#supplier molasses go

[nwbeerguide]

Out in time for Spring, the British Pub Pack by Schlafly Beer.

Press Release

ST. LOUIS ... Schlafly Beer, the original, independent craft brewery in St. Louis, announces the release of its new spring variety pack, British Pub Pack, an homage to the best brew styles across the pond on Monday, March 10. The 12-pack, available now, offers four different beers of iconic British-style brews, such as Schlalfy’s flagship brew, Pale Ale, Scotch Ale, English IPA, and Northern English Brown Ale. The British Pub sampler pack is available now through spring. 

“Pubs are the heart of British communities and serve as places for friends to gather, people to relax and unwind, and stories to be told,” CEO David Schlafly explains. “Our British Pub Pack pays loving homage to some of the classic beer styles found throughout the British Isles, and we hope our customers embrace these styles and share with their best mates.”

...

Schlafly’s British Pub Sampler 12-Pack features three cans of each of the four beers:

Northern English Brown Ale (ABV: 5.0%): The Northern English Brown Ale is a malt-focused beer with hints of nuttiness, biscuit, and caramel. Subtle English hops and yeast round out the finish. 

Schlafly Scotch Ale (ABV: 6.2%): Also known as a “Wee Heavy,” Schlafly’s Scotch Ale features the aroma of sweet caramel with undertones of molasses, dried fruit, and toasted malt. 

English IPA (ABV: 7.2%): English IPA is a stronger version of Pale Ale with a hearty helping of fruity and floral English hops, biscuity malts, and higher alcohol content. 

Pale Ale (ABV: 4.4%): The English-inspired classic with a refined balance of hops and malt that helped spark the country’s craft beer revolution. It’s an ale born of artistry and heritage.

This 12-pack is available now across Schlafly’s distribution as well as Schlafly’s four brewpubs: Schlafly Tap Room in downtown St. Louis, and Schlafly Bottleworks in the Maplewood neighborhood of St. Louis. 

About Schlafly Beer: Schlafly Beer, St. Louis’ original independent craft brewery, proudly brews a diverse collection of beers throughout the year. Our brewers use numerous hop varietals, malts, grains, fruits, natural ingredients, and yeast strains from around the world to make every Schlafly beer unique. As part of our commitment to sustainability and our communities, we collaborate with local suppliers and neighborhood partners. Schlafly is a go-to across the Midwest and East Coast and is a staple at countless fine establishments, backyards, and basement bars. Join us at The Schlafly Tap Room, Schlafly Bottleworks, Schlafly Bankside, and Schlafly Highland Square, as well as on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. For a full listing of Schlafly beers and the beer finder, visit Schlafly.com.   

[afzalshishaflavouredmolasses]

Choosing the Right Shisha Flavor Distributor is Key to Your Business Growth

The global hookah industry is experiencing remarkable growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for exotic and high-quality smoking experiences. As cafes, lounges, and retailers strive to meet this demand, one key factor stands out—choosing the right Shisha Flavor distributor. The distributor you select plays a pivotal role in determining the consistency, variety, and authenticity of the shisha products you offer. Without a reliable source, even the most well-designed hookah lounge or store can suffer from customer dissatisfaction and operational inefficiencies.

Afzal, a globally recognized brand, has become a go-to name in the world of premium shisha. Known for its vibrant flavors and consistent quality, Afzal’s reputation as a top-tier wholesale Shisha Supplier has made it the first choice for many successful businesses worldwide. This blog delves into why selecting the right distributor—especially one like Afzal—is critical for business growth, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

The Role of a Shisha Flavor Distributor in the Hookah Business

A Shisha Flavor distributor is not just a supplier—they are your business partner in creating memorable customer experiences. An efficient distributor ensures product availability, variety, and quality. The right partner enables your brand to stay ahead in a competitive market by offering fresh batches of trending and classic flavors.

Distributors with poor logistics or inconsistent supply chains can cause businesses to lose customer trust. On the other hand, reliable distributors like Afzal offer comprehensive logistical support, product education, and fast, global delivery. This minimizes downtime and ensures your customers always have access to their favorite blends. Additionally, working with a knowledgeable distributor means you can also gain valuable insights into market trends, allowing you to adapt your offerings accordingly.

Afzal’s Expertise as a Wholesale Shisha Supplier

Afzal has carved a niche in the global hookah industry by consistently offering high-quality, aromatic shisha molasses. As a reliable wholesale Shisha Supplier, Afzal focuses on sourcing the finest ingredients and using advanced manufacturing techniques. The company is renowned for its strict quality control and hygiene standards, ensuring that each batch meets international compliance regulations.

Whether you're a hookah lounge owner, retail shop, or online marketplace, Afzal caters to businesses of all sizes with a flexible ordering system. Their offerings include a diverse palette of flavors, ranging from fruity and minty to exotic blends like Paan Raas and Masala Chai. This makes Afzal a versatile and scalable solution for businesses looking to expand their product lines.

Key Benefits of Working with a Trusted Shisha Flavor Distributor

When you partner with a reputable Shisha Flavor distributor like Afzal, your business benefits from more than just reliable inventory. Here are some advantages:

Consistency in Quality: Afzal’s production is tightly regulated, ensuring that each pack offers the same high-level experience.

Extensive Variety: Choose from a wide spectrum of flavors suited for different customer profiles.

Fast Delivery: Global shipping with efficient tracking and logistics support.

Business Support: Marketing materials, flavor pairing guides, and exclusive distributor offers.

All these factors contribute to higher customer satisfaction, increased brand loyalty, and repeat sales.

How a Wholesale Shisha Supplier Can Help Expand Your Business

In a competitive industry, having a reliable wholesale Shisha Supplier on your side gives you the edge. With Afzal, your brand gains the ability to scale without compromising on quality. Whether you're looking to buy in bulk or order online for scheduled replenishment, Afzal's systems are optimized for business efficiency.

What makes Afzal different is its commitment to growth partnerships. The brand works closely with its distributors to ensure they’re equipped with the latest flavor launches, compliance updates, and promotional strategies. This collaborative model ensures you’re always in sync with the latest market developments and consumer preferences.

Also, check out our latest blog on Why Flavor Variety Is Crucial for Every Shisha Flavor Distributor

Online Ordering for Streamlined Operations

The ability to buy online is a crucial component of today’s shisha supply chain. Afzal’s online ordering platform is intuitive and secure, enabling businesses to place and track orders in real time. Product catalogs, and live support simplify the ordering process for distributors and resellers alike.

Whether you want to place a one-time order or set up recurring shipments, Afzal’s digital infrastructure ensures timely and transparent transactions. This reliability boosts operational efficiency and minimizes the risk of stock outs or delays.

Why Businesses Choose Afzal Again and Again

The high retention rate among Afzal’s distributor network speaks volumes. Businesses choose Afzal as their preferred Shisha Flavor distributor because of:

Decades of expertise in flavor innovation.

Flexible wholesale terms.

Compliance with international quality standards.

Strong brand recognition among end-users.

With strong B2B relationships and unmatched product quality, Afzal continues to be the brand of choice for businesses aiming for long-term growth.The hookah market is dynamic and evolving, and so should your supply chain. Choosing the right Shisha Flavor distributor isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a strategic decision that affects your brand reputation, customer experience, and revenue. Afzal, as a trusted wholesale Shisha Supplier, offers everything you need to build a successful, scalable, and sustainable hookah business.Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your current supplier, it's time to align with a brand that shares your growth vision.

👉 Explore Afzal’s premium product catalog and order online today

[mrcharles1979]

How a Bounced Check Nearly Broke My Bakery—Until I Found Zil Money’s Check Register

Hey there, it’s Charles.

If you’ve ever run a small business in a small town, you know every dollar matters. Every vendor relationship matters. And every mistake? It hits harder than you'd expect.

So I'll tell you about the time I nearly lost both—a seller and my sanity—because I wasn't properly tracking my payments. That was also the day I found out about the check register from Zil Money, and my life has never been the same since.

The Cake That Started It All

It was a Tuesday afternoon, the kind that feels like molasses—slow, humid, and just dragging on. I was elbows-deep in frosting a three-tiered strawberry shortcake for a retirement party order when my phone buzzed.

It was Luis from the dairy farm. He’s been supplying us fresh cream, milk, and butter for six years—never missed a delivery. Always greeted me with a smile, even when the weather turned the roads to soup.

But that day, there was no smile.

“Charles,” he said, “I just got a notice… your last check bounced.”

My heart sank. I looked over at the invoice I’d marked as "paid" last week. I knew I had written that check. I remembered slipping it into the envelope, sealing it with a piece of tape because I ran out of glue.

“There must be a mistake,” I told him. “I’ll call the bank.”

But after thirty painful minutes on hold, the truth hit me harder than a rolling pin to the knee—I hadn’t accounted for an automatic withdrawal from my flour supplier that cleared the day before. I thought I had enough in the account. I was wrong.

A Small Mistake With Big Consequences

Luis was understanding, but I could hear the disappointment in his voice. That one bounced check made me feel like I had let him down, like I wasn’t running my business the way I should.

Worse? I realized it wasn’t just a one-time fluke. I had no system to track what had cleared, what hadn’t, or what was scheduled. My version of a check register was a stack of receipts and sticky notes held together by hope and a paperclip.

That night, I sat down at the kitchen table with Martha, still in my flour-stained apron. She looked at me and said:

“We can’t keep running things like this, Charles. We’re growing, and we need to grow smarter.”

That hit me. She was right. I wasn’t just making pastries anymore—I was running a business.

Discovering Zil Money’s Check Register

I searched online for something that could help me keep track of payments without adding more chaos to my day. That’s when I stumbled onto Zil Money and their online check register.

At first, I wasn’t sure if it would fit what I needed. But boy, was I wrong. It fit like a glove.

With Zil Money’s Check Register, I could:

Log every transaction—checks, ACH payments, eChecks, you name it.

See which payments had cleared and which hadn’t.

Track my real-time balance, not just what the bank says I have.

Print or download the register for tax season or vendor reviews.

Categorize expenses by supplier, department, or purpose.

Get a bird’s eye view of my cash flow—and stop guessing.

It was like going from driving in the dark to flipping on the headlights.

How It Changed My Bakery for Good

Fast forward a few months. Things at Happy Bakes feel different now—more organized, more in control.

When I write a check, I record it right away. If I make a payment through Zil Money (which I often do using their printable checks or even eChecks), it’s instantly added to my register. I know exactly what’s pending, what’s scheduled, and what’s cleared.

I even started using their check mailing service when I don’t have time to run to the post office. They handle the printing and mailing for just $1.25—including postage. That alone saved me hours and helped me get payments out faster.

