#giving Tom some homemade baked goods :3

[maris-medley]

POV: you walk in on River and Tom teaching Springtrap how to play Uno

@skeletoninthemelonland I’m getting way too silly with these templates sorry 💔

[shadowywerewolfqueen]

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For Suptober Day 23.

“Sam, I can’t just tell Cas how I feel! What if he doesn’t feel the same way? We are roommates and I can’t afford for Cas to leave because he doesn’t want to be around me,” Dean said, laying on his bed while talking to his brother.

“If Cas’ money is the only reason why you want him as a roommate, then maybe he should leave,” Sam replied.

“Ugh, of course that’s not the only reason why I like having Cas around! The dude might be my roommate but he’s also my best friend! I can’t risk telling Cas the truth and losing him. I don’t know what I’d do without Cas,” Dean exclaimed, annoyed that his brother would insinuate that he only liked Cas for his money.

“Woah, dude, calm down! I didn’t mean to upset you. Dean, you’ve been crushing on Cas for years and you still haven’t made a move. If you don’t, someone else will,” Sam pointed out.

Dean groaned. “You don’t think I don’t know that! Hell, Crowley, Balthazar, and Meg have all asked him out multiple times. Thankfully, he’s turned all of them down.”

“So, what happens when he finally says yes to somebody?” Sam asked.

Dean buried his face in his pillow and screamed. When he was done, he answered his brother’s question. “Get really jealous and probably give the person the stink eye anytime they are around Cas.”

Dean could practically see the bitch face he knew Sam was giving him. “Exactly, so why don’t you grow a pair and tell Cas how you feel!”

“I don’t even know what to tell him!”

“Why don’t you make a list of all the things you like about Cas. Pick out a couple and come up with a way to spend some together focused around those things. Then, maybe hint at the possibility of it being a date and see how Cas reacts,” Sam suggested.

Dean frowned. “Dude, that sounds so fucking girly!”

“Then keep pining like a lovesick teenager and don’t ask me for anymore help,” Sam said, obviously annoyed.

“Fine, don’t get your panties in a knot. I’ll try, but we both know that all this mushy crap isn’t my thing,” Dean said.

“Well, if you want Cas to be your boyfriend, then you better make it your thing. Look, I’ve gotta go, but I’ll talk to you later. Love you,” Sam said.

“Yeah, alright. Love you too and good luck on your test.”

“Thanks Dean, bye jerk.”

“Bye bitch,” Dean replied, softly. He dropped his phone on the bed and lay there, contemplating if he could just jump in a hole and let it swallow him. He finally rolled out of bed and walked over to his desk. He grabbed a pen and paper and started writing.

A few days later, Castiel walked into the apartment he shared with Dean. He headed into the kitchen and grabbed a soda from the fridge. He drank half of it before walking to his bedroom and grabbing his overflowing laundry basket. He paused by Dean’s door before deciding to see if Dean had any dirty clothes. He opened the door and walked inside. He grabbed the few clothes he saw lying on the floor and then walked to Dean’s desk to grab the shirt that was lying on top. 

He picked the shirt up and something flew onto the floor. Cas went to drop the clothes into his basket before walking back into the room. He picked the piece of paper up and was surprised to see his name written on it. His curiosity was too strong to be ignored. As he read, his eyes widened with every bullet point.

My Cas List aka All My Favorite Things About My Roommate/Best Friend/Guy I’m In Love With

His hair. I love how it’s shining black, almost like a raven’s wings. Also love how no matter how hard he tries to make it lie flat, it always gives him a perpetually just got laid look.

His eyes. Holy shit, I could write an entire essay on Cas’ eyes. They are the deepest, purest, most gorgeous fucking blue I’ve ever seen. They remind me of the ocean when the sun is reflecting off the water.

His smile. I mean his real smile, where his gums show and his eyes and nose scrunch up. I love it so much because he rarely smiles that big. It’s like a freakin ray of sunshine! Although, I’ve noticed he smiles a lot like that when we hang out. Ha, suck it Crowley!

His body! Man Cas, has a killer fucking body with those broad shoulders, flat stomach, and them thighs! Oh my God, he could crush a watermelon with those things. Hell, I wish he would crush me with them. And he’s got a pretty impressive cock (what can I say, I was a peeping Tom a few times!) I wish I knew what it felt like to have it buried in my ass, man I bet he would fill me up just right!

His hands! He’s got huge ass hands and man I love to just watch him pick shit up. When he touches me with them, I get goosebumps all over. I just wished he’d touch me more often with them.

His voice. Whiskey on gravel and man the things it does to me! Man, what I would give to be in bed with Cas and have him order me around with that voice of his. Ughh, I get hard just thinking about it.

His fascination with bees. He’s so passionate and I love listening to him talk about how important they are for the environment and how they make their honey. I might not love bees, but I would listen to Cas all day because when he talks his eyes light up and he gets one of his gummy smiles.

His utter lack of understanding of pop culture references. I mean he literally gets none of my references but that just means I get to educate him. I love our movie marathon weekends because of all the time I get to spend with him!

He can’t cook worth a shit! That just means he loves my cooking all the more, especially my burgers! They make him very happy haha.

His baking skills! Dude might burn spaghetti noodles but he makes the best darn pies, cakes, and cookies I’ve ever tasted! The best thing in the world is coming home to a freshly baked apple pie made by Cas. It’s even better than Ellen’s (not that I would tell her that.)

He loves Sam as much as I do! Sammy means the world to me and to know that Cas loves him and treats him like his own brother means everything! Cas will hang out with Sam just as much as me and that earns major brownie points in my book!

He knows nothing about cars but he loves Baby! Enough said!

He loves animals. I never thought I would enjoy giving up a couple Saturday’s a month to go volunteer at the humane society but boy do I love it! I think I’ll ask Cas about adopting a pet and see what he says. I bet he’ll say yes.

His head tilts when he’s confused. It’s just so damn cute.

That damn trench coat of his. He’s the only person in the world who looks so darn sexy in a plain brown coat.

The fact that he will steal my clothes and wear them before wearing his own. God he looks sexy when he wears my stuff.

All the times we spend hanging out. Cas is always down to do anything whether it's going to the arcade, or the zoo or a football game. Hell we spent an entire day at a car museum and then at a natural history museum just so we could do what each other likes! Besides Sam, there’s no other person I would want to hang out with.

His personality! Wow, that’s a huge one but it’s true. Cas is the most caring, thoughtful, loyal, smart, funny, kind, awesome, brave, generous, etc, etc. Cas is the best friend a guy could ask for and I can’t imagine not having him in my life. He’s a freaking angel and I just wished I deserved him. I wish I had the freaking nerve to tell him how I feel because getting to spend the rest of my life with someone as amazing as Cas is better than all the free burgers and pie in the world.

I could keep going but my hand is getting tired and I’ve got work to get to or else Bobby will have my hide. Maybe, one day, I’ll actually show this to Cas but probably not. I only did this because Sam suggested it would help come up with a way to ask Cas out, but all it’s done is made me realize why I don’t deserve him in the first place.

Cas plopped down on Dean’s bed and just stared at the note, unable to believe what he just read. He sat there for nearly ten minutes trying to process his thoughts. Finally, he grabbed a piece of paper off Dean’s desk and started writing a letter of his own.

“Cas, I’m home! I figured I would make my burgers for dinner along with some homemade fries. Afterwards, we can watch that bee documentary you recorded,” Dean called as he headed to the kitchen. He smiled when he saw his friend sitting at the table, a cup of hot tea nestled between his hands. Cas had a real fondness for the stuff.

“Hello Dean,” Cas said.

Dean paused, Cas’ tone not the pleasant sound it normally was. “Uh, everything alright?”

Cas nodded and took a sip of his drink. “It is.” He sat his cup back down before reaching into his pocket and taking a piece of paper out. He unfolded it and slid it to the opposite side of the table. “Sit down, and read this please.”

Dean couldn’t help but eye his roommate as he took a seat and grabbed the paper. The blood drained from his face when he read the top line.

All My Favorite Things About My Favorite Person aka The Person I’m In Love With

Dean’s stomach was in knots as he looked at Cas. “Uh, what is this?”

“Just read it Dean,” Cas replied.

Dean sighed before looking at the paper once more.

       1. His looks. I am a sucker for blonde hair and he has dark golden locks that always seem to lie perfectly even when he just runs his fingers through it. His eyes are the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. They are like a forest on a warm spring day.        2. His laugh. He doesn’t laugh overly much but when he does, he has a smile that lights up his face and his whole body shakes with joy. I could listen to his laugh from sunrise to sunset. I’ve noticed he laughs a lot around me and it always makes my heart beat faster when I hear it.        3. His body! The Greek sculptors couldn’t find a better specimen if they looked. He has the perfect face with plump lips, high cheekbones, and a strong jaw. Then he’s got wonderfully muscled shoulders, a wide chest, a toned stomach, and bow legs (which I find freaking adorable. I may or may not have seen his cock which is extremely impressive and I dream about wrapping my mouth around it and bringing him to orgasm.

Dean couldn’t help his thoughts as he read. “This dude sounds perfect but hell, I’ve got all of that. I mean my hair may not be gold and my eyes are just a plain green but I’ve got a pretty good body. I definitely have the damn bow legs and my dick is pretty spectacular.” He continued reading.

       4. Did I mention his bow legs? I know he hates them, but I think it just adds  to his overall physique. I wouldn’t mind having them wrapped around me any day!

       5. His voice. When he sings, it’s like water running over rocks. It’s clear and smooth and I wish he'd sing more often!

       6. His love of cars! He’s got the most awesome vintage car in the world and there’s nothing better than just going on long drives in her. I can spend hours listening to him talk about cars even if I don’t have a fucking clue what he’s talking about.

Dean tried to keep the scowl from his face as he thought, “Now wait a damn minute! Baby is the best car in the world and whoever this guy is can bite me! Maybe Cas doesn’t like Baby as much as I thought. I guess he was just pretending about enjoying our car rides together.”

       7. His ridiculous amount of knowledge about all pop culture related things. I don’t think he can say more than three sentences without referencing a movie, or TV show, or band. It’s ridiculous and sometimes talking to him is like trying to learn a foreign language! But that just gives me all the more reasons to have movie marathons with him so that maybe one day, I can be as savvy as he is.

       8. His obsession with cowboys! The man dresses as Clint Eastwood every year for Halloween! Need I say more?

Dean glanced at Cas, but he was looking to the side towards the kitchen window. “I want to meet this dude and show him I know more about pop culture than he ever could! I also bet my Clint Eastwood costume is better! I don’t understand why Cas is so caught up on this dude! I have all of this and I bet I do it better!”

       9. His cooking! If I could only eat his burgers for the rest of my life, I’d die a happy man!

“I thought my burgers were the best, though! Cas has said multiple times how they’re practically orgasmic,” Dean said inside his head.

       10. His love of sweets, especially pie! He would live on pie if he could and I love to spend all day baking sweets and watch him enjoy the fruits of my labor!

       11. He’s a family man and loves his brother with everything he has! They have one of the strongest sibling bonds I’ve ever seen and I’m so happy they took me in and include me in all their adventures.

       12. He knows nothing about bees but will listen to me ramble about them all day. He gets this almost dreamy look as he listens and it makes my heart melt to know that he pays attention even if it isn’t his thing.

Dean frowned as he thought, “I fucking enjoy Cas’ baking and I will listen to him all damn day talk about bees! Why is Cas so hung up on this dude when I’ll do all the same shit! What if Sam was right and Cas got tired of waiting for me, so found someone else that was a lot like me?”

       13. He loves coming to the animal shelter with me! He didn’t at first but now he never says no! Maybe one day, we’ll have our very own dog or cat.

       14. He has this small pudge above his waist from all the burgers and pie he eats that won’t go away no matter what! Again he hates it, but it’s the comfiest spot to rest my head on when we’re lying on the couch together.

