#Top chocolates in India

[paanking]

Paan Franchise: A Gateway To Entrepreneurship For Young Professionals

In recent years, the landscape of entrepreneurship has seen a significant shift. No longer confined to traditional industries or models, young professionals are increasingly looking towards innovative and culturally rich ventures to make their mark in the business world. One such avenue that has captured the attention of aspiring entrepreneurs is the paan franchise. With Paan King Franchise opportunity you can be a part of the best banarasi paan franchise. For young professionals looking to break into the world of entrepreneurship, a paan franchise offers a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and profitability. Here’s why it’s becoming a popular choice:

Cultural Relevance and Appeal

Paan holds a special place in Indian culture often associated with festivals, weddings, and other celebrations. By investing in a paan franchise, young entrepreneurs can tap into this cultural relevance and appeal, positioning their business as more than just a food venture but as a cultural hub within the community.

Low Barrier to Entry

Compared to other franchise opportunities, the barrier to entry for a Paan franchise is relatively low. With minimal equipment and space requirements, young professionals can set up their franchise in a small storefront, kiosk, or even as part of a food court, making it an accessible option for those with limited resources.

Innovative Flavors and Offerings

While classic paan remains popular, modern paan franchises are innovating with new flavors, ingredients, and presentation styles to cater to evolving consumer preferences. From chocolate Paan and Fruit Paans to various fillings and toppings, there’s no shortage of creativity when it comes to paan offerings.

Flexible Business Models

Paan franchises offer flexibility in terms of business models, allowing young professionals to choose the format that best suits their goals and resources. Whether it’s a standalone store, mobile cart, or delivery service, entrepreneurs can tailor their franchises to fit their vision and target market.

Community Engagement Opportunities

Operating a paan franchise provides a lot of opportunities for community engagement and brand building. From sponsoring local events to collaborating with other businesses and influencers, young entrepreneurs can leverage their franchises to foster connections and support within their community.

Support from Franchisors

Paan King offers comprehensive training, marketing support, and ongoing assistance to franchisees, helping young professionals navigate the complexities of business ownership with confidence. From site selection and store design to inventory management and customer service, franchisors provide the guidance and resources needed for success.

Conclusion

Paan franchise represents more than just a business opportunity for young professionals, it’s a gateway to entrepreneurship that combines cultural heritage with modern innovation. With its low barrier to entry, flexibility, and growth potential, a paan franchise offers aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to build a successful and rewarding career while preserving and celebrating a cherished tradition. So, for those with a passion for business and a love for culture, a paan franchise can be the perfect path to entrepreneurial success. For more information, you can visit our website www.paanking.com 

[paanaroma112]

Buy Paan aroma raspberry paan online in India. creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for those who appreciate a twist on a classic favorite, our Paan Aroma Raspberry Paan is a must-try for any connoisseur of fine treats.

[industryinsights01]

The Best Condom Brands in India for Couples Will Make Sex Even More Awesome this Valentine

Couples all over India are preparing to celebrate their love with a romantic night in as Valentine’s Day approaches. While candles, rose petals, and a bottle of wine will certainly set the mood, there is one thing that will make the night even better — Playgard condoms.

Playgard is a top condom brand in India, with a reputation for high-quality products and innovative designs. From dotted to ribbed, flavoured to extra-large, Playgard has a variety of options to meet the needs of every couple.

Playgard’s big dotted condoms are ideal for couples looking to spice up their nighttime routine. The dots on the condom’s surface will enhance the sensation for both partners, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Playgard’s ribbed condoms are ideal for those looking to take their love-making to the next level. The ribbed texture will increase stimulation and provide extra pleasure, intensifying the experience.

Playgard’s flavoured condoms are the answer for those looking to spice up their love life. These condoms are not only fun but also functional, coming in a variety of delicious flavours such as chocolate flavour condoms, strawberry flavour condom, ice-mint and more.

Playgard’s extra-large condoms are the solution for couples who want to ensure the safety of their love-making. These condoms are designed for larger-sized men, ensuring a comfortable fit and peace of mind.

Playgard is committed to promoting safe sex and preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections in addition to their product line. They provide education and resources to help couples understand the importance of condom use and how to properly use them.

Playgard’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has made them a popular choice among Indian couples. The company is well-known for its stringent testing procedures, which ensure that their products are not only effective but also safe.

Playgard an Indian condom company is ideal for couples looking to make their Valentine’s Day extra special. Playgard has the perfect product for you, whether you’re looking for a new way to spice up your love-making or simply want to be extra safe. So go ahead and spice up your night with Playgard condoms to make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.

[franchisebazarcom]

Franchise Opportunities in Bangalore

Top Bakery & Confectionery Franchise Opportunities in Bangalore 

Top Bakery & Confectionery Franchise Opportunities in Bangalore

Everyone has a sweet tooth, which makes bakeries and sweet shops a growing demand across the country.  Bangalore also has a wide variety of cafes and bakeries to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.  Here, you will find everything to whet your appetite, from lip-smacking cheesecakes, and bite-sized tarts to ice cream and chocolate delicacies, you can let your appetite go wild. 

Simply passing by a bakery is a good enough reason to make anyone’s mouth swim, with the aroma of freshly made bread, tarts, fluffy cakes, to gooey pastries.  There are over 2,000 bakeries in Bangalore. 

The bakery business is a traditional industry in India not to forget a highly profitable one too because it comes under the food industry which of course, never goes out of business or cannot be replaced.  Taking up a bakery franchise of a well-established brand is always advisable for first-time owners who want to start in the business world and gain good profits.  So, selecting the right bakery business is the most important step, depending on your investment cap.

To refine your search, we have collaborated on a list of some of the top bakery & confectionery franchise opportunities in Bangalore.  Using this along with your investment budget, you can get your dream of stepping into the franchise business successfully.

Mad Over Donuts

A venture by Lokesh Bharwani, founded in 2008, this is one of the best bakery & confectionery franchises in India, with over 100 outlets across different cities.  This bakery serves delicious baked products which you can’t resist.  They are inviting investors to join hands with their brand.  This franchise would be for around a year, with an infrastructural investment of around INR 15 to 40 lakhs.  They claim 8% of the total revenue made by a franchise owner and for this franchise, an area of 200 to 500 sq. ft would be required.

Karachi Bakery

A Hyderabad-based bakery shop, founded by Mr Khanchand Ramnani in 1958, this has been successfully running with more than 100 outlets across the country.  Serious business owners would need to invest around INR 10-20 lakhs approximately to set up the infrastructure of the franchise model.  The franchise owner has to share 20% of the total revenue with the franchisor, and an area of around 250-500 sq. ft. is required to set up this franchise model.

Dunkin’ Donuts

Founded in 2011, this is a favourite bakery shop for doughnut lovers across the country.  Dunkin’ Donuts is offering a franchise with a fee of around INR 20-70 lakhs, where the infrastructural investment involved is between INR 2-3 crores approximately.  The franchisor claims around 4% of the total revenue from franchise owners and an area of around 800-1000 sq. ft is required to set up this model.

