#benefits of green tea and honey

[todaynewsonline]

Benefits of Green Tea: how to make green tea

Benefits of Green Tea: how to make green tea

The Benefits of Green Tea:- Green tea is a popular beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and is known for its health benefits. In this article, we will explore the benefits of green tea and how it can improve your overall health and well-being. Introduction: Benefits of Green Tea: how to make green tea Green tea has gained…

[luckshmi]

Skincare Rituals According to Your Moon Sign: An Ayurvedic Guide

In Vedic astrology, the Moon sign (Rashi) plays a significant role in shaping our emotional well-being and daily habits. The Moon's influence is closely tied to our inner self, and understanding it can provide deep insights into personalized self-care routines, including skincare.

By combining the principles of Ayurveda with the wisdom of Vedic astrology, we can tailor skincare rituals that not only enhance our outer beauty but also nourish our inner selves. This guide explores detailed skincare routines for each Moon sign, highlighting their unique characteristics and needs.

Aries Moon

Characteristics: Aries Moons are energetic, dynamic, and often on the go. Their fiery nature can lead to skin issues like inflammation, redness, and sensitivity.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, cooling cleanser with cucumber or aloe vera to soothe inflammation.

Exfoliant: Opt for a mild exfoliant with chamomile or oatmeal to calm the skin.

Moisturizer: Apply a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer containing green tea extract to reduce redness.

Mask: Use a cooling clay mask once a week to detoxify and soothe the skin.

Benefits: This routine helps calm and cool the skin, reducing inflammation and maintaining a balanced complexion.

Taurus Moon

Characteristics: Taurus Moons are grounded and indulgent, appreciating luxury and comfort. Their skin tends to be resilient but requires deep hydration and nourishment.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Choose a rich, creamy cleanser with nourishing oils like almond or avocado.

Toner: Use a rosewater toner to hydrate and balance the skin's pH levels.

Moisturizer: Apply a thick, luxurious moisturizer with shea butter and honey.

Mask: Indulge in a weekly honey and yogurt mask to nourish and rejuvenate the skin.

Benefits: This routine provides deep hydration, leaving the skin soft, supple, and glowing.

Gemini Moon

Characteristics: Gemini Moons are youthful, curious, and communicative. Their skin can be sensitive and prone to dryness due to their airy nature.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser with chamomile or calendula.

Serum: Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.

Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight moisturizer with aloe vera and glycerin.

Mask: Use a hydrating sheet mask once a week to boost moisture levels.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin hydrated and calm, preventing dryness and sensitivity.

Cancer Moon

Characteristics: Cancer Moons are nurturing and deeply intuitive. Their skin can be sensitive and reactive, requiring gentle care.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a milk or cream cleanser with chamomile or lavender.

Toner: Apply a soothing toner with rosewater or witch hazel.

Moisturizer: Opt for a calming moisturizer with calendula and oat extract.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber.

Benefits: This routine soothes and protects sensitive skin, maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion.

Leo Moon

Characteristics: Leo Moons are confident and love to shine. Their skin can be prone to oiliness and occasional breakouts.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser with tea tree oil or salicylic acid.

Toner: Apply a balancing toner with witch hazel and lemon extract.

Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with aloe vera and green tea.

Mask: Use a charcoal or clay mask once a week to control oil and prevent breakouts.

Benefits: This routine helps balance oil production and maintain a clear, radiant complexion.

Virgo Moon

Characteristics: Virgo Moons are practical and detail-oriented. Their skin can be sensitive and prone to irritation.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, natural cleanser with chamomile or calendula.

Exfoliant: Opt for a gentle exfoliant with oatmeal or rice powder.

Moisturizer: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer with aloe vera and hyaluronic acid.

Mask: Use a calming mask with ingredients like cucumber and honey.

Benefits: This routine soothes and protects the skin, preventing irritation and maintaining a healthy glow.

Libra Moon

Characteristics: Libra Moons seek beauty and harmony. Their skin is often well-balanced but can benefit from extra hydration and care.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Choose a gentle foaming cleanser with rose or chamomile.

Toner: Apply a hydrating toner with rosewater and glycerin.

Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera.

Mask: Use a hydrating and balancing mask with ingredients like honey and yogurt.

Benefits: This routine maintains balance and hydration, keeping the skin looking fresh and glowing.

Scorpio Moon

Characteristics: Scorpio Moons are intense and transformative. Their skin can be prone to acne and other issues due to their deep emotions.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a deep-cleansing foaming cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.

Toner: Apply a balancing toner with witch hazel and lemon extract.

Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with aloe vera and green tea.

Mask: Use a detoxifying mask with charcoal or clay once a week.

Benefits: This routine helps control oil, prevent breakouts, and maintain a clear complexion.

Sagittarius Moon

Characteristics: Sagittarius Moons are adventurous and optimistic. Their skin can be prone to dryness and sensitivity due to their active lifestyle.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with aloe vera or cucumber.

Serum: Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and jojoba oil.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and yogurt.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin hydrated and protected.

Capricorn Moon

Characteristics: Capricorn Moons are disciplined and ambitious. Their skin can be prone to dryness.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with chamomile or calendula.

Toner: Apply a hydrating toner with rosewater and glycerin.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and aloe vera.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and cucumber.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin hydrated, glowing and healthy

Aquarius Moon

Characteristics: Aquarius Moons are innovative and independent. Their skin can be sensitive and need deep hydration.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with aloe vera or cucumber.

Serum: Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and jojoba oil.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and yogurt.

Benefits: This routine keeps the skin healthy and radiant.

Pisces Moon

Characteristics: Pisces Moons are compassionate and dreamy, with sensitive skin that often needs extra care to stay hydrated and healthy.

Skincare Ritual:

Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser with chamomile or calendula to soothe and cleanse without stripping moisture.

Toner: Apply a hydrating toner with rosewater and glycerin to refresh and prepare the skin for moisturizing.

Moisturizer: Opt for a rich, hydrating moisturizer with shea butter and aloe vera to nourish and protect the skin.

Mask: Use a hydrating and soothing mask with ingredients like honey and cucumber once a week for extra hydration and calmness.

Benefits: This routine keeps Pisces Moon's sensitive skin hydrated, soothed, and protected, ensuring a healthy, radiant complexion that reflects their compassionate and dreamy nature.

By understanding your Moon sign and incorporating Ayurvedic skincare rituals tailored to your unique emotional and physical needs, you can enhance your skin's health and overall well-being. These personalized routines not only address specific skin concerns but also align with your inner self, providing a holistic approach to beauty and self-care.

[aeth-eris]

★ 2nd house & diets ★

★ aries in the 2nd house ★

your health thrives with bold, energizing foods that keep you fueled. opt for dishes like spicy tacos, roasted red pepper hummus, chili with beans, and roasted root vegetables for a satisfying kick. include anti-inflammatory foods like berries and leafy greens to help with aries’ natural intensity. high-protein foods (lean meats, legumes) keep your energy steady. supplements like B-complex vitamins, iron, and omega-3s support stamina and mental clarity. stay hydrated, and consider magnesium to support muscle relaxation and ease stress.

★ taurus in the 2nd house ★

you benefit from hearty, grounding meals that feel comforting. try dishes like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stews, and whole grain salads to keep you feeling nourished and centered. foods high in fiber, like leafy greens and root vegetables, support digestive health. biotin and vitamin E are ideal supplements for skin, hair, and nails, while calcium and magnesium support bone health and relaxation. a daily multivitamin can ensure balance, as you enjoy the richness of a varied, nutrient-dense diet.

★ gemini in the 2nd house ★

light, versatile meals work well for you, helping you stay mentally sharp and physically agile. think veggie stir-fries with nuts, avocado toast, fruit salads, and smoothie bowls. foods rich in B vitamins (whole grains, nuts, leafy greens) help keep your energy and focus stable. include antioxidant-rich foods like berries to support brain health. B-complex supplements are helpful for mental clarity, and omega-3s can support cognitive function. staying hydrated with electrolytes can enhance focus and energy.

★ cancer in the 2nd house ★

comforting, nurturing foods help you feel grounded. dishes like creamy soups, stews, rice pudding, and cucumber salads are gentle on your digestive system. prioritize hydrating, water-rich foods like melons and cucumbers, which help balance emotional and physical well-being. a daily probiotic and ginger or peppermint tea can support digestive health, while calcium and magnesium help promote calm and relaxation. consider a multivitamin for balanced support, as consistent nourishment provides a sense of security.

★ leo in the 2nd house ★

vibrant, nutrient-rich foods support your radiant energy. try dishes like citrus-glazed salmon, honey-roasted vegetables, spiced oatmeal with fresh fruit, and colorful salads. include foods rich in vitamin D (mushrooms, fortified grains) and antioxidants like berries and bell peppers. supplements like vitamin C and zinc boost immunity, while vitamin D3 supports energy and vitality. a daily multivitamin helps you maintain a balanced diet, ensuring you feel both nourished and confident.

★ virgo in the 2nd house ★

your health benefits from simple, wholesome meals that nourish your body and mind. think lentil stew, roasted root vegetables, fresh salads, and whole-grain bowls with lean proteins. prioritize unprocessed, fiber-rich foods that are easy to digest. probiotics, as well as B-complex vitamins, help support gut health and mental clarity. magnesium can be beneficial for relaxation, and a multivitamin keeps your nutrient levels balanced. choosing foods that feel clean and light aligns with your natural inclination for wellness.

★ libra in the 2nd house ★

balanced, aesthetically pleasing meals are key for your well-being. enjoy dishes like berry-topped yogurt bowls, colorful salads, figs with honey and cheese, and well-plated grain bowls. include antioxidant-rich foods like berries and leafy greens, which support skin health. supplements like biotin and vitamin E enhance beauty from within, while a multivitamin helps maintain balanced nutrition. staying hydrated and incorporating herbal teas can help maintain harmony, keeping your body and mind in sync.

★ scorpio in the 2nd house ★

intense, nutrient-dense foods that feel transformative are ideal for you. meals like dark chocolate chili, pomegranate and berry salad, black bean and truffle tacos, and eggplant parmesan suit your tastes. include detoxifying foods like dark leafy greens and beets to support immune health. zinc and iron supplements help sustain vitality, while adaptogens (like ashwagandha or reishi) aid in managing stress. probiotics promote digestive balance, especially if you enjoy rich, bold flavors in your meals.

★ sagittarius in the 2nd house ★

adventurous, hearty meals that bring a sense of abundance resonate with you. dishes like grain bowls with legumes, holiday-inspired roast dinners, curries, and colorful salads are ideal for sagittarius’ expansive energy. liver-supporting foods like leafy greens and lemon water aid in detox, while probiotic supplements help keep digestion balanced. milk thistle or turmeric supplements support liver health, while a multivitamin provides a solid nutrient foundation. staying mindful of portions can help balance your love for indulgent flavors.

★ capricorn in the 2nd house ★

simple, grounding foods that focus on longevity suit your health approach. meals like roasted root vegetables, lentil stew, pickled veggie platters, and hearty bean soups provide lasting energy. calcium and vitamin D-rich foods (almonds, leafy greens) support bone health, which is essential with capricorn’s influence. supplements like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D3 offer foundational support, while a multivitamin provides consistent nutrition. a balanced diet of whole foods helps you feel grounded and nourished.

