#Waterproof Beach Blanket

[everlastingupper]

Elevate Your Beach Experience with Everlasting Upper's Waterproof Beach Blanket

Immerse yourself in worry-free beach days with our premium blanket, expertly crafted to repel water and provide a dry haven on the sand. Our unique waterproof design ensures waves and sea breezes won't disrupt your seaside activities. Stylish and durable, it's perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or entertainment. Accommodating your entire beach crew, its portability adds convenience. At Everlasting Upper, where quality meets functionality, enjoy a summer of tranquility. Dive into worry-free beach moments – order your waterproof beach blanket online and let the soothing waves embrace you.

[mvngo-muffin]

[ picnics with ➼ txt ]

a/n: hey! i've been mia for months, sorry...things have been hectic. but i'm trying to get back into writing! fyi yeonjun's is heavily inspired by "let's go picnic" by george!

genre: fluff

pairing : txt x f!reader

warnings : none!

soobin ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

you were both set to go for a day trip to the beach tomorrow, and he knew this would be the perfect way to end the day together

he spent the day preparing foods that were easy to transport to the beach: gimbap, cut fruit, small sandwiches

he arranged the food neatly into boxes and packed it into a cooler the next morning without you knowing

after a long day of swimming, playing in the sand, and enjoying the warmth, the two of you went to wash up

as you showered, soobin set up the blanket with the food and some flowers he had bought

"y/n, are you done?" he asked, peeking into the room you two had rented for the day

"yup! let's go find a dinner place." you replied, walking out of the room and back onto the beach

you gasped at the spread in front of you, the evening sun setting in an array of colors behind it

"soob, what's all this?"

"just for you," he responded, holding onto your hand as you made your way to the blanket for dinner

yeonjun ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

yeonjun was packing up after practice, sighing in exhaustion

he hadn't seen you in so long; he really missed you

he slipped his headphones on as he left, a song beginning to play

let's go picnic, with a girlfriend the lyrics sang to him

it was as if a light bulb went off

he rushed out of the practice room and made his way to the nearest market, picking up precut strawberries and clementines, sandwiches, some soda, and of course, a small cake

groceries secured, he called you from the car, making sure you were at home

he reached your house and rang your doorbell, immediately engulfing you in a tight hug when you answered the door

"what are you doing here, jun?"

"thought we could have a nighttime picnic in your backyard," he responded, pulling away from the hug and showing you the bag

you spent the rest of the night curled up in blankets, eating your snacks, and watching the stars with the love of your life

beomgyu ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

it was finals season, and you had been busy with work and school for weeks

every night, you'd come home exhausted, and beomgyu felt bad asking you to go out on a date after you were so tired

you had sent him a tiktok a few days ago of a couple out on a date for a picnic, and he decided that even if you both couldn't go to the beach or lake, you'd have a picnic regardless

he spent the day preparing food: chocolate covered strawberries, your favorite sandwiches, and even some homemade brownies

about 30 mins before you got home, the sun was already setting...and it was raining (gyu forgot to check the forecast..)

but nevertheless! he persisted, and set up a blanket and cushions on the (covered) porch along with candles and the food

the moment you got home, he rushed you to change into your comfortable clothes, telling you to wear something warm

he brought you to the misty backyard porch, and you were overwhelmed with love at the effort he had put into the picnic

you both settled down, enjoying the food and the sound of the rain, cuddling together as you kissed his cheek every five minutes out of gratitude

"thank you, gyu"

"what's to thank me for? if my girl wants a picnic date, she's getting one"

taehyun ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

saw some couple on a picnic while driving by, and knew he had to do it with you

(he actually has a note on his phone of date ideas to do with you)

would prepare for days for the picnic, making sure he has all of your favorite foods and snacks ready

makes more food than needed, and even bakes a small cake for the two of you

neatly organizes everything in a cute basket

comes prepared with a waterproof picnic blanket, sweatshirts, and tons of napkins

luckily, the day of the date is warm and sunny! you both spend the afternoon by a river, soaking in the sun and each other's company

the date is full of giggles and reminiscing on memories while wrapped up in taehyun's strong arms

as you watch the sunset before packing up, he leaves a peck on your head and whispers a sweet, "i love you"

hueningkai ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

so excited when he sees the date idea on social media!

goes all out and makes strawberry sandwiches, onigiri with little penguin faces on them, apples cut to look like rabbits, etc...

packs everything in bento boxes and grabs a picnic blanket before impulsively going to your house, texting you a short, "come outside"

you're surprised to see him, bags in hand, as you leave your home

"kai, what are you doing?"

"taking you on the cutest date"

the two of you walk over to a park nearby your home and settle down near a small pond, enjoying the food and throwing breadcrumbs to the geese

kai looks at you, adoration in his eyes and makes sure to take some photos of you feeding the birds to save for himself

you both talk about anything and everything, and pack up a few hours later, heading back home, hand in hand

[madamadragon]

How to be beautiful while suffering to impress your lover(s): a Li Xiangyi guide

N.1 wear waterproof makeup and sweat a little while they're about to roast you, your boyfriend will burst into the room and save you

N.2 take a nap covered in dirt and blood with an angelic expression on your face surrounded by zombies, your boyfriend and ex-husband will worry about you

N.3 keep your cool while getting strangled trying to fight the enemy, your boyfriend will see you and save you

N.4 spit blood and pass out prettly, your boyfriend will immediately run to you

N.5 tell your ex husband you're sick and can't fight with him, he will pin you to the wall in concern

N.6 shiver in the cold gracefully, your boyfriend will cover you with a blanket

Bonus. Fake your death for 3 months and meet your boyfriend and ex husband on the beach wearing a Gucci fur coat beautifully

(thanks to the people who made the GIFS, love you❤️)

@lilianhuas

[differenteagletragedy]

omg.. for the holidays, the olba poly boys and mc go on a nice cruise together. cove is at the food places 24/7 derek is swimming and playing the sports stuff, baxter is taking those dance classes with mc. please hear me out.

Oh how fun!!!

-- Lollllll Cove at the food places, you know he would! He's going to have a bellyache the whole time.

-- Except he won't because Derek is there, and Derek is going to tell him to take it easy. He also packed some tummy meds too because he knows how Cove is and everyone saw his coming a mile away.

-- Personally I love sporty Cove, so he'd also take some time to play stuff with Derek. You and Baxter like to watch Cove and Derek be sporty together, so that's a fun activity for you guys too!

-- It doesn't even have to be on the cruise, like Derek asks Cove if he wants to go kick around a soccer ball one afternoon, and you and Baxter don't even have to be invited, you just start packing a few things and they're like "???" but then you get to the park together and you and Baxter just set up a blanket and some snacks near the field.

-- What if Derek convinces Baxter to try a sporty thing with him because it's a cruise and it's a special occasion?! You're out on the ocean with a bunch of strangers, no one is going to know Baxter. It'll be fine if he borrows a little athletic shirt (well, it's little on Derek, pretty fitted, but it'll hang on Baxter) and some shorts (Derek is going to have to help him tie that drawstring tight, he is skinny boy) and does an activity.

-- I pulled up an itinerary, looks like some cruises have mini golf too! Everyone can play mini golf! Baxter is going to cheat though, so keep an eye on him.

-- Or you probably don't need to, because Cove will. And if he catches him then boy is he going to be in trouble.

-- Also it looks like most cruises that leave from California go somewhere in Mexico, so that's fun! You can go to an island! Forget the buffets (for just a moment, anyway), this is Cove's favorite place.

-- Oh man you're on some island, not your usual beach in Sunset Bird, and it's such a magical experience. Everyone is feeling extra happy and cozy, and Baxter lets Cove take him out a little farther in the ocean than he usually does.

-- Derek is taking pictures, he's got a little waterproof thing for his phone.

-- Everybody's sitting on the beach, taking it in, feeling all romantic, and Baxter goes, "If you were a mermaid, what would you want to look like?"

Cove: *explains with not a single nanosecond of hesitation*

You and Derek: *secret fist bump*

-- Baxter is going to be dancing with all three of you and he's going to be the happiest guy in the world.

