#needed more berries to balance out the chocolate

[gay-victorian-astronomer]

chocolate ganache covers a multitude of sins

could have used more berries though

cracked my cheese cake :(

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

You Don't Gotta Work 2

Warnings: unsolicited nudes, light stalking, allusions to coercive sexual acts.

I would appreciate a little feedback on this tiny whim of mine! Thanks to any all and hope you enjoy.

Your phone chimes, jarring you from a deep sleep. You scramble to grab it. Your heart picks up. Is it Mr. Scarmer? You must have overslept your alarm. 

Your panic dissipates as you realise it’s still early. The room is dim and your vision fuzzy with the dregs of sleep. You groan and squint at the screen. A WhatsApp message from some random number. Another spam bot. 

You go to tap block but instead miss and hit the notification itself. The app loads and opens the conversation. You’re met with an unexpected and unwelcome image. A man’s reflection from neck down, naked, posing, erect! 

You yipe and toss the phone away from you. Oof! What the hell is that? Do guys really pull that stuff now? Sending unsolicited nudes to randos.  

You cringe and shudder in repulsion. You reach for your phone, covering the photo with your hand as you open tap the settings button in the top corner. Below, another message pops up. 

‘Like what you see buttercup?’ 

You hesitate. Buttercup? Only one person ever calls you that... You shift your hand so you can only see the top half of the picture. The arms, the freckles, the chest; you’re pretty sure it’s him. You should’ve figured that out sooner. 

You bring the menu up again and block. You haven’t seen him since that day he threatened you. That’s what he did. His promises can only be that. 

He sent more flowers too but you refused the delivery. The chocolate-dipped berries were also sent back. And the final gift you ignored completely until it disappeared from the hallway. 

You lay back down. Figures. You finally get into a good sleep and the rude awakening has you restless. You close your eyes and fight for another hour before your alarm goes off. You don’t get even half of that. 

You get up and get dressed. You ready yourself with a mug of coffee steaming beneath the mirror. You sip throughout your morning routine. You finish the cup and wait a couple minutes before brushing your teeth. As you put on lip gloss, you check the time. You should get going. 

You step into a pair of low beige heels and rush to the door with your handbag swing. You squeak as you walk straight into a wall outside. You stagger back as Lloyd smirks down at you. He scrunches his nose and clucks. 

“Morning, buttercup,” he raises his arm above you to grip the door frame, “you miss me?” 

You back up and grab the door. You don’t get a chance to shut it before he has his other hand on the wood. He holds it open as he looms over you. 

“Now, let’s not spoil the day before it’s begun,” he purrs. “You didn’t answer my message so I just had to make sure you’re okay. I worry about you, baby.” 

“No, you need to go. You can’t be here.” You push on the door but he’s too strong. “I mean it, Mr. Hansen--” 

“How many times do I gotta correct you, buttercup? It’s almost like you’re begging for a spanking,” he growls and leans it. 

“Ugh, Lloyd,” you spit out his name, “I mean it. I need to get to work so please, not right now--” 

“Again, I don’t like repeating myself. Buttercup, I’m gonna say it slowly this time. You don’t gotta work. Well, you’ll be doing a different type of work,” he winks. 

He lets go of the door and tries to step inside. You shove his chest and he grabs your wrists with a snicker. He clings to you and pulls you off-balance. 

“Oh, kitty’s got claws,” He holds your hands against his chest. “Mmm, you know, that feels exactly how I imagined. Your hands on my chest, warm, soft... but you were straddling me in my mind--” 

“Get off!” You tug your arms but can’t get free. “Lloyd, please--” 

He narrows his eyes and shakes his head. He pushes your hands back behind you and brings them together. He traps you close to him and walks you into the apartment. He kicks the door shut as he enters and he exhales deeply. 

“I tried being nice, buttercup. I don’t do that. I usually just shove my hand down the hottest girls’ pants and she’s down,” he tisks. “You want me to work for it. I worked. Now you gotta pay.” 

You wriggle in his grasp and whimper. You stare up into his eyes and gulp. You try to twist free of him but it’s useless. You’re not going to make it to work. 

[fallingstarsandthemoon]

Cookie Run x MCYT AU-ANCIENTS, anybody?

Feel free to send in asks and requests for this AU alongside my other AUs! Fanart is welcomed WITH CREDIT!

This is a little creative project I’ve been working on for a couple months now, (I usually draw faster than that, but procrastination is a bitch and some of these were hard to design due to it being a stark contrast from the usual style I have,) but I’m proud I got the ancients out of the way, whom I decided would be OG MCYTs. Here are their mock in-game descriptions:

Diamond Cookie (DanTDM)- Perseverance:

In a dark, yet lively, effervescent cave leagues below the surface, a radiant diamond cluster, naturally forged by the thickest molten sugar and pressure to withstand almost anything, surfaced within the cave. Little did it know that it would become the main ingredient to a legend. Diamond Cookie sticks true to his resistant and valuable ingredients as well as the Soul Jam of Perseverance, believing if something isn’t working out, try, try again. As a  past scientist, engineer, adventurer, and now a hero, he’s had several mishaps and failures over the years, but he still picks himself up again and keeps moving, seeking to help inspire others to push forward and make something new out of the broken and old.

Even if he or everything he’s ever loved is crumbling around him, he’ll fight to the bitter end.

Berry Soda Cookie (LDshadowlady)- Empathy:

Among the shimmering sands, the vibrant coral reefs, and the open blue, there lives a guardian and a master of the waves and tides, wielding a glittering trident and the Soul Jam of Empathy. Berry Soda Cookie, baked with a myriad of berries and having lived on both land and sea, she has a vast understanding of other’s distress and feelings. If there’s worry or a change in the usual nature of her domain, she’ll be the first to know about it. She loves getting to know about every perspective and lifestyle she can. She has eyes all over the ocean wherever the light touches, from the shallows to the deep blue, and tends to act as a mediator in most situations. She’ll do everything she can to keep a stable balance. That is, until that fateful day that caused her to retreat into the darkest depths of the sea.

Will her soul ever see the light once more?

Golden Cream Cookie (Stampy)-Compassion:

Baked with the sweetest and richest of merengue and cream, Golden Cream Cookie has a compassionate spirit for his denizens like no other, hence his Soul Jam. While he can’t exactly read minds, he always does his best to help those in distress. After all, his kingdom among the plains and forest is known for their bustling trade of goods and services. Despite being a king, he’ll help those communities in even the lowest of classes. He does have a tendency to overwork himself or sometimes misinterpret the cookies’ needs, but it doesn’t change the fact that he has a heart of gold. He promotes mutualism and color in life and strives for himself and others to leave Earthbread better than they came. He forgives many for their wrongdoings and does his best to guide them to fix it.

Even so, there’s always the hard truth to face that he can’t help or forgive everyone.

Cherry Choco Cookie (Captain Sparklez)- Harmony:

There stands a calm, solid, rhythmic presence at the center of the Chocolate Citadel. With a rose golden crown adorning his head and his Charred Cherryblade by his side, Cherry Choco Cookie firmly believes there’s harmony and unity in all things, hence his Soul Jam of Harmony. Where there’s chaos? There’s order. Where there’s death, life is sure to come in its steed. He was baked with the sweetest cherries and the most bitter cacao after all. In a way, it’s a miracle how he worked his way up from being just some bard to an expert swordsman and a king. He’s a soul of few words, but he means well, and he’s just as musically inclined as most of his kingdom.

Where has this sovereign of harmony gone? What has he seen?

Pure Iris Cookie (Aphmau) - Creativity:

There’s nobody who understands the diversity of talent more than the bold and energetic Pure Iris Cookie. Born from the petals of a perfect iris at the rebirth of summer, she started out as a simple mage who encouraged cookies to forge their own paths. She believes everyone has something they’re good at, no matter how common or rare, and that anything can be made into something special. No wonder her garden kingdom was a capital of the arts in Crispia. All cookies have to do is find their spark, which can be easier said than done at times, but the end result is what matters. She’d give anything to get the same glory of her old kingdom back… whether it be the petal feathers off her back or her own life…

She won’t fail them again. Over her crumbled dough and withered petals.

[cocoa-rococo]

Koopaling Headcanons: Lemmy

Larry | Morton | Wendy | Iggy | Roy | Lemmy | Ludwig

The clown prince of crime and everyone's favorite circus performer! Gosh he's adorable.

Right-handed.

Fairly sensitive about his height. The rest of the Koopa Troop know better than to bring it up. Just. Don't call him short. Last guy who did ended up with more than a broken nose.

Allergic to peanuts, which is unfortunate, because a lot of folks like them roasted at circuses. He likes other nut butters better anyway.

Likes collecting old circus memorabilia, such as posters, small trinkets, and flyers. He started it when he was younger, and has kept it going ever since.

He purposefully lets people underestimate him due to his silly personality and clown aesthetics. Makes it all the sweeter when he ends up with the last laugh.

Can and will juggle just about anything. Ludwig had to stop him on multiple occasions because he was tossing around something dangerous for fun (and profit).

Is very fond of caramel corn and citrus candies, as well as fruit gummies.

Favorite cookies are snickerdoodles and classic chocolate chip, but he loves fruit pies and sweet crêpes for dessert, really anything flaky with layers.

An excellent roller and ice-skater, given his balance. He, Wendy, and Larry like to skate together sometimes.

Very tactile person! Likes giving and receiving hugs, pats on the back, head scratches, and secret handshakes.

Similarly, a tactile learner; if you want him to remember something, give him something he can hold.

Because of his smaller size and how much he moves, any sickness he gets hits him like a truck, but also burns through his system pretty quick.

The only member of the castle with permission to enter Iggy's lab at any time without prior warning or knocking.

Has an almost terrifying amount of emotional intelligence and is very good at sussing out the crux of a relationship problem, sometimes even before the other person does.

