#so needless to say I’ve made a very good purchase

[honey-lemon-halo]

uh oh besties I might be at risk of becoming addicted to this thing

[bugeyedfreaks]

IT CAME IT IS HERE THE 20-YEAR-OLD PPG SOAP MAKING KIT FOR CHILDREN YAAAY 💖🥳🎉

I saw this being sold online, you all wanted me to buy it, so I did, and now you can all see what horrors you’ve wrought upon me.

The first thing that I noticed when I opened this package up is that it smelled terrible. I didn’t even have to open up the envelope you see in the picture: the actual shipping envelope smelled bad. It was definitely a soap smell gone very wrong. Needless to say, this wasn’t a good sign of what was to come.

… well, spoiler alert, it really doesn’t get any worse. In fact it’s a little underwhelming. 😆 But read on anyway because I do suffer a little while doing this, and I know if you all love at least one thing about me… it’s my suffering. 💖

I opened it up, and the first thing I looked at was the instruction manual that seems to be written in the perspective of the Professor. That’s kind of cute and on brand. I also chuckled because both of the soaps in this kit are named after Buttercup, the Powerpuff Girl who hates bathing the most. Whoever made this knew what they were doing and I love them for it. I hope putting this together made working at the Delta Education company a bit more fun for them.

Here are the instructions for people who like to read 20-year-old instructions of crafts for babbies:

After I looked through all of the instructions, I found some PPG stickers (not shown because I’m already pushing my photo limit for this post) as well as all of the ingredients for our experiments. Oooooh~.

I was actually a little bit disappointed, because I thought there would be more ingredients involved to make these things (you know, like an actual educational science kit would normally have), but this is all it came with. The shampoo base was just premade shampoo without the (apple!) scent in it. The green soap was just premade soap, cut into chunks that you would melt and pour into little heart shaped molds. The little glitter stickers in this picture weren’t PPG themed, and the “PPG trinkets” were straight up just erasers.

So, yeah, it was… underwhelming. From what I can gather from the other kits I saw being sold online, I suppose these were “educational” in the sense that they were used in educational settings. They were probably just little craft kits for kids in classrooms rather than kits that were going to teach them anything substantial (I think the other kits I saw were for making jewelry and door hangers… just fun projects for kids to have fun and learn how to put things together 🤷‍♀️).

Still, I purchased this kit, and I’d be damned if I didn’t actually get some shampoo and soap makin’ out of some of these ingredients. …and I say some because I had to find out whether I should even USE these products, given the warning on the front of the bag that said the contents warranted adult supervision. I mean, I’m an adult and I felt like I needed another adult.

There was absolutely no way that I was going to use the shampoo base, because I am pretty sure that it would make my hair fall out or disintegrate my scalp if I tried using it (or even if I touched it). It looked really slimy, and had a weird, translucent stringy texture to it, so I tossed it. I snipped open the apple scent packet because I was curious to find out if it still had a scent to it… and it was actually sort of pleasant! It had a bit of a chemical after-scent to it, but it wasn’t the worst thing I’ve ever smelled. Still, I don’t think I should be putting a 20-year-old scent anywhere near my body (I probably shouldn’t have even smelled it, come to think of it… my chemistry teachers would have been so ashamed of me) so I decided I would not be using it in the final product either.

I opened up the green soap, hoping that that would actually be okay or at least smell normal, and… I actually gagged. BLEEEEECH. That’s where the awful smell had been coming from. Immediately tossed it in the trash. It was AWFUL, and there’s absolutely no way, not even for the sake of comedy, that I would willingly put it in my microwave or even let it come in contact with my skin (although yet again, like an idiot, I smelled it… oh well, my idiocy has its limits, I guess). I looked online later and also found out that, apparently, glycerin soap can produce mold and ferment after 4-5 years… so yeah, it was probably a good call for me to trash it.

That means I now didn’t have any of the actual soap products I was going to use to make these! However, I had a trick up my sleeve (at least for the solid soap) and that trick was called… buying new soap to use. 🤣 I got some dye, grabbed some apple scent to add to the soap, and voila! BUTTERCUP SOAP!

Beautiful! 💚

They’re actually kind of cute, and I’m using them as little dish soaps right now (I’ll probably toss the erasers later though… I don’t think they’ll work after being in glycerin soap that long). The new apple smell I bought is, weirdly enough, not as great as the 20-year-old one, but it’s still something I totally think Buttercup wouldn’t mind using, even if bathtime was still torture for her. I also ended up making some blue soap themed for Bubbles (aka the original Soap). As for the shampoo, I basically just added the apple scent to some shampoo I already had and decorated the bottle that came with the kit accordingly.

…and that’s all she wrote! There it is! Soap and soap for your hair made with help from a kit no one else but me would, in their right mind, ever purchase! I hope you are all now fulfilled, free to live enriched lives knowing what mysteries were enclosed in the kit, and that I successfully made something with it for your enjoyment. It was all… for you! 💖🫵💖

[mubal4]

The Crown King Scramble 50k – Race Wrap Up

Many say, and I’ve found out as well, that spending time in nature can clear your mind and provide an opportunity for peace and healing! Well, nothing like running 31 miles, essentially uphill, to intensify those experiences. This past Saturday afforded me, and many others, to do just that at the 38th Crown King Scramble put on by Aravaipa Running. Would like to say Thank You to the staff, volunteers, and all the folks that came out to support us runners. Also, much appreciation to the community of Crown King, AZ for allowing us all to take over your small mountain town for the weekend. The hospitality is always wonderful! Thank you goes to Robin, Bella, Alaina, Bryan, my sisters and mom, as well as some other folks out there for the texts before and during the race. Always wonderful to get those prior to the start and then cycling through after the finish.

This entry is going to be a bit shorter and not as much detail, since in reality, there isn’t much to recap outside of the incredible views, steep climbs, ideal weather, and several wonderfully amazing human beings. This is a race we originally ran in 2019 and was looking to do it prior to this year. However, with our two daughters in gymnastics and soccer, respectively – we always had this particular weekend filled with other commitments. This past fall, when we signed up, Robin and I were empty nesters, so we had things laid out. In life things change and our youngest, is in the midst of transferring colleges and, playing club soccer here in AZ, had a tournament weekend pop up, in El Paso, TX. Fortunately, Robin was able to make that trip, and I was heading up the Bradshaw Mountains, solo……but that solo trip didn’t last long. In the first few miles I joined up with my mate Ed from Wyoming, via Chicago and we ran, altogether, about 15 miles of the race. We chatted about life, running ultras, kids, work and this dude had me, and many others cracking up. Quick witted, always with a smile and just a delight to be around. About 7-8 miles into our journey together, we met up with Kelly. Well, Kelly, who lives in Flagstaff is originally from Iowa, same as my wife. She graduated from The University of Iowa (where our eldest daughter goes) and she lived for several years, in La Mars, IA – where my wife is from. Needless to say, we had much to talk about and her, Ed, and me ran together for several miles, her and I altogether, for about 15 as well. Kelly and I also talked all the same topics as with Ed, but we also shared some similar family journeys together and had quite the bond over navigating all the opportunities we get to learn and grow from. These two, throughout the 6-7 hours and almost 7k feet of climbing, really made the miles tick off. Other than a bit of the stomach feeling off around mile 22, which I cured with some good old-fashioned Coca-Cola (a true healer of the gut during these), it was a pretty good day physically. Very grateful for the two of them spending time with me and a true reason why most of this community is special.

