#organic certified coffees

[goldstarcoffeeworld]

Place your order for Order Green Coffee Beans online at Gold Star Coffee!! It's well balanced, with soft acidity and incredible flavor combinations including a little bit of dry cocoa taste in the background.Rest assured that you will get the Best Green Coffee Beans Online at reasonable prices. For more information, you can call us at 1-888-371-JAVA(5282).

[the-uncrafting-table]

Happy Hannukah my friends! Our offerings yesterday were quite Christmas centric admittedly, but I felt it was only fair to put up something for our jewish friends as well.

The cafe has challah and latkes, lovingly provided by Linda and Merv, as well as coffee tea and a few chocolatey sweets for later

There are candles available in every color you could want

And pure artist grade clay for those seeking a golem for the holiday season

And finally, to round out the appropriately wintery material selection, we have some real wool yarns for making sweaters and scarves

Hopefully all 8 days of celebrations go wonderfully for you, and know that you're always welcome here. Enjoy!

[kenobers]

Jason Todd Headcanons

just a few thoughts that help inform the way i write this doof. it's linked below as well, but check out jason's spotify wrapped if you have a minute! ;-)

Samsung User

Jason says he likes his coffee dark, but secretly orders flavored lattes (see that one Hozier photo)

Puts cinnamon in his coffee grounds

He may have good taste in books, but he's got shit taste in movies

Loves a few basic safe picks - Fight Club, Pulp Fiction, things you might expect from someone like him

But his "Watch Again" list is all cheesy action movies and wacky comedies. Mark Wahlberg appears a little too often.

Doesn’t watch a lot of television, but sometimes likes to fall asleep to Family Guy or South Park

Has one ear piercing he got on a dare, done by either one of his brothers or one of the Outlaws

Good gift giver, but only wraps things in newspaper

Really terrible about remembering to take his medication

To the point that Dick and Tim got him one of those every day of the week pill boxes as a joke - but it's actually been incredibly helpful

Is a regular at his neighborhood corner store

To the point where the guys at the counter don’t even card him anymore

He's the type of man to sleep till noon, 1:30 on Sundays

If he's sharing a bed, he will snuggle up to you in his sleep

Snores

Unfortunately uses 3-in-1 shampoo/conditioner/body wash

Has an high tolerance for weed, which annoys the hell out of him because he enjoys a joint but does not fuck with edibles

Every time he tries an edible, he stares at himself in the mirror for three hours and Does Not like it

Drunk Yapper

Beer Drinker

Doesn't always know his own strength

Not in the accidentally-break-someone's-arm type of way, but definitely in the sometimes-closes-the-door-too-hard-and-goes-"whoopsie daises!" type of way

Thankfully, he's become a pretty great handy man

Despite being a certified Car Guy, he did die at 15 and as a consequence is lowkey still how to drive a none military grade car (in other words, he's a shit driver) (but it's okay, he sticks to the motorcycle and public transportation)

He's not a hugger, but he is a leaner

Thrifts all of his clothes

Prefers to get his books from local indie/second-hand/new & used bookstores

But still has a Barnes & Nobles membership card

His bookshelf is not organized what-so-ever; it's started to operate as more of a gun rack while his books get stacked underneath his bed (he tells himself that this will make him get through his To Be Read list faster)

His top played song of last year was “Kiss Me Through The Phone” by Soulja Boy

His music taste can be divided into three primary playlists; East Coast Rap, Metal, Ear Worms

Is the family expert on the Gotham underground music scene

He isn’t big on social media at all, but he has a Twitter with like 15 followers he uses to keep an eye on whoever

(and also to keep up with music and book updates)

He’s occasionally very funny on it. But just occasionally.

Just Online enough to know who Trisha Paytas is, not Online enough to know who ClubChalamet is

He got his GED once he joined the family again

and yes, they threw him a little party to celebrate

Has the BatChat on silent, but still checks it regularly

Terrible texter; you’ll either hear back from him immediately or in three weeks time

“srry didn’t see this”

(he did see this, he just got anxiety about it)

Has a lot of anxiety about smalls things like that

Especially when it comes to the Bat Family

He’s not always sure where he stands with everyone - if they like him, trust him, want him there

Paranoid that they’re nosy because they secretly think he’s going to go rogue again

Has to constantly remind himself that they’re just nosy the same way that he’s nosy - because this is literally a family of detectives

[girlfromthecrypt]

𝕊𝕦𝕔𝕙 ℍ𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕪 ℂ𝕒𝕞𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕤

[Interactive fiction, Demo TBA]

𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕪

You play as a counselor for the understaffed and underfunded Cloverleaf program. Your job is to organize and oversee a cabin camping holiday for children from troubled homes. Working hard alongside you are your four allies (and potential friends/lovers) Basil Laurier, Anita Merrick and the siblings Flo and Reem Malak.

Unfortunately, the campsite you're tasked with preparing is nothing short of decrepit. Still, you'll make the best of it, right? As you and your colleagues undertake repairs and cleaning efforts (and possibly get to know each other a little better), you keep finding yourself in increasingly unsettling situations.

But surely there's no reason to worry, right?

𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕃𝕠𝕔𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟

Welcome to Camp Solace!

This picturesque cabin campsite is situated in the middle of nowhere, directly next to the beautiful Lake Solace and flanked by acres of woodland, far removed from the bustle of civilization. In fact, it'd take you quite a while to reach the nearest town in case of an emergency. You'd best make sure nothing goes wrong.

Camp Solace was established in the 1980s. In 2022, the site was bought out by the wealthy Laurier family who plan to overturn it to appeal to “a higher class of customers”. But not before offering it to the Cloverleaf program for the season, free of charge. The things people do for their public image…

𝕋𝕙𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤

For the duration of the holiday as well as its lengthy preparations and follow-up work, you will be relying on the support of your four closest colleagues.

Basil Laurier (M, trans, late twenties): The eldest son of the Laurier family. He's volunteering at Cloverleaf. Wealthy, though he tries not to seem it. Van-lifer, nature lover and dedicated spiritualist. Skilled craftsman. Enjoys building things and blowing them up after. Harmonious, cheerful and snarky.

Anita Merrick (F, mid twenties): Student of psychology doing her internship with the Cloverleaf program. Has a bachelor's degree in information technology. Smart, kind and chronically sleep-deprived. Enjoys a good book and fancy coffee. Certified softie. Easily scared (she's in for a bad time, the poor thing).

Reem Malak (F, early thirties): Music teacher, band guitarist and vocalist. Volunteering at Cloverleaf. Flo’s older half-sister. Also plays drums and percussion, sax, piano, bass… and bagpipes. Impulsive, passionate and energetic. Enjoys doing yoga and lifting weights. The cool girl. Very tall.

Flo Malak (M, late twenties): Martial arts teacher who gives classes for both adults and children. Also volunteering at Cloverleaf. Taekwondo, Krav Maga. Silent, kind and not without his quirks. Reem calls him “socially challenged”. Enjoys obscure media and monster movies. Even taller than his sister.

𝕋𝕙𝕖 ℙ𝕝𝕒𝕪𝕖𝕣 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣

Your player character's age will be kept ambiguous, though it’s implied that you’re in same age range as the romance options (meaning your twenties to thirties). 

Play as M, F or NB; gay, straight, bi, ace or keep your orientation undefined (Note: Such Happy Campers is very character-driven with a focus on romantic love and interpersonal connections).

Customize your looks and vibe; choose your strengths, personality and outfit!

[milk5]

THE MILK5 COFFEE GUIDE VOL. 1

REMOVE #BADBEANS FROM YOUR LIFE FOREVER

If you are a #TrueBlueCoffeeHead and subsisting on supermarket beans and/or frequent visits to big chains like Starbucks, PLEASE help yourself (and your local community, the environment, coffee workers, etc) and buy a pour over filter and freshly roasted, quality beans from a local roaster. Explicitly seek out Fairtrade Organic/Smithsonian Bird Friendly certified beans if possible. The taste of shade-grown coffee is incredibly flavorful AND you can be certain that your beans aren't the product of yucky pesticides, actual slave labor, and the annihilation of millions of acres of rainforest.

To start with what you need, a goose-neck kettle and pour over carafe are good purchases, but a suitably sized mason jar and regular kettle still work on a budget. Learning how to make a great pour over will raise your home coffee game to professional standards without needing to spend literal thousands of dollars on a real grinder/steamer/espresso machine setup -- if you're able to buy all of these items new for less than a thousand dollars, you're going to be down a few hundos in exchange for some pretty shitty machines. Regardless, a pour over setup with good beans will pay for itself VERY rapidly, assuming it replaces frequent Starbucks visits or whatever other chain you were going to. If you frequent a LOCALLY OWNED coffee shop that you like, keep going! You're an important part of the ecosystem.