Always rehearses his tricks in front of Iggy before anyone else, because he knows he’ll always be guaranteed a laugh, as well as critique on what he can improve on.

One of the lesser strict generals, which the minions are thankful for, but will also ask them to assist in his tricks. This can range anywhere from "hand him something" to "balance on a ball while juggling flaming hammers". The minions are not so thankful for this.

His proficiency with stage illusions actually helped him grasp the concepts of his wand's abilities. Out of the Koopalings, his strength lies in how precise his magic is, able to pull what he needs right when he needs it, as well as being able to divide and manage his concentration.

Likes to exercise with Roy, though he leans more towards yoga and calisthenics than weight training.

He likes all kinds of flowers, but likes seeing cosmos and marigolds the most. Poppies are nice, too.

He can be just as bad as Iggy when it comes to pulling pranks, mainly because no one suspects him; he manages to get out of 99% of situations by pulling the "ohhhh I'm just a lil guy" card.

An alarmingly good impressionist. More than once he fooled the guards into doing something for him by pretending to voice someone else.

Given his small size and how active he is, his metabolism is working overtime to fuel him. He eats almost as much as Larry.

Mastered the art of making the perfect hot chocolate drink, inspired by his trips into the ice lands. Wendy is determined to learn his secret. Lemmy is an adorable steel vault.

If you pick him up or he falls over, he has this… almost ragdoll-like heft to him, with dangly limbs and a little flopping from where you grab him, like he's made of sand or a weighted stuffed animal. The only time this doesn't seem to affect him is when he's on his ball. No one can really explain why this is.

Favorite fruit is any kind of berry, as well as peaches (formed before any interaction with a certain princess).

Morton used to carry him under his arm when they were younger. For what purpose? None know. Lemmy, though, was happy to stay there until he was put down again.

He likes sleeping where he's suspended, like swings, tree tents, and other such places. There was a notable instance where Kamek once found him tucked in his shell and snoozing in an empty hanging plant holder.

Really good at shuffling cards and coin moves, really any sort of street magic or little parlor trick. He's been learning tarot interpretation from Kammy because it's always a hit at parties.

His bombs are his own invention. Iggy helped him develop the combustion system and ratio of powder to use, but the shape, style, and make are all his own. Similarly, the tires he sells for his business are made from the same rubber as his balancing balls.

One of the most agile of all his siblings, and one of the best climbers.

He used to share a bunk bed with Iggy when they were young, but once they got older and had their own separate rooms, he used a hammock instead of a bed. It's quite cozy, with lots of blankets and pillows.

One of his favorite snacks is roasted sunflower seeds with a little salt. Crunchy, and especially tasty after an energetic routine.

The one most likely to lose things. Not because he misplaced them somewhere, but because he made them vanish via magic trick, and can't remember if he re-summoned them again.

Takes any sort of dance class he can. He's energetic and likes being able to move around a lot, but he's especially fond of tap, hip-hop (no pun intended), and ballet. The latter he practices with Wendy.

[forestfrolickingfairy787]

LU Headcanons: What I think their fav desserts would be part 1

these are really fun to write, i should probs sleep but lesgooo

Time: Not a huge sweet tooth, prefers only what Malon will make from her homemade farm/kitchen. I'd imagine he likes something simple, maybe a plain butter cake or anything with cinnamon to balance out those double espresso shots. He will make an exception sometimes and have milk tea with it with Malon. They LOVE to spend their time together on those cold nights with a cup of hot chocolate. Wouldn't trade it for the world.

But lets be honest, ain't nothing sweeter than his wifey and im here for it

Warriors: Strawberries and cream! Anything with this combo is to die for and he will always pick that from dessert menus. Maybe a fancy tiramisu during those Royal balls or a bread and butter pudding. Very high end, refined desserts. Doesn't like store bought cakes or sweets. A bit of a dessert snob, and really clashes with Wild on this when he sees him packing together the most random ingredients together.

Sky: OH HE LOVES SWEETS, doesn't miss the chance to have his sweet treat every now and then, and especially when he gets to spend it with Zelda. He'd give her anything, his lunch, his LIFE but not his sweet treats, thank you very much. Def a cake and tea guy, loves to try anything with sugar though but his go to is a soft butter cream icing cake. Occasionally does the white chocolate but only when he's in the mood for it.

Wild: He will try anything sweet, even if its got the most wackiest ingredients. Had to rely on berries and fruits to fulfill his cravings but once he got around to trying more things he was open to anything, really. Once he discovered chocolate though, it was a game changer. He forgot how beautiful and smooth the taste and texture was. It's simple, but so satisfying by the campfire underneath the stars with a hot cup of cocoa.

Legend: Pretends not to be a sugar addict, but come on now, he's still a kid. Sees the other ones indulging, dipping cookies in tea or spooning ice cream while giving a snide side eye. 'Aren't you too old for that?' he'd probably say to the others but also can't pass up a good dessert. He's a huge ice cream guy, especially on those hot tiring days. He really enjoys it, a choc brownie or caramel in silence or strawberry. If anyone talks to him while he's eating he gets really mad, and it pisses him off once it starts melting. NEEDS TO ENJOY IT IN PEACE.

I'm lowkey falling asleep, will do a part 2 tomoz lmao, good night.

[unrealistic-ideas-for-writers]

Putting more and more of Caladin’s character together personality wise as I explore AUs in which he had a better life.

So here are some details you may not have known about him :3

A silent adrenaline junkie- blank faced and neutral as ever but his eyes have that excited sparkle as he throws himself off a window

Same face he makes when learning about something he’s passionate about

Not a very emotionally aware person, but he *will* tell you what he’s feeling even if he doesn’t get it

“Cal? You okay buddy?”

“I’m unsure. My spine feels like it’s vibrating, my heart rate is elevated, and there is an odd feeling in my chest.”

“… Maybe because you just jumped out the fifth floor window????”

“Oh. I see. I quite like this feeling. Like I need to do *more* things. All the things.”

Likely would’ve been an Anthropologist with a special interest in burials and aspects of culture surrounding death

A rock licker

He keeps salt licks on him at all times- probably because his electrolyte balance is fucked from how warm he runs (Spectro) and how his sweat just evaporated in combat

Probably dehydrated too

Someone give this man a Gatorade

Except I think he’d really hate energy drinks, coffee, and sodas???

(Am I projecting because carbonation is sensory hell for me? Yes.)

A tea drinker. Can be convinced to enjoy a coffee by his sister and his sister alone. Dahlia makes them traditional Turkish coffees.

Eats like a bear. Literally. Very meat/fish and berry focused.

Similar to the silent adrenaline junkie thing, I think Cal always needs something to do with hands- so he probably plays multiple instruments or skilled in multiple handcrafts (knitting, crochet, book binding (cough I’m projecting again))

Not a large sweet tooth, but he’s a sucker for chocolate and berry based sweets

His days a Knight Commander are far behind him, but they were just yesterday in his mind. Therefore his overprotective tendencies never really went away

By that, I mean he’s probably sneaking a shit ton of supplements into everyone’s food.

He definitely cooks for everyone as well

How is he a Mom friend while also simultaneously being the chilliest dude ever

[punkbakerchristine]

coming up on a year of me baking, so here are some things i’ve picked up on along the way:

read the recipe, especially with baking. if a recipe tells you to do something, it’ll probably tell you. the biggest mistake i see happen with people on the great british baking show (especially the celebrity one) is people overthinking things. a recipe is basically a successful lab experiment that was recorded, so i would listen to them if i were you.

that cooked.wiki/ shortcut is a huge lifesaver. really, i don’t know where i would be without it.

baking is science. cooking is an art. in fact, it wasn’t until around the 18th century when women started entering the kitchen to bake. i.e., this whole trope that baking is a feminine thing flies right over my head.

as mary berry would say, chocolate melts in your pocket. in other words, it literally does not need that much heat in order to be tempered.

if chocolate is shiny, that’s good. if not, turn down the heat and keep going until it is.

good way to save a frosting that’s “split” or curdled in appearance: add some more liquid and keep beating it.

butter is your friend. so is olive oil. hell, any kind of fat is your friend—except margarine. avoid that shit at all costs.

oil is used in spice cakes because butter will turn them into bricks. oil makes it lighter and fluffier.

when you’re adding some more wet ingredients, add a little more flour. this will help balance out the batter. this works the other way, too: add a little more liquid if it’s too dry.

a good method of making chocolate a little more chocolate-y: add a tablespoon of coffee. i did this for the chocolate bailey’s cake on st. paddy’s day and my last two chocolate babkas and the chocolate came out rich and delicious.

cardamom does this with cinnamon and ginger. one of the reasons why i love my recipe for spice cake so much is because cardamom enhances all the spices.

literally the best way to stop yourself from overbeating a batter is pause the mixer as you pour in an egg, dry mixture, whatever. you spare yourself from injury doing this, too.

always flour your surface and rolling pin before you roll out your cookie dough/pie crust/any kind of dough. do the same with powdered sugar for marzipan and fondant, too.

literally watch caramel as its melting down and bubbling because it turns amber in the blink of an eye. another big mistake i see on tv all too often.

the hellofresh kits: their best proteins are their beef, shrimp, and anything ground up. their chicken and their pork can be pretty hit-and-miss, but when they’re good, they’re amazing.

wash your hands after handling any kind of raw meat, eggs, onions, and chili peppers. make sure your knife is sharp and you’re wearing some kind of protection when you’re slicing an onion (something i heard in welding and machine shop a lot whenever i took off my glasses: “nothing worse than a blind engineer.”)

don’t ever let anyone tell you that you have to laugh if things go awry in the kitchen in order to be classified as a good cook or chef. shit’s an emotional experience and you put your heart into the food, probably more than art or writing (and i get emotional over art all the time, and i’ve found i give more of myself in writing than i do art). like… i cried over a quiche.

