#capital grille gift cards

[bodilouisville]

Yay! It’s time to announce our giveaway winner for the $200 gift card to Capital Grille! Congratulations to Lauren Smith-Clark! Please contact us at 502-974-3447 or 502-882-8680 to claim your prize! Thank you to everyone who participated in our giveaway

[gazeta24br]

A espera está acabando. Faltam poucos dias para o público sergipano comemorar e desfrutar da chegada de uma das maiores redes de restaurantes do mundo, famosa por seus cortes especiais de carne e aperitivos que agradam aos diferentes paladares. No dia 29 de janeiro, Aracaju será palco da primeira inauguração da Outback Steakhouse em 2024. O restaurante localizado no primeiro piso do RioMar Shopping abrirá suas portas para o público na segunda-feira, às 11h30. “A chegada do Outback a Aracaju é mais uma importante conquista da marca, visto que era a única capital do Nordeste que ainda não tinha um restaurante da rede. Há cerca de dois anos vínhamos recebendo pedidos para abrir uma unidade em Sergipe e, agora, entendemos que temos o cenário ideal para nos aproximar de uma região em constante crescimento. Estamos confiantes no desenvolvimento e consolidação da marca junto aos sergipanos e turistas que chegam para visitar o estado”, afirma Marcelo Xavier, sócio regional da rede. O primeiro Outback de Sergipe chega com um novo planner de loja, ainda mais moderno e com equipamentos altamente tecnológicos, que garantem mais eficácia ao atendimento. O restaurante funcionará, todos os dias, a partir das 11h30, encerrando as atividades às 23h (segunda a quinta-feira), às 23h30 (sextas e sábados) e às 22h (domingos). A solidariedade também estará presente nesta inauguração através da ação Charity Night, onde o Outback reconhece uma instituição de caridade e doa R$ 20 mil em gift cards. O valor arrecadado com a venda dos cartões é todo destinado à entidade. A Associação dos Pais e Amigos dos Excepcionais (APAE) é a escolhida na cidade e fará a venda dos gifts cards no dia 29 de janeiro, no segundo piso do RioMar Shopping. Serviço Outback Steakhouse Riomar Shopping Aracaju Endereço: Av. Delmiro Gouveia, 400 – Coroa do Meio, Aracaju-SE, 49035-500 Inauguração: 29 de janeiro, segunda-feira, às 11h30 Horários: segunda a quinta-feira, das 11h30 às 23h; sextas e sábados, das 11h30 às 23h30; domingos, das 11h30 às 22h. www.outback.com.br / www.riomararacaju.com.br Sobre o Outback O Outback Steakhouse possui 155 restaurantes no Brasil e está presente em 61 cidades, 20 estados brasileiros e no Distrito Federal. No mundo está em 23 países nas Américas, Ásia e Oceania. O primeiro restaurante no País foi inaugurado na Barra da Tijuca, no Rio de Janeiro, em 1997. Com seus cortes de carne especiais e aperitivos icônicos como a Bloomin' Onion, o Outback caiu no gosto do brasileiro pela qualidade e sabor marcante da sua culinária, somados à descontração no atendimento e às instalações aconchegantes. Inspirado na Austrália, o restaurante enfatiza vários aspectos da cultura australiana, como esporte, pontos turísticos, paisagens icônicas, tradições e lazer. Além disso, a marca oferece uma experiência única, divertida e de altíssimo padrão que, no Brasil, ficou conhecida como #MomentoOutback. A rede Outback Steakhouse pertence ao grupo Bloomin’ Brands, que ainda conta com as marcas Abbraccio e Aussie Grill. Sobre a Bloomin’ Brands Com sede em Tampa, na Flórida, Bloomin' Brands, Inc. é uma das maiores empresas de restaurantes casuais do mundo, com aproximadamente 90 mil colaboradores e mais de 1,5 mil restaurantes em mais de 20 países. A companhia é detentora das marcas Outback Steakhouse, Abbraccio Cucina Italiana, Aussie Grill, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Bonefish Grill e Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Qualidade excepcional, hospitalidade e ambientes aconchegantes são princípios que fazem parte da cultura da empresa e contribuem para o sucesso dos restaurantes. No Brasil, a Bloomin’ Brands possui aproximadamente 12 mil colaboradores e atua com as marcas Outback, Abbraccio e Aussie Grill. Sobre o RioMar Shopping Aracaju Inaugurado em 8 de maio de 1989, o RioMar Shopping foi o primeiro empreendimento que trouxe para Aracaju o conceito de modernidade dos shopping centers. Administrado pelos Grupos JCPM e NB Empreendimentos desde 2006, o centro

de compras e lazer oferece um diversificado mix, com 233 lojas, sete salas de cinema, parques indoor, operações de entretenimento, serviços e Centro de Atendimento ao Cidadão (CEAC). Reunindo grandes marcas nacionais e internacionais, o empreendimento localizado em um dos pontos mais charmosos de Aracaju – entre o Rio Sergipe e o mar -, surge entre a paisagem natural e humanizada, como um dos cartões postais mais belos da cidade.

[fareosky]

Guide to Flint Bishop International Airport (FNT)

Need to catch a flight from Bishop International Airport? Fly smarter with flight information, parking availability and taxi wait times. 

Bishop International Airport (FNT) is only four miles from Flint, Michigan. Although the airport can handle international flights, most of its air traffic originates from within the United States and Canada. 

In addition to numerous other amenities, including bars, gift shops, and ATMs, the airport is well-stocked with dining and retail options. 

