#Mexican Calendar Art

[sonadorayluchadora]

Ugh I love these

[ometochtli2rabbit]

sketch diary/ 13.0.12.6.5 ox[3] CHICCHAN\KA'AN[serpent]- waxak[8] K'AYAB/ yei[3] - COATL [snake]

Chalchihuitlicue:Chalchihuitlicue:Mictalntecuhtli(w/Mictlancihuatl): Itzpapalotl

[the-first-man-is-a-cat]

Details of “Codex Laud”, an undated Mexican calendorial manuscript depicting rituals used in divination.

© Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford

[inkrrred]

Made a small calendar just for fun but i loved how the little chubby tigers ended up :>

[mirrorbuns]

Septiembre, el mes que hace que retiemble nuestro corazón y también uno muy patrio, por eso mostraremos nuestros vestidos bonitos una vez más con el nuevo calendario fuuu! te gustan nuestros colores?

September, the month that make our hearts shake with love for our country, that's why we're using our wonderfull dresses once more to display our new calendar fuuu! do you like our colours?

[thesnakeoutsider]

I call this ✨improvement. ✨

The Johnny piece was the first fan art I did for @scientificallywrongsoap A YEAR AGO! The other two are the last ones. From yesterday.

The Jack/ Glitch one is my prof that now I can play more freely with textures and non realistic styles.

But, the 7-1 ft WZ in the Aurrerá? Thats my career peak. A master piece. It has my soul. Is at the same level that my Mexican Goku calendar. Chef kiss. I’m gonna print that one in a tabloid and hang it on my wall. 😂

And you may ask yourself. Why are they in the Aurrerá if the soaps are British and Glitch American? Well… Soap speaks Spanish and 7-1 worked with Valeria and The Cartel, so is undeniable that he knows the Aurrerá. Y a mi se me dio la gana. And it was fun to make in live with other Mexican lil beans that get the joke.

Next one? König en el Mercado? Ghost learning about enfrijoladas ? Swagger eating tierrita de San Juan? I don’t know we will get there eventually. 🤣

EDIT: if you like what you see… stalk with confidence. I have more fan art ✨ (and I will upload others that are just posted on TT and a few that are still in my drafts 🤭)

[naeverse]

Dear My Beloved (1/2)

~Ｖｉｃｅ ＃３~

𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟑: 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐥

(𝐎𝐜𝐭. 𝟏𝟑-𝟏𝟗)

----

𝘋𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘳:

𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘧𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯.

-

"𝘋𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯."

Ｍｕｓｉｃ：

"𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘉𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘰 𝘔𝘦" - 𝘏𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘯 𝘍��𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳

"𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘰𝘨𝘶𝘮 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘨𝘶𝘮 𝘚𝘰𝘯𝘨" - 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘰𝘯 𝘞𝘰𝘰𝘥

🤎staring: Miguel O’Hara x Fem!Reader

      👗preview: But then, everything seemed to stop.

The music faded into the background as, almost in a trance, you stared at the kitchen tool in your hand, the hum slowing on your lips.

Twirling it between your fingers, your eyes traced the jagged edge. Transfixed, your hands ached with an foreign yet strangely familiar desire—one buried deep in the recesses of your mind.

The record player  suddenly grabbed your attention when the previous song's lyrics of adoration from Helen Foster shifted.

The tune slowed, the pitch of the female singer’s voice deepening to an haunting croak.

 “Nothing is what it seems… Oh dear, nothing is what it seems...”

💄summary: It’s your husband Miguel’s birthday, a day that should be filled with love and celebration. Yet, something feels…off. 

🎂tw/cw: 1950s Era, Abuse, Angst, Blood, Body Horror, Death, Despair, Disturbing Imagery, Emotional Manipulation, Gore, Grief, Hallucinations, Mental Breakdown, Mental Illness, No Smut, Paranoia, Psychological Horror, Trauma, Violence, 

💙Pet names: Amor (Love), Bebé (Baby), Cariño (Darling), Esposa (Wife), Mi amor (My love)

     ♥️Rating: 18+ explicit I ANGST I

 🎵 Word Count: Total - 14.5k, Part 1 - 6k words

Art found on Pinterest, all credit go to original artists/designers/photographers 

All credit also goes to musicians as I do not own the two songs heavily used in this oneshot. 😊

Dividers and mood board was created by me.

~ I say, Oogum, oogum, boogum, boogum ~Boogum now, baby, you're castin' your spell on me. ~

The jolly tune of Brenton Wood resonated from the record player, your hips swaying to the song while you cooked. Sunlight poured in through the drawn gingham drapes, filling your home with a warm glow that energized everyone inside.

But, in particular, you.

Your eyes occasionally glanced over at the cookbook you had "borrowed" from you and your husband's shared closet — a cookbook from his late mother.

Currently, you had tasked yourself with making a childhood Mexican-Irish breakfast for your husband to celebrate his birthday — a blend of chorizo and potatoes, black pudding, fried eggs, and homemade tortillas. However, you wanted to make it exactly how his parents made it for him all those years ago, but you were finding it difficult with how vague the measurements were.

“‘Enough oil to make things crispy, but don't be stingy, but don't swim in it either?’ Then how much oil do I use?” you whispered in slight bewilderment before continuing on, nevertheless, thankful for the English translations alongside the Spanish handwritten recipes inside the cookbook.

The smell of black coffee, just the way Miguel liked it, along with the sound of the knife slicing vegetables atop the cutting board, wafted through the air.

You hummed, singing along softly. “You got me doing funny things like a clown, just look at me~” Hips swaying, you danced over to the calendar on the kitchen wall, your heels clicking upon the checkerboard tiles in rhythm with the upbeat melody.

Your eyes ran along the autumn month, rosy red lips pulling into a grin at the sight. “October 13th, 1950. My beloved husband's birthday.” You beamed, poking the colorful orange pin into the appropriate date. Pressing a kiss to your two manicured fingers, you placed it upon the date, completely in love with your husband.

Spinning back towards the stove, the blue dress and white apron you wore flaring with your movement. Your hands moved about, dashing seasoning here, a slice of butter there, and a mix with the whisk here. The Oogum Boogum Song played steadily in the background all the while.

You heard, amidst the song and noises of the kitchen, the small pitter-pattering of feet on the mint and creamed checkered floors. It wasn't long before the owner of such adorable footsteps hugged your leg, tugging at your apron to get your attention.

“Good morning, mommy,” your daughter, Gabriella, whispered from your side.

Your daughter, Gabriella, now six, was your bundle of joy. You loved your little girl so much, willing to go through any lengths to ensure she knew how much you did.

You grinned, wiping your hands on your apron before crouching down to her level. “Good morning, my sweet girl,” you greeted, unable to help but giggle at her messy brown hair, showing she had instantly run downstairs as soon as her eyes opened from her slumber.

You ran a hand along her head, smoothing the wild strands with your palm. Adoring how your daughter beamed up at you in her pink floral nightgown that reached down to her ankles and how she tightly clutched her stuffed rabbit, Flopsy, in her arms — an old gift from Miguel and you upon learning of your pregnancy.

“You seem happy this morning. Did you sleep well?” you asked, caressing the top of her head. However, you watched her bright smile falter at your question, causing your eyebrows to furrow. 

You already knew the reason for her change in mood.

“Another bad dream, huh?” you sighed, stroking her cheek with a finger, almost as if she were fragile glass that could break any moment.

“Yes… another bad dream. It's always the same, Mommy. I just wish they would go away,” she said, her eyes starting to glisten with approaching tears.

Your heart clenched as you reached out to embrace your daughter, hugging her close to your chest. “I know, baby, I know. I'm so sorry you are going through this.” you soothed. “No one should experience this, especially not a young girl like you.” 