And guess what? No more awkward calls from vendors. No more overdraft surprises. No more late-night stress trying to piece together what went wrong.

It’s Not Just About the Numbers

The truth is, using the check register from Zil Money gave me something I didn’t realize I was missing: peace of mind.

I sleep better knowing my business isn’t just running—I’m running it well. I’m not playing catch-up anymore. I’m ahead of the game.

I can open the register and see what’s due, what’s paid, and what’s coming up. I can spot a problem before it becomes a crisis. That’s powerful.

For Anyone Out There Still Winging It…

If you’re a small business owner who’s still relying on memory, sticky notes, or a cluttered spreadsheet—please don’t wait for a bounced check or a strained relationship to make a change.

Zil Money’s check register isn’t complicated. It’s clear, practical, and built for people like us—people who pour their hearts into their work but need a little help keeping the finances straight.

You’ve already got enough on your plate. Let Zil Money take care of what’s on your ledger.

[nayana99auth]

Why Sugarcane Jaggery Powder Does Not Go Bad?

Sugarcane jaggery powder, also known as brown sugar, is a natural sweetener made from the concentrated juice of sugarcane. It is a popular alternative to refined white sugar, as it is unprocessed and retains many of the nutrients found in sugarcane. One of the benefits of jaggery powder is that it does not go bad. This is because it is naturally preserved by the molasses that is present in the sugarcane juice. Molasses is a thick, dark syrup that is left over after the sugar crystals have been formed. It contains natural acids that help to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

What are the advantages of using Sugarcane Jaggery Powder?

There are many advantages to using sugarcane jaggery powder instead of refined white sugar. One advantage is that it is a good source of minerals, such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It is also a good source of vitamins, such as B vitamins and vitamin C. Jaggery powder is also a low-glycemic index food, which means that it does not cause a spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a good choice for people with diabetes.

What are the uses of Sugarcane Jaggery Powder?

Sugarcane jaggery powder can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used to sweeten tea, coffee, and other beverages. It can also be used to make desserts, such as cakes, cookies, and puddings. Jaggery powder can also be used to make savory dishes, such as curries and stews.

How to store Sugarcane Jaggery Powder

To store sugarcane jaggery powder, it is best to keep it in a cool, dry place. You can also store it in the refrigerator. If the jaggery powder becomes hard, you can soften it by adding a few drops of water or by microwaving it for a few seconds.

Conclusion

Sugarcane jaggery powder is a healthy and delicious alternative to refined white sugar. It is a good source of nutrients and does not go bad. Jaggery powder can be used in a variety of ways, so it is a versatile ingredient to have on hand.

Buy Sugarcane Jaggery Powder Online

If you are looking to buy sugarcane jaggery powder online, you can type 99auth in Google to reach our website. We offer a wide variety of organic jaggery powder products.

Other Products Available on 99auth

In addition to sugarcane jaggery powder, we also offer a wide variety of other organic products. Our product categories include:

Fruits and vegetables

Grains and legumes

Dairy products

Meat and poultry

Seafood

Eggs

Spices

Herbs

Nuts and seeds

Oils

Honey

Tea

Coffee

Chocolate

Snacks

Beverages

Personal care products

Home care products

We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality organic products. We source our products from trusted suppliers who use sustainable farming practices. We also offer a wide variety of products to choose from, so you can find everything you need in one place.

Type 99auth in Google to learn more about our products and to place an order.

I hope this article has helped you to learn more about sugarcane jaggery powder. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Keywords: sugarcane jaggery powder, brown sugar, organic jaggery powder, healthy sweetener, unrefined sugar, low-glycemic index food, 99auth, online grocery shopping

5 FAQs About Sugarcane Jaggery Powder

What is the difference between sugarcane jaggery powder and brown sugar? Sugarcane jaggery powder and brown sugar are both made from sugarcane, but they are processed differently. Jaggery powder is made by boiling sugarcane juice until it crystallizes. Brown sugar is made by adding molasses back to white sugar. Molasses is a byproduct of the sugar refining process.

Is sugarcane jaggery powder safe to eat? Yes, sugarcane jaggery powder is safe to eat. It is a natural product that is free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

What are the health benefits of sugarcane jaggery powder? Sugarcane jaggery powder is a good source of minerals, such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It is also a good source of vitamins, such as B vitamins and vitamin C. Jaggery powder is also a low-glycemic index food, which means that it does not cause a spike in blood sugar levels.

How can I use sugarcane jaggery powder? Sugarcane jaggery powder can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used to sweeten tea, coffee, and other beverages. It can also be used to make desserts, such as cakes, cookies, and puddings. Jaggery powder can also be used to make savory dishes, such as curries and stews.

Where can I buy sugarcane jaggery powder? You can buy sugarcane jaggery powder online at 99Auth. We offer a wide variety of organic jaggery powder products.

Why You Can Trust 99Auth

In addition to the 5 FAQs above, here are some other things to consider when buying sugarcane jaggery powder from 99Auth:

We offer a wide variety of organic jaggery powder products.

We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products.

We source our products from trusted suppliers1 who use sustainable farming practices.

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

We have a team of customer service representatives who are available to answer any questions you may have.

We also have a number of positive customer reviews. Here are a few examples:

"I love the taste of 99Auth jaggery powder. It is much better than the refined white sugar I used to use."

"I am so glad I found 99Auth. They have a great selection of organic products."

"I have been using 99Auth jaggery powder for years and I have never been disappointed."

We hope this information helps you to make an informed decision about where to buy your sugarcane jaggery powder. We are confident that you will be happy with your purchase from 99Auth.

Final Summary

Sugarcane jaggery powder, a natural sweetener, differs from brown sugar in its processing. Unlike refined sugar, jaggery retains nutrients like iron, calcium, and B vitamins. Its molasses content acts as a natural preservative, preventing spoilage. Jaggery powder is a versatile ingredient, suitable for sweetening beverages, baking, and even savory dishes. It offers a healthier alternative to refined sugar with a rich, unrefined flavor.

Keywords: sugarcane jaggery powder, brown sugar, organic jaggery powder, health benefits of jaggery, buy jaggery powder online, 99auth, online grocery shopping, organic food

[ussweetners]

Your Go-To Guide for Bulk Sugar Solutions!

Welcome, sugar enthusiasts, to the ultimate guide on bulk sugar solutions! Whether you're a baking aficionado, a restaurant owner, or a beverage connoisseur, finding the perfect bulk sugar supplier is crucial for your culinary creations. In this article, we'll delve into the world of bulk brown sugar, bulk raw sugar, bulk white sugar, and bulk organic sugar, uncovering the secrets to sweet success! Let's dive in and satisfy that sweet tooth!

Sweetening Your Supply Chain: Finding the Perfect Bulk Sugar Supplier

Are you tired of scouring the market for the best bulk sugar supplier? Look no further! Here's how to find the perfect partner for all your sugar needs:

Research, Research, Research: Take your time to explore different bulk sugar suppliers. Look for reliability, quality, and competitive pricing.

Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to fellow bakers, chefs, or food industry professionals for recommendations on reputable bulk sugar suppliers.

Check Reviews: Don't underestimate the power of online reviews! See what other customers have to say about their experiences with various bulk sugar suppliers.

Unveiling the Sweet Spectrum: Exploring Bulk Sugar Varieties

When it comes to bulk sugar, the options are endless! Let's take a closer look at the diverse range of sugar varieties available:

Bulk Brown Sugar: Adding Depth to Your Delights

Brown sugar isn't just sweet—it adds a depth of flavor that elevates your culinary creations to new heights! Here's why bulk brown sugar should be a staple in your kitchen:

Rich Flavor Profile: With its molasses content, bulk brown sugar boasts a rich and robust flavor profile.

Versatile Usage: From baking to marinades, bulk brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to a variety of dishes.

Bulk Raw Sugar: Embrace the Natural Sweetness

Looking for a more natural sweetening option? Bulk raw sugar is the way to go! Here's why you should consider incorporating it into your recipes:

Minimal Processing: Unlike refined sugars, bulk raw sugar undergoes minimal processing, retaining more of its natural molasses content.

Distinctive Flavor: Bulk raw sugar offers a unique flavor profile, with subtle hints of caramel and molasses.

Bulk White Sugar: The Classic Sweetener

Ah, bulk white sugar—the classic sweetener that never goes out of style! Here's why it's a kitchen essential:

Neutral Flavor: Bulk white sugar has a neutral flavor profile, making it a versatile option for a wide range of recipes.

Uniform Texture: With its fine texture, bulk white sugar dissolves easily, ensuring smooth consistency in your dishes.

Bulk Organic Sugar: Sweetness with a Sustainable Twist

For those who prioritize sustainability and organic ingredients, bulk organic sugar is the perfect choice! Here's what sets it apart:

Certified Organic: Bulk organic sugar is sourced from certified organic farms, ensuring that it's free from synthetic pesticides and GMOs.

Environmentally Friendly: By choosing bulk organic sugar, you're supporting sustainable farming practices that prioritize environmental conservation.

[heframasastaindonesia]

Grosir Molase Cibinong 0821-3004-0233

[mintjamsblog]

Wet (by MintJam)

Peaky Blinders fic: Tommy x Alfie

Read on A03

Summary: In which Alfie is not feeling himself.  

"He realises that the clothes he was wearing when he got into this bed last night are nowhere to be seen; he's naked as a newborn. It's pretty disconcerting that, because a man needs to keep a grip on a few basics in life doesn't he? Like the whereabouts of his own fuckin' underpants. All sorts of other things can start going awry if a man doesn't know where his kecks are or who took 'em off."

Warnings: NSFW!

Wet

It’s raining when Alfie wakes up on a Thursday morning. Proper rain. Not the usual damp London drizzle, but big, fat droplets that seem to fall too slowly and land too loudly. He hasn’t looked out yet but he can hear them smacking thickly against the glass, warning him to stay put. It makes a pleasant change, he supposes; it’s usually the birds that wake him first, welcoming the not-yet-dawn, although it seems they’ve all taken cover this morning, too busy keeping their feathers dry. Contrary little fuckers, birds; happy enough to chirp delightedly each morning over the Somme, heedless of the acres of filth and stench of death, and yet silenced by a simple downpour.

He lies still, listening to the water collecting in the gutters outside, running down the street and gurgling noisily into the drains. His sheets are drenched and he needs a piss. He ought to get up. No doubt the rain had a hand in conjuring up last night’s choice selection from the darkest recesses of his mind: Old Archie Pembroke. Fucker should have paid up of course — was one of the few that could afford to. Alfie had made sure it was a suitably watery end for the landlord of The Ship, The Lock Tavern and The Black Buoy. Drowning. In a barrel of his own beer. The ripples it sent through Camden doubtless saved the lives of a dozen other landlords who thought better of standing up to the volatile Jew thereafter. One life wrung out for the loyalty of dozens; he’d do it again in a trice.