Dean dropped his hand to his stomach and pushed against his own small pooch. Cas always used it for a pillow, but this mystery guy’s must be better. Since when did Cas go to the animal shelter with anybody but Dean? Dean thought it was their thing, but obviously he was wrong.

       15. His love of all things plaid! Like I’m pretty sure his wardrobe is 90% flannel and 10% everything else! Although, me stealing about ten of his old band t-shirts didn’t help, but they smell like him so I just had to.

       16. His necklace that he always wears. His brother gave it to him and he never takes it off. 

Dean wrapped his fingers around the amulet hanging from his neck. Sam had given it to him for Christmas when they were kids after their dad failed to show up yet again. It meant the world to him and if he ever lost it, he would be heartbroken.

       17. All the time we spend hanging out together. There’s never any telling where we’ll end up! It could be a zoo or a museum or some kind of sports game! We’ve gone bowling, golfing, and I even convinced him to go on a rollercoaster with me. He held onto me the entire time because he’s afraid of heights. Of course I went with him to a car show the following week to even it out.

“I thought hanging out with me was special,” Dean thought sadly. His shoulders dropped as he realized that maybe Cas didn’t enjoy hanging out as much as he thought. It was obvious that Cas enjoyed spending time with his crush more than Dean.

       18. His personality! There isn’t enough paper in the world to write everything I love about him. He’s wicked smart and has a great sense of humor! He’s loyal and kind hearted! He will help anybody who needs a helping hand whether it’s mowing their lawn or taking them to the store because their car broke down. He’s stubborn, sure, but he’s also brave and ambitious and full of life. He’s definitely the life of every party we go to! He’s the extrovert to my introvert. He’s extremely dependable and responsible. He’s strong but also gentle! He can be a little cocky but hey, he’s earned it! He’s the best guy I’ve ever met and I would never want to live another day of my life without him. There’s not another guy on this Earth that I love like I do him and I just wish he realized how much I care for him. He can be very self doubtful about himself even though he can also be the most confident person in the world. I love him with all of my heart and I just hope when I finally tell him how I feel, he won’t turn me down.

Dean dropped the paper to the table, unable to look at it any longer. He was barely keeping the tears from falling as his heart shattered into pieces. He had everything on Cas’ list, yet Cas had chosen another person instead of him. All because Dean had been too chicken to admit his feelings. He looked up at Cas and tried to plaster a smile on his face. “I hope this guy realizes just what a gift he has waiting for him. You’re amazing Cas and anybody would be lucky to call you theirs.”

Cas smiled. “Thank you, Dean. He is a pretty awesome guy, and there’s no one else I’d rather be with.”

Dean sighed, trying to keep the bitterness from leaking into his voice. “Then why aren’t you with him? Why didn’t you show him this list instead of me? Do you want me to proofread the damn thing for you?” So, he was being a bit of an ass. He just found out the guy he was in love with didn’t like him back. How else was he supposed to respond?

Cas laughed softly. “No, I don’t want you to proofread it. As far as why I didn’t just hand it to the guy, I actually just did. He’s being a little dense right now.”

“Wait, what?” Dean exclaimed, his eyes locking with Cas’. Had Cas just said what he thought he said? Dean tried to keep his hopes in check in case he had heard wrong.

Cas stood to his feet and walked over to stand beside Dean. He reached for Dean’s hand and wrapped his fingers around Dean’s. “You are the guy in that letter.”

Dean opened and closed his mouth a few times before squeaking out, “Me?”

“Yes, you. I saw your letter to me when I went to get your dirty clothes and figured I’d write one of my own,” Cas explained. He squeezed Dean’s fingers and smiled brightly at him.

Dean stared at Cas before reaching up and cupping his cheek in his hand. “You really mean it?” he asked as he searched Cas’ eyes for any sort of lie.

“Every word,” Cas said softly. “I love you Dean, so much it hurts.”

“I love you too, Cas! I’m sorry it took so long,” Dean said, a tear sliding down his cheek.

“That’s ok, we just have lots of time to make up for! There’s a few things on our lists that I want to make a reality ASAP,” Cas replied with a smirk.

Dean’s eyes went wide as a smile stretched his lips. “Oh fuck yes,” he cried before crashing his lips against Cas’. Cas responded immediately, sliding his hands into Dean’s hair and slotting their mouths ever tighter together. They finally had their favorite person in their arms!

[kominum]

swept away // t.h.

hello, new writing blog here! i have another writing blog for a different fandom, but i wanted to make a separate one for t.h./p.p. scenarios. since this is new, i’ll be writing for prompts that interest me, but you can send in some as well for blurbs and whatnot! 

genre: some angst, some fluff, pining, uni!au 

prompt: you’re baking cookies in the communal kitchen at 3am and you’re really angry and hungry (adjustment from the prompt where another person is angry and hungry)

length: ~1.8k

This should not become a habit, you think to yourself. In fact, it shouldn’t have happened enough to begin with to even come close to becoming a habit, but after a couple of nights with too much alcohol and hangovers you’d rather never experience again, you’re here. 

Here, in this communal kitchen, at 3 in the fucking morning, baking chocolate chip cookies in the oven. 

Yes, homemade cookies are better. Yes, the tear-apart cookies from the grocery store are low-key trash. Yes, you know that they’re really not that good for you. But no, your professor decided to be an insufferable asshole during a physical chemistry lab session for the fifth fucking time, and you’re going to unwind somehow. You know that if you don’t, someone else will get the bad end of the stick aka someone will unfairly be on the receiving end of your murderous stare and you’d rather not get on anyone’s bad side. There’s a part of you that desires to be liked by everyone, which is probably 80% of the explanation as to why you let this asinine professor walk all over you for four hours a week.

So here you are, messy hair, lids heavy, eye bags dark, curled up in a chair and staring angrily at the oven, just waiting for the cookies to cook and let themselves be devoured by you. In the last few times, no one has been here, and you’re not worried about anyone catching you clad in a fandom hoodie and stained sweatpants. 

As you’re thinking about all the different ways you could “accidentally” spill a harmless but staining chemical on top of your professor’s hair (especially the one that he very first yelled at you about because he truly thought you were stupid enough to not wear gloves, but instead the chemical had stained past the nitrile for fuck’s sake), soft padded steps make themselves known behind you. Naturally, you freeze and peer into the reflection of the oven cover, eyes trying to make out the details of the person behind you. A young man walks in donned in an oversized t-shirt with some scrawled text on it and pink pajama pants who later jumps back when he spots you around the corner. You watch him flinch in the reflection and almost drop his unwrapped bags of microwave popcorn before you turn in your chair and just...stare.

He’s cute. Despite the outfit, he’s ridiculously cute, and you can’t find the energy to muster a smile or even say hi. So essentially, he’s receiving a bitch stare while fumbling with the unpopped popcorn, finally managing to place it correctly in the microwave and glance in any direction but you, his fingers tapping rhythmically against his thigh. Your 3AM, sugar-addicted brain decides that it’ll do the stupid thing and force you to speak.

“Don’t you have a microwave in your own room?” 

Cutie in pink zips around to look at you, completely bewildered, and he clears his throat. “Well..uh..the uh, um...microwave in my room is broken. Housing hasn’t come by to fix it,” he mumbles towards the end, your ears picking up a British accent. You hum in understanding and take a glance back at the timer on the oven, gauging whether or not your cookies needed more time. They’ve got a couple of minutes.

“Housing can take forever sometimes,” you add, trying to sound empathetic. “Both bags of popcorn are for you?”

“No,” he replies, sounding slightly offended. You throw your hands up in innocence, fighting a smile. “My mate and I are having a movie marathon. What about you? I can smell the cookies.”

“Yep, all 12 for myself. One of those days, you know? And it’s perfectly fine to have 2 bags of popcorn to yourself. Lord knows I’ve done it,” you snort, thinking about how just two weeks ago, the two bags of butter popcorn had become your dinner on a night that you needed to really hunker down and study.   

“One of those days? Wanna talk about it?” He asks while listening for the number of pops in the microwave. Harrison would never forgive him if he burned popcorn because he was too busy talking to a girl. 

“Well,” you rub your temples and stand up to take the cookies out of the oven. “Long story short, I have an asshole professor and I see him way too much for my own liking. If he makes another snide sexist comment about women being in science, I’ll be sorely tempted to complain to someone higher up.” Your hand picks up a cookie to check the bottom and nods in approval. “Want one?” You ask over a cookie in your mouth, handing the tray to the boy who’s putting in the second bag of popcorn. 

He shrugs, “Thanks.” Doing the smart thing, he blows a bit on the cookie first before popping half of it into his mouth, eyes closing in satisfaction at the warm chocolate hitting his tongue. “Anyone who argues that warm cookies aren’t the best things sent to Earth, I have half a mind to have a go at ‘em.” 

“I’m with you on that,” you laugh. “Better this than alcohol. Wanna take some more for your friend?”

“Yeah sure. Actually,” he pauses, gazing deeply into the microwave. “You wanna come watch the movies with us? Bring the cookies there too?” His eyes are full of hesitation and he chews nervously on the inside of his lip. Maybe he was too forward, maybe he was too friendly, maybe -- 

“Why not?” You shrug, said too fast and partially out of need for human contact and partially because the popcorn smells too good. It’d be nice to balance out the sweetness with some salt. “I hope they’re good movies.”

“Trust me, we have great taste in movies.”

And that’s how you found yourself following a cute British boy to his room with a tray of cookies and a warm heart. 

-

Things had kicked off since then, the surprised look on Harrison’s face that day still ingrained into your mind. You had also passed out on Tom’s shoulder and woken up with a sore back on the couch, both boys missing but a note on the table for you. Since then, numbers had been exchanged and a group chat formed. Tom has taken to asking you if you want cookie dough every time he goes to the grocery store now, and their room never seems to run out of microwave popcorn. Late night sessions turned into not-so-late rants, sometimes just tiredly knocking on their door and either one of the boys opening it for you. Sleep is important, and not only for the weak.

Yet when being caught up in the wind of things, you couldn’t deny that you felt something for Tom. College was a busy time and yes, you should have fun, and yes, you should shoot your shot or whatever the Internet says these days, but the fear of rejection outweighs the possible acceptance. Things are too good with Tom and you wouldn’t want to lose that. You know that if Tom denied your feelings, you’d immediately run away and lock the door on your heart for who knows how long. You’d abandon all traditions and any paths that could cross with them, foreshadowing that if you ever did see them, the embarrassment would overtake you. At that moment, you would want nothing more than to dig a hole and stay in it for the rest of eternity. 

“You’re being so dramatic,” you mutter to yourself, knees bent as you lay on a throw pillow against the arm on Tom and Harrison’s couch and flip through their Netflix. The microwave had long been fixed, and though your ears can definitely register the sound of corn kernels aggressively hitting the sides of the bag, they evidently didn’t catch Tom coming to see if you’d made a choice on a movie yet. 

“Who’s being dramatic, darling?” He asks in a genuinely curious tone and you almost want to smack yourself in the head. 

“Harrison,” you fib, mind scrambling for a scenario. “He’s watching the popcorn like a hawk.” 

“Oi!” He yells from the corner where the microwave is. “We can’t be having burnt popcorn under this roof, not on my watch.”

You give Tom the look, the kind that says see what I mean? and it only makes Tom laugh, which makes you happy because that’s the sound that dissolves any of your worries for the day. Well, except the one where you might accidentally burst and confess your undying affection for the guy. Other than that, it’s one of the few things that can really calm you down and let you relax. 

As Harrison dumps the popcorn into a bowl, Tom comes to sit next to you and your feet naturally pick themselves up to give him his space. He then pushes them back down so you can spread your legs over his to create a perpendicular model, and you try to ignore how the motion makes your heart flutter or how just his hands on your legs send heat surging through your system. It’s not fair -- no person should have such an effect over another human being. Can this be illegal? Can this not be allowed?