i actually have mad respect for anyone who does vegan baking. i made a vegan chocolate cake back in january of this year and it was like a crepe 😅

bake what you like. i like spice cakes, anything chocolate, breads, cookies, pies, and tray bakes. i like stuff that’s kind of unusual like babka and anything jewish, canadian, latin, indian, or british. i like aromatic stuff. i like the kinds of goods you get at halloween or christmas, like they’re warm.

if you’re making something like a pot pie or a wellington, something that has an interior that needs to be cooked, cook it beforehand and then put it in the crust and bake it.

you actually don’t always have to blind bake a pie crust, like if it’s a meringue pie or one of those enclosed meat pies you can get in england. it is a good idea if you’re making a tart, a quiche, or any fruit pie, however.

forget pastry: if you can master bread, you can tackle anything.

when you’re baking bread, you don’t necessarily have to bloom the yeast—i guess some authors do this because it wakes up the yeast and preps it for the dough, but moisture + flour will do that trick as is.

keep the salt and yeast on opposite sides of the bowl. salt stunts the yeast and will take longer for the dough to rise.

depending on the type of dough, you can just knead bread with your hands. if anything, this is the best way to do it. go by time, too: my first loaf took me 15 minutes to knead until it felt as smooth as the inside of my arm; really put your arms and shoulders into it, too, make your muscles work (and this was back when i was still over 200 pounds, too).

fewer things in life are more satisfying than kneading bread dough. it’ll make your arms and shoulders nice and strong, too.

good way to tell if your bread is underproved: there’s a big split near the top. if you poke the dough, and it doesn’t bounce back right away, let it proof for longer. if you poke it, and it sort of collapses, it’s overproofed (never been a problem with me because i’m always on top of that, but i see it a lot in my bread making group on facebook).

mnemonic device for remembering the different types of meringues: french meringue starts with “f”, “f” for “foundation”, it’s the most basic meringue with the egg whites, cream of tartar, and sugar. swiss meringue. “sw”. “sweet”. “sweet water.” whip the egg whites over a bain-marie and add the sugar there (swiss meringue inexplicably is a bit sweeter than french). italian meringue is made by pouring a simple syrup into the egg whites so it looks like the boot of italy. at some point, i’ll come up with one for the different types of pastry cream 😅

salt is also your friend, even in sweet goods. especially in sweet goods.

it’s a little difficult to confuse salt with sugar (especially if you’re like me and you keep them in separate cupboards). a mere taste will save you on that, too.

145° is the safe temperature for beef and pork. 165° for chicken. 200° for bread.

iirc: it’s your cheekbone for rare beef. the tip of your nose for medium rare. your chin for medium.

less really is more with baking and cooking. this is another thing that people on baking shows do that drives me nuts (judges often don’t like it, either, believe it or not). you don’t need to add cherry, lemon, ginger, and nuts to that chocolate cake, becky, you can just do the nuts.

i just barely started with sourdough but so far, i’ve learned that with some recipes, when it misses, it REALLY misses. like i made sourdough english muffins a while back: they were good and we ate them at breakfast, but they were weirdly heavy, like hockey pucks.

i actually really don’t like it when there are other people in the kitchen with me. i’ve always been autonomous and did better working alone without any distractions. for this reason, i could never be on a baking show, what with all the cameras in your face and producers running around.

the more you bake, the more you’ll want to turn away from any store bought baked goods.

and finally, i really could not have become a baker at a better time, if i’m honest. i made my first loaf of bread on october 7, when the middle east fell into chaos again and this fated feeling swept over me. food in america is mostly comprised of things that aren’t even food, like high fructose corn syrup—that’s part of why i managed to lose 60 pounds since then, i know what’s going into what i put in my mouth and i can think ahead to what i’m going to eat through the day (and we wonder why american society is having the mother of all health crises, on a physical and mental level: everyone is eating garbage and not getting their vitamins, good fats, good carbs, and proteins, and everyone isn’t treating themselves to something comforting like a donut or a piece of pie). i hope more people realize this, too, like… when shit hits the fan and america descends into chaos itself, turn to those of us with the tools of the trade and like to work with our hands.

[thommi-tomate]

Special Müller Mail: RDY edition

Hello everyone

and welcome to the Müller Mail Special.

FC Bayern's season is now officially over. Now the home European Championship is just around the corner and I can hardly wait to experience a great football festival in our country - as a player on the pitch, but also as a football fan.

We will be talking in detail about this major event in the coming weeks. In this special edition of Müller Mail, I would like to tell you about a project that I have put my heart and soul into.

After months of development work, RDY Protein Meal, the new protein drink meal that I launched together with ESN, is finally on the market. I was hooked from the very first idea, back in early 2023.

But first things first.

What is RDY?

We've all been there - a hectic everyday life, little time for a balanced meal, we're on the go and still want to eat smart.

This is exactly where the RDY drinkable meal comes into play for me.

RDY stands for "ready" and is a protein drinkable meal. Together with the experts at ESN, we have worked on a recipe that delivers the best possible performance and, in my opinion, is now the tastiest drinkable meal on the market.

RDY now contains 38g of high-quality protein, fiber, important vitamins and minerals. The energy/carbohydrates come from valuable MCT oil, among other things. And what makes me particularly happy is that all four flavors taste really nice.

Why RDY?

My basic idea is to pass on my experience and knowledge of nutrition and performance.

And now I even have the opportunity to launch products on the market with my partner ESN that help me personally to nourish my body better.

ESN is one of the leading German supplement manufacturers and the collaboration has been extremely positive so far.

Our first product is RDY Protein Meal.

During the development of the RDY protein drinkable meal, I was also in the laboratory several times to fine-tune the recipe and test the taste.

Protein was an important factor here.

Science currently agrees that a sufficient protein intake is not only filling, but also essential for a healthy and efficient body. As an athlete, I try to consume around 150g of protein (1.5-2g per kilo of body weight) a day. Of course, this may vary for you, so it's best to find out.

150 grams of protein a day is not so easy to achieve, even with three freshly prepared and balanced meals. An RDY Protein Meal often comes at just the right time.

One thing is important to me: drinking meals should not replace a balanced and freshly prepared meal. Rather, they are a much better alternative to snacks with empty calories such as chocolate bars, jelly babies, potato chips and the like. To be honest, we often snack our way through the day.

This is where RDY comes in and offers an excellent solution when you need something quick and easy, but still want to provide your body with high-quality nutrients. And of course it's really tasty too 😋

My RDY favorite.

I love all the varieties, but if I had to choose a favorite, it would currently be the Milk Chocolate. The creamy chocolate flavor immediately reminds me of the delicious cocoa of my childhood.

A little Müller tip: In recent weeks, I've been drinking RDY Protein Meal in the evening with a handful of nuts and a few berries. This gives me something tasty to drink and something to bite into.

During the day, the banana flavor has currently taken the lead.

So I'm all the more excited to find out which variety you love.

Exclusively at REWE & online.

Now it's your turn.

The RDY Protein Drinking Meals are available exclusively in your REWE store. I'd be delighted if you'd pick up a drink and give it a try. For those who prefer to order online, you can do so directly from ESN using this link: To the ESN website

Your opinion on RDY counts.

Now I'm looking forward to hearing what you have to say. The initial feedback has been great and the drink is already sold out in some REWE stores. But whether it's positive or constructive - I really want to hear your honest opinion. Let me know how you like my protein drink and whether it helps you in your everyday life.

You can also send me photos or videos of you enjoying your new favorite drink. Or simply link to your Instagram or TikTok post about RDY Protein Meal.

With your permission (please be sure to add a comment) I will share some of them on my Instagram channel.

I will be giving away 3 RDY surprise packages from me among all entries.

Thank you so much for your continued support. Without you, my fans, it wouldn't be half as nice. You only win together. And that's exactly what we'll be doing at the upcoming European Championships.

Here's to an unforgettable football festival, keep your chin up and stay healthy,

Your Thomas

[eywaseclipse]

Mari’s selfcare routine! Yay!🦋🪽🌱✨💦🌊🌬️🫧🥒

A glimpse at my selfcare routine that’s rooted in holistic practices and authentic adulthood wellness practices

I love to oil my hair to help it grow and stay healthy. So the night before wash day I’ll take my Batana oil and section off my hair rubbing it into my scalp. I’ll use a scalp scrubber to gently stimulate my hair follicles and do this for about 10 minutes.

I’ll sleep with a silk bonnet and leave it over night for best results (as instructed)

The next day I’ll wake up and hop in the shower do my entire full body routine: I take my sugar scrub from doctor teals and use my scrubbing glove. I like to exfoliate my entire body after I’ve shaved and really focus on the top of my feet, they’re itchy at night and I walk a lot so they need extra care

I use the coconut milk shampoothie shampoo and conditioner duo usually opting out of a leave in because they’re so good together on their own

I use native body wash in the sugar cookie scent (it’s not my fave I will changing it soon after I use it up)

I really love an essential oil shower by putting drops of peppermint or lavender oil where I stand, and let the aroma hit me from the steam (it’s incredible)

*on days I don’t feel like shaving or I have day 2 hair and it’s still clean I’ll take a quick shower to clean and exfoliate my body and then prepare a mineral epsom salt bath, lavender is my favorite. I think dr teals is great!

When I’m out of the shower I wrap my hair in a microfiber towel

I like to do a netty pot to clear my sinuses and it feels incredible lol

Since it’s winter my skin is more prone to dryness so I like to combine coconut oil with my body lotion which is the Method coconut rice milk one; it smells like a sugar cookie

I brush my hair in the shower and part it and section it off so it’s ready for my mousse: the aquage voluminous mousse is life changing

I usually IF (intermittent fast) then make my green juice to help gut health and skin functions

After I’m done doing an IF I’ll eat low fat greek yogurt with granola, nuts, honey and some dates on the side and do a really great HIIT workout with about an hour of walking

I love having tea throughout the day mostly spearmint with a little bit of honey.