Monginis

A trendy cake and pastry shop with over 1000 outlets across the country, was founded by Mr Hussein Khorakiwala in 1958.  This confectionery franchise is available for 3 years with a minimal fee of around INR 25,000, where the infrastructural investment would be around INR 10-20 lakhs.  Interested entrepreneurs have to share 20% of their revenue with the franchisor, and an area of around 250-300 sq. ft. is required to establish this franchise.

The French Loaf

This is a venture by the Bangalore-based businessman M Mahadevan, which has been successfully running since 2007.  They have around 50-100 outlets across the country.  Keen investors can take this franchise for a period of 6 years by paying approximately INR 1 lakh as the franchise fee, where the infrastructural investment would be around INR 10-20 lakhs, and an area of around 150-250 sq. ft. is required to set up this model.  The franchisor claims 35% of the total earnings of the franchise owner.

FnP Cakes

Founded by Mr Vikaas Gutgutia in 1994, this has over 330 franchise outlets across the country.  To get this franchise for 5 years, investors need to pay an amount of INR 3 lakhs, and the infrastructural investment would sum up to INR 8-10 lakhs approximately.  Franchise owners would need to share 35% of their revenue with the franchisor, and an area of around 300-400 sq. ft. to set up this cake shop.

Merwans Cake Shop

This is a popular Mumbai-based bakery chain founded by Mr K M Irani & Mr D K Irani in 1930, which now has over 50 outlets across the country.  Interested investors are required to pay a franchise fee of around INR 10 lakhs for a period of 5 years and invest INR 30-50 lakhs to set up the infrastructure of the confectionery.  The franchisor claims around 7% of the total revenue from the franchise owner, and an area of 650-800 sq. ft. is needed to run a franchise outlet.

Sweet Chariot

This is a popular confectionary chain which was founded in 1981 by Glen Williams and has around 40 outlets across the country.  This has a master franchise model where investors can get by paying a franchise fee of around INR 1 Lakh, with an investment of around INR 15 to 20 Lakhs for infrastructural purposes.  The franchisor claims 35% of the total revenue earned, and an area of around 200-250 sq. ft is required to run this franchise.

Now that you have seen a list of some of the top bakery & confectionery franchise opportunities in Bangalore, you can decide your requirement by matching your budget with the brand requirement.  You can speak to our consultants who can guide you on more business opportunities in Bangalore, the best business ideas in Bangalore, which business idea is best for you in Bangalore and more.

[mahi-wayy]

DUDE I NEED ONE FOR SHEKHAR

Like how did you forget him?????

𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐍𝐒 | 𝑺𝑯𝑬𝑲𝑯𝑨𝑹 𝑺𝑼𝑩𝑯𝑹𝑰𝑴𝑨𝑵𝑰𝑼𝑴

• General • Romantic [both sfw and nsfw]

A/n : you do realize srk has done one iconic/lovable character after another. there are only so many I can remember and do.

I - GENERAL

he has adhd.

him becoming a video game programmer wasn't well recieved by his parents. while his mother does come to eventually accept it as he saw success in his career, his father died before he could witness his son being a successful man.

learnt how to be happy on his own very early in his life.

he met sonia in london and then they ran into each other back in India too before he eventually started seeing each other.

adores his hair. don't touch it without permission.

he can cook but I am not eating it the way he does.

he stress eats but his metabolism just shakes the excess fat off very easily.

gets nervous in crowd.

can't hold his liquor very well as we all have seen.

he is a giggly and insane drunk.

he and sonia love each other of course but thing they don't see eye to eye is lifestyle.

he isn't used to routines and him having adhd doesn't also let him be happy in a routine. she is more leaned into having same routine so it's not a mess.

another reason prateek doesn't believe his dad died of drowning was because he was good swimmer.

he eats the weirdest food combos.

has a very dad coded fb and insta. once g.one took over they got weirder.

can fall asleep anywhere.

often gets scolded, for spending too much time infront of a screen and damaging his already weakening eyesight quicker, by sonia.

he was alive when ra one dumped the car in water, he tried to swim up but his body wasn't capable after the shot it took.

wanted to see prateek one last time as he lost consciousness and eventually his life in the water.

II - ROMANTIC

SFW

makes the first move but messes it up.

buys flowers, books, chocolates.

dances on the street just to make his partner smile.

sings for them whenever he feels or they feel like it.

handmade gifts.

self cooked dinner dates.

long walks as dates.

sleeps as the small spoon.

NSFW

he is service top.

good obidient boy.

really good at eating his partner out.

is shy about being a loud moaner.

whimpers and begs.

likes being overstimulated.

sensitive side of neck and thighs.

----

tags : @mayakimayahai @warnermeadowsgirl @vijayasena @voidsteffy @jkdaddy01 @rambheem-is-real @allari-ammayi @mellaga-karagani @ulaganayagi @ahamasmiyodhah @ranisingnewyetagian @myvarya @toomanyfanficsbruh @harinishivaa @chaliyaaa @tumharisakhi @ramcharantitties

[brb-on-a-quest]

The Toxic relationship between America and England As Told by Me Which Will Have Many Questionable Oversimplifications Due To the Lack of Time I Currently Have Before My Last Final Paper For A Different Class is Due: a story told by me. Tagging @igotthisaccountunderduress bc she asked for this specifically and now must suffer the consequences

Source: My history notes and a chat where I have infodumped all this to my best friend who has somehow still put up with all of my ramblings. If people would like I can and will make a series out of this with more actual research because Damn History is so much more interesting when it's not for the grade and stress and finals (like I love the tea, love the reciepts, but to memorize all of it on top of other things? *stress ensues*

((Under cut))

There was a war. There have been many wars. But during this period of like literally forever ago England, Spain, and France really just couldn't stop bickering at each other like siblings. This became more problematic when Spain started getting Colonies in this New World after the whole Christopher Columbus shenanigans (Fun fact: Isabel and Ferdinand really only sponsored like 20% or 30% of Columbus' original costs; Columbus still had to like find the other major chunk of it through sponsorships and donations). But anyway Columbus Task Failed Successfully and discovers Not India/Spice Islands but ~a whole new world~ (so many more shenanigans with that Columbus had to straight up lie to his crew multiple times to stop mutinies from happening I want to read his diaries at some point bc the more things I hear the more intrigued I get). But anyway Spain gets a lot of shiny new income in plenty of resources, spices, diseases, tomatoes, chocolate, etc.

England and France get jealous. France is like "omg I want some" and they go to Not The Spice Islands via the fabled "Northwest Passage" and get to canada and make bank off fur trading. England however in true Chaotic Sibling Fashion originally goes "why would I need to go over to America when I can just steal from France and Spain"

and thus PIRACYYYYYYY yo ho ho ho and a bottle of rum for meeeee

Spain and France are (unsurprisingly) Not Cool with this whole "sharing is caring" attitude of England and again more wars start. England in the meantime decides it wants to get its stuff together and allows the prototypes of corporations called Joint Stock Companies (basically a bunch of people would share the risks and the reward of running a business) that lead to the Virginia Colony. There were also people who were cashing in royal debts in exchange for land in the new world (the Calverts who started Maryland who wanted to Bring Back The Feudal system and that went so well for them *cough cough*/sarcasm) and a bunch of people who wanted to ability to Practice Their Religion Better than Other People (there was religious persecution when Queen Elizabeth was reigning during the Great Migration of people to America but from my understanding it was more like she didn't care what you did if you were loyal to England but also that is literally only from my professor and I have heard conflicting stories with other professors soooooo take this with a heavy grain of salt).