The level of detail his subconscious mind can recall always staggers Alfie — the strength of grip required to keep a man's head beneath the surface; the frantic gasps for air after each submersion; the surprisingly long time it took for him to finally stop struggling.  He'd forced the bar staff to watch (there's really no point in the theatre of it without an audience to spread the word) and they had gasped their way into his sleep too. Still, it was a far better death than many Alfie witnessed in France. Gas was the worst. When you've watched a man retch up yellow liquid from the depths of his own lungs over two whole days and nights — before finally drowning in it — then it's hard to feel sorry for a man like Pembroke.

Funny how the battlefield is not the thing that haunts Alfie. It haunts Tommy, he knows that much. Not that they ever discuss or even acknowledge that fact unless absolutely forced to. If Tommy’s aware of Alfie’s dreams then he doesn’t let on. Which is fine. It’s the same tack Alfie’s taken many times in reverse because no good comes of dragging those thoughts into your waking hours, far better to leave them wrapped in the sheets. Food or a fuck is Alfie's preferred medicine — although seeing as the cupboards are bare and Tommy hasn't been in London for days neither is on the menu this morning.

The rain continues unabated as he splashes cold water over his face; washes his eyes, his hair, his beard. The dream refuses to wash off, its remnants cling to him like smoke; not the specifics, just a vague feeling of unease that he knows will last well past lunchtime. Which is why, when Edna shuffles in, a blast of petrichor in her wake, he welcomes the distraction and insists she drink tea with him. She knows the score, knows she'll find wet sheets when she heads upstairs, but Alfie's strange gruff manner doesn't bother her. She'd never have lasted this long if it did. And so they share tea and Alfie asks after her brother, a man so wrecked by the war he never leaves the house. They share the bagels Edna brought in comfortable silence until, with warm tea and food in his belly the heaviness starts to lift. Alfie can't help but think of his mother, like Edna a hard-working, uncomplaining woman. He wonders vaguely what she'd make of the man he's become? Would she be proud or dismayed? Neither, probably, she was always a pragmatist. Alfie's pulled from his thoughts by the shrill ring of the telephone in the other room. It's Olly, all of a panic — there's been some sort of flood at the bakery. He's starting to wonder if his watery dream was an omen.

–––––

The mess at the bakery is nothing short of a disaster; the priority is keeping the surviving barrels dry and protecting the molasses (that stuff is still not easy to come by — not quite the liquid gold it was a few years ago, but valuable nonetheless). He spends half the day knee-deep in cold, filthy water and the other half bellowing at his staff, the insurance broker, several suppliers and anyone else with enough of a death-wish to come within 5 yards of him. Which all means that by the time he gets home he is freezing, stinking and ready to kill the next person to so much as look at him the wrong way.  He runs himself a bath (upstairs; he's too tired to fill the copper tub) and lies in the warm water pondering the fucking fortune it's gonna cost to sort out the buildings — not to mention the lost stock, revenue and good will. The one saving grace, if you can call it that, is that the whole shebang appears to have been an act of God, which at least means he doesn't have to add retribution to the list of actions required (the Lord God Almighty is outside even Alfie's jurisdiction). He lays there, eyes closed, and tries to empty his head, to think of nothing, to think of the value of sight, but his mind is too busy and it isn't long before he finds himself wondering what's been happening with the Shelbys. In and of itself, this fact is downright bloody disturbing. The last thing he needs in his current mood is an unsolicited image of John and Arthur skittering across his mind — it's enough to make his already disinterested cock retreat back inside his body entirely. Fucking hell. He's not one to cast aspersions on the virtue of the late Mrs Shelby, but the idea that Tommy was born of the same blood as those two gormless idiots is just ... well it's fucking preposterous is what it is.

If he's honest, he's a bit disappointed that Tommy hasn't been in touch for days. Not that he's made any running himself, of course. Tommy will be in touch when he's good and ready. Or when he's spectacularly fucked himself up somehow. One or the other. He drags himself slowly out of the bath and decides to turn in for the night because he's not feeling all that great — throat a bit sore, chest a bit heavy — all that fucking cold water no doubt. It doesn't prevent the ghastly dream that follows shortly after, it's William Taylor tonight (stabbed in the chest) although he wakes halfway through the grisly climax because there's banging coming from downstairs. Shit, he forgot to lock the fucking security bars. He grabs his gun as he stumbles onto the landing, physically shaking off the nightmare as he limps down the stairs. It’s Tommy, of course, and he's clearly had a couple of drinks ... not a skinful, but enough to make him a little louder than usual.

"You haven't locked the fucking security gates, Alfie."

"Well hello to you too, darling."

Tommy's looking at him strangely, brow furrowed. "Did I get you out of the bath?" he asks.

Alfie looks down, momentarily perplexed, before realising his undershirt is soaked. "Yeah, yeah, s'nothing," he grumbles. "Shitty day, that's all." He'd rather not have to explain exactly why he's drenched in sweat, but one of the benefits of sleeping with an emotionally repressed numbskull is that he's highly unlikely to pry. Especially when he's had a few. Alfie heads back upstairs and straight to his room, retrieving a fresh undershirt from the press. He's just changed into it when Tommy appears from the bathroom, looking less clothed but more bemused. He sits down on the edge of the bed and opens his arms in a clear signal he wants a hug. He's definitely had a drink, then. Alfie walks into the embrace, stands between his open thighs and lets warm arms wrap around his waist. Tommy rests his head against Alfie's stomach for a moment and it fucking warms his cockles, even if the man does smell of whiskey. Of course then Tommy opens his mouth and spoils the whole bloody moment, but that's him all over innit? "Nearly broke my fucking leg in there," he mumbles into Alfie's shirt. "S'water everywhere. Wet my socks. And you didn't empty the tub, it's full of cold water."

"All fuckin' right," Alfie says defensively. "Anything else you'd like to complain about? It is me own bleeding house, mate." He was going to add an amusing quip about whales and blowholes but his brain doesn't want to play ball. It wants to close down for the night, despite the slightly drunk man clinging to his middle who is now trying to nose down his shorts.

"I really need to get some shut-eye, mate."

"Too tired for a blow job?" Tommy says, fingers tucking into Alfie's waistband.

"Fraid so," Alfie mumbles, at which Tommy looks absolutely incredulous. Which is a bit offensive actually. It's not like he's a total whore on an average day now, is it? Although, actually ...  where Tommy is concerned ... now that he looks back on the past few months ... well whore's not quitethe word he'd choose. He can't help it if he's generally enthusiastic. Because Tommy is genuinely the best shag of his life and can get him hard just by walking through a door... usually ... bloody hell, which is a sure sign he's not one hundred percent tonight, but doesn't mean ...

"Alfie? You sure?"

"Fuckin' hell Tom, never thought I'd say this, but yes."

"Alright," Tommy says, pushing himself up. Only now he's fucking pouting. Alfie can't resist reaching over and flicking the bottom lip that's protruding just enough to have crossed the line between sexy and childish. It doesn't go down well – Tommy smacks his hand away irritably and proceeds to unbutton his shirt. If Alfie was feeling more himself he'd find a suitable way to repay Tommy for that. But he's not. So he doesn't.

"Just get in, Tommy," he sighs as he pulls back the covers and slides one leg into the bed. The sodden sheets make him recoil instantly, "Oh for fucks sake," he yells. Tommy looks up at him sharply. "S'fuckin drenched. Just like this entire wretched day. I'm gonna sleep in the spare room." He heads for the door in exasperation, fully expecting Tommy to follow. He doesn't. He just stands there looking like he's been slapped. "With you, you bloody idiot," Alfie snaps, grabbing Tommy by the hand and physically dragging him across the landing. How come, right, he's the one who's just relived, with ungodly realism, a brutal (albeit necessary) stabbing; he's the one who feels like shit, and yet Tommy's the one who needs reassuring?

He gets into the spare bed and manhandles Tommy into some sort of spooning position. He can't tell whether the man's still pouting or not, but the way he presses his back against Alfie's chest suggests not. He kisses the back of Tommy's head, hopeful of a more peaceful night now that this surly, peevish little gypsy is back in his bed. Well, not his bed, technically. His spare bed. But the point stands. He's asleep within moments.

–––––

The bloody birds are back on form the next morning, little bastards, cheerily welcoming the new day. At least that means the rain's stopped. He's confused for a moment when he opens his eyes, can't quite place where he is. He feels rough as old boots – his head aches, his throat feels like glasspaper and his limbs feel like sandbags. He's overslept, must have done, the sun's already up and there's no sign of Tommy. He realises that the clothes he was wearing when he got into this bed last night are nowhere to be seen either; he's naked as a newborn. It's pretty disconcerting that, because a man needs to keep a grip on a few basics in life doesn't he? Like the whereabouts of his own fuckin' underpants. All sorts of other things can start going awry if a man doesn't know where his kecks are or who took 'em off. Not only that, but there's a towel in the bed. It's all bunched up and digging into the backs of his knees uncomfortably, but it's very definitely under him. He digs his fingers into his eye sockets as if that might rub some recollection into them. It doesn't, so he throws himself back down against the pillows instead.

"Morning, Alfie," Tommy says a couple of minutes later, carrying a tray into the room. Alfie tries to reply, but all that comes out is a strained croaking sound. He coughs and tries again, but it's not much better. Fucking hell he is on the back foot here — Tommy is up and dressed and back to his usual rigid self. He's looking as beautifully buttoned up as ever, whilst Alfie doesn't even know where his clothes are, let alone how he got out of them.

"Oh dear, oh dear," Tommy mocks. "Has Alfred Solomons lost his voice?" He looks fucking delighted with himself. Bastard.

"Well," Alfie croaks, "I am of course only here to ensure a smile passes your lips at least once a week. Glad to see my misfortune has achieved that already this morning."

"Shut up, Alfie," Tommy says, "you sound like a toad."

It's a fair point. Rude, but fair. He manages to stay quiet for all of twenty seconds before curiosity gets the better of him. He has a feeling he's not going to like the answer to this question but he asks it anyway.

"So did you have your wicked way with me last night whilst I was unconscious or has an evil fairy performed a vanishing spell on my clothes? Hmm?"

"They were wet," Tommy says dismissively, before swiftly changing the subject. "Thought you might like something to eat," he says, placing the tray down on Alfie's legs. "Tea, toast and some weird-looking pastry things," Tommy says, recoiling from the plate.

"It's a type of food, Tommy. Some of us actually enjoy that, you know."