What about grinding the beans? Should I get pre-ground beans? Would a cheapo blender-like blade grinder work?

NEVER touch a blade grinder again. It doesn't matter as much if you have #BadBeans, but if you have good beans, ALWAYS use a grinder with a burr; blade grinders just chop up your beans randomly into particles of massively varying sizes, leading to simultaneous over-extraction and under-extraction, generally leading to wildly inconsistent flavors and low repeatability. Burrs will always grind the beans into uniform particles and ensure that you're always (more or less, every cup is different to an extent) getting a consistent flavor. Don't buy a burr grinder -- just bring your beans to a local coffee shop, buy a drink, tip well, and ask the barista if they could grind the beans for you when you can clearly tell that they aren't busy. I have NEVER been refused, just go to a place with less sour employees if they won't help you out. Specify the coarseness that you'd like; smaller grounds have a greater surface area, so they're extracted to a greater extent, resulting in a more intense flavor; coarse grounds are the inverse. Lots of people recommend medium-coarse for pour overs (about 80% coarse 20% fine), but I prefer the stronger flavor of medium/drip (dead middle, 50% coarse 50% fine). It's also better to grind your beans periodically, as freshly-ground beans will taste better, but it's fine to have it pre-ground or ground all at once if you aren't able to easily make coffee shop trips every week or two. As far as roasts go, there's an entire gradient for you to explore -- not just the few that I list here; light roasts have a more sour, fruitier flavor, medium roasts are well rounded, and dark roasts are rich and smokey. Medium-dark is my personal favorite.

Experiment!!! It's all about your own taste, after all.

How do I make a good pour over?

Again, it depends on your taste. My go-to is a vigorous fourth-cup of grounds to 300ml of water; this is easily on the stronger end, but it's what works for me. More common ratios are usually weighed out on a kitchen scale, so consider picking one up if you don't already have one. Document your process until you get to your favorite! I always stop the kettle a little before it gets to its terminal temperature, then pour just enough water onto the grounds to let it bloom -- wait for one minute, and then start pouring a small-ish portion of the water onto the grounds every 20 seconds (this is where my own technique varies the most, it usually takes between 3-4 minutes to finish since I'm not pouring standard amounts; some people DO measure their pours for even greater consistency). Use the stopwatch on your phone, it's much better than keeping track in your head. Make sure to distribute the water evenly over the grounds, particularly making sure to wash the grounds off the sides every pour. When I'm finished, I like to immediately take a sip to see if a splash of milk or half-and-half would help or hurt the cup -- I think a very good cup of coffee can easily stand on its own without anything else, but additives can absolutely help depending on your personal preferences. Just be sure to taste the black coffee before you add anything.

What if I like the syrupy sweet drinks? What about iced coffee?

From my experience working at/visiting coffee shops, Monin is the most common syrup brand I see at local places. As far as iced coffee goes, coldbrew would be probably be the superior option -- it's also pretty easy to make at your home. I'm not going to be writing a guide for coldbrew any time soon, so you're out of luck there. I also never steam my milk if I'm doing a pour over, so I can't really point you to an inexpensive way to do that. Just know that the cheap handheld stick-frothers do not do the same thing as an actual steamer.

What was that about certifications?

Fairtrade is a pretty notable certification for food items produced in areas that have a history for being exploited (so pretty much the bulk of the global south), it can get very complex -- read more about it here. The goal is to ensure that the workers and communities involved in the production of the product receive fair, livable wages, that labor conditions are safe and reasonable, and that the decisions around the production of the product are made by those directly involved in the labor. FTO refers to Fairtrade Organic, which just means that it meets the standards of both Fairtrade AND organic production -- I'm not exactly sure if the organic standards are based on where the coffee is sold, produced, or both, but regardless, it's still a bonus; organic coffee will almost ALWAYS be shade-grown, which is the way that coffee grows naturally. Since coffee is an understory tree in nature, shade-grown coffee is produced more slowly and under a canopy and thus does not require the forest to be damaged or destroyed to grow; however, not all organic coffee will necessarily take place in a completely natural, untouched rain forest setting. Industrial non-organic coffee is most often produced under direct sun in gigantic clear-cut monocrop rows and usually with massive usage of potentially harmful inputs like, such as various pesticides and fertilizers. Direct sun coffee grows faster, but it has a distinctly different taste and is easily the most damaging method of coffee production to both the environment and the local communities. Smithsonian Bird-Friendly is the most rigorous certification for coffee in particular; FTO is more or less a pre-requisite to achieve SBF. Coffee likes to grow in tropical, equatorial environments -- these environments are also the areas of the greatest bird diversity in the world (and, really, biodiversity in general) and the destination for most migratory birds during the winter. The coffee industry has destroyed literal millions of acres of rain forest across the world, which has resulted in the death of billions of birds worldwide over the past 50 years. SBF guarantees the FTO criteria PLUS the additional criteria that the coffee must be produced in forests that are more-or-less in their natural state with thriving diversity of endemic species of flora and fauna. It's harder to find SBF-certified coffee than FT(O)-certified coffee, but the Smithsonian website has a handy vendor locator here. I'm not confident that it works beyond U.S. vendors, so I apologize to anyone interested abroad. Note that some of these certifications may be exclusive to particular continents; I need to do more research on the subject, but the tropical forests around the world vary wildly -- this adds a level of complexity to the goals and criteria of a particular certification. I am confident that all of the certifications that I have mentioned apply to South and Central America (and most likely the Caribbean), so keep that in mind. Also, watch out for phony certifications; big corporations frequently buy out existing certification organizations and/or create new green-sounding organizations to fool well-meaning consumers.

Where should my brand new beans come from?

Like wine, the exact qualities of a bean depend on its terroir, or the specific methods and geographic factors involved in its growth. However, some countries have trends in how the coffee is generally grown; some counties will practice shade-growing more than others and some countries will practice direct-sun industrial methods more than others. As a rule of thumb, Arabica beans are mostly grown in shade or partial shade, while Robusta is generally grown in direct sun. Defer to certifications if applicable.

The following areas primarily practice shade-growing:

Mexico

El Salvador

Peru

Panama

Nicaragua

Guatemala

Cuba

Timor

New Guinea

Ethiopia

Burundi

Rwanda

Tanzania

Zambia (*)

Zimbabwe (*)

Papua New Guinea

Sulawesi

Timor + East Timor

India

The following areas primarily practice direct-sun growing:

Colombia

Brazil

Costa Rica

Hawaii

Yemen

Kenya

Angola

Benin

Central African Republic

Congo

Gabon

Ghana

Guinea

Equatorial Guinea

Ivory Coast

Liberia

Nigeria

Sierra Leone

Togo

Cameroon

Madagascar

Malawi (**)

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Sumatra (***)

Java

Vietnam

China

Jamaica

Again, this is just a rule of thumb; there are exceptions to both and I'm sure that I've left out several production areas. Most of this information comes from the blog Coffee and Conservation, written by ornithologist Julie Craves. I've only tried a very small percentage of these origins; so far, my favorites are Sumatran (Arabica, of course) and Peruvian.

*The source that I got this information from mentioned that some avoid Zambian and Zimbabwean coffee due to concerns of it helping fund violent conflict in the area; this particular article, however, is from 2006 and may be wildly out of date. I couldn't find much more info on this topic when I searched elsewhere.

**They primarily produce Arabica with organic methods, despite the sunny conditions.

***Sumatra is likely the most notable coffee-growing island in Asia; while the majority is Robusta grown on plantations that have deforested a horrifyingly large percentage of the island, the Arabica grown in the north is well-known for its far healthier growing conditions (shade + organic, usually) and extremely distinct flavor.

Volume 2?

I may eventually add on to this post, most likely with a Turkish coffee guide coming next. I used to make Turkish coffee quite frequently, but I would need to dig up my old favorite recipe and cezve first. French press and coldbrew stuff will be in the more distant future if at all.

If any of this info looks wrong, let me know and I'll edit the post :-)

Enjoy your cup!!!!

[agirlwholovesrockstars]

you ain't woman enough

☆ EDDIE MUNSON'S MASTERLIST ☆

❣ AGATHA'S MAIN PAGE ❣

Summary : some crazy diehard fan claims to steal your man, of course- you won't let that happen

Word Count : not too long, I hope

Warnings : 18+ Rockstar!Eddie Munson x FEM!reader, language, reader and Eddie are both (25) also they're MARRIED to each other, no use of y/n, Gareth is (18), Jeff is (20) mentions of a fan having self-harm history, the lunatic fan (I named her Delancy, she's 18) can be very invasive, disrespectful, delusional and too obsessed with Eddie, alcohol consumption, mentions of pregnancy at the end, I think that's just it tho

What to Expect : angst and fluff teehee

Note To Reader : guys, you're not going to believe this because my fever just bounced back again making me suffer once more 💀 (but I'm good right now don't worry)

Author Note : LOVE LOVE THIS SONG SO MUCH- OF COURSE YOU KNOW I'VE HAD TO MAKE A FIC WITH IT ;)) (idk if I feel satisfied about this fic but here it goes)

You and Eddie have been together for ages

A bit dramatic, isn't it?

