libbystcwart - Tumblr blog

[libbystcwart]

Having a lot of layers inside is good, especially when the temps dip below freezing like they usually do this time of year! And it gives you more reason to wear your favorite jacket inside! I'll send some over to you! I can relate to that! Usually, ginger is too strong most of the time but mixed with other spices to create a gingerbread flavor is right up my alley. I loved the party, it was fun! Were you able to get out to the market?

That's the best part. And I always have my favorite jacket handy to when I go out. Or even when I'm inside the house, you'll see me walking around the living room in that thing. Yes, please! I'm excited to try some. Oooh, gingerbread. Strangely, I actually really love gingerbread. Which is weird, because I don't like a lot of ginger in anything else. Please do! You're the best. How are you enjoying the party so far?

[libbystcwart]

I feel like my older brother would do something like that! However, he'd end up with a broken bone or something. Have you tried it yet? If you do, I want to see it for myself!

Right!? Like aren't you just a little bit curious? I bet you'd feel like a penguin on the ice too. And ohhh a sled would definitely make you go faster!!

[libbystcwart]

For the first time in years, Libby felt actual joy during this holiday season. Instead of feeling a wave of sadness come over her and nostalgic memories making her ache, she felt pretty content a she walked throughout the Winter Market. Maybe it was because she had reconnected with her husband and shoved down her guilt or maybe it was feeling the energy of most people around her. From the outside looking in, they all looked like they were enjoying themselves.

Libby was sipping on her cup of hot cocoa when she walked toward Harmony Healers, wanting to get a picture with one of the horses and maybe even getting to see Livvy in the process as well. As she dropped her money in the bucket, she noticed someone else near her. "I always love getting to be up and close to the horses. They're so beautiful, I think."

Where: Winter Holiday Market

Who: Kenna and Open

Truthfully, Kenna hadn't truly enjoyed the holidays in the long time. Not since she was ten, in fact. So to be surrounded by all this holiday cheer, families gathered all around her and laughing in sheer Christmas glee, it was just depressing. But her dad basically forced her to go out, so she had no choice but to aimlessly roam the sidewalks of Hideaway Market in hopes that she might find something to lighten her mood. She'd found a few pleasantries, but nothing had distracted her enough yet.

She kept her head down as she walked, her Airpods blocking out most of the noise. She was debating whether to pick up some hot tea, but then came across...Harmony Healers. And there was one particular horse that drew her attention. "Hey, buddy," she mumbled, taking notice of some carrots ready to be given to the magnificent creatures, for a small donation.

"You're hungry, huh?" She inhaled as she rubbed his neck, before dropping some money into the bucket and picking up a carrot.

[libbystcwart]

Libby was heading back to Blades after having to grab an extra pair of gloves for her husband since he forgot them in the car. She was walking alone, all bundled up in her coat when she saw the other looking a little lost. "Are you okay?" she asked, concern written across her features when she saw the confused look on the other's face. "If you're here for the Winter Fun Party, Blades is just up ahead," she pointed in the direction she was talking about, sending a smile to the other. "It's pretty well hidden, but I promise it's there."

WHERE: Blades (almost) WHO: open (0/5)

Sam looked around, despite his effort to go to as many places as he could since he moved to town, and yet somehow still finding himself not where he wanted to be. "This is not the way to..." He glared at the opened messaging app on his phone, grumbling quietly, "This is your fault." It was less him blaming the app and more him blaming his sister for distracting him. With a sigh, he turned around and only had one step before he stopped again. "Wait... That was the right way..."

[libbystcwart]

MERROCK TASK • MERROCK WRAPPED

TOP FIVE MUSIC ARTISTS

Taylor Swift.

Zach Bryan.

Dermot Kennedy.

Noah Kahan.

Kelsea Ballerini.

TOP FIVE SONGS

'68 Fastback by Zach Bryan. (played 290 times)

American Teenager by Ethel Cain. (played 182 times)

ivy by Taylor Swift. (played 179 times)

Eat Your Young by Hozier. (played 145 times)

Dial Drunk by Noah Kahan. (played 131 times)

TOP MOVIES SEEN IN THEATERS

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes.