Flint Bishop Airport Airlines 

Bishop International Airport has a few airlines that offer short-haul flights. Detroit and Cleveland are two large cities providing non-stop flight connections to Flint Airport. In addition, airlines that fly from Flint Airport are Allegiant, Southwest, American, United, and Delta. 

Many travelers prefer to fly through smaller airports for a more intimate experience, pay fewer taxes and fees. The typical airfares at Bishop International Airport are now the lowest in Michigan, and the small airport's friendly atmosphere makes travelers feel relaxed. 

Transportation Options from Flint Bishop Airport 

Taxis: Flint frequently follows the lead of Michigan, the nation's automobile capital, making it extremely challenging to get around without a personal vehicle. Taxis, JCN limousines and cabs are a few taxi services that run from Bishop International Airport.  

Flint Bishop Airport is conveniently situated and metered cabs are accessible outside the terminal. 

Bus: Route 11 of the Mass Transportation Authority runs between the airport and the downtown bus terminal. From Monday through Friday, the service to and from the airport is offered hourly from 6 am to 6 pm.  

MTA bus fares begin at $1.50 and can be paid cash on board or at the bus stop outside the terminal building. 

Parking at FNT Airport 

Short-term Parking costs $1 for 30 minutes, $20 for a day, and $140 for a week.  

Long-term Parking is less expensive at FNT Airport; it starts at $2 per hour, $7 per day, and $49 per week. There is also an inexpensive parking area where you can park your car.  

Economy Space starts at $2 per hour. Fees can go as high as $5 per day and $30 per week. A free shuttle service that departs from the economy parking lot every five minutes takes passengers to the airport. 

Bishop International Airport Facilities 

ATM and Communication Center: Public telephones and ATMs are located inside the Flint Bishop International Airport terminal. 

Luggage: You can find a lost-and-found center inside the terminal building. Passengers enquiring about lost or damaged luggage should approach the airport helpdesk. 

Conference and business: The airport has a free business center, offering power points for cell phones and other electronic devices, copy machines and individual workstations. 

Shopping: Bishop International Airport has a range of shops selling gifts, reading material, cards, perfumes and chocolates. 

Food and drink: Famous restaurants at Flint Bishop Airport include Samuel Adam’s Toasts Flints Bar, Gateway Grill and MSE Foods. 

Other facilities: The airport has a disabled and a shoeshine service. 

Wi-Fi: Get access to free Wi-Fi at Bishop International Airport terminals. 

With FareOsky, you can take advantage of the lowest airfares while flying from Bishop International Airport. From the ease of parking to hassle-free security, FNT Airport is committed to making your travel comfortable and safe. For more information on the airport, airlines, and ground facilities, call FareOsky travel experts at +1-315-501-1144. 

[silent-dragon]

TWST OC Profile ~ Bakari

Art by the wonderful @/aloebera on twitter

Theme song to listen to while reading ^^

Name: Bakari

Alias: Riri - by Leona & other Sunset Royals

Gender: Male

Inspired By: Hyenas from The Lion King

Orientation: Gay

Age: Unknown but guessing between 18-21

Species: Spotted Hyena Beasthuman

Birthday: Unknown

Zodiac: Feels like a Aries or Scorpio

Height: 196cm

Eye Color: Golden Yellow

Hair Color: Jet Black with Grey Streaks

Homeland: Sunset Savanna

Occupation: NRC Cafeteria Chef(Temp)/Sunset Royal Chef/Assistant Head Chef of "The Ruby Mane"

Dominant Hand: Left

Favorite Food: Chicken Nuggets & Cake

Least Favorite Food: Raw Kale

Dislikes: Wasting Food,Pettiness,Air Fryers,Picky Rich Eaters,Tiger beastmen

Hobby: Learning to Bake,Watching Comedy Movies

Talents: Cooking,Grilling,Hospitality,Flirtation

Unique Magic: Tonight's Tiny Lovely Feeling - With the touch of fingertips upon another person makes the person feel mild attraction. If the person already has some attraction it increases it. Only lasts the night. Requires incantation to be said as fingertips are on person.

Incantation

"Want what is in your heart,give yourself a taste of the night's loving kiss,desire me..."

OC’s Lore Summary: A once starving homeless youth who was given a second chance at living a better life. A royal chef of the Sunset. He has taken a break from his job to take a temporary one at NRC after hearing how well the Master Chef competitions have been going.

Personality: Kind with a bit of smug & slyness inbetween. He is also a super flatterer & flirty.

Fun Facts: Bakari works at "The Ruby Mane" a 5 star restaurant in the capital of the Sunset Savanna. It's a Savanna kings themed large scale restaurant and often visited by the royal family,celebrities,people of high status,and others looking for a fancy expensive meal.

Art by fumikomiyasaki | Yuuta belongs to bunnwich

Bakari has no birth record nor any family he remembers. He only recalls living in the streets. He was given the job as royal chef by Leona who also enabled Bakari to get a special ID card so he could get basic things he needed.

Bakari is now a big happy hyena. His big size is from him perfecting his cooking. He very positive about being so big and says you know his food must be good cause look at him.

He calls Leona "Sweet Onion" & Falena "Sun Pepper" and will refer to them as such when speaking to them which often shocks people who don't know the friendship he has with the two who don't mind the names usually.

His flirty ways get him into many situations but he usually seems to overcome them overnight somehow.

His catchphase is "Riri does what Riri wants." This is usually said before or after his loud distinct Hyena laugh. Leona knows it means he is up to something devious or has done something mischievous to someone.

