#kumquat relish

[ediblegardenspointloma]

In My San Diego Garden and Kitchen

Kumquats persist on the patio tree, awaiting the first batch of kumquat marmalade. It’s a laborious process but for those of us who relish the sweet-tart flavor it’s worth the effort.

There are several hundred Nagami kumquats still on the tree. Plans include kumquat syrup and Snacking Chocolate with Roasted Kumquats and Pepitas. Thankfully, they also store well in the fridge and become quick, punchy salad additions.

Little Gem lettuce is a favorite and I recently planted more for a spring crop. The baby lettuce is an heirloom romaine of French origin with butter and Romaine characteristics. Here’s a description from Speciality Produce touting the stellar qualities:

Although it is full grown, this specialty romaine variety is about half the size of regular romaine boasting succulent, vibrant green leaves that measure about five inches in length and about three inches in width. Little Gem has a pale, green heart and a crisp center and sweeter taste than common lettuce, Little Gem lettuce never develops a bitter flavor.

This is the start for a winter Chicken Caesar Salad using what’s at hand.

The navel oranges head into their final month of production. I’ll stash a couple dozen in the produce drawer and have them for a month beyond harvest. The orange marmalade count is at 35 jars which should be adequate for gifting until next winter. I also made some orange syrup which was quite good on waffles yesterday.

Grevillea, an Australian native thrives in my coastal garden. Generous rains, 9.47 inches since October 1 is 137% of normal. Trees and shrubs benefit from the deep penetration of rainwater and flushing of salts from the soil. Compare to a few years ago when the seasonal total was about three inches. Yesterday alone, we received 1.25 inches in my neighborhood.

Check the What I’m Planting Now page to see what’s been planted in the space opened by the cauliflower harvest. Harvest Monday, hosted by Dave at Happy Acres Blog has returned. Join in and see what garden bloggers around the world harvested last week.

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#kumquats #kumquat marmalade #orange marmalade #Nagami kumquats #Little Gem lettuce #winter garden salads

[quo-usque-tandem]

Confit pork belly with kumquat relish

#food #foodporn #food photography #pork belly #confit pork belly #kumquat relish

[rubyleonis]

My first bit on the Brigade Buddies

Cascade belongs to @roboverse

Drillburst belongs to @cuppajj

Sidewind belongs to @rollertwo

Inktober Day 2: Suit

(TF OC: Trickster the Turbofox. Name drops for Kumquat Server Brigade Buddies)

“Ah-haha, our bastardous femme returns!”

Trickster gave little recognition to the slurred greeting, opting to respond with a simple rude hand gesture instead of words. Of course, all optics in the little hideout fell upon the tiny beastformer, all conversation going silent. Good, at least they seemed to remember who was in charge around there.

“What took you so long?” Trickster turned to the lone voice, meeting optics with the wide-opticed youngster who fell in with the little gang. When she made no answer, the youngster pressed on. “I was starting to worry you got arrested at last! You know the DJD is around these-”

“I fell in with a combiner team, if you must know. Got paid to test some experimental slag out, it worked out, now I am one of nine.” Trickster was fairly nonchalant about her announcement, finding more interest in the box of high end cy-gars on the communal table. She paid no mind to her gang’s chatter resuming. Let them realize the rumors weren’t just rumors. Let them realize on their own. Picking a cy-gar out to light, the beastformer strolled on over to her favorite sofa, as her already seated lackeys made space for her through the confused bickering.

“There is no way! That isn’t like you!”

“Agreed, a Combiner doesn’t suit you!”

“Wait, that means you met Drillburst?”

“Where did that rescue brat come in?”

“Lies, as if that budding celebrity would sully his name by cohorting with our boss and some randoms!”

“Come on, Drillburst working with all those misfits? And that massive ‘Con empuratee that slagged me over during the War?”

Okay, time to speak. Plucking the cy-gar from her lips, Trickster silenced the room with a growl. “For starters, Cascade is fairly neutral leaning. Leave the mech be! And yes, the rumors are true: The Brigade Combiner has some interesting faceplates among us. Including Drillburst!” Trickster smirked before taking a drag from her cy-gar, relishing in the bafflement of her small gang.

“Lies! There is no way you can be in a Combiner with The Drillburst! Impossible!”

Trickster chuckled, flicking her tail in lazy amusement. “You are just jealous because you don’t know him as I do! Oh wait, your habit of starting bar fights got you banned from most of his venues!”

That shut up the lone protester to Trickster’s admission. From there, most others becan to accept the bizzare truth.

“Hey Trick? What of the cutesy bracelet on your paw? Doesn’t suit you.”

Trickster glanced at her wrist, to the bracelet the lackey pointed out. Sweet kid, Sidewind is. “The ‘rescue brat’ -I heard your comment- made these friendship bracelets for all of us in Brigade. So don’t insult it. Kid had kind and friendly intentions when he made these. I like it, so no comments on it.” To solidify her point, she switched paws to hold her cy-gar in the one adorned with Sidewind’s friendship bracelet. That resilenced the bickering.

“Just deal with it, you lot. Wether I suit it or not in your optics, I am in a combiner team, therefore you must treat the other eight with full respect. Along with their partners and young. I will tolerate no scrap towards My Combiner. We are Brigade, so get used to my periodic absences.”

#transformers oc #tf ocs #brigade buddies

[fightevilandthengetblownup]

FIC: With Wax Melted I

---

“Morning, pretty one.” Grey murmured the words gently as he felt the blonde crown against his chest slowly start to move. It had been a rather peaceful night in the overall scheme of things - only having to smooth away the frightened expression on her brow twice over the night, and the time it took for Jo to recover from her usual morning waking nightmares was under two minutes from the moment he pressed her ear to his chest - and he’d actually managed to replace one of the villagers he’d been wanting to change out that night. “Sleep well?”

“Always next ta you, hun.” Jo mumbled back quietly, giving a soft yawn as she covered her hand against her mouth. As she snuggled in against him, nose nuzzling at his chest for a moment, Grey couldn’t help the smile from growing across his face. “You ready for your own?”

“I don’t need to, Jo-” “Sure you do, hunny.” “I got some rest last night, I’m good.”

“No, Grey, you need to get some rest. And-” The smile that crept across her face was wide and beautiful and everything he liked to wake up to in a morning, and Jo’s eyes were wider and more alert than normal as she looked up at him. “- I need you to stay in bed so I can make breakfast anyways!”

Grey couldn’t help the feelings swamping through him looking down at her earnest smile and how big and wide and hopeful her eyes were. It was like looking into liquid chocolate, and he was as weak to them as he was it.

“Oh? Why are you making your breakfast today?” He asked quietly, stroking his fingers through her hair and all Grey could think about was staying in bed like this until they were eventually disturbed by their fluffy baby’s whines for breakfast. “I thought I usually did Friday mornings.”

Jo raised a brow at him for a moment before that smile grew all the wider, and Grey’s own eyes widened in surprise when he realized just what he’d missed. “Hunny, today’s your day. I’m makin’ breakfast today, you goober.”

“Oh.” He hadn’t exactly forgotten. It had been an amazing surprise last year to wake up to so many treats, but Jo hadn’t said anything about it this year, and he’d felt uncertain about expecting anything this year - maybe there’d be a cake or Jo’d bake something special, but maybe not. He’d thought it might have been a once off, that maybe it wasn’t a thing Jo would remember to do either. But then again, he should have thought better of her. “Oh, I-”

“Had forgotten?” “...I didn’t say that.”

“Didn’t have to.” Jo replied with a smile, fingers curled in the fabric of his t-shirt, and Grey practically melted as she leaned up to press a soft, gentle kiss to his lips. This is how he always wanted to wake up. As she pulled back, he trailed his own fingers into her hair and tugged her gently back in for another sweet kiss. There was a laugh as she pulled back again after another long moment, before smiling gently at him. “So - you’re goin’ to get some sleep while I make you a treat, hun?”

“I guess I must.” Grey chuckled back with his own smile, nodding under the determined look from the other despite the crease marks on her cheek from her nights rest.

There was a decisive nod before Jo leant in for another kiss before quietly climbing out of bed. Watching her, the long expanse of skin and the dark swirls he couldn’t get enough of peeking out from beneath her underwear and his old blue t-shirt she’d stolen for her own sleeping attire, Grey considered tugging her back down to have a real good wake up but reconsidered. She must have planned something for the day, and he did so love her surprises, and a small part of him wasn’t sure how she’d take his trying to spoil her plans when she didn’t intentionally try to stop his. No matter how bad his plans had been for her day.

Grey missed watching Jo duck out of the room, lost in his thoughts and the frown that was the only reflection of his feelings that might have given her any reason to pause if she had looked back.

Sinking down in the bed, burrowing in under the blankets as much as he was burrowing in on himself, Grey curled up in on himself with a harsh sigh as he tried to focus on what Jo had asked of him rather than on the mass of self-loathing feelings that were swirling remembering her counter part to whatever was to happen today. Jo’s day... Her day had been a nightmare, he was sure of it. He must have ruined it all, even though she swore he hadn’t and what she told him had been the low point of the day felt and sounded so different to what he recalled, he still had brought that day down. And now? Now she was trying to surprise him with something he was sure would be amazing, astounding even. And all he could think was how he was sure to ruin her intentions again.

Closing his eyes tightly, it was the heavy feeling of the mattress dipping and something heavy and warm sitting down on the blankets the roused him out of his thoughts finally. Their darling girl always seemed to know where she was needed. Pulling his head free from the covers, he was unsurprised to be face to face with those big soft eyes and the heavy warmth of dog-breath that made him want to wrinkle his nose but also bury closer to the pup in thanks.

“You’re a good girl.” Grey murmured quietly to the dog as he shifted onto his side and reached a hand out to run through the soft fur as Nana shuffled about to get herself in a position comfortable for both dreams and pets. Letting out a shaky breath, he pulled the pillow still warm and softly scented with vanilla beneath his face and settled in to the comforting scent and the softness of their baby’s fur under his fingers as he tried to focus on those instead of his thoughts swirling.

It must have worked and he must have fallen to sleep at some point, as the next thing he knew Jo was gently begging their girl to shuffle down the bed and balancing that bed tray from last year in her hands. That this seemed to be beginning to become tradition from her made Grey smile as he managed to blink himself awake.

Reaching out, he took the tray while Jo settled herself in next to him looking exactly as she had when she’d left the bed - her hair sleep rumpled and nothing new on top of her sleep attire - but more alert and the smile on her lips was that little bit more awake. As the blonde finally settled, Grey rested the tray down across their laps.

“Mornin’ ‘gain, hun.” “Morning again, pretty one.”

The kiss they shared that time was just as sweet as the last few, and it didn’t break until the quiet, desperate whine from the third inhabitant of the bed staring impatiently at their covered dishes caught their attention. Grey found himself chuckling quietly at the dog’s antics, and then louder when he noticed that her breakfast dish was sat at the end of the bed but with a cover over it. “What’s all this then? Since when does Nana get breakfast in bed?”

“Since I thought it unfair if we did and she didn’t get to too.” Jo replied with a smile that had her tongue sticking out between her teeth in a flash of pink before she leaned down and lifted the cover from the dog’s breakfast with a showy flourish. There was a pause where the pup stared longingly at her bowl before glancing towards her mommy in a begging way before Jo waved her free hand. “Okay, babygirl, you can eat now. All yours.”

Nana didn’t have to be told twice, and as the pup descended with a relish upon her food bowl - and what looked to be those home made biscuits Jo had been working on rather than anything that might leave a mess - Grey turned his own attention suddenly equally ravenous to the covered plates and bowls on their tray.

There was a second before Jo unveiled with the same showy flourish their own breakfast, and Grey found himself pressing a kiss against the crown of her head for a second - caught in the scent of home and love and vanilla - before glancing down at their meal.

It was an astounding array of colors - fresh and bright and vibrant in a way that Grey barely imagined breakfast could look, a bountiful mix of bright green and yellow and orange and red, all with the colorful plates and the bright pink rose tucked in the middle that set everything off. There was a cast iron pan in the center, resting on a bright buttercup yellow heat pad, that was filled with what he thought must be the main dish - an eggy frittata like dish full to abundance of fresh herbs that smelled like coriander and dill and basil in almost equal measure, and as Jo cut into and dished a slice up on each of their powder blue plates he could see the thin lower crust of golden brown sliced potatoes and the bright yellow coloration from the saffron strands and tumeric running through the egg mixture and potatoes. And that wasn’t even taking into account the thick Brioche slices that were the gorgeous golden brown from being turned into french toast and the thin coating of cinnamon sugar was covered with what looked to be a layer of whippped mascarpone and slivered almonds, drizzled with honey; and the bright bowl of citrus salad that looked to be thin, well-prepared slices of oranges, blood oranges, grapefruit, finger limes and kumquats that looked like a bowl of sunshine all it’s own. Beside the bowls were two mugs, and if his wasn’t a cup of coffee then he would eat the mug itself.

Picking up his fork, Grey couldn’t stop the surprised noise at how delicious the mix of herbs and the sweet floral notes of the saffron potatoes was. It was just right for the morning - savory and eggy, and clearly filling to fuel whatever Jo had planned for the day - and he took a long sip of his coffee before finally setting his fork down with a look of wonder.

“Pretty one,” He found himself smiling at the way Jo’s head jerked up from where she was cutting up a slice of her own breakfast, and the adorable way her cheeks swelled up around the far too big a mouthful as she glanced up at him. Giving a quiet laugh as Grey watched her chew a few times and then those cheeks suck back in as she blinked and blushed prettily. “This? This tastes amazing. What on earth did you make?”

“It’s, uh, called kuku or somethin’?” Jo shrugged a shoulder, cutting herself another forkful before mumbling quietly. “It’s a... Persian thing? Kind of like a frittata but good for usin’ up herbs and eggs and stuff?”

“Using up, huh?” “Well, there were such nice bunches at the market I had ta buy them!”

“Makes sense. This is delicious, Jo.” Grey complimented again, enjoying the pale pink that dusted across his blonde’s cheeks and nose at his words, taking another mouthful himself and just simply enjoying the flavors. She would have to give him this recipe to try to replicate himself sometime, but Grey knew he’d never make it taste as good as this very first time. This dish made with love by his love. “You’re real talented, you know. And don’t you try to deny it.”

“You ‘aven’t even had any of the French toast yet, hun,” Jo replied as she gulped down a mouthful of green tea and smiled back at him, waggling her fork about. “You can’t say this is delicious ‘til you’ve had a bit of everythin’. Maybe the French toast or the citrus is gross and then the whole breakfast is ruined.”

Grey laughed at her insistence, and shook his head gently, reaching out a hand to pull her in for a kiss all over again before he kissed her nose and forehead gently with a smile. “Fine, pretty one, I’ll keep my compliments until the end. But by then there will be so many more to add too.” He chuckled to himself as the other blushed all over again and ducked her head bashfully before they both turned their attention in companionable silence back to their breakfast.

