#fruits and vegetables online market

[familygarden25]

Say goodbye to long grocery store queues and handpick your favorite veggies with just a few clicks. Our platform offers a wide array of locally sourced, high-quality produce, ensuring that you receive the best nature has to offer.

[wholesalefriutsvegetables]

[aarunresearcher]

The United States halal food market size reached USD 668.7 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 1,538.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% during 2025-2033.

[seoltzuki]

Delivery!

momo x fem reader

fluff

Weekly Momo deliveries and you just want a little sweet treat!

a/n: based from a true story (I didn’t kiss the delivery person though, but we are very good friends now) wait kiss? oops spoiler! also this used to be on my ao3

hbd momo ily!

Every Monday, you wait for the knock on your door, signaling the arrival of your weekly supply of fresh fruits and vegetables from the local farmers market. You’d heard about the service from Tzuyu, who swore by the convenience and quality.

Before your first delivery, you had already made a little request in the online order form: “send a sweet treat, surprise me.” It was a tiny change to break up your predictable and mundane schedule.

Just a little something new!

Your first meeting with Momo, the delivery person, was something. You opened the door, eyes still crusty from sleep, and there she was: rolled-up sleeves, a half-up hairdo, and cute glasses framing her face.

“Oh, hey! Didn’t expect—uh, someone like y-”

She flashed a smile that could rival the sun. “Hi! I’m Momo! Hope the surprise is a good one!” she said, raising the bag higher to your face, her muscles working and showing.

You caught a glimpse in the bag: a pack of gummies poking out the top. “This is exactly what I needed. Thank you so much!”

Momo chuckled and shrugged. “Glad you like it! I’ll be sure to keep them coming. Have a nice day!”

With that, she left, but you couldn’t stop smiling. From that Monday on, your exchanges became something you looked forward to. Momo started adding a different treat each time, a little touch of sweet mixed into your groceries.

Mondays slowly turned into mini-breaks from life’s usual grind, and Momo would show up each week with her easygoing charm. You’d chat about the weather, exchange stories from your week, and laugh over the oddities that ended up in the produce bag. Once, Momo brought you an alien-looking fruit neither of you could identify, sparking a lively debate over how one might even begin to eat it.

One Monday, Momo didn’t show up. Instead, her replacement named Jihyo knocked on your door. And of course you asked,

“Momo doing okay?”

“She’s fine, just a bit under the weather,” Jihyo replied with a smile. “But she wanted to make sure I didn’t skip your sweet.” She handed over your bag, complete with a box of chocolates and a handwritten note: “Caught a cold. I’m fine—don’t worry. And here’s the weekly treat ;)”

In that moment, you realized it wasn’t just about the fruits and sweets anymore—it was more. The connection Momo had brought to each delivery, her attention, her care...

Her, her, her.

Each Monday after that was a little brighter. One week, Momo handed you a box of caramels, a playful gleam in her eye. “Going for extra sugar today. Hope you’re up for it.”

You giggled, “I trust your judgment. You're somehow always right.”

Momo grinned. “Hey, maybe I have a hidden talent for matching snacks to people’s moods. Or just giving the right treat to the prettiest person I know.”

Your small talk gradually gave way to deeper conversations. She’d share stories from the market—the quirky customers, the hectic mornings, the occasional disasters with fresh produce. You found yourself opening up too, laughing about the oddest things in your week, discussing favorite candies and ridiculous fruit facts.

One rainy Monday, she handed over the bag with a selection of comfort sweets: chocolates, marshmallows, the works. “Rainy days call for the good stuff,” she said simply, and you couldn’t help but feel seen.

Loved, maybe?

Another Monday, Momo told you about a local festival coming up. “They’ve got some amazing desserts there. Maybe you’d want to check it out?”

It sounded like a nice change of pace. So of course you agreed.

And of course you'd say yes to the cutest girl you've ever met.

When the day of the festival came, you ended up meeting Momo there, navigating the crowded stalls and sampling all the treats. At one point, she turned to you. “You know, it feels like I’ve known you forever, and it’s only been, what, a few months?”

You nodded. “Honestly, Mondays have started feeling like a whole separate world. All because of you Momo, thank you.” you whispered, linking your pinky with hers.

You didn't miss the way she blushed.

In the weeks that followed, you found yourself waiting eagerly for those Monday and the possibility of other shared moments beyond the doorstep. Then, one sunny Monday, Momo brought you a small potted plant.

“I thought your place could use a touch of green. Plus, plants are like natural mood boosters, right?”

Touched, you accepted the gift, realizing it was more than just a plant—it symbolized something more.

One day, as you sat together on your cozy couch, Momo turned to you with a soft smile. “You know, you’ve made my Mondays something to look forward to. It’s not just about the deliveries—it’s about you.”

You felt a flutter in your chest and met Momo's gaze. She looked so sickeningly cute, her glasses slightly crooked, her cheeks flushed red and puffed up.

The words hung in the air with hearts beating faster and butterflies flying harder.

Before you could respond, Momo’s hand gently cupped your cheek, her warm fingers brushing against your skin, sending a shiver down your spine. She leaned in slowly, her lips meeting yours—soft, warm, tentative at first, then pressing with a little more certainty. The gentle pressure of her mouth against yours deepened as you both leaned closer, letting the moment linger.

When she pulled back, Momo gave you a small, shy smile, her nose scrunching up in that familiar way. “I really like you, Y/N.”

Her other hand slipped to the back of your neck, her fingertips tracing lightly along your skin, pulling you closer as her lips found yours again. This kiss was warm, unhurried.

“I like you so much.”

Another kiss.

Mondays would then never be the same, they’d be even better.

[justadeadreaper]

Calling König's toddlers picky eaters is the understatement of the century, if there ever was one. The word picky does not even describe how abhorrent his children are when it comes to eating food. Unlike their father, who will virtually eat anything you put in front of him no matter if it is burnt or decayed due to how he was brought up with food being a limited supply, so he is just happy to eat for once (for context on how horrific be one time you found a whole ecosystem in a bowl in his fridge that smelt like complete rot and he said it was still fine to eat), they will refuse anything and if you dare bring new foods around them expect it to be thrown onto the floor. For weeks on end, they will refuse any other food but their current fixation, then randomly, their little minds decide one day that the food is now their greatest enemy and will refuse to eat it and anything else until they find their next fixation. 

The foods they always like? The main ones are any type of fish or meat that was fried or breaded, cheese, or anything made of potatoes, cream, bread, pasta, and strawberries. The foods they always hate? The obvious ones, like most toddlers their age, are vegetables and fruits, but their hate list also includes anything new, slimy, or that smells or looks slightly off.

Given how picky they can be, König has had to become creative in getting them to eat a healthy diet.

Luckily, with having a well-paid job, a dodgy side hustle/”hobby”, and enough savings to make an average person have a heart attack König can afford to be able to get creative when he is cooking for his darlings. He will spend hours upon hours searching online for recipes and then perfecting them to make sure that the taste of vegetables will be unrecognisable so that they will finally eat them. No matter how hard or time-consuming it is, he continues to do it just because he knows it is the best for his toddlers and he can have nothing but the best for the lights of his life. After enough tests and trials with having his toddlers be his taste testers, he realised what worked best and spent thousands upon thousands of euros to get the equipment to continue doing this.

The first step König makes to put his big plan into action is to make deals with some local farmers and fishers at the market in one of the nearby villages or towns who will drop off fresh produce like meat, vegetables, fruits, grain, and dairy products for him and his kids to eat and in return, he pays them highly for both dropping off the food and giving him some of the best product. He also pays a few to help him set up his own mini farm in his garden so that he can grow a few things himself and with his toddlers so they appreciate their food more as they know where it comes from (if anyone is interested, I can expand on this idea). His next step is to order cookie cutters online, whether they be ones he had to have custom-made or ones he just found randomly when scrolling on some shopping site he had the recruits recommend him; the reason why he decides to order them is because he realised that his toddlers are more likely to eat their food or try new food if it is themed around their interests. 