★ aquarius in the 2nd house ★

unique, innovative foods keep you excited about health. try dishes like superfood smoothie bowls, acai bowls, dragon fruit salads, and kimchi stir-fries to satisfy your taste for the unconventional. antioxidant-rich foods (berries, nuts) support circulation and mental clarity. omega-3 supplements enhance focus and nervous system health, while probiotics aid digestion if you enjoy fermented foods. including B-complex vitamins also supports mental sharpness and energy, keeping you in sync with aquarius’ eclectic energy.

★ pisces in the 2nd house ★

soothing, gentle foods that nourish body and spirit are ideal for you. try dishes like miso soup, mushroom risotto, seaweed salad, and herbal teas to maintain balance and calm. hydrating foods with immune-supportive ingredients like ginger, citrus, and garlic align well with pisces’ sensitive energy. vitamin C and zinc help boost immunity, while magnesium aids relaxation and sleep. a fish oil or omega-3 supplement enhances mental clarity and emotional balance, supporting a sense of overall well-being.

★ sun in the 2nd house ★

your health thrives on meals that feel vibrant and energizing, so focus on nutrient-dense, hearty foods that support vitality and confidence. dishes like citrus-glazed salmon, honey-roasted vegetables, spiced oatmeal with fresh fruit, and lemony quinoa salad are ideal. include warming spices like ginger and cinnamon, and foods high in vitamin D (mushrooms, fortified grains) to boost energy. vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers) supports immunity, while a daily multivitamin and vitamin D3 supplement can help keep you feeling strong, especially in low-sunlight months.

★ moon in the 2nd house ★

comforting, nourishing foods that evoke emotional warmth are essential for your health. dishes like creamy mashed potatoes, seafood chowder, rice pudding, and cucumber salads provide the grounding and soothing energy you crave. prioritizing gentle, easy-to-digest foods supports your sensitive stomach. water-rich foods like melons, cucumbers, and soups are also beneficial. to support digestive health, a probiotic supplement and ginger or peppermint tea can be helpful. calcium and magnesium supplements also aid relaxation and emotional balance, providing a sense of stability and calm.

★ mercury in the 2nd house ★

light, versatile meals that support mental clarity work best for you. opt for dishes like veggie stir-fry with nuts, avocado toast, fruit and nut salads, or blueberry smoothie bowls to keep your mind sharp. a diet high in B vitamins (found in leafy greens, whole grains, nuts) supports nervous system health. staying hydrated is essential, so drink plenty of water and consider electrolytes if needed. supplements like B-complex vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3s (for cognitive support) can help you maintain focus and energy.

★ venus in the 2nd house ★

you enjoy indulgent, beautiful meals that feel like a treat, bringing pleasure and harmony to your health routine. dishes like strawberry and goat cheese salads, berry-topped french toast, truffle pasta, figs with honey and cheese, and chocolate fondue are perfect for you. antioxidants (from berries, leafy greens) and foods rich in healthy fats support glowing skin and overall vitality. biotin and vitamin E supplements are excellent for skin, hair, and nails, while a daily multivitamin can help maintain a balanced sense of well-being.

★ mars in the 2nd house ★

you need bold, energizing foods that satisfy your active and determined nature. spicy dishes like beef tacos, roasted garlic and red pepper hummus, chili with beans, and roasted root vegetables align with your high-energy vibe. protein-rich foods (like lean meats, legumes) help maintain strength. supplements like iron and B-complex vitamins can support energy levels, and adding a turmeric supplement helps reduce inflammation if spicy foods are a staple. staying well-hydrated with electrolyte support is also beneficial.

★ jupiter in the 2nd house ★

you enjoy hearty, abundant meals that feel celebratory. classic dishes like grain bowls with legumes, mac and cheese, holiday-inspired roast dinners, potato and leek soup, and bread pudding bring a sense of satisfaction. while you enjoy variety, aim for moderation to balance richness. antioxidant-rich foods (like berries) support immune health, while a daily multivitamin ensures a balanced nutrient intake. probiotics are helpful for digestive balance, and milk thistle or turmeric supplements support liver health if you enjoy occasional indulgences.

★ saturn in the 2nd house ★

simple, grounding meals that emphasize longevity and consistency resonate with you. meals like lentil stew, roasted root vegetables, pickled veggie platters, and hearty bean soups are ideal, providing sustained energy. foods high in calcium and vitamin D (almonds, leafy greens, dairy) support bone health, an area of focus with saturn’s influence. calcium and magnesium supplements aid bone strength and muscle relaxation, while vitamin D3 supports immunity. a quality multivitamin offers foundational support for your well-being.

★ uranus in the 2nd house ★

you enjoy unique, innovative foods that break from the traditional. superfood smoothie bowls, acai bowls, dragon fruit salads, kimchi stir-fry, and kombucha-marinated tofu suit your eclectic tastes. foods high in antioxidants and omega-3s (like berries, fish, nuts) support circulation and mental clarity. adding supplements like omega-3s and B-complex vitamins can help maintain focus and nervous system health. probiotics are also beneficial for digestive support, especially if you enjoy fermented foods.

★ neptune in the 2nd house ★

your health benefits from gentle, soothing meals that feel spiritually nourishing. dishes like miso soup, mushroom risotto, seaweed salad, lavender-infused desserts, and herbal teas help keep you balanced. focus on hydrating foods and immune-supportive ingredients like ginger, citrus, and garlic. vitamin C and zinc are helpful for immunity, while magnesium can support relaxation and sleep. a fish oil or omega-3 supplement is beneficial, especially if seafood is part of your diet, as it enhances mental clarity and calm.

★ pluto in the 2nd house ★

you’re drawn to intense, nutrient-dense foods that feel transformative and empowering. meals like dark chocolate chili, pomegranate and berry salad, black bean and truffle tacos, eggplant parmesan, and rich red wine risotto resonate with you. dark leafy greens, berries, and high-protein foods provide lasting energy. a multivitamin ensures foundational nutrition, while zinc and iron support resilience and vitality. adaptogenic herbs (like ashwagandha or reishi) can be beneficial for stress management, while probiotics promote digestive balance.

[aylin-mae-bonesx]

one of my favourite low calorie smoothie recipes:

green tea strawberry and almond smoothie

3/4 cup strong green tea

1 cup frozen strawberries

1/8 cup almonds

1 cup low cal/ unsweetened almond milk

1 tsp honey

blend all together until smooth, approx 3 mins

approx 250 calories and keeps me full for so long, plus it has great benefits from the green tea and is great for breakfast :)

[theblackdahliaemporium]

Medicinal Remedies

Medicinal Remedies-- This is a LONG one!

NOTE: This article is about 20 of my favorite medicinal healing herbs to grow in most garden areas and types of soil. There are 100’s more, though, that I just couldn’t include because of space. Enjoy this rundown of 20 of my favorites.

1) Calendula:

Calendula is one of my top five favorite herbs of all time. It's sunny yellow or orange face can't help but make me smile. In summer time, it grows like crazy, just about anywhere, and like other flowers, the bees love it.

Calendula has some super skin healing and strengthening properties, and I always have some infusing in olive oil in a sunny window for use in salves, soaps, and other body products.

Calendula is also edible, and it's so fun to toss some blooms in your salad! It really brightens things up and adds excellent color. I love Calendula.

Calendula just makes you smile.

2) Cayenne:

Here is another herb I think should be in every garden. Cayenne is a very hot and pretty red pepper with some excellent culinary uses for adding spice to foods.

It's also great for helping with circulatory problems, can be used to help stop bleeding since it's a hemostatic herb, and has been shown to be useful in helping slow or even stop a heart attack until help can arrive.

It's also a very attractive plant, and the bright red of the pepper is just gorgeous mixed Into the dark green of the plant's leaves. This is one herb you should definitely grow if you can, and have handy in your herbal medicine chest.

Cayenne grows like crazy, especially in warmer climates. They dry well, too.

3) Chamomile:

Like Lavender, what would an herbal garden be without sweet Chamomile? It's honey scent and sweet taste are an absolute pleasure. Besides that....Chamomile is a popular relaxant and mild sedative herb.

Need to de-stress? Drink a bit of Chamomile tea!

Chamomile is also useful as an anti-inflammatory, as it contains high levels of azulene. It helps with pain relief, including for arthritis. If you are heading to bed and are bothered by mild pain, try drinking some chamomile tea! In one clinical study, this helped 10 out of 12 people fall into a restful sleep. (Gladstar)

Growing Chamomile can be tricky in very hot climates. It likes full sun, but a cooler climate. Chamomile is also best grown in less maintained soil and doesn't need the rich fertilization other plants require.

4) Chickweed:

Chickweed is another one of those "weeds" that is completely misunderstood and has some excellent medicinal qualities.

It's Latin name, (stellaria) means "star," and that is because of its small, pretty starlike white flowers. It's easy to grow, and has many uses.

Chickweed supports liver and kidney health due to its high nutrition and diuretic properties. It's also wonderful in salves for healing skin issues, including rashes, eczema, and very dry skin.

Chickweed is a great diuretic and blood purifier.

5) Dandelion:

This prolific weed, as some people see when they notice Dandelion in their yard, is actually a powerfully helpful medicinal herb! Dandelion is terrific for your liver and kidney health, having diuretic properties.

It's also an edible plant! You can roast the roots and add it to teas and even your coffee for a delicious flavor that also packs a healthy punch. The leaves can be eaten in salads and other foods.

6) Feverfew:

Feverfew has lovely white flowers and at least where I live, is rather invasive. I don't mind, though, because it has a great number of medicinal benefits.

As its name connotes, feverfew is helpful with reducing fevers. Most recently, however, feverfew has become rather well-known for helping with migraines, both preventing and reducing the intensity and time.

One of my favorite teas to provide for people who suffer from migraines is: 1 part feverfew, 1 part spearmint, and 1 part lemon balm. This is a soothing, nervine combination, that along with the powers of feverfew, can be used as daily tonic.

Feverfew is also great for minor bug bites. Just apply the tincture topically. Since it has mild pain relieving properties, it will help with the discomfort too.

7) Garlic:

Garlic is one of the BEST all around medicinal herbs anyone can grow, in my opinion. It's useful for treating colds, flus, sore throats, and digestive issues. Garlic boosts the immune system by increasing and stimulating the production of white blood cells.

Garlic is antiseptic, anti-bacterial, and vermifuge (kills parasites). It is also useful as a blood purifier and helps promote healthy circulation. It may also help regulate blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes.

Besides all these wonderful benefits, garlic is delicious! It's added to so many foods and dishes because of the flavor it imparts. Granted, using garlic medicinally is different than in culinary uses, but if you really want to "eat thy medicine," as Hippocrates famously stated, garlic is a great place to start.

8) Ginger:

Oh, what would the herb world be without Ginger? This sweet and spicy pungent herb is actually a rhizome, not a root, as many believe. The useful part grows under ground, so is often confused.

Ginger is stimulating and is a great additive for teas, tinctures, and fermented foods, as well as culinary uses. Ginger is anti-inflammatory, decongesting, and increases circulation, promoting warmth. Ginger is also excellent for flatulence and stomach issues, including nausea.

Ginger likes a tropical environment---hot and humid. Therefore, unless you live down South, Ginger would most likely need to be grown in a green house.

9) Lavender:

What would the herbal world be without lavender? It's good for SO many things. Lavender smells wonderful, the bees love it, it's great for medicinal uses, AND it's a gorgeous flower. Lavender is useful for air freshening and cleaning the air or freshening closed up places such as drawers. It's popular in sachets for this reason.

