#best of luck to village studio

[yeowvng]

day 531 since one punch man season 3 was announced & still not a crumb of news 😞

[claitea]

ok you want people to talk to you about pokémon right. well you’re in luck bc i wanted to talk to you

first question uuuuuhm. hm. how about you try to sell me on playing black/white. go wild and infodump about that green man etc

THANK YOU

hm. idk how much you know or want to know bc i dont want to end up spoiling the plot of the best piece of media ever created by human hands containing the absolute flawless amazing showstopping pinnacle of storytelling Natural "N" Harmonia Gropius. but also its an 11 year old game and i spoil it constantly anyway so lmao

bw itself in general? imo the Peak of pokemon all bias aside. the animated 2d sprites, the environments (going over the skyarrow bridge for the first time WOOOO), the music, the pokemon designs themselves, it still had mythical pokemon events like Victini's, pokemon musicals, Pokestar Studios in bw2, auugahhhh chewing on bw/bw2 like its a multivitamin gummy

the music is probably one of the best things about it! routes have slight variation depending on the season (bw has seasons btw its very pretty) which is super neat. village bridge is one of my favorite pokemon songs, it'll activate more instruments as you explore the bridge and talk to people with instruments and things. also Driftveil City. just driftveil its iconic

and now here's an entire no holds barred rant on Him

n. where do i start with him. i will be spoiling literally everything about him btw i just love explaining him

abandoned in a forest at like 5ish years old, he learned to talk with pokemon because he lived with them. ghetsis ends up finding him, claims he's his father, and whisks little n away to plasma castle and everything goes speeding downhill on a sled going over ice.

n's naturally Too Nice, so ghetsis is able to convince him that every human is pokemon-abusing scum by only letting n see pokemon that have been mistreated and isolating him from people other than ghetsis himself and n's foster sisters, anthea and concordia. he makes n think only he can change the world by joining with one of the twin dragons, becoming champion to prove his strength to the region, and from there he can force all people to separate from pokemon.

presumably the first time n's been let out of plasma castle is at 20 years old when bw takes place which on its own is just. insanely horrific. he's genuinely surprised that all the people he meets over the course of the game treat their pokemon well and their pokemon love them in return. unfortunately for n he is STUBBORN. up until the bitter end he keeps holding onto the belief that humans and pokemon should be separated despite all the evidence contrary to that because thats all he's known all his life. was he supposed to just throw away all he's been working towards for 15 years? drives me insane how deeply entrenched n was in his mindset that even when he had suspicions, he couldn't let himself waver from the path he chose. he literally runs away and disappears for TWO YEARS after you defeat him because he's so lost.

yknow how kieran tries to be the hero of ogerpon's story and gets furious when sv protag takes that away from him? thats kinda how n is, he thinks he's supposed to be the hero of unova but after clashing with you he realizes he is Not. "Is the world going to choose you, and not me?!" <- line that has driven me nuts for over a decade. n is literally designed like a classic mainline game protag: compatitively simple casual outfit (with the bright green hair to set him apart though), does the gym challenge and becomes champion, catches a box legendary, is fighting against a threat in order to save the region. the only difference being that threat was a lie, n was being used so ghetsis could take over the region.

speaking of ghetsis's atrocities. there's his infamous "freak without a human heart" line. there's the fact his final team is designed to counter and sweep n's final team, either he was planning for n to end up betraying him or just outright disposing of n no matter what he did once he outlived his usefulness. there's the fact he probably didn't even take much care of n and dumped the responsibility on anthea and concordia who probably aren't much older than n. there's the fact that in usum's rainbow rocket storyline, that timeline's ghetsis has one of the twin dragons, which i've seen interpretations of being that he's trapped n and taken the dragon or straight up Killed n because the dragon is supposed to choose its partner. fucked up stuff!

and throughout it all n still has some attachment to ghetsis! "It's hard to call you this, but… Father! Please understand."

ghetsis may have done All That but he's still almost all n had for so many years. n is also again, Too Nice, he still wants to see the best in ghetsis. pokemon masters had a storyline where ghetsis seems to be trying to make up and n makes the choice to trust him. ghetsis betrays them all of course but the fact n still chose to believe in him again is so. augh

enough about The Tragedy of N Harmonia though, he does turn his life around and seems so much happier in bw2. compare his first game encounter theme to his second. the first is creepy, stops jarringly, is literally named Prisoner to a Formula. his second reminds me of carnival music and i love it so so so much. also, i've had weird issues in the past where putting images under a readmore screws up the entire post's formatting and i dont want to retype THIS ENTIRE RANT but. in bw2 his battle sprite has a bigger smile than in bw1. he regained his whimsy :)

misc thing. he canonically talks so fast some people can't understand him. this is reflected in the game by his text printing faster than everyone else's, and if you set your text speed to Fast he talks at a unique EVEN FASTER speed which i think is really funny. they just Really wanted him to talk super fast they even bothered to make him his own text speed

[tilbageidanmark]

Movies I watched this week (#187):

Welcome Back, Mr. McDonald (1997) is a random Japanese screwball comedy that I never heard of, and have no idea how it popped on my radar. A late night radio drama is transmitted live in a studio, and none of the voice actors is happy about the script, so they start amending it. It was so absurd and chaotic - and so funny! After laughing out loud non stop the second half of this crazy ride, it won me over. 8/10.

Later on I discovered this video essay about director Koki Mitani, calling him 'The best Japanese filmmaker you've never heard of'. I'm going to catch his other movies, f'sure f'sure.

🍿

3 by Australian stop-motion animator Adam Elliot:

🍿 "PPS. Did you know that turtles can breath through their anuses?"

Mary and Max is like a weirdly adult Wallace and Gromit, a dark and tragic clay figure story, voiced by Philip Seymour Hoffman and Toni Collette. It's my most wonderful surprising discovery of the week! Two damaged and unfortunate souls connect by becoming pen pals; a lonely Australian 8-year-old girl with an ugly birthmark on her forehead, and an obese Jewish New Yorker with Asperger's. It encompasses 20 years of outlandish long-distance emotions which ends with the acknowledgement of friendship. Absolutely magical. 10/10.

🍿 "Life is like a cigarette. Smoke it to the butt."

His 2003 Oscar winner Harvie Krumpet is another dark biography of an unfortunate character. He is born in a village in Poland to a mad woman, and suffers throughout his life with a long list of calamities, Tourette's, magnetized skull, asthma, Alzheimer's as well as generally very bad luck. It's really odd. It also involves nudism, depression, vegetarianism, and birth defects - and still ends on a oddly-positive note!

🍿 Ernie Biscuit (2015), another "differently-able" story about a "divergent" type of an unusual protagonist: A deaf, lonely Parisian taxidermist who escapes to Venice with his duck but ends up in Australia.

🍿  

The wind will carry us, my 8th drama by Iranian Abbas Kiarostami. An "engineer" comes to a distant Kurdish village, but the story, whatever it is, is not very clear, and is never fully-explained. Apparently, he's not an engineer, but a journalist, and he comes to witness the burial rituals of a very old woman. Meanwhile, she doesn't die, and he just hangs around, waiting. This is not only "Slow cinema", but also "Simple cinema", and this "primitive" village doesn't offer many clues. The roosters crow, the radio plays songs in the distant, the shepherd boy walks his goats...

🍿

2 with Simone Signoret:

🍿 Army of shadows, my 6th bleak film by J-P Melville, following a group of French resistance fighters. It's a formal, introspective and restrained picture of hopelessness, fear and destiny, and you know from the depressing look of it that none of them will survive. "Still, they persisted".

🍿 The Shortest Day (1963), my first film by Italian Sergio Corbucci, and the first with the popular comedian duo 'Franco and Ciccio' (Screenshot Above). A forgettable broad comedy about a couple of numskulls who are recruited by mistake and sent to fight in the trenches of the first World War [Like Treat Williams was in the musical 'Hair!].

This film was only memorable because it had over 50 cameos of famous stars of the day, who appeared in it (for free), some of them only for few seconds worth.

🍿

Christy Hall's superb directorial debut Daddio (2024). It's a 2-person conversation inside a NYC night cab, like a movable 'Dinner with Andre'. Talkative and foul-mouthed Sean Penn is the taxi driver and armchair psychologist and he knows how to engages passenger Dakota Johnson in an impromptu therapy session. Meanwhile, she opens up more and more and discloses personal and painful "truths" until the predictable 'reveal'. It's stagey but emotionally satisfying. 8/10. [*Female Director*]

🍿  

They shot the piano player (2023) is a Spanish animated drama about the real-life disappearance of Brazilian Bossa Nova pianist Tenório Jr. in 1976. It is hand drawn in a uniquely colorful style, and the music obviously is superb (For example, here's The trailer). But the framing devise of American journalist Jeff Goldblum, who discovers the story of and travels south to talk to musicians and family members, distracts from the emotional impact that could have been achieved. It ends up spending much time about the American-financed 'Operation Condor', which turned nearly all of South America into a cabal of murderous right-wing dictatorships, with thousands murdered and 'disappeared'.

(I saw it in the original Portuguese - with Arabic subtitles! - so I missed many details of the story.) 7/10.

🍿

2 with Icelandic Egill Ólafsson:

🍿 Touch, my 4th emotional film directed by Baltasar Kormákur. Ólafsson is an old man with a very early onset Alzheimer, who has to put his affairs in order. So he shuts down his restaurant, and embarks on finding his long-lost love from 50+ years ago. It brings him back to London where he had learnt to cook at a Japanese restaurant, and then to Hiroshima, where he finally meets his old lover.

🍿 Children of nature was the only Icelandic film nominated for an Oscar (in 1991). Interestingly, it also tells a story of an old man at the end of his life, who dares to do one crazy thing before the curtain falls. A man finds himself in a retirement home, where meets an old girlfriend. They decide to steal a Jeep and drive back to die in the place of their youth. 8/10.

🍿  

I enjoyed the original 'That's entertainment' very much, and promised myself to watch the sequel (there were two). Like 99% of all sequels,That's Entertainment, Part 2 is a copy of a much lower quality. Still, it includes dozens and dozens of clips from old MGM classics, many of which I haven't seen before (Young Bob Fosse in tight tights tap-dancing with Ann Miller in 'Kiss me Kate', human pogo stick Bobbie Van...) It felt though like somebody just threw together a 2-hour YouTube compilation of excellent highlights.

🍿

"My name? Enema Bag Jones!..."

The wrong guy is my first Dave Foley goofy, low-brow comedy (1997). It opens with a faux-Saul Bass and James Bond title sequence, and the first 10 minutes are cringeyly stupid! But then it shifts into a idiotic Hitchcock satire -an exceedingly funny and moronic Hitchcock satire - with joke after really idiotic joke that made me laugh out loud. He plays an over-the-top moron, and Jennifer Tilly plays a dumb narcoleptic farm girl and they do it so straight, it was a big surprise. 4/10.

🍿  

"Two Tati’s":

🍿 School for postmen (1947), Jacques Tati's first film. A perfect gem of comedic genius, which he expanded 2 years later into his first feature, 'Jour de fête'. Absolutely masterful. 10/10. Re-watch ♻️.

