#Mexican Fan Palm

[emaadsidiki]

Simply Santa Barbara 🌴🚵‍♂️

[crudlynaturephotos]

[valiasims]

Beachy Collection

Hey everyone!

My new cc set is finished! This collection was inspired by the beaches, obviously :D. I wanted to make some essentials for your sims to enjoy what left of the summer.

If you have not seen my other posts I'll add some notes for the items here. First of all there are two versions of the sling chair because I wanted it to have the sunbathing functionality but sims lay down whilst sunbathing on a lounge chair so I had to attach a pouff foot rest to it so the animation isn't weird. But I added a simple chair version as well so you can mix and match and it won't look too copy-paste with the same foot rest.

Second item I want to mention is the drink tray. There's two, one is functional with the Backyard Stuff Pack the other is a deco one.

Third thing is the public bathroom which I managed to get to work without adding two of them to the object. But this was a really annoying process because for some reason the animation for it includes the sim teleporting a mile to the left when entering the facility. In my case that meant they jumped out of the object. It worked fine for females because for some reason they jumped only half a mile and I thought I was good, then I tested the males and whoops...But don't worry, you won't see them standing frozen while "peeing" because I managed to tweak the tuning so the males use the same animation as the females.

I think that's it! I hope you'll enjoy these objects. Let me know what you think or if you have any questions/problems!

The Set Includes

Sling Tanning Chair (foot rest included)

Sling Chair (chair version)

Folding Table

Coffee Table (1 tile, 2 tile)

Pouff Table

Drink Tray Functional (you need to have Backyard Stuff Pack)

Drink Tray Deco

Folded Towel With Sunscreen

Beach Blanket

Sun Umbrella (opened, closed)

Wooden Planks

Simewe Beach Bag

Wooden Awning (with and without curtains)

Mexican Fan Palm (tall and short)

Public Bathroom Hut

-DOWNLOAD HERE- Public release on the 16th of September 6PM CST

[asksailorponies]

Concrete Pavers Santa Barbara Design ideas for a large mediterranean front yard concrete paver landscaping.

[eachothersperfect]

Mediterranean Landscape in Santa Barbara

[hotvintagepoll]

Propaganda

Glenda Farrell (We're in the Money, The Mystery of the Wax Museum, I've Got Your Number)— Susan Slept Here is a terrible no good very bad movie but somehow she gets even hotter as she ages

Dolores del Rio (Flying Down to Rio, Flor silvestre)—to begin with, dolores is so RADIANTLY BEAUTIFUL, even more so in action then in images, its like she emits a literal glow. marlene dietrich (a close friend and rumored lover) considered her "the most beautiful woman who ever set foot in hollywood". she was the first mexican actress to become a major success in hollywood, rising to fame in the silent era and becoming an influential icon of beauty and glamor in the art deco age, though she was not thrilled with the exoticizing parts often pushed on her. in the mid 1940s having tired of the controlling hollywood studio system she returned to mexico, saying "I wish to choose my own stories, my own director and cameraman. I can accomplish this better in mexico", and proceeded to become a pivotal figure in the golden age of mexican cinema, making a string of masterpieces with directir emilio fernández and cinematographer gabriel figueroa. i love this anecdote about the insane art deco mansion she and her then-husband cedric gibbons lived in in the 30s, as related by david niven: "Dolores had a large sunny room on the first floor containing a huge and inviting bed. Gibbons lived in comparative squalor in a small room immediately below. The only connection between these rooms was by way of a stepladder, which could be lowered only when a trapdoor in the floor of Dolores room had been raised. There was a long stick with which, we conjectured, he signaled his intention or hopes by rapping out signals on the floor of his wife’s bedchamber." heres a pinterest album with a billion hot pictures of her

This is round 1 of the tournament. All other polls in this bracket can be found here. Please reblog with further support of your beloved hot sexy vintage woman.

[additional propaganda submitted under the cut]

Dolores del Rio:

There's so much! She started in Silent films and successfully transitioned to sound, She is the first woman to wear a two piece swimsuit on screen & popularized the bikini!, She transitioned back to Mexican Cinema in the late 1940s and was a leading lady of the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema including staring in Maria Candelaria--the first Mexican film to win the palm d'Or at Cannes. She was literally studied for her beauty & was considered a beauty ideal in both the USA & Mexico--there's a whole section on her Wikipedia page about how beautiful everyone thinks she was. She never actually had a feud with any of the female stars she was rumored to feud with despite the fact that press & Hollywood culture attempted to pain them in competition... She remained a leader in Mexican theater & Cinema through her own production company. Mexican painter Diego Rivera: "The most beautiful, the most gorgeous of the west, east, north and south. I'm in love with her as 40 million Mexicans and 120 million Americans who can't be wrong" (quote source: Wikipedia)

*fan self* Leading actress in silents and early Hollywood. Lover of Orson Welles until she got fed up with him, friend of Diego Rivera and Frieda Kahlo. When she got tired of Hollywood executives typecasting her as a stereotypical spitfire (and trying to force her to feud with Lupe Velez as a publicity stunt), she ditched Hollywood and became a major star of Mexican cinema, where she got to play rounded characters

Had a career in American cinema in the 20s and 30s and considered one of the most important figures in the Golden Age of Mexican cinema (30s to 50s).

Marlene Dietrich said Dolores was the most beautiful woman to set foot in Hollywood

Joan Crawford: "Dolores became, and remains, as one of the most beautiful stars in the world."

