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thisdiscontentedwinter · 5 years ago

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Bad Blood - Chapter 1

You can read it here on AO3 or find the Tumblr Chapter Index here.

*****

“Stiles?”

Stiles swallows, and looks at his reflection in the mirror. He’s got blood on his face. That’s not a new thing. This time though, it’s not his, and it’s not a sparring partner’s. It was an arterial spray, and it hit him hard and fast and hot. He thought he’d wiped it off in the car on the way back, but there are still smears of it left.

He’s been blooded.

That’s the term for it, right? When the blood from a first kill is wiped on someone’s face. An ancient tradition, probably tied up in some pagan ritual of some kind. Transference of life force, or power, something. The oldest magic, or at least the oldest religion.

His reflection’s mouth quirks at that.

Here he is, thinking like a researcher again when that’s not his job at all. Stiles is a soldier in the world’s most secret war. Only a soldier for now, but one day he’ll be a legend. One day he’ll reclaim his family’s honour, and the name Stilinski won’t be spoken in hushed voices or spit through curses.

Stiles isn’t his father.

He isn’t a coward and a turncoat and a traitor.

He’s a hunter, and he’ll never forget that.

Just… just as long as his hands stop shaking soon, he’ll never forget that.

“Stiles!”

He jolts at the sound of the old man’s voice, and hastily twists the tap on in the bathroom sink and washes his face. He wipes it on his shirt, and leaves the bathroom.

He descends the stairs quickly, heading for the study.

Packed suitcases already line the hall. They’ve been in this house for four months, planning and working, but once a job’s finished, it’s off to somewhere else. Clearly they’re not wasting any time in leaving Kroměříž. It’s a shame. From what Stiles has seen of the place—and admittedly it’s not a lot—it’s beautiful. He never did get the hang of Czech though.

Gerard Argent doesn’t speak Czech either, so the conversation Stiles walks into in the study is in English. The Horak family, their sometimes prickly hosts while they’ve been in Kroměříž, all speak English to varying degrees, except for Bohdan who communicates mostly in grunts. Bohdan might be Stiles’s favourite.

“Here he is,” Gerard says, rising from the couch as Stiles enters the study. “The man of the hour.”

Stiles warms with the praise. Gerard doesn’t give it away easily. It’s always hard earned, which makes it worth a hell of a lot.

Gerard approaches him, holding out a glass tumbler.

Scotch? Bourbon? Brandy?

Stiles doesn’t even think about it. He takes the glass and throws it back in one gulp.

It’s possibly Scotch. It’s gross, and it burns, but Stiles appreciates the sentiment.

He sets the glass down and looks at the faces around him. Gerard is wearing a proud smirk on his face. The Horaks are nodding amongst themselves. Even Bohdan’s thin mouth is twisted up in a grudging smile.

Stiles is an adult now. He’s a hunter. He’s got blood on his face and fire in his belly.

He’s a hunter.

***

Stiles is a little unsteady on his feet when he climbs the stairs to his room again. He sits down heavily on his bed and unlaces his boots, and then tugs his shirt off over his head. There’s still blood smeared on his throat, and it comes off in flakes when Stiles rubs at his skin with his balled-up shirt.

He tosses the shirt in his trashcan when he’s done. He can’t be bothered clean it.

Then he crosses over to his closet and pulls his suitcase out.

He’s got it half-packed when his door creaks open.

“Hey, string bean,” Kate says, leaning there with a smile. She holds up a bottle of soda. “Thought you might want something other than Scotch.”

“Thanks,” Stiles says, crossing the floor to take the bottle. It’s cold and fizzy and sugary; everything he needs right now.

“Good job tonight,” Kate tells him.

“Thanks.”

His hands have stopped shaking, so there’s that.

Kate looks at him with her head tilted. “Are you okay, Stiles?”

“What? Why wouldn’t I be okay?”

“I remember my first hunt.” She shrugs. “It’s not always as easy as you think it’s going to be.”

Stiles forces a smile. “I’m fine.”

He’s not, probably, but he can’t tell Kate that. He has to work through this on his own, because he’s a Stilinski. Everyone already watches him closely, like they think he’s going to prove himself a traitor like his dad. Stiles doesn’t get to have moments of doubt or weakness. He has to be better than everyone else just to be seen to be half as good. But at least he knows that in the end, when the Stilinski name is one that’s respected again that it’ll be because Stiles has fought for that. His name will be worth twice as much because he’s had to drag it out of the mud himself. It’s a burden right now, but one day it’ll be a strength. But when even Gerard and Kate look at him like they’re sometimes not sure that he’s got what it takes, or that he won’t follow the Code like he’s sworn to, Stiles doesn’t share his insecurities.

“Are you sure?” Kate asks, her gaze trailing down his torso.

Stile’s heartbeat quickens, and he half turns away to set another pair of jeans in his suitcase. “I’m sure.”

“Okay,” Kate says. “If there’s nothing else I can help you with…”

Stiles pretends not to notice the way her gaze lingers. Kate’s made a joke yesterday about how it’d take more than a successful first hunt to make Stiles a man. At least Stiles had thought it was a joke. Maybe it was an invitation. “I’m good. I’m almost done packing.”

She laughs. “Okay, string bean. Get some sleep.”

“Goodnight.”

Stiles closes the door after she leaves, and leans against it, his eyes closed.

His hands might have stopped shaking, but he can feel the hot burst of arterial blood hitting his face over and over again.

***

Stiles doesn’t sleep.

It’s after midnight when he climbs out of bed and slips downstairs again. He opens the back door and lets himself out into the small garden. He finds his cigarettes where he left them, hidden in a planter box, and lights one.

Closes his eyes when he inhales, and remembers when Bohdan offered him one after a training session a few months ago. Stiles had laughed, because his lungs were already burning, but he’d taken it anyway. He doesn’t consider himself addicted, but then again, he has his own packet of cigarettes now, doesn’t he?

It doesn’t matter, probably, because he’ll leave them here when he goes, and not everyone is going to be as lax about checking ID as the guy at the store where Stiles bought these.

So he’ll quit.

Smoke wreaths him as he exhales.

His dad used to smoke.

He remembers that in a sudden rush.

His dad used to smoke, but he quit when Stiles was small enough not to know it was bad for you, and old enough to remember his dad grumbling about withdrawals.

He pushes the memory away, because it comes rushing in with other things that Stiles doesn’t want to recall: his mom’s laugh, his dad’s wry smile and the way it made his eyes crinkle, and the feeling of being small and happy and surrounded by love.

It makes him sick to think of it because it’s not right to love a traitor, even if Stiles was too little to know any better.

Stiles was ten when Kate came for him. She’d been wreathed in smoke too, in a way. And Stiles had kicked and screamed because he had no idea who she was, and the world that she pulled him into had been completely unknown to him before that night.

That was another of his dad’s betrayals, he supposes. Keeping Stiles from his family’s legacy. Keeping him from the path he should have been sworn to the moment he was born. The Stilinskis were a proud hunter family once, with a history as long as noble as that of the Argents, and Stiles hadn’t known a thing about it. His dad had stolen that from him.

It had taken Stiles a while to see the truth of that. It was his legacy as much as his dad’s, and his dad had stolen it from him.

Now, six years later, Stiles has taken the first step towards taking it back.

Stiles is a man and a hunter.

The smoke shudders in the air around him, and Stiles looks down at the cigarette clamped between his fingers to discover that his hands are shaking again.

***

They leave Kroměříž before dawn. A little less than three hours later they’re in Vienna, and Stiles is emptying the contents of his pockets into a plastic tray at the airport. Gerard is in front of him in the line, and Kate is behind him.

Stiles thinks a little wistfully of the CZ-92 he’s been using for the last few months, and supposes he’ll have to find another favourite now. Hunters might move easily across international borders, but their weapons don’t.

He passes through the fully body scanner at the airport, and collects his Converse, his backpack, and his plastic tray of pocket contents from the end of the conveyer belt. He tucks everything back into his pockets, and moves out of the way to put his Converse back on.

In front of him, the signs point the way to the departure lounges.

A school group, the teachers already looking frazzled, do a headcount as their kids pass through security. They’re teenagers, probably the same age as Stiles, and Stiles watches them for a moment, a strange mix of disdain and jealousy curdling in his already unsettled stomach.

Stiles hasn’t been to school since he was ten.

He watches one of the boys fling an arm around the shoulders of another, and then he looks away again. He finishes lacing up his Converse and goes to wait with Gerard for Kate.

He doesn’t look back at the kids again, although he hears them laughing and calling out to each other for a long time. Stiles shuts the noise out.

The queasiness in his belly has nothing to do with the alcohol he drank last night.

It’s the fact that his boarding pass, poking out of one end of his well-worn passport, tells him his destination is Los Angeles.

They’re going back to the States.

#my fics #discontentedwinter #bad blood #sterek #steter senior

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suckitsurveys · 6 years ago

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What is your favorite type of cat? Ramona, Saké, and Friday.

If you could delete any word from existence, which word would it be and why? Tr*mp. It makes my blood curdle when I hear that name.

What is your favorite swearword? Fuck.

What celebrity do you wish you looked more like? I’m okay.

If you had your way, what color(s) would you dye your hair? I do have my way and it’s currently blue and purple.

Do you support the LGBTQ community? If not, state your reasons. You are entitled to your opinions. It’s not an opinion if it’s diminishing an entire group of people--you’re just an asshole.

Do you like seafood? If so, what is your favorite? If not, what is your favorite type of food? I LOVE seafood. Crab is my favorite.

Have you ever gone vegan/vegetarian? Nope and I never will. I’m trying to cut back on my red meat intake though and stick to fish and poultry only.

Have you ever eaten a veggie burger? I have.

If you could master any sport, which one would you choose? Swimming.

If you could meet any major political figure, who would it be? What would you say to him/her? I’d like to line up every republican and punch each one in the face.

Do you play any unique instruments? No.

In school, did you take any classes to learn how to play any instruments? No.

Do you like applesauce? Sure.

Do you know any German words? Sure.

How about any Portuguese words? No.

Did you actually pay attention in Spanish class? Yeah.

If you drink Monster, what is your favorite flavor? If you don’t drink Monster, why not? I don’t like energy drinks. Do you think any of your family members voted for Mitt Romney? Did you/would you? I don’t know.

Do you have a reason to hate anyone at the moment? Yes.

Is it easier for you to forgive or to pretend it never happened? Depends.

Are you one of those people who remembers EVERYTHING? I remember a lot of really weird details about things.