🍿 House Specialty ('Dégustation Maison, 1978) is a lovely short directed by Tati's daughter, Sophie Tatischeff, in the same village where he filmed 'Jour de fête' 30 years earlier. A day in the life of a little patisserie where all the pastries are loaded with liqueur. I just loved it! [*Female Director*]

🍿  

Through an eclectic reviewer on Letterboxd, I discovered Hamburger America, a so-so documentary about "different kinds" of burgers. (In 71 years I never ate a hamburger, and I will probably not have one in the next 71 years. But I love food, and I also cooked professionally for 10 years. Still I really cannot understand the concept of a burger, chopped beef, a bun, a slice of tomato, lettuce, and some mayonnaise. How did that ever become so iconic?)

🍿  

Another bunch of (mostly early-career) shorts:

🍿 Hypnotizing the Hypnotist (1911) was just a 1-reeler about hypnotism, a popular topic of the time. With Florence Turner, one of the early "stars" of the screen.

🍿 The Madness of Dr. Tube (1915), my first by Abel Gance. A (literal 'Egghead') mad-scientist discovers a cocaine-like powder, which causes those who are sprayed with it to experience hallucinogenic visions as if their bodies - and minds - are distorted, like in a crazed mirror house. The restored copy is exceptionally clear! (I didn't realize that Gance made movies up until 1967.)

🍿 Over the fence, Harold Lloyd's very first outing (1917), a debut of his 'Glasses' character. A cute baseball comedy that maintained its zest.

🍿  À propos de Nice, (1930), Jean Vigo's first documentary. It opens as an impressionistic time capsule, of the sights and people, with lots of overhead shots, upper class folks walking down the promenade, the carnival, casinos, and fancy cars. But then it turns into a surrealistic metaphor, with a sitting woman losing her cloths, feet losing their shoes, open manhole shot from below, and a man turns into a crocodile. An experimental tour.

🍿 The wagoner ("Borom Sarret", 1963), my first terrific film by Senegalese director Sembène Ousmane - possibly the first African film made by an African. A powerful and sad story about a poor man in Dakar trying to earn a meager living as a cart driver. 9/10.

🍿 Foutaises ("Things I like, things I hate"), is another of my frequent and beloved re-watches ♻️. Jean-Pierre Jeunet's very first film (1989), a condensed black and white precursor to Amélie. 8 minutes of perfection.

🍿 Like the Tati film above, the 2013 short Whiplash was the original proof of concept on which Damien Chazelle based his feature film debut the following year. And like the later Whiplash, the abusive psychopath J.K. Simmons holds zero appeal for me. Technically, this 18-min. short is as effective as the later one. 🍿  Linklater: On Cinema and Time (2013) is a visual essay that Kogonada made to accompany a philosophical BFI article he wrote about time and memory. I like Kogonada very much, but this reminds me why I didn’t care for ‘Before Sunrise’.

🍿 "Look at all that wasted space". In Negative Space a boy bonds with his traveling businessman dad by packing his suitcase. Oscar nominated in 2017. 💯 score on Rotten Tomatoes. [*Female Director*]

🍿 In Kiss of the Rabbit God (2019) a young waiter at an ordinary Chinese restaurant falls in love with a gorgeous, ethereal, neon-haired deity from the 18th century. A gay sexual hook-up in the back of the kitchen between two young guys, one of whom is an ancient God.

🍿 "Lean into loneliness and know you're not alone in it".

How to be at home, (2020) a Canadian instruction manual of how to deal with Covid social isolation, based on a poem by Tanya Davis. (Via). [*Female Director*]

🍿  Tall, dark and handsome (2023), my 3rd film by Sam Baron and the third starring 'Big Ears' Amit Shah. An Indian guy dating a white British woman (They're even expecting a baby together), becomes insecure when he discovers that she had dated several other Indian guys before him. Heartbreaking ending. 8/10.

🍿  

And finally: Timelapse of the Future: A Journey to the End of Time (2019) is a highly speculative documentary made by an astronomer about the end of "Time". Because I have no knowledge about the subject, it may or may not be scientifically plausible, as it talks about events that will happen trillions and trillions years into the future, but it mentions red and white dwarfs, pulsars, degenerate matters, Hawkins radiation, Black Hole Era, dark energy, entropy and unstable protons. All the while it plays various scenarios with creepy stock music, Kubrick's Stargate, and psychedelic graphics. Mmmmm....

Spoiler Alert: The universe will end in the year one googol.

🍿  

(My complete movie list is here).

[booksandabeer]

I was tagged by @carladuquette, thank you so much! 💗

last song: "You Turn Me On, I'm A Radio" - Joni Mitchell featuring Neil Young & The Stray Gators

currently reading: I'm in a nonfiction phase right now. I just started MCU: The Reign of Marvel Studios by Joanna Robinson, Dave Gonzales, and Gavin Edwards. On audio: One Mighty and Irresistible Tide: The Epic Struggle over American Immigration, 1924-1965 by Jia Lynn Yang. Also finished After The Wall: Confessions from an East German Childhood and the Life that Came Next by Jana Hensel.

currently watching: Just finished The Gold (BBC/Paramount+), which was excellent and I wholeheartedly recommend, and—because I can't help myself—I'm also watching Loki, which is a fun time as long as you don't think about anything that's happening for more than 5 seconds, but as a tv show is a complete narrative trainwreck. I have a lot of love for most of the actors involved here (and they're really trying their best), so I'll keep watching, but I sure hope they at least got a good paycheck out of this.

current obsession: The photography of Robert Frank, specifically his book The Americans. It's out of print and I've been trying to find a copy of it that doesn't look like it spent the last decades on somebody's dank basement floor and/or is even remotely affordable. No luck so far. 😕

no pressure tags for @village-skeptic, @tessabennet, @ethicalhorseslaughter, @eurekaetcetera, and @elliquinn.

[dollycas]

Ellen Byron

New from Ellen Byron French Quarter Fright Night (Vintage Cookbook) Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series Setting - the Garden District of New Orleans Publisher ‏ : ‎ Severn House (September 3, 2024) The third in the fabulous cozy mystery series with a vintage flair from USA Today bestselling and Agatha Award-winning author Ellen Byron. Welcome to the Bon Veeevil Festival of Fear! Prepare for the spookiest night of your life . . . It's Halloween in New Orleans, and the staff of Bon Vee Culinary House Museum is setting up a fantastic haunted house tour for their visitors. But when flashy movie star Blaine Taggart and his entourage move into the mansion next door, gift shop proprietor Ricki James-Diaz gets a fright of her own. While Ricki is excited about the potential business the tours will bring to her vintage cookbook shop, she's less thrilled by former friend Blaine's arrival in town. Then Bon Vee's prop tomb becomes a real tomb for Blaine's nasty assistant, and suddenly everyone at Bon Vee is a murder suspect. There isn't a ghost of a chance one of them committed the crime, but with NOPD busy tackling the mischief and mayhem generated by the spooky holiday, it falls on Ricki and her friends to catch the killer. As the Big Easy gears up for the Big Scary, it seems everyone has skeletons in their closets. Can Ricki reveal the shadowy killer before someone else becomes part of the Halloween horror show? Purchase Links Amazon - B&N - Bookshop.org Author Links Webpage – Facebook – Twitter – GoodReads – Instagram – BookBub – Newsletter The Rest of the Series Don't Miss A Very Woodsy Murder (A Golden Motel Mystery) Cozy Mystery 1st in Series Setting - California Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington Cozies (July 23, 2024) From Agatha Award-winning author Ellen Byron, a hilarious new series featuring a sitcom writer who has checked out of the familiar comforts in Studio City and checked in to the quaint village of Foundgold to run a motel. Running a rustic getaway in the woods sure beats LA traffic—until murder ruins the peace and quiet . . . Down-on-her-luck sitcom writer Dee Stern is flipping the script. Twice divorced and wasting her talents on an obnoxious kids’ show, the lifelong Angeleno embraces the urge to jump in her car and keep driving. It's a road trip with no destination—until she pulls into a mid-century motel filled with cobwebs and retro charm. Nestled in the shadow of a national park, it’s a time capsule of a place that, like her, could use some work. So, in the most impulsive move of her life, Dee teams up with best friend, Jeff Cornetta—who happens to be her first ex-husband—to transform the aging ranch into the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains, a hiker’s oasis on the edge of the wilderness . . . But Dee and Jeff soon realize there couldn’t be two people more unprepared for the hospitality business. There’s also the panic-inducing reality of prowling bears and a general store as the only shopping spot for miles. Living and working in the middle of nowhere takes some getting used to—especially when a disrespectful guest ends up murdered! Now, with the motel duo topping the suspect list, Dee must steer clear of a meddling park ranger, face her past in show biz, and determine if the killer is a local or tourist. Because as she quickly finds out, there are many things worse than a one-star review. Also written by Ellen Byron Written as Maria DiRico Click on the covers for more information or to order from Amazon. 9/30/2024 Read the full article

[clowncalvary]

Reviewing Every Animal Crossing New Horizons Villager (Because I Have Fallen Down The Rabbit Hole) Part 4

Chrissy: I am endeared to her face because it looks like she is wearing a mask! Kind of gives me The Stranger energy from TMA. 700 Bells.

Claude: They have done this rabbit dirty. He also looks like he is hiding a few women in his basement. 10 Bells.

Claudia: I need this kind of tiger energy in my life. This is like if a family friendly animated studio was designing a girl tiger versus a boy tiger. 320 Bells.

Clay: I thought at first he looked like a luchador, but then I zoomed in and went "Ah! He's possessed!" 53 Bells.

Cleo: I like her colors and her eyes, but these are her only redeeming traits. 60 Bells, but for you I let her go for 50.

Clyde: Ope, just ugly all the way down, huh? 0 Bells.

Coach: This dude looks like he fell off the ugly tree and hit every branch and the way down. 0 Bells. - I was asked to retract this statement, but I refuse.

Cobb: He is a green pig, but he could be worse. I might be biased because I was told he was a mad scientist and I do love a good feral little man. 200 Bells.

Coco: HONEY YOU ARE MY- ANGGGGGGGGGGEL!!!!!!!! I have loved her since the moment I saw her! Possessed in the best way possible! I will NOT rest until I get her on my island!! SHE IS PRICELESS IN MY HEART!!!! 500,000 Bells. I Will Pay More For Her.

Cole: Wait, wait, they are so cute. They look like they have no clue about anything that is going on. Damn, most of the rabbit villagers are just going to be this charming, huh? I don't think I have enough room on my island for them all :( 2222 Bells.

Colton: All good things must come to an end and seeing this horse truly is the end of a good streak of villagers. He does kind of look like he belongs on Fred Jones' island though if he played Animal Crossing. 30 Bells.

Cookie: Stop looking at me with those big old eyes. The patterning would be cute without the eyes, but not enough to redeem this dog. 60 Bells.

Cousteau: I was going to say he was irredeemable, but then I realized that he kind of reminds me of the frogs from Kipo. 80 Bells.

Cranston: More like Crankston. Gross little man. Gonna put this man's head back into the sand. 0 Bells.

Croque: Go back to the opera where they can't see your face. 0 Bells.

Cube: I keep thinking of those weird ass small penguin animations that I've seen all over tumblr. Do with that as you may. 42 Bells.

Curlos: Ah, this dude belongs on Mabel's island and she would cherish him so much. Personally though, I'm going to have to pass on this man. 10 Bells. (Good luck getting him though, Mabel won't give him up).

Curly: ....This is just motherfuckin' Peppa, ain't it? You ain't as charmin' as you seem to think, Peppa! 20 Bells.

Curt: This is a bear that looks like he either needs to be a wrestler or in a biker club. I can see this dude riding a motorcycle. 20 Bells.