-- Did he make everybody pack their formal clothes? You already know he did.

-- You know when you go on a trip with a group and there's always that one person that knows everything that's going on and has a schedule and tries to stick with it? That's Derek. Make him let loose.

-- It's such a special experience, you decide to make going on cruises a semi-regular thing!

Derek: Maybe next time we can fly out to the east coast and do one in the Bahamas or something!

Cove: And get lost in the Bermuda triangle? No thanks.

You: Cove, I don't think that's --

Cove: No.

Baxter: Perhaps an Alaskan cruise? See the northern lights?

Cove: *scoffs* Yeah, we'll go on vacation and get eaten by bears, Baxter, sounds like a blast.

Derek: ... We could do this cruise again.

Cove: *smug* Now you're talking.

[madhattersez]

I finally got my hands on something I've been looking for (for a reasonable price) since I was just a lowly little level 12 hornball - A "Marvel Swimsuit Special!"

This is the second issue in the series (though the third book of its kind), and it was released in 1993 when... times were different.

The coolest thing about them (other than the totally radical '90s hunkeroos and baberinos in general) is the amount of really talented artists that submitted pieces - So many industry-leading folks putting their spin on the self-aware, low-brow, tongue-in-cheek project.

This first image was by Joe Jusko, a super popular cover artist at the time. I remember his Conan covers the most.

I'll eventually scan the whole thing in high quality, but for now, I'll take some preview pics to show you some of my favorite and/or goofiest pages:

Here is Domino, looking like we might need to race her to a Dermatology appointment. She's apparently tacky enough to wear a swimsuit with a domino print on it.

And check out Cable in the back - Sun's out, cyberbun out! He's ready to catch some waves on a totally-worth-the-money-and-production-time rocket-powered machine gun surfboard.

I really appreciate this artist's commitment to all the "Liefeld pouches" here. I hope they're waterproof, or all those Tic Tacs inside 'em are gonna get ruined. :(

Penciling by Chris Batista, ink by Hector Collazo, coloring by Mark McNaab.

Let's kick off the "after the jump" part properly with this glorious image of Pip. Because this is certainly what people bought this book for.

It just so happens that this fuzzy little asshole narrates the entire issue, so he's to blame for the inherently sexist captions on all the pictures.

Jesus Christ, he's got two big toes on each foot.

Pencilking by Darick Robertson, ink by Andrew Pepoy, coloring by Tom Smith.

I love me some Cloak and Dagger.

Tandy looks as gorgeous as ever. Surely she owns stock in boobie tape by now.

Tyrone, however, is getting so much sand stuck to him right now... I don't think he digs being used as a beach blanket. I'm... not even sure he's ever had to wash his cloak before today! Yikes. He's all like:

Penciling by Joe Madureira, ink by Terry Austin, and coloring by Gregory Wright.

I can't stop laughing at how much Thunderstrike looks exactly like the Genetic Freak, Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner in this picture:

The work is entirely by Lou Harrison. It may not surprise you to learn he's also a Fantasy artist.

I've always had a thing for Silver Sable, and this page is just fantastic.

That being said, my favorite part is Sandman sitting there, looking like a dope, shaped like a sand castle. Which, while it seems silly, was probably the most challenging and detailed thing I've ever seen him do with his powers. Worth it for the shot, I suppose!

Line work and ink by Steven Butler, a favorite of mine. He did penciling for the "Silver Sable and the Wild Pack" series (which got me attached), but he's also known for designing the Scarlet Spider suit. Coloring by Gregory Wright.

If you thought I wasn't going to Morb out on this post, you were undead wrong.

Just look at that ridiculous batpackage. Also... Is he really serving a cape over a leather jacket, but with absolutely no pants? Damn, dude.

Penciling by Gary Barker, ink by Jimmy Palmiotti, coloring by Tom Smith.

I can spot Adam Hughes' work a mile away, wow. I guess I didn't realize he was doing work for Marvel this far back.

A fierce-as-ever, short-haired Natasha who looks like she got slammed so hard against a rocky wall that it cracked, got up, emptied out the rest of her clip, and still had enough time and energy to pose during a reload.

Black Widow, bay-bayyy. ♫

Oh my god, Ghost Rider is just so naughty. Wearing nothing but his birthday bones.

This scene just looks like it smells awful.

Artwork by Tristan Shane.

Shulkie in a metal bikini (function over fashion?), bursting out of the lava from an active volcano. You wanna talk "hot tub?" Sure, this gets a feature.

Penciling and ink by cover artist Steve Geiger, coloring by Paul... Mounts.

Deezamn, Bishop. Never seen guy looking so buff before.

Instead of just Bishop, this looks like Hank McCoy and Bishop had a child together. Does he have any other mode than "arm vein p-pop?"

Penciling by Dwayne Turner, ink by Mark Farmer, coloring by Gregory Wright.

Ah, one of the more famous '90s Psylocke images that wasn't done by Jim Lee.

This centerfold was used in lots of comic store ads for several years after this issue came out. I remember seeing posters in the shops themselves. Trading cards of this picture are one of the most costly to collect.

It's beautiful, and the colors/lighting/shading are all fantastic.

Penciling and ink by the wonderful Art Thibert, creator of the Raft max security prison and inker of some of the most iconic X-title covers.

Coloring by Paul Mounts, who did the coloring in hundreds and hundreds of just Marvel comics alone - I didn't mention that earlier because I was snickering at his name earlier in the She-Hulk feature. My bad.

Well, this wouldn't be Tumblr without a cat picture, yeah? Or a catgirl picture, I suppose.

This is the most adorable scene in the book. Just Tigra innocently taking a cuddle nap with some... um... wow, I don't know what the fuck those things are. Snuggle up anyway!

Penciling and ink by Amanda Conner, coloring by Gregory Wright.

Huh. Of all the characters in this book, I really didn't expect to see Dr. Cooper... Either which way, the swimsuit under the detective get-up is pretty choice, honestly.

This is, of course, another Adam Hughes line art joint. Ink by Mark Farmer, coloring by Gregory Wright (who did a lot of these, huh?).

What's this? A parody ad that you'd more expect to see in an issue of "What The--?!" that only '80s kids will understand? Yup, totally.

This was in the back of the book and doesn't fit the theme at all, but it gets a mention because of the weird inclusion and also to stall time until I had the final image ready, because I needed time to prepare...

THIS.

This is the one.

How could I not end this little "show and tell" without this beauty right here?

Here, we have remorseless killer Frank Castle flexing his best end-of-catwalk pose in front of a... wrestling match between a bunch of lady demon dinosaurs battling... for his affection? To tip him American cash? Or maybe all those hearts come from their love of beating each other up? I'm not here to judge.

And then there's a sign for 75 cent hotdogs, but it's been covered with another sign for... $20 tooth brushes? What in the shit is going on here?

There is one thing I do know, though. The artist wants you to think that The Punisher has at least $2.75 worth of hotdog under that massive crotch skull.

[just-a-carrot]

I think this is a classic sort of what if question. (atleast ive heard it a lot) what 3 things would the cast bring with them to a deserted island?

LOL hmm...

