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2022.10.09 08:12 trevorterndrup southernhospitalitysc
Subreddit dedicated to anything and everything related to Bravo’s show “Southern Hospitality,” featuring Southern Charm’s own Leva Bonaparte
2024.05.21 16:27 Sweet-Count2557 Maldives Island Location Map
 | Maldives Island Location Map When planning a trip to the Maldives, it's natural to wonder just where this idyllic paradise is located. We might think, 'Is it too far away? Will it take forever to get there?' But let me assure you, dear reader, that the Maldives is closer than you might think.Nestled in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India, this collection of 26 atolls and 1,192 islands is a tropical haven that is just a stone's throw away from South Asia.But what makes the Maldives truly special is not just its proximity, but its unparalleled beauty and luxury. So, let's embark on a journey together as we explore the Maldives' island location map and discover what this enchanting destination has to offer.Key TakeawaysThe Maldives is located southwest of Sri Lanka and India.It consists of 1,192 islands grouped into 26 atolls.Luxury resorts on private islands offer exclusive villas and impeccable service.Staying in a local island allows visitors to experience the local way of life and interact with the Maldivian people.Maldives Location on World MapLocated in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India, the Maldives is a breathtaking archipelago consisting of 1192 islands grouped into 26 atolls. This stunning island country is a true gem in the vastness of the Indian Ocean. When you look at a map, you can easily spot the Maldives as a collection of small dots scattered like pearls across the turquoise waters. It's truly a sight to behold.The capital city of the Maldives is Male, located in the North Male Atoll. This vibrant city is the center of political, economic, and cultural activities in the country. As you explore the map, you'll notice that the Maldives is situated on the equator, making it a tropical paradise with a warm climate all year round. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs, which provide protection and create some of the most mesmerizing underwater landscapes in the world.As you zoom in on the map, you'll see that each island in the Maldives offers its own unique charm and beauty. From the popular tourist hotspots to the secluded and untouched islands, there's something for everyone. The Maldives archipelago covers an area of approximately 90,000 square kilometers, with the closest points to neighboring countries being approximately 717 kilometers to Sri Lanka and 430 kilometers to India.The Maldives is a dream destination for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and luxury. Whether you're looking to relax on pristine beaches, dive into the vibrant marine life, or indulge in world-class resorts, the Maldives has it all.Geography and Atolls of MaldivesAs we explore the geography and atolls of Maldives, it's fascinating to learn about the intricate island formation process and the distribution patterns of the atolls.These atolls, formed by coral reefs surrounding a central lagoon, create a unique and picturesque landscape.Additionally, the geological features of Maldives, such as the stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, contribute to the unparalleled beauty of this island nation.Island Formation ProcessNestled in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives archipelago boasts a unique geological formation consisting of approximately 1200 islands spread across 26 atolls, each formed by vibrant coral reefs surrounding a captivating central lagoon.These atolls, located on a submarine ridge, are composed of sandbars and live coral reefs. The islands of Maldives are scattered over an area of about 820 km from North to South and between 80 km and 120 km from East to West.This island country is famous for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The Maldives islands are a natural atoll paradise, offering mesmerizing natural settings with shimmering white beaches surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs.The capital city, Malé, is located on the largest island in the Male Atoll and is home to the main international airport of the country.Atoll Distribution PatternsClustered into 26 atolls, the Maldives consists of 1192 islands, each surrounded by the sea and adorned with vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The atolls of the Maldives exhibit interesting distribution patterns that make each one unique.Here are three key features of the atoll distribution in the Maldives:North and South: The Maldives is divided into North and South regions, with the North being closer to the capital, Male. The North boasts a higher number of atolls, including popular ones like Baa Atoll, while the South is known for its less crowded and more secluded atolls.Capital and Largest Island: Male is the capital of the Maldives and is located in the Kaafu Atoll. This atoll isn't only home to the capital but also hosts the main international airport, making it the busiest tourism hub in the country.Unique Islands: The atolls of the Maldives vary in terms of rainfall and wildlife. The northern islands receive less rainfall compared to the southern ones, creating a distinct climate. Additionally, islands like Fuvahmulah have their own unique ecosystems, offering visitors a chance to witness diverse wildlife.These distribution patterns contribute to the diverse experiences that the islands and atolls of the Maldives offer, making it a truly fascinating destination on the world map.Geological Features of MaldivesMoving from the discussion of atoll distribution patterns, we now turn our attention to the captivating geological features that define the Maldives, an archipelago of around 1200 islands nestled in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives is known for its unique geography, with each island surrounded by the sea and its own house reef. The islands are formed by coral reefs surrounding a central lagoon, boasting stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Stretching narrowly from north to south, the Maldives covers a superficy of 90,000 square kilometers, with around 200 islands inhabited by Maldivian people and approximately 160 islands allocated to resorts. Located southwest of Sri Lanka, the Maldives is a UNESCO Biosphere and offers a truly breathtaking experience for visitors.Key PointsGeographyArchipelago of around 1200 islandsLocated in the Indian OceanFormationCoral reefs surrounding a central lagoonUnique white sandy beaches and turquoise watersSizeCovering 90,000 square kilometersAround 200 inhabited islands and 160 resort islandsMalé: The Capital of MaldivesAmidst the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the captivating city of Malé stands as the vibrant capital of the Maldives. Nestled on the largest island in the Male Atoll, this bustling city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.Here are three reasons why Malé is a must-visit destination:Location: Malé is located southwest of Sri Lanka, in the heart of the Maldives Atolls. This independent country stretches across a distance of 823 kilometers and is surrounded by the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. With its strategic position, Malé serves as the gateway to the stunning Maldivian islands.Vibrant City Life: Despite its small size, Malé packs a punch when it comes to city living. The city covers an area of nearly 2.5 square kilometers and is a bustling hub of activity. From colorful markets and bustling streets to modern buildings and lively cafes, Malé offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture and lifestyle of the Maldives.Gateway to Paradise: Malé isn't just a city; it's the starting point for exploring the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives. Whether you're seeking pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, or vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, Malé is the perfect base to embark on your island-hopping adventure.As you journey to your selected resort island, indulge in the captivating aerial views of the Maldivian Islands. The shimmering white beaches, surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, will leave you mesmerized.Distance From Maldives to Other CountriesLocated in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is positioned at varying distances from several countries, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking both seclusion and adventure. The Republic of Maldives, an independent Asian country, is located south-west of Sri Lanka. The closest countries to the Maldives are Sri Lanka and India.Situated approximately 717 kilometers away from Sri Lanka, the Maldives and its closest neighbor share a deep cultural and historical connection. Travelers can easily hop on a short flight or take a scenic boat ride from Sri Lanka's capital, Colombo, to explore the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of the Maldives.India, located approximately 430 kilometers from the Maldives, also offers convenient access to this tropical paradise. With regular flights connecting major Indian cities to the Maldives, travelers can easily immerse themselves in the beauty of the Maldivian archipelago.While the Maldives is known for its secluded islands and luxurious resorts, it's also within reach of other fascinating destinations. Seychelles, located around 1950 kilometers away, offers a different island experience with its unique flora and fauna. Malaysia, approximately 2970 kilometers away, and Thailand, around 2750 kilometers away, provide travelers with the opportunity to combine their Maldivian getaway with a vibrant Asian adventure.Whether you're seeking relaxation, diving adventures, or cultural exploration, the Maldives' strategic location and close proximity to neighboring countries make it an ideal destination for those looking for a diverse and unforgettable travel experience.Number of Islands in MaldivesAfter exploring the distances from the Maldives to other countries, let's now turn our attention to the fascinating number of islands that make up this tropical paradise.The Maldives is composed of 1192 islands, which are naturally grouped into 26 atolls. Each of these atolls has its own unique characteristics and attractions, making the Maldives a diverse and captivating destination.Here are three notable atolls that you should know about:Gaafu Dhaalu and Gaafu Alifu Atoll: Located in the southernmost part of the Maldives, Gaafu Dhaalu and Gaafu Alifu Atoll is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. This atoll offers a secluded and tranquil environment, perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway.South Ari Atoll: South Ari Atoll, also known as Alif Dhaal Atoll, is famous for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. It's a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, as it's home to an abundance of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks.Baa Atoll: Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is renowned for its rich biodiversity. This atoll boasts a unique ecosystem, with numerous coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. It's a haven for nature lovers and offers opportunities for exploring the underwater world and spotting rare marine species.In addition to these atolls, the Maldives is also home to other notable ones such as Dhaalu Atoll, Noonu Atoll, North Ari Atoll, and Addu Atoll. Each of these atolls contributes to the overall beauty and charm of the Maldives, making it a paradise that should be on every traveler's bucket list.Private Islands and Villas in MaldivesAs we delve into the world of luxury and exclusivity in the Maldives, let's explore the captivating realm of private islands and villas. These private islands offer the epitome of opulence, with luxury resorts boasting exclusive villas and impeccable service. Imagine having your own piece of paradise, surrounded by crystal clear waters and pristine white sand beaches.There are curated collections of private islands in the Maldives, ranging from tiny luxury resorts to grand mansions with multiple bedrooms, catering to families and VIP guests alike. These properties are meticulously designed to offer the utmost privacy and comfort, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.To reach these private islands, you can take a domestic flight to various locations within the Maldives. One such location is Miladhunmadulu Uthuruburi, a remote and secluded area where you can find some of the most exclusive private islands. Alternatively, some private islands are reachable by seaplane, offering a breathtaking aerial view of the stunning surroundings.One notable private island is located in the Huvadhu Atoll, known for its untouched beauty and vibrant marine life. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and indulge in luxury amenities while enjoying the natural wonders that the Maldives has to offer.If you're interested in exploring the local culture and interacting with the Maldivian people, you can also consider staying in one of the Local Islands. These islands offer a unique blend of authenticity and luxury, allowing you to experience the local way of life while still enjoying the comforts of a private villa.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhere Are the Maldives Islands Located?We are located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. Our country is made up of 1192 islands divided into 26 atolls. Our main international airport is in Kaafu Atoll.We're close to neighboring countries, with the closest point to Sri Lanka being approximately 717km and approximately 430km to India.Our capital city, Male, is located on the equator, dividing the North Pole and South Pole.What Countries Is the Maldives Close To?The Maldives is geographically close to several neighboring nations. Located in the Indian Ocean, it shares a border of geographical proximity with Sri Lanka, which is approximately 717km away. Additionally, it's also nearby to India, with a distance of about 430km. These two countries are the closest countries to the Maldives in terms of geographical location.The Maldives' geographical connections with these nations have influenced its culture and lifestyle, with growing influence from India in particular.How Long Does It Take to Get to the Maldives?On average, it takes around 1-2 hours to get to the Maldives, depending on your starting point. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is warm and sunny.There are direct flight options from Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Kochi, India, with travel times of about 1 hour and 25 minutes and 1 hour and 45 minutes, respectively.Once you arrive in Male, you can choose between speedboat or seaplane transfers to the resorts in the surrounding atolls, which usually take under 1 hour.How Do You Get to Maldives?To get to the Maldives, we've a few options. The most common way is to fly into the main international airport in Hulhule, which offers direct flights from neighboring countries like India and Sri Lanka.Once you're there, you can explore the islands by taking boats, as each island is surrounded by the sea.The Maldives is a tropical paradise with warm weather all year round, making it a perfect destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.ConclusionIn conclusion, the Maldives is a breathtaking destination located in the Indian Ocean. With its 1192 islands and 26 atolls, it offers a unique and diverse experience for travelers.One fascinating statistic is that the Maldives is home to the lowest highest point of any country in the world, with its highest natural point being only 2.4 meters above sea level.This makes the Maldives a truly one-of-a-kind destination that shouldn't be missed. submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.05.21 15:41 Sweet-Count2557 Bistro Jolie Restaurant in Los Angeles,CA,United States
 | Bistro Jolie Restaurant in Los Angeles,CA,United States submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] Bistro Jolie: A Fusion of Southern French-Inspired Cuisine and California Flair in Los Angeles, CA Price Level: $$ - $$$ Nestled in the charming Beverly Glen Centre, along historic Mulholland Highway, sits Bistro Jolie. Serving southern French-inspired cuisine accented with California flair and seasonal sensibility, Jolie blends the best of both southern cultures in ambiance, service, cuisine, and style.When it comes to dining at Bistro Jolie, you can expect a delightful culinary experience that combines the elegance of southern French cuisine with the freshness and innovation of California flavors. The restaurant's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients ensures that every dish is bursting with seasonal flavors and the highest quality produce.Not only does Bistro Jolie excel in its culinary offerings, but it also provides a charming and inviting ambiance that transports you to the heart of southern France. The cozy and intimate setting, adorned with rustic decor and warm lighting, creates the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends.At Bistro Jolie, the attentive and knowledgeable staff go above and beyond to ensure that every guest has a memorable dining experience. From recommending the perfect wine pairing to providing personalized service, their dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of your visit.Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a traveler seeking an authentic taste of southern France in California, Bistro Jolie is the perfect destination. With its fusion of southern French-inspired cuisine and California flair, this restaurant offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving for more. Cuisines of Bistro Jolie in Los Angeles,CA,United States Bistro Jolie Restaurant is a culinary haven that offers a delightful fusion of French, American, Bar, and Mediterranean cuisines. With a menu that caters to diverse palates, this charming eatery ensures that every guest is treated to a memorable dining experience. From classic French dishes like Coq au Vin and Escargots de Bourgogne to American favorites such as juicy burgers and crispy fried chicken, Bistro Jolie has something for everyone. The Mediterranean influence can be seen in their delectable seafood options like grilled octopus and shrimp scampi, as well as their flavorful vegetable dishes. Whether you're craving a comforting plate of steak frites or a refreshing Mediterranean salad, Bistro Jolie Restaurant is the perfect destination to indulge in a variety of mouthwatering cuisines. Features of Bistro Jolie in Los Angeles,CA,United States ReservationsSeatingTable Service Menu of Bistro Jolie in Los Angeles,CA,United States Location of Bistro Jolie in Los Angeles,CA,United States Contact of Bistro Jolie in Los Angeles,CA,United States +1 310-773-9484 2922 N Beverly Glen Cir, Los Angeles, CA 90077-1724 salut@bistrojolie.com http://www.bistrojolie.com/ Tags |
2024.05.21 14:26 pohltergiest Catching up on the Tohoku Times
 | Finally finding some time after resting to do my writing. The bike shop experience was a little sweaty in the hot weather, and while we were outside working on our bikes, not only did the wife of the mechanic go get us an iced coffee and an ice cream, she later made us care packages with an energy gel and a bunch of electrolyte tablets. Looking inside, it would seem this shop has been the home of a pro-level team for a long time, so I imagine they have a lot of these things on hand, but it was still very nice. submitted by pohltergiest to RainbowRamenRide [link] [comments] My wheel repair went well, the bumps and wobbles straightening out with the spoke repair. Bryce had them look at his front wheel, which had a different problem. He took a look at it, and after some consideration he said it was a "maintenance challenge" and proceeded to pull out a lot of wrenches. Bryce gleaned that the hub of the wheel needed tightening, and he did not have the correct wrenches to deal with this decidedly north american model. But he did have ones that were close enough and with some effort he managed to make it better to ride. After all was said and done we asked how much for the repairs and he tells us that he's a volunteer for the day, that this is his son's shop and he's just hanging out for the day because it's a holiday! We were flabbergasted but again he would not take any payment. We talked with him a bunch and he told us that he's in his 70's and attributes his good health to his biking, which he proudly states he's been doing for over 60 years now. We said he was an inspiration and said our goodbyes. We were lucky to get the repairs done so quick, as it gave us just enough time to hit up the aquarium. We needed to ride just 12km to get there, and a nice tunnel took us through a mountain range instead of us having to go over it. I was tired, the stress of the string of repairs really getting to me. But we arrived with an hour and a half til closing and got to see the aquarium which was a big white building tucked up against sea cliffs on the sea of Japan. I felt instantly more at ease, the temperature feeling more moderate by the water, which was calm as the day went on. The aquarium was lovely, with an obvious focus on jellyfish. I don't usually like aquariums or zoos due to what appears to be inadequate facilities for the inhabitants, but jellyfish in a tank? I don't think jellyfish care, or have the ability to care. This is like having a series of terrariums in my mind, jellyfish are one step above insects in my mind. And jellies they had, loads and loads of jellies, some on the larger side and lots of teeny tiny ones that almost can't be seen at all without magnification. They really do look like little automatons, just wiggling around. The tanks were all very tastefully lit, highlighting UV reactive cells, long streaming tendrils (that I'm sure have a proper name), and rainbow shimmering reflective cells that look deceptively like teeny tiny LEDs on little ridges. The prime attraction was the dream theatre, a dark room with a 5m tall tank circulating with hundreds or thousands of jellies and lit with a dreamy blue and purple light. We saw posters of famous artists performing in front of the jellyfish tank, the theatre being aptly named. We missed out on the jellyfish ramen noodles, it being a bit too late in the day, but we did get to enjoy the late day views from on top of the aquarium. Why did we ever leave the ocean? Flat roads, sunsets unmarred by dumb terrain, beaches. It's the best. I love beaches. Looking at the map, we'd have to cover 120km to get to Akita to take the ferry to hokkaido, so we decided to cover some ground while we still had light so as to not overload the next day should something happen. On we went. We zoomed past pastel-lit beaches, seeing folks sitting in pairs, waiting for the sunset. We've seen people stop right on highways if they have a good view of the sunset. We had no such time to enjoy it today. An hour or so later, we covered 20km to Sakata. Bryce wanted fried chicken for dinner, so we went to a takeout place and got way too much chicken for the two of us to eat. It can be hard to tell what you're getting, as one piece of karaage can be anything from a morsel to a meal, in this case we had more of a meal per piece along with rice and cabbage. We got some drinks from a vending machine and ate the food by a river, watching the water go by as the light faded. For once, we couldn't finish all the food, which was a shock. I always finish the food. Good job, random chicken place, you win this round. I found a big empty looking beach in the middle of nowhere on the map about 10km north of our position, so we prepared to set out for a night ride. Rain was in the forecast for the next morning, which meant we needed a private place that we wouldn't be bothered for an extended time during daylight hours. And we'd need to reduce our kilometers for the next day as we'd probably have to bike some of it in the rain, which sucks. As we were biking through the city, we happened upon a summer festival, people filling the streets. The usual assortment of festival treats didn't steal our attention, but I stopped for a moment to examine a line of white painted ladies in front of a stage that were talking turns talking about something or another. If only we had the time to watch the performance! We instead used our valuable time biking to a convenience store to one again get water, food, and some canned coffee for the next morning. Always an exciting time. We left the city, things now fully dark. The highway was not the best, lots of cracks and parts filled in with patches, and my focus wasn't the best. Obstructions become much harder to see in the light of a headlight, even harder to see when you have to use the dimmest setting as the headlamp always seems to be close to dying. My body bitched that it was the wrong time of day to be biking, I should already be setting up camp and kicking back, not pressing for an extra 10km. We did eventually make it to the beach intact, if a bit worn out, rolling down a sandy road until we had to push our bikes over dune-encrusted paths. Nobody here except a handful of night fishers, but they only care about fish. We pushed our bikes along the beach until we found a lonely pair of shelters for picnics and began setting up there. It seemed like a good spot, and we could tie up the tarp for extra rain protection. Giant wind fences on the beach would help with any gusts coming off the sea, but we weren't expecting a lot of wind anyways. Feeling like I'd have extra time in the morning, I got to sleep instead, feeling more tired than ever. It was late in the morning when we were ready to go, rain gear donned and our spirits as high as they would be all day. We had 95km to ride, half a day to do it, and we were already soaked. On we went. Rice planting is in full swing now, everywhere we go there's farmers hurredly planting thousands of tiny sprouts in prepared fields. Early on there was a bit of a roadside attraction in the form of a curiously coloured pond, which we dutifully checked out. The pond was indeed a brilliant blue green colour and very clear, like the water of some onsens we've seen. Reading a sign, the pond was the source of the little rivers nearby and the water was extremely cold which kept it from fouling. As we rode, the mist rising off the hills looked like smoke. We hoped the rain would turn to just mist soon. Wiping my face for the hundredth time, we slowly pedaled on. Rain pants tug on my skin, making knee pain feel more prominent. We bike slower too, I think the water on the road is just harder to bike on. Feels like slow motion compared to fair weather riding. After 30km, I needed to stop and get some real food in me, I found a mandarin restaurant serving spicy ramen, which sounded perfect for a cold, stiff day like this. We left our dripping rain gear outside where it might get slightly dryer simply by gravity, and went in, still sorta dripping anyways. Inside, the restaurant was filled to the brim with knickknacks and collectables and was bright and cheery despite the weather outside. I found a place to plug in my headlamp and we both ordered big bowls of spicy soup and colas for the sugar and caffeine boost we'd need to keep going. The soup was flavorful and delicious, with a ground pork that was sweet instead of savoury. Last time I made sweet pork it was kinda gross so it was neat to have a sweet pork that wasn't bad. I ate my whole bowl, needing all the calories I could get, and settled down a bit to check the radar for the area. As can be expected for the coast, the weather was temperamental. It was good we got going, as the section behind us was being hammered, while we could expect a bit of a reprieve from the rain as we moved forward. That was about as good as we could hope for and with the clock striking 2 (and playing a song) in the restaurant, we departed. The sky brightening a bit from a dreary grey to a less dreary grey, our moods lifted for a while while our jackets dried off in the breeze. The sights were beautiful, in a desolate sort of way. Something about staring off into seemingly infinite ocean is unsettling to me. The evergreens on rocky spits in the ocean reminded us of the west coast trail, a few unbothered sections of coast here and there revealing what this land is supposed to look like under all the concrete pylons and coast management techniques Japan loves. After an hour, I began having some real issues. My heart rate had spiked, my vision was a little odd, and I was starting to not feel well. Not good. I drank a bunch of water, which helped, but eventually my body decided the spicy ramen was too oily and spicy for my guts and I went to destroy a convenience store. I felt better after, but I really should know better by now. There's so much oil in the cooking here though, it's hard to avoid sometimes. We kept riding, now with no rain gear and keeping up a respectable pace. We went on a desolate road, giant windmills standing guard on the coast overlooking fields of windburnt trees all bent away from the water. Looks like this coast gets absolutely hammered by the wind, maybe I shouldn't complain too much about the rain if it's not windy as well. Things were looking up, our pace put us on schedule to arrive at 6, well before dark which put us in better spirits. Better spirits until Bryce's tire blew out. Pulling apart the tire layers, incredulous that the so-called "flatless" tires would fail us now, we found a shard of black glass stabbed straight through the thickest part of the tire and a centimeter into the tube section. Well there's no bike tire on earth that can survive that, that one's just bad luck. We felt a little better about that as we set about replacing it. At least with the new rim Bryce had it was much less of a fight to get the tire on and off to replace the tube. Getting the bead to set was a pain, Bryce cycled the tube pressure three times and we even soaped the edge to get it to budge. It seemed good enough to me, but the rim of the tire definitely seemed a little inconsistent. The rain starting again, we debated what we should do, I argued that if he was careful and avoided bumps the bead might set itself and we didn't have any other techniques we could try. He wasn't able to pull the tire over any more and my hands were too weak to be of much help. We were wet and cold by this point, so Bryce agreed with this and we remounted and got moving. We could always take the train if we had to, but that wasn't an option we wanted to do just yet. I was in the rear and I could immediately see and hear something was wrong with Bryce's bike, even though I was focused on the tire bead to see if it was setting properly. It looked like his front and back tires were tracking different paths and one or both seemed to be leaning? I know the front tire had a hub issue so I thought maybe they're just a bit off but after a while I called a halt as it looked just too messed up not to try reseating the axle. While we were redoing the rear axle, we discovered that a bolt holding the rear pannier rack was close to coming out altogether, the source of the terrible rattling I've been hearing for weeks now! That was a relief to fix, and the wheel seemed to be sitting better. Now we were quite a bit later, projections looking more like 7 o'clock and getting dark by the time we got to the city. The sky was getting lighter, but it was the sun starting to sink below the cloud layer, signaling the end of the day and the last of our riding light. I was so tired by this point, bone tired. The rain makes every kilometer feel like two, I was sneezing again, feeling sad. Lots of harsh feelings were welling up, life starting to roar back into focus as all the things I pushed away for the past year demanded answers right now. I tried my best to file away the petitions as I could, but mostly I just tried to keep my head up as my mood sunk lower with the sun. My sinuses decided they'd had enough and shut down, making my head feel like it was a size too big. In the last light of the day we got to Akita, the end of our Tohoku adventure. The kindness of the people we met saved us from finding the whole region cursed. I demanded burgers and fries to lift my soggy mood, nothing in my tool box keeping me happy. Luckily there was a good looking place near our hotel to try and it was a countertop kinda place. We went in to find a fully charming establishment full of locals and a pair of chefs working the counter. I was feeling just awful but Bryce had a good time interacting with people. Everyone was very curious about the two colourful and very wet foreigners who had wandered in after parking very large and heavy bikes. I joined in on the answers, having the better language skills whenever Bryce couldn't parse what was being asked, but I was more focused on the pile of fries and the chili burger I ordered. People were flabbergasted that we came all the way from the southern end of the country, the chefs assuming we must have come from Tokyo instead. Some of the other patrons started rattling off Canadians they knew, with Justin Bieber ("Justinoo Beeberu!") and Celine Dion topping the list. I ordered a BLT sandwich as I was still starving even after a whole meal. The chef brought over a bottle of nice sake to have as a toast to the brave travellers, which I had to refuse as I would like to recover from this cold sometime this century. There's so much booze that it's hard not to here. To alleviate the embarrassment of having to refuse the booze, he offered me a ginger ale instead, which I graciously accepted. The other chef laughed as they pulled out a bottle "Canada Dry" she said, to the laughter of the bar. Taste of home in a strange place. I polished off my BLT (and considered a second) and while I'm sure Bryce could have spent all evening taking free shots of excellent sake with the bartender, we had to be up early, so we said our goodbyes and waved as we wheeled our bikes into the dark city. I left in a good mood, but tired as hell. Bryce was positivity beaming from the fun interactions, and the four drinks he had. The hotel was nearby, so it wasn't too hard. A parking attendant ushered us to a spot near the guardhouse, and we locked up there. He asked us when we were thinking of getting the bikes the next day, and when we said 430 in the morning he was a little taken aback. He understood that the ferry was early but that was too early for him. The hotel room was nice enough, but all I wanted was a bath and sleep. There were bath salts at the front desk and we took turns soaking in the tub. I wasted no time, doing my thing, arranging my clothes for the morning, setting an alarm and going to sleep. 415 would be just around the corner. |