He has a unique wild sense of taste and is reason his food he cooks tastes so different then regular food. People love his dishes so much. He has been the catering chef each year for Cheka's birthday and often sends Leona gifts of food for his birthday aswell.

Backstory Lore Post

[freeolivegardengiftcard]

[GET] FREE Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Gift Card 2021

[GET] FREE Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Gift Card 2021

Olive Garden® delights guests with an authentic Italian dining experience, featuring a range of fresh, simple and delicious dishes, including many inspired by our Culinary Institute of Tuscany in Italy, and an award-winning wine list. Please visit us at www.olivegarden.com for the restaurant nearest you.

CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3bbWU6A

Yes, Olive Garden has a reward program. The program allows you to earn rewards for most of your purchases at participating Darden restaurants across the country. In addition to the Olive Garden, reward points may be earned at LongHorn Steakhouse, Bahama Breeze, Seasons 52, Red Lobster, Yard House, Eddie V's, Cheddar and the Capital Grille.

CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3bbWU6A

The difference between the Olive Garden rewards program and the Olive Garden eClub is that one rewards you for purchases while the other is just a way to keep you informed about news, new menu items, and special events that are going on. You may be part of both the rewards program and the eClub at the same time, but you will need to fill out separate forms to do so.

Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Free Gift Card,Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Gift Card,Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Gift Card Code,Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Free Gift Card Code,Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Promo Gift Card,Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Get Gift Card Promo,Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Codes Promo,Olive Garden Italian Kitchen Codes Gift Card

[dieselfumesniffer]

Wait a second... Do you really believe that George Soros is actually mailing gift cards to people in exchange for protesting? You don't think there are people all over this country who are willing to protest for free? That includes people who were protesting to "LIBERATE" Michigan during the lock-down, with guns drawn in the state capital. All I'm saying is, if George Soros was willing to pay me for shit I am already doing? Then I would have DEFINITELY found that out by now. Where do I sign up?!

I don't think protesters are being paid. I think the vast majority of people who are holding signs, marching, and chanting "say her name" are good people who are trying to change a corrupt system that has discriminated against entire communities for a long time. I think some rioters are acting on their own. I really do think that there are a few people in this world who are stupid enough to see a guy open carrying an ar15 and think they need to hit him in the head with a skateboard. I also think there are people in this world who thrive and profit from chaos. The buses from Atlanta and Florida rolling into Louisville this morning are loaded with people in matching body armor. Do you think they all ordered the same gear off the internet? How did a loose group of organizations coordinate charter buses to all end up at the same time? I think there are people helping fund and organize the riots. If you are out there breaking windows for free maybe you need to get on a different bus next time. Have a nice day.

And if you are in Louisville this week, see if your bus drive will swing by and drop you off at my house. I will light the grill and we can discuss life over a beer while the steaks cook.

[pack-the-pack]

Would you write more headcanons of OmegaVerse in Brazil? I’m a brazilian myself and loved your headcanons! Can totally picture it

That’s awesome! I was afraid it wouldn’t land very well or would have been too weird because it was kinda of… you know, a little disorganized in a sense? But then again, it’s about brazil so disorganized is about right. I can make more, but I can’t promise it will be universaly relatable. I am from the ever dark and dreary south, more specifically the capital of Paraná, Curtiba. Where the weather is cold and the people are colder lol All I have to draw from is my own experiences here and some with family and friends from other states, so I apologise if these sound too “southerner”.

• Christmas isn’t christmas if it isn’t pack barbecue day. Forget the turkey, forget the mashed potatos, bring in the mayo, the copious ammounts of meat and ofc the pavê. Omegas spend the whole day in the kitchen in the day before/the morning of the 24th making family recipes… too many of them. With grandma telling the young Omegas of the family how “they’re doing it wrong” and how “they’ll never get a mate like that”. Alphas spend the whole night in front of the grill preparing all the different cuts of meat and drinking their awareness away. And Betas spend the day running around trying to get the things people forgot to buy or pick up, which tends to be a lot. All by the sound of either terrible gospel music or equally as bad sertanejo. 

• The 15th birthday of an Omega is the most important for them. They make huge parties where dad gets to dance with their little pup, because they’re now of “mating age”. Alphas that are interested in the Omega will gift them beautiful debudant rings as courting gifts. It’s said that the one the Omega chooses to wear is the one from the Alpha/Beta they’ll marry with. This is a very old tradition tho, so it just happens if the Alphas are really serious about mating and marrying with the Omega. 

• In New Years traidition dictates that yo wear white, so it brings you peace in the following year, but brazilians usually have a whole “meanings list” for the other colours if they don’t go for traditional white. Pink for love, red for passion, black for luxury etc. This goes for dynamics related wishing as well. Wearing magenta is said to “bring you an Omega”, Blue for Alphas and green for Betas.

• Peoplle usually say that “wearing more than one colour is cheating”, so people usually side step this by incorporating it into their underwear. Even wearing two pieces different colours to make their wish more specific. “yellow and blue for a rich Alpha”, “red and green for a passionate Beta”, “pink and magenta for a loving Omega” and so on. People still says it doesn’t count but what matters is the intention.

• (idk if you guys had this as kids as well, but have it anyway) Schools reharcing and driving their pre-schoolers to their own houses in mother’s day so they can sing to their Omega/Beta mothers that one song they play on every mother’s day, you know which, “Não quero dinheiro” by Tim Maia. The whole class sings it and the child gives their mommy a card they “made it themselves” with the help of the teacher and a rose.

