain Bakery’s cookies are must-tries.

5. Shopping Extravaganza

For shopping, Fifth Avenue is a dream destination, offering high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. For unique finds, head to the markets in Hell’s Kitchen or the boutiques in NoLIta. And if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, the Garment District has plenty of sample sales and outlet stores.

Manhattan truly has it all—from world-renowned landmarks and diverse neighborhoods to mouth-watering cuisine and unparalleled entertainment. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park, dining in Little Italy, or exploring the art galleries in Chelsea, Manhattan will capture your heart and inspire memories that last a lifetime.

[supersabbatical2024]

4/17/24: I am really loving my new French tutor, T'Choupi! I meant to post his(?) pic yesterday, but instead chose to post a mistakenly taken selfie, which was dumb. Anyway, we are still quite jet lagged but my travel partner is awesome at handling this stuff. He suggested we don't go to ANY museums today and instead we ambled around Aix and ate pastry and napped...SO fun!!! We walked around the corner from our place and checked out the "Casino," a local supermarchè and despite its name, there were no slot machines there. We bought 17 different kinds of cheese to sample, French deodorant for each of our kids (long story don't ask), some fresh fruits, and snacky items. Those who know me (and why would you feel obligated to be reading this if you didn't), know that one of my top travel activities is visiting the local grocery. Best way to sample the local fare, or at least the most popular junk food and candy, like the Danette milkshake. On the back of the bottle is their commentary on American “monuments” (icons?) versus those of “l’Hexagone,” which I guess refers to France and the hexagonal shape of this country…has anyone heard that reference before? I had not. In any event, Danette believes that l’Hexagone lacked anything like the “monument Americain Milkshake!” And now they have created it: << le lait secouè >> !! I liked it, but it ain’t no Village Ice Cream’s MCR!!!* (*Midnight Caramel River, Claude’s fave back in Maplewood).

We tried to walk back to the Nespresso store, but wound up going in circles and never found it, even with the google map. Claude began questioning his bat echolocation skills, but I knew it was just around a corner that we were not noticing. I was actually right, and we got back to it later, when we would sip our 4th cup of coffee with a petit square au chocolat mixed in. Buzzzzzzzzzz!

We grabbed a little late brekky from a recommended patisserie—a jambon n mushroom toasty thing, mini quiche, and 2 pain au chocolats. We ate on our back terrace in the shade, and napped on a chaise with our feet sticking out in the sun…☀️ (those minstrel--I mean Mistral--breezes can be chilly!!)

After our rest by our sweet little piscine (thanks T’Choupi!) we got up and out again to forage for more tasty stuff for dinner at home. We had to be back at our pad in the evening for my ONE and only zoom meeting I agreed to attend during our time away. Claude also agreed to attend one meeting—no big deal.

In any event, our second foraging trip led us down the street to a random boulangerie, just to check out the bread situation for tomorrow morning (when Claude will wake up early and prance down the street to retrieve our croissants and sweet treats before I awaken). But why not sample the pastry now as well, and what a delicious whaddyacallit it was. Elephant ear? Starts with a 'P'? Anyone? I can't stop now to figure it out, or I'll never get to bed.* But we shared it as we wandered around some more, and shortly thereafter, we bumped into a charcuterie (which is not hard to do around here). We grabbed some jambon and saussison sec, and across the street, we bought a baguette and a unique looking olive bread that was sort of trying to shape itself like a soft pretzel. All of it was just great, and wonderful to sit and munch at the kitchen counter, drinking rosè while listening to a webinar about the future plans of the NCJW/Essex, the org I have been volunteering with for (has it really been?) 7+ years. Good night!!

*Palmier!!

[northeystreethouse]

Experience Salem's Charm and Hospitality at Northey Street House

Nestled in the heart of historic Salem, Massachusetts, the Northey Street House invites you to indulge in a retreat filled with charm, comfort, and warm hospitality. Steeped in rich history and surrounded by the picturesque beauty of Salem, this quaint bed and breakfast offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of this captivating city.

Upon arriving at Northey Street House, guests are immediately embraced by its welcoming ambiance and cozy atmosphere. The Victorian-era architecture exudes old-world charm, while modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay. Each room is thoughtfully decorated with a blend of antique furnishings and contemporary comforts, creating a perfect balance between elegance and coziness.

One of the defining features of Northey Street House is its commitment to providing guests with a truly personalized experience. The attentive staff goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels at home from the moment they step through the door. Whether you're seeking recommendations for local attractions or simply looking for a friendly chat, the staff is always on hand to assist with any request.

In addition to its inviting accommodations, Northey Street House boasts a prime location that allows guests to easily explore all that Salem has to offer. Step outside and discover a treasure trove of historical landmarks, charming boutiques, and eclectic dining options just waiting to be explored. From the Salem Witch Museum to the Peabody Essex Museum, there is no shortage of attractions to satisfy every interest.

After a day of sightseeing, return to the warmth and comfort of Northey Street House, where you can unwind in the cozy common areas or relax in the peaceful garden courtyard. In the evening, indulge in a complimentary wine and cheese reception, where you can mingle with fellow guests and exchange stories of your adventures in Salem.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of a stay at Northey Street House is the sense of community that permeates throughout. Whether you're sharing breakfast with fellow travelers or swapping ghost stories by the fireplace, you'll find that Northey Street House fosters an environment where lifelong friendships are formed and cherished memories are made.

So why wait? Experience the charm and hospitality of Salem at Northey Street House. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Northey Street House welcomes you with open arms and promises an unforgettable stay. Book your stay today at northeystreethouse.com and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime.

For more info:

Northey Street House B&B

Northey Street House

[restaurantify]

How to Eat Your Way Through Boston: 15 Famous Foods You Must Try

Uncover the culinary treasures of Boston, a city famed for its picturesque coastline and a gastronomic tapestry that reflects its vibrant history. This blog introduces you to 15 must-try foods that make Boston a haven for food enthusiasts.

1) Boston Creme Pie at Omni Parker House

Indulge in the classic Boston Creme Pie where it originated — at Omni Parker House. This delightful creation, born in the kitchen of Parker's Restaurant in the 1900s, boasts a light sponge cake filled with crème and enrobed in chocolate. A slice of history and a celebration of Boston's culinary excellence.

Location: Parker's Restaurant, 60 School St., Boston, MA 02108.

2. Fried Clam Platter at Woodman's of Essex

Experience the essence of Boston's maritime culinary heritage with Woodman's fried clam platter. Since 1914, this historic restaurant has been delighting locals and tourists alike with golden, crispy fried clams served alongside perfect companions — French fries and onion rings.

Location: Woodman's of Essex, 119 Main St., Route 133, Essex, MA 01929.

3. Boston Baked Beans at Beantown Pub

No visit to Beantown is complete without savoring Boston baked beans. Rooted in colonial times, these beans have become a cozy, traditional Bostonian comfort food. Head to Beantown Pub for a generous serving of sweet baked beans accompanied by rustic brown bread.

Location: Beantown Pub at 100 Tremont.

4. Cannoli at Mike's Pastry

Embark on a delightful debate about the best cannoli in Boston. Mike's Pastry, a family-run bakery since 1946, offers these Italian pastries filled with luscious ricotta cheese and adorned with fruit, almonds, or chocolate. For a cannoli showdown, also explore the offerings at Modern Pastry down the street.

Location: Mike's Pastry, 300 Hanover St., Boston, MA 02113.

5. Lobster Roll at James Hook & Co.

In a city known for outstanding seafood, a lobster roll is a must. James Hook & Co., since 1925, has been serving up this signature dish. Choose between a hot, buttered lobster roll or a cold version with mayonnaise, both promising a generous helping of succulent lobster meat.

Location: James Hook & Co., 440 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02210.

6. Clambake at Neptune Oyster

Indulge in a clambake extravaganza at Neptune Oyster, where fresh Maine lobster, clams, sweet corn, and chorizo come together for a flavorful feast. A tradition in New England, Neptune Oyster's clambake is a visual and culinary delight.

Location: Neptune Oyster, 63 Salem Street, Boston, MA 02113.

7. Roast Beef Sandwich at Kelly’s Roast Beef

Boston's North Shore is renowned for roast beef sandwiches, and Kelly's Roast Beef is an undisputed master. Thin slices of roast beef paired with horseradish create a classic Bostonian staple, with each establishment adding its unique touch.

Location: Multiple locations for Kelly's Roast Beef.

8. Frappes in Toscanini's

Indulge your sweet tooth with a frappe, Boston's beloved milkshake topped with ice cream. While many places offer creative variations, Toscanini's stands out for its incredibly thick, creamy frappes.

Location: Toscanini's Ice Cream, 159 First St., Cambridge, MA 02142.

9. Clam Chowder at Union Oyster House

Savor the classic "chowdah" at Union Oyster House, a dish with roots dating back to the 18th century. This thick soup, a New England version, features shellfish, clams, milk or cream, potatoes, and oyster crackers. Union Oyster House consistently ranks among the best for this iconic dish.

Location: Union Oyster House, 41 Union St., Boston, MA 02108.

10. Fenway Frank at Fenway Park

Immerse yourself in the quintessential Boston experience by enjoying a Fenway Frank at Fenway Park. This isn't just any hot dog — it's boiled, grilled, and nestled in a fluffy open-top roll, smothered with yellow mustard.

Location: Fenway Park, 4 Jersey Street, Boston, MA 02215.

11. Fish and Chips at Yankee Lobster

Delight in a classic sea-faring Boston dish with a plate of fish and chips. Yankee Lobster, with its decades of expertise, serves perfectly crisp yet juicy fried fish alongside golden chips.

Location: Yankee Lobster, 300 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210.

12. Giambotta Pizza at Regina Pizzeria

While Boston and New York may have baseball rivalries, there's no debate about Regina Pizzeria's excellence. Try the Giambotta pizza at their North End branch, laden with meats and vegetables, a testament to Boston's diverse pizza scene.

Location: Multiple locations for Regina Pizzeria.