"They remind me of pissing contests in the school yard."

"You what?" Alfie splutters.

"You know, all of us boys would line up and see who could piss the highest up the wall. That's what they look like — a row of little dicks."

"Fuckin' hell Tommy, that is just nasty." Despite which, he finds himself wondering who won, even rooting for eight-year-old-Tommy. His brain is quite clearly addled. "They're called rugelach; Edna makes 'em. You should try one."

"No thanks," Tommy says, grimacing. "Only dick I wanna put my lips around is under those blankets."

That makes Alfie laugh, or at least try to, it catches in his throat and turns into something between a wheeze and a cough.

"I've gotta go," Tommy says, leaning over to give him a peck on the forehead. "Think you'd best stay here, eh?"

"Yeah, yeah, m'not going anywhere. All that bloody water. Must've caught something."

"I'll be back later. Got people to see."

–––––

Alfie spends half of the day in bed, hoping he can sleep off the worst of whatever this is. He avoids the towel and the damp sheets by sleeping on Tommy's side, but eventually his back forces him up — staying still for too long never does it any good. The light is grey and watery, must be afternoon by now, so he finds himself trousers and an undershirt, pulls them on as carelessly as ever and covers them with not one waistcoat, but two. He wraps a scarf around his neck for good measure and makes his way downstairs. One thing's for sure, he can't go to the bakery in this state. Men work harder for a monster than they do for other men – it doesn't do to humanise oneself with the staff. He makes an exception for Edna, calls Olly and has him send her over even though it's not one of her days. Be easier, maybe, if he installed a phone at her house. He makes sure to berate Olly soundly for all the things he knows will be sliding in his absence, as much to satisfy his irritability as to keep up appearances.

His theory on leadership is reinforced nicely by Edna's reaction to his watery eyes and rasping voice. "Oh Mr Solomons, you're not well. You must let me light you a fire. I'll bring honey and lemon. And make you some soup."  See? Just like that he is no longer a leader of men but a little boy, as feeble and fallible as the rest of them. Much as he can't stand fussing, he can't deny that the soup, when it arrives, is deliciously welcome.

"If you could change the beds, Edna, please," he says, blowing across his mug of hot lemon. "I'll have a visitor tonight."

"Very good, sir. But ... " she pauses, nervously, "are you sure you're up to guests?"

And there it is again, that line being crossed purely and simply on grounds of his temporary infirmity.

"I'm up to this one," he answers gruffly.

Once she's gone he takes himself back up to bed. His whole body feels heavy and slow and unusually cold but the clean sheets are a luxury he can never take for granted — not when he's slept too many days and nights in mud thick with excrement and the slime of rotting flesh. Give him cool, crisp cotton over lice-ridden wool for the rest of his days and he will consider himself blessed. He should bathe really, but he can't face the bother. Maybe in a little while...

A hand on his cheek wakes him that evening. Fingers unmistakably cool and dry. He's fully clothed atop his sheets and feels a little better for the rest. But he's  cold.

"Come downstairs for a bit, it's warmer," Tommy says quietly. Bloody hell, he hates this, feeling weak, coddled. He's tempted to refuse on principle. But Tommy is waiting for him on the landing and the fact that he isn't pushing forces Alfie to comply. "Not sure I can be arsed, mate. Too much bloody effort," he mumbles as he follows. He draws the line at Tommy holding his hands out, though.  "I'm not a bloody invalid," he snaps, before undermining his point entirely by taking them nonetheless. Well, lying down all day has made everything seize up a bit more than usual.

As they reach the living room it's obvious that the fire is roaring in the grate. In front of it is his huge copper tub, like a ship ready to set sail, already steaming. And, that is something innit? He perks up a little at the sight, before frowning again, because it is rather disconcerting that Tommy managed to come into his house, get the tub from the yard and complete the laborious task of filling it with hot water without Alfie ever waking. He should be bothered by that. Very fucking bothered. Except there's a pleasant warm feeling in his belly that he chooses to go with instead.

"Come on then, get 'em off," Tommy chides, gesturing to the clothes he's still wearing, "before it gets cold."

The hot water is a joy to his aching joints. He's just leaning back against the high end when Tommy, fag dangling from the corner of his mouth, uncorks a small brown bottle and pours something into the water. The room immediately fills with a fierce, fiery smell, like pepper, or mustard, or fuck knows ... cloves or something. It's pungent and so acrid it hits the back of his throat.  "Good god, Tommy, what the fuck is that? Are you tryin' to off me?" he coughs, just as the ash falls off into the water. Bloody hell, no finesse that boy.

"It's good for the chest," Tommy says, obliviously putting the cork back. "Fetched it from Ada's this afternoon."

"Smells like it's meant for horses, not humans."

"It is," Tommy answers bluntly, swirling his hand in the water to spread it through.

"Fucks sake, you're not even joking are you? You can take the boy out of the caravan..."

Alfie rests his head on the back of the tub. As the smell recedes a little it becomes familiar, sparking a memory of the first time he ever set eyes on Tommy, all those years ago. "This what you used after the Italians did their job on you?" he asks.

"It is."

"Fuckin' hell, talkative tonight, aren't we?"

Tommy ignores him as he throws his cigarette end into the fire and starts removing his cufflinks, rolling his shirt sleeves up to the elbows. When he's done he pulls a footstool over and seats himself right up against the tub. "Sit up a bit," he orders, as he scoops water into a small cup. Alfie complies, wondering what the fuck he's doing. "Look up, you don't want this stuff in your eyes." Alfie is just about to ask him why when Tommy pours the water over the back of his head and starts raking his fingers through his hair. He feels like he ought to protest, but Tommy's already doing it again, pouring the water and raking it through, three times, four times, all brisk efficiency and alright, this has taken Alfie a bit off guard but he is suddenly intrigued. Tommy's movements are swift and awkward and he's very definitely looking at anything but Alfie; almost like he's embarrassed. Which is kind of odd, because it's not like anyone asked him to do this did they? He can see Tommy leaning down for something out of the corner of his eye. "That better not be any more of that horse potion," he mumbles, but it's soap, which Tommy is lathering furiously between his palms as though it's done him an evil in a past life.

The next thing he knows the soap is being slapped onto his head. Tommy proceeds to scrub at his hair so roughly it makes Alfie's head joggle on his shoulders, and yet he can't help but smile broadly. Here he is, a grown man approaching the fourth decade of his life, having his hair washed like some school kid visiting the nit-nurse. The man doing it is so bloody awkward it's comical, like he's actively trying to sabotage his own (rather thoughtful) gesture by deliberately going about it in a way that suggests he doesn't care at all. It really shouldn't be so fucking endearing. Alfie suppresses the desire to outright chuckle, because despite the absurdity of the situation he doesn't want it to end. Instead he shifts himself slowly backwards until he's leaning against the end of the tub again. Tommy stands up and walks round behind him, and somehow, being out of Alfie's line of sight seems to relax him a bit — his movements slow down and his fingers soften, which in turn allows Alfie to settle. He closes his eyes and focuses on the feeling of Tommy's fingers as they slip down to his shoulders, more sure of themselves now; they start a slow, firm slide upwards, thumbs pressing into the nape of his neck, fingers splaying out behind his ears. That's it. That's much better. When they reach the top of his scalp they start turning small circles around his crown, his hairline, his temples. Bloody hell, it feels good; he lets out a low, satisfied groan.

"Alright?" Tommy asks quietly.

"Yeah s'alright. S'fucking good, mate. Really fucking good." And so Tommy keeps going, firm fingers pressing and scraping all over his head and neck until it's sending actual shivers down Alfie's spine, and not just from the pure physical pleasure. It's the fact that Tommy, a man generally oblivious to his own physical well-being, is lavishing attention on him. Care. Part of Alfie wants to rebel, to fight the implication that he needs this in anyway, but the truth of the matter is that no one has ever done anything like this for him before. His mum must have done, once upon a time, but he's blowed if he can remember it and damn sure the bath wouldn't have been this hot or the fire this bright. And so he contents himself to watch the water — glowing orange like a sunset as it reflects the copper and the flames — and to lap up every delicious second of Tommy's hands on him. It's affectionate and intimate and Alfie would like to acknowledge that he appreciates it; to tell him that it means something. But in the end he's too wary of breaking the fragile silence, so he sits and sighs and silently enjoys the attention.

Eventually Tommy fills the cup again and pours water over his hair; Alfie has to sit up a bit so that it doesn't run onto the floor and Tommy moves to better reach him. He uses one hand to shield Alfie's eyes from the soap, smoothing his palm and pushing the water backwards. It makes Alfie's stomach flip, alarmingly. Just the way he's being so damn careful about it, tilting Alfie's head, stroking his hair, concentrating.  Hard to believe that it's Tommy. Tommy, who is always so stroppy and closed up and desperate to maintain his distance and his composure. Tommy, who only articulates anything meaningful under duress. Tommy who stripped his damp clothes in the night; who pretends not to know the real reason for the wet sheets; who brought him a towel to sleep on and breakfast in bed. Tommy who fetched some remedy from Ada's and heated pans on the stove to fill this cumbersome old bath — despite there being a perfectly functioning one upstairs — because he knows it's what Alfie prefers. He wishes it was easier just to say all that out loud, but it's not, is it? Because it will make Tommy self-conscious and evasive and defensive and then Alfie will have to spend hours (if not days) coaxing him back round. So he reverts to safety, to actions not words, because this is what they do.

"Get in," he growls. Tommy looks down at him, a slight twitch to the corner of his mouth. Alfie grabs his wrist until he drops the cup and looks him straight in the eye. "You, are gonna get in here in the next sixty seconds or I'm pulling you in with your clothes on."

"You feeling a little better?" Tommy asks, with an actual, proper smile.

"I'm planning on feeling a little gypsy," he replies, pulling harder on the arm. Tommy starts to move, irritatingly slowly, unbuttoning his shirt and pulling it out of his trousers (too easily Alfie notes). "You need to eat something," he says.

"Fuck off," Tommy snaps back, and Alfie chooses to fight that battle another day, because he's meant to be feeling appreciative. Instead he focuses on the sight of Tommy folding himself up between Alfies legs, back to his chest, both facing the fire. It never fails to amaze him, how small Tommy can make himself, so lithe and wiry he can bend in two. He smoothes his wet hands across Tommy's shoulders, making his skin glisten. He really has a rather lovely neck, Alfie thinks as he leans down to kiss it, slipping his hands around to smooth over the pale planes of his chest. He is too fucking small, but it's hard to care when he’s nestled into Alfie like a cat, practically purring as Alfie continues to nuzzle at his neck. When his fingers find Tommy’s nipples they tease gently and a low sound vibrates in Tommy's throat. Alfie squeezes harder, pinching both nubs painfully and not letting go. The water splashes gently by Tommy's left foot as he flinches at the harsh touch, which only makes Alfie let out a low groan of his own.

