#World's Largest Candy Store

[suduu]

A Norwegian wedding in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Last 📸 by Mark Vancleave

[jksarchives]

THE SIX STAGES OF A BREAK-UP │02

➪ PAIRING; jungkook x reader

➪ GENRE; lovers to strangers, angst

➪ WC; 2.5k

✎ series masterlist

2. BARGAINING

▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

You grew up in a small, quaint town in the countryside. The town, known for its picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, was a place where everyone knew each other.

Your parents were the owners of the town’s largest grocery store, therefore becoming a cornerstone. Your parents were the one of the most important pillars in the community who kept everyone together.

Their grocery store wasn't just a place to buy food; it was a social hub where neighbours caught up, children bought candies with their pocket money, and elderly townsfolk gathered for a chat. The store was indispensable, making sure that everyone had access to daily necessities without needing to travel to the nearest city, miles away.

Growing up, up until high school, your world revolved around the store. You spent countless hours weaving through aisles, stacking shelves, and sometimes even helping customers find what they needed.

To many, it seemed like an ideal childhood, an amazing daughter who always helped her parents.

But deep down, you knew your life was more than just lifting the burden of every day demands off your parents’ shoulder.

You were an only child to your parents, but they had always been busy for as long as you could remember.

From dawn until dusk, their lives were consumed by the tasks of running the store. Inventory needed to be checked, deliveries received, and the cash register manned. Weekends and holidays were no exception; in fact, those were often the busiest times. You would watch as your parents pour their energy and time into the store, leaving little left for you.

As a little five-year-old girl, you yearned for your parents' attention. You wished for just a few hours of their undivided focus, dreaming of days where you would play in the park, bake cookies, or simply talk. You longed for bedtime stories and weekend outings with them, but these were rare luxuries.

Their love for you was undeniable, but their presence was scarce.

Sometimes, you imagined what it would be like to have a sibling — a sister to share secrets with, a brother to play games with, someone who could fill the void in your heart.

Your friends would talk about the fun and quarrels they had with their brothers and sisters, stories that left you feeling envious and longing for the same experiences.

And as you grew older, your feelings of jealousy became more pronounced. Watching your friends with their siblings, who continued creating memories together and receiving unwavering attention from their parents, intensified your sense of deprivation.

Your attempts to gain your parents' attention often went unnoticed. You excelled in school, hoping your achievements would draw them closer, but their acknowledgment was short-lived.

Birthdays and special occasions were celebrated with gifts but lacked the warmth of genuine togetherness you hoped for. The superficial gestures could not fill the emotional gap that had grown over the years.

The loneliness of your childhood left a lasting impact on you. And as you transitioned into your teenage years, you carried with you the scars of emotional neglect from your parents.

You still loved them, and you couldn’t really blame them for trying to keep up with the heritage that your grandfather had built.

But you just wished. You just wished they had given you at least a day of their lives for you.

Relationships were difficult, be it romantic or friendship.

You craved connection but struggled with attachment issues. When you formed romantic relationships or friendships, you would swing back and forth between intense dependency and a strong desire to push people away. Your fear of being abandoned was strong, but so was your fear of being too close.

The one time you had a boyfriend when you were sixteen, you would often test boundaries, pushing for reassurance while simultaneously fearing that any closeness would lead to inevitable disappointment.

You found yourself frequently overanalysing your past boyfriend’s words and actions, interpreting affectionate gestures as signs of rejection or neglect.

But eventually he grew tired and frustrated with your behaviour, and left you overthinking everything about yourself and your flaws.

The cycle continued as you found yourself either overly clingy or excessively distant, never quite able to find a balanced space where trust could flourish. This pattern left you feeling isolated and misunderstood, as if you were forever on the outside looking in.

It wasn’t until you moved to Seoul to attend college that your life began to shift. The change came in the form of Jungkook, a free-spirited and warm-hearted boy who was everything you weren’t.

You met him at the college library, arguing about a book which you both happened to get your hands on but he let you have the win. For a moment you already felt a sense of displeasure towards him. But it all melted away when he began a conversation with you.

Jungkook was a young businessman with an open heart and an infectious zest for life. He was an heir to his father’s company, and he attended college to enhance his knowledge before taking over his father’s position someday.

You learned that he was outgoing, effortlessly charming, and had an innate ability to make people feel at ease. He was a contrast to everything you had known. He was emotionally expressive, and his openness fascinated you.

As you both started spending more time together, you found yourself slowly letting down your guard. Jungkook’s understanding and patience were qualities you hadn’t expected.

He never pushed you to share more than you were comfortable with but was always there, offering a listening ear when you did choose to open up.

Jungkook’s consistent love and support through the ten years you had been together never changed, despite the times where your insecurities would resurface.

Jungkook’s love for you was evident in how he made you feel valued and cherished. He listened intently when you spoke, celebrated your successes as if they were his own, and stood by your side during tough times.

You always reflected on how lucky you were to have him. He didn’t just love you; he showed it in ways that made you feel truly seen and appreciated.

You knew that love wasn’t always easy, but Jungkook’s commitment made every challenge seem surmountable. His promise to never leave wasn’t just words; it was a living truth in the way he chose to be present in your life, day after day.

But what now?

What is going to happen now?

How were you going to live without him by your side like he promised?

It was that very thought that sent your body into a panic mode as you watched Jungkook heavy-heartedly pack his belongings.

It had been two days since he told you he wanted to break up. Two days since you slept in different rooms. One where he laid feeling guilty as he had ever been, and the other where you cried your eyes out the entire night.

You didn’t speak to him at all, though he tried his best to talk to you, saying how sorry he was for everything. But the weight of the heartbreak left you unable to speak, fearing that if you tried to, you’d break down all over again.

However, right now as you watched him, you seemed to find your voice again.

The closet door was wide open, and his suitcase laid open and half packed. You took a small step forward. Your breath felt like it was stuck in your throat, and your vision blurred as tears formed. You tried to blink them away, but they only fell faster, tracing wet lines down your cheeks.

With each step, you felt a desperate urge to make him stay, to rewind time and undo everything that had caused your relationship to fall apart.

“Jungkook,” you called softly, your voice cracking.

Jungkook paused, his back still turned to you, the shirt he was holding briefly forgotten in his hands. Slowly, he turned to face you, his expression a mixture of resignation and sorrow.

“What are you doing?” you asked, though the answer was obvious. The question was a plea, a small hope that he might say something to break the spell of finality.

Jungkook sighed and looked down, unable to meet your eyes. “I'm just...packing my things,” he said quietly.

“I’m moving back with my parents for a bit before I get my own place” he then quietly mumbled.

There was a long pause, and all he could hear was your silent cries.

“Why does it have to be like this? Can’t we...Can’t we fix this?” you asked, feeling every cell in your body weaken.

Jungkook shook his head, a pained expression crossing his face.

“I don’t think so Y/n, I’m sorry. This is for the best” he replied.

“For the best?” you echoed, your voice trembling, “it doesn’t feel like it”. Your heart pounded in your chest, each beat a painful reminder of your desperation and fear.

He finally looked at you, his eyes mirroring the depth of your pain. “I know it doesn’t. But I can’t stay, Y/n. I can’t do this to you. You deserve to be happy with someone who loves you” he said.

Your shoulders slumped, and you felt a sob rising in your chest. You didn’t want to believe it, didn’t want to accept that your love story had come to such an end.

You couldn’t bear the thought of him leaving, of facing a future without him. The thought of waking up alone, of not hearing his laughter or feeling his arms around you, was unbearable.

“I don’t know how to do this without you Jungkook, please don’t go” you begged, your voice barely above a whisper.

Jungkook sighed, his shoulders sagging under the weight of the situation.

Jungkook was well aware of your attachment issues, and it hurt him to do this. But could you blame him for being a little selfish? He couldn’t stay in a loveless relationship and suffocate himself, but he couldn’t lead you with false hope either. He could never do that to you. He never hurt you like that.

He walked over to you and took your hands in his. His touch was warm, familiar, and it sent a jolt of longing through you.

“I’m so sorry for how everything came to be Y/n, I really am. I didn’t mean for it to happen, I promise” his voice shook, and his eyes glossed with unshed tears.

“I know it’s going to be hard, but you’re stronger than you think Y/n” he said softly as his hands then moved up to cup your face.

Jungkook knew how hard this was for you, and how harder things were going to get once he left. But there wasn’t much he could do but infinitely apologise for the heartbreak he has caused.

“That’s so easy for you to say” you cried, leaning into his touch. You didn’t feel strong. You felt like you were falling apart, piece by piece.

“I know it is, but I’m not leaving your side forever Y/n” he responded.

“I’ll always be here for you, maybe not as a lover anymore, but as a friend. We were friends in the beginning, and it will always remain so” he said.

Your heart dropped to your stomach.

‘Friend’, right.

But something about staying friends with your ex who you’ve been together with for a decade didn’t feel right to you. Who does that? You thought.

No.

You weren’t ready to let him go.

You couldn’t let him go.

“Please, don’t leave me,” you pleaded, her voice barely more than a whisper.