But no, seriously, it's like you spend a lifetime every minute, hour and seconds being with him

Since high school, Eddie thought it's cruel joke when you talked to him for the first time

He had a bit of time to grow on you back then, but when you finally get to know him when he unsheds his layers of showing the tough act to people at school

He is actually very sweet

That's where it all took off

You're always been there

The Hellfire Club campaigns, The Hideout sessions, the best part is that you we're also there when he got his long-awaited diploma

Wayne loves you, gosh, Eddie can still vividly remember the teasing moments that make him so freaking embarrassed when it revealed that Eddie has a crush on you

It's the most silliest confession that you both shared to each other, giggling at the same time

It's also wholesome in a way that you feel like yourself when you're with him than you're own

That's says something

You watch him grew to become one of the highest paid rock bands all of time, Corroded Coffin

Back in graduation in college, he said that he'll marry you and you'll be on his side while he's touring around the world

The words you told him never left his mind

"Always keep your dreams alive, Ed's"

You both love metal music, films, obviously certified nerds, always excited when you're both talking about your favorites

I mean- what's not to love?

"You're ready? sweetheart?"

"Yeah"

You gave him 360° turn to your full ensemble for the tonight's show

Oh, he was stunned at it, he takes a minute to process

"Well?"

"You look fantastic- I mean- hot, super super hot"

You snort "Okay, let's go rockstar"

You've prepared yourself for this since the beginning, the moment that Eddie got himself big time at a record label

You know what you're in for

You're ready to face it all, the tabloids, loads of paparazzi everywhere, awestruck fans that recognize the both of you walking in the streets of L.A

You also know once you entered this business, there's no longer privacy that you knew before

The fandom that Eddie has is like a freaking movement almost like an activist, every false lies, rumors, gossips, they defend him with his bandmates

You adore them, really, grateful for it

The head of the official fanbase of Corroded Coffin is really nice and respects everyone of you, even treat you like normal human beings

They organized parties when it's time for an occasion like Corroded Coffin won a Grammy, New Year's, when someone in the band has a birthday, it's really great

Sometimes, you wish every fan is just like that, or sometimes even not a fan, you wished they'll treat you kindly

While eating lunch with Eddie at a local diner downtown

"You know, there's a young girl keeps looking at our spot for like 30 mins now" Eddie is wearing Ray-Ban black sunglasses as he quietly speaks as he takes a sip of his coffee

You had a mouth full of philly cheesesteak as you turned around to find what your husband is referring to

There, you spot her, when you catch her eyes, she simply look away shyly

You hum as you shrug "It looks like she wants to say something"

"Oh, boy, here she comes"

Before you can react to what he just said, she's now standing to where you both seated but she gave a distance for personal space that leaves an impression to the both of you

Eddie caught a glimpse of the young girl's wrist with marks of healed pocks, you saw it too, he watches her intently but when he saw how genuine her eyes are, he knows this isn't some weird fanatic

You cleared your throat as you smile at the young girl

"Uh- hi, I'm so very sorry, if I made you both uncomfortable but I- I just want to express my gratitude, your songs really helped me a lot and ever since I stopped doing it for 5 years already and I feel a whole lot better and uh- your love story has always been my favorite- it's very inspiring and I've always been looking up to the both of you and uh- yeah thanks for everything" she leaves at that

the young girl went on and on with her slightly ducked down too shy to even look at the both of your eyes

"That's really sweet" you say with twinkling eyes as you kept your eyes on the young girl

"Wow, see- this is why I'm doing this! I will keep on making music when something like that happens! I can help people!" He beams exhilaratingly with a smile

"Eddie, haven't you realized you've been doing this since highschool?" You hold his hand across the table

"Yes, I know and I will do what I do best" he winks and you by that look

You know he's gonna make this interaction memorable

"Hey, kid"

The young girl almost can't believe the Eddie Munson called her out

"We appreciate you so much" he says as he picked the whole new latest album from his bag

Young girl is appalled, felt weak on the knees almost, you giggled at her reaction

To make everything go insane, he even signed the album cover

You hand it out to her "We're so proud of you"

She takes it with shaky hands as she laughs "I-I'm sorry, I'm freaking out inside, thank you so very much"

"You'll be the first person to hear it"

"I'll listen to it once I get home, I will never forget this day in my life!"

You and Eddie both chuckled "Treasure it, sweetie! You deserve it!"

"I love you both so much, you have absolutely no idea! um- I'll be attending your show this coming Saturday" you shyly added with a grin

You squealed as you look at Eddie with excitement, he took his glasses off

"That's very metal, dear" he makes a rock n roll sign as the kid does the same time, both shared laughs

You watched the kid happily as she runs over to her parents with the album in hand as they become starstrucked when they saw both of you, waving at their daughter

You sigh in content "Isn't that just awesome?!?" You slam your hands on the table feeling giddy

Eddie throws his head back in laughter as his mind replays the endearing interaction earlier

"My manager is going to kill me after this"

"Oh, yeah right- you weren't supposed to reveal your latest album yet"

"I doubt it she'll not spread it to everyone"

"I'll drink to that"

Turns out, both of your guts we're right, the young girl didn't leaked the whole ass album for the whole world to hear

The tour was going fantastic, the crowd roars, screams, cheers everyone is going nuts once the band came out the stage

The after-party is your favorite part when the set is done, it's just you, Eddie, Jeff and Gareth hanging out

It's like old times, the difference is that all of you are a part of public figures now

But, no, never once or anyone of you let that get into your head, you don't want to believe or let yourself be aware of that "I'm a celebrity and you're nothing" type of shit, all of you remained humble since day one

No wonder why people adored you so much

Jeff finished his degree last year, now he's got himself a babe beside him, Gareth only have 2 years left at his college

He is so sick of it already, but he won't stop until he finally graduated

"Now, I get it why- Eddie feels so fucking drained after college" Gareth groans as he sats down next to you

"But my tutoring while on the tour bus helped, right?" You gave him an sympathetic smile

He smiles tiredly "Yeah, I'm just so exhausted but I'm almost there"

"That's the spirit!"

"Man, I don't know how you do it, are you getting enough sleep?" Jeff chimes in as he drinks his beer as he awaits for his friend to answer

"I don't even remember when's the last time I got a good night's sleep"

"Your time has run out" a voice rudely interrupted your conversation

You, Jeff, Gareth turn around at the girl who is standing closer to you

Jeff and Gareth shared confusion looks to each other

"Excuse me?" You say as look at her directly

"I said he's done with you"

"Who?"

"Eddie"

Jeff makes a face and Gareth is unamused, offended by it

You tried your best to be polite as you wave your hand in front of her dismissively, maybe it's just some girl who mistakenly thought you're someone that she knew

"He doesn't love you anymore"

Who is this person? You think to yourself

You laugh incredulously as you lean forward, Jeff and Gareth looked at you and thinks why you're aren't doing anything to be mean just for once

They're watching the nicest argument ever

"You have to let him go" she says as she crossed both of her arms

"Why would I do that?"

"So, I can take him"

You, Jeff and Gareth looked at each other with knowing looks as you tried to keep your composure stable

The bartender is clearly knows what the fuck is going on and couldn't help but to bite back a laughter as well

"Ooh- okay, hot shot- gimme a sec" you say with a mockery on your voice as you bit your lip to stop bursting to any second

You kick Jeff and elbowed Gareth to stop them from snickering

"Hey, Francis" you paid for the tabs, you treat the guys for the drink tonight

"You didn't have to-"

"I insist, you always gave me fine drinks and you never let me pay? Come on- take it"

The older man smiles and sighs and muttered a small thank you

All of you go down to your rotating circle chairs, but before you left her, you twirl around with a teasing smile

She became annoyed at you, you didn't even know what the hell she's annoyed at you for

"Sorry to burst your bubble, you can't do that"

"What makes you think that I can't?" She snaps and it makes you amused

Jeff and Gareth make a teasing "Oooh's" as you flipped the guys off behind your back

"Because-" you looked at her from top to bottom

She really wasted her beauty for pulling a stunt like this?