He doesn't relent, just pinches harder still until Tommy tenses his feet against the foot of the bath and pushes back against his chest. Fuck, there he is, Alfie's needy little bastard. He finally lets go when Tommy hisses. And just like that, the atmosphere has changed, been charged. He runs one hand down Tommy's side and slides it over to cup his cock, satisfyingly hard already. "Mmmm," Alfie whispers into his neck, gently teasing his balls, "think you've earned yourself a reward. Get on you knees."

Tommy hesitates, turning to peer over his shoulder at Alfie. "I thought you weren't feeling well," he says. Which is not an outright refusal, is it? More a play for time.

"Never said that," Alfie replies. Which is true. Plus he is never going to amit that the gypsy potion might be doing some good.

Tommy slowly starts to lift himself, confused but compliant, clearly a good boy tonight. "That's it, face the fire," Alfie says, hands already stroking up and down Tommy's thighs, admiring the view. He's kneeling upright, between Alfie's knees, back to his face.

"Alfie, what are you doing?" he asks, sounding a little fed up.

"Just hold onto that end for me," Alfie says, nodding towards the foot of the bath. He resists using the words "bend over," even though that's exactlywhat he means, because they both know Tommy doesn't like it.

"What the ..." Tommy starts to protest and Alfie just cuts him off. "Just do as you're told, eh?" Tommy swallows and reaches towards the end of the tub reluctantly. When he's got both hands on it, back slightly arched, Alfie lifts his knees, one at a time, and places them either side of his own. That's better, the stance is wider and he runs his hands over the smooth cheeks now just in front of his face. He really wants Tommy to bend down lower, but he's willing to take his time. He leans for the soap and lathers it up to a thick foam before reaching for Tommy's cock — less hard than it was before, signalling his self-consciousness. It's disappointing, but Alfie is unperturbed. He proceeds to massage the soap all over Tommy's balls and cock before stroking over his arse. "What the fuck are you doing?" Tommy asks, sounding a little shocked.

"Just returning the favour, love," he says, tone all innocent. His intentions are anything but as he rubs his thumb down the crease between Tommy's pale cheeks, feeling him flinch each time he passes the hole. He's enjoying the view immensely as he rolls Tommy's balls with the other hand, soaping them gently like a pair of delicate eggs. The hand on his arse keeps stroking the crease, up and down, catching on that puckered little hole on each passing glide. Tommy is starting to relax, to push back slightly and lower his head. That's it, Alfie thinks, like coaxing a kitten to a saucer of milk, he'll go gently and get what he wants. He slides his hand back to to the re-hardened cock, spreading the suds until everything is soft and slippery and too captivating to ignore.

He can't help but stare at Tommy's arse while he slides his hands over everything. He pushes the tip of his thumb into the hole and quickly back out - the little gasp from Tommy like music to his ears. He repeats the movement, quickly, eagerly, just short, sharp stabs that make Tommy clench and Alfie sigh.

"Just stay there love, right fucking there," he says, gripping one thigh like a warning. He picks up the cup and pours water from the small of Tommy's back, watching as it floods down the perfect crevice of his arse. When the soap has all gone he slumps slightly in the water and prises the cheeks apart with his thumbs. Tommy rocks forward slightly at that, everything tightening against the scrutiny, but Alfie keeps his grip, keeps him spread. Then he does what he's wanted to do for a very long time and flicks his tongue over the tight little entrance, once, twice, three times.

Strange that this should  feel forbidden, despite everything else that they do. Which may or may not explain the gut-punch of lust overtaking Alfie right this bloody second; the unusually vocal sound Tommy makes as he sloshes forward in the water does absolutely nothing to quell it — it's as if he's trying to escape, but Alfie just puts his hands round the front of his thighs and pulls him back into place, because he has no intention of stopping. But neither does he have any idea of what might actually feel good to the recipient, he realises. It can't be that different from kissing he figures, so he presses his lips to the hollow dimple and licks softly, reverently until Tommy responds with a strange, strangled sound.

"Just relax," Alfie mumbles, because fuck this is turning him on; the heat, the smell, the smooth, fluttering muscle – the way Tommy's subtly resisting – pulling away and tightening up so that Alfie has to grip his hips hard and hold him in place. He lets his tongue flatten and skates it upwards, firmly, licking the length of his crease slowly, repeatedly. He pays some attention to the back of his balls but can't help but return to lick over the central nucleus, wetting him, lapping him, tasting him.

When Alfie's tongue dares to dip inside Tommy's head droops dramatically downwards; he moans out a curse and seems to collapse, shoulders dropping like he's suddenly boneless. His head rests on his forearms, draped over the end of the bath and he groans so carnally that Alfie feels his stomach lurch and his cock respond. He starts sucking as well as licking, sealing the entire loosened ring with his lips and flicking gently with his tongue. Tommy loosens up further — moans and pushes back — which just makes everything easier to reach, to admire. He delves as deep as he can with his tongue, intrigued by the feel of it, so tough yet so soft. He keeps stopping to look, pulling back and opening him before plunging back in with his mouth. Fuck, he is in awe, as usual, of how delightfully Tommy moves, intermittently bearing down and clenching up like he's drawing Alfie in.

The problem is that Alfie's neck his aching, and though he doesn't want to stop, not with every flinch and every quiver so delightfully on display, he knows Tommy's knees must hurt too. Not that Tommy's complaining, but then again he never does, even when Alfie hurts him. Which is what finally does it, forces him to make the move because he wants Tommy enjoy this too.  

"Upstairs. Now," he growls, pulling himself upright and slapping Tommy's arse for emphasis. They both move impressively quickly, fleeing the bath with a haste that showers water and soap over everything. The each grab a towel and head up the stairs, like children playing tag.

Once in his room, Alfie lays Tommy on his belly and stuffs enough pillows under his hips that he looks like a fucking invitation, perfectly positioned for Alfie to lick until his tongue burns from the exertion. Which is exactly what he does. He delves and circles and laps at that perfect pink ring like a tiger grooming its cub. Any earlier malady is forgotten in his hunger for every squirm and sigh and stifled moan from the man beneath his mouth. By the time he crawls up the bed Tommy's arse is so slick with drool that he doesn't even bother with oil; simply laces their fingers together as he lines himself up and presses relentlessly in. Tommy gasps as he's entered, arching rigidly against him, and making a high, shaky sound that turns Alfie's legs to liquid. When his full weight rests flat on Tommy's back he just waits, marvelling at how he can fit himself inside the taut little ring he's been licking. It doesn't look possible, and yet here they are, slotted so tightly together. When, after a minute, everything is quiet and utterly still he murmurs, "there we go," softly against the curve of Tommy's ear.

And then he fucks him, slow and heavy, like he wants him to feel every inch and every ounce, to understand the weight of his want. And when even that's not enough he wraps his arms under Tommy's chest and pulls him onto his side. Actions are easier than words for Tommy, he's learnt that much by now, so Alfie wraps him tight around the chest and fucks him till he's exhausted, till everything hurts. He presses their bodies so close together it's like he's trying to join them with pressure, to cold-weld them together. Tommy just lets him, shallows his breathing to compensate and lets Alfie fuck him senseless.

Only when he's trembling right on the edge does Alfie loosen the embrace, moving one hand down to stroke him thoroughly through it. Tommy comes with a sharp gasp of breath, which makes Alfie moan unabashedly — lost in the sight and the sound of Tommy letting himself go. He can't see his lovely face at this angle, but he knows that his mouth will be open, his eyes closed, his brow gently furrowed. He kisses the parts he can reach — ear, neck, shoulder, clavicle — so focused on those that he's not even thinking of his own climax, just pumping his hips on pure instinct, lost in the moment, until Tommy makes a strange whimpering sound and taps his arm frantically. And for some reason that brings him back, tips him over until he is coming too. "Fuuuck," he groans as he floods into Tommy, shuddering helplessly as he tries to hold still.

Tommy goes limp with relief, slumping drowsily onto his belly and Alfie moves heavily with him, arms still wrapped round his chest. They lie like that for several minutes, still stickily joined together. Tommy clenches once round Alfie's softened dick as it withdraws in a hot rush of slick. He seems half-asleep but still murmurs irritably at the loss, which makes Alfie want to kiss him all over again. He presses his lips to Tommy's back, smoothing a hand down his side, pausing to pull the sheets up slightly, before he starts to shiver. He sinks lower, kissing all the way down Tommy's spine to the small of his back, revelling in the smell of sweat and sex and Tommy. And affectionate as this is, his mind is being slowly overtaken by an obscene and confusing thought. He's mildly troubled by it (or more accurately, by what Tommy might think of it) but he'll find out soon enough because he's already shuffling down the bed, under the sheets, kissing as he goes. Tommy groans sleepily as Alfie pushes one of his knees up the bed and out of the way because he wants to look, to see where his cock has been, what it's done to that innocent pink hole. God, he can smell himself down here which surely has no business feeling so satisfying. He moves one hand to spread Tommy's arse and is vaguely aware of an irritable response, above the rushing of blood in his ears. "Alfie, what the fuck...?"

"Shhh," he soothes, before biting Tommy's arse-cheek gently, teeth clenching round the firm muscle. Then he pulls it aside, looking straight at the evidence of his defilement. He moans involuntarily, a sound that rattles in his aching chest, and runs one thumb up the cleft of that beautiful backside. Tommy's hand comes round to swat him, but Alfie just grips it easily and holds it in mid air. He is focused shamelessly on that glossy, wet passage — can't help but push his thumb back inside — just to see how easily it glides in now that he's fucked it open. He pumps a few times, insistent but gentle, watching the mess that drips out of him. It's impure and possessive and Alfie couldn't care less until Tommy frees his hand and grabs his hair and pulls him up the bed. "Fucking hell, Alfie," he sighs, which might mean he's cross or self-conscious. Or neither. He sounds more tired than anything. Either way, he escapes to the bathroom, leaving Alfie alone with his thoughts.

"Who else you done that for?" Alfie asks when Tommy slides back in beside him.

"What?" Tommy asks, frowning. "If you mean have I ever let anyone lick..."

"Not that!" Alfie laughs, he know enough to be sure that that was a first. "The other stuff. The bath and the hair and ... you know, the towel and that."