My all time favorite midafternoon snack is a date stuffed with goat cheese and flakey sea salt drizzled with some honey dear god it’s heaven

Also love a good smoothie as an afternoon snackie: frozen mixed berries, yogurt, crushed ice, either coconut water or milk depends on the mood, a spoon of honey and blend

I love doing my makeup on days where I need an extra boost!

I like to cook myself a nice meal maybe a big pot of soup or pasta depending on what I need

I make sure to journal and write my feelings down and watch my favorite shows and movies

Get a sweet treat like chocolate

Also this is what works for me as a working 28 year old. I have to say this because all bodies function differently and I made the effort to eliminate junk food and careless snacking. I believe in intuitive eating habits and nourishing my body with whole foods and cutting back on added sugar. This lifestyle really works for me and I’ve noticed how much more energy I have and my skin and gut health has significantly improved with weekly juicing:) best investment ever. I do not use it to lose weight. Lots of vitamins and hormone balancing nutrients reside in fruits and veggies!!

[wizardingworldlibrary]

Chocolate Masterlist

A Basket Full of Valentines (ao3) - PurpleSugarQuills hermione/draco, luna/pansy E, 5k

Summary: No dates, no sex, no flirting. This year, Hermione is going to focus on the platonic love in her very fulfilling life.

Only… her coworker Draco Malfoy eats chocolate hearts rather sinfully. And it’s entirely unfair how fit he looks in a tailored coat.

A Box of Choclates (ao3) - Hhenesc sirius/remus, james/lily T, 2k

Summary: Sirius has plans to ask Remus to be his boyfriend on Valentines Day. It doesn't go as planned. Or does it?

Boxes of Chocolate (fanfiction.net) - Nelliezabini4d draco/harry M, 4k

Summary: One-shot...Harry gets a mysterious box of chocolates and chaos ensues...lots of slash and an illegal use of pick-up lines...draco/harry, slight snape/lucius, slight Dean/Seamus

Charming Chocolates (ao3) - fantom_ftnoise draco/harry, harry/omc, hermione/ron T, 101k

Summary: The summer following the Battle of Hogwarts, Harry Potter visited his parents' graves and disappeared in a mysterious attack. His wand was recovered but the trail soon went cold and the world moved on. Twelve years later, Remus Lupin discovers James Charming, of Charming Chocolates, a mute man with no memories before July of 1998.

James Charming, father of identical twin boys and loving boyfriend to a Scottish Muggle named Monty, is ripped out of his comfortable life and forced to rediscover Hogwarts, magic, and a whole world of past memories. His Mind Healer helps him to balance his new life with his old memories. A rift is formed between James and Monty, and he finds himself wanting to spend more and more time with Healer Malfoy. Meanwhile, Auror Weasley tries to solve the mystery of who is out for Harry Potter's head before it's too late.

Christmas Crackers and Chocolate Pudding (ao3) - Megan_P_Cook theodore/adrien T, 2k

Summary: Christmas at Hogwarts was always the most magical time. From the high enchanted ceilings and the end of term feast in The Great Hall. To the wreaths of holly and berries scattered around the Castle and gold candelabras that lit up the stone, casting shadows down the corridors.

Adrian roamed the hallways of Hogwarts, a certain destination in mind. Something he wanted to do for someone he cared for, deeply. Turning the corner he saw a house elf step into the kitchens. He crossed his legs at the ankles and leant his shoulder against the stone archway, waiting for one particular elf to appear between the doorway.

“Master, Pucey.” The house elf squeaked, jumping in surprise. Almost dropping a china tea cup and matching saucer in his flustered state, the china clinking in his small hands. “What brings you to the kitchens?”

Adrian crouched down to his level, resting his forearms on his knees and clasping his hands together. “Good evening, Nikolai. I was wondering if you could do me a favour.”

“O-of course, Master Pucey. What does one need from Nikolai?”

A slight curl edged it’s way on his lips, cheek dimpling. “I’m after some of that special chocolate pudding. The one that melts in the middle.”

Chocolate (ao3) - TheOriginalSinner888 remus/ginny E, 1k

Summary: Ginny notices that Professor Lupin isn’t at dinner and realizes he must be angsty with the full moon coming soon. She knows some chocolate will help him feel better.

Chocolate Deficiency (ao3) - CoffeeDragon87 draco/harry E, 4k

Summary: When Draco struggles to resist his desire for a chocolate, Harry comes to his rescue.

Falling like a Snowflake (ao3) - GhostIsReading marcus/harry T, 2k

Summary: Marcus Flint gives Harry a box of chocolates unaware that they are laced with a potion.

Hot Chocolate (ao3) - toriscrazycorner sirius/remus E, 811

Summary: In which Remus makes hot chocolate for Sirius and feels he needs to return the favour.

Hot Chocolate & Missing Jigsaw Pieces (ao3) - Smolbus, trolleybitch scorpius/albus G, 1k

Summary: It had been Scorpius’s idea, spending their first weekend away as a couple in a little muggle log cabin, tucked away from the world in the forest. Albus hadn’t been sure, but he couldn’t say no to Scorpius when he batted his eyelashes and said that all he really wanted was somewhere they could spend two whole days doing nothing but walking in the snow and reading together and doing jigsaw puzzles.

House Chocolates (ao3) - whitedandelions harry/tom T, 3k

Summary: It’s just a schoolboy crush, really, Harry shouldn’t expect the protégé of the Minister for Magic to accept his chocolates without laughing. Valentine's Day fic!

Kissed (ao3) - Pie (potteresque_ire) draco/harry M, 12k

Summary: Draco Malfoy was attacked by a rogue Dementor on the night of his Azkaban release. He self-exiled to Muggle London and opened a late-night chocolate shop called Kissed.

Not what he imagined (ao3) - orphan_account draco/harry, luna/pansy, hermione/ron T, 5k

Summary: Draco has to give out Valentine’s day chocolate on his FREE day, Harry was supposed to help him and in nowhere to be found, all the couples make Draco gag, EVERYTHING IS GOING GREAT (if you didn’t notice, this is sarcasm)

we have heard on high (ao3) - oflights draco/harry E, 34k

Summary: Reeling from the fallout of a bad breakup, Harry decides to find out who his soulmate is. The bad news: it's Draco Malfoy. The good news: Malfoy doesn't seem to know they're soulmates. The worst news: Harry might be falling for him anyway.

You Never Know What You're Gonna Get (ao3) - niffizzle hermione/draco E, 5k

Summary: Every Valentine's Day, it appeared on her desk. Same time, same wrapping. A single box of chocolates. After four years, there was one wizard that Hermione hoped they were from. On the fifth year, everything changed.

[georgiapeach30513]

Kindly Unspoken, Part 11

Summary:  Andy takes you out on a date

Pairings:  Andy Barber X Reader

Rating:  mild

Warnings:  implied past abuse, 18+ ONLY

Word Count:  3.6K

Previous

Series Masterlist

“Daddy,” Amaris says slowly, lifting her spoon out of her oatmeal and letting it plop back down in the bowl.  “How come Miss Angel doesn’t come see me anymore?”

“Uh,” Andy scratches at the back of his neck.  He wasn’t going to involve her in any of this, until…well if, if it got serious.  He hoped it did.  Despite your reservations, he hoped that this became very serious.  “Well, she was your social worker, and now that you are legally, biologically, and forever mine she doesn’t really have any more work to do.”

Amaris stares blankly at her oatmeal, brows scrunching up as she thinks, “But…but I thought she liked me.  And she got along with everyone in the family, and…daddy, are you ever going to date?”

“What?” He asks, choking on his coffee.  “Why would you ask that?”

“Well, I have this feeling that you’re not very good at picking women.”

“Uh huh,” Andy says with mild sarcasm.  He was just fine at picking women.  Finding a woman that wanted to be with him long term, and that he would want to introduce them to their daughter was a completely different thing.

“I think you and Miss Angel just make sense.”

“Okay, grab your backpack.  Let’s get you off to school.  Go on.  Lunch bag is on the counter,” he responds quickly, taking the final gulp of his coffee.

“You didn’t just put a Lunchable in there, did you?”

“No, Amma.  Tulip gave me some ideas to put in your lunchbox.  You’ve got a very well balanced diet.  Complete with pine berries, carrot sticks, a wrap, veggie straws, and…some chocolate pudding,” she giggles, placing her bowl in the dishwasher, grabbing up her things.

“Maybe I should call Miss Angel and ask her for advice on pens for school.”

“Maybe we should get to school before you’re late.”

“Wait!” Angie screams at you as you try to walk to your office.  “Is there something you want to tell me?” You stare at her wide head, shaking your head no.  You couldn’t think of anything that you needed to tell her.  “Seriously?”

“Well, there’s clearly something that you think I should tell you, so how about you tell me since I’m completely at a loss,” she gives you a wide smile, and with a roll of your eyes you walk back to your office anyways.  You weren’t here for riddles.  Sometimes the mystery was in your clients themselves.

You stop at the sight of a dozen roses in various shades of pink and red on your desk.  You stare at the beautiful arrangement in shock.  No one had ever sent you flowers.  No one had ever done anything nice, just because.  “So, you want to tell me something now?  The guy at the bar, did he do this?”

“He never even showed up,” you answer slowly, opening up the card, and it was just a generic can’t wait for the weekend.  You were thankful there wasn’t a name on the card, because you were sure that Angie had already dug into the card.  She was a bit to mosey.

“So…you already found a new one and this one is sending you flowers?  What dating site are you on?” Angie can’t help but notice how you seemed completely giddy at the gesture of flowers.  No one had ever valued you the way they should.  “Have you met this one?”