2024.05.21 13:11 Sweet-Count2557 Best Restaurants in Sheridan Il
 | Best Restaurants in Sheridan Il Welcome, food enthusiasts, to our guide on the best restaurants in Sheridan, IL!Join us as we embark on a culinary journey through this charming town, where delectable dishes and unique dining experiences await.From juicy burgers at the historic Norway Store to authentic Italian fare at Francesca Pizza, we've got you covered.Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a wide range of options, all while enjoying the freedom of choice in this gastronomic paradise.Let's dive in and discover the hidden gems that Sheridan has to offer!Key TakeawaysNorway Store is a convenient option for filling up gas and buying necessities, known for their juicy burgers.Francesca Pizza offers authentic Italian flavors with a variety of pizza options.Calico Cafe is a cozy spot known for their brunch menu and classic favorites like pancakes and biscuits and gravy.Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace in Somonauk is a must-try for pizza lovers with a wide range of pizza selections.Norway Store and Francesca PizzaOur favorite restaurant in Sheridan is Norway Store and Francesca Pizza. Located at 3654 IL-71, Norway Store is a historic establishment that has been serving the community since 1848. While they offer breakfast and lunch dishes, their juicy burgers are the main highlight. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or filling up your gas tank, Norway Store is a convenient stop for all your needs.Francesca Pizza, on the other hand, opened its doors in 2003 and has been delighting locals with its authentic Italian flavors ever since. Situated at 3653 E 2631st Rd, Francesca Pizza specializes in Italian dishes, including mouthwatering pasta and pizza options. Their commitment to using the freshest ingredients and traditional recipes ensures that every bite is a taste of Italy.At Norway Store and Francesca Pizza, burger lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice. Norway Store offers a variety of burger options, each one more delicious than the last. From classic cheeseburgers to unique creations like their signature 'Norway Burger,' there's something to satisfy every craving.Meanwhile, Francesca Pizza's menu boasts an array of pizza options, each one bursting with authentic Italian flavors. From the traditional Margherita to specialty pizzas like the Quattro Formaggi, you can expect a symphony of flavors with every bite.As we move on to the next section about Calico Cafe and Cadillac Grill, we can assure you that the dining experiences in Sheridan are abundant and diverse.Calico Cafe and Cadillac GrillAnd let's not forget about Calico Cafe and Cadillac Grill, where we can enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy atmosphere.Calico Cafe is one of the best brunch spots in Sheridan Il. They've been serving the community since 1999, offering a variety of classic favorites like pancakes and biscuits and gravy. The cozy atmosphere of Calico Cafe adds to the overall dining experience, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch with friends or family.On the other hand, Cadillac Grill, which is now permanently closed, was known for its laid-back ambiance. Opened in 2015, it quickly became popular among locals for serving classic diner favorites. The nostalgic vibe and relaxed atmosphere made it a favorite spot for many.Both Calico Cafe and Cadillac Grill offered unique dining experiences. While Calico Cafe provided a cozy and inviting atmosphere, Cadillac Grill had a more laid-back ambiance. Whether you were in the mood for a comforting brunch or a relaxed diner experience, these restaurants catered to different preferences.Now, let's move on to the next section where we'll explore Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace, a must-visit for pizza lovers.Uncle Miltys Pizza PalaceWhen it comes to Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace, the first thing that stands out is their wide range of pizza selections. Whether you're a fan of classic cheese pizza or prefer more adventurous toppings, Uncle Miltys has something for everyone.In addition to their delicious pizzas, the quality of service at Uncle Miltys is top-notch, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all pizza lovers.Pizza Selection at Uncle MiltysLet's explore the diverse pizza selection at Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace. When it comes to pizza, Uncle Miltys offers a quality that's unmatched. The ingredients are fresh and the crust is perfectly crispy. You can choose from a variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni to unique combinations like BBQ chicken and pineapple. The flavors are bold and satisfying, making every bite a delight.Not only does Uncle Miltys excel in pizza, but they also have a variety of pasta options that are worth trying. From traditional spaghetti and meatballs to creamy fettuccine Alfredo, there's something for everyone.Whether you're in the mood for pizza or pasta, Uncle Miltys has you covered with their delicious and diverse menu.Quality of Service at Uncle MiltysWe were impressed by the quality of service at Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace. The staff was attentive and friendly, making us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. They were quick to take our orders and ensured that our drinks were always refilled.The wait time for our food was minimal, and when it arrived, it was hot and freshly made. The pizza selection at Uncle Miltys is extensive, offering a variety of toppings and crust options to suit every preference.In comparison to Francesca Pizza, Uncle Miltys stood out with their generous portions and flavorful combinations. The quality of service combined with the delicious pizza options make Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace a must-visit for pizza lovers in Sheridan.The Country KitchenThe Country Kitchen is one of the top restaurants in Sheridan Il, offering delicious Southern favorites in a homey ambiance. When you step into The Country Kitchen, you'll immediately feel the warm and welcoming atmosphere that's characteristic of Southern comfort. The charming ambiance adds to the overall dining experience, creating a relaxed and cozy setting for enjoying a meal.Here are three reasons why The Country Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant in Sheridan Il:Authentic Southern Flavors: The Country Kitchen takes pride in serving traditional Southern comfort favorites that will satisfy your cravings. From crispy fried chicken and creamy mac and cheese to mouthwatering biscuits and gravy, their menu is filled with dishes that will transport you to a Southern kitchen. Each bite is bursting with rich and comforting flavors that will leave you wanting more.Homestyle Cooking: At The Country Kitchen, you can expect homestyle cooking at its finest. The chefs use fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes to create dishes that are reminiscent of home-cooked meals. Whether you're ordering their famous chicken and waffles or a plate of smoky barbecue ribs, you can be sure that every dish is made with love and care.Welcoming Atmosphere: The Country Kitchen not only offers delicious food but also provides a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family. The friendly staff will greet you with a smile and ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of excellent. Whether you're dining alone or with a group of friends, The Country Kitchen is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy a satisfying meal.As we transition to the next section about the 'New Hong Kong Restaurant', let's explore another culinary adventure that awaits you in Sheridan Il.New Hong Kong RestaurantLocated in Streamwood, the New Hong Kong Restaurant highlights Asian cuisine flavors and is a must-visit if passing through Streamwood. With its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience for anyone craving authentic Asian dishes. From savory stir-fries to delectable noodle soups, New Hong Kong Restaurant has something for everyone.One of the standout items on the menu at New Hong Kong Restaurant is their Egg Rolls. Made with a combination of cabbage, peanut butter, shrimp, and chicken, these crispy delights are wrapped in a flour wrap and deep-fried until golden brown. The combination of flavors and textures in each bite is truly satisfying.To complement the Egg Rolls, the restaurant also offers a variety of main dishes that are highly recommended. The New Hong Kong Fried Rice is a popular choice, featuring a fragrant blend of rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the Spicy Pork Ribs are a must-try. Tender and packed with flavor, these ribs are sure to satisfy your cravings.If you're planning to visit New Hong Kong Restaurant and are in need of accommodation nearby, we recommend the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Chicago-Hoffman. Located just a short distance away, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient amenities to ensure a pleasant stay during your visit.Whether you're a fan of Asian cuisine or simply looking to try something new, New Hong Kong Restaurant is a fantastic choice. With its flavorful dishes and welcoming ambiance, it's no wonder why this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. So, if you find yourself in Streamwood, be sure to stop by and indulge in the delicious flavors of New Hong Kong Restaurant.Last Chance SaloonAt the Last Chance Saloon, you can enjoy a wide range of drink selections and American food in a popular bar and restaurant located in Millington, IL. Here are some reasons why you should visit the Last Chance Saloon:Chill Atmosphere: The Last Chance Saloon offers a laid-back and relaxed ambiance, making it the perfect place to hang out with friends or celebrate birthdays with your loved ones. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere create a sense of freedom and enjoyment.Extensive Drink Selections: Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing cocktail, a cold beer, or a smooth whiskey, the Last Chance Saloon has got you covered. Their wide range of drink options ensures that there's something for everyone, allowing you to unwind and enjoy your favorite beverage.Best Dishes: When it comes to food, the Last Chance Saloon doesn't disappoint. Some of their best dishes include:Loaded Nachos: Indulge in a plate of loaded nachos topped with seasoned beef, tomato, jalapeño, onion, black olives, nacho cheese, and shredded cheddar. Served with salsa and sour cream on the side, it's the perfect appetizer to share with friends.Texas Burger: Sink your teeth into the mouthwatering Texas Burger, featuring BBQ sauce, bacon, and cheddar cheese on a pretzel bun. This delicious burger is a crowd favorite and is sure to satisfy your cravings.Classic American Fare: From juicy burgers to crispy chicken tenders and flavorful wings, the Last Chance Saloon offers a variety of classic American dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied.Serena CafeFor a delicious dining experience in Sheridan, IL, we recommend checking out Serena Cafe, located in Serena, IL. Serena Cafe is a charming diner that offers a cozy atmosphere and excellent service. It is the perfect choice for those seeking a warm and welcoming place to enjoy a meal.Serena CafeLocationSerena, ILContact2274 US-52Serena, IL 60549Phone Number(815) 496-9003At Serena Cafe, you can indulge in a variety of mouthwatering dishes. One highly recommended option is the Stella Burger. This delicious creation features a juicy meat patty topped with crispy bacon, grilled onions, Swiss cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce. It is served with a side of crispy chips, providing the perfect balance of flavors and textures.To end your meal on a sweet note, be sure to try one of Serena Cafe's delectable pies. Whether you prefer classic apple or rich chocolate cream, their pies are sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.Located in Serena, IL, Serena Cafe is not far from the Sheridan area. So, whether you're a local or just passing through, it's worth stopping by for a meal. The cozy atmosphere and excellent service will make you feel right at home. Don't forget to check out the nearby Holiday Inn Club Vacations Fox River Resort for a comfortable stay after your dining experience at Serena Cafe.With its cozy atmosphere and excellent service, Serena Cafe is a must-visit restaurant in Sheridan, IL. So, gather your friends or family and head over to Serena Cafe for a delightful dining experience. You won't be disappointed.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Are the Operating Hours of the Norway Store and Francesca Pizza?The operating hours of Norway Store and Francesca Pizza aren't provided in the given context. However, as experts on the best restaurants in Sheridan Il, we can provide you with detailed information on these establishments.Norway Store, established in 1848, offers breakfast and lunch dishes, including juicy burgers. It's conveniently located at 3654 IL-71, Sheridan, IL 60551.Francesca Pizza, opened in 2003, serves authentic Italian dishes such as pasta and pizza. It's located at 3653 E 2631st Rd, Sheridan, IL 60551.Are Vegetarian Options Available at Calico Cafe and Cadillac Grill?Yes, vegetarian options are available at Calico Cafe and Cadillac Grill. Both restaurants offer a variety of dishes that cater to vegetarians.At Calico Cafe, you can enjoy classic favorites like pancakes and biscuits and gravy, which can be made vegetarian-friendly.Cadillac Grill, although permanently closed, was known for serving classic diner favorites, including vegetarian options.Vegetarian dining has many benefits, and these local restaurants provide popular vegetarian dishes to satisfy vegetarian diners in Sheridan.Does Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace Offer Delivery Services?Yes, Uncle Miltys Pizza Palace does offer delivery services.It's one of the best pizza places in Sheridan, IL. They've a wide range of pizza selections to choose from and provide quality service.Whether you're craving a classic cheese pizza or a specialty pie, Uncle Miltys has got you covered.Their delivery services ensure that you can enjoy their delicious pizzas in the comfort of your own home.Does the Country Kitchen Have a Kids' Menu?Yes, the Country Kitchen does have a kids' menu. They offer a variety of dishes that are perfect for children. Some of the best options for kids include classic favorites like pancakes and biscuits and gravy.The cozy ambiance of the restaurant makes it a great place for families to enjoy a relaxing meal together. So, if you're looking for a restaurant in Sheridan, the Country Kitchen is a must-visit, especially if you have children.Are Reservations Required at New Hong Kong Restaurant?Reservations at New Hong Kong Restaurant aren't required, but they're recommended during peak hours. The restaurant's policy allows for walk-ins, but making a reservation ensures that you have a table waiting for you.During busy times, such as weekends or dinner hours, it's advisable to book in advance to avoid any potential wait times. Keep in mind that the popularity of the restaurant may result in longer waiting periods without a reservation.ConclusionAs we conclude our journey through the best restaurants in Sheridan, IL, we can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and anticipation for the culinary delights that await.From the juicy burgers at the historic Norway Store to the cozy brunch spot at Calico Cafe, each dining establishment has left a lasting impression.So, whether you're craving Italian dishes, pizza, Southern favorites, or Asian cuisine, Sheridan has a variety of options to satisfy every palate.Embark on your own gastronomic adventure and savor the flavors of Sheridan today. submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.05.21 11:07 CringeyVal0451 Maple Walnut Pie
Kadillac Kirk had been a good friend of mine for several years. I had met him through friends from The Spring Stage; and he never had anything to do with The Imp, which is why he didn’t appear in the Married Mary saga. Mary would have totally thrown herself at him, and Kirk would have definitely “thrown it in her.” He loved the ladies and often remarked that there was no such thing as an unappealing woman, nor was there anything sweeter than finding the pearl of passion in an outwardly plain dame. Fortunately for Kirk, he never met Mary. This was probably fortunate for Mary as well, seeing as Kirk was a confirmed bachelor and his rakish nature might have broken her fat heart.
Kirk was an older guy. Not MOE old, though. He was in his early forties, but he easily passed for a carefree dude in his 30s... not that he lied about his age. I only mention this trait to juxtapose Kirk’s genuine youthful air with Moe’s unconvincing youthful farce. Kirk dressed normally, avoided stupid jargon, and never busted out gimmicks like tarot cards or spells. He just existed, behaved affably, and people liked him for it.
He drove a classic 1962 Cadillac El Dorado convertible with red leather interior, and he lived in a charmingly quaint (and ridiculously expensive) neighborhood. How he made his fortune remained a mystery, but he never bloviated about his wealth. He just threw spectacular parties and people showed up. And, to my knowledge, he never tried to lure women into bed with his money (although I’m sure he got his fair share of boom-boom thanks to his digs and his wheels, even if the gold-diggers denied their monetary agendas).
Kirk was legitimately handsome. He was a drummer, he had a full head of black hair, he was clean-shaven, he worked out, and he knew all the hidden gems in Wellsprings. So why hadn’t I tried... or even desired to date him? I don’t know. I just didn’t feel drawn to him like that. He felt like a cool uncle and he had, thus far, never done anything to change my perception. Plus, the age difference weirded me out a little. Kirk didn’t look forty; but knowing that he had so much more life experience than I did created a power imbalance that would have creeped me out if we’d been dating. As buddies, I just felt supremely cool riding in his Cadillac, smoking Fantasia cigarettes, and hitting the speakeasies and jazz clubs I would have never known about if it weren’t for Kirk’s connections.
And he had been a good person to talk to about my romantic woes. He never lecherously suggested that I should date him, and he gave the type of tempered advice that only comes with lived experience. But he often lightly mocked me for my crush on Dennis and he did a hilarious impression of Smegal popping too soon over his “precious.” So when Mary “got me back” by doing whatever she didwith to Dennis, I called Kadillac Kirk and told him the drinks were on me if he’d be my designated driver for the night.
Why hadn’t I called Whisky??? Well, A) Kirk was way more fun to hang out with, at least from my past experiences up to that point. And B) I needed to bitch about a boy, something I couldn’t do in good conscience in front of a guy I was dating. So I put on the sexiest plunging halter dress I owned, applied heavy eye makeup and spikey accessories, braved a pair of stilettos, and sashayed out to Kirk’s convertible. I felt like a badass rock star. I probably looked like a try-hard hooker.
Kirk: Daaaaay-um! Somebody really did do a number on you, huh? I know you said you were upset, but the gents are gonna be writing thank you notes to that fat girl and that butt-fucking hobbit.
Me: I just need to feel pretty and numb. And I trust you to keep me from making a fool of myself.
Kirk squeezed my shoulder. “I’ve got you. You do whatever you need to do to get rid of these demons.”
He sparked up a J and offered me the first puff. I gladly accepted. He took one puff of his own, but said that the rest was mine since he didn’t want to drive stoned. See? He was responsible! Weed wasn’t legal in California yet, so I got a little bit baked before I stashed the sativa in the glove box and wrapped a scarf around my hair like a starlet from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Kirk sped out of the parking lot and said he was taking me to a downtown hotel that was hosting a party that night in their lush lobby.
Kadillac Kirk pulled up to the main entrance, paid the valet, and then opened my door. I was wobbly from the weed. And I had stupidly decided to wear heels. You can get high or you can wear high (heels). You can’t have both. Not if you’ve repeatedly injured both ankles (as I have). I had to take Kirk’s arm to keep from keeling over. “Can people tell I’m stoned?” I whispered. Kirk replied, “Nobody’s paying any attention to anyone else’s intoxication. I promise you that much.” I nodded, steadied myself, and strutted alongside my very cool friend, feeling a little more confident.
A live jazz orchestra was playing Cole Porter as we entered the lobby. Everything sparkled. The music was even more intoxicating than the spliff had been. “Just One of Those Things” brought tears to my eyes since the lyrics hit every raw nerve regarding the Dennis debacle. But I smiled. It might sound mental, but being distraught over a trash fire of a one-sided romance was exhilarating. Immature, for sure. But also exhilarating. You see, that kind of sadness doesn’t hurt. Not really. It stings. It leaves little bruises, but it’s very safe to wallow in because you haven’t actually lost anything. Melancholia over that which you never had is as sweet as it is bitter; and that type of twisted splendor is rivaled only by Stendhal.
“Here's hoping we meet now and then. It was great fun, but it was just one of those things.” I sang along with the band, and a fat tear rolled down past my melancholic smile and onto my chin. Kirk brushed it aside. “Too close to home?” I wiped away the remnants of the tear’s journey from eye to chin and smiled a more genuine smile. “The perfect distance from home. Shall we get drinks? Remember, I’m buying.”
Kirk: No, no. This is your time to heal. And I’m here as your pal, not your chauffeur. What would the lady like?”
I pretended to barf. Kirk knew I hated it when he got overly formal and overly attentive. So he did it just to mess with me. “Shot of vodka,” I replied.
Kirk: How many?
I thought briefly. “FIVE.”
Kirk: Five to one, baby. One in five...
Me: No one here gets out alive.
Kirk: Are you able to hold yourself upright, or should you come with?
I took a seat on an ornate, damask-upholstered chaise lounge. “I’ll be okay. And I was kidding about the five shots.”
I sat there lost in the music for a while. I thought very little about Dennis. Even less about Mary. And not at all about Whisky (whom I had shagged less than a week ago). My mind danced through the ornate lighting in the hotel lobby, and I suddenly felt the need to join the hoity-toity guests on the dancefloor!
Kirk returned with four shots of vodka. Two for him, two for me. That was quite reasonable of him. He knew damn well that I couldn’t handle five shots, but he also knew that I was in a... state. One that called for more than a single shot. I raised a both miniature glasses to “No more ninnyhammers or hairy-footed lovers.” Kirk did his hilarious Smegal impression, we double-toasted, and downed the shots. The band launched into “Let’s Misbehave,” and I kicked off my stilettos and made a beeline for the dance floor.
“There’s something wild about you child that’s so contagious. Let’s be outrageous! Let’s misbehave.” Kadillac Kirk swept me up, twirled me around, and dipped me as we both sang along with the lyrics. I wasn’t swooning for him, but I was enthralled by the moment. The music, the dancing, the combination of booze and bud... so I kissed him as he pulled me back to my feet. And he kissed back. In a way that Dennis never had. In a way that Whisky’s beard wouldn’t permit. I didn’t feel the visceral sensations that I’d felt when Dennis had kissed me, but it felt nice to feel desired. And then I noticed that other guests were watching us and applauding. Now, that was a dopamine rush if ever there was one!
I gently broke away from the embrace, high-fived Kirk and returned to the chaise lounge to put my stupid shoes back on. He followed me and smashed his face back onto mine. I pulled away and laughed. “It was a moment,” I told him. “I appreciate the dance, and that kiss was the perfect finale. But it’s not happening again.”
Kirk: Not to worry, Valerie. I know you. I knew all along that we were performing, and I was more than happy to be your scene partner.
Me: And dance partner! Those were some excellent moves! I didn’t know you had ballroom training.
Kirk: You name it, I’ve mastered it. Another drink for the lady?
I pretended to barf again. “Not yet. I’m not sad right now. Do you mind if I just sit here and enjoy the music?”
Kirk: Ah. My kisses do have healing properties...
I flipped my hand up at him. “Knock that shit off, bro. I wanted to hang out with you because I trust you not to get weird. Even if I get weird, I know you have the maturity to balance me out.”
Kirk: Are you calling me old???
Me: No. I’m calling you rational, responsible, and respectful.
Kirk: Well, now. If you can articulate an alliterative statement that fluently, then you clearly aren’t drunk enough!
I dismissed this comment as a joke. And he did indeed knock off the flirtation. We had a perfectly pleasant time chatting and dancing (no more kissing, though). And then I noticed a girl I knew from Into the Woods entering the lobby. She’d played Florinda and I’d played Little Red. I called her name and waved enthusiastically. She waved back. And then her date entered. It was D.E.N.N.I.S. I sank into the chaise. Kirk caught on immediately. “The hobbit???” he asked. I nodded silently. “You wanna make out again?” he enthused. I shook my head. I had to go say hello to Flo. And I had an idea...
I crossed the lobby, smiled, squealed, and hugged her.
Florinda: Lil’ Red! It’s been forever! So glad to see you!!! This is my friend, Denny.
From the corner of my eye. I could see Dennis shifting uncomfortably. I refused to look directly at him, neglected to acknowledge Flo's introduction and continued to converse only with her. "So glad to see you, too! What have you been up to since we left the woods?"