The first tremble and shaky sob that escaped your little girl's mouth was like a knife to the heart. “We don't have to talk about it if you do not want to.”

“B-but I want to, Mamá,” she quickly interjected, surprising you. “P-Papá told me t-talking about it could… make them go away.” Your daughter sniffled, remembering your husband’s words the last time she had a nightmare.

You gave her a squeeze, hating how such dreams were tormenting your little girl. “Okay…” you agreed, pulling away slightly to meet her eyes, bracing yourself to hear about the terrors she experienced in her sleep.

“Was it about… Mommy again?” you asked warily. The question was simple enough, but the way your heart skipped a beat made it feel much deeper.

The sad nod Gabriella gave you made you frown. “Really? Was it… bad Mommy again?”

“N-no.” She replied in a brittle voice, her tanned cheeks growing a rosy red. “Y-you weren’t scary t-this time, Mommy. You were… sleeping.”

“Sleeping?” you asked, not expecting her reply. She confirmed with a nod. “You were dressed in a… w-white dress, and you were l-laying on a white bed,” Gabriella explained, twirling the fabric of her pink gown around her finger. “There was a sound that wouldn't stop. A...b-beeping sound, I think." Your daughter said between trembling lips.

"People were t-talking, but I couldn't understand them, and...you laid in the center of them…

Sleeping.”

Your eyebrows rose, a horrid thought instantly coming to mind as you imagined what your daughter could have dreamt. You shook the thought away, unwilling to linger on it.

You smiled at Gabriella, cupping her cheeks. “I know dreams can be scary and confusing, but they’re just dreams,” you told her. “I’m okay, completely fine, my sweet. See?” You held your hands and arms out to her with a grin, showing her you were, indeed, okay.

You felt at peace when she returned a small smile of her own. “I know, Mamá…” she trailed off, taking your hands in her smaller ones. She fiddled with your fingers for a moment, lost in thought. 

“Mamá… you'd never harm me or Papá… right?” Gabi asked, her question striking your core.

“What!? No, of course not, honey,” you assured her, squeezing her hands. “I’ll never harm you or Papá.”

“I know…” Gabriella replied with a small smile.

“Good. I love you, Gabi,” you said, kissing the top of her head. She returned your affection with a peck on your cheek, making your heart soar.

You gave her head a gentle pat. “But on a happier note,” you began, springing back to your full height to tend to the sizzling beans and eggs, feeling the joy of the morning return once more. “Do you know what today is?”

“Papá’s birthday!!”

“Shhh, not so loud,” you said, hastily clasping a hand over her mouth, making you both giggle. You didn’t want your sleeping husband to know you had plans for him.

“Sorry… it’s Papá’s birthday,” she whispered this time, watching from her short height as you returned to cooking, adding the appropriate herbs and vegetables to the dishes.

“Good job, it is,” you grinned, turning to her once more. “And did you finish your present for him?”

Frantically, Gabriella nodded. “Uh-huh, I did, and it was really hard work, so I hope Papá will like it.”

“He will, I assure you,” you promised, chuckling as you took note of her disarrayed hair once more. “We’re staying home all day to celebrate Papá’s birthday, so why don’t you return upstairs to get dressed?” you told her. “I’ll call you down when breakfast is finished.”

With a nod and another quick kiss to your cheek, Gabriella skipped off, her footsteps disappearing up the stairs.

You returned to the task at hand, but Gabriella’s dream lingered in your mind.

‘Is there a reason she’s having these dreams? Is it something she’s eating? Watching?’ you pondered, your parental fears taking root. 

Setting the spatula aside, you moved toward the record player, wishing to change the song—when it hit you. 

Sharp.

Sudden. 

Like a spike driven into your skull.

The pain burst through your head, making you stagger. You gasped, bracing yourself against the counter. 

Your vision blurred and clouded with white spots as a low ringing filled your ears.

It felt like the room was tilting, the ground shifting beneath your feet. You whimpered in agony, squeezing your eyes shut as you tried to steady yourself, but the pain lingered, pulsing relentlessly.

“G-gosh, what is happening?” you whined, gripping your temple in a futile attempt to quell the ache.

Without realizing it, the throbbing pain vanished as quickly as it had come—disappearing without a trace, leaving you shaken and breathless.

Slowly, you straightened, disoriented and confused, glancing around your kitchen.

Everything seemed normal again—the stove, the breakfast, the cheery sunlight—but you couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. The air felt heavier, as though an unseen force was pressing down on you.

“I-I’m just tired,” you muttered, trying to shake off the strange sensation. You continued toward the record player in the corner of the kitchen, which sat atop a circular table. “Tired, indeed,” you affirmed, convincing yourself that the odd occurrence was nothing more than exhaustion from trying to perfect your husband’s birthday.

Still, you reminded yourself that the tiredness was worth it.

It was for your husband, the man you cared so deeply about, after all…

“Nothing like music to help ease my troubles,” you whispered, running a finger along the records until you stopped at a familiar one. “Yes… this one.” You smiled fondly, the events of just moments ago fading from your mind at the sight of the worn sleeve.

You carefully pulled the vinyl from its case—one of yours and Miguel’s favorites. Slipping it free of the sleeve, you replaced the previous record, The Oogum Boogum Song, with the new selection, placing it delicately on the turntable.

The needle dropped, and the warm, familiar voice of Helen Foster filled the kitchen.

The song, You Belong to Me, always made your heart flutter. It was the soundtrack to so many of your happiest moments.

It played at your wedding as you walked down the aisle, the same song you and Miguel slow-danced to the night you discovered you were pregnant with your little girl. 

It was also the song Miguel often sang while strumming his guitar, each deep note passing his lips a promise of his undying love.

The melody had wrapped around the two of you like a promise. Every time the soft, wistful notes filled the room, it felt like your love was stitched into the very air.

It was your song, the one you always came back to, every single time.

Hearing it now made everything feel right.

Perfect.

You breathed easier, allowing the song to calm you and completely erase what had happened before.

Everything was normal once more.

Everything was fine…

Returning to the pan of food, you found everything perfectly cooked. “Wonderful,” you murmured, feeling pleased. Turning off the stove and covering the finished dishes, you moved to begin setting the table.

You placed floral plates over perfectly selected napkins, then added a glass of cold juice for Gabriella, along with two mugs of coffee—one black for Miguel, and the other with sugar and cream for yourself. Lastly, you set the utensils in their proper places.

Each pastel-colored fork, spoon, and knife was meticulously arranged beside the empty dishes, perfectly aligned. Any deviation, no matter how slight, would surely unsettle you.

While setting the table, you hummed along with Helen Foster, holding a knife poised to place it on the pale yellow Formica dining table. 

But then, everything seemed to stop.

The music faded into the background as, almost in a trance, you stared at the kitchen tool in your hand, the hum slowing on your lips.

Twirling it between your manicured fingers, your eyes traced the jagged edge. Transfixed, your hands ached with a foreign yet strangely familiar desire—one buried deep in the recesses of your mind.

The record player suddenly grabbed your attention when the previous song's lyrics of adoration from Helen Foster shifted.

The tune slowed, the pitch of the female singer’s voice deepening to an haunting croak.

 “Nothing is what it seems…

Oh dear, nothing is what it seems...”

You froze in horror, the knife slipping from your grasp and clattering onto the floor. The sound snapping you from your trance, but a foggy haze lingered.

Your heart pounded like the rapid thump of a rabbit’s foot, your wide eyes fixated on the record player. Its eerie chant looped, searing into your mind.

 “Nothing is what it seems...

Oh dear, nothing is what it seems...”

Over and over the words were repeated, searing the horrid message into your brain. 