As he finished off the last of his main dish, Grey let out a soft sigh at just how full he felt looking over at Jo of both the delicious food but more so of love watching as Jo gently separated a few layers of potato from the base of her breakfast and tossed them into their fluffy pup’s bowl to enjoy as well. It felt so much like home deep inside of him, it felt so right and peaceful sitting there despite the cloudy skies outside and the light sheen of rain that seemed to be hanging in the air, it felt so warm despite it all watching his love and enjoying the spoils of her toil in a way that made everything feel golden. Shaking the thought away, Grey took a few sips of his coffee to clear his mouth out ready for the sweet portion of breakfast.

The winter citruses were all juicy and sweet and tart in their own ways, and the cooling warmth of the French toast had resulted in the marscapone becoming like a slightly softened sauce that added a creaminess beside the sharp tang of the citrus fruits and the sugary sweetness of the French toast. It all worked together so well, and Grey felt himself swallowing down a laugh to himself that Jo thought he’d have any change of opinion after trying that as well.

“Jo... You’ve out done yourself.” He practically moaned around the next mouthful, enjoying the crunch of the almonds amongst the rest of the juicy, creamy dish. “Really, where’d you come up with this from?”

“Uh,” The blush was back, and leaning in, Grey kissed a quick trail following the spread of her blush across those gorgeous cheeks with a smile. Jo giggled quietly, batting him away and giggling some more when he refused to move until he’d catch the taste of her lips too, before saying softly, “I was talkin’ to one of the old lady’s at the market. She suggested I make the fruit salad, and I... thought it’d be nice on the French toast?”

“You, my love, are an absolute genius.” “Stop that, no I’m not.” “Jo, you said you’d take the compliments now.” “Never said I wouldn’t deny them!”

“That’s very true!” Grey laughed along with her gently, smiling equally softly back at the smile he received before he shook his head gently. “Well, you are, and this breakfast is amazing. You really didn’t have to put this much effort in.” He quickly shook his head again and lifted a hand to cover the other’s lips with a finger, holding back her denials. “Don’t try to say you didn’t Jo, even if it turns out this wasn’t a labor intensive breakfast. You still put a lot of heart into it to taste so so good, so don’t try to deny it.”

Jo looked uncertain and her lips twitched, tongue flicked out to wetten them and brush gently against his finger in the process, before she seemed to back down from denying his claims. Giving a tiny nod, Grey smiled widely at the soft look he received and the way the blonde shuffled to sit closer to him, thigh pressed up against his own. “Okay, hun. I’m just glad you like it.”

“Like it? I love it.” Grey replied gently, picking up his utensils again and taking a few more mouthfuls of the heaven on a plate before licking his lips clean and leaning back with a satiated sigh at the delicious meal as he picked up his coffee to finish slowly. Waiting a moment, he glanced towards Jo with uncertainty. “So... what else is on the agenda today?”

“You’ll just have ta wait and see.” Came the cheeky response, but Grey let out a laugh to himself having expected just that from the other - she did so love to surprise him. As they cuddled in together, taking in the last few mouthfuls before Jo moved the empty tray off to the dresser before jumping back in bed, it felt like the absolutely perfect way to start off a day.

---

Jo’s hair was wet and leaving a tiny trail of dampness along the back of her sweatshirt, but Grey thought it just added to the detail he was taking his time drawing out just right.

They’d taken a while to finally get out of bed, taking it slow and just appreciating the quiet patter of the drizzling rain on the window pane as they’d cuddled and talked about nothing. Jo had gone to do the dishes while Grey had jumped in the shower, and when the blonde had come up to shower, he’d stolen more than a handful of kisses and touches rather than getting out himself until they were both all squeaky clean and bright pink from both the heat and their antics. It had taken all of a few moments for Grey to try and wheedle out Jo’s plans for the day again before he finally gave up getting more than knowing and sweet smiles and opted to copy Jo in jeans and a sweater. Nana had curled up in the middle of their bed, burrowed under the blankets and had only snuffed out a quiet bark when they’d dared to disturb her when trying to make the bed.

“Hey hunny,” Jo pulled him out of his focus on shading in the dark spread on her back just right, and blinking Grey raised a brow back at her. “Whatcha doin’?”

“Just... a sketch.” “Of what?” “The most beautiful thing in the world.” “...You’re sketchin’ Nana?”

Grey found himself laughing at that, smiling ruefully back at the blonde’s faked confused look, before shaking his head. “No, not right now.”

“Would you be able’ta without her ‘round for reference?” The question caught him off guard, Jo’s eyes wide and curious as she shifted about from her spot sitting on the floor between couch and coffee table before him to look towards him. She rarely asked about his sketching - or rather, Grey was used to her asking more about if he needed more equipment or less technical questions like if he was feeling happy or moody - and as Jo span about to rest her forearms on his knees, he felt a strange something bubbling in his chest at her interest. At his nod to the question, the wishful sigh that came up caught his attention even further. “I wish I could do that.”

“Did you... did you want to learn?” It was a strange idea that flitted through his mind that brought those words out. The glimmer of an idea, barely a ghost that was drifting through as if expecting not to be caught, but he found his voice reaching out to catch it before it could leave. “I mean, I’m not... It’s not like I’ve learned technically, but I could show you what I do?”

“Yeah?” “If... If you wanted to, then yes.”

The megawatt smile was there and the fear his idea was silly or Jo’d not actually meant it disappeared under it’s blinding light. The blonde popped up at that point and bounced to her feet before straight down beside him on the couch, cuddled into his side and practically bleeding with warmth as she curled into him.

Lifting his arm to give her space, Grey dropped it around her side as Jo practically clambered into his lap until they were a heart all their own and their knees were the point which held up his sketchbook. Looking embarrassed at the sketch of Jo’s wet tresses and the shape of her shoulders and back, he quickly flipped to the next blank page as Jo got comfortable and plucked his pencil from his own fingers.

“Okay, so, first thing - how do you want her to be?” He asked quietly, the tone softer as her ear was so close that Grey didn’t want to surprise the other or jolt her, before trailing his hand down around her back to cover her hand holding the pencil.

“I dunno, I guess like... sittin’?” “Oh her hind legs or like dropped on the ground?” “Hmmm... Like when she’s spotted a bird out the back door window and not sure how to get out to it?” “Ah, that one we both know very well.”

Jo nodded, the damp of her hair cool against his cheek as he hooked his chin over her shoulder to look down at the page.

Guiding their hand towards the page, Grey gently drew the very simplest of lines and shapes that would form the base shape for the drawing and act as a support frame to the eventual image. Jo’s fingers were so soft and thin and dainty in his calloused ones, but as he rubbed the pad of his thumb against the underside of her palm he could feel the equally hard callouses that simply represented his love’s hard work. It felt so strange in the best kind of way to him the dichotomy of softness and strength that he loved so much, and the way her fingers curled into his at the slightest touch was magic to him. Breathing in deeply against her neck as Grey stared down at the most basic of outlines, he took a moment for himself before he could break himself out of the overwhelming presence to continue.

“Hun?” Jo whispered the word out, and shaking his thoughts free, he pecked a quick kiss to the underside of her chin getting a giggle. “What’ve we drawn?”

“This is just the frame.” Grey replied gently, moving their hands towards starting the sweeping shape of the dog’s back, chest and tail thumping against an invisible floor, as more firm lines around the frame. The quick sharp straights of her front leg, and then he let go of Jo’s hand for a second to let her copy the movement for the other front paw. “Yeah, exactly like that. And now-”

“We can’t do the head yet, gotta do her back feetsies, right?” The other chirped, already guiding the pencil towards almost the right spot to draw a shape that looked like what should be the back leg but curved the wrong way for the position. There was a pause, and glancing out the corner of his eye, he could see the way the blonde brows furrowed in on themselves in confusion. “Huh...”

“Ah, see, that legs tricky.” Grey said gently, picking up the eraser and quickly vanishing the line away before guiding her hand back into position. Twisting so the line would glide the other way to curve correctly, he gently moved through that motion as he rubbed the outside of her fingers with his thumb. “You think that it should go the other way because that’s how it’d be for a human leg, dogs have more bones and bends in their legs than we do so it goes the opposite way.”

“Oh. Oooh, I would’ve never got that without Nana in front of me!” “It definitely takes practice. And I’ve drawn a lot of our girl, so I just have a bit more practice than you.”

The rest of the drawing flew by with gentle guidance and as Jo started shading in the various mottles of their pup’s coat, Grey slowly traced along a line of his own - pressing his lips gently against the curve of her neck and sighing quietly to himself about how right it all felt. They bickered quietly about the right expression, and Jo kissed his nose repeatedly to get her way when he’d pointed out that Nana never let her tongue hang out in an unladylike fashion while Jo was adamant she looked adorable when she did. Together they shaded in the image, and Grey took control of the pencil shortly after sketching in the shape of the door and the silhouette of a bird fluttering outside the window and then the slender lines of the most amazing legs he’d ever seen just to the edge of the image coming to open the door for the patient pup. It wasn’t the best drawing from an artistic point he’d ever done, but looking down at it as Jo’s fingers smudged the shaded fur just right, it was one of his absolute favorites right then and there.

“Wow, hun, you made that so easy.” Jo’s exclamation was sweet and soft and breathy as she drew her charcoal dark fingers to her lips, smiling as soft as those lips were, before tapping the page. “This was fun. Thank you for teachin’ me.”

“Any time, pretty one.” He couldn’t help purring the words out and then catching her slightly grey lips with his; the morning had been just too wonderful and relaxing and everything felt like the warmth pounding through his veins. “I’m thinking I should get this one framed - one of yours to go with the one of mine in the hall-”

“Oh, no no no!” Jo shook her head rapidly, blushing furiously red as she drew back. “Oh no way, this is only good cause of your work, hun, and I wouldn’t want to detract from my precious water color with this one that I almost ruined!”

“Jo, you didn’t almost ruin anything-” “I drew her leg backwards!” “-No, look how perfectly you got her splodges and coloring? You didn’t ruing anything. But... Fine, I’ll keep this one all to myself then.”

The blush got deeper and stronger, and Grey found himself laughing quietly as he snapped the sketchbook shut gently before the other could try to pull it from him. “Nuh uh, all mine, Jo. This is all mine, made by and with you.”

“Greeeeey,” The other whined quietly, nuzzling in against him and letting out a quiet giggle as he bopped her on the top of the head with the book before pressing a kiss right after it. With a huff, Jo’s lips pulled into a tiny pouting scowl before she let out another huff and a soft sigh. “Okay, fine, you can keep it. But I want somethin’ in return!”

“Oh? What’s that?” “Since we’ve done some sketchin’-” “Mhmm?” “- You can draw me another tattoo instead then!”

The victorious way that she said it confused him for a moment, the words sounding strange and weird, before they finally made sense. Or as much sense as a sentence but not so much an idea or anything really to him.

Frowning and shaking his head, Grey asked curiously, “What do you mean? Like.. a sketch? For you to do like that other one?” His hand flashed down to resting over the hip that bore in unremovable ink a momentous display of Jo’s love in getting his art work forever imprinted beneath her skin. It had been flooring, and altogether awe-inspiring the first time he’d seen it, and every moment since. But the idea of sitting down and coming up with something knowingly to leave a mark across her from him felt overwhelming. “I-I-I I don’t know, Jo, that’s a... t-that’s a lot of pressure to do-”

“Oh no!” The other cut him off quickly with an excited giggle before she bounced up from where he’d been wrapped around her and Jo moved quickly into the hallway. He’d just started to get up when she came bounding back in a flounce of blonde hair and excitement, holding up proudly a handful of different Sharpies towards him. “I just meant doodlin’. You know, temporary tattoo like?”

“Huh.” Grey’s brain was taking another moment to catch up, before the way Jo shimmied out of her jeans and left them discarded in a pile on the floor to pull him to his feet jerked him out of his state of confused shock. “You want me.. to... draw a tattoo.. On you?” He slowly found his way through the idea as the blonde laid down on the couch and pulled him to sit back down too.

“Yep!” The sheer sweetness in her voice caught him off guard, thinking a mile a minute about the idea and the pressure that had been catching in his mind fading a little to realize that this was just for fun. Just for play. Just something for them. Jo stretched lazily across the sofa, twisting this way and that for a moment that gave a flash of more skin before she pulled her arms under her head to pillow it. “Whatever you think of or would think’d look nice. Free reign.”

That idea itself was somehow slightly stressful in and of itself, but as Jo tugged the hip of her underwear higher to give him the same range of space that was covered on her other side with his work already, his hand moved like it was a piece of debris caught in her orbit. Popping the lid off of the fine black Sharpie, he found his mind blank but his hand moving on instinct to start sketching carefully some shape.

It took many gentle strokes of ink across skin before he realized what his fingers and mind had thought of together rather than the blank, concerned fog he’d been in. The silhouette of the sun and the burning wings from flying too close yet the hand still reached back up towards it as the form fell downwards, all surrounded by black birds like those on another part of the tanned skin and the wavy lines of smoke or shadows that were the pit the focal point fell towards. It was sharp and too dark on the soft skin beneath it, but the sharp jagged line that cut along Jo’s hip became a beam of light that cut through the image as a whole that made it all the more brutal in his eyes. Grey drew his hand back uncertain to the way the other would take what was covering her skin now.

Glancing up, he saw Jo was more focused on her phone, and blushing in embarrassment and his own hubris of the unconscious decision, he quickly added a sunflower in the vacant space the sun should go and a bed of flowers to catch the man who reached too far. It felt too soft with those additions, but also still not as soft as his love deserved. A few petals fell beside the reaching man, tears from the sunflower as much as falling feathers.

“Oh!”

The quiet exclamation and rush of breath from the other as Grey had started to go in and shade the edges of the petals and the smoke of the wings with a super thin pen caught his attention finally back away from the curve of her hip and adding more and more details as he tried to cover the rawness of the original drawing.

Glancing up, Grey stared startled and unsure into the other’s face and the way those brown eyes were tightly focus on the dark lines that somehow managed to match the natural beauty of the work on the other side that was more permanently etched into her but was far less carefree and sweet than the other. He wished he could read her mind. Not that he couldn’t if he wanted to, but he couldn’t do that again but looking at the depths of her eyes he found he wished he could know what she was thinking in that moment.

“That’s so pretty.” Jo breathed the words out as she moved a finger to hover over the design, tracing above some of the clearer lines and following some unknowable pattern she could see in them. “Oh I should have got you to put it on paper, hun.”

“No you shouldn’t’ve.” Grey quickly replied, eyes wide at the idea the other could ever want something so dark and desperate and gnawing on her skin longer than now when she already had so many carved and clawed into her skin. Shaking his head, he returned to finishing off some of the shading with a frown. “I.. I don’t think this would make a good one.”