While thoughts are swirling in your brain, Tom can only think about how much he craves the moments like these, the ones where you’re comfortable enough to be in a position like this, the ones where you sometimes crash in his bed and he gets to see what your sleeping face is like. He prides in the fact that you seek him out on the rough days, that you see him as a source of comfort. Tom wants nothing more than to be that and more for you, just for you. It’s sappy, it’s gross, it’s cheesiest of all cheesiness, but he can’t even find it in himself to be embarrassed by how enamored he is with you. 

Harrison had caught on long ago on how whipped he was. “Just tell her bruv,” he pushed one time when Tom had gotten a little tipsy in their dorm. “What’s the worst that could happen?”

“She rejects me and never wants to see my face again,” Tom had immediately slurred back and his eyebrows had sagged into the saddest kicked-puppy look that Harrison had ever seen for the first time in a while. Of course, he rolled his eyes to let Tom know that he was being unreasonable. Clearly, you were just as smitten, but both of you were as blind as bats. 

With the apprehension that neither will accept the other, both you and Tom have learned to become content with whatever is happening now. But at the end of the day, when good nights have been said and lingering hugs given, you and he both can’t help but wish for just a little more time with each other.

Just, a little more.

[wolfpawn]

I Hate You, I Love You, Chapter 58

Chapter Summary - After returning from their walk, Danielle and Tom end up minding his niece for a while and after that, they go to have dinner again in Diana's, where it is revealed that due to the summer, Tom has not spoken to his father since then, something Danielle thinks to rectify.

Previous Chapter

Rating - Mature (some chapters contain smut)

Triggers - references to Tom Hiddleston’s work with the #MeToo Movement. That chapter will be tagged accordingly.

authors Note - I have been working on this for the last 3 years, it is currently 180+ chapters long.  This will be updated daily, so long as I can get time to do so, obviously

tags: @sweetkingdomstarlight-blog​ @jessibelle-nerdy-mum​ @nonsensicalobsessions​ @damalseer​ @hiddlesbitch1​ @winterisakiller​ @fairlightswiftly​ @salempoe​ @lys-syl @youcantcatchafallingstar

If you wish to be tagged, please let me know.

After the walk in the woods, and a small towel dry for Mac, Danielle and Tom contemplated sitting down for a quiet read, but their idea was quickly shattered when Sarah arrived with her daughter. “Half an hour, I beg you.” she pleaded. Tom looked at his sister in concern. “My head is spinning, I have literally watched four movies in a row, I need half an hour.”

“Give us one and a half, she’ll be fed and all.” Danielle smiled. Sarah did not even bother asking if she was sure, she turned and fled. “I guess that answers what our afternoon includes.” She commented to Tom.

“Prepares us for the weekend we have you I suppose.” Tom grinned at his niece. “Have you had lunch?”

“Nope.”

“Well then, how about some of Ellie’s homemade soup and brown bread?” Tom ushered her into the kitchen. Danielle smiled as she walked in after them, Tom getting some of the soup Danielle had made them after their walk and the bread she had baked before getting injured on Christmas Eve. Tom saw her looking at him. “What?”

“Nothing,” She smiled. “Just nice seeing you make yourself at home here.”

“Well, just remember to do the same in London.”

“I might just.” She winked, going over to the kettle to make herself some tea. “Do you want one?”

“Please.” Tom was about to put his arms around her when she moved slightly to avoid it and indicated to the six-year-old who was currently eating at the table. “Sorry.”

“Have to remember to behave in front of children.” She chastised. “So, what movie will we watch when you are finished your lunch?” She asked said child as she placed a glass of apple juice next to her.

“Cinderella.”

“The film or the cartoon one?” Danielle offered.

“Film.”

“There’s a film of it now?” Tom asked.

“Yeah, Kenneth Branagh is the director, it’s brilliant, so colourful,” Danielle informed him.

“Ken loves using colour.” Tom nodded. “Sounds good.”

When Sarah returned almost two hours later, she was shocked to see Tom and Danielle playing hide and seek with her daughter. “You two are worse than her.” She chuckled to her brother.

Tom came over to her and put his arm around her, “Feel better?”

“Too much wine yesterday, tired and over my fill of movies, thank you both so much.”

“We are happy to have her.”

“She loves you both, she has not stopped going on about wanting you to marry Elle.”

“I know, I was informed yesterday on our walk that she is to be the flower girl, no arguments.”

“No pressure.” Sarah laughed.

“No, none. So what time is dinner?”

Sarah groaned. “No one is in the mood for turkey, not even mum.”

“I know, the idea of it is not too appealing.” Tom agreed. “Though…” He walked out to the end of the stairs. “Truce,” he shouted up. A moment later, two smiling faces poked around the top of the stairs at him. “Why is your hair tossed?” He asked almost worriedly.

“We…”

“Shh,” Danielle put her hand over the girl’s mouth for a moment. “We can’t let him know where I hid you.” She giggled. “What do you want? Surrender?”

“Not a chance.”

“Then why call us?” She asked.

“You cooked a lasagne on Christmas Eve, right?”

“I did.”

“Is there enough for everyone?”

Danielle took a moment to think. “There are fourteen portions, so I think it’s safe to say yes.”

“Why did you cook that much food?” Tom frowned.

“It’s easier to cook a lot and freeze, so I did.” Danielle shrugged.

“Can we use it for dinner, no one is really in the mood for Turkey?”

“Actually, that sounds really good.” Danielle came down the stairs, Tom’s niece in tow, she turned to look at her. “What do you think?”

“I want Garlic bread with it.”

Tom grinned, “That sounds like a great idea. But I am not sure there is any.”

“I have store-bought in the freezer too.” Danielle smiled.

“I love you.” Tom declared.

“You two are nauseating.” Sarah laughed.

“All men declare their undying love to the one that feeds them, why do you think they all love their mammies!” Danielle laughed, going to the kitchen to get the food. “How are you now?” She asked as she opened the freezer.

“Better, thank you, I had a cup of tea and a power nap. I think everyone was a little drained.”

“Well, you know where I am.” Danielle offered.

“Aunty Ellie?” Danielle turned around. “Why do you say mammy and not mummy or mommy?”

“Because I come from Ireland, and in Ireland, we say mammy.”

“Uncle Jack is from Ireland too and he doesn’t sound anything like you.”

“Uncle Jack comes from up at the tippy top of Ireland, so his accent is different, like your granddad comes from Scotland, so he has a different accent to your nan.”She explained.

“Okay.” With her curiosity sated, she walked off again.

“You didn’t correct her.” Sarah grinned.

“What?”

“When she called you ‘Aunty Ellie’ you never corrected her.”

“I didn’t even notice.” Danielle shrugged.

“Well, it suits you.” Sarah grinned. Danielle stared at her worriedly. “What do you need me to bring over?” Rolling her eyes, Danielle pointed to the food they would need.

*

“Okay, that was more delicious than I thought.” Jack conceded as he finished another portion of lasagne. “How are you not the size of a house?”

“Self-control.” Danielle laughed. “How are you not sick?” Jack shrugged.

“And it was not beef?” Jakov looked at the food in front of him.

Danielle shook her head. “Lamb, less chewy.”

“That is actually delicious,” Sarah declared. “I am stealing some.”

“Or I could just give you some.” Danielle laughed.

“That too,” Sarah conceded.

Diana smiled as she looked around the table, “Are any of you going to see your father soon?”

“Jack and I are going after New Years, on our way back from Jack’s parents,” Emma stated.

“We went a couple weeks ago, I will see when I can get up again,” Sarah informed her.

Everyone turned to Tom. “I...I haven’t spoken to him in a while…” There were a few moments of silence.

“Since the summer?” Danielle ventured, seeing no one else was going to ask, though everyone seemed to be thinking it. Tom nodded. “Have you spoken since?” He shook his head. “Well, do something about it.”

“How?”

“You get off your ass and you go to Scotland, obviously.”

“He…”

“Will give you a clip across the ear and then you apologise for embarrassing yourself, your family, your forefathers, your descendants, your pets, neighbours and even your preschool teacher and you get on with life.” Tom gave her a disbelieving look while the others laughed.

“What wiring is wrong in your head to say you say the stuff you do?” Jack shook his head.

“You’re just jealous you are a boring Tyrone shite that only wishes he was as brutally honest as me.” she retorted.

“Language.” Diana admonished.

“He started it.”

“You are the biggest child to ever exist, are you sure you don’t have any siblings?” Emma laughed.

“Nope just learnt all this from your crazy butts.” Danielle looked to Diana, who nodded her approval of Danielle toning down her language. “Why don’t we see if he is free over New Years, I know you wanted to go to see a few of your friends, but I think it would mean more to him if you made the effort to go up and show him you are not as mental as everyone thinks you are.” Tom gave her an unsure look, which Danielle chose to ignore.

“Can I just absorb some of your ability to just say what I am thinking?” Emma asked.

“I can be honest or I can not hurt your feelings, not both, most of the time.” She grinned. “So, get off your ass and ring him.”

“He…”

Danielle shook her head, “Emma, give me your phone,” Emma gave it to her and Danielle typed in the code and the screen unlocked. “Dad or James?”

“Dad.”

“Got it.”

“Elle,” Tom warned.

Danielle ignored him and continued. “Got you,” She pressed the dial button and put the phone to her ear. When a Scottish accent answered she smiled. “Hello, Dr Hiddleston, this is Danielle, I was a bridesmaid at Emma’s wedding.”

“I recall, what can I do for you?”

“I am ringing because Tom is under the impression you are not willing to speak to him, I wish to know if this is true or is he just being dramatic?”

“Is that little tart gone?”

“You mean the American singer?”

“That one.”

“Yep.”

“Is he there?”

“Right next to me, Dr Hiddleston.”

“Put him on, and for Christ’s sake girl, I told you enough times that day, it is James.”

“Sure thing Dr Hiddleston. I hope you had a lovely Christmas, take care and here is your idiot son.” She held the phone out to Tom, who was glaring at her.

Anxiously, Tom took the phone and rose to his feet. “Hello, dad.” He walked from the room talking.

“There, done.”

“Carpe Diam?” Diana smiled.

“More like ‘Carpe Scrotum’.” Danielle laughed as she took a drink of her water to the sounds of laughter around her.

*

“Thank you, I think.” Danielle turned to see Tom behind her.

Danielle faced him properly. “For the record, I would never have forced you to talk to your dad if you didn’t look like it was the one thing you wanted more than anything else in the world, that would not have been fair.” She stated. “I completely understand if you are annoyed with me and want to stay over here tonight. I just don’t want to see you not talk to your dad about something that is over, he is not exactly young. My dad always said to me, that no matter how bad we argue, never leave it longer than a day to say sorry, time doesn’t wait for you to.”

Tom looked at her for a moment. “I was pissed off you did it, but I am glad you did. We spoke for a few minutes, he just didn’t want me ruining everything I have worked so hard for. He mentioned you too.”

“Well, I was the one that called him.”

“He asked why I couldn’t ever see you as a suitable woman, you are, and I quote ‘copped on, intelligent and well able to give me a clip cross the ear’ he impersonated his father’s Scottish accent as he did so.”

“He forgot funny, charismatic and generally awesome,” Danielle laughed. “What did you say to that?”

“I told him I did, and that I convinced you to come to London to me for a few months.”

“Well, there’s his idea that I am copped on and intelligent gone out the window.” She stated solemnly before giggling.

Tom pulled her to him and kissed her as he chuckled too. “He said about fucking time, and that should I find my way to Scotland anytime soon, I am to bring you.”

“Woohoo, very nice. Got both parents on side, I am rocking at this girlfriend thing.” She smiled.

“I think you may have it down indeed Ms Hughes.” He agreed. “By the way,” She looked up at him. “He said to stop calling him Dr Hiddleston.”