And, his final step is to redo his entire kitchen from the stove to the sinks to the fridge (he decides to get two double fridges rather than the single one he had before) while getting more utensils that are not the normal things like a spatula or grater as they are more appliances like food mixer for baking or a slow cooker or a rice cooker until his kitchen was full of cooking equipment. He had brought everything he could think of and that others at KorTac or online had recommended, even if it was over the top and had cost him tens of thousands of euros, but his children were worth it all, even if it was a bit of a sink in his pocket.

With his set-up complete and recipes at hand, König can begin cooking for his picky eaters. Due to his toddlers’ preference for fried food such as chicken nuggets, he will put the chicken through the grinder himself to make a paste into which he can put chopped vegetables such as onions, peppers, corn, or mushrooms into which he can then season and bread after using the cookie cutters to make special shapes such as dinosaurs or shark or stars or rockets, it just depends on his what his toddlers’ interests are. He makes tiny edits to most of the recipes, since he prefers to make the components by hand, to make them healthier so that his toddlers have all the nutrients they need so they do not suffer like he did as a child where certain nutrients were neglected in favour of others. König will then spend hours in the kitchen preparing his meals, never letting his toddlers see his crafty tricks that get them to be healthy, which he will then serve to them like it is their regular food.

Examples of the displays of main dishes he puts together for his toddlers are fried fish in the shape of sharks with vegetables cut out in the shape of fish and potatoes that look like coral as it is plated on a water/ocean-themed plate if the toddler’s interest is sharks or a mashed potato volcano with a broccoli forest and vegetable shavings grass with dinosaur nuggets running away as it is plated on a forest-themed plate if the toddler’s interest is dinosaurs or vegetable shavings grass with chicken nuggets in the shape of bunnies with potato fries in the shape of Easter eggs or carrots as it is plated on a grassland-themed plate if the toddler’s interest is bunnies as Miffy has been getting extremely popular or alien shaped chicken or fish nuggets with mashed potato meteors, vegetables shaped into planets or stars, and one massive fry in the shape of a rocket as it is placed on a galaxy-themed plate if the toddler’s interest is the stars and space. Normally, the main dishes will come with a side of any food group he does not add to the main dish, or it may be extras he thinks his toddlers will like but wants them to control the amount they have, like a mixture of cheese he shredded or others vegetables he cut up that they can use to break up their main meal or a fresh bun he had brought.

While the examples of desserts and snacks he makes for his toddlers are milk bread sandwiches with a filling of cream, jam, and fruits that are cut into any shapes his toddlers want that day, or he will use an ice cream machine he brought to make a more healthy version of ice cream that he will sneak more fruits into that he thinks will match the flavour (such as strawberries and blueberries or peaches added into vanilla ice cream or bananas added into vanilla ice cream) with frozen or dried fruit shavings as a topping or a snack they can chew on in the middle of the day or tiny, or little cupcakes filled with fruit pieces and topped with homemade cream that can fit into their tiny little hands as he uses cut up fruits to add features such as spines or bunny ears or marshmallows with details on like stars or paw prints or specially shaped pancakes that are decorated with fruits and whipped cream to give details to make it look like their interests like dinosaurs or cats.

But this is not everything. With the countless recipes he has, he can make countless displays so that his toddlers are never bored. He may substitute one ingredient for another if he wants his children to try new foods or if he wants to change the taste slightly to stop boredom. He may substitute and swap options for new variety or when he thinks his kids are lacking, as he just wants to make sure they are healthy and try any food possible.

[breelandwalker]

Harvest Moon - September 17 2024

Grab your canning supplies and your favorite cider mug - it’s time for the Harvest Moon!

Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon is the name given to the full moon which occurs closest to the autumnal equinox. It does not matter whether the moon occurs before or after the equinox or in which month it falls. In some years, this means the Harvest Moon may occur in October, in which cause the September moon might go by the name of Corn Moon or Rice Moon, depending on where you are.

In 2024, the Harvest Moon falls once more in the month of September and this year, it's also a supermoon! However, in 2025, the September moon will come early in the month, making it a Corn Moon. The Harvest Moon that year will be in early October.

The September moon is particularly beloved by farmers in the Northern Hemisphere, as it rises earlier and shines brighter than other full moons due to the relative angle of the Earth in relation to the moon during the equinox, which is helpful for lighting up the tail end of those long work days. In addition, the Harvest Moon may also appear full for multiple nights, providing additional illumination for labor or evening strolls. As such, while the peak of the Harvest Moon will occur at 10:34pm EST on September 17th, it may also appear to be full the night before and after.

Other North American Indigenous names for the September moon include a number of variations of the aforementioned Corn Moon (used by numerous nations), such as Corn Maker Moon (Abenaki), Corn Harvest Moon (Dakota), and Corn Is Harvested Moon (Zuni). Other names refer to seasonal changes or animal behavior, such as Autumn Moon (Cree), Falling Leaves Moon (Ojibwe), Leaves Turning Moon (Anishinaabe), and Rutting Moon (Cree). Some European and modern pagan names for the September moon include Barley Moon (Old English), Singing Moon (Celtic), and Fruit Moon (general).

What Does It Mean For Witches?

As autumn begins, we continue to reap what we’ve sown over the course of the year. It’s a time to pause and reflect on what we’ve accomplished, let go of any unnecessary burdens we’re still carrying, and focus on taking care of hearth and home for the cold months ahead. Now is a good time to do one last clutter purge or finish those repairs you’ve been putting off all summer!

Change is in the air as well, and transformations begun earlier in the year will burst into vibrant life. Just as the flowers bloom in spring, the leaves turn in the fall, and those of us who come alive in the autumn will start to fell that zing coming back.

Community also comes back into focus during harvest time, both because of the sharing of resources and the accompanying start of the school year. Take a moment to reinforce positive and supportive connections with friends and neighbors, or reach out to your local or online circle to strengthen existing bonds.

This a time of great abundance, especially with the supermoon full in the sky, so if you’ve been meaning to draw any kind of increase into your life, take steps to do so now. Harness that Harvest Moon energy to help carry you through the lean times in comfort and plenty.

What Witchy Things Can We Do?

This is the time for feasting, bonfires, and outdoor gatherings. September and October will give us a few more warm weeks before the weather turns cold and rainy, so make the most of it! Have a potluck supper with a menu made of everyone’s favorite seasonal recipes. Visit a local farmer’s market and bring home that fresh seasonal produce. Thank the earth for the bounty it provides and renew your promise to be a good steward of the land where you live.

Technically, this is the second “harvest” moon of the year, since the harvest of most seasonal crops began back in August with wheat and corn and late summer fruits. The harvest of corn and grain continues into September and is joined by additional late-season fruits and vegetables, the most iconic of which is the annual apple crop.

Apple-picking is easily my favorite autumn activity and it’s fantastic way to get outdoors, get some fresh air, and come home with tasty produce for uses both mundane and magical. From cider to applesauce to pies, apples are delightfully versatile. They also feature in a number of folk traditions and party games which double as divination rituals.

Continue your preparations for winter by canning or preserving fresh foods, hanging harvested herbs and flowers to dry, or refreshing your stocks of moon water and magical oils. Make your own magical brews using a stock pot as a cauldron and soups, stews, punch, cider, and mulled wine as your potions. Kitchen witches, your time is NOW!

Wear the colors of the season boldly and revel in all the gifts you’ve received and joys you’ve experienced so far this year. If you’ve been particularly blessed, pay it forward to share the bounty with others. Reflect on everything you’ve accomplished, celebrate your progress, and maybe set one or two small goals for the end of the year.

And since the decorations are already appearing in stores, start stocking up for Halloween!

Happy Harvest Moon, witches! 😊🍎

Further Reading:

Additional Lunar Calendar posts

Secular Celebrations - Autumn Equinox

Harvest Moon, The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

What Is The Harvest Moon?, The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

September 2024 Harvest Full Moon: Secrets to Seize Its Magic, The Peculiar Brunette.