Cyd: Look. I wanted to like him. I wanted to like him so much because I love the colors and his mischievious look. I just can't get past him looking like shit. 0 Bells.

Cyrano: Why does he look like he's a villain from One-Punch Man? I hope he gets flattened soon. 36 Bells.

Daisy: Now that is one cutie patootie of a dog. I really hope I encounter them when I am island hopping just so I can say I met them! Put them in my little island scrapbook. 700 Bells.

Deena: *squints* A duck? Why do they look like a yokai? Either way my lack of trust in them is pretty high! 0 Bells.

Deidre: What secrets are you hiding behind that smile? Where did you hide those bodies? Why is there a strangely shaped red stain on your carpet? 60 Bells.

Del: Mechanical Alligator vibes right here. I am just not digging them. I kind of wish that he was more ugly because then at least he would stick out? 50 Bells.

Deli: JUST IMAGINE ME HISSING AT THE SCREEN SEVERAL TIMES LIKE A REALLY DISGRUNTLED KITTEN. THAT IS HOW I FEEL EVERY TIME I SEE ONE OF THESE UGLY ASS MONKEYS! -500 BELLS.

Derwin: The kids in highschool definately called him "Derpwin" and they were right. 25 Bells.

Diana: Now this is a lovely villager! A good use of the deer design too! I wonder if one of my friends already has her? 620 Bells.

Diva: Horrifying. Ugly. Disgusting. There is a circle of hell just reserved for this Frog. -1000 Bells.

Dizzy: *sigh* Okay, this is literally identical to a different elephant villager that I saw earlier. I feel like I need to barely dignify this guy with a review. 0.50 Bells because he is a rip off.

[toonrandy]

If you’re a fan of 50/50 Heroes, series artist Sebastien Mesnard is creating Hoodie Buddy for Cyber Group Studios, and it’s about a talking hoodie who helps his human best friend navigating through life after moving into a new town! (And this is the first ever fanart based on it!) I wish everyone involved good luck as it’s being showcased at the Kidscreen Summit!

Check out the below for more info on this and more upcoming animated series!

[thedisneychef]

Kona Cafe's Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes: Recipe with Sauce

Kona Cafe's Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes are a delicious and indulgent breakfast option that offer a taste of the tropics. Served at the Kona Cafe in Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, these pancakes are a popular menu item that draw inspiration from the flavors of Hawaii. The pancakes are made with a fluffy and buttery batter, studded with crunchy macadamia nuts and chunks of sweet pineapple. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream, these pancakes are a decadent breakfast treat that is perfect for a special occasion or a lazy weekend morning. In this context, we can explore the cultural significance of macadamia nuts and pineapple in Hawaiian cuisine, and how they have become popular ingredients in a variety of dishes and desserts. We can also discuss the importance of using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh pineapple and locally sourced macadamia nuts, to create a delicious and wholesome breakfast. Finally, we can highlight the unique experience of dining at the Kona Cafe and how it offers a taste of the tropics in the heart of Disney World. More Delicious Recipes You Will Love: - Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spoodles Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Meal - Mac And Cheese With Red Wine Sauce – Jiko - Magical Star Cocktail – Disney Parks So last week was Fat Tuesday and it has always been a tradition for me to have pancakes for good luck.  And I’m in the midst of my post-trip Disney blues, which meant that no ordinary pancakes would do.  I’m craving Disney, in the worst possible way…  For lucky pancakes, nothing short of Disney pancakes could be considered acceptable. Apparently, I must have pleased the Tiki God of pancakes (is there such a thing?) because not only did I manage to find the perfect pancake recipe, but it is from Kona Cafe at the Polynesian. Can I just say, if there was ever in the world a recipe that was more like a warm hug then this one, honestly, I don’t know what it is.  First off, that amazing smell every morning that floats through the Polynesian?  Turns out it’s these pancakes.  It’s the most beautiful smell and it instantly brought me back to Disney.  All that was missing was the tiki music and a tropical fountain.  Seriously, I got a little choked up. I’ll admit that while these may not look terribly gorgeous (and they don’t at Kona either), as far as taste, let me just say…  Pure heaven.  These may be the best pancakes I’ve had in my entire life, and that’s saying something as I’m quite the pancake connoisseur. They taste deliciously sweet, and the pineapple paired with the butter creates this beautiful, nutty, tropical flavor that goes so well with the pancakes.  I’m not joking when I say that now I crave these pancakes…  All the time.  They’re really just that good. I made no real changes to the recipe, other then accidentally burning the toasted macadamia nuts ever so slightly.  I suggest making the pineapple sauce first, allowing that to cook while preparing the pancakes.  The nut butter keeps really, really well in the fridge and, as I’ve discovered, tastes good on everything.  I’m almost embarrassed to share all the things I’ve put it on. A simple-to-make, insanely delicious pancake recipe that makes my house smell like the Polynesian?  I may be in serious trouble… ~~~~  °o°  ~~~~ In addition to the delicious food and recipes, Disney World is also known for its unique dining experiences, such as character dining and themed restaurants. Whether you want to have breakfast with Mickey Mouse, dine in a replica of a sci-fi drive-in theater at Hollywood Studios, or enjoy a meal with an ocean view at the Coral Reef Restaurant in Epcot, there's something for everyone. And with the help of Recipes Today and the How to Make category, you can even recreate some of these magical dining experiences in your own home. So why not start planning your next Disney-inspired meal or dining experience today? Read the full article

[jimmy67880]

Elevate Your Musical Journey with Exceptional Piano Lessons in Simi Valley and Surrounding Areas

Piano lessons in Westlake Village with the best teachers! Your child will learn to play piano beginner to advanced at Westlake Villages most popular studio

Introduction: Mastering the art of playing the piano is a beautiful and rewarding experience that opens up a world of creativity and expression. If you reside in Sherman Oaks, Moorpark, Camarillo, or Woodland Hills, and have a passion for music, you're in luck. Our team of highly skilled and dedicated piano teachers is here to offer the finest in-home piano lessons tailored to kids and teens. With over four years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we are the go-to destination for aspiring pianists in the area.

Personalized Instruction: At our piano lessons, we understand that every student is unique and has different learning styles and musical aspirations. That's why we provide personalized instruction that caters to each individual's needs and goals. Our experienced teachers will assess your current skill level, whether you're a complete beginner or an intermediate player, and create a customized lesson plan that maximizes your progress and enjoyment.

Convenience of In-Home Lessons: We believe that learning should be accessible and convenient. That's why our piano lessons are conducted in the comfort of your own home. By eliminating the need for travel, we ensure that students can focus solely on their lessons without any distractions. Additionally, learning in a familiar environment promotes a sense of comfort and confidence, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the learning process.

Experienced and Passionate Teachers: Our team of piano teachers is comprised of highly experienced and passionate individuals who are dedicated to nurturing the musical talent within each student. With their extensive knowledge and expertise, they guide students through the fundamentals of music theory, technique, sight-reading, and improvisation. They also expose students to a diverse range of musical genres, fostering a well-rounded musical education.

A Comprehensive Curriculum: Our piano lessons offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of piano playing. From developing proper hand placement and posture to mastering complex musical compositions, our lessons are designed to cultivate well-rounded musicians. Whether your goal is to play classical pieces, jazz tunes, or popular songs, our teachers will guide you towards achieving your musical aspirations.

Building Confidence and Performance Skills: Performance opportunities play a crucial role in the development of a musician's confidence and stage presence. As part of our piano lessons, we organize recitals and showcase events, providing students with a platform to showcase their progress and gain valuable performance experience. These events foster a sense of achievement and motivate students to further excel in their musical journey.

Conclusion: Embark on a remarkable musical journey with our exceptional piano lessons in Sherman Oaks, Moorpark, Camarillo, and Woodland Hills. Our experienced teachers, personalized instruction, and convenient in-home lessons ensure that students receive the highest quality musical education. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player, our goal is to inspire, nurture, and empower you to become the best pianist you can be. Sign up today and let the magic of music unfold before your eyes.

[topiadrita]

Goodgame empire ww3

GOODGAME EMPIRE WW3 APK

GOODGAME EMPIRE WW3 UPGRADE

GOODGAME EMPIRE WW3 FREE

You can use your mouse to play this game. Goodgame Empire is a hybrid of a management simulation and a strategy browser game in which players must fight and win battles. Goodgame Studios developed Empire: World War 3.

GOODGAME EMPIRE WW3 FREE

Are you ready for this epic war? Good luck!ĭo you want to play more games like this one? If so, take the different challenges in our collection of free and online management games. Your army can loot enemy bases, prevent riva shipments to steal your resources, and fight for victory! You can also join alliances to take advantage of the war, it increases your profit and enhances your possibilities. Millions of gamers are playing Goodgame Empire worldwide. Developing your army is a very important step in this dangerous war, so you need to improve your tactics.

GOODGAME EMPIRE WW3 UPGRADE

You can upgrade your buildings, units, and look for new items as you proceed with the game. Observe your enemies' every move on the world map and loot their bases. Prospect and mine the rare resource Millennium and secure the highest amount possible. Build up your base, train your units, and command them in action packed battles. Then develop an army of troops to defend your colony. Empire World War 3 is a fascinating multiplayer strategy game where you have to conquer the world. But you need to find and ship it to the Mars Trade Federation. Millennium is a very limited source, so it is really hard to discover. First, you need to produce resources for the base. Your objective in this game is to build up your entire Base.

GOODGAME EMPIRE WW3 APK

Become king of your own empire by hoarding resources and power.In Empire: World War 3, the day humanity has been waiting for has arrived! The war is about to start! So, you and your army should be prepared for the war or else you will be destroyed! Create a futuristic space army and battle around the world alongside millions of other players! Good luck!Įmpire: World War 3 is an online multiplayer game that you have a chance to use futuristic weapons and fearless troops on your enemies! You will build a colony on Mars and fight for your restricted precious sources. Download Empire: Four Kingdoms APK latest version by Goodgame Studios - Fastest - Free - Safe for android devices. Like most similar games, this isn't necessary to advance in the game. While Goodgame Empire is free-to-play online game, you have the option of speeding things up with virtual money. Pillage and plunder for fun, or because you want their property. That's right, you can just invade somebody else's kingdom. It's time to pit your tactical skill and strategic acumen against players of enemy empires. Only the best generals and most level-headed strategists will claim victory. You can also rely on the true and tested approach to getting what you want: take it from those weaker than yourself. Send your tanks and troops to capture villages, command their defenses and erect new colonies. If you don't want to sit around staring at your screen waiting, you can spend rubies to skip the waiting time. Keep in mind that every order takes time to execute. Choose knights and legendary heroes to lead your armies. Alliances let you find players to chat and share ideas with. Carve out a place for yourself on the huge world map. These games are not played in turns, but let you give orders and commands whenever you want instead. Goodgame Empire belongs to the genre of real-time-strategy games. Build your own castle, create a powerful army and fight epic player versus player battles on a dynamic world map. You will have to defend it against villains and robbers alike. Goodgame Empire is a great strategy title by Goodgame Studios. Your enemies are doing so the same, so make sure your home is well fortified. Prepare your rise to power by building a massive army first. In Empire: World War III, the strategy behind your skills means the difference between victory and. A good emperor has to work and plan for it. A brand new MMO strategy game from Goodgame Studios. Only with the help of a rock solid strategy will you be able to build your empire and lead it to victory. Use your multiplayer alliances as security before taking on scarier enemies. In Goodgame Empire you will rise and fall based on how well you play. You are free to forge your own path as you play, enacting your strategy. It needs a good leader like you to make it into the most glorious empire of four kingdoms. Your kingdom needs more than just a big castle. It's a viable strategy in this online empire building game to find people to join forces with. Be an impressive emperor, recruit new armies and lead them into battles to conquer new lands. Build houses for your people, so that they can help you gather the means to grow. It's now up to you to expand it and turn it into a huge kingdom. You have been entrusted with your very own castle but you own still a small empire. Goodgame Empire is an online war strategy game by Goodgame Studios, in which you build a powerful empery.