"Charlie," Tommy says, reaching over to the nightstand for his cigarettes. "He likes it when I do bath time. Ada, when she was a kid. Arthur was never interested in helping." He pauses as he lights the cigarette. "My mother... towards the end." He looks wistfully at the ceiling as he blows his smoke in the air. Alfie just stares at him, picturing all the things he's just said, thinking of all the things he doesn't know about Tommy. How that always surprises him.  "I can look after people you know," Tommy says, looking mildly affronted.

"Hmmm," Alfie says in a tone that sounds entirely unconvinced. "Just not yourself, eh?"

"Fuck, off," Tommy replies, but he doesn't actually deny it. He finishes the cigarette and turns to stub it out in the ashtray before pulling Alfie in close. It feels strange to be the little spoon, but Alfie goes with it, shuffling down under the covers. He's going to regret the exertion in the morning, he can already tell, his chest feels like it's filled with hot sand. He might have to hold onto that little brown bottle, without telling Tommy of course, because he did manage to forget feeling ill for a while. Bloody hell, what is happening to him? Fucking horse medicine. But he drifts into sleep happy and sated and to dreams that are filled only with stallions. Which wouldn't be his first choice, let's face it, but could be an awful lot worse.

[yasbxxgie]

South Holland syrup maker poised to pick up market share from Aunt Jemima

Michele Hoskins felt a seismic shift for her company on a Tuesday morning in mid-June when Quaker Oats announced it was retiring the Aunt Jemima brand due to concerns about racial stereotypes.

“My life changed,” Hoskins said. “Our company changed. It brought awareness to us.”

Her South Holland-based company, Michele Foods, has been selling syrup and other products since 1984. Still, she has a tiny fraction of a market dominated by Aunt Jemima.

Hoskins saw her company’s profile suddenly elevated.

“The next day my tech guy called and said, ‘Your website has crashed,’” Hoskins said.

People were discovering her company on social media. After 35 years of hard work, she was an overnight sensation.

The Aunt Jemima brand dates back to 1889, according to Quaker Oats.

“I never in my wildest dreams thought that anything would happen that would make her do anything that would affect my company,” Hoskins said.

After building her business for 35 years, the south suburban entrepreneur is poised to expand her company’s operations.

“I should be in every major retail chain in the country. I should be able to supply customers who want my product,” she said.

Hoskins expects other competitors also will try to seize the chance to increase their share of the syrup market.

“I’m not going to take Aunt Jemima’s place. No one ever can, because she’s a different brand from a different era,” she said. “But if you’re looking for a minority company that sells in that category, I’m that. I think we should have the same opportunity as everyone else because we persevered.”

Hoskins said she launched her company in 1984 while she was going through a divorce and moving back into her parents’ home with her three young girls.

“I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with the rest of my life,” she said.

She decided to make syrup based on a secret recipe developed by her great-great-great-grandmother, America Washington.

“She was a slave who worked as a cook on a plantation,” Hoskins said. “The family she worked for did not like molasses. So she came up with this concoction of honey, churned butter and cream. It was delicious.”

Hoskins had her idea, but no clue how to start a business.

“I didn’t know anything about the food industry or product development,” she said.

She cooked up a batch on the stove and took it to local restaurants, whose owners told Hoskins the syrup separated and had to be reheated.

“I think at that point most people would have gotten discouraged,” Hoskins said.

She applied lessons she learned from teaching world religions at a private school.

“You can do anything if you put your mind to it,” she said. “I still believe that.”

Hoskins found someone to make her syrup so she could focus on marketing and distribution.

“I had a company at 35th and Kedzie that made the product for me and they would deliver it in 55-gallon drums in the alley,” she said.

She and her daughters would fill bottles and place handmade labels on them in her parents’ basement.

“I would take it around to neighborhood stores,” Hoskins said.

Even though independent South Side retailers agreed to stock her product, no customers initially bought it.

“It wasn’t moving,” she said. “I would go in myself and buy it to create this illusion of movement.”

To expand her reach, she visited the corporate offices of Jewel Foods in Melrose Park. She asked to talk with a buyer.

“They had never seen anybody walk in like that,” she said. “I was the first minority supplier for Jewel stores.”

She expanded her line to three syrup flavors: butter pecan, maple crème and honey crème. She worked to get her products placed in Kroger, Publix, Safeway and other grocery stores across the country. Companies were eager to do business with her, she said.

“I realized who I am made a difference, because diversity was hot,” she said.

By 1990, after she had been featured on local TV news, she was contacted by Walmart, which was looking to increase its diversity, she said. Then she was contacted by Harpo Studios.

“Oprah was looking for women who had made their first million (dollars),” Hoskins said.

She appeared three different times on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” she said. The first appearance led to her getting called back for a second.

[Most read] Column: If Stephen Hawking is right about Earth’s end, keep an eye on the deer »

“(Oprah) asked me something and I said you create your own destiny,” Hoskins said. “That’s profound, right?”

Her business continued to grow. She supplied syrup to Denny’s restaurants, then Popeyes chicken. While networking at a conference, she received another call from Harper Studios. They had learned a viewer in Texas had planned to take her own life but was stopped by something she heard on the television.

“She heard, ‘create your own destiny,’ and stopped,” Hoskins said. The woman started her own business and wanted to thank the woman who inspired her. The two appeared together.

“That was a tearful show,” Hoskins said.

She was featured in newspapers and business magazines and developed a reputation as a savvy entrepreneur. During an interview in her South Holland office, she pointed out a magazine cover about her doing business with General Foods.

“I called up the head of General Foods and said I had done research on Bisquick,” she said. “Seventy percent of people who buy Bisquick use it to make pancakes, and you only have 2% market share in the African American community. “I didn’t have a pancake and General Foods didn’t have a syrup. I said, ‘I can get you some share in the African American community by my face.‘”

They partnered and offered a coupon where shoppers received discounts when they bought Bisquick and a Michele’s Foods syrup together, she said.

She reached out to Kellogg’s. The maker of Eggo frozen waffles and other breakfast products had no syrup brand of its own.

“They wanted a share because Aunt Jemima had 77% of the syrup market,” she said. “I helped them develop Eggo syrup. I did that because when they did that, it brought light to the syrup category.”

Aunt Jemima’s market dominance left little room for competition.

“The syrup category is a very unsaturated market,” she said. “There are certain products in retail where you don’t add to them, there’s no room for them, there’s no market share. It’s just a closed category.”

Aunt Jemima continues to dominate market share, with Mrs. Butterworth’s, Log Cabin and Hungry Jack distant competitors, according to 2019 market data published by Statista. Aunt Jemima sells about $500 million worth of syrup annually, Hoskins said.

“Aunt Jemima owned that category by her image and by the perception that she was African American,” Hoskins said. “A lot of us grew up on that not understanding anything about advertising.”

Brands like Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben perpetuated stereotypes about Blacks, she said.

“People would walk past me to get to her,” Hoskins said. “For years I didn’t have my face on there.”

Hoskins said she introduced an illustrated image of herself to her syrup bottles about 18 months ago. She had resisted for more than 30 years because of something a grocery store buyer said to her when she was starting her business 35 years ago.

“I went out to one of these suburbs and told the manager that was my product,” she said. “He called (the regional grocery chain) and said, ‘I don’t want Black products out here. I don’t want anything that’s going to draw the African American community into my store.’”

Hoskins said she expanded her reach by masking her identity.

“I became a general-market product,” she said. “My product was sold in Colorado and Utah. No one knew this was an African American product.”

Hoskins has shared her expertise about business with others. She has mentored 225 people over the past 20 years, she said.

“Some of them have great products,” she said. “One girl was on ‘Shark Tank.’ I have a guy in Virginia that’s doing about $20 million (of business) a year with the government.”

At this stage in her life, Hoskins could look back on an award-winning, successful career, but she is not one to rest on laurels.

“We still did not have the consumer awareness that we wanted,” she said. “Right now we’re in about 6,000 stores.”

Michele Foods remains relatively small, with just four employees and modest annual sales, Hoskins said. Her product is made by a subcontractor near Cincinnati, she said. Profits and sales have never been her primary motivation, she said.

“I’m in it to create a legacy,” Hoskins said. “I feel that at some point we as a people have to understand how to build, create and pass on wealth.”

Most minority-owned companies sell out or fade away, she said. Hoskins wants to eventually pass her company along to her daughter Keisha, who runs social media and other projects for the business.

“If my great-great-great-grandmother could pass down this recipe, I surely could pass it along to her,” Hoskins said. “That becomes our legacy. It’s my legacy in a bottle. Whatever wealth is built into that, we break that curse.”

+Black Enterprise [h/t]

[afzalshishaflavouredmolasses]

Top Reasons to Choose Afzal as Your Wholesale Shisha Supplier

When you think about sourcing shisha flavors for your business, one name should come to mind: Afzal. Known globally for its superior quality, exotic blends, and unmatched flavor consistency, Afzal is the top choice for any hookah lounge, smoke shop, or retail store. Whether you’re running a large-scale business or a small, cozy lounge, Afzal offers solutions that guarantee customer satisfaction and business growth. But what makes it the ideal wholesale Shisha Supplier? Let’s dive into the top reasons why Afzal should be your go-to supplier.

Authenticity You Can Taste

Afzal has become a premium name among hookah lovers because it delivers real results—intense flavor, rich smoke, and long-lasting sessions. That’s what you get when you buy from a certified Shisha Flavor distributor offering Afzal molasses.

With more than 40 unique flavors, including classics like Double Apple and contemporary mixes like Choco Mint, Afzal caters to all customer preferences. The key to Afzal's success is its authentic approach to flavor profiles. Every hookah enthusiast knows that the right blend can transform the entire smoking experience. Whether you're serving a customer who enjoys fruity notes or one who prefers something minty and fresh, Afzal has the perfect mix.

The quality of Afzal products is consistent, and each flavor is crafted with the finest ingredients to ensure an unparalleled smoking experience. This authenticity is one of the main reasons why customers come back for more. The moment they try an Afzal flavor, they know they’re getting the best from a trusted Shisha Flavor distributor.

Guaranteed Freshness from a Trusted Wholesale Shisha Supplier

One of the biggest challenges for shisha retailers is maintaining stock freshness. As a verified wholesale Shisha Supplier, Afzal ensures that every package you receive is fresh, sealed, and export-quality.

Why that matters:

Longer Shelf Life: The freshness of the molasses directly impacts the shelf life. With Afzal’s fast-moving products, you won’t have to worry about outdated or expired stock.

Better Customer Reviews: Freshness is key when it comes to flavor intensity. When customers experience the vibrant, rich taste of Afzal, they’ll leave positive reviews, which will keep bringing in more clients.

Fewer Returns or Complaints: Fresh shisha flavours mean fewer product complaints and a smoother customer experience overall.