“Hunny, it’s so... powerful though.” The other’s words sounded hollow and gasping like the same figure’s voice would have been - screaming for the sun and then for air as he’d plummeted into the sea, and Grey felt he could empathize with the feel of the water weighing hard on him in that moment. Shaking his head, he didn’t trust his voice to disagree when Jo added softly. “It’s so poetic. I love it.”

Swallowing thickly as he finished the last stroke, he capped the lid back onto the pen as he sat up from where he’d hunched over her hip and waved a hand at the skin to dry the ink as quickly as possible though part of him wished something would come along and smudge the vulnerability of its image away. “Maybe, but I think I’d make something more... you if it was supposed to be permanent.”

“Awwwww,” Jo said sweetly, reaching a hand out and stroking through his hair gently as he finally set the pens away and glanced a look at the clock to see it had taken him over an hour to finalise and blinked in surprise that he’d let so much time pass. “What myth for me then? I know, Pandora’s box, right?”

“What?! No! Of course not!” Grey started at the suggestion, and it took a second for him to realise that Jo was joking from the small smirk blooming on her lips. Shaking his head, he sat back and helped her sit up right again before smiling back. “Well, maybe a beautiful granite statue. Since it feels like you were made perfect and came to life when I needed you most.”

That got a giggle out of the other before he was tugged down against her for a searing kiss. He wasn’t sure what had encouraged it, but Jo ground up against him for a moment, fingers tangled in his hair as his curled around her arms, and her teeth grazed his bottom lip in a gentle bite before he managed to pull free of the draw of the sun. Kissing her gently, stroking her cheek gently, Grey finally let her lips go and pulled back.

“Jo-”

“Thank you for the new one, hunny.” Jo purred out before pressing a loud, smacking kiss to his cheek, and smiling as brightly as she ever had at him. “I’ll have to remember to really think ‘bout askin’ you when I want to do a new one.”

Ducking his head, Grey pulled back and shifted to sit on the coffee table with a smile as he watched Jo move about to fondly stroke the dried ink and then jump up to tug her jeans back on. Standing himself and stretching a little from how he’d been hunched over before, he moved to wrap the other’s waist in a tight hug before coughing quietly. “Did you need a drink, Jo? I’ve missed my normal coffee time.”

“Oh, that’s an idea!” “What is?” “Coffee time!”

---

Grey knew that today was supposed to be about him, or rather that Jo intended it to be, but strolling hand in hand with her skipping slightly beside him as she kicked up a few scant leaves on the path - he couldn’t help but smile to himself that they were doing something he knew Jo loved so much. It was her favorite time of year, after all, and watching the joy on her face made this his favorite time right then too.

Nana tugged a little too excitedly on her lead, but he kept a firm hold on her as the boisterous dog seemingly caught up in the same excited energy pouring off her human-mommy who was just as happy and excited to be splashing slightly in puddles and turning her nose skyward to breathe in the post-rain scents. It was amusing to watch the pair of them equally enjoying the same parts of the day and so alike.

It was lucky that the rain had stopped earlier and given them the chance to go out - when Jo’d suggested coffee, Grey had expected her to get their usual drinks together and maybe they would share some cookies. It appeared that had been Jo’s thoughts as well right until their girl had appeared with a full on bedhead and a lot of ruffled fur to bark at the back door as they’d set the pot up. When looking out the window the drizzle of the morning had disappeared, Jo had turned her own big brown eyes on him alongside Nana’s begging browns to suggest they go down to his favorite coffee spot instead.

“Oh, I hope the seats outside are dry so we can sit down.” Grey nodded along to Jo’s comment, threading his fingers through hers as they turned onto the final path that would lead them eventually to the small coffee shop. “They do puppychino’s too if we’re able to stay here, don’t they?”

“Yes, Jo, they do indeed. Nana always gulps hers down in no time though.” He chuckled quietly recalling the number of times the dog had finished her drink in no time and then looked pleadingly for more. At least it always helped him work on his saying no to those big puppy dog eyes. “It’s almost lunch too, so unless you had something planned-”

“We’ll get somethin’ here, for sure.” “Oh, so you haven’t planned lunch for me?” “No. Not all of us are as thoughtful as you, hun. But I have got somethin’ special planned for dinner.”

“Ooh, surprises.” Grey grinned widely across at the other, tugging on her hand to reel her in for a quick kiss to her lips and then the bright red tip of her nose before they arrived at the coffee shop. The seats outside were all empty, clearly other’s scared off by the morning rain, but the chairs all looked to be dry underneath the balcony as it was. “Looks like your in luck, pretty one. Did you want to order or keep a hold of the fluffy puppy?”

The blonde looked adorably indecisive for a moment before she reached out for the lead with a smile. “I think the not-birthday boy gets to pick what we have.” There was another soft kiss before Jo stepped back and shrugged a shoulder. “I’ll save us a table while you order?”

“Sure thing,” Grey smiled back before squatting down for a second as he handed over the leash to look in the happy, joyful face of their baby with his own reciprocating grin. “You be a good girl, sweetheart, and I may just get you a treat.” He took the quick, heavy thumps of Nana’s tail and the happy panting of a few breaths to be agreement before he headed inside to order as Jo scouted out a table that was closest to the dog water dish but also far enough away that Nana both wouldn’t disturb other customers or be disturbed by them.

Entering the coffee shop, Grey smiled happily before heading straight towards the counter. It was barely a worry to him what to order and exchanging the normal pleasantries with the barista working behind the counter to organise their food to be brought out, the shadow was out the door almost as quickly as he had been in it.

“What’dya order, hun?” The blonde asked as he moved to sit across from her in the little table towards the quietest part of the patio away from the door. Jo had managed to get Nana laying quietly under the table and chewing on a kong chew toy from her bag rather than waiting impatiently for her puppychino, and had tugged the scarf slightly looser from around her own neck as she’d settled in. “Please please tell me they had pump-”

“Yes, Jo, they had the pumpkin spice lattes. It is Fall after all.” “Well, sometimes they get rid of them after Halloween in favor of the Christmas flavors!”

“Don’t worry, I got you one.” Grey grinned back across at her, reaching to take her hands in his where they sat on the table top, twisting their fingers together and laughing when Jo turned it into an impromptu thumb war. Squeezing her thumbs down with a smile, he lifted her losing fingers to his lips, startling a laugh out of the other. “And I got Nana her own little treat too.”

“Well you had to,” Jo quipped back, “She’s followin’ your agreement to be a perfectly behaved angel. Like always.”

“And like most angels aren’t.” “That too!”

They both laughed, loud and carefree at the joke only they would find funny right then, and then Jo’s thumb trapped Grey’s own under hers and resulted in her lips on his fingers all the same. It was one of those moments that made him blush as much as she did, before gripping her chin gently with his thumb and forefinger to bring her in for a kiss over the table dividing them. It just felt so natural and right to do those things, and spend those times together like this.

Reclining back in his chair once he’d released her, Grey sighed quietly as the both of them communally pulled out their phones to look over anything they might have missed that morning. Jo was likely looking at an email or message from one hunter or another or Charlie about the hunting database they were working on; while Grey thumbed through the collection of amusing memes and jokes being shared with him by the trio of friends who had adopted him into their little group - the discord chat called Ghostfacers and Friends all an array of bad bad jokes from the other three men.

Their drinks arrived shortly after - a extra creamy latte with a pump of vanilla that smelled like home in a way that was always comforting for Grey to indulge in when Jo was away, and the pumpkin spiced latte for Jo - as well as a shallow bowl that was the frothed milk with a little cinnamon but no nutmeg that was the perfect drink for a sophisticated pup like Nana that was sat on the table for Jo to give to the now whining dog once the waiter left.

“You know,” Jo said cheekily as she finally set the bowl down and watched on affectionately as the Bernese began to lap up her drink with the happy enthusiasm only a dog could comfortably display in public like that. “You’re absolutely spoilin’ her, makin’ a spoilt little princess out of my well behaved girl.”

“Me?” “Yes, you!” “Oh no, Jo, you can’t blame this on me.” “Eh, why not?”

“I wasn’t the one to suggest we get her the first one ever, if I recall.” Grey responded with a smirk, raising a brow across at the other over his mug. He was right though. Jo had been the one to squeal in excitement the first time she saw the word ‘puppychino’ written on the menu, completely ignoring the price tag for what was essentially just frothy milk, and demanding that they get one for Nana. Since then, it’d been a treat whenever the dog was a very good girl - but Grey figured that didn’t count as a treat when both he and Jo would claim she had been every time they came out for coffee. “It’s a good thing we don’t come more than once a week with her, or there’d be a big problem.”

Jo giggled in response, and he couldn’t help the grin that formed in reaction. Taking a longer sip of his coffee, Grey leaned down to rub a hand over the happily smiling dog’s head when she whined slightly from the lack of parental attention. Watching the pup for a long while, sipping at his coffee slowly while the blonde across from him had set hers down and was focused on taking photos of their baby girl, Grey couldn’t stop from smiling just as happily as their pup himself.

Their lunch arrived shortly after, right around the time Nana had lapped the last of her frothy milk from her bowl and had licked her chops clean as well with clear joy on her face. Those brown eyes turned towards the plates that had arrived with obvious gluttony but the girl just stayed laying down quietly under the table across his feet, aware her best chance at a crust or mouthful was from being rewarded for good behaviour.

Tucking into the crisply golden toasted sandwich filled with cheese and peppers, Grey smiled back across to see Jo taking a few quick snaps in artsy positions of her own BLT and her still frothy mug. He was sure that he’d see those soon enough shared amongst their friends and family, and focused instead on the still melted cheese in his own sandwich before it got cold and less gooey and delicious.

Ripping off a crust, he dropped it down gently onto his plate to start cooling down so it wouldn’t burn the roof of Nana’s mouth when she eventually got it.

“Good idea,” Jo chirped up, tearing off the few bits of crust along one side of her sandwich and resting them next to his own to cool down. “Do... Do you think she deserves some bacon too?”

The quiet, pitiful whine that came up from under the table as Grey opened his mouth to reply brought a laugh out instead before he nodded, smile firmly in place. “I think perhaps she has been a very good girl. Maybe she deserves a bit of bacon with her crusts.”

“Well, daddy knows best for the spoilt princess.” Jo teased back with her own smile, freeing a few pieces of bacon from her sandwich before sitting them atop the crusts. Taking a big mouthful herself, Grey felt that same warmth at her chipmunk cheeks from the morning as Jo murmured out around her mouthful. “Shh uh uhd guhl.”

“She is a very good girl, yeah.” Chuckling to himself, Grey focused more on his own sandwich when Jo took another big bite of hers, enjoying the quiet and the limited amount of foot traffic passing them by. He got through most of his sandwich before finally scooping up the few crusts and bacon to be dropped into Nana’s bowl once they were cool enough, and watching the dog daintily start snuffling about and picking out pieces slowly from her bowl to enjoy.

They took their time finishing their lunch and just enjoying the peace and quiet of a cool Fall day, and by the time they had finished the last of their coffees and sandwiches the clouds were starting to look dark and looming but like they would hold off on letting out a downpour for a while longer. Jo bounced out of her seat as they’d finished and wiped their hands on some cleansing wipes, and took their plates inside while Grey had coaxed their girl up to her feet and weaved out of the seating patio carefully to give the pup as much room as she wanted away from strangers.

Jo appeared at his elbow a moment later with two take away coffee cups and a brown paper bag full of something, and as he took one of the mugs for himself in the hand that had Nana’s leash looped around his wrist - the once excited pup now relaxed and as calm as her parents now that she’d had her puppychino and some lunch - before wrapping his other arm around Jo’s waist beneath her coat.

“Did you think we’ve got time to go down by the lake?” Jo asked quietly as she curled into his touch and pressed up against his side as a mother and her three kids came scurrying past on the footpath towards the coffee shop. She didn’t take a step back though once any excuse for being so close was gone, and Grey took the opportunity to steal another long kiss from her lips while she was so close and so warm.

Pulling back from the kiss, Grey smiled warmly at the fingers that had wound themselves into his hair and the way Jo’s eyes blinked slowly back to reality above the kiss-plump lips. “I think we just might.” He replied gently, lifting his coffee for a sip before looking down at the expectant looks he was getting from both the girls in his life. “Want to see if the ducks are still around?”

“Yes please!”

Headed down the road, they walked with his arm around hers and Jo taking the leash in her free hand so they both could enjoy their warm coffees; and walking along the lake front they paused on occasion to watch the ducks from afar or steal another kiss or several from one another when there was no one around. Grey watched on, holding Nana’s leash and Jo’s coffee cup at one point when she saw a group of boys trying to skip rocks and dashed down to offer her expertise until they’d got the knack for it. And then it had been his turn to learn as well once the young group had run off to play tag or something else with cheerful thanks called along behind them - though Grey seemed to struggle so much with getting his hands just right and the twist of his arm and hip that he just had to have Jo get hands on with him much to both their amusement.

It wasn’t until the sharp snap of wind changed direction to blow cold and crisp across the lake towards them that Nana finished her snuffling around the shore and Jo vocalized with some remorse that it was probably time to head home. At least they could hold hands on the way home again, her cold fingers wrapped up in his warm ones as much as he was wrapped up in her warm smiles and the gentle patter of paws on pavement as they headed home.

---

#cc #ca #greypov #happy grey day part 1

[rhymingmultisensorystories]

16th - 17th Jan marks Tu BiShvat the Jewish New Year for Trees.

Celebrate the Day the Sensory Way!

Fruits associated with the Holy Land are eaten, in particular the ones mentioned in the Torah, such as pomegranates, dates, figs, grapes and olives.

Some people will try a new fruit.

Engage the Senses & Try New Foods

Explore the texture, smell and taste of pomegranates, (de-stoned) dates, figs, grapes* and (de-stoned) olives. (*be aware of choking hazards)

Explore food containing dates, figs, grapes and olives:

Pomegranate: Chutney, Juice, Sorbet, Tea.

Dates: Cereal Bars, HP Sauce!

Olives: Bread, Butter, Oil.

Figs: Fig Roll Biscuits, Dried Figs, Chutney, Fresh Figs, Jam, Yogurt, Relish.

Grapes: Grape Juice, Raisins, Sultanas.

Try a new exotic fruit:

Chayote, Coconut, Kiwi, Kumquat, Mango, Papaya, Persimmon, Physalis, Pomelo.

Alternative Activity to Food Tasting

Offer a hand massage using fruit scented and olive hand creams, lip balms*, hand wash/bubble bath (pour a little into a foot spa), and explore essential oils.

*Be Allergy Aware

https://www.rhymingmultisensorystories.com/post/january-teaching-calendar

[stenka-razin]

Made a variation of the gin drink we had on Christmas (aside: Claire made an incredible christmas dinner*) consisting of Tanguray, Seltzer, Ice, and a sprig of Sugared Rosemary, and it’s delicious, but I keep getting rosemary needles in my mouth >:/

*

For christmas we had

DUCK Potatoes Ginger, Kumquat, and Pear relish Bacon & Brussel Sprouts

It was Claire’s first time ever making a duck and it was delicious. The cooking went smooth, but it came out the oven and we realized neither of us had ever carved duck el oh el.