13. Stuffed Gnocchi at No. 9 Park

Elevate your gnocchi experience at No. 9 Park with the prune-stuffed gnocchi. This dish, a crown gem of No. 9 Park, features delicate pasta pillows served in a sauce flavored with foie gras, almonds, and vin santo.

Location: No. 9 Park, 9 Park St., Boston, MA 02108.

14. Irish Beef Stew Pie at Sea Biscuit

Experience the warmth of Boston's hearty cuisine with an Irish beef stew pie at Sea Biscuit. A buttery, flaky crust envelops a filling of tender beef, beef broth, carrots, onions, celery, and fragrant herbs, making it a perfect winter indulgence.

Location: Sea Biscuit, 256 Marginal St., Bldg. 16, Boston, MA 02128.

15. Oysters at Union Oyster House

Conclude your culinary journey with plump, briny oysters at Union Oyster House, one of Boston's oldest establishments. Serving freshly shucked oysters for almost two centuries, it's a testament to Bostonians' enduring love for this delectable shellfish.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Boston, a city celebrated not just for its baked beans but a plethora of delightful dishes. As you explore the vibrant food scene, these 15 iconic meals offer a delicious glimpse into the diverse flavors of Beantown. Stay connected to Restaurantify for more culinary adventures from around the world.

[taruntravell]

7 of the Most Delicious Food Halls in New York City

New York City is known for its diverse culinary scene, and food halls have become a popular way to experience a wide variety of cuisines in one location. Here are seven of the most delicious food halls in the city:

Chelsea Market: Located in the Meatpacking District, Chelsea Market is one of the city's most iconic food halls. It offers a mix of artisanal vendors, gourmet shops, and restaurants. You can find everything from fresh seafood to handmade chocolates here.

Eataly: Eataly is an Italian food emporium with locations throughout the city, including Flatiron and Downtown Manhattan. It features a wide range of Italian products, including fresh pasta, cheeses, meats, and gelato. There are also several restaurants within Eataly serving authentic Italian cuisine.

Gotham West Market: Situated in Hell's Kitchen, Gotham West Market is a trendy food hall offering a diverse selection of culinary options. You can enjoy dishes from ramen to tacos to artisanal sandwiches, all under one roof.

Urbanspace Vanderbilt: Located near Grand Central Terminal, Urbanspace Vanderbilt is home to various food vendors serving a range of international cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for Korean barbecue, sushi, or a classic burger, you'll find it here.

Turnstyle Underground Market: Situated underground at Columbus Circle, Turnstyle is a unique food hall that combines shopping and dining. It features a variety of eateries, cafes, and shops offering a mix of cuisines and artisanal goods.

Essex Market: The Essex Market on the Lower East Side is a historic market that recently underwent renovations. It's now home to an array of food vendors and shops, including fresh produce stands, bakeries, and international eateries.

DeKalb Market Hall: Located in Downtown Brooklyn, DeKalb Market Hall is a spacious food hall with over 40 vendors offering a diverse range of cuisines. From traditional New York deli sandwiches to global street food, there's something for every palate.

These food halls are just a taste of the culinary diversity you can experience in New York City. They provide the perfect opportunity to sample a wide range of flavors, making them a must-visit for food enthusiasts exploring the city.

[centralparkcollection]

Where to Eat the Tastiest Street Food in London

London is often associated with high-end restaurants and posh eateries helmed by celebrity chefs. However, the English capital also has an exciting culture of street food through its long-stay markets and pop-up food courts. Furthermore, London has an exciting food scene that encompasses British, European and international cuisine. Find out what and where to experience the best of street food close to Central London hotels.

Southbank Centre Food Market 

Open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the Southbank Centre Food Market is a convenient choice for tourists. It’s moments from the London Eye and Royal Festival Hall. 

Stalls represent British classics such as scotch eggs, sausage rolls, and Cornish pasties. However, there is an excellent variety of global fare including Japanese-style poke bowls, Korean barbecue, Polish sausages, Dutch pancakes, Greek souvlaki, North American sandwiches, and Portuguese custard tarts. 

The drinks offering is equally broad, with options ranging from bubble tea and hot chocolate to West Country cider and European craft beers.

Mercato Mayfair Food Hall

Convenient for those staying at hotels near Paddington Station, Mercato Mayfair Food Hall is one of the most unusual places to go for street food in London. 

Housed inside a deconsecrated church, the building is appointed with original stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and an altar. Spread over two floors, the venue has stalls serving worldwide cuisine, a rooftop terrace, and an atmospheric wine cellar in the crypt. 

Food on sale includes pad Thai, lobsters, homemade pasta, ramen, grilled meat, and Malaysian street food with an emphasis on sustainable practices.

Vinegar Yard

Next to London Bridge Station, Vinegar Yard brings together food, drinks, art, and a weekend flea market. 

Food is available daily with the offering changing seasonally. In general, you can anticipate such options as Asian street food, burgers inspired by Indian recipes, and Neo-Neapolitan pizzas.  

Draught beer sourced from local breweries is rotated frequently while cocktails reflect the season. 

Pergola Paddington 

Guests staying at hotels near Paddington Station should pay a visit to Pergola. This is a rooftop bar with a street market atmosphere. 

Food on the menu includes ciabatta sandwiches, hot chicken, loaded fries, duck pancakes, bao, and dumplings. The offering includes main plates and platters, perfect for sharing or experimenting with different flavours. The popular venue has scores of tables making it a wonderful option if you plan on making an afternoon or evening of it. 

Tipples inspired by the seasons include classic cocktails and spritzes with plenty of options for those who do not drink alcohol. 

Borough Market

Borough Market is the most famous spot for street food in London. This Thameside market springs to life early each morning with vendors selling fresh produce, pantry items, regional cheese, artisan coffee, and street bites. 

Typical dishes cooked at the covered market include Spanish paella, rock oysters from Essex, gourmet sausage rolls, curries from South Asia and Southeast Asia, and traditional apple crumble. 

There are several bars where you can sit down with an ale or glass of wine. In fact, these are the perfect destination for a date night while staying at Central London hotels.

[zuerchercheese]

Essex 1605 Manchego

We often categorize Manchego as a basic cheese. It’s found virtually everywhere, easy to sell, and just flavorful enough to be crowd pleasing. Because of this, it’s easy to forget Manchego’s rich history and its notability. It was first mentioned in 1605 by Cervantes’s novel about the rambunctious nobleman of La Mancha, Don Quixote. It actually dates further back to the Bronze Age, where its main purpose was to preserve leftover milk. Thanks to the Spanish Government’s name protection ‘Denominacion de Origen’, Manchego is made close to as it was centuries ago. In order for a Manchego to be Manchego, it has to be:

 -Produced in the La Mancha region

-Made using whole milk of Manchega sheep

-Aged for a minimum of 60 days, and up to 2 years

-Made in a cylindrical mold of max height 12 cm and a max diameter of 22 cm.

 There are few Manchego producers that go above and beyond the DO regulations, and the makers of our Essex 1605 Manchego is one of them. It is hand selected at Finca Sierra de la Solana by Essex St. Cheese, purveyors of many of our favorites such as the L’amuse Signature Gouda. What’s different about this raw milk Manchego is its naked rind. Instead of coating the outside with wax, it is left bare to keep it closer to tradition. The result is a sea-foam green dusting of mold that only extenuates the esparto basket weaving print; the tell-tale identifier of Manchego. They are also farmstead, meaning the milk comes from the same place the cheese is made. Finca Sierra de la Solana controls everything down to the feed of the Manchega ewes, thereby controlling the flavor profile of their cheese. They even play soft Mariachi music on the speakers of their nursery to keep the lambs happy. Does it affect the cheese at the end? You’ll have to order some to find out.  

[pandakong]

[ID: A photo of cheese on sale. A sign with an orange border and large text in uppercase reads, “Sale! / Lesbian Feta / $15.99 lb”. In smaller text it reads, “Regular Price $17.99 lb.”

There is cheese stacked in the background and one cheese is close to the front of the display. The label on the cheese reads, “Greek (Lesbian) Feta / sheep milk, Essex Street Cheese,” of a Net Wt of 0.4 lb with a total price of $6.40.

/ End ID]

[allagorr]

All the british asks?

Hello Anon! I am SO SORRY it took ages to answer this Im normally on tumblr on my phone, and it didnt show me notifications that Id received an ask, so I have only just seen this IM SO SORRYYYYYYYYYYYY

1. Who’s been your favourite bake off contestant?

Dont watch GBBO

2. What are your opinions on Love Island?

Ew

3. What were your favourite CBBC shows back in the day?

SHOEBOX ZOO!!! Horrible Histories, Scooby-Doo, Pink Panther, Count Duckula, The Flintstones - They are the only ones I can think of, and mostly re-runs

4. What’s a British stereotype that you hate?

That we dislike some of our politicians - We hate ALL of our politicians

5. How about a British stereotype that’s actually very accurate for you?

Very thick distinctive accent

6. Favourite British accent?

Weird question - Mine’s an Essex accent so *shrug*

7. Any British landmarks you want to visit?

There’s a few places in London I wanna go Things up North maybe?

8. What’s the best John Lewis Christmas ad?

Christmas tree ones

9. Where is the true North/South divide?

Birmingham upwards is the North

10. Explain the Freddos controversy for all your non-British followers

So Freddos were once the very small choccy bar you bought when you found some loose change in your pocket because it was so damn cheap Now it’s the price of other chocolates so it no longer has that special place as part of our culture, a national favourite, the one that your mum let you have as a Friday treat

11. Favourite part of a roast dinner?

Stuffing

12. What’s the best dunking biscuit?

Rich Tea (ideally McVities)

13. What are your thoughts on marmite?

DISGUSTING

14. Favourite British swear word?

‘Cunt’ is pretty good So’s ‘wanker’ or ‘bastard’ But I def say ‘Fuck’ the most

15. Busted or McFly?

Ummmm Neither?