Do you sometimes pretend you don’t remember something about someone? No? I can’t think of a reason I’d need to do this?

Do you own any Webkinz stuffed animals? If so, do you have a Webkinz online account? Do you still go on it? No.

If you had/have a Club Penguin account, how old were you when you got it? I never had one.

Do you own any Nintendo video game consoles/handhelds? I have a GBC and a DS laying around somewhere.

Do/did you ever own a Blackberry? Nope.

Do you know the band Noah & the Whale? Yes.

Do you listen to Ingrid Michaelson? I don’t not listen to her.

If you have a song stuck in your head, what’s the name of it & the artist? Imagine by Ariana Grande.

Do you know who Sue Lyons is? How about Dominique Swain? Nope.

Unpopular opinion time. Be honest. The Beatles - overrated or not? Both.

What religion were you raised in? Are you still that religion, if you had one? I wasn’t raised in any religion. We weren’t baptized. My mom was a very spiritual person and I am pretty sure she believed in God in one way or another, but she didn’t follow a religion. She had her own version of faith. My dad just didn’t care about that stuff at all, haha. They were both respectful of people who did follow religion and I felt like they would have been/would be cool with whatever paths my sister and I decided to lead.

What religion/spiritual path intrigues you the most, if any? I like the idea that people live on in spirit in nature, and that there are spirits that control nature and shit, whatever that would be called.

What ancient culture intrigues you the most, if any? Greek.

What was/is your favorite subject in school? Sociology.

What was the last name of your second grade teacher? Mrs. Yamanaka.

Who was your favorite teacher of all time? My Kindergarten teacher Mrs. Furuta. She taught us so much; not just basic kindergarten stuff. We learned about different cultures and she set up these “trips” where we’d pretend we were in an airplane and “fly” to the country we were learning about. She would set up these “shops” where we could “buy” food and trinkets from the country with fake money. We had an EPIC fort we build out of boxes. We celebrated the Chinese New Year and did a ton of origami. I remember her class vividly and fondly. She recently reached out to my sister (who also had her) and I which was a really nice surprise and showed how much she loved her students.

Were/are you a teacher’s pet? In that class ^ yes. I could already read by the time I started Kindergarten and she’d ask me to read to the class every once in a while, which I LOVED.

Do you like pink lemonade? I don’t mind it but it’s not my first choice.

Do you have a Spotify account? I do.

Firefox or Chrome? Firefox for work, Chrome for everything else.

Safari or Internet Explorer? Neither, thanks.

Windows or Mac? Windows.

Desktop or laptop? Either is fine. I’m on a desktop currently at work.

What’s your favorite U2 song, if you have one? Eh.

What’s your favorite song that’s playing on the radio, if you have one? Anything Ariana right now.

What’s a song that you remember from your childhood? Graceland by Paul Simon.

Are/were your parents hippies? Yup.

Would you ever consider getting dreadlocks? No because I am white.

If you had a baby girl right now, what would her middle name(s) be? I am never ever ever having kids, but if hell froze over and we did have a daughter, her middle name would be Kay because it’s my mom’s middle name and also Mark’s mom’s middle name.

What heritage does your last name imply? German/Czech.

How about your middle name? I just looked it up because I never knew but apparently it’s Roman?

And first? My first name is Hebrew.

What is your heritage, anyway? German, Czech, Jewish, Finnish, Swedish, some other shit.

Were your parents born in the United States? Most importantly, were you? If not, what country? Yes.

Name an American stereotype? Lol.

Name a stereotype from your country/culture? Nah.

Do you have any paint in your house? Is it wall paint, art paint, or something else? I have art paint.

Do you ever swing at the playground & listen to music? No.

What was your favorite age so far? I don’t know.

What was your least favorite age so far? I don’t know.

Were you/are you in a rush to grow up? Nah.

What’s your opinion on tattoos in the workforce? How about piercings? I see no issue with either.

Do women breastfeeding in public make you feel uncomfortable? Why or why not? Nope. Why should it?

Do you know the band The Last Place You Look? No.

If not, you should check them out. Do you like A Day To Remember? If not, they’re a lot like The Last Place You Look. Cool story.

What is the most annoying commercial you’ve seen/heard this past week? I saw this ad on a YouTube video the other day that was selling some menstrual cup thing and it kept saying how you can’t have sex on your period?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

What is your favorite holiday? Halloween and Christmas.

What holidays do you choose not to participate in, but others celebrate? I’m sure there are a few.

“Happy Holidays,” “Merry Christmas,” or “Merry X-Mas?’ Whatever.

Does it even matter to you which one people say? No.

Why is that every major Christian holiday adopts Pagan traditions in its celebrations? Uh.

#surveys

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borisbubbles · 6 years ago

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16. SERBIA

Balkanika - “Nova Deca” 19th place

youtube

Out of all the positive morphs I experienced this year, Serbia was the one that I suspected the least. I never hated them the way others did, but eh, I didn’t think highly of them either. Especially when the backstage clips showed them enterting the stage dressed up like members of some inauspicious fertility cult. “Oh.” I thought. “Another Genealogy. Except it won’t make the final. Whatever, NEXT”

How wrong I was though, because it did qualify and caused me to re-evaluate all I knew about life and come to the fucking conclusion that... this is really fucking good??? HOW is an exaggerated mess that has accurately been described as “Balkan Megamix Volume 3″ this great?

I actually don’t have a clear answer for this as i’m writing this down (we haven’t reached the songs I would spam the replay button on yet), but the core of it is that Balkanika tried REALLY hard to condense 900+ years worth of Balkanic musical tradition in a mere three minutes and fucking pulled it off by... striking battle poses like some Ethno-Power Rangers

GO GO BALKAN RANGERS!!!

The choreography as a whole is just so extra and beautifully overacted. The entire way through, the members of Balkanika strike poses as if in Madonna’s “Vogue”, guided on by the beguiling tunes conjured by Ljubomir’s magic whistle-wand [ed.: here’s the best gif i could make of Old Rasflutin’s background flailing, but it’s way funnier if you pay attention to his presence as you watch “Nova Deca” unfold, so SCROLL UP AND REWATCH RIGHT NAO!!!]:

Such a beautiful presence we’re not worthy of, y’all. All while the rest of Balkanika are either serving some epic 90 Percussion realness:

or chanelling some Project: Waters of Life sillyness

This could have so easily turned into a San Marinese goopy mess (which I don’t think too highly of, as you know), and briefly it looked like this would be the case; Instead, we found something better.

The plain answer however, lies in that Balkanika didn’t try to be funny and that makes a massive difference. Every piece of overacting, from Mladen’s creepy stares to Ra-Ra-Rasflutin (Serbia’s greatest love machine) prodding the action on from the background, is the product of intense belief and dedication, which... makes it hysterical, but in an endearing sort of way. Balkanika really just can’t help themselves. <3

However, as I have to take things into account other than just act, I can’t really drag Balkanika much higher than this. Their song, while cool in concept, is kinda a bit too overloaded with quirks, which are largely lost to me because you know, show-stopping staging. (lol I just realized this is such a reverse “O jardim”, how neat they will now be forever ranked next to one another in this ranking). “Nova Deca” also suffers from the fact that I already had a large slew of other faves before I started to love them. As a whole, I think they have the least to offer of those left in the ranking. Oh well, at least we’ll forever have this:

RANKING SO FAR:

16. Serbia (Balkanika - “Nova Deca”)

17. Portugal (Cláudia Pascoal - “O jardim”)

18. The Netherlands (Waylon - “Outlaw in ‘em”)

19. Ukraine (MÉLOVIN - “Under the ladder”)

20. Macedonia (Eye Cue - “Lost and Found”)

21. San Marino (Jessika ft. Jenifer Brening - “Who We Are”)

22. Sweden (Benjamin Ingrosso - “Dance You Off”)

23. Austria (Cesár Sampson - “Nobody but you”)

24. Latvia (Laura Rizzotto - “Funny girl”)

25. Azerbaijan (AISEL - “X my heart”)

26. Israel (Netta - “Toy”)

27. Norway (Alexander Rybak - “That’s how you write a song”)

28. Montenegro (Vanja Radovanovic - “Inje”)

29. Armenia (Sevak Khanagyan - “Qami”)

30. Poland (Gromee ft. Lukas Meijer - “Light me up”)

31. Greece (Yianna Terzi - “Oniro mou”)

32. Georgia (Iriao - “For you”)

33. Belgium (Sennek - “A matter of time”)

34. Italy (Ermal Meta & Fabrizio Moro - “Non mi avete fatto niente)

35. Romania (The Humans - “Goodbye”)

36. Ireland (Ryan O'Shaughnessy - “Together”)

37. Croatia (Franka - “Crazy”)

38. Belarus (ALEKSEEV - “Forever”)

39. Russia (Julia Samoylova - “I Won’t Break”)

40. Spain (Amaia & Alfred - “Tu canción”)

41. Iceland (Ari Ólafsson - “Our choice”)

42. Australia (Jessica Mauboy - “We Got Love”)

43. Czech Republic (Mikolas Josef - “Lie to me”)

FOOTNOTES (optional)

1) I decided not to credit Sanja Ilic simply because he wasn’t on the stage and I feel it’s kinda unfair to credit him just based on his merit as a composer, while Isaura composed AND performed second fiddle to Cláudia, without a letter of on-screen credit.

2) Re: Intentional vs Unintentional humour: The reason why intentional humour rarely works for me is that it comes with the built-in pressure to laugh, which... makes me less inclined to find something funny because it kinda takes away the choice element of it. Like, I think I have a fairly okay sense of humour, I can decide for myself what I find funny, you know? This is why intentional humour rarely works for me, while unintentional humour nearly always does. For reference, dial back to where I ranked Israel and Norway and Czechia and San Marino (or “Yodel it” and “Space” from last year), all acts that piggybacked on scripted humour

3) DoReDos are one of the few instances this year where intentional humour totally worked for me, although I also realize they’ve largely been hit-or-miss. But we won’t be discussing that soon.

4) Me being a history nerd, I also think the idea of “weaving a song out of literally every Serbian musical quirk ever” is a really cool song concept. It really comes close to an earnest, Balkanic version of “Swedish Smörgåsbord” <3 5) “Nova Deca” is a way more accurate representation of what actual balkan music sounds like (as opposed to the tiresome, tedious, boring Balkan Ballad). The Folk music channels in Bulgaria, for instance play “Nova Deca”-esque songs all day. 6) A funny argument between my mom and I occured during this song. My mom, who is Bulgarian, argued that Balkanika plagiarized their song from Bulgarian Polyphonic Singing. When I pointed out the song was based on the Byzantine musical traditions, she claimed that the Byzantines stole them from the Bulgarians, which is historically implausible (see note 8). This is one of many reasons I think little of ethnocentrism and nationalism, especially from the Slavs and Greeks. Everyone accuses one another of cultural appropriation (see again: Macedoniagate), when in fact, their geographical proximity exposed them to similar cultural ideas and their geopolitics (warmongering) turned it into a mutually unintelligible wash.