We all got to the peak of the climb a couple of minutes from one another and had two miles downhill into town and the finish line at the Crown King Saloon. This is when I would typically wrap up this little story. Since this was a point-to-point race and I had no crew to bring me back down, I purchased a shuttle ticket to bring the runners down the mountain to the start. There was about 30 minutes before the next shuttle was to leave and I had brought some cash with me just in the event this happened, so I got a seat on the front patio of the saloon and had myself a $3 Coors Banquet as I waited. We then got the call, 12 of us, to pile into this large passenger van, except the drive, that had just finished a 31-mile, uphill race. Shockingly, it didn’t stink as much as you’d think. The majority of this drive, 90 minutes or so, is down a jeep/forest road until you get to Interstate 17, then it is about 20 minutes from there. This dirt road is bumpy and essentially big enough for 1.5 cars. Our driver, we will call him Mario, was on his third trip doing this, essentially a 4 our round trip. He seemed to be in a hurry to get down or just wanted to provide the most efficient service possible. We cruised down that road, dodging all sorts of rocks, holes, and other stuff, passing cars, and at points coming close to the edge. It was quite a ride, and we all had lots of laughs. The special part of this ride, other than making it to my car safely, was the great conversation I had with two very incredible folks, Anna and TJ. We shared our stories of not just running, but life, similar to that with Ed and Kelly – and it was freeing. This is why I love this culture so much. Most of the crowd has spent time running from something, only to find a place, a time, to be running to something. It continues to be an amazing journey.

After getting to my car and ensuring all was intact after the exciting van ride, I hopped in my car for the 30-minute drive home. It was our eldest’s last day home for spring break before returning to IA, so I got cleaned up and we went out for a great dinner, ending the night watching the NCAA Wrestling Championships. Overall, a pretty ideal day with some pretty awesome people.

[tameblog]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[ramestoryworld]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[alexha2210]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[angusstory]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[tumibaba]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[romaleen]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[monaleen101]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[iamownerofme]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[shelyold]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[iammeandmy]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[januishstory]

“If you happen to be on the lookout for your favorite ‘coastal grandma’ button-down linen top in the quilt form, Brooklinen’s Linen Quilt in White Diamond is for you. As someone who is very sensitive to certain fabric textures, I found this 100% linen quilt to be softer to the touch than most linen products I’ve come across. One of my biggest pet peeves is falling asleep feeling warm, especially in the summer months, and I was hesitant to use this product, thinking it might be on the heavier side. To my surprise, the quilt was very lightweight, super cooling, and breathable. And the high-quality elements don’t end there. The stitching showed no signs of pulling on the threads, which is always a green flag. Since the crisp white color of this simple yet stylish quilt is very neutral, I can definitely imagine it being versatile when fitting into a specific decor aesthetic. From a French country farmhouse to a prewar city apartment, this quilt is bound to look good in any space.”Schoolhouse Channeled Cotton QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: Alder, channeled blue, channeled ochre, channeled greyTester: Mel Studach, AD PRO senior editor“There’s something about a channeled quilt that brings to mind swinging open the linen closet door come fall and picking through the stacks of collected blankets for one more layer. Despite the style’s longevity, it still feels incredibly classic to this day. There’s just one difference with Schoolhouse’s iteration: It’s far too pretty—with its wide channeling and subtly ruched texture—to ever want to hide it away in the closet. Luckily, it’s light enough to cover the bed year-round and reversible, should you want to flip the pigment-rich side for a quieter heather-gray option as seasons change. Made of 100% cotton, the layer is nicely breathable (great news for those who sleep at a warm body temperature but still desire a quilted topper) and machine washable. Both sides are also wonderfully soft—so much so that it could double as a cozy layer on the sofa for movie nights.”West Elm European Flax Linen Box Stitch QuiltAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Full/Queen, KingColors: White, natural flax, frost gray, slate melange, graphite, dark olive, cedar, celadon, silver mist melange, ocean, midnight, lilac melange, adobe rose, shell pink, terra-cotta melange, amber, dijonTester: Megan Wahn, former associate commerce editor“After a lifetime of duvets and comforters, West Elm’s European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt converted me into a quilt purist. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since. I bought this when I moved to New York about a year ago and, like your favorite pair of jeans, it’s only gotten more comfortable in that well-loved kind of way. It’s the optimal softness and weight for all seasons—warm enough when paired with a throw blanket during the winter, but also light enough to keep me pleasantly cool in the summer—that I’ve never had to dedicate any space or time to the arduous bedding-change process whenever the weather turns. Though it’s shown very little wear over the last year, it does seem to have a few small pulls in the fabric (although, in my opinion, it kind of adds to the overall “lived-in” feel and look of the quilt). The quilt comes in a few earth-toned color options, and you can also purchase a bedding set that comes with matching shams. To me, this quilt isn’t just some big glorified blanket—it’s the safe haven I look forward to hugging around me at the end of every night, 365 days of the year.”Jungalow Kahelo Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King Colors: CoralTester: Lizzie Soufleris, visuals editorLizzie Soufleris“After seeing her incredible cover story come together, it came as no surprise that interior designer Justina Blakeney knocked it out of the park with this quilt from her brand, Jungalow. It’s light, breathable and, of course, looks adorable in my plant-filled bedroom. The faded dusty-salmon hue is the optimal neutral-without-being-boring solid color and paired up perfectly with one of my favorite sage green linen sheet sets. Inspired by tiles from all over the world, the gauzy fabric is laced with intricate stitching. Upon closer inspection, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the details, especially for such an affordable price. As a die-hard duvet user (and clumsy bedside coffee drinker), I must admit that I was a little concerned about cleaning a quilt. But my trepidation turned out to be unnecessary because this one is machine washable, and you can even throw it in the dryer.”Dusen Dusen Check BeddingAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Twin, Queen, KingColors: Blue, beige checkTester: Audrey Lee, commerce editorAudrey Lee“I would gladly have Ellen Van Dusen design my entire world—so it should come as no surprise that Dusen Dusen’s green check coverlet takes a top spot among my favorite bedding I’ve tried (and trust me, I’ve tried a lot!). Since this coverlet set makes a statement on its own, I’ve been outfitting it with some simple and elegant linen sheets (though the brand has plenty of patterned sets that would also match beautifully). The coverlet has a lightweight design and an airy quality that’s been perfect for spring-to-summer weather, but it’s also super cozy on chillier nights when paired with a nice fuzzy throw (like this one from Kassatex). As for the textile pattern, I’ve never been more eager for bedtime. The cream-and-sea-foam palette provides just the right pop of color, while the checkerboard itself feels like a chic update on a classic motif (not to mention the delightful matching shams really tie the whole look together). The cotton material was already supremely soft straight out of the bag, but since tossing it into the laundry for a wash (just make sure you follow the care instructions!), it’s even softer and gauzier than before, making me excited to sleep with this bedding for years to come.”AccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/California KingColors: White, oatTester: Rachel Fletcher, commerce director“It’s been smooth sailing with this quilt since day one. I washed it straight out of the box and felt it soften immediately. I had intended to layer it over my duvet but have ended up favoring the quilt on its own. Its softness and breathability from the hemp fibers are really pleasant, and I still feel sufficiently bundled up. This quilt has a neat box-quilted pattern that feels visually interesting and almost veers into checkerboard territory. It’s available in white or oat (I chose the latter, which feels sophisticated and not too flashy if your bedroom leans more minimal, as mine does). It’s also a pretty thin layer, which I appreciate, and doesn’t feel overly heavy or suffocating. If you’re looking for a visually striking quilt, there are definitely bolder options on this list, but this is perfect for a serene setup. Looks and functionality aside, I love that hemp linen specifically has outstanding sustainability cred. I think it’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedding without sacrificing the planet.”Other Quilts and Coverlets We Recommend:Brooklinen Organic Cotton Quilt SetAccordionItemContainerButtonSizes: Full/Queen, King/Cali KingColors: Vanilla or blue marinaTester: Melissa Studach, senior AD Pro editor Source link