Full Moon 2025 Calendar, Full Moonology.

Everyday Moon Magic: Spells & Rituals for Abundant Living, Dorothy Morrison, Llewellyn Publications, 2004.

(If you’re enjoying my content, please feel free to drop a little something in the tip jar or check out my published works on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop. 😊)

Image Credit - Plantura, Red Moon Apple.

[holylulusworld]

Every Breath you take (21)

Summary: There is a shadow following you. He doesn’t know what he got himself into.

Pairing: Stalker!Bucky Barnes x fem!Reader

Warnings: a man out of time, secret admirer trope, “crazy” reader, fluff, domestic life

A/N: You all made me do it! Here’s the series to this random idea: Stalker Bucky & Crazy Reader

Catch up here: Every Breath you take (20)

Every Breath You Take Masterlist

Three months later, you and Bucky found a rhythm, literally. You’re slow dancing together, swaying to one of his favorite songs. Resting your head against his chest, you close your eyes and let Bucky guide your body.

Dancing aside, you found a rhythm to follow for your future together.

Trust is the key. You promised each other to have faith in your relationship. Bucky and you are in this together.

Maybe you started your relationship the crazy way, but this doesn’t mean it won’t last. His obsession and your level of devotion match.

You sigh, remembering all the nights you spent tangled in each other over the last months, as you sway.

“Doll, are you hungry?” Bucky murmurs, bringing you out of your daydreams. You place your head on his chest, smiling as you can hear his heartbeat. “We could have a snack, or do you want to cook together?”

You blink your eyes open and lift your head from his chest. “Hmmm…” you nod and rest your head back against his chest. “We could cook together again. Maybe we won’t burn it this time.”

“That wasn’t my fault,” he chuckles. “You distracted me with your wandering hands. How can a man resist if you call him sweet names and touch him like you do?

You giggle. Bucky is putty in your hands, and you love it. Both of you touch-starved to an extent; you can’t keep your hands to yourself most of the time.

Maybe it’s only the honeymoon phase, but you believe it’s more than this. Bucky and you are meant to be together; you just know it.

“We have the vegetables from the farmer’s market, chicken, and lots of cheese. Let’s look online if we find a good recipe.”

“You forgot the plums,” Bucky teases because you love to steal his favorite fruits. “Lots of them, baby doll. We can eat them for dessert.”

“Oh, I found a nice recipe for a plum cobbler with whipped cream. It sounds deliciously, Bucky. We could try to make it too. It’s not hard to make.”

“Do not forget, we are beginners,” Bucky jokes. “We don’t want to burn down the house.” He chuckles when you look up at him and stick your tongue out. “Last time you ended up burning the dishtowel.”

“That was an accident,” you point out. “Accidents happen, Bucky. Especially in the kitchen. We have to be more careful while cooking from now on. No distractions this time.”

“No more distractions,” Bucky nuzzles your hair. “I promise to not fall for you. I’ll focus on cooking, not my sexy girlfriend. He gropes your ass with both hands and purrs your name. “Let’s find a recipe, doll.”

“Wow! We made it,” Bucky hums while happily tasting the food you made. It doesn’t look bad. “Hmm... the cheesy chicken and vegetable pasta bake recipe you found is great.”

“I knew you’d like it.” You smile happily. Cooking with Bucky was fun. He even cracked a joke and told you a little more about his past. Mostly from his childhood, and how he loved to watch his mom cook. “We should do this more often.”

Bucky smiles. This is exactly what he had dreamed of for so long—sharing his life with someone he loves and filling the home he built with love.

All he misses is a little one running around your home. There is plenty of time to talk about children with you, too. For now, he must be patient and wait for the right time to ask you to have his child.

He’ll propose first, of course. Bucky is still a gentleman out of time. He won’t fill you with his baby without putting a ring on your finger.

“I’m so full,” you say, and rub your belly. “I bet that’s how you feel when pregnant.” You pat your belly, giggling. “What do you think, Buck?”

Bucky stares at your belly. He licks his lips, imagining you all swollen with his child. Something else stirs in his belly than hunger—or rather, a different kind of hunger. “You think so?” His voice is a little rougher when he looks at you. “Do you think you’ll like feeling a baby inside your belly?”

“Bucky,” you purr his name. You crook your finger to lure him in. “Do you want to have a baby one day?”

“Yeah—” he husks. “So bad. I can see you all swollen, breasts leaking milk. I’d rub your belly while…”

You whimper and shift in your seat. “Uh—we don’t have to have one right now, but…” You smirk and pucker your lips. “I’d like you to breed me tonight…”

Next: Every Breath You Take (22)

Tags in reblog.

[anne-the-witch-ish]

Where to find witchcraft materials in Brazil

(without being SCAMED)

When i started learning about witchcraft, one of the first problems i run into was acess to materials. I knew their names, what they should look like, but had no clue where to go to buy. The first time i entered a Esoteric store i was blown away for two reasons:one, everything was beautifull; two, everything was expansive.

Online, most the resources i find are in english and for EUA and Europe. So I've decided to make this post listing some palces in brazil, where we brazilian witches can find tools and materials for our craft.

*All images are from google as an exemple of how these places might look like, but their apparece can change from state-to-state.

Casas de religião (Religious houses)

These places sell iteams used in Quimbanda and Ubanda practices, but not only that. You see: candles, incense and herbs can also be found there. As well as incense holders, statues and more. Of course we aren't going to pick up things from closed practices, we know that much! But we there is a lot in the casas de religião that we can use.

Mercadão

The mercadão usually exists in big cities (like são paulo e porto alegre), and i love it. Is where i bought most of my stuff, like candles, herbs, and the pilão(an wood tool used to smash and grind herbs). The nice thing in the Mercadão is that there are multiple stores within it, like a mall but cheaper. So inside we can find a couple casas de religião, general nature stores, etc. If you are also looking for fruits, vegetables and fresh fish, this is your spot!

Feira (fair)

The feira usually happens once a week, in a set spot, and they sell local grown fruits and vegetables. Besides selling the best pastel you will ever eat, you might just be lucky enough to find some herbs that you can use in your craft.

But there are also the "fairas para turistas", which are a bit more tricky. In there you can find a bunch of different things: antique items, old books, and crystals. The thing is that because these places are more for tourists, they tend to be more expensive.

Loja de tudo 10 ("Everything is 10 bucks" store, would be our dolla tree or equivalent)

Once called loja de 1,99, these stores ware the og shain and amazon for brazilians. We know the stuff there is bad quality, but it is soo cheap too! In there you gotta focus on finding tools (scissors, knifes, plates), offering bowls, and incense! All my incense are from these stores, they have some very unique smells, but i like it.

O Supermercado (The supermarket)

If it all fails, go to your local supermarket in brazil. It will sell some white candels and comun herbs too. We have the small local markets, and also the big supermarket chains. Usually, the local small supermarkets sell the same thing from the big chains, but cheaper.

EXTRAS:

Sebos

Do you want to find some witchcraft books, but don't want to give money to bezos? Then try the Sebos, second hand bookstores that might have what you want. The thing is that they are much like gambling, so it depends a lot on luck. However, even if you don't find what you are lookign for, i bet you will find some other cool book to take home with you

Floriculturas

The flower shops sell, well flowers (and valantine's day gifts,too), but not only. Its there where you will find some herbs to plant in your garden, if you want to keep one! You can also find the alive herb to buy in the casas de religião e nos mercadões.

[pareidoliaonthemove]

Where's Mine?

It was a blessed break in rescues, and Virgil was taking the opportunity to restock his personal snack stashes.

The most important ones would be in Thunderbird Two – both in the cockpit and cunningly secured in the various pod bodies. Rescues could be both arduous and time-consuming, and there was rarely the chance for a proper meal. Their ‘official’ ration bars and packs were all well and good, but each of the Tracys had their own preferences.