7) Besides, the entire point of the Balkans is that they support each other due to their cultural similarities in spite of wishing horrific, painful deaths on one another. <3

8) HISTORY LESSONS WITH BORIS #1: Polyphonic Singing. Polyphonic singing evolved as a Byzantine response to Roman Catholic liturgical chanting (instituted by Charlemagne, who as Holy Roman Emperor, took measures in making the religion more accessible to the common folk. How do we make the Bible popular? By teaching rich people how to read! What a genius. <3 ). Thus, polyphony spread as Byzantine Christianity spread, which would later become Eastern Orthodoxy after the East-West Schism in the 11th century AD. (hence why polyphony is such a big cultural benchmark all Eastern Orthodox nations, including Russia and Georgia, but not Armenia until their annexation by the Russian Empire in the 19th Century AD (since Armenian Christianity is a cadet branch of Oriental Orthodoxy, which split from Catholicism in the 4th century AD). Anyway, Bulgaria historically played a massive role in spreading Christianity and its liturgical chanting to their pagan Balkan neighbours, after the Bulgarian Knyaz (a fancy way of saying “Khan”) Boris I converted under the pressure of Byzantine Emperor Michael III. Boris (whom, as you might have guessed, I was named after) used Christianity to pacify the squabbling lords of his realm (which included both pagans and Catholics) and oversaw the creation of the Glagolitic (liturgical) and Cyrrilic scripts to speed up the spread, paving the way for Bulgaria’s Golden Age under his son Simeon. During that Golden Age, btw, much of what is now Serbia came under Bulgarian control, including Belgrade. So while the Serbs probably did learn polyphony from the Bulgarians, the Bulgarians absolutely, totally, learned it from the Byzantines, who invented the damn’ thing, in their own spin on Charlemagne’s popular church choirs. Mum, you’re WRONG. O:-)

#Eurovision #Eurovision Song Contest #Eurovision 2018 #Serbia #Balkanika #Sanja Ilic #Nova Deca

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narika-a · 6 years ago

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85 Statements Tag

I was tagged by @theycallmebaepsaeee7 a long long time ago 😂 Thanks!

RULES: Answer these 85 statements about yourself then tag 20 people

LAST…?

1. Drink: Green tea

2. Phone call: My dad

3. Text message: "O tai ji galvoji ten labai moka ta portugalu 😂” translated to English it would be something like ‘you think she knows that much Portuguese?’. I was texting with my mom about my sis 😂

4. Song you listened: Tell Me by Infinite

5. Time you cried: when I found out my exam results 😂

EVER…?

6. Dated someone twice: Nope

7. Kissed someone and regret it: Nope

8. Been cheated on: Nope

9. Lost someone special: Nope

10. Been depressed: Yeah, I mean who hasn’t in this time and age? 😂

11. Gotten drunk and thrown up: Nope

12. Favorite color: Purple and/or shades of violet

13. Favorite color: Soft greens

14. Favorite color: idk anymore omg 😂

IN THE LAST YEAR HAVE YOU…?

15. Made new friends: Yesss

16. Fallen out of love: Nope

17. Laughed until you cried: Yeah! And a lot! 😂

18. Found out someone was talking about you: Yeah, there is always someone out there who just wants to talk shit

19. Met someone who changed you: Nope

20. Found out who your friends are: There was even no need for that, I know my friends well 😂

21. Kissed someone on your Facebook friend list: Excluding my family members then nope 😂

GENERAL

22. How many of your Facebook friends you know irl: All of them

23. Do you have any pets: One abaubauabuab freaking adorable cat

24. Do you want to change your name: Nah, I love my name

25. What did you do for your last birthday: Went out to eat with my dad and auntie

26. What time did you wake up today: About 9.40 am or smth

27. What where you doing at midnight last night: Unboxing kpop albums 😂

28. What is something you can’t wait for: To go back home

29. Last time you saw your mother: Almost 2 months ago

30. What are you listening to right now: Sweet Lies by EXO

31. Have you ever talked to a Tom: Yeah, I had a classmate named Tom tbh 😂

32. Something that is getting on your nerves: Waiting for the dates and ticket sale time for Up10tion European tour 😂

33. Most visited website: Youtube, Tumblr, Makestar and a shit ton of online shopping sites like ebay, cdjapan, aliexpress, ktown4u etc. I need help, I think I’m addicted to online shopping omg 😂

34. Hair color: Brown

35. Long or short hair: I would say they’re pretty long now

36. Do you have a crush on someone: Nope

37. What do you like about yourself: Everything 😂😂 Jk jk I think my personality, also my imagination and organization skills

38. Want any piercing: Yesss! I’m slowly going up the ear, I’m thinking of getting a helix one soon. I also always wanted a nape piercing but I don’t think it’s very practical, so I will see~

39. Blood type: If I remember correctly, it should be B+ 😂

40. Nickname: None thank god

41. Relationship status: Sexy, free and single. I'm ready too, bingo 😂

42. Zodiac: Taurus

43. Pronouns: She/her

44. Favorite TV shows: Oh gosh, there are so many of them omg. Some of my favourites would be TWD, Z Nation, Supernatural etc and ughhh I haven’t been keeping up with a lot of them lately

45. Tattoos: Not yet

46. Right or Left handed: Right

47. Ever had surgery: I don’t think so?

48. Piercings: 6 and all of them are for ears

49. Sport: Nothing at the moment. I’m a lazy 💩, okay? 😂😂

50. Countries you visited: Latvia, Poland, France, Ireland, Czech Republic

51. Trainers: I recently bought two new pairs and they’re so comfortable omg

MOST GENERAL

52. Eating: All day every day. Favourite food? Traditional Lithuanian dishes! Cepelinai!! Yasss

53. Drinks: Black and green tea, coke

54. I'm about to watch: Some Pewds videos 😂

55. Waiting: For Arctic Monkeys concert

56. Want: To finally concentrate on studying

57. Get married: Meh, not really interested. At least for now.

58. Career: Astro physics/astronomer!!

WHICH IS BETTER

59. Hugs or Kisses: Hugs def

60. Eyes or lips: Eyez eyez baby

61. Shorter or taller: Taller but it all comes down to personality in the end

62. Older or younger: Older

63. Nice arms or stomach: Both?

64. Hookup or relationship: Relationship

65. Troublemaker or hesitant: Troublemaker

HAVE YOU EVER

66. Kissed a stranger: Nope

67. Drank hard liquor: Nope

68. Turned someone down: Yes oh god

69. Lost glasses: Yeah in my own house 😂 I think they were on my head or smth 😂😂 Also this is a bit off topic but I once was cleaning my glasses and I guess I used to much force or smth and one glass fell out fml 😂

70. Sex on first day: Nah

71. Broken someone’s heart: I hope not

72. Had your heart broken: Nope

73. Been arrested: Nope

74. Cried when someone died: Yeah

75. Fallen for friend: Nope

DO YOU BELIEVE IN…?

76. Do you believe in yourself: Yesss 💪

77. Love at first sight: Yeah

78. Santa Claus: Wait what? Santa is not real???????????????????????

79. Miracles: Yeah

80. Angels: Yeah

OTHER

82. Best friend name: Diana and Ramunė

83. Eye colour: Hazel

84. Favourite movie: Omg don’t ask me stuff like this, it’s impossible

85. Favourite actor/actress: Now that I think about it, I don’t think i have one

And done!

I’m tagging: @heebiejbies; @emma-no-sekai; @huangamoto; @illegirl-shesus; @elliechoc; @kihobebe; @kttendrama; @kangseungsicc~

#tagged

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travellingczechia · 7 years ago

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Velikonoce! 1-2.4.2018

This picture sums up Easter in the Czech Republic pretty well, I think. My two host brothers and my host dad are ready to leave on a Velikonoční kroužek. (My host brothers, rather, my dad stayed home.) They have their pomlázka, a whip made of willow branches, and are already sporting some ribbons which my host mother and I gave them as thanks for our, um, whipping. We also gave them some painted eggs and some gingerbread, according to the Easter song:

Hody hody doprovody (this is nonsense)

Give us painted eggs

If you have none painted,

at least give white ones

The hen will lay you more

In the corner chamber

On the green rods

(*very roughly translated by me/some google translate, the last two lines I have no idea)

The boys then went house to house in the neighborhood, collecting eggs and sweets and ‘whipping’ the women in each house along with their friends. Some groups visited our house, so my gardening with my host mom was interrupted in order for us to receive the whipping and give the visitors candy and eggs. (It’s just a few taps on the rear, really- but I think you’d have to grow up with it to get used to it.) In some villages, adult men go around along with younger ones, and receive shots of hard alcohol along with eggs. Some villages also throw women into water. (This is all in the name of preserving the woman’s youth/strength/fertility. But in the southwest, where I am, everything is very symbolic and laid-back. The boys complained that there were hardly any girls their age to whip, because these days a lot of the younger girls go out with the boys to get candy, like trick or treat.)

The boys made their own pomlazkas, which was neat. The fish pond by the house supplied more than enough willow branches. My host mom and I had our own traditional women’s work, namely, baking beranka and vánočka and painting the eggs. We dyed the eggs with red onion skins and patterned them with garden buds and grasses. My classmates told me mostly grandmas do that now, but I thought it had a much prettier result than the dyes I have used in the US. Vánočka is tricky, I tried to learn how to braid the dough on my own, using some rope to practice beforehand.

Beránek is the Czech word for lamb. Biskupsé beránka is a delicious Easter treat featuring dried fruits, walnuts, and a generous chocolate coating. Czechs buy a special baking mold to make it.

Easter Monday was a strange, beautiful (as in the weather was nice) holiday that I’d never celebrated before. Easter Sunday, sure- but my Easter basket and church service in Ohio felt like a very different celebration than this one. I’m lucky that I got to celebrate with not just one, but two wonderful host families. I visited my first one Monday afternoon!