“We can fix this, I’m sure we can” you desperately held onto his hands.

The vulnerability in your words was raw, unfiltered, and it tore at you to expose yourself so completely. You didn’t care how shamelessly you were acting, practically begging a man who doesn’t love you anymore to stay.

Jungkook’s eyes softened, and for a moment, you thought he might relent.

But then he shook his head, a look of regret etched on his face. “I’m sorry, Y/n,” he said, slowly and carefully detaching himself from you.

“I can’t do this to you, to us” he said as he backed away. He looked at you for a second, apologetically, before resuming to pack his clothes.

You stood silently crying until you felt like you ran out of tears. Your eyes were on this all along, yet your mind drifted elsewhere.

This was it.

┄┄┄┄┄

You were sitting on the couch when Jungkook’s voice broke the silence, startling you.

“I think that’s everything,” he says softly, not meeting your eyes. There’s a hint of sadness in his voice. You nodded, unable to trust yourself to speak. Your throat felt tight, and you bit your lip to keep yourself from crying.

He glanced around one last time.

“I’ll get the rest of my stuff another day,” he said, almost as an afterthought. You nodded again, your heart sinking.

This was it. He was really leaving.

Jungkook picked up his suitcase and headed toward the door. As he passed you, he paused for a moment. He looked hesitant for a moment but gave in. He let go of his suitcase and pulled you up before wrapping his arms around you.

“Take care Y/n,” he said quietly against your soft brown locks.

You weakly shut your eyes, allowing the tears you’ve been holding back to freely flow once again. You swallowed a thick lump as you wrapped your arms around his muscular torso. You inhaled his cologne as you rigged on his shirt, savouring his familiar scent for the last him

“You too, Jungkook,” you managed to whisper shakily, your voice barely audible.

Jungkook could feel his shirt dampened by your tears and it only made his guilt spread across his chest.

He pulled you away and looked at your tear streaked face.

He saw you taking a deep breath, trying to steady yourself.

“Can you kiss me one last time before you leave?” you asked.

Jungkook looked unsure, and the hesitation was clear on his face. For a moment, you feared he would refuse, and the rejection would be too much to bear. But then, slowly, he nodded.

“Okay,” he said softly.

As Jungkook leaned in, you closed your eyes, relishing the feeling of his lips against yours.

The kiss was gentle and bittersweet, a reminder of what you once had and what you were losing. For a few brief seconds, the world around you both faded away, and it was just the two of you, locked in a final moment of connection.

When he pulled away, you felt a tear slip down your cheek. Jungkook wiped it away gently with his thumb, his expression tender.

“I’m sorry” he said.

You didn’t know how to respond to that. But knew he was genuine with his words with the way he looked at you and held you, like a delicate glass that was now fractured.

All you could do was hum.

“Goodbye Y/n, take care. I’m always here when you need me” he said.

But you needed him now, and during all the years he had promised you.

How could you tell him that you didn’t want to let him go?

“Goodbye Jungkook” you replied, your heart breaking all over again.

As you watched him walk away, you knew that this was the end of your story. A story that ended too early and abruptly, leaving you to figure out your own ending.

NEXT ➜

[wannaeatramyeon]

Young!Samuel Seo with Young!Reader: Dinner Guest

G/N. Standalone but tied in to Leave Him Be. Next - doctors and patients

Dinner time has changed.

"We're having dinner now?"

"Yes."

You peer at your mom from the doorway with round curious eyes. "Why?"

"It's nice to eat earlier," she explains, spooning freshly cooked rice into bowls.

"Why?"

"It just is."

"Why?"

"Because I said so. Can you please take this out?"

"Why?"

"Y/N!" Your mom scolds. Using your whole name which means there is no room for argument or any more questioning.

You close your mouth quickly.

"Now take this one to Samuel."  You're handed the largest portion, rice shaped into a nice mound over the top of the bowl, "and this one is yours."

Yours is smaller, which is fine by you. Rice is just ok. It's the dishes you really like. Your mom has gone all out today, made your favourites and more. She always seems to do that these days.

Dinner is now at 4:30pm instead of past 7pm. Which is too early by most people's standards, but your young mind doesn't care about most people.

Maybe you would mind more, especially with your stomach rumbling late at night. Except, whenever you pad into the kitchen to look for something to eat, your dad is always there to share a bowl of ramen with you.

"Don't tell mom," he says and your chest puffs as you giggle at the secret between the two of you.

You sometimes wonder if Samuel gets hungry late at night too, if he shares a midnight snack with his dad.

Dinner now interrupts your make believe games with Samuel, though neither of you care. At least Samuel doesn't anymore.

Quiet and headstrong at first, refusing to share a meal with you. Until you asked again and again. The special sort of "why why why" that frustrates your mom and adults and kids alike and he caved.

You like to think you're that convincing (or that annoying). Truth is the food smelt too good, looked too good.

Samuel has been topped up on snacks and potato chips and candy since you befriended him, but he couldn't remember the last time he had a full meal, never mind one home cooked and lovingly prepared by a parental figure.

(He's weak to you and your family's kindness. He doesn't have the walls and defences he would eventually build.)

Dinner now comes with distractions. Your dad brings over the latest delivery of comics for you and Samuel to flip through as you eat. Both shovelling rice and meat and banchan into your mouths with one eye on the page.

You tried that a few times when Samuel wasn't there. Ignoring conversation and questions at breakfast and getting told off by your parents. You cried and wailed yet they didn't give in.

You wish Samuel was around all the time.

Dinner now means shared laughter and banter. Sometimes Samuel snapping at you when you push him too far. Then easing up when you slip him an extra piece of beef or your chicken wing. Talking about anything and everything, in the way children do. Inquisitive and looking at the world with innocent eyes.

Although.

Samuel seems to know a lot more than you. Has a cynicism that seems at odds with his youth. Looks at you sometimes as if you're not the same age and he has been through a lot more.

You don't understand what that means. Not yet.

Most importantly-

(Though the implications don't register for you right now; you will recognise your parent's concern and care years later, understand the sort of childhood Samuel had.)

Dinner now gives enough time for Samuel to eat, and then go home earlier than the first time he spoke to you.

The first time you played together and he overstayed, when his eyes widened with panic and he returned to your family convenience store the next day with a fresh bruise.

You're used to Samuel with bruises. Accepted them as a part of him. Your mom and dad never did.

Your dinner time has changed, and there's now a regular guest.

[thegildedbee]

Hero: May 29 Prompt from @calaisreno

This latest chapter and the previous ones are here at ao3. (I had hoped to finish with everyone else on the 31st of May, but alas, it looks like it will be May 32nd or 33rd for me . . . ) ...............................................................................................

In Vienna, his search and destroy mission retained its danger; it was as exhausting, and as nerve-wracking as any other part of his journeys to date. It was, however, undoubtedly a much more elegant and luxurious phase. His cover was as an art dealer, an international concierge of sorts, assisting in obtaining the exact object to be placed in exactly the right hands. That this was rarely an above-board legal transaction was, of course, the point. One might say that his current activities fell under the umbrella of the art of money laundering.

Although there had been recent flurries on the part of policing agencies to upend the illicit trafficking of art and antiquities, the Moriarty organization, like many other criminal enterprises, had been delighted to add participation in the circulation of fake and stolen artworks to their already robust departments of fraudulent real estate deals, as vehicles for making illegal monetary gains appear to be legitimate. Auction houses and the like were under no obligation to report large cash transactions to governing authorities -- unlike banks, life insurance companies, casinos, currency exchangers, and precious metal dealers. They could even keep the names of buyers and sellers anonymous. It was like stealing candy from a baby.

His activities had him bouncing from the unsavory world of back-street feloniusness, to the elite world of the over-monied and the over-gullible. Personally, he himself believed that, in a properly-run world, it would be perfectly acceptable if being a billionaire was illegal, but no one had asked him, as such, to draw up plans toward that end. At the very least, he could kill two birds with one stone, by draining the coffers of the obscenely-wealthy as expertly as possible, while also bleeding dry the Order of Moriartyites.

There was a completely legal print gallery next door to the famous Opera House, and he had come to enjoy dropping by on occasion when he wanted to simply enjoy art for recreational reasons, rather than pecuniary ones. The gallery possessed one of the largest collections of original Japanese woodblock prints in Europe, and he had become particularly captivated by their collection of pieces by the nineteenth-century master of ukiyo-e ("pictures of the floating world"), Tsukioka Yoshitoshi. There were many mesmerizing items from two of his series -- 100 Aspects of the Moon and New Forms of 36 Ghosts -- but the images that he especially craved to return to and study, were from his 50 renditions of Handsome and Brave Heroes of the Suikoden, fantastical images of spirits, monsters, and magical creatures, drawn from legendary histories and myths.

On his last day in Vienna, he indulged himself by buying a copy of "Toraomaru Riding a Tiger," an image that encapsulated the feeling that was his constant companion, of living out a life reflecting the aphorism, "He who rides the tiger, dare never dismount." It was a reckless thing to do -- he had no fixed location, no place to store anything important, and whatever he "owned" was only on loan to him as a temporary matter, as it might have to be jettisoned or abandoned at a moment's notice. Nevertheless, he stubbornly refused to submit to practicality in this one instance.