Anyway now with income coming in from the Americas both Spain and France and England are doing relatively well for themselves. And then guess what happens. Ah yes, more jealous and fighting. In this case, it's over the Ohio Valley Area because both countries wanted to expand their holdings in the new World. Basically this area touched Canada and France is like "C’est à moi" and England's like "GET YOUR TOASTY BAGUETTES AWAY FROM MY LAND" This leads to what we call here the French and Indian War (also called the Seven Years War in Europe I think, a lot of wars have American Names vs European names). Despite being called "The French and Indian War" here, it was fought by England and their Indian Allies and French and their Indian allies. England wins but at what cost?

The cost is money. It's always money. Now everyone has super heavy debt as a sum of like four(five?) wars that are fought in this period of time. England is now trying to raise funds to help get themselves out of the mess they put themselves into. Their solution: make America Pay Rent. Kind of a "we fought this war for *you* actually now give us money for it.

Note: they were only trying to raise part of the money for it via Direct Taxes which are taxes added on top of the price (which btdubs they were paying taxes to England already they were pay just English Version of Taxes which are built into the price so you don't know how much if it is taxes. They were fine with that. They just didn't want extra taxes. So this made them reevaluate their whole relationship with England. It didn't also help that England was starting to revoke some of the major perks like support past the appalachian mountain range, and among other things).

this tulmultuous period can be summed up with (an overgeneralization):

England: *tries to control America over much by being like 'you have to pay taxes on this this and this*

America: fine *just doesn't buy anything from England period until England recants and is like fine you don't have to pay this tax*

England: *plays the jealous girlfriend card* "you can only trade with England!!! No one else!!!

America, the two-timer: *increases smuggling* Also radical terrorists//the sons of liberty start crying for independence (Takes a Long Time For anyone to Listen to them Because Why Would They Rebellion is a stupid idea)

The East India Company thing was such a whole thing that kinda highlights this to an extreme. East India Company was part of the joint stock company that was about to go under because they had taken loans from like literally almost every bank in England. Which if they failed would be REALLY bad news for England. So in an attempt to lower cost, England told East India company that they could bring their tea from india to America directly instead of having to go through british ports as was custom. America took one look at the now So much Cheaper Tea and was like "mmmm sus" and didn't buy it in favor of dutch tea so RIP east India Company. Also Terrorist Group from before burned several of the ships while being disguised as Indians (no one was buying it) and that's what we call the boston tea party. England shut down Boston as they should and basically war ideas were spreading really quickly through new england and further onward (south was less so but they came around).

Anyway. I realize this comes off as very-anti American and it's really not meant to be, both countries were really annoying to each other throughout this whole process. But yeh then theirs gunshots and a declaration of independence and then we barely win by the skin of our teeth (that's mainly bc british merchants were like stop this we can't make money if you're fighting with our best customers at the end) and things get only stranger from there. First modern Democratic Republic so things were bound to get...very wonky.

[queencharlottesheart]

At only eight years old, a young India Amarteifio started her acting career in the West End. She appeared in notable musicals such as The Lion King and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Following this, she transitioned to television acting and starred in projects including Doctor Who, Line of Duty, and Sex Education. Her breakout role eventually came in 2023 following the announcement of a limited Bridgerton spin-off series, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, where Amarteifio played the leading role as a young Queen Charlotte. The success of the series and Amarteifio’s portrayal, which received praise and critical acclaim, quickly made Amarteifio one of 2023's top breakout stars.

[sakuraswordly]

Amy: Tour in Thailand with Anne Boonchuy! Yay! But........It's so HOT!!!

Punch: Why do you sound so happy, Amy? Several parts of India recorded maximum temperatures over 110 degrees Fahrenheit last month. On April 21, people in the eastern city of Bhagdora sweltered as the mercury touched 114.8 degrees. Summer heat hits Asia early, killing dozens as one expert calls it the "most extreme event" in climate history! So......Does anyone have any ice cream or ice shake?

Anne: This place is awesome! Why would you hate it?

Dec: Well....The highest temperature recorded in Asia was 61.36 °C in Multan, Punjab, Pakistan on July 26, 1992. West-central Asia experiences some of the largest diurnal temperature ranges on Earth.......

Punch: Because it is SUPER HOT like a desert!!

Amy: I agree with Punch. I hate this hot "dessert". 

Sonic: At least this place has an ocean. 

Jaq: Not really helping, Sonic.

Anne: Here's a list of the most popular street food dishes, Som tam (ส้มตำ) – Papaya salad, Khao pad (ข้าวผัด) – Fried Rice, Pad thai kung (ผัดไทยกุ้ง) – Noodles with shrimp, Khao mun gai (ข้าวมันไก่) - Steamed chicken on rice, Gai/Moo bing (ไก่/หมูปิ้ง) - Grilled chicken/pork skewers.

Ant: That looks delicious and looking at Gai/Moo bing!

Punch: I'm not interested in that stuff. I saw that every day until is boring.

Dec: How about Khao mun gai?

Punch: Boring.

Anne: What about Som tam? I really like it.

Punch: Passed

Sonic: Why are you so mean to this place anyway, Punch?

Amy: Are you having a bad memory in this place?

Punch: Yes. A lot of boring stuff.

Anne: Hey! Stop that! We must protect our old culture like Thailand's culture and traditionsThey will aim to project a smiling, positive air and avoid displays of emotion such as anger. Politeness and respect for others – particularly elders – is key. All this helps explain the air of calm self-effacement that makes the Thai people so welcoming to visitors!

Punch: I'm not interested.

Jaq: Why every time you need to ruin a mood?

Sonic: every time Punch...... every time.....

Anne: Then what about Hundreds of Thai traditional ice creams made simultaneously with a spinning bucket?

Sonic & Punch: Ice creams! Yay!

Anne: Hey! Are you two listening to me first?!

Ant & Dec: They gone.......

10 minutes later.....

Amy: Thank you......Sonic and Punch.....but.....why are you buying the same taste for me anyway.....? Just only one.....why two?

Punch: In Indonesia also have these like Thailand too. Es goyang is a traditional Indonesian street food usually sold by street vendors on the side of roads. It is usually prepared on the spot, dipped into melted chocolate when it freezes, toppings are also sometimes put onto the es goyang when the chocolate is still liquid.

Amy: Punch! You're very cool! Thanks!

Punch: Did she just say thanks to me???!!!! *Face turning red*

Jaq: Ho...ho....

Anne: Punch......don't tell me....are you two couple?

Sonic: WHAT?!

Punch: Me and Amy we are having nothing about it! We're just friends! Yeah...JUST FRIEND!!

Anne & Jaq: Are you sure about that?

Punch: YES!! I DO NOT LOVE AMY!!

Amy: You and Sonic sure shared the same enthusiasm.

Sonic & Punch: WE'RE NOT!! *Face Turing red with embarrassment*

Amy: Just like Ant and Dec.

Ant & Dec: WE'RE NOT DUMB!

Anne: When did Amy call you a dummy huh?