Happy Spring, everyone <3

#velikonoce #czech republic #rotary youth exchange #april

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yoonkoooook · 7 years ago

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growing up i learned that one of the best ways to learn about a culture is through their food like cooking it and reading about how it’s prepared and traditions and such. i’m czech, scottish, german, etc. (aka very White), i know very very little about korean food or anything and i don’t have a korean restaurant i can just go to to experience the food even a little but i’ve been reading more and more about korean food and culture through a woman named maangchi who runs a food blog and youtube channel. when i saw her recipe months ago for kimchi i was like, i can do that and i need to try it. i’ve never had kimchi, never seen it in front of me, i’ve heard of it and know it’s a staple dish in korean meals and after the episode of run bts i asked my mom to get me the ingredients to make some so she did.

i have spent the last ~4 hours making it and my god do i have THE utmost respect and admiration for anyone who can and does make it because wow. the time and care and work that it takes to make it is insane. i made it with ONE (1) nappa cabbage when people usually make it with like TEN (10) or more at a time. my back hurts, my hands hurt, my feet hurt but wow i’m just amazed at how hard people work to make this in massive quantities to last for their households. here i was thinking “oh, i’ll just make a little to try i don’t even know if i’ll like it” no no no it doesn’t work like that. even making the little bit i made took so much attention and work but like i said, i absolutely respect the process and the dedication it takes.

the entire process of putting the kimchi together was a super cool learning experience and reading more about the types and how they differ by region and tastes and stuff was a really really awesome experience and i can’t wait to taste what i made (after a nice dose of advil and sitting down for the next 3 hours).

#i'm genuinely curious how kimchi tastes and learned a ton today #i was NOT expecting it to take 4 hours but that's part of the learning process and i respect that #i need a nap lmao

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plantparenthood · 7 years ago

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Mountain ask! Snow, yarn, red cheeks, bells, home, and sour cherry. Love your blog! Very happy and calming. 💕

snow: what is your favorite time of year and why?

very hard to choose! is between fall and spring. fall for the colors here and spring for the vernal pools and all the wildflowers (also my moms birthday)

red cheeks: what makes you nervous?i’m a really anxious test taker, but just the first few moments and the whole time leading up to the test/quiz. when im actually taking it im fine haha.

bells: what sounds are your favorite or calm you the most?

the harp, joanna newsom can harp me down any day. also the sough (the sound of the winds) through the trees.

home: where do you dream of living?

in a cabin at the end of a long drive away in the middle of the woods with a least 70 acres under my name. Appalachia will always be my home but im not opposed to living somewhere else, someplace with forest.

sour cherry: an obscure tradition from your family?

uh ... wrapping everything in cabbage like a normal czech family??? hahaha

#aw thank you!!!!#berrywavves #answered

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karlosharrison-blog · 5 years ago

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Over the past few decades, Poland has risen to take its rightful place as one of the premier tourist and traveler destinations in Europe. This is no mean feat considering how it was left after the Second World War, and now its vibrant cities and stunning countryside are attracting visitors from far and wide.

Scenic Krakow city.

Poland’s landscape draws many outdoor enthusiasts, while places like Krakow, Gdansk, Wroclaw, and Warsaw are cultural and culinary hubs with a buzzing nightlife scene. The fact that it’s considerably cheaper than its western counterparts only adds to the charm.

And yet there are so many more destinations to explore here that perhaps don’t get the same attention as those aforementioned cities. One such place is my hometown of Zagan in the southwest of the country – where I was born and raised. It might not be on everyone’s bucket list, but it is most certainly worth a look – not least for its Polish culinary excellence and history, and great Polish Christmas traditions. Read on to discover what you can see, do and – of course – eat in the region.

Where is Zagan?

My hometown is located in the southwest of Poland on the Bóbr river, some 60 kilometers from the German border and 160 kilometers from Wroclaw. It has a small population of just over 26,000 inhabitants and is the capital of the Zagan administrative district in the historic region of Silesia. Interestingly, it is thought that the name of the town means “place of the burnt forest,” referring to the removal of woodland by the early settlers here.

The town was first mentioned in records dating back to 1202, while the whole Silesia region has seen its fair share of ups and downs through the years, a culturally rich part of the world with corners in the Czech Republic and Germany. With its position on the Bóbr, Zagan was an important trade route, and the area is blessed with many natural resources. But it is perhaps most famous for being the location of Stalag Luft III – the German prisoner of war camp that housed allied airmen during the Second World War.

Colourful townhouses in Zagan

We shall return to this fascinating story momentarily.

How to Get to Zagan

The nearest major airport to Zagan is located in Wroclaw, but you might also consider flying into Dresden in Germany – which isn’t that much further away at 169 kilometers. Flights depart regularly from most international airports. At the time of writing, trains from Wroclaw run four times a day and it will take you anywhere between two to three hours to arrive. Check the schedules before departing. Buses are possible but they don’t stop in the town center and can be irregular.

I and Cez visiting Zagan by car. We went to explore my neighbourhood together.

The best way to get to Zagan is by car, as having your own mode of transport will afford you the ability to explore the surrounding area and visit the sights with ease. Failing that, don’t forget that Poland is a very hitchhiking friendly country and ridesharing is also extremely popular. Points of interest in the region are often a distance apart, so having your own wheels is highly recommended.

Getting Around

Even if you do have your own vehicle, I would most definitely suggest exploring the town by bicycle. Zagan is a very bike-friendly town given its relatively small layout, and you can rent one from the tourist information office right next door to the Ducal Palace.

What to See in Zagan

While having its own particular charm, the town itself doesn’t have many sights to speak of – certainly not when compared to Wroclaw or Dresden for that matter. But what it lacks in physical attractions, it more than makes up for in history, food and hospitality. That and its number one tourist draw – Stalag Luft III POW camp and museum.

Stalag Luft III Prisoner Camp Museum

The regions undeniable highlight is, quite rightly, extremely popular. So much so that people flock to the town from all corners of the globe just to see the former POW camp, with many visitors being inspired to come because they had family members or friends imprisoned here. It was constructed in March 1942, and it became an infamous detention center for captured airmen. But it was the daring escape attempt by 200 men in 1944 that really captured the world’s attention, and most notably Hollywood’s, when they released the 1963 film The Great Escape.

youtube

Although the Steve McQueen flick is a stone-cold classic, it’s quite different from how events actually unfolded here. The camp today is a faithful reconstruction of what it would have been like for those who were “guests” during the war. 76 airmen managed to break out through the famous “Harry” tunnel – a mock-up of which you can visit. Of those, only three actually made it back behind friendly lines. The rest were either recaptured or executed on Hitler’s orders. The camp is a sombre but fascinating memorial to those brave men and should not be missed during a visit to Zagan.

When in Zagan, you can’t skip visiting Stalag Luft III Prisoner Camp Museum.

The Ducal Palace and Park

Located in the center of the town is the beautiful baroque Ducal Palace, built on the site of Piast Castle in the 15th Century. The palace has an eclectic history, changing hands several times during its existence and at one time being one of the most famous palaces in Europe being visited by a great number of dignitaries. Designed by Italian architect Vincenzo Boccacci, it has been adapted and improved down the years and has a year-round program of events and exhibitions on site.

The pride of Zagan – the Ducal Palace and Park.

It’s set close to the leafy, serene and relaxing Prince’s Park – which is where you’ll find many a local hanging out when the weather is good. Tickets for entry to the palace need to be bought in advance at the tourist information office at the entrance.

The Abbey of St Augustine

With roots back in the 13th Century, this monastery complex is an especially sacred site in Poland and is named as an official national historic monument. It has remained almost intact since it was built, making it a very interesting and noteworthy attraction in our little town. It has this really cool feature called the whispered vault, where the acoustics are just so that even if you speak a whisper, someone will still hear you across space.

When in Zagan, go for a stroll across the city centre. It’s so much to see and do there.

The church itself is very beautiful and the library and museum are well worth a visit. Be advised though – you need to book a sightseeing tour a day in advance if you want to see it, but that means its real advantage is that it’s never overrun with tourists.

11th Armoured Cavalry Division Exhibition

If you haven’t already guessed, Zagan has a long-standing military history, and today it is home to the 11th Armoured Cavalry Division – which traces its roots back to operations in 1945. There is a small museum at the barracks, including a display of tanks and armoured vehicles, uniforms and documents and other interesting exhibits. American tank divisions are also stationed here and are on constant rotation through the town. Located a short drive out of the center, the exhibition is a must for anyone interested in the subject.

What to Eat in Zagan

Ahhhh, now we come to a topic that is very dear to my heart. Polish food! As far and wide as I’ve traveled, I always love to return home for some traditional, hearty and comforting cuisine – usually cooked by my mom! Zagan has some wonderful places to sample Polish delicacies, but we’ll get to that in a moment. First, let’s take a look at just a taste of what you should be ordering here.

Rosół

A delicious yet simple chicken soup that’s famous in these parts, we would usually have it as part of our Sunday dinner. It’s perfect for colder weather or any time you’re not feeling well.

What’s for Sunday dinner in Zagan? Rosol!

Polish chicken soup is simply the best in the world – but I might be a little bit biased.

Bigos

This is a mouthwatering dish made from shredded sauerkraut and cabbage, mixed with mushrooms and diced sausage. It’s the kind of meal where the only downside is that it will have to end at some point.

A plate of delicious bigos is waiting for you!

If this is on the menu (and it will be) you need to give it a try – it is our national dish after all.

Pierogi

Perhaps one of Poland’s most famous dishes internationally, pierogi are thick dumplings that come with a variety of fillings.

A plate of Pierogi (Polish dumplings).

You can take your pick from beef, sauerkraut and mushrooms, cottage cheese and boiled potatoes, or even seasonal fruits, such as strawberries and blueberries. They’re often imitated around the world, but there really is no taste like home.

Łazanki

Another hearty and filling dish (most Polish food is), this is made from homemade pasta, fried cabbage, shredded carrots and onions, and well-done diced pork.

Yummy lazanki – you must try them in Zagan!

Sour cream is often served as an accompaniment and it’s also a popular dish in Belarus and Lithuania.

Polish Croissant Cookies

For those with a sweet tooth and something for dessert, try these puff-pastry cookies. They’re usually filled with jam and they’re really easy to make. Perfect as an after dinner treat – or a treat anytime!

Where to Eat in Zagan

My hometown is teeming with awesome restaurants for you to try all the culinary delights that this region offers. International cuisine is also available if you would prefer, but you really must try the local dishes to get the full experience here.

Domowe Obiady

This is a great place for cheap eats as it’s more of a takeaway vendor. Still, the food is delicious and very traditional. All the usual dishes are on offer, and you can even buy produce to cook for yourselves at home. The name of the establishment literally translates as “home cooked lunches”. I want to order myself some pierogi right now!