One of the few Latin American women working in the Hollywood industry to make it big not just in hre home country but internationally. In 1931, Photoplay magazine declared that Mexican film actress Dolores del Rio had the "best figure in Hollywood." (which I know not necessarily a good barometer) but! it shows that many people looked at her for her beauty and sought to emulate her. Famous for her years-long love affair with actor and director Orson Welles, who was 10 years her junior if that's anything.

We need more hispanic representation in this!! Del Río is one of the most important actresses of her time as she was one of the first Mexican movie stars to break through to Hollywood! She’s unbelievably sexy and an absolute icon. Thank you :)

[sidthedollface2]

Third Love

Pairing: Eddie x Mexican Female Reader

Word count: 1.8k

Summary: Eddie tries to win over your affection and use you in hopes of getting signed to your dads record company. There's just one problem. Your situationship and a heartbreaking past that threatens to expose the darker side of you.

CW: MDNI 18+ for ANGST, crime related themes, death of a character, death of a parent, nightmares, flashbacks, mental illness, violence, gun shot, smut (p in v, bjs) Eddie with other women (not cheating and i'm so sorry) 911 call. Modern au Eddie, fuckboy Eddie. Spanish words.

Prologue

~El Musico~

Eddie was on his deathbed, the bats had clawed and gnawed through his hellfire shirt ripping his flesh wide open. Pools of bright red blood spread beneath him and stained his pale skin. The bitter taste of iron filled his mouth, spreading over his teeth and chapped lips. Tears pooled at the corners of his eyes as Dustin held his Dungeon Master, promises of guiding sheep and brotherly love exchanged. It was supposed to be Eddies year........and it was. 

Eddie walked that stage, snatching his diploma and yes flipped Mr. Higgins the bird. His friends cheered with whoops and hollers, wide smiles followed by tight hugs. Promises to always keep in touch through tear stained cheeks. While half the party moved to different states and colleges Eddie stayed in Hawkins.

An undisclosed amount of money landed in his hands for his wrongful arrest. Accused of killing his girlfriend Chrissy, and other gruesome murders he didn't commit, in a town that hated him. He vowed to never use the money, the guilt of Chrissys death too strong. 

Nightmares and flashbacks plagued his mind, visions of cheer uniforms had him taking second glances in hopes of finding her blue eyes in a crowd. Eddie swears she haunts his days and nights, he can still see her sweet face in the woods as he makes his trek to reefer ricks. 

Rick had been teaching Eddie how to turn his drawings into an honorable income by way of tattooing. Having already held a tattoo machine at a young age under his fathers eye, it was no wonder Eddie was a natural. Aside from his Tattoo Apprenticeship Eddie had dreams of Corroded Coffin making it big. 

Tuesdays at the Hideout turned into Tuesdays and Thursdays, then Fridays and Saturdays. Soon enough the band had a small following with enough fans to fill smaller venues. Groupies had begun to gather around the bars that Eddie often visited, hoping to become his next flavor of the week, but Eddie didn't do relationships. 

There was one though, Becky. She had gone to every show and bought the band drinks after every gig and she had told Eddie he could make it big in the New York scene. Corroded Coffin saved up enough money to travel to the big city, get an apartment and play some underground shows. Becky made herself their manager even though she had no experience in the position.

 One night after a rather large show she made her way into their dressing room. Eddie had been sitting on the couch, legs spread wide and his head tilted back resting on the couch. The sound of the door locking caught Eddies attention, exhausted from the show he slowly raked his eyes over her. She wore a bright pink skin tight dress, heels that could break an ankle and hair so fried it could break in half. "What are you doing back here?" He questioned, sitting up and rubbing his sweaty palms on his jean clad thighs. "You did so great tonight Eddie, lemme show you how proud I am." Narrow hips swayed side to side as she sauntered to him, lowering herself onto her knees in front of him, she began to rub his knees fingers dipping into the ripped denim that frayed across his thigh slowly inching higher, tacky hot pink nails grazed his limp bulge and Eddie stilled. "What are you doing?" Brows pinched together Eddie grabbed her wrists, stopping her from going further. "Please, lemme show you." She flirted, Breaking from his grasp as she unbuckled his belt and shimmied his jeans over the curve of his ass, down his thighs to pool at his ankles.

It had been the worst blow job he had ever gotten. Eyes closed shut he thought of Chrissys mouth instead, blue eyes peeking up at him through her lashes. Sweet giggles and soft hands stroking him.

 Becky would soon become Eddies official girlfriend, and he thought of Chrissy at every intimate moment. Wishing on all the stars in the sky for his ex-girlfriend back.

After a year of small venues and tattooing on the side Eddie was ready for bigger and better sets. Becky had promised tours across multiple states and even opening for local bands but money had been an issue, her cut had been more than expected. "Shes been taking our money Ed!" Gareth spoke through gritted teeth. Shuffling through pay stubs and invoices from various venues, ticket sales had been high but the payout was less and less. “Wait wait wait there must be some sort of mix up” Eddie defended, afraid of the wrath from his bandmates. 

Becky had him wrapped around her little finger and Eddie fell into her trap. Without the band knowing Becky’s cut had grown to 70% barely leaving enough to scrape by. Without legal action Corroded Coffin suffered those losses, forced to stay under her management with little pay. After the band confronted Becky, she confessed to not only mismanaging their finances but also never booking bigger gigs.