Scott’s personal snack stashes were aboard Thunderbird One (and Thunderbird Two, Virgil had found them – and occasionally ‘appropriated’ part as a ‘transport tax’). And were, unsurprisingly, apple-pie themed. Apple-pie flavoured protein bars, apple-pie flavoured cakes, apple-pie flavoured chewing gum, apple-pie flavoured fruit/custards, and one time, even mini-apple-pies in a cold box.

Gordon’s snacks were his ubiquitous Celery Crunch Bars, a left-over from his calorie-controlled Olympic training diet. The noxious green bars (as well as their wrappers and crumbs) occupied Thunderbird Four – and Thunderbird Two. Gordon didn’t bother trying to hide his snack stash – nobody else would eat the disgusting things. And that went double for his ‘cheese’ spray cans.

John’s ‘stash’ was no secret. Thunderbird Five’s kitchen pantry was filled to bursting with bagels – and chocolate. Grandma had long despaired of the astronaut’s diet, and had threatened – numerous times – to blockade John’s supply line and only allow whole fruits and vegetables into orbit. John’s vowed retribution of stopping production of her precious soap operas quickly shut down any attempts to interfere with his diet.

Alan’s snacks were a diabetic crisis waiting to happen. High energy, high sugar snacks graced Thunderbird Three (and Thunderbird Two – Virgil was beginning to think his precious ‘Bird was considered as little more than a mobile snack shack), a rotating roster of brands as Brandon ‘The Bear’ Berringer lost and gained new sponsors. The only exception was the venerable ‘Spaceman Food’, based on NASAs food rations in the early days of manned space exploration.

All the brothers had gone through a phase of hoovering up the highly processed ‘snacks’. Virgil had a memory of insisting that his father eat them constantly – thinking that they were what he ate in space, and not wanting his father to be ‘unhappy’ on Earth. Jeff, whose orbital diet was much better than those early pioneers’, choked down the bars to humour his son. Lucy had finally taken pity on her husband, and convinced Virgil’s younger self that when he was in space his father missed ‘Earth food’, but couldn’t take it into space, so when at home he should be left to eat the same as the rest of the family.

Virgil’s own snacks tended to be more varied. Although there was a definite trend towards coffee-flavours, it wasn’t exclusive. At various times, there could be pre-packaged cakes and cookies, protein bars, dried fruits, chocolates, and various sweets. An outbreak of pilfering from Virgil’s stash had been combated by the inclusion of chocolate-covered grasshoppers, candied ants, and meal-worms with various chip flavours. All of which hadn’t been too bad, Virgil thought. His brothers’ disgust was misplaced, food was food, after all. And good food was good.

And Virgil liked trying new things, so he scoured the online market places for small businesses with interesting, shelf-stable snacks to compliment his tried and true favourites. As he sat on his bedroom floor with the various boxes and containers around him, he was pleased with the assortment this time.

He was sharing out the various incoming supplies to boxes to replenish his various snack stashes. Thunderbird Two – the Pods – his Workshop in the Hangars – Studio – and his ‘Official’ stash in the Villa’s pantry.

The klaxon blared, and John’s hologram popped up. “International Rescue, we have a situation.”

Virgil jumped up, grabbed a box at random, and hurried out of the room.

The situation was in Cairo, a massive sinkhole had opened up beneath four residential blocks of flimsy high-rise buildings at approximately breakfast time. The death toll was massive even before International Rescue had been contacted. All that was left to them was to stabilise the edges to prevent it enlarging beyond the six blocks it had consumed by the time International Rescue had taken control of the Danger Zone, before trying to extract the pathetic few lifesigns before they too blinked from existence.

The heat was intense. It was now noon in the middle of the northern hemisphere’s summer, and the temperature had surpassed the 35 degree Celsius mark hours ago.

The air conditioning in the Pods were good, but it had its limits, and Virgil’s gecko pod had reached it over an hour ago. He was hot, tired, hungry, and still had hours of work to be done.

A moment of realisation had him reaching for a compartment built into the side of the pod body, where he had stashed a handful of the snacks he had brought with him.

Without looking he had fished one out, and brought up into his eyeline. It was a freeze dried ice-cream, a ‘Paddle-Pop’ which was apparently an ‘iconic’ Australian treat.

Virgil had had no idea what flavour ‘rainbow’ was supposed to be, but the concept had been intriguing, and he eagerly tore open the packet now, and, considering, decided to start at the top, sticking part of the treat into his mouth.

It was, he decided, a kind of bubblegum flavour, and the sweetness was welcome, even if he wasn’t convinced by the texture. It had a kind of chewy, gluggy marshmallow feel to it, and Virgil quickly decided that he would let it slowly dissolve in his mouth.

He wondered idly if he could break the remainder into bite-sized pieces for future use, as he refocused on what he was doing.

John’s hologram flared into life in front of him. “Virgil–” John performed a comic double-take as he saw the ice cream in Virgil’s mouth. “Uh, do you have an estimate for when we can commence retrieval operation?”

Virgil eyed his readouts, and performed a couple of quick mental calculations. “Another half to three quarter hour,” he said, pulling his snack from his mouth by its stick. “Alan will be able to start pulling large rubble out of the way with Thunderbird Two, Gordon and Scott can reconfigure the pods for gecko lift, and I’ll go in with my exo-suit. Local rescue to standby and receive victims and remains. We’ve just got to finish coating the bottom of the south-west sector.”

John nodded. “I’ll relay those instructions,” he promised, before giving Virgil another questioning look as the snack was stuffed back into his mouth.

Virgil was going to need a lot of energy, and fast.

An undetected weakness in a the section of the sinkhole that still had to be stabilised blew out Virgil’s projected timeline, and it was over an hour later before he climbed out of his pod in the relative coolness of Thunderbird Two’s module alongside Scott.

“Hey, Virgil! What config for the gecko lifts do you …” Scott’s voice trailed off at the sight of the ‘ice cream’ in Virgil's mouth, before deciding there were more important things to focus on. “Uh. Um. Should I set them up for claw or grapple?”

Once again, Virgil pulled the confectionery out of his mouth by the stick. “One of both to start with. If necessary, the other pod can be reconfigured, but until we start picking that mess apart, we won’t know for certain what we need.”

Scott nodded, and jogged over to the holographic controls, but not without giving Virgil a puzzled look as he shoved his treat a back into his mouth and headed towards his exo-suit.

The exo-suit was wrapped around him, locking into position, and he rolled his shoulders, stretching out before he started the physically intensive part of the rescue.

Jogging back towards the internal access, Virgil headed back to the cockpit, grunting in frustration when he couldn’t sit down wearing the exo-suit. He was going to be on his feet too long soon enough, and he would have liked to save whatever energy he could now.

Alan burst into the cockpit and beelined towards the pilots chair without acknowledging Virgil. Great. The kid was in a snit about being ‘left out’ again – Virgil sighed tiredly, Alan really should have learned by now that it wasn’t his age that had put him in the cockpit, it was his lack of specialisation in this type of rescue.

Alan triggered the comms even as he was adjusting the pilots seat. “Thunderbird 2 to Pods. Please update status.”

Scott’s voice came back immediately. “Thunderbird 2; Gecko Claw Pod. Clear.”

“Thunderbird 2; Gecko Grapple Pod. Clear.” Gordon chirped a handful of seconds later.

“FAB, Pods. Thunderbird 2 commencing lift off to take hover station above Danger Zone.”

Virgil was pleased to note Alan’s professional conduct over the comms. Maybe he had been wrong about the attitude? Maybe Alan was just tired.

“Thunderbird 2 in position. Standing by for extraction and to grab and lift designated targets.”

Alan cut the open comm line, before speaking again. “Alright, Virgil; where am I,” he glanced over his shoulder and started. The jolt went right down his arms and into Thunderbird 2’s control yoke, and she bucked enough that Virgil had to grab hold of the overhead grab bar to steady himself. “Shit, sorry. Um. Where am I dropping you off, Virgil?”