Dennis: C’mon, Val...
Florinda (appearing oblivious to the iciness between me and Dennis): Oh, I had some drama after the show closed. I'll have to tell you about it some other time... Have you seen Prince Big Bad (Scumbanger) lately?
I laughed. “Last time I saw him, he was hitting on some nasty fat chick at The Imp.”
Flo and I both scoffed at the pervy pest. Into the Woods was where I’d initially met Scumbanger. He played The Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince. Again... typecasting. There’s a whole essay in my brain about my first encounter with the pest, during which he quoted the song that he sang to me in the show, “Hello, Little Girl.” But it gets into some pretty uncomfortable territory because he made me feel... excited. Well, excited and scared. Nothing of note happened during Into the Woods, but our odd interactions did kind of set the stage for some extremely regrettable events during that Cats cast party.
I excused myself, saying that I needed to get back to my friend. And then I leaned in and said in a hushed voice to Flo, “Watch your ass with that one. If he’s the Denny I’m thinking of...” I gave her a look that only another female would be able to read. Her eyebrows shot up and she nodded. Dennis continued to shift as though he were trying to hold in a massive dump. “BABE! Uh...”
Flo apparently answered to that moniker as well. “What is it, Denny? Don’t worry. That was just telepathic girl talk. You apparently have a reputation...”
Dennis: Different Denny. I assure you I’m a pious gentleman.
Me: Ah. My mistake. Well, then. You guys have a good time! They’re playing Cole Porter, and the band is delovely. Great to see you, Flo!
I hugged Flo again, gave Dennis a curt nod, ignored the scent of mandarins and mountain air, and returned to Kirk.
I collapsed on the chaise lounge, exhausted from holding back the rage. I had no right to be mad at Florinda. I hadn’t seen her in three years, so how was she supposed to know that I’d had a thing with Dennis? Hell, I couldn’t even be mad at Dennis because the last time he and I had spoken in any meaningful way, I’d told him that I was no longer entertaining my crush on him. So why was I surprised to see him dating??? And why had he never taken ME out on a date like this??? And why wasn’t I smitten with Kadillac Kirk who HAD taken me out on a date like this, was an objectively excellent kisser, and a bona fide BALLER? What was wrong with me???
Kirk suggested going down the street to a quaint little bar and then sobering up at a diner closer to my apartment. I numbly nodded and followed him in silence for a few blocks. He assured me that I had “turned several heads” on the way to the new location, but I neither cared nor believed him. This wasn't the type of numbness I'd been aiming for. Now I needed to get schnockered. “Five shots of vodka, please.” Yes, I was serious.
Kadillac Kirk, my reliable designated driver, ordered only a beer and watched in something across between astonishment, concern, and delight as I slammed all five shots in rapid succession. I half expected to immediately retch all over the bar. But I felt fine. I half expected to immediately lose consciousness and wake up in the hospital. But I remained coherent. How I’d managed to take in that much hard liquor and suffer no direct consequences, I’ll never know.
I think I wanted to suffer. I wanted to either feel nothing at all or to feel a sickness bad enough to distract me from the scorching sting that pulsed through my being when I realized that I had lost the abstract notion I’d been addicted to this entire time. Hope. It wasn’t Dennis himself I couldn’t quit. It was that drug called hope. The hope that maybe, just maybe Dennis would give our romance a fair chance. The hope that maybe, just maybe he would make peace with himself, get his mind out of his crotch, and enjoy some agenda-free togetherness. The hope that maybe, just maybe he would stop bloviating about his admittedly impressive accomplishments for five fucking minutes and ask about my life. I had my own reasonably impressive accomplishments, even if they paled in comparison to his. A proper suitor would have enjoyed hearing about them.
But seeing him out with another woman, a woman who had no reason to parade her Dennis escapades before me as some means of revenge, a woman he was clearly courting of his own volition... My hope had died. It died before I’d had time to wean myself off it. Now I had to mourn the loss of hope, which is a very tricky brand of grief to navigate. Vodka wasn’t the answer, but it was what I had to work with. So it would have to do.
After enough time had passed without vomiting or collapsing, I asked Kirk to bring his car around to the bar so that I didn’t have to walk two and a half blocks drunk and in heels. He nodded and dramatically leaned in for a kiss. I recoiled. “DUDE! I told you. The moment has passed.”
Kirk: I beg your pardon. I misread your eyes. Thought I saw a green light...
Me: It’s fine. I just want to go home while I’m still feeling okay.
Kirk: Of course. Your chariot will be here soon.
He skipped off to fetch his Cadillac and I noticed that the lights in the bar were beginning to dance a bit. This should have been concerning. But then I realized that I was giggling. Wait... What? Oh shit. Sure, I was drunk from those shots. But what I was feeling in that moment wasn’t drunkery. It was stonery. Kirk probably misread my face because my pupils were dilated. Not from desire, but from drug use.
Some of you might be thinking that I was a bad friend for not introducing Lucy, an old dude connoisseur, to Kirk. Well... I did. Several years before the events of this story. He adored her. She, on the other hand, thought he was immature. And she wasn’t wrong. Lucy was astute when it came to sussing out a person’s true nature. Far more astute than I. Her initial assessment that Kirk was immature is about to be vindicated. Stretch those cringe muscles! It’s almost time for pie...
I somehow managed to get to his car. I honestly don’t recall how I got there. Did one of the bartenders carry me? Did some kind patron allow me to lean on him? Had Kadillac Kirk carried me out? I’m not sure. But my memory ceases to be fuzzy about halfway to the 24-hour diner. It might have been the very same 24-hour diner where Mary pulled her... shenanigans. I’ll never know.
Kirk: Would you say that you’re more drunk or more stoned?
Me: STONED. Definitely stoned.
Kirk made some sort of grunty noise and reached for my thigh. I slapped his hand.
Kirk: Stoned but not amorous? That’s rare.
I started laughing rather unkindly. “You’re a fucking horndog! I thought you were my safe straight male friend, dammit.”
Kirk: I solemnly swear that your safety is my primary concern, my stoned beauty.
I pretended to throw up.
Kirk: So... You’re not horny. But are you hungry? The diner I’m heading to makes this Maple Walnut Pie with the most sumptuous... sensual cream and exquisite drizzling of...
Me: Ew! Stop trying to bang the pie. Bro. Are YOU stoned? (Then I remembered the question.) Yes, I’m hungry. But I don’t like nuts. I’ll have banana cream.
Kirk made that repulsive grunty noise again. “Uhhhhh... Mmmmmm. Cream. Yessssss. Yes, we’ll be there in just a minute.” He was squirming in the driver's seat.
Me: GROSS, DUDE! If you’re gonna be like that I’ll just order HASH brows. Get it? Hash??? (I giggled.) You can’t make that sound nasty.
Kirk: Forgive my jokes. I think my blood sugar’s a bit low.
As Kirk parked, I began to wonder how I might get away with walking shoeless into the diner. The stilettos had to get off my feet. At least while I was walking. And Kirk was kind enough to give me his socks and wear his loafers “island style” into the establishment. Okay, that was gallant of him. Maybe he was going to behave himself for the rest of the evening.
I wasn’t terribly talkative as we sat down, and he expressed a bit of concern for my emotional well-being. I wasn’t coherent enough to explain what was happening to my emotions and I wasn’t sure I trusted him with my deep, dark secrets at that point. So I shrugged like a sulky teenager, ran my hands over my messy, windblown hair, and mumbled that I was “just hungry.” And right on cue, a very kind, slightly older waitress with a sweet southern accent stopped by to take our order.
Kirk: Ah, yes. We’ll have two cups of black coffee. And we’ll share a slice of that delectable Maple Walnut Pie.
Waitress: Oh, honey. That pie is scrumptious! I take it you’ve been here before?
Kirk: I have. This will be her first time to taste the splendor.
I hated to be a killjoy, but I interrupted and said to the waitress, “Ma’am? I’m sure the Maple Walnut is excellent, but could I please get a slice of Banana Cream? And a big glass of ice water?
Waitress: Sure, hon! Banana Cream’s just as yummy! I’ll be right back with those coffees and that big water.
Kirk was sucking on the tip of his forefinger and shaking his head a bit. “You’re passing up so many sensational... sensual...”
I put my forehead on the table and growled. “You swore you’d stop being nasty!” I held this #headdesk pose for quite some time before I finally lifted my head... only to see that Kirk was still sucking his fingertip and staring at me like a wild animal. “Pleeeeeease be normal,” I whined. “It’s been a really weird night for me.”
Kirk: Indeed. Many surprises. You know... You’re like titanium. Your flame burns so fast and so bright, if a guy doesn’t get in there while the iron is hot, he’ll never get another chance. I was too slow.
What the...? I was pretty sure he was wrong about titanium burning quickly. I’m no chemistry wiz, but my dad and my oldest brother are both big-brains when it comes to physics and chemistry. So I picked up some things just listening to them talk. Accurate or inaccurate, Kirk was being creepy again. He’d never been creepy towards me before, although I’d seen him act like this with other women. Usually with staggering success. Why????? His money. It had to be his money. Kirk was a nice-looking man, but holy shit... No amount of good looks could save this creep show
And then, our sweet waitress sat down our coffees, my water, and the two slices of pie. After I gulped down a whole bunch of water, I grabbed a fork, prepared to quell my munchies... and then I froze. Kirk was quickly flicking his finger back and forth across the top of his pie. And moaning. He noticed my wide-eyed stare, smirked, sucked the tip of his thumb, picked up the plate with both hands, and began flicking his tongue across the tip of the triangular pie slice. And moaning some more. Well, there went my appetite.
Kirk took his middle finger and jabbed it into the crustless vertex of the pie slice, then he began pumping it in and out like a piston, and flicking his thumb across the increasingly demolished top layer of whipped cream. He gasped this time. People were starting to stare. His pointer finger joined his middle finger in the piston action, and he replaced his thumb with his tongue. Between flicks of the tongue, he groaned, “Oh yeah, baby... Let me taste you,” but it was kind of hard to understand him.
And I was either about to run to the back office, tell them that I was in danger and needed a police escort home... OR I was about to burst out laughing at the spectacle. Kirk continued... He removed his fingers and gregariously licked pie filling off of them. "Ohhhhh," he groaned, "I got you soooo sticky. So sweet. So moist." And then he started sucking his fingertips again, switching from middle to pointer, middle to pointer and emitting a delighted little, “Mmmmmm” with every suck.
Finally, he jabbed his fingers back into the utterly destroyed pie, lowered his face into the mess and lapped loudly and passionately, moaning, grunting, and mumbling “Come on, baby. Come on. Mmmmmm. Come on.” I could see the waitress and some dude in a suit heading over to the table, so I sank down in my seat, partially covered my face, but continued to watch the train wreck. At last, Kirk shuddered violently as he splatted his entire hand onto the plate and rubbed furiously. And then he locked eyes with me. He sucked the tip of his thumb one final time and said, “You...” There was a long pause during which Kirk lovingly stroked the mess he’d made. “You... are the pie.”
I don’t hang out with Kadillac Kirk anymore. But he’s still a bachelor, ladies!
submitted by CringeyVal0451 to ReddXReads [link] [comments]
Kirk was an older guy. Not MOE old, though. He was in his early forties, but he easily passed for a carefree dude in his 30s... not that he lied about his age. I only mention this trait to juxtapose Kirk’s genuine youthful air with Moe’s unconvincing youthful farce. Kirk dressed normally, avoided stupid jargon, and never busted out gimmicks like tarot cards or spells. He just existed, behaved affably, and people liked him for it.
He drove a classic 1962 Cadillac El Dorado convertible with red leather interior, and he lived in a charmingly quaint (and ridiculously expensive) neighborhood. How he made his fortune remained a mystery, but he never bloviated about his wealth. He just threw spectacular parties and people showed up. And, to my knowledge, he never tried to lure women into bed with his money (although I’m sure he got his fair share of boom-boom thanks to his digs and his wheels, even if the gold-diggers denied their monetary agendas).
Kirk was legitimately handsome. He was a drummer, he had a full head of black hair, he was clean-shaven, he worked out, and he knew all the hidden gems in Wellsprings. So why hadn’t I tried... or even desired to date him? I don’t know. I just didn’t feel drawn to him like that. He felt like a cool uncle and he had, thus far, never done anything to change my perception. Plus, the age difference weirded me out a little. Kirk didn’t look forty; but knowing that he had so much more life experience than I did created a power imbalance that would have creeped me out if we’d been dating. As buddies, I just felt supremely cool riding in his Cadillac, smoking Fantasia cigarettes, and hitting the speakeasies and jazz clubs I would have never known about if it weren’t for Kirk’s connections.
And he had been a good person to talk to about my romantic woes. He never lecherously suggested that I should date him, and he gave the type of tempered advice that only comes with lived experience. But he often lightly mocked me for my crush on Dennis and he did a hilarious impression of Smegal popping too soon over his “precious.” So when Mary “got me back” by doing whatever she did
Why hadn’t I called Whisky??? Well, A) Kirk was way more fun to hang out with, at least from my past experiences up to that point. And B) I needed to bitch about a boy, something I couldn’t do in good conscience in front of a guy I was dating. So I put on the sexiest plunging halter dress I owned, applied heavy eye makeup and spikey accessories, braved a pair of stilettos, and sashayed out to Kirk’s convertible. I felt like a badass rock star. I probably looked like a try-hard hooker.
Kirk: Daaaaay-um! Somebody really did do a number on you, huh? I know you said you were upset, but the gents are gonna be writing thank you notes to that fat girl and that butt-fucking hobbit.
Me: I just need to feel pretty and numb. And I trust you to keep me from making a fool of myself.
Kirk squeezed my shoulder. “I’ve got you. You do whatever you need to do to get rid of these demons.”
He sparked up a J and offered me the first puff. I gladly accepted. He took one puff of his own, but said that the rest was mine since he didn’t want to drive stoned. See? He was responsible! Weed wasn’t legal in California yet, so I got a little bit baked before I stashed the sativa in the glove box and wrapped a scarf around my hair like a starlet from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Kirk sped out of the parking lot and said he was taking me to a downtown hotel that was hosting a party that night in their lush lobby.
Kadillac Kirk pulled up to the main entrance, paid the valet, and then opened my door. I was wobbly from the weed. And I had stupidly decided to wear heels. You can get high or you can wear high (heels). You can’t have both. Not if you’ve repeatedly injured both ankles (as I have). I had to take Kirk’s arm to keep from keeling over. “Can people tell I’m stoned?” I whispered. Kirk replied, “Nobody’s paying any attention to anyone else’s intoxication. I promise you that much.” I nodded, steadied myself, and strutted alongside my very cool friend, feeling a little more confident.
A live jazz orchestra was playing Cole Porter as we entered the lobby. Everything sparkled. The music was even more intoxicating than the spliff had been. “Just One of Those Things” brought tears to my eyes since the lyrics hit every raw nerve regarding the Dennis debacle. But I smiled. It might sound mental, but being distraught over a trash fire of a one-sided romance was exhilarating. Immature, for sure. But also exhilarating. You see, that kind of sadness doesn’t hurt. Not really. It stings. It leaves little bruises, but it’s very safe to wallow in because you haven’t actually lost anything. Melancholia over that which you never had is as sweet as it is bitter; and that type of twisted splendor is rivaled only by Stendhal.
“Here's hoping we meet now and then. It was great fun, but it was just one of those things.” I sang along with the band, and a fat tear rolled down past my melancholic smile and onto my chin. Kirk brushed it aside. “Too close to home?” I wiped away the remnants of the tear’s journey from eye to chin and smiled a more genuine smile. “The perfect distance from home. Shall we get drinks? Remember, I’m buying.”
Kirk: No, no. This is your time to heal. And I’m here as your pal, not your chauffeur. What would the lady like?”
I pretended to barf. Kirk knew I hated it when he got overly formal and overly attentive. So he did it just to mess with me. “Shot of vodka,” I replied.
Kirk: How many?
I thought briefly. “FIVE.”
Kirk: Five to one, baby. One in five...
Me: No one here gets out alive.
Kirk: Are you able to hold yourself upright, or should you come with?
I took a seat on an ornate, damask-upholstered chaise lounge. “I’ll be okay. And I was kidding about the five shots.”
I sat there lost in the music for a while. I thought very little about Dennis. Even less about Mary. And not at all about Whisky (whom I had shagged less than a week ago). My mind danced through the ornate lighting in the hotel lobby, and I suddenly felt the need to join the hoity-toity guests on the dancefloor!
Kirk returned with four shots of vodka. Two for him, two for me. That was quite reasonable of him. He knew damn well that I couldn’t handle five shots, but he also knew that I was in a... state. One that called for more than a single shot. I raised a both miniature glasses to “No more ninnyhammers or hairy-footed lovers.” Kirk did his hilarious Smegal impression, we double-toasted, and downed the shots. The band launched into “Let’s Misbehave,” and I kicked off my stilettos and made a beeline for the dance floor.
“There’s something wild about you child that’s so contagious. Let’s be outrageous! Let’s misbehave.” Kadillac Kirk swept me up, twirled me around, and dipped me as we both sang along with the lyrics. I wasn’t swooning for him, but I was enthralled by the moment. The music, the dancing, the combination of booze and bud... so I kissed him as he pulled me back to my feet. And he kissed back. In a way that Dennis never had. In a way that Whisky’s beard wouldn’t permit. I didn’t feel the visceral sensations that I’d felt when Dennis had kissed me, but it felt nice to feel desired. And then I noticed that other guests were watching us and applauding. Now, that was a dopamine rush if ever there was one!
I gently broke away from the embrace, high-fived Kirk and returned to the chaise lounge to put my stupid shoes back on. He followed me and smashed his face back onto mine. I pulled away and laughed. “It was a moment,” I told him. “I appreciate the dance, and that kiss was the perfect finale. But it’s not happening again.”
Kirk: Not to worry, Valerie. I know you. I knew all along that we were performing, and I was more than happy to be your scene partner.
Me: And dance partner! Those were some excellent moves! I didn’t know you had ballroom training.
Kirk: You name it, I’ve mastered it. Another drink for the lady?
I pretended to barf again. “Not yet. I’m not sad right now. Do you mind if I just sit here and enjoy the music?”
Kirk: Ah. My kisses do have healing properties...
I flipped my hand up at him. “Knock that shit off, bro. I wanted to hang out with you because I trust you not to get weird. Even if I get weird, I know you have the maturity to balance me out.”
Kirk: Are you calling me old???
Me: No. I’m calling you rational, responsible, and respectful.
Kirk: Well, now. If you can articulate an alliterative statement that fluently, then you clearly aren’t drunk enough!
I dismissed this comment as a joke. And he did indeed knock off the flirtation. We had a perfectly pleasant time chatting and dancing (no more kissing, though). And then I noticed a girl I knew from Into the Woods entering the lobby. She’d played Florinda and I’d played Little Red. I called her name and waved enthusiastically. She waved back. And then her date entered. It was D.E.N.N.I.S. I sank into the chaise. Kirk caught on immediately. “The hobbit???” he asked. I nodded silently. “You wanna make out again?” he enthused. I shook my head. I had to go say hello to Flo. And I had an idea...
I crossed the lobby, smiled, squealed, and hugged her.
Florinda: Lil’ Red! It’s been forever! So glad to see you!!! This is my friend, Denny.
From the corner of my eye. I could see Dennis shifting uncomfortably. I refused to look directly at him, neglected to acknowledge Flo's introduction and continued to converse only with her. "So glad to see you, too! What have you been up to since we left the woods?"
Dennis: C’mon, Val...
Florinda (appearing oblivious to the iciness between me and Dennis): Oh, I had some drama after the show closed. I'll have to tell you about it some other time... Have you seen Prince Big Bad (Scumbanger) lately?
I laughed. “Last time I saw him, he was hitting on some nasty fat chick at The Imp.”
Flo and I both scoffed at the pervy pest. Into the Woods was where I’d initially met Scumbanger. He played The Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince. Again... typecasting. There’s a whole essay in my brain about my first encounter with the pest, during which he quoted the song that he sang to me in the show, “Hello, Little Girl.” But it gets into some pretty uncomfortable territory because he made me feel... excited. Well, excited and scared. Nothing of note happened during Into the Woods, but our odd interactions did kind of set the stage for some extremely regrettable events during that Cats cast party.
I excused myself, saying that I needed to get back to my friend. And then I leaned in and said in a hushed voice to Flo, “Watch your ass with that one. If he’s the Denny I’m thinking of...” I gave her a look that only another female would be able to read. Her eyebrows shot up and she nodded. Dennis continued to shift as though he were trying to hold in a massive dump. “BABE! Uh...”
Flo apparently answered to that moniker as well. “What is it, Denny? Don’t worry. That was just telepathic girl talk. You apparently have a reputation...”
Dennis: Different Denny. I assure you I’m a pious gentleman.
Me: Ah. My mistake. Well, then. You guys have a good time! They’re playing Cole Porter, and the band is delovely. Great to see you, Flo!
I hugged Flo again, gave Dennis a curt nod, ignored the scent of mandarins and mountain air, and returned to Kirk.
I collapsed on the chaise lounge, exhausted from holding back the rage. I had no right to be mad at Florinda. I hadn’t seen her in three years, so how was she supposed to know that I’d had a thing with Dennis? Hell, I couldn’t even be mad at Dennis because the last time he and I had spoken in any meaningful way, I’d told him that I was no longer entertaining my crush on him. So why was I surprised to see him dating??? And why had he never taken ME out on a date like this??? And why wasn’t I smitten with Kadillac Kirk who HAD taken me out on a date like this, was an objectively excellent kisser, and a bona fide BALLER? What was wrong with me???
Kirk suggested going down the street to a quaint little bar and then sobering up at a diner closer to my apartment. I numbly nodded and followed him in silence for a few blocks. He assured me that I had “turned several heads” on the way to the new location, but I neither cared nor believed him. This wasn't the type of numbness I'd been aiming for. Now I needed to get schnockered. “Five shots of vodka, please.” Yes, I was serious.
Kadillac Kirk, my reliable designated driver, ordered only a beer and watched in something across between astonishment, concern, and delight as I slammed all five shots in rapid succession. I half expected to immediately retch all over the bar. But I felt fine. I half expected to immediately lose consciousness and wake up in the hospital. But I remained coherent. How I’d managed to take in that much hard liquor and suffer no direct consequences, I’ll never know.
I think I wanted to suffer. I wanted to either feel nothing at all or to feel a sickness bad enough to distract me from the scorching sting that pulsed through my being when I realized that I had lost the abstract notion I’d been addicted to this entire time. Hope. It wasn’t Dennis himself I couldn’t quit. It was that drug called hope. The hope that maybe, just maybe Dennis would give our romance a fair chance. The hope that maybe, just maybe he would make peace with himself, get his mind out of his crotch, and enjoy some agenda-free togetherness. The hope that maybe, just maybe he would stop bloviating about his admittedly impressive accomplishments for five fucking minutes and ask about my life. I had my own reasonably impressive accomplishments, even if they paled in comparison to his. A proper suitor would have enjoyed hearing about them.
But seeing him out with another woman, a woman who had no reason to parade her Dennis escapades before me as some means of revenge, a woman he was clearly courting of his own volition... My hope had died. It died before I’d had time to wean myself off it. Now I had to mourn the loss of hope, which is a very tricky brand of grief to navigate. Vodka wasn’t the answer, but it was what I had to work with. So it would have to do.
After enough time had passed without vomiting or collapsing, I asked Kirk to bring his car around to the bar so that I didn’t have to walk two and a half blocks drunk and in heels. He nodded and dramatically leaned in for a kiss. I recoiled. “DUDE! I told you. The moment has passed.”
Kirk: I beg your pardon. I misread your eyes. Thought I saw a green light...
Me: It’s fine. I just want to go home while I’m still feeling okay.
Kirk: Of course. Your chariot will be here soon.
He skipped off to fetch his Cadillac and I noticed that the lights in the bar were beginning to dance a bit. This should have been concerning. But then I realized that I was giggling. Wait... What? Oh shit. Sure, I was drunk from those shots. But what I was feeling in that moment wasn’t drunkery. It was stonery. Kirk probably misread my face because my pupils were dilated. Not from desire, but from drug use.