Kepler

If you’re looking for sit-down eats but still want to sample traditional Polish cuisine, head to Kepler – which is actually the number one rated restaurant in the town. Conveniently located in the heart of Zagan, this place serves a full menu of Polish classics, as well as delicious apple pie and ice cream (jabłecznik z lodami) which – although available the world over – is also a Polish speciality. The waiting staff speak very good English here, too.

Antonio Pizza

If you’re going to eat Italian while you’re here, you might as well head to Antonio’s Pizza.

Pizza time!

There are a lot of pizzerias in Zagan – Polish people love making and eating the Italian dish just as well, but they can often be hit and miss. This one is probably the best in the town.

Bar U-Waga Smak

Don’t be confused with the exterior of this place – it’s not actually a “bar” as you might know it. U-Waga Smak is one of the famous Polish “milk bars,” where many Poles will go to dine on hearty, traditional food that doesn’t cost the earth. Set in a cafeteria style, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with the locals – which can be an entertainment in itself. A milk bar is a must visit when you’re exploring Poland – it’s an institution.

Take Me Home Country Roads!

My old stomping ground of Zagan is a very special place for me as it holds a lot of cherished memories. I always love returning to visit after great lengths of time trotting the globe. There is nothing quite like visiting mom for some home cooked Polish treats, and although the town doesn’t have the tourist draw of other cities in the country, it has a certain charm that I would still recommend experiencing. There is, after all, no place like home.

Would you pay Zagan a short or a long visit? And what would be your favorite thing to do there?

The post Things to do in Zagan, Poland appeared first on Etramping Travel Blog.

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celtfather · 5 years ago

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Shamrock Pub Songs #201

Leprechauns, Irish street songs, ghost stories, and a free Celtic MP3s, a free CD, and lots more today on the Pub Songs Podcast.

Welcome to the Pub Songs Podcast, the Virtual Public House for Celtic Geek culture. I am your Guide. My name is Marc Gunn. Today’s show is brought to you by my Gunn Runners on Patreon. Subscribe to the podcast at PubSong.net.

WHO'S PLAYING IN THE PUB TODAY

0:22 - SONG: “The Leprechaun” by Marc Gunn from St Patrick’s Day for Kids music

3:45 - WELCOME

-- Kickstarter for Selcouth is over $1300 over its goal. Ends on March 13!

-- New Single: Molly Malone (feat. Jesse Ferguson)

-- New Stories from the Road: Naked, Cat Lovers Podcast, Molly Malone MP3s

-- New episode of In the Verse on Trash

-- Listen to Celtfather Monthly podcast

-- Listen to Cat Music Lovers podcast

-- Free CD Offer

-- Video: Dom Duff from Celtic Invasion of Brittany

-- Want 17 Free Celtic MP3s? Subscribe to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.

-- Updated lyrics for songs: Jedi Drinking Song Prequel, Bring Me Home Boys, Freedom Costs, Doctor of Gallifrey, I’ll Tell My Ma, Serenity Valley Waltz, Mingulay Boat Song,

9:49 - SONG: “I’ll Tell My Ma” by Marc Gunn from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lovers Companion and St Patrick’s Day for Kids

11:26 - PUB CHAT

You can chat in the pub, please send me your feedback. What are you doing today while listening to the Pub Songs Podcast? Send a written comment along with any pictures to [email protected]. Use the hashtag #pubsongs in the subject of your email.

Question of the Week: What is your heritage?

22:19 - SONG: “Genetic Counseling Song” by Marc Gunn from Selcouth

26:42 - STORIES FROM THE ROAD: Serenity Valley Waltz

If you enjoyed this episode of Stories from the Road, join the Gunn Runners Club on Patreon. You get first access to new music and once a week, you will enjoy a very personal look at the thoughts and stories behind the songs.

Your support pays for the production and promotion of my music and the podcast, and it pays for my time in producing the show. You’ll get it all for as little $5 per month. Learn more on Patreon. Follow the link at marcgunn.net.

Special thanks to my newest patrons: Jason D, Karen C, Max M, Leslie M, Tim S, Sarah C

31:30 - SONG: “Serenity Valley Waltz” by Marc Gunn from Selcouth

35:28 - UPCOMING SHOWS

MAR 7: The Lost Druid, Decatur, GA @ 7:30 PM

MAR 12: St Patrick’s Day Internet Concert on YouTube @ 8:30 PM

MAR 13: Interstellar Ginger Beer & Exploration Co, Alabaster, AL

MAR 14: St Patrick’s Day at 5 Points, Birmingham, AL

MAR 20-22: ConCoction, Cleveland, Ohio

MAR 26: Tucker Brewing Company, Tucker, GA @ 6:30 PM

APR 4-5: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX

APR 11-12: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX

Every Weds 10:30 AM EDT: Coffee with The Celtfather on Facebook

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS. Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. We’re going to Scotland in 2021. Join the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

If you enjoy the music in this show, support the artists. Buy their music and merch. Follow them on Spotify. Let them know how much you love what they are doing. And tell a friend.

38:48 - SONG: “Wild Kitty” by Marc Gunn from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers

Pub Songs Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn. To subscribe, go to Apple Podcasts, Spotify or to my website where you can subscribe to my mailing list. I’ll email you regular updates of new music and podcasts, special offers, and you’ll get 21 songs for free. Welcome to the pub at www.pubsong.net!

PUB CHAT

Janine Rinker emailed: “Hi Marc, I started looking for celtic music online because my philosophy professor claimed that Irish music is mainly drinking and fighting songs (it isn't all...). Anyway, after listening to the same songs by the same groups several times I got the idea of just skipping several pages of search and found your music.

I generally listen to your pubsongs podcast when I'm typing homework of some sort (I'm an adjunct professor at a community college, and something of a chronic student), although sometimes I'm playing games on Facebook instead. You've gotten my family watching Firefly, and I gave some of your CD's as a Christmas gift to a friend who likes cats, but doesn't have any of her own anymore. Thanks for the bonus Christmas CD's you sent.

If you're not familiar with them, let me suggest Woods Tea Company and Cahill Dunne as other groups whose music you might want to play. Both have some songs where the audience is encouraged to sing the chorus. Woods Tea Company has a variety of songs, but "This Side of the Sea" is an album specifically of Irish music. Cahill Dunne is an Irishman who married an American. He plays piano, and sings a variety of styles of music, including traditional Irish, comedy and Western songs.

I really enjoy the variety of music on your podcast and listening to your adventures.”

James H. emailed: "Hi Marc –Thanks for sending me the freebies! I’m listening to Star of County Down, but not sure how to download the songs. I can usually right click and “Save Target As”, however, that’s only saving the HTM (file location). Is it only intended to listen on my computer?

We live in Modesto California. We’re Christian Baptists and our church is in Stockton.

I found you through my android podcast player, although most of my regular podcasts are on my iPhone. I like to bring my tablet (android) on long trips to visit my daughters in college in Southern California.

My wife and daughters all play violin and my daughters played (still one daughter in it) the Modesto Youth Symphony Orchestra; they have played concerts in Canada, Austria and Czech Republic. My oldest LOVES anything Celtic and would probably want to live in Ireland.

My dad’s side of the family is from County Cork and Clare County. My mom’s side came over on the Mayflower.

Thanks again I’m enjoying your podcast!"

Albert D emailed: "Hello Marc, I love your shows, I love your music. Keep up the great work. That’s awesome that the next few months are looking busier than you’ve been in years. LONG overdue. Congratulations and good luck. Could you please tell me what “coffee with the Celtfather” is all about? Thank you for your time. Peace be with you, God bless you, go in peace."

Allan Marcotte emailed: “Marc,I heard you singing Kilty Pleasure about taking pride in your Scottish heritage and wearing of the kilt. I am not of Scot or Irish descent but the song spoke to me. My Dad was an American of French Canadian extraction but my Mom was German from the old country, she came to this country about 4 years before I was born. Growing up I was aware of my French Canadian heritage but I was very aware my German heritage. I listened to traditional German music and still do though I don't speak the lingo and understand all the songs. My diet is heavily influenced by German cooking, I even make my own sauerkraut from scratch. It becomes very prominent at Christmas, the tradition of celebrating Advent, the visit from St Niklaus on 6 December and to me there is nothing prettier than Silent Night sung in German. Looking forward to the new album.”

#pubsongs #shamrock #irishsongs

Check out this episode!

#pub songs podcast

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peacefulheartfarm · 5 years ago

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The Tradition of Father's Day

The Tradition of Father’s Day is the topic for today. It’s two weeks away for those of us here in the US.

But first, let me take a minute to say welcome to every new listener and welcome back to the veteran homestead-loving regulars who stop by to listen to the FarmCast every week. I appreciate you all so much. I’m so excited to share with you what’s going on at the farm this week. And a fantastic recipe for grilling on Father’s Day.

Today’s Show

Homestead Life Updates

The Tradition of Father’s Day

Gourmet Chevon Burgers

Homestead Life Updates

Our homestead life is humming along. Yes, I’m still way behind on taming the weeds in the garden, the beans still need to be planted. And to top it off, harvesting is beginning. I’ve already picked green peas for shelling and snow peas. I froze four packages and had plenty left over for several meals. Now the shelling peas need to be picked again. This time there will be lots and lots and lots of them. I may freeze some and can some. We’ll see. Freezer space is at a premium right now. The potatoes are ready to be dug up and dried and I have plenty of spring onions available to add fresh to any dish.

Happy and good lamb news. We had a late arrival a few days ago. That brings our total to 10 lambs this year and zero loses. We’ve never had that kind of success rate. Mother nature usually has her way with at least one or two. We have been truly blessed this year.

The herd shares are going gangbusters. Only a couple of slots left there. And so many are interested in the cheese. During the summer we offer milk, yogurt, butter and cream, while winter will provide lots of cheese and butter. My schedule may change in that area due to the requests of the herd share owners. Many want the cheese now in lieu of the milk. Next month their wishes will become reality.

The quail are growing like crazy. Scott devised a way to alter their feeding trays so they don’t waste so much. That’s working out fine. The roosters are beginning to crow. It’s not a like a chicken at all. When I go and visit them and care for them, they are all standing in a row in front of the door looking out. They are so cute and funny.

Scott is moving along with the creamery walls. And that’s about it for the homestead updates. Let’s get to the topic of the day.