Chest heaving, you backed away to collide into the table, causing dishes and glasses to rattle. “W-what—” you could only stammer in terror.

Before you could spiral further in your petrified state, calloused hands reached out to you, cupping your face. With gentle caution, you were guided to meet a pair of familiar amber eyes.

“Cariño?”

“Is everything okay?”

The deep, concerned voice brought you back to reality. Its steady tone grew louder, grounding you amidst the chaos of your thoughts. 

“Qué te pasa? Talk to me, miel.”

You met the gaze of your beloved husband, Miguel who stood in front of you, his features tight with worry. Slowly, the fog in your mind lifted, and the room regained focus.

“Esposa?” Miguel prompted, his voice low and steady as his thumb and forefinger tilted your chin, urging you to look at him.

“M-Miguel, I—” you faltered, your gaze darting toward the record player. Helen Foster’s soothing voice now played once more, making you question if you were going crazy. 

But the chant—its ominous message—still echoed in your mind.

Miguel frowned, his concern deepening. “Mi amor, you’re shaking.” Your husband said, grabbing your attention. “Take a seat.” His tone left no room for argument, as he was already guiding you with a hand upon your lower back to one of the dining chairs. 

You complied, feeling the soft cushion shift underneath you. Miguel’s large hand enveloped yours, his thumb brushing soothing circles across your knuckles. 

For a moment, he studied you in silence, however, you hardly noticed as you could only focus on your lap, where your hands trembled slightly.

“What happened, miel?” he asked, breaking the silence. His voice was steady but laced with unease.

You gulped, simply recollecting the moment, causing your head to ache painfully. Your mouth opened and closed, unable to find anything to explain. “I-I don’t know,” you admitted, swallowing hard. “I... thought I heard something.”

“Heard something?” Miguel inquired, straightening to his full height. He began to pace the kitchen, his black slippers shuffling across the checkered tiles. 

“It may have been Gabi,” he suggested, his attempt at humor evident despite the worry in his tone. “You know how our princesa tends to get carried away with her dolls.” He chuckled, knowing your daughter sometimes became noisy when she was excited during playtime. However, you could hear his nervousness. 

Hastily, you shook your head, dismissing his assumption. “It wasn’t Gabi!” you exclaimed, louder than intended. Looking up to meet your spouse’s gaze, certain your fear was etched into every line of your face.

For the first time, you noticed Miguel’s attire—a burgundy robe that concealed his undershirt and casual trousers underneath. His outfit did little to conceal his musculature that pressed against the soft fabric of his sleepwear. 

Miguel stopped pacing and crouched in front of you, his robe parting slightly to reveal his broad chest. “Hey, hey, hey,” he murmured, pulling you into his arms. “It’s okay. You’re okay.” He whispered soothingly, the timbre of his voice the only thing keeping you grounded. 

You buried your face into his neck, letting his comforting words and the gentle strokes of his hand on your back to calm you.

“It’s just stress, sí?” he murmured. “You just needed a moment to rest.” He pressed a kiss to your temple, his warmth grounding you.

And like always, you wanted to believe your husband with all your heart—to accept his reassurance. But the chant lingered, clawing at your thoughts like a dark shadow.

 “Nothing is as it seems...

Oh dear, nothing is as it seems...”

You managed to push through the festivities, finishing the breakfast your husband scarfed down with a grin and playing family party games that ended with your little girl winning (with some assistance). Now, it was time for your husband to blow out his candles.

“Here it is!” you shouted, bringing from the fridge the handmade cake that Gabriella and you had created the day before.

You set it on the pale yellow dining table: a vanilla cake adorned with white frosting, doused in sprinkles (Gabi's touch), and decorated with piped, wavy red and blue trimmings. A singular lit candle sat in the center of the cake, its flame flickering gently.

Gabi bounced up and down excitedly. Her orange blouse, knee-high skirt, and matching ribbon hair ties made her look even more adorable. “See, Papá?! I told you I helped!” she exclaimed, bringing a smile to Miguel's lips.

“I see, princesa,” he grinned. “No one quite has your... expertise in sprinkle quantity,” he chuckled, his chest rumbling at the sight of the overwhelming amount of colorful candies atop the white cake.

Your husband's previous sleepwear had been replaced with a simple white button-up, black slacks, and slippers. His dark brown hair was styled as usual—slicked back with precision, each strand flowing neatly to the back of his head.

When he settled his gaze on you, his eyes softened. “Esposa,” he practically whispered your name longingly, holding out an arm to wrap around your waist. Pulling you to his side, he pressed a gentle kiss to your head. “You did all of this for me?” he asked, stroking a thumb along your cheek.

You nodded, cupping his face. “Of course, baby,” you replied with a gentle smile. “You always take such good care of Gabi and me, so I wanted to do this for you—no matter how many times you tell me not to.” You giggled as your husband simply stared at you for a moment, his eyes glowing with adoration.

Leaning in close, he nuzzled your nose with his own, breathing you in. “Cómo demonios tuve tanta suerte?” he muttered, his lips seeking yours for a quick peck—only to be interrupted by none other than your daughter.

“When are we going to cut the cake!?” she cried out, her attention fixed on the sweet treat as she licked her lips eagerly.

Miguel snickered, giving your waist a squeeze. “Later. Much later,” he said, the fire in his gaze promising you a much needed night in his arms. The sight made your cheeks flush and your heart to skip a beat.

“Okay, okay, go turn the lights out, Gabi,” you instructed with a laugh, watching her hastily race off to flick the light switch, encasing the dining room in darkness except for the warm glow of the cake.

The three of you surrounded the table—you stood behind your daughter, your hands gently stroking her shoulders, while Miguel took his place in front of his birthday dessert, his eyes fixed on the glowing candle.

“I feel like I should make a grand speech,” your husband joked, glancing up at the two of you before settling his gaze on Gabi. 

“Thank you, my sweet girl, for filling my days with your light and granting me the honor of being your father,” he said, his deep voice full of love. “There isn’t a day that you don’t amaze me with your intelligence, imagination, talent, and humor.” He expressed. “You make me proud to call you my daughter, my Gabriella.”

Gabi’s eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and pride at her father’s words. She looked up at him, grinning widely, and then, in a small yet confident voice, she replied, “And I’m proud to call you my Papá. You’re like… the best dad ever!”

Miguel chuckled, his gaze tender as he looked at her. “Oh? The best ever, huh?” he teased gently, warmth lacing his tone.

“Sí!” she insisted, nodding eagerly. “You work so hard, but you always make time for me. And you teach me so much—like how to stand up for myself, help others, and to not let my emotions control me.”

Miguel’s expression softened as he reached out to gently ruffled her hair, his voice sweet. “You’re going to do amazing things, Gabi. I’m just lucky to be here to watch it all happen.”

Her smile widened, and she beamed up at him, her eyes filled with admiration. “I’m the lucky one, Papá. You’re my hero.”

Your husband, visibly touched by her words, shifted his gaze to you, his eyes brimming with the kind of love and gratitude that left you breathless. 

In that moment, as if he were seeing into your very soul, you felt a surge of overwhelming adoration that no words could capture.

“Y/N, my beloved,” Miguel began, his voice trembling, almost on the verge of tears. “You’ve stood by me through my worst, mi amor. You’ve endured my workaholic ways, my stubborn temper, and all my flaws… yet you stayed by my side.” He snickered softly, the sound filled with both gratitude and disbelief. “Because of you, I’ve become a better man.”

He cleared his throat, placing his palms on the wooden table as if trying to ground himself. “Thank you, mi amor, for your unwavering presence, for loving me unconditionally, and for bringing our little miracle into my life.” He glanced lovingly at Gabi, a soft smile playing on his lips. “I truly don’t think I would be here today without you.”

