#Triple Treat II

[jazzdailyblog]

Monty Alexander: A Melodic Journey through Jazz and Beyond

Introduction: Monty Alexander, the legendary Jamaican jazz pianist, has been a significant figure in the jazz world for over six decades. Known for his vibrant performances, innovative interpretations, and a unique blend of jazz with Caribbean rhythms, Alexander’s musical journey is a fascinating exploration of cross-cultural influences and artistic evolution. In this blog post, we delve into…

[kjhbsies]

Strings of Love

Rockstar Ellie Williams x fem!reader

Synopsis: Ellie Williams is the country's biggest rock star. Who wouldn't be charmed by her beautiful face? And, oh, have you heard her voice? It's heavenly. On the other hand, Ellie does know you. How couldn't she? You're quite hard to forget. You supported them from the start until now. But one night changed it all as both of you got into an argument. Warnings: not proofread! beware of grammatical errors (english isn't my first language). Ellie is kind of an asshole in here lol.

PART II : PART III

Apocalyptic Serenade is a rock band consisting of five members. They all started as an unknown band playing in their house’s garage, until they became more popular as they started to have different gigs in some crappy bars. Both of them didn’t know how they reached the peak level of their popularity, as many people started admiring their works, especially their looks. 

Ellie Williams is the lady-killer and a Casanova. As the lead singer of the band, she is the most popular among them – especially with the girls. She was well known for having different girls in bed every night, using them like a ragdoll and throwing them away like a toy in the morning. No one complained about it though, they claimed that tasting her is heaven, even if Ellie treats them like shit afterwards. 

You are their avid fan. Ever since the start, you got hooked on the band’s performance when you first heard of them. You can still remember that they’re playing in a local bar in the small town where you lived. It was a hot Friday night of April, you and your friends wanted to unwind right after the finals and there happened to be a small band playing in your favorite bar. 

When you first saw Ellie, she was sporting baggy jeans and a flannel. The sleeves were rolled up in her elbows, showing her tattooed arm. You figured out that she’s the lead singer when she stepped in the middle, her ringed fingers clutching the strings of her guitar while the other was strumming it. 

You did not expect to become so immersed in a person that you feel like at that time, when you first heard her voice, you wanted to drop down on your knees and just start to worship her. She was… heavenly. Her voice is one of a kind that even angels couldn’t resist listening to. 

Ellie noticed you standing in the middle of the almost empty bar. Everyone in here was beet drunk and the others aren’t even listening to them play. Ellie couldn’t care less about it at all. It was just like this all the time. At first, she couldn’t bear the idea that people weren’t even paying them attention – and that they’re just playing for nothing. Though, when they first received their small paycheck, Ellie accepted the reality. 

However, you changed the perception of her life.

You were the first person to watch them with such intensity that even she couldn’t almost look you straight in the eye. Her heart beat tripled in excitement and it’s as if you just gave her the energy to sing and play passionately. 

Finally, someone is listening. 

And it was you. 

That was the first time that you became their number one fan. You’re always attending their gigs, even if the location is miles away from your home. Listening to their music on spotify, watching their videos on youtube, and always stalking their instagram account. Your friends think that this is an addiction, and maybe it is.

However, their status and fame made Ellie Williams even more unreachable. Everyone loves her – I mean, who doesn’t? She’s a very talented woman, and aside from that, she radiates an energy that no one can resist. You know that idolizing someone who won’t even remember your face how many times you attend their gigs has its consequences but somehow, you grew accustomed to it. Watching and reading news articles about Ellie’s new potential lover doesn’t make your heart hurt like hell more than it did before. But a small part of you wishes to experience even being near her. 

You always wondered how it would feel like having to hear her speak to your ears sweetly. Or how is she as a girlfriend? Would she play you her favorite songs? Would she write a whole ass album dedicated to you?

But every time those daydreams start forming in your thoughts, the reality will always seep in. That you’re just an ordinary girl and she’s a rockstar. Both of your worlds weren’t going to collide no matter how hard you try. And Ellie Williams is out of your reach. 

On the contrary, Ellie feels the same way with you.

You’d think that after that night she first saw you, she’d immediately forget your face. I mean, how can she when she thinks that she just met the most angelic person in the world? Everything about you, your face, your body, the way you dress caught her eye. 

The two of you met each other 3 years ago, and since then, you’re the only girl who’s been on her mind. 

Ellie tried to push her thoughts away, wanting to forget you. I mean, she’s the rockstar of the year, every girl flocked at the sight of her, every one, I repeat, everyone wants to be with Ellie. And having a girl clinging on to her mind for years is really pathetic. Not to mention that she doesn’t really know your name because every time she sees you in one of their gigs or concerts, she couldn’t get the chance to ask for you. God knows she tried to step down the stage the moment they’re done performing because she knows that you’ll be gone so fast but still, Ellie couldn’t catch up. Ellie desperately begs for their manager to get your name and contact information when she sees you in the midst of the crowd but it always fails. 

After several months, when Ellie’s popularity gained so much attention from everyone, every girl threw themselves at her. And Ellie made that an opportunity to forget you. You’re just a random fan girl, you should be easy to forget. You were nothing compared to her. And she’s not the one who should be begging for your attention. Ellie has everything and she could get whatever and whoever she wants. 

But apparently, not you.

Because no matter how hard Ellie tries to think about the fact that you are just a mere fan girl and that you should be the one on your knees wanting for a little bit of her attention, Ellie still couldn’t resist finding you in the middle of the crowd. And you’re always there. So, every after their gig, Ellie would take someone in a fancy hotel, preferably the one who looks just like you. Because Ellie only wanted you. 

She wouldn’t admit that, though. 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

It was one of those days where you’d go to the Apocalyptic Serenade’s gig, and luckily, the bar is just near where your apartment is. And naturally, you’d go, just like you always do. But right now, you’re with your friends to have a nice night out after such a stressful day. 

You are wearing a skimpy black dress with a leather jacket to give a small amount of warmth throughout the night. You’ve done your hair and makeup beautifully, wanting to look exquisite, even though Ellie won’t notice you for the nth time. 

But who cares? You look so good and you’re having the best night of your life.

When the three of you arrived at the bar, it was pumped with people. The band is already playing at the stage and all of you managed to squeeze yourself in an empty seat, just where you can still have a perfect view of the band – especially Ellie Williams.

Ellie sensed that it was you who walked inside. How did she know that? Maybe after years of you going everywhere they performed, she already memorized your figure no matter how far away you are, or how dim the lights are in the club. 

She tried so hard not to look your way but she can feel that you’re staring and watching her. And it made her nervous. What the fuck? It’s always like this and everytime she is frustrated because how can you make her fingers tremble when all you’ve just done is to stare at her? You don’t hold a huge amount of power over her. You just can’t. Because Ellie is a fucking star, and you should be the one worshipping her. Not the other way around.

But oh, boy, she does spare a glance at you, and thankfully, you’re not looking at her. Ellie almost stopped playing and singing when she saw you take off your leather jacket and it revealed the most beautiful woman in front of her. 

It was the first time seeing you in this kind of clothing and to be honest, she’s mad as hell. She’s mad because she couldn't even touch a single strand of your hair. She’s mad because she can’t roam and feel your curves against her fingers. She’s mad because you are taking every willpower against her that it almost made her kneel in front of you.

Ellie’s neck reddened and she shut her eyes tightly. The grip on her guitar is hard as she tries to stop her dirty thoughts in her mind. 

You couldn’t even get her name, how can you get her on your sheets? She thought to herself. 