 Eddie and his friends decided that once the contract was over Corroded Coffin would try their luck in the City of Angels. 

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

“911 what's your emergency?”

Caller: “She’s been shot!!! I need an ambulance please hurry!” 

911: “Stay on the line with me, where are you? And who shot her?”

Caller: “I don't know, he's wearing a mask. I'm. I'm at. Oh god I think she's dying!! 1524 Berryford Rd. Lenora Hills hurry!"

*inaudible*

911: I have EMS on the -

Caller:"There's so much blood. Mom! Mom! Wake up please! Oh god He's still here!"

*inaudible*

*inaudible*

911:"Is there a window you could - "

Caller: "shhhh shhhh I'm so scared please help me." 

*inaudible

*inaudible*

*shots fired*

911: "Active Shooter at 1524 Berryford Rd Lenora Hills." 

*line disconnected*

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

Eddie walked up the steps to the apartment he shared with Becky, rough pebbled stone under each step he took, exhausted from hours at the Tattoo Shop. Standing in front of apartment 9f he searched the pocket of his torn jeans for his key marked home. Heavy boots imprinted the stained beige carpet as he made his way inside, passed the living room through the dirty kitchen to sit on his side of the dinner table. Leaning back Eddie pulls his legs up crossing one ankle over the other, black boots resting on the wooden table and In the lining of his black jacket he fishes out a pack of camels. Flicking the lighter once, twice, three times a charm, the flame burns the tip of his cigarette.

Inhale.

Exhale. 

Smoke swirls in the space above him, eyes closed shut with the threat of tears escaping his lash line. In the master bedroom the sound of skin meeting skin echoes through his ears, moans and deep grunts bounce off the walls. He recognizes the moans, having heard them just that morning as he had Becky bent over the floral pattern of their old couch. It sickens him knowing he put up with her lies, and constant arguing of matters regarding his band. When and where they should play, how often and how much of his money she was stealing. But he never thought she'd cheat on him, not after all he's done for her. Not after paying for her car, her phone, her half of the rent most months.

Stubbing out his cigarette he quietly walks over to the bedroom door, hand twisting at the knob. Locked. He places his right ear to the door, and the pornographic sounds coming from the other side are enough to light his rage on fire. Taking a step back Eddie forcefully slams his heavy foot into the lock of the door causing it to swing wide open exposing Becky with not only one but two men. "Oh shit." Eddie gasped as he witnessed Becky scramble off an older man that lay tied and gagged to the bed, who he later recognized as Tim the maintenance man of their building. "Who the fuck are you?" The other man spoke as he looked to Eddie, cock pulling out of Becky's ass, trying desperately to shield his nakedness.

Anger is written all over Eddies face as Becky frantically undos Tim from the bedpost allowing him and the other nameless man to escape. "Get the fuck out!" Eddie shouted, gathering Beckys clothes and anything he could find, shoving it in her arms as he backed her out of his apartment. She pleaded her innocence with eyes wide and glossed over, hoping to soften the hurt in Eddies heart. 

But Eddies heart had already turned so cold that not even the California sun could thaw it through. 

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

Traveling from one coast to another, chasing that rockstar dream with nothing but loyal bandmates, and a van full of music equipment to get by. "So uh I hate to bring this up so late in our trip but does anyone know where 4 ugly dudes can crash for a few weeks?" Jeff questions, looking at each of his bandmates as they all shrug and mumble 'we'll figure it out' and 'don't worry,' Eddies "I'm not ugly asshole" has the boys laughing. He can sense the hopelessness of his friends, he was to blame for all their shortcomings and was determined to make it right for them."I made a few calls ok. My old neighbor moved out here with her boyfriend and she's gonna help us out." Looking out to the highway Eddie thought of all the things he wanted to see and do in California, dreams of the salt water spraying his face and Disneyland had him smiling all the way there. 

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

"This Morning the Daughter of Twisted Records Music Mogul Mr. Javi was released from the hospital. Having survived a home invasion that tragically took the life of her Mother just a few short months ago.

Mr. Javi requests privacy as he mourns the death of his wife and secures the safety and well being of his daughter. Investigators have informed us that the suspect is still at large and if you have any information you're urged to call your local Police Department."

Taglist:

@amira0303 @edsforehead

[esotericas-sims]

Somewhere else, some time in the future, after the story has ended,

"Will the witness recount her conversation with the defendant on the topic of Mr.-"

"Doctor," Adela said, before she could stop herself. Her palms were sweating. They smelled like pennies.

"Your brother never received his PhD, Miss Sanchez. Now, please recount the conversation you had with the defendant on the topic of your brother's discovery of... magical relics, in Peru."

Adela shifted in her seat. Straightened her shoulders. Did her best to keep the tremor out of her voice. "Mr. Keene was paying me," she said. Her voice sounded so small, in the great echoing space of the courtroom. "To spy on my brother."

"I showed him Ruy's study. I stole a copy from in his desk. Mr. Keene had promised me some of the money he would get for covering it up. Only-" Adela paused. "I didn't tell Mr. Keene this, but Ruy didn't write the article. Florence did. Ruy just put his name on it. Only I didn't tell Mr. Keene that..." Stay on track, stay on track. Adela was brilliant at all sorts of things, but public speaking was not one of them. And certainly not in such serious circumstances.

