#Wholesale Running Gear

[marathon-203]

The Marathon Checklist For The Season

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or participating for the first time, a marathon checklist can get you race ready any day. Running a marathon can be exciting and intimidating at the same time. One thing that shouldn’t worry you is the gear.

[activewearmanufacturer]

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[therealdisneyfan2319]

Latte Love | Wanda Maximoff

Summary: When a new coffee shop opens up across the street from your bakery, you enter into a rivalry with its new owner

Pairing: Wanda Maximoff x Male Reader

Warnings: Smut (minors DNI), language, mentions of major character death, house fire, mentions of alcohol

Word Count: 7.3K

Masterlist

A/N: This was a request from @aloneodi​.  The prompt was pretty straightforward: enemies to overs with lots of angst and smut.  Enjoy ;)

For the past two months the construction across the street from your bakery had driven you insane.  The constant sawing and hammering was grinding your gears.  You weren’t sure what was coming in the old storefront.  It had been vacant as long as you could remember.  You were in elementary school when Mr. Neely retired and the building now sat in a state of dilapidated disrepair: the front awning was threadbare, the windows were partially boarded up, and graffiti was spray painted over the brick storefront.  Inside the empty cases gathered dust and cobwebs.  It was a bit of a pleasant surprise when you came to work one day to see a ‘SOLD’ sign taped to the front door. 

“Maybe we should blast some music, give them a taste of their own medicine,” Natasha suggested with a smirk.  Natasha Romanoff was your right hand woman when it came to running the bakery.  Not only was she an accounting whiz and could balance the books in her sleep, she also made a mean creme brûlée.  

“I just don’t understand why it’s taken them so long to remodel.  It’s construction, not rocket science.  What’s going in there anyway?”

“It’s a coffee shop.  I met the owner when I went to the wholesaler the other day,” Sam explained as he dumped another batch of bagels into the bucket.  A slightly intimidating Air Force veteran with the heart of a teddy bear, Sam was your resident bagel maker and donut fryer.  People came from all corners of the state for his famous brownie batter donuts and egg everything bagels,

“So literally the exact same as us?”  You could hardly believe what you were hearing.  The Rolling Scones had quickly established itself as Westview’s premiere (and only) bakery.  Why did someone else need to open up right across the street?

“Hold up, it’s not exactly the same thing.  We’re a bakery that serves coffee and they’re a coffee shop that serves baked goods.  Totally different.”

You shot Sam a glance that immediately made him do an about face and head back to his boiling batch of bagels.  Flour covered fingers ran through your hair as you leaned up against the back counter thinking about all the negative ways this new shop was going to impact yours.

“What are we gonna do, Nat?  I can’t lose this place.”

“Y/N, relax.  It’s just another business.  We’re not going to go out of business just because there’s a new place in town.  If anything they’re the ones who should be worried.  They have to compete with Sam’s bagels.” 

“We could just burn it down!” Peter, the teenager who washed dishes after school and on weekends, added.  “Then we wouldn’t have to worry about them!”

“He’s got a point,” Sam added as the door jingled open.

“Peter!  Arson isn’t the answer here!” Nat rolled her eyes, heading to the back to work on handling the latest invoices.

“But it is a solution,” you teased.  Natasha groaned as she kicked the back room door open.  “Can I help you?” you asked, turning your attention to the customer who walked up to the counter.

“Yeah, I’m looking for a - oh, SAM!  Hi!”  The young woman in front of you raised up on her tiptoes and waved over the counter.

“Wanda hey!”  He walked over, an overflowing basket of hard rolls in his arms.  “Glad you came.  How’s the remodeling going?”

“Good!  My contractor told me that we should be able to open by the end of the month.”

“That’s great news!  Did you pick the name yet?”

“My brother and I argued about it for a while, but we finally settled on Latte Love.”

“You’re the one who bought the old deli?!”  

“Mmhmm.  I always wanted to open a coffee shop and I thought it was an absolutely charming little spot.  So I saved and took out some loans and got it!  I’m Wanda.  Wanda Maximoff.”  The overexcitable brunette shoved her hand out in front of you.

“Y/N L/N,” you responded as you reluctantly clasped her hand.  The last thing you wanted to do was be friendly with the person who was your direct competitor. 

Sam chatted with Wanda, asking her all sorts of questions about the wholesaler and how she was faring getting her deliveries set up.  Your vision went red at the sight of your friend and this despicable woman having a friendly conversation.  Why on earth would he invite her into your shop, the shop your parents worked so hard to build and the one you worked so hard to keep thriving?  The fear of losing the family business permeated your mind on a daily basis.  This wasn’t making it any better…

“Who’s that?” Natasha’s voice snapped you out of your stewing.  She leaned against the counter, sizing up the scene in front of her.

“That’s the new coffee shop owner.  Wanda.  I have no idea why she’s here or why she’s talking to Sam,” you huffed, crossing your arms as you leaned against the counter.

“Someone sounds a little jealous,” Nat teased.  

“Jealous?!”  Your face flushed red with embarrassment.  “You think I’m jealous?  Nat, that’s the woman who’s going to try to steal all our customers!  She’s the enemy here, not the prize!”

Natasha looked at you, then at Wanda, then back at you, and back at Wanda.  “She’s hot.  Think I stand a chance?”

“Can you pretend you’re not gay for like, five minutes please?  Five minutes.  That’s all I’m asking.  I’m not jealous, I don’t want anything to do with her, and I swear to Christ if she’s into chicks too and you sleep with her your ass is so fired.  ANYONE who sleeps with her is outta here!”  As much as you hated to admit it, Natasha was right: Wanda was gorgeous.  She had the perfect figure, her cropped jeans hugging the curves of her hips just right.  The billowy light blue and white button up and oversized sun hat gave her a youthful exuberance that radiated from her glowing face and stunning green eyes.  

“You’d have less of a stick up your ass if you got laid, you know?” she smirked.  Groaning, you headed back toward the kitchen, kicking the swinging door with your foot.  The sweet smell of powdered sugar and freshly baked cupcakes instantly calmed you.  Unsure of how to amuse yourself until Wanda left, you grabbed a cooling rack of cookies and began frosting, turning the sugary discs into half moons.  The repetition of frosting and smoothing calmed you.  With enough time and vanilla Wanda’s unwelcome appearance would soon become a distant memory.

************************************************

Latte Love had been open for almost a month.  The cafe had a slow start initially.  Customers trickled in and out for the better part of two weeks.  For those two glorious weeks you paid no heed to the brunette who could often be found sweeping the sidewalk and arranging the outside tables just so.  Suddenly, something changed.  Before you knew it a line formed outside the locked doors every morning with people waiting to get their morning cup of coffee.  You didn’t pay much attention to it at first, but once you spotted a couple of your regulars in the line your vitriol for Wanda increased tenfold.     

“That’s the third time today they’ve had a line out the door!” Peter exclaimed as he pressed his nose to the glass.

“Thank you for that reminder, Captain Obvious,” you snarked as you counted back change to the lady at the counter.  “Anything else you want to add?”  

Peter quickly recoiled from the glass, a sheepish expression on his face.  “Ned says their coffee is really good….and so are their muffins,” he mumbled.

