#best place to travel for christmas in usa

[escapefromparadiseus]

Website: https://www.escapefromparadise.net/

Escape From Paradise is a USA based travel blog by Ingrid Lemme - an award-winning TV Host, Publisher, and Travel Writer & Blogger.

Our Story:

My husband and I are snowbirds, some of these fortunate retirees that are able to fly south as soon as it gets colder in the northern hemisphere. We think of our home locations as paradise, as we are spending our summers in the mountains of West Virginia, our winters on the ocean in Palm Coast, Florida and then in between we are visiting my beautiful hometown of Montauk on the East End of Long Island, New York. As much as we love the places where we live, Marcus and I are adventures and we are always looking forward to another exciting "Escape from Paradise”. Life is short and the bucket list long ;) ….

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ingrid.lemme

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LemmeEscape

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ingridlemme/

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[futfemfantasies]

Secret Lover \\ alexia putellas x reader

✨ Just a little something for Barca winning Champions League ✨

It’s not like Alexia wants to hide you, you just travel and stay in different countries for months at a time for your photography job. You spend two months out of the year at home, with the exception of Alexia and your birthdays and Christmas. You land back in Barcelona after 2 months in the USA and you are planning to surprise Alexia. You pull out your phone and call your best friend Mapi to pick you up. Mapi mentions she’s outside so you grab your suitcase and start to walk towards the large double doors. You look around outside and can’t see the blonde anywhere. You feel hands cover your eyes and a small giggle you recognise. You turn around to see your best friend of over 20 years. You wrap your arms around Mapi tightly and you look over her shoulder to see Mapi’s new girlfriend that you haven’t met but talked to several times. You move away from Mapi and wonder over to Ingrid, who welcomes you with open arms. After a few minutes of small talk, Mapi mentions training is almost over so you all get in the car and Mapi drives to your shared apartment with Alexia. 

After the 30 minute drive, Mapi parks the car and both of them help take your luggage and cameras up. You unlock the door which earns a few barks from Nala and let out a content sigh. The small, fluffy dog comes running to you and jumping on your lower legs. You put your backpack down before picking Nala up and giving her a pat. Mapi and Ingrid announce they have to go back for some make up training since they missed the group session. You thank the pair for picking and dropping you off before putting your cameras away and washing your clothes. You have a quick shower and change into comfy shorts and one of Alexia’s oversized tees. 

You go back to the kitchen and open the fridge to see some familiar ingredients. You pull them out, along with your phone and found the photo of Alexia’s mum Eli’s famous paella recipe. You start by cutting up the ingredients before throwing some in the pan. You hear the front door open and your heart beat starts to increase and thump against your chest. You hear Alexia’s bag drop and you look towards her with a gentle smile on your face. She just stands there in disbelief that you’re actually here. Coming out of her senses, Alexia ran over to you and jumps in your awaiting arms. Thankfully your reflexes kick in and you hook your arms under Alexia’s thighs. She leans back and cups your cheeks before resting her forehead against yours. 

“You’re back early” She whispers, millimetres from your lips.

“I’m back and not leaving you again”

You both share the first kiss in months and you don’t want it to end. The burning pan encourages you to put your girlfriend down and to keep cooking. As you find another pan, Alexia peeks at your phone and notices her mothers handwriting. She smiles slightly as you re-chop the onion and shuffles over to you. Alexia wraps her arms around you and due to you being a few inches shorter, her head rests comfortably on your shoulder. You stop cutting and lean back into her and Alexia places soft kisses on your shoulder and neck.

“I missed you mi amor”

“I missed you more Ale. How was training?”

Alexia tells you about her training back with the team as you dish out the comfort food. You both sit at the table and you decide to tell Alexia your news.

“So I have some news mi amor” Alexia places her fork down and puts her hands on yours, silently telling you to continue. 

“I quit my job but I’m starting my new one on Monday. I’m not travelling anymore Ale, I’m staying right here”

Alexia bounced off her chair and hugged you tightly. You pull her down on your lap before peppering her face with soft kisses. She moves away and holds you face in her hands. 

“It’s at Barca” You whisper and Alexia’s eyes go wide. She just realised you’ll be around 24/7 and she could not be happier.

Alexia expressed how you should meet the girls on Monday before training and you agreed. Alexia moved back to her seat and you both finished your lunch before cuddling on the couch, stealing kisses from one another for the rest of the day. 

A few days later, Alexia texted the team to go to training a little earlier as she has an announcement. You move over to the closet to get ready when you let your intrusive thoughts get the best of you. What if I’m not going to make an impression on them? What if they think Alexia is too good for me? You get pulled out of your thoughts by hands on your hips and you look behind you to see Alexia, slightly worried. You explain your fears to her and she tells you that everything will be okay, and that’s all the reassurance you need. 

A little while later, Alexia pulls up to the training ground and you grow more nervous than before. She puts the car in park and turns to you. Alexia puts a hand on your cheek and you turn to her with worried eyes. You both don’t say anything but Alexia embraces you in one of her tight hugs you’ve grown to calm down to. You pull back and give Alexia a nod to signal you are ready to go. You get out of the car and grab your camera bags when Mapi and Ingrid call out to you both. You explain that you’re the new team photographer and social media manager and they both congratulate you. You hold onto Alexia’s hand as you walk in and she squeezes your hand in comfort. 

“Hola Ale, who’s this?” Pina asks. Alexia looks at you and you nod slightly.

“This is my girlfriend, Y/N”

“And your new team photographer so be nice” You joke and most of the girls laugh. 

The girls get called to the locker room and there’s no doubt Alexia will tell them in there. Before you go your seperate ways, Alexia gives you a good luck kiss. Meanwhile, you go into the building where you are met with your new boss who shows you around before telling you of the teams plans for the day. After signing a few more things, you take your cameras and laptop to the field to set up for training. You start and you slowly get used to things. The girls had a break after 45 minutes of intense drills so Alexia and a few others decided to seat with you at the meal area. The girls ask to see some photos from today so far and you turn your laptop around to show them and the gasps that escape their mouths. After a few more conversations, the team takes you in and Alexia is relieved that it’s all going well.

“So Ale, how long have you been hiding this one?” Lucy asked.

“A year” Alexia mumbled.

“What was that Ale?” Mapi teases, knowing the answer.

Jonatan calls the girls back out to training and you finish up editing the photo of Alexia when you feel a presence next to you. You look to your left and see the one and only Jennifer Hermoso. Alexia warned you about her and their history. 

“Hola hermosa, I don’t think we’ve met. I’m Jenni” Jenni holds her hand out for you to shake.

“Y/N, nice to meet you too” You say before returning to the lens. 

You and Jenni have a light conversation before your oh so lovely girlfriend yells for Jenni to come over and start training, since she arrived late due to media. You look up from your camera and lock eyes with Alexia. You give her a wink and she shakes her head before turning away smiling to herself. You take some more photos of everyone before filming some stories for Instagram. 