“Huh?  Uh, yeah, we’ve met.  A few times,” tapping her fingers along the desk, she turns to leave, but you clear your throat, “Ang, can I be honest with you?”

“Of course,” she spins around excitedly.  This was what she had been waiting on, you to be open and honest about your dating life.  A life that she swore you didn’t even have.  And up until the no show, you didn’t.  And then…Andy Barber.

“You know…I’ve never…not when I wanted to…I mean…” you hated talking about things from your past.  So much was stolen from you, and it kept you stunted in your adult life, and you didn’t want that.

“Hey, remember what I told you.  It’s a fresh start, and your choice if and when anything happens.  Have you been on a date with this man?” You shake your head no, now starting to worry that Andy may find you to be too damaged.  “Why are you asking about sex then?”

“Men want it.”

“Women do, too.  Especially with the right guy.  And it’s you to decide when the guy is right and if he ever will be.  You got your mace?” You nod your head nervously, “The cat?  You can always stab him if he tries something.”

“I don’t think he would,” Andy was a lot of things, but he seemed to be someone that wanted to protect women.  And he had definitely been respectful of you thus far.  And Amaris��� grandmother and aunts.  All the women in his life adored him, and spoke highly of him.

“Do you want to have sex with him?” You shrug your shoulders.  Sex wasn’t ever an easy topic with you.  “But you got warm fuzzy feelings with him?” You give her a nod, looking back at the roses, they really were beautiful.  “What do you want to do with him?”

“I wanna kiss him.”

“That’s a step.  You’ve never wanted to do that before, huh?” It was true, you can’t ever remember looking at a guy and wanting to kiss him.  Your life in foster care wasn’t pretty.  “Have you ever been kissed?”

“Angie?”

“I mean, properly, because it’s what you wanted.”

“No,” it was embarrassing that you as a grown woman hadn’t ever kissed, hell even touched someone that you wanted to touch.  No one ever asked you what you wanted.  They just took.

“Then, I say be as honest as you're comfortable with.  Enjoy the time that you have with him.  And he does seem to be a nice guy.  Sending you flowers at work.  So he knows where you work?  Who is this guy?  Angel!”

“Shh,” you start whispering, getting closer to her, “It’s…I shouldn’t tell you this because…it’s Andy Barber.”

“What?  Like the hot lawyer daddy with the cute kid?  Like looks like….well, you know how hot he is.  He’s…that fione man sent you flowers?  Angel, you enjoy this date.  He is a gentleman, he has been so kind to this entire building.  Angel!  He’s perfect.  Oh my gosh.  What are you going to wear?  Where is he taking you?  We need to go shopping.  I need you to find out where you’re going.  You need to be cute, and oh…honey, what’s wrong?”

“He just got his daughter back.”

“The daughter that absolutely adores you?  Yeah, so?”

“He doesn’t need my baggage,” Angie tsks at you.  Shaking her head no, and wanting you to get out of your head, and not sabotage this date before anything happened.  She wanted you to quit dwelling on the past, and letting it rule who you were in your personal life, like you did with your professional life.  You used your experiences to help other families.  You had become their angels, and now it was time to find your own.

“He’s got baggage, too.”

“Amaris isn’t baggage.”

“Spoken like a true mother,” you look up glaring at her, that was too fast.  You didn’t want Amaris to know that you were dating Andy.  Even if it was just the one date.  It was too soon to involve her in any way.  “I’m sorry.  Don’t rush anything.  But enjoy it.  At the very least you get a free diner or something, right?  And you get to look into that man’s gorgeous eyes.”

“I’m being dumb?” You needed one more confirmation.  That was it.  Just one more.

“You are being smart.  He’s gorgeous, and he seems like a hopeless romantic that wants to take care of a woman, and treat her like his princess.  You see how good he was immediately with his daughter.  He would be one that would value your worth, and not just want a taste of what you can offer him sexually.  But this is the first date.  And he sent you flowers.  Give that man a chance.”

Wear something comfortable.  Shoes you can walk in, and wear sunscreen.  Clearly, you were going to be outside.  Your bed was covered in discarded outfits.  Nothing just seemed to look quite right.  You didn’t feel you could move comfortably.  Didn’t feel like it looked quite right, and you knew you were overthinking things.  You couldn’t stop.  

You start to put your clothes back up, settling on a simple outfit of capris and a basic top with sneakers.  It seemed easy enough.  You knew this date had meant more to you than you had initially thought.  And getting ready proved that.  Nothing was right.  Nothing looked right.  Nothing felt right.  Your hair didn’t do what you wanted it to do.  It was just all wrong.

You got ready too early, and now have to wait around.  Sighing, you settle back on the couch, letting your now exhausted eyes start to flutter close.  A quick nap wouldn’t hurt.  At least during sleep, your brain wouldn’t be rushing around to every scenario that could happen today.  You would quit thinking of all the ways that you didn’t deserve Andy, and possibly, eventually Amaris.  

Drifting into a restless sleep, and only woken up by a loud knock on the door.  Jolting up on the couch, and realizing that this was date time.  That knock was Andy.  He was at your door to pick you up for your date, and you were not prepared.  

Taking a deep calming breath, you open the door, and he looks just as handsome in his hoodie and jeans as he did in his suit.  The sleeves were pushed up his arms a bit, and you tell yourself to not stare, but there was this odd comfortability with him.  Bashfully, you look down to the floor, “You look nice,” you whisper.

“You do, too.  I know this is very casual date, but it’s a pretty day.  I thought being outside in the sun, and picking strawberries would be nice,” you were back to looking up at him smiling.  You love strawberries.  He reaches for your hand, pulling you out the door, and waits on you to lock up, and you were surprised at how you didn’t retch at the feeling of his thick fingers.

But his fingers didn’t feel possessive.  They felt safe.  Like he wasn’t holding you to assert dominance, but to make sure you were safe.  Physical touch usually had you withdrawing, and you didn’t understand why he was making you want to get closer to him.  

“Have you ever picked your own strawberries?” He asks, opening your door, and jogging over to his side of the car.  “I haven’t.  This was completely Amaris’ idea.”

“Andy, you told her?” This was bad.  You didn’t want her involved.  You know how confusing it is when parents move too fast.

“No!  No, god no, um…she mentioned picking fruit.  That afternoon I drove past this strawberry farm.  It just,” he looks over at you quickly, before back on the road.  His hand sits awkwardly on the console, holding it up.  “It felt like the universe was telling me that we should go pick strawberries.”

“Strawberries are my favorite,” you giggle when he wiggles his fingers around, “What are you doing?”

“I was hoping you would pick my hand.  I’m assuming this is too soon?”

“Maybe,” you answer shyly, trying not to look over at him.  He was adorable when he was trying to flirt.

“So I can’t hold your hand?”

“Didn’t say that,” with a slow move, he reaches for your hand.  Holding it gently, and your body slightly turns towards him.  “So when did you want to ask me on a date?”

“Wow,” Andy takes a deep breath, paying too much attention to the road as he thinks.  “Well, that was a big question.”

“You don’t have to answer it.”

“I will if you will,” stopping at a red light, he turns to look towards you.  “I’ve been curious myself, just didn’t think you would…”

“After you met Amaris,” his mouth turns up into a smile.  He couldn’t explain it, but the fact that it was after his daughter was involved, made him happier.  You had even gotten onto him when you thought that he was including Amaris too soon.  “I felt like my job was done, but also…for a man that had never been a father before, it was so natural to you, because you wanted it.  Wanted every bit of it.  You didn’t hesitate to become her father, and who she needed.  Not to mention everything you did to find her.  Even research on your own.”

“I was attracted immediately.  Hadn’t felt that in a while.  A crush, as Curtis likes to call it.  But seeing you with my daughter, I felt it a lot more.  I think this is kinda crazy, what we’re doing.  But isn’t that what dating is?  Crazy?  Two people who don’t know each other, and decide they want to know more, so they talk.  Sometimes that’s it, sometimes it turns more romantic.”

“This place is adorable,” you look out the window.  Awkwardly changing the subject because you didn’t know where to steer the conversation.  “I’ll let you know after the date where I land on that spectrum.”

“You seem more comfortable when it’s just me, or even Amaris.”

You blink at him a few times, trying to think about what it was you wanted to say, and how you wanted to say it.  You didn’t want to let him completely in on your past.  He knew you were in the system, and knew that you had moved around a lot.  That’s all he needed to know.  “I can’t explain it.  You exude this warmth, and it makes me comfortable.  Usually the touch of men makes me shy away,” he looks down at the two of your hands, fingers intertwined with each other, “I don’t feel that with you.”

“Good,” he laughs, opening up his door.  “I like hearing that.  Because that’s exactly how I feel,” you open your own door.  Getting out, and Andy was walking up beside you.  Naturally slipping his hand into yours for a walk through the berry patches.  Picking your own strawberries in the warmth of the sun.

You wrap Andy’s hoodie tighter around you, basking in the scent of him, and the view of a pond, and a picnic laid out for two.  Theme of lunch was clearly strawberries; strawberry wine, strawberry preserves, a small charcuterie board, strawberry pie, etc.  Strawberries were in abundance.  Even your baskets filled completely with your strawberries sit beside the blanket.  And you couldn’t decide what you enjoyed looking at more, Andy or the pond in front of you.

Today had been just what you had always imagined in a first date.  A bit of flirting, a bit of talking, a lot of lingering looks, and ‘accidental’ touches.  It was almost just like the movies.  The sun was bright and shining, even if the temperature started to drop a bit.  Thank goodness for hoodies.

“Have you always lived in Boston?” He asks you, and you shake your head no.  “Oh, I’m sorry.  I should have known.  I do apologize.”