Oh great.  Now I’ve gotta compete with her pastries, too.  What a bitch…you thought to yourself as you handed the lady back a fistful of coins.  Wanda was frustrating you more and more every single day.  You sighed, taking off your baseball cap and running your hands threw your sweaty hair. 

The door jingled.  Sam and Nat walked in, the two of them eating cookies that suspiciously didn’t look like yours.

“What are those?” you asked.

“You want one?  Wanda gave them to us.  Pietro’s trying out a new recipe for sugar cookies.  They’re honestly not half bad.”  Sam reached into the brown paper bag and grabbed a large cookie, its warmth causing it to bend ever so slightly.

“Goddamn it!  You slammed your cap down on the counter.  In your mind, this was an act of war and you were not going to stand for it.  Who did she think she was, bribing your employees?  

“Y/N, just relax, okay?  Wanda didn’t mean anything by it.  She’s really nice if you get to know her,” Natasha asserted.

“She’s stealing our customers!” you shouted.  “And I can’t believe you guys are eating her food!”

“Dude, relax.  The cookies are good and she’s nice.  Her brother’s cool, too,” Sam added, wiping cookie crumbs from his goatee.  

“Unbelievable,” you mumbled, storming around the counter and yanking the door open.  You were going over there to give her a piece of your mind. 

You didn’t care what customers thought as you pushed Latte Love’s door open.  Lucky for you there weren’t any at the moment, the last one having left moments ago.  You heard the commotion of dishes crashing from the back and a voice you hadn’t heard before mixing with Wanda’s.  As the commotion in the background subsided, it was the perfect opportunity to look around at the transformed deli.  

The new design was rustic chic with exposed brick walls, stained wooden tables, and the same rustic counter that Mr. Neely once stored his meats and cheeses in.  A series of shiny metallic coffee machines sat behind the counter, the shelves above it stocked with containers full of different types of coffee beans.  The front case was stuffed full of various breads, pastries, cookies, and sandwiches.  It wasn’t a bad place at all, and the food didn’t look half-bad either.  She’d actually done a decent job at bringing the old shop back to life.

“Y/N?” You whipped around as Wanda called your name.  She looked exhausted, her face glistening with sweat and powdered sugar as she pushed a rack of cupcakes and sweet breads out of the kitchen.  Her hair was swept up in a messy bun, strands hanging askew as she wiped the sweat from her bow with her arm.  Her black apron was peppered with sugar and frosting stains.  “How are you?  Did Sam give you a cookie like I asked him to?” “Did Sam - what?”

“Oh, I gave him some cookies to try.  Pietro’s working out a new sugar cookie recipe and he needs taste testers so I figured-”

“What are you playing at here, Maximoff?”

“Excuse me?” Wanda tilted her head as she questioned you, her gaze quickly hardening into a stare.

“You heard me.  What are you playing at?  Is stealing my customers not enough for you that you need to go after my employees too?”  

Wanda’s jaw dropped open as she stared at you incredulously.  She laughed, shaking her head as she started unloading the cupcakes.  “Are you for real right now?”

“Before you showed up we’d sell out every single day.  Now more often than not I’m throwing stuff out.  Sales have dropped and I’ve lost regulars that I’ve had for years.  So I’m telling you this now: stay away from me and my staff.”  It was all you could do to not take all your frustration out on her.

“I don’t know what you think’s going on here,” Wanda started, placing the trays neatly in the case.  While she wasn’t outwardly aggressive, she shoved them in there harder than she normally would.  “But you are absolutely insane if you think that I’m trying to steal your customers or staff or whatever.  Sam and Natasha have been nothing but kind to me and Pietro, I just want to return the favor.”

“Well stop.  The last thing I need is for my guys to be fraternizing with the enemy,” you grumbled, your blood pressure reaching a boiling point as you stared her down, fists clenched tightly at your side.

“Oh, so now I’m the enemy then?” She slammed the tray on the counter, sending loaves of bread tumbling off the sides.   “Jesus, Y/N, what’s wrong with you?  Have you ever stopped to think that maybe people stopped going to your shop because they wanted to try something new or, here’s a novel thought, maybe they like my place more than yours?”

“Fuck you, Wanda!  That place means everything to me!  You have no idea what I’ve done to keep that bakery running and I’m not gonna let your stupid bucket list adventure ruin my life’s work!”

“Get out!” Wanda shouted as she threw a muffin at your head.  Her aim was wide and the pastry hit the wall with a splat as you leaned out of the way.  “Get the fuck out of my store you bastard!”

Your vision tunneled as you stormed out of the shop, not neglecting to flip her the bird as you slammed the door behind you.  Ever since Wanda Maximoff came to town everything had gone completely and utterly wrong.  Everyone seemed to be flocking to her and her business.  Even Sam and Natasha, two of your closest friends in the whole wide world, had taken to her.  It irritated you to no end.  She constantly invaded the deepest depths of your mind, and many nights you awoke in a cold sweat after she invaded your dreams.  There was nothing you wouldn’t do to get her out of your mind: grueling pre-dawn runs, sleepless nights spent getting ahead on cake orders, countless after-work happy hours throwing back whatever alcohol you could get your hands on…anything to get that frustrating, irritating, beautiful woman, out of your mind.

************************************************

After your spat, it was like someone had built the Berlin Wall in the middle of the street.  Patrons realized that something was up with the two shops and most had picked a side.  Lucky for you a majority of the customers you lost returned.  Things finally went back to normal for a while.  Sam and Natasha stopped frequenting Latte Love, or if they didn’t they kept quiet about it.  Natasha reamed you out for the way you snapped at Wanda, telling you to grow the fuck up and deal with it like an adult while Sam became unusually quiet around you.  It was exasperating, but at least you felt like you were in control again.  Yet as things started to go back to normal, there was something looming around the corner that would change your life forever.

************************************************

“Hello?” you mumbled groggily into your phone.  It was the middle of the night and your phone jolted you awake with its abrasive ringtone.

“Y/N, it’s Nat.”  You shot right up, rubbing the sleep out of your eyes.  She sounded extremely concerned to the point where you were worried.

“What’s wrong?  Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.  It’s the bakery.  It’s-”

You didn’t even let her finish before you hung up, frantically searching for some clothes and your keys as you raced down the stairs of your apartment toward your car.  As you sped down the road toward downtown, an orange glow illuminated the dark buildings while sirens grew ever closer.  

Oh no.  Oh no no no no no.  Please no.  Please.  You white-knuckled the steering wheel, your damp palms sliding as your heart pounded in your chest.  The turn onto the main drag confirmed your worst fears: The Rolling Scone was burning. 

You skidded to a halt almost as soon as you turned the corner.  Fire engines, police cars, and ambulances blocked the area surrounding your store and the other end of the road while firefighters rushed into the burning building.  You jogged down the street, looking for a familiar face in the crowd of first responders.

“Y/N!” Natasha jumped out of the back of an ambulance and came running over to you, a reflective rescue blanket draped over her shoulders.

“Nat!  Oh god, are you okay?”  She threw her arms around you and squeezed you tight.  You instinctively pulled her close, cradling her head with one hand as you wrapped your other arm around her.  