Lavender is actually relatively hardy, growing well in Zones 5 through 8. If you are in a colder zone, be sure to plant your lavender in an area where it will get plenty of sunshine and be as warm as possible. If your winters are rough, you'll need to provide your lavender with some type of protection, especially from harsh winds.

I had some planted in pots here in the mountains, and it did very well all summer long. Even through snows, it was fine. But we get wind speeds over 125 miles an hour at times, and lavender just didn't last through that. Not much will, I guess.

Lavender is useful for so many things---AND it smells incredible.

10) Lemon Balm:

Lemon Balm....I LOVE this species of mint. It smells lovely, the bees love it, and it grows well nearly everywhere. Lemon Balm has a pleasant lemony taste and is a great additive in herbal teas, both for the nutritive value as well as the soothing nature and relaxing effects it has on the body.

11) Marshmallow:

This probably isn't included in too many herbalist's garden lists, but I think Marshmallow is seriously necessary. It's a demulcent and soothing herb, and it complements "hotter" herbs very well. It also soothes inflammation in mucous membranes and is one of my favorite herbs to use for allergy blends or teas for any kind of inflammation in the body for this reason.

Marshmallow is an upright plant, similar to a very small hollyhock. In fact, if you can grow hollyhocks where you are---you can use it pretty much interchangeably with Marshmallow as their chemical constituents are very similar.

The flowers are light pink and very pretty, too. The entire plant is edible and useful for medicinal purposes. Go ahead and throw a few flowers into your salad for a beautiful and surprising presentation!

Marshmallow is a demulcent anti-inflammatory. Plus, it's pretty.

12) Mullein:

This is yet another plant many see as just a weed, but has some truly wonderful medicinal qualities. Mullein is a plant that grows from a rosette of fuzzy large leaves into a tall stalk (sometimes as high as 7 feet tall) and is covered with yellow flowers in mid-summer.

Mullein does best in full sun, with lots of water, in cooler areas. It grows really well in the creek beds up here in our mountains, but I've heard it is very common in almost all places. It's worth trying to cultivate, in my opinion, if you don't have it growing naturally in your area.

Mullein is one of the best herbs you can use to support and heal the respiratory system and illnesses that affect the lungs, sinuses, and breathing. It's useful as a tea, tincture, and the large leaves can be used in an emergency to cover a poultice.

In my opinion, Mullein is the premier herb for respiratory issues.

13) Oregano

Oregano seems to be the bane of many gardener's existence. They plant it, and it just goes crazy. I can't tell you how many neighbors, family members, and friends have given me Oregano from their yards over the years! And I'm glad to have it! The thing with Oregano is you have to know how to manage it.

Oregano is a fabulous culinary herb, and if you have ever had pizza or marinara sauce, then you've tasted this delicious Mediterranean herb. Oregano grows best in warm, dry climates, but I have found in my experience that it is quite hardy and can survive winter lows in the single digits (at least it does in my yard).

Oregano (also known as Mountain of Joy in Greek) has some excellent medicinal uses, including having anti-viral, anti-biotic, anti-fungal properties, as well as being very high in anti-oxidants. It's a great skin care herb and also a digestive aid.

Oregano can be used in many forms, too: As a tincture, an herbal infused oil, eaten in foods, and as an essential oil. These all have different strengths, potencies, and uses.

The tincture is an easy way to use the herb medicinally, along with making or using in an herbal tea.

14) Peppermint:

Super easy to grow just about anywhere, Peppermint is a spreading perennial that has the propensity to take over your garden if you allow it! It's spicy, pungent scent is well known to just about everyone, since it's a popular culinary additive in many foods and candies.

Medicinally, Peppermint is useful for aiding digestion and getting rid of flatulence (gas). It has mild anti-spasmodic properties, so if you are experiencing cramps, especially digestive types or menstrual cramps, it can be very helpful.

15) Plantain:

Here is another weed that many people find repugnant, but that is actually an incredibly useful medicinal herb!

According to Rosemary Gladstar, Plantain grows everywhere, and if you invite it in, it will definitely show up.

Plantain is great for liver health, detoxifying and cleansing the blood, and drawing out toxins. I like to infuse it in oil for use in healing salves.

Like Dandelion, this easy to find weed is edible and useful.

16) Rosemary:

Rosemary is a famous culinary herb, and is great for use on red meats and very pungent dishes. Besides this, rosemary has been proven to be helpful for the brain, especially memory functions.

It's high in anti-oxidants, and has mild analgesic (pain relief) properties. Rosemary is a stimulant herb, and is helpful with circulation and low blood pressure. People with high blood pressure need to exercise caution using rosemary medicinally.

Rosemary grows best in hot, dry climates and is native to the Southern European countries.

Besides being a pungent and delicious culinary herb, rosemary provides medicinal qualities and enhances memory.

17) St. John's Wort:

St. John's Wort is a misunderstood plant, in my opinion. It went through a popular phase a few years ago and was touted as being the new natural anti-depressant. St. John's Wort can absolutely help with feelings of mild depression, sadness, grief, and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), but it's not a cure-all.

Important to know---St. John's Wort can interact with certain drugs, so be sure you discuss usage with your doctor (as you should with any of these herbs mentioned).

St. John's Wort is also great for neuralgia, and I personally use it as part of my back pain and sciatica regimen with excellent results. I also use it in a tincture form to lift my spirits if I'm feeling down.

Besides all the medicinal qualities of St. John's Wort, it's a really pretty plant. You won't be able to grow it in a super hot area, however, at least it's unlikely. I tried growing it in Las Vegas, and it was a total fail. However, it does well here in the mountains in full sun or partial shade and the cooler climate.

One of my favorite ways to prepare St. John's Wort is as an herbal infused oil. The medicinal species (H. perforatum) releases bright red juices into the oil, creating the most lovely infused oil.

Another safety note for the garden: St. John's Wort has been shown to have potential for phototoxicity, especially in grazing animals if they eat too much. Just be aware and watch what your pastured animals eat.

St. John's Wort is a wonderful healing herb that positively affects the emotions.

18) Thyme:

Thyme, in my opinion, is one of the best plants to use in your garden. It attracts bees, smells lovely, and is incredibly useful for medicinal purposes. It's a small, spreading herb (although some species will grow upright) that is fairly hardy, so if you have rough winters, it may do just fine---you'll be seeing it again in the Spring, with it's pretty scented purple flowers.

Many herbalists forget all about using thyme as a preventative medicinal herb or for helping heal quickly from colds and flus---but it has been shown to fight off colds.

It also has disinfectant properties, and can be used as an effective wash for skin infections or as great sore throat rinse. For medicinal purposes, Thymus vulgaris or Thymus citriodorus (Lemon Thyme) are the best to use.

19) Valerian:

This stately flowering plant can grow to about four feet tall and has lacy white flower clusters. Not only is it a lovely addition to your garden, but it is very useful. It's a strong but safe sedative and is very useful for helping with anxious feelings, sleep issues, and pain relief.

Contraindications: Valerian has the opposite effect on some people, so if you are using it for the first time, do so on a the eve of a day that won't affect you much. These folks are rare, but there are definitely some that don't tolerate it well.

One of nature's best gifts---Valerian is lovely and it is an excellent safe sedative.

20) Yarrow:

Yarrow has many tiny flowers that grow in bunches, and feathery grayish leaves. It's a very pretty plant for your garden. Besides, the parts that grow above ground (leaves, stems, flowers) have medicinal purposes and have been used for thousands of years.

Yarrow is a vulnerary, hemostatic herb. Besides helping with healing and clotting of wounds, yarrow is good for helping reduce fevers, hay fever, and fighting colds. As a fever reducer, it is important to note that yarrow induces sweating, so if the person already has a hot fever, yarrow is probably not the best choice to use.

Article: healing harvest homestead Picture: Nikolaydonetsk – photodune . net

[tryingtodotheright-thing]

Hello Sunset - 2

AN: None of this is proof read so please excuse any errors and do point them out to me. Also, if there's ever any warnings you think I should be adding, please send me an ask. I would love yo hear everyone's thoughts :)

PAIRING: Seungcheol x fem!reader

GENRE: exes to lovers, idol verse, angst

WORD COUNT: 2,574

WARNINGS: reader has anxiety and depression, swearing

PREVIOUS / NEXT

Y/N couldn’t remember the car journey but she was now sitting on Sian’s expensive sofa. Rachel had left after making sure Y/N made it to the office safely, promising to meet her at Y/N’s flat in the evening after finishing some errands. 

Y/N clutched the cup of tea that was piping hot and kept her focus on the heat seeping through to her fingertips. In true British style, Sian had made her a cuppa as soon as she’d walked through, reassuring her that tea would make her feel better. The steam continued to rise up and fogged up the sunglasses she still had on. Pushing the Ray Bans off her face, she slid them up to rest on top of her head. The movement seemed to startle Sian into action as she’d been hovering behind Y/N till then, which was so unlike her and spoke volumes of how worried she was about the situation. Sian moved to sit beside her on the forest green velvet sofa, turning her body so she sat facing Y/N. She took a second to observe Y/N as she continued to stare into her cup of tea as if it held all the answers to her problems. Sighing, Sian took the mug from Y/N’s hand and placed it on the coster sat on top of the nearby coffee stool. 

“Y/N, honey, I need you to be strong for me. I need you to fight this time, okay?”

Sian knew to wait for a response and without it, her artist would weasel her way out of the limelight and hide in some semblance of her previous life, as she had been doing for the past five months. Y/N was too fragile last time and Sian had let her wallow long enough. It was time for her to gear up. Sian hadn’t been doing her job as a manager in the entertainment world for the past 15 years and doing it well, only to let her artist be affected by the backlash from angry, disappointed fangirls of a cowardly man. 

If it wasn’t for the broken woman Sian had to prioritise and piece together back in March 2025, Sian would have done something sooner. In fact, a word to Sian’s contacts, most of whom were family members in key places, would have put a stopper to the ridiculous attacks. No KPOP artist, even if they were part of a global and growing company, could enter the Western market without the backing of one of the many subsidiaries Sian’s family owned in the music industry. They dominated the music industry in the background and whilst Sian made sure to not abuse this power for her own benefit, she couldn’t sit back and watch as the woman she’d grown to adore as a younger sister continued to suffer. Y/N was ill equipped to deal with it all since she was still new to the celebrity world. 

8 September 2023

Y/N went viral. It was unexpected and so sudden. 

She was a month into her new job as HR Business Partner at a global consulting firm, focused on serving technological and data insights to its clientele. It was a big move for Y/N and she’d just started to feel comfortable in the new environment. Her new manager had done much to welcome her and ease her in, but everything was new and things moved at such a fast pace, she gave up trying to keep up and was hoping things would start to make sense soon. 

It was a Friday and the weather was still warm, the after effects of the heatwave still lingering. Y/N was ready to wrap up for the day and spend the weekend in bed. She’d finished all the calls she’d had planned for the day and in her check in with her manager, he’d given her great feedback so Y/N couldn’t be happier it was a Friday. She’d packed her laptop in her backpack and was heading out of the office located in the business park. She was still admiring the waterfalls and greenery that surrounded the buildings even though she’d been making the commute for a month now. Earbuds in and her playlist turned on, she hummed along to the music as she walked towards the Tube station and debated whether to head to the gym tonight or have a lazy evening. The vibration of her phone interrupted her pondering and saw that she was getting a phone call from Sian Doyle. 