When Ellie opened her eyes, she saw a little commotion around your table. She saw you struggling to pull your arm away from a man’s grip on your hands. You looked uncomfortable, wanting to immediately push him as he kept on insisting on buying you a drink and when you politely declined, he viewed it as a little challenge. Your friends are nowhere to be found and you are stuck with him. Panic rose up through your throat and it made your body go cold. 

“I’m gonna go to the restroom.” You said, but he immediately gripped your waist. 

“I can assist you. You might trip.”

You gulped. “No, thank you. I’m not really drunk.”

And instead of letting you go, he immediately pulled you on his body. This made you want to cry as his grip gets harder and harder that you’re afraid that it might bruise. Unbeknownst to you, the music stopped and Ellie is walking towards you.

“The lady said no, dude.” She interrupted. 

The crowd went silent, and suddenly, everyone’s camera pointed towards your direction. The panic you were feeling earlier was replaced by shock. Your heart beat tripled as you stared at the girl in front of you.

The rock star of the year.

Ellie fucking Williams.

What the fuck is happening…

She looked so beautiful as you can perfectly see her face up close. You thought that every single one of her features were exquisite. Her green eyes, nose, freckled cheeks, lips, the way she did her usual half up bun, the way she stands and even how she dresses. Everything about her screams power.

“Oh, you're the one who’s singing there earlier, right?” The man in front of you smirked. “You’re shit.” He gripped you harder. “Sorry, man, you need to find another girl to accompany you in bed. I don’t share.”

Ellie’s eyes darkened when he pulled your wrist. You winced, as you can feel his nails are digging into your skin.

Ellie punched the man so hard that he stumbled at the stools behind him. Everyone gasped in shock, including you. Your jaw dropped into the floor and your eyes widened at the scene in front of you. Her bandmates immediately got off the stage to go behind their lead singer.

But Ellie is still not done yet. She watched as the man tried to move his jaw with such anger in her eyes. Her tongue traced the inside of her cheeks before kneeling in front of him. Grabbing his collar, she started to throw punches at him. Her bandmates tried to stop her but she is far stronger than all of them combined. And aside from that, everyone is afraid of her.

When the man’s face was covered in blood, and he couldn’t even open his eyes, and as his consciousness was going away, Ellie stopped. She smiled triumphantly at the sight in front of her. Finally, the bouncers immediately pulled her away from the man who molested you. Ellie harshly pulled away from the bouncer’s grip before looking at your horrified face.

You two locked eyes and Ellie could feel the same beat of her heart when she first saw you. 

“What-” You started, but the flashes of the camera stopped you from talking. 

Ellie noticed it and thus she yelled, “Nobody touches her!” She then stormed away from you, and from everyone to go backstage.

“You okay?” Jordan, the lead guitarist placed her hand on your shoulder. You nodded, still couldn’t speak. “You should talk to Ellie, she's backstage. Just follow me, okay?”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“What the fuck, Ellie?!” Jesse, the band’s manager yelled at the girl who looked like she couldn’t care less. 

Ellie straight up drank the bottle of whiskey that was on the table. Her face is slowly reddening, as alcohol starts running through her veins. Her mind swirled, and she couldn’t even make out what her manager was saying in front of her.

“My hand hurts.” She said, looking at her knuckles.

Jesse scoffed in disbelief. He ran his hands through his hair, messing it up. “You didn’t know how much trouble you’ve caused?! Aside from the fact that you almost murdered a man, many people witnessed how violent you are. And God, it’ll be all over the internet. Do you know how hard it is to clean up your mess?!” 

Ellie snickered.

“Oh, you find that funny, huh? You are unbelievable!” He cursed for the nth time of the man. “What if the man wants to sue you, huh? What would you do?”

Ellie looked at him. “What would you do?”

“You fuck- Nevermind. I’ll go out and settle this and you should just sit there and shut the fuck up!” Jesse then stormed out backstage, closing the door with a loud bang.

Ellie took another long shot from the drink in her hand. She sat lazily at the couch while thinking of your face. 

Was it worth it? 

Yes.

A hundred times yes.

After a couple of minutes, one of her bandmates started to come in with serious faces. 

“That’s fucked up.” Alex said, closing her arm in front of her chest. “But you did the right thing, dude.” She gave Ellie a tight-lipped smile. “Riley and Nat are talking to the crowd, calming them, just to distract everyone from what happened. I think it’s working. Everyone loves fan service.” Both of them snickered. “Jesse is talking to the manager. I think he’s settling everyone. Was he mad?”

“Very.” Ellie smiled before drinking again.

“You’re so fucked up.” 

“Where’s Jordan?”

“Here.” She walked in, holding an ice bag in her hand. Ellie saw another familiar head behind Jordan, tailing her. She tilted her head to get a better view of her and she immediately straightened up.

Her brows knitted as she fully saw you. 

“You two should talk to each other because this is just so… messy.” Jordan said, handing you the ice bag. “We’ll leave you.” They immediately then exited the room.

So now, you were left with Ellie. Sitting almighty in front of you. 

“Ice bags?” You asked hesitatingly while lifting it. You bit your lips nervously as Ellie just stared blankly at you before standing up. 

She went up in front of you, and the smell of her musky perfume filled your nose. She towered over you, her face looking dark before snatching the ice bag in your hand.

Ellie did not know why she’s mad. She wanted so bad to ask you if you’re okay, maybe look at the wrist that the man is gripping so hard, she wanted to ask if it bruised, she wanted to cure where it hurts, but the thump of her heart as she looks at you made her realize that you have a great hold at her.

Ellie cares greatly for the stranger in front of her. 

But why?

That question started to haunt her. 

Why why why why?

No, she doesn’t care that much. She can prove that to herself.

“Was it worth it?” Ellie said drunkenly.

“What?” You looked at her. 

“Did you do that to get my attention?” 

Your brows knitted so hard. You couldn’t believe what she was saying. “Are you implying that I wanted to get molested to get your attention?” Your voice started rising.

This is supposed to be easy. Ellie shrugged. “I mean, I always see you wherever we perform. Maybe you just got tired of being a fucking nobody at the crowd so you did that.” She snickered. “Damn, that’s so low.”

You slapped Ellie. Your eyes are bloodshot red as the tears start streaming down your face. You stared at her, feeling hurt. You breathed heavily and Ellie is still facing the direction where you slapped her. She couldn’t bear to look at your face. She just can’t. 

“Fuck you.” You whispered before storming out.

Being mean to you is supposed to be easy. But why did Ellie feel like her heart’s going to explode from doing that?

[pimosworld]

Read it again- part I

I wanted to start a list of recs that I find myself going back to when I’m happy or sad or just in need of something to distract me from the crazy world we live in. This will be multiple parts so consider this the first installment. These will be old/new/current wips and fics.

Please head the warnings in each fic or series.

Triple Frontier

The devils backbone- @ezrasbirdie

Feed your ego- @whatthefishh

War makes thieves and peace hangs them- @brandyllyn

Messy Pile of Affection Series- @flightlessangelwings

The homecoming series- @astroboots

Awakening Series- @romanarose

Switch to channel 2- @autumnleaves1991-blog

My best friends girl- @tropes-and-tales

Moon Knight

Prized possession- @melodygatesauthor

Third ones the charm-(part I, part II) @missdictatorme

Egg Fried Rice- @my-secret-shame-but-fanfiction

The Jake problem- (part I, part II) @bensolosbluesaber

For science- @projectionistwrites

Joel Miller

Pink- @netherfeildren

The checklist- @thetriumphantpanda

Trick or Treat- @morallyinept

Meet me in the back- @atticrissfinch

Honey do- @kiwisbell

Take care of you- @theidiotwhowritesthings

Javier Peña

It’s never too late- @javierpena-inatacvest

Paranoid heart- @goodwithcheese

Late night texts- @undercoverpena

D.I.Y.- @swiftispunk

Please comment and reblog the authors works that they pour their time, heart and soul into.