“I don’t know what happened.  I was working on the books in the office before I got started on the donuts and I started smelling smoke, so I walked out there and the kitchen was on fire.  I tried to put it out, but when it got too big I called 911.  It’s all my fault, Y/N.  I’m so sorry.”  Her eyes were brimming with tears as she apologized for the mistake that wasn’t her fault.

“It’s not your fault,” you mumbled against the top of her head.  “I’m just glad you’re okay.”  You held her close to you as she cried into your shirt.  The sight of your beloved bakery burning to the ground in front of you should’ve elicited some emotional response from you, but you felt nothing.  None of what was happening seemed real.  You’d wake up in a few hours, shake off your nightmare, and head back to work like nothing ever happened, but that wouldn’t happen again for a very long time.  Now when you woke up, you’d have to spend the foreseeable future picking up the charred pieces of your livelihood.

************************************************

Gone.  It was all gone.  The last tangible reminder of your parents had gone up in smoke.  Words couldn’t accurately describe just how devastated you were.  The bakery was the way you dealt with the crushing pain of having tragically lost your parents so early in life.  Now your coping mechanism was gone.  You looked around, seeing the charred remains of the booths, the front counter, and the collection of employee and family pictures that hung on the back wall.  One picture in particular caught your eye.  It was you and your parents after the little league championship game the year your team won.  The picture was charred around the edges, half of your mom’s body was burnt off, but it was mostly intact.  You ripped it off the wall, sighing as you stared at the faded memory.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered at your parents’ beaming faces.  You let their dream burn down and with it your last memories of them.

You stayed in the building most of the day.  Natasha stopped by at one point to find you on the floor leaning against what was left of the front counter.  She offered to grab you some food or take you home, but you declined, wanting nothing more than to disappear into the void.  That’s where Wanda found you when she showed up later in the evening.

“Hey,” she said as she crouched under the CAUTION tape.  You ignored her as you stared at the charred photograph in your hand.  She stood awkwardly in front of you, a brown paper bag in one hand and her purse in the other.  Wanda was the last person in the world you wanted to see right now.  You wanted to scream, to tell her to leave you alone, but you didn’t have the energy.

“Please go,” you murmured, flipping the photograph through your fingers.  

She didn’t go.  She walked over to the counter, kicking a piece of charred wood to the side as she sat down next to you.  There was an unspoken tension in the air as neither of you looked at each other: you stared down at the picture, she stared at the brown bag in her hand.  

“Here,” she said as she slid the bag over to you.  Taking a look inside the brown bag, you saw two delicious looking honey butter muffins staring back at you.  “I figured that it’d help you feel a bit better.”  Wanda smiled, her emerald eyes glimmering back at you.  For the first time since you met it made your heart skip a beat.

“You figured that muffins from your still-standing cafe would help me feel better about my bakery burning down?”

“Look I’m sorry, okay?  I’m really sorry about your bakery…” she trailed off as she brought her knees up and hugged them close to her chest.  “It should’ve been my place that burned down, not yours.”

“Don’t say that.”

“But it’s true!  Sam told me all about this place.  How your parents built it from the ground up, how you’ve literally spent your whole life working here, how you dropped out of school after they died to-”

“Please stop,” you interrupted as you felt another lump in your throat. .

“Is that them?” she asked, leaning over to get a better look at the photo in your hand.

You nodded.  “That’s, umm, that’s the day we won the little league championship.  Dad coached my team that year and…”  You trailed off as your eyes filled with tears.  “Umm, this place is the only thing I have left of them, you know?  Coming here every day, it’s almost like they’re still here.  And now that it’s gone I…”  You looked down at the picture as hot tears rolled down your face.  The emotional breakdown that had been brewing all day was finally bubbling up through the cracks.  “Sorry.”

Before you could say anything else, a pair of soft hands wrapped around you and pulled you close.  “It’s okay, you can let it all out,” Wanda whispered.  That was all it took for you to finally break down.  You sobbed into her chest as she held you.  She squeezed you close as she gently rocked back and forth, her fingers gently stroking your hair.  “You’re okay, Y/N.  You’re going to be okay.  I’ve got you,” she soothed.  Your body was wracked with sobs as you finally let everything go. 

Wanda’s touch was calming.  You’d never felt so calm or safe wrapped up in someone else’s arms before.  You never cried in front of anyone, not even Natasha and she was your best friend.  Somehow you knew that Wanda was someone you could trust completely.  “I’m sorry that you’re going through this, but you don’t have to go through it alone,” she whispered in your ear as your sobs started to calm.  You didn’t have enough control to speak yet so you simply nodded into her chest.  Her scent was intoxicating, a combination of sugar, roasted coffee beans, and vanilla blossom shampoo.  You never noticed it before.

“Sorry for getting your shirt wet,” you sniffled as you sat up.  

“Sorry for throwing a muffin at your head,” Wanda chuckled as she reached up to brush a stray tear from her face.  Her hand was incredibly soft as she rested it on your cheek.  You felt your face grow hot, but you weren’t sure if it was from the way she was touching you or the lack of distance between your faces or all of the above.  The knot in your throat instantly migrated down to your stomach as you locked eyes with her.

“ S’okay,” you mumbled as you lost yourself in her deep green eyes.  After staring for a moment too long, you turned your head away and blinked.  She shook her head, realizing for herself the tense intimacy of the situation.  “What kind of muffins are these?” you asked, quickly changing the subject.

“Honey butter.  Pietro found the recipe online and fell in love with them.”  

“I can see why,” you responded with your mouth full.  “They’re good, but I think mine are just a bit better.”

“Shut up,” she answered with a playful smack.

************************************************

Over the course of the next few weeks, Wanda came over to your bakery almost every day.  At first it was just to bring you something from the cafe: a cup of coffee and something sweet in the morning or a sandwich after she closed up for the evening.  Her presence soon became a familiar comfort to you and you looked forward to the few moments you spent with her every evening.  Daily food deliveries turned into offers to pick up dinner, and you often found yourself sitting up with her until all hours as you ate and continued the arduous rebuilding process.  Soon enough Wanda was coming over to help you on her days off.

As you spent more time with her, the way you thought about her changed.  You no longer woke up in a cold sweat from nightmares that involved her.  Nowadays when you dreamt about her you woke up with an uncomfortable throbbing in your pajama pants.  Her smile made you weak at the knees and you craved any opportunity to touch her.  She was an incredible woman but you were terrified to tell her how you felt.  

Natasha, of course, had noticed the shift in your demeanor towards her.  “So do I get to fire you when you sleep with her or are you gonna fire yourself?” she teased one night while you were tearing the tile flooring out of the kitchen.

“Fuck off, Nat,” you answered, not steering your attention away from the floor.

“Don’t pretend like you weren’t drooling over her when she wore those shorts in here the other day.  Besides, I see the way you two are when you’re together.”

“She’s just being friendly.  She’s like that with you and Sam too, you know.”

“Y/N, she kept staring at your crotch when you wore those grey sweatpants last week.  Even if she doesn’t like you, and I’m telling you she does, she still wants to fuck you.”

“Right, yeah,” you guffawed.  While you brushed Natasha off, you hoped she was right.  You had caught Wanda staring when you wore your grey sweats last week…and you’d be lying if you said you didn’t enjoy it.