Priscilla.

Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.

Barbie.

TELEVISION SHOWS BINGE WATCHED (old or new!)

Gilmore Girls.

Grey's Anatomy.

In With The Old.

Reba.

Friends.

TOP EVENTS ATTENDED IN TOWN (event tag!)

Creek Fest.

Crystal Gala.

Easter Fun.

Read Across America Day.

Halloween Masquerade.

FIVE FAVORITE THINGS THAT HAPPENED IN 2023 (personal, or in the world!)

Reconnecting with her husband and his family.

Joining Bardales Inc.

Performing at Creek Fest.

Growing her bangs out so she can go back to her middle part.

Getting to see Willie Nelson & The Avett Brothers live.

[libbystcwart]

I don't think I've ever thought of doing that, but it's an idea! I mean, I think that the worst thing that could happen would be that you land wrong when you go to slide, but that's such a small chance of that happening. Maybe you could even take a sled and try it out with that!

Who: Open Starter (0/8) Where: Blades When: December 2023, Winter Fun Party

It is bad that I totally wanna go out on the ice and slide on it like a slip and slide? Like what's the worst that could happen? Come on, you know you wonder what it would be like.

[libbystcwart]

Good! Because I know for sure that I'll be needing that knowing that cookies amongst other things will be offered up everywhere. I would hate to have a streak of powdered sugar or chocolate hanging off the side of my mouth without anyone to give me a head's up it's there. Do your parents do that often? I know you mentioned they like to live a lavish life, but it must be interesting to grow up in that environment to now live around folks who take care of their hard earned dollars. Not that it's bad that they do that, but there are other things could to do with it, you know? Exactly! I know when I worked at Polished Brass we'd do a toy drive and it was always nice to see how many people donate. I have! I've learned that I really do love the snow, even if my nose feels like it's frozen or if my teeth chatter. And I don't mind having to bundle up in layers, just makes getting to be the fireplace when I get home that much more sweeter. Are you enjoying the winter fun? I did some skating, along with making snow angels.

We'll be each other's buddies through the holiday season, make sure to check and see if we've got anything in our teeth or on our faces or anything else, since… probably a good idea to avoid that in public settings. It's true, I've known a lot of people throughout my life who have a lot of money and they don't hesitate to spend it on themsleves, frivolous things that don't make sense. I mean, I do it, I get it. But it's nice to see other people put it to good use and actually help people who need it. This time of year, especially, I try to donate whenever I can. Thank you! It was an interesting ensemble, definitely masquerade-only, now it's all about heavy coats and boots! Have you at least been enjoying the snow, despite all the cold weather?

[libbystcwart]

"Great minds think alike, I think!" she nodded, feeling more at ease around Rafael than at the beginning of their work relationship. At first, she was intimated by his exterior but found that he could have a cheeky side to his personality that she felt privileged to see every once in a while. It was nice to be able to talk to him without feeling like she needed to prepare a premade speech or a robotic answer. "It's really neat to see how our work plays out after we're done, I know I enjoy seeing the way my staging makes a whole place look." Or if it helped the firm sell a property, it made her feel good. "Ooh, you can never go wrong with anything from the cafe. They've got some of the best pastries. Don't tell the folks at Flour Co. I said that, though," she winked with a grin. Libby nodded as she heard his offer, before opening her bag of Chex mix to eat. "I used to ride the train in Boston and it was so nice to have," she nodded. "It's a shame that trains aren't more of a popular thing here like they are in Europe or Asia."