[ronniefein]

Cranberry Kumquat Conserve

There are so many delicious “November foods.” Like sweet potatoes, pears, cranberries, persimmons and so on.

Not as many people know about kumquats though.

In case you don’t know what they are or haven’t used them, kumquats are a small citrus fruit. They look like oval mini-oranges.

They aren’t everybody’s taste. Kumquats are tart, so the flavor is something you love or hate immediately.

I love them. In fact, one of my favorite treats is candied (sugar coated) kumquats.  

You can eat kumquats raw. Cut them into a salad — they’re especially good with greens or Brussels sprouts and a soft goat’s milk cheese.

But the pungent flavor mellows beautifully when cooked, so kumquats are especially wonderful in chutneys, relishes and preserves. If you need a pretty hors d’oeuvre that goes beyond ordinary for a party or New Year’s Eve guests, check out my mascarpone crisps with kumquat preserves.

The recipe here for cranberry conserve, is a really good option for Thanksgiving. This dish has several virtues:

1) it goes with turkey, so it’s perfect for Thanksgiving.

2) it’s quick and easy to prepare — about 30 minutes from start to finish.

3) it’s colorful, making it a festive addition to your holiday table.

4) it lasts for a week or so in the fridge, so you can make it ahead and also rely on leftovers.

5) best of all, it is really tasty.

Happy Thanksgiving.

CRANBERRY KUMQUAT CONSERVE

3 cups fresh cranberries

10-12 kumquats

1/2 cup honey

1/2 cup orange juice

Rinse the cranberries and place them in a saucepan. Cut the kumquats in half and remove the seeds. Chop the kumquats and add them to the cranberries. Add the honey and orange juice. Stir the ingredients and bring the liquid to a boil over high heat. Turn the heat to medium and simmer the ingredients for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until thick.

Makes about 2 cups

#cranberry kumquat conserve #cranberry kumquat sauce #cranberry sauce #Thanksgiving #thanksgiving2019 #parve #dairyfree

[jarclave13-blog]

HiPPO – Los Angeles (Highland Park)

Two Wednesdays ago, I felt a little like kevinEats circa 2010. When HiPPO’s grand opening coincided with a planned date night with The Astronomer, I could not resist being one of the first diners to experience Chef Matt Molina’s latest effort.

While it’s usually advisable to give a new restaurant a few weeks or even months to gain its sea legs, I wasn’t too worried with seasoned hospitality vets at the helm (see: Everson Royce Bar). HiPPO hummed on its first night of business inside the former Highland Park Post Office (hence the name HiPPO).

I am currently on an alcohol-forward cocktail kick, and the “Old Man Brunk” ($12) spoke to me. The combination of rye, poblano, cynar, vermouth, and most intriguingly, pickle brine, was everything I was in the mood for. Truly, a drink for adults.

It’s been a while since a restaurant has provided complimentary bread, so I was tickled when HiPPO’s gratis focaccia hit the table. The focaccia, which was baked a stone’s throw away at sister restaurant Triple Beam Pizza, arrived crisp and lightly salted on the outside and springy within.

The Astronomer and I selected a slew of big and small plates to share this evening. From the Crudo section of the menu, we settled on the royal hamachi with kumquat relish, chervil, tarragon, and Prosecco ($16). The bright citrus relish was just the thing to pair with the thickly-sliced fish.

The summer heat had us feeling the burrata piled high with rye berries, nectarines, spring onions, mint, and lebneh ($9).

A dish of ripe tomatoes with cucumbers, olives, red onion, basil, oregano vinaigrette, and French feta ($10) landed on the table thanks to a kitchen mix-up. Dining in a restaurant before service is perfected has its perks.

My second libation was the HiPPO Old Fashioned ($12), another alcohol-forward number that I sipped during the second half of supper.

A trio of hand-made pastas graced our table next. We loved the sweet corn cappellacci with chanterelles and thyme ($18). Our server described the filling as the sweetest, most buttery creamed corn ever, and she was spot on.

The Astronomer was intrigued by the cocoa ravioli filled with guinea hen ($18). Its silky sauce, a combination of rosemary and sauternes, tied the unlikely combination of ingredients together beautifully.

And finally, the corzetti stampati with clams, oregano, garlic, and breadcrumbs ($19). I adore seafood pastas that taste of the sea, and while these postage stamp-shaped noodles were quite briny, I could’ve gone for even more oceanic funk.

We ordered two desserts to finish. For him, a yellow nectarine tarte tatin caramelized from top to bottom and balanced with a dollop of creme friache ($10).

And for me, a mug of espresso pot de creme layered with dark chocolate, candied hazelnuts, and sea salt ($10).

Following dinner, The Astronomer and I walked around the neighborhood to see all of the new and new-to-us businesses that had developed along Figueroa. We peaked our heads inside Highland Park Bowl, Afters Ice Cream, and Cafe Birdie, and were taken aback by how much the street had changed in the past few years. There’s no doubt that HiPPO is a tremendous addition to Highland Park.

—

HiPPO 5916 North Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA 90042 Phone: [phone]

One year ago: Weekend Brunch at A-Frame – Los Angeles (Culver City) Two years ago: Otium – Los Angeles (Downtown) Three years ago: Slacker. Four years ago: L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon – Las Vegas (MGM Grand) Five years ago: Mumbai Ki Galliyon Se – Artesia Six years ago: Le Bistrot Paul Bert – Paris Seven years ago: Dough – Brooklyn Eight years ago: Chocolate Afternoon Tea at The Langham – Pasadena Nine years ago: Churros Rellenos – Tijuana Ten years ago: Salcedo Community Market Eleven years ago: Bánh Bột Lọc – Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings

Source: https://gastronomyblog.com/2018/07/30/hippo-highland-park/

[timchewkc]

[Travel & Dining]

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Herald a double celebration at Marina Bay Sands this February, as signature restaurants present a line-up of Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day dining specials. Host your reunion feasts at Bread Street Kitchen, db Bistro & Oyster Bar, Rise and Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, before Valentine’s Day celebrations continue with exclusive menus at Club55, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, LAVO Singapore, Nostra Cucina, and a party at Adrift by David Myers. Look forward to exclusive treats, such as the Red Velvet Cake Shake at Black Tap, Chinese New Year goodies at SweetSpot, and limited-time cocktails at The Bar at Waku Ghin.

  Adrift by David Myers

(CNY Menu: 4-7 Feb; Valentine’s Day party: 14 Feb)

Adrift presents a delightful six-course Chinese New Year menu featuring Woodfired Flounder with chili, coriander and superior sauce, Yusheng and Binchotan abalone and squid with sansho pepper and ink glaze

From 4 to 7 February, celebrity chef restaurant Adrift by David Myers is presenting a lavish six-course Chinese New Year dinner menu (S$188++ for two pax). Executive chef Wayne Brown will showcase the restaurant’s signature seafood flair with dishes such as Binchotan abalone and squid with sansho pepper and ink glaze and Woodfired Flounder with chilli, coriander and superior sauce. Guests can also celebrate traditions with the auspicious Yusheng, before indulging in the Suckling pig with lardo, mustard seeds and radicchio in gua bao (steamed buns). A la carte Yusheng is also available, priced at S$15++ per pax, with a minimum order of 2 pax.

On 14 February, Adrift will present a luxurious seafood buffet dinner (S$98++), featuring premium ocean catch such as Alaskan King Crab Leg, Hokkaido Sea Urchin and Big Eye Tuna. Starting 10pm till late, party revellers can look forward to another of Adrift’s signature bash, titled Hearts and Wines: Valentine’s Day at Adrift. The restaurant spices the night up with a Traffic Lights bar programme, where party-goers can order coloured handcrafted cocktails to represent their relationship statuses (red cocktails for attached; amber cocktails for ‘complicated’; and green cocktails for singles), and enjoy live DJ sets spinning all night long.

For reservations, please email [email protected] or call [phone]. For details, visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/celebrity-chefs/adrift.html.

Black Tap Singapore

(CNY Shake: 2–10 Feb; Valentine’s Day Shake: 14 Feb)

  Black Tap’s Red Velvet Cake Shake

Fans of American restaurant Black Tap can rejoice as the restaurant will present two limited edition CrazyShakes in celebration of the upcoming festivities. From 2 to 10 February, Black Tap defines abundance with the Chinese New Year Shake (S$22++), featuring an almond cookie shake with a vanilla frosted rim, gold and red sprinkles, an Almond Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich, a Chinese New Year Cupcake, and a generous topping of whipped cream and caramel drizzle.

On Valentine’s Day, add a sprinkle of sweet romance with Black Tap’s one-day only exclusive Red Velvet Cake Shake (S$22++). Delight in a towering glass of red velvet cake batter shake, complete with a vanilla frosted rim, red and white sprinkles, a slice of red velvet cake from the famed Magnolia bakery in New York, and topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle.

For enquiries, email [email protected]; call [phone]or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/american/blacktap.html.

Bread Street Kitchen & Bar by Gordon Ramsay

(CNY menu: 4 – 10 Feb; Valentine’s Day menu from 12 – 14 Feb)

Bread Street Kitchen’s CNY dishes (clockwise from top): Crispy fried seabass with mam Wong’s home style soy sauce and kai lan; Lo Hei salad with plum dressing; Mandarin-orange mousse cake with kumquat and raspberry streusel; and Whole roasted Dingley Dell pork rack with slow cooked pork belly on the bone and braised pork knuckle

Celebrate Lunar New Year with a feast at Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, as the restaurant offers a selection of festive a la carte items. Relish a hearty sharing board of Whole roasted Dingley Dell pork rack with slow cooked pork belly on the bone and braised pork knuckle (S$128++; for 2-3 pax). Other highlights include the Spicy fish consommé with prawn dumpling (S$18++), the Mandarin-orange mousse cake with kumquat and raspberry streusel (S$17++), as well as the Nian Gao with desiccated coconut and gula melaka ice cream(S$17++). These exclusive dishes are available for lunch and dinner from 4 to 10 February.

From 12 to 14 February, celebrate Valentine’s Day at Bread Street Kitchen with a four-course set menu (S$155++). Begin the meal with the Irish oyster with chives and soy-ginger dressing, before tasting premium starters such as the King crab and salmon ceviche with crushed avocado, chili, lime and coriander. Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s famed Beef fillet Wellington makes a comeback as one of the highlights, with the Strawberry cheesecake tart with rhubarb glaze drawing a sweet close to the meal. All couples will also enjoy complimentary petit treats (hazelnut pralines and rose marshmallows), alongside a glass of his and her “Kiss” digestive cocktail.

For details, email [email protected], call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/celebrity-chefs/bread-street-kitchen.html.

Club55

(Valentine’s Day dinner menu: 14 Feb)

Enjoy Club55’s delicate creations 55 storeys in the sky (from L to R): Foie Gras with berries, walnut and port wine, Pacific Oyster Fritter with Dukkah spice and shiso, Japanese ocean cod & blue lobster with apple-celery, mentaiko aioli and sea urchin emulsion, Hokkaido Scallop Veloute with spinach and Oscietra caviar

This Valentine’s Day, savour an exquisite five-course dining experience (S$140++) at Club55, amidst unparalleled panoramic views of Singapore’s city skyline. Toast to a lovely evening with a welcome cocktail, before relishing dishes such as Foie Gras with berries, walnut and port wine, Japanese ocean cod and blue lobster with apple-celery, mentaiko aioli and sea urchin emulsion, and the Kygo Wagyu beef cheek and sweetbread with savoy cabbage, baby carrot, porcini soil and truffle jus. 

The highlight of the dinner is the delicate Dark chocolate praline mousse with raspberry curd and coulis, passionfruit jelly, almond sable, frozen rose parfait and 66% dark chocolate shard, topped with heart-shaped sprinkles and a whimsical pink strawberry candy floss cloud. All couples will also receive a complimentary rose and a box of pralines as a sweet souvenir.

For reservations, email [email protected], call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/modern-asian/club55.html.

CUT by Wolfgang Puck

(Valentine’s Day Dinner: 14 Feb)

This Valentine’s Day, surprise your date to a romantic dinner at one-Michelin starred contemporary steak restaurant CUT by Wolfgang Puck. The restaurant will be serving two exclusive menus (four-course menu for first seating at S$198++; five-course menu for second seating at S$250++), which consist of amuse such as the luscious Kaluga caviar with eggs benedict Vol Au Vent; as well as premium starters like the Austrian oxtail bouillon with chervil, bone marrow dumpling and Perigord black truffles, and Sautéed jumbo lump crab cake with basil aioli, tomato relish and micro cress.

For mains, savour the restaurant’s award-winning steaks — restaurant’s award-winning steaks — guests can have a choice of the award-winning U.S.D.A Prime Illinois corn-fed 21-days aged steaks, or elevate the dining experience with the Hokkaido Snow Sirloin steak with yuzu Kosho butter (with S$100++ supplement). Share a richValrhona chocolate Soufflé with crème fraiche cream and Gianduja ice cream for a sweet ending.

For details, email [email protected], call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/cut.html

db Bistro & Oyster Bar by Daniel Boulud

(CNY specials: 4 – 6 Feb; Valentine’s Day specials: 14 Feb)

db Bistro & Oyster Bar offers a French twist to traditional Chinese New Year delights with the Crispy Stuffed Suckling Pig and Golden Mandarin

Celebrate Lunar New Year with a family-style feast at db Bistro & Oyster Bar, as the restaurant offers a series of a la carte limited-time specials from 4 to 6 February (dinner only). Enjoy the yearly crowd-favourite: Crispy stuffed suckling pig (S$44++ for one pax; S$88++ for two pax; S$172++ for four pax; S$288++ for whole pig that serves eight to ten pax) – a hearty combination of fragrant wild mushrooms, chili garlic radish, bok choy and tender juicy meat all encased in a layer of crackling skin, roasted to golden perfection and served with spiced pork jus. Other highlights include the Tasmanian sea trout and hamachi Lo Hei (S$18++ per pax; min. 2 pax), and the Organic “Chicken Rice” with foie gras, black truffle and sauce supreme(S$95++ for 2 pax).

For the month of February, db bistro & Oyster Bar will also be offering the Golden Mandarin (S$20++). Delicately crafted and shaped like the citrus fruit, the refreshing dessert features layers of orange financier, citrus tuile and mandarin marmalade.

One can always trust the French to ignite passion on Valentine’s Day, and db Bistro aims to do just that with a lavish four-course dinner menu (S$140++ per person) featuring highlights such as the starter of Oscietra caviar with cucumber vichyssoise, the Hokkaido scallop “Périgourdine” with black truffle and cauliflower custard, as well as celebrity chef Daniel Boulud’s signature “Quenelle de Brochet” Maine lobster with “Nantua” sauce. Pair the dinner with sommelier’s wine pairing at S$75++ per person.

For details, email [email protected]; call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/celebrity-chefs/db-bistro-and-oyster-bar.html.