“Language,” Virgil said absently, once he had pulled his snack out of his mouth again. He glanced again at the holographic display of the top levels of the debris pile. “Right next to that two story chunk of apartment building in the centre. That’s my first priority location for search and rescue. That looks like it’ll have a high concentration of survivors.” He frowned. “I know solar power is better than any of the alternatives, but in a situation like this, it really messes with our close range sensors. I wish there was a way to remotely stop the battery discharge.”

Alan nodded. “Be careful. I don’t want to be digging you out again because your exo-suit shorted out with you in it.”

Virgil frowned. “Brains and I reworked the entire grounding system after that. It was a one in a billion chance.”

The little brother snorted. “Yeah, well, Scott had to make a supply run to the mainland for hair dye after that. I don’t wanna have to do the same.”

Virgil chuckled. “No chance, kiddo. You have to shave before you worry about that.”

He took two big bites of his treat, tucking the chunks into his cheeks hamster style before returning the snack to its package in his baldric, and setting his helmet in place and striding over to the floor hatch and locking his grasping claw onto the winch-fed safety line.

Alan double-checked their position. “Good to deploy, Exo-Suit.”

“FAB. Exo-Suit away.”

It was five, long, hot and dusty hours later when John finally called the rescue.

They hadn’t found anyone alive for the last three.

Virgil sighed as he hauled himself into Thunderbird Two’s pod to divest himself from the exo-suit.

No doubt there would be the usual recriminations. Why had they taken so long? Why had the spent the time shoring up the sides? Grieving families rarely understood that first the site had to be made safe for the rescuers. All they saw was people letting their loved ones die.

All they would see was the people who were supposed to save their loved ones flying away and leaving them.

Not all the missing had been accounted for.

Scott was going to have to pay PR another bonus after this one.

Virgil groaned as the weight of the exo-suit disappeared from around him, along with its support. It wouldn’t be the first time he hadn’t been able to stand upright once the framework had been removed from around him. He had learned quickly to leave his helmet on until after he knew he could stand upright.

It had taken a considerable bribe to buy John’s silence as to the exact cause of that broken nose.

Satisfied that he would remain upright, he removed his helmet, and took a deep breath. No matter how much Brains protested, the built-in filters gave the air a distinct taste, and it was a relief to breathe the fresh air of the module.

His stomach gave a growl as he stepped into the internal corridors leading to the cockpit. Virgil idly wondered if he could convince Scott to pick up some takeaway on his way back to the Island as he once again pulled the freeze-dried ice cream from his baldric and stuck it back in his mouth.

John was on the comms as he gained the cockpit. “...giving you a heads-up, Alan. Scott’s already told me to remote pilot Thunderbird One home. Given the duration and environmental conditions of this one, he doesn’t want to risk anyone flying alone. You’ll be taking shifts at the controls all the way back to Tracy Island.”

Alan snorted. “Yeah right. Scott and Virgil will have a hissy fight, Virgil will win ‘cause it’s his ‘Bird, Scott’ll sulk in the co-pilots seat, while Gordon and I are sent back to the bunks to ‘rest’, despite having done the least amount of physical work. Meanwhile, you’ll secretly have remote control and will be flying us home anyway.”

John smiled. “Maybe.”

Virgil flopped into one of the jumpsuits, shucking off his baldric and harness before pulling coverall uniform off his torso and tying the arms around his waist. “Nope,” he mumbled around the confectionery. “The Thunderbird Pilot you’re calling is not available. Please call again when he is conscious.”

Alan and John stared at him. “You okay, Virgil?” Alan asked, standing up to try feel Virgil’s forehead.

He batted the hand away. “Fine, Alan. Nothing that a good shower, a good meal, and a good sleep won’t fix. A good massage would be nice, too. Remember that place in Japan, Johnny?”

“I remember. The masseuse literally walked all over your back for an hour. I don’t know how you stand it. And don’t call me Johnny.” There was a question in John’s face as he considered Virgil. “Say, Vir–”

He was cut off as Scott stumbled into the cockpit to collapse groaning into a chair, followed by an altogether too energetic and bouncy Gordon who slammed, performing a comedic double-take when he noticed Virgil.

“What the seven seas, Big Guy? You have ice-cream and you’re not sharing? Dude, where’s mine? I thought these guys were kidding me! Where’d you even get ice-cream from, anyway?!”

Virgil closed his eyes as his three other brothers joined in on the chorus of questions and recriminations.

Maybe keep the freeze-dried ice creams for his studio in future.

Notes:

This one’s been sitting in my WIP pile for the last six months.

A co-worker had brought a freeze-dry set up and set up a little side-hustle selling freeze-dried snacks. I brought a packet of paddle-pops and amused myself at various loading sites, waiting a couple of hours and pulling out a freeze-dried icecream and sucking on it for the next four hours. In 40deg Celsius heat.

It’s the little things that make life worth living.

The standard disclaimers, I do not own Thunderbirds, either the TOS or CGI Series. (Although I do own copies on DVD.)

I do not do this for money, but for my own (in)sanity and entertainment.

[familygarden25]

From Farm to Table: Exploring the Benefits of Buying Organic Fruits and Vegetables Online

From Farm to Table: Exploring the Benefits of Buying Organic Fruits and Vegetables Online

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In today's fast-paced world, convenience is key. And what could be more convenient than having fresh, organic fruits and vegetables delivered straight to your doorstep? With the rise of online shopping, the farm-to-table movement has taken on a whole new meaning. Gone are the days of searching high and low for organic produce at crowded farmers markets or specialty stores. Now, with just a few clicks, you can have the highest quality, pesticide-free fruits and vegetables delivered to your home. But the benefits of buying organic online go beyond convenience. Not only are you supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint, but you're also nourishing your body with wholesome, nutrient-rich foods. In this article, we'll explore the advantages of buying organic fruits and vegetables online, and why it's a smart choice for both your health and the environment. So, let's dive in and discover the wonders of the farm-to-table movement in the digital age.

The Benefits of Organic Fruits and Vegetables

Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This means that when you buy organic, you can be confident that you are consuming produce that is free from harmful chemicals. Studies have shown that organic fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of nutrients, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds compared to conventionally grown counterparts. Organic farming practices also promote soil health and biodiversity, as they avoid the use of chemical fertilizers and encourage natural pest control methods.

By choosing organic, you are not only taking care of your own health but also supporting sustainable farming practices. Additionally, organic farming helps to protect the environment by minimizing soil erosion, reducing water pollution, and conserving water resources.

Challenges of Buying Organic Produce Locally

While buying organic produce locally has its merits, it can also pose certain challenges. One common issue is the limited availability of organic produce in many areas. Farmers markets and specialty stores may not always have a wide variety of organic fruits and vegetables, especially during off-seasons or in more rural locations. This can make it difficult for individuals who prioritize organic food to consistently access a diverse range of produce.

Another challenge is the inconvenience of shopping at farmers markets or specialty stores. These venues often have limited operating hours and can be crowded, especially on weekends. This can make it challenging for individuals with busy schedules to find the time to shop for organic produce. Furthermore, the need to physically travel to these locations adds an extra layer of effort and time commitment.

The Rise of Online Organic Food Delivery Services

With the advent of online shopping, the organic food industry has embraced the digital age. Online organic food delivery services have emerged as a convenient and accessible solution for those seeking fresh, organic produce. These services connect consumers directly with local farmers and producers, bridging the gap between the farm and the table. By eliminating the need for physical stores, online platforms can offer a wider range of organic fruits and vegetables, including specialty and seasonal items that may be difficult to find locally.

By choosing to buy organic online, you can browse through a virtual marketplace of fresh produce, select what you need, and have it delivered right to your doorstep..

Convenience and Accessibility of Buying Organic Produce Online

One of the key advantages of buying organic produce online is the unparalleled convenience it offers. With just a few clicks, you can access a wide selection of organic fruits and vegetables from the comfort of your own home. This means no more rushing to beat the closing time of farmers markets or battling the crowds at specialty stores. Instead, you can take your time to explore different options, read product descriptions, and make informed choices about what you want to purchase.