You pack your cameras and laptop away before you start to walk back to your office. You feel a presence next to you and yet again, Jenni looks at you with that same mischievous smile as before. She offers to take a camera bag for you and you accept the help. You walk into the building to your new office and Jenni gently puts the cameras down. You thank her for the help and she seems to be nervous about something. She eventually asks you out and before you could answer, you saviour shows up at the door. 

“You ready to go princesa? We need to pick some things for dinner” You nod and look at Jenni with sorry eyes. 

“Sorry Jenni, but I’m taken” You says as you walk near Alexia who wraps her arms around your waist. Jenni’s eyes pop out of her head and cheeks slightly flushed. 

“Dios mio Ale, I’m so sorry. I had no idea” Jenni apologised and Alexia accepts her apology. You three walk out and Alexia hold your hand tight. Alexia mentions that she has to get her bag and offered to show you the locker room. After catching up with Alexia’s teammates, you two head home where you can’t be bothered to cook so you order takeout. While you wait, you decide to have a shower in which Alexia decided to join. Not long after, the food arrived and you both cuddle up on the couch. 

“How was your first day?”

“I had a really good day. How was training mi amor?” You ask as you tighten your arms around Alexia.

“It was tough. My knee hurt a little but it’s good. I see you were making friends with Jenni” Alexia says as she turns to lie on top of you. 

“I think I saw a little bit of jealous Ale out there today” You mention as your hands creep up the back Alexia’s shirt. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about” Alexia dismisses your claim as she rests her head on your chest. 

“Oh really?” You pull up a photo you took and showed Alexia.

“So this isn’t you jealous?” Alexia’s eyebrows furrowed and eyes rolled.

“Okay, shut up” Alexia mumbles before leaving a lazy kiss on your chest.

“It’s okay mi amor, I like jealous Ale. It’s hot”

Safe to say, from that day forward everyone knew you are Alexia’s and she is yours. 

[respectoughfully]

Me about myself in my Late 90's Fame Dr

ABOUT ME:

FULL NAME: Isabella Rachel Allard-Tessier

NICKNAME(s): Izzy, Iz, Ibby, Belle

FACE CLAIM: my cr face but better and a bit older

AGE: 22*

BIRTHDAY: June 14th, 1976

BIRTHPLACE: Lyon, France

GENDER & PRONOUNS: female || she/her

NATIONALITY & ETHNICITY: British, French || British-French

CURRENT PLACE OF RESIDENCE: Zurich, Switzerland

ZODIAC SIGN: Gemini

MBTI: infp

FAMILY:

· Robert Allard - father,

· Élisabeth Tessier - mother,

· Isla Allard-Tessier - triplet sister,

· Isaac Allard-Tessier - triplet brother,

LANGUAGES I CAN SPEAK:

English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Chinese, Russian

HOBBIES: reading books, horse riding, cooking, dancing, travelling, swimming, stargazing

CAREER:

· actress,

· film & music producer,

· dancer,

· singer,

· songwriter

INSTRUMENTS I CAN PLAY:

electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass, piano, drums, flute, violin

PREVIOUS ROLES (UNTIL 1998):

· E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) as Gertie,

· Dune (1984) as Alia Atreides,

· Millie (1990) as Amelie “Millie” Girard **,

· The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) as Sally (voice),

· Jurassic Park (1993) as Lex Murphy,

· Hokus pokus (1993) as Allison,

· Heavenly Creatures (1994) - Juliet Hulme,

· Little Women (1994) as Beth March,

· A Kid in King Arthur's Court (1995) - Princess Sarah,

· La Fille seule (1995) as Valérie,

· La Nounou (1995 - 2003) as Adèle Bernard **,

· La Cérémonie (1995) as Melinda,

· Scream (1996) as Sidney Prescott,

· Romeo + Juliet (1996) as Juliet Capulet,

· The Fifth Element (1997) as Diva Plavalaguna,

· The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997) as Lex Murphy,

· The Rainmaker (1997) as Kelly Riker,

· Scream 2 (1997) as Sidney Prescott,

· Anastasia (1997) as Anastasia (voice),

· Titanic (1997) as young Rose DeWitt,

· 10 things I hate about you (1998) as Katarina Stratford,

· Pleasantville (1998) as Jennifer / Mary Sue Parker,

· La Fille étrange (1998) as Fleur **,

· Les Misérables (1998) as Cosette,

· 23 (1998) as Lisa **,

ALBUMS (UNTIL 1998):

· The Woman Who Love Too Much (1994),

· Girls' Night Affairs (1996),

· The Lady in Red (1998)

BACKSTORY:

I was born in Lyon as the eldest of triplets, the children of British traveller and writer Robert Allard and French model and photographer Élisabeth Tessier.

Less than a year after we were born our father was offered the chance to host a travel programme called The Strider for the BBC. Together with our mother they decided to take me and my siblings on those journeys.

Since then, we have spent more time on the road than in our home in France. Together, we have explored Australia and Northern Europe, both Americas, and a good part of Africa.

Despite the unusual conditions, our parents took great care of our education and development. I had private tuitions, practised ballet and singing, learned to play a few instruments. During those travels, I aslo learnt about the culture and traditions of the countries we visited and learnt a couple of languages.

We have settled in the USA for a few years where my siblings and I finished high school. It was then that I met my best friends to this day; Judy and Kayleigh. I later got into Harvard, where I studied psychology and linguistics.

I got my first role - Gertie in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial - at the age of six; I went to the audition out of curiosity. Later I also played the young Alia Atreides in Dune, but I didn't tie my future to acting. My love for it was born in the high school drama club. My return in front of the cameras was the 1990 film Millie, but it was with the role of Lex Murphy in Jurassic Park, which I got at the age of seventeen, that I was truly noticed. Other productions followed and with them came increasing success and popularity.

At the beginning of the university, I began to take interest in music - my first album, The Woman Who Love Too Much, was released in 1994 and it quickly became clear that I was as talented an actress as I was a singer.

At age of twenty I move alone to cottage house near Zurich.