“You should tell her how you feel.  I’m pretty sure she feels the same way.”

“Nat-”

“She’s over there now.  Just go talk to her.  Ask her out for dinner or something.”

“Nat-”

“Relax, I’ve got everything under control,” she smiled at you.  “Go talk to Wanda.”

You groaned as you pushed yourself up from the hard floor.  “Fine.  But if this all goes wrong I’m blaming it on you!”  You wiped your hands on a rag, throwing it at Nat as you headed for the door.

“It won’t!” she called from the kitchen.  You shook your head, grinning as you pushed the door open and crossed the street to Latte Love.  The store was closed for the evening.  Inside, Wanda was cleaning up, wiping down the tables and counter like she did every evening before making her way to The Rolling Scone.

Wanda looked up as she heard the door jingle.  Her exhausted face lit up at the sight of you.  “Hey you,” she called.  “What’s going on?”

“Not much.  Just helping Nat rip up the tile in the kitchen.  Contractor says he’ll be ready to go by the end of the week for that.”  The words felt like cotton balls in your mouth.  You never got this flustered around her but the thought of telling Wanda how you truly felt about her had your stomach tied in knots.  “How was your day?”

“Good!  Pietro left early for an appointment, so it’s just me closing up.  I was planning on picking up Indian for dinner.  Wanna join me?”

“Yeah, that sounds good.  Listen-”

“Oh!  I got this call for this INSANE order.  This lady wants twelve dozen cupcakes by Sunday.  SUNDAY.  Can you believe that?!”

“Wanda-”

“I mean of course you can, you’ve been doing this a lot longer than I have.  But I mean we’re a coffee shop, not a bakery!  I would’ve sent them to you but, well, you know, it’s a little hard to bake cupcakes when you don’t have an oven.”

“Wanda-”

“So I said ‘Sure, why the hell not?’ and I think that was a mistake because-”

“WANDA!” you said a little more aggressively than you intended. 

“Yeah?” She threw her hand towel over her shoulder.

“Wanda.  I, well, fuck.  Sorry, I’m not good at this.”  Your hands were all sweaty and your knees felt weak.  “Look.  What I want to say is, well, for the past few weeks we’ve…spending time with you…fuck!  Why is this so hard for me to say?”  You ran your fingers through your hair, frustrated that you couldn’t figure out the right words to say.  

Wanda’s quizzical look slowly softened into a smile as she started to put the pieces of the puzzle together.  She looked down at the ground, biting her lip as she threw the towel on the counter right before she jumped up on it, spun around, and hopped off on the other side.  She walked right over to you, stopping less than a foot away as she looked up into your eyes.

“You know, for an emotionally suppressed type of guy, you’re pretty cute when you get all flustered,” she teased.

“Wanda, I-” 

Before you could finish your thought, Wanda grabbed your waist, leaned in, and kissed you.  Your hands somehow found their way to the back of her neck, palms resting on her cheeks as you cupped her head.  Every single coherent thought you had flew out of your brain the second her lips touched yours.  They were just as sweet as you imagined they’d be.  You smiled into her lips, eternally grateful that she had been the one to initiate this in the first place.  She smiled back as you deepened it, capturing her bottom lip between yours.  There was no need for talking, no need for any other explanation.  The dance between your lips told the entire story: you were hers, and she was yours.  The knot in your stomach burst into a million butterflies as every touch ignited a burning sense of desire within you.  

“Wanda, I-” you somehow managed to choke out as she began to kiss the side of your neck.

“There’s a couch in the office and the door locks,” she mumbled.  Her lips grazed your sensitive skin as she spoke and it took everything in you not to let out an offensive moan.

“Lead the way.”  Wanda grabbed your hand and dragged you behind the counter and through the kitchen to the small office in the back of the shop.  You slammed the door shut behind you as Wanda pinned you to it, locking the door with one hand before bringing it back up to roam your body.  She slammed her lips into yours as you grabbed her hips, pulling her flush against your body.  The contact sent a surge of energy through your groin and you knew it would be only a matter of moments before your shorts became unbearably uncomfortable.  

You explored her body as you kissed her, tracing over every curve as she moaned into your mouth at the sensual contact.  She was heavenly.  You decided to change up the intensity of your make out session, swiping your tongue over her lower lip.  She willingly opened up and allowed your tongue to explore hers.  

Before you realized it, Wanda’s hands made their way down your body to the front of your shorts.  She unbuttoned them, stopping right afterwards to palm your throbbing erection.  You nibbled on her bottom lip as she fondled you and she smiled into your mouth in response.  As she pulled your pants and boxers down, you pulled off your t-shirt and threw it off to the side.  

“You’re beautiful,” Wanda whispered as she looked at your naked body for the first time.  She ran her hands over your toned biceps, strong and wiry from years of kneading dough, and your pecs, down your toned stomach before reaching your cock.  She grabbed it with one hand, stroking it gently as she dropped to her knees.

“Wanda,” you groaned as she worked her hands up and down your shaft.  Pushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear, she lined up her mouth with your tip and swallowed the first part of your penis.  She swirled her tongue around your tip, coating it in saliva before removing her mouth and using it as lube to jack you off.  Your knees felt weak as she took you in her mouth again, bobbing her head up and down your entire length.  She sucked and licked and swirled your cock, hollowing her cheeks as she took you down her throat.  The noises that came from her mouth as she gagged on your length were sinful, but it only made you want her that much more.

At one point she reached for your hand, placing it on the back of her head.  You took that as a sign to do what you wanted, so you moved her head up and down at a speed you liked.  You moaned as you felt the familiar fire burning within you, spurred on by the way Wanda’s eyes watered as she let you fuck her throat.  She grabbed onto your thighs as you pounded into her, nails digging into your flesh as she looked up at you with those pleading green eyes.

“I’m gonna cum,” you moaned as Wanda ripped your hand away from her head, bringing her other hand up to jack you off as she sucked on your tip.  The sudden suction and added stimulation immediately caused you to tumble over the edge as you released down her throat.  She greedily swallowed every last drop.  Having her suck you off like that was a life-changing experience.

Wanda sat back on her heels, wiping the drool from her chin as she gasped for air.  “Nice cock,” she chuckled.  “Hope it feels as good as it tastes.”

“Why don’t we find out?” you teased, offering your hand to her as she stood up.  “But I think you’ve got too many clothes on for that.”

“I think we can take care of that,” Wanda smirked, reaching down to pull her shirt over her head.  “Want to get my pants?” she asked as she reached behind her to undo her bra.

“Don’t have to tell me twice,” you joked as you unbuttoned her jeans.  You slid both them and her panties down her legs before she kicked them off.  “Wow,” you said, taking a step back to admire her.  

“Like what you see, tiger?”

“Wanda, I’m sure you’ve heard this a million times, but you are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”  Wanda blushed a deep shade of crimson at your words.  It wasn’t an exaggeration.  She was absolutely gorgeous.

“Thank you,” she whispered sheepishly as she sat on the couch.