Some of you might be thinking that I was a bad friend for not introducing Lucy, an old dude connoisseur, to Kirk. Well... I did. Several years before the events of this story. He adored her. She, on the other hand, thought he was immature. And she wasn’t wrong. Lucy was astute when it came to sussing out a person’s true nature. Far more astute than I. Her initial assessment that Kirk was immature is about to be vindicated. Stretch those cringe muscles! It’s almost time for pie...
I somehow managed to get to his car. I honestly don’t recall how I got there. Did one of the bartenders carry me? Did some kind patron allow me to lean on him? Had Kadillac Kirk carried me out? I’m not sure. But my memory ceases to be fuzzy about halfway to the 24-hour diner. It might have been the very same 24-hour diner where Mary pulled her... shenanigans. I’ll never know.
Kirk: Would you say that you’re more drunk or more stoned?
Me: STONED. Definitely stoned.
Kirk made some sort of grunty noise and reached for my thigh. I slapped his hand.
Kirk: Stoned but not amorous? That’s rare.
I started laughing rather unkindly. “You’re a fucking horndog! I thought you were my safe straight male friend, dammit.”
Kirk: I solemnly swear that your safety is my primary concern, my stoned beauty.
I pretended to throw up.
Kirk: So... You’re not horny. But are you hungry? The diner I’m heading to makes this Maple Walnut Pie with the most sumptuous... sensual cream and exquisite drizzling of...
Me: Ew! Stop trying to bang the pie. Bro. Are YOU stoned? (Then I remembered the question.) Yes, I’m hungry. But I don’t like nuts. I’ll have banana cream.
Kirk made that repulsive grunty noise again. “Uhhhhh... Mmmmmm. Cream. Yessssss. Yes, we’ll be there in just a minute.” He was squirming in the driver's seat.
Me: GROSS, DUDE! If you’re gonna be like that I’ll just order HASH brows. Get it? Hash??? (I giggled.) You can’t make that sound nasty.
Kirk: Forgive my jokes. I think my blood sugar’s a bit low.
As Kirk parked, I began to wonder how I might get away with walking shoeless into the diner. The stilettos had to get off my feet. At least while I was walking. And Kirk was kind enough to give me his socks and wear his loafers “island style” into the establishment. Okay, that was gallant of him. Maybe he was going to behave himself for the rest of the evening.
I wasn’t terribly talkative as we sat down, and he expressed a bit of concern for my emotional well-being. I wasn’t coherent enough to explain what was happening to my emotions and I wasn’t sure I trusted him with my deep, dark secrets at that point. So I shrugged like a sulky teenager, ran my hands over my messy, windblown hair, and mumbled that I was “just hungry.” And right on cue, a very kind, slightly older waitress with a sweet southern accent stopped by to take our order.
Kirk: Ah, yes. We’ll have two cups of black coffee. And we’ll share a slice of that delectable Maple Walnut Pie.
Waitress: Oh, honey. That pie is scrumptious! I take it you’ve been here before?
Kirk: I have. This will be her first time to taste the splendor.
I hated to be a killjoy, but I interrupted and said to the waitress, “Ma’am? I’m sure the Maple Walnut is excellent, but could I please get a slice of Banana Cream? And a big glass of ice water?
Waitress: Sure, hon! Banana Cream’s just as yummy! I’ll be right back with those coffees and that big water.
Kirk was sucking on the tip of his forefinger and shaking his head a bit. “You’re passing up so many sensational... sensual...”
I put my forehead on the table and growled. “You swore you’d stop being nasty!” I held this #headdesk pose for quite some time before I finally lifted my head... only to see that Kirk was still sucking his fingertip and staring at me like a wild animal. “Pleeeeeease be normal,” I whined. “It’s been a really weird night for me.”
Kirk: Indeed. Many surprises. You know... You’re like titanium. Your flame burns so fast and so bright, if a guy doesn’t get in there while the iron is hot, he’ll never get another chance. I was too slow.
What the...? I was pretty sure he was wrong about titanium burning quickly. I’m no chemistry wiz, but my dad and my oldest brother are both big-brains when it comes to physics and chemistry. So I picked up some things just listening to them talk. Accurate or inaccurate, Kirk was being creepy again. He’d never been creepy towards me before, although I’d seen him act like this with other women. Usually with staggering success. Why????? His money. It had to be his money. Kirk was a nice-looking man, but holy shit... No amount of good looks could save this creep show
And then, our sweet waitress sat down our coffees, my water, and the two slices of pie. After I gulped down a whole bunch of water, I grabbed a fork, prepared to quell my munchies... and then I froze. Kirk was quickly flicking his finger back and forth across the top of his pie. And moaning. He noticed my wide-eyed stare, smirked, sucked the tip of his thumb, picked up the plate with both hands, and began flicking his tongue across the tip of the triangular pie slice. And moaning some more. Well, there went my appetite.
Kirk took his middle finger and jabbed it into the crustless vertex of the pie slice, then he began pumping it in and out like a piston, and flicking his thumb across the increasingly demolished top layer of whipped cream. He gasped this time. People were starting to stare. His pointer finger joined his middle finger in the piston action, and he replaced his thumb with his tongue. Between flicks of the tongue, he groaned, “Oh yeah, baby... Let me taste you,” but it was kind of hard to understand him.
And I was either about to run to the back office, tell them that I was in danger and needed a police escort home... OR I was about to burst out laughing at the spectacle. Kirk continued... He removed his fingers and gregariously licked pie filling off of them. "Ohhhhh," he groaned, "I got you soooo sticky. So sweet. So moist." And then he started sucking his fingertips again, switching from middle to pointer, middle to pointer and emitting a delighted little, “Mmmmmm” with every suck.
Finally, he jabbed his fingers back into the utterly destroyed pie, lowered his face into the mess and lapped loudly and passionately, moaning, grunting, and mumbling “Come on, baby. Come on. Mmmmmm. Come on.” I could see the waitress and some dude in a suit heading over to the table, so I sank down in my seat, partially covered my face, but continued to watch the train wreck. At last, Kirk shuddered violently as he splatted his entire hand onto the plate and rubbed furiously. And then he locked eyes with me. He sucked the tip of his thumb one final time and said, “You...” There was a long pause during which Kirk lovingly stroked the mess he’d made. “You... are the pie.”
I don’t hang out with Kadillac Kirk anymore. But he’s still a bachelor, ladies!
2024.05.21 09:49 bunnyyelle Cowrie Shells in ATRs
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2024.05.21 08:41 Sweet-Count2557 Cucina Napoli Restaurant in Casablanca,Morocco
 | Cucina Napoli Restaurant in Casablanca,Morocco submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] Cucina Napoli: Experience the Authentic Taste of Naples in Casablanca, Morocco Price Level: $$$$ Cucina Napoli is a charming and authentic pizzeria where you can experience the warmth and taste of Naples. Just like in Naples, you can indulge in a sumptuous Margherita pizza topped with high-quality ingredients and served with generous thick crusts. With a wood-fired oven, San Marzano tomatoes from Paolo Ruggiero, and precious mozzarella, Cucina Napoli successfully recreates the magic of Naples right in the heart of Casablanca. Cuisines of Cucina Napoli in Casablanca,Morocco Cucina Napoli Restaurant is a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic taste of Italy. With a focus on Neapolitan, Campania, and Southern-Italian cuisines, this restaurant offers a delightful array of dishes that will transport you straight to the streets of Naples. From the classic Margherita pizza, with its thin and crispy crust topped with fresh mozzarella and basil, to the rich and flavorful pasta dishes like spaghetti alle vongole, every bite at Cucina Napoli is a celebration of the vibrant flavors and traditions of Southern Italy. Whether you're craving a hearty plate of lasagna or a light and refreshing caprese salad, this restaurant has something to satisfy every palate. The chefs at Cucina Napoli take pride in using only the finest ingredients, ensuring that each dish is bursting with authentic flavors. So, if you're in the mood for a true taste of Neapolitan, Campania, or Southern-Italian cuisine, look no further than Cucina Napoli Restaurant. Contact of Cucina Napoli in Casablanca,Morocco +212 664-222057 4 Boulevard Anoual, Casablanca 20250 Morocco rmarzouk2016@gmail.com http://www.cucinanapoli.com Features of Cucina Napoli in Casablanca,Morocco Location of Cucina Napoli in Casablanca,Morocco Tags |
2024.05.21 07:18 Equal-Doughnut7835 Vintage Violet
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2024.05.21 05:06 xobondaixo [OFFER] [GOLD VERIFIED] 🧨 ELEVATOR PITCH: ⏳ Cute, Fun, Quirky, Nerdy, Witty Brainiac. 🌞 D&D, Hiking/Camping, Music, Scenic Drives, Gardening, Food, Roadtrips, Learning Anything! 🚙🍿🌈
Howdy! 👋 I'm Bella, a down-home sophisticated Southern girl. 🍑 My heart's as warm as a summer day and my smile that could light up the night. 🌟 Growing up surrounded by the charm of fireflies, grits, sweet tea, and front porch swings, I've a love for life's simple pleasures and heartfelt connections. That's where you come in! I'm looking for someone special to share all this with. I want to be your sunshine, always ready to brighten up your life. 🌞
You know, life's always a treasure trove of adventures, isn't it? My never-ending curiosity seems to fuel my passion for most everything. I'd so enjoy a good Sunday brunch with you, or a slow dance in the kitchen. Hopefully you're not afraid of spontaneous road trips, when the mood strikes. It'd be so fun to blast some tunes and sing along together! 🎶 In a partner, I value passion, intelligence, kindness, humor, honesty/openness, maturity, and authenticity. I'm craving conversations and moments of laughter as well as…other things. If you're a kind-hearted fella, grab your cowboy boots and let's hit the road together. 😊 We'll be off to the races in no time flat.
A Little More About Me:
Bella <3🌹
[I am an 18+ Adult offering/requesting SFW companionship to other 18+ adults only.]
submitted by xobondaixo to HireAGirlfriend [link] [comments]
You know, life's always a treasure trove of adventures, isn't it? My never-ending curiosity seems to fuel my passion for most everything. I'd so enjoy a good Sunday brunch with you, or a slow dance in the kitchen. Hopefully you're not afraid of spontaneous road trips, when the mood strikes. It'd be so fun to blast some tunes and sing along together! 🎶 In a partner, I value passion, intelligence, kindness, humor, honesty/openness, maturity, and authenticity. I'm craving conversations and moments of laughter as well as…other things. If you're a kind-hearted fella, grab your cowboy boots and let's hit the road together. 😊 We'll be off to the races in no time flat.
A Little More About Me:
- I love game nights with friends, every Wednesday. 🎲 We're playing Baldur's Gate 3 at the moment. (What an epic game!)
- I have an insane number of hobbies that I enjoy. To name a few, fitness, 💪🏻learning anything new, 🧠 girlie things like hair, makeup and fashion, crochet, 🧶 and anything outdoors gardening included. The list goes on and on!
- A no brainer here, photography. 📷 I love running around capturing the world's beauty everywhere I go. It'd be so much more fun if I could share them all with you!
- One of my favorite things is recharging in the forest near me. 🌲🥾 I love the long scenic drive out there. Bonus points for staying late to grill out at a picnic station. I'll bring the charcoal, santa gave me plenty last year! 😏
- Everything is better with music -- currently playing Rhye. 🎶🎙
Bella <3🌹
[I am an 18+ Adult offering/requesting SFW companionship to other 18+ adults only.]
2024.05.21 03:38 The-Persistent-Fox [M4ApF] [I’m a furry!] I really need partners!
Yip-Yap-Howdy, y’all!
My name’s Audely! I’m an 18 year old maroon furred fox in Texas! I’m in need of a literate, friendly, and fun partner willing to experiment, write, and hang out with!
I’m fairly experienced, and would consider myself highly-literate to novella in terms of literacy.
Now, I’ll make this little introduction short:
I request that my partner participates, shares ideas with me, actually talks, and isn’t afraid to say “no” to something. For me, I believe it’s crucial to have a happy partner, and will treat you wonderfully! I’m friendly, but if my chatter’s bothersome to ya, please tell me and I’ll shut my muzzle up and focus on the story.
With that being said, if you wanna divert from a story we’re doing, I’ll be happy to hear ya out on the idea! Worst I can say is “no,” but I usually try to make a “compromise” if I’m uncomfortable to do something with ya, whether it be graying out the area I don’t wanna do, or even biting the bullet and going straight into it, I’ll do my best to serve.
The only catch is that I stay as my fox, Audely - who I’ll introduce ya to in private.
I’m interested in military / post apocalyptic plots sets in the near future and am a sucker for enemies to lovers with a bit of romance. Down below, I have a plot written out for us if you’d like to read:
Roleplay: “Rally ‘Round the Flag”
Thunder booms over the desolate concrete jungle of New York City. Loosely standing rubble and structures were mostly all that was left, including a severely damaged Empire State Building that loomed eerily in the hazy distance. A cold, wet female sat watch in her perch overlooking a road. Mortar holes peppered the concrete and old, rusted barbed wire snaked across the middle of the street, connecting to different strong points to hold off a long-lost last defense from years prior. There were multiple destroyed armored vehicles parked in their final destination - some more damaged than others. It was hard to imagine that just 16 years prior, it wasn’t like this… But she still had faith in her government. After all, it is what restored peace.
The NDG - or better known as the “New Democratic Government of America” - came into power in February of 2020. It was ran and organized by General Robert A. Frost. At the time, he was a respected and highly intelligent 33 year old man who was not only an excellent motivational speaker, but the man who promised to restore the United States to its beauty - to revive a righteous, just, and prosperous nation. However, shortly after he brought this new policy into effect, it didn’t take long for him and his party to show their true, wicked colors. However, his rigor in his speeches and passion entranced many people, which kept his motives unharmed and continued with little resistance until a civil war broke out just a month after. However, Frost had managed to deteriorate every single state’s government at such a staggering rate that the little bit of resistance that showed was crushed. From his success and jaw-dropping speed in completely taking control, followers of the NDG fell in love with Frost, which cemented his unyielding leadership in this “New United States of America.”
Of course, he couldn’t wipe out everyone who disagreed, and many were disgusted and hated him to hell and back, but those who were open about it were simply, “Culled so that Progression of Restoring the Nation remained undisturbed.”
Audely Clearwater, a 19 year old fox from Texas, was an HVT to Frost - actually on his most-wanted list. The young, maroon furred fox was born in Texas shortly before the wake of the NDG, and had little memory of the United States or his parents prior to the takeover. His mother, a 24 year old woman, and his father, a 26 year old man who was mutated into a fox in a project named “Project Tail Wag,” were 2 of hundreds of thousands murdered by Frost. They exchanged their lives for Audely’s sake, sending him to live with family friends all across East and Central Texas. When Audely turned 13, he ran away after NDG forces surrounded his caregivers’ ranch in order to “bring youth under the wing of the NDG.” He barely escaped, and went into hiding until he turned 16. Throughout that time, Audely learned how to flee, beg, and fight to escape capture after picking up stealing and robbery to survive. However, he was caught by a group of officers of the State of Texas Army & Marine Corps. Forced to be taken under their wing after begging to not go to jail, he was trained extensively for the inevitable “some day, when we strike back.” And, it turned out, it would happen just a year later. He saw extensive combat, and even as a young and inexperienced soldier, Audely had gained a reputation as an excellent soldier.
Frost did not like this. He wanted Audely’s hide. Especially for his rarity as an anthro. He needed the fox to be exterminated.
. . .
2 years had passed since then, and Audely was still on the loose. At 19 years old, he became an icon for the effort to push back. Frost was furious and put a bounty out for his capture:
“Immediate promotion and Officer School scholarship for next 3 generations of your family for FREE for the capture of Audely Clearwater.”
And, there sat the woman. She had created herself to be an elite soldier of the NDG… and she was one of Frost’s top officers he had. She answered directly to him. The thought of fame and glory nearly made her smile. The NDG was close to catching him after a few weeks of tracking him and his squad down in NDG-controlled Maine and New York. They managed to kill his squad, but he once again miraculously escaped… for now.
If the intel was correct, then Audely should be within 5 miles of her position at this exact moment. She felt nervous, though…
Would she be able to finally clamp his mouth shut, and his limps bound for all to see, the Terrorist finally stopped and morale shattered for the resistance forces? Or, would the last thing she see be his snarl before he ultimately takes her life, marking yet another death for the NDG by the actions of Audely?
If you think this plot’s gonna suit ya, or if ya wanna try me out as a partner, please send a DM or comment for my Discord info!
With Southern Charm, kisses and tail wags -
Love, Audely
submitted by The-Persistent-Fox to roleplaying [link] [comments]
My name’s Audely! I’m an 18 year old maroon furred fox in Texas! I’m in need of a literate, friendly, and fun partner willing to experiment, write, and hang out with!
I’m fairly experienced, and would consider myself highly-literate to novella in terms of literacy.
Now, I’ll make this little introduction short:
I request that my partner participates, shares ideas with me, actually talks, and isn’t afraid to say “no” to something. For me, I believe it’s crucial to have a happy partner, and will treat you wonderfully! I’m friendly, but if my chatter’s bothersome to ya, please tell me and I’ll shut my muzzle up and focus on the story.
With that being said, if you wanna divert from a story we’re doing, I’ll be happy to hear ya out on the idea! Worst I can say is “no,” but I usually try to make a “compromise” if I’m uncomfortable to do something with ya, whether it be graying out the area I don’t wanna do, or even biting the bullet and going straight into it, I’ll do my best to serve.
The only catch is that I stay as my fox, Audely - who I’ll introduce ya to in private.
I’m interested in military / post apocalyptic plots sets in the near future and am a sucker for enemies to lovers with a bit of romance. Down below, I have a plot written out for us if you’d like to read:
Roleplay: “Rally ‘Round the Flag”
Thunder booms over the desolate concrete jungle of New York City. Loosely standing rubble and structures were mostly all that was left, including a severely damaged Empire State Building that loomed eerily in the hazy distance. A cold, wet female sat watch in her perch overlooking a road. Mortar holes peppered the concrete and old, rusted barbed wire snaked across the middle of the street, connecting to different strong points to hold off a long-lost last defense from years prior. There were multiple destroyed armored vehicles parked in their final destination - some more damaged than others. It was hard to imagine that just 16 years prior, it wasn’t like this… But she still had faith in her government. After all, it is what restored peace.
The NDG - or better known as the “New Democratic Government of America” - came into power in February of 2020. It was ran and organized by General Robert A. Frost. At the time, he was a respected and highly intelligent 33 year old man who was not only an excellent motivational speaker, but the man who promised to restore the United States to its beauty - to revive a righteous, just, and prosperous nation. However, shortly after he brought this new policy into effect, it didn’t take long for him and his party to show their true, wicked colors. However, his rigor in his speeches and passion entranced many people, which kept his motives unharmed and continued with little resistance until a civil war broke out just a month after. However, Frost had managed to deteriorate every single state’s government at such a staggering rate that the little bit of resistance that showed was crushed. From his success and jaw-dropping speed in completely taking control, followers of the NDG fell in love with Frost, which cemented his unyielding leadership in this “New United States of America.”
Of course, he couldn’t wipe out everyone who disagreed, and many were disgusted and hated him to hell and back, but those who were open about it were simply, “Culled so that Progression of Restoring the Nation remained undisturbed.”
Audely Clearwater, a 19 year old fox from Texas, was an HVT to Frost - actually on his most-wanted list. The young, maroon furred fox was born in Texas shortly before the wake of the NDG, and had little memory of the United States or his parents prior to the takeover. His mother, a 24 year old woman, and his father, a 26 year old man who was mutated into a fox in a project named “Project Tail Wag,” were 2 of hundreds of thousands murdered by Frost. They exchanged their lives for Audely’s sake, sending him to live with family friends all across East and Central Texas. When Audely turned 13, he ran away after NDG forces surrounded his caregivers’ ranch in order to “bring youth under the wing of the NDG.” He barely escaped, and went into hiding until he turned 16. Throughout that time, Audely learned how to flee, beg, and fight to escape capture after picking up stealing and robbery to survive. However, he was caught by a group of officers of the State of Texas Army & Marine Corps. Forced to be taken under their wing after begging to not go to jail, he was trained extensively for the inevitable “some day, when we strike back.” And, it turned out, it would happen just a year later. He saw extensive combat, and even as a young and inexperienced soldier, Audely had gained a reputation as an excellent soldier.
Frost did not like this. He wanted Audely’s hide. Especially for his rarity as an anthro. He needed the fox to be exterminated.
. . .
2 years had passed since then, and Audely was still on the loose. At 19 years old, he became an icon for the effort to push back. Frost was furious and put a bounty out for his capture:
“Immediate promotion and Officer School scholarship for next 3 generations of your family for FREE for the capture of Audely Clearwater.”
And, there sat the woman. She had created herself to be an elite soldier of the NDG… and she was one of Frost’s top officers he had. She answered directly to him. The thought of fame and glory nearly made her smile. The NDG was close to catching him after a few weeks of tracking him and his squad down in NDG-controlled Maine and New York. They managed to kill his squad, but he once again miraculously escaped… for now.
If the intel was correct, then Audely should be within 5 miles of her position at this exact moment. She felt nervous, though…
Would she be able to finally clamp his mouth shut, and his limps bound for all to see, the Terrorist finally stopped and morale shattered for the resistance forces? Or, would the last thing she see be his snarl before he ultimately takes her life, marking yet another death for the NDG by the actions of Audely?
Love, Audely
2024.05.21 01:24 Superb_Pen_6184 Research study report. Title: The rise and fall of the Kray brothers 1950-1990
(Childhood) Ronnie and Reggie Kray were infamous gangsters who rose to power in the East End of London in the 1950s and 60s. While their adult lives have been well-documented, less is known about their childhood. Born in 1933 in Bethnal Green East London, the Kray twins were the youngest of four children. Their father, Charlie Kray was a boxer and their mother, Violet was a homemaker. The family lived in a small house in the poverty-stricken area of East London, where violence and crime were common. The twins were inseparable from an early age, and they looked out for each other in the rough environment in which they grew up in. Both Ronnie and Reggie struggled in school and understood that they could not succeed academically, this led to them eventually dropping out. (Jones, T. 2015) Instead they spent their days roaming the streets of East London until they decided to take after their father in the sport of boxing, later becoming local champions. Ronnie and Reggie became popular due to their dangerous fighting style’s.
(The beginning of their criminal careers) As the brothers reached their teenage years, they became known for their charm and charisma. They had an ability to win people over, and they quickly became popular within their community. It was during this time that they began to associate with some of the most notorious criminals in the East End and begin their own criminal careers. Ronnie and Reggie began to gain a reputation for their violent and ruthless behaviour. Over the course of their teenage years, they were involved in numerous incidents of petty theft, extortion, and illegal gambling activities. By their early 20s their criminal careers had escalated with Ronnie and Reggie beginning their own gang operating in east London which was named “the Firm” (Nuttman, D. 2023) This was the beginning of construction for an empire that would later take over the criminal underworld of East end London.
(Building their empire) by the 1950s, the Krays began to use intimidation and violence on nightclub and business owners to take over. The Krays had a network of clubs, bars and betting shops that provided them with lucrative income streams, these were often visited by celebrities and high socialite figures in which the brothers-built connections with. These included: politicians, celebrities and other influential people of the era which helped them further their influence and allowed them to operate in illegal activities with impunity from law enforcement. Their notoriety peaked in the 1960s, the Kray’s were now considered as the wealthiest and most powerful gangsters in London. It was during this period that they escalated to more serious manners of criminal activity ranging from protection rackets, gambling, extortion, and murder.
(Rivalries) (Richardson, E. 2019) The Kray Brothers had many rivals and enemies during their reign of terror in London. Their most famous rivalry was with the Richardson Gang, but they also had numerous other enemies who they clashed with over territory, power, and respect. The Richardsons were another infamous gangster family in London, and they had their own network of criminal activities. The Kray Brothers and the Richardsons had several violent confrontations, which resulted in numerous injuries and even deaths. This rivalry was fuelled by a deep hatred between the two families, as well as their desire to control the criminal underworld of London.
Another major rival of the Kray Brothers was the South London Gang, who controlled southern London. They often clashed with the Kray Brothers over territorial disputes which often led to violent confrontations between the two groups, with many people getting hurt or even killed. They also had a bitter rivalry with Billy Hill, a former gangster who was known for his violent temper and his close ties to the American mafia. One of the most infamous moments in the Krays’ criminal career came in March 1966, when Ronnie Kray shot and killed rival gang member George Cornell in the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel. The murder was witnessed by dozens of people, but nobody was willing to testify against the Krays, and the murder remains unsolved to this day.