16. Complete this sentence “the DFS sale will end when…”

There’s no more good cuppas

17. Favourite Horrible Histories song?

I CANT CHOOSE

18. Which selection box does your family get at Christmas?

We buy Celebrations, but tend to get Quality Streets as pressies

19. Which wife of Henry VIII deserved better?

Anne Boleyn - She was born roughly 3 miles from where I live!

20. What are your thoughts on school uniforms?

Good way to teach kids that you will almost definitely have to wear a uniform to work It means you can tell where a student is from too They needed to be less strict with them No ties I loved my polo shirt uniform We wore green ones in Year 7-9, red ones in Year 10-11, and prefects wore blue ones in Year 11 It meant that when you were in Year 7-9, you saw the ‘Red Shirts’ as arseholes; and in Year 10-11, you saw the ‘Green Shirts’ as dirty little shitbags

21. Is it pronounced scone or scone?

I pronounce it as Scone, s-cone as one word You may pronounce it Scon depending on your accent But Sc-Oh-nn is fake “posh” middle class people

22. How do you take your tea?

Brewed for a long time, 1-2 sugars depending on size of mug, milk

23. Give us some British TV show recommendations

Um... Depends on whether you want current TV or re-runs I dont watch much TV nowadays, so I will always recommend Shoebox Zoo It was def my first fantasy TV show, my first fandom

24. Best thing to get from Greggs?

Sausage, bean and cheese melt pastry - You can buy them in Icelands to cook at home!!

25. Jaffa Cakes: cakes or biscuits?

Cakes - They go hard when stale

26. Which is the best movie in the Cornetto trilogy?

Have only seen parts of Hot Fuzz, didnt enjoy it

27. Which Gavin and Stacey character are you most like?

Dont watch it but I love me a bit of James Corden

28. Louis Theroux or David Attenborough?

David Attenborough

29. Pick a song to be the new national anthem

No

30. Chips with gravy: a delicacy or an abomination? How about curry sauce?

NOPENOPENOPENOPENOPE  A B O M I N A T I O N - And no to curry sauce!!

[mywildloves]

Mark your calendars for this Saturday!!! Cin City Noms will be participating in this awesome event, selling our 🤯insane-o🤯 cinnamon Stones!

Balls Bistro @ the Hester Street Fair. Corner of Essex and Hester St. 11am-6pm, August 11.

We’ve got Original, Pumpkin Spices, and Coconut Cinnamon Dolce nuggets. Plus Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting. PLUS PLUS Fresh Caramel Sauce.

(Image downloaded from Hester Street Fair website.)

https://hesterstreetfair.com/events/balls-bistro/) (at Hester Street Fair)

[buckyscrystalqueen]

Eternity

Pairings: Bucky x Reader

Warnings: Swearing, Fluff, angst, lost and lost of baby Barnes

Word Count: 7,839

Box filled: A/B/O

A/N: Final part of Fate series. This was also prompted by the @marvelfluffbingo so I wrote it so it could be a stand alone as well!

Catch up on Fate & Destiny here!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Three years. It took nearly three years after having eight pups for your heat to come back. It was smack dab in between Emma and David’s fourth birthday and Mason, Ryan, and Allie’s fifth. There was a nine day spread between those two and eleven days after that was Caleb, Grace, and Tessa’s third. June third, June twelfth, and June twenty-third- it was a busy month for the Barnes family. And it was absolutely the last month you would want to go into heat during.

You could hear your husband’s wheels turning beside you as the pair of you silently ran through what this meant for you. Because you both knew your sudden heat was triggering his long lost ruts as well.

“Do we even want more kids?” You asked as after an hour of the two of you laying in dead silence pretending to be asleep even though you knew the other wasn’t. Bucky sighed loudly and scrubbed his hand down his face.

“Financially? No. We’re struggling to keep our heads above water as is and we both work for Tony Stark.” He rolled his head to look at you before reaching out to you so he could pull you across the bed. “But more pups? Doll, I’d love nothing more. See you pregnant again, get to experience all the adorable firsts all over again. Get to hold a physical representation of our love.” He smiled as he wrapped his arms and legs around you. “I’d love another pup, ‘mega.” You smiled back as you reached up to brush his hair out of his face.

“You know we’re gunna end up with triplets again, right? That’ll be our luck.” He shrugged as he brushed your hair back behind your ear.

“Is that gunna make us love them any less?” You smiled and shook your head as he rolled you onto your back and settled his hips between your thighs. “Well then let’s make some pups, Omega.”

——

“Could you be any more fertile?” Your best friend, Aaron asked as he, you, and Wanda stood in the kitchen of the home Charles Xavier had basically given to you two years prior when you were running from the US government and their mutant registration act.

“Seriously.” Wanda agreed as she packed the snacks in the twelve lunch boxes on the counter for your eight, Aaron’s four year olds, Hope & Faith, and her two, Pietro who was also four and two year old, Alexei. “Ye were in heat for all of one day.”

“What can I say?” You laughed as you put a ham and cheese roll up or two in each lunch box depending on the age of the child. “We know how to do parenting by now.”

“So should we start placing bets on how many you’re gunna have?” Aaron asked as he made breakfast muffins for the kids.

“God, please don’t.” You laughed as you and Wanda switched places so she could do drinks as you finished with the roll ups. “I’m saying there is just two and they’ll be the last.” You glanced over your shoulder with a smirk as you turned to get juice started for breakfast. “But that’s just wishful thinking on my part.” Your best friend nodded as he headed out of the kitchen toward hall and called for all the kids. The house filled with screams and stomping feet as twelve pups came running from various parts of the mansion for breakfast.

“Welcome to the zoo.” Wanda said as she zipped the last lunch box and stood it up in line with the rest so she could get started on the three of your lunches while you and Aaron handled breakfast. 

“And you’re adding more to this.” Aaron said as he watched the pups all scramble around to their chairs. You pursed your lips and nodded as you started grabbing juice cups to pass out.

“Well, we’ve done so well with this group. What’s two or three more?”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“One.” You clarified as you looked at your OBGYN Cara Smith, who had flown to Essex just to be your OB for the next three months (and for the international vacation.)

“Just one.” She responded as she quickly measured your only child. “And… believe it or not… it’s not super growing like the other ones. He or she is right at seven weeks where it’s supposed to be.”

“Shut up.” Bucky said as you bolted off the table into a sitting position.

“Wait, I have to go through nine whole months of pregnancy?” You asked incredulously.

“Technically it’s ten.” Cara said as she pulled out the wand and wiped it off.

“You’re not helping.” You said as you looked over at your friend.

“Well this is absolutely not what I expected.” Bucky said as he took the ultrasounds Cara was holding out to him. You nodded in agreement as you leaned toward him to look at your ninth child.

“Well I’m grateful for it to say the least.” Cara teased as she took off her gloves and tossed them in the trash. “I get to travel Europe for nearly a year. I call that a win.”

“Yea… that’s so great for you.” You joked as you got off the table and adjusted your panties and your dress. “I went through three pregnancies at light speed and now I have to go through a fourth at a snails pace. I’m used to fast when it comes to my pups, not slow.”

“Well look at it this way, ‘mega. We’re only adding one pup to our pack.”

“Shut up, Alpha.” You said with a laugh. “You’re not helping either.”

——

“So how’d it go?” Aaron asked as you walked into the daycare in the international branch of Stark Industries to collect your children for the afternoon.

“I don’t wanna talk about it.” You growled as you started collecting lunch boxes that belonged to your pups from the plastic bucket in the front room. You started stringing the straps up your arm as you shook your head. “One pup. Just one, normal growing pup. I have to go through a full pregnancy.” You complained as you dug through the bin looking for Pietro and Alexei’s lunch boxes, too.

“Oh, no! Who would have though?” Aaron asked, causing you to scowl up at him. “Oh, get over it. You’re not special anymore.” You heard Ryan call out ‘mommy’ through the window and you looked up at him with a smile as it caused a chair reaction with all your pups. Within seconds, all eight of them were in a small bunch, pressed up against the glass as if they hadn’t seen you in years and not hours. You huffed a laugh and shook your head as you walked over and pulled open the door. You were greeted with chorus of ‘mommy’s’ before they all launched into telling you about their morning at pre-school.

“OK, OK. Hang on, kiddos.” You laughed as the woman who worked at the check in at the daycare handed you a clip board to sign them all out. You initialed next to each of your pups name and Wanda’s as well, and passed the clipboard off to Aaron so you could count your, his, and Wanda’s kids to take them home. “Alright, find your buddies and get in line.” You said as you moved to the front of the line. With practiced precision, the twelve kids lined up two by two and held hands with their buddy of choice. Once the six sets of two were all matched up, you pushed open the door and let the lines out.

“Follow the leader, babies.” Aaron said as he gently pushed Hope’s shoulder, who was distracted by something in the classroom. She giggled and chased after Emma as you picked up Alexei and held Pietro’s hand so he would have a partner. You continually glanced over your shoulder to make sure no one was getting left behind as you made your way across the parking lot to the pair of Honda Pilot SUV’s. The twelve pups split up to the two separate cars, most of yours staying with you except Mason and Caleb who went with Aaron.

“Aw, shhheeeet.” You said as you passed off Alexei and glanced over at Aaron. “We’re gunna need a bigger car.” He chuckled as he moved the middle seat back so Mason, Caleb and Pietro could sit in the third row of his car. Once you had everyone loaded up and buckled in, you got in the car to head home. It apparently didn’t take long for Bucky to open his big mouth either because your phone started ringing about a mile away from Stark Inc.

“So, what’s this I hear about another little…”

“You’re on speaker and I’m driving the kids home from day care.” You said loudly over Pepper with a laugh. “Who told you, Tony?”

“Yep.” She laughed and you could picture her nodding her head as she leaned back in her office chair. “Bucky told Steve who told Tony.”

“In a matter of a single hour. When they say word travels fast.” Your kids, who were waiting for a break in the conversation all yelled out ‘hi’ to Aunt Pepper.

“Hi babies. So does that mean the October p-a-r-t-y is off?”