Iggy: Sunscreen, a very large sunhat, a large blanket

Genzou: A lighter, a hammer, a waterproof tarp

Orlam: A solar-powered charger, an SOS transmitter, a mosquito net

Gidget: An ebook reader, a comfy beach chair, sunglasses

Bucks: An axe, tons of rope, a long spit for roasting

[liliakis]

soft AU!! aftg andreil

listen “ocean eyes” by billie eilish for better experience!! 🫶

on the 3d year of uni andrew discovered for himself an underwater world and all of his creatures. he was never interested in biology that much, but by the end of the year it became his obsession.

he sees water as a place where nightmares can’t reach him, where he can’t feel that he’s dirty. sometimes on especially bad days, he imagines himself swimming deep in the ocean where will be only cold water and sea creatures floating by, minding their own business.

neil is glad that andrew has found himself something interesting enough. his safe space. also, neil adores it when andrew drops a random fact about the sea or something related to it.

years later in their own house, you’ll be able to find countless amount of sea-themed things (mostly cups, posters, blankets, etc.). firstly it was neil, who brought all these items to the house. he genuinely loves how andrew loves the sea, so he will bring home everything that hypothetically can make his partner happy. once he even brought a bedsheet printed in jellyfish (only god knows where he found it) and it became their favourite, ‘cause somehow it’s the most comfortable of all the sheets they own (especially when it’s a bad day).

bee once brought him a ridiculously big statue of a fish, which now stands near the front door so everyone can see it and nicky found a fish costume from “the little mermaid” for king and sir (on holidays you can usually see two catfishes destroying the house) as relationships with other foxes start getting better, they started to find out more and more about andrew including the fact that he loves the sea and everything connected. so they start doing the same as neil: just buying stuff they think andrew would like. (literally, every fox bought him something, and he appreciates it) ((and they find his obsession cute, but they’ll never say it out loud)).

so on one of his bdays, allison decided to give him a diving master class. and it turned out as one of the greatest gifts and experiences andrew had ever had. he loved that few hours under the water, observing marine inhabitants' life. but one of the most incredible things was looking at the sun through the water column, understanding that the whole world is above you now. one day andrew bought a waterproof camera (and was pretty serious in his intentions to use it) so next year vacation they spent near the sea, where neil can rest on the beach all covered in sunscreen while patiently waiting (slowly falling sleeping) for his husband to show up from the water, and andrew trying to catch every fish on the camera (so later he can show neil photos and tell everything he knows), also taking some time to free his mind and just be.

after finishing his sport career andrew understands that he’d like to continue diving on a permanent basis, and after discussing everything with neil, they decided to move closer to the sea. and their life became early-morning walks on the beach from time to time, sometimes with the cats, evening picnics and sunset watching.

they both wholeheartedly love every moment they spend together and this quiet life feels like a long rest from the rush and tension they’ve lived before, something that they kept pulling out from the arms of their nightmares from day to day, and now they finally get what they wanted and what they totally deserve.

[fayzer1012]

Beach Blanket Waterproof Sandproof Beach Mat 79" X 83" /10'x9'for 2-8 Adults Quick Drying Outdoor Picnic Mat Beach Accessories for Travel, Camping, Hiking

[captawesomesauce]

This is the sea turtle beach blanket that we got that is waterproof and sand proof and worked out really great!

and this is the pool floats I mentioned

You can lay in it like a hammock or sit in it and use it as an exercise saddle which is what I was doing.

[meisters-kleiner-fuchs]

HOT DAYS AND PETRE (sorry, I’m in the Southern Hemisphere)

It’s currently 36 degrees Celsius.

I haven’t left the house for a day or two and master is currently away. He won’t be back for a week or two and I’ve done my best to organise a sort of den on his bed (shh he doesn’t know - there is the pillows everywhere 😶).

So, I did go shopping the other day for some food and stumbled across these neat little teething items for pets which were in bone shapes and other pet related shapes. You fill them with water and then place them in your freezer and allow your pet to chew on them. They’re good for teeth as well for non human pets but I think they could be used in a petre setting.

It’s got me thinking about a pet regression day for summer.

1) Be aware that you will need to put sun cream on your pet and appropriate clothing for outside (I’m not ok with public petre- so the garden is best for this… unless you have permission for public play- personally, being a solitary creature: it’s a no from me).

2) always make sure your garden or space is safe. Appropriate paw pads and knee protection always - you never know what is in the grass. There could be insects that bite, wasps, bees, broken glass etc etc. this is also a massive safety precaution when your partner has negative reactions to bees and wasp stings.

3) water play- this could be interesting. You can set up a kids pool for your little in the yard. Use the hose and let them chase the water. Fill the pool with waterproof toys. Waterproof nylon collars- a must.

4) have a resting space like a picnic blanket. This should be sun shaded. I’ve had second degree burns from sun burn - it ain’t pleasant. You can have pillows inside but remember to put a towel inside if you will be using the kids pool.

5) frozen treats! Frozen blueberries in yoghurt and other fruits. Cold sandwiches with cold meats. The fun healthy stuff for your pet!

6) bring a bag of gummy bears and train your pet to wait by placing the gummy bear on their nose.

7) a beach day could be fun- if you are lucky enough to be solitary on them. Play retrieval games and dig in the sand. Let your pet chase seagulls and run from the waves.

8) dig holes in sand pits or in garden beds- although you might get scolded by your CG

9) if you have other friends who do petre, invite them! Chase a ball! Play music to cover up the yipping and yapping noises if needed.

10) if it’s your thing… roll in the grass!

Space rules:

1) don’t allow your pet to relieve themselves in the play area. If they do, they get time out. Get them to notify you with a signal if they need toilet time. Leg cocking can act as the signal. You can either a) stop petre for a toilet break or b) take them to another spot in the yard (if you allow this).

2) no digging up pot plants and stay away from the compost bin.

3) sun cream as per the directions on the bottle.

4) keep an eye out for sun stroke or heat exhaustion. You both need to be kept safe. Plenty of water and shade.

5) wildlife may be present so be careful. Keep an eye out for snakes etc. make sure your grass is cut low for this reason. Rushing your friend or lover to the hospital would not make a good day of summer petre.

[veesnake]

Your Guide to the Perfect Beach Day Accessories

Are you ready for a day at the beach? Whether you’re planning a picnic, relaxing in the sun, or playing in the surf, there are essential beach accessories that you will need. Here is your complete guide to choosing the perfect beach accessories for your day at the ocean.

Choose Sun Protection Wisely When it comes to beach accessories, sun protection should always be at the top of your list. The best way to enjoy a sunny day at the beach is with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, UV resistant clothing and sunglasses with UV protection. Remember to apply sunscreen every two hours and reapply after swimming. Choose hats and clothing that offer UPF 50+ protection from UV rays as well.

Bring Beach Towels & Blankets Beach towels and blankets can provide comfort while enjoying all aspects of a fun beach day. Choose lightweight fabrics that dry quickly, such as terry cloth or microfiber towels. For extra comfort during long days on the sand, consider bringing an oversized blanket or a low-profile beach chair so you can relax in comfort.   Be sure to pack enough towels for everyone in your group—and don’t forget to bring extras for when someone inevitably gets their towel wet! You may also want to bring an extra blanket if it’s windy or chilly out so that everyone can stay warm and cozy while relaxing on the sand.  

Pack Waterproof Bags & Containers Waterproof bags are essential for keeping all of your belongings safe and dry while at the beach. Look for waterproof options with pockets that can hold items like keys, wallets and phones so they don’t get wet if they accidentally fall into water or sand. If you plan on bringing food along with you, make sure to pack it in waterproof containers as well so it doesn't spoil in hot temperatures or get contaminated by sand or sea creatures!  

With these essential items packed in your bag, you'll be ready for a great day at the beach! Be sure to remember sunscreen, UPF 50+ clothing and sunglasses, plenty of towels and blankets, as well as waterproof bags and containers for any snacks or valuables you plan on bringing along with you - this way, everyone will have an enjoyable time without getting too hot or cold during their visit! Have fun!

[halothenthehorns]

Chapter 21: I BATTLE MY JERK RELATIVE

Even knowing otherwise, Percy inhaled so dramatically all of his memories might have come back as he shouted excitedly, "I stab Gabe!"

"The fact that you have more than one jerk relative is the sad part," Thalia chuckled all the same for him.

Jason had only managed to say the chapter title and already his hands were trembling with frustration. The insolence of this Greek child battling Mars! ...and yet, it wasn't him. This was Ares, a fool who had somehow been no more the mastermind in this than Luke. There was something more at play here, and Percy was acting his part as unwittingly as the gods.

A Coast Guard boat picked us up, but they were too busy to keep us for long, or to wonder how three kids in street clothes had gotten out into the middle of the bay. There was a disaster to mop up. Their radios were jammed with distress calls.