Your heart swelled as you listened, each word deepening the adoration you already held for him. 

He took a shaky breath, his eyes glistening in the warm candlelight, vulnerability etched across his face—a rare sight that made this moment feel even more precious.

“You’ve given me more than I ever thought I deserved,” he continued, his voice soft and sincere. “And I am endlessly grateful for every day, every laugh, every memory we’ve made together. You both are my everything.”

Gabi leaned back against you, her small hand finding yours as she whispered, “Te amo, Papá.” The simple words broke the last of his composure, and a tear slipped down his cheek. "Te amo, mi princesa." He replied wholeheartedly, giving his daughter's cheek a loving pinch that made her giggle.

Miguel reached out, taking your hand in his, and gave it a gentle squeeze. “I promise to keep working, to keep growing, so I can be the husband and father you both deserve.” He brought your hand to his lips, pressing a deep kiss to your knuckles, sealing his promise.

Your husband released you and closed his eyes, whispering his wish before blowing out the candle. Darkness momentarily engulfed the dining room before you applauded, your own emotions welling up as Gabi hurried to turn the lights back on.

The cake was forgotten as Miguel took two long strides toward you, wrapping an arm around your waist to pull you into a deep embrace—one he surely needed. 

“Te amo, Y/N,” he whispered, his voice full of emotion as he gave you a tender squeeze.

You melted into the hard planes of his chest, your arms encircling his neck. “I love you too, Miguel,” you replied softly, feeling the warmth of his love radiating through the embrace. 

A small hand pressed gently against your back, making you smile. Both of you glanced down to find Gabi standing between you, her little arms wrapped around you both. “I love you too, Mamá and Papá,” Her laughter like a melody that filled the room with joy.

You welcomed her into the embrace, holding both of them tightly. 

In that moment, as you stood together, you marveled at the depth of love you felt—a love you had never believed yourself capable of, let alone for two people who meant the world to you...

The three of you were now settled in the living room. The familiar scent of the cake still lingered in the air as you and Miguel sat together on the couch, the cushions soft beneath you, the fabric slightly worn from use.

The soft glow of the lamp next to the couch highlighted the pastel green walls. Evening light from the window casted dim shadows across the vintage floral wallpaper, while the small box TV that flickered white and black images rested on a shelf in front of you. The clock on the wall ticked quietly, its hands slowly marking the time.

Gabriella sat cross-legged on the floor; her plate of cake balanced on her lap as she eagerly dug in. You rested your head on Miguel’s shoulder, letting out a small sigh as he fed you a bite of his own cake. His eyes met yours with a grin, and you returned it, savoring the sweetness.

“May I get another?” Gabriella’s voice interrupted your quiet moment, light and innocent as she looked up at the both of you, her lips already smeared with frosting. You blinked in surprise, your eyes flicking to her plate. It was already clean. Miguel nor you have even finished yours.

“Gabriella!?” you exclaimed, the shock clear in your voice.

Miguel’s laughter erupted beside you, warm and full of affection. “Sorry… it was really good,” Gabriella said with a pout, her lips dusted with frosting like a mischievous little angel.

“It’s fine, bebé,” Miguel chuckled, his finger brushing one jumbo curl behind your ear in a way that always made your heart skip. He stood, towering over both you and Gabriella in an instant.

“This will be her last slice,” he promised, amusement in his voice. “Come on, you little cake monster. Let’s get you another slice,” he teased, walking toward the kitchen, Gabriella rushing behind him, eager to get there first.

You watched them both, a smile tugging at your lips. The love between the three of you felt so natural, so full, like this moment could stretch on forever. It was simple, perfect even.

You leaned back into the couch, feeling the soft cushions beneath you, and took another bite of your cake. It was the perfect slice, just sweet enough, and the warmth from Miguel’s touch still lingered on your skin.

But then something shifted...

You couldn’t quite place it, but there was a slight prickle at the back of your neck, an unsettling feeling that crawled across your skin like a soft whisper you couldn’t hear.

You paused, feeling the hairs on your arms rise.

Something… felt off.

The strange sensation was eerily similar to what had overcome you in the kitchen. 

You were certain of it.

You couldn’t put it into words. It wasn’t a sound or a sight—just a feeling. 

A quiet shift in the air...

Instinctively, your hand reached up to the back of your neck, fingertips brushing over your nape in an attempt to shake off the unease. That’s when it happened.

Your fingers grazed a lump, one you’d never noticed before. At the contact, a sharp pain exploded in your head, and your eyes rolled back into your skull.

Images, voices, and a crushing wave of dread surged through your mind all at once.

“Y/N, we have to be better for Gabi. You have to be better,” Miguel’s voice rang out, sharp and filled with disappointment.

“I am trying, Miguel! I don’t know what you want from me!” you shrieked. 

The voice—your voice—sounded deranged and very unfamiliar despite being your own. 

“Public breakdowns? Outbursts? I don’t believe that’s you trying to be better!” Miguel’s tone cut deep, piercing and accusatory.

“Just get out! Get out!” you screamed, hurling a glass vase. It struck the wall and shattered into a cascade of glittering shards.

A sharp gasp tore from your lips as you snapped back to reality. Your chest heaved, each breath shaky as your trembling body fought to regain control.

‘What was that?’ you thought, panic swirling in your mind. ‘What did I just see?’

You clutched your plate of half-eaten cake, fingers trembling as the memory replayed in your mind. 

‘Miguel and I were…arguing?’ The very thought made your chest tighten painfully. 

But the details... The setting, the clothes you and Miguel wore—it didn’t match. It wasn’t here. Not in this perfect, gleaming life you’d built together.

No, this memory felt wrong.

Your throat tightened, and you forced out a quivering breath, trying to steady your trembling hand. “I’m just... tired,” you muttered, your voice weak, as if saying it aloud would make it true.

‘Just tired. That’s all it is,’ you told yourself.

You shut your eyes, hoping the storm raging inside you would settle, that when you opened them again, everything would be normal.

When you finally opened them, your gaze fell to the plate of cake in your hands, and your heart instantly froze. 

In pure terror, you watched the once neat red and blue frosting of the cake start to become uneven—distorted, as though someone was standing beside you, dragging their finger along it to write something in the icing. 

You stared, petrified as the words formed one by one, the weight of dread building with every stroke until the final letter was etched… 

OPEN YOUR EYES.

You froze, shaking, unable to tear your eyes away. No... this couldn’t be real. It had to be some trick of the light, a cruel fabrication of your mind.

But the message didn’t vanish.

And you couldn’t ignore how it had appeared—slowly, deliberately—as though someone had been watching you while they wrote it.

“M-Miguel!” you screamed, panic rising in your throat, your voice sharp and pleading.

The room seemed to tilt. Your vision blurred, and everything shifted in an instant.

An overwhelming pressure built in your chest, as if the weight of the world had collapsed onto you. The last thing you saw before your eyes snapped shut was the half-eaten cake with the horrid message—and then, darkness.

Suddenly, the sounds of the living room sharpened, each one more vivid than the last. The soft ticking of the clock on the wall. The faint rustling of fabric. And Miguel’s warm voice, gently calling your name.

“Mi amor? Is something wrong?"

You blinked, disoriented, struggling to find your bearings. The living room was just as it had been—the soft, plush couch beneath you, the warm glow of the lamp, chatter from the television, familiar scent of cake lingering in the air and your family close by.

You blinked again, and realization struck.

Your breath hitched.

Miguel and Gabriella were still in their same positions. They hadn’t gone anywhere. You hadn’t seen them leave to get more cake. 