"He was angry. Very angry. He yelled something at me, um..." Adela wiped sweat from her brows. Why was she sweating so much? She had nothing to hide. Not anymore. "He told me, "I'm going to murder that Mexican bastard." But we're from Colombia, not Mexico. I would have said that, but it didn't seem like a good time..." There was a fly in a window ten yards away. It was buzzing, on and on. The fans whirred overhead, stirring thick, languid air. Adela knotted her hands together. "I told him maybe it was for the best if he let Ruy's study stand. He hit me, across the face, and-" Adela swallowed. She could feel Jonah's eyes on her. Those awful, weak, watery eyes.

"He told me to shut my mouth, and to keep doing my job. I told him I wouldn't let a white man tell me what to do. The next time I saw him, it was after-" Her throat tightened, tears threatening at her own eyes. "It was after."

Playing with  SeveralPerson’s Ultimate Decades Challenge Rules

Started: 1800s

Current decade: 1910s

Family tree

Spreadsheet

CC Finds

[nattinatalia]

Jack Harlow x Reader : ME OR HER PART 2

A/N: Read part 1 here & the Instagram AU here.

Featuring the one and only @hoodharlow 💖

When you left, Jack swore you took his heart with you. It’s been three years and till this day he still thinks about you, and he wonders how you’ve been.

He tried to get you back that night, he really did. But you made it your mission to cut all ties with him the moment you left. He would ask Nicky Jam about you, but had made it clear that it wasn’t his place to say anything concerning you or your music, so Jack just stopped trying to search for you all together.

It’s like you were erased, he tried looking for you on social media but he found nothing, he thought maybe you had changed your name if you decided to continue with your music, so he wouldn’t even know how to search for you.

He’s hurt, rightfully so. He can’t believe you would just walk away from him like that, like nothing mattered. But then again, maybe he should’ve stood up to his manager and set her straight.

He still carries the box with him. He still carries you in his broken heart. Because no matter what, he truly believes you were the love of his life.

“Jack, are you even listening to me?” Neelam breaks him out of his thoughts.

He rolls his eyes “Yes, you’ve been over the plans three times already.”

“Ok so get your shit together, and please, put that thing away.” Neelam points at the box he has in his palm. “It’s been three years, either sell it or throw it away, she’s not coming back.”

Jack glares “Yea because you made it your mission to push her away.”

“I didn't do anything, she chose all on her own.”

There’s a knock on the door “She’s here.” Urban says opening the door to the conference room.

Jack stands and nods “About time, I should’ve done this a long time ago.”

“Hello Jackman, nice to see you again.” A woman’s voice says as she walks into the room.

Jack nods “Blanca, always a pleasure.”

Neelam stands to look at her then back at Jack, she rolls her eyes “I told you, another little Mexican girl, and you’re still crying about the one that got away.”

“Excuse me?”

Neelam waves her hand in a dismissive way “No need to keep a conversation with me, I’ll get you the NDA papers to sign.”

Blanca laughs “Girl you are either stupid or slow, I’m not one of his girls, pendeja. I’m here to take your place.”

Neelam looks confused “I’m sorry what?”

Blanca smiles and extends her hand towards her “Blanca Hood, not so nice to meet you. Oh by the way, you’re fired.”

She laughs “She’s joking right? Jack, tell me this little girl is joking.”

He shakes his head “No, she means that. I should’ve put an end to your crap years ago.”

“Are you seriously still mad about that? Are you really going to get rid of me over the Mexican? Just because I made a few cleaning jokes? Come on, if she wouldn’t be doing music right now, I’m pretty sure that’s what she would be doing, scrubbing toil-“ Neelam doesn’t get to finish her words because she quickly falls to the floor due to someone punching her straight across her jaw.

“You racist bitch.” Blanca says and goes to take the seat Neelam was just sitting on. “You did my girl dirty, and I applaud her for how strong she is, but she should’ve also laid your ass out. Now me? Yeah I’m not taking any form of disrespect.”

“I will press charges against you for putting your hands on me.” She yells, touching her jaw.

“Go for it, I’ll do the same.”

“I didn’t even touch you.”

Blanca smiles “We know that, but the cops won’t. Pack your stuff and get out, unless you want me to bring my dog and have him drag you by your ugly ass hair.”

Urban chokes on his drink and starts laughing “I’ll walk you out Nee.” He says and takes her out of the room.

Now it’s just Jack and Blanca, his new manager, alone in the conference room.

“I don’t know how you or Y/N put up with the disrespect.”

Jack is confused “Wait, you know Y/N?”

Blanca nods “That’s my girl, her little sister is a fan of 5SOS- my husband’s band. I met her a few years ago at one of their shows, We've been friends ever since.”

Jack nods “So she told you about me?”

“No, not really, all she said was that she ran into you once and your manager wasn’t so welcoming.”

“Hmm, we did more than run into each other.” Jack scoffs

“I put two and two, but if she signed then she really couldn’t tell me anything else right?”

He nods “yeah.” He smiles “So how is she?”

Blanca shakes her head “Nope, I’m not telling you, you can ask her yourself when you see her.”

Jack looks up at her words “What do you mean?”

“You’re both performing at next month's festival in Miami. I’m obviously going to watch her set, so I made sure you’re free during and after.”

“Does she know I’m performing there too?”

“I’m pretty sure since your name is the first one on the flier.”