"Aha!" Rafael let out a laugh when Libby agreed to the idea of houses showing up along the route. Given how many houses he dealt with on a weekly basis at the firm, it wouldn't surprise him one bit if there were a few that popped up as they traveled along. "On the plus side, at least we've come to expect it from one another, right?" he asked, smile on his face. It might have been different to talk to a complete stranger, let them listen as you rambled on and on about something that they didn't understand. But in this situation, at least they worked together, understood the enthusiasm. "I picked up a whole bunch of pastries from Cobblestone, they were looking to clear out their case and, well, who am I to say no?" He could always use the excuse that he was helping out a local business. "So same to you, help yourself," he smiled. "Absolutely. I don't miss living in New York City, but I do sometimes miss the public transportation." Or having a personal driver, but. He could stll have one of those now, should he wish.

[libbystcwart]

Hearing Stevie mention that she hadn't made a snow angel yet made all the memories rush back to when Libby had her first true snowy winter back in Boston. She remember feeling like a little kid, watching the snowflakes fall like confetti on the ground and getting to do all of the fun winter activities. "They are!" she answered back truthfully. "I recommended making sure you're wearing a coat that's got water resistance. So like a puffer coat or something," Libby spoke. She knew that any other material soaked through your clothes easier. "I've got an extra one if you need one! I think it's my husband's but it'll do the trick."

Where: Blades for the Winter Fun Party Who: Stevie & @libbystcwart

"I don't think I've ever made a snow angel." She paused. "Do they make your back all wet? Are they even fun to do?" God, Stevie was so out of her element with all of the snow around. She definitely did not have enough blankets packed, and she had to find a hand-me-down winter coat from goodwill for her son because they didn't have something heavier.

[libbystcwart]

📍 BLADES, COUNTRYSIDE.

libby_stewart: 'tis the damn season. ⛸️❄️

❤ 189 likes! / 19 comments.

[libbystcwart]

Just like that, fall turned into winter in Merrock and Libby was out celebrating the transition at the Winter Fun Party. She had been busy skating around on the ice, but it didn't take long before she started to feel the chill of the temperature hit her face. Needing to get some warmth, she headed over to where they were serving hot chocolate. To her surprise, Libby saw that there was more than option when it came to hot cocoa, eyes landing over the text on the menu. As she tried to pick something, she noticed a familiar face. Libby shook her head at Laura Marie, a forming on her face. "Nah, not yet. But the one with the whipped cream and caramel drizzle looks good." Libby spoke, making sure the other could read her lips as she signed. "You?"

who: Lara Marie Caruso & open, capping at 6! (3/6 when capped, please let me know if you would like something closed)

what: Winter Fun Party

where: hot chocolate tent

Lara had been wandering around the party. Winter was always a fun time, and she also enjoyed watching everyone go on and about the activities. She stopped by to pick up some hot chocolate before doing anything else. Since when were there so many different options for a cup of hot chocolate? Still unsure of what to order, she looked at the person next to her and nodded towards the menu. "Have you decided what to order?" she asked, ending her question with a point to the list of drinks on offer.

[libbystcwart]

It's a really, really humbling moment! That is for sure! But you're right - it's better that we have those pictures because it meant that we avoided having something on our faces or in our teeth. Yeah! I think so. But I think that's why I do have respect for the Benefactor. Even though they have loads of money, at least they're putting it to good use and giving it to those who need it the most. Same here! I'm lucky to be in the position that I'm in, so if I can give back to anyone, I try. Yeah, same! Trends are trends for a reason, which is why I kind of do my own thing unless I really like it. It is! You looked truly classy and classic at the same time! It was a vibe. And thank you! I miss wearing that dress. I've been layering up, but I still think my feet get too cold.

Me too, I love when you open your gallery later and realize that you got some real unlattering shots of your face at angles that no person should be taking pictures of themselves. But, you know, at least we didn't have anything gross in our teeth, I guess, that's something! Kind of makes you wish that every town could have a Benefactor…? I mean, I know that's not possible, but it does make you wish that some of those people just sitting on money would help the people who need it the most. It's why I always try to give back when I can. Right, you'd just be better off not doing it at all to begin with. And I agree, if it's something you genuinely are into for you, sure, but because it's popular? No. Thank you! I was worried it was a little over the top, until I remembered we were attending a Halloween maquerade. Besides, diamonds are classy, right? You look gorgeous! Love the dark vibes.