Glancing over at your daughter, still seated on the floor cross-legged as before, you saw her happily eating her first slice of cake—not her second.

Your gaze darted to your own plate, the one you distinctly remembered nibbling on, the one that had held that ominous message. But instead of the eerie writing, the cake sat uneaten, perfectly pristine.

A cold chill ran down your spine, your breathing beginning to quicken.

Things weren’t making sense. And it was starting to scare you.

Miguel’s hand cupped your face, warm and grounding, his concerned eyes searching yours. “Mi amor?” His voice was softer now, tinged with tenderness. “You dozed off. Are you okay?”

You stared up at him, wide-eyed and breathless, your mind racing to make sense of what had just happened.

What had just happened?

To you, it felt like you've done more then simply 'dozed off.' You recalled your love ones going to the kitchen, the shift in the air, heated occurrence between Miguel and you and then the...horrid message upon the cake.

You could speak the memory out loud, explain each detail like it was happening once more. So, why did it seem like it didn't happened - that it couldn't have happened.

Gabriella’s innocent gaze rested on you, her brows furrowed in worry. “Are you okay, mamá?” she asked, her small voice full of concern. The frosting smeared on her cheeks from her first slice of cake made her look even more endearing.

Her question snapped you out of your troubled thoughts, however, you couldn’t answer right away. Your throat felt dry, and your thoughts were swirling in a chaotic storm. The distorted memory that had overtaken you only moments ago lingered like a shadow, unshakable.

“I... I thought Gabriella asked for more cake,” you stammered, your voice unsteady. It made no sense. You could’ve sworn you’d seen them leave, yet part of you was convinced they hadn’t.

Miguel raised an eyebrow, a mix of concern and confusion crossing his face. “Are you okay, bebè?” he asked, chuckling nervously, as though trying to lighten the mood. “You told Gabi she can only have one slice, and was quite adamant before you went to sleep." Your husband explained. "So no, neither Gabriella and I have gone anywhere. We’ve been right here with you the whole time.”

He paused, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied you more closely. "You were mumbling a lot as you slept, it made me worried. Did you have a bad dream?”

You blinked again, willing yourself to calm down. The confusion still clung to you like a heavy fog, but Miguel’s steady voice and familiar presence helped ease the edges of your panic.

The room felt normal again.

Everything looked... normal.

But you weren’t so sure.

Forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach your eyes, you murmured, “Perhaps...”

Your gaze dropped to the plate of cake in your hands. It was untouched, as if you’d never taken a bite.

Out of fear and a sudden loss of appetite, you hastily set the plate on the nearby pastel-green end table, wanting it out of your sight.

Like before, everything went back into motion. Your daughter seeking to savor every crumb and frosting of cake on her plate as Miguel returned to watching television, the words from the box of wires falling deaf to you.

Wrapping your arms around your husband’s burly one, you rested your chin on his shoulder. Nuzzling his sleeve, you clung to him like a lifeline. Your heart was still hammering against your ribcage from the previous occurrence, still unable to decipher if what happened was true or not. 

‘What is happening? Am I going insane?’ You found yourself wondering, squeezing Miguel’s bicep tighter. Your perfectly sprayed jumbo curls brushed against your cheeks but you could hardly feel it, still completely rattled. The only solution that came to calming you was to confide in your husband, like you always did. 

Glancing up at your spouse from where you rested on his arm, he gazed ahead of him at the black and white images that were flashing across the miniature television. You hesitated before leaning in, your rosy lips brushing his ear. “I—I have to talk to you,” you whispered, your eyes silently begging for his undivided attention.

You needed to tell him what was happening—how you felt like you were losing your mind.

But then it hit you…

It was your sweet husband’s birthday.

You didn’t want to alarm him with this—not today, the only day he was able to get a break from his demanding job and be free of the workload.

You can wait…

An worried expression appeared upon his face as he sipped from his glass of water. “What’s wrong, esposa?” he asked, his smiling features shifting into intense concern. The sight pierced your heart.

Laughing nervously, you shook your head and pulled away, hiding the trembling of your manicured hands in your lap. You tried to ignore how desperately you wanted him to comfort you. “Actually…i-it’s not that important,” you said, though the quiver in your voice betrayed you. The more you tried to dismiss his worry, the more troubled he seemed.

Luckily, Gabriella came to your rescue.

Having finished her slice of cake (and every crumb) she jumped up, her mouth still smeared with frosting. “Can I show Papá my gift now?!” she exclaimed, the sugar clearly taking effect. Her orange ribbons bounced in her hair with her excitement.

Miguel glanced briefly at Gabriella but remained unsettled by your earlier unease. You leaned into him, masking your distress with a playful smile. "How about it, my love? Ready to see our gifts to you?" you asked, your heart clenching at the way his eyes softened, adoring your words yet oblivious to the truth they were meant to conceal.

“Sí, princesa. I’d be delighted to see your present,” Miguel replied with a grin, flicking off the television with the remote. The two of you watched Gabriella race upstairs, her footsteps echoing and fading, leaving you alone with your husband in the living room.

A moment of silence passed, the air thick with the lingering excitement of your daughter’s energy, before Miguel smirked at you. “Now, what was it you wanted to tell me alone, hmm?” he teased, giving your cheek an affectionate pinch. “I know you only ask for me like that when you want something…” His eyes glinted with desire, unaware to the turmoil swirling within you.

You forced a soft laugh, schooling your features. “And… w-what if I did?” you replied, your voice faltering just slightly, your breath hitching when he leaned in closer.

Without warning, he pulled you into a kiss. The world around you seemed to melt away as his arms wrapped around you, his lips warm and urgent. Each kiss chipped away at your worries, his touch both soothing and electric. You pressed into him, feeling his heartbeat sync with yours.

He chuckled against your lips, each kiss leaving you hungrier for more. “So that was your plan? Hmm… Mi chica traviesa, traviesa.”

You gasped as his fingers brushed the nape of your neck, holding you steady. His touch was both tender and possessive, and the taste of him—sweeter than the cake you’d abandoned—flooded your senses, leaving your body humming with need.

Before you could process it, he gently pushed you back onto the couch, his lips never straying far from yours. A breathless laugh escaped you. “Miguel—”

Your halfhearted scolding was silenced by another kiss, and then another, each one more urgent than the last, until your bodies seemed to fit together seamlessly.

Your fingers combed through his dark curls, undoing the careful styling he’d done that morning. You tugged him impossibly closer, each kiss a promise—a vow that felt as eternal as the one he’d made to you on your wedding day.

And then, the spell shattered.

The sound of Gabriella’s blood-curdling scream pierced the air, cutting through the tranquility of the room like a knife.

Your heart dropped in an instant.

“MAMA!!”

You froze, eyes wide, breath catching in your throat. Hastily, you pushed Miguel away, panic rising in your chest. “Did you hear that?!” you asked, your voice tight with alarm.

For once, Miguel’s expression mirrored the terror that gripped you. Rising from the couch, he reached out to steady you as both of you looked toward the stairs, your pulse pounding in your ears.

The air between you was heavy now—this wasn’t just the innocent sound of a child’s call.

Something was wrong...