Tsofph Season 11(Chapter1 Secret Truth of the Past)

Punch: One day like this, I love to share an umbrella with you, Amy.

Amy: And this wish finally be granted.

Punch: Amy...I'm sorry for taking too long to make up my mind.

Amy: It's okay, Punch. I'm so happy to date with you.

Punch: Yeah..... I wish I made up my mind sooner.

Amy: You gain so much courage....you usually run away for me because you're too much shy.

Punch: Wha?! How did you know that I was once a shy person?!

Amy: Just my sense I guess.

Punch: I like everyone, but I don't know....for some reason....I like Amy the most.

Amy: I know you like everyone.....but I love you the most, Sonic. Say....Punch....Can you say it now....that you love me again?

Punch: Of course.  俺は大好きだぜ、エミー.

Amy: I had to make a decision. I decided that I would wait for you forever, no matter how old I became, no matter how old you are. And then... you came back again just like I wish for. Please remember, Punch. We’re all in this together. And I’d really think you’d grow to love them as much as I do.

Source Character:

Amy Rose, a girl who is in love with Sonic and chases Sonic wherever she wants. She calls herself Sonic's girlfriend. She is a lively and cheerful mood-maker and also has a winning spirit and great drive. In an emergency, she can pull out her favorite Piko Piko hammer out of nowhere and perform an action that rivals anyone even Sonic flinches at her sincere feelings. A single-minded girl in love with Sonic who believes that "When you set your heart on something, you go to the ends of the earth!". She continues to pursue her beloved Sonic during her travels and this time, they meet again. Daily, Amy longingly reminisces about the good old days when she would chase after Sonic. However, the sudden appearance of a gigantic flying fortress casts a shadow over her life...

Explanation 16(Analysis)

Amy tries to get shadow out of his usual comfort zone and invite's him to do stuff with her that he probably wouldn't do with other people. Or even when he was getting tickets for her to go to the hot honey concert in the murder of the sonic the hedgehog for her last second birthday present cause he forgot, she wants him to go with her too with her request.

Amy Rose is a cheerful, optimistic go-getter and romantic who wears her heart on her sleeve. She is of pure heart and the strongest of will. This makes her formidable, but it can also leave her a little short-sighted or overbearing, like in her love for Sonic. Amy loves Sonic for who he is and how they resonate. Despite her antics, at the end of the day, her love is honest, true, and all-encompassing. She takes Sonic for better or worse, no matter the package. She wants to journey with him and be his support. She is a dear friend.

Amy is always there waiting for Sonic, and the only thing she asks in return is to go with him. Funnily enough, Amy is not chasing after him like in previous games, instead, she respects Sonic’s decision to not take her with him. Amy is always looking at the brighter side of life. She’s one of the most consistently joyful characters in the series, and she’s always willing to see the good that she senses in others. She can be slightly kooky about matters pertaining to Sonic, she can be suspicious of anyone else who hints at falling for Sonic, she can even let her temper get the better of her now and then, but ultimately, she’s harmless.

“I still can’t believe it’s you inside that… thing! But! No matter the package, you’re still my Sonic, Sonic!” Even as Punch or King Gilgamesh, Amy will treat them like how she treats Sonic. As Amy's pure heart for Sonic Amy can sense "Sonic" and knows he will do the right thing no matter how much appearance. As I mentioned in this hint, Amy considers Sonic's safety and care. In Tsubasa of Phantasia, Amy is like a second mother to Sonic. Amy loved Sonic from the beginning and she was the second character after Tails to teach Sonic and play a large role in his life. As for Shadow, Amy's loving and caring for Shadow still never changes since she's Maria." Shadow, I beg of you! Give them a chance to be happy!" "I Wanna Share That Love With The World, Even If It'll Take Us Far Apart." Amy or Maria was strong in spirit. Eternally cheerful, optimistic and positive despite her condition, Maria could see the good in almost anyone or anything. She was likewise a very kind, loving and generous soul who always put others before herself, supported her friends, and held an unconditional love for the people of the world, even showing compassion towards her enemies when they were distressed. Because she never got down to earth, Maria was very interested in the planet and wished to see it. She was also very encouraging as she could make others accept themselves and calm others down when in stressful situations, including Shadow.

In Tsofph Season 7 and Season 8(Story of Daily Life)

In Tsubasa of Phantasia, Amy and Maria are the same person. Amy is like a second mother to Sonic. Ever since Amy had already made a decision, no matter how she is reborn again, she will be there for both Sonic and Shadow. In the past before being reborn again in an attempt to save Maria's life, Gerald, who was the greatest scientific mind of his time, agreed to work on Project Shadow and success, Maria finally lived a life where she never wanted to do for the first time as "Amy Rose". Without Laphicet helping with Gerald, Maria might never have been alive and reborn as "Amy Rose"; That connects to why Amy was very attarch to Sonic very much. Maria's last request for Shadow to protect the world and its people would be a driving force in the hedgehog's life, which Shadow made the promise to keep despite his loathing of humanity. Maria's most prominent relationship was with Shadow the Hedgehog, a creature created to help make a cure for her illness. Amy still loves Sonic. There's no mention of her loving someone else because Sonic won't get into a relationship with her.

Maria, Laphicet and Shadow were raised alongside each other onboard the ARK and they formed a very close bond, with Maria considering Shadow a brother of sorts. Maria also shared the same dream with him which was to visit Earth, making them kindred spirits in a sense, and they tended to look at the earth from the ARK together and ponder about it. Sharing a mutual compassion for one another, Maria was always concerned for Shadow whenever he expressed confusion over his purpose. But when comes as Amy Rose, for Shadow to let go of his past 100%, Amy and Shadow make a new relationship for the future they can go together and protect Sonic as one of their like family.

Enkidu & Peter: Umm....so that means Amy was...*Smug Face*

Gilgamesh: Me and Amy we are having nothing about it! We're just friends! Yeah...JUST FRIEND!!

Enkidu: So she's not your type....?

Gilgamesh: SHE'S NOT!!! And don't let her see me I beg you!!

Peter: Huh? What about you said---OUCH!!

Gilgamesh: Shut up!!

[rlaehrwks]

About jaggery...

Okay so, random post: I love panela, also known as gur, jaggery and a million other names across both latin america and asia. Why is that? Well, there are multiple reasons, first of which is that it's fucking awesome.

Like, you're telling me that there's this pill paste thing that's made of fucking sugarcane juice, is sweet asf while not being as harmful to your health? Count me in! Plus, it's literally so good, you can make coffee with it, or the most banger hot chocolate you've ever had, or even fucking lemonade which tastes amazing!

There's also the process, it's literally just soakig, boiling, molding and then drying sugarcane! And nothing is lost in the process! The paste thingy is the jaggery itself, the remaining juices, also called melaza, is used as a sweetener that even people with diabetes can use cuz it's 100% natural and also animal supplement (yeah, you heard me right! Animal supplement!), and the sugarcane fiber goes into the furnace as fuel! Nothing is wasted!.

On top of that, it's a point of connection across continents, it's common in both latin america and some parts of asia! It's so cool that we had the same idea even being an ocean apart, and if it's something that the indias brought here or something, then that's just to show that it's become such a staple in the culture over here that it's ingrained in the very soul of the subcontinent! (Like, literally the two biggest producers and consumers of jaggery in the world are India and Colombia, an asian and a latin american country) It feels like we're connected, even across an ocean and half a continent, even across the centuries, millenia even, of history, we still have the same tastes.