A month later, after many different instances of meditating upon his Yoshitoshi print, the reason the universe had wanted him to own it became clear. While running down new leads on the west coast of the States, he had passed a tattoo shop one day in San Francisco, and impulsively stopped in to see if he could make arrangements soon, in the time before he would have to leave, to have one of the artists interpret the Toraomaru on his left arm. Two days later, he had the art piece vibrantly reproduced, and healing, on his body (and, not so incidentally, allowing the marks from his drug injection days to disappear). His intimate acquisition was a defiant, sentimental, and minutely optimistic act of voicing the unvoiced center of his existence, even if visually, rather than aurally.

And, as someone dear to him from his past might have said: quite apropos for a drama queen.

........................................................

@calaisreno @totallysilvergirl @friday411 @peanitbear @original-welovethebeekeeper

@helloliriels @a-victorian-girl @keirgreeneyes @starrla89 @naefelldaurk

@topsyturvy-turtely @lisbeth-kk @raina-at @jobooksncoffee @meetinginsamarra

@solarmama-plantsareneat @bluebellofbakerstreet @dragonnan @safedistancefrombeingsmart @jolieblack

@msladysmith @ninasnakie @riversong912 @dapetty

.............................................................................

[mymagicgrandpa]

Chapter 16: Keep Roseland Weird! - Page 21

Chapter Synopsis: Suzie gets to show a couple of familiar faces around the strange but beautiful Roseland, all while the threat of the demon king looms around the corner.  

Author Comment: More places to show off around Portland, firstly being Powell’s City of Books which is the world’s largest independent used and new book store. It’s 3 stories high with a massive selection, you’re almost always bound to find something interesting. The chocolate fountain meanwhile is way bigger than what I drew, a 20 foot tall beast that has been running since 1992. It is the world's largest continual chocolate waterfall and can be found in a candy store called The Candy Basket.

My Magic Grandpa is a paranormal fantasy adventure that takes place in the 90s, please check it out and spread the word if you like it!

[sharpsuite]

15. bookcase AND/OR 10. pantry for both

↳ PEEK INSIDE THEIR SPACE

10.     pantry.

Chishiya keeps an assortment of foods within his panty ; there's more in the PANTRY than there is in the fridge. Granola bars, oatmeal, some salted nuts - which he primarily shoves in a pocket to munch on at work. He also tends to have a bag of chips on hand, and various chocolate biscuits/cookies on hand to snack on. There's also snacks like Black Thunder bars and taiyaki as well. He also tends to have curries and a few different types of noodles. He also has a few ramen packets on hand for the times he's too tired to bother really cooking anything - that, and cooking isn't his strong suit. He keeps some vegetables like potatoes in there, along with staples like rice, sugar, etc. Popcorn too. He's a fan of that. Mostly because you never know when you might need it on hand. Napkins are also stored there.

15.     bookcase.

Already answered HERE!

10.     pantry.

Ann, unlike Chishiya, does a lot of cooking herself. So her pantry tends to be full of a lot of the basics needed for dishes. Flours, sugar, rice, pasta, vinegars, kombu, as well as spices like dashi powder, salt, pepper, garlic, anise, cinnamon, sesame oil, etc. She also keeps some cereals (usually a 'healthy' granola one and a more sugar-y one), and occasionally some candies like kit-kats or baum rolls. If she's baked or picked up any treats she tends to STORE them in the pantry as well rather than out on the counter top to keep her counterspace pretty clean and clear. In Ann's pantry, everything has its EXACT, precise spot and she always puts everything right back where it goes rather than just shoving it in to deal with later.

15.     bookcase.

Ann's bookcase is a MIXED VARIETY. Her textbooks and work related subjects are kept to the bottom rows - they're more references than things she chooses to ACTIVELY read most of the time. A good chunk are, admittedly, romantic novels and fantasy novels. It's nice to escape life for a while and just sink into the world within the pages of a book. But she does have fun reading and dabbling in others like sci-fi if it happens to catch her interest. She also has some biographies on experts or founders of different studies that she enjoyed reading about, and two or three poetry books. ( She's read one of them and hasn't gotten around to others. ) Romance, however, remains by far the largest genre in her book collection. She also has pictures of her, or her and her parents on some of the shelves, and a few knickknacks from travels or gifts she's received.

[ceasarslegion]

I can't decide where to go today so poll time

If youre not from edmonton you can vote too don't be shy. Google them both and decide based on vibes

Pros of both:

-Southgate is on the way to south common. Many things there without the crowd. Also ikea and a standalone indigo, maybe even the movie theater which is much bigger than the one in west ed. I want to get puzzle books for my night shifts because I sit there staring at the wall a lot and ikea could have stuff for my deck. Canadian tire could have plants for me and there's also a very large Michael's there.

-west ed is massive. Everything is there I already listed except for ikea and Canadian tire (that I know of). I want the nice bath bombs and they have a lush, also the largest indigo in the city. Also a candy shop. And many smaller places to look at. Even a build a bear and an Asian grocery store, many snacks there. Also open much longer and I'm on night shift circadian rhythms now. Also there's a theme park and a Waterpark inside the mall but idk if I wanna pay for those.

Cons:

-South common is very out of the way compared to west ed. I need two transit methods to get there from here. I'd also have to pay for an Uber back if I got deck stuff at ikea. Can just get friends with cars to drive me in the future. Also if I enter an ikea I WILL spend 200 dollars because I have no self control in the land of Swedish furniture

-wem is a tourist trap because it used to be the biggest mall in the world and I think is still the biggest in NA, at least in canada. Crowded beyond belief 24/7. I don't really get noise or crowd overstimulated anymore because of my job but it is just annoying. Also the Asian grocery store sold me moldy garlic once so idk how much I trust it anymore

[dubaivisasolutions]

Know about Dubai International Airport Duty-Free Shopping

The colossal Dubai International Airport (DXB) has truly earned the moniker of one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. Spanning over 7,200 acres, this sprawling airport is also an integral transit hub for numerous international flights and you can only imagine the number of footfalls each day. With millions of people passing by every day in DXB, it is only fair that it offers an equally phenomenal shopping experience to everyone. While shopping in the city of gold is one of the most exciting experiences, shopping in the Dubai Duty Free is truly an incredible experience. Come, let’s check out what all you can buy at the Dubai Duty Free.

There are two major Dubai international airports – DXB and Al Maktoum and both of them have a plethora of shopping outlets for you to peruse both at the arrival and departure. However, the Terminal 3 of DXB is where all the action is. It has the maximum number of outlets and sells everything from jewellery, cosmetics, bags, electronics, perfumes, chocolates, shoes, souvenirs, alcohol, fashion accessories, clothing, and more.

About Dubai Duty Free

Dubai Duty Free is the largest retail airport retailer globally having won this title more than 10 times until now. Spread over a staggering area of 40,000 sqm combined, the DDF is open 365 days of the year 24/7 and offers one of the most extraordinary Dubai shopping experience. The cherry on the cake is you don’t even have to pay import duties or service taxes on the goods purchased so you can splurge as much as you want. Another advantage is that there is an online site for people who are short of time and can shop and get the products delivered directly at home. Isn’t that fantastic?

Here is a break-down of the various categories and outlets that are available.

Lifestyle, beauty, and fashion

No surprises that some of the top notch luxurious global brands in fashion, makeup, skincare, and lifestyle have their outlets at the DDF. Gucci, Armani, YSL, Burberry, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Prada, Dolce and Gabbana, Estée Lauder, Coach, NARS, Lancôme, Givenchy are just a few to make to the list. Gift yourself a gorgeous Gucci handbag, a stunning pair of Dior sunglasses, or a YSL perfume, as you are indeed spoilt for choice here.

Electronics/Tech

DDF is a haven for tech gadgets and you can find an assortment of electronics under one roof including laptops, mobile phones, cameras,tablets, drones, and everything that your heart fancies. From Apple, Samsung, and Sony, to GoPro, Bose, JBL, and Dyson, you can find many stores here. 

Jewellery

Dubai is famous for its gold souk and people generally love to buy at least some gold jewellery during their trip. You can even buy gold bars ranging from 18 carats to 24 carats at the DDF. Some of the well-known stores here are Bvlgari, Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Rolex, Swarovski, Pandora, Frey Wille, Damiani, and Liali.

Luggage

You are dragging a heavy suitcase and the wheel comes off, or the zip of the bag breaks. Well, worry not as DDF comes to your rescue. Get them fixed from Samsonite, Go Travel or Tumi, or better yet just buy a new piece of luggage. Also check out the travel pillows, luggage tags, sleeping masks, backpacks, and earplugs here.

Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and electronic cigarettes are much in demand among shoppers. Fun fact is that alcohol is the bestselling product in the DDF. Marlboro, Heets, Jack Daniels, Glenfiddich, Johnny Walkers, Benson & Hedges, Davidoff, Dunhill, and Iqos are the popular brand available here.