[weelittleweasley]

meet the wealseys (f.w.)

prompt: you met fred at the joke shoppe when you had first arrived from america. after dating for a little while, he asks you to come and meet his family. needless to say, your visit to the burrow was one you’ll never forget.

pairing: post war! fred weasley x fem! american! reader

warnings: mention of the war and death, food and eating

word count: 6.4k

Diagon Alley was much different than what you had pictured, but in the best way possible. The tight quarters were packed with people as you pushed through, looking at the different store fronts, seeing how each one was uniquely different and magical. This was not what you were used to in the States, but you knew that you would become adjusted very soon. The hustle and bustle was refreshing and exciting for a young girl starting a new life abroad. As you continued to stroll along the alley, people called out to each other, exchanging sickles and galleons for merchandise, laughing and hugging each other, poking a smile onto your face. There were many stores to choose from, but you kept your eyes peeled for a store front that jumped out at you.

It didn’t take long for that to happen.

Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, the banner clearly spelt out with a animatronic person, tilting his hat up. Number 93 Diagon Alley. 

Your curiosity stirred inside of you as you shrugged and pushed the front door open. Sounded interesting enough. As you entered the shoppe, you were instantly greeted with screaming children, things zooming past you, and so many colors. The shoppe itself radiated childhood joy which made your heart soar with excitement.

Walking through out the store, you quickly realized that this was a joke shoppe with countless amounts of products. Ones that you were familiar with and others that you had never heard of. You laughed to yourself as you saw Dungbombs and U-No-Poos. “Clever,” you spoke to yourself as you continued to walk through the aisles of the stores. Whomever started this joke shoppe clearly had an affinity for their childhood and having fun; something you could gladly get on board with.

As you walked around, you saw how excited everyone was in the store. It was full of life and nostalgia and joy. There was laughter, smiles, and cheering; how could one not love it here? The store’s energy itself made you want to stay forever. As if England couldn’t get any better.

You filed through the shelves, shuffling through brightly colored packaging and funny titled products that brought glee to your face. Maybe you could purchase a few things and send some of them home back to your family and friends in America. They would get a kick out of these. Slowly, you had accumulated a pile of toys and such in your arms. I must look out of my mind, you think to yourself. A 20 year old girl by herself in a joke shoppe, carrying poop themed jokes. 

 “Need a basket?” a voice calls from behind you as you flip around. Standing there was a tall, well dressed man with flaming red hair gelled swiftly away from his face as he smiled at you. His chocolate brown eyes were warm and comforting and his smile was enough to have you weak in the knees. “Seems like you got your hands full,” he speaks before ducking his right eye down in a cheeky wink.

His forwardness took you by shock. You stammered for a second before finally speaking, “Yeah, sure, thank you.” He hands you a basket that you dump all of the products in. “I appreciate it, thanks,” you smile back at him.

The red haired gentleman speaks, “It’s my job. Literally.” You chuckle lightly, nodding your head, realizing he was the owner of the shoppe. The uniform, the proud badge he wore on his suit jacket, the amount of confidence he exuded. It made sense. “You’ve got a fine selection of products in your basket, I must admit,” he smiles, tucking his hands into his pockets. “Some of our bestsellers.”

You smile back at him, tilting your head, trying to get a read on him. Was he trying to flirt? Or was he just trying to make a sale? “I suppose that’s why I’m buying them. Although, not all of them are for me, I must admit,” you sigh. “I’m sending some to my family back home. Figured my brother will like it.”

The owner nods his head, “Ah, yes. Nothing a brother loves more than poop themed pranks. What a brilliant sister you are,” he winks as you lightly chuckle. “I figure home is the States for you?” he asks as you furrow your brows, wondering how he knew. “Your accent. It’s pretty recognizable,” he laughs as you roll your eyes. “What brings you to London?”

At first, you hesitated sharing your story with a business owner of a joke shoppe that you had just met. But there was something about him that made you want to trust him. “I graduated from Ilvermorny four years ago. I decided I wanted to move out of the States to find other work to see if there were more job opportunities here. I moved here about a month or two ago,” you tell the flame haired man who leaned against the wall, listening to you intently as his eyes darted from your eyes to your body, quite obviously checking you out. You gulp when his eyes meet yours with a smirk on his face. Within an instant, you decide to play his game. “Besides, there are cuter men in London.”

He chuckles at your joke and nods his head. “Understandable. Seems like you moved for very important reasons,” he replies as you blush. “Can I check you out?”

You freeze. “Can you what?”