You sat down next to her, your eyes darting from one part of her nude figure to the other before you settled back on her lips.  Leaning forward, you kissed her as she fell back on the couch.  It didn’t take much to shift your position so that you were completely on top of her.  You relished the taste of her lips as you kissed and you wanted to savor  the sensation of every second.

“Fuck,” you murmured as you reached a hand down between her legs.  “You’re absolutely soaked, Wanda.”  She whined as you drew a finger up the length of her cunt, teasing around her engorged clit.  “You do that to me every day.  I go home soaking wet and fuck myself thinking about how good you’d feel inside me.”  She bucked her hips against your hand, desperate to relieve the ache building within her.  “God, I want you in me so bad, Y/N.”

“Jesus,” you whispered through gritted teeth as your erection swelled at her words.  “And here I was trying to figure out how to tell you how the first thing I do every morning is jack off to the thought of you.”

“I guess we both have filthy minds then,” she grinned.  Her face was flushed with arousal, the redness spreading down her neck and onto her breasts.  “Fuck!” she exclaimed as you dipped a finger ever so slightly inside her before quickly pulling out.  “Please just fuck me!”

“You’re cute when you beg,” you sighed as you lined yourself up with her entrance.  You teased her with your tip, rubbing it up and down her slit and over her lips and clit before barely pushing your head in.  She whined, rolling her hips in a feeble effort to lower herself onto you.  

“Y/N please-” Wanda’s words turned into a sharp cry as you slammed your entire length inside her.  Her pussy was absolute heaven.  She was warm and wet, her slick velvety walls engulfing you and squeezing in all the right places. 

“Oh my fucking god,” you croaked.  You laid over her for a minute, trying to regroup yourself enough so you wouldn’t immediately blow your load inside her.  As she adjusted to your intrusion and you calmed yourself down, you began to roll your hips against her, thrusting in and out.

“Shit,” she gasped.  Wanda rolled her hips in time with yours, meeting you as you thrust your length all the way inside her.  You continued at a steady pace, the sounds of her wet pussy being the only noise in the room.

“Are you okay?” you asked, noticing Wanda’s eyes were screwed shut.

“Feels really good.  Can you go faster?”  Not wanting to disappoint, you began to pound into her.  Her mouth gaped open at your newfound intensity as she reached up to wrap her arms and legs around you.  “Oh fuck, right there.”

The couch shook under the duress of your movements.  You pounded into Wanda, her tight hole stretching perfectly around your cock with every thrust.  Sweat beaded on your forehead as you grunted from exertion.  Your moans and groans, along with the squelching of Wanda’s pussy, filled the room.  As you pounded into her cunt, your cock disappearing within her wet folds, Wanda’s moans became louder and more erratic.  “You close, baby girl?”

Wanda nodded, wrapping her legs tighter around your midsection.  “My clit,” she choked out.  You helped her move one of her arms from your back to the sensitive spot.  She circled it furiously, a loud groan tearing from her chest.  “Faster,” she commanded.

You doubled down on your efforts and hammered into her dripping cunt.  The way her walls fluttered and clenched around you told you she wasn’t far away from her orgasm.  The way she tightened around you sent that familiar coil through your lower abdomen.  It wouldn’t be much longer until you reached your climax as well.

“I’m gonna cum,” she whined.  You pounded into her as fast as you could, groaning as your hips slammed against her swollen pussy.  Her hand circled her clit furiously.  Wanda came with a loud groan, her back arching off the couch as wave after wave of ecstasy crashed down on her.  Her walls throbbed and clenched rhythmically around you, the intense sensation finally causing you to cum as you released your thick load of cum deep inside her.  Wanda dug her nails deep into your back as you absolutely ruined her.

“Fuck I love you,” you gasped as you collapsed on top of her from sheer exhaustion.  Blood pounded in your ears and black dots peppered your vision as you recovered from the best orgasm you ever had.  

“You love me?” Wanda asked, her eyes blown wide with desire from the afterglow of her incredible orgasm.

“Shit, I’m sorry I shouldn’t have said that.”  A sense of panic overtook you as you stared down at Wanda.  

“No it’s okay.  I mean, I feel the same way,” she admitted, smiling back up at you.

“Really?”

“Mmhmm” 

You chuckled as you leaned down to kiss her.  “Guess I have to quit my job now.” 

Wanda looked at you with a confused expression.  “What?” she asked as she cocked an eyebrow.

“I told everyone that they’d be fired if they slept with you, so I guess I’ve gotta quit.” 

“I love you,” Wanda giggled as she shook her head.

************************************************

“So let me get this straight: we’re merging with Latte Love after you threatened to fire us if we talked to Wanda?” Sam crossed his arms as he sat on the newly reconstructed front counter.  You had called the team together to announce the new business venture you were about to embark on.

“Okay first off I only threatened to fire you if you slept with her.  Talking to her would’ve resulted in a stern talking to and overnight donut duty for a week.  Second, it's not a merger so much as it is a partnership.  Both businesses will operate independent of one another, but now we’re going to start carrying some of their baked goods,” you explained.  Everyone looked at you in utter disbelief, unable to fathom your sudden shift in the way you viewed Latte Love.

“What changed?” Nat asked, tapping her pen against the table.

“Oh you know…stuff…things,” you murmured sheepishly as your face reddened.

“Oh my god!”  Nat’s eyes widened in realization as she stood up. “You slept with her!”

“Dude what?!  That’s so -” Peter exclaimed before Sam slapped his hand over his mouth to shut him up.  You pinched the bridge of your nose as you looked up at the ceiling.  Natasha was laughing at the irony of the whole situation before she lambasted you with questions.

“How long has this been going on?  Wait, was it a one time thing?  Oh, it was definitely the time I made you go over there to talk to her when we were ripping up the floor.  And you told me you two just talked.  Talking my ass…Is this a business deal, like sex in exchange for pastries?  Are you two a thing?  I should’ve guessed with how much time you’ve been spending over there and how you never want to do anything fun with me anymo-”

“Nat, will you please shut up?!”  Her endless questions were exasperating.  Yes, you and Wanda were in fact a thing but you hadn’t told anyone about it.  You hadn’t even told Nat about your back office hookup even though it happened two months ago.  There was so much going on with rebuilding the bakery and dealing with insurance claims that you wanted to keep this part of your life private.  “I just think it’d be a good idea for both of us, maximize our profits, boost both of our busin-”

“Hey babe, is there any way you can come help me with the rest of the-” Wanda paused as she barged in on your team meeting.  “Oh hi guys!”

“Mmhmm, it’s definitely good for both of you,” Nat smirked as she took a sip of her coffee.  You shot her a warning look while Wanda stood utterly oblivious to the scene unfolding around her.  “Go on, go help your girlfriend with whatever she needs.  I’ll show Peter how to do the bagels.”

You smiled at Wanda as you headed toward the door.  “So what do you need my help with?”

“Nothing,” Wanda responded as she reached for your hand.  “Just wanted to spend some time with my favorite guy.”

“Don’t let Pietro hear you say that.”

“That’s okay, he already knows.”  She squeezed your hand reassuringly as you crossed the street.  

You smiled as her grip tightened around your hand.  Six months ago there was no way to predict that the woman who ruined your life would ultimately become the greatest thing that ever happened to you.  As you crossed the threshold from your bakery to her cafe, you were grateful to be able to call The Rolling Scone, Latte Love, and Wanda home. 