Y/N had met Sian a few months ago, when she had approached her after seeing Y/N’s old Youtube videos during her teen years. Sian sent her a message on Instagram asking if Y/N still pursued a career in music and was interested in meeting with her to discuss an opportunity. Y/N had thought it was a hoax, and had ignored the message. She hadn’t seriously thought about a career in music, knowing that her parents would have never allowed her to do that when she was growing up. Now in her mid 20s, she knew she’d missed the chance though the odd daydreams and what ifs had crossed her mind. Y/N had grown apart from music when she had started working six years ago, not having the energy nor time to dedicate to her passion. However, sitting at home and not being able to leave the house, with just herself for company during the pandemic gave her plenty of time to re-embrace it and she fell in love with music again. Although she hadn’t replied to Sian’s message after reading it, she kept going back to it all weekend before gathering her courage and agreeing to a meeting. 

Three months later, Y/N was an artist signed to a label and had released a single that had charted in the top 100 of the UK music charts. It wasn’t too bad (read as great) for a brand new artist that the music world had no expectations for and who didn’t fit the look nor style of the typical musicians the industry usually produced. She was even going to be singing an OST for a Korean TV drama that will be released in December. Y/N was surprised when she heard that news. She didn’t expect her music to be popular, let alone be heard and liked by people in another part of the world. Thinking that’s what Sian was contacting her about, Y/N accepted the call and entered the working pod that was outdoors in the business park to take the call in private. 

“Hey Sian, how are you doing? Did I have any plans I’ve forgotten?” Y/N was balancing her commitments in the corporate world and music world, not quite confident to give up her safety net when her success wasn’t guaranteed. 

“I’m splendid, darling and do you know why? It’s because I’m the manager of the young woman who is going viral featuring on all the reels on Tik Tok right now.” Y/N could feel the excitement in Sian’s voice and was slightly envious of the person who’d made Sian this proud and animated. The woman was always composed and today, she’d not spoken in her “I'm-all-business-and-I'm-the-boss” voice.

“Oh how exciting for you! Which artist is that, I know you have a few?”

Letting out a chuckle, Sian responded, “Y/N, honey, I’m talking about you!”

Y/N’s response came out as something between a squeal and a shout in that instant, the thrill and happiness she’d felt in that moment was unforgettable.

Current

“Tell me what the plan is. I know you have one.”

Sian wanted to clap her hands in glee but held herself back. She got up from the sofa to pick up the iPad that sat on her desk and returned to the velvet sofa. Sinking down right next to Y/N this time, she handed the iPad over to the singer. With hands that were still trembling though much less than when she was holding the tea cup, Y/N took the tablet into her hands and tapped on the screen. The screen blinked at her, opening on Naver, a blurry picture of a man and woman walking in close proximity out of a restaurant. It was obvious the woman wasn’t a Korean celebrity due to the darker skin tone and the build of the woman. The zoomed in version of the same picture on the article focused on the faces of the pair. Y/N obviously recognised the people in the picture, being the woman in the picture. The zoomed version helped narrow down when the picture was taken. Both of them were wearing black masks and Y/N/s hands were tucking her hair behind her ears, there was an indent on her left ring finger and she could just make out a pink line of a cut on her palm. 

The picture was taken on their last date. It was a Thursday evening and they were in Daegu because he was on leave and was allowed to leave the base so he wanted to visit his parents. They’d been bickering all night and in the end, hadn’t finished their meal and had decided to just leave. Y/N was due to fly back to London the next day and he was due to return to his base at the end of the weekend. It had been roughly two weeks after her birthday and Y/N had been looking forward to the late celebration but the entire visit was a mess. He broke up with her two days later in response to her text ‘Just landed, will call later. Love you x’. The picture was taken two months ago, just before the world as she knew it collapsed. 

“Whoever sent this photo through obviously has more and it’s most likely the same person who sent Dispatch the picture at the beginning of the year. HYBE and Pledis can’t keep denying the relationship, saying you were acquaintances or just friends and they definitely can’t spin the whole narrative of you being an overzealous fan anymore. Right now, they’re looking like the biggest liars and the public opinion is on your side.”

“What’s your plan?” Y/N repeated, knowing that Sian hasn’t finished. 

“We need to put out a statement to be released in Korean media. I’ve already drafted it; I just need you to read it and let me know if there’s anything you’re uncomfortable with. We’re also not going to keep quiet anymore. You need to come out of hiding and you need to take back control.”

Not pausing for acknowledgement, Sian continued, “I’ve booked you to be on Jimmy Fallon’s, taping Thursday night and airing Friday so we’ll be flying to New York tomorrow. You’ll use the opportunity to promote the upcoming tour and it matches with The Voice US guest appearance episodes releasing this week. Jimmy will bring up the news, I’ve asked him to. I want you to make a joke and brush past it as if the whole matter is insignificant and an inconvenience. Channel that anger that’s underneath that hurt and don’t forget that you’re the victim in this situation. I need you to emphasise that.”

With that said, Sian leaned over and opened the Mail app on the iPad, selecting the first email which contained the drafted statement.

‘This is W Music Group. We have confirmed with our artist regarding the recent allegations and can confirm that Y/N and S.Coups of SEVENTEEN did briefly date but have since parted ways. Our artist was keen to keep her personal life private and we ask people to avoid speculation. No statements released by HYBE or Pledis about Y/N have been made in conjunction with W Music Group or with Y/N’s consent.  We are currently taking legal action against those who posted malicious posts including defamation, insults, sexual harassment, spread of false information, and malicious slander against Y/N. We are preparing to submit multiple complaints to investigative agencies by collecting evidence of acts that violate Y/N’s rights and interests such as insults and defamation through self-monitoring and reports from fans, and we plan to respond with a no-tolerance policy. We will continue to hold the suspects accountable and take strong action without any settlement or leniency. Y/N’s planning to greet the public soon with a new album to be released on 2 October 2025.’

Y/N read the statement and read it again. She knew this was the best thing to do for herself and it wasn’t fair to Sian and everyone around her, everyone who depended on and cheered for her success, if she didn’t release the statement. Despite knowing this was the best choice, Y/N still hesitated.

“Do we have to mention the statements from HYBE?”

“Yes.” Sian’s reply was immediate and clipped. “I hope you’re not still worrying about him.”

Sian’s tone grew more sharp. “You can’t be! Wake up and smell the coffee for what it is, Y/N. If he had cared even the smallest ounce for you, he wouldn’t have agreed to his company releasing a statement that you had approached him as a fan when the first picture was released in January. Do you not remember how his fans called you a stalker and sent you hate messages all over social media? Do you not remember the times they sent you broken glass and blades packaged up as gifts so you’d hurt yourself?” 

Sian grew more frustrated and tossed the iPad on the space next to her on the sofa.

“I don’t know how to talk sense into you. Honestly, Y/N, I’m doing this for your benefit.”

“I know, I know that. Please don’t think that I don’t appreciate everything you do and have done for me.” Y/N’s words kept getting stuck and she was struggling to articulate herself.

“I just don’t want other people to be hurt by this. Josh and the others haven’t done anything wrong.”

After a pause, she consented, “I’ll take your guidance as final, Sian. Let’s release the statement.”

Y/N grasped Sian’s hands in hers for reassurance. “I promise I’ll do what you ask of me this time.” 

Sian patted Y/N’s hands as she soothed Y/N’s nerves by saying, “It’ll all be fine, darling. Trust that I know what I’m doing. You’ll come out of this stronger. I know you will.”

With a final pat, Sian got up from the sofa and walked to the door of her office, her black heels clacking against the floor. She opened the door and spoke to her assistant, whose desk was placed opposite the doorway. 

“Send it out now.”

That’s all she said before closing the door and turning back to Y/N. 

“Now, about the Tonight Show ..” 

Sian continued with her briefing for Y/N’s schedules. Y/N listened and did her best to pay attention and soak in the advice but the tension in her stomach distracted her, the jitters making her queasy. She moved to pick up her now lukewarm water bottle that she’d bought earlier from her handbag when she noticed that her phone was blinking. She took the phone out first, tapping on the screen to read.

Joshie 🦌

Just saw it. Are you okay?

[briar-ffxiv]

— B A S I C S

Name: Briar (the) Redfeather Nicknames: 'Rose', 'Little Fox', 'Wildling' Age: Early 20s in ARR, probably nearing 30 by Dawntrail (depending on timeline) Nameday: 21st Sun of the 3rd Umbral Moon (not that he knows exactly. He just knows the month) Race: Half-Elezen/Half-Hyur (Padjal bloodline through Hyur) Gender: Non-binary, masculine leaning (born male, prefers he/they) Orientation: Demiromantic Greysexyal Profession: Healer, Shepherd, Warrior of Light(depending on the 'verse)

— P H Y S I C A L A S P E C T S

Hair: strawberry blonde, almost rose gold with lighter gold highlights due to the sun. He has 3A curls, although when kept short the curls are less noticeable. Eyes: warm moss-green flecked with gold Skin: naturally quite pale, faint golden tan from the sun and tons of freckles everywhere. Tattoos/scars: no tattoos. Leaf birthmark on his right shoulderblade. Plenty of scars, including the slice from a spear on his left cheek, burn scars on his left shoulder and back, and rather heavily scarred palms and undersides of his fingers due to a nasty injury to his hands

— F A M I L Y

Parents: His mother was named Saule (Willow) and her family was from Dravania, but sought shelter in the Black Shroud when Saule was very small. His father was known as Ciro, officially U-Ciro-Tek before he was disgraced and exiled from being a Padjal. Siblings: Briar was an only child, as was his mother. Grandparents: Briar knows nothing about Ciro's parents, other than they died some years before he was born. Saule's father died before he was born. His grandmother died when he was under two so he has no memories of her. In-laws and Other: As far as Briar knows, his only living blood relative is E-Rani-Tek, Ciro's older brother and a Padjali pariah. Pets: Briar has a terrible habit of adopting many a creature, although if they are wild-born his goal is always to return them to the wild. Currently, he has a small herd of sheep, a flock of chickens, three Chocobo (one grown, two chicks), a dog named Jack, and a unicorn friend named Whinny. (And a lot of little forest friends that take care of themselves but visit often.)

— S K I L L S

Abilities: Despite normally not eating meat, Briar is a skilled archer, hunter, and tracker. He is an avid gardener. He has a knack for animal handling. He has a decent, if untrained, singing voice. He knows a lot about herbal medicine and non-magical healing. He rides quite well. Hobbies: Briar loves a good book, particularly romance. He loves beekeeping. He is quite skilled in many kinds of fibre arts, including weaving, spinning, and sewing. He likes to draw as well.

— T R A I T S

Most Positive Trait: Briar is a very kind person. He always gives the benefit of the doubt. He does his best to settle things without violence if he can. He forgives often and tries to be empathetic to everyone he meets. Most Negative Trait: Briar can definitely be naive. He forgives when he shouldn't. He has a very hard time understanding why anyone would be cruel. Sometimes he simply doesn't get it and it puts him at a disadvantage with people more than willing to take advantage of that.

— L I K E S

Colours: Blues, greens, golds. Smells: Fresh-cut wood. The smell of rain on grass. Hay. The smell of clean, well-oiled leather. Honey. Textures: Silky fabric. Soft wool. Supple leather. Smooth wood. Drinks: Various teas, often floral varieties. Soft spot for juices. Loves the rare treat of hot chocolate.