The gentleman laughs at your surprise. “Your merchandise? Can I ring you up?” he clarifies as you exhale a breath with a blush, lightly laughing before nodding. “Brilliant...besides, I’ve been checking you out since you walked into the store,” he simply states before leading the way to the cash register. Your heart stops as your mouth runs dry. At least he was honest. “I didn’t get your name,” he speaks as he ducks behind the counter, taking your basket and ringing up your things. “I’m Fred.”

Fred. The name suited him. You smile, “(Y/N),” you speak, extending you hand to shake his as he does so with a smirk on his lips. “The shoppe is really amazing. You must be proud of it,” you praise him as he smiles proudly.

“We are,” he speaks as you furrow your eyebrows in confusion. “My brother and I run the shoppe together. He’s my twin,” he reveals.

“Twin?” you clarify.

“Yeah, twin. Georgie!” Fred calls out into the shoppe. 

Suddenly, from behind a stack of boxes pops out a figure identical to Fred. “Good God,” you breathe out. The twin, now known as George, walks over to Fred as Fred slings an arm around his brother. As they stand next to each other, you realize just how identical they were. The only way telling them apart was the color of the shirt they wore. This would surely be trouble.

“George, this is (Y/N). She recently moved here from America,” Fred tells George who smiles widely at you, extending his hand to shake yours as you gladly accept it. “(Y/N), this is George, my twin.”

With a large smile, you speak to George, “Pleasure to meet you. I see where Fred gets his handsome looks from,” you joke around, making George laugh wildly.

“Oh, you’re brilliant. I like you already,” George beams before nudging his brother with a knowing look. Fred gave his brother a shove as George smirked at him, knowing exactly what was going on here. Unbeknownst to you. “Well, I hope this isn’t the last I see of you, (Y/N). I’ve got to go restock some shelves, but don’t be a stranger,” George tells you, very friendly for just having met each other. 

And just as quickly as he came, he’s gone, disappearing behind boxes. “He seems lovely,” you tell Fred who rolls his eyes, making you giggle. 

Fred shakes his head, “Ball breaker,” he huffs. “But he’s my brother. Gotta love him,” he smiles. “That’ll be three galleons,” he chimes. You look at him puzzled. There was enough merchandise there to be well over ten galleons, but he was only charging you three. But before you can protest, Fred speaks, “The new girl discount,” he winks as you smile at him gratefully before handing him three galleons. “I hope your brother enjoys his things.”

You look up at Fred and gulp. The fact that this complete stranger had you at a loss of words was beyond you. “I’m sure he’ll love them,” you speak honestly as Fred smiles softly. “I hope this isn’t the last time we see each other, Fred,” you reveal to him honestly. There was something about Fred that made you want to be around him. The life he had inside of him was enticing and exciting; he was different than other men you have met in London. 

Looking into your eyes, Fred gulps before speaking, “I’m sure it won’t be. In fact, since you’re still new to London, maybe I could show you around this weekend? I know a few good spots in the area. You know, since I’m a local.” 

His words make a grin appear on your lips as you nod your head, “That sounds really nice, Fred. I’d like that.”

“Wicked,” Fred breathes out as you giggle. “Saturday? We can make a day of it? We’ll meet here and I’ll give you a very comprehensive tour,” he wiggles his brows as you smile with a nod. “Until then, (Y/N).”

You give Fred a small wave goodbye before exiting the joke shoppe with two bags full of pranks and toys. And now a date for Saturday.

--------------------

“Fred, let’s get a move on! The shop opens in twenty and it’s new release day!” George yells from outside the bedroom door as Fred groan, cuddling further into your chest as you rub his back. “(Y/N)! Stop distracting my git brother!”

You chuckle as Fred calls back out, “Leave her out of this, you wanker! I’ll be ready in five!” George groans from outside of the door before you hear his footsteps disappear into the kitchen. Fred looks up at you as he lays on your chest, you brushing his floppy red hair out of his eyes. “I guess that’s my cue,” Fred huffs before peeling himself off you, rubbing his face with a groan.

It had been three months since you had met Fred that day in the joke shoppe. Three months since he had flirted with you and you had gone out on your first date. There was undeniable chemistry between you and Freddie. He adored how you loved to joke around, not taking yourself or anything too seriously. He adored that way you looked around London with such wonder and curiosity with wide eyes and smile. Fred loved the way you threw your head back with you laughed and gave his hand a squeeze. Fred loved when you bit back a smile when you teased him before giving in and falling into a fit of giggles. Fred was smitten with you and you him. You adored his confidence and professionalism, but you adored even more the way he could act like a fool at the drop of a hat. Fred was childlike in the best way possible. He was a breath of fresh air. He was what you needed when you moved here.

“Oh, come on, Freddie,” you sit up in the bed, Fred’s large t-shirt draped over your body. “It’s new release day! That should be loads of fun! Besides, after the work day is over, you know I’ll be waiting for you,” you kiss his shoulder blade. You worked just up the road at the Apothecary, so it was easy for Fred to run over and see you on his lunch break. That was Fred’s favorite part of the day. He secretly wished that you didn’t get another job, so he could easily run over on those lunch breaks to steal a quick kiss and see your face. Even if it was for three minutes. 

Fred begrudgingly pulls on his suit pants, huffing, “I can only hope that this release goes well. George and I invested a lot into this release and if it doesn’t do well, then we’ll lose a lot.”

You give your darling a knowing look, “It won’t do poorly, Fred. You and I both know that.” Fred gives you a gentle smile as he buttons up his shirt. “Come here,” you sit up on your knees as Fred walks over the edge of the bed. You pull his tie around his neck before tying it for him, something you knew he loved. “Today is going to be a brilliant day and you are going to sell out. I feel it in my gut.”

Fred takes your chin in his fingers, forcing your gaze up to his. His eyes look into yours with adoration before he pulls you in for a sweet kiss as you smile into it. Fred’s lips move gently against yours, making your stomach sway in excitement. Kissing Fred never got old. He gently pull away from you, pushing his forehead against yours. “I love you, angel,” he coos as you blush. He pecks the tip of your nose before sighing, “I’ll stop by the apothecary around lunch to update you on how sales are going.”

With a small nod, you watch him open the bedroom door and get ready to leave. “I love you, Freddie. You’ll be great,” you call after him as he sends you a wink.

“What about me?!” George’s voice booms from the other room. 

You laugh and sigh, “You’ll be phenomenal, Georgie!”

“Hah! I got a phenomenal and you got a great, Fred! Guess (Y/N) has a favorite twin!” George teases his brother as you hear a slap and George squeal an Ouch!