(Reggie Kray's relationships) In terms of relationships, Reggie had several romantic relationships throughout his life. One of his most well-known partners was a woman named Frances Shea, the sister of a friend and member of the firm, Frank Shea. The two began dating in the early 1960s and had married in 1965. The Marriage was brief, Frances had left him within a matter of weeks however, on paper the marriage continued for another two years. Frances had lived in fear of Reggie until her suicide of a pill overdose at the age of 23. It was said that Frances struggled with depression and the pressures of being in a relationship with a notorious criminal like Reggie. He married his second wife Roberta Jones in 1997 and remained with her for the rest of his life. (Astardjieva, M. 2022)
In addition to his romantic relationships, Reggie had a close relationship with his brother Ronnie. The two were inseparable. However, their relationship was not always smooth sailing. Ronnie was known for being violent and would often lash out at those around him. This caused tension between the two brothers at times, but they always managed to maintain their bond. Reggie also had friendly relationships with a range of celebrities throughout his life. He was known to socialise with high-profile people such as Barbara Windsor, Judy Garland, and even Princess Margaret. These relationships provided Reggie with a sense of status and power within their social circles Overall, Reggie Kray had a complex web of relationships throughout his life.
(Ronnie Kray's relationships) Ronnie Kray had many relationships throughout his life, most notably with his brother Reggie. His other relationships included his controversial homosexual relationships, His friendships to known criminals, politicians, and business partners.
Ronnie Kray was openly bisexual. In the early 1960s Ronnie Kray had planned to marry a woman named Monica he had dated for over three years however never fulfilled his plans. His most high-profile romantic relationship was with Lord Boothby, a Conservative politician who he allegedly had a sexual relationship with. This relationship was revealed in a scandalous newspaper in 1964, which caused a media sensation. (MacAskill, G. 2022) Lord Boothby maintained that he was never involved with Ronnie, but the damage had been done.
In terms of friendships, Ronnie had a close friendship with his driver, unofficial bodyguard, and personal assistant Tony Lambrianou. The two became close after Tony was recruited by the Krays, and they were later convicted together in 1969 for the murder of Jack "The Hat" McVitie, which was a turning point in the downfall of the Krays.
Ronnie Kray's business partnerships were also important. One of his most successful partnerships was with his brother Reggie, as together, they built an extensive criminal network in London. However, Ronnie had a problem maintaining his composure and would often take major mood swings and act erratic as he developed paranoia throughout his criminal career. This made it hard for Reggie to maintain close to his brother as Ronnie would carry out random acts of violence.
(Mental health) Although Reggie Kray was never diagnosed with any mental health illnesses, there is evidence to suggest he may have suffered from depression with the sudden death of his wife, Frances Shea. Furthermore, during his reign in the criminal underworld Reggie was involved in gruesome acts of violence including murder, therefore there could have been more underlying mental health issues that was never uncovered. As for Ronnie, prison psychiatrists examined him and declared him to be educationally subnormal, psychopathic, paranoid schizophrenic and insane (Daly, P. 2022). This makes sense given the character of Ronnie Kray. He was known to be erratic, violent, and unpredictable during his reign of terror. One circumstance being the shooting of rival gang member George Cornell, in the middle of the well-known Whitechapel blind beggar pub in broad daylight. Another factor in the Kray Empire's downfall can be attributed to the personal problems of the twins themselves. Ronnie struggled with mental health issues, in particular living with schizophrenia. His increasingly erratic behaviour and violent outbursts began to impact the ability to run their criminal network effectively and undermined their support among their own gang members. Reggie struggled to maintain a healthy relationship with his brother as he continued to spiral.
(Downfall) The Kray Empire was one of the most notorious criminal organisations in British history. The twins, Ronnie, and Reggie Kray, rose to power in the 1950s and 1960s, controlling a large criminal network that included gambling, protection rackets, and murder. However, their empire came to a crashing end in the 1960s, as law enforcement agencies and rivals began to close in on them.
One factor in the downfall of the Kray Empire was the rise of violence that erupted within the criminal underworld in the 1960s. The Krays had made enemies through territorial disputes and through their ruthless tactics. Several rival gangs were keen to take them down. One being, the Richardson Gang, who had been involved in a long-running feud with the Krays.
One of the main reasons for the downfall of the Kray empire was increased investigation from authorities. The twins had been able to operate with relative impunity for many years due to their connections within the police force and among politicians. However, as their empire grew, so did the attention of the media and the authorities. In 1964, the Metropolitan Police set up Operation Leopard, which aimed to gather intelligence on the Krays and their associates. (Lewis, P 2008) This led to the arrest in 1968 and conviction of the twins in 1969 for the murder of gangster Jack McVitie. Despite their wealth and power, the Kray brothers reign of terror was short lived and in 1968 the trial of the Kray brothers began. It was one of the most high-profile cases in British history, and they were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. The Kray brothers were sent to separate prisons, and their empire crumbled.
(Legacy) Despite the nature of their activities, the Krays were seen by some in their community as Robin Hood figures, who would offer to help those in need. Their story has been the plot of numerous books, plays, and films over the years, including the 1990 hit movie "The Krays" directed by Peter Medak, and the recent release of the film "Legend," starring Tom Hardy as both Ronnie and Reggie. The Krays represented a dangerous and exciting rebellion.
Another aspect of the legacy of the Krays is the way in which they have entered popular culture. Their story has been romanticised in films and television, with the twins often portrayed as charismatic anti-heroes battling against a corrupt system. This has helped to keep their legend alive, as audiences continue to be drawn to stories of charismatic criminals.
(conclusion) In conclusion, the rise and fall of the Kray twins, Ronnie, and Reggie, was one of the most notorious chapters in British criminal history. The Kray brothers rose to fame in the 1960s as the gangsters who ruled the streets of London's East End with an iron fist and for a time, the Krays power seemed invincible, and they were seen as untouchable by the police and the authorities. Their power was based on fear and intimidation, and it was only a matter of time before their downfall. In 1968, their time had come. The trial was a media sensation, and the evidence against the Krays was overwhelming. They were both found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. The rise and fall of the Kray twins bring a fascinating tale of ambition, power, and corruption. Their story is a classic reminder that “Poverty is the parent of rebellion and crime.” (Aristotle, 0400 BC)
submitted by Superb_Pen_6184 to WritersGroup [link] [comments]
(The beginning of their criminal careers) As the brothers reached their teenage years, they became known for their charm and charisma. They had an ability to win people over, and they quickly became popular within their community. It was during this time that they began to associate with some of the most notorious criminals in the East End and begin their own criminal careers. Ronnie and Reggie began to gain a reputation for their violent and ruthless behaviour. Over the course of their teenage years, they were involved in numerous incidents of petty theft, extortion, and illegal gambling activities. By their early 20s their criminal careers had escalated with Ronnie and Reggie beginning their own gang operating in east London which was named “the Firm” (Nuttman, D. 2023) This was the beginning of construction for an empire that would later take over the criminal underworld of East end London.
(Building their empire) by the 1950s, the Krays began to use intimidation and violence on nightclub and business owners to take over. The Krays had a network of clubs, bars and betting shops that provided them with lucrative income streams, these were often visited by celebrities and high socialite figures in which the brothers-built connections with. These included: politicians, celebrities and other influential people of the era which helped them further their influence and allowed them to operate in illegal activities with impunity from law enforcement. Their notoriety peaked in the 1960s, the Kray’s were now considered as the wealthiest and most powerful gangsters in London. It was during this period that they escalated to more serious manners of criminal activity ranging from protection rackets, gambling, extortion, and murder.
(Rivalries) (Richardson, E. 2019) The Kray Brothers had many rivals and enemies during their reign of terror in London. Their most famous rivalry was with the Richardson Gang, but they also had numerous other enemies who they clashed with over territory, power, and respect. The Richardsons were another infamous gangster family in London, and they had their own network of criminal activities. The Kray Brothers and the Richardsons had several violent confrontations, which resulted in numerous injuries and even deaths. This rivalry was fuelled by a deep hatred between the two families, as well as their desire to control the criminal underworld of London.
Another major rival of the Kray Brothers was the South London Gang, who controlled southern London. They often clashed with the Kray Brothers over territorial disputes which often led to violent confrontations between the two groups, with many people getting hurt or even killed. They also had a bitter rivalry with Billy Hill, a former gangster who was known for his violent temper and his close ties to the American mafia. One of the most infamous moments in the Krays’ criminal career came in March 1966, when Ronnie Kray shot and killed rival gang member George Cornell in the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel. The murder was witnessed by dozens of people, but nobody was willing to testify against the Krays, and the murder remains unsolved to this day.
(Reggie Kray's relationships) In terms of relationships, Reggie had several romantic relationships throughout his life. One of his most well-known partners was a woman named Frances Shea, the sister of a friend and member of the firm, Frank Shea. The two began dating in the early 1960s and had married in 1965. The Marriage was brief, Frances had left him within a matter of weeks however, on paper the marriage continued for another two years. Frances had lived in fear of Reggie until her suicide of a pill overdose at the age of 23. It was said that Frances struggled with depression and the pressures of being in a relationship with a notorious criminal like Reggie. He married his second wife Roberta Jones in 1997 and remained with her for the rest of his life. (Astardjieva, M. 2022)
In addition to his romantic relationships, Reggie had a close relationship with his brother Ronnie. The two were inseparable. However, their relationship was not always smooth sailing. Ronnie was known for being violent and would often lash out at those around him. This caused tension between the two brothers at times, but they always managed to maintain their bond. Reggie also had friendly relationships with a range of celebrities throughout his life. He was known to socialise with high-profile people such as Barbara Windsor, Judy Garland, and even Princess Margaret. These relationships provided Reggie with a sense of status and power within their social circles Overall, Reggie Kray had a complex web of relationships throughout his life.
(Ronnie Kray's relationships) Ronnie Kray had many relationships throughout his life, most notably with his brother Reggie. His other relationships included his controversial homosexual relationships, His friendships to known criminals, politicians, and business partners.
Ronnie Kray was openly bisexual. In the early 1960s Ronnie Kray had planned to marry a woman named Monica he had dated for over three years however never fulfilled his plans. His most high-profile romantic relationship was with Lord Boothby, a Conservative politician who he allegedly had a sexual relationship with. This relationship was revealed in a scandalous newspaper in 1964, which caused a media sensation. (MacAskill, G. 2022) Lord Boothby maintained that he was never involved with Ronnie, but the damage had been done.
In terms of friendships, Ronnie had a close friendship with his driver, unofficial bodyguard, and personal assistant Tony Lambrianou. The two became close after Tony was recruited by the Krays, and they were later convicted together in 1969 for the murder of Jack "The Hat" McVitie, which was a turning point in the downfall of the Krays.
Ronnie Kray's business partnerships were also important. One of his most successful partnerships was with his brother Reggie, as together, they built an extensive criminal network in London. However, Ronnie had a problem maintaining his composure and would often take major mood swings and act erratic as he developed paranoia throughout his criminal career. This made it hard for Reggie to maintain close to his brother as Ronnie would carry out random acts of violence.
(Mental health) Although Reggie Kray was never diagnosed with any mental health illnesses, there is evidence to suggest he may have suffered from depression with the sudden death of his wife, Frances Shea. Furthermore, during his reign in the criminal underworld Reggie was involved in gruesome acts of violence including murder, therefore there could have been more underlying mental health issues that was never uncovered. As for Ronnie, prison psychiatrists examined him and declared him to be educationally subnormal, psychopathic, paranoid schizophrenic and insane (Daly, P. 2022). This makes sense given the character of Ronnie Kray. He was known to be erratic, violent, and unpredictable during his reign of terror. One circumstance being the shooting of rival gang member George Cornell, in the middle of the well-known Whitechapel blind beggar pub in broad daylight. Another factor in the Kray Empire's downfall can be attributed to the personal problems of the twins themselves. Ronnie struggled with mental health issues, in particular living with schizophrenia. His increasingly erratic behaviour and violent outbursts began to impact the ability to run their criminal network effectively and undermined their support among their own gang members. Reggie struggled to maintain a healthy relationship with his brother as he continued to spiral.
(Downfall) The Kray Empire was one of the most notorious criminal organisations in British history. The twins, Ronnie, and Reggie Kray, rose to power in the 1950s and 1960s, controlling a large criminal network that included gambling, protection rackets, and murder. However, their empire came to a crashing end in the 1960s, as law enforcement agencies and rivals began to close in on them.
One factor in the downfall of the Kray Empire was the rise of violence that erupted within the criminal underworld in the 1960s. The Krays had made enemies through territorial disputes and through their ruthless tactics. Several rival gangs were keen to take them down. One being, the Richardson Gang, who had been involved in a long-running feud with the Krays.
One of the main reasons for the downfall of the Kray empire was increased investigation from authorities. The twins had been able to operate with relative impunity for many years due to their connections within the police force and among politicians. However, as their empire grew, so did the attention of the media and the authorities. In 1964, the Metropolitan Police set up Operation Leopard, which aimed to gather intelligence on the Krays and their associates. (Lewis, P 2008) This led to the arrest in 1968 and conviction of the twins in 1969 for the murder of gangster Jack McVitie. Despite their wealth and power, the Kray brothers reign of terror was short lived and in 1968 the trial of the Kray brothers began. It was one of the most high-profile cases in British history, and they were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. The Kray brothers were sent to separate prisons, and their empire crumbled.
(Legacy) Despite the nature of their activities, the Krays were seen by some in their community as Robin Hood figures, who would offer to help those in need. Their story has been the plot of numerous books, plays, and films over the years, including the 1990 hit movie "The Krays" directed by Peter Medak, and the recent release of the film "Legend," starring Tom Hardy as both Ronnie and Reggie. The Krays represented a dangerous and exciting rebellion.
Another aspect of the legacy of the Krays is the way in which they have entered popular culture. Their story has been romanticised in films and television, with the twins often portrayed as charismatic anti-heroes battling against a corrupt system. This has helped to keep their legend alive, as audiences continue to be drawn to stories of charismatic criminals.
(conclusion) In conclusion, the rise and fall of the Kray twins, Ronnie, and Reggie, was one of the most notorious chapters in British criminal history. The Kray brothers rose to fame in the 1960s as the gangsters who ruled the streets of London's East End with an iron fist and for a time, the Krays power seemed invincible, and they were seen as untouchable by the police and the authorities. Their power was based on fear and intimidation, and it was only a matter of time before their downfall. In 1968, their time had come. The trial was a media sensation, and the evidence against the Krays was overwhelming. They were both found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. The rise and fall of the Kray twins bring a fascinating tale of ambition, power, and corruption. Their story is a classic reminder that “Poverty is the parent of rebellion and crime.” (Aristotle, 0400 BC)
2024.05.21 01:21 Superb_Pen_6184 Research study report. Title: The rise and fall of the Kray brothers 1950-1990
(Childhood) Ronnie and Reggie Kray were infamous gangsters who rose to power in the East End of London in the 1950s and 60s. While their adult lives have been well-documented, less is known about their childhood. Born in 1933 in Bethnal Green East London, the Kray twins were the youngest of four children. Their father, Charlie Kray was a boxer and their mother, Violet was a homemaker. The family lived in a small house in the poverty-stricken area of East London, where violence and crime were common. The twins were inseparable from an early age, and they looked out for each other in the rough environment in which they grew up in. Both Ronnie and Reggie struggled in school and understood that they could not succeed academically, this led to them eventually dropping out. (Jones, T. 2015) Instead they spent their days roaming the streets of East London until they decided to take after their father in the sport of boxing, later becoming local champions. Ronnie and Reggie became popular due to their dangerous fighting style’s.
(The beginning of their criminal careers) As the brothers reached their teenage years, they became known for their charm and charisma. They had an ability to win people over, and they quickly became popular within their community. It was during this time that they began to associate with some of the most notorious criminals in the East End and begin their own criminal careers. Ronnie and Reggie began to gain a reputation for their violent and ruthless behaviour. Over the course of their teenage years, they were involved in numerous incidents of petty theft, extortion, and illegal gambling activities. By their early 20s their criminal careers had escalated with Ronnie and Reggie beginning their own gang operating in east London which was named “the Firm” (Nuttman, D. 2023) This was the beginning of construction for an empire that would later take over the criminal underworld of East end London.
(Building their empire) by the 1950s, the Krays began to use intimidation and violence on nightclub and business owners to take over. The Krays had a network of clubs, bars and betting shops that provided them with lucrative income streams, these were often visited by celebrities and high socialite figures in which the brothers-built connections with. These included: politicians, celebrities and other influential people of the era which helped them further their influence and allowed them to operate in illegal activities with impunity from law enforcement. Their notoriety peaked in the 1960s, the Kray’s were now considered as the wealthiest and most powerful gangsters in London. It was during this period that they escalated to more serious manners of criminal activity ranging from protection rackets, gambling, extortion, and murder.
(Rivalries) (Richardson, E. 2019) The Kray Brothers had many rivals and enemies during their reign of terror in London. Their most famous rivalry was with the Richardson Gang, but they also had numerous other enemies who they clashed with over territory, power, and respect. The Richardsons were another infamous gangster family in London, and they had their own network of criminal activities. The Kray Brothers and the Richardsons had several violent confrontations, which resulted in numerous injuries and even deaths. This rivalry was fuelled by a deep hatred between the two families, as well as their desire to control the criminal underworld of London.
Another major rival of the Kray Brothers was the South London Gang, who controlled southern London. They often clashed with the Kray Brothers over territorial disputes which often led to violent confrontations between the two groups, with many people getting hurt or even killed. They also had a bitter rivalry with Billy Hill, a former gangster who was known for his violent temper and his close ties to the American mafia. One of the most infamous moments in the Krays’ criminal career came in March 1966, when Ronnie Kray shot and killed rival gang member George Cornell in the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel. The murder was witnessed by dozens of people, but nobody was willing to testify against the Krays, and the murder remains unsolved to this day.
(Reggie Kray's relationships) In terms of relationships, Reggie had several romantic relationships throughout his life. One of his most well-known partners was a woman named Frances Shea, the sister of a friend and member of the firm, Frank Shea. The two began dating in the early 1960s and had married in 1965. The Marriage was brief, Frances had left him within a matter of weeks however, on paper the marriage continued for another two years. Frances had lived in fear of Reggie until her suicide of a pill overdose at the age of 23. It was said that Frances struggled with depression and the pressures of being in a relationship with a notorious criminal like Reggie. He married his second wife Roberta Jones in 1997 and remained with her for the rest of his life. (Astardjieva, M. 2022)
In addition to his romantic relationships, Reggie had a close relationship with his brother Ronnie. The two were inseparable. However, their relationship was not always smooth sailing. Ronnie was known for being violent and would often lash out at those around him. This caused tension between the two brothers at times, but they always managed to maintain their bond. Reggie also had friendly relationships with a range of celebrities throughout his life. He was known to socialise with high-profile people such as Barbara Windsor, Judy Garland, and even Princess Margaret. These relationships provided Reggie with a sense of status and power within their social circles Overall, Reggie Kray had a complex web of relationships throughout his life.
(Ronnie Kray's relationships) Ronnie Kray had many relationships throughout his life, most notably with his brother Reggie. His other relationships included his controversial homosexual relationships, His friendships to known criminals, politicians, and business partners.
Ronnie Kray was openly bisexual. In the early 1960s Ronnie Kray had planned to marry a woman named Monica he had dated for over three years however never fulfilled his plans. His most high-profile romantic relationship was with Lord Boothby, a Conservative politician who he allegedly had a sexual relationship with. This relationship was revealed in a scandalous newspaper in 1964, which caused a media sensation. (MacAskill, G. 2022) Lord Boothby maintained that he was never involved with Ronnie, but the damage had been done.
In terms of friendships, Ronnie had a close friendship with his driver, unofficial bodyguard, and personal assistant Tony Lambrianou. The two became close after Tony was recruited by the Krays, and they were later convicted together in 1969 for the murder of Jack "The Hat" McVitie, which was a turning point in the downfall of the Krays.
Ronnie Kray's business partnerships were also important. One of his most successful partnerships was with his brother Reggie, as together, they built an extensive criminal network in London. However, Ronnie had a problem maintaining his composure and would often take major mood swings and act erratic as he developed paranoia throughout his criminal career. This made it hard for Reggie to maintain close to his brother as Ronnie would carry out random acts of violence.
(Mental health) Although Reggie Kray was never diagnosed with any mental health illnesses, there is evidence to suggest he may have suffered from depression with the sudden death of his wife, Frances Shea. Furthermore, during his reign in the criminal underworld Reggie was involved in gruesome acts of violence including murder, therefore there could have been more underlying mental health issues that was never uncovered. As for Ronnie, prison psychiatrists examined him and declared him to be educationally subnormal, psychopathic, paranoid schizophrenic and insane (Daly, P. 2022). This makes sense given the character of Ronnie Kray. He was known to be erratic, violent, and unpredictable during his reign of terror. One circumstance being the shooting of rival gang member George Cornell, in the middle of the well-known Whitechapel blind beggar pub in broad daylight. Another factor in the Kray Empire's downfall can be attributed to the personal problems of the twins themselves. Ronnie struggled with mental health issues, in particular living with schizophrenia. His increasingly erratic behaviour and violent outbursts began to impact the ability to run their criminal network effectively and undermined their support among their own gang members. Reggie struggled to maintain a healthy relationship with his brother as he continued to spiral.
(Downfall) The Kray Empire was one of the most notorious criminal organisations in British history. The twins, Ronnie, and Reggie Kray, rose to power in the 1950s and 1960s, controlling a large criminal network that included gambling, protection rackets, and murder. However, their empire came to a crashing end in the 1960s, as law enforcement agencies and rivals began to close in on them.
One factor in the downfall of the Kray Empire was the rise of violence that erupted within the criminal underworld in the 1960s. The Krays had made enemies through territorial disputes and through their ruthless tactics. Several rival gangs were keen to take them down. One being, the Richardson Gang, who had been involved in a long-running feud with the Krays.
One of the main reasons for the downfall of the Kray empire was increased investigation from authorities. The twins had been able to operate with relative impunity for many years due to their connections within the police force and among politicians. However, as their empire grew, so did the attention of the media and the authorities. In 1964, the Metropolitan Police set up Operation Leopard, which aimed to gather intelligence on the Krays and their associates. (Lewis, P 2008) This led to the arrest in 1968 and conviction of the twins in 1969 for the murder of gangster Jack McVitie. Despite their wealth and power, the Kray brothers reign of terror was short lived and in 1968 the trial of the Kray brothers began. It was one of the most high-profile cases in British history, and they were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. The Kray brothers were sent to separate prisons, and their empire crumbled.
(Legacy) Despite the nature of their activities, the Krays were seen by some in their community as Robin Hood figures, who would offer to help those in need. Their story has been the plot of numerous books, plays, and films over the years, including the 1990 hit movie "The Krays" directed by Peter Medak, and the recent release of the film "Legend," starring Tom Hardy as both Ronnie and Reggie. The Krays represented a dangerous and exciting rebellion.
Another aspect of the legacy of the Krays is the way in which they have entered popular culture. Their story has been romanticised in films and television, with the twins often portrayed as charismatic anti-heroes battling against a corrupt system. This has helped to keep their legend alive, as audiences continue to be drawn to stories of charismatic criminals.
(conclusion) In conclusion, the rise and fall of the Kray twins, Ronnie, and Reggie, was one of the most notorious chapters in British criminal history. The Kray brothers rose to fame in the 1960s as the gangsters who ruled the streets of London's East End with an iron fist and for a time, the Krays power seemed invincible, and they were seen as untouchable by the police and the authorities. Their power was based on fear and intimidation, and it was only a matter of time before their downfall. In 1968, their time had come. The trial was a media sensation, and the evidence against the Krays was overwhelming. They were both found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. The rise and fall of the Kray twins bring a fascinating tale of ambition, power, and corruption. Their story is a classic reminder that “Poverty is the parent of rebellion and crime.” (Aristotle, 0400 BC)
submitted by Superb_Pen_6184 to writers [link] [comments]
(The beginning of their criminal careers) As the brothers reached their teenage years, they became known for their charm and charisma. They had an ability to win people over, and they quickly became popular within their community. It was during this time that they began to associate with some of the most notorious criminals in the East End and begin their own criminal careers. Ronnie and Reggie began to gain a reputation for their violent and ruthless behaviour. Over the course of their teenage years, they were involved in numerous incidents of petty theft, extortion, and illegal gambling activities. By their early 20s their criminal careers had escalated with Ronnie and Reggie beginning their own gang operating in east London which was named “the Firm” (Nuttman, D. 2023) This was the beginning of construction for an empire that would later take over the criminal underworld of East end London.