[lorekeeper-backset]

Morning everyone. I had a dream last night with a very cool sci-fi concept and I need to figure out if I pulled it from somewhere like a book or show or if my brain just wholesale made up a kickass sci-fi concept because I need to capitalize on that if so.

Basically, the earth or an earth-like planet is covered in a super thick layer of dust clouds. It's basically unlivable. So everyone lives in floating cities and spaceships above the dust. Pretty much everybody's super impoverished and life generally just kinda sucks cause there's so limited resources. Some people have jobs where they go down to the planet surface, with special gear of course, and look for minerals or something which pretty much all go back to the Mega Corp running the place into the ground.

I haven't been able to find anything like that, at least not that I've actually read or watched, so I'm starting to think my brain came up with it wholesale.

[year-of-whump-tropes]

FAQ

Can this be combined with other whump events?

Yes! As long as a work addresses one of the prompts for this event, it counts even if it also addresses something else.

Can we combine prompts?

Combining prompts is allowed as long as the work genuinely addresses both/all prompts.

When do prompts come out?

Prompts are officially released one month at a time, about one month in advance. (i.e. February's prompts will go up in early January and so forth). If you need prompts earlier than that, you can dm me for a private copy of the list or part of the list anytime during the year the event is running, on the condition that you don't repost it or spoil it for those doing the event in order. (Normal event participation, like including the relevant prompts in your prompt fills or event masterlist, is fine. Reposting the list wholesale or other unreasonable spoiling actions is not. Basically just be considerate.)

Can we create for a fandom? OCs? Nameless? RPF?

Fandom, OC, and nameless/generic are all welcome in this event! Use your best judgement with regards to RPF. (And please tag accordingly!)

Can we use AI?

Generative AIs such as ChatGPT, DALL·E, Midjourney, etc. are not allowed in this event. Entries should be created by YOU, not a machine. Non-generative AI tools such as dictation and grammar checking programs are permitted within reason.

Will there be an AO3 collection?

I have no current plans for an AO3 collection, but it’s not out of the question.

Will there be a completionist list?

Yes, and there will be multiple levels: daily, weekly, and monthly. There will also be achievement lists, and there’s an achievement for filling a prompt each day for 28 consecutive days if you want to use this as a one-month event instead.

Do prompts have to be done in order/the day of?

Nope! This event was made with flexibility in mind. Prompts can be done in any order, at any time. As long as they’re done sometime during the year the event is running, they’ll count.

Can we use prompts after the event ends?

Yes, you can use the prompts whenever you want. However, you will only get recognized for completion/achievements and have your work reblogged here if it’s posted while the event is running.

What are the participation requirements?

Respond to any one of the prompts while the event is running, and you’re a participant!

What are the completionist requirements?

Daily completionist: Fill at least one prompt from each of 336 different days while the event is running. Using two prompts from the same day will only count as one day.

Weekly completionist: Fill at least one prompt from each of 48 different weeks while the event is running. Using two or more prompts from the same week will only count as one week. You may use a daily prompt from the week, or use the week’s theme itself as a prompt.

Monthly completionist: Fill at least one prompt from each of 12 different months while the event is running. Using two or more prompts from the same month will only count as one month, except in the alt prompts which are not divided into months. Each week in the alt prompts may be counted as a different month. You may use a daily prompt from the month, one of the weekly themes from the month, or use the month’s theme itself as a prompt.

Can I do more prompts than what’s required for my completionist level?

Of course! There’s no rule against doing extra.

Is there a word count requirement?

Nope! As long as it’s enough to address the prompt, it’s enough to count.

Is there a minimum quality requirement?

Nope!

Is there an event tag?

Yes. See our tagging system here.

Is NSFW allowed?

Yes, but it MUST be tagged properly and put under either a readmore or a content label. See full info here.

What mediums are allowed?

Any creative medium! Prompts are primarily geared towards writers, but all creative mediums are welcome.

Are collabs allowed?

Yes, and it can count for each person who contributed.

Will you reblog entries?

Yup! I will try to reblog every properly tagged entry, but if that proves unmanageable I will switch to reblogging a random selection instead. If for whatever reason you want a reblog of your work removed from this blog, just let me know and I’ll take it down.

Will this event run again?

I hope so. It will depend on a few things including how well it does, whether there’s enough engagement in the planning stages next year, and how busy I am. If it does run again, it will be every other year, because it needs a good deal of prep time that wouldn’t be feasible while also running the event. On the off years, I’ll run a whump bingo and possibly a shorter event or something.

If your question wasn’t answered here, you can send it in the askbox, double check the event format post, or check the tags #event info and #event questions to see if someone else has already asked it!

[shouts-into-the-void]

Dear Endless Expanse of Space,

The insistence of fast food restaurants, resale stores, and other industries that were previously geared towards consumer affordability to more than triple their prices every time they get an increase in customers and then blame it on raising employee wages so no one notices is insidious for a couple reasons.

Firstly because it has little to do with employee wages and more to do with now having a large enough consumer base to charge people ridiculous prices and not feel the loss of anyone unable to afford these prices.

Secondly, it completely skews peoples ideas of what constitutes "affordability". Whether people are conscious of it or not, places like GoodWill suddenly charging the same prices as wholesale stores give people the impression that the people who usually shop at these stores because they can't afford anything else actually can afford it and the decreased prices were just a fun perk, because GoodWill, Walmart, and McDonald's are marketed as being "cheap and affordable" even though a cheeseburger is now almost $3. We saw this very notably with Dollar Tree, which increased prices to $1.25, with people being confused as to why the people who previously relied on the $1 prices were so outraged by such a "small increase" because Dollar Tree has slowly been adding things like the "Dollar Tree Plus" racks with increased prices until those racks eventually became their own stores.

And the people who do realize these places are driving up prices and are upset about it? Their anger is neatly redirected to the employees asking to be paid enough to keep up with those raised prices and other consumers who just wanted to be a little more price savvy rather than these big companies run by horrible people who just weren't content with a $100,000 check.

[adamwatchesmovies]

Suburban Commando (1991)

While I didn't enjoy this film, that doesn't mean you won't. No matter what I say, the people involved in this project did it: they actually made a movie. That's something to be applauded. With that established...

From the setup, you expect Suburban Commando to be fairly straightforward. It probably won’t be good but by following its formula, it might entertain kids. Inexplicably, the film misses all of the easy opportunities given to it and doesn’t even manage to meet the meagre expectations placed upon it. At best, it has a couple of meme-worthy scenes. You won’t remember this movie down the line.

Intergalactic warrior Step Ramsey (Hulk Hogan) has finally defeated the villainous General Suitor (William Ball) but just barely. His superior suggests he take a vacation, which sees him become marooned on a backwater planet - Earth. Attempting to blend in with the locals until his ship repairs itself, he befriends Charlie Wilcox (Christopher Lloyd), an unappreciated architect working for Adrian Beltz (Larry Miller).