Also, spice buddies! We grow spices and get colonized for it! We're practically cousins!

Sending good vibes to all my desi and latino mates wherever you are, we're all together in this to some degree

#420

[paanking]

Visit Paan King Cafe at Our Best Locations to Sort Out Your Cravings For Flavored Paans

A delightful dish is the biggest treat you can give to yourself when a craving hits you badly or cravings just don’t let you sit soulfully. And, Paans can be the decent type of lovely dish to have for your greedy stomach as it is incredibly delicious and can truly cheer up your mood. Well, it not only boosts your mood but even enlightens your taste buds. To add a nut to the paan, there are many flavors available at each of Paan King franchises today, apart from the original flavor. Of course, all are very tasty, mouth-watering and so reasonable.

Paan King, the most incredible cafe, gives you the most flavorful and exquisite tastes. They are having every kind of flavor covered in their collection and would be delivering you the same from the best type of fruits to the best type of ice cream flavors. They also have a prominent collection of flavors like Navratan Paan and many more. You can find a truly huge range of variety on their platform in the collection of several flavors of paan. Not forgetting to mention, Fire paans too. Enjoy flavorsome paans, filled with delightful ingredients.

Paan King has started its franchise in many different parts of India and today it has become the fastest-growing industry with its franchises, opening in almost every state. Let’s have a look at the Top best towns, covered with their taste and flavors.

Srinagar Jammu

Bilaspur(Chhattisgarh)

Rajura (Maharastra)

Subhash Nagar(Jammu)

Bhuj (Gujarat)

Kushinagar(Uttar Pradesh)

Chhindwara(Madhya Pradesh)

Varanasi(Uttar Pradesh)

Visit the Paan King website or their Social Media page to know more about their franchise in your town and maybe, you will explore the best type of dessert of your life from the Paan King platform! You are even free to order these at adequate and affordable prices. Get ready to have the best experience with the best flavor of paan at Paan King and thank us later. Visit its website here:

[floydsmuse]

HAPPY NEW YEARS EVE MEGGY!!!!! I come bearing another basket of thought/thots straight from the pantry (lol).

Lets just say you and Rhett keep a very well stocked collection of books (lol). Rhett is a voracious reader, especially during the winter when there's not alot of chores to be done. He'll eat up books like they're popcorn and it actually got to the point where his room was starting to look like a used bookshop.

One summer, the Duttons came down from Bozeman and Kayce, Rip, Beth, Monica, John and Royal all helped you renovate an abandoned barn on the property just up the little path from the house and my God did that thing need some serious TLC. But by the time you guys were done the very next summer, you had the best little library on the property!

The Cozy Corner was always the first thing you would see when you'd come in and just behind it was the little kitchen area. The corner had a big giant throw rug and a space for the woodstove, a big stretch of window seat with drawers underneath and low stretches of shelves for some of the little, little children's books you've collected from Rhett's childhood. Of course he still has Goodnight Moon, Peter Rabbit and Winnie The Pooh which he passed down to Amy when you guys adopted her, but there's also some little paperbacks there too, such as Matilda, James And The Giant Peach, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and of course, Rhett's absolute favorite, The Indian In The Cupboard. One story that Amy absolutely loves is called She Was Nice To Mice and it's about the little mice that lived in the court of Queen Elizabeth I and all the shenanigans they caused (lol).

Oh but of course there are stacks and stacks and stacks of books on the shelves upstairs that are suited for everybody in the family. Royal absolutely loves reading The Hobbit to the babies and they think it's hilarious that he reminds them so much of Beorn (lol). You guys have all the Lord Of The Rings books complete with the illustrations and everything. During the summer, you and Rhett will read Treasure Island, The Swiss Family Robinson, Robin Hood and Peter Pan to the babies and they absolutely EAT IT UP!! Tatum and Tanner, your twin boys are obsessed with Treasure Island and anything that even remotely resembles The Goonies (lol).

The girls love the Grimm's Fairy Tales even though some of the endings are a little bit above the PG rating, they love Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel. Muchie Lal was always a favorite of theirs which is about a little prince in India who was raised by a nine-headed cobra. Snow White is another favorite of theirs along with The Goose Girl, Diamonds and Toads and The Princess And The Frog. Rhett even managed to get a copy of The Arabian Nights and all the babies love that on top of everything else. The boys can't get enough of Sinbad The Sailor while Aladdin was always a favorite of everyone's (lol).

At Halloween it's almost always Dracula and Frankenstein. The babies might not be at the most appropriate age for it, but you and Rhett couldn't resist when your boys all came running to the cozy corner one day with a copy of Dracula (lol). Rhett will even read them a parody of Goodnight Moon which is called Goodnight Goon and the boys always say goodnight to the monsters under the bed after that (lol).

Dinotopia by James Gurney has always been another favorite of everyone's. The babies love the illustrations in them and how colorful they are and almost always wanna see what it's like to ride on a dinosaur. The babies have even drawn in their own little notebooks as if they were in the world of Dinotopia, pretending to explore and keep track of the dinosaurs and after a while they got really good at it. Even their teachers are a little surprised that they can draw so well at such a young age (I firmly believe that you and Rhett sent the kiddos to one of those hippie schools that emphasizes drawing, outdoor play and all the creative arts, lol).

Meggy there's alot more I could add to this but I don't think I'll have the space for it (lol).

HAPPY NEW YEARS EVE MY DARLING <3 hehe yay! more thoughts & thots :) i can’t wait to read them !!!

~ first, i love wifey & Rhett having a book collection! second, i love Rhett being an avid reader & bookworm! i could honestly see that under the rough & toughened cowboy persona! the winter is certainly the best time to read cause you can just curl up under a bunch of blankets, get cozy, & crack open a good book :) Rhett’s room looking like a little bookshop is the cutest thing i’ve ever read please !!!

~ ooh! i remember you bringing this up over our messages & Mary can i say, it’s the best thought ever!! i love the idea of everyone getting together to renovate the barn into a library! like who wouldn’t want that?! it’s just so awesome☺️ lovin’ the name the Cozy Corner! the way you described it sounds so warm & homey :,) the kids books! OMG! i remember Goodnight Moon, Peter Rabbit, & Winnie the Pooh so vividly!! such staples in my growing up🥹 Matilda still remains one of my favorite films of all time & i enjoyed the book too! Charlie & the Chocolate factory being Rhett’s fav just makes so much sense to me ?! idk, but it def works! ahh! The Indian in the Cupboard makes me think about elementary school !! i miss being little haha :)

~ you already know how I feel about Lord of the Rings! im a huge fan hehe🤭 & i love that it’s included in their book collection! also love that Royal reads the Hobbit to the babies & i could even picture him doing different voices for each of the characters 🤣 he could do a spot on impression of Gandalf, mark my words! the twins & Rhett being super into Treasure Island is just so great too !! Robin Hood & Peter Pan are such classics & absolutely essential to the collection :)

~ yess! the Grimm Fairytales are just awesome & i really love all the different princess stories !! ooh Dracula & Frankenstein during Halloween time couldn’t be more perfect! i also imagine all the kids getting together to read spooky stories & cuddle up like a bunch of scaredy cats when they hear a noise, but it’s only because they are literally in an old barn & it’s destined to make all sorts of creaky sounds😭 haha! Goodnight Goon i’ve heard of, it definitely sounds cute! & aww, the boys saying goodnight to the monsters under their bed is so adorable! :,)

~ Dinotopia sounds really cool! i actually had to look it up real quick to see what it was all about & i have to say, the illustrations are just incredible! i could see why they would love the book so much!! the babies getting into drawing because of this story?! Mary! that is so sweet 🥹 the hippie school thing is soo true! i could totally picture Rhett & wifey sending the kids to it!! hehehe!