Online organic food delivery services also provide accessibility to organic produce for individuals who may not have easy access to farmers markets or specialty stores. This is particularly beneficial for those living in rural areas or regions where organic options are limited. By bringing the farm-to-table concept online, these platforms ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of organic produce, regardless of their location.

Quality and Freshness Assurance of Online Organic Food Delivery

One concern that some people may have when it comes to buying organic produce online is the quality and freshness of the products. After all, when you can't physically inspect the fruits and vegetables before purchasing, how can you be sure they meet your standards? Fortunately, reputable online organic food delivery services prioritize quality and freshness.

Most online platforms work directly with local farmers and producers, ensuring that the produce is sourced from trusted and certified organic sources. This means that the fruits and vegetables undergo rigorous quality control checks and are grown using organic farming practices. Additionally, many online services provide detailed information about the farms and producers they work with, allowing you to learn more about the source of your food and make informed decisions.

To further guarantee freshness, online organic food delivery services typically have efficient supply chains and logistics in place. This means that the produce is harvested at the peak of freshness, carefully packed, and promptly delivered to your doorstep. Some services even offer next-day delivery, ensuring that you receive the freshest and highest quality organic fruits and vegetables possible.

Cost Comparison: Buying Organic Fruits and Vegetables Online vs. Local Markets

When it comes to cost, many people assume that buying organic produce online would be more expensive than purchasing from local farmers markets or specialty stores. However, this is not always the case. While prices can vary depending on the specific platform and region, online organic food delivery services often offer competitive pricing.

By eliminating the need for physical stores and reducing overhead costs, online platforms can pass on the savings to consumers. Additionally, some online services work directly with farmers, cutting out middlemen and reducing transportation costs. This can result in more affordable prices for organic produce. Furthermore, online platforms often offer promotions, discounts, and subscription options, allowing you to save even more money in the long run.

It's also worth considering the value of your time and effort. Shopping for organic produce locally may require multiple trips to different stores, especially if you're looking for specific items. This not only adds to your transportation costs but also consumes your valuable time. By buying organic online, you can streamline the shopping process, save time, and potentially save money in the process.

Tips for Buying Organic Produce Online

If you're new to buying organic produce online, here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

Research and choose a reputable online organic food delivery service. Look for platforms that prioritize transparency, work directly with local farmers, and have positive customer reviews.

Read product descriptions and labels carefully. Look for organic certifications and information about farming practices to ensure the produce meets your standards.

Take advantage of customization options. Many online platforms allow you to tailor your order to your preferences, including the types of fruits and vegetables, portion sizes, and frequency of delivery.

Plan your meals ahead of time. By having a rough idea of what you'll be cooking or preparing, you can make more efficient and informed choices when selecting your organic produce.

Give feedback and communicate with the online platform. If you have any issues or concerns with your order, don't hesitate to reach out. Good customer service is essential for a positive online shopping experience.

Organic Certification and Transparency

When buying organic produce online, it's important to ensure that the products you are purchasing are indeed organic. Look for platforms that provide transparency about their sourcing and certification processes. Trustworthy online organic food delivery services will often display organic certifications prominently on their websites. These certifications are issued by recognized organizations and indicate that the products meet the stringent standards set for organic agriculture.

Furthermore, many online platforms provide detailed information about the farms and producers they work with. This includes information about their farming practices, sustainability efforts, and even photos or videos showcasing the farms. By having access to this information, you can make informed decisions about the organic produce you choose to buy and support.

Conclusion: Embracing the Farm-to-Table Movement Through Online Organic Shopping

The farm-to-table movement has undergone a transformation in the digital age, thanks to the rise of online organic food delivery services. Buying organic fruits and vegetables online offers numerous benefits, including convenience, accessibility, quality assurance, and potentially cost savings. By choosing to buy organic, you are not only nourishing your body with nutrient-rich foods but also supporting sustainable farming practices and reducing your environmental impact.

So, why not embrace the wonders of the farm-to-table movement in the digital age? With just a few clicks, you can have fresh, organic produce delivered straight to your doorstep, supporting local farmers and prioritizing your health and the well-being of the planet. Make the switch to online organic shopping and experience the convenience and goodness of farm-fresh food in the comfort of your own home.

[wholesalefriutsvegetables]

[aarunresearcher]

The United States pickles market size reached USD 3.1 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 3.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 2.6% during 2025-2033. The rising health consciousness, demand for organic and non-GMO products, diverse cultural influences, increased home cooking, innovative marketing, expanding e-commerce sector, and stringent government regulations ensuring quality represent some of the key factors driving the market.

[acti-veg]

hi acti, shits pretty bleak in the U.S. at the moment. I'm very proud of my folks for voting 93 and 80% majority for blue but it's not enough. We're taking this time to just rest and try to think of ways to brace for what's coming. Especially with FDA and health inspection rollbacks in place. My family's majority plant-based save for my mom. Idk if u remember or if u had gotten it, but I wrote an anonymous message a long time ago asking if there was a way to transition my mom from backyard egg vegetarianism with rescue hens to veganism, especially since I don't think we can trust animal products soon. I really want to start a micro farm, (like a freight hydroponics microfarm or something similar) if possible because soon I won't trust the soil from big box stores as I can't sterilize it enough nor grow year round and its gonna be a rough 4 years and up. I'm just looking for hobbies to help feed my community if anything.

(Im so sorry if this seems like the beginning manifesto of an online recipe) but Do you happen to have any sources on vegan alternatives to beekeeping? Or any sources on sustainable indoor hydroponic farming that could feed several people? Or if you think its best to keep rescue chickens for eggs and transition my mom to plant-based sources for her own safety now? Thank u in advance

I want to preface this by saying I don't really have any personal experience with this, so my answer here is based solely on research. It will depend on the level of space you have in your home, but even if you have a couple of spare rooms to use, I think you'll need to manage your expectations a little bit.

It is unlikely that you'll be able to become self-sufficient unless you have access to a plot of land. What you'll be growing will supplement what you're buying, but it won't replace it. Communal allotments could be an option, but that will depend heavily on where you are and how available they are, as well. Even then, the quantity you'll produce on a small allotment will not be enough to feed several people.

That said, you can grow quite a lot indoors or on a small plot of land, and you'll certainly be able to provide a real boost of fresh fruit and veg, either to community kitchens or to your family. I don't think that having animal inputs would really provide much of a benefit since you'd also have to rely on buying or growing feed, so my recommendation would be to just start with trying to supplement what you're buying now, with easy options to grow at home.

As for resources, here is highly rated book on vegetable gardening, if you do have access to an outdoor space. For indoor, this is supposed to be a good entry level book, here is a more extensive text focused on soiless growing, and here is one focused on equipment. There are also a couple of active subreddits on this, but I think that these four combined should provide a really good foundation to get you going - but it is apparently a lot of trial and error, and you will need to set some money aside for an initial investment into your equipment.

I think that it's a great idea so start to look towards growing your own food, but don't get too wrapped up in the self-sufficiency idea. Reach out to local growers and grower communities, make connections at farmers markets, see if you can do any work in community gardens to learn. Community is what is going to get people through this, and making those connections now would be wise.

Edit: Check this advice from a knowledgeable anon as well.

[drpeppertummy]

hm… 💜 or 💚 for the color prompt?

[asmr voice] feeds him ourple

[stuffing, mild tummyache]

Morty was excited about the color-themed mukbang video somebody had suggested. Purple was the request, and he'd gone to Dollar Tree to see what he could find before hitting the grocery store for some nicer foods. Some of it was candy and other snacks that needed only to be removed from the package, some required cooking or at least some level of prep work, but once he had his purple assortment of treats ready and laid out in an eye-catching presentation, he was pretty pleased with himself.