— O T H E R D E T A I L S

Smokes: He doesn't. Drinks: He is not against a glass of something fairly light in safe company but left to his own devices, Briar doesn't really have the urge to drink. Drugs: He doesn't. Mount Insurance: He would have no idea what that is, but he does have a unicorn he rides in the Black Shroud, but normally prefers his own feet. (Once he's officially in the steppes, I might get him an actual house.) Been Arrested: Detained by Wood Wailers more than once, but not officially arrested.

(( Art is by @shadesofblades / @coffeehands! ))

Tagged by: @thefrostflower @tripl3cast @sundered-souls - thank you all! <3

Tagging: @shieke @valdiis @shadesofblades @midnightmagicks @bloodredhands @prettygayway @avaritia-ffxiv @calico-heart @thefrostflower @starrysnowdrop @ahollowgrave @naejlas-axe @cadrenebula @skyysinger & anyone else that wants to do it!

[rottenpumpkin13]

Mugs the 1st class trio would have + what are they drinking

Sephiroth

Thinks the chemical structures are pretty neat. Probably got it at a company secret santa-type thing but unironically loves it. Definitely drinks bitter black coffee with nothing else. Nothing. Not even sweetener. He probably also chugs the piping hot coffee in one go and scares those in his vicinity.

Angeal

100% was gifted to him by Zack as a joke but now he refuses to part ways with it. He's drinking green tea with lemon and honey for the health benefits. This of course is before his first Seph/Gen/Zack headache of the day, where he caves and has his coffee with two sugars and cream.

Genesis

Nobody knows where the frick frack he got this from, all they get from him is dramatic laughter when they ask. This is where Genesis transfers his overpriced coffee order to: a venti apple mocha cappuccino with six shots of expresso, two shots of rum, an unholy amount of sugar and whipped cream on top.

Bonus: Zack

His mom definitely got this for him. He's named the mug Skippy and drinks sugary chocolate milk out of it. The last time Zack drank coffee he had to be sedated by R&D.

[batmenstrualcycle]

reflections; maki x reader

:not evil

:master list

note: I swear my writing gets better </3

Thunder rolled through, filling the air with boom after boom with a storm coming in from the cold front shown on the weather forecast. Rain drops tattered against the window, racing down the glass in a vicious attempt to claim victory over the other droplets.

Naoya sat in a room with the head of the clan, discussing important business and not even drinking the tea that was prepared for him. He refused, he didn't like red tea, he liked green tea with a drop of honey, just like how you used to make it for him whenever he requested on days he felt simple. He rested his chin in his palm, keeping a bored expression on his face as the Head kept running his mouth, words going in one ear and out the other as Naoya was halfheartedly listening.

"By the way, when's that Hatake coming back? I still haven't heard news of that meek little girl being found dead yet."

"I don't know, I haven't thought about communication," Naoya answers bluntly before he spares a glance outside the small window in the room to get a look at the outside. It was certainly more interesting than the meeting between the two men.

The Head frowned, his already wrinkled forehead creasing as his eyebrows knit closer together and his nose crinkled. "Go find them, damnit. And tell them to hurry up."

Naoya sighed, pausing for a moment before getting up from his spot. He shuffled to the door, sliding it open and stepping out of the room. The open hallway showed the greenery outside which was getting rained on, it looked beautiful in his eyes, though he'd never admit it.

He rushed to his room, speeding past any other wandering clan members and servants. Sometimes he would glance at the people coming and going, and he'd see a small glimpse of you every time. It was safe to say he got a little attached, though if anyone pointed it out he would kill them.

Naoya looked around for something black, since it was almost dark out, and he couldn't just waltz onto campus, even when it's in the evening. There's barriers around the school, Gojo, and the principal. Sneaking in almost sounds impossible if there wasn't such a short staff. There's only so much a handful of sorcerers could do for such a large campus.

On said campus, you were busy in the cafeteria with your newfound friends and friend with benefits, celebrating your birthday.

"SHUSH! THEY'RE GONNA HEAR!" Gojo practically screeched to Toge and Panda who were making comments on what you and Maki might be doing while she led you to the cafeteria, blindfolded. You heard his echo through the hallway, and it already gave away what was going on, not that your birthday being marked and circled in red on the calendar in the training room wasn't enough. Everyone else was acting weird, or maybe special, since you weren't really used to all the affection yet. You knew it was your birthday, every year Naoya would make a comment on it then go about his business.

"You're loud enough!" Panda shot back before Gojo was ushering the other boys behind the corner of the cafeteria. Yours and Maki's footsteps echoed through the hallway as she was guiding you by your hand.

"Those idiots probably ruined the whole idea of a surprise party," Maki grumbles, rolling her eyes as the two of you got closer to the cafeteria. You hummed as you shrugged behind her, "I'll just pretend I had no idea."

"That'll be even worse, Gojo's just gonna get more excited," Maki chuckles as you two turn the corner, finally walking in and turning on the lights. She lifted the blindfold from your eyes, revealing a very over-decorated cafeteria with streamers covering all the walls and balloons around almost every table.

"SURPRISE!!"

"Happy birthday, Y/n!!"

You deadpanned your expression at the loud cheering in your ear. A large cake sat on one of the tables with candles on it, and if the candle wish thing did come true, it really would just be you and Maki right now. You walked over to the table, ignoring the others as you sat down, taking a fork and digging in all by yourself.

Everyone else looked at you like you're crazy, watching you eat away at the cake. Eventually you felt everyone's eyes boring holes into your head, so you turned around and found everyone staring.

"What? It's my cake anyways."

"You could at least share with your precious sensei?!"

"As much as I'd like to thank you for the cake, Gojo, it's still my first celebrated birthday, I get to eat the cake however I please," you remarked as you took another fork from the table. "Don't just stand there, Maki."

"WHAT?! How come she gets some?!"

"Because I didn't overreact like you guys did!"

"It's your birthday, of course we're gonna be excited!"

You rolled your eyes as Maki sat down next to you, taking the fork and eating away at your cake. "Damn, this is good," she comments with a smirk, taking another bite. "I got good taste."

"Wait, you picked it out?"

"Yeah, Gojo took me to the bakery and asked me to pick one out, so I went with the one I thought you might like best."

"Considerate," you chuckle, looking beyond the cake and at her with a glint in your eyes. She blushed a bit, grinning back at you as she took yet another bite.

"You're really getting into that cake, huh."

"It's really good. Now I kinda wish it was my birthday."

"Too bad," you grin a bit, shuffling in your spot. Outside the window, across the entire campus for that matter, Naoya had to pay close attention to where his feet went on the dirt. If he'd stepped on even one twig it would alert Gojo of his presence, and frankly he wasn't in the mood to deal with him.

Sneaking through the forest at Jujutsu Tech is not how he imagined spending his evening: careful not to step on a twig or brush against a bush, lightening his footsteps and not breathing so loud. If any one of the those things were to go sideways he risked getting caught, and his senses were at their highest, so he really was not hoping to fail.

When Naoya saw light eventually coming from the main building, which was a long walk away from the cafeteria where you were sitting, a weight left his shoulders and he began to relax a bit. He knew it was around 11 p.m, so he wouldn't have to wait long before the lights went out and he'd have to be on stealth mode again, turning off his channel of cursed energy temporarily just so he won't be noticed sneaking around looking for you.

When the lights did go out, he immediately hopped out from the bush he was hiding in and slowly opened the front door, sneaking in and looking around to see if anyone was still out. He almost bumped into the wall so many times because of how dark it was, but he couldn't exactly turn on a light unless he wanted to get himself caught.

He finally made it to the girls side of the dorms, hastily looking around for yours. People's names were in a plaster on the front of the door so looking for your special last name written in bold. There weren't very many since Jujutsu sorcerers are such a minority, so he didn't have to look for much until he was stuck between two doors. One of them, which had a light coming through the bottom crack of the room behind it, and another one, dark. His whole body warmed up as he ultimately went with the one where he would be least likely to get caught, and went with the latter option.

He carefully slid open the door, narrowing his eyes as he was immediately met with a pitch black. The only exception was the minuscule light coming from across the hall which wasn't even enough to form his own silhouette. He tiptoed into what he made out to be your room when he glanced at the bold name on the plaster, eyes zipping around for any sign of you now that he adjusted to the darkness. Nothing.

He heard voices coming from across the hall, and he quickly but quietly slid your door closed, hiding next to the dresser right next to your doorway as he waited for you to open it up again. When he does hear the door slide open with a crisp sound, he tenses, hearing your footsteps slowly pitter patter against the hardwood floor. His arm carefully reached around the dresser, flipping on the light switch and turning on the light.

You whipped around, almost screaming when you saw him standing there before he rushed over and pressed his hand against your mouth.

He took his hood off from his head and took off his mask, revealing hid all too familiar smug looking face that now looked a bit annoyed. He held up his finger to his mouth as he twitched his head back to suggest to whoever was across the hall.

"What're you doing here?!" you whisper yelled once he removed his hand, frowning as you scolded him. He rolled his eyes and sighed dramatically, looking around the messy room. "Naobito sent me, said he's getting impatient."

"That's just too damn bad, isn't it?" you remarked quietly, stepping away from Naoya and shutting your bathroom door. He pauses for a moment before lifting a brow, "What the hell does that mean?"

"You really think I give a shit if he's impatient? What's gonna happen again if I don't kill Maki? Execution? How's he gonna do that? I'm all the way up here and he's stuck being Head of the clan."

"You're hesitating?" he snarls, stepping closer with a frown. You scrunch up your face and lightly push him back a bit, "If I am?"

Naoya clicked his tongue as he looked around the room- at anything other than you. He tapped his foot angrily against the floor, causing a light clacking from the bottom of his shoe. "You know you're supposed to kill her and be done with it, right?"

"What happens if you find out I ditched it? What, you gonna snitch on me to Naobito about it?"

"I should!" He whispered, getting closer as his scowl worsened. His eyebrows were fiercely knit together and his nose was scrunched up and rippled, and his eyes were narrowed. You stared right back at him with a daring face, your own eyes narrowed as you pursed your lips.

"I should snitch to him," he echoed, huffing before scratching the back of his neck. You lift an eyebrow at him, emphasizing for him to continue.

"But I'm not going to." he sighed, stepping back a bit. Your lifted brow raised even higher at his behavior, because this is not how Naoya would normally act. The smug, annoying son of a bitch is the one who's going lie straight to the Head's face just to make sure nothing happens to you because that's just how much he really cares, not that he would do it for just anyone else. Naoya Zenin, the unlovable asshole, lying to protect you, his longtime servant. Now that's a surprise if you've ever seen one.

What the hell was he even doing? You and him both know he could get in trouble for it if the Head ever found out about the lying, yet Naoya's still here, telling you he won't snitch.

"Why?" you ask curtly, frowning as you bite the inside of your cheek. He looks at you with hooded eyes and a stern expression, his usually fixed hair now matted, casting a small shadow on his face. "You know why."

"No, I don't know why. Just tell me, stop making it so hard," you rush, folding your arms and tapping your foot impatiently against the ground. He sees how haste you're getting, by the sharp glint in your eye and your squared shoulders. He sighs again out of annoyance, pinching the bridge of his nose for a moment.

"Because I don't want to mess up your birthday," he lied after removing his hand from his nose. You gave him a look of disbelief, incredulity, as you scoffed. "You expect me to believe that? Since when did you care about my birthday?"