Feel free to leave a comment with your favorite re-read or message me directly to include in future installments.

[storiesforallfandoms]

Masterlist 3!

Here’s the third masterlist for all of my works! If you want to check out more of my work, here’s the links for masterlist one and masterlist two Imagines marked * are smutty imagines! Imagines marked ` are requests! Imagines marked ⭐ are personal favorites!

IMAGINES

STRANGER THINGS small ~ jim hopper` dance with me ~ eddie munson ⭐ starry night ~ steve harrington* (part five) ⭐ at the hip ~ steve harrington` ⭐ triple date ~ steve harrington (part six) ⭐ the freak ~ steve harrington (part seven) ⭐ oblivious ~ eddie munson ⭐ jason doesn’t know ~ eddie munson ⭐ this is music ~ eddie munson` ⭐

SUPERNATURAL strange human feelings ~ castiel` cleaning ~ dean winchester`

HANNIBAL into fiction` sob story ~ hannibal lecter

THE BOYS obsession ~ billy butcher* ⭐ herogasm ~ soldier boy* ⭐ alone on christmas ~ billy butcher can’t get too close ~ billy butcher ⭐ change in a heartbeat ~ billy butcher ⭐ the bad room ~ homelander ⭐

THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY life father ~ diego hargreeves` rescue mission ~ klaus hargreeves’ ⭐

THE LAST OF US (HBO) friendly neighbors ~ joel miller ⭐ too sweet ~ joel miller

BARRY attraction ~ barry berkman` treat him better ~ barry berkman

AMERICAN HORROR STORY late night sins ~ xavier plympton (1984)*`

VICTORIOUS lost dog ~ tori vega` junker ~ beck oliver

HEMLOCK GROVE i don’t ever wanna see you with him ~ roman godfrey ⭐

THE VAMPIRE DIARIES roses are red ~ damon salvatore` ⭐

OUR FLAG MEANS DEATH captive ~ blackbeard/ed teach ⭐

PEAKY BLINDERS moved on ~ thomas shelby

FUTURE MAN winner ~ josh futturman* ⭐

GAME OF THRONES littlest lion ~ oberyn martell (part one) ⭐ freedom ~ oberyn martell (part two) ⭐

THE WITCHER destiny ~ geralt of rivia

DOCTOR WHO looks of a princess ~ eleventh doctor ⭐

BRIDGERTON by the lake ~ benedict bridgerton

THE GENTLEMEN the assistant ~ raymond smith ⭐

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN spirit of nature ~ jack sparrow`

THE MAZE RUNNER i’ll keep you safe ~ newt`

MARVEL how things are now ~ marc spector and steven grant` ⭐ kneel ~ loki* the most wonderful time ~ bucky barnes fast ~ pietro maximoff ⭐

1917 early morning ~ will schofield*`

THE UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT happy birthday ~ javi gutierrez ⭐

FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY’S i need someone older ~ william afton ⭐ the ice cream girl ~ mike schmidt

SALTBURN new toy ~ felix catton ⭐ partners ~ oliver quick ⭐

THE SANTA CLAUSE santa’s sister-in-law ~ bernard the elf

8 MILE one of the guys ~ jimmy smith jr ⭐

THE FALL GUY the space cowboy and the pa ~ tom ryder

A QUIET PLACE i’d find you in any life ~ eric ⭐

GLADIATOR II betrothed ~ emperor geta ⭐

PETE DAVIDSON your gift` favoritism`

HARRY STYLES the perfect tree a star in the making` sleepy head`

MACHINE GUN KELLY baby mama` ⭐ my queen*` getting your attention*` all the mistakes` not what it looks like` can’t keep doing this*`

EMINEM may the best artist win*` too close for comfort` ⭐ when it’s wrong but it feels right` in the dressing room*` he’s acting different` we have to stop meeting like this` every inch*` let’s surprise the world` i’m sorry i let you down`

GOODGUYFITZ wake up call*`

CORPSE HUSBAND letting go` they forgot` ⭐

ASHTON IRWIN home life` cover me*`

CONAN GRAY pushing`

MATTHEW LILLARD accidental drunk confessions`

JOHNNY KNOXVILLE feeling good*`

ALEX TURNER more than a song*` ⭐

BO BURNHAM can’t handle this right now ⭐ look at me*`

KRISTEN STEWART special customer`

TARON EGERTON he already has my approval ⭐

ROBERT PATTINSON my favorite superhero

GERARD WAY good girl*`

GWILYM LEE history repeats itself`

RYAN GOSLING play date`

JOSEPH QUINN bad idea, right? ⭐

RANBOO fluffy haired gamer boy`

JACOB ELORDI height advantage`

MOTLEY CRUE she is mine ~ mick mars`

CHRIS EVANS not used to normal` ⭐

SWAGGERSOULS our next step`

JSCHLATT too far ⭐ the hotel room* ⭐

JOHNNY DEPP just for us`

TRAVIS BARKER the parent trap`

SHIPS

family reunion ~ hermione granger x draco malfoy`

HEADCANONS

showing pedro pascal fan edits ⭐ sitting on jschlatt’s lap ⭐

NSFW ALPHABET

rook (jp capellette)*` eddie munson* ⭐ billy butcher* ⭐

[fariest]

KISMET ꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱ JAKE SIM

ཐི pairing: 심재윤 (jake sim) x fem!reader. ft enhypen hyung line, sohyun from triple s, isa from stayc, eunseok from riize and wonwoo from seventeen

ཐི genre: smau + written, university / school!au, strangers to friends to lovers, fluff, crack, a hint of angst if you look closely enough!

ཐི warnings: loss and parental death, kys/kms jokes, depression and some heavy topics, etc.

ཐི synopsis: grieving from the sudden and tragic loss of your parents, you’ve been forced to fend yourself until one day you bump unto a lady that you happened to have seen at your parents’ funeral. she brings you in, treats you as one of her own. having no idea she’s the local chairwoman of a prestigious school academy, she signs you in as one of her students but in return you’ve made a promise to work at the local daycare center which embraces the kids of the teachers who works at the academy. all of that comes along a whole bundle of chaos.

ཐི status: ongoing

ཐི taglist: open! (comment on this post or send in a ask) @seunghancore @hoondiors @rikibun @neos127 @iheartjayke @yenqa @dimplewonie

profiles.

ཐི EUNSEOK HATERS 💪🏼💪🏼 / the beliebers / privates

i. bucket lists are overrated anyways

ii. he wouldn’t know

iii. ????

iiii. ???

…

…

a/n: hi! this is my first social media au so please bear with me ദ്ദി ꒦ິ꒳꒦ິ )✧ this smau is heavily inspired by the anime school babysitters, definitely would recommend. also my first smau had to be a jake one because i’m literally his wife in case u didn’t know btw

2024 © fariest, do not copy, modify or post my work to other sites

[robinhobiii]

i love boo the most | husband! b. sk

summery : he will always be your best friend because now he’s your husband.

Part I, Part II

“You know that’s the wrong one, right?” Y/n said as she flipped through the instructions.