Mary, thank you so much for these lovely little thoughts! they brightened my day & i just loved reading them like always 🥰 i hope you have a wonderful New Year’s Eve my love! 💗

[industryinsights01]

How use of flavoured condoms helps to make your intimate moments more fun?

The condom is frequently thought of as being only for insertion. Condoms can now be used to spice up romantic relationships, despite the fact that they were originally only intended to prevent unintended pregnancy and STDs.

We’re discussing flavoured condoms, specifically Playgard condoms that you can buy condoms online too!

Their flavoured condoms are readily available in condom store online. If a fresh condom is used for every act, they have a variety of flavours that can be used for both oral sex and intercourse.

Many people are still unaware of the Playgard-flavored condom’s incredible value despite its many advantages. That is why it is India’s number one condom brand’s responsibility to deliver you!

What are Flavoured Condoms?

STD prevention

STDs are easily transmitted via oral sex. Because mucous membranes, like genitals, are present in the mouth, many STDs are easily transmitted through oral sex. To be safe, it is critical to use condoms. Flavoured condoms are designed specifically for adults who enjoy oral sex.

Flavored condoms like chocolate flavor condoms and more will add excitement and versatility to your lovemaking while also making it fun to follow important sex safety guidelines.

Open it carefully

Take extra care not to tear the condom. Avoid tearing it open carelessly out of passion or in the midst of an emotional storm. To open it, do not use scissors, teeth, or anything sharp.

Learn how to properly role

Make sure you know how to roll a condom; this is especially important if you’re in a dark room. Feel how it’s rolled, then put one hand on each side and pinch the rolled ring of your condom between your thumb and fingers. Then, with your fingers, roll the condom in one direction; if it does not roll, this is not the direction; try the other side.

Alert for erection

The condom will be useless if your “little commando” is not paying attention. It should fit well and not have any baggy spots.

Because oral sex with a condom can cause it to tear, it is critical that you have an extra one on hand if you intend to have intercourse. It is critical that you use a condom when having oral sex.

If someone tells you that you don’t need protection while having oral sex, don’t believe them. This is a dangerous misconception that can lead to the spread of STDs. Playgard flavoured condoms- one of the top condom brands in India are designed to spice up your lovemaking while keeping you safe.

So now you know why you should use flavoured condoms, so get your pack and spice it up today!

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 2.25

Holidays

Armed Forces Day (Dominican Republic)

Big Bang Theory Day

Choiseul Province Day (Solomon Islands)

Colt Revolver Day

Commedia dell’Arte Day

Coronado Day (Mexico)

Cuddle Day

Dag van de Revolutie (Day of Liberation and Innovation; Suriname)

Dance of the Secret Places

Day of Liberation and Innovation (Suriname)

Deinonychus Day

DNA Discovery Day

EDSA Revolution Day (Philippines)

Februaristaking (Netherlands)

Flag Day (Bangladesh)

George Harrison Day

Gray Day (Scotland)

High Five Day

Imam Ali Day (Iran)

International Cochlear Implant Day

Ireland Reads Day (Ireland)

Italian Buckthorn Day (French Republic)

Meher Baba Day

Memorial Day for the Victims of the Communist Dictatorships (Hungary)

National Billy Day

National Day (Kuwait)

National Don't Utter a Word Day

National Jessica Day

National Kathy Day

National Masturbation Day (Poland)

National Nicholas Day

National radio Day (Thailand)

National Reparations Awareness Day

Peace Memorial Holiday (Taiwan)

People Power Day (Anniversary of EDSA Revolution; Philippines)

Pistol Patent Day

Revolution Day (Suriname)

Russian Warship GFY Day

Quiet Day

Sister Wendy Day

Soviet Occupation Day (Georgia)

Time of the Old Woman begins (until March 4)

Tristan da Cunha (a.k.a. Queen’s Day, Saint Helena)

Women’s Day (Iceland)

World Bookmark Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Chocolate-Covered Peanuts Day

Let's All Eat Right Day

National Chocolate-Covered Nuts Day

National Chocolate-Covered Peanuts Day

National Clam Chowder Day

National Muffin Day

Tastykake Day

4th & Last Sunday in February

College Goal Sunday [Last Sunday]

Freedom Sunday [Last Sunday]

National Woman’s Day (original date; 1909) [Last Sunday]

Weekly Holidays beginning February 25 (4th Week)

Peace Corp Week [thru 3.2]

Telecommuter Appreciation Week [thru 3.2]

Independence & Related Days

Choiseul Province Day (Solomon Islands)

Kuwait (from UK, 1961)

Pigeon Island (Declared; 2022) [unrecognized]

Texas Independence Day Celebration, Day 1 (of 2; Texas)

Festivals Beginning February 25, 2024

Popsicle Bridge Contest (Richmond, Virginia)

Tampa Bay Jewish Food Festival (Tampa Bay, Florida)

Feast Days

Æthelberht of Kent (1st Christian Anglo-Saxon King) [current date]

Anthony Burgess (Writerism)

Bd Robert of Arbrissel (Christian; Saint)

Burke Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Caesarius, Physician of Constantinople (Christian; Saint)

Ciriaco María Sancha y Hervás (Positivist; Blessed)

Dance of the Secret Places (Shamanism)

Day of Mut (Mother Goddess; Ancient Egypt)

Elizabeth Fedde (Lutheran Church)

Ethelbert of Kent (Christian; Saint)

Feast of Fflur (Celtic Book of Days)

Feast of the Blessed Regina Marriam of Vattalil (India)

Feast of Montu (Egyptian Falcon-Headed War God; Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Feast of the Stinky Butts

Festival of Ptah (Ancient Egypt)

Gerland of Agrigento (Christian; Saint)

Giuseppe De Nittis (Artology)

Hare Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Hermie (Muppetism)

Jacques Philippe Caresme (Artology)

John Roberts, writer and missionary (Christian; Saint)

Kitano Baika-sai (Plum Blossom Festival; Kyoto, Japan; Shinto)

Maria Adeodata Pisani (Positivist; Blessed)

Media Hiems I (Pagan)

Octopus Enjoyment Day (Pastafarian)

Pierre-Auguste Renoir (Artology)

2nd Sunday in Lent (a.k.a. ... 

Reminiscere Sunday

The Transfiguration

Tarasius, Patriarch of Constantinople (Christian; Saint)

Victornius and six companions (Christian; Martyrs)

Virgil (Positivist; Saint)

Walpurga (Christian; Saint; she was canonised on 5.1 c. 870 and Walpurgis Night is celebrated 4.30) [Crops]

Wendy Beckett (Christian; Sister) [Art]

Wenchang Wang Day (Chinese God of Literature)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Butsumetsu (仏滅 Japan) [Unlucky all day.]