Chocolates and Confectionary

Food is an important part of shopping and also make for great souvenirs to carry for your loved ones. Cookies, candies, dry fruits, and chocolates from brands like Godiva, Toblerone, Hershey’s, Reese’s, Lindt, M&Ms, Butlers are just perfect to indulge in.

Toys

With so many exceptional shopping options for the adults, how can the little ones be left behind? Whether it is action figurines, cars, soft toys, or dolls, shops like LEGO, Disney, Marvel, Hasbro, and Crayola are there to fulfil your needs.

Souvenirs

Collecting souvenirs from any new place to remember the vacation fondly is one of the best things to do. From fridge magnets, stuffed camels, key chains, to themed chocolates, Bateel dates, and miniature models of iconic monuments like Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, etc. are some of the impressive ones that you find here. There is also an exclusive Emirates store where you can buy merchandise such as caps, t shirts, luggage scale, and also the Boeing 777 model aircraft.

Watches/Clocks

Watches from world-class brands like Rolex, Casio, Omega, Tag Heuer, Tissot, Rado, Fossil, Skagen, and Michael Kors, are available in the DDF.

Apart from these myriad products, DDF also has many raffles, car draws, bike draws, and other programs where travellers get a chance to win money, vehicles, and many other goodies. Do try and participate as you may be the next lucky winner of a Mercedes Benz or a BMW.

You can visit their official website to find out more about these programs or the various stores and how to navigate them.

Conclusion

The Dubai Duty Free promises a wholesome shopping experience to all its customers with freebies, loyalty points, and other unique promotions to sweeten the deal a little more. We suggest you go through their official website before hand and make a list of the things that you want to make this process more memorable.

[elisdodo]

Things You Might Not Know About Halloween

Amidst the myriad oddities of Halloween, how much do you truly know about this spooktacular holiday? I wager there's something in the following tidbits that might surprise you.

1. History of Halloween: The history of Halloween can be traced back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It was a time when the boundaries between the living and the dead were believed to blur. People lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward off wandering spirits. Over time, these traditions merged with the Christian holiday of All Saints' Day (also known as All Hallows' Day), and the night before it became known as All Hallows' Eve, or Halloween.

2. Halloween vs. Day of the Dead: While Halloween and Mexico's Day of the Dead share some similarities, they are distinct celebrations. Day of the Dead, or "Día de los Muertos," is a Mexican holiday focused on honoring deceased loved ones. It is known for its colorful sugar skulls, altars, and marigold flowers. Halloween, in contrast, emphasizes costumes, candy, and spooky themes.

3. Origin of Jack-o'-Lanterns: The tradition of carving jack-o'-lanterns originates from an Irish myth about "Stingy Jack." According to the story, Jack was a deceitful man who tricked the devil. After his death, he was neither allowed into Heaven nor Hell and was left to roam the Earth with only a burning coal inside a hollowed-out turnip to light his way. When Irish immigrants brought this tale to America, they found that pumpkins, more abundant than turnips, made excellent lanterns.

4. Unlucky Date: Some people believe that Halloween is an unlucky date, often due to its associations with the supernatural, witches, and dark magic. As a result, they may avoid scheduling significant events, like weddings or major meetings, on Halloween. This superstition varies by culture and personal beliefs.

5. Confectionery Delight: Halloween is a candy lover's dream. It's estimated that Americans spend billions of dollars on candy during the Halloween season. Stores and households are stocked with various sweet treats to give out to trick-or-treaters.

6. Halloween Costumes: Halloween costumes offer people a chance to become someone or something else for a day. From classic monsters like vampires and werewolves to beloved movie characters and superheroes, there's no shortage of imaginative outfits to choose from. People of all ages participate in this tradition, from kids to adults.

7. Global Celebration: While Halloween has its roots in Western culture, it has spread worldwide. Many English-speaking countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, observe Halloween. It's also gaining popularity in other parts of the world as a fun and spooky celebration.

8. Superstitious Beliefs: Halloween is often associated with superstitions. Many cultures believe that during this time, the boundary between the world of the living and the world of spirits is thinner, making it easier for ghosts, witches, and supernatural beings to roam the Earth. Wearing costumes and masks is thought to confuse and ward off malevolent spirits.

9. The Great Pumpkin: In 2018, a farmer in New Hampshire, USA, grew a record-breaking pumpkin that weighed 2,528 pounds. Giant pumpkins like this one are a common sight at fall festivals and contests, with participants vying to grow the largest and heaviest pumpkins.

10. Trick-or-Treating: Trick-or-treating is a cherished Halloween tradition, especially among children. Dressed in costumes, kids visit homes in their neighborhoods, ringing doorbells and saying "Trick or treat!" Homeowners typically give out candy or other treats. The "trick" part of the phrase implies that if no treat is provided, a prank or harmless mischief might befall the household.

There are many things that you may overlook without a thorough understanding, just as you might not know much about us. To make it even more memorable, consider screening classic Halloween movies like "Hocus Pocus," "The Nightmare Before Christmas," and "Beetlejuice." Now, imagine a unique twist on Halloween celebrations with "Spooky Drive-Ins." Families can create their very own drive-in movie experience using wireless carplay adapters like CARLUEX. Park the car in the driveway, project eerie Halloween-themed movies or shows, and enjoy a night of treats and spooky entertainment right from the comfort of your vehicle.

[grouchythefish]

So I saw your reblog about truckstops, and as someone uniquely qualified to answer your rhetorical questions, this excited me. My qualifications include living within fifteen minutes of and having two family members who currently work for the Iowa 80 Truckstop, having worked there for six months after high school, and then having a parent who worked there for seven years before working for the other truckstop across the road.

The truckstop I worked for, Iowa 80, is located in Walcott, Iowa, is the world's largest truckstop. They almost lost that title to their sister location and had to expand their square footage. Inside this truckstop is a 24-hour restaurant, a laundromat with at least fifteen washers and dryers (I haven't counted), a dentist (who I highly recommend for dental emergencies), full scale showers for purchase that include private restrooms (some are fully wheelchair accessible), a small movie theater, a hair salon, a chiropractor, a small office that's used as a church/worship space for truckers with resources for local actual churches and advocacy groups, a food court rivaling our local mall, a game room, a gift store, and finally, the showroom. There's also a small truckers lounge with free internet access and lots of space to sit and converse.

The only thing missing from the post is places to sleep. You could technically sleep there. It is a 24-hour business, and I have seen people take their dogs inside during storms and camp out on the floor of the showroom before. But there's not like... beds or anything. There are a few hotels nearby, but as can be expected due to the nature of the trucking industry, they're all motels and cheap places to sleep that's not the bed inside your truck.

The showroom is large enough to house a full semi with trailer (used for storage), with an electronics section, chrome department, and a small graphics printing section called the custom shop, where you can have embroidered t-shirts and vinyl stickers made of your company's logo, or whatever you want. For sale on this floor includes all kinds of accessories and electronics for truckers, as well as a small media selection of DVDs, CD's and audio books. They also have a section for mattresses for your semi, as well as they used to have a small spot to buy musical instruments.

The foot court and convenience store are a huge room with a Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Wendy's, combination Einstein Bros Bagels and Caribou Coffee, Dairy Queen/Orange Julius. There is also a full-scale convenience store, with every soda, snack, and candy you can imagine.

In the gift shop, you can buy your normal stuff. T-shirts and such. But you can also buy katanas. For some reason. And I used to have to sell those at 3am. They also at one time sold a whip. But no guns or alcohol, thank god. That would've been too much for the family-friendly label that the family that owns the company has.

There's also a service center, with access to truck diesel, DEF, etc. It has a Chester's Chicken, a Blimpie, and a smaller little gas station selection of candy and drinks and such.

Now, if you want alcohol or lottery, you gotta go across the road, to Pilot.... which is where my mom defected to after like six years of working for Iowa 80. They sell booze. But there's not only one, there's TWO of them, across the road, and across the interstate from Iowa 80. One has an Arby's, and the other has a Subway.

In this small section of town, there's also a McDonalds, but it's not part of everything else. It's just there, between the little Pilot store and one of the aforementioned motels.

You now know everything there is to know about my weird situation with Iowa 80/Pilot.

But there is one thing I gotta say, this is pretty unique. Most rest stops, and gas stations are like Pilot. Located off the interstate, a little shop to get gas and snacks, a restroom, and some space to stretch your legs. Iowa 80 is a big ass building and part of a family owned business with multiple sister locations. In the US, most rest stops and such are just a gas station, maybe a bathroom with a place to get out for vending machine snacks and a spot to hide from bad weather.

Okay that's all bye~

Omg thank you so much for sending me this!

No place to sleep does make sense since most transport trucks have beds built in anyways.

Most truck stops here are basically just roadside food courts with a gas station outside and sometimes with a tiny gift shop that might have t-shirts and keychains. I pass 5 on my way to and from work (god my commute is far too long) and all except one are owned by the same company (OnRoute) and are pretty boring.