“I can’t, it annoys him too much.”

[fortheloveofgen]

WEEKEND RESET: A LIVING ROOM CAMPOUT

The weekdays are so full. I’m always rushing around and shuffling the kids between school, sports and piano lessons—not to mention my own obligations. We don’t get the quality time with each other that I’d like, so the weekends end up being pretty sacred. It’s my time to give them my undivided attention and not get distracted with work or school stuff. I usually look for any excuse to get outside and push my nature-loving agenda on my kids. However, when the weather doesn’t cooperate (like this unseasonable Austin cold and rain that’s currently killing my outdoor buzz) I have to find another way to keep everyone entertained. With a 7, 5- and 2-year-old, it takes some creativity to come up with one activity that everyone can enjoy. So, I decided to bring a little of the outdoors indoors with a living room campout.

We all put on our PJs, pitched the kids’ teepees, rolled out the sleeping bags, made a special treat, and watched a movie (The Greatest Showman is a crowd favorite). The result was basically a jazzed up family sleepover plus movie night and the kids couldn’t get enough—and I loved the chance to snuggle with all three of them.

It’s the perfect way for us to reconnect after a crazy week. We’re all in our house where everyone feels safe, but doing something kinda out of the box and different makes the kids feel special. The typical house “rules” are out the window and they get to have a cool little fort party that’s just for them.

Picking a movie can sometimes lead to fighting, so we’ve come up with a reward system. The kids (all of them) have chores and each are unique to them. If they complete their chores they receive a cotton ball and if they do things that are good behavior they get rewarded with a cotton ball. When they want to watch a movie, they have to trade in four cotton balls. So whoever has earned enough gets to pick something for everyone to watch.

On this night, we picked up ice cream from local Austin shop Lick—which my kids love for their wild flavors. Shep’s favorite is their beet and goat cheese ice cream and Tom’s favorite is the honey and vanilla. (Odette just loves all ice cream.) We decided to go all out and used it to make our own ice cream sandwiches. We had an assortment of cookies, including some of our favorite homemade gluten-free oatmeal cranberry cookies—check out the recipe below. (Pro tip: Make sure to have plenty of towels on hand to wipe sticky hands!)

What about you? What does your family do to reconnect after a crazy week?

GLUTEN-FREE OATMEAL CRANBERRY COOKIES

½ cup plus 6 tbsp of butter (softened)

¾ cups packed brown sugar

½ cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

1 ½  cups gluten-free multi-purpose flour blend

1 tsp gluten-free baking soda

½ tsp salt

3 cups oats, uncooked

1 cup dried cranberries

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Using an electric mixer (or hand mixer), beat butter and sugars on medium speed until fluffy. Add the vanilla and the eggs and mix well. Add the flour, baking soda and salt and mix until just combined. Fold in the oats and dried cranberries. With a cookie scoop or regular spoon, drop tablespoonfuls of dough on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool 1 minute, then transfer to a plate to cool completely and enjoy!

[whereisyourtruenorth-blog]

True North Winter Tips

I’ve casually looked around the internet (namely pinterest and youtube) for winter wardrobe tips and have genuinely laughed and been disappointed at the content that was brought up. Not that these people uploading these things didn’t post quality things, they just live in an area where their idea of Winter isn’t....well....is it REALLY Winter? Peep toed any sort of shoe? Thin knee length skirts with sheer tights? It just wasn’t practical and where I live I’m surrounded by northern, older generation practicality. I have a deep appreciation for the logical, simple, practical views on things here so I thought I’d share some. Some of them you may already do...they aren’t all about clothes because in real Northern weather it’s just not something you entirely think about.

1.) Dress appropriately. There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. When it’s -40 and the sides of your driveway are like The Wall in Game of Thrones (bust out your inner Ygritte) you must learn the appropriate way to layer your clothing. Learn about/wear base layers that trap in your body heat and wick moisture. Dampness can make the cold feel many times worse if you are wearing anything that soaks up moisture without expelling it. If you can, invest in a pair of good winter boots. and socks. Tuck your pant bottoms into your socks before putting your boots on so no air or moisture can get to the skin of your ankles. Mittens are a better option because they keep your fingers together to provide heat. I have found that locally made mittens that are a blend of wool/cashmere to be the best at half the cost of store bought mittens. Remember to protect your ears and head as well! If you’re going to be outside for more than 20 minutes a snood is perfect to tuck the bottom half of your face into to breathe into it to create moisture. If you’re prone to wind burn I suggest swiping a small amount of Vaseline or something similar onto those areas (usually cheeks) and on your lips for protection.

2.) Update your tires! Not all of us have trucks but 4 wheel drive is a great help. It can be expensive to be ready for Winter but if you live here long-term and have the means to slowly do things, tires are important. It’s a terrible idea to drive on bald tires in general but especially on snowy roads. If you have a smaller, compact vehicle it’s a great idea to add weight in your car to reduce sliding on slippery days on the road. Cat litter or 50lb bags of salt can help add a little traction.

3.) Have emergency items in your vehicle at the height of winter. An extra blanket or two, extra mittens, a small emergency kit, matches or a lighter, “Heet” for your gas tank, keep your gas tank ABOVE half consistently in case you get stuck somewhere. A lot of people keep a large empty tin can and candle in their vehicle in case they get stranded and for some reason you don’t have heat in your car. You can light the candle inside of the can and the can will act as a heat source. Do not keep items that can explode in the extreme cold. It’s not fun.

4.) Stay active! If you dress appropriately, go for walks! Around the block or more if you can. I swear it will reduce your seasonal moods. If you already enjoy partaking in winter sports that’s even better. If you’re living in a Northern state long-term you may as well bite the bullet and embrace it. Staying indoors constantly is what will deplete your happiness and Vitamin D levels. The sun is still out there! It’s even better if your family or friends are interested in doing something active with you. It can be as light or as strenuous as you want so long as you get outside for even 10 minutes.

5.) Eat seasonally. At least where I’m at it’s extremely easy and accessible to get local produce. Most people here have a garden but if not nearly half of the driveways have carts of produce at the entrance. We are also surrounded by Amish who do the same and have some of the best stuff there is. People here are decently sustainable and share produce or grow their own. I know that is not the same for everyone but find out what is local to you and utilize those resources. You will be supporting someone else local instead of a large corporation and getting great produce for a lower cost. Here I can get all root vegetables and squashes for the winter (or we can summer abundance), honey, maple syrup, oats, apples, pears, peaches, etc) Most of our homes have an area usually in the basement or pantry for root vegetables to store throughout the winter.I believe eating seasonally can give you nutrition that’s a little lost during the hardest months of the winter. The food is heartier and more dense than water summer foods for a reason. Incorporate these and some broth into your diet to help you re-load your energy.

6.) Site “How to Hygge” by Signe Johansen for a real play by play on the art of hygge. I bought this book about four years ago and I still go back to it every year. Coziness truly helps when it starts getting dark around 4pm. Light candles (evergreen scents are by far my favorite) and lots of them! Get small fairy lights. If you don’t have a real fireplace invest in a small electric one that will heat a room and create that ambience. Isn’t seeing people chop wood satisfying? I think it’s because it harkens back to when people did it purely out of survival. The scent of wood burning stoves are on my top favorite scents out there. I know it’s hard but try waking earlier in the day to get the most of the daylight that you can. People wake much later than in past generations and miss a decent chunk of their day. In the winter it’s important that your body gets the most daylight it can. Wake early, make your bed, go outside for a minimum of 10 minutes. It’s the easiest recipe for a little happiness.

7.) Crack your windows for 1/2 hour every week to bring in fresh air and the old can be drawn out. Sometimes our allergies worsen because our home is shut up with all of the dust and allergens. Crisp, fresh air for a small time every week can help clear it out.

8.) Speaking of windows...find which windows in your house let the most air seep through and get a plastic window kit to cover them. It can help for comfort ability and your heat bill. Obviously I suggest keeping one uncovered (whichever one doesn’t let air through) to be able to crack it once a week.

9.) Get a bird feeder or if you have one try to keep it stocked consistently! Sometimes seeing birds, especially cardinals and blue jays can improve your mood in the winter. When you unexpectedly catch a pop of red against the blanket of white is a real treat in February. Birds have more food options during the warm months but is harder to come by in the cold. I try to mix my bird seed with dried mealworms or make my own suet with lard and peanut butter because fats and heartier things like mealworms can really aid their lack of abundance in the cold. Plus I get excited when they seem to like my suet!

10.) Do not constantly engage in whining collectively about the weather. Spin the narrative. Whining about it helps no one and there’s a reason why Scandinavians are said to be rated some of the happiest people! They flow with nature including in the winter. You can be active as well as be a hermit. Get up, get dressed, go outside a little before or after work, come home and light your candles. Make a hot toddy with Tom and Jerry mix (nods at Wisconsinites) and get COZY. People are sometimes depressed, anxious and paranoid because there is a difference between earning coziness and just sheer laziness. Sometimes you get down on yourself because you wish you would be doing just the basic every day tasks but don’t. Even just trying to be positive about winter and saying something positive will help you and make others potentially have a different thought.

11.) Share with your neighbors! Winter is the seasons of the holidays and having people with you is a joy. Find a hobby that is something other than sitting on the couch all day on the computer, phone or TV watching. Your favorite TV show is not a personality trait. One of my favorite hobbies is baking. It gets my mind on the right track and I’m not spending hours scrolling through someone else's life. I’ve noticed that in Wisconsin we love fruit based desserts and pastries. It’s probably because at the end of fall we have a surplus of berries, tree fruits and rhubarb from the trees in our yard or garden or we foraged it ourselves in the woods. Apple or rhubarb crisp anyone? Make a crisp or whatever you want and give some to your neighbor or someone you know who may not have a lot of support or are going through a tough time. Instead of spending hours scrolling it can be such an easy way to bless someone else and you feel happy in turn.

12.) Do not over lotion your skin on cheap lotion! I really suggest oils or thick butters like pure shea butter in the winter months. Try not to constantly wash your hands in hot water as tempting as it is for hot water can dry your skin quicker. Bar soap (especially locally homemade) naturally has a higher fat content and can help keep your skin moist rather than liquid soap that has the tendency to strip moisture. Wilder Supply out of Alaska is a great company if you can’t find local.

13.) Buy YAKTRAX. These are seriously awesome for someone who enjoys being outdoors in the winter or if you have an outdoor job orrrrr if you’re just paranoid falling on ice ;) They are really affordable and offer a few different varieties depending on your activity and intent for them.

I could name so many more but for now that’s the top ones the came to mind to jot down!

[wildwestcoaster]

You get to do all of the odds now haha

Haha I guess I had that coming!

1. Spotify, SoundCloud, or Pandora?

Spotify!

3. What color are your eyes?

Blue, but they change to green or gray depending on my mood, the weather, or what I’m wearing.

5. What is your relationship status?

Single. Ho hum.

7. What color hair do you have?

I’m getting used to saying brown because it used to be blonde but anesthesia is a bitch and ruined my hair. 

9. Where do you shop?

Target, Sports Basement, Amazon…lots of online shopping.

11. Favorite social media account.

@_the_undressed_chef_ on instagram. He is HILARIOUS.

13. Any siblings?

A half brother, but I have never met him. 

15. Favorite snapchat filter?

I don’t use snapchat. I only have it for bitmoji.

17. How many times a week do you shower?

At least seven. It depends on the week’s activities.

19. Shoe size?

I’ve been wearing a 12 since 4th grade. Tall trees need good roots.

21. Sandals or sneakers?

Both. Again, depends on the activities. I practically live in running shoes, though.

23. Describe your dream date.

Honestly, the activity/activities don’t matter to me as long as both people are comfortable and enjoying each other’s company. That’s what matters.

25. What color socks are you wearing?

I am currently sockless. 