“Oh no.” You said as you stopped in a line of traffic at a light. “This one’s normal as can be. I’m in store for 40 weeks of fun but it’s just one. Not a multiple.”

“Wow! That’s crazy! I bet you’re happy about that. I mean the single part not the other.”

“Sure, we’ll call it happy.” You giggled as you scooted up with traffic. “But no, I already have plans for your parties and the parties here.” You groaned as Allie screamed ‘party’ from the back seat, which caused all your pups to cheer loudly. You swore under your breath and shook your head. “Pep, I’ll call you back, OK?”

“You got it. Love you.” She said with a laugh. You responded to her sentiment and hit the end button as you turned down the main street that lead fifteen minutes out of town to your house.

“Alright, alright. Inside voices in the car.” You called out as you got in the left most lane and set your cruise control.

“Mommy we party, too?” Tessa asked from directly behind you. You glanced up at her in the mirror that hung from your rear view mirror with a smile as you shook your head.

“Not today, baby. Soon though, OK?” She pouted out her bottom lip and you glanced up at her once more. “Oh, no. You put that lip away, little miss. You know that only flies with daddy not mommy.”

“You’re no fun.” She said as she turned her attention to the scenery flying by out the window.

“Yea, I know.” You grumbled as you leaned your arm on the car door with a sigh. “I’m just the worst.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“I need you to get away from me with that.” You growled at Aaron as you glanced from your laptop to your notebook while working on finalizing decorations for the Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas parties for Stark Industries. He chuckled and moved away from you, finding humor in you finally getting the joy of experiencing morning sickness.

“Poor baby.” He teased as he made a show of drinking his coffee that was making you want to vomit.

“I will fire you.” You said as you looked up the prices of rental tables a new company you were working with in London for charged.

“Man, you are such a grump this pregnancy.” He said as he pulled out his beeping phone.

“You just need to shut up right now.” You snapped as you wrote down a phone number to call about the chairs. You only looked up when Aaron gasped and slammed his coffee mug down on the counter. “What?”

“They… they…” He tried as he stumbled over to you. He turned his phone toward you and you looked at the news article head line.

“Oh, shit.” You whispered as you looked at the photo of Tony being detained by two government officials. You grabbed the phone and scrolled down so you could read the tag line under the photo.

‘Hundreds including Tony Stark were detained Tuesday under the suspicion of harboring unregistered mutants…’

“I gotta call Pepper.” You said as you grabbed your phone from the other side of the counter. You pulled up her number in your contacts and hit send as you Googled the article on your laptop.

“Yea?” Pepper said shortly.

“Just me.” You responded as you skimmed through the short article. “Why didn’t you tell me?” She sighed heavily on the other end of the line.

“Because it’s something that we are handling, sweetheart.” She responded. “They aren’t looking for you, they are looking for our mutual friend.”

“Pep…”

“No, it’s OK. Tony’s home. I had our lawyer on the phone almost instantly. Don’t worry, you’re OK. It’s all OK.” You sighed and ran your hand through your hair. You sat back in your chair and looked over at Aaron with a small shake of your head.

“Is this going to be my life until my babies are 18?” You asked as tears welled in your eyes. “Am I going to always have to live in fear of even putting them in school? I know they’re safe in Stark pre-K but what about public or even private school?” Neither Aaron nor Pepper said anything as you ran your hand down your face. With a shake of your head, you took a deep breath and sighed.

“We can home school them.” Aaron suggested after a moment.

“We can’t afford it.” You responded. “We have eight pups and one on the way. Our expenses for just the pups we have is almost eight grand a month with our part of the bills and that’s living on a budget without including Bucky and I’s expenses. He has to work nearly eighty hours a week just to be able to…”

“(Y/N), why didn’t you tell us you were struggling like that?” Pepper asked.

“Because they aren’t your children, Pep.” You said as you leaned forward and rested your elbows on the counter. “They aren’t your and Tony’s responsibility…”

“Oh, bullshit!” She shouted so loud that Aaron actually took a half step back. “They are our family, too! (Y/N), Stark Industries is a multi-billion dollar company. Tony and I have more money than we know what to do with and we only have Morgan to spend it on. So, as of right now, you’re fired with a 1.5 billion dollar retirement fund. Bucky is fired with a billion dollar retirement fund except for missions. Shit, even Aaron, and Wanda are fired with a billion a piece retirement fund, too. Congratulations, you just pissed me off enough to fire my favorite party planners.”

“Pepper, I can’t…”

“I don’t care.” She snapped back. “Hire sitters, hire teachers. Stop living on a damn budget and enjoy your kids for God’s sake. Why do you think I’m only in my office three days a week anymore? Because my son is more important than anything in the world. Now, send me what notes you have for the parties and go get your pups from day care. I know they miss their mommy…”

“Pep…”

“Nope. I gotta go. I have to go pick up my own pup. I love you, sweetheart. But you’re annoying my right now.” She didn’t give you a chance to respond and you slowly pulled your phone away from your ear.

“What did she say?” Aaron asked as you set your phone down on the counter.

“She fired us. All of us.” You nearly whispered as you looked up at him. “And gave us a one billion dollar retirement fund each.” Aaron’s coffee mug slipped from his fingers and shattered on the kitchen floor as the two of you stared at each other. You couldn’t move other than to shake your head as the Omega that was basically your brother floundered for something to say.

“She… I… but… we… fired… what?” You looked over as your laptop dinged loudly and the screen showed the Stark Industries company logo signaling you had been signed out remotely. You sighed and let your head fall to the counter for a moment before looking up at Aaron and turning your laptop toward him.

“We’re locked out of Stark servers. This is really happening.”

“Damn.” Aaron breathed as he looked around the kitchen. “So that means this is the last time we’re gunna have a quiet house hold?”

“Damn it.” You whined as you sat back in your chair. “I like my peace and quiet.” With a groan, you forced yourself to your feet and grabbed your purse. “Alright, let’s go get the monsters before Pepper kicks them out of day care, too.”

——

“You got me fired?” Bucky asked as he paced your bedroom that night before bed.

“I didn’t mean to!” You said as you watched him pace. “It was an accident!” He glanced over at you as he walked past and shook his head.

“I can’t even be mad at you, ‘mega mine.” He said on his way past again. “How the hell…”

“It was an accident!” You repeated as he turned and headed the other way.

“Yea doll, you’ve said that.” He said as he ran his fingers through his hair. You bit your bottom lip to hide your smile, knowing that he wasn’t mad at all that he got fired; he hated working his construction job for Stark Tech. He hated being away from his pups as much as he was forced to be as well. He finally came to a stop at the foot of the bed and looked over at you. “What the hell am I going to do with you, Omega?” You shrugged and a smile stretched across your cheeks as he crawled up the bed toward you.

“Help me find a couple teachers? I don’t know my ass from my elbow when it comes to teaching and after what they did to Tony in New York, I don’t wanna put them in public school if I can avoid it.” You husband nodded as he laid down on the pillows beside you and put his right hand on your barely there bump.

“Sounds like a plan, doll. Now, I don’t know about you but I am ready for the longest nap in the history of sleeping to make up for the last two years. You gunna join me?” You smiled as you pulled the blanket out from under you and scooted down under the blanket.

“Let’s do a barbecue out back tomorrow. Set up the slip and slide and the kiddie pool. Have a little party?”

“Sounds like a plan, ‘mega.” He yawned as he curled up beside you and pulled you into his chest. With a sigh, he grabbed one of the decorative pillows and threw it at the light switch, hitting it the first time and plunging the room into darkness. “Night, my love.”

“Night Alpha.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Mommy?” You glanced up from the dinner you were making as Ryan came over and sat down at the breakfast bar on the opposite side of the kitchen island you were working on. You loved when he came in to sit with you or helped out; he and Tessa were usually the only ones.

“What baby?” You asked as you chopped tomatoes for taco night.

“Can the baby in your belly talk?” He asked as he rested his arms on the bar. You glanced up at him through your lashes as he stared at your six month along baby bump.

“Not yet, sweetheart.” You said as you scooped the tomatoes into a bowl and pushed it off to the side. “Babies don’t usually talk until they are about 10 or 11 months old so baby Ethan is way to little to talk.” You glanced up at him again as you grabbed the head of lettuce and put it on the cutting board in front of you. “Why?” He looked up at you and shook his head before looking back at your bump.

“Well… sometimes… if it’s really, really quiet… I think I can hear him.” Your head whipped up at your five year old and your brow furrowed.

“What?” He shook his head as he crossed his arms and leaned on the counter toward you a bit more.

“It’s only sometimes.” He said as he tilted his head to the side. “Like right now. He’s saying something… but it’s hard to hear it….” You blinked a couple times as you tried to process what your son said.

“Alpha…” You called out hesitantly as you set your knife down on the counter. “Can you come here, please?” You barely heard Bucky tell the rest of the pups he’d be back as he got up to join you in the kitchen. You glanced up at him and looked back at Ryan with a small smile. “Ry, tell daddy what you just told me.” Your second oldest glanced over at Bucky with a shrug as the latter came into the kitchen.

“I can hear baby Jake talk sometimes.” He said nonchalantly, not realizing the news bomb he just dropped was kind of a big deal. “Like right now.”

“Ryan, come here and put your ear on mommy’s belly. See if you can hear better.” You said as you glanced up at Bucky. Your pup jumped down off the chair as Bucky walked over slowly toward the counter. You pulled up the hem of your shirt and Ryan put the side of his face on your bump. A smile pulled at the corner of his lips as he put his hands on your bump on either side of his head.

“He’s talking.” Ryan said as he brushed his hand across your stomach. “He says he’s happy.” You shared a look with your Alpha as you brushed your hand over the back of Ryan’s hand.

“Does he tell you how he feels all the time?” Bucky asked as he looked at his pup. Ryan shook his head as he went over to the fridge to get a drink.

“Only when it’s quiet. I’m gunna go watch the movie now.” You stared at his back in disbelief as he headed toward the living room where your kids were watching ‘Mickey’s Christmas Carol’ before dinner. When he disappeared from sight, you looked over at Bucky.