“Oh, would you shut your fat mouth and get downstairs!” Fred exclaims at his brother, making you chuckle. 

The sounds of the twins banter slowly faded as they descended the stairs of the flat down to the shoppe below. You smiled to yourself as you pried yourself off of Fred’s comfortable linens and forced yourself to get ready for your own job that awaited you.

Soon enough, the lunch hour rolled around and you were finishing helping a customer purchase a bunch of ingredients for a spell. “Have a lovely day,” you chimed as you handed her a bag full of her things.

As she left the apothecary, you exhaled deeply and arched your back, stretching the kinks in your back. Standing on your feet all day really took a lot out of you. 

The bell at the front door chimed signaling that another customer had arrived. Mindlessly, you begin speaking, “Good afternoon and welcome. Is there something I can assist you w-”

You are briskly cut off by a pair of lips on yours as you instantly melt into Fred’s touch, humming gently into your embrace. Fred pulls away with a large grin on his face. “Hi, Freddie,” you speak.

“How did you know it was me and not George,” he questions you, poking at your sides. “How do you know it’s not George right now pretending to be Fred? Huh?”

In between giggles, you manage to speak, “I know my boyfriend, Fred.” Fred halts his tickling as you smile up at him. “Besides, George has a more square jaw than you do. You also have calloused finger pads from opening boxes and George doesn’t because he carries the inventory,” you recount as Fred looked at you, quite impressed that you had little tells between him and his twin brother. “Anyway, how are sales going? Business booming?”

Fred smiles widely before you jump on the counter, Fred standing in between your legs. “Better than booming. We sold out at eleven in the morning. Nearly an hour after we opened,” Fred gushes as you gasp, pulling him in for a tight hug. You weren’t surprised that the release went well; the boys knew their demographic and always knew what the people wanted. “But that’s not all the good news, my love.”

You give your boyfriend and knowing look. “Really?” you ask as he nods. “Oh, I’m scared.”

“No need to be,” he chuckles. “I called my mum to tell her the good news and she thinks a celebration is in order. She invited us, all of us, to come home for the weekend. Everyone will be home. Me, George, Ron, Percy, Ginny, Mum, Dad. I assume that Hermione and Harry’ll be there too because bloody hell it’s not home without them. Mum even said that Bill and Fleur may stop by at one point! It’ll be a mini vacation! Isn’t that brilliant?” he beams.

But instead of cheering in glee, your heart freezes. Going to Fred’s childhood home to meet his family and his friends? Not just for dinner. For the weekend. You had no idea what to expect. You knew that Fred had a large family and he spoke highly about all of them. He told you stories of his childhood and Hogwarts and he always seemed to speak of it all with such love.

It’s not that you didn’t want to meet his family, you just didn’t want to not meet their expectations that they had for Fred. From the stories Fred and George had told you, Mrs. Weasley was very protective over her children. Especially after the war. With Fred nearly dying, she was especially careful with Fred. The last thing you wanted was to make his mother disappointed in his choice of a partner and even more terrifying, you didn’t want your beloved boyfriend’s mother hate you.

“(Y/N)? You haven’t said anything? You alright?” Fred snaps you out of your thoughts as you shake your head, bringing you back to reality. “Do you want to come home and meet my family?” he excitedly asks you, taking your hands in his as he kisses the backs of them tenderly, looking up at you hopeful for your response.

You couldn’t say no. It would break Fred’s heart. Besides, you were going to have to meet them eventually. With a deep breath, you reply, “Of course I do, Freddie love.”

Fred claps his hands together, “Wicked. Oh, this is bloody brilliant. I’ll have to run back to the shoppe and ring her and tell her to make an extra place setting for tonight.” Fred looks at you, childish joy bubbling in his eyes as you sigh softly, giving him a gentle smile. The look on his face made you fall in love with him all over again. “I can’t wait for them to meet you. They’re gonna love you,” he tells you, holding your face in between his calloused hands as you smile. “Godric, I love you,” he breathes before kissing you quickly. “Okay, I’ve got to get back to the shoppe. But after you’re done with work, go pack a bag, and meet me and George back at our flat. We’ll apparate from there!” 

And with that, Fred is out of the apothecary without another word, leaving you speechless, still sitting on the counter. As you sit there, just puzzled, your co-worker notices your predicament and laughs, “Meeting the family tonight, eh?” 

“Seems like it,” you gulp. 

-----------------------

You stood nervously in the living room of the twins’ flat, overnight bag in hand as you nervously nibbled on your fingernails. George yelled things to Fred from his bedroom as the two twins chaotically packed their bags and gathered things for their weekend stay. “Do you think we should bring our own brooms?” Fred boomed from his room.

“No,” George yelled back. “The ones that are in the shed will be just fine.”

Brooms? Should you have brought a broom? Your eyes dart to Fred who emerges from his room, duffel in hand with a large smile on his face. “Should I have brought a broom?” you ask him.

Fred laughs and shakes his head. “No, all you need to bring is your beautiful, wonderful self,” he speaks, kissing your forehead. “Georgie, let’s get this show on the road!”

“Coming, coming!” George bellows before appearing from his room, backpack on with another small bag in his hand. “Would you like to do the honors?” he smiles at Fred.

“Thought you’d never ask, brother,” he beams before pulling his wand from his pocket. “Everyone ready? Got all their things?” Fred looks at George who gives him a confident nod as you feign confidence and give Fred a small smile. “Brilliant...” he trails off before with a flick of his wand and a whoosh.

And suddenly before your eyes, you are not in the flat anymore. Instead, lush green grass is beneath your feet and the smell of rosemary and thyme floats around in the air. Ahead of you stands a proud, tall house that have Fred and George grinning from ear to ear. They were home.

Within seconds, George speaks, “Last one inside carries up all the bags!”

Fred and George are instantly set in a mad dash as you roll your eyes and shake your head with a smile. You slowly walk behind them, carrying your bag, heart beating hard against your chest. The time was now and there was no avoiding it. 

When you reach the front entrance, George looks at you, “(Y/N)! You didn’t even try!” You laugh and shake your head. “Eh, it’s fine. We’ll force Ron to carry all the luggage upstairs,” George shrugs.

Fred appears and grabs your hand, pulling you inside with a bright smile. “Mum! Dad! We’re home!” Fred calls out before chatter starts blooming from all areas of the house, making your heart race. Fred looks at your nervous eyes and squeezes your hand. “No need to worry. I’m telling you they’re going to adore you.”

First down the stairs is Ginny, the only Weasley daughter. Her eyes land on her two other brothers as she grins widely. “Look what the cat dragged in,” she laughs before George scoops her up in a tight hug, spinning her around as they both laugh wildly. George puts her down only for Fred to do the same thing to his younger sister. “I missed you both so much. Home isn’t the same without you two,” she speaks to her brothers. 