"You aren't there yet"

You know, she ain't gonna understand that phrase because she's young, you didn't even bother to explain what it means so you turn heel and left her at it

You wiggle your fingers at her as you wave goodbye and she watches the three you finally booming the streets with the loud cackles

At the backstage, 10 mins left before the show starts

"Eddie! Stand still!" You say as you fix his outfit

"I've been performing for years and I still get nervous" he says with a unsure smile

"That's totally normal, Eddie, once you get out of there and feel all of the people energy and literally once you start singing? You'd be great like you always do" you say as you finish doing touch ups to his look

He didn't replied, he instead hugged you

"Oh" you got startled at his sudden action but you melt with it

"Thank you, sweetheart"

"Anytime, Ed's"

A frequent knock is going on the door, almost breaking it, he swung it open- he got cutt off by someone

"Alright, alright! I'll be there-"

"Where have you been?!? I've looked for you everywhere!"

"What-"

"Didn't you missed me?!?"

You lean onto your side of the doorframe with arms crossed as Eddie looked at you for help almost like he's saying "Do you have any idea who is this person?!?"

The young lady who you encountered last night meet your eyes, you swore you saw the fire ignited once you came into the frame

"What is she doing here?!?"

Eddie is so perplexed as he continues to look at the random girl and you just smirk to yourself

She reached for Eddie's hand as he became so stunned at her action and you raised both of your eyebrows at her boldness

The audacity of this person is wild

"Honey? Care to explain, please?" Eddie is obviously trying to let go of the grip that she's holding onto him

"Oh, I just met her last night and how rude of me not knowing your name- if you even had one" you sarcastically speak up, it's very comedic to watch her face crumpled up to your smugness

"It's Delancy"

"Yeah, right- Delancy!" You act like it was the most interesting information ever

Eddie is watching you with a wolfish grin, he finally understood it

"I'm here to support my boyfriend" she lOviNgLy looks up at Eddie, the situation doesn't even get worse from there as he looks at you through his bangs as he purses his lips together

"Sweetie, before you can get to him, I'll have to move over and I'm gonna stand right here"

"You can't!"

"It will be over my dead body"

Eddie finally got away from the hold as he looks at her with fake sympathetic smile with a pout as he throws both of his hands in defense

You glanced at the corner and saw the security guards probably looking for her

You lean closer as you say "So, get out while you can" you nudge your chin towards the guards and she panic as she runs away

"Oh my fucking god" Jeff jogs as he tries to catch up his breath

"Give me a minute" Gareth holds up a finger as he pants

"So, she's the girl that you little shitheads talking about, huh?"

Both of the young men nod as they chuckled slightly

"Can't believe she got herself inside" you scoff as you shake your head

"Hmm, maybe there's a way to end this ridiculousness" Eddie smirks as all of you looked at him in confusion

The show is exhilaratingly amazing, Eddie called out for you, is this his plan?

You shyly get up on the stage as the crowd cheers for your name

Once you walked closer to Eddie he pulled you in for a kiss

You're surprised but managed to recover as you wrap your arms around him as you kiss him back

Jeff whistles as Gareth clapped aggressively

The whole crowd screamed harder as Eddie pulled you closer more to him as if that were possible, you became flustered as you break the kiss from running out of breath but Eddie?!? Kept stealing kisses as you giggled

"My beautiful wife everybody!" Eddie announces in the microphone not caring if your lipstick is all over his face

"Thank you guys for the insane night! We love you! We appreciate all of your support! Take care and we'll see you soon! Keep on rockin'!" Eddie left with that as Jeff and Gareth came onto your side as they join you for a bow before all of you waved goodbye and exit the stage

The interview is happening in the morning after the last night's show

"Have you heard about the rumor? There's basically a young girl claiming your husband, Eddie, to be as her boyfriend? What is your comment about this?"

Gareth chimes in with a smirk on his face as he leans over to steal a moment in the camera "No comment" he says as Eddie, Jeff snickered as you chuckled as well

"Yeah, I did, I even interacted with her- she seems....interesting"

"Interesting for a therapy" Jeff adds as the three man crack up to his joke

"She even said that Eddie looked at her at the concert last evening" the interviewer spoke up as you can watch Eddie genuinely reacted to this

"Oh my god" Eddie rubs his face as he hides his face buried on his palms as he tries not to laugh

"Well, a man looks at things sometimes that he doesn't need, I think she's referring to what happened at the backstage-"

"I took a second look-" Eddie narrows his eyes at you

"But he's in love with me" you point to yourself ignoring your cheeks blush

"Exactly" Eddie grins as you held his hand

"She even said that the kiss that happened was a fake"

"I don't know where that leaves her" you shrug at the interviewer

"You know where you stand"

You chortled at the interviewer's remark, knowing that this will even more pissed her off

"Precisely, I know where I stand" you agree as you nod

"And there you have it, folks, The Corroded Coffin, it's such a delight to finally to get to talk to you all and the man of the hour, Eddie Munson with his wife, Jeff and Gareth the icons behind the band, Thank you for tuning in!" The interviewer wraps it all up

"Please, do invite your fans to come on over to your tours"

"it's our pleasure, to share our music around the world and all we wanna do is just inspire people" Eddie smiles at the camera while he always pulled you into his side, you love that he never fails to show you off

As the airing ends, Eddie whispers to your ear

"Let's make her even more furious" Eddie bites his lips as he could think for a conniving idea

You snorted at him with a playful smile

"Telling to everyone that you're having a baby" he winks

"Eddie!" You push him playfully on the chest but he laughs as he carries you and spins around at the studio

But he ain't wrong with that, you'll even consider it later ;))

[rachellaurengray]

Top Plant-Based Protein Powders for Every Taste and Goal

Finding the right plant-based protein powder can elevate your fitness routine and support your health goals. Whether you're an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or simply looking for a plant-powered boost, choosing a high-quality protein is key. In this guide, we will look at the best plant-based protein powders, including popular brands like Vega, BioSteel, and Sunwarrior. With a variety of taste profiles—from rich chocolate to smooth vanilla—there’s an option to suit every preference and help fuel your day.

1. Vega Sport Premium Protein

Type: Plant-based, Vegan

Protein Source: Pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, sunflower seed protein, alfalfa protein

Taste: Chocolate, Vanilla, Mocha, Peanut Butter

Key Features: 30g of protein per serving, 6g BCAAs, 5g glutamine, and no artificial flavors or sweeteners.

Ideal For: Athletes, those seeking post-workout recovery.

2. BioSteel Plant-Based Protein

Type: Plant-based, Vegan

Protein Source: Pea protein, brown rice protein

Taste: Chocolate, Vanilla, Ice Cream sandwich, Maple Pancake, Cinnamon Bun

Key Features: 20g of protein per serving, no sugar, and made with non-GMO ingredients. Includes added electrolytes and amino acids.

Ideal For: Hydration, muscle recovery, clean energy.

3. Sunwarrior Warrior Blend

Type: Plant-based, Vegan

Protein Source: Pea protein, hemp protein, goji berries, coconut

Taste: Chocolate, Vanilla, Natural, Berry

Key Features: 27g of protein per serving, high in BCAAs, MCTs, and antioxidants.

Ideal For: Vegan athletes, those looking for a clean, all-in-one blend.

4. Orgain Organic Protein

Type: Plant-based, Vegan

Protein Source: Pea protein, brown rice protein, chia seeds

Taste: Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream

Key Features: 21g of protein per serving, certified organic, no artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.

Ideal For: Those seeking a balanced, everyday plant protein powder.

5. KOS Organic Plant Protein

Type: Plant-based, Vegan

Protein Source: Pea protein, organic pumpkin seed protein, organic flaxseed, quinoa

Taste: Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Mint

Key Features: 20g of protein per serving, organic, 9 essential amino acids, digestive enzymes.

Ideal For: People looking for a nutrient-dense, organic option with digestive support.

6. Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein

Type: Plant-based, Vegan

Protein Source: Pea protein, brown rice protein, chia seeds, and sprouted grains

Taste: Vanilla, Chocolate, Unflavored

Key Features: 22g of protein per serving, 44 superfoods, probiotics, and digestive enzymes.

Ideal For: Those who want a clean, whole-food-based protein with added digestive benefits.

7. Nuzest Clean Lean Protein

Type: Plant-based, Vegan

Protein Source: Pea protein isolate

Taste: Chocolate, Vanilla, Coffee, Strawberry

Key Features: 20g of protein per serving, 100% pea protein isolate, no artificial ingredients.

Ideal For: Those who prefer a pure, minimalistic protein source with low carbs.

8. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides (Plant-based alternative)

Type: Plant-based, Vegan alternative to collagen

Protein Source: Pea protein, rice protein

Taste: Unflavored

Key Features: Focuses on joint and skin health, while providing protein for muscle recovery.