Now that I'm thinking about it, I'm pretty sure the only truck stops I've been to with anything more than that have all been in the US on roadtrips. Though obviously none as exciting as the one you are describing (Jesus Christ a movie theatre and a dentist??)

I kinda wanna own a truck stop katana now.

[brooklynwildlife]

Brooklyn wildlife summer fest

Here’s the link to buy your tickets

info about the event

ABOUT BWSF 2023:

Brooklyn Wildlife Summer Festival is an annual, diverse & synergistic, indoor and outdoor festival featuring some of the best Independent talent from New York and beyond. The goal of the event is to galvanize the Indie arts and music community and represent its flourishing cultural growth within Brooklyn, with a special focus on Bushwick.

BWSF 2023 is a true appreciation and celebration of Indie culture. We take an authentic approach to create the largest platform possible for artistic presentation without any corporate sponsorships or industry funding – only art, music and culture in the purest form. We focus on performers in the Brooklyn arts and entertainment scene and want to represent our community...we are lucky to have a large presence of international artists in Brooklyn, so the festival also includes performers and participants from all around the world.

WHAT WE DON'T WANT: Hate speech, Promotion of senseless or gratuitous violence, Exclusivity, Entitlement, Expression of privilege.

. . . Dates, addresses and performers listed below!

9/1 - Opening Night @ Brooklyn Music Kitchen—117 Vanderbilt Ave. Bushwick 

Grant Swift

Eb Rebel

Graphic Melee

Marcus Jade

Melissa Hunter Gurney

Mistha Dean

Modern Flame

Ryan - O'Neil

ViceVerses

No Show No Call

https://tinyurl.com/2b7jm76c For Event Details

9/2: GAMBA Forest— 630 Humboldt St. Greenpoint

OR NAH & Ronit Levin Delgado

kelly shaw nyala

Dan Gitlin

STAV G

ADE O.TONE

ALIXER 

Sunshine Monie El

Nomad N3

The Taste of Vomit 

Ananda Rose

Pheonix Out The

Dakota Smith

The Cannery

G.T. Arpe

MeccaGodZilla

ANTwontstop

C.Shreve the Professor

phil phlaymz 

ZILLY900

The IZM.

https://tinyurl.com/57bndzeu for event details

9/3 : Secret Sphinx Salon — 199 Richardson St. East Williamsburg

Adriana Adeline

Blacc Lotus, Soul Survivor

CallME TK

Chromoplast

Chrrry

Ryan Lucas

Sam Rosen

Millszy •

https://tinyurl.com/yrhmrpv8 for event details

9/4: The Living Gallery— 1094 Broadway, Bushwick

Coffee Nap

Fredrixthelive1 

Phantm Phuego

Complex Messiah

KNOWITALL 

Lex Rush

anna leah

The CHUNE Experience 

Jew Bitch Honey

elana 

Euphony

Mariah Eskoh

Mel Rosa

Danny Severance

Natasha Alexander

Ardamus

Patty Honcho

https://tinyurl.com/2p8k6vw2 For event details

9/5 - Pete's Candy Store— 709 Lorimer, Greenpoint

Cat Rickman

Chocolate Brown & Segami

The DarkDoves

Fancy Cat

https://tinyurl.com/3mh3rmcc for event details

9/6: The Deep End—1080 Wyckoff Bushwick

Mecca Shabazz /DECISIONS

Thorne Malik. (and the Deep Cuts)

DarkStarNoMercy

The Bumbling Woohas

Eliza and the Organix

LOST DOG

Pink Tacos

Cuddlebasstard

https://tinyurl.com/5f2vjhmu for event details

9/7: Becky's House — TBA

Real Clothes

Emmannuel and the unlimited Consciousness

Eush

Sara Clash

https://tinyurl.com/36tt6ey2 for event details

9/7: The Rack Shack—17 Thames St. Bushwick

Virginia Wagner

Queen of Love and Hope

SteV Obsidian

Fuck it’s Leslie

https://tinyurl.com/4p8eek9e for event details

9/7: The Love Gallery— Bushwick

B.Fortune

KNOBAD

Sam Nordlinger

Xtian Aki

Ductape Halo

Garrett Deming

Wade Wilson 

Kay Day

Kjindabuilding 

#JumpingGoats

ALIXER 

Doctor Breakfast 

JOATA

https://tinyurl.com/nka3tfzn for event details

9/8: IVy House Studios— Bushwick

Chris Conde

Parnhash

Homeboy Sandman

Kahlee

Mandella Eskia

Stay on Mars

https://tinyurl.com/282xftm7 for event details

9/9: Gamba Forest—630 Humboldt St. 

Add'm Fears

AllOne

AngelCaroline

Banji

Cruz Cruz

Designer Rap Tour Fearturing James E! Walker

Madeline at Neighbors + Zhenya Skyla

Melton

Mercy Tullis Bukhari

Mosaictheanimated

Pirate Radio Podcast

Samantha Avery

Slick Nova

The Artist & Repertoire Workshop Feat: Yoni Rose and McBean

Valore

Richie

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bwsf-2023-day-9

9/10: Four Five Six/Glenda the GoodBus/GAMBA Forest—Greenpoint

Ashley Be

Bill Bartholomew

Bo Ballew

Carlyn Castigila 

Devin Bramble

Esco

Gabriela Rossi

God

Joi Sanchez

Jon Gardiner

Lucas Connolly

Mario Benitez

Michelle Joni and the Expandaband

OHene Cornelius

Prince Kurt Russell

Frank Vera

GMS

Renee Catrine

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bwsf-2023

#festivals #festival #music #tomorrowland #festivalseason #love #dj #rave #india #events #edm #diwali #art #housemusic #party #musicfestival #concerts #techno #livemusic #edmlifestyle #edmfamily #photography #mumbai #festivalfashion #culture #instagram #festivallife #edc #dance #bkwildlife #BWSF2023

[xshatteredreflectionsx]

five times cried:      ( five times the receiver cried over the sender ) & five times smiled:      ( five times the sender made the receiver smile ) // for @calledstars !

@calledstars

 First Time Smiled 

Morgan nearly ran into him when they stepped off the shuttle. His eyes lit up at the sight of them, his expression turning sheepish as he realized just how in their space he was. He gave a curt, professional nod and extended a hand. 

“Welcome aboard The Invincible II, Captain, glad to have you here.” His grip was firm, and his fingers so calloused Morgan could feel it through their gloves. They matched his ID number to the corresponding dossier they had been given to look over during transit. One that that almost everything except his name so corrupted that it had been impossible to read on their datapad. A quick call to Houston confirmed that Atlas was more than qualified for his position, and already had at least one other starship under his belt.  

He showed Morgan The Invincible II with the energy of a proud father bragging about his child and invited them onto the bridge with a theatrical sweep of his arm and a smile that could rival the sun. Morgan smiled over the rim of their glass of sparkling cider, and he shuffled endearingly before encouraging them to address the assembled crew.   

First Time Cried 

It happened in a second- far too quickly for Morgan to even begin to comprehend it. One blink Atlas was crumpled against the other side of the console, wide eyed and panicked as he tried to understand why he had been so violently woken from cryosleep. Another blink and he was gone, sucked out into the vacuum of space as glass slashed viciously at his coveralls. Morgan slammed so hard against the console it knocked the wind from their lungs and caused them to fold against it, head cracking against the opposite edge. The oxygen roared past their ears and clawed at their uniform as the emergency shutter creaked down over the jagged gap where there used to be a window. Their senses returned to them as their ears popped painfully and started to ring. Morgan pushed themselves up and gaped, slack-jawed at the space where their Head Engineer used to be. The fact that Atlas most likely didn’t live long enough to feel any pain was definitively not a comfort.  

Tears dribbled down Morgan’s cheeks, but they didn’t have time to mourn before the console set itself ablaze and Computer started monotonously warning them about the fire on the bridge and the failing oxygen. Morgan’s vision blurred, tears, their head injury, and the rapidly dropping oxygen levels creating a sickening cocktail. They stumbled into the main hallway and into life support, blinking away the tears and black splotches encroaching their vision.  

Second Time Smiled 

As it turned out, Alien Office Candy tasted a lot like Human Office Candy; paradoxically better than what could be found in stores, but never better than whatever Grandmas got. The two mints Morgan had popped in their mouth while sitting in Lady’s office tasted like some fruit that they didn’t know the name of and what cold felt like. Not spearmint, or peppermint; just cold. The two flavors switched each time Morgan swiped their tongue over them. Very strange.  

“...Wherin you created the largest, most destructive wormhole the world had ever seen.” Lady, overly stiff and composed with a smile pulled too wide across their face explained. “-Do not put that in your mouth right now.” They continued; voice so taught Morgan could almost hear it begin to snap under the pressure.  

 

“The largest? Like, on record? Like seriously? And most destructive?” Atlas questioned. The corner of Lady’s mouth twitched dangerously. Morgan saw a glint of a fang before their rapidly crumbling bureaucrat mask slipped back on. Atlas turned to Morgan, goofy grin on his face as his chest swelled with pride. Morgan gave a lopsided grin in response. “Take that Oppeheimer, you old sack of shit.” Atlas murmured to them out of the corner of his mouth.  