(Building their empire) by the 1950s, the Krays began to use intimidation and violence on nightclub and business owners to take over. The Krays had a network of clubs, bars and betting shops that provided them with lucrative income streams, these were often visited by celebrities and high socialite figures in which the brothers-built connections with. These included: politicians, celebrities and other influential people of the era which helped them further their influence and allowed them to operate in illegal activities with impunity from law enforcement. Their notoriety peaked in the 1960s, the Kray’s were now considered as the wealthiest and most powerful gangsters in London. It was during this period that they escalated to more serious manners of criminal activity ranging from protection rackets, gambling, extortion, and murder.
(Rivalries) (Richardson, E. 2019) The Kray Brothers had many rivals and enemies during their reign of terror in London. Their most famous rivalry was with the Richardson Gang, but they also had numerous other enemies who they clashed with over territory, power, and respect. The Richardsons were another infamous gangster family in London, and they had their own network of criminal activities. The Kray Brothers and the Richardsons had several violent confrontations, which resulted in numerous injuries and even deaths. This rivalry was fuelled by a deep hatred between the two families, as well as their desire to control the criminal underworld of London.
Another major rival of the Kray Brothers was the South London Gang, who controlled southern London. They often clashed with the Kray Brothers over territorial disputes which often led to violent confrontations between the two groups, with many people getting hurt or even killed. They also had a bitter rivalry with Billy Hill, a former gangster who was known for his violent temper and his close ties to the American mafia. One of the most infamous moments in the Krays’ criminal career came in March 1966, when Ronnie Kray shot and killed rival gang member George Cornell in the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel. The murder was witnessed by dozens of people, but nobody was willing to testify against the Krays, and the murder remains unsolved to this day.
(Reggie Kray's relationships) In terms of relationships, Reggie had several romantic relationships throughout his life. One of his most well-known partners was a woman named Frances Shea, the sister of a friend and member of the firm, Frank Shea. The two began dating in the early 1960s and had married in 1965. The Marriage was brief, Frances had left him within a matter of weeks however, on paper the marriage continued for another two years. Frances had lived in fear of Reggie until her suicide of a pill overdose at the age of 23. It was said that Frances struggled with depression and the pressures of being in a relationship with a notorious criminal like Reggie. He married his second wife Roberta Jones in 1997 and remained with her for the rest of his life. (Astardjieva, M. 2022)
In addition to his romantic relationships, Reggie had a close relationship with his brother Ronnie. The two were inseparable. However, their relationship was not always smooth sailing. Ronnie was known for being violent and would often lash out at those around him. This caused tension between the two brothers at times, but they always managed to maintain their bond. Reggie also had friendly relationships with a range of celebrities throughout his life. He was known to socialise with high-profile people such as Barbara Windsor, Judy Garland, and even Princess Margaret. These relationships provided Reggie with a sense of status and power within their social circles Overall, Reggie Kray had a complex web of relationships throughout his life.
(Ronnie Kray's relationships) Ronnie Kray had many relationships throughout his life, most notably with his brother Reggie. His other relationships included his controversial homosexual relationships, His friendships to known criminals, politicians, and business partners.
Ronnie Kray was openly bisexual. In the early 1960s Ronnie Kray had planned to marry a woman named Monica he had dated for over three years however never fulfilled his plans. His most high-profile romantic relationship was with Lord Boothby, a Conservative politician who he allegedly had a sexual relationship with. This relationship was revealed in a scandalous newspaper in 1964, which caused a media sensation. (MacAskill, G. 2022) Lord Boothby maintained that he was never involved with Ronnie, but the damage had been done.
In terms of friendships, Ronnie had a close friendship with his driver, unofficial bodyguard, and personal assistant Tony Lambrianou. The two became close after Tony was recruited by the Krays, and they were later convicted together in 1969 for the murder of Jack "The Hat" McVitie, which was a turning point in the downfall of the Krays.
Ronnie Kray's business partnerships were also important. One of his most successful partnerships was with his brother Reggie, as together, they built an extensive criminal network in London. However, Ronnie had a problem maintaining his composure and would often take major mood swings and act erratic as he developed paranoia throughout his criminal career. This made it hard for Reggie to maintain close to his brother as Ronnie would carry out random acts of violence.
(Mental health) Although Reggie Kray was never diagnosed with any mental health illnesses, there is evidence to suggest he may have suffered from depression with the sudden death of his wife, Frances Shea. Furthermore, during his reign in the criminal underworld Reggie was involved in gruesome acts of violence including murder, therefore there could have been more underlying mental health issues that was never uncovered. As for Ronnie, prison psychiatrists examined him and declared him to be educationally subnormal, psychopathic, paranoid schizophrenic and insane (Daly, P. 2022). This makes sense given the character of Ronnie Kray. He was known to be erratic, violent, and unpredictable during his reign of terror. One circumstance being the shooting of rival gang member George Cornell, in the middle of the well-known Whitechapel blind beggar pub in broad daylight. Another factor in the Kray Empire's downfall can be attributed to the personal problems of the twins themselves. Ronnie struggled with mental health issues, in particular living with schizophrenia. His increasingly erratic behaviour and violent outbursts began to impact the ability to run their criminal network effectively and undermined their support among their own gang members. Reggie struggled to maintain a healthy relationship with his brother as he continued to spiral.
(Downfall) The Kray Empire was one of the most notorious criminal organisations in British history. The twins, Ronnie, and Reggie Kray, rose to power in the 1950s and 1960s, controlling a large criminal network that included gambling, protection rackets, and murder. However, their empire came to a crashing end in the 1960s, as law enforcement agencies and rivals began to close in on them.
One factor in the downfall of the Kray Empire was the rise of violence that erupted within the criminal underworld in the 1960s. The Krays had made enemies through territorial disputes and through their ruthless tactics. Several rival gangs were keen to take them down. One being, the Richardson Gang, who had been involved in a long-running feud with the Krays.
One of the main reasons for the downfall of the Kray empire was increased investigation from authorities. The twins had been able to operate with relative impunity for many years due to their connections within the police force and among politicians. However, as their empire grew, so did the attention of the media and the authorities. In 1964, the Metropolitan Police set up Operation Leopard, which aimed to gather intelligence on the Krays and their associates. (Lewis, P 2008) This led to the arrest in 1968 and conviction of the twins in 1969 for the murder of gangster Jack McVitie. Despite their wealth and power, the Kray brothers reign of terror was short lived and in 1968 the trial of the Kray brothers began. It was one of the most high-profile cases in British history, and they were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. The Kray brothers were sent to separate prisons, and their empire crumbled.
(Legacy) Despite the nature of their activities, the Krays were seen by some in their community as Robin Hood figures, who would offer to help those in need. Their story has been the plot of numerous books, plays, and films over the years, including the 1990 hit movie "The Krays" directed by Peter Medak, and the recent release of the film "Legend," starring Tom Hardy as both Ronnie and Reggie. The Krays represented a dangerous and exciting rebellion.
Another aspect of the legacy of the Krays is the way in which they have entered popular culture. Their story has been romanticised in films and television, with the twins often portrayed as charismatic anti-heroes battling against a corrupt system. This has helped to keep their legend alive, as audiences continue to be drawn to stories of charismatic criminals.
(conclusion) In conclusion, the rise and fall of the Kray twins, Ronnie, and Reggie, was one of the most notorious chapters in British criminal history. The Kray brothers rose to fame in the 1960s as the gangsters who ruled the streets of London's East End with an iron fist and for a time, the Krays power seemed invincible, and they were seen as untouchable by the police and the authorities. Their power was based on fear and intimidation, and it was only a matter of time before their downfall. In 1968, their time had come. The trial was a media sensation, and the evidence against the Krays was overwhelming. They were both found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. The rise and fall of the Kray twins bring a fascinating tale of ambition, power, and corruption. Their story is a classic reminder that “Poverty is the parent of rebellion and crime.” (Aristotle, 0400 BC)
2024.05.21 00:13 SlimeSpree HUGE Pilot Review (with pics!)
 | I'm so excited to finally be reviewing Pilot! This is gonna be a long, info and image dense one! Lets go!.... submitted by SlimeSpree to Slime [link] [comments] Pilot Slimes, USA. Variety of sizes from 7/7.5/8oz costing between £12-16. Fantastically designed waterproof labels. Some of the jars are PS which I’m not a fan of as they can’t be squeezed to aid in slime removal and it’s a nightmare, if not impossible, getting the labels off them even with the scotch tape method. They always come off PP pretty clean using this method. However, the textures that really need to be squeezed such as crunch bombs do come in PP jars. https://preview.redd.it/p98sicrz8n1d1.jpg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a517408c01976e714d1bbe3496463b423681cc0e I placed a couple of separate orders having circled back round after nabbing the ones I wanted most. It turned out to be unnecessary shopping from Pilot this manner! I really didn’t know what to expect and whether things would sell out in a frenzy but that wasn’t the case at all so you don’t have to stress! It was a lovely surprise to get a super sweet email from Travis from Pilot asking me if I wished to combine orders. I really appreciate this level of customer service from a slime store as, I know it sounds silly, but I know what its like to be rammed with orders and emails after a product drop and don't want to further add to a team's stress by bothering them to dig out and combine my orders when it's my fault I shopped that way. Travis even wrote me a thank you note on the inside of the box flap so respect to Pilot for their absolutely stellar customer service! Inside the box was a fat baggie of Borax with a sticker, a beautifully professional, large sized care card. Everything was extremely well packaged and the slimes were combined individually with their add ins which I very much appreciated! They also very kindly sent me two medium sized complimentary slimes. I should state that I always put all my slimes in the fridge for 15 minutes prior to a review. I think that gives all slimes a fair and common starting point from which to judge them and takes back any stickiness in the event of hot weather. After reviewing, all my retained slimes are kept in a cooler at 10c/50f/degrees and 70% RH to ensure longevity and maintain them for future play. I will report back on their longevity in a few months time but I don't keep them all, only my favourites which I will be certain to want to play with again, with the rest given to friends. Most of the slimes were a tiny bit over-activated on arrival which is actually something I appreciate and see as conscientious by a slime company. It is something some of my favourite stores routinely do (such as Momo.) I don’t add glycerine, I feel it makes them stay playable without the need for activator longer and allows them to melt down gradually on their own. I personally enjoy a bit of over-activation as it adds a slight crunch to some textures when you stretch them which I personally find satisfying. The down side is that cetain textures may be a little rippy but this was a minor issue with Pilot.
This is a puffy, stretchy, firm cloud creme, very slightly towards the doughy. It’s holdable, jiggly and gives a hollow “tup” when you give it a love tap when it’s fully inflated. It is very stretchy with clicks that get louder as it inflates and little crackles and pops. Lots of soft sizzles as you deflate. As mentioned above it was a little over-activated which made it rip just a little if I stretched too fast. I loved this theme so much. The label was beautiful and assembled it really entertained me!
https://preview.redd.it/08ol0tw1bn1d1.jpg?width=8712&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9d4ae5e069caf4fe95b85d652fb551288db1b37a
https://preview.redd.it/f0aekg0abn1d1.jpg?width=8419&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e3a9b619ba291e31325b21b956667cfd60f3d4ec
https://preview.redd.it/9nforuxsbn1d1.jpg?width=5458&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=09f2e52d31f02be64e56d7565fa70ec45b58857e
https://preview.redd.it/lenr9jkbcn1d1.jpg?width=1395&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d88f39cecd22f284b463f0fc8d5d32fdc6069691 The bubble factor in this slime was pretty wild!
https://preview.redd.it/tcs6cfjmcn1d1.jpg?width=8896&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1b7c30c182f78a75d106c6193a56de3459c5f549
This is a texture I mostly like to slowly push and squeeze to maximize the croaks and it works so well with the combo of beads. It has some nice crackles and little pops when you stretch it and fold it. The base is a thick, resistant and chewy putty and has no stickiness. This was the perfect frogspawn crunch bomb and I very much enjoyed it! I would 100% grab this texture again in a heartbeat! Ribbet! 🐸 🫧
Overall, this isn’t a a particularly pokey texture BUT…. The other day I seemingly upset someone who voiced their discontent after I noted and warned in a review that a slime had the potential to cut skin. Admittedly, the texture I am referencing was a far more notably rough one. However, I did find several pieces of silica in this slime that had the potential to be dangerous and this time I took photos to demonstrate this. This isn’t the slime maker’s fault, it is unfortunately inevitable that some broken, sharp pieces will manifest when dealing with large batches of silica and you do have to be mindful as if you catch one wrong and you could scratch, nick or quite seriously pierce your skin. Once again this is NOT a direct criticism of Pilot seeing as this is common in any slime of this texture. If you buy silica slimes from ANY slime company I would recommend you have a careful look and feel through the slime prior to play to ensure there are no dangerous pieces, especially if you are going to hand it to a less experienced slimer or a child. I feel it would be wise for shops offering this texture to put a little warning on their website that sharp and broken pieces could be present and need to be checked for. Admittedly, this has put me off this texture across the board (apart from the Rodem ones which seem to include particularly well rounded, small and smooth pieces of silica.) This is one of the prettiest slimes I have ever seen first opened but I find it comparatively dull combined which is a shame! There were 5-10 extremely sharp silica pieces in my jar so PLEASE be careful with this texture from any company and remember that silica is a component of glass. This is not an issue unique to Pilot or a criticism of their rendition of this texture at all but I would be mindful that this can happen in any silica slime. (Please excuse the gross macro shot of my dry slime fingers 😆)
https://preview.redd.it/pmmi7c9mfn1d1.jpg?width=1841&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=44e28fa2351c427c90412b003651c000cbb1c10b
https://preview.redd.it/yanplep8in1d1.jpg?width=1319&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7080ccfcd5ee730ceeb6f461809abccf32e9b604
https://preview.redd.it/d773neupin1d1.jpg?width=1800&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f09b1c28911baffee5edac8bd0d05ded194e3c4f
https://preview.redd.it/qnrtsp4kjn1d1.jpg?width=1800&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=afacfa05575a88eea067bd196f673065e4e0666e
I personally think this is also prettier without the seed beads after play.
https://preview.redd.it/rh01lf7skn1d1.jpg?width=5435&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=380bed34f14a9d730a9ea879435e231c39c0377c
This is a GORGEOUS light, fluffy, moist and jiggly snow creme with nice, moist, clicky finger pokes. This is far closer to what I imagined when it came to Pilot’s famous “wip” texture reminding me of a floofy, whipped honey butter sort of texture, I personally found it a preferable texture to 'Toasted.' It inflates loads and gets airier and fluffier as you play. It also has some great bubble pops. This was a fantastic slime and certainly the star of the show for me. I am now very keen to get my hands on more like this from Pilot. https://preview.redd.it/47dgps98ln1d1.jpg?width=5866&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=51807f49cf16f0fee9d35f4ac66aa32cdeccd09d
When the moooon hits your eyyye like a biiiig pizza piiiie....etc. 😂 The second free slime was an unnamed silica, seed bead and fish bowl crunch bomb which I am saving for a friend as it’s hard to review a no-name slime because I can’t tell you guys what it is in order to enable you to buy it! CONCLUSION: I’ve heard people say they were underwhelmed with Pilot and I can understand where they are coming from. I believe that it’s because the extreme hype leads us to believe that some sort of new slime innovation is coming our way, just to discover that the textures are all particularly familiar to us and very common to many other slime companies. I didn’t experience any textures that were new, unusual or particularly nuanced and sophisticated although I thought the lemon meringue was one of the nicest of that particular texture (and combined scent) I have experienced of late. In my opinion, the manner in which Pilot shines and DOES deserve hype arises from the fact they are all VERY well done, extremely professionally made slimes. Nothing was sticky, I feel the slight over-activation is a professionally conscientious move, there was no mess or spillage on the containers, the labels were absolutely beautiful, the packaging and care card lovely and the themes all absolutely fantastic. I found a small percentage of the scents to be excellent and the others somewhat faint/underwhelming and, in light of the plastic beads, some very unpleasant unfortunately. The overall impression I got from Pilot was a very polished and professional one and I personally very much enjoyed my order and will retain with enthusiasm. However, my future purchases from them (because there will be future purchases, they won me round) will be more targeted and far more modest. I would certainly be interested in more light wips, frogspawn crunch bombs and pigmented clears. The caviar and seed beads lost me and I just give up on silica at this point (apart from Rodem's) I’m afraid. The denser snow cremes didn’t really capture me and the scents are definitely something I will be a little more considered over when I shop in future. I thought they nailed the sweet/creamy/bread scents, they may be my preference scent-wise but they are not always done well. All in all I feel that Pilot are worthy of a solid 9.5/10 |
2024.05.20 23:10 taegai I’ve finally achieved the blush collection of my dreams
 | I’m the ultimate blush girly and after months and months of collecting and decluttering, I feel like I’ve finally put together my dream collection 😭I love every single product, and feel so happy just looking at my blush drawer lol. submitted by taegai to makeupflatlays [link] [comments] Top row: Huda beauty glowish powder blushes in milky rose, caring coral, berry juice, and charming cherry, benefit Willa, Dior rosy glow 2nd row: lilybyred luv beam cheek in heart attack red, mood rose, innocent pink, dollish rose, and blurry lavender, flower knows in pure rhyme 3rd row: holika holika jelly dough in rose jelly, saemmul single blusher in pp01, too faced in cloud crush, makeup by Mario in barely blushing, Fenty cheeks out in summertime wine, and one size cheek clapper trio in attention seeker 4th row: rose inc in camellia and wisteria, romand better than cheek in vine nude, bbia downy cheek in downy lavender, and canmake cream cheek in p01 Last row: dasique violet knit, Dior backstage glow in 004 rose gold, Patrick ta in just enough, abh stick blush in soft rose, rare beauty in encourage, rare beauty mini in hope, saie dew blush in baby, saie mini in chilly, and a’pieu juicy pang in rd01 Whenever I think I want a new blush, I just look at my collection and realize that I already have everything I want and more here 🥺 |
2024.05.20 18:58 someonesleeping SLIDESHOW PITCH FOR AN AVATAR-VERSE FILM AND SERIES.