LIKES: strawberries, misty and rainy weather, incenses and scented candles, cold pizza, winter mornings, sweets, the sea, spices, nightly baths in the lake, self-care days, the wind in my hair when I'm horse riding, forests, long walks, fireplaces

DISLIKES: arrogant people, feelings of lack of control, violence, hot weather, loud noises, bright and cool light, being sick, small and closed spaces, peanut butter, chlorine smell

* For the year 1998, to which I'm shifting to,

** Self-scripted roles/films

[archiveocs]

👮🏻‍♀️

Basic Info:

Full Name: Anna Williams

Nickname: Annie, The Crimson Fury

Age: 25

Date of Birth: July 15th

Time of Birth: 10:00 AM

Place of Birth: New York City, New York, USA

Gender/Pronouns: Female, She/Her

Species: Human

Likes: Training, fighting, justice, pizza, rock music, Kill Bill, The Lord of the Rings

Hobbies: Training, reading, watching movies, traveling

Physical Traits + Appearance:

Alive/Dead: Alive

Height: 5'7" (1.70 m)

Weight: 132 lbs (60 kg)

Hair Color: Dark brown

Hairstyle: Long, straight hair, usually tied back in a ponytail

Eyelashes: Long and thick

Eyebrows: Arched and well-defined

Face Shape: Oval

Eye color: Brown

Other Characteristics:

Most Used Phrases/Words: "I won't give up", "Justice will prevail", "Come at me", "I'm not afraid of you"

Title: The Crimson Fury

Zodiac: Cancer

Sense of humor: Sarcastic, ironic, dry

Relationships:

Friends: Johnny Cage, Kung Lao

Enemies: Shao Kahn, Shang Tsung, Quan Chi and Noob Saibot

Family (and family dynamics):

Father: Richard Williams (deceased)

Mother: Elizabeth Williams (deceased)

Sister: Maya Williams (complicated relationship)

Best Friends: Johnny Cage

Close Friends: Kenshi Takahashi and Kung Lao

Abilities:

Fighting Style: Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Judo

Skills: Expert martial artist, skilled in hand-to-hand combat, weapons training

Entertainment:

Favorite movies: Kill Bill, The Lord of the Rings, The Matrix

Favorite TV shows: Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad, The Walking Dead

Favorite book: The Lord of the Rings

Other Favorites:

Favorite food: Pizza

Favorite drink: Beer

Favorite place: Her training dojo

Favorite animal: Wolf

Favorite color: Red

Favorite song: "Enter Sandman" by Metallica

Favorite band: Metallica

Favorite sports team: Manchester United

Favorite weather: Sunny and warm

Favorite season: Summer

Favorite holiday: Christmas

Backstory:

Anna Williams was born in New York City to Richard and Elizabeth Williams. She has one older sister, Maya Anna's parents were both martial artists, and they trained Anna and Nina from a young age. Anna was a natural fighter, and she quickly excelled in martial arts.

When Anna was 18, her parents were killed in a car accident. Anna was devastated by their death, and she blamed herself for not being able to save them. After her parents' death, Anna became withdrawn and angry. She dropped out of school and started fighting in underground tournaments.

One day, Anna was approached by Sonya Blade, a Special Forces officer who was looking for recruits for a secret tournament called Mortal Kombat. Anna agreed to join Sonya's team, and she traveled to Outworld to compete in the tournament.

In Mortal Kombat, Anna fought against some of the deadliest warriors in the world. She defeated many of her opponents, but she was ultimately defeated by Shao Kahn, the Emperor of Outworld. However, Anna's courage and determination impressed Shao Kahn, and he spared her life.

Anna is a skilled martial artist and a fierce warrior. She is also a loyal friend and a compassionate person. She is determined to protect the innocent and fight against evil.

[malurenxtt]

____________________________________________________________

||✷ - Introducing MARIA LUISA RENETT. Word on the street is they are a SERVER AT FAUX FOLIE, having been around for THREE MONTHS. 

______________________________________________________________

— BASICS

Nickname: Malú Age / D.O.B.: Thirty-four // January 7th Gender, Pronouns & Sexuality: cis-female // she/her // bisexual Hometown: Long Island, New York City, USA Affiliation: Civilian Job position: Server at Faux Folie Education: Sociocultural Anthropology at Columbus University Relationship status: Single // divorced Children: none Positive traits: hard-working, receptive,  alluring, fiery, reliable Negative traits: condescending, reticent, unforgiving, unrealistic, self-loathing

TW: divorce mention, Fraude

— BIOGRAPHY

Maria Luisa was born from a union between a famous New York businessman and his Brazilian wife who, after spending several years traveling the world, chose to settle down and raise a family in Suffolk County, Long Island. Coming from a family of three, Malu always was the perfect daughter and poster middle child. The apple of her father’s eye and the never far out of her brothers’ sight. The lives of the three kids were uncomplicated and free of worry. During the day they would spend most of their time with their nannies, while on evenings and weekends there was often room for family time. Private schools provided them with the best of education and when grades failed, their private tutors would not. Friends came and went but were always an abundance. Privileged as they were, there never seemed to be a cloud in the sky for the Renett siblings. 

When Malú was 16, she began to notice a shift in her father’s behavior. He had always been constantly on the phone, hardly ever taking a break except during one of their vacations. But he seemed to grow more frantic by the day, with sudden outbursts of rage directed at whoever would be closest. Her mother, who had slowly began to distance herself from her husband even before his temper began to spark, made no attempts to defuse the situation. Simply avoided the man she had been married to in the furthest corner of their house. It was Maria luisa who took it upon herself to attempt to regulate her father’s outbursts. Trying everything within her power to distract him, please him. Jumping into the fray in order to keep the peace. It took over two years of constantly walking on eggshells and dancing to his every whim before the storm seemed to lay down. And whatever had clouded her father’s better judgment had disappeared like snow before the sun. 

Life went on and Malú never strayed too far from home. Like her brothers, she went to Columbus university. But instead of choosing to presuit finance of business, she chose to finish a degree in Anthropology. Intrigued by society, especially the way it functioned within the boundaries of the great city of New york. Even though her name certainly helped to get her into the prestigious university, her teachers did see her potential in the field. Her father, however, envisioned a different route for his daughter entirely. 

At the age of twenty-seven, two years after she finished her studies,  she found herself in charge of the philanthropic branch of her father’s company, with a diamond ring on her finger and a large house only a few blocks away from the place she used to call home. All her friends continued to tell her she was living the dream of any woman her age. Like any good daughter, she took the seat within the family business which had been created just for her. She became the bright smiling face of successful fundraisers and social events, a socialite within the high society of the city. Living the poster life any woman could only dream of… until it all came crashing down. 

It was a cold December day, with the annual extravagant christmas party only days away, when her father was arrested for tax fraud. Her youngest brother and mother had been on vacation then, one from which she would find they would never return. A safe haven they tucked themselves, along with some of the money, away in until the storm would die down. Her oldest brother stayed, choosing to support their father in court. The cherry on top of the nightmare were the divorce papers delivered on her doorstep the very afternoon after her father was arrested, tearing her world apart at the very seams. It was then that she realized that everybody around her had known, had seen the signs, and she had been too blinded to see. 

For the first few months, Malú fled the city, after being chased by reporters one too many times. The neighbors shunned her and the walls of her villa suddenly began to feel like they were coming straight for her. But no place would soothe her, no road she took could take her mind off the city she belonged. At a roadside motel, Malú came to the realization that she now had to reinvent herself at the ripe age of 34, one divorce deep and lied to by her entire family. 