LAVO Singapore

(CNY menu: 28 Jan – 18 Feb; Valentine’s Day dinner menu: 14 Feb)

LAVO Singapore rings in a prosperous Lunar New Year with a magnificent family-style feast (S$1,888++ for 10 pax; S$188++ for each additional pax). Bring in good fortune with the Yu Sheng Salad, featuring premium Hamachi tuna, smoked salmon and citrusy Meyer lemon vinaigrette. Diners can also look forward to LAVO’s creative rendition of the Suckling pig with roasted apples and fingerling potato confit, alongside other indulgent dishes such as Whole Maine lobster capellini with kombu and caviar, as well as 45 days dry-aged Grilled T-bone with garlic herb butter. Savour these meaty dishes with a variety of trimmings, ranging from Grilled asparagus, sautéed wild mushrooms, as well as truffle mash potato, before enjoying a Chef’s selection of Lunar Year sweet creations.

Small groups can also bond over a delightful evening at LAVO with the restaurant’s three-course set menu (S$128++ per pax). Apart from the Yu Sheng Salad, guests can enjoy a choice of main and opt for the fresh Grilled branzino with carrot puree, terragon pesto, apple & walnut pesto; Crispy porchetta with truffle mashed potato, arugula, horseradish and salsa verde; orBrasato Al Barolo wagyu short-rib with cauliflower, carrots and gremolata. Both CNY menus are available for dinners only, from 28 January to 18 February. Please reserve at least 5 days in advance for the family set menu.

On 14 February, experience sky-high dining at its best at LAVO Singapore, as the Italian-American restaurant offers a luxurious five-course Valentine’s Day dinner menu (S$138++ per pax). Start the evening with the Lobster Salad with winter beetroot and horseradish, before relishing dishes such as the Grilled artichoke tortellini with prosciutto, percorino and butter, the Seared sea scallops with charred cabbage, celeraise and mustard, as well as the Trio of Veal for two — a robust dish featuring veal rack and breast meat with sweetbread and Cannelini beans. Draw a close to the romantic evening with a dessert of Almond with vanilla, rose bavarois and raspberry gelee, amidst mesmerising views of Singapore’s stunning skyline.

For details, email [email protected]; call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/lavo.html

Nostra Cucina

(CNY specials: 2 – 9 Feb; Valentine’s Day: 14 Feb)

Fried snapper with Agro Dolce and crispy kale, Buratta with eggplant and minced pork, and Crispy mozzarella with five spice, garlic and chilli

Add an Italian twist to your Lunar New Year festivities with Nostra Cucina’s sumptuous five-course dinner menu (S$88++ per pax; S$188++ per pax with wine pairing). Whet your appetite with the refreshing Italian Riviera Style Raw Seafood Salad, before indulging in the restaurant’s signature cheeses with a choice of Buratta with eggplant and minced pork, or Crispy mozzarella with five spice, garlic and chilli. 

For mains, opt for the Fried snapper with Agro Dolce and crispy kale — fried till the skin is crisp and the meat fork-tender, the fried snapper is doused in a generous coat of tangy Italian sweet and sour sauce and served with crispy kale. Complete the meal with the aromatic Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with tangerine and almond hazelnut biscotti. This menu is available from 2 to 9 February.

Veal Brisket Rotolo with Mortadella, caramelized onion, Ligurian olives and sauce Gribiche, and Sweetcorn Cappellacci with buttered morels

This Valentine’s Day, impress your better half to an authentic Italian dinner at Nostra Cucina with a premium three-course Valentine’s Day menu (S$250++ per couple). The restaurant will be dishing out soulful Italian dishes such as Veal Brisket Rotolo with Mortadella, caramelized onion, Ligurian olives and sauce Gribiche, as well as the Sweetcorn Cappellacci with buttered morels, freshly made in-house. All couples will also receive a complimentary bottle of rosé sparkling.

Starting January 2019, take home a slice of Nostra Cucina with its monthly pizza takeaway specials. In January, receive a complimentary bottle of peroni beer for every order of a Pastrami pizza. In February, savour the restaurant’s best-selling classic Margherita Pizza at only S$20++ (original prize: S$27++), and in March, enjoy 30 per cent off the Torta Flambee Pizza(S$27++) — featuring generous portions of smokey bacon, sweet onions and sour cream atop a thin chewy crust and slightly charred rims for a crispy bite.  

For details, email [email protected]; call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/italian/nostra-cucina.html

RISE

(CNY specials: 21 Jan – 19 Feb; Valentine’s Day specials: 14 Feb)

Rise presents a splendid Lunar New Year feast (clockwise from bottom left): Auspicious Yusheng, Eight Treasure Rice, Braised Duck with Sea Cucumber, Deep-fried Nian Gao with sweet potato fritter, Almond soup with glutinous rice dumplings, Dried oysters and black moss stew on broccoli, and Salmon sashimi

Ring in the Lunar New Year with an abundant spread of traditional Chinese delicacies at Rise at Marina Bay Sands. Buffet highlights include the Herbal Drunken Prawn live station, and mains such as Dried oysters and black moss stew on broccoli, Eight Treasure Rice and Braised duck with sea cucumber. Guests can also look forward to seasonal desserts, such as the Almond soup with glutinous rice dumplings, Deep-fried Nian Gao with sweet potato fritter, as well as a variety of Chinese New Year cookies.

On 14 February, pamper your Valentine’s date with the best of various international cuisines. Buffet specials include a cold selection featuring prawn cocktail, hamachi, lobster and Alaskan king crab, a Roasted Angus Tomahawk carving station, a Grilled slipper lobster with spicy lemongrass sauce live station, as well as sweets such as Red velvet and citrus lava cake, and Chocolate chip waffle with macerated berries.

For details, email [email protected]; call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/buffet/rise.html.

  Dates Lunch Dinner Adult Child Adult Child 21 Jan – 3 Feb $68++ $25++ $88++ $38++ 4 Feb

(2 seatings for dinner: 5.30pm; 8.30pm)

$128++ $58++ 5 and 6 Feb $88++ $48++ $98++ $48++ 7 – 13 Feb $68++ $25++ $88++ $38++ 14 Feb

(Valentine’s Day menu)

$108++ $38++ 15 – 19 Feb $88++ $38++

Renku

(CNY High Tea: 21 Jan – 13 Feb; Valentine’s Day High Tea: 14 – 17 Feb)

Afternoon tea specials from Renku

Fans of Renku’s signature Afternoon High Tea can look forward to themed specials this Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day. From 21 January to 13 February, brew a pot of your favourite tea to pair with the festive French Baguette with Bak Kwa, hoisin sauce, mayo and shredded lettuce. Usher in a sweet auspicious Lunar New Year with desserts such as the Osmanthus flower praline, Sesame praline éclair, and the Pineapple manage mousse.

 From 14 to 17 February, surprise your date to an afternoon high tea with limited-time Valentine’s Day specials. Indulge in a medley of sublime sweet treats, which include the Dark chocolate raspberry molleux, Lychee rose delice, as well as the deluxe Champagne pralines.

For details, email [email protected]; call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/cafe/renku-bar-lounge.html.

Spago Dining Room by Wolfgang Puck

(Valentine’s Day dinner menu on 14 Feb)

Spago’s award-winning Californian cuisine this Valentine’s Day (clockwise from bottom): Risotto with Alaskan king crab, caramelized zucchini and uni butter; Salted Caramel Soufflé with Farmer’s Market Fuji Apple Sorbet; Snake River Farms American Wagyu New York Sirloin steak with roasted fingerling “Patatas Bravas”, celeriac puree, pickled mustard seeds and Bordelaise sauce

Take romance to new heights with a three-course Valentine’s Day set dinner menu (S$195++) at Spago Dining Room, perched 57 stories atop Marina Bay Sands. Start with a creamyRisotto with Alaskan king crab, caramelized zucchini and uni butter (available a la carte at S$42++), before indulging in the succulent Snake River Farms American Wagyu New York Sirloin steak with roasted fingerling “Patatas Bravas”, celeriac puree, pickled mustard seeds and Bordelaise sauce (available a la carte at S$160++). Complete the experience with the light and fluffy Salted Caramel Soufflé with Farmer’s Market Fuji Apple Sorbet (available a la carte at S$24++). Couples can also elevate the experience with a glass of rosé at $40++ or a bottle at $150++.

For details, email [email protected], or call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/celebrity-chefs/spago.html.

SweetSpot

(CNY specials: 13 Jan – 10 Feb)

Treats from SweetSpot

From 13 January to 10 February, satisfy your sweet cravings with a medley of delicate Lunar New Year goodies from SweetSpot at Marina Bay Sands. Celebrate the Year of Pig with the adorable Piggy Bank (S$78) — a bright pink piglet made of rich Valrhona chocolate, sitting atop a treasure chest filled with luscious dark, white and milk chocolate truffles. This festive centerpiece comes with a wooden hammer which can be used to crack open the piglet to unveil more chocolate ingots and coins, symbolizing an abundance of prosperity. Other highlights include the Caramelised Pineapple and red fruit cremuex delice (S$9 for individual slices, S$55 for 500g cake, $68 for 1kg cake), and the Prosperous Fire Cracker (S$78).

For enquiries, please email [email protected], call [phone] or visithttps://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/cafe/sweetspot.html

Waku Ghin by Tetsuya Wakuda

(CNY cocktail: 4 – 19 Feb; Valentine’s Day cocktail: 7- 14 Feb)

Cocktail at The Bar at Waku Ghin – Ang Pao

This February, experience the art of Japanese-style cocktail making at The Bar at Waku Ghin, as award-winning head bartender Kazuhiro Chii rolls out two exclusive cocktails for the festivities. From 4 to 19 February, sip on the vibrant scarlet Ang Pao (S$25++) — a gin-based concoction featuring zesty orange juice, sweet-tart Grenadine syrup, and Benedictin Dom for a hint of spice and herbal nuance.

Cocktail at The Bar at Waku Ghin – Beauty & Beast

From 7 to 14 February, the intricate Beauty & Beast (S$25++) steals the limelight, with aromatic citrus notes of Cointreau lacing the gin-based tipple. A perfect tipple for ladies, the cocktail features rose syrup, peach berries and lemon juice for a delightful drink that is light on the palate.

For enquiries, please email [email protected], call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/celebrity-chefs/waku-ghin.html

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

(CNY menu: 4 – 10 Feb; Valentine’s Day menu: 14 Feb)

Deep South Ramen at Yardbird

Celebrate a prosperous spring over a five-course Lunar New Year feast (S$225) at classic American restaurant Yardbird Southern Table and Bar. Highlights include the refreshing Southern Yu Sheng, a medley of fresh fruits and berries with Daiko cucumber and benne seed plum dressing, as well as the premium Japanese wagyu and abalone, served with a horseradish peppercorn demi BBQ braised abalone, grilled abalone mushrooms, Thai chimichurri, and a pickled kelp salad. Guests can also look forward to Yardbird’s creative take on the classic Chinese noodle dish – the Deep South Ramen – which features springy noodles doused in dark and smoky chicken broth, served with collard greens, Chow Chow (a type of American pickled relish), pickled okra, and a deviled egg & smoked trout roe. This menu is available from 4 to 10 February for dinner only, and guests can opt for wine pairing with a top up of S$30++.

Japanese wagyu and abalone at Yardbird

Chocolate Lava Cake at Yardbird

Yardbird Singapore will also be offering a sumptuous four-course dinner menu (S$138++) on Valentine’s Day. Celebrate in style with an appetising starter of Oysters & Bubbles – freshly shucked oysters are served with Granny Smith apple, fresh horse radish root and lemon olive oil. Other highlights include the juicy Japanese wagyu with grilled Balsamic portobello, arugula salad, butter roasted cippolini and green peppercorn sauce, and a decadent Chocolate lava cake with raspberry coulis and key lime champagne sorbet.

For details, email [email protected], call [phone] or visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/yardbird-southern-table-and-bar.html.

  For more information, head over to https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/festive-dining.html and https://www.marinabaysands.com/restaurants/valentines-day.html

Visuals courtesy of Marina Bay Sands Singapore.

.

Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day 2019 Dinners, Menus, Promotions, Gifts, and Treats at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Herald a double celebration at Marina Bay Sands this February, as signature restaurants present a line-up of Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day dining specials.

[hoaryoldbitch]

Adonis (II)

Part 1 here

You can also read it on AO3

Sansa blinks as she steps out of the cave, breathing in the scent of Spring. When her eyes have adjusted to the light, she lets them dart around the clearing. For the last few days she's been fearing she'll find herself alone when she leaves the Underworld, but she isn't. Arya is waiting, surrounded by a dozen nymphs. And there, clinging to her left leg, but standing on his own two feet, is Jon.

She clasps a hand over her mouth, her eyes filling with tears. He's grown so much! His face is a little longer and it is framed by a mop of unruly dark curls. She clenches her teeth at the sight of the leaves and twigs that are stuck in some of the strands. The nymphs have dressed him in a dove grey chiton and he's wearing brown sandals. Sansa crouches down and holds out a hand. "Jon!"

He tilts his head and looks at her with his serious dark eyes. Arya lowers herself to whisper in his ear and he takes a few hesitant steps forward. Sansa smiles at him and unwinds one of the winter roses from her hair, holding it out to him. His legs are still a little wobbly, but his pace is quick. He grabs the rose from her hand and she picks him up, singing to him softly. She grins at the way he pouts as he studies the flower he's holding in his two hands. "Pretty, is it not?"

Jon blinks and looks up at her. The rose is already forgotten. He lifts a chubby hand to touch her face, gently brushing her eyelid and cheek, a little less careful when he pinches her nose and pulls on her bottom lip. Sansa pretends to bite his fingers and he pulls them back, frowning at her. Tentatively he reaches out again, fisting his fingers into a lock of her hair and declares in a clear high voice: "Pwetty."

Sansa tries to blink away her tears as her first true laugh in over six moons bursts from her lips. She buries her nose in his hair to breathe him in, squeezing her eyes shut. That distinct sweet, clean scent of babes is now mixed with wood smells and perhaps still a hint of snow. She presses kisses to his temple as she holds him close.

***

Jon doesn't like the heat of Summer. His little face turns red as he's chasing a butterfly across Catelyn's garden. He plops down into the grass and huffs angrily, glaring up at the blazingly blue sky. Sansa lets him play in one of the many shallow pools after that, which he seems to enjoy a lot. High peals of laughter echo throughout the garden as he splashes his hands in the water.

When she picks him up, his face contorts in anger and his bottom lip starts trembling. "Oh no, Jon Snow, you know better than to try that with me," she chides him. As if heeding her warning, he doesn't cry, but his hands are balled into fists and he glares at her with those dark eyes. Sansa chuckles. "Aren't you hungry, my sweet boy?"