[bukojuiice]

fix you.

ೃ pairing: (village prince! katsuki bakugo x princess mononoke! reader)

ೃ  tags: princess mononoke au! studio ghibli au!

ೃ warnings:  mild use of weapons and strong language

ೃ part 1/2  of the princess mononoke! au

ೃ word count 4.119 words

ೃ 2/??? of @bukojuiice’s studio ghibli au

ೃ  my nav  →  my mha writing masterlist  → my katsuki bakugo x reader smau

ೃ  Loosely based off of Princess Mononoke! Not necessarily a word for word retelling/alternate universe. You can read on without any prior knowledge of this beautiful Studio Ghibli film. Hope you enjoy!

ೃ if you want to be part of this studio ghibli au taglist, send me an ask! or if you want to be a part of my mha taglist in general, send me an ask indicating whichever you want to be a part of!

ೃ  please do reblog if you enjoyed!! (feel free to add tags too because i love reading them and my heart swells with happiness when people love my work!)

ೃ shoto todoroki’s fic (howl’s moving castle au) for those of you who want to read the first in this series!

ೃ taglist: @chibishae34​ @sparkykatsuki​ @ramunegoddess​

 ೃ Katsuki Bakugo is the righteous yet arrogant village prince of the east. The entire village relies on him for protection and for guidance, further inflating his ego. however, after a cursed boar attacks him and the curse is passed on to him as a poisonous mark on his arm, slowly consuming him until he becomes a demon himself. he is exiled without hesitance from his village and is to go on a journey to look for a cure, a journey he might never come back from. With the help of two of his most trusted allies, he embarks on a journey to look for the gods of the forest in where he meets a girl (just as striking as him) who brings him back down to earth, saves him and make him experience a true life worth living.

“Damn this life.” Katsuki curses under his breath, rolling up his sleeves, and collecting clear water from the riverbend and transferring it into his jar.

“Hey! This isn’t that bad!” Eijiro Kirishima, son of the second in command to Katsuki’s mother, his most trusted ally and #2 most annoying fucker on this planet, cheekily grins, patting the blonde on the back. “We’ve gone through worse things in the past. And yet here we are! We’re still alive! Aren’t we?”

“Yea! We’ll find the forest gods soon! Offer food for them and hopefully they give us a cure! This is going to be easy!” Denki Kaminari, another one of his most trusted allies, grandson of one of the wise elders, and #1 most annoying fucker on this planet, reassures his friend whilst aimlessly fixing the saddle on his elk.

Why did life have to be like this?

Who did Katsuki Bakugo infuriate from high above to have this tremendous bad luck and fate be put upon him? All he wanted was to live a noble life as a village prince, have his mother pass down her position of power onto him, become the new village chief, live a life of prosperity, help his people, and then pass away with no regrets. But life just had to do this to him no?

After an unexpected attack of a raging cursed boar consumed by black slithering enigmas in the hills of Mustafu village, the handsome village prince was the only one able of combat who was around the vicinity at the time. He had no choice but to hurl himself in front of the boar, shooting one of his famed  arrows, sharper than most and one of the best in his arsenal.  The boar had met its demise by his hands. However, not without getting revenge at Katsuki, by passing its curse onto him. The black ooze slithering onto his arm before the animal had fully perished.

That was the worst day of his life.

As the son of the village chief and as one of the most well-known individuals in his tribe, how was he supposed to react?

Katsuki had always been number one. Never once slipping to loss or to failure. Never getting injured. Never letting his guard down. Never disappointing his parents. Never losing his pride nor his mighty personality.

He was the paragon of success.

But, sometimes, the best people feel lost and useless too.

The fact that his mother had easily let go of him, have the wise villager elders speak ill of him and banish him, having to leave everything he had loved and worked hard for, lose his position as a prince, and have the people of his village look at him in abhorrence and disgust, had ended up becoming the most painful experiences he ever had to go through in his entire life.

Leaving quietly at the dead of the night with no proper goodbyes but a brief hug, gift of a good luck charm from his mother, and the willing accompaniment of his two most trusted friends (although he would not like to admit the appreciation he has for them, he was very grateful) on this fruitless journey… He could never have it any other way.

What kind of life was he even going to lead from here on forth?

He didn’t want to stop believing. He didn’t want to lose hope. This wasn’t like him. Katsuki Bakugo knew who he was. He knows how headstrong he is, how prideful, persevering, and how much of a smart-ass he is. He had no time to sulk and contemplate about his demise and what fate had in store for him.

Although, it would be nice if he could release all these pent-up emotions and frustrations at least once. Just once.

He just has no idea how to and who to open up to.

Putting his vulnerable emotions aside, he is going to defy his destiny and take down whatever may come his way.

Making sure no one was going to stop him from doing so.

“Let’s go.” Katsuki jerks his head, gesturing his party members to start walking to the other side of the forest.

“Wait… haven’t we gone there already?” Kaminari protests, not raising his voice nor overreacting because even he knew that Katsuki was on a bad mood as per usual. (With this being the second afternoon of their journey and because they have to leave their animal companions by the river due to how unstable the geographical and terrestrial properties of the forest were.)

Katsuki shoots him a glare, the other blonde clearing the lump in his throat in response. “Okay okay! Let’s go then!”

They quietly navigate through the forest, hearing nothing but the sound of their own feet stepping on the grass, crickets chirping, fireflies flying about, the towering trees swaying with the wind, and the calming yet lonely atmosphere of the woodlands to accompany them.

“Kirishima.” Bakugo calls out coldly. “Are you sure that this is the same forest depicted in the legends?”

“Positive.” Kirishima replies, nodding aimlessly whilst turning his head and taking in their surroundings. “If we spot some Kodama, that means we’re near the tree that stands alone.”

“Tree that stands alone?” Denki asks, tilting his head and sparking a discussion. “Also, what even is a Kodama?”

“You’re the grandson of a village elder yet you’re asking me?” Eijiro narrows his eyes at his other blonde friend. “Kodama are the little white spirits who live in trees. They don’t necessarily guide travelers but instead watch them. They only intervene if ever anything bad happens. If we see them appear then that means we’re close to the spiritual core of the forest. The tree that gives life.”

Yakushima Forest. Located in the southern region, is the settlement of the forest gods and the place where the oldest trees of Japan and those known to man stand strongly. The power and the spiritual energy stored in this wonderous and enchanting forest could only be seen and could only be discovered by heroes and travelers with a pure of heart as the forest was welcoming only to visitors with pure and selfless intentions. However, to those who wish to exploit it and to ruin its beauty will be punished heavily by the gods in the most gruesome ways possible.

Katsuki breathes out a hefty sigh, leading his two other friends who were happily following him from behind. There was this bizarre feeling of anxiety welling up inside him. He was not himself and he couldn’t tell why. All he could do was pretend to remain calm and collected…

He will find that cure.

He will be able to save himself and he will be able to come back to his village, victorious and free of the curse.

Bakugo stops in his tracks when they encounter another streaming river. His two companions almost bump into him with how abrupt he halted in his steps.

There was something amiss in the river.

It wasn’t a bad spirit nor was it some bad energy, but Katsuki could feel something.

There was someone else there.

And he felt that they weren’t exactly the friendly type who would help them.

“Bakugo-sama, why did we stop-“ Kaminari is hushed by his blonde friend before he could even have the chance to utter another word. Kirishima quickly picked up what Katsuki is trying to motion to them and proceeds to quietly scout around the area. “There’s a girl? Wolves too.” He whispers from behind a bush not far from where his friends were standing.

“Let’s go back to the nearby village. Stay at the inn there.” Bakugo whispers sternly, as if not wanting to hear any other remarks from his friends.­

“Wait! Bakugo, I know we’re near the tree. Why stop now!?” Kirishima fussed. He knew something was up. “We’re pretty close. We can just set up a fire here then-“

“I said let’s head back. Damn it.” Katsuki repeated his words. This time, in a sort of a growl. “If you don’t want to go back, feel free to die here if you want.” He starts treading back to the path where they came from. Denki looks at his red-headed friend worriedly, even he, of all people, had finally noticed that there was something wrong with their most beloved village prince. Kirishima nods at him cautiously, the two of them walking together behind Bakugo.

They quickly got back to the small village near the forest with no interruption, as the chit-chatter and the energy radiating between both Kirishima and Kaminari were low as Katsuki was in a even terrible mood, refusing to talk to any of them nor humoring their antics and small jokes.

They continue to spend the rest of their day in silence. With, Katsuki, immediately heading back to his quarters to rest whilst his two other companions remained outside to help some village folk and prepare dinner.

The village chieftain of the quaint settlement had a good relationship with Katsuki’s mother. They were good trade partners and the village chief wanted to do everything in their power to help Katsuki be free of the curse by the means of giving him a private inn to stay in and come back to whenever he and his friends would like to. It wasn’t much, but Katsuki needed all the help he could get on this otherwise hopeless quest. Even if he refused the said offers at first.

After another awfully quiet bonding time with Bakugo at dinner, the convivial duo had to break the silence. Denki had thought of the most wonderful idea of bringing up the topic of the girl who was accompanied by wolves in the forest. Because, hey, it’s a girl in the forest! What could possibly be weird about that?

“Hey! So about that girl that we saw…” Kaminari suddenly speaks up, nudging Kirishima in the arm, signaling him to answer his query. Bakugo barely looks up at the sound of his friend’s yapping, continuing to play with the food on his bowl. “Who do you think was she?”

“She’s most probably the wolf princess.” Eijiro shrugs casually, biting on a roasted corncob. “Yakushima forest is protected by the three animal gods whom we know by now as the forest gods. The Wolf goddess, The Gorilla king, and The Deer god. The Deer god being the most powerful of them all. There have been rumors and reports going around that the goddess had taken in an abandoned human girl, and was treated as one of their kin years ago. The girl holds pure resentment for her own kind and chooses to live in the Yakushima forest, taking down every single human who has negative intentions and evil plans for the land she lives in.”

“Well, if she’s that badass, then you shouldn’t call her a princess. She’s a queen!” Kaminari remarks, biting on his newly roasted corncob, listening eagerly to Kirishima’s tale. Bakugo looks up at Denki and the goofy blonde could have sworn he saw a small smile form on Katsuki’s face.

Kirishima laughs at his friend’s little quip, “You’re right. She’s amazing, isn’t she?”

“You weirdos should get to sleep. We go back to the forest first thing in the morning.” Katsuki stands up from his seat, his hands in his pockets, grumpily trotting away to the inn.

“Oh.” Denki blinks. “That was faster than I thought. I didn’t expect him to be convinced so easily. Did you pull that story from your ass Kirishima-kun?”

The red-haired teen shook his head. “Nope. All of that was real.”

“For real? You’re not joking?”

“Yup.”

“Oh, that’s cool. Goodnight then!” The other blonde leaves his seat, patting Eijiro in the arm before leaving and going back to his quarters.