He silently held up the first item--a blueberry milkshake--and took a sip. He'd picked it up from a local burger place just before starting, and he made sure to show the logo on the cup. Accompanying the shake as a secondary beverage, he revealed with a grimace, was a can of grape soda. He carefully cracked it open, taking a moment to let the fizz crackle softly beside the mic before taking a reluctant sip. He'd always felt that grape was the worst of the artificial fruit flavors--watermelon, he believed, was the best--but it was purple, and that was all that mattered right now. Besides, he'd have plenty of snacks between sips to wipe the taste from his mouth.

The first food he had to share was a small plate of grilled eggplant slices. He smiled proudly as he displayed them; he'd cooked them himself, and the one he'd taste tested before starting was just about the best eggplant he'd ever had, not that there was much competition. He held up a slice to show off the ring of deep indigo skin, then took a bite. They weren't particularly hot anymore, but they were still good, if a little mushy. He set the plate back down, intending to show each food before really getting started. Accompanying the eggplant in the vegetable department was a bowl of mashed purple potatoes. He hadn't actually bought those for the video; he'd picked them up at a farm market last week by pure chance, and his belly rumbled at the steamy, buttery smell. Unable to resist, he took a bite of them too before returning the bowl to the table.

Following the vegetables, he had a cutting board with an arrangement of grapes, mulberries, a few figs, and a couple of plums on it. He doubted he'd eat more than one of the plums during the video, but the visual looked nice. The mulberries had been a gift from his neighbor, who had more falling from their tree than they knew what to do with. Most of them looked more black than purple, but it was close enough.

The final group of food was the one he was most excited about--the desserts. He had a package of ube mochi, a dish of purple M&Ms he'd ordered online, a stick of purple rock candy, a row of purple Peeps, and, least excitingly, a bowl of grape jello. It was a fine variety. The star of the show, however, was a cupcake he'd bought from a local bakery. It was bright purple, with a blueberry jam filling and a nice swirl of purple frosting on top, and pieces of molded chocolate stuck on to make it look like a unicorn. The rainbow sprinkles, he supposed, wouldn't disqualify it when the rest of the treat had enough purple food coloring in it to dye his entire kitchen.

Morty took another long sip of the milkshake, then returned to his vegetables, wanting to start on them before they cooled off completely. Eggplant was something he rarely ate, both because it never impressed him any time he tried it and because it simply never occurred to him to get some, but he was pretty pleased with today's result. The slices were well-seasoned and flavorful, and he almost wished he'd made more of them, although with the amount of food he had to get through, he supposed it was a good thing he didn't. He alternated between eggplant slices and mashed potatoes for a little bit, taking care to eat slowly over the mic and not shovel everything into his mouth as fast as he could--he was starting on an empty stomach, after all, and his rumbling belly couldn't have cared less about ASMR.

Wanting to save some of the vegetables for later on in the video, Morty took a big gulp of the grape soda and switched over to the fruit. He'd never eaten a fig before, but Google had kindly informed him that he could simply bite into it skin and all, and so he did, nice and slowly, hoping to capture the sound as his teeth punctured it. He wasn't sure if he loved it, but it was good enough to draw him in for another bite, and then another. After the first fig he ate a grape and then a mulberry, crushing them slowly in his mouth. The hunger he'd started the video with was beginning to ease up as he ate, and now he felt like he could really take his time without forcing himself to, both to savor the food and to see what interesting sounds he could get out of it.

Finally, he turned to the sweets. He'd been eager to break into the mochi since he'd bought it, and he let out a soft little hum of pleasure at the sweet, gooey texture. His belly gurgled quietly as he swallowed, and he wondered whether the mic picked it up. If it didn't get that one, he was sure there would be louder sounds before long, but he didn't really care. He was aware at this point that some of his viewers went wild for it, but that fact didn't bother him any. It was inevitable anyway, eating on camera with that sensitive mic. He held up the half-eaten mochi to show off the sticky purple interior, then happily finished off the piece.

Morty alternated between the fruits, vegetables, and sweets, nibbling at one or two things for a little while before switching over to another, but the cupcake remained untouched--that was going to be dessert. Slowly but surely, he was beginning to feel full, the bulky potatoes and doughy mochi taking up a good amount of space in his belly. The heavy milkshake was doing its part as well, and between the carbonation of the soda and all the air that wound up trapped in his stomach with each carefully calibrated bite, it was becoming difficult to keep from burping into the mic. He'd had to turn away here and there to let a few tiny ones out, but he hoped nothing loud would slip out of him.

Trying to pace himself, Morty took a break from chewing to work on the rock candy. His belly gurgled as its contents settled, and sucking at the candy provoked several more soft little grumbly noises. His stomach felt snug under his baggy sweater. He supposed he might have gone a little overboard picking things out for the video, but it was alright. If he had leftovers, he'd simply get to them another time. He wanted to finish as much as he could, though, for the sake of a good long video. It was a good variety of textures to create a nice array of sounds, and he didn't want the length to fall short.

Morty looked down at the assortment of food before him, pondering what to pick up next. He'd gotten through a decent portion of everything by now, with the eggplant and potatoes being completely gone and the mulberries not far behind. The grape jello, not particularly aligning with his tastes, was the least disturbed, and he decided to give it some more attention. He didn't care for the flavor, but at least he could play around with it while he ate. He put away the rest of it fairly quickly and chased it with a good long sip of milkshake. Following that sip, to his surprise, came an audible, airy burp. Ordinarily, he'd excuse himself or apologize, but this was a no-talking video, so he just smiled sheepishly and moved on. If it was too loud, he'd edit it out later. Otherwise, it was what it was.

The jello had gone down easy, but Morty suddenly felt more bloated than ever after finishing it off so quickly. He was a little guy, small and slender, and while his capacity was bigger than one might guess by looking at him, the estimate likely wouldn't be far off. He leaned back in his chair for a moment, resting a hand on his belly with a soft sigh. It felt taut and rounded under his hand, and it grumbled away quietly as it worked on the strange combination of things he'd eaten. A loud gurgle rose up and he just barely managed to stifle another big burp. With the pressure in his stomach slightly lessened, he picked up a Peep, licked off a little bit of the sugar, and then playfully bit its head off.

Not sure how much more he could eat, he decided to prioritize the mochi next. It was one of his favorites of the things he'd put together, but while the fruits would be easy to nibble on as he got fuller, the thick, gooey dough would not. He had two pieces left in the package, and he slowly worked through them both, stretching and squishing a half-eaten piece around as he chewed. It was delicious, but it was rich and heavy, and, reluctantly, he took a careful sip of his soda between bites to break things up a little. Repulsive as it was, the carbonation was refreshing, and it conjured up another quiet burp.

To say space was running low in Morty's stomach would have been an understatement at this point; he was stuffed. With the amount of purple food packed into his belly, he was surprised he hadn't started turning purple himself yet. His belly was as tight and round as the large, firm grapes he'd been eating, and the noises it made as it digested everything would have made a good enough video on their own. He paused again, holding both hands against his tummy. If he wanted to feature that glorious unicorn cupcake, he'd have to quit on everything else now. He'd made pretty good progress, considering the contrast between the amount of food he'd started with and the size of his slim stomach; there was only a little bit left on the table before him, and it would make a good snack some other time. Right now, though, it was time for the grand finale.

With a playful flair, Morty held up the cupcake. It was impressive both in size and appearance, with its colorful sprinkles, the little chocolate unicorn ears and horn stuck into the frosting, and the unnaturally vibrant color of the cake itself. He knew the chocolate pieces would make the best sounds, and he knew that's what most viewers would be waiting for, but he decided to tease a little and lick at the frosting first. It was fluffy and almost too sweet, and there was an absurd amount of it. He took a few licks from it, almost as though it were an ice cream cone, and then, finally, he took one of the chocolate ears in his teeth and crunched down on it.

The cupcake was surprisingly good--he'd expected it to be the sort of disgustingly-sweet thing that only small children could tolerate--and he regretted that he was too stuffed to really enjoy it. It would have been fantastic on an empty stomach, but as full as he was right now, the sugary treat was only making him feel queasy. He worked at it slowly, taking sips of the soda here and there in search of some element of refreshment between mouthfuls of sticky sugar. He was beyond stuffed now, his belly straining and aching and begging him to stop, but he was determined to at least finish the cupcake. It would be a mangled mess if he tried to save part of it, and after all, he was here to put on a show.