“Honey, I know what I’m doing!” Seungkwan huffed.

“I don’t want the baby’s crib to break apart in the middle of the night.”

“It won’t, trust me!” He whined at.

Y/n took a mental note to call Wonwoo, and make him double check it.

“I’m double, triple checked the instructions!” He said. “I want the baby to have the best sleep in this crib.”

She smiled fondly. “I’m still going to ask Wonwoo oppa.”

“Why do you never trust me with building things?!” He whined again and dropped the screwdriver on the floor. She laughed as she ruffled his hair.

. . .

“Jagi?” She said softly.

Seungkwan merely hummed in his sleep.

“Baby?” She nudged him a little bit and got nothing from him again. “Kwan-ah?” And again she got nothing.

“Seungkwan!” She pushed him. “What?” He whined out, eyes still close.

“The baby’s hungry and the baby wants a cheese burger with extra pickles and some fires. And ooh a cola wouldn’t hurt either.” She said as she rubbed her belly.

He opened his eyes enough to slightly side eye her as she sheepishly laughs.

“Please, jagi, for the baby.”

Seungkwan huffed before he got up and said “go wear a sweater and some fuzzy socks.”

“Oh kwannie, when I mean extra pickles, I really mean it.”

“Yeah yeah, hurry your cute butt up”

. . .

The thing about Seungkwan is that no matter if he was her boyfriend, her fiancé, and now her husband, he treats her the same as when they were best of friends. With that being said, he often doesn’t put up with her nonsense. And now that she was very pregnant, she was very hormonal.

Like now, how she was yelling at him for not taking out the trash and how he left the toilet seat up by accident. Times like these were made for Seungkwan’s sweet taking.

“I told you to take it out and you didn’t! That’s all I asked you! Do you want the baby to see this?!”

“The baby won’t care because the baby will be too busy looking at his or her beautiful, strong mother and her sidekick husband.” He said with loving eyes as he brushed a strand of hair behind her ears. She blushed and leaned her head into his chest. She smiled and whined out “kwannieee”

Or when he forgot to bring ice cream back home after work. Ooh was she livid. “I just wanted some ice cream and you didn’t get me anything!” She half scream half cried that. So he did his magic. “That’s because I wanted to take you to that new ice cream parlor. I heard they give discounts on Wednesday.” He said as caressed her face. Her eyes lit up and her tears stopped. “R-really, kwannie?”

“Of course, now sit down so I can put your shoes on.”

She was ugly crying at that point “I don’t deserve you.” She whined out.

Seungkwan only smiled at that. His smiled held a different meaning though. Thank god he got home before all the shops closed.

. . .

Today she wanted to eat pizza with chocolate chips cookies and Seungkwan was not pleased.

“Baby think it through, you’re going to ruin a perfectly good pizza with cookies”

She immediately glared at him. “Oh I’m sorry are you pregnant? Are you currently 6 months pregnant with an aching back and feet??!”

He immediately surrendered. “I’m sorry honey. Should’ve never said anything”

“Good, now here’s $50. Go get it honey”

“Babe, pizza is only like $10?”

“Go get yourself one. All for yourself so I don’t feel guilty for not sharing”

“Aw~ babe~ you spoil me so much!” Seungkwan says in an almost flirty tone.

“Anything for my side-kick husband” she obnoxiously winks at him.

. . .

“Babe! The baby is coming right now!” She yells out from the sofa.

“Oh my goodness, are you okay baby?”

She glared at him for his obvious question. “Does it look like I am Seungkwan??!!”

“O-oh, I’m sorry! Here let me help you. I’ll go get the baby bag too”

Approximately six hours later, their baby girl was born. They were so happy and content as they looked at their baby girl.

“She’s so perfect like you” Seungkwan says softly as she lovingly looks at his two girls.

“And she has your pretty nose and cheeks” y/n replied warmly to her husband.

He blushes softly before saying, “Thank you for always being beside me, my love. You just always know what to say. I’m glad you’re all mine.”

[alatismeni-theitsa]

There are many things I will never forgive Rick Riordan for but the number 1 (one) thing I will always hold against him is how he treated WWII in the entire series.

To quote the PJO wiki, "[...] World War II, in the books, is described to be a huge fight between the children of Zeus and Poseidon on one side and the children of Hades on the other.

The events of World War II resulted in the pact of the Big Three, because their children were affecting the course of history too much. It was decided more demigod children would be dangerous for the mortal world."

Just. What the fuck. There are so many things that are wrong with this.

There is nothing that he can do to excuse or salvage this. He could rewrite the whole series, I don't give a fuck. This should not have happened in the first place.

I don't care if he wrote the first book in 2005, he was and still is a grown ass man with a high education from what I've read, he has no excuse. WWII has affected millions across the globe with the descendants of all too many families even having to deal with the generational trauma that came from that time period alone AND dealing with heavy deniers of the many atrocities and war crimes that were committed whilst their grandparents and great-grandparents are having hallucinations of all of their traumatic experiences (can you tell i'm speaking from experience?).

Ironically he holds (Ancient) Greece on such a high pedestal, calling it the birthplace of Western Civilisation (it isn't), and yet you can tell he obviously knows very little about the damn country whose culture he's been appropreating for almost two decades now. Making Hades the father of 3 (three) terrible war criminals in the war that, you know, Greece had been and still is greatly affected by to this day. Which is, you know, his fucking home. That he and all the other characters supposedly care about oh so much (I have so many bottled-up negative emotions about these books and absolutely no safe space to let them out, theitsa, you have no idea).

You may think I'm overreacting or taking this too seriously but I honestly couldn't care less. This is not a topic you can just joke about or treat light-heartedly. Yes, it was mentioned as an atrocity in the books, but it was still mainly treated as just "Hehe silly fight between gods! Secret History ooo!~".

Simply saying that WWII was bad is not enough, Rick, it's actually the bare minimum. You need to show it at the very least some respect by not undermining its consequences to simply "This is why we don't have kids anymore!". But you're obviously not ready to hear that yet. It still baffles me that his fans are just now discovering he is not the saint they thought he was. "How could he be a zionist ??" they all ask in unison, meanwhile the signs were all there since 2005 (at the very least).

Anyway, you don't have to answer this ask if you don't feel like it, I understand it can possibly be overwhelming. You're the first person I've seen that's actually not afraid to point out Rick's bullshit despite initially liking his books, and also the fact that you are a Greek educating people on actual Greek culture, so I felt safe sharing my thoughts with you. Thank you for your time! Καλές γιορτές! 💕

You're overreacting, especially when it comes to the World Wars! In ww2 1 in 10 Greeks died in the famine, and almost everyone I know had someone in their family executed or tortured by the Germans/Bulgarians/Italians triple occupation (not to mention getting hurt or killed in battle). These situations traumatized generations of Greeks, but Rick had the immense privilege of not considering this while writing! He treated the wars like they were play-dough for his little cutsy lore, he made our arch-enemies the children of our gods, and he can go to hell for this.

I am here for all the righteous Greek αλάτι, so if you have more thoughts, bring it on!

[explorevenus]

Hello loml ily queen beautiful happy halloween do uou have a costume tjis year? I dont i was too busy running around in California all month to think of anything but iys ok im eating special treats...