Ideal For: Vegan consumers looking for a collagen-boosting alternative.

[goldstarcoffeeworld]

Searching for the Best Coffee in Canada? You have come to the right place. At Gold Star Coffee, we take great pride in the quality of our Ultra-Premium Coffee. Before we purchase any coffee for roasting, we go to great lengths to ensure that our high level of quality is met to both our own and customers' satisfaction. For more information, you can call us at 1-888-371-JAVA(5282).

[stargazer-sims]

The Art of Redemption

(part 12)

previous // next // story index

—————

"Good news, children!" Stan bursts through the doorway of the guest room without so much as a knock. He doesn't seem the least bit shocked or bothered by the fact that Beth-Anne is curled up next to Nikolai in the big bed. "You're gonna love this!"

Beth-Anne drags her eyelids open a little further. She’s tired, and it’s an effort. "Jesus, Stan! Ever heard of privacy?"

Stan quirks an eyebrow. "What? I'm not interrupting something, am I? I didn't think you swung that way."

"The fuck...?" She seizes the nearest soft object she can reach, which happens to be Nikolai's grey teddy bear, and flings it at him. "Fuck off!"

Stan catches the bear neatly. He's laughing. "And all this time, I thought you were a morning person. You too, little Kolya."

Beside her, Nikolai groans sleepily. "This is a bad dream, right?"

"Do you often dream about being in bed with your coach?" Stan asks, his tone filled with mock-innocence.

"Oh my God. Please stop." Nikolai grabs the edge of the quilt and pulls it up so that only the top of his messy brown hair is visible. "I'm not in bed with her."

"That’s not what it looks like, but okay," Stan says.

"You know what I mean!"

"I call it as I see it," Stan says, "Anyway, it's fine. Whatever the two of you get up to behind closed doors is none of my business. You're both adults."

"Stan, enough." Beth-Anne tries to put as much steel into her tone as possible. She knows he's only teasing and she's sure Nikolai knows it too, but just because she enjoys Stan's sometimes inappropriate sense of humour, that doesn't mean everyone's going to appreciate it. It's fairly obvious Nikolai is uncomfortable, and Beth-Anne isn't keen to let that continue. "What do you want?

"I just wanted to tell you the good news," Stan says cheerfully. "We had a shit ton of snow overnight. Everything's closed. Schools, shopping malls..." He gives her a conspiratorial wink, as if the closures were organized specifically for their benefit. "Municipal sport and recreation facilities."

Nikolai peeks out from under the blanket. "You mean, the rink is closed?"

"All the municipal facilities," Stan says. "Rinks, pools, libraries, the recycling depot. Probably even City Hall. We're having a genuine, certified snow day, and personally, I don't intend to waste it lying around."

"We weren't lying around. We were literally sleeping," Beth-Anne points out.

"Details," Stan says. "Now, let's go. Haul ass, kids. Milena's making breakfast, and then we need to clear the driveway. Betka's work isn't closed, and the whole fucking world would have to end before they gave her husband a day off, so she's bringing the boys over to spend the day. It's gonna be great."

"Can we at least take showers and put on some clean clothes first?"

Stan grins at her. "Sure, if you want cold breakfast. Come on. Eat now, shower later."

And so, unable to argue with the force of nature that is Stanislav Kovac, they do.

She and Nikolai climb out of bed and trail Stan to the kitchen where Milena is in the process of making what might be banana pancakes. The warm, inviting scents of coffee and savoury sausage fill the room, and there's already a pitcher of orange juice, a carton of milk and an array of condiments on the table.

Beth-Anne has lost count of how many times she's sat in the Kovacs' kitchen and shared a meal with them. After her accident, she'd lived with them for several months while she recovered her ability to walk and her courage to face the world beyond the safety of their four walls. They helped her stay sober and sane, and their steady presence healed her in ways she's sure none of them have words to explain.

Milena and Stan and their daughter Alzbeta — known affectionately as Betka — taught her what it was like to be part of a healthy and loving family, and from them she learned that relying on others isn't a sign of weakness, that there's far more strength in the care and support of others than anyone could ever find alone.

She feels at home in the Kovacs' house and comfortable with their quirks as well as their routines. It's not strange for her to observe Milena at the stove, dressed in old gym shorts and one of Stan's shirts, preparing what she and Stan both insist is the most important meal of the day, neither is it odd for her to see Stan dancing gracefully around the kitchen in his ridiculous plush moose slippers that would be a serious tripping hazard for someone less agile and less aware of the capabilities of his body.

The vintage radio is tuned to a classical music station, and one of Stan's favourite pieces of music has just come on. Beth-Anne recognizes it. It's Les Patineurs Op. 183, by the nineteenth-century composer Émile Waldteufel, and she'd once skated to it in a competition. She suspects Stan may have skated to it at some point too. His dance looks choreographed, the movements long-remembered and clearly beloved.

Milena says something to him in their native Czech, and he replies in English, "Yes, I remember." He spins fluidly across the floor until he's next to her, and then he kisses her on the cheek. "I remember we both got something gold that night."

Beth-Anne smiles. She knows exactly what he's referring to.

Stan delights in telling the story of how he proposed to Milena. He'd been planning it for weeks and had even bought a ring, but hadn't actually presented it to her when he asked her to marry him. Instead, he'd given her his newly-won gold medal from Skate Canada. Apparently, he'd been too excited and full of adrenaline to wait for their next proper date and he'd proposed right there at the competition venue.

The first time Beth-Anne heard that story, she hadn't been the least bit surprised. It was perfectly in-character for Stan. What was also characteristically Stan was how he'd later taken that very same medal to a goldsmith, where it'd been melted down and refashioned into Stan and Milena's wedding bands.

"So we can always wear our greatest victory for the world to see," he'd said.

Beth-Anne loves that Stan considers his marriage to Milena his greatest victory.

We should all be so fortunate, she thinks.

She asks Milena if there's anything she can do to help with breakfast, although she already knows what the answer will be.

"No, it's under control," Milena assures her. "Grab a coffee and have a seat. This'll all be ready in a few minutes."

She fixes coffee for herself and Nikolai, and then joins him at the table. True to her word, Milena carries a huge platter of pancakes and sausage to the table a few minutes later. Stan finally decides to sit down as well, and they all enjoy some carefree chatter and the delicious food that's as filling to Beth-Anne's spirit as it is to her stomach.

After breakfast, she and Stan dress up to go outside and clear the driveway. Nikolai offers to help, but both she and Stan veto the idea immediately. He may be walking more confidently now, but there's no way they're going to let him shovel snow.

Milena says he can stay inside with her and help tidy up the kitchen. Beth-Anne is grateful to Milena for offering him a way to feel useful, and evidently Nikolai is too, because he happily acquiesces.

With Nikolai left in Milena's capable hands, Beth-Anne follows Stan out through the garage. They collect two wide snow shovels and then make their way outdoors. Stan wasn't wrong about how much it had snowed in the night. Yesterday, she'd guessed it might snow, but she had no idea they'd be up past their knees in it. It's still snowing lightly, with no signs of stopping soon, but if they don't start cleaning up now, it'll be that much more difficult when the storm finally does dwindle to its inevitable end.

For the first little while, they don't say much, other than to comment about how cold it is or how astonished they are by the unexpectedly heavy snowfall. By the time they've removed all the snow from the doorstep and walkway and the front of the garage, however, Stan seems more inclined to converse. They're clearing around his car when he says, "So, last night...?"

"What about last night?" she queries. "If this is gonna be about me and Nikolai sleeping in the same bed..."

"No, it's not," Stan says. "I know nothing happened. Well, nothing like that at least, but even if you did get up to something frisky, it's like I already said. You're adults. You do what you want. What I'm talking about was you screaming bloody murder in the middle of the night."

"Oh, God." Beth-Anne moans. "I'm so sorry. It's bad enough that I woke Nikolai. I didn't know I woke you and Milena too."

"You didn't wake Milena. That woman could sleep through World War Three. But, it took all my willpower not to run downstairs and check on you."

"And you didn't come down because...?"

"Because I remembered Nikolai was in there with you. Or you were in there with him, I suppose, since you didn't come up to the room we offered you."

"Yeah, well it was a little, uh... noisy up there for my tastes."

Stan snorts in his effort not to laugh. "Right. Apologies for that, but when your wife's rocking the boy-cut underwear and looking hot as fuck, sometimes you just gotta do something, you know?"

"I love that you still think she's hot."

"And why wouldn't i? Sure, she looks different than she did when we were eighteen, but so what? She's my benchmark for beauty. Everybody else has to measure up to her."

"You're amazing, you know."