• (Also don’t know if you guys had this but anyway) Little Alphas and Omegas not wanting to pair up with another dynamics for June’s party dances. They cry and tell the teacher “they don’t want to dance with X Alpha/Omega” because they’re stupid, or mean or ugly lol So it isn’t too uncommon for Alphas to dance with Betas (even male ones), and foe Omegas to dance with one another or Betas as well.

• Some closed minded assholes might be adverse to Alphas dancing with other Alphas or Beta males because “Jesus”, but the pups themselves seem to not really care much and they usually just want to really dance with their best friend. So everyone wins.

• Still on June’s party spirits, Alphas trying to protect their siblings from being dragged into “the prison”, because they shove as many people as possible in that thing and it really scares most kids. Specially omegas.

• Alphas will constantly try to shove each other in there because we can be assholes like that.

• Alphas trying their hardest to get their Omega or the Omega they’re courting the thing they want on that fishing game, or any carnival games from june’s party really. But they’re all scams and we know it. The Omega still likes that they tried tho.

• And yes ofc, they’re is always an Omega and an Alpha who get to “marry” on June’s party. And usually the “thief” who steals the bride is a Beta male. Some places try shaking it up as not to make it so traditionally detrimental, but usually the thing stays the same because churches and whatnot.

• This is quickly becoming a June’s party thing. This is a June related one as well but it’s not for the party I swear. Omegas waiting until midnight on the 12th (aka eve of St. Antônio’s day) to stab a poor banana tree with a virgin knife, going back on the next day to see what letter the “milk of the tree” spells out in the knife, as to see the first letter of the name of the Alpha they’re “meant to marry with”.

Aaaaaaand I think that’s all I have for now. Idk why I got so inspired by June’s party lol I think I just really like June’s party and it’s like a very brazilian thing as well as something I remember well from my childhood. So huh, yea, not as southerner as I originally expected this to turn out after all. I hope you enjoyed it anyway, cheers.

Also check the other brazilian ABO list I made right here.

[prismaticpastry]

May Two-Four is the best holiday and this is why

1. Minimal capitalism, no expectations of gifts or cards just burgers or other preferred grilled food

2. No pressure to spend time with family

3. Heralds the beginning of barbecue season

4. Excuse to play Bobcaygeon by The Tragically Hip on repeat

5. Often warm but most bugs are still in hell

[lovelyirony]

Let’s Just Ignore The Valentine Dilemma

Tony is really conflicted. There are two people who he likes. His secret admirer, and Bucky Barnes. 

Bucky’s nice. He’s funny and sweet and caring and always saves Tony from disaster and one time called him “honey” on accident and Tony was kind of loving it. 

But there’s also the secret admirer. Who left him the cheesy bear that he really likes more than he should, the flowers with the symbolism, and the fancy chocolates that Tony loves. 

Two people. Terrible decision-making skills. So Tony decides not to do anything about it. He’ll just treat Valentine’s Day like any other day because it just is. A day with red and pink and romance and people looking at each other with loving eyes and the last time he celebrated it Pepper had to leave early for a conference. it’s fine, though. Not like he hasn’t done the same thing. 

He gets one last gift. It’s Valentine’s Day morning. He gets a cup of his favorite type of coffee, with a little heart on top that’s kind of lopsided. 

“J, you sure you can’t tell me who it is?” 

“I am sworn to utmost secrecy by threat of death,” Jarvis answers. “It is a most serious matter, Sir.” Tony looks up instinctively with a frown. 

“You can’t die, Jarvis. I have plans.” 

“Of course. But I am still sworn to secrecy, Sir.” Tony sighs, but sips his coffee. 

Bucky’s woken up with a text message from Jarvis. Secret is safe for now, Sergeant Barnes. Would you like to continue until tonight? Yes. 

Bucky’s kind of panicking. In that “hey-I-planned-something-and-wow-I-am-not-prepared-in-the-slightest” kind of way. He has a rough plan. Bring him down lunch that he’s made, maybe with some more flowers??? Goddamn, he really shouldn’t have googled Valentine’s Day ideas, capitalism has gotten to him He wants to buy Tony a lot of things. And make him things. 

Tony works on a car. When he gets up, there’s a glass bottle of Coca-Cola. A note with the same calligraphy. You need a break, honey. -Anonymous

He grins the whole way up to the kitchen. 

Bucky really likes seeing the Genuine Smile. It could probably power a building for five hundred years. He almost wants to take a picture. 

Natasha and Steve are watching the events play out. Bruce threatened them with his blender. So they just have to watch and make Bucky ticked off as they ask Tony about his Valentine Day plans. Tony just smiles and says he’s going to take it easy, and maybe go out to dinner. 

He gets a book of poetry next. Bucky really loves the stuff, surprisingly. It helps him think of new words to use. So he thinks Tony will like it? 

Bucky finds out Tony looks really pretty reading, windows letting sunshine stream in so it can frame him like he’s ethereal. 

“You are so gone,” Natasha snickers. Bucky kicks her in the shin. He takes a picture of Tony, realizes that he can’t take really good photos because most of the time they’re blurry, and texts Jarvis to take one and send it to him. The result is much better. 

Tony’s next gift is a really stupid Iron Man card, complete with a little sucker and a cheesy message that read as “You’re Golden!” (It had become a running joke that Tony was the “golden avenger” after a little run-in with some gold paint that had been everywhere.) 

He giggles. 

Bucky nearly falls out of the ventilation shaft. This is such a bad idea, because Bucky is in love with the guy, and Tony--he’ll realize that it’s Just Bucky. That it’s a guy with a metal arm that sometimes needs maintenance so it won’t lock up at the wrong moment and it won’t stop gripping the freezer door. He’s the guy who wakes up and nearly punches a hole in the wall. He sometimes forgets what day it is. Or what he’s done. 