The Tradition of Father’s Day

Last month we looked at the tradition of Mother’s Day. Today we look at the tradition of Father’s Day. And more importantly, why children need fathers (or at the very least father-figures) in their lives. Today retailers and marketers, in an effort to make a quick buck, have completely changed the original meaning of Father’s Day. A holiday that was created to honor dad and enumerate his special qualities is now used as a marketing tool. Such is the way of life in our very affluent country.

Let’s take a look at the roots and history of Father’s Day.

The Religious Roots and Tradition

A customary day for the celebration of fatherhood in Catholic Europe is known to date back to at least the Middle Ages, and it is observed on March 19, as the feast day of Saint Joseph, who is referred to as the fatherly Nutritor Domini ("Nourisher of the Lord") in Catholicism and "the putative father of Jesus" in southern European traditions. This celebration was brought to the Americas by the Spanish and Portuguese, and in many countries Father's Day is still celebrated on March 19. The Catholic Church actively supported the custom of a celebration of fatherhood on St. Joseph's day from either the last years of the 14th century or from the early 15th century.

The History of Father’s Day in the United States

Father's Day was not celebrated in the US, outside Catholic traditions, until the 20th century. As a civic celebration in the US, it was inaugurated in the early 20th century to complement Mother's Day by celebrating fathers and male parenting.

There are two stories of when the first Father’s Day was celebrated in the United States. According to some accounts, the first Father’s Day was celebrated in Washington state on June 19, 1910. A woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd came up with the idea of honoring and celebrating her father while listening to a Mother’s Day sermon at church in 1909. She felt as though mothers were getting all the acclaim while fathers were equally deserving of a day of praise (Likely she would be displeased that Mother’s Day still gets the lion’s share of attention).

Sonora’s dad was quite a man. William Smart, a veteran of the Civil War, was left a widower when his wife died while giving birth to their sixth child. He went on to raise the six children by himself on their small farm in Washington. To show her appreciation for all the hard work and love William gave to her and her siblings, Sonora thought there should be a day to pay homage to him and other dads like him. She initially suggested June 5th, the anniversary of her father’s death to be the designated day to celebrate Father’s Day, but due to some bad planning, the celebration in Spokane, Washington was deferred to the third Sunday in June.

The other story of the first Father’s Day in America happened all the way on the other side of the country in Fairmont, West Virginia on July 5, 1908. Grace Golden Clayton suggested to the minister of the local Methodist church that they hold services to celebrate fathers after a deadly mine explosion killed 361 men.

While Father’s Day was celebrated locally in several communities across the country, unofficial support to make the celebration a national holiday began almost immediately. William Jennings Bryant was one of its staunchest proponents. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge recommended that Father’s Day become a national holiday. But no official action was taken.

In 1966, Lyndon B. Johnson, through an executive order, designated the third Sunday in June as the official day to celebrate Father’s Day. However, it wasn’t until 1972, during the Nixon administration, that Father’s Day was officially recognized as a national holiday.

It took a while, but we got there. Fathers are celebrated in our country every year on the 3rd Sunday in June.

Father’s Day Around the World

Other countries also picked up on the idea of Father’s Day. It is, after all, quite profitable. While many followed suit by celebrating it on the third Sunday in June, some decided to honor dad on different dates. So, to make sure you know when to pay your respects to dear old dad wherever you may be, here’s a list of the two most prominent dates and associated countries where Father’s Day is celebrated around the world.

March 19– The religious celebration, is observed in Angola, Belgium, Bolivia, Croatia, Honduras, Italy, Lichtenstein, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland.

Third Sunday in June– The US version, is also observed in Antigua, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Columbia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, France, Greece, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Jamaica, Japan, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Trinidad, Turkey, United Kingdom, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.

A few made the list twice. Once for the religious celebration and the second for the secular celebration.

Why Fathers are Important in a Child’s Life

This is a topic I’m very interested in these days. In a time where men are often demonized at every turn for the smallest infraction, I feel the need to reiterate the facts and truth of the importance of men and father’s in the family. It is my opinion that way too many children are born today without a father’s loving presence. It has become common place for modern feminists to think they can “do it all” and they don’t need a man. It may be the biggest lie being perpetrated out there. I’ve spoken of this before and likely will again. It is detrimental to the health of women, their children and their relationships with the loving fathers of their children.

It’s simply ridiculous to think that the full-time job of parenting and a full-time job providing financial income can be done at the same time. There simply aren’t enough hours in the day to do both simultaneously and do them well. The reason there was a separation of a wife and husband’s duties was not to somehow suppress the intelligence and creativity of women. Nope. It was simply the best arrangement for the best outcome of family cohesion and stability. There was never anything stopping women from having careers. In fact, many did have careers. It was a choice then and is still a choice now to be a wife and mother. And in today’s environment, having a career is still quite feasible after the little ones reach their teens and begin experimenting with adulthood. Moms will sometimes have lots more time to pursue whatever they desire.

The children are raised by someone else and jobs often become drudgery for working mothers today. According to an article a few years ago in the Huffington Post, woman are unhappier today than ever before. It’s no wonder. We have to make choices. No one can “do it all”. We all make choices. And sometimes the choice is simply a matter of timing. Kids now, career later. Do it all in a linear fashion as opposed to lumping it all into a limited 24-hour day.

The traditional family evolved over time and has sustained itself over time because it works. It works to ensure that society moves forward in an orderly fashion. Sure, there are all kinds of fancy family configurations in our world today and all have value. All families have value. Having said that, it does not change the scientifically proven fact that children do best in a stable household with both a father and a mother. The special family configurations seem to be getting all the attention these days, which is great. I’m just bringing a bit of attention back to our traditional family structure. It’s what this podcast is all about.

It is my opinion that the traditional family structure is being neglected and pushed aside. There are many reasons, but my current pet peeve is for the welfare state that encourages single motherhood and discourages fathers from being part of their children’s lives. Money and other resources are severely cut back if a man is present in the household. As I said, it encourages single motherhood. This makes the life of mother and children much more difficult than it would be with a man in the picture. But for many growing up in the second and third generation of welfare, they know no other life. They know no other way to survive. My heart goes out to them.

Anyone can father a child, but being a dad takes a lifetime. Fathers play a role in every child’s life that cannot be filled by others or state provided financial benefits. The role of the father can have a large impact on a child and help shape him or her into the person they become.

Fathers and Emotional Development

Fathers, just like mothers, are integral in the development of a child’s emotional well-being. Traditionally, children look to their fathers to lay down the rules and enforce them. They also look to their fathers to provide a feeling of physical and emotional security. Children naturally want to make their fathers proud. An involved father can promote inner strength and personal growth. Studies have shown that when fathers are affectionate and supportive, it greatly affects a child’s cognitive and social development. It also instills an overall sense of well-being and self-confidence. Fathers are important to your children’s emotional development.

Fathers Set the Bar for Relationships with Others

Fathers not only influence who we are inside, but how we have relationships with people as we grow. The way a father treats his child will influence what that child looks for in other people. Friends, lovers, and spouses will all be chosen based on how he or she perceived the meaning of the relationship with his or her father. The patterns a father sets in the relationships with his children will dictate how they relate to and interact with other people.

Fathers and Their Daughters

Young girls depend on their fathers for security and emotional support. A father shows his daughter what a good relationship with a man is like. If a father is loving and gentle, his daughter will look for those qualities in men when she’s old enough to begin dating. If a father is strong and valiant, she will relate closely to men of the same character.

Fathers and Their Sons

Unlike girls, who model their relationships with others based on their father’s character, boys will model themselves after their father’s character. Boys will seek approval from their fathers from a very young age. As human beings, we grow up and mature by imitating the behavior of those around us; that’s how we learn to function in the world. If a father is caring and treats people with respect, the young boy will grow up much the same. When a father is absent, young boys look to other male figures to set the “rules” for how to behave and survive in the world.

Enter social media and online father-figure personalities. Enter the gangs. Enter the unsavory characters that can lead naïve youngsters astray. Again, mothers need to be at home with their children and they need to have stable relationships with the father of their children. A two-parent household consisting of a man and a woman is the ideal situation. Fathers are just as important as mothers. The online community is filled with great people that can be role models. But why have a substitute? Why not continue the tradition that has worked for as long as there have been humans? Have we thought deeply about what we are leaving behind?

That online community is also filled with evil people who wish to do harm to others – often targeting children and young adults. The primary job of a parent, I would argue, is to protect our children – to keep them safe from harm. We need to be there for them. Fathers need to be there for them.

As you celebrate your father on the third Sunday of June, ask him to show you how to grill a delicious, grass-fed burger. Tell him you love him and how much you appreciate him.

Gourmet Grilled Chevon Burgers

This recipe calls for ground goat. It's a great alternative to the same old hamburger. Goat, or chevon as it is widely known, is a staple red meat for much of the world outside the US. However, you can use whatever ground meat you prefer. The instructions call for using a cast iron skillet with lots of butter or oil. However, the grill works just as well.

What you Need

1-pound goat burger, grass-fed is preferable

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

1 teaspoon rosemary leaves, dried

1 teaspoon thyme leaves, dried

1 teaspoon cilantro, dried

1 teaspoon cumin, ground

1 medium onion, chopped

6 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter, divided

Instructions

Place the goat-burger in a mixing bowl, add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, cilantro, and cumin. Mix well.

In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium to high heat. Add the onion, lower the heat, and sauté for about 2 minutes until nicely browned and caramelized.

Add onions to burger mixture. Mix well. Shape into 4 patties. In a cast iron skillet heat the remaining olive oil or butter over medium-to-high heat.

Cook the patties in oil or butter until medium to medium-well, about 8 - 10 minutes on each side.

Notes

NOTE 1: Don't skimp on the oil when using goat. Grass-fed chevon burger is very lean and needs the fat to help retain moisture and to prevent sticking.

NOTE 2: As an alternative, you can use your gas grill.

Final Thoughts

That’s it for today’s Peaceful Heart FarmCast. If you are keeping up with the activities on the homestead, let me know what questions you have about what we do and why.

As you move closer to the celebration of Father’s Day in a couple of weeks, why not contemplate why this structural tradition has been in place for as long as it has? And there is nothing better than smiling across the table at your dad while chomping on a delicious gourmet, grilled, grass-fed burger with all the trimmings.

If you enjoyed this podcast, please hop over to Apple Podcasts, SUBSCRIBE and give me a 5-star rating and review. Also, please share it with any friends or family who might be interested in this type of content.

As always, I’m here to help you “taste the traditional touch.”

Thank you so much for stopping by the homestead and until next time, may God fill your life with grace and peace.