“Could he just be reading Jake’s emotions?” You asked as you put your hands on your bump.

“What did he say before I came in here?” You shook your head as you pulled your shirt back down.

“Just that when it’s quiet, he can hear him talking. He asked how old babies were when they started talking…”

“He’s probably just reading Jake’s emotions then, Omega. Don’t stress about it.” You nodded slowly as he got up from the chair and came around to your side of the counter. “Trade off. Go get off your feet for a while. I got the rest of dinner.”

“Yea, now that it’s almost done.” You huffed as you grabbed a piece of tomato and popped it in your mouth on your way out to the living room.

——

“Mommy?” You heard softly, pulling you instantly from your sleep to figure out which child was upset and why.

“What baby?” You asked softly so you wouldn’t wake up Bucky as you forced your eyes open in your dark bedroom. You blinked a few times and looked around the room on your side of the bed before rolling onto your back to see if your pup called your name again. When you didn’t hear anything, you sat up in bed and looked around your massive bedroom.

“Mommy?” The name resounded in your head and actually made you jump. Without thinking, your hand flew out and whacked your husband hard in the face.

“Fuck!” He shouted as he sat up to figure out what the hell was going on.

“I hear him!” You said as you reached blindly for Bucky. “Alpha, I hear him.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” He asked as he turned on his bedside light and rubbed his cheek where you hit him.

“Daddy?” Your head whipped to the side as Bucky sat up quickly in bed, wide awake and no longer caring about his face.

“Is that?”

“He’s talking.” You said as you pulled up your shirt and leaned back against the headboard. Bucky slid across the cotton sheets and put his right hand on your bump.

“Hi Jake.” He said softly as he brushed his thumb across your skin. “It’s daddy.”

“Daddy.” Jake said as he turned in your womb toward Bucky’s hand. “Mommy?”

“Mommy’s here.” You said as you put your hand right next to your Alpha’s. “I’m right here, baby boy.” He turned the slightest bit so that he was directly under both your hands and stayed there.

“Happy.” He said as he pressed his head against the sides of your palms for a moment. “Happy.” Tears welled in your eyes as you reached out for Bucky’s other hand.

“We’re happy, too, Jake.” Bucky said as he laced his metal fingers with yours and leaned on the bed with his elbow between your thighs. “Mommy and I are so happy and we can’t wait to meet you.”

“We love you, Jake.” You nearly whispered as you brushed your thumb across your bump.

“Love.” Jake responded sleepily as the pressure he was putting on your hands lessened the slightest bit as if he was falling back asleep. You looked up and met Bucky’s tear filled eyes with a smile. 

“He talks.” Your Alpha said with a laugh. You giggled and nodded as you rubbed your hand in a small circle over where Jake was.

“He talks.” Neither of you moved for at least twenty minutes before you let out a small sigh.

“We’ll call Tony in the morning. Charles too. See what they think…” You looked up from your bump at your husband with a small, slightly worried smile. “I think Jake’s telepathic.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You didn’t know how it happened. One minute you were planning on a simple visit for Charles, his assistant Hank, and Tony, Pepper and their son, Morgan but before you knew it, you were hosting Tony’s Annual family Christmas party for the Avengers at your house and you only had a week to pull it off. You were at least grateful your family had already picked out a tree and so had Vis and Wanda and Max and Aaron and you had the decorations you had brought from your old New York walk up and bought when you moved into the house already up for your own family. Your house looked like a beautiful Christmas wonderland… All you had to do was figure out where you were going to put everyone.

“Hey Pep.” You said softly as you gave your old friend a hug in the entry way of the mansion. “You and Tony are down here in the room on the right that way by the kitchen. Morgan is going in up stairs with Mason, Caleb, and Pietro. Last door on the left, left hallway.”

“I have to hand it to you.” She said as she laced her arm with yours and followed you toward the stairs as Morgan raced past you to join the rest of the kids in the living room who were playing with Max, Aaron, and the two teachers slash nannies you had hired, Sarah and Ian. “You managed to pull this off in no time.”

“That’s what I do, Pep.” You laughed as you passed her bags off to Bucky to take down the hall. “I plan, I conquer, and I take prisoners if I have to.” She laughed as she stepped around you so you could welcome Steve and Natasha. “You two are in the future nursery. Upstairs right next to the elevator right hallway. Figured we’d put the muscle up stairs with all the kids…”

“Told you.” Steve laughed as he grabbed his Alpha’s bags and headed toward the stairs. “I knew we’d be personal muscle.”

“There’s sixteen pups in four bedrooms.” Bucky laughed as he grabbed Morgan’s bag and Clint’s two son’s and his daughter’s bags from Laura to bring them up stairs as Cooper, Lila, and Nate ran toward the living room, too. “We only have four adults up stairs. Might as well put the strongest ones up there, too.”

“This house is amazing.” Laura said as she came up and gave you a hug.

“I can’t take the credit for it. It’s a friends…”

“Please. This house is as good as yours.” Charles laughed as he rolled up the ramp to your porch. He paused in front of you and his eyes darted down to your bump for a second before he found your eyes again. “Well, well. He is an interesting one.” You nodded as you rubbed your hand across your bump. “We’ll talk later.” You nodded and glanced down at your list to see where you what room you had him in.

“We had to put you and Hank in the twins room down here. I hope that’s alright…”

“That’s perfect.” Charles said as he reached out and squeezed your hand. “I’m just a visitor here, darling.” You smiled at him and nodded again as Bucky came back down stairs to grab more suitcases.

“Alright, where do you have me?” Sam asked as he stepped up to where Charles was in front of you.

“The swimming pool.” You and Bucky said at the same time.

“You’re by us, Sam.” Wanda said as she walked down her hall with Alexei, fresh from a nap, on her hip. “Come, I’ll show you.” You gave Sam a tight lipped smile, still a little salty with him for making fun of your ‘mutant spawn’ even five years after the fact as he headed down the hall after Wanda.

“Leave it, ‘mega.” Bucky growled under his breath as you watched Sam walk away. You took a deep breath and turned away to greet Hank and give Clint and Laura proper hugs.

——

“He’s most definitely telepathic.” Charles said as he and you sat with the rest of the adults in your bedroom wrapping gifts from ‘Santa’ that Tony had managed to sneak over on a second Quinjet for all the kids. “Powerful to be able to communicate this young…”

“Dangerous?” Tony asked as he looked over at you where you sat on your bed with your hands on your bump, completely ignoring the presents you were supposed to be wrapping.

“No.” Charles said as he tilted his head, studying your bump as if Jake was in your arms. “He understands that your voice, (Y/N), means ‘Mommy’ and Bucky’s means ‘Daddy’. He can recognize his siblings and he understands basic human emotions through you… but that’s relatively all for now.” You nodded as Bucky pushed the present he had taken nearly twenty minutes to wrap away from him about as slowly as he had been wrapping it.

“How can we hear him?” He asked.

“My assumption? Because you’re his parents. No one else has heard him, correct?”

“Just Ryan.” Bucky said with a nod.

“He’s our empath.” You informed Charles.

“And a strong one at that.” Steve chimed in as he added a label to the present Bucky had wrapped and put both that one and his in the pile for the Barnes kids.

“But that’s the general consensus with all their kids.” Tony said as he added a present to his son’s pile. “All their gifts seem to be enhanced.”

“And there is nothing wrong with that.” You said as you looked up at Sam pointedly.

“No. Nothing at all.” Tony agreed as Bucky reached out for your hand. 

“And from what we understand, Ryan can only hear his emotions. We didn’t really press him on it…” You said as Charles nodded his head.

“Can I be honest with you?” He asked as he sat up a little straighter in his chair. Your stomach flipped slightly and your husband sat up a little straighter on the bed beside you while every adult in the room gave the professor their undivided attention. He smiled as he took his eyes off your bump to look at you and leaned forward in his chair. “Jake is powerful, more so than all of your pups combined. I’ve not seen a telepath this powerful in all my life. The pair of you need to be prepared that it will not come easy to raise him with his powers unless you begin immediately. Because I believe that he may not be just telepathic. I believe, if I’m reading it correctly, he’s also telekinetic and just hasn’t figured it out yet. That being said when he does, a wet diaper could destroy houses. Laughing could cause him to levitate right out of his crib…”

“Jesus Christ.” Bucky said as he put his metal hand over yours on your stomach as his eyes instantly darted over to Tony.

“H-how… how do we teach him?” You asked as you put your hand on Bucky’s shoulder and gently pulled him back toward you.

“I can teach you.” Charles said with a nod. “It will take time and patience, but we can teach him.” You nodded and ran your hand through your hair as you exchanged a look with Bucky. He looked over at you at the same time and huffed a humorless laugh.

“And we thought having only one more would be a piece of cake.” He joked as he brushed his hand across your bump.

“This time, we really are done, Alpha.” Your massive family chuckled and went back to wrapping the hundreds of presents Santa was going to be delivering the next night as Bucky kissed your cheek.

“No more, ‘mega mine. Promise.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brightly colored wrapping paper that had been torn to shreds littered every available inch of your living room that the piles and piles of gifts didn’t cover. Kids giddy laughter warmed your hearts as they played with their new presents. You watched happily as Bucky, with a giant bow on his forehead, put together a plastic kitchen for Emma while she sat on his lap and Steve helped David put together his train table. You smiled and kissed the side of Allie’s head as she sat on your lap, reading her new Madeline books to you and Jake. 

Pietro and Mason were going back and forth with each other, building a castle of some sort out of Lego’s while Vision kept a watchful eye on Alexei, who was trying to feed the little blocks to her new baby doll. Natasha was spread across the middle of the floor, fighting as hard as she could to control her laughter as Grace listened to her elbow for a heart beat while Tessa listened to her forehead with their new doctor kits. Every one else was distracted by one child or another, falling in love with the next generation of Avengers.