She sips her chilled wine as she watches him eat. In those first days of early Spring, she tried to feed him, but she quickly discovered he wanted to do it all by himself. At first it saddened her, realizing the days he needed her, truly needed her, were long gone. Now she relishes in those moments, studying him as he tears apart pieces of bread, picks up crumbs of goat's cheese and licks honey off his fingers.

Once he popped an olive into his mouth, thinking it was a grape. As soon as he started chewing, his face pulled into a confused frown. His plump lips parted and his tongue pushed out chunks of olive which slid down his chin in a trail of saliva. Sansa finds herself wondering how it is possible for her to be so mesmerized by every simple thing he does after all she has seen in her long life.

She sighs and tries to chase away any thoughts of the coming Winter. Her heart aches when her mind drifts to their next inevitable goodbye. If she were mortal, she's certain she wouldn't survive another separation, but she is not, so she'll have to live with it. She puts down her goblet and gathers Jon in her arms. His hands fist her tresses and she'll probably have cheese and honey in her hair, but she doesn't care.

Jon has had enough of her attention. Sansa pulls back to look at him. He's struggling to be free from her arms, ready to run off for another game, until his eyes find her face. He traces the single tear running down her cheek with his finger and frowns. "Mama?"

She smiles at him. "Mama loves you, Jon," she tells him and she's rewarded with a sticky kiss before he pushes her away to dart back to the pool. His loud burst of laughter fills the garden and Sansa's heart.

***

Their days are much the same. During the cool early hours, Sansa trails after Jon as he explores the garden. He makes new discoveries every day. He runs through fields of poppies and daisies on his unsteady legs the one day, carefully caresses peonies and picks up fallen kumquats the next. By mid-morning, when the sun is rising in the sky and its heat descends on the earth, they retreat to one of the pools, where Jon plays for a couple of hours and they have a light meal.

When the glaring sun has reached its highest point and the air is buzzing with heat, Sansa lays him down under an olive tree or one of the many fruit trees so he can take a nap. She sings to him until he falls asleep. She knows so many songs, she could sing him a new one every day, but she can tell he prefers tales about heroes.

She finds herself repeating the story of Achilles' struggle between his desire for home and his pursuit of honour and glory. His other favourites are Odysseus tricking the cyclops Polyphemus by calling himself No One and Oedipus solving the sphynx' riddle. She's certain he's too young to understand any of it, but she still indulges him.

Sometimes her mother joins her and they talk or sit together silently while Jon sleeps. Sansa knows Catelyn has duties to attend to, but she wonders at her reluctance to spend time with Jon. She still won't allow him to stay here during Sansa's absence. Sansa trusts Arya and her nymphs, but she doubts whether their nomadic existence is ideal for Jon's upbringing. Catelyn's garden is a much safer and steadier environment for him, but her mother will not even discuss the possibility.

***

Sansa has fallen asleep under a lemon tree on the edge of the garden, close to the hills. Jon's head is on her shoulder, her nose buried in his curls, which no longer smell of snow and woods, but of rigani and wildflowers. She awakens slowly, until she tightens her arms instinctively and finds herself grasping nothing but empty air. She veers up with a gasp.

Not only is Jon's warm little body no longer pressed to hers, she cannot even see him as her eyes flicker around the orchard, panic pumping through her body. She's on her feet, trying to decide the best course of action, when she hears a lilting voice drifting around the tree. Her feet carry her there automatically and she finds Daenerys sitting on the other side of it, Jon in her lap.

"So this is where you've been keeping him," she remarks lightly, but Sansa can hear the edge to her voice. She fights against her instinct to lunge forward to scoop Jon up in her arms and run away with him as fast as possible. Instead she forces a pleasant smile to appear on her face and feigns surprised delight. "Daenerys! It's been too long since we last spoke... You look lovely!"

She can see that the compliment pleases her, but she knows it's not enough to soften her resolve. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?"

She takes an involuntary step forward and she immediately knows it's a mistake when Daenerys' hand tightens around Jon's shoulder, clutching him to her. Sansa can see the discomfort at being held close by a stranger on his face, but he's not crying yet. Her little boy is so brave. "You're a cruel woman, Sansa, separating Aegon from his family like this, not even allowing me to see him."

Sansa clenches her teeth. "His name is Jon. And he's not yours. Rhaegar gave him to me. I'm his mother!"

Daenerys offers her her sweetest smile, the one that has brought thousands of men to their knees. "Are you, Sansa? His mother is dead and his father... Well, I don't suppose he really cares. I'm all he has left. Isn't that right, Aegon?"

She lifts Jon onto his feet, her hands under his arms, and he breaks. His wails pierce Sansa's ears and heart and her arms reach out of their own accord. Jon copies her gesture. She can see the flash of anger in Daenerys' amethyst eyes, before she composes herself and tries to hush Jon. "Please, Daenerys, let me hold him, he's upset, can't you see that? He doesn't know you!"

"He's my nephew," she retorts, "he belongs with me!"

They're interrupted by a stern but calm voice. "If that is true, Daenerys, then where have you been for the last eighteen moons?"

Sansa almost sighs in relief when she spots her mother standing a few feet behind her. Her hands are folded in front of her chest and she's regarding Daenerys with a cool look. "Sansa is right," she adds, "and I am not simply saying that because she is my daughter. I am a mother myself, I know these things. You're a stranger to the child. He loves Sansa and thinks of her as his mother. It would be cruel to take him away from her."

"He belongs with his family," Daenerys insists. Catelyn inclines her head. "Indeed he does. But blood and family are not always the same."

Daenerys looks from Sansa to Catelyn and sighs. "So you won't let me take him? Very well, if we can't come to an agreement, we'll have to let someone else decide."

Sansa narrows her eyes. "The last time you allowed a mortal to settle one of your disagreements it resulted in a war that lasted a decade and caused thousands of deaths. The world has barely recovered from your brother's actions. Will you risk yet another war to get what you want, Daenerys?"

Daenerys seems to consider her words for a couple of moments and agrees. "Not a mortal then. We shall leave the judgement to one of the other gods."

Jon is whimpering again and Sansa tries to plead with Daenerys. "Please, let me hold him."

She laughs coldly. "And why should I trust you?"

Catelyn sighs and approaches them. "Give him to me. I promise to return him to you if that is the decision this judge you will choose should make."

Reluctantly Daenerys rises to her feet to let Catelyn take Jon from her arms and turns to Sansa. "I want to resolve this as quickly as possible. Who should be our judge?"

Sansa is relieved to see that Jon has seemed to calm down in her mother's arms. She wrings her hands.. "We can't ask Robert in this case. We all know he wanted Lyanna for himself. It's better if we keep him unaware of Jon's existence."

Daenerys nods in agreement. "Petyr is out of the question as well, since he is your husband. I don't want it to be Stannis."

Sansa almost rolls her eyes at that. She knows Daenerys is opposed to Stannis because he's one of the only men who seems immune to her charms, but she doesn't mind. She's never been fond of him. "Tyrion," she suggests. "Seven hells, no," Daenerys objects, "he'd probably decide to keep Aegon himself to pour him full of wine and then leave him with his maenads."

"You should ask Davos," Catelyn offers. Sansa nods. "Yes, Davos seems like a good choice."

"Then we shall ask Davos," Daenerys agrees.

***

The three of them are gathered at a crossroads, waiting for Davos to make an appearance. Sansa is standing a few feet away from her mother, who is trying to draw Jon's attention away from Sansa. He doesn't understand why she won't respond to his pleas to take him in her arms. Daenerys is wavering between keeping her distance and hovering. Sansa can see that her patience is wearing thin. "Is this the right place? Are you certain he's coming?"

It's clear she is not used to being kept waiting. Sansa bites her lip. All she wants to do is take Jon in her arms and whisk him away, but she'll wait. She knows Daenerys will never hold off from trying to steal Jon from her if she decides to run off now. If Davos takes her side in this, Daenerys will have no choice but to honour their agreement. But what if he doesn't?

She can smell a slight hint of the sea and an older man with a beard materializes in front of them from a wisp of green smoke. He inclines his head. "My ladies, I've heard you have need of me?"

Catelyn lifts her chin and smiles at him. "We do," she tells him. Quickly she explains the situation. Davos nods and inclines his head to study Jon's face. "Well, young man," he begins and Jon looks at him curiously, "you are the cause of all this trouble?"

Jon frowns before holding out a hand to tug at Davos' beard. He opens his arms and Jon leans forward to jump into them. Sansa hopes that is a good sign. Davos speaks to him in a low voice. "Not even two years of age and you already have the ladies fighting over you, is that right?"

Jon responds with a grin and an excited cry. "Alright then, my ladies. Let me hear your stories."

Davos listens intently as first Daenerys and then Sansa tell their version of the tale and make their cases. When they've both finished, Davos sighs and looks at Jon. He puts him down and picks up a twig to draw a line in the sand. He coaxes Jon to lie down on the line and instructs Daenerys to take his hands and Sansa to do the same with his feet. "Now," he declares in a solemn voice, "I want you ladies to pull as hard as you can."

Daenerys nods. "What?" Sansa demands. A half-smile pulls up the corner of his mouth. He crosses his hands behind his back. "Do you trust me, my lady?"

She hesitates for a moment, but then bites her lip and nods. "Very well then. Please, proceed."

As soon as they begin pulling, Jon starts crying. Sansa is so startled she lets go immediately, letting out a sharp cry as she watches Jon crash into Daenerys, who steadies herself at the last moment and picks Jon up to whirl him around, an elated laugh escaping from her lips. Jon is so stunned he stops crying almost at once. Davos sighs. "Well, it's been decided."

Sansa can't stop herself, despite her mother's hand on her shoulder. "No!"

Daenerys' nostrils flare. "We promised to follow Davos' judgement!"

The man shakes his head. "I'm afraid you misunderstand my meaning, my ladies. It is clear that Sansa is the one who truly cares about the boy. She was the one who questioned my instructions and who was prepared to let go when she thought holding on was hurting him. My judgement is that Jon should stay with Sansa."

Daenerys stares at him, her mouth hanging open, as Sansa hurries to take Jon from her arms. "You promised," she reminds her in an icy voice. Daenerys hands him over to her, momentarily admitting defeat, but doesn't leave without warning Sansa: "We are not done. I will take what is mine, with fire and blood if necessary."

Sansa ignores her as Jon wraps his arms around her neck, burying her face in his hair and whispering: "Mama's here now, Jon. Don't worry."

***

A few weeks have passed and they've easily fallen back into their old routine. Jon is sleeping under a fig tree, when Catelyn comes to her, carrying a letter. Apart from the tensed way she presses her lips together, her face gives nothing away when she hands it to Sansa. She unrolls the scroll and immediately recognizes the handwriting. It's a message from Petyr. Sansa smoothes it out with trembling hands. He's never written to her before when she's away from the Underworld.

To my dearest Wife and Queen, Sansa

I hope you are well. I am delighted that you will be returning to me soon, sweetling, but for now I have the unpleasant task of bringing you some woeful tidings. Recently I've received threats from Daenerys. It's unfortunate she's unwilling to honour your agreement, but I did warn you, my love.

The other news I have for you is even more regrettable. It seems you two have drawn too much attention with your antics and word of Jon's existence and the circumstances of his birth has reached Robert's ears. Perhaps I'd be able to hold him off from undertaking any reckless actions, convincing him he'd be risking my wrath if he hurt the boy, if I were so inclined. I must say however that I'm not entirely convinced it is in my best interest to do so. I find myself wondering if it would be worth the risk.

I'm afraid that is not even the worst. Cersei has heard rumours as well, about Robert's interest in Lyanna and the birth of her son, and she's arrived at the wrong conclusions. You know not even I or Robert himself will be able to protect the boy, once she decides to go after him.

I realize my letter must distress you to an unimaginable extent and I do wish I could be of more assistance to you, but as you must understand very well, I am powerless here.

I'm looking forward to seeing you again

Your devoted Husband and King, Petyr

Sansa sinks to her knees, clutching her head in her hands, pulling at her hair. Catelyn's arms are wrapped around her as she fights back her sobs, holding them in so she doesn't wake and scare Jon. It takes several long minutes before she's able to calm down enough to breathe again. She knows Petyr is telling the truth. If he wanted to lie to her to force her to abandon Jon, he would have done so a long time ago. She wonders what she's done to have deserved such ill luck. It's even worse for Jon, she thinks, he's so innocent and sweet.

She lies down next to him, letting her eyes feast on his wonderful little face, smoothing back some curls from his temple. His lips part and he breathes out a contented sigh. She presses a light kiss to his forehead before turning around and allowing her tears to start flowing. There's only one thing she can do. If she's selfish now, her sweet boy will never be safe. She's aware she's giving Petyr exactly what he wants, but she has no choice. She has to protect Jon, even if it means she'll never see him again.

***

Arya's eyebrows are knit together as she chews her lip. "Are you absolute certain, Sansa?"

Sansa nods, feeling Jon's soft curls brush against her cheek. "Yes, use the ointment as soon as I'm gone. If you do it properly, no one will be able to find him, unless you tell them about him."

Arya blinks. "And you trust me?"

"I do. You know I can't do it myself. Petyr will always find me," she sighs. Arya still doesn't seem convinced. "But Sansa, you might never find him again. You won't even be able to see him in the mirror."

She pulls back to look at his sleeping face. I'm so sorry, sweet boy. I wish I could make you forget as well, but you're half-mortal. I can't risk it. "I am aware of that, Arya," she says with a calm that does not correspond to the screaming and bleeding mess she is inside.

Arya nods and stretches out her arms to take Jon from her. "Sansa," she whispers, swallowing and parting her lips a couple of times before continuing. "I- I won't pretend to understand, but last time you said goodbye, you were devastated. And now it's even worse. You know you'll probably never see him again. How will you live with that?"

I won't pretend to understand. She is right, they will probably never understand each other. Quite possibly they wouldn't even be able to stand spending a full day in one another's company. Still they share a deep trust and a bond that cannot be broken. That's why Sansa knows there is no one else she could trust with this task.

For a moment she contemplates whether she should answer Arya's question. She might change her mind or try to convince Sansa to find another way. She knows she can't allow that to happen. There is no other way, but the slightest doubt could be enough to make her believe there is. She decides to take a risk and be honest. "I won't."

She reaches into the folds of her himation and pulls out a small vial. Arya stares at it, confusion written all over her face. "What is that?"

Sansa takes a deep breath to steady herself. "Water from the river Lethe."

Arya's eyes grow wide as understanding dawns on her. "You're going to make yourself forget him? You're going to take away your own memories?"

She nods, not trusting her own voice. She closes her eyes so she doesn't have to see Arya's expression, but she can still hear her sharp intake of breath. She holds up her hand to stop her from speaking her mind, but she still tries. "I wish-"

"Please don't..."

It's the softest of whispers, but she knows Arya has heard her. She opens her eyes again. Arya's are hard and determined and she's glad for it. She might have broken down if there had been any emotion in them. There are no more words left to say, so Arya turns around and leaves her alone.