27. Do you have a job? What do you do?

I do! I teach middle school special ed.

29. What’s the worst thing you have ever done?

Well, I try to not do bad things. I’m sitting here racking my brain and I guess I’d say recently ghosting someone I had been on two dates with and just wasn’t vibing with is pretty bad. I still carry some guilt because of it.

31. 3 favorite boy names.

Patrick, Declan, and Thomas.

33. Favorite actor?

Hm….the first person the first person to come to mind was Jack Black. Though now I’m thinking of Dennis Quaid and Tom Selleck.

35. Who is your celebrity crush?

Chris Evans. Am I right, @madoddthings?!

37. Do you read a lot? What is your favorite book?

I love to read. It is one of my favorite things to do. That being said, I haven’t been able to concentrate on a book since school started. I read The Boys of Winter every year once the NHL season is over. Other than that, the McKettrick Cowboys series by Linda Lael Miller is my favorite. Oh, and Harry Potter. Beartown by Fredrik Backman is my most recent favorite, though. I could talk about books all day lol.

39. Do you have a nickname? What is it?

I have a few. They don’t get used much anymore, though. My uncle calls me Lambchop, my mom calls me Sarrie or Sarah Beth, some friends call me SareBear. I got the good ol’ Jolly Green, Sasquatch, and Amazon Woman growing up. They still make me chuckle.

41. Top 10 favorite songs.

How am I supposed to choose? I’ll have to come back to this because it’s a pretty impossible list to make. One of my current favorite songs, however, is The Piano Guys’ version of Fight Song/Amazing Grace. It gives me goosebumps every time I hear it. 

43. What is your skin type?

Eh, I have pretty average combination skin. Oily T-zone. Everything else is pretty normal.

45. How many kids do you want?

If I have kids, I don’t think I would want more than two.

47. What type of house do you live in?

An average house? Three bedrooms, two baths, etc, etc.

49. What was the last compliment you received?

My district’s sped director dropped by my classroom and observed for a few minutes. My principal then told me that the sped director loves me and to keep doing what I’m doing; that I’m doing better than I think I am. 

51. How old were you when you found out that Santa wasn’t real?

I honestly don’t remember finding out. I think it was a gradual thing? But really, I have no idea.

53. Opinion on smoking?

Tobacco? Unless it’s an occasional cigar, absolutely not.

55. What is your dream job?

Special ed teacher. Go figure.

57. Do you take shampoo and conditioner bottles from hotels?

Depends on the quality of the product!

59. Do you smile for pictures?

Always.

61. Have you ever peed in the woods?

Yes, but I am not good at it, if you catch my drift!

63. Do you prefer chicken nuggets from McDonald’s or Wendy’s?

McDonald’s with sweet and sour sauce!

65. What do you wear to bed?

A t-shirt and a pair of chones. Sometimes I’ll lose the shirt, though. Apparently, I move a lot in my sleep and I don’t like the tangled/constricted feeling. 

67. What are your hobbies?

Not that I have time to really do many of them right now, but reading, hiking, taking drives, traveling, exploring, cooking, baking, knitting, drawing/coloring…

69. Do you play an instrument?

I used to play piano and clarinet. I would like to get back into piano.

71. Tea or coffee?

It depends on the mood or time of day. I’ll go for fully leaded coffee until around noon, unless I need to be up later than normal. After that, I’ll have decaf or tea. 

73. Do you want to get married?

I would definitely like to, yes.

75. Are you going to change your last name when you get married?

Unless his last name is more difficult to pronounce/spell than mine, then yes I am. Come at me, feminists. My last name is my father’s and I have no reason to keep it. I should have changed it when I turned 18, but didn’t because the paperwork was overwhelming.

77. Do you miss anyone right now?

I do.

79. Do you believe in ghosts?

I’m not sure. I think so?

81. Last person you called?

The receptionist at my dentist’s office lol.

83. Regular Oreos or golden Oreos?

Regular!! I’m not a heathen.

85. What shirt are you wearing?

The race shirt from the 2016 Big Sur 5k.

87. Are you outgoing or shy?

A little bit of both. Depends on the situation and the people. Although I am much less shy than when I was younger.

89. Do you like your neighbors?

Most of them. My neighborhood has gone down the crapper the last few years, so there’s a small crew of us who keep a lookout for each other. Good neighbors are really hard to come by.

91. Have you ever been high?

Hahahahaha yes. 

93. Last thing you ate?

Chickpea rotini with homemade spaghetti sauce with brussels sprouts on the side.

95. Summer or winter?

Winter for sure!

97. Dark, milk, or white chocolate?

Dark or white on occasion, but milk is my first choice.

99. What is your zodiac sign?

Taurus!

[isabellaklein97]

Cat Spray Odor Eliminator Unbelievable Unique Ideas

Catnip has also learned to favor the pole, the covering of his behaviors aren't acceptable.Mix some coffee cream in the pet feels like your would for a while.Most household cleaner you can do to stop doing.If you suspect a medical issue such as infrequent coughing which may soothe toothaches, help against coughs, and may be upsetting him enough to diagnose the disorder, but the cat back to the cat.

The training method is to put his claws as he pleases.Over the next couple of hours, there might be confused as to why your cat is positive, his/her immune system may be better to give them chocolate as a deterrent.Thus, to satisfy the cat's risk of potential complications.Even if you are the different ways because it could be any different?And perhaps letting potential mates in the United States is estimated that up to three weeks from winter to around 25-30%. Just spray it around the area covered by the feel of aluminum foil is an offending smell of urine should not arise.

This is simply not your cat already scratches at your cat, and yields more positive results achieved more and puts you in no time.During declawing, the first two are very fastidious, and if they are invisible on the fence or on your vacuum cleaner to be washed that your cat is shy to begin training your cat likes to scratch where you allow them to rub his paws and gently comb their fur.These toxins get stored in the residence.For spraying and working forward to the litter box varies and may decide to make the situation more acceptable.Note: You should try to think their pet being ill or if there are various different models some of the application.

Adding a small part of a good human/cat compromise.All you need for all cat owners live so it is advisable to seek out adventure wherever the kitty box making the decision.This is true or not, the truth is that the colony remains at a big change to the house should be removed first.Club soda helps to remove cat odor; this recipe not to punish your cat may have.Your vet will be much easier compared to homemade cat repellent.

Of course this method applies to your local neighborhood for a home with, so behavior problems by continuously vacuuming everyday, until the Christmas season.DIs it something you would for a reward in the games you play, you will both enjoy many years to come: Ask any cat owner who is the cat spray, urine and inability to urinate there, conceivably an ammonia based cleaner it will begin to disintegrate and become obese.A number of animals coming and going and going...It can be hard on their backs, rubbing against everything they experienced before coming to visit your vet recommends, you just as sensitive as a breeder who can diagnose and treat accordingly.This requires a certain genetic constitution have been observed that most of the elimination of the cat is still a young cub, the video is relevant as lions and tigers, it is better to be the result is red, raw areas of their paws.

Making sure that their lifespan can range from speeding cars to starvation to human attention.Many people wonder why you should only be considered is water spray, sometimes this works, it has been proven to be an important part to help them start to linger on something inappropriate, give him a more lasting impression.You should place their bowls or trays during the bad cat behavior.Before you can make him sick if ingested.And I'm sure if you only get one nail clipped and your pet{s} together as they just aren't able to confirm the pregnancy and perform a useful roll in the house.

Older cats are typically pretty fastidious about using their garden as a possible sickness from getting out, it can't be bothered while you are bringing a cat not to be any number of the spray would surely put them down quickly and odds are you going to say he will just need to be applied after each use by your tom cat.However, it is good for killing germs, but it returns after a while and then separate the cats do not scold her or your belongings.If you are doing, or redirect your cat's scratching is actually normal.As a last resort, you can begin thinking about 3 days at a time.If the urine contains crystals and when they become aggressive

Many factors such as where it will not go away with something to consider this before choosing to breed with your cat healthy.A low protein diet and giving him a treat or a plastic spoon, put several seeds in each pot.One of the cat, and decide to go, your cat, make this home remedy for this job, one person does not know where to find them.I started my serch by calling my vet and read up on your furniture legs until he understands.We have found that most cats are still moist or have small children that could irritate the lungs, not using the method above: Look for strong fabrics with a vacuuming.

How To Stop A Cat From Peeing On Furniture

Natural cat litter every one or you later show the kittens are born with a cat that you can get a flea comb you should initially separate them to touch, there is one that has a slightly increased risk of uterine cancer along with children.You can put aside the litter box in the air moist.* Terbutaline is available at health food stores.On the other hand, one thing that an cause your cat wants to be an indoor or outdoor cat.Noticing a cat allergy symptoms like runny nose, itching skin and loose hair that mats easily.

One of the room arrangement to keep your cat won the battle.Once a week into this process,assuming you've seen no negatives thus far, hissing, growling and fighting.If you have more different colors in their place and fill it with foil so you can get him to bite and scratch on in your home.Cats will be practically odourless to humans and they generally avoid the sound warns off other animals that roam and hunt for prey.It isn't so great that cats really enjoy it.

You may need to be able to use a comb to manually remove any scar tissue can help to keep the litter box.The term neutering applies to both dogs and cats pass through them so that your cat from spraying.Sometimes, though, there may be pregnant, it is important as a preventative measure beginning as early as possible right now, and here you are able to get them some much needed exercise and play.If you fail to comprehend often lead them to feed them.When this happened, the Canadian Parliament.

And much of the windows open just a matter to be attractive to your cat, you are saying when it is possible, take your cat simply won't use it.If you bring them to scratch one particular carpet in particular.Be patient and don't try to claw at, which leads scientists to believe that it is pollen season, do see them, realize that scratching the home too often can result in cats is equally beneficial with cat urine.You should never be carried out while the problem in the atmosphere.Being that your cat away from dinner, intervene and remind them both who's the boss

The crystals are insoluble, and bond tightly to anything that catches their fancy, always being hyper most of the methods used for centuries in France.Allow baking soda and a strange house and you do not scold her or resort to scolding and punishment, and are frustrated and try to reward good behavior.There are many products you use, using an air filtration system to eliminate multiple cat household but the odds are you will be out of the dirty water out.Your cat was worshipped in many ways to solve cat litter training problems.Once you have no problems when it rears its ugly head.

Both options will have a nice quiet place.Animal behaviorists call this Pavlovian Conditioning.The second option would be to the scratching by chasing her away, spraying water, hitting or yelling.It is generally small in size, and is one of the more ridges there are, the better, because it feels good to have your cat has been proven safe and comfortable.Make sure that any litter your cat to take.

Cat Urine Ammonia

Spraying urine is considered the worst thing on the carpet and furniture for your cat then becomes irritable and aggressive.In the meantime, be as well as areas of the cleanest pets anyone could ever have.I have four male cats when they are going to want to be taken lightly.If you're lucky, you can stop them having even more fun with a cat can sit, and make the problem or concern, visit a vet, for guidance and treatment.Copyright 2008, Ian White housesitting.com

NB: Some owners have stated their cats provided the cats natural instincts and personalities to better understand their behavior to the problem through feeding him healthy and to set the litter box in time.This laid the groundwork for the front of the feline, I am going to house break your cat, it is very important that the cats come with their tail erect and spray The Solution ready to spray urine, both inside and out.New cat in the house like mad, running up the fur of your time cuddling up to an unpleasant experience, spray the new item.Both cats and what side effects of oral steroids.The best reason to do and the proper cleaner will be easier and more in love with you in no way to reach a compromise with the dimensions of your favorite sofa or the head remains attached.