Basically, he’s a fuck-up. 

But he’s not gonna stop trying. Mama didn’t raise a quitter, and Bucky was made that way. So it’s fine. He’ll deal with the fallout. Maybe start a new life in Portland, Oregon, where he can wear turtleneck sweaters all the time and be sad in rainy weather. 

Tony gets lunch. It’s artfully decorated, oranges and strawberries in neat slices. His sandwich is grilled and it tastes like he thinks heaven feels like. 

“You look like you’re enjoying that sandwich,” Bucky says with a grin. Tony nods. 

“This is the best thing ever. Oh my fuck I love this sandwich. I should marry it.” Bucky laughs, and Tony kind of thinks it sounds awesome. Bucky doesn’t laugh much. “What are you up to on this fine day of cupids and hearts, Barnes?” He freezes for a moment before shrugging. 

“Just, you know, trying to avoid Clint. I’m not sure if he has the heart arrows out. Steve told me he’s a shit Cupid.” Tony snorts. Oh, that was a disastrous year. But it was funny. “What about you? Gettin’ presents from that secret admirer?” Tony nods. 

“I really do like all of the presents,” Tony admits. “I’ve never gotten a book of poetry before.” his smile is so soft. Bucky wants to die, it’s so sweet. 

Oh god, it’s bad. Bucky is so screwed. 

But he does his final plan. 

Dinner with me, seven? 

“Sir would like to inform you that he will be joining you for your meal,” Jarvis says. “Of course, he would like to know if he can choose...?” 

“Yup.”

“I will give him that answer.” 

“Jarvis, please don’t.” 

“...I am afraid my decision is too late to rescind. He would like you to know that the dress is informal. Your directions will be loaded to your phone.” 

So Bucky has four hours to panic and cry. And also text Steve because holy shit there are so many options what the fuck do I wear and of course I wasn’t going to wear my Hawaiian shirt what do you take me for, some kind of animal????

He ends up ready. Natasha pulled his hair into a nice bun. She says he looks like a French model. He guesses that’s a compliment? Honestly not too sure. 

Tony’s been waiting at the table for five minutes. He wonders who it is. If it’s Steve, he’ll have to let him down easy. He’s pretty sure that Steve doesn’t like him though. Bruce? Nah, he’s still secretly video-chatting Betty. Natasha? She’s too scary. Clint outright told Tony that he would never date him and Thor...well. That’d be interesting. Also bad. 

Bucky’s sitting across from him, and Tony nearly spills his water because a.) he shouldn’t be that good at sneaking into tables and b.) his shirt looks really nice. 

“Hey,” Bucky says. 

“Hi.” 

It’s an awkward silence. 

“So, um, you’re my secret admirer?” 

“Yeah,” Bucky says. He looks stressed. “Look, if this is weird for you and you don’t like me, I’ll just leave and probably go to Italy or Australia for a while, so--” 

“NO!” It kind of startles the whole restaurant. Tony readjusts his shirt. “No. You’re not gonna leave and go to Australia, why the fuck would you want to go there?” 

“I mean, I’m pretty sure I could find somewhere to just disappear.” 

“Okay, probably true. But we’re getting off-topic. You, uh, like me?” 

Tony sounds like he’s sixteen all over again. Bucky shrugs. 

“Yeah. I do. Your face is pretty.” (He literally just wants to jump a cliff at this point.) 

Tony snorts. 

“That’s about the most adorable thing you’ve ever said. Oh my god, you’re such a nerd.” Bucky gives a small smile. 

“So you’re okay with this?” 

Tony nods. “I liked you too, you know. Still do. I really loved the poetry book and the calligraphy.” 

Conversation is cut off as the waitress comes to take their order. The restaurant isn’t exclusive; it’s busy with families and couples and random single people looking to cry and make it awkward. That’s probably Tony’s favorite part. 

Bucky orders a monstrous burger, Tony orders spaghetti. Both are really bad first-date foods. But they aren’t exactly experts on the subject, so they have fun learning. Bucky talks about his trial and error. Tony talks about how he was tempted to analyze the handwriting. Bucky had laughed and said that if the nuns had digitized anything, it sure as hell wouldn’t be his assignments. 

They walk home together. 

Tony takes Bucky’s hand. 

“Happy Valentine’s Day,” he says. “I really liked tonight.” So did Bucky. 

As it turns out, Tony actually really liked his secret admirer. 

So much so that he proposed two years later, and they got married in the summer. As much as they both liked the holiday, they both agreed that a Valentine’s Day wedding was a bit much. 

Their honeymoon was to Australia. 

[cultivatingjo]

It’s Never Too Late to Learn These Things That They Probably Won’t Teach in School

1. HOW TO WRITE YOUR NAME IN CURSIVE. Your child will grow up and need to sign many documents. Although, yes, it is more professional to learn how to sign your name in cursive, it is also makes it more difficult for documents to be forged with your child’s name. ✅

2. HOW TO CREATE AND SET A BUDGET

3. HOW TO SAVE MONEY: How to open a checking and savings account. Understanding the difference between the two. How to save for retirement. What is a 401K

4. HOW CREDIT CARDS AND INTEREST WORKS

5. HOW TO PROPERLY HOLD, LOAD, SHOOT, AND CLEAN A GUN ✅

6. HOW TO SHOOT A BOW AND ARROW ✅

7. BASIC SELF DEFENSE TECHNIQUES

8. KITCHEN SKILLS LIKE CHOOSING THE PROPER KNIFE FOR THE JOB AND USING IT SAFELY. https://www.webstaurantstore.com/guide/538/types-of-knives.html

9. WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION: If you need emergency services, If you have a car accident/hit a person, deer, or other object, If you are abducted. 