Kirishima looks up at the glistening night sky, a few stars present in the sky to greet him a wonderful night, the boy hoping he would find an answer amongst the stars. “May the gods help us in our adventure.” He breathes a hefty sigh, closing his eyes. After a few more minutes of praying for guidance, he puts out the fire and retreats back to his room.

The night passes by quickly, another day of their adventure waiting to unfold.

“Don’t you dare come back here you disgusting prince.”

“No one wants him here! Got it? Let him go on this adventure and never come back!”

“He’s just a burden. To be cursed by an animal as simple as a boar? Pathetic.”

“Useless vermin.”

“Banished forever? How sad.”

“A prince falling from grace? Predictable.”

The voices of the village people echo in his head.

These were words from them that he was not meant to hear. Ones that he accidentally heard before leaving that same night. These were the words that will haunt him forever.

He, Katsuki Bakugo, of all people, would let all these horrid, vile, and false words get to him?

These were the same words with the same meaning that he’s heard hundreds and hundreds of times from different people, yet it never got to him. He chose to ignore them.

But, why now? What was going on?  Why was he feeling this way?

Katsuki awakens at the dead of the night. Beads of sweat falling from his temples, his breath hitched and his body aching. He was not himself right now and this intense feeling of uneasiness and torment confirmed it. Although, he wanted to keep this to himself. He didn’t want anybody else to know what he was feeling. He could overcome this on his own. He could do this all on his own.

“I’ll show them.” He continues to breathe at a fast pace, still a bit shocked by the nightmare he had just seen. “I’ll fucking show them that I am the prince of the Mustafu tribe.” He props himself up from his sleeping mat, reaching for his neatly folded clothes beside him. “And nothing’s going to change that.”

Katsuki begins to get dressed, feeling nothing but anger and determination running through his veins. He puts on his grey vest and wraps his red cape onto his back. He continues to put on his ensemble when a sudden rush of pain begins to throb in his arm. Bakugo’s immediate reaction is to curl up, holding his stomach to try and ease the pain.

The curse was acting up again, reacting to the anger and negative emotions that Katsuki was feeling right now. The blonde winces in pain, kneeling down on the floor to take a hold of his arm that was manifesting a glowing blue and black aura. His muscle continues to throb and he could do nothing but hold it down and take in all the pain until it eventually goes away.

After several minutes of resisting and trying to ease the pain by thinking of more positive and enlightening thoughts, the throbbing suddenly stops. Bakugo goes back to breathing at a normal pace. He rests for a few minutes, making sure that his body was functioning properly once more before he quickly heads out of his private room to head to back to Yakushima forest, searching for answers. He didn’t have time to wait for Kirishima and Kaminari anymore. He was growing impatient, and hearing the haunting words of his village people circling in his head fueled his will power to get this whole ordeal done and head back home.

It was finally the end of another day protecting the forest.

You were about on your daily patrol with the wolf goddess and your wolf siblings, when you encounter three young men who looked like they were lost in the woods. You immediately assumed that they were looking for the tree of life. But they weren’t like the others. They weren’t finding it for selfish reasons. They were looking for it in hopes to find a cure for a curse. That’s what their auras were trying to show at least.

One of those men particularly piqued your interest.

He was… handsome? Was that the word that humans used?

He had ash blonde hair that spiked upwards at all angles, passionate red orbs that gave him such a striking appearance, as if he could hold up the world in his hands. Calloused hands that had taken a part in many battles, a muscular build like that of a noble warrior, a shining sword just as big as him and an arrow that he looked like he was adept at using.

Yet despite your observations, there was this mysterious air around him that you just couldn’t understand.

“(Y/N)? Dear? Is anything wrong?” The elegant white wolf goddess, Moro, calls out to her human daughter, with a worried look.

“I saw 3 dorks by the riverbend on our patrol a while ago.” You say rather jokingly, trying to remember their faces. “I should have struck them down when I had the chance.” You shake your head, reaching for the knife in your skirt and grasping it.

“How so?” The goddess twitches her ear, as if raising an eyebrow at you. “Did you feel any bad spirits within them? Any emotional aura? I told you to do that before attempting to attack anyone remember?”

“There was this particular man among them who had strong energy. He was radiating a gloomy yet aggressive energy. Like that of a person hiding their true emotions to remain strong and brave to the outside world. I kind of felt sorry for him.” Your voice trails off as you nestle your body next to the wolf goddess, along with your siblings who were cuddled up next to you too.

“Why don’t you go check up on him then?” Moro replies casually, as if teasing you. You raise your head up, feeling a tint shade of pink appear on your cheeks.

“W-what do you mean?”

“You know what I mean.”

A shrieking noise began to ring in your ears, signaling that a human has entered the forest. You quickly rise up from the bed of leaves you were sleeping in. Running out of the cave, you gallop down a slope and sprint your way to the foot of the forest. The spirits guiding you to where you needed to go.

You feel the hostile energy yet again.

Could it be the young man from earlier?

When he enters your field of vision, you climb up the nearest tree to get a clearer look at him from above and from afar.

He still had the same expression plastered upon his face since this afternoon. An irritated and scornful look, yet there was kindness in his eyes that you couldn’t describe.

It wasn’t the kindness that you would see from the eyes of a regular person but it was a kindness that was combined with a desire to protect the people around him. It was different and oddly comforting.

You continue to observe his every move, waiting for him to mess up or try to hurt the magical properties of the forest before you confront him to ask why the hell was he even roaming around in the forest, in the middle of night like a fluffy dog.

Katsuki noticed you standing on the tree-tops.

You weren’t exactly the greatest hide and seek player.

However, he chose to shrug you off and ignore you as he continues to look for traces of spiritual energy that could lead him to the tree of life.

Based on the stories that Kirishima had told, he was actually a bit surprised by your appearance. He couldn’t make out your face with the mask that you were wearing but he noticed your mildly disheveled hair, the ragged clothes you had on, a cape made of white fur and a necklace adorned with three fangs hanging on your neck. From that alone, he knew you were a princess. Not your conventional princess per se with all the jewelry, intricate headpieces and beautiful dresses but, the presence that you have has sort of a dignified feel to it. You might not look like the part but you embodied everything that a princess should be. Headstrong, intelligent, confident in her beliefs, and never afraid to stand her ground.

That’s what Katsuki thinks at least.

With all the stories that Kirishima had recited about the Yakushima forest, you were one of the most interesting bits.

Katsuki Bakugo was enthralled by you in more ways than one.

You were a mysterious enigma that he had to unravel.

You were getting a bit tired of watching him aimlessly roam around the forest. He was absolutely going nowhere which is funny because he didn’t strike you as a person who had no sense of direction. In an alternate universe, he’d probably be kidnapped by some villain or bad guy if he continued to be reckless like this, just walking around without a care in the world.

You spoke too soon.

You barely dodge a sharp arrow that pierces through a tree. It wasn’t from the young man you were watching but from someone else. Thieves. two of them.

You forgot that you weren’t able to sense other humans entering the forest if you focus on a particular one. It completely slipped your mind that there would still be sick individuals who would try and attempt to find the riches of the forest despite the many incidents happening time and time again warning humans to not enter the Yakushima Forest if they want to explore it for their own selfish desires.

You hastily jump down onto the ground, releasing a flurry of punches and kicks at the thieves, knocking 2 of them unconscious. You thought that the fight was over until you hear agonizing screams from the other side of the forest.

You quickly sprint your way there, hoping nothing serious had happened and no one was hurt in the process.

You arrived in a secluded area, tall trees covering the sun or the moon for the light to seep into, resulting in a dark and gloomy atmosphere.

You stop in your tracks when you notice six thieves unconscious on the ground too. You were about to breathe a sigh of relief when you notice that the boy was panting heavily, injuries and deep wounds were present all around his body. He was terribly injured. He stares at you for a few seconds before collapsing onto the ground.

You grit your teeth, approaching him with a scornful look. “You’ve wasted your life by getting in my way!” You sheathe his blade from it’s scabbard, pointing it directly to his chest. Katsuki’s chest rises up and down, a sign showing that he was breathing normally but was at the brink of unconsciousness.

“I’ll cut your throat! That will shut you up!”

“You’re beautiful…”

He mumbles, his eyes fluttering open, making intense eye contact with yours.

You suddenly feel your heart race, thumping loudly. You pull the sword away and jump away from him. You were taken aback by his words because of how he caught you off guard just like that. Who gave him the right to do this to you? Who was he in the first place?

Why did he make you feel all these soft and mushy feelings right now?

Who gave him the right to do this to you?

A human being? 

A feeling sparking in your chest...

Is this what humans  call love?

-        To be continued.

[pbandjesse]

I had a really nice day. My weird hot flashes and stomach cramps weren't as constant. They are still happening but it isn't as miserable. I think because it wasn't as humid that helped me not fall to pieces as much.

I slept alright. I had an easier time falling asleep but I find it really difficult to wake up when I don't have to leave right away. But I woke up and got out of bed and got to work at the things I wanted to accomplish.

Which was my paintings. I got washed and dressed. I felt alright but I was to hot for a lot of the day and so I was fussing with my hair and dress a lot.

But I had a little breakfast and got to work in my studio. I was able to finish all the watercolors. And get all the inking done. I struggled a little because I was having these weird hot waves. I did stop and take a few breaks to shake off my weird feelings. But I was able to finish and was super proud of myself.

And I decided that meant I should go for a drive. I took myself to second chance to wander around. And that was fun! I had a good time looking at the furniture. And they had an art installation which was pretty cool. I like the inflatable sculpture best.

And I had great luck finding candlesticks for the wedding. I got 6 and they are all really nice. I was holding all of those and wandering around and an older man who worked there stopped me to say I had made some great finds and I explained it was for the wedding and we ended up having s lovely conversation. He said he used to run an auction house and has done 11,000 auctions. And we talked about the possible histories of the peieces and he joked I was probably finding all the best peieces in the city. It's probably true.

He wishes me luck and I told him to have a good day. And I was off. I paid for my finds and headed out.

It was pretty warm out. But I was not ready to go home. So I went to value village. Which I mostly just enjoyed looking at weird stuff. I did buy a few little things. But mostly just listened to my podcast and wandered around. It was a good time. Even if someone broke something and everyone got real quick when it smashed. Scared us!

I went to taco bell next. I got a crunch wrap and ate in the car. I did not like the cinnamon twists. They tasted like Windex. Disappointing.

But it was time to go home.

I got back here, Nick was coming in as I was bringing in some packages that were left outside. Still no letters at all. Which is very frustrating. But I got all my stuff upstairs, the things I bought and the rest of my stuff in the car. And put things away.

I would work on my knitting. And my alphabet carving. I'm half way done now!! But I would have to keep stopping and starting because I was dizzy or hot.

James would come home and soon it would start to rain. Which was great. It should rain more. And it was huge drops. We stood on the fire escape and enjoyed that for a few minutes before we both got to work on things we were doing.

James worked on drawing the letters for our wedding banner. And I kept working on my carvings. It was a good night.

I took a bath. James made me a milkshake. And now we are in bed. I just remembered that dad said I could call him and I feel so bad that it got away from me today. He's dealing with a lot and I will call him in the morning.

I hope you all have a great night tonight. Sleep well my friends. Goodnight

[hello-im-not-a-possum]

6. Survival

To ensure his survival in the increasingly dangerous studio, Buddy Boris finds and befriends a Lost one who’s voice and mannerisms feel familiar to him, but he can’t quite put his finger on why… (Set before the loops and before he had properly befriended the lost ones.)