Winter is coming, but not for a while yet, so she pulls the stopper from the vial and sets it to her lips. She allows herself to remember the happiest moments of her life one last time, seeing Jon's face behind her closed eyelids. It will be as if he never existed, she tells herself, but at least he will have a life.

#Jon x Sansa #jonsa fic #jonxsansaff valentines #greek mythology au

[ediblegardenspointloma]

In My San Diego Garden and Kitchen

“Cauliflower is nothing but cabbage with a college education.”  Mark Twain “Green Eggs and Ham was the story of my life. I wouldn’t eat a thing when I was a kid, but Dr. Seuss inspired me to try cauliflower.”  Jim Carrey

Most people have an opinion about cauliflower. I find it enchanting—the way it grows—blue-green leaves enfolding emerging heads. And the colors—purple, white, orange and the other-worldly lime green Romanesco. I only regret the season is short and there are so many recipes to try and favorites to make again. Thankfully, it holds well in the fridge after harvest.

Two weekend harvests, Amazing and DePurple cauliflowers. Note the fractal designs prominent in the purple cauliflower. As a F-1 hybrid, maybe some Romanesco parentage?

I trialed DePurple against Graffiti which I’ve grown for many years. The DePurple proved more vigorous. I saw the seeds on a stop at Territorial Seed Company in Cottage Grove, Oregon. Staff there indicated it performs better under a variety of conditions. For some growers, cauliflower can be finicky.

This is the first harvest of Catalina spinach. Though tender at both the baby leaf stage and this size, I let it grow larger for a favorite entree requiring a substantial amount of spinach. The space occupied by some of the cauliflower has been amended and spinach planted for more spring harvests. I’ll also need more spinach for the annual spring Galette of Winter Greens.

Several of the week’s salads from what’s at hand: arugula, kumquats, snow peas, celery, Jacaranda broccoli, various lettuces

Golden Sweet snow peas accompanied Asian Beef Stew over rice last week. We relish the cooler winter days and favorite seasonal meals.

The precursors to a stir-fry with some leftover pork tenderloin.

A neighbor noted a monarch emerging from the cocoon (and she commented “It should be in Mexico.”) She had no flowers blooming where it could feed so she brought it to my garden. It rested until its wings dried. After several hours it began to feed on the tiny flowers. She dropped off another monarch to my garden yesterday.

Sunday’s diminutive church entry bouquet: calla lily, summer snowflake and paper whites.

To leave a comment, click on “Leave a comment/Show comments,” enter the comment, then insert your name. Finally, click on “Comment as Guest” to post comment.

#cauliflower #DePurple cauliflower #'Amazing' cauliflower #Catalina spinach #winter garden salads #Golden Sweet snow peas #Monarch butterfly #winter bouquets

[longislandweekly-blog]

Super local and intensely flavored Pine Island Oysters are prepared three ways. (Photo courtesy of River Road American Bistro)

Mill River Road, the long and winding road that splits from Northern Boulevard just south of Oyster Bay, is one of those quintessential tree-lined stretches on Long Island’s North Shore: There are times you aren’t quite sure where you’re going, but you’re likely to enjoy getting there.

And back in 1989, any eaters seeking a destination restaurant would find Mill River Inn and its rising-star chef Michael Meehan. Since then, the restaurant has shifted tastes and owners, while Meehan has made his way through a journey of his own. He’s elevated cuisine at restaurants across the island, like Sea Cliff’s traditional Tupelo Honey, Huntington’s punk-rock burger bar Vauxhall, and many more. And now, nearly three decades later, Meehan finds himself back on Mill River Road with River Road American Bistro.

As the name suggests, the restaurant serves new American cuisine in a bistro setting, with chef-driven recipes that utilize farm-friendly ingredients and ocean-fresh catches for creative, yet easily approachable dishes on a menu that keeps its options tight and concise. And the restaurant’s palette of ingredients extends from Brooklyn to Montauk, as the chef regularly features local, artisan food, beer, wines and spirits.

The Hombre starts things off with a boozy bang.

Before you scoff at the notion of artisanal ingredients as mere lip service, sit down and order a cocktail from the impressive bar, River Road’s stately centerpiece. The fresh and fortified cocktails include the Spring Fling, with black cherry vodka, limeade and sparkling rose; along with the striking Out of the Blue, with white rum, pineapple, Blue Spiraluna and coconut. But to start off, listen to the bartender’s recommendation and order The Hombre. It starts with organic Mezcal and is at once sweetened and soured with kumquat, hibiscus and Low-Fi sweet vermouth.

Staying with the adult beverages menu, you’ll notice that a vast majority of wines are from right here on Long Island, while beer—from tap to bottles to cans—come from New York and Long Island breweries like Oyster Bay Brewing Company, Blue Point Brewing, Barrier Brewing Co. and Sixpoint Brewery.

And once you’re sufficiently refreshed, it’s time to talk appetizers—specifically, “Snacks & Shares.” This list of starters includes a Pretzel Cheese Board, with smokehouse ham, smoked cheddar and an IPA beer mustard; Crab & Corn Fritters, with rémoulade sauce and pickled vegetable relish; and a steamed mussel pot infused with the aromatics of citrus, thyme and shallots. But the absolute must-order on the starter menu is without a doubt the Crescent Farm Duck in a Jar. Here, the chef serves duck-confit rillette in a mini jar, and surrounds it with pretzel bread croustades. The duck rillette, similar to pâté, is mild with a hint of fatty saltiness that is right at home spread on the crunchy pretzel bread. Share or feel free to eat it all by yourself.

#gallery-0-5 { margin: auto; } #gallery-0-5 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; } #gallery-0-5 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-0-5 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

Deep, flavorful greens hide the smothered Berkshire pork chop. (Photos by Steve Mosco)

Duck in a Jar is inventive with spreadable duck confit rillette.

The Brooklyn Bibb salad is zesty, sharp and fresh.

River Road also serves Potato Herb Flatbread “pizzas” with toppings like barbecue chicken and garden-fresh yellow tomatoes, baby arugula and fresh mozzarella. And as a sort of pre-entrée bonus, the chef prepares Housemade Cavatelli with chicken basil sausage, yellow squash and peas in sage brown butter. As for the restaurant’s salad offerings, you can’t go wrong with the spring-ready Brooklyn Bibb Salad, featuring butterhead lettuce, dried peaches, bleu cheese and sunflower seeds in a bright cider dressing.

Now, before diving into the entrées, let’s talk about oysters. But not just any oysters—Pine Island Oysters. If there’s one oyster that should reside at the top of every ocean-to-table lover on Long Island, it’s these local pearls of the sea. Locally sourced in Oyster Bay waters, Pine Island oysters are large, plump and moderately salty with a sweet finish. At River Road, Meehan prepares them three ways: On the Half Shell with Crystal Cocktail Sauce; Char-grilled with Tomato Absinthe Butter; and Cornbread Stuffed & Baked.

Mason Jar desserts close out the meal.

When it’s time for dinner, River Road’s proteins deliver big bites with nuanced preparations. Among the choices are Montauk Tuna, seared with greens, tomatoes and ponzu; NY Steak Frites, a shell steak with house fries, red wine jus and chimichurri; Meehan’s signature Grilled Freebird Chicken, with roast farm veggies, fingerling potatoes and chicken jus; and Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, with red mustard greens, pickled corn relish, and red pepper puree. But the personal favorite of this eater was the Smothered Berkshire Porterhouse Pork Chop. This meaty chop is indeed smothered in pickled peppers, vidalia onions, green beans and wild greens with a balsamic reduction. Spice lovers will embrace this dish, as those pickled peppers pack a punch that sneaks up on you. The chop itself is thick and served on the bone—perfect for picking up and eating with your hands for those hard-to-reach pockets of pork.

And for a sweet finish, choose from three mason jar desserts. There’s strawberry shortcake with orange cornmeal biscuit, vanilla whipped cream and whiskey smoked sugar and a Smore’s offering with Nutella ice cream, graham cracker crumbs and toasted marshmallow fluff. But for peak refreshment, order the Aperol Creamsicle with naval orange sorbet, vanilla bean ice cream, blackberries and Aperol syrup, made from the classic aperitif.

River Road American Bistro is located at 160 Mill River Rd., Oyster Bay; 516-802-5661; www.riverroadoysterbay.com

Chef Michael Meehan returns to Oyster Bay with River Road American Bistro. Long Island Weekly's Steve Mosco reviews the restaurant that offers farm-friendly ingredients and ocean-fresh catches in its creative dishes. Mill River Road, the long and winding road that splits from Northern Boulevard just south of Oyster Bay, is one of those quintessential tree-lined stretches on Long Island’s North Shore: There are times you aren’t quite sure where you’re going, but you’re likely to enjoy getting there.

[motorsport619]

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMseDPKCI4c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqyb4rtq_bY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8OR2VRGjCo

https://steemit.com/eroticweightlosssystem/@alwaysus/erotic-weight-loss-system-review-erotic-weight-loss-system-review-does-it-work

Are You wanting for the foremost honest and details made Erotic Weight Loss System Review? Let me ask You a matter: Are You uninterested in spending so abundant cash and time unsuccessfully attempting out various weight loss systems? Fed from following strict diets and intense workout sessions? Well, here’s an interesting system that looks rather straightforward to follow and implement to lose weight! The Erotic Weight Loss System developed by Olivia Strait is unlike different fad diets because it’s an simple-going system. You simply have to adopt a daily workout routine and you begin losing weight in a very short span of your time. Not like other weight loss fads, you don’t would like to own a pile of money to lose weight with this program. All you would like is to download the program for a minimal investment of effort and time and you'll be able to slowly however surely see a change in your body and life! The Erotic Weight Loss System Overview The Erotic Weight Loss System may be a easy e-book that has everything needed for you to begin a regular workout routine and health regimen and lose as much as a hundred pounds! The system is an straightforward three-step erotic technique which anyone will relate to, and follow. The name itself is attention-grabbing, and therefore the word ‘erotic’ is employed here as a result of an erotic fruit plays an important half within the system. This fruit is the primary part of the program that when consumed, will increase your body metabolism to promote fat synthesis so that you begin losing weight. The second part of the system involves your sleeping naked through the night to lower a compound that prevents weight loss. The third step involves your adopting a traditional workout routine. The program explains the science concerned in helping you lose weight to help you get your required body. The program offers step-by-step info to create you are feeling snug whereas slimming down and obtaining fit. You truly find out how to rejuvenate your body, lose weight and lose body toxins without following any strict diet and exercise regimen or take pills or supplements. The system also helps keep weight off naturally for optimal and improved health. The program includes a daily guide, full schedule and calendar which teaches you the way to quickly use these powerful ingredients and daily meals to lose weight and restore your health. There are no supplements to require, dreadful workouts to follow, expensive diet merchandise to shop for or weird diet plans to follow. You don’t even would like any motivation to follow the program it as it is thus easy to follow, any male or lady of any age and body type will follow it. Olivia Strait teaches you how you'll be able to quickly lose weight by following the structured formula in the nutrition guide, and eat a lot of of foods you relish for improved health. Product details Now as mentioned earlier, the ‘exotic’ part of the program involves eating an exotic fruit. Though the program does not specify what the exotic fruit truly is, there are varied options to settle on from. Research proves that exotic fruits that promote weight loss are longans, plantains, prickly pears, papayas, star fruit, kumquats and persimmons. That's nice! Click the button on your right and take the action now. Assuming the program offers one of those choices, they are all simply accessible at the market which though expensive off-season are reasonable when in season. It’s higher to buy additional of them when in season and store using preservation strategies. These fruits don't seem to be solely exotic, but additionally will increase your metabolism, are filling to prevent you from snacking and on the overall makes you're feeling healthier and higher.’ Sleeping naked constitutes the second part of the program where it promotes weight loss by reducing your body’s cortisol levels. Cortisol is made within the body when in stress, that will in turn cause weight gain. Thus sleeping naked not only lowers your cortisol levels and stop fats, toxns and sugars from getting absorbed into the body, but additionally help you manage your body stress. The third half of the program involves maintaining a workout routine. Though this is a obscure part of the program, the program recommends some choices thus that you simply needn’t waste time trying out different workout routines. Thus these three steps are rather fascinating, and proven to be effective at inducing weight loss. You simply have to buy the guide to be told a lot of concerning the program, its components and what exactly the exotic fruit they're talking regarding! You need to pay simply two minutes on a daily basis following the wonderful secret celebrity trainers have used for maintaining their weight. The program teaches you the key formula for melting down body fat, increasing body metabolism and body immunity thus that you stay fit and slim incessantly. Advantages     Exotic Weight Loss System comprises of a user-friendly guide anyone will use and follow.     The plans and techniques are thus easy to download that you simply immediately get ideas to implement it.     The program involves eating additional of foods you like, eating a tasty exotic fruit and obtaining a smart night’s sleep.     Not only is the program highly effective, everybody can afford it.     The program is one hundred% natural without any aspect effects of risks. Moreover, the small investment you make is covered by a a hundred%, sixty-day money-back guarantee.     Improves your health by improving your blood sugar, pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.     You see immediate, permanent and safe results.     Erotic Weight Loss System not solely helps you lose weight, however additionally 100% ensures the load is kept off.     You learn currently to make your body a fat burning machine even whereas sleeping.     You receive meal plans which facilitate your lose weight and feel energetic and higher than ever. Disadvantages     You wish an internet affiliation to buy this program and download its plans as the program is accessible only online.     The system isn't a magic formula. You need to follow the system for some days’ to see noticeable results. Conclusion Therefore the Erotic Weight Loss System seems to be an simple and effective weight loss program which helps men and women lose weight. You start losing weight eating your exotic fruit to gain the body you mostly needed and reignite your passion along with your partner. Thousands of folks have already successfully tried out this program and if you want to start it too, simply obtain it through the brand’s website. Once your order is placed, you can download the program in eBook format. You don't have anything to lose as there's a 60 days cash back guarantee where you'll be able to claim your money back if the program doesn’t work for you.