Fred pulls his sister into his side, “We missed you too. Everyday we miss you, little.” Ginny smiles up at her brother. “Gin, this is my girlfriend, (Y/N). (Y/N), meet the littlest Weasley, Ginny.”

“I may be the littlest, but I’ll still kick both of your asses,” Ginny pushes her brother teasingly. Ginny smiles at you widely. “I’ve heard all about you. And by all about you I mean I’ve heard what Fred tells Mum who tells me,” she laughs as you smile. “Can I give you a hug?” she asks.

You smile, “Absolutely.” Ginny embraces you tightly as you smile widely. “It’s so nice to finally meet you. Fred and George speak so highly of you.”

Ginny pulls away from her embrace and speaks, “They better.” You laugh. She had the same sense of humors as her brothers. “Your accent is so pretty. Well, I mean, all of you is pretty. Gorgeous, actually. Well done, Fred!” Ginny compliments, making Fred blush a deep crimson. “You could probably do much better than him, you know that?” she teases, making you laugh. You and Ginny would get along just fine.

“Alright, enough of all that,” Fred grabs your hand, pulling you away from Ginny. 

Shortly after Ginny’s arrival follows bumbling footsteps and a voice that says, “Full house already! Bill and Fleur haven’t even arrived. I’m not giving up my bed for anyone, hear me?” George immediately tackles the Weasley brother to the floor, making him cry out. “George, get the bloody hell off of me, you git!”

George laughs, “Aw, I missed you too, Won-Won!”

Fred bursts out into laughter before George climbs off of the tackled brother. “Hey, Ronald,” Fred messes up his brothers hair as Ron shakes his head with a smile. “Missed you.”

Ron smiles at his brothers, “Missed you both too. Although the tackle wasn’t appreciated.” Ron glares at George who gives him a firm pat on the back. “You must be (Y/N),” Ron smiles warmly at you extending his hand for a shake. “Really nice to meet you.”

“You too. Didn’t realize that it was customary for your brothers to attack you when returning home,” you laugh as Ron shakes his head. 

“Neither did I. Every day is a surprise here,” he huffs. “One second, pardon me,” he excuses himself. “’Mione! Fred’s girlfriend is here!” Ron calls up the stairs. “Gin and ‘Mione have been dying for another girl in the house for forever. She’ll be happy to see you.”

You smile at Ron, “Always good to have more girls. Gotta balance out the playing field.” 

As soon as you say that, who you can assume is Hermione along with another boy with jet black hair comes down the stairs, of which you can assume is Harry Potter. Ron was right about Hermione, she was over the moon to have another girl in the house. To quote her, she said, “Thank Godric. Do you know what’s it’s like living with mostly boys? Do you know how many times I’ve almost fall into the toilet because the seat was still up? Too many times, Ronald Weasley!” 

Harry on the other hand was much more soft-spoken, but equally as witty as Ron and Hermione. Again, making a comment based on how you were way out of Fred’s league. “Merlin, Fred, how do you do it?” Harry said. “(Y/N), blink once if you need help,” Harry joked, making Ron and Ginny crack up. You, of course, played along with the joke, blinking three times, making the friends laugh harder.

“Okay, okay, enough of that,” Fred pulls you away. “Percy! Mate!”

Coming from outside was who you assumed was Percy alongside Mr. Weasley. Both of them in work clothes, covered in dirt and such, from working outside. “Freddie! George!” Percy beams before engulfing his two brothers in bear hugs. The sight made your heart warm. The love that this family had for each other was enough to make you melt. “Great to see you again. You’re (Y/N), right? Lovely to meet you. So glad you could come over for the weekend!” Percy shakes your hand excitedly as you smile.

“I’m glad to be here!” you admit, now truthfully. Everyone was so lovely and warm.  Percy steps away so now Mr. Weasley could meet you. “Mr. Weasley, thank you so much for having me. I’m so delighted to meet you and your family,” you beam.

Mr. Weasley gives you the warmest smile you’ve ever seen and grabs one of your hands squeezing it. “We are even more delighted to have you as a guest in our home. Oh, and please don’t call me Mr. Weasley. Arthur is just fine,” he smiles. “Speaking of our home, where is your mother?” Arthur looks the the rest of the group as they shrug. “Molly! Your sons and their guest have arrived!!” Arthur bellows up the stairs.

Seconds later, a glowing older woman starts down the winding staircase in the middle of the home, beaming, “Sorry, sorry, sorry, I was making their bed with fresh sheets. Now where are my loves?” Mrs. Weasley looks at her twins and tears start to form in her eyes. “Oh, my babies!” she exclaims as Fred and George engulf their shorter mother in a tight hug. “You boys don’t come home enough. I know the business is doing great, but please come home more. We miss you dearly,” she pinches their cheeks lovingly as George kisses his mother’s cheek.

Fred starts, “We miss you, too, Mum. Always.” Mrs. Weasley smiles at her son. “Mum, this is my girlfriend, (Y/N).”

Within mere seconds, Mrs. Weasley has scooped you into a hug, squeezing you tight as you giggle at the gesture. “Oh, my dear, it’s so wonderful to meet you at last. I can’t believe Freddie was hiding you from me all this time,” she gushes before holding you at arm’s length. “Beautiful American thing you are! Goodness, Fred, well done!” Fred rolls his eyes, making you giggle.

“It’s such a pleasure to finally meet you, Mrs. Weasley,” you smile warmly at your boyfriend’s mother.

She instantly starts shaking her head, “Oh no, dear. My name is Molly. Not Mrs. Weasley. Please, I insist.” You smile at her with a small blush on your cheeks. It had only been ten minutes, but you felt more at home than ever. “You are just a peach!” she pinches your cheek. “Adorable. You hungry, dear? Cuppa tea? I have dinner in the oven. We’re having roast chicken. Freddie told me that was your favorite meal. Lucky for you, it’s the dish I’m best at,” she whispers the last part to you as you giggle.

This family was doing everything they could to make you feel at home and it was surely working. You felt like you belonged here. Molly linked your arms together, insisting you tell her everything you and Fred had been doing as a couple for the last three months as she made you a cup of tea. “Mum’s already stolen her,” George nudges his twin with a cocky smile. “Good luck trying to get her back.”

But you didn’t mind being stolen off by Molly Weasley. The woman was a delight. She was sweet, kind, and so thoughtful. Molly loved hearing the way you spoke of her son. “You speak of him like he’s the only man on this planet,” she coos as she poured you tea. 