The metallic, animalistic screech echoed throughout the ink-stained maze of a studio as a scavenging thief picked up another discarded heart. The one beating in his own chest started to race as the blinding glare of the projectionist clawed at his eyes.

The wolf’s boots screeched against the rotting wood of the studio floors as he made a hard left, the jumbled chorus of heavy footsteps pounded in his ears, both his own footsteps, and the ones of the mechanical monster closing in on him. While the whelp had been faster, he was also running out of breath while his pursuer had no such problem. If his mind was not so heavily focused on survival and trying not to get into a dead end in the inky maze, he would’ve pondered if the ink creature had breath to lose.

A miracle station… He had to find a miracle station and find it fast! The Projectionist’s fingers were practically brushing against his back! But there was not one in sight!

Trying to use his pursuer’s size against him, the wolf stuffed the stolen heart in his mouth and dove underneath a stray table, only to realize that he had made a huge mistake as the Projectionist grabbed him by the foot and was beginning to pull him out from under the table.

The wolf clawed at the floor, silently praying for someone, anyone to save him…

*CLONK*

He scrambled away as the projectionist dropped him and slowly turned to face its attacker.

“HEY LOW-WATTS FOR BRAINS!” The bold voice of a woman shouted. “WHY DON’T YOU PICK ON SOMEBODY YOUR OWN SIZE!”

The Projector-headed monster lumbered towards the lost one with murderous intent as the heroine fruitlessly scrounged around for something else to throw at the creature.

Being an opportunistic coward, the wolf had fled.

As he was fleeing the scene with his prize, he turned back to make sure the Projectionist was not following him and he had managed to get a glimpse of his savior; She was one of the many melted-looking monsters with skeletal frames and yellow glowing eyes, ‘The Lost Ones’ they called themselves. Like every single one he had seen before, she was completely indistinguishable from her fellow ink monster brethren. Identical in all aspects except for her voice.

Their eyes had not met, thank goodness, he would feel absolutely terrible if he had looked back and had saw the dismay in her eyes, her last thoughts before being sent back to the dark puddles being that she gave herself up for a cowardly, yellow bellied whelp. But her voice… something about it picked at his brain, it made him feel weird and fuzzy, like he was forgetting something important.

Being a curious opportunist, the wolf picked up a sturdy looking pipe and bolted back to the brave lost one, and it looked like he had come at just the right time too!

*CRAACK*

With a hard and fast swing to the monster’s head, it recoiled in pain and turned to face him. The wolf had become the new target instead of the lost one, and he started to run yet again, this time however, the lost one joined the chase as well, following the Projectionist and reaching out for the cables on his back.

When it’s cold, clammy, corpse-like fingers were once again brushing against the wolf’s back, he heard a ‘bzplip’ and loud screech behind him that died out in seconds.

He flinched when he felt a cold, inky hand on his shoulder, but instantly relaxed when he turned back and saw that it had belonged to the friendly lost one.

“Nice job, Buddy.” He could tell that if she still had a jaw, she’d be smiling. “You did really good back there.”

While he was happy to be praised, he felt weird about the nickname she gave him. “Buddy.” It was like that brain itch when he heard her voice except it was stronger.

He gave her a thumbs up and nodded, as he could not verbally say “Thanks! You too.”

“Well uhh... I guess I’ll be going then, the Prophet gets worried whenever any of us are gone for too long.” She explained as she excused herself. “Good luck and stay alive.”

He grabbed her hand a little too forcefully than he meant to as he wordlessly begged her to stay. (If his face was good for anything it was ‘puppy dog eyes’ and stuffing food into his mouth.)

“I’m sorry, but I can’t come with you. I’ve got an entire village waiting for me and I can’t let them down.” she frowned sadly, then perked up with an idea. “But tell you what; I’ll tell the Prophet about you, and we’ll see what we can do about getting you set up down with us, wont that be great?”

The wolf raised an eyebrow and gestured for her to go on.

“Right... it’s a bad idea to move into a spot you don’t know anything about...” She cleared her throat. “Our home in the deep underground, It is a shanty town, and doesn’t look the best, a lot of the buildings aren’t pretty, but they’re surprisingly study. The Prophet’s messages are usually all over the place, I think he does it to give us hope? But the most important thing: It’s protected by a chained gate and a lake of ink, the ink demon can’t reach us and a Giant Hand protects us from the Angel’s boats.”

He weakly smiled and shook his head in an attempt to say ‘Thanks, but no thanks’.

“No? Well, suit yourself then. What about you? What’s your home in the studio like?”

He tapped on his throat and shook his head.

“Oh yeah... you can’t talk...” She sheepishly fidgeted. “My bad...”

He gestured as if to say ‘don’t worry about it.’.

“Well, maybe we can find something to help you get your voice, there’s typewriters and a bunch of clean paper in the writing department, that areas usually ignored for some reason so the next time we meet, we can go there and find one for you.”

He nodded.

“Excellent! Meet me tomorrow by the Heavenly toys foyer, It’s the room with the giant waterfall and all the plushies, pretty hard to miss. See you soon, Buddy!”

The wolf gave a thumbs up and then the two went their separate ways with the promise of reunion.

[dollycas]

Cozy Wednesday featuring A Very Woodsy Murder (A Golden Motel Mystery) by Ellen Byron #Review / #Giveaway @ellenbyronla @KensingtonBooks

Welcome to Cozy Wednesday! I am delighted to share my thoughts about A Very Woodsy Murder by Ellen Byron today! Release Date - July 23, 2024 A Very Woodsy Murder (A Golden Motel Mystery) Cozy Mystery 1st in Series Setting - California Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington Cozies (July 23, 2024) Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 288 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496745353 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496745354 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CLZ541DZ Audiobook ASIN B0D92V77BZ Audio CD ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CZ7H4V97 From Agatha Award-winning author Ellen Byron, a hilarious new series featuring a sitcom writer who has checked out of the familiar comforts in Studio City and checked in to the quaint village of Foundgold to run a motel. Running a rustic getaway in the woods sure beats LA traffic—until murder ruins the peace and quiet . . . Down-on-her-luck sitcom writer Dee Stern is flipping the script. Twice divorced and wasting her talents on an obnoxious kids’ show, the lifelong Angeleno embraces the urge to jump in her car and keep driving. It's a road trip with no destination—until she pulls into a mid-century motel filled with cobwebs and retro charm. Nestled in the shadow of a national park, it’s a time capsule of a place that, like her, could use some work. So, in the most impulsive move of her life, Dee teams up with best friend, Jeff Cornetta—who happens to be her first ex-husband—to transform the aging ranch into the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains, a hiker’s oasis on the edge of the wilderness . . . But Dee and Jeff soon realize there couldn’t be two people more unprepared for the hospitality business. There’s also the panic-inducing reality of prowling bears and a general store as the only shopping spot for miles. Living and working in the middle of nowhere takes some getting used to—especially when a disrespectful guest ends up murdered! Now, with the motel duo topping the suspect list, Dee must steer clear of a meddling park ranger, face her past in show biz, and determine if the killer is a local or tourist. Because as she quickly finds out, there are many things worse than a one-star review. Dollycas's Thoughts It was an impulsive decision but that doesn't make it the wrong decision. Sitcom writer Dee Stern has had enough of showbiz and decides to reboot her life. On a road trip with no particular destination, she finds a mid-century motel that needs a reboot too. She along with her best friend and first ex-husband, Jeff Cornetta come together to breathe new life into the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains that is a virtual time capsule "nestled amidst a grove of pine trees at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains". It doesn't take long for them to realize that they don't know much about running a motel, especially one where a bear or other wildlife could just saunter up to the front door. But they do their best to get rooms and cabins ready for visitors. They are both excited when they get their first booking. Michael Adam Baker is a blast from the past and not a good one. Dee is curious why he would be booking a stay at their new venture. It doesn't take long for his true colors to show but he must have tweaked someone off royally because he ends up murdered. Chief District Ranger, Tom O'Bryant is looking at Dee and Jeff as his prime suspects so they know they need to find the real killer even if it means Dee has to go back to LA to get some answers. Is the killer from Hollywood or a local? What did the man do that got him killed? Who had the means, motive, and opportunity? Will they strike again? _____ Welcome to Foundgold, population 68. This is the closest town to the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains. Goldsgone is not too far away but Dee and Jeff don't receive a warm welcome from its residents. Ms. Byron has created two unique little towns and filled them with complex characters. Her descriptions bring the towns, the motel and cabins, the nearby woods, and every place in between to life. The imagery is vivid. The characters we meet in this first Golden Motel Mystery are a quirky bunch. Each is unique and develops well over the course of the story. I liked Dee and Jeff immediately. Being married didn't work but the friendship is true and believable. Dee needs to earn her sleuthing chops because she is about as subtle as a Mack truck. Jeff isn't much better. But their talents for their first venture at solving a murder weren't too bad. The supporting cast is a hoot and a half, each with their own talents and interests. Ma'am and Mister Ma'am were my favorites. Two genuine people living their lives the way they wish with open hearts to help anyone in need.  There then is Stoney the Bear. Everyone knows Stoney and he shows up in some interesting places. Ms. Byron is a former writer of some well-known sitcoms so that gives credibility to Dee's former life in Hollywood working on a "cheesy sitcom". She writes what she knows. It also shows where she garnered her comedic timing. She throws in oodles of humor including physical comedy. The mystery was well-plotted and written with many facets.  Ms. Bryon set a pace that ebbs and flows in all the right places. The suspects were varied and connected in different ways. I was intrigued by every clue and didn't pin anyone down until the very end. I really enjoyed the set-up to catch the killer and the excitement that ensued. I also liked that there was a wrap-up to tie up any loose ends. I have been excited about this book since I first heard about it and the story lived up to all my expectations. A Very Woodsy Murder is a delightful start for this series. I loved the ending and I really want Dee and Jeff to succeed and bring the 1940s motel back to its glory and have it be filled with tourists. I know there will be bumps in the road and murders to investigate because that is what happens in cozy mysteries and that is why we love them. I can't wait to see what Ms. Byron has planned for her characters next. I am hooked and I want more! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC. Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent About the Author Ellen Byron is the Agatha and Lefty Award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of the Golden Motel Mysteries, the Vintage Cookbook series, and the Cajun Country Mysteries, as well as the Catering Hall Mysteries written under the name Maria DiRico. She is also an award-winning playwright and non-award-winning writer of TV hits like Wings, Just Shoot Me, and The Fairly OddParents, but considers her most impressive achievement working as a cater-waiter for Martha Stewart. A native New Yorker, Ellen is a graduate of Tulane University and lives in the Los Angeles area with her husband, daughter, and a rotating crew of rescue pups. Author Links – Webpage – Facebook – Twitter – GoodReads – Instagram – BookBub – Newsletter You can pre-order your copy today! This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting Escape With Dollycas. I am giving away an ARC review copy of A Very Woodsy Murder! The contest is open to anyone over 18 years old with a US or Canadian mailing address. Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find something you like here and become a follower. Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow. Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Following My Facebook Fan Page. Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries. Follow Kensington Books on Twitter for 2 Bonus Entries! Follow Kensington Publishing on Facebook for 2 Bonus Entries!  Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries. If you share the giveaway on Threads, X, or Facebook or anywhere you will receive 5 Bonus Entries For Each Link. The  Contest Will End July 31, 2024, at 11:59 PM CST The Winner Will Be Chosen Using Random.org The Winner Will Be Notified By Email and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar. Click Here For Entry Form Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” “As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.” Read the full article

[teawizard-n-coffeewitch]

The Staffordshire Spell

1. Spilled Coffee

The actress moves with grace as she proceeds to walk up the stairs and accept her Emmy. The audience clap and cheer as she smiles softly at them. The scene then unfolds to her walking down the red carpet, after the award ceremony and her red dress helping her stand out from all the other celebrities.