The candy he popped in his mouth triumphantly was spat out mere seconds later, when Lady shot to their feet and pulled a gun out from under their desk, finger trembling on the trigger as they glared down at both of them.  

Second Time Cried 

Morgan huddled over Atlas as another wormhole bloomed from the far end of the warp core hallway, roaring and sparking as space twisted around it. The hull groaned as it bent inward. Lady, frantic and hysterical and desperate, jabbed a finger desperately at the bracelet on her wrist, her attention torn between it, the wormhole, and Atlas and Morgan. The wormhole seemed to roar in hunger and anger and swelled. Morgan wrapped an arm around Atlas’s torso, the other hand grasping desperately for any purchase they could find. His head fell limply against them as the vacuum from the wormhole increased. The entire ship shuddered and groaned, pipes bending and bursting with ear-piercing hisses and pops. With an animalistic shriek Lady was yanked off their feet. A shot from their blaster sizzled though Morgan’s shoulder. White spots flashed across their vision, and they felt themselves tumbling. They clutched Atlas –cold, limp, unresponsive Atlas- to them as they rolled and skidded across the hallway.  

The wormhole seemed content to only swallow Lady, as it popped out of existence once they vanished into its swirling maw. Morgan and Atlas slid to a stop, battered and bruised. The acrid scent of burning flesh assaulted Morgan’s nose, making their eyes water. They readjusted themselves to look at Atlas, head lulled against their collarbone as they cradled him. He hadn’t moved –hadn't even flinched- since the wormhole opened. He had stopped breathing before that, but Morgan hadn’t accepted it. The crater in his chest sizzled and smoldered, skin and bone crumbling to ash and flaking into his chest cavity. Morgan gently brushed his bangs away from his forehead. His eyes, half-lidded and glazed over, stared blankly at the floor of the ship. Morgan sobbed and clutched him tighter, rocking back and forth as their ship continued to crack apart around them. The Invincible II let out a death knell before snapping in two, one end greedily devoured by the wormhole while the other drifted lifelessly into unknown space.  

Morgan and Atlas floated into the stars; bodies frozen together in a morbid embrace.  

Third Time Smiled 

Atlas carried himself with a confident swagger that bordered on arrogance. Cool as an evening in Autumn as he stepped into the hazy gray light on the bridge. He had been here before, as had I.  His dark gray eyes glinted at me as he paced in front of the shudders of the main window of the bridge, illuminated by cosmic rays soaking in through the peeky blinders like some ethereal being who had decided to grace my humble ship with his presence. His voice was as smooth as whiskey and just as intoxicating. Damn me to hell, he had me right where he wanted me, and the bastard knew it, too. His mouth curled around the lip of his whiskey glass in a self-satisfied smile before he spoke to me directly. He remembered himself enough to not overstep but kept his wing-tipped toe just inside the line. Two could play this game. He might have thought himself clever, but I could hear Atlas’s monologue, as he lamented the lack of courage to take our relationship to the next level. The temptation of fraternization was tantalizingly sweet and deliciously risky. Alas, I had taken one too many risks already. The siren song of forbidden relationships would have to wait until I got everyone home.  

I swirled my whiskey as I ordered a distress signal. He didn’t like it but complied regardless. Oh, he moaned and complained, but it didn’t have any bite to it. We were like two untrained clowns at some kid’s Bar Mitzva, and he knew it, even if that damnable pride of his wouldn’t allow him to say it out loud. I gave him a lazy smile and that seemed to shut him up, gray flushing his cheeks. 

Third Time Cried  

“I go... and I come back. And I go, and I come back, AND I ALWAYS COME BACK!!” Atlas wailed, tears streaking his filthy face as long, dirty, broken fingernails balled the lapels of Morgan’s jacket. He was shockingly underweight and malnourished, but he managed to push until Morgan’s back hit the cryopod- their cryopod- which in this universe had been left empty for what seemed like years. Anger flared in their stomach. Where the hell was this universe’s Morgan? The entire ship was dead except for one man. Were they off galivanting in some different universe? Had they broken this one so badly they had fucked off to another one, to hell with everyone else? To hell with this Atlas? 

“I looked for you...” Atlas continued in a broken whisper. “I looked, and I looked, and I looked, but I could never find you. Why are you back?!” He demanded. He weakly slammed Morgan into the cryopod door. “Why here?! Why now?!” His chest heaved, breath and spittle spitting through grit teeth. Morgan raised their hands to sign something –assuming this Atlas still remembered ASL-, but his attention snapped to their left palm. Specifically, to the crystal in that hand. Realization and lucidity sparked in Atlas’s eyes, and he grasped that wrist with bestial strength. “Where did you get that crystal?” he asked in a furious whisper. “You never shut it down, did you? Is that why you never woke up here?!” He started clawing desperately at the crystal with his other hand, trying to dig his fingernails underneath to pry it free. Morgan shoved him away and started to run, but Atlas was faster in his hysteria. “Give it to me!” He howled, jumping onto Morgan’s back and clawing at anything he could reach; their shoulders, their chest, their face.  

They writhe together on the bridge, stumbling over discarded tools and broken drones and candles. Morgan slammed Atlas against a wall. He raked his fingernails across their cheek, drawing blood. They were finally able to get a good grip on him and tossed him over their shoulder. He crashed heavily against the console, shattering the LED screen and tumbling over to the other side like a limp, wounded animal. They panted, cheek stinging and eyes burning. Atlas didn’t move to get up. He into himself, hugging himself as he whimpered, “I trusted you, Morgan.”  

The crystal on Morgan’s hand flickered to life and pulled them into another wormhole, leaving this dead universe and broken man behind. Morgan buried their face in their hands and drew their knees up to their chest, screaming and wailing as loudly as their dysfunctional vocal cords would allow.  

Fourth Time Smiled 

The restaurant was nice, even if it wasn’t as authentically French as it advertised itself to be (In hindsight, the server starting every conversation with “Oh, Boonjoooooooouuuuur!” should have been an indication). As it turned out both of them had overdressed, but they had a good laugh over it while they ate complimentary bread and made off-handed comments about the décor.  

“I’m really sorry about the movie,” Atlas said with a sheepish smile, rubbing the back of his neck. “Guess I should have thought to buy tickets before taking you to one of the biggest shows of the season. Egg on my face.”  

Morgan gave him a lopsided smile and nudged him with a shoulder. “No problem. If you’ve seen one RomCom you’ve seen them all,” they signed, bouquet of roses tucked safely in the crook of their arm. Atlas hummed and hooked his thumbs into his pockets. “I guess. Still, it kind of threw off my scheduling. So much for going on a walk in the park during a romantic sunset.” Atlas groused and kicked at a pebble in his way indignantly. Morgan giggled and linked arms with him, gently pulling him in the direction of the nearest ice cream stand.  

The walk in the park might not have been at the time Atlas had originally planned, but it was beautiful regardless. The long-range scanners had not done this new planet’s natural beauty any justice. The grass was brilliantly blue-green and as soft as cotton, fluttering about their ankles on a wind that smelled sweet with local flora. Tiny alien creatures nibbled on plants, and some plants nibbled on tiny alien creatures (Atlas had superimposed himself between Morgan and an innocuous-looking flower that grew several rows of teeth the second some puff-ball thing rolled too close, quickly ushering them away whilst looking as mortified as Morgan felt).  

The night ended eventually. Morgan and Atlas lingered outside the former’s apartment while the latter rocked on his toes. “So! Minor hiccups aside, I think that date went well. Don’t you, Captain?” As soon as the title left his lips, it was like the entire world stopped. Atlas blinked owlishly. “Captain...?” Morgan closed the distance between them, cupping his face. They smiled and pulled him closer, kissing the corner of his mouth before, with great reluctance, moving away.  

“I’m going to fix it.” They signed resolutely. They entered their apartment and closed the door behind them. This Atlas hadn’t been the Head Engineer; it wouldn’t be right to drag him into this. The next wormhole yawned before them and, with a resolute breath, Morgan dove in.  

Fourth Time Cried 

Wrinkled, calloused, leathery hands rubbed soothing circles into Morgan’s knuckles as he held them across the table. Atlas, several decades older and several centuries wiser, said nothing as the captain cried openly across from him, head bowed, and gloves removed. The candle on the table flickered feebly in the stale, dust-flavored air of the diner, as if it was waving goodbye to the last star as it blinked silently out of existence.  

“You tried your best, Morgan.” Atlas said gently. They didn’t respond, more tears dripping off their nose and onto the table. “In all fairness, I didn’t make it easier for you. Running away from you when I did remember, if not playing dumb. Oh, and attacking you. Can’t forget that.” He chuckled humorlessly and looked up at Morgan’s face, four jagged scars across their left cheek and curving towards the lobe of that ear. They looked deep and a little infected. Atlas turned his gaze back to Morgan’s hands. “Everything has to end.” He started simply. He reached into one of the hidden pockets of his jacket and pulled out a handful of sand. “Doesn’t matter how tightly you hold onto things; they’ll just slip right through your fingers.” He loosened his grip, allowing the grains to fall peacefully through the cracks. 