Fortunate Day (Pagan) [9 of 53]

Premieres

Belle Epoque (Film; 1994)

Boat Builders (Disney Cartoon; 1938)

Boom at the Top or Bullwinkle Loses His Head (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S5, Ep. 259; 1964)

Boris Talks to Himself or Mockingbird Heel (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S5, Ep. 260; 1964)

Born to Peck (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1952)

The Bourne Ultimatum, by Robert Ludlum (Novel; 1990)

Broom-Stick Bunny (WB LT Cartoon; 1956)

Camelot (TV Series; 2011)

The Carnival of the Animals, by Camille Saint-Saëns (Musical Suite; 1922)

The Cat Above and the Mouse Below (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 1964)

Count Screwloose and J.R. the Wonder Dog (MGM Cartoon; 1939)

DC Showcase: The Phantom Stranger (WB MM Cartoon; 2020)

Drive Angry (Film; 2011)

Gold Rush Daze (WB MM Cartoon; 1939)

Hall Pass (Film; 2011)

Henry IV, Part 1, by William Shakespeare (Play; 1598)

In the Name of the Father (Film; 1993)

The Lady Eve (Film; 1941)

Little Earthquakes, by Tori Amos (Album; 1992)

Modern Times (Film; 1936)

The Mouse on 57th Street (WB MM Cartoon; 1961)

On the Beach, by Nevil Shute (Novel; 1957)

Ooooooohhh… On the TLC Tip, by TLC (Album; 1992)

The Passion of the Christ (Film; 2004)

Phoney Booths, Parts 1 & 2 (Underdog Cartoon, S3, Eps. 37 & 38; 1967)

Please Please Me, by The Beatles (US Song; 1963)

Reindeer Games (Film; 2000)

Rubber Duckie, sung by Ernie (Song; 1970)

Slap Shot (Film; 1977)

Soldiers' Pay, by William Faulkner (Novel; 1926)

Songs from the Big Chair, by Tears for Fears (Album; 1985)

Superman: Red Son (WB Animated Film; 2020)

Synchronicity: An Acausal Connecting Principle, by Carl Jung (Science Book; 1952)

Ten Summoner’s Tales, by Sting (Album; 1993)

Terror Island (Animated TV Show;Jonny Quest #24; 1965)

That’ll Be the Day, recorded by Buddy Holly (Song; 1957)

Vikings: Valhalla (TV Series; 2022)

Wonder Boys (Film; 2000)

Yes Minister (UK TV Series; 1980)

Your Show of Shows (TV Series; 1950)

Today’s Name Days

Walburga (Austria)

Berislav, Hrvoje, Nestorije (Croatia)

Liliana (Czech Republic)

Victorinus (Denmark)

Tormi, Tuule, Tuuli, Tuulike (Estonia)

Tuija, Tuire, Vanessa (Finland)

Roméo (France)

Edeltraud, Walburga (Germany)

Riginos, Tarasios, Tarsi (Greece)

Mátyás (Hungary)

Cesario, Costanza, Vittorino (Italy)

Alma, Grants, Zalga (Latvia)

Margiris, Rasa, Regimantas, Viktoras (Lithuania)

Viktor, Viktoria (Norway)

Bolebor, Cezary, Konstancjusz, Maciej, Małgorzata, Modest, Nicefor (Poland)

Tarasie (Romania)

Frederik (Slovakia)

Donato, Valerio (Spain)

Sigvard, Sivert (Sweden)

Artema, Artemis, Welden, Weldon (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 56 of 2024; 310 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 7 of week 8 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Nuin (Ash) [Day 8 of 28]

Chinese: Month 1 (Bing-Yin), Day 16 (Ji-Wei)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025)

Hebrew: 16 Adair I 5784

Islamic: 15 Sha’ban 1445

J Cal: 26 Grey; Fryday [26 of 30]

Julian: 11 February 2024

Moon: 98%: Waning Gibbous

Positivist: 28 Homer (2nd Month) [Virgil]

Runic Half Month: Tyr (Cosmic Pillar) [Day 2 of 15]

Season: Winter (Day 67 of 89)

Week: 4th Week of February

Zodiac: Pisces (Day 7 of 30)

[rabbitcruiser]

National Hot Chocolate Day 

Made with creamy milk and yummy cocoa, this sugary sweet treat is delicious when enjoyed by itself, or can be a great basic recipe that can then be used to get creative with by adding unique flavors, spices and even liqueurs.

Oh the joy of a cup of steamy hot chocolate on a cold winter day! Hot chocolate provides a delicious and sweet treat that warms the body and the heart.

It’s time to learn more about and celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day!

History of National Hot Chocolate Day

Hot chocolate has a long and delightful history that goes along with the history of the cacao bean. In fact, the first way that chocolate was enjoyed was as a beverage, although quite different from the way people drink hot chocolate today. When cacao beans were first used by ancient people groups, the beans were likely ground coarsely and placed in hot water to create a bitter drink that was used in religious ceremonies.

As chocolate beans and sugar both became more accessible in Europe, the cocoa solids were then used to make chocolate bars and chocolate candies. But a favorite continues to be the warm, sweet milky beverage that is known as hot chocolate!

By 1828, powdered chocolate was made that made it much easier to stir into milk. And when Nesquik was invented in 1948, the first chocolate milk powder made a quick and tasty addition to milk that could also be heated up into hot chocolate.

National Hot Chocolate Day was established to show appreciation for and encourage the celebration of this delicious drink that soothes and comforts the youngest and oldest of souls – and everyone in between!

National Hot Chocolate Day Timeline

1500 BC Earliest traces of cocoa beans

The Olmec, Mayan and Aztec peoples all may have incorporated chocolate drink into their religious ceremonies.

1657 London opens its first chocolate house

Near Bishop’s Gate, a Frenchman opens the first house serving “an excellent West India drink”.

1968 The band ‘Hot Chocolate’ is formed

This band from the UK brings an eclectic mix of reggae, soul, rock and disco over the next several decades. 

2004 Starbucks begins serving hot chocolate

Catering to those non-coffee drinkers, the coffee mogul places hot chocolate on their menu. 

2004 Polar Express film features hot chocolate

The train taking children to the North Pole serves hot chocolate along with a delightful song. 

How to Celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day

Anyone can join in on the fun and celebration of National Hot Chocolate Day, whether keeping it simple or making a big deal out of it! Take a look at some of these fun ways to bring joy and delight in honor of the day:

Enjoy a Cup of Hot Chocolate

Whether using a powdered mix, making it at home from scratch or going out to a coffee shop, the most important task of the day is to drink and enjoy a delicious cup of toasty hot chocolate. The easiest way, of course, is to add a pre-made mix to hot milk, stir it up and drink. Adding marshmallows or whipped cream on top can turn it into an extra delicious treat.

For a more sophisticated hot chocolate drink in honor of National Hot Chocolate Day, try using an online recipe that is often used in many different coffee shops and cafes. Typically, these recipes will include whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, bittersweet or semisweet chocolate and vanilla extract. The ingredients are mixed together, cooked on the stove, melted and whisked to a creamy hot chocolate perfection.