"Exquisite footage of Tina Goldstein-- the great movie star of our time -- an ideal -- the perfect star and woman -- her life full of glamour and sophistication and mystery." Newt mutters to himself as stops looking at the shop's teli (television) and continues on his way.

We follow him as he walks down Manor Drive Road, carrying a brown briefcase in one hand. It is spring.

"Of course, I've seen her films and always thought she was, well, fabulous -- but, you know, million miles from the world I live in. Which is here -- Staffordshire -- not a bad place to be..." Newt tells himself, exciting Manor Drive Road and entering Burton Market Hall.

"It's a full fruit market day." Newt thinks to himself, observing the countless of people swarming in both the inside market hall and outdoor market.

"There's the Outdoor Market on Market Place, Burton. Open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Selling every fruit and vegetable known to man..." Newt points out, as he studies the cabbages when he walks beside the veggie stands.

Existing the market hall Newt notices a man in denims walking out of the tattoo studio. Newt shakes his head solemnly. "The tattoo parlour -- with a guy outside who got drunk and now can't remember why he chose 'I Love Ken'..." The man looks at his arm and has a confused face, and frowns, as if he were experiencing a headache.

Newt continues walking and passes the hair salon. "Ah, the racial hair-dressers where

everyone comes out looking like the Cookie Monster, whether they like it or not..." Newt teases and sure enough, a girl exits the salon with a huge threaded blue bouffant. Newt coughs back a laugh and walks quickly.

Before he knows it, it's Saturday and the Weekend Antique Market is in full swing. Newt smiles softly at the smiles of the tourists and locals, all shopping. "Then suddenly it's the weekend, and from break of day, hundreds of stalls appears out of nowhere, filling Burton upon Trent with a frantic crowd in the market... and thousands of people buy millions of antiques, some genuine..." Newt thinks, walking down the stands, studying the antiques.

His eyes settles on a stall selling beautiful stained glass windows of various sizes, some featuring biblical scenes and saints. "... and some not so genuine." Newt thinks, frowning a bit.

As Newt continues his walk, he passes by a familiar door. He smiles proudly. "And what's great is that lots of friends have ended up in this part of the United Kingdom -- that's Jacob, soldier turned baker from New York, who recently invested all the money he ever earned in a new bakery..."

Newt waves at Jacob as he's proudly setting out a board outside his bakery, the sign stating; Today's Special is Pumpkin Juice and macaroons! Jacob waves back at Newt with a huge smile.

"So this is where I spend my days and years -- in this small village in the middle of the U.K -- in a house with a Robin egg blue color door that I bought after best friend left me for a man who looked like Callum Turner back in London. That man being my older brother..." Newt thought to himself before he arrived outside his blue-doored house just off Peel's Cut.

"... and where I now lead a strange half-life with a lodger called..." Newt shuffles his keys back in his pocket as he yells, entering the house, "Credence!" Newt walks towards the large kettle in the house.

The house has far too many things in it. House plants, some dishes scattered, and a few clothes on the floor. Definitely two-bachelor flat.

Credence appears. An unusual looking fellow. He has his black hair in an unusual haircut, and an unusual Welsh accent: very white, as though his flesh has never seen the sun. He wears only shorts.

Credence smiles at Newt. "Even he. Hey, you couldn't help me with an incredibly important decision, could you?"

Newt smiles crouching down and puts on his gloves before he begins petting his temporary companion platypus, named Niffler. "This is important in comparison to, let's say, whether they should cancel third world debt?" he asks looking at Credence.

Credence nods, snapping his fingers happily. "That's right -- I'm at last going out on a date with the great Nagini and I just want to be sure I've picked the right t-shirt."

Newt closes the kettle and nods at Credence. "Alright then. What are the choices?"

Credence smirks proudly. "Well... wait for it..." He pulls on a t-shirt and shows Newt. "First there's this one..."

The t-shirt is white with a horrible looking plastic alien coming out of it, jaws open, blood everywhere. It says 'Avada Kedavra.'

Newt stays silent. Just eyeing the shirt. He smiled awkwardly as he stutters, "Yes -- might make it hard to strike a really romantic note.

Credence hums as he thinks. Nodding, he replies, "Point taken." He heads back up the stairs... and talks as he changes. "I suspect you'll prefer the next one." Newt smiles, intrigued at the next shirt Credence will show him.

He re-enters in a white t-shirt, with a large arrow, pointing down to his flies, saying, 'Get It Here.' Credence has a huge smile as he says smugly, "Cool, huh?"

Newt laughs softly before answering awkwardly, "Yes -- she might think you don't have true love on your mind."

Credence nods, taking Newt's advice. "You are right. Wouldn't want that..." he says and back up he goes up the stairs. "Okay -- just one more." Newt hears him speak loudly.

He comes down wearing the last shirt. The shirt has lots of hearts, saying, 'You're the most beautiful woman in the world.' Newt smiles approvingly.

"Well, yes, that's perfect. Well done." Newt says, holding a thumps up. Credence laughs happily. "Thanks. Great! Wish me luck!" Credence says.

Newt salutes him with two fingers, "Good luck."

Credence turns and walks upstairs proudly. As he does so, revealing that on the back of the t-shirt, also printed in big letters, is written 'Fancy a fuck?'

Newt chokes back a laugh before turning around, shaking his head. He puts on his long blue coat.

Newt then walks up towards a house plant and picks up his pet Phasmid. A green stick insect, whose name is Pickett. He grabs him on his hand and gets his brown brief case with his other hand. "Come along now." Newt tells Pickett as he opens the door and yells a farewell to Credence.

And so it was just another hopeless Saturday, as Newt sets off through the market to work, little suspecting that this was the day which would change his life forever. As Newt walks down the busy street a woman, with short dark hair and a dark long coat, dashes pass him. She covers half her face with her coat and Newt just gives her an odd look.

Finally he arrives. In front of a small corner bookshop. This is work, by the way, Newt's little Zoology book shop...

A few years ago he was a Zoologist at the London Zoo but now he owns his own Zoology bookstore. The reason being was because after his best friend left him he was devastated. Being in London hurt so much he moved far away and kept close to himself. When the opportunity presented itself, a small bookstore just a few houses down his home was perfect.

Thus why a small unpretentious shop... named 'Magical Creature Books' was in the street. The book shop, well, sells creature books -- and, to be frank with you, doesn't always sell many of those. Newt enters and sets Pickett down on the shop's bonsai tree. He studies his small shop. It is slightly chaotic, bookshelves everywhere, with little secret bits round corners with even more books.

Bunty, Newt's sole employee, is waiting enthusiastically. She is very keen, an uncrushable optimist. Perhaps without cause. She's a pretty small young woman with frizzy blonde locks and a sweet smile. Like Newt, she has a passion for zoology as well.

A few seconds later, after Newt has hung his blue coat, he stands gloomily behind the main desk.

"Classic. Absolutely classic. Profit from major sales push -- minus 347?" Newt mutters, punching in numbers on the calculator. Bunty frowns sadly at her boss's sad state. "Shall I go get a butter-beer? Ease the pain." Bunty suggest with a small smile. Newt smiles back.

"Yes, better get me a half. All I can afford." Newt sadly jokes as Bunty shakes her head with a soft laugh. "I get your logic. Butter-beer coming up." She salutes and bolts out the door. As she does, a woman walks in. Newt only catches a glimpse of her.

He continues working before he looks up casually and finally he sees her. His reaction is hard to read as he awes the woman. It's the same woman who dashed past him earlier. She takes off her shades and places them on her head. After a pause... Newt breaths calmly.

"Can I help you?" Newt asks, a bit nervously.

The woman who just entered is none other than Tina Goldstein, the biggest movie star in the world-- here -- in his shop. The most subtle woman on earth in his opinion. Newt is speechless. This cannot be happening. How? Why? In his shop? When she speaks she is very self-assured and self - contained.

"No, thanks. I'll just look around." Tina replies softly, her eyes with a spark of hesitant. Newt nods, "Alright then." He watches as she wanders around and picks out a small book on the coffee table.

Newt doesn't know how or why he did it but as Tina proceeds to open the book and skim through it, he can't help but blurt out, "That book's really not good-"

Tina stops and raises an eyebrow at him. Newt flushes awkwardly as he stammers, "J-Just in case, you...you know, boring turned to buying. You'd be wasting your money." He curses at himself for acting like such a fool.

"Really?" asks Tina, slightly finding Newt's red face amusing.

"Yes." Newt flushes before embarrassing himself more by adding, "This one though is... very good." He picks up a book on the counter.

"I think the man who wrote it has actually studied Komodo dragons, which helps. There's also a very amusing incident with its hatchlings." Newt stutters out, scratching his back neck nervously.

Tina just stares at him before she replies, "Thanks. I'll think about it." Before he can apologize for acting like a fool Newt suddenly spies something odd on the small TV monitor beside him.

He gives Tina an apologetic look as he mumbles, "If you could just give me a second." Newt then walks out of his main desk. Tina's eyes follow him as he moves toward the back of the shop and approaches a man in slightly ill-fitting clothes. She studies at how he'll approach the situation.

"Excuse me." Newt begins, a bit nervous. The man raises an eyebrow at Newt. "Yes?" he asks, giving Newt an odd look. Newt winces, knowing this won't be easy. "Bad news." Newt begins.

"What?" the man asks in an annoyed tone. "We've got a security camera in this bit of the shop." Newt says. The man tries to keep it cool as he shoots back a, "So?"

Newt crosses his arms, trying to act a bit confident. "So, I saw you put that book down your trousers." The man just stares at him.

"What book?" he challenges. Newt sighs. "The one down your trousers." he adds embarrassed.

"I haven't got a book down my trousers." the man snaps to which Newt's ears turn red. "Right -- well, then we have something of an impasse. I tell you what -- I'll call the police -- and, what can I say? Er -- If I'm wrong about the whole book-down-the-trousers scenario, I sincerely apologize." Newt offers to which the man stays silent for a moment.

"Okay -- what if I did have a book down my trousers?" asks the man to which Newt replies, "Well, ideally, when I went back to the desk, you'd remove the Mythologies of Basilisk Snakes from your trousers, and either wipe it and put it back, or buy it. See you in a sec." Newt says before returning to his desk. In the monitor Newt glimpse, seeing the book coming out of the trousers and put back on the shelves.

The man drifts out towards the door. Tina who has observed all this, is looking at the book on the counter, the one Newt suggested.

"Sorry about that..." Newt apologies to Tina as she walks up to the cash register and places the book she was skimming through.

"No, that's fine. I was going to steal one myself but now I've changed my mind." she lightly teases before seeing how the book she was about to purchase had a signature. "Signed by the author, I see." she points out to which Newt replies with a soft laugh, "Yes, we couldn't stop him. If you can find an unsigned copy, it's worth an absolute fortune. That's Gilderoy Lockhart for you."