Morgan pulled their hands away. “I’m not ready to say goodbye.” They said, looking at the growing pile of sand.  

“No one ever is,” Atlas returned. “But it’s something we all have to learn to accept. Clinging onto the past will only ever hurt us.” 

 

“I killed people whenever I went forward, and I killed people when I went back. It didn’t matter. Nothing I did fucking mattered.” 

“No one person can save an entire multiverse. You made mistakes along the way, but you did everything you thought was right. That’s more than enough.”  

Morgan looked at Atlas miserably through their bangs, eyes glistening. Even when a reality-splitting boom shuddered throughout the diner, they barely had the energy to turn their head.  

“For what it’s worth,” Atlas continued, “I am glad I got to spend these last moments with you.” 

The candle on the table flickered out, leaving only a single soul among the destruction. Reality shuddered against another thunderous boom from somewhere in the diner. Lethargically, Morgan got to their feet and shuffled towards the sound.  

Fifth Time Smiled. Fifth Time Cried.  

There had been a celebration among the crewmembers and the colonists once they had established a forward camp on the surface of the planet. It wasn’t big or extravagant. All they had to eat were dehydrated rations and sandwiches, and all they had to drink was apple cider that had gone halfway flat. But it was a celebration nonetheless, and the air was buzzing with excitement and cautious curiosity about what kinds of life lived on this new planet and whether they’d encounter any aliens.  

Despite Atlas’s earlier claims that he was going to bed early, Morgan found him on the bridge, staring out the window at the revelry happening below the ship. Morgan approached, nudging him with a shoulder as they joined him on his right. 

“What happened to sleep?” 

Atlas shrugged listlessly. “Tried to. Too many thoughts. And we don’t know what’s outside our immediate proximity, so it’s not safe for me to find somewhere to look at the stars,” he lamented. Mapping out this planet’s stars had been a privilege Atlas jealously claimed, despite there being actual astrologists amongst the colonists. He was practically vibrating in excitement once the twin moons had risen above the horizon.  

Morgan hummed. The two of them stood in silence for a few moments, basking in the glow of their success. Eventually Atlas broke the silence. “Hey, so...” His voice wavered. He cleared his throat and spoke again. “This is real, right? We actually made it?”  

Morgan glanced over at him, stunned. They couldn’t be sure how much he remembered from the wormhole, and they weren’t about to tear open new-old wounds just to satisfy their curiosity. If there was anyone who deserved to forget everything and be happy, it was Atlas. “I think it is.” Morgan replied. Atlas’s shoulder shuddered from the force of his sob. Slowly, gently, Morgan pulled Atlas down so they could touch their forehead to his.  

“We’re home,” They whispered in a rasp. Atlas’s breath hitched and Moran laughed wetly.  

Home. Never had a word sounded more beautiful.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Pretzel Day

Warm, soft, and oh-so-tasty, take this excuse to visit a pretzel  stand or shop and try a classic pretzel, or a new flavor like cinnamon  or honey-mustard.

Most people would agree that there is something extra special about a  pretzel! While, at first, it might seem like an average snack made of  bread dough, it is so much more than that. The rich bready smell, the  burst of salt in the mouth as the first bite is taken, and in some  situations, the delicious flavor of cheese or another sauce that it can  be dipped into.

Or, on the other end of the spectrum, there are those people who  prefer the crunch of the kind of pretzels that can be purchased in a bag  at the store. These crunchy little, salty snacks can be an amazing  addition to any snack mix. Some might even say that they are the very  foundation of sports gatherings everywhere.

Whatever the personal preference is, National Pretzel Day exemplifies this delicious treat in all of its forms.

So grab a favorite variety, sit back and munch down on one of the  most delightful of snack-based days! Get ready for National Pretzel Day!  

History of National Pretzel Day

Like all food-related holidays, starting with a little history of  where the food came from is a great way to get to know the background of  the day. The story of the pretzel is particularly fun, especially as it  shares a theme with candy canes, which is another well-known favorite!  (In fact, Candy Cane Pretzels, dusted with crushed candy canes–instead  of salt–and glazed with frosting, are a great wintertime treat!).

Legend has it that, at some time during the Middle Ages, Catholic  Monks were trying to figure out what to do with little bits of dough  they had that were leftover after baking their loaves of bread. They  didn’t want to be wasteful. So, clever as they were, they came up with  what is now known as the pretzel. The method included folding the dough  into the shape of praying hands, or a knot that represented the Holy  Trinity, depending on who happens to be telling the story at the moment.  

Since that time, the pretzel has evolved into a much-loved treat that  has seen many uses and varieties. Some of the more common ones include  representing marriage (where the term ‘tying the knot’ came into  prominence) and also into modern-day as a popular addition to concession  stands at carnivals and events of all kinds.

The origin of the hard pretzel is a bit more recent and is among the  ranks of other great accidental discoveries like the potato chip!  Apparently, when a pretzel is left in the oven for a longer period of  time, it will bake into a crisp and crunchy bit of deliciousness. The  story goes that, when this happened, a baker was so pleasantly surprised  with the result that he took the time to perfect the recipe. Now these  crispy little treats are an extremely popular snack!

Inspired and delicious, National Pretzel Day comes as the celebration of all things related to this delectable snack!

How to Celebrate National Pretzel Day

Celebrating pretzels can be a load of fun! Try these ideas:

Grab a Free or Discounted Pretzel  

In celebration of this important event, many companies and stores  celebrate this holiday by offering free or discounted pretzels to their  customers. After all, sometimes the best way to get someone started on a  delicious and addictive snack is to give them the first one free!

Check out these Pretzel shops to see what might be on offer this year:

Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. Considered to be the  “world’s largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchise, this Lancaster, PA  chain has a lot to offer! In 2020, stores celebrated by giving away  25,000 free soft pretzels to frontline workers. In past years, people  who participate with the company’s Pretzel Perks app have been offered  Buy One Get One Free soft pretzels. Not only do they have almost 1800  stores in the US, they also reach at least 25 other countries such as  Russia, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Chile, Mexico, Egypt and the  Bahamas.

Pretzelmaker. In previous years,  customers who have the Pretzelmaker Rewards app qualify for a free  pretzel on National Pretzel Day! More than 280 stores throughout the US  as well as Guam, Canada, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Wetzel’s Pretzels.  Although this chain doesn’t seem to give out free pretzels, they in the  past offered a coupon good for a free beverage with the purchase of a  soft pretzel. Stores can be found in more than 300 locations around the  world, including 28 US states and five other countries.

Learn How to Make Pretzels at Home  

For those who may be feeling particularly adventurous, it’s always an  option to try making pretzels at home. You can use one of the hundreds  of recipes that can be found online. For an easier time of it, some  grocery stores sell the large version of frozen pretzels that can be  baked in the oven at home and then served warm.

Or, take the middle road and whip up a delicious snack mix using premade hard pretzels, seasonings, and other snack mixes.

Don’t forget to keep it interesting by testing out a variety of  sauces for dipping pretzels. Try out cheese, chocolate, caramel, honey  mustard, marinara sauce, cream cheese or even fruit sauces.

Start Snacking with Crunchy Pretzels

It only makes sense to spend National Pretzel Day buying up whatever  is the favorite variety of pretzel and enjoying it as a snack. Try  famous brands such as Rold Gold or Snyder’s of Hanover. Or grab a few  bags from a local producer.

Add small pretzel twists to Chex cereal with some nuts and spices,  then bake it into a superb snack mix. Or eat them straight out of the  bag, dipping into peanut butter, hummus, cream cheese or ranch dressing.  

However you do it, National Pretzel Day is a great time to celebrate this wonderful treat with a wonderful history!

Source

[ebelal56-blog]

Global Power Shift: The Untold History

Have you ever stopped to think about how the center of global power has shifted over time? It’s fascinating, really, when you look at it through the lens of history, economics, and geopolitics. Picture this: we start in Europe, a powerhouse from the 16th century all the way into the early 20th century. This was the Age of Exploration, and European nations—Britain, France, Spain, Portugal—were like kids in a candy store, establishing colonies and extracting wealth from the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Colonialism and mercantilism were the names of the game, and they built empires on the backs of those they colonized. Then came the Industrial Revolution, a seismic shift that propelled Europe into a technological and military lead. Think about it: steam engines, railroads, and factories were popping up everywhere, fueling economic growth and military might. Europe controlled global trade routes and production systems, consolidating power like never before. But, as we know, history is rarely a straight line. The devastation of two world wars in the 20th century weakened this once-mighty continent, leaving a vacuum that would soon be filled. Enter North America, specifically the United States. After World War II, the U.S. emerged as the primary global superpower, stepping into the spotlight that Europe had vacated. The American industrial sector boomed, especially during and after the war, making the U.S. the largest and most productive economy in the world. And let’s not forget about the global institutions that were born during this time—the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank—all crafted with American influence at their core. The U.S. became synonymous with military dominance, playing a pivotal role in NATO and shaping global security dynamics.