Recipe Link

Gourmet Grilled Chevon Burgers

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owlways-and-forever · 6 years ago

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Hello, it’s your CS Secret Santa! I hope you’ve been having a pleasant few weeks and that all this Tumblr uproar hasn’t been too depressing! Don’t worry, you’ll still be getting your Secret Santa fic from me, even if I have to snail mail it to you! :D I’m with you on favorite types of fanfiction: it really depends on my mood. I also enjoy unplanned pregnancy fics! 1/7

I think it’s seeing Killian and Emma interact in the situation and the way that Killian always is able to break down her walls and convince her that he will be there for her and the baby that just makes me melt inside! I think my favorites are multi-chapter canon divergence AUs. I like seeing how all the different writers in the fandom think things could have gone differently based on one or two small changes to canon. I love writing AUs too! 2/7

I still haven’t really hit my stride with consistently writing fanfic, but I keep hoping that practice makes perfect. What other fandoms are you a part of ? I’m going to have to go read all your fics now! 😉 Are there any other tropes that you would prefer I steer clear of? Or any tropes that you just absolutely love and I should try to include? I will tell you upfront that I’m not personally comfortable writing smut, so I’m sorry but I’ll probably leave that part to your imagination. 😉 3/7

My family has always had a tradition of putting up the Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving, so that kind of marks the beginning of Christmas music and movies and general festivities for us! And it is nice to get a whole month of Christmas joyfulness to help with the greyness of winter. Ick! Unless you like winter, which in that case, more power to ya! You’ll have to tell me more about your family traditions after all the secrecy is over! 4/7

My husband is third generation Czech so his family also does some traditional recipes around the holidays (mainly desserts!) and I’ve always been envious of families who have held onto their special roots like that! I love cooking and baking too, so I’d love to eventually hear what kinds of food you usually make! Does your family usually do big parties/get-togethers for the holidays? Or do you tend to be more laid back and kind of low-key?I would love including some Aladdin and Jasmine! 5/7

They were honestly one of the only good parts of season six in my mind! I just wasn’t a big fan of the overall writing by the point. Which was sad, but what can you do… Did you watch the whole show or was there a point where you stopped? I stopped watching live after the first half of season 5 and then just watched on Netflix. And I never watched season 7. Did you have a favorite season and least favorite season? Haha, I know exactly what you mean about Snow and Charming. 6/7

Actually, I still consider them two of my favorite characters, but their actions and characterization in the back half of the show is just… yeesh. You also perfectly put into words exactly what I’ve felt about their idealistic look on relationships! I’ve never been able to express that very well before, but just yes to all of what you said!I hope you got all those asks and Tumblr didn’t screw it all up!!! But either way, talk to you again soon! 7/7

Hello Santa! I’ve missed you! I’ve been having an alright week, nothing terribly exciting going on. I’m not too worried about the tumblr nonsense. I mean, I don’t like it and I don’t agree with it by any means, but I understand what they’re trying to do, and how difficult it can be to execute. I know there will be mistakes and it will be a bother, and I totally understand people wanting to leave, but I’m sticking around, at least for a while. But I’ve been on ao3 and ff.net for a while, so I’ll be keeping those up, and I’ll probably explore some additional accounts at some point. We’ll see.

Ugh, I’m totally with you! Killian convincing Emma that he wants to be around and be there for both of them is just too cute! It makes me all mushy. Also, I love seeing all the different names people come up with for their kids - names totally fascinate me in like a super nerdy way. Especially middle names. I think I’m very much in the minority of the fandom though with not liking Hope. Also, I see so much in fandom about their kids always being blonde and looking like Emma and just like… statistically speaking its not likely, and as a statistics person, that always bugs me. Like it’s fine if its just one kid, goodness knows that happens (both my parents have darker hair and I was white blonde as a baby and then blonde until I was an adult #towheadsunite). But when its like four kids and they’re all blonde the stats person in me gets very ruffled. I’m not sure I’ve read any mc canon divergence fics, but I always find them interesting. Mostly because I just find it’s not really a type of writing that I’m good at. The fun thing about AUs for me is that you get to world build, taking snippets from canon and snippets from the AU you’re fitting it into and make it this whole new thing. Say you’re writing a Pride & Prejudice AU, you get to pick parts of the plot that you like and twist them so it’s slightly different, and maybe you throw in some magic and see how that changes it. You get to choose what parts of Elizabeth Bennet’s personality Emma has, and what traits she brings over from canon Emma. And that’s just so much fun to me, to be able to create that way, and fit things just how you like them. But I find that when I’ve tried to write canon divergence I get too bogged down in the details - canonically, who was there and what had already happened and who knew what, and what magical abilities are there - and the story somehow gets lost in my brain. But I admire people who can write it, I think it shows phenomenal creativity to take a story and then run away with it and see how if you just change something small it can ripple out into the whole story. What are some of your favourite canon divergence stories?

I’m not consistent either. I try to at least write a little bit every day, but it always depends on what’s going on and how inspired I feel. I do have this excel thing where I keep track of how much I write for each of my WIPs each day, which I like. It helps me visually see the progress I’m making, and I’m definitely a visual person. The only other fandom I really write for is Harry Potter, but I like Doctor Who, West Wing, Downton Abbey. I think DW is really the only fandom of those. Honestly I watch way more shows than it ought to. I can’t think of any other specific tropes right now, either to include or avoid. Sorry, I know that’s not very helpful. I don’t mind not having any smut, I’m also not very comfortable writing it, and only selectively comfortable reading it.

Oooh, that’s a nice tradition! We always put our tree up kind of whenever we feel like it. I don’t know if my mom’s done hers yet, and my dad insists on waiting until the 12th so it’s the twelve days of christmas, no matter how many times I tell him that that’s not what that means. My roommate and I put our tree up last weekend though, so it’s all decorated now. We’re actually going to do a little “family photo” with the two of us and our pets tomorrow, which should be a riot. Haha, I do like winter! I love the cold bite in the air and the fairy lights everywhere and bundling up. And I especially love snow. It’s my favourite. But I’m also a January birthday, so I dont think I had much choice in liking winter.Oh my goodness, we do huge get togethers. Mostly just because our family is big. My mom has 8 siblings, and all but 2 are married, and then I have somewhere around 15 cousins, plus partners, so a normal holiday dinner for us is usually over 30 people. Thanksgiving is usually the biggest holiday for us, because somehow it’s worked out that that’s what most people can make it for. Christmas is still big, but less people travel for that, and I think it’ll probably continue to dwindle as cousins get married and stuff. This year will actually [probably] be the first year that I haven’t spent Christmas with my family, so it’s going to be a little weird for me. Boxing Day we typically go to my dad’s brother’s house, and I see his side of the family because they’re English. It’s always fun, and its usually the only time all year that I get to see them, but it’s also strange because I��m the only girl. It’s a more low-key day though, so generally if I need some quiet time I just grab a book and find a cozy spot. Last year was really nice though and two of my cousins and I stayed up super late and told stories and bonded. What kind of food is traditional for Czech christmases? I wonder if it’s similar to Polish food…

I definitely stopped watching live at some point in grad school, but I couldn’t tell you exactly when. It wasn’t really a conscious choice so much as just having a ton going on and not always being around to watch. I never watched s7 though. Once Emma and Killian were gone… well, I gave it a try, but I only got like 3 episodes in or something before I decided it wasn’t for me. Maybe one day I’ll go back and watch it, but I haven’t done a OUAT rewatch for a few years.I know that’s their fairytale story and everything and that’s kind of the point of them to some degree, to be that “ideal true love” but idk. I guess it just seems a bit garrish in the way that the other relationships really have to work for their happy ending. And snowing hits their bumps too, but… they kind of iron themselves out? One of the things that I liked about OUAT was that it was still fairytales, it was still fantastical, but it was realistic when it came to characters. They were broken, complicated, imperfect. The people themselves weren’t fairytale versions of anything. Except snowing. And from the perspective of being that fairytale ideal, they’re done well, of course, and I think that’s why people like them. But it’s so different from everyone else on the show.Anyway, that was a lot, but it was so wonderful talking to you! I hope we get to chat again soon! (Also sorry for not really asking any questions, but it’s nearly 1am now and WAY past my bedtime so I’m going to get some shut eye and then post this when I wake up.) Cheers!

#csss #cs secret santa #anonymous

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catholiccruisesandtours · 6 years ago

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St. Nicholas Day (December 6th) Our Family Traditions | Wellness Mama