Learn the Health Benefits of Hot Chocolate

Although the most popular versions of hot chocolate typically do contain quite a bit in the form of sugars and carbs, some homemade varieties that contain actual dark chocolate and milk (or plant-based milks) can provide some interesting health benefits. Check out some of these ways that hot chocolate might be good for you:

Good for heart health

Brain power booster

Rich in antioxidants

Helps with the memory

According to Harvard research, hot chocolate contains flavanols and phytosterols, which are able to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood, which can be an indicator of heart disease. Plus, the antioxidants are helpful in the fight against heart disease as well.

Scientific research suggests that the flavanols in cocoa tend to increase the brain’s oxygen levels and activate neurons at a higher rate – equaling better brain performance and improved cognitive function.

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, like polyphenols and flavonoids, which can help reduce the negative impact of aging, as well as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

One study has shown that drinking hot cocoa twice a day could not only give a memory boost, but may also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in some people.

Get Creative with Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is certainly tasty when it is enjoyed on its own, but it also offers a ton of options when new varieties are made with just a bit of creative flair in the kitchen! Check out some of these ideas for taking National Hot Chocolate Day to the next level:

Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate. Cinnamon, chili powder and dark chocolate turn this hot chocolate drink into something extra special.

Hot Chocolate with Peppermint. This one can be made using either peppermint flavored extract or with chopped up peppermint sticks or peppermint candies.

Boozy Pumpkin Hot Chocolate. Add some pumpkin pie spice to a hot chocolate recipe and then toss in a bit of winter warmth using Kahlua, bourbon, peppermint schnapps or a bit of cinnamon whiskey.

Nutella or Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate. One fun and easy way to add a bit of flavor to hot chocolate is to simply stir in a scoop of peanut butter or Nutella to give a smooth and creamy flavor. This is a fun one that kids can easily take part in as well!

Gift Some Hot Chocolate to Loved Ones

Perhaps National Hot Chocolate Day is a time to not only enjoy some hot chocolate on your own, but to spread the love and cheer by sharing in the day with some friends, coworkers or family members. It could be something as simple as surprising a coworker with a cup of hot chocolate picked up from the local coffee shop on the way to work.

Or maybe celebrating the day means creating special handmade packets of hot chocolate mix. Put them in decorative bags, add some candy kisses or peppermint disks and place it inside of a cute new hot chocolate mug. Make it special by tying a little colorful ribbon around the gift or placing a bow on top, just for this fun and festive occasion.

National Hot Chocolate Day FAQs

Is hot chocolate good for you?

Hot chocolate made with real chocolate contains flavonoids and antioxidants which may be healthy, but it also can have a lot of sugar and carbs. 

How much caffeine is in hot chocolate?

Powdered hot chocolate mixes may contain from 0-5mg of caffeine while hot chocolate made with real cocoa powder may have up to 25mg of caffeine.

How to make hot chocolate?

Hot chocolate can easily be made by heating up milk and adding cocoa powder, sugar and melted chocolate.

Does Starbucks have hot chocolate?

Most Starbucks stores serve hot chocolate made with milk and chocolate syrup. 

Does hot chocolate help you sleep?

The milk and cocoa in hot chocolate may be soothing and help you to fall asleep. 

Source

[my-deer-friend]

Thanks for the tag, @nordleuchten!

Song stuck in my head: Battle Cries by Amazing Devil, because damn.

Favourite colour: The blue-green of the sea just before a storm. Also all colours.

Last song I listened to: Tear You Apart by She Wants Revenge

Three favourite foods: This answer changes with the tides. Today's menu includes pierogi, grilled artichokes and very smelly, very melty camembert on sourdough.

Last thing I googled: "sulivan" born 1750 india (in search of a historical gay fella)

Dream trip: So many, though I am taking one of them - a long-awaited one-way journey - at the end of April. Other than that, I have a ludicrous three-month US dream holiday fully planned in my mind - from NYC all the way down to Charleston, seeing every possible history thing on the way and then crashing someone's Thanksgiving dinner.

Something I want right now: A hot chocolate (we're out 😭) and a week of leave to get on top of my life admin.

Tagging @miracle-girll, @ouiouixmonami, @kiliane, @that-redredwhite, @ovrarches

[catdotjpeg]

The top executive for San Jose’s police union imported synthetic opioids over an eight-year period to orchestrate a national drug ring that disguised packages of pills as wedding gifts, makeup and chocolate, federal officials said Wednesday.

Joanne Marian Segovia, the 64-year-old executive director of the San Jose Police Officers’ Association, used her home computer and police union equipment to facilitate the mailing of the synthetic opioids, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The drug smuggling allegedly took place from October 2015 to January 2023, with Segovia facilitating more than 60 shipments from Hong Kong, Hungary, India and Singapore.

In a three-and-a-half-year period ending in January, officials allegedly intercepted five shipments to Segovia that contained thousands of pills, including synthetic opioids Tramadol and Tapentadol... 

Segovia allegedly used the encrypted messenger WhatsApp to handle logistics, exchanging hundreds of messages with someone using a phone with an India country code. The messages—containing shipping and payment details, pictures and receipts—continued into this month even after federal investigators interviewed Segovia in February, prosecutors said.

On March 13, federal agents in Kentucky seized a package that contained valeryl fentanyl and was addressed to Segovia, officials said. The package originated from China and the contents were listed as a “clock.”

Segovia was charged with attempting to unlawfully import valeryl fentanyl, according to a complaint that was unsealed Tuesday. The complaint alleges Segovia was apprehended as part of an ongoing Homeland Security investigation into controlled substances being shipped into the Bay Area from abroad.

Will Edelman, an attorney listed for Segovia in court records, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Edelman previously worked as a federal prosecutor in the same U.S. Attorney’s Office that charged Segovia, according to his LinkedIn profile.

The complaint against Segovia said that she told federal investigators she had nothing to do with the drug smuggling and blamed the shipments of pills on a woman she identified “as a family friend and housekeeper.”

Segovia allegedly told investigators that after their February meeting, she realized “like a light bulb” that it must be this unnamed woman who smuggled the drugs.

However, the complaint casts doubt on Segovia’s statements and includes photos that she allegedly sent to a collaborator. One image shows a computer with police union work materials in view and another shows her signature on a packing slip sent from the police union address. 

Tom Saggau, a spokesperson for the San Jose Police Officers' Association, said the union became aware of the alleged crimes on Friday and has been cooperating with federal authorities. He added that Segovia had no role in handling financials for the organization and was not involved in decisions about the organization’s stance on police issues.

“No one at the POA is involved or had prior knowledge of the alleged acts,” Saggau said. “The POA immediately placed the civilian employee on leave and as is standard procedure cut off all access to the POA. The board of directors is saddened and disappointed at hearing this news, and we have pledged to provide our full support to the investigative authorities.”

-- “SJ Police Union Exec Accused of Smuggling Drugs as Wedding Gifts, Chocolate” by Josh Koehn for The San Francisco Standard, 29 Mar 2023

[Image ID: A person wears a San Jose police jacket during a press conference outside of the San Jose Police Department. End ID.]