10. TAKE A CPR AND FIRST AID CLASS

11. HOW TO CHANGE A TIRE AND HOW TO PUT AIR IN YOUR TIRES

12. HOW TO CHECK THE FLUIDS IN YOUR VEHICLE

13. HOW TO FILE YOUR TAXES

14. HOW TO KEEP AND STORE RECORDS

15. HOW TO START A GARDEN ✅

16. BASIC LAWS

17. THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION AND BILL OF RIGHTS

18. HOW TO PROPERLY ADDRESS AN ENVELOPE

19. HOW TO PROPERLY FILL OUT A CHECK/DEPOSIT SLIP/WITHDRAWAL SLIP

20. THE BIBLE, GOD, JESUS, THE HOLY TRINITY

21. HOW TO MAKE COFFEE

22. HOW TO CALL AND MAKE A DOCTOR OR DENTAL APPOINTMENT

23. WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE YOUR WALLET OR IT IS STOLEN

24. HOW TO SAFELY JUMPSTART A CAR

25. HOW TO CHANGE A DIAPER

26. WILD PLANT IDENTIFICATION

27. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: What to do and where to go during natural disasters, surviving without electricity, items to keep in car if you break down or get stuck in a storm

28. HOW TO READ A PRESCRIPTION

29. HOW TO READ A NUTRITION LABEL

30. HOW TO START A CAMPFIRE WITH A FLINT AND HOW TO SPLIT FIREWOOD 

31. HOW TO USE A COMPASS

32. HOW TO WRITE A RESUME

33. HOW TO WASH LAUNDRY

34. HOW TO SEW WITH A SEWING MACHINE AND HOW TO HAND STITCH/SEW ON A BUTTON

35. BASIC HOUSECLEANING 

36. BASIC HOME MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS: Unclog a toilet, find a stud in the wall, change filters

37. HOW TO USE EMAIL

38. SURVIVAL SKILLS: Wilderness skills if you get lost, If you don’t have a compass, Home evacuation if there is a fire

39. HOW TO READ A MAP

40. HOW TO TIE KNOTS

41. HOW TO CALCULATE A TIP FOR YOUR SERVER

42. BASIC ETIQUETTE

43. HOW TO VOTE

44. EXERCISE WITHOUT MAKING IT ABOUT WEIGHT

45. PROPER HYGIENE

46. HOW TO USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND EXTINGUISH A GREASE FIRE

47. COOKING AND BAKING SKILLS: MEASUREMENTS, HOW TO BOIL WATER AND COOK PASTA, RICE, BOIL EGGS, MAKE TEA, 

48. HOW TO IRON CLOTHES

49. HOW TO USE AN ATM MACHINE

50. HOW TO PUMP GAS

51. HOW TO USE A DEBIT CARD 

52. HOW TO CHECK AND CHANGE BATTERIES IN A SMOKE DETECTOR

53. HOW TO CHECK EXPIRATION DATES ON FOOD ITEMS

54. HOW TO USE, EMPTY, AND CLEAN FILTERS ON A VACUUM CLEANER

55. HOW TO WRITE A THANK YOU NOTE

56. HOW TO BRAID HAIR 

57. HOW TO WRAP A GIFT

58. TYPING SKILLS

59. FIRE SAFETY

60. HOW TO SWIM ✅

61. HOW TO FISH ✅

62. POLITICS AND HOW THE GOVERNMENT WORKS

63. GEOGRAPHY: States and their capitals, Continents, Countries and their capitals,

64. ABOUT DIFFERENT CULTURES AND CUSTOMS

65. HOW TO FILL OUT A W2

66. PLAY AN INSTRUMENT ✅

67. DRIVE A MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLE

68. HOW TO SET UP A TENT

69. HOW TO COOK ON A GRILL AND CAMPFIRE

70. HOW TO PARALLEL PARK

71. HOW TO PRESERVE FOOD

72. HOW TO BAKE BREAD AND MAKE BISCUITS

73. HOW TO BE DETAIL ORIENTED AND IMPROVE MEMORY SKILLS: Taking notice of details in every situation, memorizing poems, scripture, and quotes

74. HOW TO USE POWER TOOLS

75. HOW TO DANCE

76. HOW TO RESEARCH AND MAKE THE RIGHT MEDICAL CHOICES

77. CONFIDENCE, HUMILITY, HUMBLENESS

78. HOW TO UNDERSTAND AND IMPROVE YOUR CREDIT SCORE

79. HOW TO APPLY FOR A LOAN

80. HOW TO INVEST YOUR MONEY

81. HOW TO BE FRUGAL, NOT STINGY OR CHEAP

82. HOW TO DO NON YOGA STRETCHES

83. AROMATHERAPY

84. NATURAL MEDICINE AND HEALING

85. PROPER SELF CARE AND HYGIENE

86. HOW TO TELL TIME ON AN ANALOG CLOCK

87. HOW TO WASH A CAR

88. INSURANCE: Car, Home Owners, Dental, Medical

89. HOW TO UNDERSTAND YOUR HOME’S BREAKER BOX AND HOW TO TURN OFF MAIN BREAKER AND MAIN WATER BREAKER: Also, how to turn off water under sinks and toilets. 