2024.05.20 18:42 Sweet-Count2557 Best Brunch in Lakewood Oh
 | Best Brunch in Lakewood Oh Are you ready to indulge in the best brunch experience in Lakewood, OH? Look no further, as we've got you covered.Imagine starting your day with a mouthwatering plate of fluffy pancakes topped with fresh berries and a side of crispy bacon. Or perhaps you prefer a savory eggs Benedict smothered in hollandaise sauce. Whatever your brunch cravings may be, our comprehensive guide will lead you to the most delicious and satisfying brunch spots in Lakewood.Get ready to treat yourself to a memorable dining experience.Key TakeawaysPier W is a renowned seafood restaurant with lake views and offers an outstanding bottomless brunch with a rotating menu.Forage Public House is a hip gastropub with a seasonal menu and unique brunch cocktails, making it a casual-elegant weekend brunch spot.Joes Deli & Restaurant Rocky River is a long-running deli offering traditional sandwiches and Lebanese cuisine, providing a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.Barroco Grill is a Latin American restaurant with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere, offering a diverse menu with vegetarian and gluten-free options.Top-rated Brunch Spots in LakewoodWe have compiled a list of 15 top-rated brunch spots in Lakewood, each offering unique flavors and dishes to satisfy our brunch cravings. From upscale dining establishments to cozy cafes, Lakewood has a diverse range of options for brunch enthusiasts.Pier W is a renowned seafood restaurant with breathtaking lake views. They offer an exquisite selection of seafood and gourmet dishes, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion. Forage Public House is a hip gastropub that emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their seasonal menu offers an eclectic mix of dishes that cater to both vegetarians and meat-lovers.If you're in the mood for a classic deli experience, Joes Deli & Restaurant Rocky River is a must-visit. They offer traditional sandwiches and Lebanese cuisine, adding a touch of Lebanese and European flair to their menu. Barroco Grill is another great option, with unique flavors and dishes inspired by Colombian cuisine. Their vibrant and lively atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.Deagan's Kitchen & Bar is a gastropub known for its creative and innovative menu. With a farm-to-table concept and locally-sourced ingredients, they offer a cozy and rustic atmosphere for brunch-goers. Georgetown Restaurant is a family-owned establishment that serves classic American breakfast dishes with friendly and attentive service.Whether you're looking for a quaint cafe or an eclectic eatery, Lakewood has it all. Root Cafe focuses on organic and locally-sourced ingredients, while Melt Bar and Grilled is famous for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. The Proper Pig Smokehouse offers hearty Southern-inspired dishes, while Buckeye Beer Engine provides comfort food classics with a twist.For those craving Mexican flavors, Barrio Lakewood is the place to be. Their build-your-own tacos and colorful decor create a lively ambiance. Salt+ Restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with a contemporary American menu, perfect for a special brunch outing.If you prefer a cozy cafe atmosphere, The Place To Be and Rooted Juicery & Kitchen are excellent choices. The Vegan Doughnut Company offers delicious vegan doughnuts, while Bar Italia Lakewood combines Italian dishes with a New York City twist.Unique Brunch Experiences in LakewoodWhen it comes to brunch in Lakewood, there are several unique experiences that stand out. From creative menu options that showcase the flavors of the region to lively and vibrant atmospheres that make brunch feel like a celebration, these brunch spots offer something special.Many of these establishments also place a strong emphasis on using local ingredients, ensuring that each dish is fresh and bursting with flavor.Creative Menu OptionsI love exploring unique brunch experiences in Lakewood, especially when restaurants offer creative menu options that showcase their innovative culinary skills.One standout brunch spot in Lakewood is Forage Public House. This hip gastropub combines craft beer with a seasonal menu that emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat-lover, Forage Public House has an eclectic mix of dishes to satisfy your cravings.One of their highlights is the build-your-own bloody Mary, where you can customize your drink with a variety of unique ingredients.Another great option is Deagan's Kitchen & Bar, a gastropub that prides itself on its creative and innovative menu. They follow a farm-to-table concept, using locally-sourced ingredients to create delicious brunch offerings. From their cozy and rustic atmosphere to their extensive beer selection, Deagan's Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit for brunch lovers in Lakewood.Lively and Vibrant AtmosphereForage Public House creates a lively and vibrant atmosphere with its hip gastropub setting and eclectic mix of dishes. Here's what sets Forage apart and makes it a must-visit spot for brunch:Ambiance:The restaurant exudes a trendy and energetic vibe, with modern decor and an open layout that encourages socializing.The space is filled with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.The lively chatter of diners and the energetic buzz of the bar make for a dynamic dining experience.Menu:Forage offers a diverse range of dishes, from classic brunch staples to unique creations that showcase their commitment to seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients.Vegetarians and meat-lovers alike will find plenty of options to satisfy their cravings.The build-your-own bloody Mary bar and unique brunch cocktails add an extra element of fun and creativity to the dining experience.Service:The staff at Forage is attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, creating a welcoming and relaxed environment.Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you can expect top-notch service and a memorable dining experience.Overall, Forage Public House is a go-to destination for those seeking a lively and vibrant brunch experience.Emphasis on Local IngredientsWe love how many brunch spots in Lakewood, OH emphasize local ingredients, creating unique and flavorful dining experiences. These establishments understand the importance of supporting local farmers and businesses, and they showcase the best that the region has to offer.By sourcing their ingredients locally, these brunch spots ensure freshness and quality in their dishes. They take pride in using seasonal produce, artisanal cheeses, and locally-raised meats, which adds depth and complexity to their menus.From farm-to-table gastropubs to cozy cafes, each brunch spot has its own distinct style and approach to showcasing local ingredients. Whether you're craving traditional American breakfast dishes or exploring international flavors, the emphasis on local ingredients elevates the dining experience and connects patrons to the community.Must-Visit Brunch Restaurants in LakewoodLet's check out the must-visit brunch restaurants in Lakewood and savor delicious dishes and unique flavors.Pier W: Renowned seafood restaurant with lake views, exquisite selection of seafood and gourmet dishes, outstanding bottomless brunch with rotating menu, traditional, white tablecloth setting.Forage Public House: Hip gastropub with craft beer and seasonal menu, emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, eclectic mix of dishes for vegetarians and meat-lovers, build-your-own bloody Mary and unique brunch cocktails, casual-elegant weekend brunch spot.Joes Deli & Restaurant Rocky River: Long-running deli offering traditional sandwiches and Lebanese cuisine, comforting deli classics and American fare, casual and welcoming atmosphere, mom-and-pop restaurant with cozy setting, touch of Lebanese and European flair in cuisine.These brunch spots in Lakewood offer a diverse range of dining experiences.Pier W stands out for its stunning lake views and exquisite seafood dishes.Forage Public House is perfect for those who appreciate craft beer and a menu that highlights fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.Joes Deli & Restaurant Rocky River is a charming deli that serves up comforting deli classics and Lebanese cuisine with a touch of European flair.Whether you're in the mood for elegant dining or a cozy, casual atmosphere, these brunch restaurants in Lakewood have something to offer everyone.Hidden Gems for Brunch in LakewoodOne of our favorite hidden gems for brunch in Lakewood is Buckeye Beer Engine. Located in the heart of Lakewood, Buckeye Beer Engine offers a lively and energetic atmosphere, perfect for a casual brunch experience. The menu features a variety of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. From their signature Buckeye Benedict with crispy bacon and creamy hollandaise sauce to their fluffy buttermilk pancakes served with warm maple syrup, there's something for everyone to enjoy. But what sets Buckeye Beer Engine apart is their extensive selection of craft beers on tap. Whether you prefer a hoppy IPA or a smooth stout, they've a beer that will perfectly complement your meal. With its welcoming atmosphere and delicious food and drinks, Buckeye Beer Engine is a must-visit spot for brunch in Lakewood.Now, let's move on to some of the local favorites for brunch in Lakewood.Local Favorites for Brunch in LakewoodWhen it comes to local favorites for brunch in Lakewood, there are a few beloved eateries that always come to mind.Borderline Cafe is known for its scrumptious dishes and welcoming atmosphere, offering a cozy and comforting brunch experience.Deagans Kitchen & Bar is another popular choice among the local community, with its creative menu and rustic ambiance.These two spots have earned their reputation as go-to brunch destinations in Lakewood.Beloved Brunch SpotsWe can't wait to try out the beloved brunch spots in Lakewood, OH, such as Pier W and Forage Public House, known for their exquisite dishes and eclectic menus. Here's a taste of what to expect at these and other top brunch spots in Lakewood:Pier W: Renowned seafood restaurant with stunning lake views and a traditional, white tablecloth setting. Their bottomless brunch features a rotating menu of gourmet seafood dishes that are sure to impress.Forage Public House: This hip gastropub offers a seasonal menu with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat-lover, their eclectic mix of dishes has something for everyone. Don't miss their build-your-own bloody Mary and unique brunch cocktails.Joes Deli & Restaurant Rocky River: A long-running deli that offers traditional sandwiches and Lebanese cuisine. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere, combined with their comforting deli classics and American fare, gives this mom-and-pop restaurant a special touch.These are just a few examples of the incredible brunch options available in Lakewood, OH. With a variety of cuisines and atmospheres to choose from, there's something for every palate and preference.Scrumptious Dishes and Welcoming AtmosphereBorderline Cafe and Deagans Kitchen & Bar are beloved eateries in the community, known for their scrumptious dishes and welcoming atmosphere, making them top choices for a satisfying brunch experience.Borderline Cafe offers a cozy and inviting ambiance, with a menu that features classic breakfast dishes with a twist. Their signature dishes include fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and mouthwatering breakfast sandwiches. The cafe prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create flavorful and satisfying meals.Deagans Kitchen & Bar, on the other hand, offers a more innovative and creative brunch menu. From their famous avocado toast to their indulgent brunch cocktails, Deagans Kitchen & Bar provides a unique culinary experience. The rustic and cozy atmosphere adds to the overall charm of the restaurant, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.Whether you're in the mood for traditional breakfast fare or something more adventurous, both Borderline Cafe and Deagans Kitchen & Bar have something to satisfy your brunch cravings.Local Community FavoritesThe Proper Pig Smokehouse and The Vegan Doughnut Company are two of our favorite local community brunch spots in Lakewood, offering their own unique and delicious dishes.The Proper Pig Smokehouse: Nestled in the heart of Lakewood, The Proper Pig Smokehouse serves up mouthwatering BBQ brunch options. From their tender smoked meats to their savory Southern-inspired dishes, every bite is packed with flavor. The casual and laid-back atmosphere adds to the charm of this local favorite. Don't forget to pair your meal with one of their craft beers or a selection from their bourbon menu.The Vegan Doughnut Company: For those seeking a plant-based brunch experience, The Vegan Doughnut Company is a must-visit. Their assortment of delicious vegan doughnuts will satisfy any sweet tooth. With creative flavors and toppings, these doughnuts are a treat for both vegans and non-vegans alike. The cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a specialty coffee or tea alongside your doughnut delight.Whether you're craving BBQ or vegan treats, these local community favorites have something to satisfy every brunch craving.Trendy Brunch Places in LakewoodOne of the trendy brunch places in Lakewood that we love is Forage Public House. It offers a hip gastropub experience with craft beer and a seasonal menu. Located in Lakewood, Ohio, Forage Public House is known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and eclectic mix of dishes that cater to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.The menu at Forage Public House is constantly changing to reflect the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers a unique culinary experience. Whether you're in the mood for classic brunch fare like eggs Benedict or something more adventurous like avocado toast with a twist, Forage Public House has something to satisfy every palate.In addition to its delicious food, Forage Public House also boasts an impressive selection of craft beer, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind with friends. From IPA's to stouts, there's a beer for every beer lover at Forage Public House. And if you're in the mood for a brunch cocktail, be sure to try their build-your-own bloody Mary or one of their unique brunch cocktails.Overall, Forage Public House is a must-visit brunch spot in Lakewood. With its hip atmosphere, delicious food, and extensive craft beer selection, it's no wonder why it's become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.Outdoor Brunch Options in LakewoodWe should consider exploring the outdoor brunch options in Lakewood because the weather is beautiful and it would be a great way to enjoy our meal.First, we could visit Pier W, a renowned seafood restaurant with breathtaking lake views. They offer an exquisite selection of seafood and gourmet dishes, and their bottomless brunch with a rotating menu is outstanding. The traditional, white tablecloth setting adds an elegant touch to the dining experience.Another option is Forage Public House, a hip gastropub with a seasonal menu and emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. They've an eclectic mix of dishes for both vegetarians and meat-lovers, and their build-your-own bloody Mary and unique brunch cocktails are a hit. It's the perfect spot for a casual yet elegant weekend brunch.If we're in the mood for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, we can head to Joe's Deli & Restaurant Rocky River. This long-running deli offers traditional sandwiches and Lebanese cuisine, with a touch of Lebanese and European flair in their dishes. It's a mom-and-pop restaurant with a cozy setting and comforting deli classics.Exploring these outdoor brunch options in Lakewood won't only allow us to enjoy the beautiful weather, but also indulge in delicious food and create lasting memories.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Are Some Unique Brunch Experiences in Lakewood?Some unique brunch experiences in Lakewood include:Pier W, known for its exquisite seafood dishes and stunning lake views.Forage Public House, a trendy gastropub with a craft beer selection and seasonal menu.Joes Deli & Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with traditional sandwiches and Lebanese cuisine.Barroco Grill serves Latin American-inspired dishes in a vibrant setting.Deagan's Kitchen & Bar is a popular gastropub with a creative menu using locally-sourced ingredients.These brunch spots offer diverse flavors and atmospheres for a memorable dining experience.Are There Any Hidden Gem Brunch Spots in Lakewood?There mightn't be any hidden gem brunch spots in Lakewood, but there are plenty of amazing options to choose from.From the renowned seafood and gourmet dishes at Pier W to the hip gastropub experience at Forage Public House, there's something for everyone.Don't forget about the comforting deli classics at Joe's Deli & Restaurant Rocky River or the creative menu at Deagan's Kitchen & Bar.What Are the Local Favorites for Brunch in Lakewood?Local favorites for brunch in Lakewood include Borderline Cafe and Deagan's Kitchen & Bar.Borderline Cafe is beloved for its scrumptious dishes and welcoming atmosphere, serving homestyle breakfast classics.Deagan's Kitchen & Bar offers a creative and innovative brunch menu with locally-sourced ingredients, creating a cozy and rustic ambiance.Both establishments provide exceptional taste and a delightful dining experience.Where Can I Find Trendy Brunch Places in Lakewood?When it comes to trendy brunch places in Lakewood, there are a couple of options worth checking out.Summer House and Juneberry Table are popular spots known for their contemporary atmosphere, delicious food, and great service.Whether you're looking for a unique brunch experience or want to try something new, these trendy spots have you covered.From their stylish decor to their flavorful dishes, Summer House and Juneberry Table are sure to satisfy your brunch cravings.Are There Any Brunch Restaurants in Lakewood With Outdoor Seating?Yes, there are brunch restaurants in Lakewood with outdoor seating.Borderline Cafe and Juneberry Table are two popular spots that offer outdoor seating for brunch.Enjoy a delightful meal surrounded by the beautiful environment.These establishments provide a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience, combining delicious food with the refreshing ambiance of the outdoors.It's the perfect way to start your day and savor the flavors of Lakewood.ConclusionIn conclusion, our exploration of the best brunch spots in Lakewood, OH has revealed a delightful array of options.From elegant seafood restaurants with stunning lake views to cozy cafes with locally-sourced ingredients, there's a brunch experience to suit every taste.Whether you're craving traditional favorites or innovative dishes, the diverse culinary scene in Lakewood has you covered.So, indulge in a memorable and delicious brunch outing in this charming city. submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.05.20 09:56 Sweet-Count2557 Best Restaurants in Texarkana Tx
 | Best Restaurants in Texarkana Tx Hungry for a culinary adventure? Join us as we uncover the best restaurants in Texarkana, Texas.From mouthwatering BBQ to delectable Italian fare, this vibrant city has it all. Whether you're craving succulent meats or flavorful Mexican cuisine, we've got you covered.Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and indulge in warm hospitality. So, come along and discover the hidden gems, family-friendly establishments, and fine dining spots that will leave you craving for more.Let's embark on this gastronomic journey together.Key TakeawaysNaamans BBQ is a beloved local restaurant in Texarkana known for its succulent meats and luscious desserts.Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery is one of the best birthday restaurants in Texarkana, offering creative food, craft beers, and assistance in planning memorable birthday parties or dinners.Ironwood Grill is a family-friendly restaurant in Texarkana with an eclectic kid-approved menu, a kiddie play area, and satisfying fish tacos made with fresh ingredients.Cattlemans Steak House is a top pick for fine dining in Texarkana, offering succulent steaks, high-quality seafood, and filet mignon cooked to perfection.Naamans BBQWe absolutely love Naamans BBQ in Texarkana for its succulent meats and delicious homemade sides. This beloved local restaurant has racked up a ton of awards for its mouthwatering barbecue. The succulent meats are cooked low and slow, resulting in tender, juicy bites that are bursting with flavor. Whether you're in the mood for pulled pork, brisket, or ribs, Naamans BBQ has got you covered. The meats are perfectly seasoned and smoked to perfection, creating a smoky and savory taste that's sure to satisfy any barbecue lover's cravings.But it's not just the meats that make Naamans BBQ a standout. Their homemade sides are equally as impressive. From creamy mac and cheese to tangy coleslaw, these sides perfectly complement the rich flavors of the barbecue. And let's not forget about their delectable desserts. From classic pecan pie to indulgent banana pudding, Naamans BBQ knows how to satisfy your sweet tooth.The atmosphere at Naamans BBQ is cozy and inviting, with rustic decor that adds to the charm. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Naamans BBQ is the place to be.In a city known for its food, Naamans BBQ stands out as one of the best restaurants in Texarkana. The combination of succulent meats, delicious homemade sides, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and mouthwatering barbecue.Pecan Point Gastropub & BreweryLet's head over to Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery, a popular American gastropub in downtown Texarkana. Pecan Point is a go-to spot for those seeking a unique and delicious dining experience.Here are five reasons why Pecan Point stands out among the Texarkana food scene:Creative Food: Pecan Point captivates guests with their innovative and flavorful dishes. From their mouthwatering burgers to their delectable seafood, every item on their menu is carefully crafted to tantalize the taste buds. They take classic American dishes and give them a modern twist, resulting in a dining experience that's both familiar and exciting.Craft Beers: In addition to their impressive food menu, Pecan Point is also known for their outstanding craft beers. They brew their own beers on-site, offering a wide selection of brews to choose from. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs or smooth stouts, Pecan Point has a beer that will satisfy your cravings.Friendly Vibe: Pecan Point prides itself on its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that every guest feels right at home. Whether you're dining with friends, family, or on a romantic date, Pecan Point provides a relaxed and comfortable setting for all occasions.Memorable Birthdays: Pecan Point isn't only a great place to grab a bite to eat, but it's also one of the best birthday restaurants in Texarkana. They offer assistance in planning memorable birthday parties or dinners, taking care of all the details so you can focus on celebrating. From personalized menus to special decorations, Pecan Point goes above and beyond to make birthdays extra special.Inviting Decor: The interior of Pecan Point is both inviting and charming. With its rustic yet modern aesthetic, it creates a cozy and warm ambiance that adds to the overall dining experience. Whether you're sitting at the bar or in a booth, you'll feel right at home in this stylish gastropub.Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts in Texarkana. With its creative food, craft beers, friendly vibe, attention to birthdays, and inviting decor, it's no wonder why Pecan Point stands out as one of the best restaurants in town.Ironwood GrillIronwood Grill truly offers a satisfying and flavorful dining experience in Texarkana. This family-friendly restaurant has something to please everyone, from its eclectic kid-approved menu to its inviting patio and wood-accented digs for adults.The standout dish at Ironwood Grill is the fish tacos, made with fresh ingredients that are bursting with flavors. The tacos are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.Ironwood Grill takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. The menu offers a variety of options, including salads, sandwiches, burgers, and seafood dishes. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy steak or a refreshing salad, Ironwood Grill has you covered.In addition to the delicious food, Ironwood Grill also offers a kiddie play area, making it a great spot for families with children. The restaurant's laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience.The patio at Ironwood Grill is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends or family. The wood accents and comfortable seating make it a great spot to unwind and enjoy the Texas weather.Texas RoadhouseTexas Roadhouse serves up classic American dishes with a Southern twist, delighting diners with their Texas-themed decor and stellar service. The restaurant chain has gained popularity for its delicious food and inviting atmosphere. Here are five reasons why Texas Roadhouse is a must-visit in Texarkana:Juicy Ribs: Texas Roadhouse is known for its mouthwatering ribs that are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Each bite is tender, flavorful, and will leave you craving for more.Hand-Cut Steaks: The restaurant takes pride in its hand-cut steaks, which are cooked to your desired level of doneness. The steaks are juicy, rich, and full of beefy flavors that will satisfy any meat lover.Prime Rib: If you're in the mood for a prime rib, Texas Roadhouse is the place to go. Their prime rib is cooked to perfection, with a tender texture and a melt-in-your-mouth quality that will leave you wanting more.Bread: One of the highlights of dining at Texas Roadhouse is the complimentary fresh-baked bread. Served warm and accompanied by creamy butter, it's the perfect way to start your meal.Stellar Service: The staff at Texas Roadhouse is known for their exceptional service. From the moment you walk in, you'll be greeted with a warm smile and attentive service. The waitstaff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to assist you with any requests or questions.With its delicious food, lively atmosphere, and top-notch service, Texas Roadhouse is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.Now, let's move on to our next restaurant, Zapatas Mexican Restaurant, where you can indulge in a smorgasbord of piquant Mexican favorites.Zapatas Mexican RestaurantLocated in downtown Texarkana, Zapatas Mexican Restaurant tantalizes our taste buds with its rustic space and smorgasbord of piquant Mexican favorites. As one of the top choices for downtown Texarkana restaurants, Zapatas offers a wide range of flavorful dishes that cater to all palates.One of the standout dishes at Zapatas is their cheese enchiladas. These enchiladas are filling, cheesy, saucy, and packed with flavors that will transport you straight to Mexico. The combination of melted cheese, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked tortillas creates a dish that's irresistible.To complement the cheese enchiladas, Zapatas also offers a variety of fresh and strong margaritas. These margaritas are the perfect pairing for the dish, adding a refreshing and tangy element to the meal.In addition to their cheese enchiladas, Zapatas also serves other Mexican classics such as tacos, fajitas, and burritos. Each dish is made with fresh ingredients and bursting with authentic Mexican flavors.The restaurant itself has a rustic and inviting atmosphere, creating a laid-back and enjoyable dining experience. The friendly staff and prompt service add to the overall appeal of Zapatas.Whether you're craving cheesy enchiladas, flavorful tacos, or a refreshing margarita, Zapatas Mexican Restaurant is the place to go. With its rustic space, smorgasbord of piquant Mexican favorites, and friendly atmosphere, Zapatas is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Mexican cuisine in Texarkana.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Are Some Popular Vegetarian Options at Naamans Bbq?Some popular vegetarian options at Naamans BBQ include:Their delicious smoked portobello sandwich, made with tender and flavorful grilled portobello mushrooms.Their flavorful BBQ tofu, which is marinated and smoked to perfection.Both options offer a satisfying and tasty meal for vegetarians.Naamans BBQ is known for their succulent meats, but they also have tasty options for those who prefer a vegetarian meal.Does Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery Offer Gluten-Free Options for Its Menu?Yes, Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery offers gluten-free options for its menu. They understand the importance of catering to different dietary needs and have made sure to include delicious options for those who follow a gluten-free diet.From creative food to outstanding craft beers, Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery strives to provide a friendly and inclusive dining experience for all. So, you can enjoy a tasty meal without worrying about gluten.Are There Any Special Promotions or Discounts Available at Ironwood Grill?Yes, there are special promotions and discounts available at Ironwood Grill. They offer various deals throughout the week, such as happy hour specials, discounted appetizers, and lunch specials.Additionally, they've special promotions during holidays and events. It's always a good idea to check their website or call ahead to see what promotions they currently have.Ironwood Grill is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, eclectic menu, and delicious food, so taking advantage of their promotions is a great way to enjoy a fantastic dining experience at a discounted price.Does Texas Roadhouse Have a Separate Menu for Children or Offer Any Kids' Meals?Yes, Texas Roadhouse does have a separate menu for children and they offer kids' meals.These meals are specifically designed for younger diners and include options like mini cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, macaroni and cheese, and grilled cheese sandwiches.Each kids' meal also comes with a choice of side and a drink.The restaurant aims to provide a family-friendly dining experience by catering to the tastes and preferences of children.Are There Any Vegan Options Available at Zapatas Mexican Restaurant?Yes, there are vegan options available at Zapatas Mexican Restaurant. They offer a variety of piquant Mexican favorites that can accommodate a vegan diet.You can enjoy dishes like vegan enchiladas filled with flavorful ingredients and topped with delicious sauce.Pair your meal with their fresh and strong margaritas for a complete dining experience.Zapatas is a top choice for downtown Texarkana restaurants, and their vegan options add to their appeal.ConclusionAs our culinary journey through Texarkana comes to a close, we hope we've ignited your taste buds and inspired you to explore the vibrant restaurant scene in this charming Texas city.From the smoky flavors of Naamans BBQ to the creative gastropub fare at Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery, there's something for everyone in Texarkana.So come and indulge in the delicious food, warm hospitality, and unforgettable dining experiences that await you in this gastronomic paradise. submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.05.20 09:11 Sweet-Count2557 Best Things to Do in San Ramon Ca