A/N: I hope you all enjoyed the first part of Dear, My Beloved! What exactly is happening in the O'Hara house? Is the life inside those perfect green vintage walls as idyllic as it seems, or is there something far more sinister at play? 🤔

Also, I know I've mentioned this before, but once again, my apologies for the late posting of Despair and Greed for this event. Life became unexpectedly overwhelming toward the end of 2024 for my sister and I, and during my break, I found myself needing to take some time to recharge. The last thing I want is for writing to shift from a hobby to a chore, so I hope you all can understand! ❤️❤️

This one-shot was also in dedication to Miggy's B-day, so happy belated birthday to the handsome Spider-man himself. 💙❤️

Lastly, Part 2 of Dear, My Beloved comes with a LOT of trigger warnings—seriously, a lot. I'll include them in the warnings list when it’s posted but consider this an extra heads-up! ⚠️⚠️

If you’re excited for the next part of Dear, My Beloved, and to see what else my older sister, @powerful-niya and I have in store for Vicetober (I know, I know 🤧), be sure to like, comment, reblog, and follow! Wishing you all a wonderful day—stay safe! 👋🏾💙🤎😈

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(*All Rights reserved. DO NOT repost/translate/ copy any of my work.*)

[santoschristos]

The significance of this day

Day Miquiztli (Death, known as Cimi in Maya) is governed by Tecciztecatl, the Moon God, as its provider of tonalli (Shadow Soul) life energy. It is a good day for reflecting on your priorities in life, a bad day for ignoring possibilities. It is a day of transformation, signifying that briefest moment between old endings and new beginnings.

Aztec and Maya Calendar

Tecciztecatl, the Moon God

art by Chicome Itzcuintli Amatlapalli, Mexican Artist (@micorazonmexica)

[eldritchsurveys]

1276.

1. What do you do if you can’t sleep? >> Fuck around on my phone until I do get sleepy.

2. When was the last time you went to a restaurant? >> Three weeks ago, when I was out of town. I think the last restaurant we went to was the Mexican one... unless it was Tiffany's... Man, not even a month out and my memory of the whole trip is already degrading.

3. What did you do to celebrate your last birthday? >> Nothing, because I was broke as always and also still recovering from food poisoning (what luck, eh?).

4. Do you tend to connect better with younger people than you or older people than you? >> I don't know who I connect with better, considering connection isn't exactly a common occurrence for me. Certainly not common or regular enough to have data on it.

5. In what circumstances would you be willing to break the law? >> I'd break the law for a Klondike bar. As long as I can feasibly avoid being caught, that is. I'm still Black in America and all, I can't be too outlandish.

6. Who in your opinion, is the most influential person in the world and why? .

7. Do you have any phobias? >> I do not.

8. What country(ies) are right next to yours? >> Canada and Mexico.

9. What was the last photograph you took? How about the last one you were in? >> It was a photo of the day-by-day calendar I got for Christmas, so I could post about it on tumblr. The last one I was in was a selfie I took of me accidentally looking like a dark wizard. 10. Do you have any art up in your home? >> I do. 11. What kind of clothes do you wear the most? >> My winter cartoon-character outfits are a fuzzy sweater or bathrobe + skirt or shiftdress of some sort (home) and black jeans + hoodie and/or t-shirt and/or longsleeve shirt (public).

12. What Apps/Websites do you frequent the most? >> Tumblr, Discord, Bluesky.

13. What’s your morning drink (coffee, tea, juice)? >> Tea, normally. I have coffee sometimes. 14. What’s the best concert you’ve been to? >> This is a vexing question because I have been to a lot of great concerts.

15. How well do you know your neighbours? >> I don't.

16. Is there a new series of a show coming out that you follow this year and if so, what show is that? >> Season two of The Rig just dropped. I'm also looking forward to a show called Beyond the Gates that's supposed to premiere in February.

17. If you could study any subject right now, what would you choose? >> I mean, if I wanted to study something, I just would. The Internet and various methods of obtaining books exist.

18. What in your opinion are the best and worst things about being an adult? >> The best thing is that I am not under the control of someone whose values are wildly different from mine and who doesn't value me as a person at all. The worst thing is, like, capitalism. 19. How long have you lived in your current home? >> It will be 3 years in March.

20. Where do you like to go for a walk? >> I just do a loop around my neighbourhood. There are a lot of side streets to wander down and I like to look at people's houses and yards and decorations and gardens and suchnot. I also have favourite gardens/decorations that I like to pass by. I also often do a quick pass through the park down the street from me and say hi to the trees.

[thelaughingmuse]

Uh...yeah...somethingorother

Happy new calendar to folks who change over today!

I've hit a plateau with the unpacking. I combined two kitchen-items boxes after taking out many of the things and putting them away, and to give myself one box to actually fold down and prep for storage, I combined the remnants. I think there's also still a box of books in the pile of about 15-20 opened-but-not-completely-unpacked boxes. But I've just run out of spoons. I've also kind of run out of house, so much of what is still boxed is probably going to end up in storage until I buy or build. By this point, I also figure - if I haven't gone looking for a given item yet, it's something I can survive without for a year or two. (Though I am also rather bitter that I can't find my pink pencil case with my two sets of Phoenix pencils. It wasn't with my other art supplies...and I really love those pencils.)

There's a lot I could do today.

I could find a lavanderia and do a load or two of laundry, even though I should be getting my washer and dryer delivered next week. (At which point I become a profligate water user.)

I could actually cook something. Even a bowl of oatmeal.

I could start researching how to use a Mexican oven, so that I can do some occasional baking. How do the numbers on the dial correspond to recipes that I'm familiar with? Is it as simple as 1 = 100F, 2 = 200F, 3 = 300F, et cetera? Or is it measuring something in metric values, in which case I'll need to create a cheat sheet for myself?

I could try unpacking and/or consolidating a box or three.

I could rewrap the chair and ottoman that I've decided to put into storage.

I could start organizing my books the way that I prefer - fiction, nonfiction, hardback/paperback, and then alpha by author.

I could color. I've organized my coloring books, identified the books that I like but not enough to get backups, identified the books where I accidentally bought too many. (I try to have 3 of each book: 1 for me to color in, 1 for a friend or guest to color in, and 1 for me to scan the designs so that if I really love some of the designs in the book, I don't have to keep buying more instances of that book just for those 3-4 designs. I figure since I'm printing them for personal use only, after having paid retail for three copies of a given coloring book, I'm perfectly justified in scanning one for my private use.) This means that I have about a dozen coloring books free to start coloring. I've even gotten almost all of my markers, pencils, and crayons unpacked and on the shelves.

I could finish unpacking from my most recent trip. I've gotten most of the items out, but there are still bits n bobs in each suitcase and in the gym bag. Heck, I could consolidate those.

Instead, I'm going to watch the LOTR extended trilogy while arranging my makeup pencils. I want them sorted by type (eyeliner, eye crayon, lip liner, lip crayon) and organized by color within the type.

Don't judge me.

[richincolor]

Most Anticipated Reads of May 2023

I know I say this every time I write about my TBR, but holy crap -- there is so much good stuff coming out in the next month or so. I am not kidding! Have you seen it? Take a peek at our Release Calendar if you don't believe me. It was super hard to pick what is at the very top of my to-read pile, but I did indeed manage to pull it off. So here is what I'm really looking forward to reading in May:

Ander & Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza Villa -- Out May 2

Aristotle and Dante meets The Hate U Give meets The Sun Is Also A Star: A stunning YA contemporary love story about a Mexican-American teen who falls in love with an undocumented Mexican boy. Finding home. Falling in love. Fighting to belong.

The Santos Vista neighborhood of San Antonio, Texas, is all Ander Martínez has ever known. The smell of pan dulce. The mixture of Spanish and English filling the streets. And, especially their job at their family's taquería. It's the place that has inspired Ander as a muralist, and, as they get ready to leave for art school, it's all of these things that give them hesitancy. That give them the thought, are they ready to leave it all behind?

To keep Ander from becoming complacent during their gap year, their family "fires" them so they can transition from restaurant life to focusing on their murals and prepare for college. That is, until they meet Santiago López Alvarado, the hot new waiter. Falling for each other becomes as natural as breathing. Through Santi's eyes, Ander starts to understand who they are and want to be as an artist, and Ander becomes Santi's first steps toward making Santos Vista and the United States feel like home. Until ICE agents come for Santi, and Ander realizes how fragile that sense of home is. How love can only hold on so long when the whole world is against them. And when, eventually, the world starts to win.