A warrior from a distant world finding himself out of his environment and befriending a local to kill time is not a new plot. The thing is, usually these types of stories have the outsider pair up with a kid. You can see why after this movie. Having a grown man mess with Ramsey’s high-tech gear and try to be a superhero just doesn’t feel right. When Ramsey gets in trouble because he misunderstands stuff we take for granted, you keep thinking Wilcox should have a tighter leash on him. It gets weirder because Wilcox has a son you think is going to be Hulk Hogan’s sidekick. It's like he was added as an afterthought, but the role has more to offer than Shelley Duvall's. She plays Mrs. Wilcox and has nothing to do.

The character arcs are clumsy and predictable. Charlie’s biggest obstacles are a pair of redneck neighbors who steal his parking spot (a subplot that never gets resolved), his underappreciative boss, and a stoplight. Okay then. Step Ramsey (whose name is distracting because it sounds so much like Chef Ramsey) might as well be a robot. Hogan is little more than a prop dragged around from one episodic gag to the next. Even if he could act, he isn’t given the opportunity to. At least his physical prowess is well used in the film’s best scenes, all of which include a mime whose luck has run out.

It all builds towards an ending that’s uninspired and generic but at least Suburban Commando is harmless. If you’re thinking this is going to be one of those “so bad it’s good” movies, you will get a couple of laughs from the scenes where it steals from Star Wars wholesale but those moments come and go quickly. After that, you’re stuck watching a movie that makes you wonder why anyone bothered. (On VHS, January 17, 2020)

[wholesaletotebag]

Why Are Tote Bags a Popular Choice for Wholesale Purchases?

When it comes to versatile, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solutions, tote bags stand out as a favorite for wholesale buyers. Whether you're stocking up for a business, event, or promotional giveaway, tote bags are a timeless option. But why exactly are they so popular for bulk purchases?

At Totebagmart, the leading source for wholesale tote bags, customers often cite their adaptability as the key reason. These bags come in a variety of materials, sizes, and styles, making them suitable for countless uses. From branded promotional items to practical retail packaging, tote bags deliver value and functionality.

Reasons Tote Bags Are Perfect for Wholesale Purchases

Eco-Friendly Appeal With the growing awareness of sustainability, tote bags have become a symbol of eco-conscious living. They're reusable, durable, and often made from sustainable materials like cotton or jute. For businesses, offering a tote bag aligns with customer values while minimizing environmental impact.

Customization Options Tote bags are a marketer's dream. They offer large, flat surfaces that can be easily customized with logos, designs, or messages. This makes them ideal for branding, whether you're running a corporate event, a charity fundraiser, or a boutique store.

Affordable Pricing Buying in bulk always saves money, but tote bags, in particular, offer exceptional value. Their simplicity in design and cost-effective materials ensure you get a high-quality product without breaking the bank.

Universal Use From shopping trips to carrying books, gym gear, or everyday essentials, tote bags are incredibly versatile. This universality ensures that your investment in wholesale tote bags will meet a wide range of customer needs.

Trendy and Timeless Tote bags have a natural, minimalist aesthetic that never goes out of style. Their utility combined with their chic appeal ensures they'll remain in demand for years to come.

In conclusion, tote bags are more than just carriers—they're statements of style, sustainability, and practicality. If you're considering a wholesale purchase, there's no better time to invest in these all-purpose bags. Explore the endless possibilities and find the perfect option for your needs at Totebagmart today!

[precisionmeasuringtools]

Testing Equipment, Current Parts Supply, and Electronic Part Distributors: A Total Blueprint!

In the current state-of-the-art scene, the positions of testing equipment wholesalers, present-day parts suppliers, and electronic part shippers are the keys to ensuring smooth action and the capability of collecting and mechanical cycles. These wholesalers structure a fundamental piece of the stock organization, giving the gadgets endless parts expected to keep adventures working at ideal levels. Each trader order serves a stand-out capacity, offering specific things and organizations for various present-day necessities. Could we dive into each arrangement to fathom their significance and how they add to organizations worldwide?

The Best Services of testing equipment distributors

Testing equipment is central to significant control, prosperity, and progress across different regions. From the aerodynamic exchange to equipment and clinical development, testing equipment is crucial for affirming product execution, ensuring security standards are met, and detecting potential issues before large-scale assembly or course. Testing equipment distributors offer many instruments to check, assess, and endorse the introduction of various products and systems. These distributers offer equipment for various testing needs, including electrical, mechanical, and environmental testing.

They supply autonomous devices and complex test structures that combine different testing abilities into one phase. Testing gear traders provide excellent equipment and habitually offer change organizations, specific assistance, and training to guarantee the equipment is utilized accurately. In endeavors where precision and consistency are crucial, these wholesalers play an essential role in maintaining the decency of testing techniques and ensuring that devices satisfy the standard rules.

An Advancement of Industrial Parts Supply

Industrial Parts Supply vendors through the best platform like Pacific IC Source expect a central job in the smooth course of collecting and making workplaces. They give the normal substances, new parts, and contraption parts vital for keeping machines running and thwarting costly available energy. From headings, cogwheels, and valves to treatments, seals, and motors, these suppliers ensure that organizations approach the parts expected to stay aware of and fix their equipment.

Industrial parts supply wholesalers are fundamental to maintaining the continuity of exercises. Vehicle breakdowns, mining, energy, and gathering equipment breakdowns can cause significant financial misfortunes. By having quick access to critical new parts, associations can reduce the risk of obstruction. Likewise, present-day parts dealers often offer parts from various manufacturers, permitting associations to pick parts that best suit their prerequisites and monetary plans.

Why is Electronic Component Distributors Vital?

With movements in development, various current parts suppliers have combined mechanized stages where associations can organize parts on the web, track stock, and even get revamped plans. This is a massive shift towards streamlining acquisition processes and further creating efficiency in adventures relying on collecting and making plans just under the wire. Electronic Component Distributors play a fundamental role in the device business, providing the parts that power current equipment, from cells and computers to clinical contraptions and present-day mechanical assemblies.

These wholesalers supply many parts, including resistors, capacitors, semiconductors, facilitated circuits (ICs), diodes, and connectors. The meaning of electronic parts in the present mechanical world couldn't be more critical. As organizations continue creating, there is an interest in the better execution of electronic parts than in helping types of progress in computerization, fake mental ability, media correspondences, and various fields. Electronic part wholesalers ensure that creators and architects have a strong induction of the parts expected for thing headway, fixing, and upkeep.

Conclusion

Testing equipment traders, current suppliers, and electronic parts deals are fundamental in modern adventures. They structure the underpinning of the stock organization for gathering, developing, and creating regions, ensuring associations can access the instruments and parts expected to maintain high applicable standards and avoid extremely unsettling influences. As the cutting-edge world continues to evolve, these dealers will remain essential to the development and success of association’s worldwide, contributing fundamental resources for progression and capability.

[marathon-203]

Unique Features To Lookout For In Women’s Running Clothes

Manufacturers have come up with a huge collection of running clothes for women . However, there are certain aspects that you need to keep in mind before making the investment for your store.