“I looked at the flier, she’s not on it.” Jack says confused.

Blanca smiles “Her manager is a close friend, she managed to book her for it. Now go look at the comment I pinned under your picture.” Blanca tells him as she tosses her phone into her bag and gets up from her seat.

“What? How? I’ve looked for her on social media and ended up with nothing.” Jack says surprised.

“She has a burner account, one which I’m pretty sure she has you and your entire team blocked. She just made that one, so enjoy it. I have to go check on some stuff with Chris, so you do whatever it is broken boys do.”

Blanca heads out the door and not even seconds pass by and Urban is storming into the room “Did you see? Y/N commented under your post.”

Jack nods but is frozen, he can’t believe he’s staring at you even if it’s through a screen.

You barely have any pictures up so he doesn’t know if you’re married or with kids. For all he knows, you’re probably living a married life with the white picket fence.

“She did it.” Jack says proudly, looking at the most recent video you had posted of a performance.

But he can’t help but feel somewhat bitter.

He wished he was there besides you. He wishes he was there cheering you on just like you used to do numerous times for him.

“Well what are you waiting for? You’ve been searching for her non stop, you got your opening. Reach out.” Urban tells him.

“Blanca said we’re both going to attend the festival next month in Miami, I think i’ll just wait until then.”

“What? Are you crazy? You’ve been missing her since she left and you’re going to wait a month to talk to her?”

“I don’t know what to say, my feelings are mixed. I’m happy I got to see a glimpse of what she’s doing but I’m still hurt she left like that. She blocked all of us, she blocked me, she erased me from her life. I’m just supposed to reach out and be happy about that.”

Urban rolls his eyes “So do all that, get mad at her, talk it out with her. But dude come on, she’s finally reaching out because she commented under your picture.”

Jack shrugs, “I just need to get all my thoughts together before I talk to her, get my feelings in order.”

“You’re an idiot, meanwhile I’ll reach out because I missed my wing woman” his best friend tells him and walks out the room.

This was something Jack has been waiting for for sometime now.

He should be happy to finally see what you've been doing. Yes, he’s happy that your music career is up and going but he feels bitter, he should’ve been there alongside you through it all.

He wonders if you struggled, if you felt any type of regret with the decision you took all those years ago.

Do you miss him like he missed you?

Do you still love him like he loves you?

All different thoughts and feelings were being brought up all at once and he doesn’t know what to do.

But he’ll have to figure something out soon because just then a direct message from you comes in and has him freezing up.

Y/N : Hey superstar ⭐️ long time no talk, how are you?

•

TAG LIST

@heavyhitterheaux

@harlowsbby

@arination99

@cmalass

@jackharloww

@minkookie95

@deannaard

@jacksmoviestar

@harlowcomehome

@fdl305

@httpkoylinnn

@xoxokiaraaxoxo

@hoodharlow

@automaticpeachsong

@amethyst09

@aliciacat20

@allyson15

@peakascum

[emaadsidiki]

West Coast da Best Coast 🌊🏖️

[rjalker]

the mexican fan palm has grown maybe 2 feet in 3 years

[tonytomeo]

No Bad Habit

Washingtonia robusta, Mexican fan palm Technically, this one is different. I did not get it from a situation that it needed to be removed from at work, and then can it because I did not want it to be discarded. I did not grow it from seed or cutting that I ‘borrowed’ from a landscape somewhere else. I did not ‘borrow’ it from Brent’s gardens at the Jungalow. I did not find it for free on…

[rayslittlekitten]

Random WIP 2

Here is another Will x OFC first chapter of a fic I started. Again, I hadn't quite figured everything out yet which is why it's at a halt but there's also a very specific story I want to tell with this and it's one I've been wanting to tell for like the last 10 years and found an opportunity here. This is supposed to take place shortly after TF where Will is laying low before heading home:

The dimly lit restaurant is quiet, save for the jazzy cover songs and crickets softly filling the humid air. A breeze comes through the outdoor eatery every once in a while to bring relief. Some strategically placed small fans help but it's mostly the large colorful banners hanging from the perimeter of the roof that are getting any of it. The bright sugar skull-patterned tablecloths lay neatly and wrinkle free on the table tops. A large chalkboard hanging above the wooden bar lists a small menu of mainly Mexican fare and drinks, despite being in a Costa Rican tourist town. Typical dive bar decorations are hanging from or sitting on corners of the hut: a dart board, plants, a surfboard. Random knick knacks are scattered across the bar top. The scents of grilled meats waft out from the tiny kitchen hidden behind a swinging door behind the bar. 

It's a slow night for this secluded hole-in-the-wall and normally would close early if there are no patrons, but there is one sitting at the bar, enjoying his cold beers at his leisure while snacking on guacamole and chips. His blue eyes are fixated on his phone in one hand while the other tips back the brown glass bottle to empty the last drops of Imperial into his mouth. He places the bottle on the bar top next to the ashtray and when he tries to get the bartender's attention, a woman plops down on the stool a couple of seats down from him.

"Hola! Bienvenidos!" The bartender greets the new patron.

The first thing the blonde man notices is the tiara on top of her head. It shines bright even in this low light. 

"Hola! Um... una cerveza por favor?" the crowned woman asks.

"Cual quieres?"

"Uh... ingles?" she asks with uncertainty.

"What kind of beer do you want?" the man jumps in to translate.