Suddenly Jason had the urge to turn and scowl at Percy, that he hadn't needed to ask what the date was anymore because something of the date June 21st now should have stood out in his mind...he got the briefest flash of loading up a truck with water bottles and relief blankets for some reason before it fizzled back away and he just hoped the mortals hadn't suffered too bad.*

They dropped us off at the Santa Monica Pier with towels around our shoulders and water bottles that said I'M A JUNIOR COAST GUARD! and sped off to save more people.

Our clothes were sopping wet, even mine. When the Coast Guard boat had appeared, I'd silently prayed they wouldn't pick me out of the water and find me perfectly dry, which might've raised some eyebrows. So I'd willed myself to get soaked. Sure enough, my usual waterproof magic had abandoned me. I was also barefoot, because I'd given my shoes to Grover. Better the Coast Guard wonder why one of us was barefoot than wonder why one of us had hooves.

  "You guys mention that a lot, but wouldn't the mist just cover that?" Jason asked.

"Better we don't get any double takes all the same," Percy shrugged.

"It's a wonder he can even swim, between the fur and hooves," Magnus said in sympathy.

"Goats can swim just fine actually, they're excellent at it," Alex assured, she'd transformed into all kinds of animals to test their capabilities, preparing for any emergency and practicing her ability.

"The things you know," Percy chuckled.

After reaching dry land, we stumbled down the beach, watching the city burn against a beautiful sunrise.

I felt as if I'd just come back from the dead-which I had. My back-pack was heavy with Zeus's master bolt. My heart was even heavier from seeing my mother.

"I don't believe it," Annabeth said. "We went all that way-"

"It was a trick," I said. "A strategy worthy of Athena."

"Oh gods, don't tell me she was behind it all instead!" Percy threw his hands up in the air in exasperation.

"You'd never see an evil Athena plot coming until it was already over," Thalia chuckled, which didn't make anyone feel better.

"Hey," she warned.

"You get it, don't you?"

She dropped her eyes, her anger fading. "Yeah. I get it."

"Well, I don't!" Grover complained. "Would somebody-"

"Percy ..." Annabeth said. "I'm sorry about your mother. I'm so sorry..."

I pretended not to hear her. If I talked about my mother, I was going to start crying like a little kid.

Percy was twining his pen between his fingers, absently wondering if it was possible to break in this form he was bending it so hard. Only the very vaguest of impressions stopped him from tearing up now without shame, only the prayer that this ache was dulled with time because he'd never had to really experience this kept the emotion at bay. In the way he knew of Annabeth, and Grover, he just had to believe his mom was somewhere out there waiting for him. It made no sense, but then, nothing had his whole life as he fought to keep going.

"The prophecy was right," I said. "You shall go west and face the god who has turned.' But it wasn't Hades. Hades didn't want war among the Big Three. Someone else pulled off the theft. Someone stole Zeus's master bolt, and Hades's helm, and framed me because I'm Poseidon's kid. Poseidon will get blamed by both sides. By sundown today, there will be a three-way war. And I'll have caused it."

"You were an instrument in it, not the orchestrator," Jason corrected, tapping the dwindling pages against his chin. "Not that the difference would save any of this, but a distinction nonetheless I hope the gods learned."

"The fact that they did blame all of this on one puny half-blood is almost impressive," Alex nodded. "You'd think they wouldn't entertain such grandiose destruction to be allowed by anyone but a god!"

"It's why kids of those three were made illegal," Jason agreed, frowning down at his tattoo again.

"And we're still sitting right here waiting for you to get on with it," Percy grinned at them, waving his hand impatiently and looking longingly to the ceiling as much as anyone.

Grover shook his head, mystified. "But who would be that sneaky? Who would want war that bad?"

I stopped in my tracks, looking down the beach. "Gee, let me think."

'It wasn't just him either though,' Hearth signed, and Magnus nodded, they all knew that by the god's own rules. Ares hadn't started this either, something about that pit, something else was still going on.

There he was, waiting for us, in his black leather duster and his sunglasses, an aluminum baseball bat propped on his shoulder. His motorcycle rumbled beside him, its head-light turning the sand red.

"Hey, kid," Ares said, seeming genuinely pleased to see me. "You were supposed to die."

"And you're supposed to have some brains to win a war, what a horrible representation," Alex sneered.

Jason relaxed, marginally, it helped to keep being reminded that the names were just that. Whoever Mars was to him, it wasn't this guy.

"You tricked me," I said. "You stole the helm and the master bolt."

Ares grinned. "Well, now, I didn't steal them personally. Gods taking each other's symbols of power, that's a big no-no. But you're not the only hero in the world who can run errands."

"Who did you use? Clarisse? She was there at the winter solstice."

Clarisse had done nothing but get a spear broken and drink toilet water though. If she did have a hand in this, it was even more manipulative and strategic for never having come close to being caught. There had been no gifts to distrust from her.

The idea seemed to amuse him. "Doesn't matter. The point is, kid, you're impeding the war effort. See, you've got to die in the Underworld. Then Old Seaweed will be mad at Hades for killing you. Corpse Breath will have Zeus's master bolt, so Zeus'll be mad at him. And Hades is still looking for this ..."

From his pocket he took out a ski cap, the kind bank robbers wear-and placed it between the handlebars of his bike. Immediately, the cap transformed into an elaborate bronze war helmet.

Nico burned with fury for the slight against his dad as much as Thalia was pretending she wasn't for Zeus's bolt. It was the principle of the matter, their parents were not to be stolen from, made to look weak, lest the perpetrator face the wrath of their kids too for the disrespect.

"The helm of darkness," Grover gasped.

"Exactly," Ares said. "Now where was I? Oh yeah, Hades will be mad at both Zeus and Poseidon, because he doesn't know who took this. Pretty soon, we got a nice little three-way slugfest going."

"But they're your family!" Annabeth protested.

Magnus was frowning down at his hands this didn't seem to mean much to gods, nor to Annabeth. If she loathed her dad so much, would she still hate him too? Their parents had so little to do with each other for so long. Now here he was, not even related to her on the godly side with no clue how to go about finding that out.

She'd overcome her dislike for Poseidon's child and was now yelling in a war god's face though, he smiled as he looked back up. He was pretty sure she'd welcome him into this mess of a family.

Ares shrugged. "Best kind of war. Always the bloodiest. Nothing like watching your relatives fight, I always say."

"You gave me the backpack in Denver," I said. "The master bolt was in there the whole time."

"Yes and no," Ares said. "It's probably too complicated for your little mortal brain to follow, but the backpack is the master bolt's sheath, just morphed a bit. The bolt is connected to it, sort of like that sword you got, kid. It always returns to your pocket, right?"

I wasn't sure how Ares knew about that, but I guess a god of war had to make it his business to know about weapons.

"Anyway," Ares continued, "I tinkered with the magic a bit, so the bolt would only return to the sheath once you reached the Underworld. You get close to Hades... Bingo, you got mail. If you died along the way-no loss. I still had the weapon."

"I officially hate magic," Percy grumbled, that was way to complicated to think about to long.

"You're in for a doozy of some mind messes," Thalia chuckled. Maybe that was why he had such trouble manipulating the Mist like she did, he had an inherent dislike of it.

"But why not just keep the master bolt for yourself?" I said. "Why send it to Hades?"

Ares got a twitch in his jaw. For a moment, it was almost as if he were listening to another voice, deep inside his head. "Why didn't I ... yeah ... with that kind of fire-power ..."

He held the trance for one second ... two seconds...

I exchanged nervous looks with Annabeth.

Ares's face cleared. "I didn't want the trouble. Better to have you caught redhanded, holding the thing."

"You're lying," I said. "Sending the bolt to the Underworld wasn't your idea, was it?"

"Of course it was!" Smoke drifted up from his sun-glasses, as if they were about to catch fire.

"You didn't order the theft," I guessed. "Someone else sent a hero to steal the two items. Then, when Zeus sent you to hunt him down, you caught the thief. But you didn't turn him over to Zeus. Something convinced you to let him go. You kept the items until another hero could come along and complete the delivery. That thing in the pit is ordering you around."