“It’s okay.  I was always in the east coast area.  But not always in Massachusetts.  What about you?”

“No,” he smiles, taking a bit of a strawberry, and sipping on the wine.  “I just settled in this area.  It’s a good place to raise kids, you know?”

“You’ve always wanted to be a dad?” He nods his head slowly, looking out at the pond, and your heart breaks for him.  “I’m sorry you missed all that time with Amaris.  It was cruel.  You would have been a good father to her then.  You wanted it, too, huh?”

“Yeah.  I can’t change it.  I’ve got her now, and she’s great.  Sees Dr. Beck regularly, and that seems to give her someone to talk to that’s not me or family.  You were right her phone calls to the foster parents are becoming less frequent.  She asks about them less.  She’s got so much going on with Jessie’s family.  There’s babies, well one is getting closer to being here.  There’s dogs, and she plays the piano with her Poppy.  Everyone in Jess’ family loves her.”

“They love you, too,” you give him a knock with your shoulder.  Bringing your knees up, you wrap your arms around them.  A pair of swans swim by.  Barely paying you any attention.  “You’re like their son.”

“They love you, too,” tilting your head, you turn to look at him again.  Offering him a soft smile.  “They’re so smart, everyone in that family.  They love you because of how you are with Amaris.  But also, I think Tara just likes you.  She spent so many years without her daughter, and now it’s like she’s getting a different chance with other daughters.  Jessie will always be missed, but you, Doll, Tulip…I don’t know, she’s getting to see a grown up life with a daughter.”

“You ever miss her?  Jessie I mean,” you had often wondered if Andy was always going to be stuck on a ghost.  It was like he could never get rid of Jessie.  That he was always going to want the version of her that he thought she was.

“I did.  There’s no point in it.  I can take time to remember her.  Tell Amaris about her.  Show her pictures of her mom, but Jessie is gone.  Took me too long to realize that.  But I’m tired of living in the past.  I got too much to live for in the future,” clicking his tongue, he picks up a croissant, peeling off a bit of the buttery flakiness before popping it in his mouth.  Smiling while he shrugs.

“Sometimes I think I miss the woman I wished she was.  Not even miss who she actually was, you know?  The Jessie I remembered wouldn’t have kept Amaris from me.  Even if I had to fight to get my daughter, I would have known.  I’m never going to see her first steps, or her first words.  But…” he offers you a warm smile, continuing to look at you, and it doesn't make you want to hole up.  Curling your body into a ball as you tried to keep your vulnerable self hidden.

“I have now.  It’s times that Jessie’s never going to get, and it’s all thanks to you that I have these moments now.  And I just want to share those experiences with someone.  But now, I’m not just dating for me.”

“You’re dating for her.”

“Exactly,” he whispers, leaning closer towards you, and you gulp, but your own body moves forward as well.  His hand lifts up from the blanket, and you move it to your cheek, his thumb caresses over your bottom lip, and you gasp.  Body heating up and the flutter of nerves in your belly, and and this was all funny things you have never felt before.  “I want to kiss you.  Are you okay with that?”

He asked.  No one ever had asked before.  Feeling bold, you nod slightly, “I want to hear you say it.”

“I want you to kiss me.”

He chuckles, leaning in even more, “That’s better,” he answers breathily as he closes the gap.  His lips softly graze yours before you are the one to kiss him.  Your first new kiss.  This was the kiss that mattered.  Andy could tell you were timid, and he wasn’t sure why, but he didn’t care.  Even with something so innocent, it felt right.  

Wrapping a hand around his neck, you pull him closer for even more.  Letting him pepper kisses around your mouth, and you whimper out his name.  You don’t know how he did it, but he has his hand lowering you to your back as his body hovers over yours.  His tongue flicks out, licking at your lips, and your own tongue jolts out to meet his.  Mingling around before he had enters your mouth.  

Your hands pull him closer to you, but when you feel his weight start to settle on your body, you push him back, and Andy doesn't stumble.  He was sitting up quickly, with his hands held in surrender, “Too fast?”

“Yeah, a bit,” you pant out, pulling his hoodie tighter over your body.  “Overwhelming, but it was nice.  Thanks for stopping.”

“It’s not fun if you’re not comfortable.  None of this today would have been fun if you weren’t comfortable.  That’s what makes this good, and I just want you to trust me, at your pace.  This is new territory for me, too.”

“How’s that?” You finally dare to look up at him, and he seems even more adorable with his lips a bit redder from the kissing.  They were shinier because of your gloss, but it was the fact that you were the reason he looked like that.  It made your mouth turn up into a wide smile, and you couldn’t stop it.

“I’ve never really dated anyone but Jessie,” picking up his glass of strawberry wine, he holds it up, “To new friends, and new beginnings.”

“To trying new things, and trusting yourself,” you add as your glasses clink together.  Here was to a new chapter in your life where you didn’t let what others did to you determined your future.  Where you would let happiness enter into your life, and where you would allow yourself to be vulnerable, and maybe…just maybe find your own place in this world.  

And maybe Andy wasn’t that person, but you were willing to try it.  You were willing to let him in, even if it was just a little bit at a time.  Allowing him to take a few bricks off your already crumbling wall that you had surrounding yourself.  “New things and trust,” Andy adds, taking a drink.  Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad after all.

Next

Masterlist

Taglist: @tis-thedamn-season​ @marveloustaylortot​ @pono-pura-vida​ @sstan-hoe​ @peaches1958​ @softsatnin​​ @redbloodedgurl​ @thedarknessilove​ @whimsyplaty92​ @superforgottensoul​ @lilac-tea-time​ @seitmai​ @smile1318​ @andydrysdalerogers​ @cjand10​

[sunscreenstudies]

📚💫 Staying Sane During Finals: A Studyblr Guide 💫📚

Hi there lovelies! As we dive headfirst into the whirlwind that is finals season, remember, you are more than just a student, and taking care of your sanity should be a top priority. So, here are some tips to help you stay grounded, focused, and most importantly, sane during this challenging time:

Plan Your Battle: Start by creating a realistic study schedule that allocates time for breaks, meals, and restorative activities. Breaking down your tasks into manageable chunks will not only boost your productivity but also alleviate feelings of overwhelm.

 Mindfulness Moments: Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. Take a few minutes each day to practice deep breathing exercises, meditation, or even just observing your surroundings. These little pauses will help you center yourself, reduce stress, and enhance your focus.

Fuel Your Brain: Nourish your body with nutritious foods that support cognitive function. Brain-boosting snacks like nuts, berries, and dark chocolate can provide you with the energy you need while keeping your mind sharp. Remember to stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine, which can lead to jitters and anxiety.

Sweat it Out: Make time for physical exercise during finals. Engaging in regular workouts or even short breaks for stretching can relieve tension and boost your mood. Whether it's a quick jog, a yoga session, or a dance break, find what gets your body moving and your endorphins flowing!

Breaks are Sacred: Remember, breaks are not a luxury but a necessity. Stepping away from your study materials periodically can actually improve your productivity and prevent burnout. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as reading for pleasure, doodling, or chatting with friends. You deserve it!

Sleep Well, Achieve Well: Aim for quality sleep to maximize your cognitive abilities. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, create a calming bedtime routine, and ensure your study space is separate from your sleeping area. A well-rested mind is more alert, focused, and ready to conquer those finals!

Ask for Support: Don't be afraid to lean on your support system. Reach out to friends, family, or fellow studyblrs who understand the struggles you're going through. Share your concerns, vent your frustrations, and celebrate your victories together. Remember, you are never alone in this journey!

Celebrate Your Progress: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Reward yourself with mini-treats, a relaxing bath, or a favorite TV show episode. Recognizing your efforts will boost your motivation and remind you of your incredible resilience.

Remember, your mental well-being matters just as much as your grades. By incorporating self-care practices, maintaining a balanced routine, and seeking support, you'll be better equipped to tackle your finals with confidence and maintain your sanity along the way. You've got this! Good luck, stay strong, and keep shining bright! 💪✨

[sagekjs21]

1. Teacups

2. Chocolate bars

3. No...

4. Intelligent, bored in class, talkative

5. Soda bottles

6. Mix and match

7. Earbuds

8. Tv shows

9. Some unknown flower that blooms around here

10. Playing by myself

11. Whatever sounds good

12. Depends on my mood

13. Keyring

14. Something caramel

15. To Kill a Mockingbird

16. Down?

17. I really only wear one pair unless I need to dress formally

18. Rain or snow

19. Anything but on my stomach

20. Ipad

21. Which one?

22. Jesus

23. Counting things by using my tongue on my teeth

24. Not into them

25. One of several children's nursery rhymes

26. Stay inside with air conditioning

27. Depends on my mood

28. There is no way I can only pick five.

29. Having conversations, talking to one another, asking questions, actively listening 

30. Anywhere that I can feel the presence of God 

31. This is a stupid question. 

32. Jesus is truly the only vine I care about lol. 

33. I don't know, and I am so not going to look.

34. None

35. Between midnight and 2 AM 

36. I have no idea. 

37. Suitcase

38. Tea

39. Pie, although I like both 

40. I got locked in a stall in the women's restroom once and had to call my grandmother so that she could call the school so that they could let me out. 