The Tradition of St. Nicholas Day Around the World (December 6th) Katie Wells 18 Comments Updated: December 1, 2018 This post contains affiliate links Thanks to a European influence on both sides of the family, my husband and I both grew up celebrating the tradition of St. Nicholas Day on December 6th. Many people just know St. Nicholas by the name Santa Claus. While the modern figure of Santa derives from St. Nick, you’d hardly find this patron saint of children making toys in the North Pole. Who Was St. Nicholas? The real man behind the fictitious modern day Santa Claus was St. Nicholas of Myra. Born in 280 A.D. in Asia Minor, he lost his parents at an early age, though they left him great wealth when they died. He was known for giving anonymous gifts to help those in need and was eventually made a bishop. The good bishop died on December 6th; thus this day is now St. Nicholas Day. (For a fascinating explanation of how a man with a beard, reindeer, and the North Pole came to be associated with St. Nick, see this podcast episode about Santa Claus and the roots of the story in Finnish culture.) Why the Gift Giving? The history of leaving shoes or stockings out for St. Nicholas likely stems from the story of him leaving small bags of gold for a man and his three daughters. During those times women had to bring a dowry to a marriage in order to find a good husband. St. Nick heard of a man who had three daughters but could not afford the dowry. Without it, the daughters would most likely enter a life of prostitution instead of being able to marry. According to legend, St. Nick threw three bags of gold through their window at night, saving them from a life at a brothel and cementing his place as the patron of gift giving. St. Nicholas Day Around the World The feast of St. Nicholas is celebrated around the world in various cultures. Our own family tradition is a hybrid of several cultural traditions related to St. Nick. This is how some cultures around the world remember this day: Shen’Kollë in Greece In Greece (as well as Albania, Serbia, and Bulgaria), St. Nicholas is celebrated on the eve of his feast day, December 5th. This day is known as Shen’Kolli i Dimnit (Saint Nicholas of Winter). In these cultures, this day is one of fasting, not gift giving. In fact, on this day, most people abstain from meat or fast completely or prepare a feast to eat just after midnight. Sinterklaas in Belgium & Netherlands In these countries, children leave their boots in front of the fireplace for St. Nicholas. Often, they include a carrot or a treat for his horses, as legend has it that he arrived with his horses via sleigh or steamboat in these areas. St. Nicholas and Père Fouettard in France In France, St. Nicholas arrives on December 6th and gives children small gifts and chocolates. In the weeks leading up to this day, parents and grandparents tell stories of the legend of St. Nick, including a disturbing but popular one. The story goes that three children wandered away and got lost. A butcher lured them into his shop where he killed them and salted them away in a large tub. According to legend, St. Nicholas revived the boys and brought them home to their families. (At least there’s a happy ending!) This story earned St. Nicholas his reputation as protector of children in France. The butcher (known as “Père Fouettard,” meaning “Father Whipper”) is imagined to follow St. Nicholas in penance and leave lumps of coal or even whip misbehaving children. In France, statues and paintings often portray this event, showing the saint with children in a barrel. Sankt Nikolaus and Krampusnacht in Germany and Austria The way our family honors St. Nicholas mainly centers on this tradition. In Germany and Austria (and some other countries in this region), children leave out a boot for St. Nicholas and receive small toys, coins, or candy. In these areas, St. Nicholas still dresses like a bishop and often is portrayed on a horse. Like the French story, a sinister companion accompanies St. Nick, in this case the even more terrifying demon-like Krampus. In these areas, they don’t mess around with an Elf on the Shelf to encourage kids to be good: they invoke the legend of the Krampus! This beast is thought to punish children who misbehave and to capture particularly naughty children in his sack and carry them away to his lair. The Krampus has roots in Germanic folklore and its influence has spread to Austria, southern Bavaria, South Tyrol, northern Friuli, Hungary, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, and Croatia. December 5th is known as Krampus Night, or Krampusnacht, in which the hairy devil appears on the streets. Traditionally young men dress up as the Krampus on the night of December 5th and roam the streets frightening children with rusty chains and bells. How We Celebrate St. Nicholas Day Spooky stories are fun in their own way, but never fear … there is a more cheerful way to celebrate St. Nicholas Day! He was a good bishop known for helping others, after all. We honor St. Nick’s feast day in our family by celebrating in a few ways, adapting a mix of celebrations from around the world. Leaving Shoes or Boots Out on December 5th We leave out a shoe or boot in the hallway on the evening of December 5th for St. Nick’s arrival on December 6th. This is similar to the idea of doing stockings, though we do that as well on Christmas Day. In the boots, our kids usually find: Coins: Each child receives some quarters in their shoe to signify the money St. Nicholas gave. Healthy Treats: We also give some healthy treats like dark chocolate, small bags of nuts, or homemade marshmallows. Oranges: These signify the gold St. Nick gave away and our kids love oranges this time of year (which we don’t usually get because they aren’t in season). Random Acts of Kindness The most important lesson from the legend of St. Nicholas is his generosity. To help us all remember this, we make a point to do random acts of kindness this time of year. We brainstorm creative ways to help those in need in our local area, and set about our “secret” mission to bring some joy to others. In the past, we’ve done things like: Drop off grocery store gift cards to families in need. Give a big box of wrapped gifts and clothes to families who need them. Anonymously pay the utility bills of someone in need. Wrap gifts or donate items to local foster programs. The list of possibilities is endless, and it’s always a good lesson in gratitude for all our blessings. The Traveling Christmas St. Nicholas (or Angel) This is perhaps the most fun tradition and one I hope you’ll consider starting in your own area. In the spirit of St. Nicholas Day, we start a traveling Christmas St. Nicholas (or Angel) tradition to spark generosity all over our area. Here’s how it works: Get some kind of small St. Nicholas statue or angel statue. Think of another family in your area you want to pass on the statue to and something kind to do for them. This could be a small gift, a family activity, or just an act of kindness. Anonymously leave the statue on their front door mat one evening with a letter indicating that they’ve been touched by the spirit of Christmas generosity and that it is now their turn to pass on a kind act to another family in the area. We also print out a paper that “We’ve been visited by St. Nicholas” that they can post in their front window so others know they’ve already been visited. Whether you celebrate St. Nicholas Day or not, a random act of kindness is a great way to honor the Christmas season and we certainly need more of it in the world. Happy Feast of St. Nicholas, from my family to yours! Does your family celebrate St. Nicholas Day? What are your traditions? Filed Under: Natural Home This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my affiliate policy. Twitter Facebook Google+ Pinterest Linkedin Reddit You May Also Enjoy These Posts... Healthy Irish Recipes for St. Patrick's Day 39: Is ADHD Under Diagnosed? 101: Critical Thinking in a Social Media World (What You Didn’t Learn in History Class) About Katie Wells Katie Wells, CTNC, MCHC, Founder and CEO of Wellness Mama, has a background in research, journalism, and nutrition. As a mom of six, she turned to research and took health into her own hands to find answers to her health problems. WellnessMama.com is the culmination of her thousands of hours of research and all posts are medically reviewed and verified by the Wellness Mama research team. Katie is also the author of the bestselling books The Wellness Mama Cookbook and The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox. Primary Sidebar Enter your name & best email address below to join the Wellness Mama community and get the latest articles, podcasts, & healthy discounts delivered to your inbox!

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A look at the Traditions of #SaintNicolasDay around the World. #CatholicCruisesAndTours

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daciana-ashblood · 6 years ago

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The Takeover || Self

Bedrich walked into the bar. The town was smaller than wayward and the inhabitants were wary. There was a faint aura around the town. One that would turn a regular vampire away. He felt it the moment he crossed over from wayward. He also felt the stares. He felt the hostility. Yes. these wolves knew their sins. They knew what they had done. Killing their masters much as Alexander had done. He felt them lurking behind him. He felt them assesing him, relaying silent messages among themselves. He felt the alpha, smelled him and this in his direct line. They were spread through the small town.

Derrick stepped out of the bar and into the town square, standing on the north side of the water fountain at dead center of town. The vampire was tall and he was old. He smelled of the Czech republic.Derrick had been there once with the Ashbloods. The vampires had intended to leave him there so he couldn’t lead his pack. He had stayed in the conclave’s dungeon. Hadn’t even gotten to see his daughter be born. Once they thought him broken they had returned him here. Only to find out that his hatred had grown greater than his fear of the vampires.

“Vampire. Youre in the wrong town. Turn around. Your kind isn’t welcome here. Return to wayward, they have no backbone and will let any sort of riff raff in there.” His pack stepped closer to the stranger. He stood taller than them all even though he was sort of plain.

“I remember you. Listen to me. All will be forgiven. I am Bedrich of the conclave and you will serve us or you will fall.” He warned. The wolves around him bristled and growled low in their chest.

“We will never again wear chains.”

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Daciana was told to stay back but she couldn’t. She had felt him die. Her savior, her alpha, her father. She hadn’t known anything but the Ashblood coven. All the way into her late twenties she was a slave. Rocks were thrown at her and she was hunted for sport. Bitten more than once as punishment and left to starve and turn with her pack in a small room. Her father had come in and with his command they had escaped and destroyed their captors.

Now he was dead. They had slaughtered so many wolves alongside him. They had found many alive but dying. they all told the same story. The alpha would take a knee or he and a handful of the pack will die. When asked what did this they all replied the same. A vampire named Bedrich of the conclave.

She stepped into the city and could smell the death and rot, tears springing to her eyes. She could smell the venom tearing through the pack members even through some that had already passed.

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Rene hugged Daciana close. Rene couldn’t remember a time when Daciana was short enough to rest her head on Rene’s chest, but she missed her little girl. Daciana had changed and drifted away as many girls did. She never thought she would become alpha, so she went her own way, learning how to be herself on her own. Coming home when it was expected of her, only, showing up late to important traditions, drinking in the bar like the men. She was part of the pack but nothing more. she didn’t push herself in school and worked at the bar in town.Daciana was content but Rene had always wanted more for her.

Daciana had lowered herself to her knees, she had grown tall like her brothers. She lay her head on her mother’s chest.

“Mom, just kneel to them. Stall until we can get free.” She whispered.

“No, Darling. We will never wear chains again.” Her mother helped her stand, staring at the strong wolf before her. The vampire opened the door and stepped in. Rene had only brought Daciana along. She knew any others would be slaughtered. She was selfish but she wanted her little girl there at the end.

Rene didn’t hear much of what the vampire said. She just waited for him to set forth his demands. Daciana pleaded in her ear but Rene had already lost her husband and two sons. She couldn’t make their sacrifices mean nothing. He asked her to kneel and she turned.

It was over so fast. She made a leep for him, grabbing his throat in her jaws. Before her teeth could peirce the skin he grabbed each jaw and ripped her apart.

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Daciana flinched as blood spattered across her face. Rene fell and Daciana felt like the floor spun up to the roof. She would have fallen had the vampire not grabbed her by the jaw.

“Submit.” He growled. She had to buy time, had to get her pack together, regroup, plan. When his hand slid from her face she slowly dropped to one knee. He grinned and pet her hair as one would a dog. He absently brushed her hair back as a witch knelt behind her and slowly slid a collar onto her throat and sealed it.

“What is this?” The vampire backhanded her and she started to shake, fighting the urge to turn.

“You weren’t spoken to. My witches will go with you. Command your pack to kneel and let my witches put these on them. We have heard about your rebellious nature. As a punishment for killing your masters, you must wear these collars. If you turn they will strangle you to death. Tell them you follow the conclave now. You know your place.” He turned and left.

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Daciana traced the collar on her neck. It was pretty, silver with a gold plating. If they tried to get it off the gold would wear off leaving the silver exposed to burn their skin. She remembered these.

“Don’t fuss with it. It’ll start to chip and burn.” The older woman finished braiding Daciana’s hair while the other did her makeup.

“I don’t care.” She whispered.

“You will when the silver is exposed.” The woman whispered kindly. Daciana sighed.

“the pack will fall into chaos when they hear this plan.” She whispered back.

“No. You are your father’s child. They know you want what’s best for the pack, even if you were a little rebellious.” The woman said.

“But marrying a Greydawn... just to win a war... Father would rather die.” Her father had died.

“How will you convince him? Especially since he just lost a child.” She said.

“Maybe I can turn him on his woman.... turn his grief.... maybe I can just tell the truth... I don’t know.” Daciana shrugged.

“You’ll figure it out.”She said with confidence that made the pit in daciana’s stomach grow.

“How do you know!?” She growled.

“I don’t know. I’m trying to have faith in my alpha!” She growled back, yanking some of Daciana’s hair.

“Ow! Don’t!”

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