HIIIII BABY POPPO BEST PUPBY EVER MY BELOVEDDDDD

i don't have a new costume this year cus we just moved so we don't really have like. friends yet LMFAO

HOWEVER one of mariah's coworkers invited us to a chill little costume party tomorrow so i think i'm just gonna wear my cowboy barbie fit again tbh. it went triple platinum at the bar last year but i didn't get enough pics so it deserves to see the light of day again </33 also what special treats are u eating...... can u share.....

here are some fits from years past for ur viewing enjoyment, including: Frankie Stein, Lum (Urusei Yatsura), and the aforementioned Cowboy Barbie <3

[nicoline1998enilocin]

Gift of my dreams

PAIRING | Bucky Barnes x Avenger!Female!Reader

WORD COUNT | 2K

SUMMARY | You recently moved into your own apartment, and your old mixer finally stopped working after years of great work. Bucky takes this perfect opportunity to get you the mixer you've always dreamed of having, so you can continue making his sweet treats.

WARNING(S) | This is your official trigger warning. Do not proceed if any of these topics upset you. Established relationship [ boy- & girlfriend ], implied shower sex.

A/N | This one shot takes place in the same 'universe' as Bucky's Sweet Treats Part I and Part II (NSFW). You don't need to have read those to understand this, but it would still be appreciated if you check it out in case you haven't already 🖤

Likes and reblogs will be very much appreciated 💜

Main Masterlist | Bucky Barnes Masterlist

It was a cozy winter evening when you were sitting on your couch with Bucky, enjoying the cake you had baked earlier that day. You tried a new recipe, and that meant the both of you would take this opportunity to enjoy a nice evening in your new apartment watching movies or series you were following together. As of right now, the two of you were catching up on the latest season of The Witcher with a big piece of the triple chocolate cake you baked. ''Oh my god, doll, I didn't think it was possible but I officially found my new favorite cake of yours!'' he said, his mouth still stuffed with cake, and it made you feel really good. ''Thanks, I'm going to make this more often, it's delicious!'' you said as you finished your plate.

You always gave Bucky a bigger piece than yourself, knowing he needs to eat more with his fast metabolism, and he was not one to complain about it. ''Doll, your birthday is coming up soon, right? Did you have any idea what you'd want? Besides me of course,'' he said with a wink and a soft kiss on your cheek. ''Not sure, since I recently moved in and bought most of the stuff I need already, I doubt there is anything else I want or need right now,'' you said as you shrugged. ''I have been thinking about upgrading my mixer one day, but as long as it still works I don't see the need to get another one,'' you said, watching the tv.

''Is there a specific one you had in mind if you would have to replace this one?'' he asked, making a mental note for himself that he could buy it for you if the moment ever arrived. ''I might go for the newer model of the one I have now, it always worked perfectly fine, I never had any problems with it,'' you said. ''Seems fair enough, but isn't there one you have always dreamed of though? You told me you've loved baking ever since you were a little girl, so there must be one that is the absolute dream right?'' he pushed further, he wanted to surprise you if the moment ever came where he could. ''Well, there is... But it's way too expensive in my opinion,'' you said, dismissing him. ''Well, if money wasn't an issue, which would you get?''

You thought about it a little while, of course, you always dreamed of it, but admitting it to someone would be different. ''Okay, I'll tell you... If money wouldn't have been an issue, I would love to get the KitchenAid Artisan, in their Imperial Red color,'' you said as you let out a sigh at the dream that would never come true. You've settled for mixers that were less expensive but still worked great, and they never let you down. Until a few months later, when your mixer broke a few weeks before your birthday. Bucky knew immediately what he would get you.

In the weeks leading up to your birthday, you were away on a mission, so Bucky had plenty of time to prepare for your surprise. He had been on the hunt for the mixer you'd been dreaming of, but more specifically in the color you wanted, which wasn't as easy as he thought at first. ''Steve, I'm going to need your help finding a perfect gift for Y/N, he said as he hoped maybe Steve would have more luck in his search. ''So, as you know Y/N's mixer broke a few weeks ago, and her birthday is coming up, so I was hoping to surprise her with her dream mixer,'' he said with a proud smile on his face. ''That sounds like the perfect plan!'' he agreed, and he would help with the search.

It was one day before your birthday and the boys were getting nervous, you came back from the mission one day ago and were too tired to care about your mixer, which was in Bucky's favor. It was the evening before your birthday and finally, he had found the exact model and color you were looking for, the only problem is that the store was almost about to close, and he had to hurry if he still wanted to be one time. For this one time, luck was on his side, and 5 minutes before closing time he arrived at the store. Only one problem however, he came on his bike, and the mixer is bigger than he anticipated, there was no way he could take this back on his bike.

He stood there for a good few minutes debating how he was going to take it home, without leaving his bike at the store, but eventually, he decided to call Steve so he could pick it up with a car. ''Hey man, I have to ask you a favor, but she can't know about it,'' he said the last part a little softer just in case you were with Steve, but you were completely knocked out on your bed, catching up on some much-needed sleep. ''Of course, what's up?'' Steve said, and Bucky explained the situation, but Steve couldn't help but stop laughing for a bit. This was typical for Bucky, it wasn't the first and not the last time he did something like this. ''I'll be there in 15,'' he said before hanging up and walking to his car.

In the meantime, Bucky was thinking about how to surprise you with it. He wanted to wrap it up with a beautiful bow on top, but he was nowhere skilled enough to do it himself - you were the one to usually do that after all. Finally, Steve arrived and as soon as he put the mixer in the trunk of the car he drove to your apartment, since Bucky was planning on putting it in your kitchen at the very least, so you would have a beautiful surprise. It's a good thing he was supposed to sleep at your place tonight too, so it wouldn't be suspicious if he was there without warning. Not too long after Bucky arrives, Steve is there too and he gets the mixer out of the back of the car.

After arriving at your door, Bucky opens it for Steve to walk into, and he walked straight to the kitchen. He's been there enough times to know where he needs to go, and he puts it on the counter. ''Do you happen to know how to tie bows?'' Bucky asked Steve, which earned him a little chuckle from the blond super soldier. ''Yeah, don't you?'', he said and he earned himself a pretty deadly glare, making him throw his hands up in the air. ''Sorry, sorry. I'll help you if you can find me a piece of ribbon that's long enough,'' he said and within 10 minutes, the new mixer was standing on your kitchen island with a big red bow tied on top of it. While they were admiring their work, you had gotten up and were on your way down.

''Buck?'' you called out, and the two super soldiers froze. ''Yeah doll, it's me, stay where you are so I can finally give you the kisses I've been missing out on when you were on your mission. ''Didn't we make up for that when I sucked you-'' was all you could manage before both Bucky and Steve walked into the living room, your mouth immediately snapping shut and your face turning bright red at the sight of Steve. ''Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't know you were here...'' you said extremely embarrassed. ''It's okay, just came over to wish you an early happy birthday, I wanted to be the first,'' he said in the hopes to keep you distracted long enough that you wouldn't go into the kitchen.

''Thanks! I'm excited about it actually, haven't looked forward to my birthday like this in a long time! I can't help but think what this one here got me,'' you said when you pointed to Bucky. ''He won't tell me and I want to know!'' you said with a pout, looking at Bucky. ''Keep that up and you will never know what you'll get, because you won't leave the bedroom!'' he said with a groan, and Steve took this as his cue to leave. ''Gonna leave now, see you tomorrow Y/N!'' he said before turning around, and within seconds Bucky had thrown you over his shoulder to haul you back upstairs. He was planning on taking you apart slowly the entire night, and he couldn't wait any longer.