Out of no where, Jake rolled a complete one hundred and eighty degrees in your stomach causing you to sit up slightly to give him as much room as possible. You heard him say ‘mommy’ seconds before Charles’ head whipped toward the door followed almost instantly by Bucky and Steves.

“Get the pups out of here.” Bucky said as he moved Emma off his lap.

“Tony, suit up.” Steve said as Natasha sat up and turned around.

“Alright, babies. Let’s go down stairs for a little bit.” You said as you set Allie down on the ground a second before she disappeared in fear. 

“No time.” Charles said as the front door flung open. The pups screamed as the Avengers leapt to their feet in front of the kids.

“Tony Stark.” General Ross said as he strolled into your foyer. “Thank you for bringing us straight to the mother load of undocumented mutants…�� The words barely left his mouth before his feet flew out from under him. The room dropped at least fifteen degrees and David blew a deep breath toward him, encasing him in ice in a second. Your living room burst into chaos as your pups, who had heard the ‘only use your powers in an emergency’ speech a hundred times went to town on the military men that walked through the door. 

You watched in awe for a moment as Caleb ran as fast as he could, knocking out knee caps and sending men flying to the ground as Mason and Tessa both threw the ice block that was General Ross back through the front door. Allie must have jumped off the stair case banister in an invisible state because one of the men’s guns clattered to the ground before Emma punched him in the thigh with her diamond fist. The Avengers stood a little shell shocked for a moment, watching everything go down until one of the men grabbed innocent Grace who was just trying to run and hide since she was only able to talk to animals.

Every thing stopped moving in your mind as your baby girl let out an ear piercing scream. Bucky lurched forward with a fire you had never seen in your Alpha that only fueled your own. Your eyes locked on your daughters as she was carted toward the door and you literally saw red.

“Put my daughter down!” You roared as you channeled the hate building in your stomach.

“Everyone down!” Charles screamed seconds before you threw four chairs across the room and hit the officer that had your daughter square in the back and three others as Bucky slammed his metal fist into another’s face. You literally ran on air and grabbed Grace before she hit the ground. 

It became an absolute free for all with your pups and the other pups in your house as the men that upset your Christmas morning tried to grab them to remove them from their families. With powers you must have channeled from your unborn son, you created a blockade with toys and Christmas decorations across the stair case and you and Wanda both stood guard at the bottom of the stairs with Max, Aaron, Pepper, and Laura behind you. You began handing pups to them one by one to protect them as Wanda threw a man out your front door away from her son.

“Count them out!” Wanda called as she threw another energy field between a man and Ryan a second before you lifted him up from ten feet away and brought him over to you. 

“Fifteen!” Aaron said as he grabbed Ryan out of the air. “We’re missing… we’re missing Allie!” Your blood ran cold as you realized that if she didn’t wanna be found, she wouldn’t be with her ability. You would have no idea if they had taken her or not until you found her. 

“Get them in my room.” You said as you looked around for Charles. You startled a little as a blue, furry Hank ran across the front yard and tackled a military man while Tony flew the opposite direction with another one he was holding by the ankle. “Allie? Baby, come to mommy.” You called out as you walked toward the front door to where the majority of the fight for your children had been moved. You could feel Jake moving around in your womb, moving this way and that way as if he knew what you were looking for. As you stepped out onto the patio, you and Jake both focused on Bucky, who was holding a man in a pristine suit away from him as another he didn’t see stormed toward him with a gun in his hand.

“Alpha!” You screamed over the crack of a gun shot. You had no idea how it happened, whether Jake made you move across the yard in the blink of an eye or what but the next thing you knew, you felt a pain in your shoulder unlike anything you had ever felt and you landed hard on the cold ground. The whole world stopped; everything around you just stopped as you laid in the wet grass in your front yard, staring up at the grey cloudy sky.

“‘mega! No, no, no!” Bucky gasped as he slid in the grass to get to your side. He quickly ripped off his shirt and balled it up over your left shoulder where you took the bullet. “Hey, you’re OK, (Y/N). It’s OK.”

“Allie?” You said softly as Steve came running to your side while Tony and Charles verbally duked it out with General Ross on your pups being exempt from the registration act because they obviously only use their powers when they need to protect themselves and they would continue to do so if they were taken from their parents.

“Let me see.” Hank said as he came over and pushed Bucky’s hands out of the way as the blue faded from his face. Bucky barely glanced at him as he moved so your head was in his lap as Allie finally appeared right by your head.

“Mommy?” She said as tears welled in her beautiful blue eyes.

“There’s my girl.” You said softly as you reached up toward her. “You were hidin’.” She nodded as Ross sent some of his men over to take care of you as he made the rest fall out as his way of apologizing for getting a pregnant mother shot in front of her pups on Christmas morning.

“Mommy, you hurt?” She asked as she started to cry. You smiled at her and shook your head as Bucky shook with anger and fear.

“Mommy’s fine baby girl. I’m gunna be just fine.”

“Whoa, whoa!” Hank said as he pulled his hands back before Ross’ men could even get over to you.

“He’s healing her.” Charles said as he turned away from Ross and Tony and wheeled over to your side. You tried to look over at your shoulder as Jake stretched in your stomach as far as the space would allow. Your family all crowded around and watched the bullet made it’s way out of your shoulder and the wound healed itself from the inside out. You felt Jake go slack in your stomach and curl into himself as the bullet rolled off your shoulder into the grass.

“Jake?” You said softly as you rubbed your bump.

“He’s alright.” Charles said as Bucky helped you sit up and pulled you in to his chest. “He’s fine, just tired.”

“Don’t you ever fucking do that again, do you hear me?” Bucky growled as he spun you in the grass and shook you harshly. “Don’t you ever…” His wide, scared eyes searched your for a moment before he pulled you into his arms. “Don’t you dare leave me.”

“You either, Alpha.” You said as you pulled back just far enough to pull your oldest daughter in to the hug as well. “You either.” He nodded against your shoulder as he held his oldest daughter and the love of his life to his chest.

“Guess Jake just realized he’s telekinetic.” Charles said to Tony as Steve and Hank helped you to your feet to head back inside. 

“And just in time for them to stop hiding from the law.” Tony said as he made sure every last Government official was off your lawn. “but… if you don’t mind Charles, I’m gunna buy this house from you for them. I don’t want all those pups running around my compound learning how to use their powers at once.” Charles and Tony exchanged knowing looks as Vision took a step over and cleared his throat.

“If it wouldn’t be to much to ask… would Wanda and I and our pups be able to come back to New York. I’m there more than I am here and it’s just…”

“Yea, of course.” Tony said as he clapped the man on the back. “But, for now, let’s finish our Christmas celebration, we have a bunch of stuff to clean up. We’ll work out the details after that.” Vision nodded and turned back toward the door to see you standing on the porch watching him with Allie on your hip. He hesitated a moment until you nodded your head.

“It’s what’s best for you.” You said with a tight lipped smile. “I get it. Don’t like it… but I get it.” He bowed his head slightly and headed up the steps toward you.

“I hadn’t meant you to overhear that. We were going to sit…” You paused just inside your door and reached out for his arm with a small smile.

“Vis, you don’t have to explain anything to me. I love you both but I know Wanda’s heart isn’t here when you’re gone. She’s just here to protect her babies. I don’t hold a grudge at all. It’s OK.” He nodded as Steve, Bucky, and Tony started clearing off the stairs. “Now, I have a bunch of pups to calm down who would probably like some cookies and eggnog for breakfast as a bribe. Wanna help?” He smiled at you and nodded as Allie picked her head up off your shoulder.

“Can I help?” You smiled at her and nodded as Jake shifted a couple times to find his favorite spot and you could almost feel his soul relax.

“Yea, baby. You can help. Wanna go find Aunt Wanda and Uncle Max and tell them the bad guys are all gone?” She nodded as you set her down on the stairs and she went running up them as you bent over to grab some of the couch pillows off the floor. “Oh, what a Christmas.” You sighed as you glanced at your Alpha and put the pillows on the handful of toys he was carrying back into the living room.

“One we won’t be forgetting anytime soon.” You huffed a laugh and nodded your head as you brushed your hand across your bump. You glanced down at it with a smile and nodded your head. 

“You did very good, baby boy. Mommy and daddy are so proud of you. We love you and we will never let anything happen to you.” You barely felt what you were going to say as a nod as Jake pushed back against your palm for a moment before letting himself go to sleep for a while. With a content smile, you went over to start making any sort of breakfast the kids could all eat with the cookies you were going to bribe them with so they would forget about the trauma they experienced that morning.

[skateofministry]

Skate park fundraiser with Olympic skater raises $25K

David Derrick, board member of Skate Essex, and many of the members of the group on the steps of Van Vleck Gardens, for the Party 4 the Park fundraiser. Photo Courtesy Traci Giles

Skate Essex, a nonprofit organization established to help local communities create safe skateboarding spaces and programs for children, held its first event last week — the Party 4 the Park, in Van Vleck Gardens. 

Money raised at the Thursday, Oct. 7 event will be used toward the first phase of the Montclair Skate Park at Rand Park — the Alexis Sablone Skate-able Sculptures, referred to as “SsS” for short.

After a unanimous vote by Montclair’s mayor and township council in July on a resolution to build a permanent skate park in Montclair, Skate Essex is “riding fast and hard” to make that a reality, the group said in a description of the event. For almost two years, the skateboarders have been using two of the four courts at Rand Park as a temporary park.

“Skate Essex proudly raised over $25,000 on Thursday through donations from the community and will be putting that and grants towards the Alexis Sablone Skate-able Sculptures (SsS) and other expenses associated with the temporary and permanent park,” one of the event’s organizers, Holly Shaw, said.

SAVE MONTCLAIR LOCAL: We’re overjoyed to report we’ve hit our fundraising goal of $230,000 this quarter for Montclair Local Nonprofit News! Montclair has stepped up to say local news matters, and we’re hugely grateful. That gives our newsroom, your newsroom, security to operate well into 2022 while we continue to work toward long-term sustainability. We’ve seen what happens when news operations cut back or shut down. Communities suffer. We’ve seen it here in Montclair, and we believe you deserve better.