"I'm not evil," he glares at you, waiting for a moment for a response before he steps towards the door, placing a hand on it for a moment. You don't even spare him a quarter turn, and he can tell, he can't feel your hateful gaze boring holes into his skull. He huffs, his breath slightly hitching as he slowly slides open the door, being careful of the light that still seeps under the crack across the hall. He closes the door behind him, tiptoeing back down the hallway.

You stand there for a moment, in the middle of your own room, feeling out of place for what seemed to be for the rest of this perpetual hour. It hadn't even turned midnight, it was still your sweet sixteen and Naoya had to come and ruin it. You were used to things along the lines of that, like someone ruining your day of peace.

You shake your head, rolling your eyes as you do before deciding you didn't need to be in here, not after Naoya. So you decided to go across the hall, back to Maki's room where you'd just previously been.

You knock on her door gently, waiting for another moment before the door slides open. "Back already? I would've thought you're already getting tired of me."

"No," you reply bluntly, stepping past her and shuffling around her messy room, eventually plopping down on Maki's bed. Her gaze averted from the door to you, sliding it closed and strolling back over to you with a blank face. "So...whatcha doin' back here?"

"I didn't wanna be alone tonight," you confess, lying flat on your back, staring at the ceiling with your own hands intertwined on your chest. Your eyebrows knit, making a crease on your nose as you sit in silence. Maki's bed dips to your right as she got in next to you, lying flat on her back as well.

The two of you sat in silence, simply staring at the ceiling fan as it went round and round at a speed your eyes couldn't even keep up with. You thought it would make you dizzy enough to make you fall asleep, but it didn't work. Maki's presence lingers right next to you, just inches away from you, filling your senses to the brim.

"So you didn't wanna be alone, huh?" she repeats, eventually turning her head to face you after what seemed like 5 minutes of uncomfortable silence. You nod wordlessly, feeling your heart pound in your chest as you let out a deep exhale. Maki lifted a concerned brow as her eyes read your clearly stressed expression. "What's got you worked up?"

"I'm not worked up," you glance at her with rough eyes, catching a glimpse of Naoya right outside the window as he was starting to sneak off campus. Your breath almost gets stuck in your throat before Maki does the favor of breaking the silence. "That's a lie. Any blind man can see you're tense."

"I'm not," you grumble looking back up at the ceiling and pretending you never saw Naoya. Maki hummed incredulously, crossing her arms and turning on her side to face you. "I don't believe you. Tell me what's wrong."

"I don't care if you don't believe me, nothing's wrong."

"Y/n, no one just randomly comes into their friend with benefits' room at 11:30 at night just because they didn't wanna be alone."

"That's a valid reason."

"Not when you look like that."

"Rude," you mumble, turning on your side nonetheless to face her, resting your hands under her pillow. Maki lifted a brow when she saw you fully, letting out an exhale. "So, what's wrong?"

"I already told you, nothing's wrong," you frowned as you mumbled through your otherwise pursed lips. Her face remained unfazed, like she didn't even hear you as her lifted brow stayed raised.

"That's bullshit," she grunts, finally changing her expression and frowning to herself. Her sharp gaze looked like it was piercing right through your facade, and your mind conjured up the idea that she already knew Naoya had dropped a visit. Your jaw clenched on its own, your teeth gritting against the other row as you sat there, having an undeclared staring contest as the time passed, carefully listening to the raindrops tattering against the window.

She'll find out eventually, one way or another, you think to yourself as the staring contest doesn't falter. It'd been silent for so long that you were beginning to think you said that out loud.

"I'll tell you when I'm ready," you grumble, frowning even more as you scoot closer to her unexpectedly warm embrace. Maki's cheeks flush red as the blood rushes to them, feeling your arms wrap around her as you snuggle your face into her chest and your hands come around to play with her hair. "For now, just let me be."

Maki sighed, letting her chest rise and cave for a moment while her hands came up to cradle your head, laying in a fetal position. The fan spinning around in her room did nothing to help the heat in her cheeks, ears and neck, and it was only getting worse the longer the two of you stayed like that.

Eventually the silence was slowly lulling you to sleep out of comfort, and soon enough your eyes were drooping until you fell asleep in her chest. Maki's eyes glanced over at the clock behind you which read 1:01 in the morning, and she almost scoffed at herself until she listened to your even breathing, and then she realized you'd fallen asleep. She sighs quietly before gently reaching across to turn off her lamp and finally let herself fall asleep.

[cherise54]

Smart tea vending kiosks to revolutionise tea consumption | Cherise Global

NEW DELHI: In a bid to bring a change in tea consumption patterns in India, startup venture Cherise India Private Limited has unveiled their IoT & Android-based tea vending machines that have their own proprietary Cherise IoT dashboard and app for monitoring the operations. The machine has a wide portfolio of farm fresh teas, coffees, soups, and milk under the popular Cherise brand, which has been set up by third-generation tea sommelier Parimal Shah. Unlike other vending operators, Cherise provides its customers with access to the IoT vending platform that gives real-time data on consumer consumption patterns, inventory, and billing, all at the click of a button. In a jiffy, the Cherise vending machines dispense homemade Teas, Coffees, Milk, and Soups. Visit Website

[iwritenarrativesandstuff]

saw you talking about tea the other day and now i'm intrigued 👀 any flavors you're particularly fond of? asking for a friend also. please do ramble about it bc it's delightful :D

Jay! Hi! Fellow tea lover?

Hm… I love lots of teas, but really I prefer simple teas to anything super decadent or elaborate. I don’t ever add anything to my teas unless I’m sick (then I’ll add a bit of honey).

My go-to is just a simple green or peppermint tea, though I’m also a huge fan of spiced chai and earl grey. I adore jasmine tea - jasmine is probably my favourite, but it has to be a good jasmine, so I don’t have it all the time (again, it gets expensive). I always have some green or peppermint tea on hand though - a quality cup is always nice but I don’t as much mind if these are the cheaper kind.

I’m not a huge fruit tea person, though I did have a peach white tea once - that one was lovely cold - and of course a good lemon ginger is always nice. If I’m having bubble tea though, I always go for a mango or lychee green tea if they have it!

I have to say that I can’t remember what pu’erh tea was like - I know it was interesting and I liked it, but I’d need to try it again I think to recall it properly. I haven’t found a rooibos tea I’ve been particularly crazy about, but it’s nice too, just not what I’d gravitate towards.

If you want a sweet or dessert type tea, then any oolong is great, but I think I’m spoiled for that wuyi oolong now hahaha. I’ve had a vanilla black tea - it’s really good. I’d highly recommend that one. I also have this sweet apple-cinnamon tea with nuts. I don’t have it super often, as I’m not a fan of sugary teas but this one is a nice dessert on its own. It’s very nutty which makes it pretty unique.

When I’m sick, I’ve had a couple good teas. One I have for colds is a eucalyptus-mint. I recommend having this one only when you are very congested because boy is it strong. Tastes amazing though. Also my mom had several Korean friends when I was little, so I have fond memories of her making yujacha at their urging when I wasn’t feeling well as a young kid, and boricha for us to put in the fridge and drink cold. I love both.

I don’t usually have chamomile at home, but this is largely because on days when I’m really incredibly stressed (like, shaking with anxiety, actively spiralling, kind of stressed), I like to go for a walk in the evening and pick up a chamomile from a nearby café to take back with me. It’s an indulgence that way.

Other cool teas I have tried:

Butterfly pea flower tea: More of a novelty than anything but this tea is bright blue and changes to red when you add citric acid. It’s a natural pH indicator!

Lavender black tea: Incredibly good. This was another gift from my mom a few years back. Very nice in the evening.

Mushroom tea: These tend to be incredibly overpriced due to purported health benefits so I’ve only ever had samples but honestly? The ones I’ve had are very nice, a smooth, rich flavour. Not convinced they’re worth that price though.

Dandelion tea: People say this can be used as a coffee substitute. I’m not entirely sure I agree with that but it does have a dark roasted flavour that is similar to black coffee. It’s a little sweet though. I like this one a lot, but I only have this with food because if I don’t have anything in my stomach it makes me cramp a bit (as I found out the hard way) :/

Matcha green tea with roasted rice: Okay a friend of mine got me some of this as a gift when she went back to visit family for a bit and. Um. This tea is so incredibly good. We had some together and it was fantastic. I’ve been saving it and only having it at times I know I can really savour it because I want it to last. If you can find some good quality stuff I highly recommend it.

Aaaand sometimes, admittedly, I will enjoy an orange pekoe. It’s nice on occasion. I make it pretty strong hehe

I hope this was fun for you your friend! 😆

What are your favourite teas, Jay?

[row-of-ribbons]

Dream Girl Diary intro 4/5: skincare + my skin care secrets

Hey there, lovely ladies! Welcome back to my Dream Girl Guide intro. Today, let's chat about skincare. I know it can be overwhelming with everyone talking about which products to use, but don't worry - you don't have to buy everything that's trending. Just remember to enjoy every moment and embrace your womanhood with grace and elegance.

I'll definitely break it down in a simple way and share some of my favorite skincare tips with you!

1# Overuse of products

One of the primary reasons for your breakouts could be the result of using an excessive number of skincare products. Overloading your skin with various products can suffocate it and hinder the effectiveness of the treatment. It's important to allow your skin time to benefit from the skincare routine by not overwhelming it with too many products. sometimes simple is best

2#Expansivee does not always mean better

I'm certain you've heard about dupes—I personally like them. But were you aware that sometimes the dupe is produced by the same company under a generic name, or that sometimes the dupe outperforms the original? (Not to say you should only opt for dupes if you don't want to.) Occasionally, it's worth investing in the original, like The Ordinary AHA BHA serum. I have complete faith in their brand, and it's perfectly formulated.

3# Use what you actually need for your skin

stop following trends and pause, think about what your skin needs there is no point of buying a cleanser that's abrasive with harsh ingredients (acids and exfoliators) if you have sensitive skin. what works for others might not work for you. take some time out of your day and research your skin. look in the mirror and identify your skin problems.

4#Your diet plays a part

Maybe you are doing everything right; perhaps Remember that improving your skin health is not just about the products you use. It's also about what you consume. you understand the deep depths of skincare and know what to do. But, honey, your diet sucks. You're eating fried food, soda, and sweets, and that throws off your pH, and hormones, thus affecting your skin. I know that clean eating is hard to do, given that everyone's finances are different. If there is a change you can make, like drinking more water or not eating as many sweets, then you could try that. Stress can also affect your hormones and make you crave other things that are not good for you. Learning stress management is also important.

now my skincare tips

Make your own toner by steeping rose petals in green tea. Store for a week in a cool place or 3 days at room temperature.

In the morning, I always use a silicone mold facial icer filled with water and lemon juice instead of a regular ice cube. This way, I get an extra dose of vitamin C to start my day right.

I strive to derma-plane my face once a week, then use a mud mask with Aztec clay and apple cider vinegar to cleanse my skin. Remember to wash your face with a gentle cleanser before applying the mud mask and use 2-4 teaspoons of vinegar to avoid irritation after exfoliation.

=XOXOXO

[simplyafountainpen]

An Epicurean Feast

Oho? What’s this? It’s seems as though your head Butler is preparing a large feast! Now the only question is…

…Who Will You Invite?~

Hello, and welcome to my first milestone event; One held in the honor of my 100 followers.