By the time you woke up, Bucky had already gotten up to get your birthday breakfast ready, which contained french toast with extra cinnamon and a cup of your favorite tea. Simple, but it had always been your favorite. Bucky presented it on a tray with a single red rose in a long vase, making it a little more romantic. ''Good morning sleepyhead,'' he said when he walked in the door, and you were still sprawled out on the bed, completely naked and wearing a love-drunk look on your face. ''Mornin','' you said as you stretched, and Bucky almost dropped the tray he was holding just from the sight of you stretching like that. ''Happy birthday, doll,'' he said as you sat up against the headboard, so he could place the tray on your lap and lean in for a kiss.

''It is a very happy one indeed,'' you said with a smirk, thinking back to the way he made you fall apart over and over last night, himself right along with you. The two of you ate breakfast and enjoyed some light conversation as you enjoyed being in each other's company before getting up to shower, you could use one after the night you had. Bucky joined you and the two of you got a combined total of 3 orgasms out of each other before officially getting ready for the day. Bucky wore a casual outfit with ripped jeans, while you opted for a simple yet comfortable outfit today. ''Are you ready for your present?'' Bucky asked, and you nodded excitedly. ''When you get to the bottom of the stairs I want you to close your eyes, and I will guide you to the kitchen so you don't spoil your surprise,'' he said and you agreed, you trusted him with every fiber of your being.

Once you were at the bottom of the stairs you closed your eyes, and Bucky softly placed his hands on your hips while he walked behind you, guiding you with your back against his chest. He stopped when both of you were in front of the kitchen island, facing the mixer he bought. He walked around you so his back would shield it before he told you to open your eyes. ''Open them up, doll,'' he said and he saw you looking at him expectantly. ''First, I want to tell you how happy I am with you in my life doll, you gave me the life I never thought I could ever live after everything I did. I'm the luckiest man in this universe to have you by my side, and I love you so much,'' he said. ''Now, I wanted to tell you this before showing you what I got you because I doubt there will be much attention for me after you see what it is,'' he said with a laugh before kissing you passionately.

''I love you too, Bucky, now move because I can't take the suspension anymore!'' you said, pushing him out of the way, and as soon as your eyes saw the box you let out the loudest gasp Bucky had ever heard and tears were forming in your eyes. ''Oh my god, Bucky...'' you said before you walked over to the box. ''Happy birthday, doll,'' he said as he wrapped his arms around you from behind, you were completely absorbed by your present that you didn't notice him, but he didn't mind. The look on your face was priceless. The rest of the day both you and Bucky were in the kitchen baking, you had to give the mixer a try after all, and Bucky wasn't one to complain. He loved seeing you in your element, and right now you were practically glowing with excitement. Now he definitely couldn't wait to see your reaction when he proposes to you during dinner tonight.

[grits-galraisedinthesouth]

Leaks about Team Biden

Operation Let's Get Biden To Quit is up & running. This "leak" might also explain Jill's wardrobe 😬😳

"I, for one, didn’t have my money on Biden being controlled by a Gay Mexican Cabal."

Deep State cabal revealed! The Gay Caballero who is pulling Biden's strings by STEVE SAILER

JUL 04, 2024

Deep State theory surmises that our nominal leaders, with all their obvious flaws (such as senility), are actually puppets having their strings pulled by shadowy but nearly omni-competent massively funded institutions, such as the Intelligence Community, that routinely mount brilliant triple bankshot psy-ops to manipulate the public. Similar theories point instead to the World Economic Forum, Bilderberg, the Jews, and the lizard people.

As far as I can recall, however, few, whether conspiracists or realists, had theorized until now that the “Rasputin” of the Biden Administration is a … gay Mexican.

The head Gay Caballero turns out to be Anthony Bernal, the First Lady’s top aide."

From the New York Post by Steven Nelson Published July 4, 2024

President Biden’s inner circle has gotten smaller following his disastrous debate last week — with his wife’s top aide Anthony Bernal emerging as one of the 81-year-old’s key advisers alongside longtime confidante Mike Donilon, four sources close to or inside the White House tell The Post.

Bernal, 51, is a divisive figure for allegedly bullying and sexually harassing [male] colleagues — and his influence was likened by three sources to that held by the mystic Grigori Rasputin over the family and court of Nicholas II, the last czar of Russia.

First lady Jill Biden considers Bernal her “work husband” and he’s also close to scandal-plagued first son Hunter, whom Bernal greeted with a hug June 11 after his felony gun conviction.

The “openly gay” Bernal is an alumnus of that finishing school for Inner Party Elites, the University of Texas at El Paso.

“Donilon and Bernal are 100% the most important advisers post-debate,” said one Democratic source close to the administration.

… A White House source told The Post that many of the president’s old guard of longtime aides are believed to be left out of the loop of discussions “about what’s next” — saying Bernal, who frequently vacations with the first family, “seriously” has a Rasputin-like pull over the first family.

Another source said they agreed with the Rasputin analogy — describing Bernal’s influence and immunity from consequences for alleged personal misconduct as perplexing to fellow aides.

“He’s like a tick who has just latched himself on for the last 15 years,” this source said.

“Accurate and on point,” said a third source of the comparison to Rasputin, who was murdered in December 1916 by rivals who believed he was contributing to poor decision-making in the months before the outbreak of the Russian Revolution, in which the royal family was ultimately toppled and killed.

“Everyone has kept their heads down about Bernal and just tries to avoid him at all costs,” the third source said. “But everyone always predicted that this movie would end badly because of how he treats colleagues and always poisons the well for anyone else with the Bidens.

“He will go down with the ship but he���s also the one behind the wheel.”

One veteran Democratic aide went so far as to say “the country would be better off with Trump” than Biden if Bernal was helping run the government.

[ao3-rex1223]

Masterlist

To Be A Kennedy:

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

One Shots:

Trust and Wisdom

Treatment Resistance

Tough Love

Trust and Wisdom II

Triple Threat (dedicated to @lipglossanon)

Trust and Wisdom III

Two Times Around:

Part I

Part II

Twelfth Floor Intern (Ace Attorney) masterlist

Twelve Days of Smutmas 2023

Twist Me Til I Break

Twist Me Round

Treat Me To Your Fantasies

Tread Lightly

[rabbitcruiser]

National Cheese Lovers Day

Chances are you don't just like cheese, you love it. If that's the case, you are in for a treat—today is National Cheese Lovers Day! Cheese is made from curds—the bits of protein that form when milk sours—from the milk of cows, goats, sheep, and buffalo. Spices, seasonings, mold, temperature, and age help determine its flavor and texture, and these in turn help determine how it is classified. Common classifications and some examples include fresh cheese like ricotta, soft cheese like feta, semi-soft cheese like Fontina, semi-hard cheese like Gouda, hard cheese like Cheddar, double or triple crème cheese like Brillat-Savarin, blue cheese like Gorgonzola, washed rind cheese like Limburger, and bloomy rind cheese like brie. The name "cheese" comes from the Latin word caseus, which stems from the Proto-Indo-European root kwat, which means "to ferment" or "to become sour."

Cheese dates back to before recorded times. Legend has it that it was first made by accident: an Arabian merchant who was keeping milk in an old sheep stomach found that it had separated into curds and whey. This reaction was caused by heat and from rennet, an enzyme found in the stomach. This was perhaps around 8000 BCE, around the time that sheep were first domesticated.

Cheese became a way to preserve milk before the invention of refrigeration. The curds were strained, and salt was added, which helped it keep longer. Still, cheese had a short shelf life and was made fresh and eaten daily. According to archaeological findings, some of the first intentional cheese making was being done around 5,500 BCE, in the area that is now Poland. Beyond Europe, there is evidence of early cheesemaking being done in the Middle East and Central Asia.