Out of her debt, and far from the life of luxury she had always known, she began to know peace in blending in instead of stepping into the spotlight. By calling in a favor from a college friend, she managed to find a roommate with whom she could share a flat. A woman her age who quickly became her friend, as well as managed to land her a job at Faux Folie. It quickly became apparent that she and her roommate were two of the older servers working in the club. Adapting to the role of ‘mother’ quite quickly, the two friends have taken it upon themselves to look after the younger servers. Ensuring they learn the ropes, but that they are safe as well. Keeping an eye out for their staff , along with the bouncers. Though Malú may not carry a gun, this cat certainly has her claws. 

Clueless on where to go from this very point in her life, Maria Luisa buries herself in work. Eagerly taking on extra shifts to keep herself busy so she does not have to focus on the mess that is her life, let alone think about family affairs. 

[random-mailbox]

Random-Mailbox's Favorite Sailor Moon Fics - Week 16 - Christmas Part 2

When working on the stories to include in this week’s post, the list kept growing, and growing… and growing. And even though I try my best to not have giant posts, this one will be an exception. @riverlethe made an excellent suggestion of capping it at 12, to use “Twelve Days of Christmas” song as my loose cultural inspiration. So here is how we got to the final number. 

As always, my apologies in advance for spoiling some of these for you (Fic Titles are linked to either FFN or AO3 entries).

The Gift of Giving - Silent Serenade

Growing up in an orphanage, Holidays for Mamoru were not his happiest season. There was a tradition of adding gift requests from kids to the “Tree of Joy” for adults doing their shopping to hopefully fill. The one time Mamoru had requested something, it was a book, which some benefactor has managed to fulfil. This story explores how that one small act of kindness shaped the person he is today.

Christmas Law - @keyofjetwolf

Usagi is on a mission, and has all the girls on her side, to make her one Christmas wish come true - a kiss under the mistletoe with Mamoru. Whatever it may take.

The Twelve Roses of Christmas - SailorSong

As Usagi tries to get all the gifts ready for Christmas, she keeps coming across discarded roses. Coupled with Mamoru suddenly acting nicer than he has ever before, our protagonist is in for quite a Holiday Adventure. 

I dare you - Princess Destiny

Bored Senshi decided that a game of “Truth or dare” will stave off their boredom. Usagi, after choosing dare, gets asked to kiss the mall Santa. 

Tis' Christmas Gift Giving - @billyjbradshaw

Absolutely adorable one shot about the progression of Mamoru and Usagi’s relationship over the years, as they move from uneasy truce to friendship to something else entirely.

I Saw Mama Kissin' Santa Claus - SailorSong

The break-up in this post-Anime’s R season story extended past defeat of Wiseman. Everyone now knows that Usagi will one day become Neo-Queen Serenity and that Chibi-Usa is her daughter but no one knows who might be her significant other. We watch as Usagi and Mamoru try to find new footing and their path back to each other.

12 Days of Christmas Crumbs - @sessediz

Super cute collection of Holiday themed one-shots that revolve around our favourite duo and their working their way into each other’s lives.

Baby's First Christmas - @kaleidodreams

In this super cute story, we get to watch the first family of Crystal Tokyo celebrate Small Lady’s first Christmas, and all the preparations that go into it. 

The Perfect Present - @she-dreams-in-pink

With a friendly competition between Usagi and Mamoru on who gives the best presents, Usagi is on a mission to find something absolutely amazing for Mamoru.

Covert Christmas Ops - @linlamont

Hotaru and Setsuna go on an adventure night before Christmas to try and figure out who did Haruka accidentally give something that was meant for Michiru, running into the other senshi and the future king of Crystal Tokyo in their pursuit. 

All I Want for Christmas is AU -Chapter 1: Have Yourself an Ugly Little Christmas - @queenrisa14

This story came out a few days too late to be included in the Ugly Christmast sweater post, HOWEVER, I really didn't want to have to wait and whole year before adding it to the rec list. Mamoru loses a bet at work and is forced to wear Ugly Christmas sweaters for his shifts, something he considered a terrible punishment until a friendly sales clerk at one of the shops makes it her mission to help him find only the best ones. 

A Christmas Gift - @lyraterra

Usagi and Mamoru bump into each other at the airport after their flight gets cancelled due to a snow storm (very timely for the craziness of travel everyone had to put up with in North America over the last 7 days). With Usagi dropping her keys in the snow, Mamoru suggests that she spend the night at his place until they can sort everything out. This is another absolutely wonderful reveals story from @lyraterra but with a Holiday twist.

Next week's post will go up on Jan 2 and will be a collection of New Year's themed stories. I will try to come up with the full schedule for January posts by then.

Here are the links to the previous Tumblr posts in these series to explore more amazing works based on different themes - make sure to check them out if you haven't had a chance! (Click on title name to go to the post)

Week 1 - Groundhog Day

Week 2 - Established Relationships

Week 3 - Sex Positivity

Week 4 - Unfinished Stories

Week 5 - Darker Stories

Week 6 - Potions 🧪

Week 7 - Reveals

Week 8 - 👻Halloween🎃

Week 9 - Wrong Perceptions

Week 10 - Non-Senshi AU

Week 11 - In-Progress Fics

Week 12 - Mutual Pining

Week 13 - Enemies to Lovers

Week 14 - Slow Burn

Week 15 - Christmas Part 1 - Ugly Christmas Sweaters and Santa!

[songliili]

Three things you think Alex and Henry are into! TELL ME YOUR HEADCANONS ABOUT LEO.

OKAY OKAY OKAY

1 - praise kink (obviously, but like for both of them not only for alex. like sure, alex needs it cause he doesn't think he's good enough, but also henry needs it because he needs to remember that he's not selfish for wanting to be with alex)

2 - dressing up (i'm thinking maid costumes, sexy nurse, all that stuff)

3 - vanilla sex (I KNOW I KNOW but they're two romantic fucks, they need that sweet slow making love between all that semi public sex and ropes and shit)

NOW ABOUT LEO.

my man is Italian. none of that italo-american bullshit. man was born and raised in a small town in the north of italy, from a mother from the deep shout and a father from the cold north. super bright kid, went to politecnico di milano for uni and graduated in three years with 110 cum laude AND academic kiss (which means top of the marks) and found a job immediately, but wasn't happy. tried to start his company but couldn't get fundings, he could get them in the usa but he didn't want to leave, talked to his parents and they encouraged him to go (not without crying ofc) so he gave his resignation letter and moved across the ocean. made a fortune cause he's a fucking genius, got married right as he peaked, but burned out pretty fast. got divorced (amicable, wife suggested him to start delegating and meditating, he did). started traveling around the world (visiting italy and his grandparents every year during summer or christmas). met ellen, fell in love, met alex and june and realised that alex was very much not okay with the divorce so he tried his best to make sure that alex understood that he wasn't trying to take oscar's place but simply wanted to help and support him. always drove him to practice, listened him when he needed to prepare presentations/speeches and asked questions that would be hard but not so hard that alex would fall in a research spiral if he didn't know the answer. made sure that he ate and drank water when june moved out for college using the excuse of teaching him true italian cuisine and thus bonded with him.

i could go on forever but maybe i should stop lmao

[atotaltaitaitale]

.