[libbystcwart]

You know, I was thinking about how you mentioned Big Brother at Halloween Masquerade and that made me think. Imagine if we all were in some sort of simulation like that show. Or maybe even The Truman Show. And the Benefactor was behind it. I feel like our little town could provide entertainment for something like that.

[libbystcwart]

Libby couldn't help the laugh that was coming out of her throat at his words. "And I can say the same! From what I've heard, I do know that a few places we've worked on are on this route, so I might point those out. But don't worry, I won't linger on them too much." Libby smiled, looking out the window for a second before looking back at her boss. It was these upcoming weeks where Libby felt the most nostalgic. However, this year she felt content. More so than she had in a long time. "Me too. I know so many people are looking forward to it, so I'm excited!" she nodded. "Ooh, what kind of goodies did you bring? I've got my thermal of hot cocoa and I decided to bring my homemade Chex mix. Feel free to have some if you want," she spoke before adding, "and that's the best part! I know gas has gone up a lot, so anytime I can be a passenger, I'll take advantage of it."

At least it was someone that he knew, that made life somewhat easier as he dropped down into the seat and let out a warm laugh, "I promise that I won't talk your ear off about work the entire train ride. Unless we pass a house that we're selling, or one you've worked on staging… and then I can't swear to it." But truthfully, he was looking forward to a relaxing time, just admiring the lights, decorations, enjoying the time to unwind and take in the holiday season, one step at a time. "I have a feeling this train's going to be busy all season long," he nodded. "Get to kick back, relax, eat snacks," he held up his bag of goodies and his coffee, "and save a little bit on gas money, since you're not the one driving around town."

[libbystcwart]

Oh, nice! I ended up not running, but I did cheer everyone on! It's so coo to see how many people get into the 5K run. Honestly same! You can't go wrong with chocolate. I sometimes like Laffy Taffy, though. I did! Spent it with my family and it was nice to catch up with them. Now I'm looking forward to getting to decorate my place. Though, the husband is dreading it since he's the one getting on top of a ladder to put things on the roof.

Yeah! It was pretty cool. Then helping my sister out with the 5K run, as well. I didn’t run but it was nice to help out! For me it’s anything chocolate. You? Did you have a good thanksgiving holiday as well?

[libbystcwart]

Same! There's nothing better! Especially if it warms you up during these colder days and nights. I love to hear that! Pumpkin chocolate muffins sound so good! Let me know how it goes! I started looking for gingerbread cookie recipes, so I'll send some your way once I make them!

Right!! I love it. That’s the best part. Warm and comforting. Oh pumpkin bread. Got to love that as well! I’m getting better at baking so I’m excited to try some pumpkin chocolate muffins that I found the recipe for online. Cookies, if you ever want someone to try those… I volunteer!

[libbystcwart]

Merrock hospitality never failed to make Libby smile. No matter if someone lived in town for weeks, months or years, she was mostly met with friendly faces and people who were willing to help. Even if it was their job, they never made it seem that way. "Oh, thank you so much!" Libby spoke, watching the other finish his coffee as she moved closer to the counter. She had made a note of what she was looking for on her phone, knowing that she'd forget it without the reminder. Eying the screen, she opened up her tab that she had saved on Safari and turned to the other. "Do you happen to know if you have this in stock?" It was a picture of Bob Dylan & The Band's vinyl record called Before The Flood (Live). "I tried to look online, but I couldn't tell if you guys had it or not."

By far one of his favorite parts about working here was getting to help customers. It wasn't so much that he needed a job, no, but more so that it gave him something to do. Something to keep his mind off of things, to stop dwelling on the past. And whenever someone asked him to help them, James always sprang right into action. As much as he wanted to cut himself off from the world, it was these conversations with people that came through the doors that kept him so grounded. "Of course!" He replied, pushing off the counter, taking on last quick sip of his coffee before grabbing for a post it note, a reminder of where things were located just in case he forgot. James slipped it into his back pocket before he made his way out from behind the counter. "What are you looking for?"