Visit MontclairLocal.news/donations to make your tax-deductible contribution today, to keep Montclair Local strong and help us do even more to serve the amazing community of Montclair.

The sold-out event featured a one-on-one interview with Sablone, who in addition to being an Olympic athlete (placing fourth in the women’s street final at the games in Tokyo earlier this year) — is an architect. She discussed being the sole female skater in her hometown, her love of architecture and the undeniable growth of skateboarding as a legitimate sport.

Party-goers enjoyed food donated by Turtle and the Wolf, Pineapple Express, Van Hook Cheese & Grocery and Solex Fine Foods, and drinks donated by Faubourg, Angelbecks and Les Ricey’s Imports. Drinks were served by celebrity bartender George Oliphant — Montclair resident and host of NBC’s “George to the Rescue.”

Many of the current obstacles at the courts are made of wood. These wooden elements rapidly deteriorate due to weather and constant use by the hundreds of skaters using them each week. In partnering with Sablone, Montclair aims to have one-of-a-kind skateboard obstacles made of concrete and steel.

These obstacles will not only last decades and be utilized in a future permanent skatepark, but would also elevate Montclair’s standing as a skateboarding destination, advocates of the park say.

With the money raised on Thursday, prior grants and a few pending, Skate Essex is looking to break ground in the next few months and have the sculptures at the courts ready for skating in the spring of 2022.

— Information provided by Skate Essex

Emcee and Skate Essex member Rick Kloiber is in his element at the Party 4 the Park, raising money and laughter. Photo Courtesy Traci Giles

George Oliphant celebrity bartends at Van Vleck Gardens for the Party 4 the Park fundraiser. Photo Courtesy Traci Giles

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from Skate World. Skateboard News, skateboard shop https://ift.tt/3dzS8Bm

[etherealemerson]

ROSE + MASON - MAYFAIR TO TILBURY, ESSEX | SUMMER 2012

Mason’s Journal. Date: Tuesday, June 19th, 2012.

On the record, four in the morning is wretchedly early but adventure does not have those perceptions. Nor can it feel the morning after a shared bottle of bourbon between only yourself and another. Yet, as soon as the rich, dark, comforting Colombian aromas filled the kitchen, I was anxious to head out.

It wasn’t until I was placing the cheese on our breakfast sarnies when Rose finally came down, looking as though she was still rubbing off the night before. Her hair was damp and unruly, as though she showered and went back to sleep. She slide into her usual spot onto the counter, where I have started to place her coffee cup when she stays, and perched up to look at me, “Are there any rasher’s left?” I gave her a sheepish grin, holding up a small baggy full that I hadn’t packed yet, “I thought you would want them along our way, care for them now instead?” She nodded her head lightly, taking her first sips of coffee before I finally made it over with the bacon. “Care for any help?” Rose asked when I had finally reached her, opening the baggy to snag a strip. Her voice was still a little horse, probably from having one too many fags, but the warm stiff was really helping. “No,” I replied smoothly, but anyone could tell that there was this cheerfulness and excitement ringing through the words, “Everything is ready when you are.”

Before long, our packs were on and the bikes were loaded. Although we could be there within minutes, Rose and I enjoy the long ride. Especially this time of year. The mornings are still chilly, just barely at 60 degrees as the sun begins to rise and the fog gently blankets the ground around you. We decided to skip the ride by Winter Wonderland, making our way down to Green Park to visit Buckingham Palace instead. The area is always gorgeous, flowers always seeming to be in bloom, but typically really touristy. Unless, of course, you know the right times to go.

St James’s Park was also very empty, which gave to a very pleasant start as we made way to cross at Big Ben. Folks in their morning suits were starting to pass us by when we finally made it to Shakespeare’s Globe, traditionally where we sit to eat our packed breakfast. I looked down at my watch to find it was a quarter past seven in the morning, stomach rumbling as we found a bench along River Thames. The Globe stood stoically behind us as we tore through our meals, hardly saying a word to each other until our bellies were fat and round.

It couldn’t have been more than twenty minutes before we set out again, quickly sharing a fag before we headed off. We wouldn’t truly stop again until Greenwich, possibly my favorite place to visit along the way. It’s full of parks, history and not to mention where the Queen was known to rest her head. Passing many different shops, we did whatever caught our attention. From what looked to be the art district, to the Greenwich Market district (where we enjoyed a different array of street foods), down to the Pier to check out Cutty Sark.

Rose always insists that we do a tour of the ship, even though we have seen the inside a handful of times, turning into a small child as we approached. After we finally locked our bikes, Rose and I opened the doors to head into the Cutty Sark Museum. I truly do savor the first moments her eyes gaze upon the ship, which is as innocent as a newborn discovering the world, even if I didn’t show it. Rose gets this innocence about her when we are traveling that you just can’t put into words, but when you are with her you can always feel it. Almost, exhilarating.

After I was good and nackered from hearing about which teas were aboard, Rose bought a box of her favorite Lady Gray and we walked over to our best find. The pub was built sometime in the late 1700s, showing it with it’s historic build and “apartment above” feel. Sometime in the 1970s, it was named Gipsy Moth and has been a magnificent and cozy scene. We opted for the seats to view the ship, even though the gardens above are quite marvelous. We both had a sense that this view was more appropriate for the day, preferring the smell of water and winds carrying it’s sprays versus the buzzing of bees and flourishing nursery.

After we ordered our first round, Rose had let out a soft sigh and looked longingly at the timid streets of Greenwich. The only crowds around us were townies, simpler Muggles instead of all the ones that went to the University. Young and irritatingly reckless, but I generally don’t care much for my own age. I smiled gently, looking out towards the same similar direction when she spoke, muttering bits about the grindylow’s and how we could possibly manage with just the two of us.

Our drinks came rather quickly. Rose and I both ordered different branded lagers, taking turns sipping each others and freely debated on who’s was better. I believe the Bear Face Lager was top notch, but I always let her win. Once our dauphinoise potatoes and Welsh rarebit sausages arrived, our chatter was in full swing. We changed through many topics, but continued to land on Mervillage and our plan to connect with the creatures in the lake. I must confess, I haven’t been the most buoyant when it comes to her latest endeavors and her fascination with the Merpeople. Not that I wouldn’t want to understand more about their kind, but we would still be putting ourselves into danger. “Bubblehead is the perfect way,” she said to me, still thrilled with our chances and drive to discover. Something that I commend in an individual.   “You are correct,” I replied, still trying to give her an optimistic tone and caring smile, “I just worry.”

After one last round, we decided to go for a short walk around the Pier. The smell of the river greeted us as we trotted, so crisp that my nose slightly burned and Rose’s had turned a blush pink. Neither of us wanted to share, insisting we needed our own fag after having stuffed ourselves to the brim with pure glutenous intentions. As we putzed around, we discussed where we were heading next and decided it was about time for us to continue on. Rose had even started buzzling slightly as we made our way back to the bikes, hair bouncing within the wind as the beer fully let loose into her blood stream.

(to be continued)

[chrysaliseuro2018]

BOSS OF THE BUS

As we were making our way down the west coast on our 5 day trip, Genevieve was investigating trips from Side to Capadocia in the centre of Turkey. Correspondence went back and forth about a €40-50 (about $75-80) 3 day trip. Comparing what we were paying for our 5 days this was so cheap I feared we would be camping. But no this was the price. Of course the sting came a bit later.

So we were up for it and the 4 of us booked to start the tour on 12th June with pick up time 6.45am. Antique Side is closed to cars other than those of residents so the tour bus couldn’t come down the hill to collect all our luggage. Booking ‘agents’ advised the town electric cart would collect us but alas no. Meanwhile Chris was in negotiations with the police manning the gate but it was a firm No. With minutes ticking by Doug quickly got Penny’s car, luggage was loaded into that and driven to the bus.

Now about 30 minutes had elapsed so understandably got some stink-eye from the passengers who’d been kept waiting.

The bus was designed for 12 passengers but fitted out for 17 so it was a close and intimate affair. In the front 2 seats were Doug and Gene who it has to be said got lucky with some extra leg room. Behind them 2 elderly Danes who grabbed a bottle of wine and or beers at every possible opportunity. Behind the Danes were 10 year old Russian lad with his mousy mute mother. Then Chris and me wedged in (Russian lad had his seat reclined the entire 2 days), and behind us the very friendly and chatty Aunty Margaret and Tina from Essex. Along the back were sweet young newly weds Soyah & Maurice from Holland, a spare seat, then Holly, Tina’s stepsister who judging by her size would have been grateful for the spare seat. Could have knocked us over with a feather when she told us she had been to the 7 continents by age 24, had emigrated to Melbourne several years ago (lives in Chelsea)and works as a sound engineer. You just wouldn’t have picked it!

Then heading back along the bus in single seats was a surly young lad who turned out to be part of the tour operation, a woman of unknown origins who disappeared after day 1, then Mr Russia who seemed to have supplanted both his wife’s and his son’s ego into his own.

Bus driver slipped under the radar but the same can’t be said for the guide Nahjo. In fact it was a battle of egos between Nahjo and Mr Russia. He didn’t just like the sound of his own voice. He was addicted to it! Along the way amongst other chit chat and information we got his life story, some group marriage guidance, how small lies can be forgiven and how this works in a religious context too. Every monologue went for a minimum of 10 minutes and woe betide you should you chat amongst yourselves during one of his diatribes. In the gaps the gregarious, party-loving-club-going-40-something Tina would try to share with me her life history. Nahjo seemed to get wind of it and standing facing the back of the bus would either clear his throat or announce it was his turn. Chris and I were left thinking our polite and humble Gallipoli guide must have been absent for the Tour Guide Arrogance 101 unit of the qualification.