Xmas23/NY24

It’s the time of the year, yet again when we reflect on the past 365 days.

As we are winding down to the end of the year, we are reminded by all the technology that helps us or distract us, depending how you see them, how much time we’ve spent on them or how much we’ve accomplished during the past year. From how much music/podcasts we’ve listened to kilometers/miles we’ve traveled either by plane, by train or even the numbers of steps we took (steps numbers are more impressive than if it was simply measured by km/mi). We are also presented with a medley of our best pictures or more accurately the ones that were best liked or commented on social media (not always the same).

While all those numbers can summarize a year it doesn’t take into account all the moments in between, the little snippets that cannot really be captured by a photo or a number because it’s more a feeling. For me it was the excitement of catching a musical in English in London or the stress of getting to a planned trip to Madrid to see our daughter in the middle of a French strike while we were in aforementioned London. Finally visiting Warsaw because we ran out of time the last time we were living in Europe and didn’t make it then. It was about reconnecting with friends living, briefly passing through or visiting Paris but also the joy of seeing a friend from many expat postings ago on the other side of the globe. It’s the surprising blissful hours spent in a car on a road trip across the vast north USA, followed by spending a month in Montreal. Celebrating our 25th anniversary in Venice, Italy where we spent our honeymoon, or being so close to so many wonderful places in Europe; discovering Dubrovnik, Croatia or going back to old grounds like Glasgow, Scotland. But it’s also about reconnecting with different corners of France; this year was a trip down memory lane in Pau, 17 years after briefly living there or exploring the Christmas markets in France this time with a visit to Colmar and Strasbourg. The home town in the French alps for summer vacation is still on the must-do list. Yet, one of the best part of this past year was the awe of walking the streets of Paris, days after days, and still finding things that fascinate me as well as all the cultural activities at our doorsteps.

After more than 20 years of Christmas/New Year letters, sent to friends and family around the world this year I didn’t feel like “spamming” everyone. Not that it was a not great year because it was. As I was recollecting our past year memories, I decided to just write it for myself and file it with the previous ones as a keepsake. My first full calendar year back in Paris since we left on expat. If I look up my personal collected stats (because I cannot keep track of everyone on top of my own) I spent almost 27,000 km in the air, I rode trains for nearly 7,000 km and walked more than 3.5 million steps while listening to thousands of hours of music/podcasts and took most likely over 10,000 photos on my iPhone all over the city, the one I live in and the ones I’ve visited; which translate to 543 posts on my blog and yet I didn’t posted on any of my social media platforms, most likely overwhelmed by too many choices and a bit of procrastination.

As for the other members of the family; dear husband spent almost as much time in the air than me, slightly less time on the train and I’m fairly certain he didn’t walk as much, but he beat me for sure on the metro rides contest. Since we are empty nesters, oh wait I read somewhere that we shouldn’t say “empty nesters” but “bird launchers” and I like that; Fly my babies, the world awaits. So as birds launchers, I have no accurate stats on our little birds but I can tell you that dear son is into his second year of Business/Economics at the University of Tilburg in the Netherlands and still enjoying his independence while having a hotline to us for critical daily tasks. Dear daughter has started her second year of Master degree at ESCP and finally decided it was time to live in one of her passport countries. Her nest is just over the Seine on the left bank of Paris, while we kept our nest in the center of Paris right next to the great monuments that make Paris such an enjoyable city to walk and gives a direct metro ride to work for dear husband .

[metxl-t-h-rash]

I love travelling a lot, however there is nothing better then going to my grandparents’ house in a medium sized town in the middle of the countryside

Hi, i am from Brazil

My favorite place is ibirapuera park, in my home city

I love traveling so much, but there is nothing better than Christmas dinner with my family in são José do rio preto

My country is known for beautiful beaches!!

Never could go wrong with feijoada, from an outsider perspective it may seem gross but it tastes like heaven

Oh Chuva by Falamansa

Pau de selfie by bruno berti

Coração, saudade, pipoca

People think i am a gringa all the time, mostly western European people think i am german, or even Brazilians are constantly convinced i am Scandinavian. Brazil is a heavily immigrated to country, there are people from all over the world here.

I have been to argentina a few times, but i would love to visit peru

Arrombado, very honestly you better just look it up to know what it means, but it is just so usefull

Clarisse Lispector and Machado de Assis

I have not been exposed much to Portuguese to English literature, however english to Portuguese i feel that it looses some of the original intention that only people who speak the language get to feel with words

Wearing white in new years to honor Yemanjá, making a big deal at lunch time (going home from school to have lunch)

Love it. Brazil is a creative powerhouse.

É pavê ou pacumê?

I hate that Brazil is a sexual country, there are gringos who come here for sexual tourism as if that is all that is to the people and the country. I strongly agree that we are happy, receptive and overall party people, in fact i love us for it.

Brazil’s history is a shitshow of left turns, i love to study it.

Yes, every county here has a different accent, in fact the northern, amazonian Portuguese is entirely different from southern, gaucho Portuguese. I speak with a São Paulo accent.

I LOVE our flag, i LOVE our anthem, i do think that the brazilian anthem is the most beautiful from the entire world. Our emblem is “order and progress”, which is not always true however they are words to live by.

Footbal/soccer. Undisputed. Football culture is very strong here, you can form communities based on what team you go for (PALMEIRAS FOR LIFE)

Our current president and our most recent former president. In fact, i would send the city of brasilia (where all the politicians are) never to come back

I am so proud of our natural beauty, our art/music, our people are the best, but i hate our history. Brazil is a country who was based on colonization and slavery, the latter one which affects our societal structure to this day, and was abolished in a really shitty way. But above all, i HATE with a BURNING PASSION Brazilian politics, the people in command are all clowns and they are ruining it for everyone.

A cocktail named caipirinha, it is made from cachaça (a liquor made from sugar cane syrup), sugar and a fruit of choice.

The Gringos (people from the USA who are not Americans because America is a continent, white europeans, australians) and Argentinians, maybe people from Paraguay

I was born in England but i moved here when i was 6 weeks old

We are sexy fiery latinas, which is nit at all true to how we are. Essentially we are a nation restricted to poverty, sex and drug trafficking

I personally love sepultara and anitta

Yes, we have the amazon from crying out loud! My personal favorite is the cantareira

São Paulo is forever is beef with rio de janeiro, there is even a joke involving biscuits, cariocas say biscoito and paulistas say bolacha.