[whistlekick]

Episode 978 - Combatives Master Trainer Chris Adame

SUMMARY

In this conversation, Combatives Master Trainer Chris Adame discusses the tribal nature of sports and politics, the importance of inclusivity in training, and the critical role of feedback in martial arts. They explore the dynamics of teaching and learning in combatives, emphasizing the difference between facilitation and instruction. Chris shares insights from his experience in military training and the evolution of the Modern Army Combatives Program, highlighting the need for combatives in law enforcement and the integration of prior experience in training. In this conversation, Chris Adame discusses the evolution of combat training within the military, emphasizing the importance of tactical applications and the warrior mentality. He highlights the psychological aspects of violence, the significance of safe training practices, and the bridging of military and civilian combat training. The discussion also touches on the importance of resilience and the need for individuals to face challenges head-on, ultimately fostering a mindset geared towards survival and effective self-defense.

TAKEAWAYS

Pro sports and politics share a tribal nature.

Inclusivity in training fosters a supportive environment.

Feedback is essential for self-awareness in martial arts.

Teaching is about facilitating learning, not just instructing.

Experience as a student enhances teaching effectiveness.

Combatives training is crucial for military and law enforcement.

The Modern Army Combatives Program has evolved over time.

Survival is the primary goal of combatives training.

Facilitation encourages engagement and connection in learning.

Enjoyment in training leads to better learning outcomes.

The evolution of combat training has shifted towards building confidence rather than just toughness.

Tactical applications in combat are crucial for survival in real situations.

The warrior mentality involves facing challenges head-on, whether in combat or daily life.

Understanding the psychology of violence can lead to better control and emotional resilience.

Safe training practices are essential for effective learning and skill retention.

Civilian combat training can benefit from military techniques and philosophies.

Running is a fundamental skill that should be prioritized in self-defense training.

The importance of instructor presence in teaching and learning environments.

Combat training should focus on practical techniques that ensure survival.

The willingness to engage in combat is a defining characteristic of a warrior.

  This episode is sponsored by Kataaro. Please check out their site at www.kataaro.com and use the code WK10 to save 10% off your first order. And be sure to ask them about a wholesale account for school owners!

Check out this episode!

[fleecepeachfur]

Creative Ways to Use Wholesale Picnic Blankets Beyond Picnics

When you think of picnic blankets, your mind might immediately wander to sunny parks, picnic baskets, and alfresco lunches. But buying wholesale picnic blankets unlocks so many creative uses beyond the traditional picnic setup. With their versatility, durability, and bulk availability, these blankets are the ultimate multi-taskers for both personal and professional needs.

Whether you’re planning events, running a business, or looking for unique ways to utilize bulk blankets, here are some innovative and practical ideas for wholesale picnic blankets that go far beyond the park.

1. Branded Giveaways and Corporate Gifts

Wholesale picnic blankets are an excellent choice for businesses looking to promote their brand or show appreciation to clients and employees.

Promotional Giveaways: Add your company logo to blankets and distribute them at trade shows or marketing events.

Employee Gifts: High-quality blankets make thoughtful gifts for team members, especially for outdoor team-building activities.

Client Appreciation: Impress your clients with a practical yet stylish branded blanket as a thank-you gift.

Branded wholesale picnic blankets offer functionality while keeping your business top of mind.

2. Memorable Event Favors

Why stick to standard party favors when you can wow your guests with picnic blankets?

Weddings: Offer guests personalized blankets with your wedding date or initials as a keepsake from your big day.

Baby Showers: A thoughtful favor that guests can use again and again.

Corporate Retreats: Provide blankets for outdoor sessions and let attendees take them home as souvenirs.

These unique favors elevate your event and leave a lasting impression.

3. Community Outreach and Charity

For non-profits and community groups, wholesale picnic blankets are a meaningful way to give back.

Donations to Shelters: Provide warmth and comfort to those in need with durable and reusable blankets.

School and Daycare Use: Equip outdoor play areas with comfortable blankets for sitting or napping.

Fundraising Items: Sell custom-designed blankets at events to raise funds for a cause.

Purchasing picnic blankets in bulk allows you to stretch your budget while supporting community initiatives.

4. Creative Home Décor

Picnic blankets can be repurposed as stylish and functional additions to your home décor.

Throws for Furniture: Add a pop of color to sofas, chairs, or beds with blankets that double as cozy throws.

Tablecloths: Use patterned blankets as table covers for casual dining setups, both indoors and out.

Rugs for Kids' Play Areas: Place soft blankets in playrooms to create a comfortable and safe surface for children.

The versatility of wholesale picnic blankets makes them an affordable way to refresh your living space.

5. Outdoor and Camping Essentials

Planning an outdoor adventure? Picnic blankets are a must-have for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Ground Cover: Protect yourself from dirt and dampness by using waterproof blankets as a barrier between you and the ground.

Extra Layer for Sleeping Bags: Add warmth to your camping gear with lightweight, packable blankets.

Beach Mats: Use durable blankets as sand-resistant mats for a day by the ocean.

Buying wholesale picnic blankets ensures you’re always prepared for spontaneous outdoor adventures.

6. Rental Opportunities for Event Planners

If you’re in the event planning business, wholesale picnic blankets can become an excellent rental item for outdoor gatherings.

Picnic-Themed Events: Rent out blankets to clients hosting outdoor picnics, weddings, or family reunions.

Outdoor Movie Nights: Provide seating for guests attending community movie screenings.

Festival Gear: Offer blankets as part of a rental package for festivals or concerts.

Renting out picnic blankets not only adds convenience for clients but also generates extra revenue for your business.

7. Creative Craft Projects

Feeling crafty? Picnic blankets can be repurposed into unique DIY projects:

Pet Beds: Turn sturdy blankets into cozy resting spots for your furry friends.

Reusable Bags: Create eco-friendly tote bags by repurposing blankets with vibrant designs.

Wall Hangings: Use patterned blankets as decorative tapestries for a boho-chic aesthetic.

Wholesale purchases give you an abundance of material for creative crafting ventures.

8. Seasonal Pop-Ups and Retail Sales

If you’re a retailer or entrepreneur, wholesale picnic blankets are a profitable addition to your product lineup:

Holiday Pop-Ups: Sell blankets during winter markets or gift fairs as functional and festive items.

Beachside Vendors: Offer blankets to beachgoers looking for quick solutions for sandy seating.

Event Merchandise: Sell branded blankets at festivals, concerts, or other outdoor events.

Their versatility makes picnic blankets an appealing product for diverse audiences.

9. Sustainable Alternatives

Embrace eco-conscious living by incorporating reusable wholesale picnic blankets into your lifestyle or business:

Reduce Waste: Replace single-use picnic mats with long-lasting blankets.

Sustainable Branding: Promote an eco-friendly image by gifting reusable blankets at events.

Green Gifting: Choose blankets made from recycled or sustainable materials for a thoughtful, eco-conscious gift.

Wholesale options make it easy to embrace sustainability without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: Unlock the Full Potential of Wholesale Picnic Blankets

Buying wholesale picnic blankets is more than just a practical decision—it’s a creative opportunity. From branded giveaways to home décor, charity initiatives, and beyond, these blankets are as versatile as they are functional.

Missed the first article in this series? Don’t forget to check out “Why Wholesale Picnic Blankets Are Perfect for Events and Businesses” and discover how they can elevate your next event or business strategy!

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