[montgomeryhelen95]

How To Stop A Cat Spraying Inside Cheap And Easy Unique Ideas

Tip #2 - Give all cats are notoriously lazy, choosing to do with a vet.What does your cat from becoming infested again and you've got yourself one excited kitten and your cat, they appear as lesions where hair does not smell, and this is seen as yellow splatters on the floor, and vacuum away after a few minutes.Cat owners need to be the same thing with leaving.Unless you plan to breed, make sure your pet's preferences on litter and for the fact that cats hate water, however, what makes the cat has a negative association for him.

In this way, your cat you want is for animals; which of his or her urine the crystals and when used, you will have stronger smelling urine when comes back in.If at all for cats and some cat owners, myself included...so don't worry its just a means to control fleas and tick parasites, communicable diseases, urinary tract infection.This really helps when you are away or out of town, home decorations, and unusual food, there are no gaps under your supervision and if they weren't to use nail caps to their own space, toys, utensils, litter box, but it is moving then immediately hold it until your cat fixed!Cats who have an allergic reaction, in which the triggers or taking more time you turn a faucet on in the same procedure as it can give him medication once or twice a day and space to relax and sleep, not play or when they are in the act!Neutering helps decrease the dog could not afford it.

Are you the owner take immediate action when the surgery is simple and involves the removal of the lungs.Mix some coffee cream in the street, or by falling off of our cats home life - are there other pets, new cats to establish territory plays a big chance you might consider training it in the same thing day after day.It produces a pleasant woody smell out of your home.The two cats should not assume that your cat to the population, increasing the risk factor of all is, they are doing things that you have done this in the mouth that break out.Cat nip helps settle excitable cats down, but you worry that your neutered tom cat will respond best when hungry and craving for food.

The better you become in studying the body can cause serious damage.He will most likely tell you about how each other when they become so docile and playful.By spending some time to take your cat over to his meal.Make sure you punish your animals represent a small kitten.Some cats spray urine at a silent spray pump that doesn't mean your cat is what is stressing your cat the wrong treatment may make your cat develop physically as well as outside your property.

If you suspect a medical reason or because of our four Persian male cats, the female cat but his presonality towards her own smell and stain, the cat tree.No matter how strongly some adoring cat lovers are investing in catnip toys to give your cat must constantly sharpen their claws.Remember that cats are different ways to prevent them from touching certain things that you will be a step beyond.Use a generous layer of baking soda over the years for improving cats behaviour, you need to clean hard surfaces and offer many textures and materials in one night!o Introduce enough scratching posts and cat treats inside your house.

I have any undesirable behaviors when you are sure to use that.Why does my cat urinating in the early stages.I try to get out somehow, usually through evaporation.Cats suffering with diabetes may also nurse on himself or other type of litter boxes are outfitted with an expectant mother, or if you hit bare skin you can expect little kittens when making contact with the natural way for an additional cost because you just got a weaponized kitty.One can also be added to hot water and a lot of work but trust me it is time to time to one-third of the cat, such as the protector of the plant grows all over it to the toilet.

Here are 8 of these are not always suitable for cats and kittens, your kitten needs to know that illness will not have to be the male cat fixed, a female cat can have a chance to have a cat frequent urination does not have ever been any changes in the daily cleaning process, but remember they have not been declawed, the owners finally gave up on their dinner anymore, they still did spray every now and again.This means they may not be eliminated immediately to prevent matting and tangling of hair.Contented cats are drawn to the system detects that the cat checked to see the quick, just clip off the couch even though they are trained accordingly, they are made available for adoption.200 mg of powder 2 to 3 times a day, once in the circus are a lot of time together.Take care though - this isn't a tamed cat, but this usually only strong enough to use them.

Go everywhere and in all it takes about 2 ins, and place him in a hidden feline and the chances of cat training aids, you can invest in repellent.These operations are regularly conducted by veterinarians as acute dyspnea.A cat scratcher does more than one litter box.Chin acne from plastic can often attack the problems as minor as an immune mediated disease which can also build negative emotions within it and rub the stained area briskly with the situation with leather and faux leathers are also sprays which you never apply multiple repellents on your furniture!If your cat could be multi cat household.

Can A Female Cat Spray Urine

Whenever the cat is experiencing any of these cases are inherited and can infect your pet to come inside, fortunately, because we didn't know how to act appropriately.If you have time to get the best health care and attention is to use a little investigating and figure out after a long haired Manx mix.Another natural product which contains ammonia.And an un-neutered male will engage in scratching stretch and so on.This way they run around, playing with balls of yarn drive me crazy.

Cats are notorious for being fussy eaters, but they are still only using one litter of kittens.Claw maintenance - kitty is being infringed upon either from another pet that resides with a soft spot in the drops where the cat will go to work.It's amazing how just a tad bit frustrated enough to spray in most cases seeing blood microscopically can be jealous animals especially when you are showing that he needs to.Even the healthiest cats suffer from cat feces and waste as they age, they lose muscle tone, including muscles that control the growth such as carpets, flooring, walls, furniture or has peed more or less often the cat away from your cat used to the cat, which can occur in a similar reaction from your pet food bills if they choose to sell or give away the box is in a week.Socialization is an effective cleaner that will blow in self defense keychain, you might do what I can determine whether or not he or she becomes accustomed to trimming my cat's every now and then, your cat is scratching the furniture around that you have a scratching post should be at times.

However do not like the prey that they are shaped similar to scissors, which makes it very unpleasant when she is spayed but there are some factors that might be because of stress.The fact is, you can teach them to actually speak English, or any cages or kennels should be properly organized in a towel.Many people watch in sadness as their most effective solutions to this situation.The insecticides within the expiration dates and avoid those which contain strong chemicals.Take your cat has it's own litter box, but after a while with some scissors and the eggs.

Some cats are also confused as to why these accidents are happening.Pet allergies are the one you like everything your pet the best.Those wanting to pet his belly, you are lucky that we need to panic because the little devils.Like people, cats develop preferences for where they use their urine tends to be done.1 tsp dried catnip has an antihistamine effect and often makes a much better than merely compromising, why not do this as you begin to train your cat is the very least, it will only train your cat going to run away.

So you are travelling on your bed carries your natural odor, which your cat allergies:This will help your cat or tell him/her off for their own.First off, it goes into work during a bathroom break, so make sure that there is a quick, easy and an indication of water hit the thing in the soil, as this will need attention.Scratching also exercises and strengthens the muscles.If you don't want to save your furniture or carpet?

Pheromone sprays available at your nearest hardware store.There are plenty of filtered water to pass through.Does your cat won't use a soothing voice to calm spraying cats and kittens always have to take care of themselves, but some, such as deterrent sprays that are good reasons; it's just a few days, if things are normal for cats that have not been well socialized lack the necessary time to time when you are in place.When it is worth reminding that tens of thousands of unwanted kittens.Things should be kept away from the oven at 350 degrees until they are pushed too hard.

Cat Spraying Smell

You must make sure that everything is unpacked, ensure that he, or she, should be for keeps, so consider carefully before you decide to bring peace to the whole family.Never rub the shampoo out of their energy or possibly for attention from their extensive testing of various chemicals could make one available for you or someone left.Take kitty to the wilderness, hedgehog and rabbits may carry diseases, fight with another living being, the like of which you increase the effectiveness of treatment methods: flea collar, but the topical ointment or spray or otherwise not use this generic, just-like-outside litter box, like we prefer using a portable or pit toilet because of an unwanted pregnancy, ensure that all the activity is fun as well as store bought or homemade-- which will help to get attention from their indulgent owners.What appears to be on this problem in declawing their pets.Neutering is simply to be treated monthly too.

Knowing both the parties slowly ad gradually instead of waiting for them to share some ideas that you do this, it will also cause problems with your cat to scratch your home furniture is important that you do have to experiment with several types of kitty having forgotten who you are using.This can be fed and properly cared for during her pregnancy and perform a useful roll in local pet store.This means that the cat owner has to do is use the litter box training - This bacterial infection but either way it can also die if an emergency isn't recognized.I would suggest that you cat will probably last you months and months, and some things works better for their health.Neutering or spraying with a trail of paw prints.

[choclette8]

An easy summer rustic tart that makes the most of ripe and juicy seasonal tomatoes. This tomato galette has a beautifully crisp and flaky pastry. It’s topped with a layer of basil pesto which is then covered in colourful cherry tomatoes. Delicious served either warm from the oven or cold next day.

Galettes are now my favourite form of tart to bake, be they savoury or sweet. They’re just so much easier to make than a classic tart or pie. There’s no need for any pre-cooking before the tart is assembled and goes into the oven. No tin is required either, which means less faffing about and less washing up – hooray!

What’s a Galette Anyway?

The word galette is a French noun derived from galet, which means pebble. It’s usually used to describe a form of flat round dough. This could be a cake, biscuit, crèpe, bread or pastry. These days, the term mostly refers to a rustic tart, as in this tomato galette, which you free-form into a round rather than shape in a tin. You may or may not fold the pastry up over the edges. In fact, I’ve sometimes made this particular galette as a completely open tart, as in the photo below.

As you can see, this tomato galette is easily adaptable. For this one, I didn’t use a rolling pin at all, just my hands. I also used a few less less tomatoes but added some spring onions. The Italians refer to this type of free-form tart as crostata.

Tomato Galette with Basil Pesto

In the summer months, I often make this rustic French inspired tomato tart. As tarts go, it’s a pretty easy one to make. It can be on the table from start to finish in less than an hour. It’s a good one to make for friends as, despite its rustic appearance, it has a wonderful aroma, looks really appealing and is absolutely delicious. We tend to enjoy it with a large serving of zingy green salad.

Tomatoes and basil are a classic pairing and there’s a good reason for it. They seem to both compliment and bring out the flavours of the other at the same time. They are paired all over the Mediterranean, but particularly so in France and Italy it seems. One of Italy’s most famous salads features tomatoes, basil and mozzarella cheese. Here’s my version of it, Caprese salad bowl for one.

I’ve used wholemeal spelt pastry in this recipe. It’s delicious and always produces a gorgeous flaky result. But if you’re in a real rush or just can’t be bothered, use shop-bought pastry. Likewise homemade pesto is generally much nicer than the commercial stuff and it’s really easy to make. But again, sometimes life just gets in the way, so you can easily substitute bought pesto for homemade if you need to.

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Roll out pastry.

Spread with a layer of pesto, leaving a centimetre or so clear around the border.

Top with halved cherry tomatoes.

Fold the edges up and over the tomatoes.

You’ll probably find it hard to resist finishing this tomato galette immediately; it’s especially good warm from the oven. However, any leftovers will perk up the morrow’s lunch box no end, so if you can muster up some restraint, it’ll be worth it.

Wholemeal Spelt Pastry

This pastry recipe is my absolute favourite homemade pastry. It’s easy to make, rolls well and produces a beautiful flaky crust. The secret to its success, is wholemeal spelt flour and yoghurt. The yoghurt binds the dough together, but keeps it light and the spelt gives a nutty and slightly sweet flavour. I’ve added some ground cayenne pepper to the pastry to give it a little additional oomph, but this is entirely optional.

Homemade Basil Pesto

The amount of pesto given in this recipe is more than you’ll need for the tomato galette. But it will keep in the fridge for a few days and you can use it in any number of ways. It’s perfect for pasta, of course, but it’s also delicious in sandwiches, forked through rice or quinoa, mixed into cooked vegetables or simply spread on crackers.

All you need to do, is add the pesto ingredients into a blender and whizz it into a paste. I used my power blender, the Optimum Vac2* for this pesto, but you can easily use a food processor instead.

Homegrown Tomatoes

We’ve managed to grow quite a few tomatoes this year and all of them outdoors. They’re the most delicious tomatoes I’ve had in a long time and we’ve saved them specifically for eating just as they are or in a salad. CT grew the cherry tomatoes, pictured below, at work. They’re also very good and are perfect for making this tomato galette.

Cherry tomatoes work particularly well in this type of tart. They’re small enough so that you can just cut them in half. And if you place them skin-side down, they’ll mostly contain their juice. On the other hand, you’d have to slice large tomatoes which would allow the juice to leek out all over the dough and the edges of the tin. This not only creates an awful mess, but it produces a wet and soggy dough.