Everybody just kept calling him the thing in the pit, but Jason could feel it, the answer had been there in the very first chapter, if by the wrong name. Somewhere in his mind, he knew the name, and it was of no God...

"I am the god of war! I take orders from no one! I don't have dreams!"

"Busted," Will muttered, nobody had mentioned dreams.

"Bad," Nico quoted, as it left quite a bad taste in his mouth Kronos was already so powerful he hadn't needed dreams to manipulate Ares, he'd been whispering in the god's ear already at this time. Luke believing in Krono's cause had already sowed chaos into the world above.

This was a Titan, what would Gaea cause?

I hesitated. "Who said anything about dreams?"

Ares looked agitated, but he tried to cover it with a smirk.

"Let's get back to the problem at hand, kid. You're alive. I can't have you taking that bolt to Olympus. You just might get those hardheaded idiots to listen to you. So I've got to kill you. Nothing personal."

"Is that better or worse than killing you for personal reasons?" Magnus mocked.

"I don't intend to find out," Percy said with a straight face, clutching his pen at the ready now.

It was hard for any of them to imagine him as a little twelve-year-old all of a sudden. He sat straight in his seat, the most intense expression on his face like he'd just killed a Fury, but so much more powerful. He'd just lost his mom, again, and he'd been given a target for all of the bad crap that had happened since then. His expression was fierce, disturbing even, it was hard to tell if he was about to take on Ares or all of them.

He snapped his fingers. The sand exploded at his feet and out charged a wild boar, even larger and uglier than the one whose head hung above the door of cabin seven at Camp Half-Blood. The beast pawed the sand, glaring at me with beady eyes as it lowered its razor-sharp tusks and waited for the command to kill.

I stepped into the surf. "Fight me yourself, Ares."

He laughed, but I heard a little edge to his laughter ... an uneasiness.

"Woah," Alex said in appreciation, suddenly wondering if she could borrow Percy for a bit. She didn't know if it was possible to actually kill a god, but she had a good feeling he'd help her figure it out if she introduced Percy to Loki.

"You've only got one talent, kid, running away. You ran from the Chimera. You ran from the Underworld. You don't have what it takes."

"Scared?"

"In your adolescent dreams." But his sunglasses were starting to melt from the heat of his eyes. "No direct involvement. Sorry, kid. You're not at my level."

Annabeth said, "Percy, run!"

The giant boar charged.

But I was done running from monsters. Or Hades, or Ares, or anybody.

As the boar rushed me, I uncapped my pen and side-stepped. Riptide appeared in my hands. I slashed upward. The boar's severed right tusk fell at my feet, while the disoriented animal charged into the sea.

I shouted, "Wave!"

Immediately, a wave surged up from nowhere and engulfed the boar, wrapping around it like a blanket.

"That had to taste like the nastiest pig in a blanket ever," Thalia smirked.

The beast squealed once in terror. Then it was gone, swallowed by the sea.

I turned back to Ares. "Are you going to fight me now?" I asked. "Or are you going to hide behind another pet?"

Ares's face was purple with rage. "Watch it, kid. I could turn you into-"

"A cockroach," I said. "Or a tapeworm. Yeah, I'm sure. That'd save you from getting your godly hide whipped, wouldn't it?"

Flames danced along the top of his glasses. "Oh, man, you are really asking to be smashed into a grease spot."

"If I lose, turn me into anything you want. Take the bolt. If I win, the helm and the bolt are mine and you have to go away."

"If only it was that easy to challenge Clarisse into leaving you alone," Will sighed, but sadly the camp was stuck with her constantly challenging everyone else to fights.

Ares sneered.

He swung the baseball bat off his shoulder. "How would you like to get smashed: classic or modern?"

I showed him my sword.

"That's cool, dead boy," he said. "Classic it is." The baseball bat changed into a huge, two-handed sword.

The hilt was a large silver skull with a ruby in its mouth.

"Percy," Annabeth said. "Don't do this. He's a god."

"He's a coward," I told her.

"Are we sure Percy isn't just a really convincing ghost?" Jason stage whispered.

"I think he'd still cause the same amount of trouble," Thalia sighed.

She swallowed. "Wear this, at least. For luck."

She took off her necklace, with her five years' worth of camp beads and the ring from her father, and tied it around my neck.

Percy touched his necklace now as if her hands had lingered there over time, he wrapped his fingers around his own beads and smiled, relaxed right back without a care or worry in the world. Just like that, it was unbelievable of anyone to assume that lingering expression could be housed in this guy.

"Reconciliation," she said. "Athena and Poseidon together."

My face felt a little warm, but I managed a smile. "Thanks."

"And take this," Grover said. He handed me a flattened tin can that he'd probably been saving in his pocket for a thousand miles.

Jason smiled warmly at Percy's friends, these gifts, they'd given up every part of themselves for him and were probably out there now tearing the world apart to find out what happened to him. He glanced down at his threadbare shirt, he had nothing but some burnt-up skin and a strange coin to show him his past. He wondered if anyone cared enough to be out there looking for him.

"The satyrs stand behind you."

Nico studied Percy intently for a few moments as he pondered if these were really Percy's last moments, if he somehow knew he'd be dead the moment they left here, what his last words would be. Would he be able to spit out his darkest secret? Unlikely, as he could barely admit it to himself. Percy was going to get out of here just fine, but he was heading somewhere he might not come back from... he'd assumed before Hades's protection might keep him safe, powerful enough even down there, but now he wondered again at his dad's words about pride.

Percy was no more immune to mortal follies than he was, but Percy had taken on the god of war and won. What wasn't possible?

"Nico?" Will tapped him gently on the shoulder while Jason paused for breath, he really didn't like the lingering, odd look on his face as he studied Percy.

Nico was back to ignoring him though.

"Grover ... I don't know what to say."

"Reduce, reuse, recycle?" Alex grinned.

"I wouldn't be surprised if a satyr invented that motto," Percy laughed.

He patted me on the shoulder. I stuffed the tin can in my back pocket.

"You all done saying good-bye?" Ares came toward me, his black leather duster trailing behind him, his sword glinting like fire in the sunrise. "I've been fighting for eternity, kid. My strength is unlimited and I cannot die. 

"He can be defeated though," Thalia stated confidently, she wouldn't have needed Annabeth's recount to know Percy would win this fight. Hercules had, twice, and Percy was already a better swordsman than his immense strength.

Percy smiled at her gratefully the same way he had Annabeth and Grover. He still wished he knew how they'd become friends, but it took no effort to imagine her there along with them right now.

What have you got?"

A smaller ego, I thought, but I said nothing.

"I don't want to hear anything about your ego when you're involved in this fight," Jason muttered. It helped to keep calling him Ares, but he was still concentrating to keep his head wrapped around this event.

"I wasn't the one to put my thoughts on display," Percy reminded in exasperation, frowning at him and biting back the words he was lucky it wasn't his thoughts.

I kept my feet in the surf, backing into the water up to my ankles. I thought back to what Annabeth had said at the Denver diner, so long ago: Ares has strength. That's all he has. Even strength has to bow to wisdom sometimes.

He cleaved downward at my head, but I wasn't there.

My body thought for me. The water seemed to push me into the air and I catapulted over him, slashing as I came down. But Ares was just as quick. He twisted, and the strike that should've caught him directly in the spine was deflected off the end of his sword hilt.

He grinned. "Not bad, not bad."

He slashed again and I was forced to jump onto dry land. I tried to sidestep, to get back to the water, but Ares seemed to know what I wanted. He outmaneuvered me, pressing so hard I had to put all my concentration on not getting sliced into pieces. I kept backing away from the surf.

A voice-activated wave would have come in handy right about then to startle Ares, but nobody was crazy enough to mock, let alone offer advice to Percy in a battle even Thalia had never attempted. To fight one of the Olympian gods just was not in the scope of their life before this moment, and Percy was holding his own!

Only the whispering voice of Kronos not wishing for Percy's death might have been what was staving Ares from ending this with a snap of his fingers, his curiosity to see what this child could do for him in the prophecy. Only the war gods' arrogance at the challenge might have had him playing with his food this whole time. Only Percy.