 | Best Things to Do in San Ramon Ca Welcome to our guide to the best things to do in San Ramon, CA! As local residents, we're thrilled to share with you the top attractions and activities this vibrant city has to offer.From outdoor adventures and historic landmarks to entertainment and dining, there's something for everyone to enjoy.So join us as we explore the beautiful landscapes, delve into the city's rich history, and indulge in the diverse shopping and dining options.Get ready for an unforgettable experience in San Ramon!Key TakeawaysLas Trampas Regional Wilderness offers a vast wilderness with rugged trails and stunning views, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding.Forest Home Farms Historic Park showcases the agricultural heritage of San Ramon and provides guided tours and educational programs.City Center Bishop Ranch is an upscale shopping and dining destination with a modern design and vibrant atmosphere.San Ramon Golf Club, The Bridges Golf Club, and Canyon Lakes Golf Course & Brewery offer challenging and enjoyable golfing experiences with stunning views.Outdoor Activities and Nature ExplorationLet's explore the best outdoor activities and nature exploration options in San Ramon, CA. When it comes to outdoor adventures, San Ramon offers a variety of options that will satisfy any nature enthusiast.The city is home to several hiking trails that will take you through stunning landscapes and provide opportunities for wildlife photography.One of the top choices for hiking trails in San Ramon is the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness. With its expansive 5,778 acres of wilderness, this park offers a trail system that allows hikers and horseback riders to explore remote and rugged areas. The steep and rugged trails, along with interesting geology, make it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, the fantastic views from the trails are a treat for the eyes and perfect for capturing stunning photographs.Another great option for outdoor activities in San Ramon is the Tassajara Ridge Trail Loop. This 13.0-kilometer loop trail offers beautiful landscapes and easy hiking, making it suitable for everyone, including kids, friends, and pets. The trail is accessible year-round, but it's recommended to visit during cooler times for a more enjoyable experience.For those looking to connect with nature and spot some wildlife, the Bishop Ranch Regional Preserve is a must-visit. This 444-acre open space offers hiking, biking, and equestrian trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beautiful natural landscapes. It's a great place to explore, relax, and enjoy outdoor activities.In San Ramon, hiking trails and wildlife photography opportunities abound. Whether you choose to venture into the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, hike the Tassajara Ridge Trail Loop, or explore the Bishop Ranch Regional Preserve, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors. So grab your camera and get ready to capture the beauty of nature in San Ramon, CA.Historic and Cultural AttractionsWe highly recommend visiting the Forest Home Farms Historic Park when exploring San Ramon, as it offers a unique glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage. This 16-acre municipal historic park was donated by Ruth Quayle Boone in memory of her husband and features charming buildings and animals. It provides beautiful green pastures and a theater area, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with friends and family.To further explore the preserved heritage of San Ramon, you should also visit the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. Established in 1985 as a non-profit corporation, this museum is located in the rebuilt 1891-Southern Pacific Depot. It showcases the rich history and heritage of San Ramon through permanent and revolving exhibits. The museum also offers guided tours to Alamo Cemetery and Old Town Danville, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the area's past.Another must-visit for history enthusiasts is the Forest Home Farms Historic Park. This historic park showcases the agricultural heritage of San Ramon and features preserved farm buildings and artifacts. Visitors can take guided tours and participate in educational programs to learn about the region's farming practices and traditions. The park also hosts special events and festivals throughout the year, providing a fun and immersive experience for all.In addition to these attractions, San Ramon is also home to other local museums that offer a deeper understanding of the area's history and culture. These museums provide a wealth of knowledge and insight into the community's past and are a great way to connect with the local heritage. Whether you're a history buff or simply interested in learning more about the city's roots, exploring these cultural attractions will surely enrich your visit to San Ramon.Entertainment and LeisureSan Ramon offers a variety of options for both nightlife and family-friendly activities. For those looking for a night out, the Regal Crow Canyon Stadium 6 is a popular choice. This cinema, which opened in December 1984, is equipped for 3D, IMAX, and RPX screenings, offering a wide range of movie options. It's the perfect spot for a movie date or a night activity with friends.If you're looking for family-friendly activities, The Golden Skate is an award-winning in-line and quad skating rink. Established in the 1980s, it offers ice-skating lessons and hockey programs for all ages. You can go on a roll with your friends and family at this classic bombshell. The Golden Skate also has a pro shop available for all your skating needs.For a day of shopping and dining, City Center Bishop Ranch is the place to be. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, this upscale shopping and dining destination features a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It offers a modern and stylish design, creating a vibrant atmosphere for shopping and socializing. It even hosts community events and live performances, ensuring there's always something happening.Shopping and DiningCity Center Bishop Ranch is an upscale shopping and dining destination in San Ramon that offers a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano and inspired by the natural surroundings of rolling hills, creating a modern and stylish atmosphere for shopping and socializing.The center houses famous brands and kid-friendly areas, making it a great place for the whole family to enjoy. The central park within City Center Bishop Ranch provides a picnic atmosphere, where visitors can relax and take in the vibrant atmosphere.When it comes to dining, City Center Bishop Ranch doesn't disappoint. There's a wide range of restaurants to choose from, offering diverse cuisines to satisfy any palate. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, Italian, or American fare, you'll find it all at City Center Bishop Ranch.In addition to shopping and dining, City Center Bishop Ranch also hosts community events and live performances, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the center. It's a hub of activity and a gathering place for the local community.If you're looking for some entertainment after a day of shopping and dining, head over to Regal Crow Canyon Stadium. This cinema offers a wide range of movie options, including 3D, IMAX, and RPX screenings. It's a popular spot for movie dates and night activities, providing a comfortable and enjoyable movie experience.City Center Bishop Ranch and Regal Crow Canyon Stadium are both must-visit destinations for anyone looking for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment in San Ramon.Golf CoursesThe San Ramon Royal Vista Golf Course is an excellent choice for golf enthusiasts. Located at 9430 Fircrest Ln, this golf course offers a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience. The well-maintained greens and fairways are suitable for both beginners and experienced players. Whether you're looking to improve your swing or just enjoy a relaxing round of golf, Royal Vista Golf Course has everything you need.One of the highlights of this golf course is its hosting of golf course tournaments. If you're a competitive golfer looking to test your skills against others, participating in one of these tournaments can be a thrilling experience. The course is designed to provide a fair and competitive playing field, ensuring that every golfer has a chance to showcase their abilities. From local tournaments to regional and even national events, Royal Vista Golf Course is a popular choice for golfers looking to take their game to the next level.In addition to its golf course tournaments, Royal Vista Golf Course also takes pride in its golf course maintenance. The staff works diligently to keep the course in top-notch condition, ensuring that each golfer has the best possible experience. From mowing the fairways to maintaining the greens, every aspect of the course is carefully tended to. This dedication to maintenance creates a visually appealing and well-functioning golf course that golfers can enjoy.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Are Some Nearby Hiking Trails to Explore in San Ramon?There are several nearby hiking trails in San Ramon that are worth exploring.One option is Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, which offers a vast wilderness area with steep, rugged trails and fantastic views.Another option is the Tassajara Ridge Trail Loop, a moderately trafficked trail that provides beautiful landscapes and is suitable for kids, friends, and pets.It's best to visit these trails during cooler times and they also make great picnic spots.Are There Any Historical Landmarks or Museums to Visit in San Ramon?Are there any historical landmarks or museums to visit in San Ramon?Well, San Ramon is home to some fascinating historical landmarks and museums that offer a glimpse into the region's past.Forest Home Farms Historic Park showcases the agricultural heritage of San Ramon, with preserved farm buildings and artifacts.The Museum of the San Ramon Valley showcases the rich history and heritage of the area, with permanent and revolving exhibits.These attractions provide educational and engaging experiences for all visitors.Where Can I Go Ice-Skating or Roller-Skating in San Ramon?In San Ramon, you can go ice-skating or roller-skating at The Golden Skate.This award-winning in-line and quad skating rink offers ice-skating lessons, hockey programs, and a pro shop for all your skating needs.Established in the 1980s, The Golden Skate is a classic bombshell where you can have a rollin' good time with friends and family.Enjoy the full-service snack bar, play a variety of video games, and win prizes at the redemption center.What Are Some Popular Shopping Destinations in San Ramon?Popular shops and local boutiques are plentiful in San Ramon, CA. Whether you're looking for upscale shopping or unique finds, there are plenty of options to explore.City Center Bishop Ranch offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a modern and stylish destination for shopping and socializing.Additionally, the area is known for its charming boutiques and specialty stores, providing a diverse and enjoyable shopping experience for all.Which Golf Courses in San Ramon Offer Stunning Views and a Challenging Experience?When it comes to golf courses in San Ramon, there are a few that offer stunning views and a challenging experience.The San Ramon Royal Vista Golf Course is a popular choice, with well-maintained greens and fairways that provide an enjoyable golfing experience.Another option is The Bridges Golf Club, designed by renowned architect Johnny Miller, which features stunning views and challenging holes.Lastly, Canyon Lakes Golf Course & Brewery offers a unique concept that combines golf with beer, making for a fun and memorable experience.Golf course etiquette: Tips for a respectful and enjoyable game.How to improve your golf swing and technique.ConclusionIn conclusion, San Ramon, CA offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for everyone to enjoy.From exploring the rugged wilderness of Las Trampas Regional Wilderness to immersing yourself in the city's rich history at Forest Home Farms Historic Park, there's something for every nature enthusiast and history buff.And for those seeking entertainment and leisure, Regal Crow Canyon Stadium 6 and The Golden Skate provide fun-filled experiences.With top-notch shopping and dining options at City Center Bishop Ranch, as well as excellent golf courses, San Ramon truly has it all. submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.05.20 07:56 Sweet-Count2557 Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives
 | Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] Skai Lodge: Your Affordable Oasis in Male, Maldives - Unwind in Comfort and Serenity in the Heart of the City Price Level: $$ Hotel Class: 2 Skai Lodge, located in Male, Maldives, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking both comfort and affordability. This cosy hotel offers a range of amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Step into the spacious lobby and feel instantly welcomed by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The hotel also features a charming coffee house, where you can indulge in a cup of freshly brewed coffee or enjoy a light snack. For those who appreciate nature, the garden lobby and garden terrace provide a serene setting to unwind and soak in the beauty of the surroundings. With its central location, Skai Lodge allows you to easily explore the vibrant city while enjoying a relaxed and peaceful stay. Amenities of Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for its guests. The lodge provides free internet access, allowing guests to stay connected throughout their stay. The non-smoking rooms and air conditioning ensure a clean and fresh environment for all guests. Additionally, the lodge offers laundry service, making it convenient for guests to keep their clothes clean and fresh. The family rooms are perfect for those traveling with their loved ones, providing ample space and comfort. Each room is equipped with a refrigerator and minibar, allowing guests to store and enjoy their favorite snacks and beverages. The lodge also offers a safe and parking facilities for the convenience and security of its guests. Baggage storage is available for those who wish to explore the area without the burden of their luggage. For those who enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, the lodge has a coffee shop with a coffee/tea maker. Currency exchange services are also provided, making it easy for guests to convert their money. The staff at Skai Lodge is multilingual, with proficiency in English, Chinese, and Hindi, ensuring effective communication with guests from different parts of the world. Complimentary toiletries are provided in each room, adding to the convenience and comfort of the guests. Lastly, the lodge offers beach access, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Maldives just steps away from their accommodation. Contact of Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives Violet Magu, Male Location of Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives Pictures of Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives Tips for Staying in Skai Lodge I stayed in room 8, it was spacious. Bottom floor give you easy access. 2 stories. 1st for double/ twin room. the other need to go up stair outside. I prefer 1st floor. Upper rooms are better. Hotel has no elevator, so if you travel with big luggage request them a room on 1st floor. Reviews of Skai Lodge in Male, Maldives Book Skai Lodge Now !!! Tags |
2024.05.20 06:27 HotSpinach7865 An Incomplete Redemption
(Forgive me; I'm not sure if this is the best flair, but I had to pick something, and this seemed the closest.)
The following is something I've written several versions of in my spare time that are very loosely inspired by events in my life but took on radically different dimensions from their real-life inspirations to the point where I don't even know some of the ways it came to be. Just to be safe, the story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, and products is intended or should be inferred.
Chapter One: Concerning Stair Cases
I'm not a religious person, but I read somewhere that sin was nothing more than someone's separation from the divine. I also heard that when Dante Alighieri wrote The Inferno, he didn't believe in such a thing as "pure" evil. Instead, he saw it as a person's inability to live up to their complete selves and never reach their potential. Not in the sense that one may fail to become a doctor by flunking out of Pre-Med because they couldn't get over the math requirements, but the failure to be your best self, meeting the moral guidelines God desires for all people.
I don't know about either of those, but I do know that there is punishment in separation that becomes a type of hell for the person experiencing it. I think whoever invented hell picked the perfect form of torture for the soul, and I think Dante probably knew the best way to get there.
Why am I boring you with all this? It may not be apparent right away, but I think it's necessary to understand the story or at least its protagonist, who is me, Ben Cohen.
I guess I should start where Maria VonTrapp would, at the very beginning, a very good place to start. Oh, by the way, I was a theatre kid growing up (yes, those insufferable assholes belting show tunes at all hours of the night, and if I woke you, I sincerely apologize). I've more or less recovered from my affliction, but quoting musicals will never leave me, and I've decided not to be sorry about it.
It all began in the predominantly white suburb of Los Angeles known as Rosalia, CA. While much of So-Cal is a disjointed chasm of opulent wealth and unquenchable poverty, my town was divided into rich and very rich.
I was rich, not very rich. Because of a few things, our home was worth over half a million dollars, and we still managed to take vacations to the south of France yearly and dress in top-of-the-line brands.
I know what you're thinking because I am thinking it too, "What a pompous piece of shit. Who the fuck is this guy? I came to read a story about love and this guy's turning it into a brag session, fuck you, Ben Cohen." You'd be absolutely right to think those things because that description fits me perfectly when this story begins, but if you stick with me, I get so much worse, better, and by the end, maybe some semblance of mediocre (fingers-crossed).
If you were to drive through Rosalia, California, you would be struck by a few things, but here are a few: 1. The mountains that it looks out onto are beautiful under two conditions: there's no smog, and the rain has fallen enough to blanket them in snow giving them an alpine feel 2. The downtown is far too charming for a city with nothing going on, and 3. the abundance of Victorian-era homes that make up much of the city's southern half, where I lived. Oh, and also, it's so white that everyone may as well be named Karen; seriously, I don't think I met a black person until I was in high school and didn't realize I was privileged until a long time after that.
I suppose that's because the town had a lackluster racial history; I'm not saying Rosalia is racist, but like any predominantly white suburb, over time, it became a shelter for ignorance and the type of comfort that breeds the idea of non-existent outside threats.
The dread of Rosalia's citizenry could not be described as existentialist, as expected when one has more than enough to survive and thrive, but as entirely fabricated and focused on the material. To them, minorities, people with differences, and deviations from tradition were dragons who sought to pillage their spoils. Like any dragon, they existed only in the mind and could never leave.
I can't tell you when exactly it happened or where I was when I met Rachel Evans, but I was exceedingly underwhelmed when I did. If you had told me then that Rachel Evans would be the greatest love of my life and that the weight of her absence would inform my life for years to come, I would have said one thing: "Who the hell is Rachel Evans?"
Now, dear reader, in the name of transparency, I want to make something clear, I am many things, an asshole, self-absorbed, and honest to a fault, but one thing I am not is tall, dark, and handsome. I'm handsome, medium-ish, and whiter than the Cliffs of Dover.
I sort of assumed from the worldview of a teenage boy that women operated like my video games. You won't if you don't have all the items to complete a level. win. I wasn't tall or dark, so it seemed to me that I would die alone. I cringe at this bullshit now, but as a child in the stratified shallowness of Rosalia High, that was my profoundly flawed version of reality.
It wasn't until later that I developed the radical idea that women, like life, are not video games and are complex beings with thoughts and ideas and even take shits that leave the bathroom unsafe to enter without a hazmat suit. All of this (especially the shits) was totally alien to the seventeen-year-old, self-professed "nice guy" (I know, I know) and unknowing "White Knight" that I was in those days.
It was bliss for no one but myself because I was too stupid to realize just how demonstrably stupid I was. That's the great thing about being a dumbass, it usually hurts everyone else, and if it hurts you, you're either dead or too stupid to know you're clutterfuck of dumbfuckery.
When I first noticed Rachel, I was too stupid to notice her for who she was. She seemed to me frumpy, nerdy, a tad obnoxious (because if anyone has a good gauge on what passes for obnoxious, it was a theatre kid prone to public musical outbursts.) No, at that time, I was in love with Amber-Lyn Sommers, a girl who I met at camp (Sure you did, Ben, sure you did.) and who I thought was into me too since we had kissed once when I had the flu and subsequently vomited all over her, and she had the common decency not to run for the hills.
Amber was a great girl, most decidedly not into me, and while I assumed it was the end of the world, I discovered that it was one of the best things that could have happened to me. Funny how that works, isn't it? One minute, you're sexting Amber-Lyn Sommers, thinking your boner is equivalent to being in love. Then, you find yourself in the middle of the most extraordinary love story you'll likely ever experience.
It was during a winter performance of some play our school's troupe was putting on; I can't remember which since they all kind of run together, but I do remember one thing about it, one unforgettable facet of the whole forgettable affair. I was upstairs in the costumes loft, for God knows why, dressed in some costume that was probably too big and unbecoming for me and probably too stupid to know when I found myself face-to-face with Rachel Evans.
She was clad in a gown or gaudy princessy outfit that she seemed to loathe and wore ungodly narrow stiletto heels. Well, some genius must have thought it would be a great idea to have this poor girl walk down a steep flight of concrete stairs, and you know what? This idiot, too, thought nothing of it.
So anyway, there we were at the top of the stairs. My imagined chivalry thought, "Well, ladies first," when I should have been thinking, "Ben, dumbass tell her to take her heels off as she goes down the stairs or at least carry her down the stairs..okay, maybe not carry her because who the fuck are you kidding, bro, but do something." What happened next is one instance where I am actually glad my imagined white knighting came into play because had it not, we'd probably have no story.
As we made the way down the stairs, with me close behind, honestly a bit annoyed with how long she was taking, she managed to trip, and before she got seriously hurt, I somehow managed to extend a hand and caught her mid-fall.
When I did, something happened that I couldn't quite make sense of. At first, I thought maybe I had a mini-heart attack after seeing a woman narrowly escape a severe injury, but that would not explain the same feeling that would occur whenever we would later lock eyes. When I tell you my world stopped, that doesn't begin to describe it.
It's like when a director tries to convey a sense of isolation in a movie, there's a close-up of the character, and the people and sounds around them begin to blur; it was like that, but imagine that even the muffled sounds fade into oblivion. Yet, simultaneously, the music of life's beauty crescendoed into center stage.
"Holy fucking shit," I thought, "She's gorgeous...are you sweating? You're probably sweating, and she's probably disgusted by you. She wants to run as far away as possible. Wait... is she looking at you too? Shit, she is! Quick, Ben, think of something to say; no, you know what, don't ruin the moment, you always end up saying something stupid, let it be."
I would love to tell you that we kissed right then and there and marched off into a glorious sunset. I would love to, but that wasn't how it went. When it comes to love stories, ours had a slow burn. I didn't talk to Rachel much after that; there were a few pleasantries here and there but nothing about what we had experienced until one night when everything in my world changed in the best ways imaginable.
submitted by HotSpinach7865 to creativewriting [link] [comments]
The following is something I've written several versions of in my spare time that are very loosely inspired by events in my life but took on radically different dimensions from their real-life inspirations to the point where I don't even know some of the ways it came to be. Just to be safe, the story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, and products is intended or should be inferred.
Chapter One: Concerning Stair Cases
I'm not a religious person, but I read somewhere that sin was nothing more than someone's separation from the divine. I also heard that when Dante Alighieri wrote The Inferno, he didn't believe in such a thing as "pure" evil. Instead, he saw it as a person's inability to live up to their complete selves and never reach their potential. Not in the sense that one may fail to become a doctor by flunking out of Pre-Med because they couldn't get over the math requirements, but the failure to be your best self, meeting the moral guidelines God desires for all people.
I don't know about either of those, but I do know that there is punishment in separation that becomes a type of hell for the person experiencing it. I think whoever invented hell picked the perfect form of torture for the soul, and I think Dante probably knew the best way to get there.
Why am I boring you with all this? It may not be apparent right away, but I think it's necessary to understand the story or at least its protagonist, who is me, Ben Cohen.
I guess I should start where Maria VonTrapp would, at the very beginning, a very good place to start. Oh, by the way, I was a theatre kid growing up (yes, those insufferable assholes belting show tunes at all hours of the night, and if I woke you, I sincerely apologize). I've more or less recovered from my affliction, but quoting musicals will never leave me, and I've decided not to be sorry about it.
It all began in the predominantly white suburb of Los Angeles known as Rosalia, CA. While much of So-Cal is a disjointed chasm of opulent wealth and unquenchable poverty, my town was divided into rich and very rich.
I was rich, not very rich. Because of a few things, our home was worth over half a million dollars, and we still managed to take vacations to the south of France yearly and dress in top-of-the-line brands.
I know what you're thinking because I am thinking it too, "What a pompous piece of shit. Who the fuck is this guy? I came to read a story about love and this guy's turning it into a brag session, fuck you, Ben Cohen." You'd be absolutely right to think those things because that description fits me perfectly when this story begins, but if you stick with me, I get so much worse, better, and by the end, maybe some semblance of mediocre (fingers-crossed).
If you were to drive through Rosalia, California, you would be struck by a few things, but here are a few: 1. The mountains that it looks out onto are beautiful under two conditions: there's no smog, and the rain has fallen enough to blanket them in snow giving them an alpine feel 2. The downtown is far too charming for a city with nothing going on, and 3. the abundance of Victorian-era homes that make up much of the city's southern half, where I lived. Oh, and also, it's so white that everyone may as well be named Karen; seriously, I don't think I met a black person until I was in high school and didn't realize I was privileged until a long time after that.
I suppose that's because the town had a lackluster racial history; I'm not saying Rosalia is racist, but like any predominantly white suburb, over time, it became a shelter for ignorance and the type of comfort that breeds the idea of non-existent outside threats.
The dread of Rosalia's citizenry could not be described as existentialist, as expected when one has more than enough to survive and thrive, but as entirely fabricated and focused on the material. To them, minorities, people with differences, and deviations from tradition were dragons who sought to pillage their spoils. Like any dragon, they existed only in the mind and could never leave.
I can't tell you when exactly it happened or where I was when I met Rachel Evans, but I was exceedingly underwhelmed when I did. If you had told me then that Rachel Evans would be the greatest love of my life and that the weight of her absence would inform my life for years to come, I would have said one thing: "Who the hell is Rachel Evans?"
Now, dear reader, in the name of transparency, I want to make something clear, I am many things, an asshole, self-absorbed, and honest to a fault, but one thing I am not is tall, dark, and handsome. I'm handsome, medium-ish, and whiter than the Cliffs of Dover.
I sort of assumed from the worldview of a teenage boy that women operated like my video games. You won't if you don't have all the items to complete a level. win. I wasn't tall or dark, so it seemed to me that I would die alone. I cringe at this bullshit now, but as a child in the stratified shallowness of Rosalia High, that was my profoundly flawed version of reality.
It wasn't until later that I developed the radical idea that women, like life, are not video games and are complex beings with thoughts and ideas and even take shits that leave the bathroom unsafe to enter without a hazmat suit. All of this (especially the shits) was totally alien to the seventeen-year-old, self-professed "nice guy" (I know, I know) and unknowing "White Knight" that I was in those days.
It was bliss for no one but myself because I was too stupid to realize just how demonstrably stupid I was. That's the great thing about being a dumbass, it usually hurts everyone else, and if it hurts you, you're either dead or too stupid to know you're clutterfuck of dumbfuckery.
When I first noticed Rachel, I was too stupid to notice her for who she was. She seemed to me frumpy, nerdy, a tad obnoxious (because if anyone has a good gauge on what passes for obnoxious, it was a theatre kid prone to public musical outbursts.) No, at that time, I was in love with Amber-Lyn Sommers, a girl who I met at camp (Sure you did, Ben, sure you did.) and who I thought was into me too since we had kissed once when I had the flu and subsequently vomited all over her, and she had the common decency not to run for the hills.
Amber was a great girl, most decidedly not into me, and while I assumed it was the end of the world, I discovered that it was one of the best things that could have happened to me. Funny how that works, isn't it? One minute, you're sexting Amber-Lyn Sommers, thinking your boner is equivalent to being in love. Then, you find yourself in the middle of the most extraordinary love story you'll likely ever experience.
It was during a winter performance of some play our school's troupe was putting on; I can't remember which since they all kind of run together, but I do remember one thing about it, one unforgettable facet of the whole forgettable affair. I was upstairs in the costumes loft, for God knows why, dressed in some costume that was probably too big and unbecoming for me and probably too stupid to know when I found myself face-to-face with Rachel Evans.
She was clad in a gown or gaudy princessy outfit that she seemed to loathe and wore ungodly narrow stiletto heels. Well, some genius must have thought it would be a great idea to have this poor girl walk down a steep flight of concrete stairs, and you know what? This idiot, too, thought nothing of it.
So anyway, there we were at the top of the stairs. My imagined chivalry thought, "Well, ladies first," when I should have been thinking, "Ben, dumbass tell her to take her heels off as she goes down the stairs or at least carry her down the stairs..okay, maybe not carry her because who the fuck are you kidding, bro, but do something." What happened next is one instance where I am actually glad my imagined white knighting came into play because had it not, we'd probably have no story.
As we made the way down the stairs, with me close behind, honestly a bit annoyed with how long she was taking, she managed to trip, and before she got seriously hurt, I somehow managed to extend a hand and caught her mid-fall.
When I did, something happened that I couldn't quite make sense of. At first, I thought maybe I had a mini-heart attack after seeing a woman narrowly escape a severe injury, but that would not explain the same feeling that would occur whenever we would later lock eyes. When I tell you my world stopped, that doesn't begin to describe it.
It's like when a director tries to convey a sense of isolation in a movie, there's a close-up of the character, and the people and sounds around them begin to blur; it was like that, but imagine that even the muffled sounds fade into oblivion. Yet, simultaneously, the music of life's beauty crescendoed into center stage.
"Holy fucking shit," I thought, "She's gorgeous...are you sweating? You're probably sweating, and she's probably disgusted by you. She wants to run as far away as possible. Wait... is she looking at you too? Shit, she is! Quick, Ben, think of something to say; no, you know what, don't ruin the moment, you always end up saying something stupid, let it be."
I would love to tell you that we kissed right then and there and marched off into a glorious sunset. I would love to, but that wasn't how it went. When it comes to love stories, ours had a slow burn. I didn't talk to Rachel much after that; there were a few pleasantries here and there but nothing about what we had experienced until one night when everything in my world changed in the best ways imaginable.
2024.05.20 04:50 scarletotaku Z. (A Zelensky Sim mock-up)
 | submitted by scarletotaku to thecampaigntrail [link] [comments] |
2024.05.20 04:23 LethargicAdventurer Seeking: southern accented charming scoundrel and a tough/ funny or takes no crap heroine. He falls first
Is there something like this?
I don’t want him to be an alpha hole per se. Just charming and flirting BUT maybe he’s damaged or needs help. He can be southern in any way not regionally picky. Basically anything from Louisiana to Texas to Georgia to
(Places non southern people think of without knowing much 😂 about places and proper terms) you know where I’m going.
She has to be fun or sassy but mostly capable. A takes no shit type woman who can handle him and beat him at his game
Would love if he falls first.
Would be cool if they have good banter and sexy times.
Maybe work together on a case or whatever
Also NO big age gaps. And NO 20 something or college babies. No monsters or vampire lol
No pregnancy tropes either
All the rest is fair game. Contemporary would be great but open to others.
submitted by LethargicAdventurer to RomanceBooks [link] [comments]
I don’t want him to be an alpha hole per se. Just charming and flirting BUT maybe he’s damaged or needs help. He can be southern in any way not regionally picky. Basically anything from Louisiana to Texas to Georgia to
(Places non southern people think of without knowing much 😂 about places and proper terms) you know where I’m going.
She has to be fun or sassy but mostly capable. A takes no shit type woman who can handle him and beat him at his game
Would love if he falls first.
Would be cool if they have good banter and sexy times.
Maybe work together on a case or whatever
Also NO big age gaps. And NO 20 something or college babies. No monsters or vampire lol
No pregnancy tropes either
All the rest is fair game. Contemporary would be great but open to others.