By purchasing directly from Afzal, you eliminate the middlemen and get premium products straight from the source. This guarantees that the wholesale Shisha Supplier you’re dealing with is providing the highest quality. As a Shisha Flavor distributor, Afzal ensures that you get the freshest molasses on the market.

High Demand = Higher Profits

Customers recognize and seek out Afzal. This brand trust translates into higher demand and better margins for your business. Hookah lovers around the world have come to associate Afzal with quality, making it a go-to brand for businesses in the industry. When you stock Afzal’s premium molasses, your business benefits from this global brand recognition.

As your go-to Shisha Flavor distributor, Afzal offers:

Promotional Support and Branding Materials: Afzal provides marketing materials to help boost your sales. From posters and banners to digital assets, these materials help showcase the brand’s quality to your customers.

Fast-Moving, High-Demand Flours: With Afzal’s most popular flavors like Double Apple, Grape with Mint, and Black Mint, you’ll never run out of stock. The high demand for these flavours ensures you always have a bestseller on hand.

Discounts on Large Orders: Afzal offers significant discounts when you place large wholesale orders, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses looking to maximize profits.

By partnering with Afzal, you can rest assured that your inventory will always be stocked with top-selling flavors, which not only improves your bottom line but also strengthens your reputation in the shisha community.

Easy Online Ordering, Anytime

Thanks to Afzal’s global digital presence, you can now order your wholesale shisha online with just a few clicks. This convenience makes restocking faster, especially if you’re based in shisha hotspots like lounges, festivals, or online marketplaces.

Ordering from an official wholesale Shisha Supplier guarantees product authenticity. Unlike buying from third-party resellers or unauthorized dealers, you avoid the risk of receiving fake or expired molasses. With Afzal, you are guaranteed the freshest products, directly shipped from the manufacturer to your business.

Afzal’s user-friendly online platform is designed to make the ordering process as seamless as possible. Whether you're at your desk or on the go, you can order your favourite flavours whenever you need them, with reliable delivery times. The flexibility to buy online helps you maintain a steady supply chain without worrying about stockouts.

Customer-Centric Approach to Business

Afzal understands the importance of great customer service. As a wholesale Shisha Supplier, Afzal is committed to offering excellent support to their partners. The team is always ready to assist with any queries regarding product availability, order status, or even flavor recommendations.

Their dedicated support ensures that your business runs smoothly, and that you have all the necessary information to keep your customers satisfied. Whether you need advice on which flavors to stock or assistance with an order, Afzal’s customer service team is there to help.

Competitive Pricing for Increased Profitability

Price is a critical factor when choosing a supplier for your business. Afzal’s competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for businesses looking to maximize their profit margins. Whether you're a large retailer or a small boutique lounge, Afzal offers pricing that suits your needs and allows you to pass on the best prices to your customers while still enjoying significant profits.

Afzal’s pricing is transparent, and there are no hidden fees. This helps you plan your inventory and business strategy effectively without unexpected costs. With Afzal, you get the best quality at a price that makes sense for your business.

Also, check out our latest blog Why the Global Demand for Export-Quality Hookah Flavors Is Booming — and How You Can Ride the Wave

In the world of shisha, brand matters—and no brand brings more value to your business than Afzal. When you partner with an authorized Shisha Flavor distributor, you're not just buying molasses—you're investing in long-term growth.

Afzal’s premium flavors, guaranteed freshness, competitive pricing, and convenient online ordering make it the best choice for retailers and lounges alike. Whether you're just starting your business or looking to expand your range of shisha products, Afzal is the supplier that can support your success.Ready to elevate your business? Order online now and give your customers the flavor they deserve.

👉 Order Now from Afzal

[joycewinfield-blog]

Finding Trusted Medicinal Marijuana Clinics: 10 Easy Tips

The Lone Ranger didn't ride by ourselves. As Nancy reviews her life lessons in entrepreneurship during Season 1, she knows that it's hard work running a legitimate income opportunity by their self. She invites her accountant and attorney (two of her best clients), her brother-in-law, another dealer, and Global Green Hemp Oil Price son of her supplier check out into business with her and help her grow her territory and enable all services. Do not rest prior to the day comes when a cop examines a field of hemp no differently than an industry of ingrown toenail. We must dispel all the lies and deceptions the product has fed the public about the Hemp Plant. This is actually the only way we can possibly put mankind back on the right course. The legislation would also permit Washington State University to undertake research of Global Green Hemp Oil Legal production to assess optimum soils, growing conditions, analysis of minimum THC levels available in Hemp Legal production and analysis of market economic conditions affecting the expansion of an hemp legal industry in the state run. If accepted, The Department of Agriculture Director and Washington State University will cooperatively seek funds from both public and sources to fund the investigation. Mike: There isn't anything wrong with that. Another in order to consider is molasses. Why molasses? Just like you search it, should they be refining cane sugar out of the field, they move it into these big processing plants and also so they squeeze out all the minerals and the vitamins furthermore put that in kind of a waste pile. A new white nutrient depleted sugar comes the actual other side and exactly what they ship off towards the food factories to use for people to drink. The waste pile, that's molasses. Everything they took out of mend cane that's supposed turn out to be there, the vitamins, the minerals, the phytonutrients, that's in molasses and the reason why it's ebony. That's what require to be eating food. When you eat molasses, you're actually eating concentrated nutrients from cane sugar without all high. There is constantly the omgoing debate give some thought to of irrespective of marijuana end up being legalized. I'm also certain that even cannabidiol is illegitimate in locations. I have little idea how she's going to get around these issues, having said that i am very sure that have got been attended to. It was very in order to not wedge myself to conversation. These were discussing one particular our foremost American characters.George Washington. There are many false stories out there surrounding he that is remembered as being first in war, first in peace, and Global Green Hemp Oil Reviews first in the hearts of countrymen and the two educators had bought into universally. Yikes! As for protein, outlets still be given the misconception that they need lots more protein compared to what they really use. If you think about mother's milk, which only contains a.5 - 2.5 % protein perhaps you can relax to some extent about your protein by taking. Growing children and athletes need essentially the most protein. There's way more protein in dark leafy greens than most people realize. Tahini, almond butter, almonds and sunflower seeds are also all quick and easy protein sources.

[ussweetners]

Unlock Sweet Savings with Bulk Sugar Suppliers

Sugar is a timeless ingredient that sweetens our lives in various ways. Whether it's used in baking, cooking, or simply to add a touch of sweetness to your morning coffee, sugar is a kitchen staple that we can't do without. If you're an avid baker, a restaurant owner, or a food manufacturer, you understand the importance of having a reliable bulk sugar supplier to meet your sweet needs. In this article, we'll explore the world of bulk sugar suppliers and delve into some popular varieties, including bulk brown sugar, bulk cane sugar bulk organic sugar, bulk raw sugar, bulk coconut sugar, and more.

Bulk Sugar Suppliers: Your Sweet Connection

Bulk sugar suppliers play a crucial role in the food industry, providing an essential ingredient to countless products worldwide. These suppliers are adept at sourcing, packaging, and delivering large quantities of sugar, ensuring that businesses and consumers have access to this fundamental ingredient whenever they need it.

When it comes to choosing a bulk sugar supplier, reliability, quality, and affordability are paramount. Fortunately, many reputable suppliers specialize in various sugar varieties, making it easier than ever to find the perfect match for your specific needs.

Popular Bulk Sugar Varieties

Bulk Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is a versatile sweetener known for its distinctive caramel-like flavor. It's a must-have for baking enthusiasts and is also used in savory dishes, marinades, and barbecue sauces. When purchased in bulk, brown sugar bulk offers both convenience and cost savings.

Bulk Cane Sugar: Cane sugar, often referred to as white sugar, is the most common type of sugar used in households and food production. bulk cane sugar is ideal for a wide range of applications, from making sweets to preserving fruits and vegetables.

Bulk Organic Sugar: As consumer preferences shift towards healthier and more sustainable choices, bulk organic sugar has gained popularity. It's produced without synthetic pesticides or chemicals and is a preferred option for those seeking a more natural sweetener.

Bulk Raw Sugar: Raw sugar is less processed than white sugar, retaining more of its natural molasses content. This results in a deeper flavor profile, making it an excellent choice for certain desserts and beverages. Buying raw sugar bulk is a cost-effective way to enjoy this unique sweetness.

Bulk Coconut Sugar: Derived from the sap of coconut palm trees, bulk coconut sugar is a natural sweetener with a distinct taste and lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar. It's commonly used in Asian and tropical cuisines and is a go-to option for health-conscious consumers.

Molasses Bulk: Molasses is a byproduct of sugar production and is prized for its rich, robust flavor. Whether you're making gingerbread cookies or a classic barbecue sauce, having molasses bulk ensures you're never short on this essential ingredient.

bulk organic cane sugar: Combining the benefits of organic and traditional cane sugar, bulk organic cane sugar is a versatile choice for eco-conscious businesses and individuals.

bulk turbinado sugar: Turbinado sugar is a partially refined cane sugar that retains some of its natural molasses. It's known for its large, sparkling crystals and subtle caramel flavor. Buying it in bulk ensures you always have this specialty sugar on hand.

Benefits of Buying Sugar in Bulk

Cost Savings: Purchasing sugar in bulk typically leads to significant cost savings compared to buying smaller quantities.

Reduced Packaging Waste: Buying in bulk reduces the need for excessive packaging, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Consistent Supply: Bulk sugar suppliers can ensure a steady and reliable supply of sugar, preventing production disruptions.

Customizable Orders: Many bulk sugar suppliers offer customizable orders, allowing you to get the exact quantity and type of sugar you need.

In conclusion, bulk sugar suppliers are essential partners for businesses and individuals in need of large quantities of sugar. With a variety of sugar types available in bulk, including brown sugar, cane sugar, organic sugar bulk raw sugar, coconut sugar, molasses, organic cane sugar, and turbinado sugar, you can find the perfect sweet solution for your culinary creations. Make sure to choose a reputable supplier that aligns with your quality, sustainability, and affordability preferences to unlock the sweetest deals.

[valleyponydorks]

The news spread quickly.

Something terrible has happened to CJ.

(tried to write a small skit)

Gold Grit had saw Whirly Bird flying over head and waved the tiny pegasus down. She explained that Camellia Joe thinks something is wrong and has asked that every friend he has to come over quickly. Whirly jumped upright and  unfurled his broad wings and flapped as fast as he could, going to the Molasses Barrel, Java Jolt, and to the Palmetto Street dock, talking quickly and telling every pony that they were needed by CJ’s bedside.