"I know," Stan says, but then he turns serious again. "Anyway, I just wanted to make sure you're okay after the talk we had yesterday, and then whatever happened last night."

"Yeah, I'm surprisingly okay," she says. "I'm not cured, obviously, but I do feel better today. It was a pretty bad nightmare, but Nikolai looked after me. We talked afterwards, and he gave me some stuff to think about, whether he realizes it or not."

"What stuff?"

"For one thing, he seems to think I'm not going to end up being a danger to anybody. Maybe he's an optimist, but he thinks the kids are safe."

"Of course they are," Stan says. "Don't I keep telling you that? We didn't have you in anger management therapy back in the day for no reason, did we?"

"No. There was a reason. It was to keep me safe. And other people safe from me."

"Yeah, but it was also for your future, and you see how well it's worked out. You're like a second mom to some of those kids of yours.

"Nikolai said something like that too."

"So Nikolai tells you one time, and you believe him?"

"No, it's not that," she says. "It's not like I believe Nikolai and I don't believe you. It just seems easier to believe when I'm hearing it from more than one person, if that makes sense."

"It does," says Stan. "Not that I'm telling you to take a poll or anything, but if you did, I'll bet you'd hear the same thing from all your students' parents. I mean, the fact that they trust you with their kids should tell you as much."

She smiles wryly. "I just wish I could trust myself."

"That takes time, but you know what I think might help?"

"What?"

"Remember how you used to be," he says. "Look at how far you've come since I first met you, how much fuckin' awesome progress you've made as a human being, not just as an athlete and a coach. Not only should you trust yourself to do the right things, but you should be damn proud of yourself for getting it mostly right so far."

"Mostly right."

"Nobody's perfect."

"True," she agrees. She moves a few more shovelfuls of snow before she continues. "There was something else."

"Something else Nikolai said to you, you mean?"

"Yeah."

"And...?"

"I told him about Abby, and I told him how I got the scars."

Stan makes a sombre hum of affirmation. "That took courage."

"It felt like the right thing to do."

"How'd he take it?"

"I'd say he was shocked, but not totally surprised, and he said he didn't think any of it was my fault. And do you know what he asked me?"

Stan plants his shovel in the snow. He rests his gloved hands on top of the handle and leans forward a little, meeting her eyes. "I get the sense it's something you didn't see coming."

"You're right," she confirms. She pokes the snow a bit with the blade of her own shovel before sticking it into the nearest drift and copying Stan's posture. "He asked me if I've tried looking for Abby recently."

"Have you?" Stan asks.

Beth-Anne shakes her head. "No, but the more I think about it, the more I think maybe I should."

"Are you prepared for something like that? Like, emotionally and psychologically prepared?"

"No, but if I wait for a moment when I fell like I'm totally ready, maybe I'll never do it, and maybe this is something I need to do now, you know? Maybe it's the next step I need to take to move on."

"What if you find out something you'd rather not know?"

"Like what? The worst thing I could learn is something I already accept might be a possibility, that my sister died in the eighties. But, Stan..." She gazes at him intently, willing him to comprehend her sudden earnestness. "Stan, what if she didn't? What if she escaped that hell, and what if some foster family loved her and raised her like their own? I could still have a sister out there somewhere."

"This may not have a happy ending," he says.

"I know, but even if she doesn't remember me or doesn't want to meet me, or even if she really did pass away years ago, I think I'd feel better knowing the truth about what happened."

Stan presses his lips together as if he's deep in thought, attempting to come up with an adequate response. "I don't want you to think I'm discouraging you from doing this," he says at length. "You should, if you think it's what you need to do. I just don't want you to be hurt."

"I know," she smiles at him. "You always want to protect me, and it's one of the reasons I love you, but remember what you're always saying. We don't achieve anything if we're not willing to take risks."

"That sounds like the kind of motivational shit I'd say at the rink."

"It applies just as well to life off the ice."

He frowns, but she understands it's not because he's upset. It's because he's worried but also has to concede her point. "Knowing the truth likely would give you some closure," he says. "Maybe it would help you move on.

"Nikolai suggested Milena might be able to help," she tells him. "He said she might know how to get access to family court records and old documents from Social Services and stuff like that."

"Milena's not that kind of lawyer," Stan says. "But I'll bet there's somebody at her firm who is. I can ask her, if you want."

"No," Beth-Anne says. "I have to be sure I'm really doing this. I need to think about it a little more. When I'm sure I’m going ahead with it, I'll ask her myself."

Stan nods. "Okay. If you need to talk about it any more in the meantime, I'm here."

"Thanks," she says. "I'm grateful I can always count on you."

He smiles. "Hey, what's family for? No matter what happens, we've always got your back."

[jomtones-bussy]

SCOUT HEADCANONS FROM THA 💯% COOLEST SCOUT KINNIE #2⁉️⁉️⁉️

He throws his voice. He once made pyro think the coffee maker could talk

He's circus level flexible and it's DISGUSTING. He once remarked that his organs probably looked weird in his body when he did this and sniper lifted his glasses in disgust

He once said "dis nematode in the midst of buffoonery 💀" out loud unwarranted

Can recite the entire script of king of the hill season 3 episode 7 "nine pretty darn angry men"

Had a pet roach named gooch bc he couldn't kill it. He lived for seven months and got to the size of a dollar bill.

Not a HC but scout is literally that one pic of brawny men fighting and chilling with this smaller phat tits green haired chick tearing up an ostrich leg, but if the woman was super buff.

Sometimes he becomes untethered and goes into fits of unbridled violence directed towards whatever moves for no reason at all. To fix this demo flips scout in a specific way and he gets rotated IDIOT

Ate an 1/3rd of a vintage Nancy drew book

If someone points at him he collapses like a ragdoll. The others found out about this after pointing at him while he was swimming and he nearly drowned

Got stuck in the walls and roamed the walls for three days whispering about being a rat, preying and stalking in the night

Counting to three never works on him unless it's spy

Scout is hazmat certified due to a situation with 16 wisdom teeth from 8 dumbasses, a propane truck, and a case of root beer.

Demo holds scout like a large dog when he gets his shots. He nearly ripped medic's ear off with his teeth and medic is never taking chances again.

Some nights he can be heard playing pistolero western music for hours. He yearns for the horses and pneumonia.

His favorite movies are those coming-of-age underdog sports docudramas. And blacula for some reason.

17 of his teeth are chipped so they look sharp

He stole the hope diamond to wear for his bar mitzvah before someone noticed the one in the museum was fake. the government stole it back two days later

He can beatbox very well but uses it to mainly beatbox castle crasher soundtrack during battle

He owns a big mouth billy bass modded to run doom and sing Delilah

Time for a sad one! Scout was violently sick with malaria once. The one time he was conscious he told heavy that he was so sick with the flu when he was 4 he nearly died, and lost all of his baby fat. "Kinda poetic yo, I dunno how. but it makes me sad when I think about it."

His worst fear is dying from starvation. The problem is, he gets hyper focused and forgets to eat, even if he loves eating. The others (mainly pyro) take turns to make sure he eats at least one meal every day

Scout has emetophobia, and sites this as the reason why he hates "that one shade of yellow." No one knows wtf the shade is.

He is banned from ever talking about, mentioning, or referencing Barbara Streisand in any manner in public

He cries when looking at the ocean because he's thinking of the rainbow fish

He made a 13-in-one hair wash and before ANYONE could use it miss pauling disposed of it where she dumps the dead bodies. Soldier, pyro, sniper, and medic held a funeral service for it with scout as the priest

His left eye is permanently triple lidded

[solarpunkbusiness]

Karlstad-based Löfbergs is the first coffee roaster to use logistics provider Scanlog’s fossil-free sea transport programme, which reduces sea freight emissions by fuelling ships with liquid biogas.

Löfbergs is one of the world’s largest purchasers of organic and Fairtrade-certified coffee and currently freights more than 36,000 tonnes of green coffee by sea annually. The coffee roaster said the move will reduce its Scope 3 CO2 emissions – covering emissions which are not directly produced by the company or its assets, but by those involved in its value chain – by 1,800 metric tons. 

“It is a milestone on our sustainability journey. This means that we reduce the emissions from sea transport by 100% and that we can offer our customers even more sustainable coffee. Biogas costs more than fossil fuels, but we do not think that we can afford to not use it. We have to reduce the emissions in every part of our value chain,” said Kajsa-Lisa Ljudén, Sustainability Manager, Löfbergs. 

The International Transport Forum estimates that trade-related freight transport currently accounts for approximately 30% of all transport-related CO2 emissions. 

“Today, the vast majority of coffee is grown in so-called monocultures, which is not good for the soil, and requires large amounts of artificial fertilizers and pesticides,” Thøgersen  said in an announcement from Löfbergs.