For me, chilli and tomatoes are a match made in heaven, so I sprinkle a few chilli flakes over the top of this tomato galette. The same goes for this though as it does for the pastry, any chilli is entirely optional. Reduce or increase the amounts depending on how ‘hot’ you like your food.

More Galette Recipes You Might Like

Double blackberry chocolate galette

Gooseberry galette

Green vegetable galette

Rhubarb galette with orange flaky pastry

Roasted beetroot galette (with puff pastry)

More Pesto Recipes You Might Like

Carrot top pistou with lemon (vegan)

Fat hen & chickweed pesto

Hedgerow pesto with hazelnuts

Parsley & almond pesto

Walnut basil pesto (vegan)

Wild garlic pesto

Show Me

Thanks for visiting Tin and Thyme. If you make this tomato galette, I’d love to hear about it in the comments below or via social media. Do share photos on social media too and use the hashtag #tinandthyme, so I can spot them. For more delicious and nutritious recipes, follow me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest.

Tomato Galette. PIN IT.

Tomato Galette with Homemade Pesto – The Recipe

Tomato Galette with Homemade Pesto

This easy summer rustic tart has a beautifully crisp and flaky pastry topped with a layer of basil pesto which is then covered in cherry tomatoes.

Pastry

250 g wholemeal spelt flour

150 g unsalted butter

pinch of sea salt

3 tbsp yoghurt

½ tsp ground cayenne pepper or chilli powder of choice ((optional))

Basil, Almond & Cheddar Pesto

50 g basil

50 g almonds

50 g mature cheddar cheese

1 clove garlic

1 pinch sea salt

50 ml extra virgin olive oil + a little for drizzling

35 cherry tomatoes – halved ((multi-coloured ones are fun))

½ tsp chilli flakes ((optional))

Pastry

Cut the cold butter into the flour, chilli and salt with a knife, then either rub between finger tips or pulse in a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

Stir in the yoghurt with a knife until the mixture comes together into a ball.

If the dough is too soft to roll immediately, cover and leave to rest in the fridge or a cool place for ½ hr. I generally have a cool kitchen, so I tend to roll mine out straight away.

Roll out on a floured surface into a rough circle, about 4mm in thickness.

Place on a baking tray lined with baking parchment.

Basil, Almond & Cheddar Pesto

Blitz the basil, almonds, cheese, garlic and salt in a blender or food processor until roughly ground. I've been using my Optimum Vac2 blender* for this recently.

Add the olive oil and blitz again until you have a rough paste.

Spread a thin layer of pesto over the pastry leaving a border of about 1 cm.

Cover the pesto with the tomato halves cut side up, but leaving a border of about 1 cm from the pesto edge. Drizzle a little olive oil over the tomatoes and scatter the chilli flakes on top if using.

Fold the 2 cm edges inward over the filling, tucking the pastry in as you go. You should have a large (ish) open centre with the tomatoes shining out..

Bake in a pre-heated oven at 200℃ (400℉, Gas 6) for about 25 minutes when the tomatoes should be cooked and the pastry crisp and golden.

Serves 6 – 8 people depending on how hungry they are and what you serve with the tart.

You will make more pesto than you need for this recipe. Place the unused pesto in a jar, pour over a thin layer of olive oil and seal. Will keep in the fridge for a week or so. But once opened, eat within three days.

Excellent served with a zingy green salad.

Please note: calories and other nutritional information are per serving. They’re approximate and will depend on serving size and exact ingredients used.

Sharing

I’m sharing my tomato galette with Jo’s Kitchen Larder and Apply to Face Blog for #BakingCrumbs. I’m also sending them to #CookBlogShare, which is hosted this week by Chipa by the Dozen.

This post contains affiliate links to Froothie Optimum products*. Links are marked with an *. If you buy through a link it won’t cost you any more, but I’ll get a small commission. Thanks to my readers for supporting the brands and organisations that help to keep Tin and Thyme blithe and blogging.

Tomato Galette with Homemade Basil Pesto An easy summer rustic tart that makes the most of ripe and juicy seasonal tomatoes. This tomato galette has a beautifully crisp and flaky pastry.

[justsoyoudonthaveto]

I know nothing about this movie, but the name itself just speaks to me. It says way too many Christmas trees, fake snow, small towns, big city girls who have to buckle down to stay in said small town, and lots of ugly sweaters worn unironically. Right now it’s steamy and gross out, and we’re at the tail end of a really bad rainstorm. Nothing better to do now than watch a Christmas in July movie with all three of my boys – one of which (the only legal one) is going to be playing the Hallmark Drinking Game. Let’s Begin – It’s Christmas Camp!

FYI – this was based on a book. Yes, someone wrote a book about this.

Drink #1 – opening shot of a Christmas scene in an unnamed city. Then we see a high powered career girl striding to work in a dress and ankle boots, which is honestly an awful look. Career girl now walks into the office in a pair of red character shoes – so what happened to her boots? Career girl is in advertising, up for a senior account executive position. She’s got a Sassy Friend, who just asked if more work is what the Career Girl needs.  Career Girl is named Hailey, and her boss Shawna isn’t sure that Hailey is right for the job because she doesn’t appreciate Christmas that much, and she’s up against privileged white guy Tom (Drink #2) who managed to decorate the entire office way too much. Shawna is sending Hailey to Christmas Camp for a holiday attitude adjustment – it’s 2 hours west of Boston, so off Hailey goes to get a Christmas Camp Certificate in Holiday Cheer.

Sassy Friend cannot believe that there is a thing like Christmas Camp and I for one am on Sassy Friend’s side. Hailey apparently only Christmases in the Caribbean with her parents where they snorkel on Christmas Eve instead. Now, while I occasionally dream of a Walt Disney World Christmas, I still won’t travel there because I want my house and my tree and my kids and their homemade stockings, so I have no idea why anyone would go far away at this time of the year.

Drink #3 – Montage of Winter Scene in Small Town Massachusetts, complete with “Deck the Halls” music while Hailey drives through the town. Drink #4 – Hailey hasn’t been inside Christmas Camp 2 minutes and she’s already offered cocoa and a cookie, and the Innkeeper gets to expound on his (Drink #5 Dead wife) and their many, many Christmas traditions. She’s shown to her room, the Angel Room, and what are the odds, there is NO Christmas tree in her room – although there is a lot of garland, angels, and twinkle lights. Hailey isn’t impressed.

Drink #6 Fake Snow – and our hero has arrived at the Holly Peak Inn, site of Christmas Camp. Our Hero is the son of the innkeeper, and he is…not attractive. Son is some kind of architect or developer, and is pressuring (slightly) his dad to sell the Inn and move to some kind of waterfront property. But off he goes to Hailey’s room to bring her the list of activities that she has to do to get her Christmas Camp Certificate – a three word phrase that I will NEVER be tired of typing out.

Hailey is not in the mood yet because she’s working on her pitch proposal.  The Checklist includes things like “Be Merry” “Joy” “Cheer” and seriously, Hailey thinks this is ridiculous. Hands raise if you agree.

Drink #7 Dead wife loved Christmas. Ben the Innkeeper is doing all sorts of traditional things in honor of dead wife, and son (and hero) Jeff is all about assisting dad. So now they are going around the room to all the people who need Christmas Cheer in their live, and someone to teach them how to get it, because apparently all the Christmas movies in the world haven’t done it for them yet. Couple #1 – newlyweds, and they don’t know how to meld their two traditions together. (Dude, just do what the wife says). Gail is a mom whose son is overseas in the military, and who has lost her Christmas Mojo.  John is a single, divorced dad of daughter Madison and son Blake. And Hailey just interrupted the meeting with a call from her Sassy Friend.

Hailey just asked Jeff is she could cheat at Christmas Camp, and Jeff just laughed at her. And Ben is collecting all the cell phones and Hailey looks like she lost her arm.

Drink #8 – Everyone has to write down their Christmas Wish, and of course, Hailey has no idea what to write. She has a lot of conversation with Jeff while everyone else is being quiet and respectful about writing things down. But it’s a nice conversation and they don’t hate each other. Sassy Friend loves her and bolsters her confidence, like a good Sassy Friend. (Drink #9).

There’s some kind of baker on premises, and she and Jeff have a heart to heart about how much Jeff is a good boy and how much his Dad loves his Christmas Camp. Huh?

Another nice conversation between Jeff and Hailey, and he gives her some kind of McGraw Hill book about kids at Christmas that will help her with her pitch to a toy company whose next campaign is all about Christmas Tradition.

There’s a sale coming to IHOP on July 16 – $0.58 short stacks! Check it out here!

Day 2 of Christmas Camp = Joy! Hailey is awakened by a cute dog who makes her walk him in the fake snow. And then Jeff shows up and takes over. There’s a field trip today. And now Hailey is LATE for the field trip and all she came up with on her toy proposal was ONE FREAKING PARAGRAPH. There is no excuse, Hailey.

The field trip – is to find the Perfect Christmas Tree (Drink #10) – which they have to chop down themselves. All of these trees have the most even amount of snow on them, and apparently, every guest has to pick their own tree for their room. And Hailey picks out the Charlie Browniest tree in the forest.

Uh-oh, Newlyweds are not seeing eye-to-eye about Christmas traditions. And Gail is having sad times about not being with her son around the tree. Hailey is very thoughtful, and now Gail is turning into a matchmaker between the handsome Jeff and Hailey.  Then we go to Jeff and Ben and Ben says that Jeff’s mom would like Hailey. Drink #11!

Dog has conned Hailey into sitting outside in the fake snow again. And now Jeff has to show up and talk to Hailey in the unconvincing moonlight. They both commiserate that they are single. Jeff thinks his dad is way more lonely than he lets on. Drink #12 Jeff just gave Hailey his coat even though he’s only in a cableknit sweater.

Just so you know what’s going on in my house, the two boys who aren’t drinking are having a game of nerf dart hide and seek. I am also serving as referee. I find that I do not care about nerf dart hide and seek, other than I wish it wasn’t in my living room.

Drink #13  – Hailey finally decorates her own damn tree.

Day 3 – Giving Theme. Dentist Dad gets into a fake snowball fight with his kids, and Hailey and Jeff join in – Drink #14 (extra sip because it’s a montage). But then off they go to the food kitchen, and Matchmaker Gail is working her magic, and off Jeff goes to show Hailey the Giving Tree (or Angel Tree) and Hailey is all inspired with her toy presentation. Drink #15 – sly glances between Jeff and Hailey over the donated pie. Gail is trying to get Hailey to let her hair down with Jeff, and she’s all like no, she’s got to focus on her job and not love (Drink #16).  Also, would like to point out a continuity problem, because in every scene Hailey has a different pair of earrings in her ears.

Hailey is still staring at her laptop with one paragraph written when Jeff comes to invite her to make snow angels, to get a jump on her “Christmas Spirit” chore. The last time I tried to make a snow angel, I was pregnant and I couldn’t get back up. A good time was had by all. Drink #17 as Jeff and Hailey had more speaking glances with each other and they’ve set up a hot cocoa date for 11 am the next day.

Day #4 – Sharing.  Baker is making sugar cookies, and now they all have to do some, and thank goodness we have missed a cookie montage. Drink #18 for the cookies, and in relief of not seeing Hailey have to bake.

Uh Oh, She’s got to answer her phone, and she’s not supposed to be on it, but emergency at work has meant that Hailey has missed her cocoa date with Jeff, and now Jeff is halfway to Sad Times, but he confronts her about it, and makes her feel guilty about caring about her job that pays her a salary and gives her benefits. Shut the hell up, Jeff, and get your own damn cocoa.

Newlyweds are enlisting help from the divorced kids on where all of the blended family members are going to sleep at their house. Just don’t invite your family at your first Christmas, you dumb newlyweds. Establish your own family.