This event will be limited to a total of nine slots, so that I won’t over work myself. So please, do not hesitate to send in a request. I assure I will be more than happy to oblige.

Here is our Menu for this Fine Evening

⋆♱✮♱⋆

{𝓓𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓴𝓼} ~ {𝓡𝓮𝓵𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓹}

♰ White Tiger’s Milk ~ Romantic

❝This is a rich and indulgent cocktail that delivers a creamy flavor profile through a harmonious blend of Applejack, milk, cream and white sugar with a sprinkle of nutmeg to top.❞

♰ English Milk Punch ~ Platonic

❝This creamy and refreshing Milk Punch is a blend of Brandy, pineapple, cinnamon, Green Tea and lemon, mixed with milk and boiled till curdled, strenuously strained and garnished with nutmeg and a lemon rind.❞

♰ Sleeper ~ Familial

❝A stiff and intoxicating mix of Rum, sugar, coriander seeds, and cinnamon, served freshly boiled with a clove buds and a cinnamon stick to garnish.❞

♰ Tip-Top Punch ~ One Sided

❝This light and fruity cocktail is the perfect blend of Champagne, Curaçao, soda water, sliced pineapple and powdered sugar mixed till fully combined and served with a pineapple wedge.❞

♰ Apple Toddy ~ Enemies

❝A warm and aromatic drink made up of Cider Brandy, baked apple and white sugar, mixed with boiled water and topped with powered sugar and a pinch of nutmeg.❞

♰ Earl Grey Cream ~ Friends with Benefits

❝A smooth and rich tea, made by mixing Earl Grey tea leaves with natural bergamot oil and a bit of vanilla.❞

♰ Wild Rosebud Tea ~ Stalker

❝A gentle and floral tea, made simply by steeping dried wild rosebuds of different variety with boiled water with a drizzle of honey.❞

♰ Pearl Tea ~ Yandere

❝A tea of Chinese decent, made by combining Camellia Sinensis Plant with mint tea and boiling it at medium heat, mixed with sugar and a splash of honey.❞

{𝓖𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓼𝓱𝓮𝓼} ⛧With Lemon ~ Yandere Reader ⛧With Lime ~ Stalker Reader ⛧With Ice ~ Older Reader ⛧With Sugar ~ Younger Reader ⛧With Cream ~ Polyam/Multiple Characters

{𝓐𝓹𝓹𝓮𝓽𝓲𝔃𝓮𝓻𝓼} ~ {𝓢𝓽𝓸𝓻𝔂 𝓓𝓲𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷}

♰ Mulligatawny Soup ~ M/M

❝Inspired by a curry of Eastern Indian, this is a sweet, spicy and decadent soup, it's made with shredded chicken, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, sweet potato, apple and Indian Spices, all served in a lentil broth.❞

♰ Clear Soup ~ TM/M

❝This dish is made by simmering various vegetables or meats in a broth and removing them later for a flavorful 'clear soup'; ours is made with celery, mushrooms, carrots, beef, cabbage, broccoli and sweet corn, left to simmer over high heat and later served with a dash of salt.❞

♰ Scalloped Brill ~ M/TM

❝Brill is a flat fish that when cooked is sweet in flavor, we pan-sear and baste in a butter sauce with salt, plated with herbs and fresh tomato.❞

♰ Jellied Eels ~ Reader POV

❝Our eels are resourced directly from our river, taken immediately to be chopped into chunks and placed in spiced stock, left to cool for hours, and once jelled we serve them on ice.❞

♰ Fried Soles ~ Character(s) POV

❝Sliced into fillets, we batter with egg and breadcrumbs then fried, parmesan is then shredded over top and garnished with brown sugar, tarragon sauce.❞

♰ Lamb's Sweetbread ~ No One's POV

❝The thymus of a lamb is battered with egg wash, milk and breadcrumbs, fried, dashed with salt and pepper, then served on a bed of fresh lettuce and topped with chives. ❞

{𝓜𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓒𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼𝓮} ~ {𝓢𝓕𝓦 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮}

♰ Fricandeau of Veal and Spinach ~ Beach Day

❝We take a leg of veal, lard it with fatty bacon and stew with bacon, potatoes, onions, carrots, bay leaves and spices till boiled, baste it with liquor, bake in the oven and glaze, served over a plate of spinach.❞

♰ Croquets of Fowl with Piquant Sauce ~ Reconnection

❝Our fresh Cochins chicken is shredded, mixed with condensed soup, bread crumbs, celery, and seasoning, and breaded again, fried and served with a piping hot piquant sauce made with a fine dark roux, tomato, onions, green bell peppers, seasonings and chicken.❞

♰ Curried Lobster with Rice ~ Character Death

❝We butterfly a lobster tail, cook it till opaque with curry powder and then steam it with rice, onions, butter, tomatoes and annatto oil, plated with parmesan grated on top.❞

♰ Roast Capon ~ Kidnapping

❝These roosters are hand picked from our fine selection, killed and plucked on site then slow roasted with onion, herbs, lemon the salt and pepper, we then take the drippings and combine them with Sherry for glaze, served with roasted potato.❞

♰ Stuffed Saddle of Mutton ~ Shopping Trip

❝A whole saddle of lamb is taken and deboned, stuffed with sautéed salted spinach, finely chopped garlic, shallots, black olives, and lightly fried lamb kidneys, then baked in the over, served with mint jelly.❞

♰ Lancashire Hot Pot ~ Moonlit Picnic

❝We place chopped mutton and onions in a dish to simmer, adding carrots, onions, stir in flower, stock and bay leaves then place potato slices on top and bake for hours to ensure all flavors are melded together, served with a mint sauce.❞

♰ Roast Goose with Apple Stuffing ~ Masquerade Ball

❝First we stuff a goose with specialty made stuffing, consisting of apples, bread, currants, butter and thyme, cover the goose in spices and slow roast with celery, potatoes and garlic, and covered in a homemade gravy.❞

♰ Collar’d Pig stuffed with Forcemeat ~ Memory Loss

❝The meat is butterflied and washed in butter then stuffed with forcemeat, which is a mixture of apples, bread and chicken broth, finally seasoned with cranberries and thyme, and finally slow roasted for tender, easy to pull apart meat.❞

♰ Cottage Pie ~ Idiots in Love

❝We take farm fresh beef and brown it, combining with fresh onions, garlic, peas, carrots and oregano, add Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste then cover in fluffy garlic mashed potatoes and bake till golden at the top.❞

♰ Devonshire Squab Pie ~ Long Distance

❝In a pie crust we mix spiced lamb, apples, onions, prunes, stock and sugar, bake low and slow then wash with egg, served with a helping of clotted cream.❞

{𝓓𝓮𝓼𝓼𝓮𝓻𝓽} ~ {𝓝𝓢𝓕𝓦 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮}

♰ Meringues ~ Trapped Together

❝A sweet dessert made only with egg whites and sugar that are beaten till stiff peaks are formed, light and airy with a fluffy texture, the perfect way to end any meal.❞

♰ Chocolate Cream ~ One Bed

❝A thick and creamy treat made with whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks and chocolate simmered and cooled over a period of time, served with a dollop of whipped cream.❞

♰ Lemon Cream ~ Hole in the Wall

❝Much like our Chocolate Cream, this is a thick and creamy dessert but is instead made by combining water, lemon zest and rind, sugar and egg whites, simmered and cooled and served with raspberries and blackberries.❞

♰ Tipsy Cake ~ Cross Dressing/Cosplaying

❝This is a decadent Savoy cake made with lemon, White Wine and sugar, drenched in an especially sweet Rum and Brandy then glazed with vanilla custard, topped with almonds.❞

♰ Blanc Mange a la Vanille ~ Tied Up

❝This dessert is made by boiling milk, cornstarch and sugar, then adding cinnamon, lemon zest and vanilla, after which it is allowed to cool over an overnight period and served with chocolate shavings on top.❞

♰ Nougat Almond Cake ~ Sadism/Masochism

❝First we caramelize honey, add it to a sugar, water and egg white mixture and allow it to get to a foamy state, add our almonds and vanilla and allow to cool.❞

♰ Trifle ~ Free Use

❝A sponge cake made with custard and vanilla is brushed with Brandy and smothered in jam, layered with fresh picked strawberries, custard, whipped cream and more cake, topped with even more strawberries.❞

♰ Iced Oranges ~ Hateful Intimacy

❝Lemon zest and sugar is heated with water until clear, then oranges are grinded into the mixture, later they are frozen until a sorbet texture is achieved, it's then placed back into an orange peel and decorated with mint leaves.❞

♰ Crystalized Fruits ~ Power Imbalance

❝Fruits of different varieties are drenched in sugar and Liquors of matching flavor and left to set for hours, leaving for a revitalizing and refreshing dessert.❞

♰ Macedoine of Fruits with Jelly ~ Brand New Piercings

❝We take a light, fruit flavored jelly and mold it into marvelous shapes, filling with interior with fruits of every kind.❞

{𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓯'𝓼 𝓘𝓷𝓼𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽}: ❝It’s customary to have more than one meal at a Feast! You are encouraged to pick up to two meals from every course showed. Don’t bother with drinks however, I wouldn’t want you getting too tipsy, after all.~❞

⋆♱✮♱⋆

❝ Ah! Master. It seems you’ve made selections for this evenings dinner. Might I ask your order? And, of course,

Whom you’d like to invite?~ ❞

In order to have your request received, it would be most natural to relay this order to your most faithful Butler, yes? Here, an example of one such order may look like this:

❝Firstly, I crave a Tip Top Punch - with lemon please, followed by Jellied Eels as my appetizer. For the main course, I desire Roast Capon; and please, send a letter to Sebastian Michaelis? I have a feeling he’d simply adore this feast.~ ❞

I hope you find this meal most satisfactory, Master. Of course, it is this lowly Butlers everything to be able to serve a wonderful person such as you.

𝓑𝓸𝓷 𝓐𝓹𝓹é𝓽𝓲𝓽, 𝓜𝓪𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓻 ~

{𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓶𝓪𝔂 𝓯𝓲𝓷𝓭 𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓸𝓻𝓭𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓲𝓬𝓴𝓮𝓽𝓼 𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮}

Special thanks to my editor and @sister-lucifer, I know for a fact I wouldn't be here without either, and so, many thanks to each of you.

[tarzantips]

Magic in Your Pantry: Everyday Items, Extraordinary Remedies

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is easy to overlook the hidden treasures that lie within the confines of our kitchen.

Beyond the daily rituals of cooking and meal preparation, our pantry holds a secret arsenal of everyday items that double as extraordinary remedies.

Let’s discover into the enchanting world of common kitchen ingredients that possess magical properties for health, beauty, and overall well-being.

Magic in Your Pantry

Healing Elixirs

Your pantry might just be the potion cabinet you never knew you had. Explore the healing wonders of ginger, honey, and lemon, a trio that works like magic to soothe sore throats and boost the immune system.

Uncover the ancient remedy of turmeric for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, turning your kitchen into a wellness haven.

Beauty Spells with Kitchen Staples

Step into the world of beauty magic as your pantry unlock ingredients that can transform your skincare routine.

Discover the exfoliating powers of oats, the moisturizing charm of coconut oil, and the blemish-banishing qualities of tea tree oil.

These simple yet powerful concoctions will leave your skin radiant and refreshed.

Culinary Charms for Digestive Harmony

Beyond their culinary uses, everyday spices can work wonders for your digestive system.