[rakshasns]

Frozen Desserts Market Size, Share, Trends by Forecast to 2030

Frozen Desserts Set for Sweet Growth: Projected to Reach USD 147.47 Billion by 2030

The Frozen Desserts Market Share is experiencing a delightful surge, valued at USD 91.98 billion in 2022. Projections indicate that this vibrant sector is expected to reach USD 147.47 billion by 2030, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2030. This growth is primarily driven by evolving consumer preferences, increasing disposable incomes, and the rising demand for innovative dessert options.

Overview

The frozen desserts industry encompasses a wide range of products designed to provide indulgence and satisfaction, including ice cream, frozen cakes, pastries, confectionery, and other sweet treats. As consumers increasingly seek convenient and enjoyable dessert options, the demand for frozen desserts continues to rise, solidifying their place as a staple in the global dessert .

Key Trends Fueling Growth

Rising Demand for Convenience: In today’s fast-paced world, consumers are looking for quick and easy dessert solutions. Frozen desserts offer a convenient way to satisfy sweet cravings without the need for preparation, making them a popular choice for busy individuals and families.

Health-Conscious Choices: As health awareness grows, many consumers are seeking healthier dessert options. The is responding with the introduction of low-calorie, low-sugar, and dairy-free frozen desserts, catering to the needs of health-conscious consumers.

Innovative Flavors and Ingredients: The frozen desserts is witnessing a surge in creativity, with brands experimenting with unique flavors and ingredients. From exotic fruit blends to gourmet toppings, consumers are eager to try new and exciting dessert options.

E-commerce Growth: The rise of online shopping has transformed how consumers purchase frozen desserts. E-commerce platforms provide convenience and accessibility, allowing consumers to explore a wide variety of products and have them delivered directly to their homes.

Sustainability Initiatives: With increasing awareness of environmental issues, consumers are gravitating toward brands that prioritize sustainable practices. This includes eco-friendly packaging and sourcing ingredients responsibly, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Segmentation

The frozen desserts can be segmented based on product type, distribution channel, and region:

By Product Type: The includes several categories:

Confectionery & Candies: Sweet treats that complement frozen desserts, such as chocolate-covered snacks and candy bars.

Ice Cream: A classic favorite, ice cream remains a dominant segment, available in various flavors and formulations.

Frozen Desserts: This category encompasses a diverse range of frozen treats, including sorbets, frozen yogurt, and gelato.

Tofu Desserts: An emerging segment, tofu-based desserts cater to the growing demand for plant-based options.

Cakes & Pastries: Frozen cakes and pastries provide indulgent options for special occasions and everyday treats.

Others: This category includes various frozen dessert items not covered in the above segments.

By Distribution Channel: The is analyzed through various channels, including:

Super/Hyper: Traditional retail outlets remain a significant channel for frozen dessert purchases, offering a wide variety of brands and products.

Convenience Stores: These stores cater to on-the-go consumers seeking quick dessert solutions.

Cafes & Bakery Shops: Establishments serving frozen desserts play a crucial role in introducing new flavors and products to consumers.

Online: E-commerce platforms are rapidly gaining importance, providing consumers with greater access to a variety of frozen dessert options.

Others: This includes specialty stores and food service establishments.

By Region: The is analyzed across several key regions:

North America: The largest for frozen desserts, driven by high consumer spending and a diverse range of products.

Europe: A mature characterized by a strong emphasis on premium and artisanal frozen desserts.

Asia-Pacific: Rapid urbanization and increasing disposable incomes are driving growth in this region, with a rising interest in frozen treats.

Latin America and the Middle East: Emerging s are witnessing growing demand for frozen desserts as lifestyles change and urban populations expand.

Regional Insights

North America: The North American frozen desserts is expected to maintain its leadership due to a well-established retail infrastructure and high consumer demand for indulgent treats. The region is also seeing a rise in health-conscious products, including low-calorie and dairy-free options.

Europe: In Europe, the is driven by a strong emphasis on quality and innovation. Consumers are increasingly seeking gourmet frozen desserts, leading to the growth of artisanal brands that focus on unique flavors and high-quality ingredients.

Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific region is poised for significant growth, fueled by rapid urbanization, changing dietary habits, and rising disposable incomes. The demand for frozen desserts is on the rise, particularly in densely populated urban areas where convenience is key.

Latin America and the Middle East: These regions are experiencing a shift in consumer behavior, with increased interest in frozen desserts as urban lifestyles evolve. Local brands are emerging to cater to regional tastes and preferences, contributing to growth.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the frozen desserts is set for growth, it faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and increasing competition from private-label brands. However, opportunities abound in product innovation, health-focused offerings, and the expansion of e-commerce. Companies that can effectively navigate these challenges while capitalizing on emerging trends will position themselves for long-term success.

Conclusion

The frozen desserts is on a promising upward trajectory, driven by changing consumer preferences, a focus on convenience, and a growing emphasis on health and sustainability. With an estimated value of USD 147.47 billion by 2030, businesses in the frozen desserts sector must adapt to this evolving landscape by embracing innovation, sustainability, and consumer-centric strategies. As the demand for frozen desserts continues to rise, the industry represents not just a opportunity but a fundamental shift in how consumers indulge their sweet cravings.

Read More Details @ https://www.snsinsider.com/reports/frozen-desserts-market-1798

Contact Us:

Akash Anand – Head of Business Development & Strategy

info@snsinsider.com

Phone: +1-415-230-0044 (US) | +91-7798602273 (IND)

SNS Insider Offering/ Consulting Services:

Go To Market Assessment Service

Total Addressable Market (TAM) Assessment

Competitive Benchmarking and Market Share Gain

[affordabletobaccoaustralia]

What is a Tobacco Store Online?

A tobacco store online is a place that sells cigarettes, cigars, and other smoking products. These stores typically provide a variety of tobacco brands and accessories to meet customer preferences. They also offer convenience and privacy.

It is important to understand the legalities of tobacco sales before setting up an online tobacco store. You’ll need to choose a platform that supports age verification, as well as a payment gateway that works with high-risk products.

Affordability

Online tobacco stores are a great way to get the high-quality products you crave without breaking the bank. Many of them offer discounts and bonuses when you purchase in bulk. In addition, they often provide coupons and other discounts that you can use in-store.

Online retailers are also less likely to run into legal issues, unlike brick-and-mortar businesses. However, it’s important to be mindful of advertising restrictions and comply with all legal requirements for cigarette online sales. Moreover, you must choose the right ecommerce platform for your tobacco business. WooCommerce, for example, does not restrict tobacco sales but you’ll need a third-party processor for payment gateways that handle high-risk transactions.

The world of ecommerce is booming and even the tobacco industry has joined in the fun. As a result, more and more people are buying their cigars, pipe tobacco, and smoking accessories online. Unlike their local shops, online tobacconists don’t charge transaction fees and can be accessed on any device.

Easy access

A lot of online tobacco stores are able to offer more choices than your local shop can. This is because these online stores aren’t bound by the restrictions that your neighborhood store has to comply with. This means that they can sell you a variety of products and brands without getting into trouble.

In addition to order cigarettes online or selling e-cigarettes, cigars, and traditional cigarettes, some tobacco shops also sell small snacks and candy for convenience. You can easily add these items to your inventory catalog by creating a new barcode or using third party label software. This way, customers can buy these items and checkout faster.

A tobacco store and vape shop can be a profitable business, but you need to do your research before you decide to open one. Ensure that you follow local and state laws to avoid any problems with the authorities. Additionally, you should consider securing insurance to protect your business from potential risks and liabilities.

More choices

You can easily find a wide variety of cigarettes and tobacco online, unlike in the local store. This allows you to choose what is right for you and your lifestyle. It also gives you the chance to try out different brands of tobacco, which you might not find at your local store.

Windy City Cigars offers one of the largest selections of pipe tobacco online, and we are committed to offering you the best prices. We offer a range of popular and rare brands, as well as several types of pipe tobacco blends. We also offer a variety of accessories for your pipes, including cleaners, lubricants, and filters.

Another advantage of buying tobacco online is that it’s easy to track if an online seller violates US law. This is because any online store selling tobacco can be regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. You can also get more information about an online store’s reputation by looking at reviews of the site.

Safety

Smoking tobacco is a relaxing and pleasurable hobby. It is also safe, provided that you know how to shop safely online. A good tobacco store online will ask you to verify your age, so that you don’t buy any cigarettes underage. Similarly, they will not sell you any vapor products to minors.

Observations of tobacco sales and marketing at the point of sale (POS) are important to monitor retail environments and to inform community-level interventions and evaluations. The observation process is typically done using business lists, which classify stores by type. Generally, these include convenience stores, warehouse clubs and supercenters, gas stations with convenience stores, grocery stores, news dealers and newsstands, liquor stores, and pharmacies.

Exterior data and interior measures are traditionally collected, although interior measures often focus on the area around the checkout counter. Observers are trained to note pricing promotions, advertising, and other marketing efforts in these environments. They are also trained to check if the appropriate proof of age is checked when someone appearing under 25 attempts to purchase tobacco or vapor products.