Everyone rushed to Crystal Petal farm as soon as they heard. Gold Grit was waiting for them in the kitchen, looking calm and unreadable as ever. Flit ran up to her and leaned in close, questioning “What!? What!? What happened?!” Gold Grit blew a feather that had been blown off of Flit’s fluttering wings and took a step back to maintain her personal space. Everyone crowded into the space she left.

 “I don’t know” the gold pony stated, her coarse forehead knitting together slightly. She looked around the room, counting the heads. Since everyone seemed to be here she turned and plodded down the dark hall, toward the bedroom.

 “Cami wanted everyone here” Gold Grit explained without turning around “so he could save his strength by not repeating his self, I guess.”

Gold Grit quietly pushed open the door, leading in the nervous trail of wet eyes and hushed whispers. Really, Blue Bird was the only one tearing up. She hated the idea of her friends being sick and jumped automatically to the worst conclusion. The room was dark. The curtains were drawn and only two candles were lit. Of course, Camellia Joe being blind meant that the candles for for his visitors. If this were a different occasion Mesquite Pepper would have pointed out to everyone that it appeared CJ was trying to establish a mood, but Sunny Honey had warned him on the way that Camellia Joe might not be up for ribbing right now. In the middle of the room was a large bed, Cami’s white snout poking out from beneath the plush blankets, looking ghostly pale in the dim light. 

“It’s me” said Grit, announcing her presence as usual so to not startle her partner “I got everyone here”.

“Thank you, Gritty” Cami whimpered. “And thank y’all for coming on such a short noticed” he breathed, addressing the others.

“So... you ok?” Asked North. She wrinkled up her tiny nose and squinting, leaned in to get a good look at Cami’s delicate nostrils quivering on the bedspread. Whirly thought that she looked like a dark blue raisin. Flit hoped she didn’t bring up the fact that they were in a meeting with a supplier, that would probably make CJ feel worse. Cami pulled his self to the edge of the bed, grunting dainty with the effort. He picked up a small piece of paper folded vertically and held it out.

“Here” the white earth pony gasped. Everyone stared at the crisp paper for a moment. Being not sure what was folded inside, no one seemed to want to touch it. Blackie, misnamed for his dark purple coat, finally lifted the paper up with his magic and unfolded it. Inside was a long pale hair. Everyone continued to stare silently, more confused than scared this time.

“Is that a hair? Was it in your food or something?” Iron Forge huffed. She was not a big fan of Cami’s theatrics and so distrusted most news concerning him. She liked how gruff she sounded, as to show the others how strong her constitution was, that eating a little strand of hair would not have bother her in the slightest.

“No,” Cami protested faintly, “It’s....mine!” He flopped back against the pillows, exhausted by his confession. Everyone stared with rounded eyes again at the hair that had somehow harmed their friend.

“But...this doesn’t look like yours” said Blackie while studying the hair closer “Your mane is green and pink. This is gra-”

“DON’T SAY IT!” Cami screamed, sitting up quickly. He wrapped the blanket more tightly around him. Blackie jumped at the outburst and skittered back to hide behind Sunny Honey, who was half his size. Blue Bird also hid behind Mesquite Pepper, who was used to CJ yelling.

“Say ‘off-colored’” Gritty offered in an even tone. Everyone again stared, this time less confused and more skeptically.

“The crimped texture...and the ‘off color’, I am sure you all knows what this means...” Camellia Joe sighed, flinging his polished hoof over his head and laying back again. The room was silent. The others had really no idea and the mystery and anxiety was wearing thin. “I”  declared Cami suddenly, “ am getting almost to the point where I am getting old!” 

“...Wait, so are you old or not?” Whirly tilted his head, craning to see from his favorite spot atop Forge’s back.

“No, I am almost at the point where I am going to be getting old” CJ repeated, smiling crossly at the little blue pegasus. But since CJ’s muzzle was the only thing poking out of the quilt, his thin brows did not have the chance to convey his annoyance. Gold Grit turned around and started to fold a pile of blankets that were on the floor. North flew in close on her tiny elegant wing and put her little hoof on Cami’s head.

“So....why did you need all of us at right this minute?” North asked in a syrupy sweet voice. Cami knew that voice and ducked below her hoof. He paused for a moment and threw off his blanket hood. Blue Bird gasped, but there wasn’t any reason to because CJ looked exactly the same.

“I need y’all’s help!” Cami got to the point finally, “I need advice, or healing magic, or a good antioxidant diet plan!” He smiled shyly, his cards were revealed. North leaped forward and hissed at him. Cami yelped and scrambled away. Composing herself, North gave him a hmmpf! and flew through the door. Flit followed as if pulled by a leash. “Don’t be a turnip!” called the blind pony, “this is really an emergency! I can’t anyone see my with off color hair!”

“Have you tried hairdye?” Whirly asked, poking his nose in CJ’s face. Cami smiled crossly at him again and pushed Whirly’s little sniffer back. 

“You’re excused” Cami stated. 

“I think you would look dignified with some gray” Blue meekly offered. Cami scoffed. 

“You could try a hair mask with some of my honey” the aptly named Sunny Honey asked “you said it was humid?”

“Humectant” corrected the needy white earth pony, “and last time your bees would not stop buzzing around me. I am NOT trying to relive that nightmare.” He shuddered at the thought of those horrible fuzzy wasps crawling around in his mane.

“Well, I’m a few years older than you, and I’m not old right?” Pepper was trying to actually make Cami feel better. But since their usual conversations involved making light of each other, Cami didn’t take it seriously and smiled sarcastically at the large unicorn. Pepper frowned at the silent insult.

“Well, why did you pluck your gray hair anyway?” Whirly piped up. Cami turned to his direction so Whirly could see his perfect brows being held together to signal the annoyance of the use of the ‘g’ word and the fact that Whirly was still in Cj’s room. “Haven’t you heard that every gray hair plucked grows three?” Cami’s jaw dropped. He had not heard that.

[tanjavogel15-blog]

How To Germinate Medical Marijuana Seeds

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[flange5]

one, i was going to restock on molasses mid-pand, but there was a recall at the time? i think? so now i'm on the lookout for a supplier, with ~regulations~. that, and i use sorghum molasses too which is not really molasses - i love that specific taste/smell, great with apples, but texture and bake-ability has a learning curve. two, my real question, how do you disinfect the old egg cartons?

ooooh I've never used sorghum molasses but now I want to!

so, YMMV depending on where you live but in the US regulations require eggs to be cleaned before put in cartons, probably bc conditions in most egg farms are so terrible. But regardless, I looked up what to do before using these and the recommendation was a quick vinegar swipe for cardboard egg cartons. For styrofoam, obvs, you can just hand wash them. TBH, since I've started using them this way, I'm kind of partial to using styrofoam so I can reuse them and maybe even ship macarons this way to friends

[balmforthandco]

WINTER COFFEE RECIPES TO TRY

As the colder months draw closer, there’s no better time for a hot cup of coffee to warm and fuel you for the day ahead. Getting out of bed and leaving the protection of your warm blanket is only possible if there is a tasty cup of the old brew waiting for you. 

Butterscotch Caramel Coffee

This sweet coffee treat is perfect for sitting around a warm fire after dinner or after shovelling snow. You’ll need some butterscotch syrup or some flavoured schnapps if you’re after something stronger for this one.

Ingredients 

1 large cup of coffee

A large pinch of ground cinnamon

1-ounce butterscotch syrup (or 1-ounce butterscotch schnapps)

1-ounce heavy whipping cream

1 tablespoons caramel sauce

Whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1

Brew one large cup of coffee using the best coffee beans. We like to make the best tasting coffee strong.

Step 2

Combine the brewed coffee, butterscotch syrup (or schnapps), heavy cream, and caramel and stir until the syrup and caramel are well incorporated.

Step 3

Gingerbread Latte Recipe

If holidays make you think of cosy nights by the fire and spiced gingerbread cookies, this is the latte recipe for you! Whisk espresso, molasses, and spices and top with velvety steamed milk for the perfect winter treat.

Ingredients 

· 4 ounces of espresso coffee

· 1 teaspoon cinnamon

· 1 teaspoon nutmeg

· 1 teaspoon ground ginger

· 3 tablespoons molasses

· 1 ½ cup milk of any kind

Instructions

1. Combine espresso, spices, and molasses in a medium bowl.

2. Whisk until fully combined.

3. Steam the milk using your milk steamer. You can also heat the milk in a saucepan, pour it into a heat-safe lidded jar, and shake it until it’s fully frothed.

4. Divide the espresso mixture between two coffee mugs.

5. Pour the steamed milk on top, spooning milk froth onto each mug at the end.

6. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a small gingerbread cookie. Enjoy your cosy drink!

Gingerbread lattes are delicious and easy to make, and you can’t go wrong with the above recipe. But one of the best benefits of making them at home (besides saving money) is that you can make your lattes precisely the way you want them. Here are a few tips:

Can you use coffee instead?

If you don’t have an espresso machine or stove top espresso maker, you can substitute strong coffee. Make the coffee as concentrated as possible, and use an extra ounce or two for the best flavour.

What are the best garnishes?

Garnishes are where you can get creative! Try adding a sprinkle of your favourite spices or a small gingerbread man to the milk foam on top of your latte. You could also crumble a gingerbread cookie on top or stick in a festive peppermint candy cane. Or keep it simple with a little brown sugar, chocolate chips, or cocoa powder.

What kind of milk should you use?

Regular old cow’s milk works well in this recipe, but if you’re cutting out dairy or prefer almond milk, no problem! You can use your favourite kind of milk, from skim to coconut.

Conclusion

Warm up on a chilly day with these surprisingly simple winter recipes! Gingerbread lattes and Butterscotch Caramel Coffee can brighten a rainy morning, make a snowy afternoon cosier, or help you wind down in front of a roaring fire. We hope you enjoy these recipes.

Remember to use high quality coffee, meaning the use of high quality coffee beans. Carefully pick the right coffee roast type, there are so many coffee blends to choose from. Before you buy coffee beans explore the market of coffee bean suppliers. There are many cheap coffee beans on the market, but be careful, as not all of them are the best tasting. If you never had one completed on your own, do watch some YouTube videos of Barista training advice. And finally if you are a massive coffee fan like we are, you can do your research and find the best coffee bean wholesale provider for your needs, by doing so you will guarantee yourself a good discount if buying in bulk.

After all, all your roads and options will lead to a single business – Balmforth & Co. No1 – Because we Care.

If you want to hear more about our product and services, get in touch with Refreshment Systems on 0800 169 3686.

Or via our contact form.

Check out our social pages for more news and offers that the vending world and RSL are offering.

Our Facebook Page: @refreshmentsystemsltd

Our LinkedIn Page: Refreshment Systems Ltd

Our Twitter: @RefreshmentSys

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