"Oh!" She turns to face him. "Uh... I'll take whatever you're having," she answers, pointing to the bottle next to him.

"Dos Imperial, por favor," he tells the bartender while holding up two fingers. 

The bartender nods and goes to grab two new bottles, placing them in front of them.

"Gracias!" he says and the woman next to him follows suit.

"Uh... cuando?" she asks as she digs through her clutch.

"You mean cuanto," the man corrects her. 

"Los sientos, mi español es no muy bueno," she tells him.

"Not bad," he tips his head with a small smirk. “It's 1200 colones for that beer."

"Gracias," she tips her head back and hands the bartender a 2000 colones note. 

When the bartender hands her the change, she puts her hands out, palms up and gestures to her.

"No, no, for you. Pa-para tu," she tells her.

"Gracias," the bartender nods.

"Thanks for the..." she brings up the beer bottle to present to him.

"No problem," he flashes a polite smile before taking a swig of his ice cold beer.

He turns his attention back to his phone, scrolling through social media. 

"So, you work here or something? Expat?" she asks, looking over at him.

"No, no," he shakes his head and chuckles, pulling his attention away from his phone. "I'm just on vacation. I've just been coming here a lot during my stay.”

“Do you speak Spanish fluently?”

“No, not really. Just know enough to get by,” he answers.

"You here by yourself?" she asks, taking a gulp of her beer.

"Yup," he nods, taking a swig of his own. "How about you?"

"I'm also on vacation. Bachelorette party actually." She rolls her eyes.

"Your bachelorette party?" he asks with a raised brow.

"Oh, god no," she waves her hand in front of her while shaking her head. "My future sister-in-law."

"Where's the rest of the party?" he asks curiously while pulling a cigarette out of a half-empty pack.

"They're back at the Airbnb we rented, passed out or shitfaced. I had to get away from all that. It's been a crazy couple of days."

"You mind?" he asks, showing her the cigarette.

"No, but if you have some weed, I'll join you," she answers with a smirk.

"Sorry, I don't have any," he shrugs apologetically before lighting up his cigarette. "Aren't bachelorette parties supposed to be all crazy?"

"Yeah, I guess but I don't really know the other girls too well. They all went to college together, were in the same sorority. Very tight knit. They probably haven't even realized I left." She takes another large gulp of her beer. "To be honest, I only came for my brother. I know it means a lot to him."

"Well, maybe you should insert yourself," he licks his lips to wet them before taking a drag of his cigarette. "Let your presence be known."

She stares at him for a moment with narrow eyes.

"You mind if I sit next to you?" she asks as she slowly rises from her stool.

"You're more than welcome," he waves his hand over the stool next to him, offering her the seat.

She grabs her beer and shuffles over a few stools down and gets comfortable in the seat next to him. She’s suddenly hit with the smell of cigarette smoke and a sweet, woody scent.

"I'm Jasmine by the way," she offers her hand. 

He glances down at her hand for a moment before making eye contact again.

"Hi, Jasmine. I'm John." He takes her hand and shakes it. "Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too."

"So Jasmine? Like the princess from Aladdin?" 

"Wow! I expected a guy like you to maybe compare it to the flower or tea, not a children's cartoon," she answers in surprise.

"I have friends with young children that I've babysat and they like to watch a lot of Disney movies," he laughs, but it dies quickly, almost like he regretted mentioning it.

"Well, don't let this tiara fool you," she points to the shiny cheap plastic affixed to atop of her head. "I'm no princess," she takes a swig of her drink. "Although, I have had a bee land on my arm once right before it stung me."

"Well, I think that qualifies you as a Disney princess."

"I'm not interested." She scrunches her nose and shakes her head. "Too many damsels doing dumb shit for a fairytale ending. You know who I'd rather be? The sidekicks. The talking animals. They're the ones who slap some common sense into these princesses." She slaps a hand on the bar top.

He takes a drag of his cigarette while listening to her nonsense talk.

"Plus, they're the sassiest ones."

"Like you?" he chuckles after blowing out smoke from the corner of his mouth away from her face, but some of the soft white clouds find their way back as it disperses into the air.

"You think I'm sassy?" she asks curiously, turning her body towards him, accidentally knocking her bare knee into his.

He eyes her up and down for a moment, taking notice of the low cut mini dress she has on, and shrugs. 

"I'd say so in the very short time I've known you." 

"So why are you here? Vacationing alone here in Costa Rica?" She asks as she crosses her legs. She doesn't miss his eyes darting down to her legs.

"I just needed some time away," he shrugs. "I had a bit of uh, a very stressful... gig recently and just need to kind of regroup myself before going back home."

"What do you do?" 

"I'm a motivational speaker," he answers.

"Motivational speaking is stressful?" she asks with wide eyes. “Geez, who or what are you trying to motivate?”

"No, no," he shakes his head while chuckling. "The gig was... it was something else. Honestly, I'd rather not talk about it." He takes one last pull of his cigarette and puts it out in the ashtray.

"Sorry I brought it up. Sounds like a sore subject."

"It's alright," he says, exhaling the smoke out. “You didn’t know.”

"So where are you from?" She changes the subject.

"Colorado. How about you?" He crosses his arms.

"I’m from Jersey," she replies. 

"Ahh, the armpit of America," he laughs.

"Okay, Mr. Colorado, New Jersey isn't so bad. Jersey Shore just gives it a bad rap. And honestly, most of those people on the show aren't even from New Jersey," she defends.