Explore into the enchanting world of cumin, fennel seeds, and peppermint, as they cast spells to alleviate indigestion and bloating.

Your pantry becomes a potion master's workshop, home remedies for anything that not only satisfy the taste buds but also nurture your gut.

The Sleep Elixir

Bid farewell to sleepless nights with the magical sleep elixirs tucked away in your pantry.

Unlock the calming properties of chamomile tea, the tranquilizing effects of warm milk, and the hypnotic allure of lavender.

Transform your bedtime routine into a peaceful ritual, grasping the restorative power of these simple ingredients.

Read: 7 Pain-Relieving Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps

Warding Off the Common Cold

With seasonal changes often comes the unwelcome guest that is the common cold.

Fear not, for your pantry holds the key to a potent potion that can help ward off sniffles and sneezes.

Include the power of garlic, honey, and apple cider vinegar; a triumphant trio that can boost your immune system and keep those pesky cold germs at bay.

Stress-Relieving Brews

In the mid of a hectic day you can find solace in the stress-relieving brews concealed within your pantry.

Chamomile tea, known for its calming properties, can be your go-to elixir for moments of tension.

Green tea, rich in antioxidants, not only promotes relaxation but also brings a myriad of health benefits.

Transform your pantry into a sanctuary, where a soothing cup of tea becomes your remedy for stress and anxiety.

Cleaning Concoctions

Your pantry is not just a source of nourishment for your body; it is also a treasure trove for keeping your living spaces pristine.

Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon can work in tandem to create powerful and natural cleaning concoctions.

Bid farewell to harsh chemicals as you embark on a journey to transform your pantry into a sustainable cleaning arsenal, contributing to a healthier home and environment.

more >>>

[healthify-lifestyle]

How can I boost my immune system naturally?

Want to feel strong and healthy every day? Building a strong immune system can help your body fight off germs and keep you feeling great. Here are some easy, natural ways to boost your immune system.

1. Eat Nutrient-Packed Foods

Fruits and Vegetables: Bright-colored fruits like oranges, berries, and kiwis are full of vitamin C. Leafy greens, carrots, and bell peppers add vitamins A and E.

Protein Power: Eggs, beans, and nuts contain zinc and iron. These nutrients support immune cells.

Healthy Fats: Olive oil, nuts, and avocados have healthy fats. They lower inflammation, which helps your immune system work better.

2. Stay Active with Exercise

Move Daily: Exercise improves blood flow. This means immune cells can move through your body faster.

Balance Is Key: Try gentle activities like walking, stretching, or yoga. Intense exercise is fine too, but don’t overdo it. Aim for about 30 minutes of exercise a day.

3. Get Enough Quality Sleep

Set a Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Your body loves routine, and it helps you sleep better.

Limit Screen Time: Avoid phones, TVs, or laptops one hour before bed. This reduces blue light exposure, which can keep you awake.

Relax Before Bed: Read a book, listen to calming music, or practice deep breathing. A relaxed mind means better sleep.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Stay Hydrated: Water keeps your body running smoothly. It also flushes out toxins.

Herbal Teas: Teas like ginger, peppermint, or chamomile hydrate you while offering added health benefits.

5. Practice Stress-Relief

Try Meditation: Taking a few deep breaths or practicing mindfulness can lower stress.

Take Breaks: Rest your mind and body. Go for a walk, listen to music, or do something you enjoy.

Stay Connected: Talking to friends and family lifts your mood. Positive feelings reduce stress and help your immune system.

6. Add Natural Immune Boosters

Garlic: This spice isn’t just for flavor. Garlic contains allicin, which fights germs and boosts immunity.

Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is great in warm milk or in meals.

Ginger: Add ginger to tea or food. It fights inflammation and keeps colds away.

7. Limit Sugar and Processed Foods

Cut Down on Sugar: Sugar can weaken your immune system. Try using honey or fruits as sweet alternatives.

Avoid Processed Foods: Packaged snacks and fast food often contain unhealthy fats and sugar. Choose whole foods for better health.

8. Get Enough Sunlight for Vitamin D

Go Outside: Sunlight is the best source of vitamin D. Just 15-20 minutes a day can help boost your vitamin D levels.

Include Vitamin D Foods: Fish, eggs, and fortified milk have vitamin D, which helps your body fight off infections.

9. Take Probiotics for Gut Health

Eat Yogurt and Fermented Foods: Foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut have good bacteria. They keep your gut healthy, which supports your immune system.

Consider Probiotic Supplements: If you can’t get enough from foods, look for a probiotic supplement.

Boosting your immune system naturally isn’t about taking one magic pill. It’s a lifestyle. Small daily choices add up, creating a strong, resilient immune system that protects you from illness.

Start with one or two steps from this list. Slowly, make each one a habit. You’ll feel stronger, healthier, and ready to face whatever comes your way. So, why wait? Start boosting your immune system today!

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Top 5 Herbal Teas for Relaxation and Wellness

In today’s fast-paced world, herbal teas have become a popular way to promote relaxation and improve wellness naturally. Herbal teas are not only soothing but are also packed with properties that benefit the mind and body. If you’re looking to incorporate calming moments and wellness into your daily routine, these top five herbal teas are great starting points.

1. Chamomile Tea: The Classic Relaxant

Chamomile is perhaps the most famous herbal tea when it comes to relaxation. Known for its gentle floral flavor and calming effects, chamomile tea has been used for centuries as a natural sleep aid and stress reliever.

Benefits: Chamomile is known to help reduce anxiety, promote better sleep, and ease mild digestive issues. The tea contains apigenin, a compound that binds to certain receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

How to Enjoy: Chamomile tea is best enjoyed in the evening as part of a bedtime routine. Simply steep dried chamomile flowers in hot water for about five minutes and enjoy a warm, soothing drink that prepares your mind and body for a restful night’s sleep.

2. Peppermint Tea: Refreshing and Calming

Peppermint tea is both refreshing and relaxing, making it a versatile choice for any time of day. This herbal tea is commonly used to soothe digestion and reduce tension, especially in the digestive tract and muscles.

Benefits: Peppermint tea is popular for its cooling sensation and calming properties. It can alleviate headaches, relieve indigestion, and reduce muscle tension. Menthol, an active compound in peppermint, helps relax the muscles, making it particularly useful after a long, stressful day.

How to Enjoy: Peppermint tea can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your preference. For an extra hint of relaxation, try blending peppermint with chamomile or lemon balm for a uniquely soothing mix.

3. Lavender Tea: A Fragrant Path to Calm

Lavender tea is well-known for its delicate floral aroma and relaxing properties. Often used in aromatherapy, lavender has an almost immediate calming effect, helping you unwind and clear your mind.

Benefits: Drinking lavender tea can alleviate anxiety, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. The aromatic properties of lavender can have a calming effect on the nervous system, while its mild sedative effects can help you sleep more soundly.

How to Enjoy: Lavender tea can be a delightful part of your evening wind-down routine. Steep dried lavender flowers in hot water for around five minutes. To enhance the relaxing experience, enjoy your tea in a dimly lit room and focus on the pleasant floral aroma as you sip.

4. Lemon Balm Tea: Uplifting and Stress-Relieving

Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is known for its mild lemony flavor and uplifting effects on mood. It’s particularly helpful for those looking to relieve mild anxiety and tension, making it a great choice for daytime relaxation.

Benefits: Lemon balm tea is rich in rosmarinic acid, a compound that supports cognitive function and reduces stress. This tea can improve mood, enhance concentration, and promote relaxation without causing drowsiness, making it suitable for both daytime and evening use.

How to Enjoy: For an enjoyable blend, try mixing lemon balm with chamomile or green tea. It’s also lovely with a touch of honey, which complements the subtle lemon flavor. Lemon balm tea is an excellent choice for those looking to stay calm and focused during work or study sessions.

5. Passionflower Tea: The Ultimate Stress Reliever

Passionflower tea may be less known, but it’s highly effective for promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Traditionally used by Native Americans to treat anxiety, passionflower is now recognized as a natural sleep aid and anxiety reducer.

Benefits: Passionflower tea contains gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps lower brain activity, reducing feelings of anxiety and promoting calm. This tea can also improve sleep quality, especially when consumed in the evening.

How to Enjoy: Passionflower tea has a mildly sweet, earthy taste that pairs well with other relaxing herbs like chamomile and lemon balm. This tea is an excellent addition to your pre-sleep routine and can help you let go of the day’s stress.

Tips for Brewing and Enjoying Herbal Teas

Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, making them an ideal choice for relaxation at any time of day. For the best flavor and potency:

Use fresh, organic herbs whenever possible.

Steep your herbal tea for 5-7 minutes to extract maximum flavor and benefits.

Customize your blends by combining multiple herbs that complement each other.

For example, you could blend chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm for a deeply calming experience or combine peppermint and passionflower for a refreshing yet relaxing cup.

Choosing the Right Herbal Tea for Your Needs

When selecting an herbal tea, consider your specific wellness goals. Are you looking to improve sleep, reduce stress, or simply enjoy a calming moment? Each tea offers unique benefits, so don’t hesitate to try different ones until you find what works best for you.

For a versatile approach to relaxation and wellness, here’s a summary guide to each tea’s primary benefits:

Chamomile: Best for nighttime relaxation and promoting restful sleep.

Peppermint: Great for easing digestion and relieving tension any time of day.

Lavender: Calming and soothing, ideal for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

Lemon Balm: Uplifting and mood-enhancing, perfect for daytime calm.

Passionflower: Ideal for reducing stress and improving sleep quality.

Creating a Daily Ritual with Herbal Teas

Adding herbal tea to your daily routine can provide more than just health benefits. A simple tea ritual can help you create moments of calm in your day, especially when you focus on the act of brewing and drinking tea. Taking time to relax with a warm cup of herbal tea can improve mental clarity, enhance mood, and provide a sense of comfort, making it an excellent addition to any wellness routine.

Explore organic herbal leaf teas at Backyard Brew, and find the perfect blend to elevate your tea-drinking experience.

Conclusion

Herbal teas are a delightful way to promote relaxation and wellness naturally. Whether you’re drawn to the floral notes of chamomile, the refreshing coolness of peppermint, or the soothing properties of lavender, there’s an herbal tea to suit every mood and wellness need. With their rich aromas and unique flavors, herbal teas can turn a simple moment into a calming ritual.

From supporting sleep to easing digestive discomfort, these top herbal teas offer gentle yet powerful benefits that can help you feel your best. By exploring different teas and incorporating them into your routine, you can discover a new level of relaxation and wellness in your daily life.

FAQ

Q1: Can I drink herbal tea every day?

A: Yes, herbal teas are generally safe to drink daily, and they’re caffeine-free. However, it’s a good idea to try different teas and listen to how your body responds.

Q2: Which herbal tea is best for improving sleep?

A: Chamomile, lavender, and passionflower teas are particularly effective for promoting restful sleep. They have calming properties that can help you unwind before bedtime.

Q3: Can herbal teas replace medication for anxiety or sleep?

A: While herbal teas can help reduce stress and improve relaxation, they should not replace any prescribed medications. Consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.

Q4: Do herbal teas have any side effects?

A: Generally, herbal teas are safe for most people, but some individuals may experience allergies or digestive issues. It’s best to try a small amount of any new herbal tea if you have known allergies.

Q5: Are there herbal teas that provide energy?

A: While herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, some teas like peppermint and lemon balm have uplifting effects and can provide a refreshing boost without causing jitters.