You blush a wild shade of pink. Maybe you had to get used to blushing around the Weasley family. “He’s the only man on this planet for me,” you shrug. “Fred is a proper gentleman, Molly. Really.” Molly rolls her eyes, knowing how abrasive her own son could be. “No, seriously,” you laugh. “All of the boys that I’ve dated are all back in America, sure, but none can hold a candle to Fred. Honestly.”

Molly squeezes your hand, “And I hope it stays that way, my dear. The way that Fred speaks of you is unlike anything I’ve ever heard from him before. Hold onto each other. What you have already is worth it.”

“Thank you,” you squeeze Molly’s hand back. 

The dinner hour soon rolled around which meant the arrival of more Weasleys. As everyone was finding their seat, two more people apparated into the Burrow. “Bill!” Ron exclaimed before engulfing his brother in a hug. Bill stood tall next to a beautiful blonde haired woman who you assume to be his wife, Fleur. The couple was breathtakingly beautiful. 

Fred leaned down next to you. “That’s Bill and his wife, Fleur,” Fred confirmed your thoughts. “Fleur is part Veela. She has a...complicated relationship with my mother and Ginny. But no need to worry, that ship has sailed. She’s actually quite lovely,” Fred tells you as you nod.

Knowing that Molly Weasley didn’t instantly take a liking to everyone made you think about the initial reaction she had to you. It made you feel better how warm she was towards you, even though you wouldn’t wish coldness from the Weasleys on anyone. 

“Bill, Fleur, this is my girlfriend, (Y/N),” Fred introduces you to his brother and his wife. 

Bill shakes your hand with a polite smile. “Nice to meet you,” he beams. “I didn’t know you had a girlfriend,” Bill teased his brother.

“Keeping me a secret, eh?” you look at Fred.

“An American girlfriend! Oh, this is brilliant,” Bill laughs. “Looking forward to getting to know you,” he speaks.

You turn to Bill’s wife, Fleur who gives you a small smile. “Nice to see another girl in the ‘ouse,” she beams. “You are quite beautiful,” Fleur beams as you blush yet again. But this time it felt different. A Veela complimenting you on your beauty. “’ow did you manage to get ‘er, Fred?” Fleur keeps the teasing going as he groans.

“Bloody hell, I get it! My girlfriend is gorgeous, and American, and out of my league! Are we eating dinner?” Fred tries to change the subject which just makes everyone else laugh.

Dinner was divine. Molly really knew how to cook and boy, did she make a feast. Roast chicken, mashed potatoes, vegetables, gravy, bread and chocolate cake for desert. Fred had told his mother what you’re favorite foods were and she gladly obliged to making all of them to which you thanked her profusely for. 

Ron leaned back in his seat as the dishes were being magically cleaned. “You should come over more, (Y/N),” he rubs his belly, full of dinner, making you laugh.

Ginny sprung from her seat, pulling Harry up with her. “Well, digest quickly, Ron. The sun is setting and George promised me a game of quidditch before nightfall,” Ginny smirks at her older brother who groans.

“Quidditch? After this meal? What are you trying to do, Gin? Make me have a heart attack?” he complains. “Why can’t we do a morning game?”

“Cause you always sleep through morning matches!” Harry defends Ginny who smiles proudly at him. “Get your lazy arse up and get a broom!”

Harry, Ginny, Fred, George, Ron, and Bill all rise from the table and rush to the garden shed to grab brooms. You just laugh along with Fleur and Hermione at the table before you three rise from the table, walking outside to watch the game that would eventually descend into madness. 

Hermione runs ahead of you and Fleur and to the backyard, calling out, “I’ll be score keep!” 

Fleur turns to you and smiles, “’Ow are you feeling? I know the feeling of meeting the family for the first time. Although, I think you and I ‘ad different experiences.”

You give Fleur a knowing smile. “They’re a lovely family. I was very nervous to come here because I didn’t know how they would react to have a complete stranger in their house, but they’re really great. Freddie was right.”

Fleur links your arms together as you walk to a small clearing in the backyard as the lot before you hops on brooms and takes to the skies. “I know I ‘ave my ‘istory with the Weasleys, but they are very good people. Kind people. Genuine. And I know, Fred. I saw the way ‘e looked at you at dinner. The boy loves you very much. And being loved by a Weasley,” she looks up at her husband, laughing on a broom as he pats Freddie’s shoulder, “it’s the greatest feeling in the world. ‘old onto ‘im, (Y/N).”

Your heart swells at Fleur’s words. It was beautiful to see the way she spoke of Bill. How she looked at him. You could only wish that you had that kind of love with Fred. “Thank you, Fleur. That means a lot,” you squeeze her hand. 

The two of you look to the sky to see the lot waiting. “Are you all going to start this game or not? I wanna see some action!” you tease those in the sky as Fleur giggles next to you. “You gonna win for me, Freddie?” you give him a wink.

Fred scoffs, “Of course I am.”

The quidditch game had ended quite quickly after a brief thirty minute game, Harry catching the snitch with ease. “That’s what happens when you challenge the best quidditch player of this generation,” he sticks his tongue out at Ginny who rolls her eyes and shoves her boyfriend inside.

“Wonder what happens if I beat up the best quidditch player of all time,” Ginny speaks as Harry laughs before running up the stairs away from his girlfriend who had just lost the quidditch match.

As the group files back in again, Bill and Fleur make their way upstairs back to his old room. Ron and Hermione scramble into the living room, Hermione challenging Ron to a chess match, giggling as Ron places a sneaky kiss on her cheek, George throwing playful punches at Fred who slaps his bum, running away as George yells at him. Percy, who sits in the recliner groans, “Can you be any louder? I’m trying to read!”

George looks at Fred who has a devilish smile on his cheeks. “Be louder? Alright!” Fred exclaims before he and George link arms and start scream singing a random song that came to their heads, making you shake your head and laugh. 

Percy just leans further back into his chair with a sigh, but there is a small smile on his face as he watches his twin brothers, dance around the living room, occasionally letting a chuckle out here and there. 

You sit on the couch, observing it all take place. To an outside eye, the Weasley house looked chaotic. But really, it was perfectly orchestrated. Everyone had their own thing to do, but still interacted and operated alongside each other without fail. Ron and Hermione quietly playing cheer in the corner, little giggles here and there. Percy reading a book, curled up in the corner. Ginny and Harry running up and down the stairs, in and out of the house. Bill and Fleur upstairs, getting ready for bed. Molly in the kitchen, cleaning up before getting ready to retire to her bedroom where Arthur was surely waiting after finishing the garden work. Fred and George acting like fools in the living room, babbling about the shoppe. The house was like an orchestra, each person playing their part that was very different from the others, but they all clicked together to make beautiful music.