Fake Dates and Mooncakes by Sher Lee -- Out May 16

Heartstopper meets Crazy Rich Asians in this heartfelt, joyful paperback original rom-com that follows an aspiring chef who discovers the recipe for love is more complicated than it seems when he starts fake-dating a handsome new customer.

Dylan Tang wants to win a Mid-Autumn Festival mooncake-making competition for teen chefs—in memory of his mom, and to bring much-needed publicity to his aunt’s struggling Chinese takeout in Brooklyn. Enter Theo Somers: charming, wealthy, with a smile that makes Dylan’s stomach do backflips. AKA a distraction. Their worlds are sun-and-moon apart, but Theo keeps showing up. He even convinces Dylan to be his fake date at a family wedding in the Hamptons.

In Theo’s glittering world of pomp, privilege, and crazy rich drama, their romance is supposed to be just pretend . . . but Dylan finds himself falling for Theo. For real. Then Theo’s relatives reveal their true colors—but with the mooncake contest looming, Dylan can’t risk being sidetracked by rich-people problems. Can Dylan save his family’s business and follow his heart—or will he fail to do both?

Transmogrify!: 14 Fantastical Tales of Trans Magic by g. haron davis -- Out May 16

Perfect for fans of All Out and Cemetery Boys, this anthology claims a seat at the table of fantasy literature for trans and gender nonconforming stories.

Transness is as varied and colorful as magic can be. In Transmogrify!, you’ll embark on fourteen different adventures alongside unforgettable characters who embody many different genders and expressions and experiences—because magic is for everyone, and that is cause for celebration.

Featuring stories from: AR Capetta and Cory McCarthy g. haron davis Mason Deaver Jonathan Lenore Kastin Emery Lee Saundra Mitchell Cam Montgomery Ash Nouveau Sonora Reyes Renee Reynolds Dove Salvatierra Ayida Shonibar Francesca Tacchi Nik Traxler

[ometochtli2rabbit]

sketch diary january 27/ 13.0.12.5.0 kan[4] AHAU\AJPUH - ox[3] PAX/ nahui[4] - XOCHITL[flower]

Xochiquetzal:Tonatiuh:Tlazolteotl:Tlazolteotl

[rabbitcruiser]

Popcorn Lovers Day 

Simple, quick, affordable and delicious, popcorn lovers can unite during this amazing time, on Popcorn Lover’s Day.

A healthy, gluten-free and GMO-free snack that contains some protein, popcorn has been a favorite of Americans for more than 100 years and its popularity has grown throughout the world in recent years. Now, Popcorn Lover’s Day is here to encourage people to remember what an incredibly tasty and convenient snack popcorn really is!

How to Celebrate Popcorn Lover’s Day

Fall in love with popcorn again and again in celebration of Popcorn Lover’s Day! Have fun enjoying this simple and incredible little snack with some of these ideas for the day:

Enjoy a Healthy Popcorn Snack

One of the easiest and most important things that can be done on Popcorn Lover’s Day is to simply pop up some delicious popcorn and enjoy eating it! Whether it is made on top of the stove, in an air popper or in the microwave, this is the day to add a little butter, sprinkle a little salt, and celebrate the simplicity of this ancient food.

Learn Fun Facts About Popcorn

Popcorn Lover’s Day is the ideal time to brush up on bits of trivia about popcorn, then share it with others to raise awareness for the day. Whether this means dropping fun facts while at lunch with coworkers or impressing the kids with information over breakfast before school, this is a great day for popcorn lovers to share what they know!

Get started with some of these fun facts about popcorn:

Nebraska is the US state that produces the most popcorn each year. In fact, their total amount of popcorn produced annually comes in at around 250 million pounds.

The reason popcorn kernels pop when heated is because they are made up of around 4% water, which creates a small explosion.

The kernels that are left at the bottom of the bag or pan after the rest of the popcorn is popped are called “old maids”.

If popped over an open flame, popcorn can jump a distance of up to three feet!

Try Growing Popcorn

Depending on the region you live in, popcorn can be a very simple and viable crop to grow. And getting started with growing your own popcorn in honor of Popcorn Lover’s Day is a fun way to celebrate. Popcorn generally takes between 90 and 120 days to mature, so it does take a bit of patience. Plus, it’s a super exciting plant to grow because some varieties of popcorn can get up to between eight and nine feet tall and have ears that are up to seven inches long.

Try Some Creative Popcorn Recipes

Have tons of fun celebrating Popcorn Lover’s Day by making some unique popcorn creations in the kitchen. Sweet or savory, simple or complicated, popcorn can be a blank canvas for almost any type of culinary art! Make a start and get inspired with some of these ideas for popcorn recipes:

Mexican Inspired Taco Flavored Popcorn

Buffalo Ranch Popcorn

Salted Caramel Popcorn

Caramel Marshmallow Popcorn

Visit the Valparaiso Popcorn Festival

One great way to enjoy this day is to make plans to celebrate with tons of other lovers of this treat. Indiana is well known as a place that is favorable for growing popcorn, and the people there seem to love consuming it too. Although this popcorn festival typically happens in Valparaiso, Indiana in the autumn, Popcorn Lover’s Day would be a good time to put it on the calendar.

Visitors to the Valparaiso Popcorn Festival can expect to enjoy festivities such as a Popcorn Panic 5K or 5 mile walk/run, a Popcorn Parade, a beer garden, dance party, craft booths, fine arts displays, food tables and (obviously) plenty of popcorn!

Popcorn Lover’s Day FAQs

Is popcorn healthy?

When lightly seasoned and air-popped, popcorn is a whole grain, high fiber snack.

Does popcorn have carbs?

Popcorn has around 30 carbs per serving.

Is popcorn gluten free?

Most popcorn is gluten free.

Is popcorn keto?

It is possible to eat popcorn on a keto diet as it is high in fiber.

Can popcorn expire?

Technically, popcorn kernels do not expire, as long as they are stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

History of Popcorn Lover’s Day

Popcorn has a delightful and slightly mysterious history that may date back as far as thousands of years! Native to the Americas, popcorn may have been enjoyed as far back as 6000 years ago or more, when the native people would have cooked their popcorn on the cob over an open fire. Others may have stripped the cob of the kernels, throwing it directly onto the fire and catching it when it popped back out!

Popcorn has been a part of US culinary history for many years, and the invention of the commercial popcorn machine in 1895 changed the way that popcorn was consumed! This snack is classically known for being consumed in movie theaters as far back as the early 1900s, although at one point it was temporarily banned because it made too much noise when eating it.

The United States continues to be the largest consumer of popcorn in the world. In fact, popcorn is such a popular and affordable treat in North America that, at Christmastime, it is a tradition to string it on a thread and hang it as a garland on the Christmas tree. And during World War II, when there was a sugar shortage in the United States, the consumption of popcorn there tripled.

Getting its start in 2012, Popcorn Lover’s Day was likely established by Bob Matthews, who was most certainly a popcorn lover from Rochester, New York. The story goes that Bob was an avid gardener and even grew his own popcorn and dried it for popping.

Because Bob and his wife would often eat popcorn on a Thursday evening each week, Popcorn Lover’s Day is scheduled to always fall on the second Thursday during the month of March.

Popcorn Lover’s Day was founded to remind people about how great this snack is and how much they should celebrate it! The idea for the day was established to recognize popcorn as a healthy snack and to encourage people not only to eat popcorn, but to learn how easy it is to grow their own popcorn as well.