We were colonized by Portugal, most people’s ancestors (including me) are Italian because of immigration, there are so many venezuelanos trying to immigrate here. Yes, it is a mostly immigrant country.

“hi, I’m not from the US” ask set

given how Americanised this site is, it’s important to celebrate all our countries and nationalities - with all their quirks and vices and ridiculousness, and all that might seem strange to outsiders.

1. favourite place in your country?

2. do you prefer spending your holidays in your country or travel abroad?

3. does your country have access to sea?

4. favourite dish specific for your country?

5. favourite song in your native language?

6. most hated song in your native language?

7. three words from your native language that you like the most?

8. do you get confused with other nationalities? if so, which ones and by whom?

9. which of your neighbouring countries would you like to visit most/know best?

10. most enjoyable swear word in your native language?

11. favourite native writer/poet?

12. what do you think about English translations of your favourite native prose/poem?

13. does your country (or family) have any specific superstitions or traditions that might seem strange to outsiders?

14. do you enjoy your country’s cinema and/or TV?

15. a saying, joke, or hermetic meme that only people from your country will get?

16. which stereotype about your country you hate the most and which one you somewhat agree with?

17. are you interested in your country’s history?

18. do you speak with a dialect of your native language?

19. do you like your country’s flag and/or emblem? what about the national anthem?

20. which sport is The Sport in your country?

21. if you could send two things from your country into space, what would they be?

22. what makes you proud about your country? what makes you ashamed?

23. which alcoholic beverage is the favoured one in your country?

24. what other nation is joked about most often in your country?

25. would you like to come from another place, be born in another country?

26. does your nationality get portrayed in Hollywood/American media? what do you think about the portrayal?

27. favourite national celebrity?

28. does your country have a lot of lakes, mountains, rivers? do you have favourites?

29. does your region/city have a beef with another place in your country?

30. do you have people of different nationalities in your family?

[llivo-team]

How U.S. Short-Term Rentals Can Capture Christmas Market Travelers!

The holiday season is a magical time for travel, and short-term rentals across the United States are perfectly positioned to cater to the influx of Christmas market travelers. These festive enthusiasts are looking for more than just a place to stay—they’re seeking convenience, comfort, and memorable holiday experiences. By emphasizing unique features such as vacation rentals with airport pickup services and family-friendly amenities, rental hosts can create a compelling offering for the holiday season.

Here’s how short-term rentals in the U.S. can capture the Christmas market traveler demographic this year.

1. Convenience is Key: Airport Pickup Services and Transportation Options

Travelers visiting bustling Christmas markets often seek accommodations that streamline their journey. Offering vacation rentals with airport pickup services can be a game-changer for these guests. Not only does this add a layer of convenience, but it also creates a stress-free start to their holiday experience.

For hosts: Highlight transportation options in your listing. Mention services like complimentary airport transfers or partnerships with local transport providers. If your property is a vacation home in the USA with transportation included, emphasize this benefit to stand out from competitors.

2. Holiday-Themed Rentals Create a Lasting Impression

Guests flocking to iconic Christmas markets are drawn to the festive atmosphere. Short-term rentals that reflect this spirit are more likely to win their hearts. Whether it’s through cozy holiday decor, themed welcome packages, or even offering information about nearby holiday events, these touches make a difference.

Ideas for Festive Appeal:

Decorate your rental with twinkling lights, wreaths, and a small Christmas tree.

Provide holiday treats such as hot cocoa, candy canes, or gingerbread cookies.

Share a curated guide to local Christmas markets, light displays, and holiday concerts.

These thoughtful gestures can transform your property into a holiday haven, making it more appealing to travelers.

3. Unique Experiences for Christmas Travelers

Modern travelers value unique, personalized experiences, especially during the holiday season. Offering services like guided tours of nearby markets, recommendations for local artisan shops, or tips for avoiding crowds can elevate their stay.

For example, if your rental is located near popular destinations like New York City’s Bryant Park Winter Village or the Chicago Christkindlmarket, tailor your listing to highlight these attractions. Use keywords like "best short-term vacation rental platform in the USA" and "short-term rentals near holiday attractions" to capture search engine traffic effectively.

4. Showcase Family-Friendly Features

Many travelers visiting Christmas markets do so with their families, making family-friendly accommodations a must. Ensure your rental is equipped with amenities that cater to guests of all ages.

Must-Have Family Amenities:

Extra beds or sofa sleepers

Fully equipped kitchens for holiday feasts

Games, toys, and streaming services for family entertainment

Promoting these features in your listing can make it more attractive to families seeking a cozy, memorable holiday experience.

5. Partner with LLIVO: A Platform That Prioritizes Connection

LLIVO, the best short-term vacation rental platform in the USA, is revolutionizing the way hosts connect with guests. By offering transparent pricing and personalized services like airport pickup options, LLIVO ensures that travelers find accommodations that truly meet their needs.

Why LLIVO is the Perfect Fit for Holiday Hosts:

Fair Pricing: With a 12% flat service fee, LLIVO eliminates the hidden costs that frustrate guests.

Personal Touch: Highlight features such as local recommendations, transportation services, and festive holiday offerings.

Comprehensive Listings: LLIVO allows hosts to emphasize unique selling points, ensuring their rentals stand out during the competitive holiday season.

Sign up with LLIVO today and join a platform that values human connection and guest satisfaction.

6. Leverage Guest Feedback for Future Bookings

Encourage guests to leave reviews detailing how your rental enhanced their holiday experience. Positive feedback about thoughtful touches, transportation services, or proximity to Christmas markets can significantly boost your listing’s appeal for future travelers.

Pro Tip:

Incentivize reviews by offering small discounts for repeat bookings or leaving a handwritten thank-you note for guests to encourage glowing testimonials.

Final Thoughts

This holiday season, U.S. short-term rentals have an incredible opportunity to capture the hearts of Christmas market travelers. By focusing on convenience, festive charm, and family-friendly features, hosts can create unforgettable stays that inspire glowing reviews and repeat visits.

Leverage LLIVO’s innovative platform to showcase your rental’s unique offerings, from vacation rentals with airport pickup services to family-friendly amenities. This year, make your rental the go-to destination for holiday travelers seeking warmth, cheer, and a personal touch.

Learn more about LLIVO’s mission and story and start transforming your property into a holiday haven today.

Author Bio: Khurram Iqbal Founder of LLIVO, Volunteer Blog Writer for LLIVO | IT Leader | Expert in Consolidation & Modernization | Creative Content Creator | Ideation Specialist | Former Assistant Vice President | Previous Professor of English Language & Literature

Disclaimer: This blog post is based on publicly available data and personal experiences as of December 2024. Prices and availability may vary based on location and season. LLIVO and the author are not responsible for discrepancies in rates or availability. Please verify all details with individual hosts before booking.