“Oh, New Jersey sounds like a sore subject for you,” he jabs, downing a large sip of his beer.

Jasmine is about to give her rebuttal, but she is distracted. She licks her lips watching his Adam's apple bob up and down as he tilts his head back, exposing his neck while he takes a few gulps.

“So why here? Why this… bar? Restaurant? I’m not even sure what to call it,” she asks.

“I like it here,” he shrugs.

“It’s kinda dead in here,” she comments, looking around.

“That’s what I like about it.” He takes a sip of his beer. “Less people, less trouble.”

“Are you running away from trouble?” she asks curiously.

He licks his lip and thinks for a moment.

“No, ma’am,” he shakes his head. “Just my own thoughts. What are you running away from?” Twisting his body towards her, he turns the tables on her.

“I already told you. The bachelorette party,” she answers quickly, then polishes off half the beer.

“Is that really all you’re running away from?” he prods.

She switches her legs, uncrossing and crossing them again, causing her legs to brush his again. He shifts in his stool, adjusting himself.

“Yes. Yes, I am,” she nods. “You wanna do a shot?” She quickly switches gears.

“Sure, I’ll do one with ya.”

“Any preference?” she asks as she flags the bartender down. “It’s on me.”

“No, I got this one,” he says as he pulls out his wallet. “I’m usually a whiskey kinda guy, but have you had guaro?”

“What’s that?”

“It’s a popular Costa Rican liquor.”

“Well, if you’re buying, I’ll let you pick,” she says.

“Dos tragos de guaro, por favor,” he jumps in.

“You sure you don’t speak Spanish fluently?” she narrows her eyes at him.

“I can order food and drinks, and curse,” he laughs.

The bartender serves up the two sweet shots for them. 

“Salud,” he cheers.

They clink their glasses together and they throw them back.

“Ooh it burns.” She chases it down with her beer.

“Oof, it does,” he coughs, doing the same.

“Well, I’ll get the next one. You like tequila?”

“This might be our only shot. They’re closing now,” he says, glancing at his watch.

“Where are you staying, if you don’t mind me asking?” she asks curiously.

“Not too far from here. A hotel up the road,” he answers. “How about you?”

“Same, but down the road I guess, at the bottom of the hill.”

“Would you like me to walk you back to your Airbnb? It’s a relatively safe area, but I’m willing to accompany you and make sure you get back to your Bachelorette party safely,” he volunteers.

“That’s not a party I’m interested in continuing.” Her manicured fingernails graze his tattooed forearm resting on the bar top.

He glances down at his arm and then back to her. He licks his lips, swallows and leans in a bit closer, entering her personal space.

“Well, uh, I think I’ve still got a bottle of whiskey back in my room,” he suggests.

“Oh yeah?” She replies, intrigued, leaning in to close the gap between them. “Want some company?”

“You always trust strangers so easily, especially in a foreign country?” he asks curiously.

“I’m not looking for trust. I’m just looking for a good time. Do you trust me?”

He studies her face for a few moments, his eyes moving between her plump lips and her flirty eyes which are also darting between his own pink lips and lustful baby blues, deciding on his answer.

“Besides, if you kidnap me, there are a bunch of women who will know I’m missing if I don’t show up back at the Airbnb,” she points out. 

“You have a point,” he nods.

“I’m also not in the business of kidnapping or stealing or any of that stuff, if you’re worried about that. To be honest, it sounds like way too much work than I’m willing to put in,” she adds and he laughs.

“Well then, after you, princess,” he gestures his arm out, letting her go first.

“Hey, I told you, I’m no princess,” she says as she gets up from her seat and tugs the snug dress down. “Also, you may be blonde and handsome, but don’t go all Prince Charming on me.”

“No, I’m definitely not,” he laughs, shaking his head. “Although I’m flattered. You’re done with your drink?”

“Yeah, I’ve got a taste for something else right now,” she replies as steps into the space between his legs, looking down at his face. 

Looking back up at her, he licks his lips again.

“Come on, Rajah,” he smirks. “Let’s get out of here.”

“Who?” she asks cluelessly.

“Rajah, Jasmine’s tig– nevermind,” he shakes his head and laughs.

He gets up from the stool, finishes the rest of his beer, and then tosses a few bills onto the bar.

“Gracias! ¡Buenas noches!” He waves to the bartender and walks off with his new friend.

[isabelcanasauthor]

Nebulas Eligibility Post!

I hate doing these, but in the spirit of the hustle, here we are!

Novel

For your consideration, I offer The Hacienda, a “gothic tale of doomed love and vengeful spirits” (The Washington Post) for fans of Mexican Gothic and Rebecca, set in the aftermath of the Mexican War of Independence, about a remote house, a sinister haunting, and the woman pulled into their clutches…

“A thing of uncanny, chilling beauty. Hauntings, exorcisms, incantations, forbidden love—The Hacienda transports one to a world where love triumphs over demons.” —The New York Times

An NPR and Publisher's Weekly Best Book of 2022

An Amazon Best Books of the Year in Mystery, Thriller & Suspense

A Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for Best Horror and Best Debut Novel

A Barnes & Noble Best Books of the Year So Far Pick

Novelette

In March 2022, GigaNotoSaurus published "The Law of Take" (8,300 words), a space fantasy retelling of the medieval Persian romance Vis & Ramin.