90. HOW TO PICK A LOCK: To be used in legal situations

91. HOW TO TIE A NECK TIE

92. HOW TO USE A LAWNMOWER

93. SOCIAL SKILLS: What to do if you have had too much to drink or think you have been drugged. 

94. HOW TO SHARPEN A KNIFE

95. COLLEGE, CAREER, AND FINANCIAL PLANNING

96. HOW TO SET UP UTILITIES

97. HOW TO PAY BILLS

98. HOW TO USE CHOPSTICKS

99. HOW TO SHAVE

100. HOW TO THROW A FOOTBALL, BASEBALL, AND BASKETBALL

101. BASIC SPORTS RULES

102. HOW TO SHUFFLE CARDS AND PLAY CARD GAMES

103. HUNTING SKILLS

104. HOW TO ROW A BOAT

105. HOW TO WHISTLE

106. HOW TO SHOVEL SNOW

107. HOW TO PLAY POOL

108. LAWN MAINTENANCE

109. CAR MAINTENANCE

110.  HOW TO SAFELY LIGHT A MATCH

111. HOW TO CREATE A GROCERY LIST AND COMPARE PRICES IN THE STORE

112. SIGN LANGUAGE

113. MILITARY ALPHABET

114. GREEK ALPHABET

115. ROMAN NUMBERALS

116. MORSE CODE

[blueweave8]

Gift Card Market Size, Growth, Analysis 2021-2026

According to a study conducted recently by the strategic consulting and market research firm BlueWeave Consulting, the global gift card market was worth USD 382.2 billion in 2020and is further projected to reach USD 851 billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 13.8% during the forecast period (2021-2026). The demand for gift cards is increasing due to the increase in the number of special occasions and the rising popularity of the gifting culture. Moreover, the sales of gift cards increase at an exorbitant rate during festivals and special days, such as Birthdays, Father's Day, Mother's Day, etc. Additionally, many vendors are launching unique gift cards to stay ahead of the curve. Numerous entertainment corporations are also teaming up with technology solutions providers to launch e-gift cards to be used across major online and retail marketplaces.

Partial Redemption Feature Motivating Consumers to Opt for Gift Cards

Nowadays, consumers prefer participating in loyalty programs to earn gift cards as rewards. They could use the prepaid value of these cards to make a purchase later. Consumers generally use gift cards as a budgeting tool as they prefer making purchases that are equal to the amount available on the card instead of paying anything extra out of their pockets. This is the key factor encouraging consumers to opt for gift cards. Furthermore, some outlets also offer deals on gift cards for their regular customers. On the purchase of a gift card, a bonus gift card of a lesser amount is offered, which in turn helps drive customer satisfaction. According to First Data’s U.S. Prepaid Consumer Insights, 68% of the consumers expressed that gift cards are their preferred form of incentive, with coupons and bonus bucks trailing behind. According to Paycorp, a partnership with a complementary business could help expand the services or products offered to customers, resulting in a win-win situation for all parties involved-- increased sales for the businesses and discounted prices for the customer.

Usage of Gift Cards as Promotional Tool Remains Mainstay of Key Players

The prominent strategy of players in the gift card market involves the usage of gift cards as promotional tools for their companies. Moreover, the players are indulged in partnerships with other companies to provide offers on their products by the means of gift cards. This strategy has supported the companies to increase their sales in terms of volume. In 2019, InComm Company, in partnership with Razer Inc., launched Google Play gift cards in Malaysia, making the product available at nearly 2,250 7-Eleven stores across Malaysia. Also, in 2019, CashStar, Inc. launched the Interactive Gift Card Platform, which has registered novel growth opportunities for market players. Companies including Uno Chicago Grill, Gorham Bike & Ski, and Travelocity Incentives are majorly involved in offering interactive gift cards via the CashStar platform. The demand for gift cards is expected to expand as players are concentrating more on introducing a lottery card.

E-Portal (Online) Distribution Channel has the Largest Share in Global Gift Card Market

The e-portal (online) distribution channel accounts for 32.95% of the share in the global gift card market. The increased use of smartphones, coupled with more affordable data plans, is boosting m-Commerce adoption, which in turn is driving the growth of the gift card market. Consumers are increasingly downloading mobile apps, including Amazon, Flipkart, and eBay for online shopping as they provide the ability to navigate more quickly and easily make purchases on-the-go, thereby, multiplying the number of consumers making purchases online. For instance: According to survey data from 1,182 U.S. stores that use Rise.ai Inc.’s re-engagement software, the U.S. retailers sold 114% additional digital gift cards in the third quarter of 2020 compared with Q3 2019. Additionally, the revenue from selling the digital gift cards increased 65% year over year in Q3, according to Rise.ai, which assists retailers to manage gift cards, referrals, refunds & loyalty programs.

Global Gift Card Market: By Region

Based on the region, the gift card market has been segmented into North America, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. North America is likely to have the fastest growth in the global gift card market over the forecast period. North America is at the immobility stage due to the presence of large numbers of companies in the region. Additionally, growing urbanization, higher per capita income, and demand in the corporate sector in developing countries like China and India are fueling the overall growth of the global gift card market.

Competitive Landscape

New players have a much lower chance of succeeding in this market space given the high capital investment required to enter the industry. Some of the leading players in the global gift card market are Amazon, iTunes (Apple Inc.), Google Play (Alphabet Inc.), Starbucks, Walmart, National Gift Card Corp., QwikCilver Solutions Private Limited, Sodexo, Zara, Best Buy, JCB Giftcard, Givex Corporation, Yiftee, TenderCard, RollerSoftware, GiftFly LLC, and other prominent players.