I couldn't find any openings to attack. His sword had a reach several feet longer than Anaklusmos.

Get in close, Luke had told me once, back in our sword class. When you've got the shorter blade, get in close.

Jason's vision was oddly doubling though, as he kept reading his muscles kept twitching, and it was almost as if the description of Ares was trying to superimpose over someone else, black armor with stars and rams horns- but he shook his head and muttered something about maybe needing glasses as the vision in his head faded back away to the words proper.

I stepped inside with a thrust, but Ares was waiting for that. He knocked my blade out of my hands and kicked me in the chest. I went airborne-twenty, maybe thirty feet. I would've broken my back if I hadn't crashed into the soft sand of a dune.

"Percy!" Annabeth yelled. "Cops!"

I was seeing double. My chest felt like it had just been hit with a battering ram, but I managed to get to my feet.

I couldn't look away from Ares for fear he'd slice me in half, but out of the corner of my eye I saw red lights flashing on the shoreline boulevard. Car doors were slamming.

"There, officer!" somebody yelled. "See?"

A gruff cop voice: "Looks like that kid on TV ... what the heck ..."

"That guy's armed," another cop said. "Call for backup."

I rolled to one side as Ares's blade slashed the sand.

I ran for my sword, scooped it up, and launched a swipe at Ares's face, only to find my blade deflected again.

Ares seemed to know exactly what I was going to do the moment before I did it.

I stepped back toward the surf, forcing him to follow.

"Admit it, kid," Ares said. "You got no hope. I'm just toying with you."

My senses were working overtime. I now understood what Annabeth had said about ADHD keeping you alive in battle. I was wide awake, noticing every little detail.

I could see where Ares was tensing. I could tell which way he would strike. At the same time, I was aware of Annabeth and Grover, thirty feet to my left. I saw a second cop car pulling up, siren wailing.

Spectators, people who had been wandering the streets because of the earthquake, were starting to gather. Among the crowd, I thought I saw a few who were walking with the strange, trotting gait of disguised satyrs. There were shimmering forms of spirits, too, as if the dead had risen from Hades to watch the battle. I heard the flap of leathery wings circling somewhere above.

'You mortals and your spectator sports,' Hearth frowned for the brutish display of it all, he'd take a bow and some magic any day over sword fighting arenas.

More sirens.

I stepped farther into the water, but Ares was fast. The tip of his blade ripped my sleeve and grazed my forearm.

A police voice on a megaphone said, "Drop the guns. Set them on the ground. Now!"

Guns?

I looked at Ares's weapon, and it seemed to be flickering; sometimes it looked like a shotgun, sometimes a two-handed sword. I didn't know what the humans were seeing in my hands, but I was pretty sure it wouldn't make them like me.

"Did you want us to start a chant for you?" Thalia frowned. "Is being on the winning team to a bunch of cops really the concern right now?"

"Do you want to get arrested by them after fighting off Ares!" Percy balked, the hilarious juxtaposition of being led away in handcuffs after winning this fight was sincerely bizarre.

Ares turned to glare at our spectators, which gave me a moment to breathe. There were five police cars now, and a line of officers crouching behind them, pistols trained on us.

"This is a private matter!" Ares bellowed. "Be gone.'"

He swept his hand, and a wall of red flame rolled across the patrol cars. The police barely had time to dive for cover before their vehicles exploded. The crowd behind them scattered, screaming.

Ares roared with laughter. "Now, little hero. Let's add you to the barbecue."

He slashed. I deflected his blade. I got close enough to strike, tried to fake him out with a feint, but my blow was knocked aside. The waves were hitting me in the back now. Ares was up to his thighs, wading in after me.

I felt the rhythm of the sea, the waves growing larger as the tide rolled in, and suddenly I had an idea.

Little waves, I thought. And the water behind me seemed to recede. I was holding back the tide by force of will, but tension was building, like carbonation behind a cork.

They'd all been getting a taste of Percy's true powers being in the same room with him and throughout this journey. Here, they felt, with Annabeth's advice and raw talent, was Percy at his most powerful. How he'd survived to be lounging in a sea-weed beanbag now eyeing the door like he was thinking about getting a snack instead of dead.

Ares came toward, grinning confidently. I lowered my blade, as if I were too exhausted to go on. Wait for it, I told the sea. The pressure now was almost lifting me off my feet. Ares raised his sword. I released the tide and jumped, rocketing straight over Ares on a wave.

A six-foot wall of water smashed him full in the face, leaving him cursing and sputtering with a mouth full of sea-weed. I landed behind him with a splash and feinted toward his head, as I'd done before. He turned in time to raise his sword, but this time he was disoriented, he didn't anticipate the trick. I changed direction, lunged to the side, and stabbed Riptide straight down into the water, sending the point through the god's heel.

The roar that followed made Hades's earthquake look like a minor event. The very sea was blasted back from Ares, leaving a wet circle of sand fifty feet wide.

Ichor, the golden blood of the gods, flowed from a gash in the war god's boot. The expression on his face was beyond hatred. It was pain, shock, complete disbelief that he'd been wounded.

In all the gaping mouths around him, Percy found he didn't want anyone to start cheering or congratulating him. He'd resented Hades calling him prideful when he'd have rather it never got to this point at all. In all the fights he'd been in, even this one, he'd only started them when he saw no other pathway. A bully only ever stopped when you stood up to them, but he still wished Ares had just given up the items and admitted to being fooled just like him rather than this 'accomplishment,' of wounding a god.

He limped toward me, muttering ancient Greek curses.

Something stopped him.

It was as if a cloud covered the sun, but worse. Light faded. Sound and color drained away. A cold, heavy presence passed over the beach, slowing time, dropping the temperature to freezing, and making me feel like life was hopeless, fighting was useless.

The darkness lifted.

Ares looked stunned.

Police cars were burning behind us. The crowd of spectators had fled. Annabeth and Grover stood on the beach, in shock, watching the water flood back around Ares's feet, his glowing golden ichor dissipating in the tide.

Thalia grimaced with distaste. The blood of Uranus mingling with the ocean had created Aphrodite, but that was a primordial deity, she hoped nothing had popped out of the sea because of this.

Ares lowered his sword.

"You have made an enemy, godling," he told me. "You have sealed your fate. Every time you raise your blade in battle, every time you hope for success, you will feel my curse. Beware, Perseus Jackson. Beware."

A ghost flickered through Percy's sea-green eyes, and Nico had no part in it as he saw the shadow same as the others. This curse had come to pass, and it had cost someone their life. Percy bowed his head and held tight to his pen, but this day was won. He looked back up with sorrow for what his victory had caused and prepared himself to feel it again all the sharper for it.

His body began to glow.

''Percy!" Annabeth shouted. "Don't watch!"

I turned away as the god Ares revealed his true immortal form. I somehow knew that if I looked, I would disintegrate into ashes.

The light died.

I looked back. Ares was gone.

"Just like that?" Magnus demanded. The god had really just, fled?!

"What do you mean just like that!" Percy protested, "let's see you take on a god!"

He still made that sound far to normal and Magnus was wondering if he'd ever get used to all this craziness.

The tide rolled out to reveal Hades's bronze helm of darkness. I picked it up and walked toward my friends.

But before I got there, I heard the flapping of leathery wings. Three evil-looking grandmothers with lace hats and fiery whips drifted down from the sky and landed in front of me.

"Nope, that's still a weird sentence," Magnus muttered, even after all that.

The middle Fury, the one who had been Mrs. Dodds, stepped forward. Her fangs were bared, but for once she didn't look threatening. She looked more disappointed, as if she'd been planning to have me for supper, but had decided I might give her indigestion.

"That's not even a good reason not to eat something, has she tried Taco Bell?" Alex scoffed.

"Oh, so now you're going to encourage the monsters to eat me?" Percy pouted. "Shall I start preparing recipes for you to give?"

"I'm still withholding judgment," and something about the way she said that made him believe it.