So we were off and despite the late get away we stopped not 20 minutes down the road for a tea/ coffee break, followed by a breakfast stop 40 minutes later at a petrol station/ roadside stop. (It has to be noted that Cappadocia is some 470 kilometres from Side so it was going to be long day if the stops came so frequently). Breakfast option 1 was a vast modern complex selling everything you don’t want to eat. Gene who has an eye for local food spotted hidden in a corner behind some trees an outfit selling gözleme so we headed there. Great decision. Shoes off and into the tent where the local lady sat crossed leg with her dough, tubs of filling and the black dome for cooking the gözleme. Spinach and cheese one was a bit dry but the potato one was outstanding.

All wedged ourselves back in the bus which climbed up the mountains through some magical scenery. Unfortunately Nahjo kept reassuring us on the wrong side of the bus that we would see it ‘on the back journey’. However our arrangements meant we weren’t doing ‘the back journey’ so at one particular stop he was a little annoyed when we headed off 200 metres down the road to photograph the nomads herding their goats. I suggested it would be better for all if the bus pulled over so we could all see anything of interest on the way to Cappadocia. Suggestion was not welcomed.

Another stop for coffee and the sting of the extra €’s. It had to happen of course. You can’t run a tour for €50 per person providing transport, 2 nights accommodation no matter how basic, 2 dinners and two breakfasts. So lunch which we though was fend for oneself turned out to be a set payment (we only paid for one and opted to take our chances on day 2), and extra for Whirling dervishes, museums (charge €25/ $39.20 versus ticket face value less than $9) etc totalling an extra €120 between us. Even taking that into consideration €220/$350 for both of us was pretty cheap and the overcharging on extras balanced the undercharging on initial outlay.

Next stop, lost count if it was 4 or 5, was at the Mevlâna museum Konya, the birth place of the Sufi religion and Dervishes. The site is a holy place for Muslims with over 1.5 million visiting it yearly. The Mosque contains the tomb of Rumi (unfortunately hidden due to renovations) later known as Mevlâna who devised the idea of whirling and the tombs of other eminent dervishes. Also on display were Mervlana’s coat, a box apparently containing his beard and any number of exquisitely decorated Qurans, one so tiny that the author went blind writing it.

Alongside the Mosque was a complex giving information about the dervish culture. Included was a lodge displaying mannequins dressed as they would have been in Mevlâna’s day and the dervish cells displaying various items. I for one would have enjoyed more than our tightly scheduled allotted time there. But we were rounded up like errant school children and headed back for the bus. Chris managed to ruffle Nahjo’s feathers by needing a toilet stop when we were warned the next section of the drive would be 2.5 hours. By this stage as it was 1pm we were wondering about the elusive lunch if the drive was for 2.5 hours. There was some grumbling from Tina and Aunty Margaret and it wasn’t from their stomachs.

Eventually we rolled into another vile modern roadside stop - our lunch venue. Behind the counter were some aggrieved (probably because of the lateness of the hour) gorillas of men slopping out an assortment of runny casseroles, reluctant to identify any ingredients. It tasted as bad as it looked. We were immediately pleased with the earlier decision not to commit to day two lunch.

A short drive and then time for another stop. This time it was to visit a preserved home dug under ground, a primitive more simple Coober Pedy affair. Apparently tunnel complexes formed entire cities but this was a small example taking only 10 minutes for everyone to get through. I opted out and instead waited near the entrance/ exit where a dozen or so middle aged women had set up a market. Trouble was they were all selling the same little local cloth dolls so competition to get any one walking by was frenetic. Females in particular were the target for the spruiking with a good natured but frantic cacophony of calls of “Mother, Mother”. The closer anyone ventured to the stall the louder the screeching got. I hope everyone managed to sell something but with another 5 weeks on the road, it wasn’t something I could buy.

Everyone back on the bus and off to Dervish show scheduled to start at 6pm. Clearly we were up against it as the previously cautious bus drive planted his foot. Arrived shortly after 6pm with another bus arriving after us. Having been so enchanted with the beautiful ceremony we saw at Hodjapasha in Istanbul Chris and I we were looking forward to a similar experience. Dougal and Gene had never seen them and had their expectations built up by us.

Oh dear!!! The pipe/flute player struggled to find a note, the dervishes all looked like novices (part time uni job perhaps), they wore slippers that made a noise that was distracting, one was losing his pants, also very distracting. There was a non dancing head honcho roaming around amongst them dressed in black once again distracting, they didn’t vary their speed and were for the best part out of sync. Yes they could spin but it lacked all the beauty, rhythm and charm of our previous experience. We left feeling glad to have seen a more authentic experience and Doug and Gene left feeling they were yet to see one.

Short drive to our delightfully self rated ‘Special Class’ hotel in Göreme, rooms allocated and orders that we had 15 minutes to get to dinner. Dinner a simple affair with lentil soup, the not-so-traditional-Turkish chicken schnitzel and melon. Danish couple of course knocked off another bottle of wine.

Gene, Chris and I headed for a stroll to town wandering through the streets. Highlight was at a hotel where I poked my head in and elderly Mehmet the owner insisted we come and look at his accommodation. Beautiful rooms that were huge with the bathrooms built into the rock giving a sense of a modern and upmarket Flinstone bathroom. With Mehmet’s limited English we spent a special half hour in the hotel’s courtyard trying and making a reasonable hash of having a meaningful conversation.

A long day and time for to return to our ‘Special Class’ Hotel Karl for bed, especially for Gene with a 4.30 am start for her hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia.

[hellochriiiishstuff]

Jane Leeves

Jane Elizabeth Leeves, broadly known as just jane Leeves, is an English entertainer renowned for her TV sitcom Frasier jobs. 

Jane Leeves was brought into the world on April 18, 1961, in East Grinstead, Essex, England, to Colin Leeves and Ruth Leeves. Her dad, Colin Leeves, was a designer. Her mom, Ruth Leeves, was an enlisted nurture. Jane has three kin, among which two are young ladies, and one is a kid. Despite the fact that she was brought into the world in East Grinstead, Jane later moved to Iford, Sussex, and later to Crawley, West Sussex. 

Jane Leeves was keen on acting and moving since early on and took Ballet exercises from the Bush Davies School of Dance. Jane likewise functioned as a model before she appeared in her movies. 

Jane's first execution was in a 1981 TV film 'Ideal to See You.' In 1983, Leeves got a job as one of the 'Slope's Angel' in the parody TV show 'The Benny Hill Show,' likewise the film 'Monty Python's The Meaning of Life.' She showed up in motion pictures like 'The Hunger' and 'To Live and Die in L.A..' From 1986 to 1988, Jane depicted the job of 'Reasonability Anne "Blue" Bartlett' in the sitcom 'Pulsate' showing up in 48 scenes. 

Leeves got assigned in the honors like 'Brilliant Globe Awards,' 'Screen Actors Guild Awards,' 'Early evening Emmy Awards,' 'Satellite Awards' and 'Watchers for Quality Television' Awards more than one time for her solid and extraordinary job in the arrangement. She won the 1995 'Watchers for Quality Television' grant for 'Best Supporting Actress in a Quality Comedy Series' and the 2000 'Screen Actors Guild Awards' for 'Remarkable Performance by an Ensemble Comedy Series' for the generally known arrangement 'Frasier.' She assumed her part till the arrangement finale scene in 2004, showing up altogether 257 scenes. 

In 2006, Jane Leeves showed up in 7 scenes of the arrangement 'Misinterpretations.' Jane has played in the movies 'Supernatural occurrence on 34th Street', 'Pandora's Clock,' 'Don't Go Breaking My Heart,' 'Music of the Heart,' and 'The Event' till 2003. In 2008, she showed up in the TV arrangement 'The Starter Wife,' and in 2010, Jane highlighted in 2 scenes of 'Edgy Housewives.' In 2009, She depicted the character 'Liv' in the satire film 'Unending Bummer.' 

From 2010 to 2015, Leeves played in 128 scenes of the TV arrangement 'Hot in Cleveland,' depicting 'Delight Scroggs.' Jane Leeves got named in 2011 'Screen Actors Guild Awards' for her remarkable execution. She has voiced the characters in enlivened arrangement and movies like 'Phineas And Ferb', 'We Bare Bears,' 'The Simpsons' and numerous others. In 2018, Jane Leeves got given a role as an arrangement standard in a clinical dramatization TV arrangement 'The Resident.' She is depicting the part of 'Dr. Kitt Voss'. 

Jane Leeves is by and by wedded to Marshall Coben. Coben is a CBS Paramount Television leader; the couple immediately began enjoying one another and began dating after they initially met. Jane and Marshall have been hitched for around 23 years now. They got hitched on 21 December 1996. The pair has two kids together. 

She additionally has a reasonable appearance with dull earthy colored hair and dim earthy colored eyes. Jane is known to be a sure lady who is thoughtful despite the fact that she is renowned. Leeves' #1 food is known to be Cheese, Vodka, Basic Roast Chicken, and her #1 objective is London. 

Jane Leeves is an extremely effective entertainer, a model who has been working in the business for quite a while. Her total assets is assessed to be $50 million-$52 million.

[zuerchercheese]

Brabander Goat Gouda, selected by Essex

We are running a spring feature on one of our favorite cheeses – Brabander Goat Gouda.  We have been sending out samples but if you haven’t received one yet, let us know and we will get one on your next order.

Brabander is named after the area from which it hails in North Brabant, Netherlands. This Gouda-style cheese is made with pasteurized milk of Saanen goats, and is pressed into millstone-shaped rounds of approximately 25 pounds. From there, affineur Betty Koster of Fromagerie L’Amuse selects wheels to ripen in her caves at her Santpoort-Noord facility in North Holland. Koster’s caves maintain an ambient temperature of approximately 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is slightly higher than the norm, but yields a cheese with more robust flavor. After 6-9 months, Brabander wheels are released and selected for import into the United States by Essex St. Cheese Co.

One of the things we especially love about Brabander is its balance of sweet with savory. You will notice a buttery, salted caramel flavor with an underpinning of lactic tang. It has a snowy white paste and semi-firm texture. Once warmed on the palate, Brabander becomes supple and silky.