“GrowGrounds work with coffee farmers all over the world to convert their production to agroforestry to ensure better conditions for both the soil, the coffee plants and nature in general.”

“With Löfbergs as co-founder, we are going all-in on creating a circular transition and restoring natural ecosystems at small-scale coffee farmers worldwide,” Thøgersen said last week on LinkedIn. “Our business model is to bring coffee growing back to nature, establish agroforestry systems, promote circularity and organic cultivation methods. This we will do, among other things, by helping the coffee farms with financing, so that the necessary conversion will not be at their cost.”

[everydayesterday]

as my local nature center is out of stock (potentially forever--/stares blankly at the wall), I have switched to using the Canadian roaster that I used for my parents' xmas gift last year for my coffee needs -- birds and beans.

it is certified as bird-friendly by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center (the specific criteria are kinda interesting), and is organic, fair trade, shade-grown, small family farms/cooperatives, compostable bags, etc.

the roasters have recently partnered with Audubon (their online bird guide is the best one out there) to sell within the U.S., donating a portion of the proceeds, which is convenient for me.

I'm trying the light and medium roasts. I'm still too scared of the Starbucks-ification of dark roasts, so I'm staying away from that for now. [their Canadian site still has a greater variety of roasts than the Audubon selections, so maybe I'll order directly from them in the future and just make a donation to Audubon myself.]

[I have a coupon if you want one]

[this is not an ad. I just like coffee, birds, and supporting charitable organizations and small businesses.]

[[square brackets]]

[heykickr0cks]

𝚁𝚎𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝙾𝚏 𝚈𝚘𝚞

(I’ll add more as things come to me)

cigarette smoke

the color blue (your eyes)

the color orange (your favorite color)

thrift daddy

hobby enthusiast

the word "fast"

birria tacos

marshalls being a shitty place to work

Evan Williams

whiskey drinkin’

jorts

short sleeve button downs over graphic tees

88, Dale Jarrett

4 (29), Kevin Harvick

snoring

zero sugar diet Dr. Pepper

authenticity

maturity

"living by the bit"

"dying by the bit"

committing to the bit

running late but always showing up

sacrificing

self-control

futons

charisma

“3 for Dale”

sleepless nights

unwavering devotion to people

pork chops on the grill

illegal moonshine

youtube star

being loud with love

being expressive with words

being consistent with actions

fire pit on cold nights

"Beautiful Mess"

"I Am Hell"

turtles

love dumping

parallel play 

"Sweetheart"

going left when nothing goes right

side hustling

country ham

NASCAR

"smooching"

infinity stones

Lorna Shore

hand-me-down vapes

checkerboard print

burtdays/ “another lap around the sun”

unwatched Netflix shows

Bioshock

3D modelin’

his and hers matching underwear

cosmic brownies

Bo Burnham "Five Years"

"damned if I do, damned if I don't"

"nothing worth havin comes easy"

mouth bones

friendaversaries

organizing shirts in the closet

laundry hacks (inside-outing clothes before instead of after)

Chick-fil-A sauce on chicken sandwich

late-night deep talks

cheesecake ratings

"rollie boys"

Sonic loaded dog and loaded tots

dirty vibrators

Plan B

boiling water to make coffee

"put those grippers away!"

Waffle House sauce

drinking coffee while driving, but from a mug

"Californication"

"little penis monster"

paint jobs

“perpetually”

porch sittin'

NASCAR puns

tie-dye DIY

teenage double dates

sleeping in

resume rough drafts

cat meme (*blocked*)

your grandmother's clothes

"There ain't no way that baby is 29!"

packed salad lunches

kitchen sink soup

NASCAR rubber duckies

Bearglove Old Spice scent

backward hats

"Be good or be good at it"

puzzle pieces

Mongolian mysterious secret sauce

shot glass organizing

oreo cookies

drum sets

storage units

eating at the dinner table

imaginative creativity

hobbies

detail-oriented

sweet tea

axolotls

receptiveness to criticism

sticker trendsetter

certified thrift whore

diecast

willingness to change for the better

willingness to accept responsibility/accountability

willingness to admit when wrong

"Yes, dear?"

personable

hates people

engaging

refrigerators

washer and dryers

"ouch!"

"scawwwy"

big words

dry, sarcastic humor

dirty chai teas

being observant

deep thinking (who/what/when/where/how)

Bojangles chicken 

oyster-shucking gatherings

adjustable room lighting

writing

Mother’s Day Star Wars card “I love you. I know.”

Valentine's Day fun dip

homemade love coupons

role strain

country accents

picture posing

the hum of an air conditioning unit

Roku screensaver 

being a “good sport"

Minecraft

quick to anger

quick to walk away

introvert

boiled peanuts

special occasion bottles of Knob Creek

house slippers

pajama pants

enamel pins

poetry

sushi picnics

Overcooked Kevin levels

employee discounts

Best Buy / Geek Squad

drinking alcoholic Monster

photo booth photo strips

mini Polaroids

“13 reasons why I love you”

spreadsheets

“skydaddy”

flat tires and dead batteries

Caesar dressing, but not Caesar salad

garlic parm flavored wings 

going on tangents and ‘circling back’

ears

Mini Brands

rollie boy station pictures

Fallout

chicken quesadillas from Taco Bell

Eminem

MTG

… to be continued

[caxycreations]

Character Intro - Kaleb Killian

Kaleb Killian, born Kaleb Hargrove, is the youngest multi-billionaire in Ferus. He is a hybrid of King Snake and Inland Taipan. His mother was the founder of Hargrove Legal, and was a well-known personal injury lawyer. His father on the other hand was an accountant for Hargrove Legal.

Kaleb is a six foot and four inch tall reptilian hybrid of two snake species. His scales are a deep purple, with light, pastel pink scales along his brow ridge, throat, chest, belly, crotch, and inner thighs. These light scales extend along the underside of his tail, ending at the tip. His eyes are a vibrant and bright neon pink.

He is never seen publicly wearing anything less than a form-fitting, perfectly tailored full suit complete with button-up shirt and vest combo underneath the jacket. In the privacy of his home he is often seen in an equally form-fitting button-up and suit-vest, as well as suit pants, but he rarely wears a jacket at home.

He is determined to leave an indelible mark on the world, and will stop at nothing to secure his place as the most enduring name in Relanian history. He is ruthless in this endeavor.

He is a sociopath, and completely lacks a conscience. He does not know, nor care for, right from wrong and knows only what he wants and what he needs to do to get it. This makes him incredibly dangerous when paired with his particular Blessing.

His Blessing is infallible memory. He has the ability to recall any information he has ever experienced at a moments notice. While eidetic memory has downsides at times, Kaleb's memory functions differently in that he is not plagued by these experiences, nor is he bombarded with constant information in his mind.

Rather it's akin to the average person recalling a book they read, simply withdrawing the information from their memory. This allows him several intellectual advantages. This is what led to his ultimate rise to fame and fortune.

He is directly responsible for his parents death, and feels no remorse for the events that took place as he simply sees them as a way he was able to obtain his inheritance early. The inheritance, his mother's legal business and the combined wealth of his parents totaling a whopping 1.4 million Ferusian Dollars, gave him the opportunity to increase his wealth exponentially.

He holds several doctorate degrees, and is certified in various fields of work. He spends his free time studying for various college courses and continues taking classes to expand his increasing wealth of knowledge and prestige.

Over time, he has amassed a vast collection of businesses, from coffee shops to fast food to law firms, clubs, grocery stores, and more. This is what led to his status as the youngest multi-billionaire in Ferusian history. However, his legal businesses are only half of his story.

Kaleb is also the head of the largest crime syndicate in Ferus, with his hands in nearly all black market business. Organs, weapons, counterfeit money, forgery, and extortion. The only thing he refuses to touch are drugs, as he believes they're too easy to catch and may lead to a swift discovery of his other businesses.

In the public eye, Kaleb maintains a generous and kind-hearted appearance, offering top-of-the-line benefits for workers in his employment, even the lowest on the corporate totem pole being afforded the same benefits as Kaleb himself. He is well-known throughout Ferus as the most generous billionaire in the country, with millions of dollars a year going into charity funds.

In reality, he maintains this appearance to prevent his illegal gains from being noticed. Many of the charity funds he donates to are, in truth, his illicit profits which are then cycled back into his businesses via agreements with the organizations he "donates" to. This is to allow him to maintain an appearance of generosity and good will, avoid trouble over unexplainable profits, and keep his profit growth consistent.

He has a vast laundry list of crimes, from murder to extortion to more barbaric and vile acts as well. More often than not, he'll simply order someone else to deal with it, but he does take a certain pride in handling things himself now and then.