"We saw the whole thing," she hissed. "So ... it truly was not you?"

I tossed her the helmet, which she caught in surprise.

"Return that to Lord Hades," I said. "Tell him the truth. Tell him to call off the war."

Jason suddenly felt in awe of Percy. Anybody else on this Earth would have held that over Hades's head, especially after everything he'd just been through. Demanded his mother back, ask for knowledge no mortal could conceive, riches, an apology at the very least.

Nope. He just, tossed a Godly item to a Fury, casual as could be.

She hesitated, then ran a forked tongue over her green, leathery lips. "Live well, Percy Jackson. Become a true hero. Because if you do not, if you ever come into my clutches again ..."

Percy looked from Jason still studying the book with a bad case of constipation of his own for that fight and Alex's fluctuating attitude on if she wanted to laugh with him or cut his head off. He wasn't particularly worried about it, he'd just impressed a fury, he was pretty sure he could rally everyone in here to over come whatever was coming next.

She cackled, savoring the idea. Then she and her sisters rose on their bats' wings, fluttered into the smoke-filled sky, and disappeared.

I joined Grover and Annabeth, who were staring at me in amazement.

"Percy ..." Grover said. "That was so incredibly ..."

"Terrifying," said Annabeth.

"Seconded," Magnus promised.

"Cool!" Grover corrected.

"Seconded," Alex smirked.

I didn't feel terrified. I certainly didn't feel cool.

"Oh, good, because on a usual day you're neither," Will teased.

I was tired and sore and completely drained of energy.

"That's the one!" Percy sighed, resisting the urge to start nodding off already, though that might come across a little rude...though it was about him. If he had a right to fall asleep to any story, couldn't it be his own?

They were almost done though, he kept assuring himself. Just a couple more chapters, he could practically count down the pages soon and he'd be able to fall asleep next to Annabeth...

"Did you guys feel that... whatever it was?" I asked.

They both nodded uneasily.

"Must've been the Furies overhead," Grover said.

But I wasn't so sure. Something had stopped Ares from killing me, and whatever could do that was a lot stronger than the Furies.

I looked at Annabeth, and an understanding passed between us. I knew now what was in that pit, what had spoken from the entrance of Tartarus.

Jason could feel the forbidding name on his tongue, but for once he hoped it wouldn't pop out of his mouth, that he, Percy, and even Annabeth were wrong. He'd never imagined the gods in such a fragile state of existence, it felt insulting to even entertain the idea, but after that display Ares had just given, his very foundation in the whole system felt shaken of just how much they all had to lose if such a war broke out.

I reclaimed my backpack from Grover and looked inside. The master bolt was still there. Such a small thing to almost cause World War III.

"We have to get back to New York," I said. "By tonight."

"That's impossible," Annabeth said, "unless we-"

"Fly," I agreed.

She stared at me. "Fly, like, in an airplane, which you were warned never to do lest Zeus strike you out of the sky, and carrying a weapon that has more destructive power than a nuclear bomb?"

"Yeah," I said. "Pretty much exactly like that. Come on."

"Never a dull moment with you Perce," Will snorted. Maybe it was because he knew this worked out, but he found himself losing interest in these massive, fantastical retellings of the greatest stories of their time as he kept watching Nico in concern, who barely looked like he was still breathing as he kept himself focused solely on the door just waiting to run again already.

PJOPJOPJOPJO

Yes, I did dramatically end on Solangelo for the third time in this book, but don't worry, you all know there's no close ending in sight and so I'll move on to another pairing more in focus on the next book and I'll try to keep rotating between all of them getting special attention.

*For those that don't know, like me, and had to look it up, LA to Berkeley Hills is a six-hour drive, but I still like to imagine Camp Jupiter and Camp Half-Blood helping relief efforts when natural disasters happen in their general vicinity. The Roman's especially, having that huge populated city with tons of retired warriors and resources in a heavy earthquake and disaster-prone state.

[geckobrands121]

Best Beach Bags for Families: Carrying Everything You Need with Ease

A family beach trip is always an exciting adventure, but the challenge of packing everything you need—and then carrying it—can be a daunting task. With everyone needing towels, snacks, sunscreen, toys, extra clothes, and much more, a regular tote just won't cut it. It would be best to have a beach bag that can handle the load while staying comfortable and durable. In this post, we'll break down the key features you should look for in a family-friendly beach tote to make your next seaside outing a breeze.

Room for Everyone's Essentials: Go Big with an Oversized Beach Bag

One of the biggest challenges when packing for a family beach trip is fitting everything into one or two bags. The last thing you want is to juggle multiple totes, baskets, and coolers on the hot sand. That's where an oversized beach bag comes to the rescue. These bags are designed to hold all your family's essentials in one place—towels, toys, changes of clothes, snacks, and more.

When shopping for a beach tote, look for ones with ample storage space without feeling like you're lugging around a small suitcase.

Brands like Geckobrands beach tote are famous for their spacious yet lightweight designs. These oversized beach bags often feature wide openings, so you can easily toss in more oversized items like beach chairs or blankets. 

The extra space helps keep everything organized while reducing the bags you need.

Recommended Features:

Wide main compartment for large items like towels and beach blankets.

Zippered pockets for securing small valuables like keys and phones.

Multiple compartments to separate toys, snacks, and wet clothes.

Comfortable to Carry: Don't Sacrifice Your Shoulders

A roomy bag is great, but it must also be comfortable to carry—especially when walking across uneven sand. Whether toting towels, sandcastle moulds, or a cooler full of drinks, the straps on your beach bag can make or break your experience.

Look for beach totes with padded or wide straps that help distribute the weight evenly across your shoulders. Some oversized beach bags even come with adjustable straps, allowing you to customize the fit to your comfort level. After all, you don't want to spend your beach day nursing sore shoulders!

Recommended Features:

Padded shoulder straps for extra comfort.

Wide straps that prevent digging into your skin when the bag is heavy.

Cross-body strap options for hands-free carrying.

Easy Access Pockets for Parents: Stay Organized on the Go

Quick access to particular items is essential when you're at the beach with kids. Imagine digging through a mountain of towels and toys to find your phone or sunscreen—a hassle you want to avoid. That's why a great family beach tote should come with dedicated pockets for parents.

These handy compartments can hold your phone, wallet, sunscreen, and sunglasses, so they're always within easy reach. Having designated pockets makes packing easier and keeps your items organized, preventing the dreaded sand-in-the-phone disaster.

Recommended Features:

External pockets for quick access to phones, keys, and sunscreen.

Water-resistant compartments to keep valuables dry.

Mesh pockets that let you shake out sand quickly.

Durability Under Pressure: Built to Last Through Sand and Sun

A good family beach bag isn't just about size or comfort but also durability. Beach trips can be challenging on bags, especially when dragged across the sand, exposed to salty air, or packed to the brim with heavy items. That's why looking for beach totes made from solid and durable materials that can handle the wear and tear of a family outing is essential.

Some oversized beach bags are made from heavy-duty canvas, waterproof polyester, or reinforced mesh. These materials hold up against water, sand, and heavy use. Additionally, bags with reinforced seams and zippers can handle the extra weight without tearing or breaking down after a few trips.

Recommended Features:

Waterproof materials to resist moisture from wet towels or ocean spray.

Sturdy construction with reinforced stitching for extra durability.

Easy-to-clean fabrics so you can quickly shake out sand or wipe away spills.

Conclusion: Top Picks for Family-Friendly Beach Bags

When choosing the best beach tote for your family, you'll want a bag that combines capacity, comfort, and durability. Here are a few standout options to consider:

Gecko Brands Beach Tote – This bag is loved for its lightweight design, large compartments, and easy-to-clean waterproof material, making it an excellent choice for families.

Bogg Bag – Known for its durable, waterproof construction and spacious interior, this oversized beach bag is ideal for carrying everything your family needs.

Scout Original Deano – A stylish and functional option, this bag offers excellent durability and plenty of room for towels, snacks, and toys.