[4rartsandcrafts]

Celebrate the Holidays! Top Cities for Festive December Events and Attractions

The holiday season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by exploring some of the world’s most festive cities! As the Best Travel Agency in Doha, Fal Travelmart has curated a list of top destinations that capture the magic of December, whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, dazzling lights, or cozy winter markets. From local celebrations in Qatar to charming European villages and beyond, let’s dive into some of the most incredible places to celebrate the holiday season.

Doha, Qatar

Qatar comes alive during December with beautiful weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor festivities. The capital city, Doha, offers a unique blend of holiday cheer with cultural festivals, markets, and special events. Wander through Souq Waqif for festive shopping and taste traditional Qatari delicacies, or explore Katara Cultural Village, where live performances and holiday decorations light up the season. For those seeking a mix of modern luxury and authentic charm, Qatar is the perfect holiday destination.

East Coast – USA

December on the East Coast of the United States is brimming with festive charm. New York City leads the way with its iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating rinks, and magical holiday window displays. Further down the coast, Washington, D.C., hosts the National Christmas Tree Lighting and festive displays at the National Zoo. The East Coast’s holiday spirit is truly unforgettable, from Boston’s historic celebrations to Charleston’s charming Southern traditions.

Tbilisi, Georgia

For a less-traveled holiday destination, consider Tbilisi, the enchanting capital of Georgia. With cobblestone streets, twinkling lights, and a fairytale ambiance, Tbilisi’s holiday markets and cozy cafes provide a warm escape from winter’s chill. December is the perfect time to experience Georgia’s unique traditions, including traditional feasts, live music, and local crafts. Tbilisi’s holiday spirit is inviting, warm, and full of surprises.

European Winter Wonderlands

Europe is renowned for its classic winter holiday celebrations, and destinations like Vienna, Prague, and Strasbourg are world-famous for their festive charm. Wander through traditional Christmas markets, where handcrafted goods, mulled wine, and seasonal treats create a magical atmosphere. In Switzerland, experience snowy mountain towns that look straight out of a holiday card. Europe in December offers timeless holiday experiences, from the grand markets of Germany to the cozy villages of France.

Kashmir, India

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas with a touch of adventure, Kashmir is an ideal destination. This picturesque region is breathtaking in winter, with snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and winter sports in Gulmarg. Known as India’s winter wonderland, Kashmir offers both thrilling snow activities and peaceful escapes. Celebrate the season with Kashmiri hospitality, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes that bring holiday magic to life.

Why Choose Fal Travelmart for Your Holiday Getaway?

At Fal Travelmart, the best tour and travel experts in Doha, we make your holiday travel dreams come true with expertly planned itineraries, top-notch accommodations, and insider access to the best holiday events worldwide. Let us take care of the details while you focus on celebrating!

Ready to plan your December holiday adventure? Contact us today to explore these festive destinations and create memories that last a lifetime. Celebrate the season with Fal Travelmart!

[dollycas]

Have you started your Christmas Shopping? Many places are having Early Black Friday sales. The television commercials have started and ads for all kinds of gifts are filling our feeds on social media - Ideas not only for family and friends but for ourselves too. I am always a little leery of sponsored ads on social media having fallen prey to a scam or two so when I find a good reputable company I want to share my experience with you. Recently, I saw an ad for cute bookish-themed t-shirts that I couldn't resist especially because they were offering a Buy One - Get One of their best-selling 'All I Want Is Books' tee for FREE! The company was piper & ivy. piper & ivy was started in August of 2020 and is based in "sunny Florida". They have super soft tees in a beautiful color for every occasion! They are printed locally and shipped with love by their female-owned family-based team. The tees are unisex and come in sizes from XS - 4XL. They also have fabulous customer service. After placing my order I received a welcome email from their customer happiness manager telling me more about their company and telling me how to contact them if I had any questions or concerns. A few hours later I realized I had somehow ordered the wrong size for one of the two shirts. I then emailed the happiness manager trying to stop the shipment of the wrong-sized item and received a speedy reply. My order was already in the fulfillment process but they offered to make a new order for the correct size at no charge and when the wrong-sized item arrived they would send me a label to return it at no charge and I quickly agreed. Both packages arrived on the same day. I emailed them again and I received the return label within minutes. I was then able to just stick the package in my mailbox and it was on its way back to them the next day. Service with a smile and easy returns and I did mention it was Buy One - Get One of their best-selling 'All I Want Is Books' tee for FREE!! Now guess what? It is your lucky day because the sale is still happening, but I don't know for how long! OR They have so many tees to choose from: Not only Holiday Book Tees But tees to wear year round! They also have Plant Tees And Book and Plant Tees They have Hoodies and Crewneck Sweatshirts Long Sleeved Tees and Tanks Be sure to check out their Sticker Packs. So whether you are shopping for friends, family, or yourself I highly recommend piper & ivy! Shipped from the USA Female-owned small business Hassle-free exchanges and returns Find piper & ivy on their Website - Instagram - Facebook - Pinterest Be sure to sign up for their newsletter to get the latest on Sales, New Releases, and More! Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent *No Compensation Was Received For This Post. My thoughts were my own and given voluntarily. Read the full article

[lsundarinfo]

Christmas is a magical time for travel, with cities and villages worldwide transforming into winter wonderlands full of lights, decorations, and festive cheer. Here are 20 of the best places to visit for an unforgettable Christmas experience, offering everything from cozy traditions to dazzling holiday events.

1. New York City, USA

Highlights: The famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating in Central Park, and the enchanting lights along Fifth Avenue. The city’s atmosphere in December is unparalleled, with festive displays and bustling Christmas markets throughout Manhattan.

2. Lapland, Finland

Highlights: This northern paradise is home to Santa Claus Village, husky sledding, and the enchanting Northern Lights. Meet reindeer, stay in a cozy lodge, and enjoy the truly magical Christmas spirit.

3. Vienna, Austria

Highlights: Vienna’s Christmas markets are legendary, especially the one at Rathausplatz. The city’s baroque architecture, live choir performances, and mulled wine create a heartwarming holiday experience.

4. Rovaniemi, Finland

Highlights: Rovaniemi, known as the official home of Santa Claus, is filled with holiday spirit. Visitors can enjoy snow-filled landscapes, reindeer sleigh rides, and the famous Santa Claus Village.

5. Quebec City, Canada

Highlights: With its cobblestone streets and historical architecture, Quebec City becomes a Christmas fairy tale, offering outdoor ice skating, charming shops, and festive lights.

6. London, England

Highlights: The holiday decorations in London are a sight to behold, with festive displays on Oxford Street, the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, and ice skating at Somerset House.