He spent what felt like ages nibbling at the cupcake, dragging it out with tiny bites and licks, his stomach groaning uncomfortably with each little swallow. He imagined his belly must be sticking out a foot in front of him by now, although in reality it was barely even visible under his oversized sweater. Still, it felt tighter than tight, crammed so full that it ached just to breathe in, and he was beginning to doubt that he could get through the entire dessert. There wasn't much to go, though, and he was going to give it his best effort. He sighed, pausing to force up a sickly little burp, and pushed on.

Little by little, slowly but surely, he worked through the cupcake, and finally, at long last, it was gone. He swallowed the final bite with a thick gulp and fell back in his seat with a heavy sigh, resting his hands on his distended belly. That cupcake alone would have been enough to fill him up; combined with everything else he'd eaten, he felt too stuffed to move. His tummy bulged comically from his skinny frame, visible against his sweater now that he was fully leaned back, his stomach stretched so taut that it hurt to breathe. He wasn't sure he'd even be able to lean forward far enough to stop the camera. Still, he'd accomplished his goal, and for that he was pleased, even if it meant he was going to spend the rest of the day nursing one hell of a bellyache.

[fredhugesfan]

100 Things To Do Instead Of Doom-Scrolling Through Social Media

Take a walk outside and enjoy nature.

Read a book or listen to an audiobook.

Practice mindfulness or meditation.

Cook a new recipe or bake something delicious.

Start a DIY project or craft.

Call or video chat with a friend or family member.

Learn a new skill or hobby.

Exercise or do a home workout.

Write in a journal or start a blog.

Listen to music or discover new artists.

Volunteer for a cause you care about.

Watch a documentary or educational YouTube videos.

Declutter and organize a room in your home.

Do a puzzle or play a board game.

Take an online course or attend a virtual workshop.

Practice a musical instrument.

Go for a bike ride or explore a new area in your city.

Start a garden or tend to indoor plants.

Practice yoga or stretching exercises.

Create art or doodle in a sketchbook.

Write poetry or short stories.

Plan a future trip or create a travel bucket list.

Visit a museum or art gallery (virtually or in person).

Try out a new restaurant or cuisine.

Do a digital detox for a set period.

Attend a virtual event or webinar.

Learn a new language with language learning apps.

Organize a virtual game night with friends.

Take a bubble bath or pamper yourself with self-care.

Practice gratitude by writing down things you're thankful for.

Explore local hiking trails or parks.

Volunteer at a local shelter or food bank.

Create a vision board for your goals and aspirations.

Start a book club with friends.

Do a home spa day with facials, manicures, and pedicures.

Listen to a podcast on a topic you're interested in.

Have a picnic in your backyard or a nearby park.

Start a photography project and capture moments in your day.

Learn to code or explore computer programming.

Write letters to friends or family members.

Practice gratitude journaling.

Experiment with new hairstyles or makeup looks.

Have a movie marathon with your favorite films.

Do a deep clean of your living space.

Practice deep breathing exercises or relaxation techniques.

Try out a new workout routine or exercise class.

Create a scrapbook of memories or special moments.

Research and plan your next career move or educational pursuit.

Do a digital art project or learn digital painting.

Attend a virtual concert or music festival.

Go stargazing or watch the sunset.

Start a podcast discussing topics you're passionate about.

Take an online cooking or baking class.

Learn to knit, crochet, or sew.

Explore your city as a tourist and visit landmarks.

Practice random acts of kindness for others.

Attend a virtual book reading or author talk.

Try out a new hobby like rock climbing or pottery.

Learn about a historical event or figure.

Create a vision board for your dream life.

Practice positive affirmations and self-love exercises.

Explore a nearby town you've never visited before.

Volunteer to tutor or mentor someone in need.

Go to a farmer's market and try new fruits or vegetables.

Attend a virtual fitness class or dance party.

Experiment with DIY natural beauty products.

Research and plan a budget for your financial goals.

Take a scenic drive and enjoy the view.

Learn about different cultures and traditions.

Create a personalized playlist for different moods.

Join a virtual book or writing club.

Take an online personality or career assessment.

Start a gratitude jar and fill it with daily notes of appreciation.

Explore a new genre of literature or film.

Host a virtual game tournament with friends.

Practice lucid dreaming techniques.

Try out a new restaurant or cafe in your area.

Learn about astronomy and star constellations.

Research and plan a home improvement project.

Take a virtual tour of famous landmarks around the world.

Join an online support group or community.

Practice mindfulness coloring or drawing.

Try out a new type of tea or coffee.

Create a DIY vision board or inspiration wall.

Learn about sustainable living practices.

Experiment with aromatherapy and essential oils.

Try out a new workout app or online fitness class.

Research and plan your dream vacation.

Attend a virtual workshop on personal development.

Practice time management techniques and create a schedule.

Explore local art galleries or street art.

Take a virtual dance class and learn new moves.

Research and plan a themed dinner party.

Experiment with DIY home decor projects.

Explore different types of music from around the world.

Start a virtual book exchange with friends.

Research and plan your next outdoor adventure.

Practice mindfulness eating and savor each bite.

Explore online forums or communities related to your interests.

Reflect on your day and set intentions for tomorrow.

[alwritey-aphrodite]

hi!! can i request “fresh fruit” with your modern!poe?❤️ i love your writing by the way!!

Ahh thank you so much <3

2023 Summer Blurbs

If there was one thing Poe loved to do in the summer, it was attending farmer’s markets. He’d spend hours online, looking at the times and locations for any farmer’s market within one hour of your apartment, and then he’d buy you anything you even mentioned liking.

He’s bought you bouquets and handmade jewelry and pastries, but you were always guaranteed to come home with at least one bag of fresh fruit. There were always plenty of local farmers, with strawberries and cherries and raspberries, and sometimes if you were lucky you could find apricots or plums.

There was nothing better than fresh fruit, there was just something about fruit right from a local farm that seemed like summer. Even though it’s not possible for every type of summery fruit to be sold at your local markets, the berries that stained your hands and the apricots that dripped down your fingers always reminded you of childhood summers spent outside, of times when everything was simpler.

A majority of the time, any fruit you picked up from the farmers’ stands would be mostly gone before you even got home, sometimes before you even left the market. If you managed to save any, though, you and Poe would spend hours together in the kitchen, making pies and fruit salad and any other dessert you craved. Of course, you always saved plenty to eat fresh, kept in a large bowl on your kitchen counter.

You loved the routine you’ve made together, the early weekend mornings spent exploring the market before the day became too hot to be outside, the close inspections and playful arguments about which fruits to buy, the snacking on the way home and the hours spent in the kitchen, baking or picking at the bowl of fruit throughout the day.

Really, it didn’t matter much about what type of fruit you bought or the dessert you decided to make with it, it mattered that you and Poe had something special to do together, something for just the two of you to do every weekend.

Sometimes, though, the bed was too cozy and the idea of sleeping in would be too tempting, so Poe would head out to the farmer’s market without you. By the time you finally manage to roll out of bed and make yourself some coffee, Poe would be returning with his arms laden with reusable bags full of vegetables and pastries and flowers, and always fresh fruit.

Being the thoughtful man he is, he always managed to bring home your favorite fruit, even if he needed to drive an extra twenty minutes to get to the market in a neighboring town, just to ensure he brought home your favorite. You definitely preferred getting to spend time with Poe in those early mornings, but seeing how proud he looks when he comes home to surprise you with fresh fruit he knows you love is a close second.

If Poe’s favorite summer activity was walking through farmers’ markets, your favorite summer activity was watching how excited Poe got when he found little treats that reminded him of you or of his childhood summers. You’d give anything to see the way his eyes light up and his smile grows, so you feel unbelievably lucky that something as simple as a basket of strawberries can make him that happy.