Tina gives him a small nervous smile.  Suddenly the thief man is there, standing right beside Tina.

"Excuse me." he begins. Tina looks at him. "Yes?" she answers. "Can I have your autograph?" he asks, making Tina look a bit uncomfortable before nodding. He gives her a piece of paper and pen and she gets it.

"What's your name?" Tina asks him boldly. "Tom." the young man replies to which Tina nods. She signs his scruffy piece of paper and gives it to him. He tries to read it before asking, "What does it say?"

"Well, that's the signature -- and above, it says 'Dear Tom -- you belong in Azkaban.' " Tina says without missing a beat.

"Nice one. Would you like my phone number?" Tom asks to which Tina smiles and acts as if she's thinking deeply. "Tempting..." she begins breaking out of her thoughts, "but... no, thank you."

The man, Tom, then leaves, leaving Newt and Tina alone.

"I apologize about that." Newt begins, making Tina shake her head and hold her hand out to stop him from apologizing.

She hands Newt a twenty euros note and the book he said was rubbish. He talks as he handles the transaction. "Oh -- right -- on second thoughts maybe it wasn't that bad.  Actually -- it's a sort of masterpiece really. None of those childish mythology stories you get in so many books these days." Newt word vomits out nervously as she looks at him with a slight smile.

He gives her the book she just purchased with a small smile. "Thanks." Tina says and walks out the shop quietly. And leaves. She's out of his life forever.

Newt leans on his desk, a little dazed. Seconds later Bunty comes back in, with two butter-beers at hand.

She gives Newt his. "Thanks. I don't think you'll believe who was just in here." Bunty's face breaks out with a shock expression as she asks, "Who? Was it someone famous?"

But Newt's innate natural English discretion takes over. He knows better than to expose Tina's whereabouts.

"No. No-one -- no-one." Newt replies causing Bunty to frown. They set about drinking their butter-beers.

"It be exciting if someone famous did come into the shop though, wouldn't it? Do you know -- this is pretty incredible actually -- I once saw Grindelwald. Or at least I think it was Grindelwald. It might have been that broke from 'Pirates of The Caribbean,' John."

"Johnny." Newt corrects Bunty as she snaps her fingers. "That's right -- Johnny." Bunty repeats the name with a smile.

"But Johnny Depp doesn't look anything like Grindelwald." says Newt as he finishes his butter-beer.

"No, well... he was quite a long way away." Bunty points out. "So it could have been neither of them?"

"I suppose so." Bunty says slowly. "Right. It's not a classic anecdotes, is it?" asks Newt. "Not classic, no." she says.

Bunty shakes his head. Newt takes her empty butter-beer cup and throws it in the garbage can, along his.

"Right -- want another one?" Newt asks her to which she nods. "Yes. No, wait -- let's go crazy -- I'll have an ice coffee."

Newt groans but obeys her order. And so be it, Newt sets off to the only place in the street that makes coffee; Jacob's bakery.

Entering the bakery Jacob pulls him into a hug and decides to catch up on their morning. Newt desperately desires to tell Jacob about Tina but in the end, decides to not. Jacob gives Newt two ice coffees and teases him about finally acting like an American. Newt rolls his eyes as he collects his coffee.

He swings out of Jacob's bakery, biding him a farewell and as he turns the corner of the road he accidentally bumps straight into someone.

That someone being Tina! The cold coffees, in its paper cups, fly out of Newt's grasps, soaking Tina.

"Oh Mercy Lewis!" Tina gasps as her white button shirt is soaked in black coffee. She tightens her hands on her brown bags.

"Oh I am so so sorry. I really do apologize!" Newt stutters as he tries helping Tina.

"Here, let me help." Newt offers as he grabs the paper napkins that came with the coffees and tries to clean the soaked coffee off -- getting far too near her breasts in the panic of it...

Tina jumps back as she snaps, "What are you doing?!" Newt jumps back, realizing his stupid mistake.

"Nothing, nothing... I swear! Look, uh..I live just over the street. Uh... you could get cleaned up." he offers awkwardly as she glares at him.

"No thank you. I need to get my car back." Tina replies, trying to wipe the coffee out of her shirt.

"I also have a phone." Newt mumbles. "I'm confident that in five minutes we can have you

spick and span and back on the street again... in the non-prostitute sense obviously."

In his diffident way, he is confident, despite her being genuinely annoyed. She sighs before she turns and looks at him.

"Okay.  So what does 'just over the street' mean -- give it to me in yards." Tina orders, placing her hand on her forehead, as if she were experiencing a headache.

"Eighteen yards." Newt automatically replies, surprising himself. He points to his house's blue door. "That's my house there. The one with the Robin egg blue color door."

Tina's eyes follow his finger and she sees that he doesn't lie -- it is eighteen yards away.  She looks down, debating if she should allow him to escort her or not.

She looks up at Newt and nods softly. He nods and together they walk towards Newt's house.

They pass by many people but no one seems to recognize Tina. She is once again, hiding her face with her black coat and shades.

They both enter Newt's house and stand in the corridor. She carries a few stylish bags. She gives Newt an uncertain look.

"Come on in. I'll just..." he begins and walks in further -- it's a mess. He kicks some old shoes

under the stairs, picks up Pickett's scattered food and hides a plate of Credence's breakfast in a cupboard. Tina enters the kitchen slowly.

"It's not that tidy, I fear." Newt apologizes, as he stands nervously.

Tina doesn't seem to mind and realizing why she's in his house in the first place, he guides her up the stairs, after taking the bag of books from her and settling them down the stairs. On top of a small coffee table.

"The bathroom is right at the top of the stairs and there's a phone on the desk up there." Newt tells Tina as he tries gesturing with his hand where the bathroom is. Tina nods and she heads upstairs.

The second Newt hears the bathroom door close he enters the kitchen and goes mad. He's tidying up frantically; from throwing dishes in the sink, to wiping the long wooden table clean, and sweeping. Then he hears Tina's movement on the stairs. Newt stops and sees as she walks down, wearing a new set of white jeans and a blue silk shirt beneath her black coat. Newt is utterly dazzled by the sight of her.

"Would you like a cup of tea before you go?" Newt asks, trying to cut the awkward silence.

"No thanks." Tina replies.

"Pumpkin Juice?"

"No."

"What about coffee -- oh- er-probably not." Newt says as he moves to his very empty fridge -- and offers its only contents. "Something else cold -- soda, water, some disgusting sugary drink pretending to have something to do with fruits of the forest?" he offers as Tina stares at him.

"Really, no." she insists.

"Would you like something to nibble -- apricots, soaked in honey -- quite why, no one knows -- because it stops them tasting of apricots, and make them taste like honey, and if you wanted honey, you'd just buy honey, instead of apricots, but nevertheless -- um -- they're yours if you want them." Newt stutters holding the glass jar of apricots soaked in honey.

"No." Tina answers, as she observes Newt make a fool out of himself.

There is a moment of silence before Newt, stupidly but boldly asks, "Do you always say 'no' to everything?"

There is a pause. Frankly because Tina did not expect Newt to ask her a question so... striking. She looks at him deep and cocks her head to a side before replying softly, "No."

There is silence again but it's not awkward. It's a moment of peace before Tina breaks it, saying, "I better be going.  Thanks for your help."

"You're welcome and, may I also say... heavenly." Newt says as he closes the fridge door, leading Tina back to the corridor, "It has taken a lot to get this out loud.  He is not a smooth - talking man." Newt takes a deep breath before says daring, "Take my one chance to say it. After you've read that terrible book, you're certainly not going to be coming back to the shop."

Tina looks at him and smiles. She's cool and well amused at his opinion for that book she bought.

"Thank you."

Newt looks down nervously, "Yes. Well. My pleasure."

He guides her towards the house's blue door. "Nice to meet you. Surreal but nice." Newt reveals causing Tina to silently laugh. In a slightly awkward moment, he shows her out the door. She gives him a nod before stepping out. He closes the door and shakes his head in wonder. Then slaps his forehead as he mutters, " 'Surreal but nice.' What was I thinking?"

He  shakes his head again in horror and wanders back along the corridor in silence.  There's a knock on the door. He moves back, speaking up, "Coming."

He opens the door and is surprised. It's her.

[thedisneychef]

Kona Cafe's Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes: Recipe with Sauce

Kona Cafe's Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes are a delicious and indulgent breakfast option that offer a taste of the tropics. Served at the Kona Cafe in Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, these pancakes are a popular menu item that draw inspiration from the flavors of Hawaii. The pancakes are made with a fluffy and buttery batter, studded with crunchy macadamia nuts and chunks of sweet pineapple. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream, these pancakes are a decadent breakfast treat that is perfect for a special occasion or a lazy weekend morning. In this context, we can explore the cultural significance of macadamia nuts and pineapple in Hawaiian cuisine, and how they have become popular ingredients in a variety of dishes and desserts. We can also discuss the importance of using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh pineapple and locally sourced macadamia nuts, to create a delicious and wholesome breakfast. Finally, we can highlight the unique experience of dining at the Kona Cafe and how it offers a taste of the tropics in the heart of Disney World. More Delicious Recipes You Will Love: - Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spoodles Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Meal - Mac And Cheese With Red Wine Sauce – Jiko - Magical Star Cocktail – Disney Parks So last week was Fat Tuesday and it has always been a tradition for me to have pancakes for good luck.  And I’m in the midst of my post-trip Disney blues, which meant that no ordinary pancakes would do.  I’m craving Disney, in the worst possible way…  For lucky pancakes, nothing short of Disney pancakes could be considered acceptable. Apparently, I must have pleased the Tiki God of pancakes (is there such a thing?) because not only did I manage to find the perfect pancake recipe, but it is from Kona Cafe at the Polynesian. Can I just say, if there was ever in the world a recipe that was more like a warm hug then this one, honestly, I don’t know what it is.  First off, that amazing smell every morning that floats through the Polynesian?  Turns out it’s these pancakes.  It’s the most beautiful smell and it instantly brought me back to Disney.  All that was missing was the tiki music and a tropical fountain.  Seriously, I got a little choked up. I’ll admit that while these may not look terribly gorgeous (and they don’t at Kona either), as far as taste, let me just say…  Pure heaven.  These may be the best pancakes I’ve had in my entire life, and that’s saying something as I’m quite the pancake connoisseur. They taste deliciously sweet, and the pineapple paired with the butter creates this beautiful, nutty, tropical flavor that goes so well with the pancakes.  I’m not joking when I say that now I crave these pancakes…  All the time.  They’re really just that good. I made no real changes to the recipe, other then accidentally burning the toasted macadamia nuts ever so slightly.  I suggest making the pineapple sauce first, allowing that to cook while preparing the pancakes.  The nut butter keeps really, really well in the fridge and, as I’ve discovered, tastes good on everything.  I’m almost embarrassed to share all the things I’ve put it on. A simple-to-make, insanely delicious pancake recipe that makes my house smell like the Polynesian?  I may be in serious trouble… ~~~~  °o°  ~~~~ In addition to the delicious food and recipes, Disney World is also known for its unique dining experiences, such as character dining and themed restaurants. Whether you want to have breakfast with Mickey Mouse, dine in a replica of a sci-fi drive-in theater at Hollywood Studios, or enjoy a meal with an ocean view at the Coral Reef Restaurant in Epcot, there's something for everyone. And with the help of Recipes Today and the How to Make category, you can even recreate some of these magical dining experiences in your own home. So why not start planning your next Disney-inspired meal or dining experience today? Read the full article