Romans made many different kinds of cheese and making it became a culinary art form. They spread their methods north into Europe, where they were adapted by monks. In Northern Europe, the climate was cooler, so less salt was needed for preservation. This cheese tended to be creamier and milder. Aged, ripened, and blue cheeses also came about in these cooler climates. During the Middle Ages, European cheesemakers originated Parmesan, Gouda, Camembert, and Cheddar.

Mass production of cheese started in 1815 when the first commercial cheese factory opened in Switzerland. Processed cheese, which consists of cheese combined with milk, emulsifiers, stabilizers, flavoring, and coloring, made its debut about a century later. It gained in popularity during the World War II era, becoming more popular than natural cheese. In more recent years, artisan cheesemaking has been making a resurgence.

Cheese is easy to love on its own, but it also goes well with soufflés, soups, and pastas, and can be paired with many foods. It many times is also paired with white or red wine. Being that there are so many kinds of cheese, there is plenty of love to spread around. On National Cheese Lovers Day, we eat and enjoy as much cheese as possible.

How to Observe National Cheese Lovers Day

Celebrate National Cheese Lovers Day by eating cheese! Put it on crackers or a sandwich, make yourself a pizza with an extra heaping of it, or eat some nachos. Make your own cheese or try a cheese out of your comfort zone. Buy hard, soft, and blue cheeses, as well as things to pair with them such as grapes, olives, or tomatoes. Don't forget to buy some wine, too. If you are feeling creative, you could design a cheese board. Let your cheese sit out for a half an hour at room temperature to give it a better texture and flavor. Then, enjoy it with your friends, perhaps at a cheese party at your home. To burn off some of those cheese calories, you could get yourself moving and visit a cheese factory or plan a trip to a cheese festival.

Source

[writingsofwesteros]

Three headed dragon.

Don't worry Laena got Harwin. Like my thought of it is.

Laena and Harwin they got exploring on Vhagar.

Daemon and Rhaenyra. Still have. The organla children but they all Daemons.

Alicent and Viserys have Aegon, Helaena, Aemond and the three dragons.

I feel the female triple wouldnt be sure on Alcient after she hears how she treats Aegon. She was the same with Rhaenyra and Daemon but that started to change when Rhaenyra made an effort with all her siblings and how she was nice to them.

She love visiting Draginsstone as it meant she got away from viserys and opt to she loved them as they were family but she didn't trust them. Plus on Dragonstone Rhaneyra let her and her sibling share a big comfy bed if they wanted to but they also had there own space. It was more freeing. She like being free.

She like watching this. Stars at Night how jofdery would google at they how Baby Aegon would mumble as he crawled around. How Viserys ii would not and try and catch his feet and how proud he looked when he got it.

Hopefully we can change Alicent like Rhaenyra and Daemon. As Aegon won't be how he is in the show either.

She like watching this. Stars at Night how jofdery would google at they how Baby Aegon would mumble as he crawled around. How Viserys ii would not and try and catch his feet and how proud he looked when he got it. THE CUTEST SCENE!!

[the-withering-system]

Stomach ulcers are usually caused by the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, which needs specific antibiotics and sometimes several. The recommendation is Clarithromycin triple therapy, which consists of a PPI(such as Omeprazole), clarithromycin (Biaxin), and amoxicillin or metronidazole (Flagyl) for 14 days.

Antibiotics only work for some bacteria, and this one's a real bitch.

If you get stomach ulcers (or have undiagnosed chronic stomach pain) this is a real possibility.

Tell your doc if this is the case because it will likely mean better treatment! More obvious symptoms mean less margin of dumbass for the doctor to treat you wrong.

Also considering you have tonsillitis (I assume?) as well, I would be wondering if you're immunocomprimised? Most people have H. Pylori in their gut but it doesn't take hold usually except in those with weak immune systems or other factors like constant NSAID use. Which if that's the case you might look into a second generation NSAID, I believe they're called Cox II selective Inhibitors. They target the pain while sparing some of the gastro side effects.

Best of luck figuring this out, I hope you get better soon!

Sorry I didn't just reply to your post it "could not complete my request at this time" so I just sent an ask haha.

Ahh thank you for all this information.

Fortunately or unfortunately, I'm free of H. Pylori. Have had the test done recently and more times then I can count lol.

I am immunocompromised and have always been extremely susceptible to things like tonsilitis (I get it 10+ times a year) I'm hoping to eventually get them removed.

I don't think I have stomach ulcers but due to GERD I get throat and mouth ulcers from gastric fluid. This one just refuses to go away and is incredibly painful. I'm mainly worried that an abscess will form from the close proximity to my tonsil.

I have a referral for a gastroscopy but have no clue when it'll be cause I have to use the public system.

Again thank you so much for your concern and help!!

[fuckyeahvanhalen86-95]

Boxed Set Introduces Four Newly Remastered VH Studio Albums With Sammy Hagar, Plus Rarities Recorded Between 1989 And 2004

5-LP And 5-CD Versions Arriving On October 6

PRE-ORDER NOW direct from VanHalenStore.com

Van Halen will release a new boxed set this fall spotlighting the band's second incarnation, with singer Sammy Hagar, guitarist Eddie Van Halen, drummer Alex Van Halen, and bassist Michael Anthony. The upcoming set includes newly remastered versions of four multi-platinum studio albums, along with a selection of rarities recorded between 1989 and 2004.

THE COLLECTION II will be available on October 6th on 5 Vinyl 180-Gram LPs for $124.98 and 5 CDs for $49.98. Pre-order both versions HERE. All the music in the set was mastered directly from the original master tapes, a process overseen by the band's longtime engineer, Donn Landee.

The new set is the long-awaited sequel to THE COLLECTION, a compilation released in 2015 that focused on the six studio albums recorded by the band's original line-up, which featured singer David Lee Roth. THE COLLECTION II picks up where its predecessor left off and covers the four consecutive #1 albums released during the Hagar era: 5150 (1986), OU812 (1988), For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge (1991), and Balance (1995).

The journey begins with 5150, Van Halen's seventh studio album and the band's first to claim the top spot on the Bilboard 200. Certified platinum six times in the U.S, the record treated fans to hits like "Dreams," "Love Walks In," and "Why Can't This Be Love" which peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The group returned two years later with OU812, a quadruple-platinum smash that delivered four Bilboard Hot 100 hits, including "Finish What Ya Started" and "When It's Love."

The accolades continued with For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge, which earned Van Halen its first Grammy® Award for Favorite Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Album. Debuting at #1 and staying there for three weeks, the album achieved triple-platinum certification. The record produced an incredible seven singles, including hits like "Poundcake," "Top Of The World," and "Right Now."

In 1993, the band released its first live album, Live: Right Here, Right Now, before returning in 1995 with Balance, its final studio album with Hagar. The album was another commercial triumph, debuting at #1, selling more than three million copies, and earning a Grammy nomination for "The Seventh Seal."

THE COLLECTION II concludes with Studio Rarities 1989- 2004, an exclusive compilation that assembles eight gems from the Hagar era for the first time. Among these rarities is "Crossing Over" the B-Side to Balance's "Can't Stop Lovin' You", and the band's only non-album B-side.

The compilation boasts other exceptional highlights, including the band's cover of Little Feat's "A Apolitical Blues" and the instrumental "Baluchitherium" which were left off the vinyl versions of OU812 and Balance, respectively. Additionally, the set features two songs the band contributed to the Twister Soundtrack "Humans Being" and the Grammy-nominated "Respect The Wind."