[sandjsbeachbumbonanza]

Day 101 – Zanzibar

We woke up at 4:30am to meet Dona so we could catch our 8am flight to Zanzibar. It was a quick and easy ride to the airport. However, there was lots of security and we were forced to trolley our bags about a quarter of a mile on rough, unevenly paved road. The staff at Uganda Airlines was actually very nice and very efficient. They even walked us from check-in to the lounge.

The lounge was one of the better lounges we’d been in and had great food. S had a chicken salad sandwich, a mini pizza and a veggie samosa. J had hardboiled eggs and watermelon. The staff also kept our drinks filled without even asking. The WiFi was faster than the WiFi in our former London flat. When it was time to board, the gate attendant came to escort us to the gate. The plane was a brand new Bombardier CRJ-900, with engines in the back, so it was a very quiet flight. As we were the only ones drinking white wine, at some point a flight attendant came by and asked if he could leave the bottle with us. We did not say no.

The flight was just under 2 hours. Getting through passport control was fairly easy, though we had to fill out an unexpected landing card and show our yellow fever vaccination certificates to be allowed in to Tanzania. We met the Park Hyatt driver and headed out. It was then that J realised she left her important documents at passport control. Figuring there was a high chance we would never see these documents again, we headed back to the airport. J and the driver went into the airport and found a lady who tirelessly went around the airport until she tracked down J’s documents. Apparently a good Samaritan turned them in, rather than stealing them. We got very lucky.

The Park Hyatt is housed in a building that was formerly many other things, including the English Polo Club of Zanzibar. It is reasonably modern and nice. Our room looks out over the city and it’s a very nice room up to Hyatt standards. There is a famous mango tree in the hotel grounds. It is over 100 years old and still produces mangoes.

After we checked in, Nelson in Concierge came to our room to discuss the activities that are available through the hotel. He said that between 85% and 95% of the people here are Muslim. After getting to know us and J’s proclivity for pork products, he admitted that he is Christian, and knows where to find pork if J wants some.

After a bit of rest, we went on a 3-hour walking tour of the city. Zanzibar is an archipelago and has two main islands: Unguja, where we are staying, and Pemba. It has such an interesting history. At one point, the Sultan of Oman moved the capital from Muscat to Zanzibar and it is still heavily influenced by Omani culture. In 1890, Zanzibar became a British protectorate, but continued to be under the sovereignty of the Sultan of Zanzibar. In 1964, the Sultan was deposed and fled to Portsmouth, England. Zanzibar is now an autonomous region of Tanzania and it has its own presidents and two vice presidents. It joined together with Tanganyika (the mainland) in 1964 to form Tanzania.

Zanzibar was also the main port for the East African slave trade. It is horrific to understand what the Africans, Indians and Arabs did to the people. We learned that although slavery was officially banned here in 1873 by the Zanzibar Sultan following the advocacy of David Livingstone and pressure from England, the slave trade continued underground until 1919. We even visited former slave holding chambers at the former slave market, which is now an Anglican church. The conditions were worse than you could imagine.

The city is influenced by the different cultures that have left their mark here. Old town Stonetown (the capital of Zanzibar) is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Many buildings had a unique building material called ‘coral rock’, which is made of actual coral. To keep with the building standards, any renovations or rebuilds must be consistent with the original materials used. This means some less fortunate Zanzibarians have to leave their homes and sell them to wealthier people so they can be renovated using original materials. Many of the streets are very narrow with small shops all around. There are multiple markets where people try to sell you nuts, casava chips, fruits, vegetables, fish, meat and spices. Two little boys even tried to let J play with some small, pet monkeys. Unfortunately, we did not have any cash at the time, so we begged off.

One of the main attractions, the House of Wonders, was closed because part of the building collapsed recently, resulting in a few casualties. It is called the House of Wonders because it was the first building in Zanzibar to have electricity, a water tank and a lift. It was gifted to Zanzibar by the English to commemorate the abolition of slavery.

Last, but not least, we stopped at the former house of Freddie Mercury, AKA Farrokh Bulsara. He was born and grew up in Zanzibar, but moved with his family to England after the Zanzibar Sultan was deposed. We got to see a copy of his birth certificate.

After the tour, we sat outside at the hotel bar looking over the waterfront, for a few drinks and casava chips.

We spent some time considering where to eat dinner. The most ‘local’ and authentic restaurant here is strictly Muslim and does not allow any alcohol. We therefore looked for other options. One restaurant, Six Degrees South Grill & Wine Bar, was recommended to us as it serves some Zanzibari dishes, but is also tourist friendly. We couldn’t find the current menu online, so they brought it to us on the veranda of the Park Hyatt. We decided it was fine as there were two Zanzibari dishes on the menu.

One of the hotel employees walked us to the restaurant. It was only a 5-minute walk, but because the streets aren’t marked here, it’s easy to get lost. We were surprised to see that the place was packed with tourists. We haven’t been to a restaurant that busy since Rishi Sunak’s Eat out to Help Out programme was going on in London.

J had the chicken breast with mango couscous and S had the grilled kingfish in a tomato and coconut sauce with chapati. The food was fine, and reasonably priced. The first bottle of wine we picked out, a Pinot Grigio, was undrinkable, so we ordered a second bottle, a rosé. The server recommended it saying it was a popular choice. It was a struggle to get down, but we managed.

We made the short walk back to the hotel. S went to the bar for a nightcap and J went to sleep early. S spoke to a group of 5 Koreans and asked them how they managed to get out of Korea in the current circumstances. It turns out they work in Africa and hadn’t been back to Korea during COVID.