41. @titaniumpeony

42. Pants pockets, jeans to be more precise 

43. Whatever I'm in the mood for

44. I don't know, anything that doesn't smell disgusting lol 

45. None

46. Depends on the season: winter: sweats or velour, spring/fall: T-shirt and yoga pants, summer: spaghetti strap and shorts 

47. All of them!

48. A berry, for Warrior Cats reasons, or a lemon based on a specific Warrior Cats post 

49. Tons of things in the Bible

50. Too many things to remember

51. Interpersonal conflict 

52. Anything easy to read or fancy

53. I have no idea what this means lol. Working? 

54. Do even the most disgusting of tasks as if I am doing them for God and the job will be far more rewarding 

55. Beauty and the Beast

56. I don't have any 

57. Surviving all types of abuse, facing my deepest flaws and working on them, loss of numerous relationships

58. Singing, writing, cooking, finding a balance between structure and spontaneity 

59. I will never stop trying. 

60. No idea 

61. "To the well organized mind, death is but the next grade adventure. "

62. Berryheart (Warriors), Frostdawn (Warriors), Violetshine (Warriors), Belle (Beauty and the Beast), the beast (Beauty and the Beast), Jane Eyre

63. I would never have a club. 

64. fanfiction.net

65. 5

66. I don't like flowers much.

67. This is an evil concept. 

68. Tomato, mushroom, or cucumber 

69. I have so many random facts in my head at any given moment that I can't even begin to answer this question. 

70. Right

71. Polkadots

72. I was basically a straight A student, so nothing. 

73. Green olives and whipped cream

74. Six or seven, depending upon where the pain is 

75. I literally have no idea, probably at age 3 or four?

76. It depends upon my mood, I like lots of different potato foods although I prefer rice overall 

77. I don't know, but I hope to find out one day.

78. Coffee, definitely! 

79. I have neither of these things. But my state ID photo doesn't look too bad. 

80. No preference

81. Fireflies

82. No preference

83. Writing 

84. Podcasts

84. Barbie 

85. Neither one

86. Depends on my mood 

87. Always being abandoned/rejected

88. To do the Will of God 

89. God

90. I have no idea.

91. No preference 

92. Christmas lights

93. Sage, Kath, Salty (per my pastor :-D)

94. Winter

95. Too many to choose from 

96. Artwork made by my friend, @pinestripe37 

97. 10, but only one is still applicable 

98. I don't have one. 

weird asks that say a lot

in

1. coffee mugs, teacups, wine glasses, water bottles, or soda cans?

2. chocolate bars or lollipops?

3. bubblegum or cotton candy?

4. how did your elementary school teachers describe you?

5. do you prefer to drink soda from soda cans, soda bottles, plastic cups or glass cups?

6. pastel, boho, tomboy, preppy, goth, grunge, formal or sportswear?

7. earbuds or headphones?

8. movies or tv shows?

9. favorite smell in the summer?

10. game you were best at in p.e.?

11. what you have for breakfast on an average day?

12. name of your favorite playlist?

13. lanyard or key ring?

14. favorite non-chocolate candy?

15. favorite book you read as a school assignment?

16. most comfortable position to sit in?

17. most frequently worn pair of shoes?

18. ideal weather?

19. sleeping position?

20. preferred place to write (i.e., in a note book, on your laptop, sketchpad, post-it notes, etc.)?

21. obsession from childhood?

22. role model?

23. strange habits?

24. favorite crystal?

25. first song you remember hearing?

26. favorite activity to do in warm weather?

27. favorite activity to do in cold weather?

28. five songs to describe you?

29. best way to bond with you?

30. places that you find sacred?

31. what outfit do you wear to kick ass and take names?

32. top five favorite vines?

33. most used phrase in your phone?

34. advertisements you have stuck in your head?

35. average time you fall asleep?

36. what is the first meme you remember ever seeing?

37. suitcase or duffel bag?

38. lemonade or tea?

39. lemon cake or lemon meringue pie?

40. weirdest thing to ever happen at your school?

41. last person you texted?

42. jacket pockets or pants pockets?

43. hoodie, leather jacket, cardigan, jean jacket or bomber jacket?

44. favorite scent for soap?

45. which genre: sci-fi, fantasy or superhero?

46. most comfortable outfit to sleep in?

47. favorite type of cheese?

48. if you were a fruit, what kind would you be?

49. what saying or quote do you live by?

50. what made you laugh the hardest you ever have?

51. current stresses?

52. favorite font?

53. what is the current state of your hands?

54. what did you learn from your first job?

55. favorite fairy tale?

56. favorite tradition?

57. the three biggest struggles you’ve overcome?

58. four talents you’re proud of having?

59. if you were a video game character, what would your catchphrase be?

60. if you were a character in an anime, what kind of anime would you want it to be?

61. favorite line you heard from a book/movie/tv show/etc.?

62. seven characters you relate to?

63. five songs that would play in your club?

64. favorite website from your childhood?

65. any permanent scars?

66. favorite flower(s)?

67. good luck charms?

68. worst flavor of any food or drink you’ve ever tried?

69. a fun fact that you don’t know how you learned?

70. left or right handed?

71. least favorite pattern?

72. worst subject?

73. favorite weird flavor combo?

74. at what pain level out of ten (1 through 10) do you have to be at before you take an advil or ibuprofen?

75. when did you lose your first tooth?

76. what’s your favorite potato food (i.e. tater tots, baked potatoes, fries, chips, etc.)?

77. best plant to grow on a windowsill?

78. coffee from a gas station or sushi from a grocery store?

79. which looks better, your school id photo or your driver’s license photo?

80. earth tones or jewel tones?

81. fireflies or lightning bugs?

82. pc or console?

83. writing or drawing?

84. podcasts or talk radio?

84. barbie or polly pocket?

85. fairy tales or mythology?

86. cookies or cupcakes?

87. your greatest fear?

88. your greatest wish?

89. who would you put before everyone else?

90. luckiest mistake?

91. boxes or bags?

92. lamps, overhead lights, sunlight or fairy lights?

93. nicknames?

94. favorite season?

95. favorite app on your phone?

96. desktop background?

97. how many phone numbers do you have memorized?

98. favorite historical era?

[productreviewsbymishry]

The Best Snack Bars to Keep You Energized

In today’s fast-paced world, having a quick and nutritious snack on hand can make a big difference in staying energized throughout the day. A snack bar is the perfect solution��compact, easy to carry, and packed with energy-boosting ingredients. Whether you need a pre-workout bite, a mid-day snack, or a guilt-free treat, snack bars are convenient, versatile, and satisfying.

This blog highlights some of the best snack bars available in the market, their unique features, and why they’re a must-have for your daily routine.

1. Yoga Bar Protein Bar

Why It’s Great: The Yoga Bar Protein Bar is a fantastic choice for those who prioritize fitness and nutrition. Packed with high-quality protein and natural ingredients, this bar is ideal for anyone looking for a healthy snack option.

Key Features:

Contains 20 grams of protein per bar.

Free from artificial sweeteners and preservatives.

Available in exciting flavors like Almond Fudge and Peanut Butter.

Who Is It For? This snack bar is perfect for gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts who need a quick protein boost post-workout. It’s also a great option for anyone looking to add more protein to their diet.

2. RiteBite Max Protein Daily Bar

Why It’s Great: The RiteBite Max Protein Daily Bar is designed to provide sustained energy throughout the day. Its balanced mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins makes it a wholesome snack for busy schedules.

Key Features:

Contains 10 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per bar.

Enriched with 21 essential vitamins and minerals.

Comes in flavors like Choco Almond and Berry Blast.

Who Is It For? Perfect for students, professionals, or travelers looking for a nutritious snack that fuels their day without compromising on taste.

3. Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars

Why It’s Great: Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars are made with whole grains and natural ingredients, offering a crunchy texture and delightful flavors. These bars are great for those who enjoy a light, yet satisfying snack.

Key Features:

Made with whole oats and honey.

Free from artificial colors and flavors.

Available in classic flavors like Oats & Honey and Peanut Butter.

Who Is It For? Ideal for those who enjoy hiking, trekking, or outdoor activities, these bars are lightweight and easy to pack. They’re also a great snack for tea or coffee breaks.

4. The Whole Truth Energy Bars

Why It’s Great: The Whole Truth Energy Bars stand out for their transparency and clean ingredients. With no added sugar or artificial flavors, these bars are made entirely from natural ingredients.

Key Features:

Sweetened naturally with dates.

High in fiber and healthy fats.

Comes in indulgent flavors like Coconut Cocoa and Coffee Mocha.

Who Is It For? Health-conscious individuals who prefer snacks with clean labels and minimal processing will love these bars. They’re also a good choice for those with dietary restrictions.

5. Unibic Oatmeal Energy Bars

Why It’s Great: The Unibic Oatmeal Energy Bars combine the goodness of oats with delicious add-ins like dried fruits and chocolate. They’re perfect for anyone who wants a filling snack without compromising on flavor.

Key Features:

Made with wholesome oats and real fruit pieces.

Low in sugar compared to other snack bars.

Flavors include Apple Cinnamon and Fruit & Nut.

Who Is It For? Perfect for working professionals or students who need a quick and nutritious snack during busy days.

What to Look for in a Snack Bar

Not all snack bars are created equal, and it’s essential to choose one that aligns with your nutritional needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Ingredients: Look for bars made with natural, whole ingredients like nuts, seeds, and fruits.

Protein Content: If you’re using the bar as a post-workout snack, aim for at least 10 grams of protein per serving.

Sugar Levels: Avoid bars with high added sugar; opt for those sweetened with natural sources like dates or honey.

Fiber: A high-fiber bar (3-5 grams) can keep you full for longer and support digestive health.

Calories: Choose a bar with appropriate calorie content based on your daily needs.

Benefits of Snack Bars

Snack bars offer several benefits, making them a convenient addition to any diet:

Portability: Compact and lightweight, snack bars are easy to carry wherever you go.

Quick Energy: With a balanced mix of carbs, protein, and fats, they provide a quick energy boost.

Versatility: Snack bars can double as breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert.

Variety: Available in a wide range of flavors, there’s something to suit every palate.

Tips for Incorporating Snack Bars into Your Diet

Pre-Workout Boost: Choose a high-carb bar like Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars for quick energy before exercising.

Post-Workout Recovery: Opt for protein-rich bars like Yoga Bar Protein Bar to support muscle recovery.