7. Munich, Germany

Highlights: Home to one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, Marienplatz transforms into a festive hub. Explore Bavarian traditions, delicious treats, and a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

8. Tokyo, Japan

Highlights: Although Christmas isn’t traditionally celebrated in Japan, Tokyo dazzles with brilliant light displays, festive markets, and an array of uniquely Japanese holiday traditions.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland

Highlights: Celebrate the season with Icelandic traditions like the Yule Lads and enjoy natural wonders such as geothermal pools, snow-covered landscapes, and the elusive Northern Lights.

10. Strasbourg, France

Highlights: Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, filled with wooden stalls, local crafts, and festive decorations throughout the city.

11. Edinburgh, Scotland

Highlights: Edinburgh’s Christmas festivities include the Winter Wonderland, ice skating rinks, and carnival rides against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

12. Chicago, USA

Highlights: Chicago’s festive season is packed with holiday cheer, from the Christkindlmarket to the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. The city is filled with music, skating rinks, and warming holiday treats.

13. Bruges, Belgium

Highlights: This medieval city’s canals, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings are transformed with festive lights and holiday markets, creating a cozy Christmas atmosphere.

14. Copenhagen, Denmark

Highlights: Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen is at its peak during Christmas. The entire park is decked out in twinkling lights, festive stalls, and seasonal decorations.

15. Aspen, Colorado, USA

Highlights: A popular ski town, Aspen has a magical ambiance in December, with snow-covered mountains, cozy lodges, and a laid-back yet festive atmosphere.

16. Prague, Czech Republic

Highlights: Prague’s Old Town Square is breathtaking during the holidays, with a beautiful Christmas tree, holiday markets, and live music adding to the charm of this historic city.

17. Barcelona, Spain

Highlights: Known for its unique Christmas traditions, Barcelona lights up with festive markets, nativity scenes, and the distinctive “Caga Tió” Catalonian Christmas tradition.

18. Zurich, Switzerland

Highlights: Zurich offers a mix of classic holiday festivities and modern charm, with multiple Christmas markets, beautiful light displays, and festive live music performances.

19. Rome, Italy

Highlights: Rome celebrates Christmas with special nativity displays, festive lights along Via del Corso, and the grand Christmas Eve mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

20. Nuremberg, Germany

Highlights: The world-famous Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is a must-visit, filled with gingerbread cookies, mulled wine, and beautiful holiday decorations throughout the historic town.

Exploring these Christmas destinations will make the season truly memorable, each offering unique holiday celebrations, stunning decorations, and festive cheer. Whether you’re drawn to Europe’s cozy markets or Tokyo’s dazzling light displays, there’s a perfect place for everyone. And for those who love the open road, consider renting a car to explore nearby attractions and hidden gems. Just remember to check local driving laws and, if needed, apply for an International Driving Permit before your trip!

[attackedbytwees]

Yesterday I attended my grandmother's funeral.

In the eulogy, we first heard how she was born into a working class mining family during WW2, and went on to pass the grammar school entrance exam a year early, at the age of 10. And that was the last we heard about Janet herself.

She met my grandfather at 17, and from then on was a dutiful wife, mother, and servant of God and the Church. 81 years of life, condensed into a list of her husband's achievements, jobs, and relocations; her children's marriages to Good Christian™ partners; the names of the church clubs she volunteered for.

At the beginning of the sermon, the vicar said that "Janet would have wanted the focus to be on Jesus", and he certainly followed through on that. Several times he referred to what "Janet might have said" about various lines of scripture. Not what she had said. Just what she might have said. Hardly surprising, given that the depth of his personal tribute was that she "had a nice smile" and "liked a joke".

Not once during the service or wake did anyone stand up and talk about who she was as a person, or share a fond memory.

My grandfather, beaming, said he it was the best funeral he'd ever been to.

My Gran deserved better. So here are a few memories.

All her life she loved to travel - from a road trip in a tiny overloaded car to Switzerland as a young woman, to multiple trips to the USA, to bus tours across Europe with a retirees' travel group. She was a National Trust member, and enjoyed going round stately homes and gardens around the UK, then coming home and painting watercolours of the flowers she saw. She had a great memory for facts, she could tell you the names not only of every US state, but every state capital. Whenever they would come back from a holiday, she was fastidious in making sure that every detail of the stories was accurate - for instance, whether it was ham or cheese in that sandwich they had in that one hotel in that one place - which always made the telling take twice as long.

Despite being a keen traveller, Gran's palate never expanded to match the stamps on her passport. Korma may be the standard curry order for spice-intolerant white people, but even that was a step too far for her. Whenever we'd order from the local Indian takeaway, she would order boiled white rice, and cook up some chicken in a bechamel sauce with sweetcorn for herself. This even extended to drinks - making instant coffee, she'd say that if you couldn't count the granules on the spoon it was too much coffee for her. She told me as a child that sugar had clockwise and anti-clockwise granules, so you always had to stir both ways. I still think of that when I make someone tea with sugar.

Any time she might see the grandchildren she would bring her biscuit tin, a battered old ice cream tub that was older than some of the children being offered biscuits from it. They were the good ones as well: Viscount, Gold, Club, Tunnock's Caramel, but also some pink wafer biscuits because her mum (my Great Gran) liked them. When anyone picked a Club bar, she'd sing the jingle from the TV adverts. When my family got a dog, she started bringing custard cream biscuits too, because dogs can't eat chocolate but everyone in the family deserved a biscuit. At Christmas, she'd wrap up a packet of custard creams with the dog's name on the label.

Whenever it was time to go after visiting, she'd say "I'll love you and leave you", in her Midlands accent that withstood nearly half a century living in the South. After all this time, she finally has.

[kwojciechowicz]

Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday and a Happy New Year, everyone !! 🎄🤩🎅

Wishing You All an amazing time with your loved ones (biological/ chosen family) good health and many blissful moments in the year 2024.

I also wanted to thank all my fans, friends and family for supporting me as an artist 👩‍🎨

This was an incredible year for me. I have reached several milestones this year, such as having my illustrations published and printed in #MaraAndTheBadWolf by Ké Kampeas-Rittenhouse @kekampeasrittenhouse , I’ve participated in over 20 exhibitions, expos and galas this year, many of my exhibitions took place abroad: Spain, USA, Switzerland, South Korea, UAE, Greece and Germany.

I’ve also travelled a lot this year: 6 countries to be exact. I was invited to an artist residency in Ustronie Morskie, where I paid with my art instead of money (the dream for many creators) and my artwork is in the permanent collection at the @bookartmuseum in Łódź.

There were many life changes as well, such as moving to a different apartment, plus the heartbreaking event of my Grandma passing away.

The only thing I regret is that she didn’t get to see the book and find out that my work has been immortalised in a museum.

I am very grateful for all the good things that happened to me and I’m hoping that next year will be just as eventful, but without the pain of losing someone dear.

Anyway, I wish You All the Best. Happy Holidays! Thank you! ☺️ 🙏