Beside you on the couch, Fred sits and wraps his arm around your shoulders. “First day at the Burrow. How are you liking it?” he asks, pressing a kiss to your temple. 

You cup his cheek with your hand, brushing your thumb against it. “It’s perfect here. I can see why you love it so much,” you admit as he smiles, pressing a kiss to the palm of your hand. “Your family is so sweet. I really adore them already.”

“And they adore you. Mum especially. She was gushing to Dad about you over dinner whilst you talked to Ginny and Harry,” Fred confides in you as your heart swells. His family liking you was all that mattered. “You’re smashing it. But I knew you would,” he shrugs as you giggle. “I’m glad you’re here.”

Kissing his lips gently, you speak, “I’m glad I came.”

----

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[caw4brandon]

What Linkin Park Was and Always Be

When I was just a boy, I used to visit this neighbor and church friend of mine who plays video games and has older brothers. (unlike me) His name is Gary and he’s a middle child. Whenever I visit him, I would find this corner of his gaming room with this pretty looking stack of albums, arranged neatly next to the disk player. These albums were all named;

The American boy band that, instead of making fun love songs, have girls swoon and make guys to roll their eyes hard. Produced music that makes you want to scream and punch somebody...IN THE FACE!

I...may be getting a little too nostalgic recently. With my Animorphs talk and all. But anyways, I wanted to take this moment of trip down memory lane to talk about Linkin Park. About how their music affected me and the mark they left behind for a generation of teens and adults based on what I have observed.

 - It Starts with Meteora -

I’ve tried so hard, and got so far

Formed in 1996, The sound of Linkin Park is described as a fusion of heavy metal and hip hop and was later transitioned into more electronic and pop-influenced music. In their early years, the band was founded by three high school friends: Mike Shinoda, Rob Bourdon, and Brad Delson under the former name; Xero.

After a long and difficult journey of finding a lead singer while struggling to get a singed record deal, Xero became Linkin Park; an homage and play on words to Santa Monica's Lincoln Park, now called Christine Emerson Reed Park and on October 24, 2000. <Hybrid Theory> was released, earning the status of best-selling album of 2001 followed by is successors <Reanimation> and <Meteora> on March 25, 2003.

Things went from quiet to eleven very quickly as the band gained major stardom for their unique sound mixture of genres with lead singer; Chester Bennington's dynamic vocal range and screamo. Backed up with Mike Shinoda's raps and very occasional singing.

Very quick personal story. The actual first album that introduced me to the band was the Extended Play, <Collision Course> a collaboration with Jay-Z when I was just eleven years old. Given that there was a whole stack of albums at Gary’s and given that he’s my friend with good taste. I decided to give it a try, loving it since then. Linkin Park was not the only thing the bandmates worked on though. On the side, Mike worked on Fort Minor while Chester went on stage with the likes of DJ Letha and Dead by Sunrise.

- What They’ve Done -

Put to rest, what you’ve thought of me

At this point, I REALLY got into Linkin Park. The songs I’ve heard on that poor disk with no cover (which could have been my dad’s or uncle’s), on the radio or on good ole MTV had me headbanging, rapping and screaming in the car like a mad man which probably annoyed my mom who had to send me to school every morning. (Sorry mom)

At around this time, LP made a comeback in <Minutes to Midnight> The album that I used my hard earned pocket money to purchase and listen to. So much so that I can recite <Bleed It Out> with ease. Even till this day.

But, I won’t lie. At that time, I was moving on to other stuff like Japanese music; UVERWorld and The Back Horn or listened to something a lot more religious; Planetshakers and Everfound. All banger bands might I add.

Of course, LP never left the little corner of my angsty heart and I was surprised but listened with interest to their album <Recharged>, <Living Things> and <The Hunting Party> about a year or two later in college thanks to a fellow churchmate of mine who selflessly bought the albums to me as a gift. Which I played, in the middle of the night at my college house! (Now that I think about it, I'm a terrible housemate.)

But, eventually...I had to grow up and all that screaming had to stop one way or another. I placed my albums at a safe place in my childhood bedroom and never looked back since. But every now and again, that angsty corner would send those earworms to me and I would begrudgingly search it up and sing along with little to no problem. 

THAT was just a week ago when this post goes up.

Needless to say, Linkin Park is a name that lingers in the air and its something I like to revisit then and again. Every time I revisit, still a hell of a band!

- Why is Everything so Heavy? -

I know I'm not the center of the universe...

From my teen hood to adult hood, The sound of Linkin Park speaks a different tone now. The songs are no longer just headbangers but felt like fragments of the struggles that bleed into words from heart and soul of Mike and Chester. Accompanied by the pure talent of the great musicians of the band.

So, after all this talk. What was Linkin Park’s legacy? It surely must have created a generation of angry monsters right? Well...No. At least from what I can see. It has created a generation of people who are empathetic, a little bit intense but thought-provoking, with a layer of kindness to them and their music even saved someone from their lowest point thanks to a fan. [Story Here]

While I don’t have a music degree or anything. I could feel that no matter what form the band took in the past seven albums they’ve made, its prove that Linkin Park is not bound by genres and themes. While other parts of social media loves to use songs like “Crawling” and “In The End” for meme reasons I can’t completely understand. I get a sense that as artists, LP is far more versatile and adaptable than others while maintaining an ethos (character) of themselves.

By the time I was done with college and nearing my final year. On July 20, 2017. The news broke out that Chester Bennington lost his life by committing suicide and while I am very much more of a casual. The loss was felt and there was not much to say. It truly was a dark day.

And then, Here WE are...2021

 What Linkin Park Was and Always Be to me is STRENGTH. Even when it its hard to get up. Even when no one cares. THEY say, “we do” The themes in most of Linkin Park’s songs deals with topics that are (no pun intended) Heavy like, frustration, depression, loneliness and fear but it also builds on empathy, taking back control and allowing one’s self to occasionally tell the world to go screw itself sometimes which can be quite cathartic. (At least for me)

They also remind me of veterans. Fighters and survivors from some kind of war whom are now lowering their megaphones and taking a more gentle approach with storytelling and messaging. Change is a frightening thing, especially for a band that’s all about the angsty, rebel, punk style but change could also mean, they’ve grown, matured or developed into something new compared to their yesteryears.  

It has been FIVE years since the band and the community lost Chester and FIVE years since the band went silent after but from what I’ve heard, Mike and Linkin Park are in the works for a comeback.

What I will leave with is this, there truly is nothing like Linkin Park the themes, the lyrics or even the iconography. While it definitely won’t be the same and would certainly take time, it would surely be good to have them return.

- To Chester and to Linkin Park -

Thanks for Reading

- B -