“The law of take, though, isn’t something that can be fol­lowed halfway, and the story does a great job of following Vis through the ambition, drama, and action that follows in the wake of not conceding the things that matter most [...] a rollercoaster ride of a tale that does not disappoint.” —Locus Magazine

Short Story

Of my 2022 short story publications, I would be honored if you read "Six Goats," a published in Fireside Magazine's final issue (1,100 words). An anti-colonial high fantasy, sweeping and sapphic and small enough to nestle in the palm of your hand.

“Cañas doesn’t shy away from the violence and chaos of colonization or revolution, but also centers the power of memory and storytelling in the face of historical erasure and genocide.” —Locus Magazine

[thelensofyashunews]

Superstar Mexican Act Fuerza Regida Announces "Pero No Te Enamores Tour," Their Summer 2024 Tour

Led by their smooth-voiced singer Jesús Ortiz Paz, regional Mexican outfit Fuerza Regida has been climbing charts on both sides of the border. Today, the Platinum-selling grupo announces "Pero No Te Enamores Tour," their next headlining tour. Produced by Live Nation and kicking off on June 6th in Austin, TX, the "Pero No Te Enamores Tour" takes the group across North America for a series of dates, including shows in Atlanta, New York, Houston, and more, before closing with a show in Inglewood, CA. The 5-man group saluted their hometown fans with a special mural in their native San Bernardino, CA, displaying the tour artwork and dates in the center of the city.

TICKETS: General onsale tickets will be available beginning on Friday, April 12 at 10am local time at livenation.com.

VIP:  Fans can also purchase VIP Packages, which may include premium tickets, access to the VIP after party with members of the band, Soundcheck, Meet & Greet + group photo with Fuerza Regida, Pre-show VIP Lounge, specially designed VIP gift item & more. VIP package contents vary based on offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

Fuerza's upcoming nationwide tour is their latest step on the road to world domination, following a 2023 full of new commercial heights and well-deserved accolades. The group shared their biggest album to date, Pa Las Baby's Y Belikeada, which peaked at #2 on Billboard's Latin Albums chart and reached the Top 15 of the Billboard 200. The album generated billions of streams across platforms, led by hits like "TQM" (peaked at #34 at the Billboard Hot 100), "Sabor Fresa" (#26 on the Hot 100), and "HARLEY QUINN" (#40 on the Hot 100), their collaboration with Marshmello that became their first-ever #1 hit on the Latin Airplay chart. The success of Pa Las Baby's Y Belikeada propelled Fuerza Regida to two Billboard Music Awards in 2023, plus the #1 spot on Billboard's Top Duo/Group year-end artist chart.

Most recently, Fuerza released their EP, Dolido Pero No Arrepentido, which arrived just in time for Valentine's Day. The album debuted at #2 on Billboard's Latin Albums chart, and all six songs from the EP reached Billboard's Hot Latin Songs chart. The upcoming tour will feature the first performances of songs from the new EP. 

Stay tuned for much more information about Fuerza Regida in the near future.

 

"Pero No Te Enamores Tour" dates:  *Not A Live Nation Date

Jun 06        Austin, TX        Moody Center Jun 09        Edinburg, TX        Bert Ogden Arena Jun 14        Oklahoma City, OK    Paycom Center Jun 15        Ridgedale, MO        Thunder Ridge Nature Arena Jun 16        Kansas City, MO    T-Mobile Center Jun 21        San Diego, CA        Viejas Arena Jun 22        Phoenix, AZ        Footprint Center Jun 29        Portland, OR        Moda Center Jun 30        Seattle, WA        Climate Pledge Arena Jul 06        San Jose, CA        SAP Center Jul 07        Fresno, CA        Save Mart Center at Fresno State Jul 13        Houston, TX        Toyota Center Jul 20        Dallas, TX        Dos Equis Pavilion Jul 26        Atlanta, GA        State Farm Arena Jul 27        Tampa, FL        Amalie Arena Jul 28        Sunrise, FL        Amerant Bank Arena Aug 02        Greensboro, NC    Greensboro Coliseum Complex Aug 04        Belmont Park, NY    UBS Arena Aug 16        Milwaukee, WI        Fiserv Forum Aug 17        Indianapolis, IN    Gainbridge Fieldhouse Sep 01        Tinley Park, IL        Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre Sep 06        Salt Lake City, UT    Delta Center Sep 08        Denver, CO        Ball Arena Sep 15        Las Vegas, NV        T-Mobile Arena Sep 20        San Antonio, TX    Frost Bank Center Sep 21        El Paso, TX        UTEP Don Haskins Center Sep 28        Anaheim, CA        Honda Center Sep 29        Palm Desert, CA    Acrisure Arena Oct 05        Sacramento, CA    Golden 1 Center Oct 11        Leon, MX        Mega Velaria* Oct 12        Mexico City, MX    Plaza De Toros* Oct 31        Monterrey, MX        Arena Monterrey* Nov 1        Monterrey, MX        Arena Monterrey* Nov 2        Torreon, MX        Coliseo Centenario* Nov 7        Oaxaca, MX        Auditorio GNP* Nov 9        San Luis Potosi, MX    El Domo Nov 16        Inglewood, CA        Intuit Dome

[reynita9]

the Mexican Fan Palm, the iconic palm that’s most commonly associated to Los Angeles when we think of it,is actually non native and invasive… it’s originally from Baja and Sonora. I do love it though