Rounding out the set are "It's About Time", "Up For Breakfast", and "Learning To See" which were recorded during the band's temporary reunion with Hagar in 2004. All three debuted that year on Van Halen's second greatest hits collection, The Best of Both Worlds.

Sammy & Mike share their excitement:

Sammy Hagar: "Mikey and have been waitinga long time to get these remastered Van Halen records from my era. They did the whole nine yards. This stuff sounds SO GOOD!

These records were recorded before (without) ProTools or digital recording: it was analog on real to reel tape recorders. There's a very special sound to that type of recording. We were careful not to destroy any of that, but to re-master with more modern technical equipment to bring out that wonderful magical sound. It's never sounded better.

I know you're gonna enjoy it. There are some special bonus tracks in there. A Box Set. It's the whole Van Hagar era. All remastered. Finally! It's About Time! BOOM!"

Michael Anthony: "So excited about our Sammy era box set coming to ya!! Our longtime studio engineer Donn Landee remastered these albums and they are kicking ASS!"

Track Listing:

5150

Good Enough

Why Can't This Be Love?

Get Up

Dreams

Summer Nights

Best Of Both Worlds

Love Walks In

"5150"

Inside

OU812

Mine All Mine

When It's Love

A.F.U. (Naturally Wired)

Cabo Wabo

Source Of Infection

Feels So Good

Finish What Ya Started

Black And Blue

Sucker In A 3 Piece

For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge

Poundcake

Judgement Day

Spanked

Runaround

Pleasure Dome

In 'N' Out

Man On A Mission

The Dream Is Over

Right Now

316

Top of the World

Balance

The Seventh Seal

Can't Stop Lovin' You

Don't Tell Me (What Love Can Do)

Amsterdam

Big Fat Money

Doin' Time

Aftershock

Strung Out

Not Enough

Take Me Back (Déjà Vu)

Feelin'

Studio Rarities 1989-2004

A Apolitical Blues

Crossing Over

Baluchitherium

Humans Being

Respect The Wind

It's About Time

Up For Breakfast

Learning To See

[thepermanentrainpress]

REVIEW: STARS ON ICE AT ROGERS ARENA - MAY 18, 2023

Of the four cast numbers, my favourite was the sentimental “To Build a Home” that preceded intermission. It really solidified Browning’s role as a guide and respected leader in the sport as he individually embraced each skater/pair at song’s end. The pairs and ice dancers had a brief spotlight, and the number felt warm and nuanced. 

It was Madeline Schizas’ first full tour, and I enjoyed her skates to “Don’t Rain on My Parade” and “Everybody Wants to be a Cat.” I really think Stars On Ice has been beneficial for Schizas to work on her expression in a low stress environment. It was nice to see her embrace her playful side (cat ears and all!). She also has some very impressive spins! Patrick Chan was a crowd favourite, having called Vancouver home for the past six years. In his tour return for the first time in four years, he didn’t show much rust to “Wicked Game” and “I Hear a Symphony.” He’s such a staple in Canadian figure skating, and the ‘Pchiddy’ appreciation was evident in the room. 

Keegan Messing performed a redux of this season’s short program to “Grace Kelly” and a skate to Tophouse’s “The Mountain Song.” His quick footwork and spins were in full force, as was his unwavering warm spirit. I will miss Messing on the national team, and hope he continues to do ice shows while spending time with his beautiful family, who figure skating fans have grown to know from afar. 

World Bronze medalists Piper Gilles & Paul Poirier were sensational in their “Evita” and “Annie’s Song/Thank God I’m a Country Boy” routines. I’d watched them many times on television from this season, but nothing compares to the live event. They were fighters this season, notably Gilles after a surgery to remove a cancerous tumour in the winter. Their poise and ability to transform into character is something I always admire, which extends into their “Evita” bows towards the audience. 

Alexa Knierim & Brandon Frazier are coming off their best season yet. Their throw jumps and height on the triple twist are outstanding! They performed their exhibition routine to “Shallow” and short program “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).” Their steady and sure demeanor was on display, and I was happy to see them skate in-person. One of my favourite skates of the night was Alissa Czisny’s “Chasing Cars.” It was proof that you don’t need jumps to make a program special. She used the song (version by Tommee Profitt and Fleurie) to emote through movement, graceful skating and spins that spanned the ice. The cover song had a really cinematic build that Czisny used to her advantage. 

Jason Brown is having the most fun on tour, uncontested. His Backstreet Boys routine was a joy. In an all-white ensemble, Brown even demonstrated ‘the worm’ on the ice, among some impressive jump splits. Even his bows had energy, with waving and jumping abound. In his Act II skate to “The Impossible Dream,” I was reminded of his gorgeous triple jumps, some of, if not the best, on tour. As a side note, I had a brief interaction with Brown as the skaters arrived at the rink, and he could not have been friendlier! 

Satoko Miyahara was a returning cast member from last year. Her elegance and interpretation of the music was stunning to watch. “Jenny of Oldstones” and “Ne me quitte pas” were her programs of choice, and I can confidently say her elegance is missed on the circuit. There’s a confidence and calmness in how she glides on ice, and I hope she’ll continue to be a mainstay in the cast. 

A breakout season for Belgium’s Loena Hendrickx, we were graced with her presence in her debut Canadian tour. As girls behind me whistled and hollered “get it, girl!” Hendrickx skated to Britney Spears’ “Circus” and Loni’s “Loneliness.” She had attitude and was fierce, and it’s easy to see why she will continue to be a top contender next season. Her arms overhead jumps are flawless! Madison Chock & Evan Bates are technically immaculate, if we didn’t know already from their consistently high scores in competition. Their performance is also top notch, and they’re very innovative skaters in their lines and elements. Their skate to “Nightcall” was a highlight (the chemistry!), and I was excited to see #ChockBates in action for the first time! 

Elvis Stojko’s bringing old school rock back. Skating to Shinedown and Van Halen, Stojko looked casual and collected with hands in his pockets, denim and black fingerless gloves. His mature and slightly edgy presence is always popular, drawing favourable cheers from the crowd. Even though he ended his competitive career over twenty years ago, he still has a power in his skating that is magnetic to watch. He joined Browning for an interactive skate as friendly rivals to “Raise a Little Hell,” where they sported matching shirts in admiration of each other. They joked about who was supposed to give the music to production (“on cassette”), did a quick bout of the chicken dance, and still had a raw synchronicity. Truly a memorable duo with heartfelt words of their memories together on tour.  

Kurt Browning received too many (well deserved) standing ovations to count! His animated personality shone and I loved the extra long looks he’d direct at the crowd in his skates. It felt personal. Skating to “Please Forgive Me” and “Who Are You,” his smooth skating ability is unparalleled. Yes, there are still jumps, and a backflip too! His aura is just so pleasant and it felt like a night celebrating Browning, with multiple montages or clips of his past performances played throughout the night. 

I loved the costumes! Between the gold-detailed military inspired fits for The Killers’ “All These Things That I’ve Done,” to the rainbow pop of colour in the closing routine to “Brand New.” And, who could forget the sleek James Bond outfits - black suits and metallic dresses that screamed ‘diamonds are forever.’ They complimented the music well, and many of the skaters brought their pre-loved, familiar outfits from their signature skates this season.  

You can tell the cast enjoyed each other’s company, sharing camaraderie and grace towards the encouraging audience. Browning is leaving behind an unmatched legacy, but Stars On Ice remains in good hands. 

Written by: Chloe Hoy Photographed by: Timothy Nguyen