He is the target of various crime families, such as The Kings and their leader Devon, and The Veil and their leader Peter. Both factions want his head on a pike, and are kept from it by his own private mercenary army, the Redcaps, a mercenary group originating from Sen that Kaleb has bought out and converted to being entirely loyal to his cause.

Overall, Kaleb is a remorseless, uncaring, monstrous individual that holds nothing sacred save for his own legacy. He is determined to leave a legacy that lasts to the end of Relan, and will do anything at all to achieve that goal no matter how illegal or atrocious.

He is, by all accounts, an irredeemable monster, and I -love- answering questions about him.

Art by me.

[goldstarcoffeeworld]

Wake Up And Smell The Coffee: The Best And Aromatic Coffee

Coffee lovers always look for The Best Coffee In Canada. You can be either an early-morning coffee enthusiast or sip throughout the day, finding the flavorful and aromatic beans is worth pursuing. This guide will give you insights into what makes certain coffees stand out.

What Makes The Best Coffee In Canada Stand Out?

The Allure of Aromatic Coffee:

Looking for the aroma of coffee isn’t just a pleasant scent, but ensuring the quality, freshness, and roasting process of coffee beans. The best aroma can enhance your coffee experience. The aroma can vary from fruity and floral to smoky and nutty. It depends on different beans, roasting styles, and even brewing methods.

The Journey to Finding the Best Coffee:

Discovering the best coffee means understanding where the beans come from. It varies with their origin.

Ethiopian beans are often fruity and floral, providing a complex aroma and taste.

Colombian beans are balanced with medium acidity, delivering a smooth, aromatic cup.

Jamaica (Blue Mountain) coffee is famous for its mild flavor and rich aroma.

Brazilian beans carry chocolatey notes, offering a bold, aromatic coffee.

Hawaiian Kona Coffee is popular for its quality and chocolate-like flavor profile.

Reputed online coffee stores offer sample packs from various origins. Try it!!

Choosing the Right Roast: Light, Medium, or Dark?

The roast level affects the coffee, from its flavor to its aroma.

Light roasts retain much of the beans’ original flavors, often resulting in a fruity or floral aroma.

Medium Roast is known for its balanced profile, a fuller body and often delivers a smoother experience without the high acidity of light roast.

Dark roasts offer a bolder, more intense aroma with smoky, chocolatey, and nutty notes.

Brewing Methods:

The right brewing methods can enhance your coffee experience. Different brewing methods bring out the best coffee and each method has its strengths.

Some professional coffee stores offer coffee that is ground fine since it is so fresh for the best flavor extraction. Fresh high quality coffee will be clean tasting with no bitterness or aftertaste and clean to the pallet. Add a little more coffee to the brew if your pallet requires it.

Key Tips for Sourcing The Best Coffee In Canada:

Remember, freshly roasted coffee offers the best aroma and consumes it within two to four weeks of roasting.

Look for whole beans that retain their aroma and flavor longer.

Single-origin coffee can be the best choice

Search for reputed local roasters, ensuring freshness and quality.

The Final Thought:

The best coffee isn’t just about taste, but about creating an experience. You will have different origins of coffee to explore. Make sure it makes every cup unforgettable. Sip slowly, savor the aroma, and enjoy The Best Coffee In Canada has to offer! Our roastmasters use smell, sight and color (roasting shades) to determine when the type of roast desired has been achieved. Customized roasting batches ensure that the coffee is always fresh when sold. Learn more at www.goldstarcoffee.ca

[theworldcigarr]

How to Spot an Authentic Cigar Shop in Mumbai

Introduction

Mumbai, the city of dreams, is renowned for its vibrant culture, luxury markets, and fine tastes. For cigar enthusiasts, the search for the perfect cigar shop in Mumbai can feel like uncovering a hidden treasure. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious beginner, finding an authentic cigar shop in Mumbai is key to enjoying premium cigars with confidence and satisfaction. But how can you identify a reliable store in this bustling city? This comprehensive guide will help you decode the signs of authenticity and choose the best cigar shops in Mumbai.

Key Features of an Authentic Cigar Shop in Mumbai

1. Licensed and Certified Shops

Authentic cigar shops prioritize legality and transparency. Licenses and certifications are a key indicator that the shop adheres to local regulations.

Why Licensing Matters

Licenses ensure that the cigar shop operates under the guidelines set by Indian tobacco laws. This guarantees that:

The products are genuine.

Proper storage protocols are followed.

The business adheres to ethical practices.

How to Verify Licensing

When visiting a cigar shop in Mumbai, ask to see their licensing documentation. Most reputed shops display these visibly or provide them upon request.

2. Wide Selection of Premium Brands

Authenticity reflects in the diversity of the cigar collection. Top cigar shops in Mumbai stock internationally acclaimed brands, ensuring quality and variety.

Premium Brands to Look For

Cohiba: Known for their luxurious Cuban cigars.

Montecristo: A favorite among aficionados.

Arturo Fuente: Renowned for their craftsmanship.

Ensuring Genuine Products

Always inspect the packaging and holograms for authenticity seals. Reputable shops often have direct supplier connections.

3. Proper Storage Conditions

Cigars are delicate and require specific storage conditions to retain their flavor and quality.

The Importance of Humidity Control

Authentic cigar shops maintain a humidity level between 65% and 72% using high-quality humidors. Check for:

Humidors on Display: Most premium shops have visible, well-maintained storage units.

Product Freshness: Dry or cracked cigars indicate improper storage.

4. Knowledgeable Staff

An authentic cigar shop in Mumbai employs staff who are knowledgeable and passionate about cigars.

Key Indicators of Expertise

Staff can explain the origins, strengths, and pairing options for different cigars.

They offer personalized recommendations based on your taste preferences.

Locally Focused Insights

1. Neighborhood Expertise

Mumbai is a sprawling city with diverse localities. Authentic shops often cater to the clientele of their area, reflecting the city’s cultural nuances.

Popular Locations for Cigar Shops in Mumbai

South Mumbai: Known for its luxury markets in areas like Colaba and Fort.

Bandra: A trendy hub for upscale cigar lounges and shops.

Juhu and Andheri: Emerging as new hotspots for luxury cigars.

2. Local Events and Tastings

Many authentic cigar shops in Mumbai host events to engage the community and showcase their offerings.

What to Expect at Local Cigar Events

Expert-led cigar tastings.

Workshops on cigar rolling and pairing.

Networking opportunities with fellow enthusiasts.

3. Cigar Lounges in Mumbai

Some of the best cigar shops in Mumbai also double as cigar lounges, providing a relaxing ambiance to enjoy your purchase.

Features of Premium Cigar Lounges

Comfortable seating.

Beverage pairings, such as whiskey or coffee.

Air filtration systems for a clean environment.

Generic Information

1. Global Trends in the Cigar Industry

Understanding the global trends can help identify whether a shop stays updated.

Current Trends

Increased demand for organic and sustainable cigars.

Innovative cigar packaging designs.

Rising popularity of flavored cigars among beginners.

2. How to Properly Enjoy a Cigar

Steps to Enhance Your Experience

Cut the cigar using a quality cutter.

Light it evenly with a butane lighter.

Savor the flavor by drawing slowly.

FAQs About Finding an Authentic Cigar Shop in Mumbai

Sourced from "People Also Ask" Boxes:

1. What are the best cigar shops in Mumbai?

Some top-rated cigar shops in Mumbai include Cigar Club Mumbai, The Cigar Republic, and luxury stores in high-end hotels like The Taj Mahal Palace.

2. How can I check the quality of cigars in a shop?

Inspect the packaging, look for proper humidity levels, and ask the staff about the origins and certifications of the cigars.

3. Are Cuban cigars available in Mumbai?

Yes, many authentic cigar shops in Mumbai stock Cuban cigars, but they are often limited in supply due to import restrictions.

Original FAQs:

4. Can I buy cigars online in Mumbai?

While online options exist, it’s recommended to visit a physical store to inspect the quality and authenticity personally.

5. What is the average cost of a premium cigar in Mumbai?

Prices vary, but premium cigars typically range from INR 2,000 to INR 10,000 depending on the brand and origin.

6. Do cigar shops in Mumbai offer accessories?

Yes, most authentic shops provide cutters, lighters, humidors, and other essential accessories.

Conclusion

Finding an authentic cigar shop in Mumbai requires a discerning eye and some local knowledge. By focusing on licensing, product quality, storage conditions, and the expertise of staff, you can ensure a premium experience. Additionally, leveraging Mumbai’s unique cigar culture—through local events, lounges, and brands—will elevate your cigar journey to new heights. So, the next time you’re in search of the perfect cigar, use this guide to navigate Mumbai’s rich offerings with confidence.