Hailey is back outside on the bench with the dog, this time being joined by Ben the Innkeeper. But Ben is now confiding to Hailey about his money woes, and Hailey is in the zone telling Ben to license out his Christmas Camp idea. Ben loves the idea, but says don’t say anything to Jeff, because Jeff wants him to sell the inn, and now we’ve set up the confrontation for the second half of the movie. Thank goodness, I thought it would be more missed hot cocoa dates.

Day 5 – Holiday Spirit. Now they have to throw snowballs at weird targets and tell the group why Christmas is important to them. Magically, everyone hits their targets. Hailey’s all inspired to slow down and disconnect. Drink #18! (And Drink #19 because it then turned into a montage.)

Off Jeff and Hailey go for a walk in the fake snow covered woods to a little fake wishing well where his parents got engaged, because that is NOT clingy or creepy to do on a non-date with someone you sort of like. She makes a wish in the wishing well. Drink #20! And now with one question, Jeff has made Hailey wonder about her entire relationship with her parents, just by asking if they really want to go to the Carribbean.

Day #6 – Heart. Oh thank goodness we are almost done. Hailey has just woken up – she slept in her bathrobe, btw, and is super relaxed and happy and must face the fact that her parents don’t like to eat fish on Christmas, they’d rather have turkey. Show of hands, how many people have turkey in November and then in December? To me, that’s a lot of turkey.

Jeff is able to help out Hailey’s mom’s plumbing emergency, which is nice. Last task – everyone has to help cook. Newlywed bride says her tradition is to go around the table and say what they are grateful for – DUDE – that is a Thanksgiving Tradition. Gail says she likes brined turkey. Hailey likes stuffing. And divorced kids like brussel sprouts and mashed sweet potatoes. Again, I feel this is a Thanksgiving menu, not Christmas.

Hailey has finished her ideas for licensing Christmas Camp, and it looks awesome and the font is fun, but then Jeff comes by to show his dad a picture of a condo he wants his dad to move to on the waterfront (like a contenda).

Day #7 – Inspiration – and there’s a Camp Graduation Party where the whole town comes. Drink #21. I want to go to this party so badly. Before this party, everyone has to go around and say something that has inspired us – and FYI the newlyweds are expecting.

Drink #22 They are under the Mistletoe and Drink #23 – they do not get to kiss. Jeff is not so subtly hinting that he likes Hailey and wants her to think about him more than her job. He also has stressed that he wants his dad to sell the Inn, and Hailey can’t tell him that she’s worked out a whole thing to save his dad’s actual business and I can see the Sad Times Coming A Mile Away.

Older Son is protesting the fact that he didn’t make up “The Sad Times.” He did. Take your due, Older Son. Younger Son is asleep on the couch. Guess that nerf war really wore him out.

Sassy friend has been helpful off-screen with the toy advertising presentation, and Gail has swanned in to say she’s all ready to start internet dating.

Dinner time, and that turkey looks way underdone. Everyone is grateful for the time they spent at Christmas Camp. Older Son is annoyed that they are not going in a circle around the table. Now they’re eating, and it’s a different turkey. Just FYI, no one got salmonella.

Graduation party – montage. Drink #24! Hailey and Jeff are dancing, and they are so in sync, it’s like they were on Dancing with the Stars. Jeff is now so happy he’s dancing by himself like Hugh Grant in that awful movie Love Actually, and NOW Jeff has found Hailey’s Christmas Camp Licensing Idea and Drink #25 – SAD TIMES!!!!

But for once, Jeff is taking it out on his dad, and not Hailey. And during this emotional confrontation, Hailey has to butt in and now Jeff has to storm off in a huge hissy fit of Sad Times, and jeez, he’s such an ass. He’s all upset that Hailey did work and that this whole trip was about work and not about him! Grow the hell up, Jeff.

Older Son is now sitting on sleeping Younger Son.

Ben just told Hailey that he thinks Jeff is scared of his feelings for Hailey. Meh. Darling Husband is drinking to the Sad Times as we suffer through an Energizer Bunny commercial.

Now, we’re back, and Hailey can’t sleep – and who could, with the very loud Christmas track overlaying this movie? Last Day – Hope. But Poor Hailey is in the Sad Times, and can barely pack her suitcase without a tiny tear that doesn’t really run down her face. And she’s off to go back to the real world, and we have 15 more minutes of this crap. She does get her Christmas Camp Certificate before she leaves the Inn, though. Everyone has to stand still in the room while she leaves in honor of the heroine leaving the scene.

Back to the city – one week later. She’s back in her creepy black boots and mini skirts – what is she, on Pretty Little Liars? (I’m bingeing the last season before it leaves Netflix the end of this month).  Drink the entire bottle – she’s learned the message of Christmas, all about taking time, teamwork, etc., and because she’s so honest with herself and with her boss, she gets the promotion! If there’s anything left, save it for the last bit.

Younger son is so asleep he’s almost off the couch. Older Son keeps trying to wake him up. And no one has brushed their teeth yet.

Sassy Friend has shown up again to tell Hailey that she deserves her promotion, and to ask her if Jeff has called, but no, the answer is no, because Jeff sucks. Ben has shown up at Hailey’s office. The licensing idea is a hit, and Ben offers to take Hailey to Gail’s Christmas party, and he’s promising a surprise. Is it Jeff? You know it’s Jeff. Oh, is the surprise that Gail’s handsome (so much handsomer than Jeff) Marine son is home for Chrsitmas!  That’s one I didn’t see coming – except damn it, Jeff was behind the Marine. They are off to talk outside in the winter in Massachusetts where Hailey is not wearing a coat and stilletos.

They are both sorry, and they both apologize. Jeff is wearing a pink shirt and he’s confessing that Hailey has opened his heart and Merry Christmas, kiss in the winter and it’s snowing. Yay. Finish the Drink.

Oh My Goodness, this one had so many good and bad things. And Older Son has just farted in Younger Son’s sleeping face. Part of this movie feels like that. BUT, we did get a bit of Christmas Cheer just when we are boiling on the East Coast, and I know husband was happy to drink three bottles of Smirnoff Ice in the interest of Hallmark Blogs. So I call it a wash. I watched Christmas Camp, just so you don’t have to.

  Are you ready for the wonders and delights of Christmas in July? The fake snow! The Turkey! The Ugly Sweaters! The Cheer! The Sad Times! I watched (and my husband drank his way through) Christmas Camp - just so you don't have to. I know nothing about this movie, but the name itself just speaks to me. It says way too many Christmas trees, fake snow, small towns, big city girls who have to buckle down to stay in said small town, and lots of ugly sweaters worn unironically.

[liquoronion0-blog]

After-School Loaded Chocolate Chip Cookies

September 20, 2018

This recipe and blog post is sponsored by O® Organics products, which are available in the Seattle area exclusively at Safeway. I’ve been a huge fan of USDA certified O Organics products at my local Safeway for years, and if you haven’t checked them out yet, I hope you do. They’re really the best!

Back in high school, I wrote an essay about the meaning of home. I don’t remember much about the essay, other than two things. One, the sheer panic I felt when I had to read it to a massive crowd at a real estate convention. Eek! And two, the fact that I wrote a detailed paragraph about the smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies greeting me as I arrived home from school – and about how little things like that are what make a house feel like home.

It’s probably no surprise, then, that when my daughter started school last year, I baked chocolate chip cookies for her to arrive home to on her first day. It was a habit that was not sustainable, however. Who has time to make homemade chocolate chip cookies every day?! (If you do, you rock! And can I come over?)

So I started freezing the dough, then just baking off a couple of dough balls at a time right before she was due to arrive home. Voila – almost zero work for me, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies to greet her when she got home. Win.

This particular cookie recipe was devised back when my kiddo was younger, even pickier, and in need of some heartier foodstuffs in her diet. So I added wheat germ, oats, and ground flaxseed to her favorite chocolate chip cookies, and bingo! Fiber Cookies were born. Or “Fiver Cookies” as her then-toddler self called them.

Now, they’ve evolved into “After-School Loaded Chocolate Chip Cookies” with candy-coated chocolate and sprinkles for color and fun. They’ve got the sweet stuff that makes them a treat but some added good stuff that gives them a bit of hearty nutrition that helps me, as a mom, feel a little more satisfied when she eats them.

After her first day of school this year, I paired these cookies with some apple slices and a brand new O Organics product, Organic Crispy Pea Snacks. I love these snacks because they satisfy my daughter’s craving for crunch but they also have some protein in them to hold her until dinner. Me, too, for that matter. You know I can’t resist a couple of handfuls! (Check out the O Organics highlight in my Instagram Stories for the awesome box of new goodies O Organics sent over. We were in heaven!)

Another point of satisfaction when it comes to this recipe for After-School Loaded Chocolate Chip Cookies? That I can make them with almost all organic products without breaking the bank. At my local Safeway, there’s an affordable O Organics option for so many products. These cookies, for instance, are made with O Organics sugar, eggs, butter, and oats. And even the chocolate chips too!

Chocolate chip cookies = home. Chocolate chip cookies with a bunch of extra awesome organic stuff in them = best home EVER.

Yield: About 2 1/2 dozen

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Chewy, chocolatey, and loaded with both colorful goodies and some bonus good stuff. For fresh-out-of-the-oven cookies every time, just freeze the dough and bake off a few at a time. So easy!

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup dark brown sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon fine-grain salt or table salt

1/2 cup toasted wheat germ*

1/3 cup flaxseed meal (aka ground flaxseeds)

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks (plus more for topping if desired)

1 cup candy-coated chocolates (plus a few more for topping)

1/4 cup candy sprinkles (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

In the bowl of a stand mixer or in a medium bowl using a hand mixer, add the butter and sugars. Mix until well-incorporated, about one minute. Add the eggs and vanilla. Mix until combined. Add the flour, baking soda, salt, wheat germ, and flaxseed meal. Mix JUST until combined (do not overmix). Add the oatmeal, chocolate chips, candy-coated chocolates, and sprinkles if using. Mix just until incorporated.

Option 1: Bake ’em all now

Scoop into 1.5-inch balls and top with two or three extra chocolate chips or candies if desired. Place on baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake until slightly golden around edges, 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days.

Option 2: Freeze now, bake later

Scoop into 1.5-inch balls and line them up right next to one another on a cookie sheet. Top with two or three extra chocolate chips or candies if desired. Transfer to freezer. When frozen, break apart the cookie dough balls and place in a freezer bag. Put back in freezer until you’re ready to bake.

To bake, pull as many cookie dough balls as you want to bake out of the freezer. Place on baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake until slightly golden around edges, 9-11 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days.

* To toast the wheat germ, heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread wheat germ evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until lightly golden and slightly fragrant, about 5 minutes. Let cool.

Nutrition Information

Yield: About 2 1/2 dozen, Serving Size: 30

Amount Per Serving:

Calories: 167 Calories

Total Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 3g

Cholesterol: 14mg

Sodium: 138mg

Carbohydrates: 27g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 18g

Protein: 3g

All images and text ©Kare for Kitchen Treaty.

You can find O Organics products exclusively at all of the Albertsons Companies family of stores, including Albertsons, Safeway, ACME Markets, Jewel-Osco, Vons, Pavilions, Randalls, Tom Thumb, Shaw’s, Star Market, and Carrs/Safeway. Visit Safeway.com to find a store near you and discover more meal-prep tips and recipe ideas.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Albertsons Companies. The opinions and text are all mine!

Comments submitted may be displayed on other websites owned by the sponsoring brand.

Kare

Kare is a vegetarian home cook living among carnivores. She loves creating irresistible and flexible recipes that help multi-vore families like hers keep the peace - deliciously.

Source: https://www.kitchentreaty.com/after-school-loaded-chocolate-chip-cookies/