With the right oversized beach bag, you can say goodbye to the stress of packing and carrying everything for your family's beach day. Opt for a tote that checks all the boxes—ample space, easy access pockets, padded straps, and long-lasting durability—so you can enjoy your time by the ocean without a hitch!

[customdigitaltowels4]

Luxurious Comfort: Polar Fleece Embossed Blankets, Printed Picnic Mats, and More

When it comes to enhancing your relaxation time, whether you're at home, at the beach, or on a picnic, investing in high-quality, stylish accessories can make all the difference. From cozy blankets to versatile towels, these products are designed to offer both comfort and function. In this article, we'll explore four must-have items: Polar Fleece Embossed Blankets, Full Color Edge 2 Edge Printed Picnic Mats, Full Color Towel Round, and Turkish Cotton Velour Heavyweight Beach Towel.

Soft Warmth with Polar Fleece Embossed Blankets

Blankets are a staple in any home, especially during the cooler months. Polar Fleece Embossed Blankets are perfect for adding that extra layer of warmth while maintaining an elegant appearance. Made from soft and durable polar fleece, these blankets not only provide coziness but also come embossed with unique patterns that elevate their aesthetic appeal.

The mid-weight material of these blankets ensures that they are light enough to be used in spring or fall, while still keeping you warm during the winter. What makesPolar Fleece Embossed Blankets stand out is their ability to combine both practicality and luxury. Whether you're snuggling up on the couch for a movie night or adding a decorative touch to your bedroom, these blankets deliver comfort without compromising style.

Versatile and Stylish: Full Color Edge 2 Edge Printed Picnic Mats

A good picnic mat is more than just a surface to sit on—it's a central part of your outdoor experience. Full Color Edge 2 Edge Printed Picnic Mats offer a unique combination of vibrant design and functionality. These mats are printed edge to edge, giving them a full, continuous design that can be customized to your liking, whether you want bright colors, intricate patterns, or subtle hues.

Constructed with durable, waterproof backing, these picnic mats are designed for outdoor use and easy cleaning. Full Color Edge 2 Edge Printed Picnic Mats are perfect for a day at the park, beach, or even in your own backyard. The mid-sized mat offers ample space for you and your companions to sit comfortably, enjoying the scenic outdoors while being supported by a smooth and resilient surface. You’ll love how these mats blend durability with visual appeal, making them a must-have for any outdoor gathering.

Fun and Fashionable: Full Color Towel Round

If you're looking for a towel that stands out at the beach or poolside, the Full Color Towel Round is your perfect companion. Circular towels have become a fashion statement in recent years, offering a stylish alternative to the traditional rectangular towel. The Full Color Towel Round not only catches the eye with its shape but also with its high-quality, vibrant designs printed across the entire surface.

Midway through your beach day, you’ll appreciate the towel's soft, absorbent fabric that keeps you dry while ensuring your style is on point. These towels are perfect for spreading out on the sand or by the pool, creating a comfortable spot to relax and soak up the sun. Plus, the unique circular shape makes it ideal for sharing with friends or family. The Full Color Towel Round isn’t just functional; it’s an essential piece for anyone looking to elevate their beach experience.

The Ultimate in Comfort: Turkish Cotton Velour Heavyweight Beach Towel

Nothing says luxury like Turkish cotton, and when it comes to beach towels, the Turkish Cotton VelourHeavyweight Beach Towel is the gold standard. Made from the finest Turkish cotton, this towel is incredibly soft, absorbent, and durable. The velour finish adds a plush feel, making it perfect for lounging on the beach or by the pool in ultimate comfort.

This heavyweight towel is larger than standard beach towels, offering plenty of space to relax and unwind. Despite its size, it remains easy to carry and pack due to its superior cotton fibers, which make it both lightweight and quick-drying. The Turkish Cotton Velour Heavyweight Beach Towel is ideal for those who appreciate a little extra luxury when enjoying their time in the sun.

Conclusion

From the cozyPolar Fleece Embossed Blankets that keep you warm during chilly nights to the stylish Full Color Edge 2 Edge Printed Picnic Mats that make outdoor adventures more enjoyable, these products offer comfort, functionality, and style in every detail. Whether you're hitting the beach with a Full Color Towel Round or lounging on a luxurious Turkish Cotton Velour Heavyweight Beach Towel, investing in these high-quality items will elevate your leisure time.

[alexbrownes]

What to Bring for Your Pool Day: Essentials for a Fun and Safe Experience?

Summer is upon us, and from the young to the young at heart, nothing beats the excitement of a day at the pool. The Community Pool in Los Gatos offers a wonderful haven for swimmers and sunbathers alike. Whether you're planning a solo swim, a family outing, or a gathering with friends, being prepared can make your poolside adventure both fun and safe.

Here are the essential items to pack for your next visit to a community pool in Los Gatos to ensure it's as enjoyable and worry-free as possible.

1. Sun Protection Gear

Sunscreen is a must-have for any pool day. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of at least 30. Remember to reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Besides sunscreen, include sunglasses with UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and eyes from the sun's harmful rays.

2. Suitable Swimwear

Choosing the right swimwear can enhance your comfort and swimming experience. For those who swim laps, a well-fitted swimsuit designed for athletic use helps reduce drag and discomfort. For children and those engaging in water games, consider suits with more coverage and durability. Don’t forget a cover-up or a set of dry clothes for when you exit the pool.

3. Hydration and Snacks

Staying hydrated is key to safe pool enjoyment, especially under the sun. Pack plenty of water or electrolyte drinks to keep everyone hydrated throughout the day. Healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or granola bars can also help maintain energy levels without being too heavy.

4. Safety Gear

For non-swimmers and children, safety must be a top priority. Bring appropriate life vests or arm floaties that meet safety standards. Always ensure that each piece of safety gear is correctly sized and in good condition. Never rely solely on floatation devices or toys to ensure the safety of inexperienced swimmers — active supervision is crucial.

5. Entertainment and Leisure Items

A pool day is incomplete without some fun elements. Water toys, diving rings, and inflatable balls bring in extra fun and are perfect for group activities. Also, consider waterproof cards or board games for some dry entertainment. If the pool allows, a floating speaker can be great for playing your favorite tunes as you soak up the sun.

6. First Aid Kit

It’s always best to be prepared for minor injuries. A basic first aid kit should include waterproof bandages, antiseptic wipes, and some hydrocortisone cream. If you or anyone in your party has allergies, make sure you have the necessary medications, including antihistamines or inhalers.

7. Comfortable Seating

While many public pools offer lounging chairs, during busy days, finding a free chair can be a challenge. Packing a blanket or a foldable chair ensures you have a comfortable spot to relax and supervise if you're not in the water.

8. Personal Care Items

Items like lip balm, moisturizer, and aloe vera gel can help soothe skin from sun exposure and chlorine. Also, pack in extra towels—not just for drying off but also for laying on chairs or the ground.

9. Cleaning Supplies

Keeping hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and small bags for disposing of trash is essential to maintain hygiene and cleanliness throughout your day at the pool. This practice not only benefits you and your family but also respects the community space.

10. Extra Layers and Protection

Even on warm days, the breeze can be chilly when you come out of the water. Pack extra layers, such as lightweight jackets or beach wraps, especially for young children or if you plan to stay late. Don't forget waterproof pouches or bags to keep your electronic items, wallets, and keys safe and dry.

Conclusion:

Packing for a pool day can make all the difference in your overall experience. With careful preparation, you can ensure a day full of fun, relaxation, and safety at the Los Gatos Community Pool. Whether it's perfecting your swim technique, reading a book by the water, or splashing around with your kids, remember that a great pool day is a well-prepared one. Dive in, enjoy the water, soak up the ambiance, and return home with great memories — all made simpler and safer with the right essentials in your pool bag!

By paying attention to these details, you not only enhance your own and your group's enjoyment but also contribute to a pleasant, community-focused atmosphere at the pool. Not just for a visit to a community pool, but if you are visiting a gym in Cambrian, you need to know what essentials to pack for a fun and memorable experience.

[purplewood4]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: NIB Hammock, Beach Blanket and Set of microfiber towels.