Plus, the day is just meant to spread the joy of eating popcorn!

Popcorn Lover’s Day Timeline

 4700 BC

Ears of popcorn are stored in Peru

Unearthed thousands of years later in 2012, popcorn cobs are found with puffed kernels. 

 1519

Cortes gets his first sight of popcorn

The explorer invades Mexico and learns about popcorn from the Aztecs. 

 1621

First Thanksgiving feast may include popcorn

Some researchers believe that the first Plymouth Thanksgiving dinner included popcorn.

 1965

Orville Redenbacher popcorn is founded

One of the most popular brands of popcorn, Orville Redenbacher starts his company. 

 1981

Microwave popcorn is invented

The first microwave popcorn had perishable butter and needed to be refrigerated, while another version was frozen.

Source

[charile0]

Exploring the Best Mexican Food, Events, and Street Art Culture in Nairobi

Nairobi is a bustling city where diverse cultures blend, and the culinary and arts scene is booming. If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, you'll be pleased to know that Nairobi offers a variety of spots where you can indulge in authentic flavors. From La Cantina to Chili’s, these restaurants serve mouthwatering tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, making them the go-to places for those craving true Mexican dishes. With local spots offering everything from street food to gourmet takes on traditional Mexican recipes, Nairobi is a haven for foodies in search of great Mexican food.

But it’s not just about food in this vibrant city. Nairobi is alive with events year-round. Whether you're interested in music festivals, art exhibitions, or community-driven celebrations, there's always something happening. Keep an eye on local event calendars to discover the latest happenings, from upcoming cultural events to exciting weekend music performances and art fairs.

And, of course, Nairobi’s Street art culture is thriving. The city has become a canvas for urban art that blends traditional and contemporary styles. If you're interested in exploring local arts and culture, Nairobi's public murals and art galleries are the places to experience the creativity that pulses through the heart of this city.

[mexicocasestudy]

Letter 9

Hi Guys,

How have you been recently? Please take care of yourselves. It's that time of year where everyone is sick. So, take your vitamins and medicine. Stay healthy out there!!

This week I learned about Mexico’s education system. The education system in Mexico has a unique blend of culture, government policy, and challenges. Education in Mexico is free and mandatory through upper-secondary school, which covers about 12 years in total: six years of primary school, three years of secondary school, and three years of upper-secondary education. The school term starts in September and ends in July. Also, the public schools are tuition-free, but families must pay for uniforms, school supplies, and sometimes transportation. The cost can create a burden for families, especially for low-income families, leading to disparities in attendance and completion rates between urban and rural areas. I wish there were more programs or facilities that could help families close the gap in cost. I remember when I was growing up there was a program where twice a year the school would take a large group of kids shopping. Generally, for clothes and other necessary items (glasses, shoes, etc.) and it would be free for the families involved. It was similar to a field trip. I wonder if Mexico has something similar and if it would help with those disparities?

Private schools exist in Mexico too, but they cater to a smaller portion of the population and are chosen by families that are looking for specialized or higher-quality education. They’re generally more resource intensive and often seen as a privilege for those who can afford them. I feel like most private schools are similar.

What does a typical school day look like? I’ll describe it to you. A typical school day in Mexico is organized into two shifts or periods because of the large number of students. Morning shifts start at 8:00 AM and end at 1:00 PM and afternoon shifts begin around 2:00 PM and end at 7:00 PM. With the broken-up schedule many students end up being homeschooled as well. Classes run five days a week on a 200-day school calendar. The subjects taught in Mexico’s schools highlight the country’s values and traditions. Core subjects include Spanish, Math, Natural Sciences, and Social Studies, and English becoming a required subject in secondary schools. There’s also a strong emphasis on arts and physical education. In areas with indigenous populations, schools often include bilingual programs that teach both Spanish and local languages, preserving cultural heritage. Compared to the U.S., Mexican schools focus more on regional history and civics, aiming to foster national pride and community. This reflects the country’s emphasis on inclusivity and cultural preservation.

Not many high school graduates move onto higher education. Urban students tend to have better access to universities, while rural students often face economic or geographic hurdles. Gender also plays a role in pursuing a higher education. Women in rural areas sometimes face societal pressures that make continuing their education difficult, and young men often must work to support their families. College graduation rates in Mexico are lower than in many developed nations.

Mexican education system face challenges such as like high dropout rates in rural areas, underfunding, and disparities in the quality of education. The government has introduced scholarships to address these issues, but their implementation has faced mixed reviews from citizens.

Learning about Mexico’s education system has given me a deeper appreciation for how the U.S. goes about education, but Mexico’s culture and policy are interesting in how they intersect to shape young minds. Despite its challenges, it’s clear that there’s a strong commitment to equity and preserving Mexico’s rich cultural identity.

I’m excited to hear your thoughts. Please write back soon.

Sincerely, Hailey

Sources

Education System in Mexico: Facts and Problems - Mexico Daily Post: https://mexicodailypost.com/2022/09/22/education-system-in-mexico-facts-and-problems/.

Your Guide to the School System in Mexico (2023) - Pacific Prime Latin America: https://www.pacificprime.lat/blog/education-in-mexico-your-guide-to-the-school-system-in-mexico-2023/.

Mexican Education Overview - Wise: https://wise.com/us/blog/mexican-education-overview.

[bigchileinnsuite]

How to Enjoy a Budget-Friendly Stay in Las Cruces

Las Cruces, with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking both adventure and affordability. If you're looking for a cheap stay in Las Cruces, you can enjoy all the city has to offer without stretching your budget. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your budget-friendly stay.

1. Choose the Right Accommodations

When searching for a cheap stay in Las Cruces, consider staying at places like Big Chile Inn & Suites. This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, essential amenities, and convenient access to local attractions. By selecting the right accommodations, you can save money while enjoying a comfortable experience.

2. Explore Local Dining Options

Eating out can quickly add up, but Las Cruces is filled with affordable dining options. Seek out local diners, food trucks, and casual eateries for delicious meals without the hefty price tag. Don’t miss trying some authentic New Mexican cuisine for an unforgettable culinary experience.

3. Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Las Cruces boasts a variety of free or low-cost attractions. Spend a day exploring the beautiful outdoor spaces like Dripping Springs Natural Area or the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. These scenic spots offer hiking and stunning views without costing a dime, making them perfect for a budget-friendly adventure.

4. Plan Your Activities Wisely

Researching free events and activities in advance can enhance your stay without impacting your wallet. Check local calendars for festivals, art walks, or community events happening during your visit. Many of these activities are family-friendly and provide a great way to experience the local culture.

5. Utilize Discounts and Promotions

Don’t forget to look for discounts and promotions when planning your visit. Websites like Groupon often feature deals for local attractions and dining. Additionally, booking your stay directly with hotels like Big Chile Inn & Suites can lead to better rates and special offers, ensuring a cheap stay in Las Cruces.

6. Consider Off-Peak Travel

Traveling during off-peak seasons can significantly lower your costs. Las Cruces experiences fewer tourists during certain times of the year, which often means lower hotel rates and better availability. By planning your trip for these quieter times, you can find a cheap stay in Las Cruces and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

7. Make Use of Public Transportation

Using public transportation or rideshare services can help you save money on getting around. Las Cruces has a public bus system that’s affordable and can take you to many popular spots in the city. This is a great way to explore while keeping your budget intact.

Conclusion

Enjoying a cheap stay in Las Cruces is entirely possible with a little planning and creativity. By choosing budget-friendly accommodations like Big Chile Inn & Suites, exploring local dining, taking advantage of free attractions, and looking for discounts, you can experience all that this vibrant city has to offer without breaking the bank. Happy travels!