#EroticWeightLossSystemReview

[moleskin-journal]

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMseDPKCI4c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqyb4rtq_bY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8OR2VRGjCo

https://steemit.com/eroticweightlosssystem/@alwaysus/erotic-weight-loss-system-review-erotic-weight-loss-system-review-does-it-work

Are You wanting for the most honest and details rich Erotic Weight Loss System Review? Let me raise You a matter: Are You uninterested in spending therefore much time and money unsuccessfully attempting out various weight loss systems? Fed up of following strict diets and intense workout sessions? Well, here’s an attention-grabbing system that appears rather straightforward to follow and implement to lose weight! The Erotic Weight Loss System developed by Olivia Strait is in contrast to other fad diets as it’s an easy-going system. You just need to adopt a daily workout routine and you start losing weight in an exceedingly short span of your time. Unlike different weight loss fads, you don’t would like to possess a pile of cash to lose weight with this program. All you wish is to download the program for a minimal investment of time and effort and you'll slowly however surely see a metamorphosis in your body and life! The Erotic Weight Loss System Overview The Erotic Weight Loss System could be a simple e-book which has everything needed for you to begin an everyday workout routine and health regimen and lose as much as a hundred pounds! The system is an straightforward three-step erotic technique that anyone can relate to, and follow. The name itself is interesting, and the word ‘erotic’ is used here as a result of an erotic fruit plays an necessary half in the system. This fruit is the first half of the program which when consumed, increases your body metabolism to market fat synthesis therefore that you begin losing weight. The second half of the system involves your sleeping naked through the night to lower a compound that prevents weight loss. The third step involves your adopting a normal workout routine. The program explains the science concerned in helping you lose weight to help you get your desired body. The program offers step-by-step data to form you are feeling snug whereas slimming down and obtaining work. You really learn how to rejuvenate your body, lose weight and lose body toxins without following any strict diet and exercise regimen or take pills or supplements. The system conjointly helps keep weight off naturally for optimal and improved health. The program includes a daily guide, full schedule and calendar which teaches you the way to quickly use these powerful ingredients and daily meals to lose weight and restore your health. There are no supplements to take, dreadful workouts to follow, expensive diet product to buy or weird diet plans to follow. You don’t even need any motivation to follow the program it as it's therefore simple to follow, any male or woman of any age and body type will follow it. Olivia Strait teaches you how you'll quickly lose weight by following the structured formula within the nutrition guide, and eat additional of foods you relish for improved health. Product details Currently as mentioned earlier, the ‘exotic’ part of the program involves eating an exotic fruit. Though the program does not specify what the exotic fruit truly is, there are various choices to choose from. Research proves that exotic fruits which promote weight loss are longans, plantains, prickly pears, papayas, star fruit, kumquats and persimmons. That's nice! Click the button on your right and take the action currently. Assuming the program offers one of those options, they are all easily obtainable at the market that though expensive off-season are affordable when in season. It’s higher to shop for more of them when in season and store using preservation ways. These fruits don't seem to be only exotic, but also increases your metabolism, are filling to stop you from snacking and on the general makes you are feeling healthier and better.’ Sleeping naked constitutes the second part of the program where it promotes weight loss by reducing your body’s cortisol levels. Cortisol is produced in the body when in stress, that can in flip lead to weight gain. Therefore sleeping naked not solely lowers your cortisol levels and forestall fats, toxns and sugars from getting absorbed into the body, but conjointly help you manage your body stress. The third part of the program involves maintaining a workout routine. Though this is often a imprecise part of the program, the program recommends some options thus that you needn’t waste time attempting out different workout routines. Therefore these three steps are rather attention-grabbing, and proven to be effective at inducing weight loss. You just have to buy the guide to find out a lot of regarding the program, its parts and what exactly the exotic fruit they're talking concerning! You have to spend just two minutes a day following the amazing secret celebrity trainers have used for maintaining their weight. The program teaches you the key formula for melting down body fat, increasing body metabolism and body immunity so that you remain fit and slim incessantly. Blessings     Exotic Weight Loss System contains of a user-friendly guide anyone can use and follow.     The plans and techniques are therefore straightforward to download that you just immediately get concepts to implement it.     The program involves eating a lot of of foods you love, eating a tasty exotic fruit and getting a smart night’s sleep.     Not solely is that the program highly effective, everybody can afford it.     The program is a hundredpercent natural while not any side effects of risks. Moreover, the little investment you make is covered by a 100percent, sixty-day money-back guarantee.     Improves your health by improving your blood sugar, pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.     You see immediate, permanent and safe results.     Erotic Weight Loss System not only helps you lose weight, but also a hundred% ensures the burden is kept off.     You learn currently to form your body a fat burning machine even while sleeping.     You receive meal plans which help you lose weight and feel energetic and higher than ever. Disadvantages     You would like an web connection to shop for this program and download its plans as the program is out there only online.     The system isn't a magic formula. You need to follow the system for a few days’ to determine noticeable results. Conclusion Thus the Erotic Weight Loss System appears to be an straightforward and effective weight loss program that helps men and girls lose weight. You begin losing weight eating your exotic fruit to achieve the body you always wished and reignite your passion along with your partner. Thousands of folks have already successfully tried out this program and if you would like to start it too, just obtain it through the brand’s website. Once your order is placed, you'll download the program in eBook format. You don't have anything to lose as there is a 60 days money back guarantee where you'll claim your cash back if the program doesn’t work for you.

#EroticWeightLossSystemReview

[heckbennett]

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMseDPKCI4c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqyb4rtq_bY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8OR2VRGjCo

https://steemit.com/eroticweightlosssystem/@alwaysus/erotic-weight-loss-system-review-erotic-weight-loss-system-review-does-it-work

Are You trying for the foremost honest and details wealthy Erotic Weight Loss System Review? Let me ask You a matter: Are You tired of spending so abundant time and money unsuccessfully attempting out various weight loss systems? Fed of following strict diets and intense workout sessions? Well, here’s an attention-grabbing system which seems rather straightforward to follow and implement to lose weight! The Erotic Weight Loss System developed by Olivia Strait is in contrast to alternative fad diets as it’s an straightforward-going system. You just need to adopt an everyday workout routine and you begin losing weight in a short span of your time. Not like different weight loss fads, you don’t want to have a pile of money to lose weight with this program. All you need is to download the program for a minimal investment of time and effort and you'll be able to slowly however surely see a change in your body and life! The Erotic Weight Loss System Overview The Erotic Weight Loss System is a simple e-book which has everything required for you to begin an everyday workout routine and health regimen and lose as much as 100 pounds! The system is an simple 3-step erotic technique which anyone will relate to, and follow. The name itself is attention-grabbing, and the word ‘erotic’ is employed here as a result of an erotic fruit plays an important part within the system. This fruit is the first part of the program which when consumed, increases your body metabolism to promote fat synthesis therefore that you start losing weight. The second half of the system involves your sleeping naked through the night to lower a compound that prevents weight loss. The third step involves your adopting a traditional workout routine. The program explains the science concerned in serving to you lose weight to assist you get your required body. The program offers step-by-step info to create you feel comfy whereas slimming down and getting match. You really learn how to rejuvenate your body, lose weight and lose body toxins without following any strict diet and exercise regimen or take pills or supplements. The system also helps keep weight off naturally for optimal and improved health. The program includes a daily guide, full schedule and calendar which teaches you how to quickly use these powerful ingredients and daily meals to lose weight and restore your health. There are no supplements to take, dreadful workouts to follow, expensive diet products to buy or weird diet plans to follow. You don’t even need any motivation to follow the program it as it is so simple to follow, any male or lady of any age and body type will follow it. Olivia Strait teaches you the way you can quickly lose weight by following the structured formula within the nutrition guide, and eat more of foods you relish for improved health. Product details Now as mentioned earlier, the ‘exotic’ component of the program involves eating an exotic fruit. Though the program does not specify what the exotic fruit actually is, there are varied options to settle on from. Research proves that exotic fruits that promote weight loss are longans, plantains, prickly pears, papayas, star fruit, kumquats and persimmons. That's nice! Click the button on your right and take the action now. Assuming the program offers one of those options, they are all easily out there at the grocery which though expensive off-season are affordable when in season. It’s higher to buy a lot of of them when in season and store using preservation ways. These fruits don't seem to be only exotic, however conjointly increases your metabolism, are filling to prevent you from snacking and on the makes you are feeling healthier and better.’ Sleeping naked constitutes the second phase of the program where it promotes weight loss by reducing your body’s cortisol levels. Cortisol is produced within the body when in stress, that can in turn cause weight gain. Thus sleeping naked not solely lowers your cortisol levels and forestall fats, toxns and sugars from obtaining absorbed into the body, however also facilitate your manage your body stress. The third part of the program involves maintaining a workout routine. Though this is a obscure part of the program, the program recommends some options therefore that you simply needn’t waste time making an attempt out completely different workout routines. So these three steps are rather interesting, and proven to be effective at inducing weight loss. You just have to shop for the guide to be told additional regarding the program, its elements and what exactly the exotic fruit they're talking regarding! You should spend simply two minutes a day following the superb secret celebrity trainers have used for maintaining their weight. The program teaches you the key formula for melting down body fat, increasing body metabolism and body immunity therefore that you remain match and slim constantly. Advantages     Exotic Weight Loss System includes of a user-friendly guide anyone will use and follow.     The plans and techniques are therefore simple to download that you immediately get ideas to implement it.     The program involves eating additional of foods you're keen on, eating a tasty exotic fruit and obtaining a sensible night’s sleep.     Not only is that the program highly effective, everyone will afford it.     The program is a hundredpercent natural without any aspect effects of risks. Moreover, the tiny investment you create is roofed by a one hundredpercent, sixty-day money-back guarantee.     Improves your health by improving your blood sugar, pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.     You see immediate, permanent and safe results.     Erotic Weight Loss System not only helps you lose weight, however also a hundredp.c ensures the burden is kept off.     You learn now to make your body a fat burning machine even whereas sleeping.     You receive meal plans that facilitate your lose weight and feel energetic and better than ever. Disadvantages     You need an net association to shop for this program and download its plans as the program is out there only on-line.     The system isn't a magic formula. You need to follow the system for a few days’ to determine noticeable results. Conclusion Thus the Erotic Weight Loss System appears to be an simple and effective weight loss program which helps men and ladies lose weight. You begin losing weight eating your exotic fruit to gain the body you always wished and reignite your passion along with your partner. Thousands of folks have already successfully tried out this program and if you wish to start out it too, simply obtain it through the whole’s web site. Once your order is placed, you can download the program in eBook format. You have nothing to lose as there is a sixty days money back guarantee where you'll be able to claim your money back if the program doesn’t work for you.

#EroticWeightLossSystemReview

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Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

Erotic Weight Loss System Review

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https://steemit.com/eroticweightlosssystem/@alwaysus/erotic-weight-loss-system-review-erotic-weight-loss-system-review-does-it-work

Are You wanting for the foremost honest and details wealthy Erotic Weight Loss System Review? Let me ask You a matter: Are You tired of spending thus a lot of cash and time unsuccessfully making an attempt out various weight loss systems? Fed from following strict diets and intense workout sessions? Well, here’s an interesting system which appears rather easy to follow and implement to lose weight! The Erotic Weight Loss System developed by Olivia Strait is not like other fad diets as it’s an straightforward-going system. You just must adopt an everyday workout routine and you begin losing weight in a short span of time. In contrast to other weight loss fads, you don’t need to possess a pile of money to lose weight with this program. All you wish is to download the program for a minimal investment of effort and time and you can slowly but surely see a transformation in your body and life! The Erotic Weight Loss System Overview The Erotic Weight Loss System may be a simple e-book that has everything required for you to begin a daily workout routine and health regimen and lose as abundant as 100 pounds! The system is an easy three-step erotic technique which anyone will relate to, and follow. The name itself is attention-grabbing, and also the word ‘erotic’ is employed here as a result of an erotic fruit plays an important half in the system. This fruit is the first part of the program that when consumed, will increase your body metabolism to promote fat synthesis so that you start losing weight. The second half of the system involves your sleeping naked through the night to lower a compound which prevents weight loss. The third step involves your adopting a traditional workout routine. The program explains the science concerned in helping you lose weight to help you get your desired body. The program offers step-by-step data to create you're feeling comfy whereas slimming down and obtaining work. You actually find out how to rejuvenate your body, lose weight and lose body toxins while not following any strict diet and exercise regimen or take pills or supplements. The system conjointly helps keep weight off naturally for optimal and improved health. The program includes a daily guide, full schedule and calendar that teaches you the way to quickly use these powerful ingredients and daily meals to lose weight and restore your health. There are not any supplements to take, dreadful workouts to follow, expensive diet merchandise to buy or weird diet plans to follow. You don’t even want any motivation to follow the program it as it is so easy to follow, any male or girl of any age and body sort will follow it. Olivia Strait teaches you ways you'll be able to quickly lose weight by following the structured formula in the nutrition guide, and eat additional of foods you relish for improved health. Product details Currently as mentioned earlier, the ‘exotic’ component of the program involves eating an exotic fruit. Though the program will not specify what the exotic fruit truly is, there are numerous options to decide on from. Research proves that exotic fruits that promote weight loss are longans, plantains, prickly pears, papayas, star fruit, kumquats and persimmons. That's nice! Click the button on your right and take the action currently. Assuming the program offers one of those options, they're all easily available at the foodstuff which though expensive off-season are affordable when in season. It’s higher to buy additional of them when in season and store using preservation strategies. These fruits aren't only exotic, but also will increase your metabolism, are filling to forestall you from snacking and on the makes you're feeling healthier and higher.’ Sleeping naked constitutes the second phase of the program where it promotes weight loss by reducing your body’s cortisol levels. Cortisol is made within the body when in stress, that can in turn lead to weight gain. Thus sleeping naked not solely lowers your cortisol levels and prevent fats, toxns and sugars from obtaining absorbed into the body, but conjointly facilitate your manage your body stress. The third part of the program involves maintaining a workout routine. Though this is a obscure part of the program, the program recommends some choices so that you needn’t waste time making an attempt out different workout routines. So these three steps are rather interesting, and proven to be effective at inducing weight loss. You simply have to buy the guide to find out additional concerning the program, its components and what exactly the exotic fruit they're talking concerning! You need to pay simply two minutes each day following the amazing secret celebrity trainers have used for maintaining their weight. The program teaches you the secret formula for melting down body fat, increasing body metabolism and body immunity therefore that you remain match and slim continuously. Blessings     Exotic Weight Loss System includes of a user-friendly guide anyone can use and follow.     The plans and techniques are so simple to download that you just immediately get ideas to implement it.     The program involves eating a lot of of foods you like, eating a tasty exotic fruit and obtaining a smart night’s sleep.     Not solely is that the program highly effective, everyone will afford it.     The program is 100% natural while not any facet effects of risks. Moreover, the small investment you create is covered by a 100percent, sixty-day money-back guarantee.     Improves your health by improving your blood sugar, pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.     You see immediate, permanent and safe results.     Erotic Weight Loss System not solely helps you lose weight, however also 100percent ensures the load is kept off.     You learn currently to make your body a fat burning machine even whereas sleeping.     You receive meal plans that facilitate your lose weight and feel energetic and better than ever. Disadvantages     You wish an net affiliation to buy this program and download its plans as the program is offered solely online.     The system isn't a magic formula. You wish to follow the system for some days’ to determine noticeable results. Conclusion So the Erotic Weight Loss System appears to be an simple and effective weight loss program that helps men and women lose weight. You begin losing weight eating your exotic fruit to realize the body you mostly needed and reignite your passion along with your partner. Thousands of individuals have already successfully tried out this program and if you want to start out it too, just buy it through the brand’s web site. Once your order is placed, you'll download the program in eBook format. You have nothing to lose as there is a sixty days money back guarantee where you can claim your cash back if the program doesn’t work for you.

#EroticWeightLossSystemReview