Mid-Day Snack: Keep a bar handy to avoid unhealthy snacking between meals.

Travel Companion: Pack a few bars for road trips or flights to stay fueled on the go.

Conclusion

Snack bars have become a go-to option for people seeking convenience and nutrition in their busy lives. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or someone looking for a healthy snack, the variety of options available ensures there’s a snack bar for everyone.

From the protein-packed Yoga Bar to the naturally sweetened Whole Truth Energy Bars, these products cater to diverse tastes and needs. Choose the one that aligns with your lifestyle and enjoy a delicious, energizing snack anytime, anywhere.

[thomashenryworlds]

Luxe Bites' Valentine's Day Menu: A Symphony of Flavors

Luxe Bites' Valentine's Day Menu: A Symphony of Flavors

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and connection, and few things bring people together quite like sharing a gourmet meal. Luxe Bites has created the perfect offering for this special occasion: the Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box, a meticulously curated collection of flavors and textures that transform any gathering into an elegant culinary experience.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening for two, a Galentine’s celebration with friends, or simply treating yourself to something special, Luxe Bites’ Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box is the ideal centerpiece for the occasion.

A Tasteful Symphony

The Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box by Luxe Bites is more than just food—it’s an artful arrangement of complementary flavors, designed to delight the senses. This gourmet spread features:

Artisanal Cheeses: A carefully curated selection of creamy, tangy, and sharp cheeses that provide a flavorful foundation.

Premium Charcuterie: An assortment of expertly cured meats like prosciutto and salami, perfect for pairing with crackers or fruit.

Fresh Fruits and Nuts: Sweet strawberries, juicy grapes, and a mix of almonds and pistachios offer balance and texture.

Decadent Desserts: Heart-shaped macarons, chocolate-covered strawberries, and truffles add a touch of romance and indulgence.

Accompaniments: Artisanal crackers, gourmet spreads, and honey create endless pairing possibilities.

The box is designed to provide a harmonious balance of savory and sweet, making it a true symphony of flavors.

Perfect for Every Celebration

Luxe Bites’ Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box is versatile enough to suit a variety of Valentine’s Day plans. Here’s how it can enhance your celebration:

1. A Romantic Dinner for Two

Set the mood with candlelight, soft music, and this elegant charcuterie box as your centerpiece. Its variety of flavors ensures there’s something for every palate, making it the perfect choice for a romantic evening.

2. Galentine’s Gathering

If you’re celebrating friendship this Valentine’s Day, the charcuterie box is a chic and delicious addition to your party. Share the assortment of cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts with your best friends while sipping on cocktails or wine.

3. A Solo Indulgence

Who says Valentine’s Day has to be about couples? Treat yourself to Luxe Bites’ gourmet offerings and enjoy an evening of self-care with a charcuterie box, your favorite movie, and a glass of wine.

Why Luxe Bites Stands Out

Luxe Bites is synonymous with quality and elegance, and their Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box exemplifies these values. Here’s what makes it special:

Premium Ingredients: Luxe Bites sources only the finest cheeses, meats, and accompaniments to ensure an exceptional dining experience.

Beautiful Presentation: Each box is a visual masterpiece, arranged with care to create an aesthetically pleasing spread.

Customization Options: Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary preferences, Luxe Bites can tailor the charcuterie box to suit your needs.

Convenience: Luxe Bites delivers fresh, ready-to-enjoy charcuterie boxes directly to your door, making Valentine’s Day planning stress-free.

Pairing Ideas for Your Charcuterie Box

Enhance the flavors of the Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box with thoughtfully chosen pairings:

Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the cheeses and charcuterie.

Champagne: Perfect for toasting the occasion, champagne complements the sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries and macarons.

Mocktails: Create a refreshing non-alcoholic option with sparkling water, fresh berries, and a splash of citrus juice.

How to Order Luxe Bites’ Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box

Ordering Luxe Bites’ Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box is simple and convenient. Visit their website, choose the size that suits your celebration, and customize the box to accommodate any dietary preferences. Luxe Bites offers multiple sizes, ensuring there’s an option for intimate dinners or larger gatherings.

With prompt delivery and impeccable packaging, your charcuterie box will arrive fresh and ready to impress.

Conclusion

Luxe Bites’ Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Box is a true culinary masterpiece, offering a carefully curated selection of flavors that create a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, celebrating with friends, or treating yourself, this gourmet platter transforms Valentine’s Day into an unforgettable occasion.

Let Luxe Bites help you create a symphony of flavors this Valentine’s Day, and make every moment as indulgent and special as the love you’re celebrating.

[ahmedperfumes]

The Art of Fragrance: A Guide to Choosing the Best Perfumes for Men and Women

Fragrance is an essential part of personal expression. Whether you're preparing for a special occasion or simply want to feel good about yourself, the right perfume can elevate your mood and enhance your presence. In this guide, we will explore the best fragrance perfume for men and women, highlight perfume shops in Bahrain, discuss branded perfumes in Bahrain, and provide insights on online perfume shopping in Bahrain.

Best Fragrance Perfume for Men

Choosing a fragrance can be overwhelming with so many options available. However, a few timeless characteristics can guide your decision when searching for the best fragrance perfume for men.

Woody and Earthy Notes: Many men gravitate toward perfumes that feature woody notes. Scents with hints of cedarwood, sandalwood, or patchouli exude masculinity and strength, perfect for evening wear or cooler weather.

Citrus Freshness: For daytime wear or warm climates, citrus fragrances are invigorating. Notes of bergamot, lemon, and orange create a refreshing vibe that’s uplifting and energizing, ideal for casual outings or professional settings.

Spicy Undertones: A dash of spice can add depth to a fragrance. Scents with hints of cardamom, nutmeg, or pepper can be intriguing and unique, suitable for evening events or dates.

Aromatic Blends: Aromatic fragrances combine herbal and floral elements, creating a balanced scent profile. Notes like lavender, basil, and rosemary evoke a sense of calm and sophistication.

When selecting a fragrance, it’s essential to test it on your skin, as scents can change based on body chemistry. This step is vital for finding the best fragrance perfume for men.

Best Fragrance Perfume for Women

Women’s fragrances often focus on a diverse array of floral and fruity notes. Here are some categories to consider when searching for the best fragrance perfume for women.

Floral Fragrances: Classic and timeless, floral perfumes feature notes of rose, jasmine, and peony. These scents can be romantic and feminine, making them suitable for both daytime and evening wear.

Fruity Scents: Fruity perfumes, which include notes of peach, apple, and berries, offer a playful and youthful vibe. They’re great for everyday use and can be uplifting during warm weather.

Gourmand Notes: For those who love sweet and edible aromas, gourmand fragrances feature notes like vanilla, caramel, and chocolate. These scents can be comforting and inviting, perfect for cozy evenings.

Oriental Blends: Rich and complex, oriental fragrances combine spices, resins, and florals. They are often more intense, suitable for evening events or special occasions.

Just as with men’s fragrances, women should sample perfumes before committing to one. Testing is key to ensuring the fragrance complements their unique scent profile.

Perfume Shops in Bahrain

Bahrain offers a vibrant shopping scene for fragrance enthusiasts. Whether you’re searching for the latest scents or classic favorites, you can find numerous perfume shops in Bahrain that cater to your needs.

Department Stores: Many department stores in Bahrain feature dedicated fragrance sections. Here, you can find a wide selection of both men’s and women’s perfumes, along with knowledgeable staff to assist you in finding the perfect scent.

Specialty Perfume Shops: Numerous specialty shops focus exclusively on perfumes. These stores often carry a curated selection, including niche and artisanal options. Staff can provide personalized recommendations based on your preferences.

Duty-Free Stores: If you’re traveling, duty-free shops at the airport are excellent places to find branded perfumes in Bahrain at competitive prices. This is a great way to explore new fragrances without the added cost of taxes.

Online Perfume Shopping in Bahrain

In today’s digital age, online perfume shopping in Bahrain has become a convenient option for purchasing fragrances. Here are some tips for navigating this online space:

Research Before Buying: Before making a purchase, research scent notes and reviews. Many online retailers provide detailed descriptions and user feedback that can help you gauge whether a fragrance will suit your tastes.

Sample Sets: Some online retailers offer sample sets, allowing you to try multiple fragrances before committing to a full bottle. This is especially helpful if you’re unsure about a specific scent.

Returns and Exchanges: Check the return policy of the online store. A good return policy provides peace of mind, especially when purchasing a fragrance that you haven’t tested in person.

Watch for Promotions: Many online retailers offer promotions and discounts during holidays or seasonal sales. Subscribing to newsletters keeps you informed about the latest deals.

Branded Perfumes in Bahrain

The world of fragrances is vast, and branded perfumes in Bahrain often carry a legacy, embodying the creativity and craftsmanship of renowned perfumers. When exploring these options, consider the following:

Legacy Brands: Many brands have established a strong presence in the fragrance market. They often focus on quality and consistency, creating iconic scents that become staples in many collections.

Limited Editions: Some brands release limited-edition perfumes that are only available for a short time. These unique offerings can expand your fragrance collection and provide something special.

Signature Scents: Many individuals develop a signature scent—an identifiable fragrance representing their personality. When exploring branded perfumes in Bahrain, consider what makes a scent feel like "you."

Conclusion

Fragrance is a personal journey that reflects our identity and emotions. Whether you are searching for the best fragrance perfume for men, captivating scents for women, or exploring the vibrant perfume shops in Bahrain, understanding the nuances of fragrance enhances your experience. With the convenience of online perfume shopping in Bahrain and the allure of branded perfumes in Bahrain, you have countless options to explore.

Take your time in choosing a fragrance that resonates with you, and remember that the right scent can leave a lasting impression. Embrace the art of fragrance, and let your personality shine through every spritz!